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Hollywood’s legendary Cinerama Dome, one of the world’s most recognizable movie theaters, is set to return to the big screen after six years of closure, with Sony Pictures Entertainment announcing plans to restore the historic landmark and reopen it in early 2028.
The iconic theater, which has stood at the heart of Hollywood since 1963, will be operated by Sony’s subsidiary, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, alongside the adjacent 14-screen multiplex that was formerly home to ArcLight Hollywood.
Restoration work is scheduled to begin in August, marking a major milestone in the revival of one of Los Angeles’ most cherished entertainment venues.
Sony said the restoration will preserve the theater’s historic identity. The famous “Cinerama” name will remain, as will its distinctive concrete geodesic dome, the world’s only structure of its kind, and the massive 86-foot-wide curved screen that has long delivered an immersive cinematic experience.
Unlike most Alamo Drafthouse locations, the restored Cinerama Dome will not offer in-theater dining, allowing it to maintain the traditional moviegoing atmosphere that made it famous. Instead, audiences will continue to enjoy the classic concession experience that has been part of the venue’s identity for decades.
The neighboring 14-screen theater complex will also undergo a complete transformation into an Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. The upgraded multiplex will feature dine-in service, karaoke rooms, 4K laser projection, 70mm film presentation capabilities and facilities for screening 35mm archival prints, blending modern technology with classic cinema.
Built in 1963 by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman, the Cinerama Dome quickly became one of Hollywood’s premier venues for blockbuster premieres, awards-season screenings and major film events. Its unique architecture and panoramic screen made it an enduring symbol of the theatrical movie experience.
The theater closed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although there were plans to reopen in 2021 with the releases of A Quiet Place Part II and Cruella, those efforts collapsed after Pacific Theatres and its parent company, Decurion Corporation, filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
While several former ArcLight cinemas across the United States have since reopened under new operators, including Regal Cinemas, Amazon MGM Studios and AMC Theatres, the Hollywood flagship remained vacant until Sony stepped in.
The announcement has been welcomed by film enthusiasts, many of whom have long viewed the Dome as a cultural landmark rather than simply another movie theater.
“There is no moviegoing destination anywhere in the world that commands the affection, history and cultural significance of the Cinerama Dome,” said Ravi Ahuja, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sony Pictures Entertainment.
He described the reopening as an important moment for both the film industry and Los Angeles, saying Sony is committed to preserving the Dome’s legacy while ensuring it continues to inspire future generations of moviegoers.
With restoration now underway, one of Hollywood’s most beloved cinematic landmarks is preparing to once again light up Sunset Boulevard and welcome audiences back to the magic of the big screen.
