ST. LOUIS — Maybe you recognize the name from the 1955 Orson Welles film, Mr. Arkadin, or perhaps, you've seen the latest movie destination to hit the Bevo Mill neighborhood - Arkadin Cinema and Bar.
Co-owners of the microcinema, Sara Baraba and Keith Watson say the name was inspired by Orson Welles.
"He was somebody who was very independent and worked very scrappy, who would raise money on its own to then put back into, like, his own passions. And so I think that....that's kind of like us," they said.
The husband and wife duo opened Arkadin Cinema and Bar in 2019, but the pandemic forced them to pivot.
"We were all ready to go and start renovations, and then we kind of had to hit the brakes and decide what to do," Sara said.
They worked with their next door neighbors, The Heavy Anchor. They decided to throw up a screen outside on their backlot and start showing movies. After three summers of outdoor screenings, the 50 seat microcinema started showing films in their newly renovated and fully functional indoor theater.
But, this isn't your typical multiplex.
"We show an eclectic range of things. We show classic movies. We show cult movies. We even do a little bit of new kind of cutting edge independent cinema," Keith said.
Upcoming shows include a Monty Python Happy Hour, Knifetime a monthly cheesy Lifetime movie night, and Jim Henson's The Dark Crystal.
But still, it's more than just a movie at the Arkadin Cinema and Bar. You're in for an entire experience.
Each month, Arkadin honors some old-school technology by hosting VHS movie night. Cost of admission is bringing in a VHS tape, the crowd then votes which one will be the movie of the evening. If your VHS tape gets picked, you get free drinks and concessions all night. You also get to take your VHS tape home with you.
"It may be great, it may be terrible, it may be something bizarre you couldn't imagine spending your night watching. But, you know, it's always a fun time," Keith said.
They also host private events! Go to the Rent Our Theater page to send Arkadin an inquiry about booking the space for your own private movie night!
Arkadin Cinema and Bar is located at 5228 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116. For further information, visit arkadincinema.com or follow along on social.
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