Andrea Canales
Member Profile
How has Cinema United membership been impactful to you and/or your business?It’s really helped me stay on top of what’s happening in the industry. I’m consistently kept in the loop regarding important news, evolving policies, upcoming activations, and various elements related to film exhibition. I’ve also found the webinars and networking opportunities incredibly beneficial. The chance to connect with other industry professionals has really enriched my understanding and approach to my work.
In 2006, under the name the Midnite Movie Mamacita, I began four-walling spaces to independently host cult icons for special screening events. Some of the talents I worked with include Tura Satana (Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!), Kitten Nativdad (Beneath the Valley of the Ultra Vixens), Ted V. Mikels (Astro Zombies), and Tommy Wiseau & Greg Sestero (The Room).
This experience led to programming roles at various second-run and multi-purpose art-spaces, where I independently exhibited Magnolia & IFC titles theatrically in 35mm, such as Bronson, Antichrist, I Saw the Devil, and Human Centipede. As the Film Programmer at FilmBar for 10 years, I developed and curated programming for Phoenix’s only Art House Cinema.
Since moving to Majestic, I’ve enjoyed expanding my knowledge of the exhibition industry and am grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been given so far.
It’s difficult to narrow it down, but my two favorite aspects of working here are: first, the team I collaborate with. We’re a small but incredibly effective group, and I truly value being part of such a supportive, knowledgeable, and fun team. I love interacting with my colleagues and learning from them.
The second is seeing events and screenings evolve from initial concepts into fully realized experiences. I find it incredibly rewarding to guide the creative process from start to finish and create memorable events for our attendees. I feel fortunate to have experienced many unforgettable cinematic moments myself, and being able to do that for others is truly rewarding.
In 2023, we hosted a Barbie Blowout Party featuring an early access screening of BARBIE. Bringing this event to life with our team and celebrating with so many fabulous guests dressed in pink was truly unforgettable. Witnessing the film’s impact on the audience and the camaraderie of friends coming together for a major release with such a powerful female-driven message and production story was pure joy. And, of course, all the pink was an absolute dopamine rush!
Member Gallery
Meeting Alejandro Jodorowsky and watching The Holy Mountain, followed by a Q&A with him moderated by Nicolas Winding Refn, is definitely one of my all-time favorite experiences. Held at the iconic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, the event left an unforgettable impression that’s permanently etched in my mind.
I envision the future of exhibition continuing to showcase mainstream blockbusters while also highlighting thought-provoking, avant-garde, experimental, and independent works from visionary artists. The ever-evolving creativity in filmmaking never ceases to amaze me, and with filmmaking becoming more accessible and affordable, I can’t wait to see what the next generation of filmmakers will bring to the screen.
Go for it! If you’re passionate about the cinematic arts and want to be part of the world’s most influential media industry, take that first step. Start small, explore opportunities, and see where the journey takes you.
