Bear Mascot Greets Bruin Theatre's Second Act

The historic Bruin Theatre in Westwood is gearing up for an ambitious October reopening, under the guidance of a new independent team. This marks a second act for the beloved movie palace, which previously saw its own restoration plans derailed.

A prior attempt by Jason Reitman's group, Bruin Directors Circle, to lease and renovate the theater between 2024 and 2025 ultimately dissolved. This effort unraveled amid a multimillion-dollar dispute over the building's condition and the escalating cost of necessary repairs.

Records indicate that initial assessments pointed to approximately $450,625 in needed repairs, but this figure ballooned to over $2 million as the scope of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and roofing work became clearer.

The new team, comprising Toronto exhibitor Rui Pereira and Los Angeles theater historian Bill Counter, is adopting a more cautious, repair-focused strategy. They aim to preserve and refurbish existing equipment where possible, rather than undertaking a complete overhaul.

This approach contrasts with the previous attempt, which faced significant financial and legal challenges. The current team is prioritizing getting the theater clean, functional, and welcoming, with cosmetic upgrades to follow.

Securing necessary approvals from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety and the Los Angeles Fire Department is the team's top priority. The Bruin's target reopening date remains October, contingent on navigating city bureaucracy.