The closing of the ArcLight, Pacific Theaters and Cinerama Dome in Los Angeles was a big blow to moviegoers in the supposed holy land of American cinema. Once thought to be unimaginable, the closures were enough to raise concerns that the movies wouldn’t return once we’re all vaccinated (which reminds me: to get vaccinated). A future in which all movies are coming straight to Netflix, and we can never see Mank on the big screen? Horrible. Just awful.

Thankfully, there have been some glimmers of hope in recent weeks, primarily the return of the Alamo Drafthouse, the iconic movie chain known for providing audiences with beer and burgers during their functional presentation. And, boy, were people up for those beers and burgers and a loud screening of A Quiet Place, Part II. The chain’s recently reopened LA location featured sold-out shows for all movies and anytime throughout the Memorial Day long weekend. Hell yeah.

“As the country moves forward in the wake of the unprecedented pandemic of 2020 and moviegoers return to theaters, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is delighted to announce its continued emergence and growth with the announcement of the opening of five new theaters. this year and next year, “the company said. Deadline.

To celebrate Drafthouse’s return, the company also announced that it has officially emerged from bankruptcy and is moving forward with five new theaters in Manhattan, St. Louis and Washington, DC. particularly exciting as it will also include a museum. Deadline also reports that the company’s planned location on Staten Island will house the Flying Guillotine, “a martial arts inspired bar in partnership with the founder of the Wu-Tang Clan RZA”, is also still under development.

It is heartwarming to hear about the reopening of all these cinemas. Soon, you will be able to return to your usual programming: Hear the sound of a fork falling on your chestg Cruel. We cannot wait.