Business & Tech

Commack Multiplex Shuts Its Doors

After two and a half decades, Commack's lone movie theater closed Sunday.

The Commack Multiplex Cinemas closed down Sunday night, nearly a year and a half after the building was sold to Lowe's.

The multiplex, which opened along the Long Island expressway in the mid-1980's, was sold for a reported $13 million to the home improvement retailer in May 2010 as part of a 20-acre parcel.

As part of the agreement, the theater was allowed to after the deal was finalized, causing many to speculate when it would officially close.

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Although no special events were planned for the theater's last day, employees gathered to eat some food and wish the theater farewell before its last showing on Sunday, according to Mr. Mendes, a theater manager who declined to give his first name.

Mendes said for the most part, employees will be transferred to other chains owned by National Amusements, the Massachusettes-based movie house operator.

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News of the theater's closing sparked the formation of several groups on Facebook, including Commack Multiplex Cinemas - End of an Era and Farewell Commack Multiplex, where patrons and former employees recalled their fondest memories of the theater.

The multiplex closed its decades-long run with a 10:25 p.m. showing of Drive.

It is not yet clear when construction on the Lowe's building will begin. A representative for Lowe's could not be reached for comment Monday.


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