Sony Pictures Entertainment to Reopen Cinerama Dome by Early 2028

Preserving a Hollywood Landmark

The Cinerama Dome, a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, first opened in 1963 and was commissioned by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman. It became renowned for its 86-foot-wide curved screen and pioneering technology that utilized three projectors to create a panoramic view. At the time of its closure in April 2021, it was one of only three theaters worldwide with those specific capabilities.

Sony officials stated the restoration will honor the landmark’s distinctive aesthetic character and historic legacy. According to the company, the iconic geodesic exterior, the “Cinerama” name, and the red and blue exterior branding will remain intact. The restoration will also preserve the theater’s immersive large-format curved-screen presentation, which supports 70mm projection.

There is no moviegoing destination anywhere in the world that commands the affection, history, and cultural significance of the Cinerama Dome, Ravi Ahuja

Operational Changes and the Alamo Drafthouse Model

While operated by Alamo Drafthouse, the Cinerama Dome will deviate from the chain’s signature dine-in experience. Instead, it will maintain a traditional concession experience. However, the venue will host extraordinary programming, including filmmaker series, premieres, special events and repertory screenings.

As part of the deal, Sony will also reopen the adjacent 14-screen theater complex formerly known as ArcLight Cinemas. This secondary location will operate as an Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and will offer the chain’s traditional dine-in services, curated programming and karaoke rooms. This complex will be equipped for premium formats, including 4K laser projection as well as 35mm and 70mm projection.

Industry Context and Recovery

The decision to revive the Dome comes as box office sales rebound and demand grows for premium experiences among younger audiences. This trend is highlighted by the popularity of 70mm screenings of Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” as well as the success of films such as “Toy Story 5,” “Backrooms,” and “Obsession,” according to the Los Angeles Times.

The theater had been closed since 2020, and its former owner, Pacific Theatres, filed for bankruptcy in 2021, announcing the permanent shuttering of both the Pacific and ArcLight chains. The reopening follows a strategy by Sony to deepen fan engagement, which includes the 2024 acquisition of Alamo Drafthouse and a $100 million investment in the immersive shared reality theater chain Cosm.

Hot damn! We’re bringing the Dome back, baby, said Tom Rothman, chairman and CEO of Sony’s Motion Picture Group, in a statement reported by The New York Times. I am deeply proud that Sony is investing in Hollywood, literally.

Quick Facts: Cinerama Dome Restoration

• Expected Reopening: Early 2028
• Operator: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (Sony Pictures Entertainment)
• Key Features: 86-foot-wide curved screen; 70mm projection capability
• Dining: Traditional concessions only (no dine-in service in the Dome)
• Adjacent Site: Former ArcLight 14-screen complex to reopen as Alamo Drafthouse with dine-in services