Palace Theaters
MGM and Loews became intertwined through a complex series of mergers and acquisitions in the early years of Hollywood. In 1919, Marcus Loew, the founder of Loew's Theatres, Inc., acquired Metro Pictures Corporation, a film production company founded in 1915. In 1924, Loew merged Metro Pictures with two other film production companies, Goldwyn Pictures Corporation, and Louis B. Mayer Pictures, to form Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). Louis B. Mayer, one of the founders of the original Louis B. Mayer Pictures, became the head of MGM, and the company quickly became one of the most successful studios in Hollywood.
At the same time, Loew's Theatres was also expanding, with a growing chain of movie theaters across the United States. Loew's was known for its luxurious "Palace" theaters, some of the most opulent movie theaters of the early 20th century. In 1927, Loew's acquired a controlling interest in MGM, which gave it a major stake in one of the most successful film studios in Hollywood. MGM continued to produce popular and critically acclaimed films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, while Loew's continued to expand its chain of movie theaters, many of which featured exclusive MGM productions. The two companies remained closely tied throughout the Golden Age of Hollywood, with MGM films often premiering in Loew's "Palace" theaters nationwide.
Loews had several famous "Palace" theaters, some of the most iconic and luxurious movie theaters of the early 20th century. These theaters were known for their opulent decor, state-of-the-art technology, and premium amenities, and they often hosted the biggest Hollywood premieres and events.
One of the most famous Loews "Palace" theaters was the Loew's State Theatre in New York City, which opened in 1921 and was designed to resemble a grand European opera house. It had a seating capacity of over 3,500 and featured a massive Wurlitzer organ played before and after each screening. The Loew's State Theatre hosted many Hollywood premieres, including the 1939 premiere of "Gone with the Wind."
Another notable Loews "Palace" theater was the Loew's Capitol Theatre in New York City, which opened in 1919 and was the first movie palace in the world. It was designed in the French Renaissance style and had a seating capacity of over 4,000. The theater featured a giant screen, a state-of-the-art sound system, elaborate decorations, and luxurious amenities.
Other Loews "Palace" theaters included the Loew's Paradise Theatre in the Bronx, the Loew's Jersey Theatre in Jersey City, and the Loew's King's Theatre in Brooklyn. These theaters were popular destinations for moviegoers and remained in operation for many years, even as the movie industry underwent significant changes in the mid-20th century.