Located at 3450 E Circle Drive NE, the CMX Chateau originally opened in 2001 and expanded shortly after, growing to 14 screens equipped with electric reclining seats and cutting-edge 4K projection technology. The theater also featured a full-service bar and hosted a variety of events from birthday parties to gaming nights, becoming a staple in Rochester’s entertainment scene.
Ownership of the theater evolved over the years, with management passing from CineMagic to Paragon before being acquired by CMX Cinemas in 2017. Despite the upgrades and amenities designed to draw in crowds, the theater was not immune to the challenges facing the cinema industry, including increased competition from streaming services and shifting consumer habits.
The closure followed CMX Cinemas’ Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing earlier this year. Reports cite lease complications among the reasons for the abrupt shutdown, which took many Rochester residents by surprise. The final public screenings took place on a Sunday night in late July, closing a significant chapter in Rochester’s cultural landscape.
With the CMX Chateau’s closure, movie lovers in Rochester now have fewer options. The Marcus Galaxy 14 remains the city’s primary multiplex, while the downtown Pop’s Art Theater offers a small, independent alternative for cinephiles seeking unique and classic films.
The loss of CMX Chateau reflects a broader trend of shrinking movie theater presence in Rochester, a city that once boasted hundreds of screens across multiple venues. Today, the total number of screens in the area has dwindled to roughly 15, signaling a shift in how residents engage with film and entertainment.
While the future of the former theater building remains uncertain, its impact on the Rochester community will be remembered by many who enjoyed countless evenings of film, fun, and social connection.
For now, Rochester’s cinema fans will look to the remaining theaters to keep the magic of the big screen alive.
This article was made with assistance from AI