Dave OsbornNaples Daily News
It's summer blockbuster drama movie fans hoping to see "Mission Impossible ― Dead Reckoning Part One" at the Mercato weren't expecting: Silverspot Cinema is closing.
The popular movie venue ever since Mercato opened 15 years ago has announced on its website that it would close after July 23. The new "Mission Impossible" opened nationwide Wednesday.
"FAREWELL NAPLES! Dear Mercato Film Lovers, "It is with mixed emotions that we share this news," the statement began.
"After 14 remarkable years of bringing you the best in cinema, we must bid you farewell. Our last day of movie showings will be July 23. Before we close our doors, we invite you to seize the opportunity to enjoy our fantastic lineup of movies one last time. From thrilling adventures to gripping dramas, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out!
"We would like to express our deep gratitude to our exceptional team ― the driving force behind the smiles and joy experienced by our cherished guests. Your unwavering dedication and shared passion have been vital to our success. We will be forever grateful for each one of you.
"To our guests: it’s been an honor to share our passion for movies with all of you, and we thank you for your support over the years. We encourage you to take advantage of the amazing array of movies currently playing. Feel free to reach out with any questions, and please refer to our Q&A at the bottom of this page for matters related to Spot Rewards points and gift cards.
"Once again, thank you for being a part of our cinematic journey. We are eternally grateful."
What about movie tickets, gift cards
At the end of its closing announcement, Silverspot provided more information, which said:
FAQ - REWARDS & GIFT CARDS
1 - How long do I have to redeem my loyalty points and gift cards?
You have until July 23 to redeem them at the Naples location.
2 - What can I use them for?
They are redeemable for movie tickets, food, and drinks at any Silverspot Cinema location.
3 - Can I still use them after closure?
Absolutely! Your points and gift cards don't expire.
4 - Do I need to transfer them to another location?
No transfer is necessary.
5 - How can I redeem my loyalty points and gift cards?
Redeem online (through our app/website) or in person at guest relations.
6 - What happens if I have remaining points or an unused gift card after the closure?
You can continue to use them at any of our other locations. Your loyalty points and gift cards retain their value.
Silverspot fans react
Mercato opening in North Naples in 2008 and has been Silverspot has been a popular choice for movie-goers when it opened a year later.
Last year, Atanta-based North American Properties took over management of Mercato.
"Silverspot Cinema’s lease is expiringand after14enjoyable years, we have mutually agreed to part ways," Lauren Ness, a company spokesperson, said in an email.
"We are grateful for the community’s support of the cinema and look forward to setting the next scene."
Silverspot officials were unavailable Thursday when the Daily News reached out for comment.
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Southwest Florida movie fans have reacted to the news with shock and sadness.
"Oh no! We just took our family there today to see the Sound of Freedom," wrote Stephanie Nicole in the Collier County Moms Facebook group.
"I encourage all families to go watch it and to also go to Silverspot. We have loved the Silverspot!"
Patsy Bradley wrote in the Naples Hidden Gems Facebook group: "I will miss them. My friend and I went the very first weekend it opened."
Silverspot operates six other theaters, including two on Florida's east coast: Coconut Creek and Miami. The others are in Atlanta; Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Orange Village, Ohio; and Brookfield, Wisconsin.
Will another theater replace Silverspot
North American Properties operates more than 55 properties throughout the U.S., from college residence halls to outdoor shopping venues like Mercato.
Some speculated on social media that Alamo Drafthouse Cinema would replace Silverspot in the location. Brandy Fons, a spokesperson, said Thursday that she could not confirm anything.
The Austin, Texas-based company, founded in 1997, operates 40 theaters that offer food and drinks during films.
No Alamo Drafthouse Cinema movie houses are at North American Properties. But one luxury theater at a NAP-run development is Colony Square in midtown Atlanta that's home to an IPIC Theater similar to Silverspot ― a luxury movie venue offering food and drinks.
Other IPIC theaters in Florida are on the east coast, in Delray Beach, Boca Raton and North Miami Beach.
It's unclear whether the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago and Hurricane Ian last fall played a role in the decision to shut down Silverspot. The movie house reopened in late August 2020 during the pandemic, then the hurricane pounded Southwest Florida on Sept. 28.
Dave Osborn is the regional features editor of the Naples Daily News and News-Press. Follow him on Instagram @lacrossewriterand on Twitter @NDN_dosborn.
