Moviegoers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) are expressing their sadness over the impending closure of Regal Cinemas, the territory’s only cinema, scheduled to shut its doors at the end of this month. This development has left local residents, including filmmakers and families, concerned about losing a cherished communal space for entertainment.
Local filmmaker Galvin Deleon Guerrero shared his disappointment, recalling fond memories of enjoying the “Star Wars” franchise at the Hollywood Theaters. He emphasized the importance of the collective experience of watching films with an audience, suggesting that moving away from that experience could lead to a loss of humanity and empathy. Deleon Guerrero optimistically hopes a new owner may emerge, calling it a “New Hope.”
Another local, Edward Dela Cruz Jr., reminisced about his experiences watching “Star Wars” films, including a lighthearted competitive spirit with Guerrero, while Kerri Bauer noted sentimental family moments at Regal, such as her children’s first movie experiences. She remembered the joy of escaping the summer heat with $1 kid’s movies.
Simon Necesito lamented the closure, emphasizing that it reduced the recreational options available for residents of Saipan, and Adam Walsh pointed out the unfortunate timing, as the cinema had survived multiple adversities like super typhoons and the pandemic.
The economic struggles of the CNMI, particularly since the pandemic, have led to the closure of 71 businesses between 2020 and 2024, including significant local institutions. Regal Cinemas, along with other businesses like DFS Saipan, serves as a reminder of the ongoing economic challenges faced by the territory.
Despite the somber announcement, some community members maintain hope that the cultural significance of the cinema will be revived in the future and that perhaps new opportunities for entertainment may arise for the residents of CNMI.
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