East Valley’s 3 Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas file for bankruptcy

The Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas in Chandler, Tempe, and Gilbert have filed for bankruptcy in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

A statement from Craig Paschich, the majority owner of the East Valley dine-in movie theaters, reads:

‘‘I’m sad to confirm that due to the impact of the Covid-19 shutdowns, our three Alamo Drafthouse franchise locations in the Phoenix area have been forced to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.’’

The filings do not affect the Texas-based chain’s non-Arizona locations.

Alamo made its Arizona debut with a nine-screen complex in south Chandler in 2016 and added a six-screen complex in south Tempe in 2018 and an eight-screen complex in southeast Gilbert in November.

Gov. Ducey closed Arizona movie theaters March 20. They are allowed to reopen Saturday, although many are choosing to wait.

Paschich says he eventually hopes to reopen the three East Valley locations.

‘‘Our intention is to use this opportunity to reorganize our finances and plan for the road ahead.’’