The iconic Hi-Pointe Theatre has been a St. Louis landmark since 1922, and its HVAC system was almost as old.

When Cinema St. Louis purchased the Theatre as our forever home in January 2023, we knew that someday we’d need to fully replace both the roof and HVAC. We were just about ready to get those projects underway...

But then, in May 2025, a tornado tore through St. Louis. While the Theatre was thankfully spared major damage, it finished off what remained of our aging air conditioning system, leaving us with an auditorium that’s uncomfortably reminiscent of 1922 summers.

Despite the heat, our audiences have shown up for sold-out festivals, 35mm screenings, and special events, proving once again that movie magic is best experienced together. We have the best popcorn in town, now we just need to make sure it’s not the only thing that’s hot.

We’re raising $40,000 to cover what insurance may not, so we can keep the Hi-Pointe comfortable for generations to come. With your help, the only thing you’ll sweat over here is what snack to choose at the concession stand.

Donate today and help us keep the COOL in cinema!

Help Keep the Hi-Pointe Theatre COOL, Literally!