A beloved piece of Hollywood's cinematic history, the Cinerama Dome, is poised for a grand return in early 2028. The iconic venue, which shuttered its doors in April 2021 as a casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic, is undergoing extensive restoration spearheaded by Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, backed by its owner, Sony Pictures Entertainment. This revival marks a significant moment for film enthusiasts and the industry globally, promising to restore a unique moviegoing experience.
The Cinerama Dome, with its distinctive geodesic exterior and prominent logo, has been a landmark since its debut in 1963. Commissioned by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman, it was built to offer an unparalleled immersive experience, featuring a massive, deeply curved screen engineered to surround the audience. At the time of its closure, it was one of only three theatres worldwide capable of its state-of-the-art 70mm projection, a format currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity among filmmakers and audiences alike.
Ravi Ahuja, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, underscored the venue's unique standing. He stated that there is no other moviegoing destination globally that commands the same level of affection, history, and cultural significance as the Cinerama Dome. This sentiment highlights Sony's commitment to preserving a venue celebrated for its singular cinematic experience, which differs from many modern multiplexes by foregoing in-theatre dining in the dome itself.
Alamo Drafthouse CEO Michael Kustermann confirmed that the Cinerama Dome will serve as the company's new West Coast flagship. Beyond the dome, the project also includes the revival of an adjacent 14-theatre complex, which was formerly operated by ArcLight Cinemas and also ceased operations in 2021. These additional theatres are planned to offer in-theatre dining options, blending modern conveniences with the historical prestige of the main dome.
The Cinerama Dome holds a special place in popular culture, having been famously featured in Quentin Tarantino’s 2019 film Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood. In the film, the venue was meticulously dressed to replicate its 1969 appearance, complete with vintage marquee advertising for the disaster movie Krakatoa, East of Java. Its reopening will undoubtedly be met with anticipation by cinephiles, offering a rare opportunity to experience films in a truly historic setting.