“Why don’t we show old classic films at the Hi-Pointe?” Jo-Ellen McDonald asked Brian Ross, the manager of the Hi-Pointe Theatre, one day. At first Brian was a little unsure of this idea. Jo-Ellen, the Hi-Pointe’s “Number One Volunteer,” had previously lived in Texas, where she and her family frequently attended a movie theatre where classic films showed. It had been a huge success there, so why not try it here in Saint Louis? It proved to be a satisfying experience for the attendees and the theatre, so they decided to continue showing classic films one Saturday every month at their now-popular “Classic Film Series.”

As I was talking with Jo-Ellen, she expressed her enthusiasm and excitement about the increase of people showing up for the movies–not only the classic films but the other films shown at the Hi-Pointe, as well. Several years back, the Hi-Pointe was owned by a larger film company. The theatre was poorly tended and usually received only the backwash films or edgy films. But, as Jo-Ellen explained, Brian has done a lot more than a little for the rundown theatre. Getting rid of the musty smell and old curtain, and purchasing a new screen were just a few of the major updates he spearheaded. One of the biggest and most recent results of these efforts is that the local paper The Riverfront Times voted the Hi-Pointe Theatre “Best Movie Theater St. Louis 2014.” This is a huge honor for the theatre, its owner and volunteers, and the people who frequently go there.

One of the ongoing main concerns that Jo-Ellen expressed is that some people have only witnessed the older Hi-Pointe and haven’t yet seen the newly renovated theatre. It is truly amazing what a new atmosphere and vibe the theatre sets off. It’s a very unique place and every time I visit, it seems like everyone is even more comfortable with each other than the last time they were there.

Jo-Ellen shared these words: “My impression is that … you know how small businesses like the Hi-Pointe, or just like any little restaurant or coffee shops, have kind of gone out of favor a little bit? I think you guys and your friends are really seeing the value of them in a way that that maybe people ten, fifteen, even twenty years older than you didn’t. So I’m really hopeful that with you telling more people about it, that will bring more attention to the Hi-Pointe.”

My dad and I have made a special dad and daughter time out of the Classic Movie Series. It’s “our thing.” We usually go out for muffins or a coffee before showing up for the show. We arrive ten minutes early and right when we step inside, it’s warm and cozy. The people already inside sort of shift to make room for you, a dog is roaming around and it just feels so wonderful.

I want more people to be able to experience that feeling. I’ve never been to any other place that has given me that sense. It’s a representation of what our world should be–welcoming and accepting of everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from. I think that’s the main reason the Hi-Pointe is really appealing: because people feel like they belong and are part of the Hi-Pointe family.

So, as a representative of this amazing vintage theatre, I challenge you to go check the Hi-Pointe out. It has definitely found itself a place in my heart.