Behind the Scenes
A man loses his identity while living under a repressive regime. In a story based on George Orwell’s classic novel, Winston Smith (John Hurt) is a government employee whose job involves the rewriting of history in a manner that casts his fictional country’s leaders in a charitable light. His trysts with Julia (Suzanna Hamilton) provide his only measure of enjoyment, but lawmakers frown on the relationship — and in this closely monitored society, there is no escape from Big Brother.
Ever since the EF5 tornado in May 2011, Joplin has been associated with “The Butterfly Effect.”
This butterfly effect is about how the town was just a caterpillar and blossomed into a beautiful butterfly.
When the town started rebuilding the citizens like Holly Crane wanted to focus on the community.
She especially wanted to focus on what she believed to be the ignored community, the ones who were overlooked or thought of weirdos.
In her quest, Crane found a historic building that used to be a thrift shop and turned it into unique hangout for anyone and everyone.
“Welcome all weirdos, and normal people too,” said Crane, the owner of Bookhouse Cinema/Pub, a place where she hopes everyone feels welcome.
Crane said people can come fresh out of bed or fresh out of church and never feel out of place.
Located at 715 East Broadway Street, in Joplin, it’s a restaurant and movie theater all in one. Crane has designed it to bring a new side to Joplin.
The concept behind the pub/theatre combo is simple. Patrons can order a pulled pork grilled cheese on the restaurant side and take it into the movies.
Ultimately, patrons can view a movie with a full-on meal, instead of just snacks. However, traditional over-buttered popcorn is still available.
Crane said she wants the theatre/pub to be a place where everyone feels safe.
For example, If a date goes bad, or a random person makes someone feel uncomfortable, Crane said her staff is willingly to stand up for the person.
“I want a comforting space, not a business space,” Crane said. “I have no talent of my own other than Microsoft Excel, but I can appreciate art and I can love it.”
The movies shown in the cinema are mostly independent or foreign films.
Crane doesn’t want to play things that would come to Regal or any other “mainstream” movie theater.
She brings those films because she wants to give people to opportunity to enjoy all their interests and experience new things.
The idea of showing independent movies grew out of her love of the genre. Crane wanted to share her interest with the rest of her community. All movie tickets are $8.
Throughout the pub, Crane has various paintings and pottery all around, some of which are up for purchase.
The pub menu tries to cater to all, and includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options, as well as the traditional meat dishes. The most expensive meal on the menu is $10.
In addition to the movies, Crane hosts special events at the pub, including trivia nights, paranormal science labs, improv nights and more.
For more information, or to check out what is happening at the pub/theatre, persons interested may visit www.bookhousejoplin.com or call Crane at 417-825-5161.
The Bookhouse Cinema/Pub is open from 4 to 9:30 p.m., Wednesday to Friday; 1:30 to 9:30 p.m., Saturday; and 1:30 to 7:30 p.m., on Sunday. It’s located at 715 East Broadway Street, in Joplin.
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