I believe almost every child in our generation had a period when they would always go to the DVD shop to find a movie to watch. Unlike now, when we can almost find every movie or TV show we want on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and others. But what about those small cinemas? Does anyone still go there to watch old movies? I’m not quite sure about that, but in The Movie Man, the film takes us inside the mystery of small cinemas and the challenges of running one. Let’s find out !!!

In the quiet town of Kinmount, Ontario, Keith Stata has spent decades keeping the magic of movies alive. His Highlands Cinemas isn’t just a theater it’s a time capsule, a museum, and a hub of memories for anyone who steps through its doors. Matt Finlin’s documentary The Movie Man beautifully captures Keith’s story, his passion for film, and his fight to preserve a vanishing tradition.

Keith’s journey began with a single screen, meant to entertain a small town of 300 people. But he always dreamed bigger. Over the years, Highlands Cinemas expanded to five screens and became home to a unique movie museum. The hallways are lined with vintage projectors and memorabilia, turning every visit into a trip through cinema history. It’s a place where movie magic truly comes alive.

However, keeping a theater like this running hasn’t been easy. The pandemic hit small businesses hard, and Keith’s cinema was no exception. With audiences staying home and modern challenges like digital technology and streaming taking over, Keith found himself in a constant battle to keep the lights on.

But Keith is more than just a businessman—he’s a storyteller. He believes in the power of movies to bring people together, creating memories that last a lifetime. For him, cinema is about more than entertainment; it’s about community. His love for movies shines in every detail, from his carefully curated popcorn recipe to the stories behind his antique projectors.

Highlands Cinemas isn’t just about movies, it’s about quirks that make it unforgettable. Forty five cats roam the grounds in wire tunnels, wild animals stop by for leftover popcorn, and every corner of the cinema feels like a personal touch from Keith.

As The Movie Man follows Keith’s efforts to reopen after the pandemic, the film captures the heart of what makes cinema special. The documentary is funny, touching, and a little bittersweet. It’s a tribute to people like Keith, who keep the magic of the big screen alive despite the odds.

In the end, The Movie Man isn’t just about one man or one theater—it’s a reminder of why we love movies. It’s about the joy of sharing stories, the comfort of community, and the memories we carry long after the credits roll.