In Los Angeles, catching a flick at the Hollywood Forever Cemetary is a rite of passage. “I’ve heard it said that if you don’t go to Cinespia, you’re not really an Angeleno.” John Wyatt, founder of Cinespia, shared with a laugh during a recent phone call. “I hope that’s true.”, presented by Amazon MGM Studios, is a cornerstone of the entertainment capital’s varied cinematic experiences. John Wyatt started Cinespia in 2001 as a passion project.
“More than being our home for Cinespia, it’s such a great historical place because there’s so much Hollywood history there. So many of the people who worked on films in the golden era are buried there,” he said. “It’s right next to the Paramount Studios and Gower Studios. It’s in the center of all of that history, and it’s just a lovely place with architecture from the past 100 years. There’s a lake and then this giant lawn where people can sit. Not on graves, of course.
Attendees at the “Sausage Party: Foodtopia” screening will also receive free treats, photo ops and other surprises throughout the night.Cinespia is also bringing back its annual Slumber Party, featuring a special back-to-back screening of “Bring It On” and “The Virgin Suicides.” Wyatt notes that this tradition has been a staple for almost a decade, celebrating late into the night until 2:30 a.m. Attendees can enjoy drinks, food, and dancing, thanks to an in-house DJ and a dedicated dance floor.
As for the future of Cinespia, Wyatt hopes it remains a key component of Los Angeles’ rich history. While movies are the highlight, Wyatt shares that the real stars are the memories and gatherings of loved ones under the Los Angeles skyline, coming together for a film.