Lights, Camera, Action: The Resurgence of Movie Theaters in Greater Portland

The movie theater industry in Greater Portland is experiencing a remarkable comeback, with the reopening of a former Cinemagic Grand under new ownership and the planned addition of a 12-screen Cinemark theater in Westbrook. This resurgence comes as more people have resumed going out to see films, and box office profits have rebounded to near pre-pandemic levels. The industry is evolving to provide an immersive and engaging experience for moviegoers, with investments in technology, seating, and dining options. As the number of theaters in the region expands, the stage is set for a thrilling new chapter in the local entertainment landscape.

Reviving the Big Screen Experience in Greater Portland

Reopening of Entertainment Luxury Cinemas

Entertainment Luxury Cinemas, a Massachusetts-based chain, has purchased the former Cinemagic Grand in South Portland, which closed in February 2021. The six- to eight-screen theater has been showing first-run films since August 30th, offering a renewed opportunity for moviegoers to enjoy the big-screen experience. Owner Bill Hanney, who has been in the theater business since the age of 14, is determined to make the South Portland location a hub of entertainment and community engagement.Hanney's vision for the Clarks Pond facility extends beyond a traditional movie theater. He plans to expand the complex into a multi-faceted entertainment experience, similar to a project he's developing in Hyannis, Massachusetts. The addition would include a 1,000-seat theater for live shows, a 300-seat cabaret-style theater for smaller acts and events, and a comedy club. The complex will also feature a professional kitchen to serve pub-style appetizers and meals, as well as a large lobby where moviegoers and theater patrons can mingle and socialize.

Cinemark Theaters Coming to Westbrook

In addition to the reopening of Entertainment Luxury Cinemas, the developers of the Rock Row complex in Westbrook have signed a long-term lease with Cinemark Theaters to open a 12-screen movie theater by the end of 2026. This new addition will bring the total number of movie theaters in Greater Portland from four to six, further expanding the region's entertainment options.Cinemark, one of the largest theater chains in the United States and Canada, is known for its commitment to providing an exceptional out-of-home entertainment experience. The Westbrook location will feature the latest sight and sound technology, premium large-format and Barco laser projection, luxury recliners, motion seats, and upscale food and beverage offerings. The theater will be part of the larger Rock Row development, which will also include stores, restaurants, a hotel, and residential units, creating a vibrant mixed-use destination.

Renewed Interest in Going to the Movies

The resurgence of movie theaters in Greater Portland comes at a time when more people have resumed going out to see films, and box office profits have rebounded. Total domestic box office sales were just shy of $9 billion in 2023 and are projected to reach $11 billion by 2026, approaching the $11.4 billion total in 2019.Several high-profile films in 2023, such as "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer," have demonstrated the public's appetite for the big-screen experience. Looking ahead, nine films are projected to earn over $300 million in the U.S. and Canada in 2026, including "The Super Mario Bros. 2" and "Avengers: Doomsday."This renewed interest in going to the movies has surprised even industry veterans like Bill Hanney, who initially questioned whether movie houses could make a comeback after the pandemic. However, the success of recent blockbusters has proven that people are eager to return to theaters, provided they are offered the content and experience they desire.

Evolving to Meet Changing Expectations

As movie theaters bounce back, they are evolving to ensure that people have a compelling reason to venture out of their homes. The largest theater chains in the U.S. and Canada, including AMC Entertainment, Regal Cinemas, and Cinemark, are investing over $2.2 billion in upgrades over the next three years.These overhauls will focus on improving sound and projection technology, seating, air conditioning, and food and beverage options. Some theaters are even adding entertainment features such as arcades, bowling, pickleball, and ziplines, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for moviegoers.Cinemark's Westbrook location will be at the forefront of this evolution, offering the latest in sight and sound technology, luxury recliners, and upscale dining options. By providing an extraordinary out-of-home entertainment experience, Cinemark and other theater chains aim to draw in audiences and solidify the enduring appeal of the movie theater.

A Promising Future for Greater Portland's Entertainment Landscape

The resurgence of movie theaters in Greater Portland is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the industry. As Entertainment Luxury Cinemas and Cinemark Theaters invest in their respective locations, they are not only catering to the renewed demand for the big-screen experience but also shaping the future of entertainment in the region.By offering a diverse range of experiences, from first-run films to live shows and dining options, these theaters are poised to become hubs of community engagement and social interaction. The expansion of the entertainment landscape in Greater Portland will provide residents and visitors alike with a wealth of options for enjoying the magic of the movies and beyond.As the industry continues to evolve, the future of movie theaters in Greater Portland looks bright, with the potential to captivate audiences and solidify the region's reputation as a vibrant entertainment destination.