Change of plans: No movies after all for Miami Lakers

The coronavirus and efforts to keep people safe from it have put tremendous pressure on commerce, and the movie theaters in Miami Lakes are not immune.

Though CMX Cinemas in Miami Lakes greeted Miami-Dade County’s news Wednesday that they would be allowed to open on Friday, by Thursday night, the chain changed its mind.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez said movie-goers will have to wear masks and cannot engage in a favorite pastime – chomping on popcorn, Twizzlers and Junior Mints – while sitting in the dark.

“No food or beverages while watching movies or bowling, except in designated areas,” Gimenez said Wednesday when he announced the re-opening of some businesses, including movie houses.

But concession stands are major profit centers for movie chains, about 85%, according to a 2007 Time Magazine story.

So while movie posters advertising hoped-for hits like “Infidel” and “Tenet” are in their display cases outside the CMX Cinemas Miami Lakes 17, the multiplex at 6711 Main St. will remain shuttered until further notice.