Take A Glimpse Into The Past At This Charming Art House In New Mexico
By E Jamar|Published November 12, 2018
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E Jamar
Author
E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
The film industry is a big part of New Mexican culture. More than a hundred movies have been shot in the Land of Enchantment, and many more are to come. This charming art house in Santa Fe gives an ode to all the film industry has brought us, and what’s still to come. The intimate theater closed for some time, but a well-known novelist and film lover took over, renovated, and made the cinema what it is today. This old school art house is so much more than just a movie theater with a bar, coffee shop, and even a bookstore. Let’s take a look inside, learn the history behind this quaint Santa Fe building, and see a glimpse of old time art houses.
In 1976, the Jean Cocteau Cinema was known as The Collective Fantasy and was owned and operated by four partners who loved eclectic films. Brent Kliewer bought the theater in 1983 and named it after a French novelist and filmmaker. The art house ran until it closed in 2006, bringing much disappointment to the community.
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After the cinema went dark, novelist George R.R. Martin bought the theater and brought it back to life.
Among the disappointed was the famous novelist George R.R. Martin. Martin bought the cinema in 2013 and renovated it to give it new life. He purchased the entire building and rented out space to artists because he truly believed in Santa Fe art.
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Now, this cinema acts as an indie theater and coffee house, and it's even home to a bookstore.
This cinema is so much more than your average movie theatre. You'll find indie films, classics, and new releases all showing under one roof. Now, there's even a bookstore where Martin sells signed copies of his books and hosts many author events. Jean Cocteau is also home to an art gallery featuring installments from local Santa Fe artists.
The lounge has some of the best cocktails in New Mexico. From the "George R.R. Martini" to "All Men Must Die," these themed cocktails will pair perfectly with any film.
The concession stand will truly bring you back in time.
If you're not a drinker, you'll find a large coffee drink menu and other cinema favorites. Don't forget to try the organic Amish popcorn with real butter, a delicious treat for any movie-goer.
Not only does the Jean Cocteau have movie showings, but they host live artists, comedians, singers, magicians, authors, and so much more. There's always an event going on at this art house, and it's always special.
The film industry is a big part of New Mexico, and this charming cinema is a hidden gem in Santa Fe that will show you a glimpse of the past, and get you excited for what's ahead.
