N O W P L A Y I NG

DECADES HAVE GONE BY AS SUN-RAY CINEMA HAS STOOD ALONGSIDE THE JACKSONVILLE COMMUNITY AND SEEN FILM CULTURE CHANGE AND EVOLVE.

By KATYA SNIRIOVA, Staff Writer

Located in the historic Five Points area, SunRay Cinema has continuously been a part of Jacksonville’s entertainment history. Originally built in 1927, the renowned theater features various unique aspects, including its vintage artwork and restaurant, the Pizza Cave. The blend between the modern and antique appeal resides in Sun-Ray and continues to attract a wide range of people, including students at Stanton College Preparatory School. Along with the rest of the Jacksonville community, students continue to support Sun-Ray and its evolution through cinematic history.

Unlike other movie theaters around Jacksonville, Sun-Ray Cinema is part of a long timeline that shows the development of modern media in the city. According to the official Five Points website, the building was initially called the Riverside Theatre and was the first theater in all of Florida to show films with sound. However, due to increased ticket prices, people stopped going to the theater, and it inevitably closed in the early 1930s. It was later remodeled in 1949 and renamed the Five Points Theatre. After its renovation, the theater upheld its popular gothic art style, which brought in customers.

“There is a Florida theme throughout the business and little bits that have to do with cinema history,” said Mrs. Shana David-Massett, one of the current owners of Sun-Ray Cinema.

In 1972, new renovations changed the theater’s artistic designs, leading to the public’s disinterest and its closure in 1977. Later, in 2005, the Mike

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Gupta. “You get the sense they really care about what they are showing.”

Combined with its eccentric appearance and historical background, various people believe Sun-Ray stands to be the foremost theater of the Jacksonville film scene. Its role in the community leaves an impact on the residents of the city by building an inclusive environment.

“A theater like Sun-Ray is really a gift to the community it’s a part of,” said International Baccalaureate film teacher Mr. Brandon Cox. “It is the [connection between] the film community in Jacksonville.”

Several people believe this connection transcends many cultural bonds and represents the whole of Jacksonville.

“It’s hard to build a sense of community since it is so diffused,” said David-Massett. “[That’s why we stand to be] a magnet for people who love movies.” Shad Company bought the building and recreated its initial vintage characteristics. These retro designs remained a part of the theater when the current owners, Shana David-Massett and Tim Massett, purchased the theater in 2011. The couple now works to maintain its timeless fashion.

“We want the space [you walk into] to transport you to your own special place,” said David-Massett.

From the atmosphere to its surrounding area, Sun-Ray Cinema remains a unique part of its community. The painted walls and novel designs are key features of the theater. Inside the building, figurines and old arcade games surround the lobby, supporting its distinctive environment.

“Although a big movie theater is good and the product is arguably higher quality, it does not have the same local atmosphere that a smaller theater would have, and it feels like home,” said sophomore Jack Wheeler.

Wheeler’s sentiment toward the cinema remains a vital part of the Sun-Ray experience. However, the lobby is not the only area with a classic look; colorful walls and ‘70s themed decorations surround the upstairs room. These designs, among others, are what gives the theater its personalized character. Additionally, the cinema’s style sets it apart from large corporate chains and allows most people who visit Sun-Ray to gain a close connection with the theater.

“My favorite thing about the theater is that it feels personal; there is a really deep love for movies and the movie-going experience,” said senior Sunny

Sun-Ray’s Pizza Cave hosts a colorful underwater world and tasty pizza.

Like its past, the cinema’s future remains unpredictable. A recent advancement Sun-Ray has made was the addition of drive-in theaters located at plots around Jacksonville. Drive-in theaters were a cornerstone of the previous century, and their revival further established Sun-Ray’s identity.

The history of Sun-Ray continues to be the foundation for its success. Standing through many decades, the theater witnessed film culture shift and advance. Focusing on inclusion and appreciation, Sun-Ray provides a welcoming space that brings movie fanatics together. The cinema stands as a historic monument representing the community’s continuous passion for film.

By CINDY LAM, Staff Photographer