The Admiral Theater, West Seattle's only movie house, has faced an uncertain future for some time. With movie studios offering fewer and fewer film prints in 35mm as the industry shifts to digital projection, the Admiral has fallen behind the times. As a second run theater they have come to show films almost at the same time or after they have gone to DVD release, and the rest of the building is in need of serious attention, with aging seats, wall coverings, flooring, plus questionable plumbing and ventilation.

Discussions with the historic building's owner Mark Gartin have been ongoing as he considered his options for the building. Under landmark determination, the exterior walls of the Admiral must be preserved.

But for now, as discussions between current tenant Faraway Entertainment and Gartner continue the Admiral has stepped up to return to first run movie status. The first film of the new status will be The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.

That will mean ticket prices will go to $10.50 for regular admission; $8.50 for matinees and seniors and kids under 12. Senior Tuesday will be $6.50.

In a statement released on Facebook the theater said:

"Thanks to the success of Interstellar, The Historic Admiral Theater will now be playing first run movies!! It all starts with The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies next Tuesday night at 7pm.

Please note: Ticket prices have also changed. You can find these on our website at http://www.farawayentertainment.com/locati…/admiral-theater/ "