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Why Cinepolis and the La Paloma Didn't Make the Cut
La Paloma is a gem. And how arrogant to assume that since you don't have the knowledge no one outside the 760 does either. When I mention LP elsewhere I seldom have to explain it's specs; it is well-known. The Rocky print is one of the most intact, least damaged films still in regular use. Even more impressive is that it has been in constant weekly use for years, a true testament to the art and preservation of this dying medium. In recent years there have been many live shows including The Peter Pupping Band, George Winston, Switchfoot, and Sara and Sean Watkins of Nicklecreek. There are regular viewings of surf and skate films, beat poetry and up-and-coming bands exposing new generations to the history of this building while staying relevant to the times. If you want to see a CGI-laden movie you will shell out the big bucks for IMAX or 3D, but if you want a sincere movie-going experience La Paloma is one of a very few. When Flower Hill closed last June and Del Mar and La Costa were being remodeled there were NO other movie houses between La Jolla and Oceanside. For those of us in between it was awesome to have a reprieve from the hipster refresh button spreading through North County, including downtown Encinitas. Sure, the building has limitations and damages due to aging but it's also a nice change of pace from the tear-it-down and rebuild mentality that we've come to expect. If you were one of the fortunate masses (very full houses, especially during awards season) to have seen The Artist at La Paloma then there wouldn't be an explanation necessary. To see a silent film where hundreds had played before was an amazing experience. It was a chance to slow down and feel like you were back in time. Instead of looking for it's faults and lack of status you can take a minute and breathe in and enjoy the beauty that is the ceiling, original 1928 tile and art-deco accents. No, it isn't mainstream; they carry movies that fly under the radar and attract fans of the obscure. I'm proud to be a part of that club, aspect ratio be damned.— June 4, 2012 12:04 a.m.