It's lights, camera, action as the Eveningstar Cinema is under new ownership this fall. Barry Norman, whose impressive résumé includes stints at with professional wrestling, Cartoon Network and CNN Sports, has made the move to Brunswick and taken over the popular Maine Street theater from former owner John Favreau.
After graduating from Boston University with a Master's degree in film studies, Norman began browsing theater-for-sale ads. A lifelong lover of independent film and an independent filmmaker in his own right, Norman came across the sale listing for the Eveningstar.
"I was wondering how to get involved with what I'm passionate about," said Norman. "I was originally looking at Art Deco theaters but most needed major renovations."
Norman, who is originally from Massachusetts packed up his nine-year-old Schnoodle, Scooter—a schnauzer, poodle mix—and moved to Maine.
"I really like Brunswick and when I saw the theater, it was a perfect match," said Norman. "It was the kind of place I was looking for but small enough that it wouldn't kill me."
The character of the Eveningstar as an independent film haven was immediately appealing to Norman who ran an independent-film festival in Georgia for a number of years.
"John's reputation was independent films and art-house films so that's the pool I will fish in for movies," said Norman. "The type of films I'll show won't necessarily be playing at the Regal Cinemas."
Currently screening "The Girl Who Played With Fire," Norman is excited to choose films that fit the independent-film genre.
"I will pick films that I know I can get," said Norman. "The only problem is I don't know when I will get them."
Norman is also enthusiastic about his proximity to the Bowdoin campus.
"One of the first things I did was to e-mail the film studies department at Bowdoin," said Norman. "I want to start a Brunswick Film Society and hopefully have some free screenings and guest speakers."
Norman, who officially became the owner just last week, is still getting used to Brunswick and his new job.
"Oh my God I can't believe how much work is involved," said Norman. "Not only working in the projection booth and the concession stand but the business end of the theater as well."
But Norman is enthusiastic about the Eveningstar's role on Maine Street.
"I lucked out and bought a theater that means a lot to the community," said Norman. "It means a lot that something I love is so important to the people here. It is great to be so involved in the fabric of the community."