San Francisco’s Upper Fillmore is about to get a serious movie buff upgrade, courtesy of venture capitalist Neil Mehta’s vision for urban renewal. The historic Clay Theatre, which has been dark since 2020, is set to transform from a forgotten cinema relic into a high-end cultural hotspot that promises to breathe new life into the neighborhood.

From Rocky Horror to Arthouse Cinema

After years of uncertainty, the 112-year-old venue will be resurrected under the leadership of Ted Gerike, a cinema connoisseur with roots in Los Angeles and New York’s indie film scene. Gerike plans to host a whopping 500 film screenings annually, featuring everything from first-run premieres to repertory classics and filmmaker talks.

More Than Just a Theater

Mehta’s project isn’t just about restoring a cinema - it’s about creating a cultural experience. With plans for 4K digital and 35mm analog projection, a 200-seat theater, and potential in-house dining, this isn’t your average movie house. Gerike envisions the Clay as “a home for local voices and a bridge connecting San Francisco to the wider world of cinema and ideas”.

A Vanity Project with Heart

While Mehta admits this is “a terrible financial investment,” his passion for urban revitalization is clear. He’s determined to transform this slice of San Francisco, believing that by making one street beautiful, he can inspire broader urban renewal. The Clay Theatre’s revival represents more than just a cinema comeback - it’s a statement about preserving cultural spaces in a rapidly changing city.