Community Rallies to Save AMC Kips Bay 15 Amid Closure Threat
By Editor • September 1, 2026 • 1 min read
As the curtain threatens to fall on AMC Kips Bay 15, New Yorkers are stepping up to save their cherished movie theater. AMC announced last week that the Kips Bay multiplex would close at the end of the year, prompting an outpouring of support from the community.
A Change.org petition has already garnered nearly 7,740 signatures, alongside another online petition with about 3,740 names. Local politicians are also joining the cause; seven lawmakers, including Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal and U.S. Representative Jerry Nadler, have penned a letter to the landlord, NYU Langone, urging them to keep communication open regarding the future of the venue, which may be repurposed for medical offices.
“We hope to work with you on a plan that allows existing community amenities to coexist with medical uses,” the letter states. However, the question remains whether this community effort will be sufficient to halt the theater's demise, as many local cinemas have already closed their doors.
Assemblymember Keith Powers expressed the community's determination, stating, “I will not project success or failure. I’ve heard from thousands of New Yorkers about their love for this theater.” While the neighborhood has seen a wave of cinema closures, Powers highlighted the unique value of AMC Kips Bay as a convenient outing for families and seniors.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Powers reminisced, “I spent 30 years watching many of my favorite movies from one of their recliner seats. It was a true community hub.” With the future of AMC Kips Bay in limbo, the battle to keep its lights on continues.
Source: www.indiewire.com
