Cinerama Dome, Hollywood Arclight Could Reopen Under New Ownership: Report

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Sony Pictures is reportedly in talks to revive the historic Cinerama Dome and the Hollywood Arclight multiplex on Sunset Boulevard, both of which have been closed since the pandemic.

Sony is discussing a lease with Robertson Property Group to reopen the theater complex, Deadline reported, citing unnamed sources familiar with the negotiations. Details of the potential agreement and a reopening timeline are still being worked out.

Alamo Drafthouse, the dine-in theater chain Sony acquired in 2024, could also play a role in operating the property, according to the publication.

The complex at 6360 Sunset Blvd. has been closed since the pandemic forced theaters nationwide to shut down in March 2020. Its former operators, Pacific Theatres and Arclight Cinemas, later announced that they would not reopen their locations after suffering severe financial losses.

Before the pandemic, the Hollywood complex was regularly among the nation’s highest-grossing movie theaters. It was also an important launching point for independent films and awards contenders.

The Arclight name reportedly cannot be used for a future version of the property because of bankruptcy proceedings involving its former operator. The Forman family, which owns the site through Robertson Property Group, is expected to retain ownership, Deadline reported.

AMC Theatres and Amazon MGM Studios previously considered taking over the venue but did not move forward, according to the report.

The Cinerama Dome opened in 1963 with the premiere of “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” The concrete geodesic dome was built in 16 weeks and later became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable movie landmarks.

The adjoining 15-screen Arclight multiplex opened in 2002.