Renovation plans for the Castro Theatre have hit a glorious snag, as what was intended to be a modest $15 million makeover has now spiraled into a jaw-dropping $35 million project. Yes, you read that right, $20 million over budget, with a six-month delay added for your viewing pleasure. So much for a quick refresh!

This catastrophic cash grab is brought to you by Another Planet Entertainment (APE), who clearly have no concept of a budget or time management. Originally, we all thought this critically acclaimed piece of history would be reopening its doors by summer, but surprise! Expect October 2025 or, if they’re feeling particularly generous, maybe even December.

SFGate uncovered this shiny golden nugget of information, confirming that APE’s spokesperson has dropped more bombshells than we can handle. “Originally budgeted at $15 million, currently it is expected that Another Planet will spend in excess of $35 million on this project,” said David Perry. APE wants us to believe they’re doing this for the community, blissfully ignoring that their extravagant spending will likely push up those ticket prices.

What’s behind this financial avalanche? Well, APE has promised to install a fancy new digital-pipe hybrid organ and some shiny new projectors. Oh, and don’t forget about the HVAC system that can handle the dramatic heat of a Castro summer. But we also can’t ignore the elephant in the room, PG&E’s involvement. Upgrades they were responsible for have hair-lined the project into a tailspin that’s left us twiddling our thumbs.

Here’s the kicker: While APE insists they’re restoring a cultural gem, the delays are starting to look like a real-life version of a fever dream, reminiscent of the never-ending Van Ness construction project or the shamelessly late Central Subway fiasco. The more this drags on, the harder the hit to local Castro businesses, who depend on foot traffic and heartbeats.

So, while Castro Theatre may emerge from the renovation with glitz and glam, the question looms, at what cost? Can we expect to pay a king’s ransom for a ticket to see our beloved flicks once it finally opens? Let’s just hope it’s worth all this drama and that the community gets what it truly deserves: a theater that reflects their spirit, without breaking the bank.

Cheerful thoughts as Castro Theatre fades into a potentially never-ending saga, right?