Malibu Film Society proposes $1 million civic-theater renovation, offers digital projector

Arianna, vice president of the Malibu Film Society, told the Malibu City Council on June 26, 2025, that the nonprofit wants the city to renovate the Civic Theater at City Hall so the space can host first‑run films and larger community events.

The Film Society’s presentation said the room is currently a flat floor space with 162 permanent seats — 122 in the center front section — and room for about 80 removable chairs in front of the stage. Arianna said viewing from side seats is “dark and distorted” and that the current audio is “muffled and muddy,” conditions that studios will not accept for pre‑release screenings. “Removing the old soundboard and extending the center section of the front of the stage will add 60 permanent seats with space for up to six wheelchairs,” she said, adding that there is space for a new 28‑foot…