George Lefont: Influential American Movie Theater Industry Entrepreneur

George Lefont (1938 – 5 September 2023) was a notable figure in the American movie theater industry, known for his successful ventures and contributions to the cinematic experience. Originally from Berkeley, California, Lefont made a significant mark in the entertainment industry, particularly in the Metropolitan Atlanta area.

One of his prominent endeavors was owning and operating the Lefont Sandy Springs, a popular movie theater located in Sandy Springs, Georgia. Notably, this theater served as a common venue for the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, showcasing its importance in the cultural landscape.

Lefont’s involvement in the movie theater industry began with the founding of the Silver Screen in Buckhead in 1976. This venture displayed his passion for cinema and his dedication to providing quality movie experiences to the public. His commitment to the industry extended to the acquisition of the Plaza Theatre in 1983, where he made significant improvements, including the conversion of the balcony into a second theater with 200 seats.

Throughout his career, Lefont’s repertoire of theaters in Metropolitan Atlanta included various notable venues like The Screening Room, Ansley Cinema, Tara, Toco Hills, and Garden Hills Cinema. He also expanded his influence beyond Atlanta with theaters such as The Marietta Star and a fourplex in Athens.

In addition to his contributions to the movie theater industry, Lefont was also a successful restaurateur, having owned the Coach and Six Restaurant in Atlanta before selling it in 1994.

On 5 September 2023, George Lefont passed away at the age of 85. His legacy in the movie theater industry and his influence on the cinematic experiences of countless individuals will be remembered and appreciated for years to come.