The Madstone Theaters unexpectedly shut their doors yesterday. Word on the street is that this came as a shock to those who worked their. More talk around the water cooler yielded a theory that the Madstone chain was overextended. In addition to showing films, they distributed them and also made them. If I find out that Russ Collins was behind this…oh, I’m joking. I’d never speak ill of Thursday morning movie critic.

This does come as a blow. The Madstone was an awesome operation. Not only did they bring art films to the area that didn’t involve uncomfortable seats, but they also brought us regular films at less than airport-like prices (assuming you were a member). Deep down, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise. The thing I like most about the Madstone was the fact that it wasn’t crowded or filled with kids. We were once the only two people in a theater on several occasions. In addition, they got our memberships wrong and never sent us the complimentary magazine that was supposed to be filled with delightful interviews. Looking back on in that light, I’m surprised they stayed open until the end of May. Another rumor making the rounds is that the Michigan Theater will honor memberships. Maybe Russ isn’t such a bad guy after all.

And to Dan, the greatest movie host a theater could ever ask for, I’ll try and find another stuffed cheddar jalapeno pretzel and eat it in your honor.