For film lovers in Los Angeles and around the world, the dark windows of the historic Cinerama Dome have been a lingering source of heartbreak since 2020. But the long wait for its return finally has a definitive finish line.
In partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Alamo Drafthouse has officially announced plans to restore and reopen the legendary Cinerama Dome in early 2028, alongside the revitalized 14-screen complex now dubbed Alamo Drafthouse Hollywood.
Here is everything you need to know about this massive revival and why it matters so much to cinema culture.
Preserving a Historic Landmark
Opened in November 1963 with the world premiere of It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, the Cinerama Dome is one of the most distinctive theater designs on Earth:
- One of a Kind: Constructed from 316 precast concrete hexagons and pentagons, it remains the only standalone concrete geodesic dome theater ever built.
- Engineered for Impact: Its massive, deeply curved screen was designed to completely immerse audiences in wide-format cinema like 70mm exhibition.
- Historic Cultural Monument: Declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, the Dome has hosted iconic film engagements from 2001: A Space Odyssey to Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Crucially, Alamo Drafthouse has pledged to honor this legacy. The Dome will retain its original name and branding and will not operate as a dine-in cinema. Instead, it will feature traditional concessions, preserving its mid-century character as a premier destination for major premieres, 70mm showcase presentations, and special director retrospectives.
Introducing Alamo Drafthouse Hollywood
While the Dome itself stays true to its roots, the adjacent multiplex—formerly the ArcLight Hollywood—will undergo a complete transformation into Alamo Drafthouse Hollywood, serving as the brand’s West Coast flagship.
The new 14-screen venue will feature:
- Signature Dine-In Service: Multi-course food and craft beverage service delivered directly to your seat.
- State-of-the-Art & Film Projection: 4K laser projection paired with preserved 35mm and 70mm capabilities for archival film prints.
- Curated Community Spaces: Dedicated karaoke rooms, fan celebrations, and custom repertory programming.
Together, the historic Dome and the new Alamo Drafthouse multiplex create a two-part cinematic experience under one roof—combining old-school historical preservation with cutting-edge theater hospitality.
What’s Next?
Construction is slated to begin in August 2026, with the full complex targeting an official opening in early 2028.
Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff who misses 70mm film projections or just looking forward to getting a cold beer with a movie in the heart of Hollywood, cinema history is coming back to life on Sunset Boulevard.
