Serious Home Theater

Frank and Harriet Partipilo of suburban Chicago fashioned their basement into a full-sized working movie theater they call H&P Cinema. The Partipilos spent three full years setting up this dream theater in the 3,500-square-foot basement. They designed the theatre, the lobby, even the candy counter to look just like a real movie theatre.

The fascination with theaters started for Frank in college when he acquired a 16-mm projector and would rent movies and invite friends over for screenings of classic films. That tradition continues in the H&P Cinema when the Partipilos invite friends and family over. Guests marvel at the authenticity of the lobby and the collection of vintage movie posters and memorabilia. Partipilo has even hosted stars from the golden age of Hollywood, including Carolyn Grimes, best known for her role as Zu-Zu Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life.