The Fleur Cinema & Cafe in Des Moines, Iowa will be reopening for business Friday, September 8, 2023. Located south of downtown Des Moines on Fleur Drive and McKinley Avenue, the movie theater hasn't shown movies since March 2020, when it closed because of the Coronavirus pandemic and never reopened. At the time, it was being operated by Coppola Enterprises (according to a recent news article - see below).

The news was announced in a press release from the theater's new operator, Fridley Theatres, which now has seventeen locations in Iowa and one in Nebraska.

“We’re excited to open the Fleur for the release of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3,” said Russell Vannorsdel, President of Fridley Theatres. “The original Greek Wedding is the largest grossing title in the history of the Fleur Cinema.”

According to the theater's website, it will be offering both mainstream and arthouse movies combined with cafe food and beverage options, such as Rice Krispy treats, brownies, coffee, draft beer, wine, Italian sodas. Traditional popcorn, candy, and sodas also will be available.

To see what's playing and when, please visit the Showtimes page for the Fridley - Fleur Cinema & Cafe. Ticket prices start at $7 for matinees and for seniors and children. Please see the Ticket Prices page for details.

Moviegoers in the area have needed to visit one of the other nearby theaters, including the Varsity Cinema and the Flix Brewhouse - Des Moines, so this news will add to the options available.

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Press Release

The Fleur Cinema & Café, operated by Fridley Theatres, Announces Opening Date

Des Moines, IA (September 6th, 2023) – The Fleur Cinema & Café, operated by Fridley Theatres, will re-open for business on Friday, September 8th. The beloved theatre makes its encore appearance after closing during the early part of the pandemic. “We’re excited to open the Fleur for the release of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3,” said Russell Vannorsdel, President of Fridley Theatres. “The original Greek Wedding is the largest grossing title in the history of the Fleur Cinema.”

The Fridley team has been busy preparing for the opening. A new manager and staff have been hired, and training is in progress. “We’re confident in our crew,” said Vannorsdel. “We have a group of friendly, professional, movie-lovers on board. Guests at the Fleur should expect top-notch service.”

Maintenance personnel have made repairs and tested equipment at the theatre. General staff have deep-cleaned and organized. The concession menu is in place, featuring a variety of old favorites, and film bookings are complete. “We loved the atmosphere at the Fleur, and we didn’t see any reason to change things,” said Vannorsdel. “Our final step is to welcome movie fans.”

Fridley Theatres operates 17 locations and 95 screens across the State of Iowa. Robert “Bob” Fridley, its founder, had long been a presence in the Des Moines movie landscape, owning several theatres in the metro.

The Fleur Cinema & Café was opened and founded by Michael Coppola in 2001, who also previously operated the cinema. “I cannot think of a better company to be the steward of this theatre into the future,” said Coppola.

The Fleur Cinema & Café opens in time for the fall Oscar season, and it plans to showcase various Academy Award contenders. It will continue to provide the highest quality pictures, exceptional service, and unmatched experience that has made it a staple in the Des Moines area for nearly two decades.