Operating a movie theater of any size is a complex mix of art and business. It is not as simple as booking a film, opening the doors and selling tickets. It involves complex strategies.

 

Local theaters also have to adapt to constantly-changing conditions and trends in the film and theater industry. This requires balancing the often-convoluted requirements of movie studios and distributors with the preferences and tastes of local audiences.

 

Berkshire County is unusual in an era that is dominated by immense theater chains.

 

Following the closing of the Regal multiplex in the Berkshire Mall in Lanesborough in 2022 and the closing of the North Adams Movieplex, in 2023, there are now three remaining theaters.

 

Two of those — Images Cinema in Williamstown and the Triplex Cinema in Great Barrington — are operated by community-based non-profit organizations.

 

While the Beacon Cinema in Pittsfield is a for-profit multiplex owned by the Phoenix Theaters, chain, it is a relatively small company compared to major chains. Under its founder and President Cory Jacobson, Phoenix operates as a midsized independent business. It has 10 theaters in the Midwest, Tennessee and Massachusetts. By comparison, AMC Entertainment owns 855 theaters worldwide, and Cinemark operates 500 theaters.