- Mattia Luigi Nappi/Wikimedia Commons
The four-screen movie house at 6746 N. Sheridan formerly known as the Village North recently reopened in 2010 under new management and a new name. Despite receiving a substantial overhaul—which includes the introduction of a full bar to the concession stand—the New 400 feels very much like preserves the neighborhood vibe of the old Village North, making moviegoing feel like a natural part of urban social life. To emphasize its ties to the community, the theater has already pledged support to other businesses and charities in Rogers Park. Last week, I stopped by the theater to talk with manager Tom Klein (whose storied history involves managing the Vic Theatre and playing guitar with Liquid Soul) and assistant manager Jenny Shapiro about movie exhibition, doorstops, and the plans for the second New 400 theater in Hyde Park. Our interview follows the jump.