CityView Magazine

the years since the bulbs adorning the Cameo’s iconic marquee sign were first illuminated, downtown Fayetteville has collected several upscale bars, a tattoo parlor, an Apple computer store and a fair trade coffee shop. The Cameo also arrived at a time when independent films were just beginning to infiltrate the mainstream, particularly quirky indie-comedies like “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” “O’ Brother, Where Art Thou?,” “Napoleon Dynamite,” “Little Miss Sunshine” and “Juno.” The theater was typically (and remains) the only place in town where audiences could catch these unlikely hits. “There are two types of films: Films that make money and films that are good, when you bring those two together, jackpot!” joked Nasim. Because of it’s laid back atmosphere and diverse beer and wine selection, the Cameo has become a popular hang out destination for young people downtown. While most theater owners would balk at the prospect of folks who are not attending movies lingering around their business, the Keunzel’s plan to embrace this in the coming months. “We’re going to be more involved. We want this place open during the day for all sorts of functions. I think people downtown need something like that,” proclaimed Nasim. “We would like to increase showings, we’re going to build and find other avenues of bringing people in. We’re going to reinvigorate,” added Chris. It’s Saturday evening and the costumed toddlers clutching pails of candy have been replaced by costumed adults sipping glasses of wine in the Cameo lobby. They excitedly discuss upcoming films and speculate about this year’s Oscar contenders. It’s difficult to imagine these conversations occurring in a more traditional multiplex lobby. The crowd files into the theater to listen to a prologue to “Nosferatu,” a throwback to the halcyon nights of the Cameo’s early years when each new film was introduced with a brief speech. “We want to thank every one of you for supporting us over the last ten years.” says the speaker, a man disguised as Joan Rivers. Above the applause, a woman in the back section of the theater exclaims “No, thank you!” CV A New Year! A NEW YOU! FULFILLING YOUR FAMILY’S FITNESS NEEDS Our professional fitness staff looks forward to getting you in better shape! u Ladies only section u Challenging group exercise u Upscale, state-of-the-art equipment u Complimentary personal training sessions u Exciting kids zone u Cardio cinema RESULTS start when YOU do Call today! 4 Weeks for $4.00 for first 100 Callers 910.423.6664 (OMNI) 1400 Walter Reed Rd. (Behind Zaxby’s and Starbucks) www.omnihealthandfitness.net CityViewNC.com | 51 Find Us On Facebook! Search: OmniHealthAndFitnessFay First 100 callers receive their enrollment for just $4

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