One of Southern California’s most luxurious movie theaters abruptly closes after 35 years
The iPic theater in Pasadena is closing its doors on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, as part of a Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring. The luxury cinema, located in Old Town Pasadena’s One Colorado shopping center, is ending operations following a court-supervised sale of company assets.
Why is the iPic Pasadena theater closing?
The closure is a direct result of iPic Theaters’ Chapter 11 restructuring process. Despite previous assurances that operations would continue, the company determined that an asset sale was in the best interest of its stakeholders.
The Pasadena location, which opened in 2010, was known for offering plush recliners, craft cocktails, and full-service dining. Before the final credits rolled on Wednesday night, the theater invited guests to enjoy one last free movie and menu item.
What happens to other iPic locations?
The restructuring has split the remaining portfolio between two different operators. Cinemex Holding USA, Inc. will now operate iPic locations in Florida, Texas, Maryland, Georgia, and New Jersey.
In New York City and Los Angeles, Blue Fox Theater has acquired the Fulton Market and Westwood locations. These two sites will be rebranded as The Cinemas.
Under Blue Fox Entertainment Group founder James Huntsman, the rebranded theaters will end in-theater dining. Instead, they may offer “elevated food and beverage offerings” to create a premium moviegoing experience.
How does this fit into iPic’s financial history?
This is the second time iPic has entered bankruptcy court, following a previous filing in 2019. The company quietly filed for Chapter 11 protection in March to facilitate an “expedited” fire-sale of its assets.
The Pasadena closure follows the April shutdown of the iPic location in Redmond, Washington. The financial instability also led to WARN notices being issued to all employees as the company prepared for potential layoffs.
What may happen next for the company?
CEO Patrick Quinn has stated that he hopes the restructuring will have a minimal impact on operations. The company may attempt to return to the luxury-theater market once the current financial restructuring is complete.
The success of the brand could depend on whether the rebranded “The Cinemas” locations can attract audiences with a modified concession model. It is possible that further asset sales could occur if the court-supervised process reveals additional needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the iPic Pasadena theater officially close?
The theater is scheduled to close on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.
Who is taking over the iPic location in Westwood, LA?
Blue Fox Theater acquired the Westwood location and is rebranding it as The Cinemas.
Will the rebranded Blue Fox theaters still have full-service dining?
No, in-theater dining is ending and will be replaced by premium concessions featuring elevated food and beverage offerings.
Do you think the shift from full-service dining to premium concessions is enough to save the luxury cinema experience?