In the Cowichan Region of Vancouver Island, BC, Duncan Cinemas has been given a new lease on life.
Formerly the Caprice Twin, the theatre was purchased and revitalized earlier this year. What began as a plan for small upgrades quickly became a full-scale transformation: new screens, luxury seating, refreshed flooring and carpeting, renovated bathrooms, and a reimagined lobby.
With two auditoriums, Duncan Cinemas offers a mix of wide-release titles, family favourites and the occasional specialty film—like the Malayalam hit L2: Empuraan, which packed the house this year with one of the theatre’s most memorable crowds. And of course, no screening is complete without buttered popcorn, still their top concession item.
Looking ahead, the team continues to invest in the cinema’s future with a striking new sign (check out those big bold letters!) and plans for a vertical blade marquee that will light up the street. Duncan Cinemas is proof that the magic of the movies is alive and well in the Cowichan Valley.
Tell us why you decided to take on Duncan Cinemas (fka Caprice Twin):
We had been interested in bringing a theatre experience to the Duncan area for quite some time. Before the pandemic, we explored a few locations for building a brand-new theatre, but unfortunately, those plans didn’t work out and COVID-19 brought everything to a standstill. When the Duncan Twin became available, we saw it as a perfect opportunity to realize our goal. We purchased the property and got to work revitalizing it.
What improvements have you made during the Duncan Cinemas renovation?
At first, the plan was fairly simple, just some updates to projection equipment, minor repairs, and a fresh coat of paint. But as we got deeper into the process, we realized we wanted to give the community something more. That led to a complete overhaul: brand-new screens, all-new luxury seating, updated flooring and carpeting in both auditoriums, a new ceiling in the lobby, and bathroom renovations including new fixtures and stalls. One improvement inspired the next.
What sort of films do you show?
We primarily screen wide-release titles, with family-friendly films being especially popular in our community. We’ve also seen great turnout for select specialty titles like Downton Abbey and One Battle After Another looks to be a strong title for us.
What are Duncan Cinemas’ greatest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges we face is programming the right films for a two-screen theatre. With limited space, each booking has to be strategic. It’s a balancing act to serve a diverse audience with just two screens.
What’s a memorable film screening or event you hosted?
A standout moment this year was when we sold out our largest auditorium for the Malayalam film L2: Empuraan. The energy in the room was electric, the audience was enthusiastic, engaged, and clearly loving every moment. It was a great reminder of how powerful the theatrical experience can be.
What are your most popular concession items?
The classics still win: buttered popcorn is always a top seller, followed closely by Skittles and Sour Patch Kids.
What projects are you considering for the future?
We recently installed a new front building sign, and the building is currently getting a fresh coat of paint (weather permitting!). Looking ahead, we’re planning to install a vertical blade-style sign on the side of the building, slated for next year and will add even more character to our presence on the street.
Tell us about yourself; how did you get your start in film exhibition?
I got my start in the industry at 17, working as an usher. That early experience sparked a lifelong passion for movie theatres, and I’ve been lucky enough to turn that into a career.
