Sherman Torgan, New Beverly Cinema

Sherman Torgan, owner/operator of the New Beverly Cinema in Los Angeles has died unexpectedly.

The New Beverly has been one of L.A.'s longest running arthouse cinemas. Its custom was to screen a thematically-linked double-feature every night, usually changing the bill three times in a week. The theater's influence on Hollywood culture, and especially L.A. filmmakers, is incalculable.

Sherman's son, Michael Torgan, posted the following on the New Beverly Cinema's website: http://www.newbevcinema.com :

July 19, 2007

Due to the sudden and completely unexpected passing of my father Sherman, the New Beverly's programming will be cancelled until further notice.

Sherman was my father and my best friend, and his passing has left me and my family completely devastated. He was the main force behind the New Beverly from May 5, 1978 until the present. I simply do not known when I will be able to fill his shoes. My pain and sorrow are truly too much to bear right now. He was still so young and full of life, and was doing what he loved so much, riding his bike on the Santa Monica bike path, when he died. My mom and I am in utter shock.

Thank you to everyone for their support during this difficult time.

Please check this website for any updates on public memorials and the future of the New Beverly Cinema.

With love,

Michael Torgan