When I first stepped foot into Cinemapolis as an introverted first-year student struggling to find my place, I immediately felt a sense of belonging within Ithaca’s independent film scene. From greeting the smiling, dedicated faces at the box office to deciding what seasoning I wanted on my popcorn, I knew it would be just the first trip of many throughout my college years.

It was announced Jan. 19 by Business Insider that the Ithaca Regal theater will soon be shutting its doors.

After the dust settles and COVID-19 restrictions ease, Ithaca will have fewer silver screens. The Regal Cinemas in Ithaca closed its doors indefinitely.