Water Tower Cinema is getting a remake.
The neighborhood theater, known by its local sobriquet “Eric 7,” tucked into Montgomeryville’s sprawling Water Tower Square is about to raise the curtain on its next act. Beginning in October, Flagship Premium Cinemas and The Goldenberg Group will assume operations at the theater, according to a recent news release.
The acquisition of Water Tower Cinema will be the 19th location under the Baltimore-based Flagship Premium Cinemas banner. The company’s mission involves affordable, premium moviegoing experiences, according to the release.
According to the report, Flagship intends to retain the current staff.
However, a transformation is coming. The co-operators plan to roll out $1.5 million in renovations in phases (what is this? The MCU?), with upgrades including luxury, heated recliners, modernized concessions, and a new interior design to “blend small-town comfort with modern style.”
According to its website, the cinemas offer hot foods, self-serve popcorn and sodas, internet ticketing, premium popcorn pail subscriptions, a Film Fanatic Club, birthday parties, gift cards, and TheaterEars app capabilities.
“We’re thrilled to join the Lansdale community and honored to carry forward the legacy of Water Tower Cinema,” said Paul Wenger, president of Flagship Premium Cinemas, in the release. “Our guests can expect the same welcoming atmosphere, now with premium upgrades that make every visit even more special.”
The change in operators comes under the ownership of The Goldenberg Group, which took over the property in 2019 and shepherded its survival through the pandemic.
“The Goldenberg Group would like to thank the staff, community, schools, local police, fire department, families, and movie aficionados for their support,” said David Mercuris, the group’s senior vice president, in the release. “We look forward to working with the Flagship team and to continue to build on our ‘Community Theater’ experience in our role as partner and owner of Water Tower Square.”
That broader retail hub is a story of its own. Water Tower Square spans 269,018 square feet along the busy Route 202/309 corridor, drawing shoppers and diners from across Montgomery and Bucks counties.
(Credit: Submitted photo)The center’s tenant mix includes national anchors like Home Depot, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Sprouts Farmers Market, World Market, Planet Fitness, and Miller’s Ale House.
Water Tower Cinema accounts for 33,761 square feet — a substantial footprint that underscores its role as an anchor attraction in its own right.
Numbers bolster the story. Within five miles of the complex live more than 143,000 residents, alongside a daytime workforce exceeding 116,000 employees.
The average household income in that radius tops $136,000, a demographic profile that developers say ensures strong support for retail and entertainment, according to The Goldenberg Group.
In other words, the market is primed for a premium but accessible cinematic experience.
Flagship enters Montgomeryville with experience in communities across Maine, New York, Maryland, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Its nearby locations include Pottstown, Palmyra, and
The company is honoring existing Water Tower Cinema gift cards and advance ticket sales.
Since 1987, The Goldenberg Group, led by Ken Goldenberg, has been a leading real estate developer in Greater Philadelphia, recognized for transformative projects ranging from landmark retail destinations to luxury residential communities and urban student housing, according to the release.
What to Watch This Week at Water Tower Cinema
Here are some of the films playing now (showtimes vary):
Be sure to check the website or Fandango app for the most up-to-date showtimes and any special screenings.
Flagship Premium Cinemas offers $6 tickets on Wayback Wednesdays.
Current movie tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors/students/military, $8 for children. Matinee prices (movies before noon) are $8 for adults, $7 for seniors/students/military and $6 for children.
