It’s time to go to the movies and enjoy all the latest new movie releases out now in theatres!
In a city as big and bountiful as Wilmington, there are so many local movie theaters near you to choose from that it can be hard to know where to start. Just searching “movie theaters near me” is overwhelming AF––what’s the difference between one theater and another? Is it worth the trek across town to go to one local movie theater with reclining seats versus the one around the corner? Do I want to ball out and get drinks served at my seat, or keep it chill at an independent movie theater with drinks and unique food offerings? With 6 movie theaters within the Wilmington area, you still have multiple locations to choose from.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help make your decision easier. We’ve given you a first-hand guide of all 6 local movie theaters in Wilmington to help you make the most of your Wilmington movie theater experience.
Grab some movie theater popcorn and get comfy as we dive into our Wilmington movie theater guide!
Not in Wilmington? Check out all of our other local movie theater guides here. Want one for your city? Let us know on Twitter.
Ready to go to the movies?
Wilmington Movie Theaters: AMC CLASSIC Wilmington 16
If you are looking for a family friendly theater to take your kids to watch their favorite minions, pets, or crocodile, then look no further than the AMC Classic Wilmington 16 off of Cinema Drive. This theater has everything you could possibly want for your moviegoing experience. Also, they have discount tickets on Tuesdays, mobile ordering for food and drinks (quickly becoming a staple), closed/open captions, and for the adults, we give you the MacGuffins Bar.
The AMC CLASSIC Wilmington 16 is surrounded by plenty of shops and restaurants where you can make a full day out of your time in the area. Start out your day at the local Planet Fitness, then head on over to Yury’s Hair Salon for the perfect updo. Next, head over to either Bill’s Brewing Company Taproom, or Capt’n’ Bill’s Backyard Grill and Volleyball Facility for drinks before ending your day with your partner enjoying your favorite movie. When you come to the AMC CLASSIC Wilmington 16, you’ll be made to feel like you’re home!
TONIGHT! Spend your Halloween with PSL as we present our famous #RockyHorrorPictureShow shadowcast LIVE at the AMC Classic Wilmington 16 (111 Cinema Dr.) The festivities begin at 8pm but be sure to show up early to get a good seat! pic.twitter.com/4vTfgupz1w
— Pineapple-Shaped Lamps (@pslcomedy) October 31, 2019
Take it from this Google reviewer, “Always prefer this theater over the others. Not as crowded, prices are cheaper, and the popcorn is fresh!”
AMC CLASSIC Wilmington 16
111 Cinema Dr
Wilmington, NC 28403
Wilmington Movie Theaters: Wilmington Regal MayFaire
What is more fun than movie night with your partner? Movie night with your partner at the Regal Mayfaire here in Wilmington, NC. The Regal Mayfaire has many of the usual perks that come with going to a Regal. They offer specialties from your traditional stadium seating with plush seats, to your favorite concession stand snack.
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Unlike other Regal theaters, which have RDX and ScreenX, the Regal Mayfaire only makes use of 2D, 3D, and IMAX 3D. While normally we would prefer the newer technology of ScreenX and RDX, there is something to be said about the experience of seeing your favorite films on a giant IMAX screen, especially those older films like Jaws and Avatar!
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Finally, we have the location of the Regal Mayfaire. The Regal Mayfaire is located right at the end of the iconic Mayfaire Shopping Mall, and is surrounded by every restaurant you could ever want to dine at. So, whether you’re in the mood for Japanese at Tokyo 101, the family friendly, and date ready, The Melting Pot, or just drinks before the show at Fox and Hound Grill, you’re sure to find the right spot that “hits” the spot!
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This Google reviewer says it best, “Loved this movie theater! They have so many snack and drink options. The electric reclining seats were the most comfortable I’ve ever had at a theater! Would definitely recommend and return”
Wilmington Regal MayFair
900 Town Center Drive
Wilmington, NC 28405
Wilmington Movie Theaters: The Pointe 14 – Stone Theaters
When you come to the Pointe 14 you’re coming home to one of the absolute best moviegoing experiences around. The Pointe 14 is located in South Wilmington, and is surrounded by many amazing restaurants and shops, which make it the ideal place for date/family night. The highlight of these restaurants would be Zocalo Street Food and Tequila, perfect for any date night.
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A quick look at the theater through a Google maps search shows that the theater is making an effort to go green through the use of solar energy. This is a big trend lately, and honestly a welcome one, as it is ensuring the show goes on, even when the electricity goes out. Solar aside, this theater also boasts the latest in sound technology with Dolby Atmos being the driving factor. Additionally, use a new screen technology that is specific to them, and that is 4K Laser PDX. According to the Stone Theaters website, “PDX – Premium Digital Experience – is the STONE THEATRES brand of large-format premium auditoria.” In short, PDX is arguably one of the best experiences in Wilmington.
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Finally, we come to what is at the heart of the movie going experience, the seating and snacks. As is the case with many theaters today, The Pointe 14 features the traditional concessions, as well as some bar staples, such as beer and wine. The one thing this theater is still lacking is the recliner seating. They instead offer high back club chairs that are equally as plush and comfortable as their recliner cousins. All in all, The Point 14 is where it’s at when you want the perfect date/family movie night in the Wilmington area.
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This Google reviewer is on point, “This place gave me a sense of nostalgia. The smell of the popcorn brought back many fond memories.”
The Point 14
2223 Blockbuster Rd
Wilmington, NC 28412
Wilmington Movie Theaters: UNCW Lumina Theater
The UNCW Lumina Theater is the place to be if you are a student. They play everything from first run movies, to art house cinema films, independent films, and especially student productions. The theater boasts some of the staples for any theater, with some stadium seating available, concessions and even a game room. But perhaps the biggest plus is the ability to play DVD, and Blu-Ray movies, as well as the traditional computer formatted films that the studios send out.
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Furthermore, the location of the theater makes it the perfect place for students to go to when they don’t feel like leaving campus. It is easily walkable for students living on campus, as well as those hitting the student union, and campus eateries. While not centrally located on campus, many students prefer the location as it gives them a chance to get outside and enjoy their surroundings on a beautiful spring and fall day.
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Listen to what this Google reviewer has to say: “Cozy little theater. Lots and lots of cool showings offered at a very, very affordable price. I wish I’d known about this place sooner!”
UNCW Lumina Theater
615 Hamilton Dr
Wilmington, NC 28403
Wilmington Movie Theaters: Thalian Hall
Thalian Hall is located within the Cinematique of Wilmington, which is steeped in history. Since its inception back in 1855 – 1858, Thalian Hall has had the distinction of housing all major cultural areas of Wilmington, from city hall, to the public library, as well as the, at the time, opera house. Since then, Thalian Hall has been upgraded to also show films, while still being home to many broadway plays and musicals.
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One thing that makes the Thalian Hall like many other theaters in the area is that they do offer concessions, and semi stadium seating. They have stadium seating as well, giving everyone that visits a world class experience. Thalian Hall goes above and beyond when it comes to your experience by providing ushers to lead you to your seats during the live stage shows. Their Cinematique Film Series is one of the best programs, as it gives many new and returning guests the chance to see films they might not have thought about before.
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This Google reviewer says exactly what we were thinking, “Beautiful theater. Wilmington is duly proud. Just saw Funny Girl…..great show. The female lead belongs on Broadway. So lucky to live here and enjoy all Thalian has to offer.”
Thalian Hall
310 Chestnut St
Wilmington, NC 28401
Wilmington Movie Theaters: Jengo’s Playhouse
Founded in 1994 by the Underground Filmmaking Collective Twinkle Doon, Jengo’s Playhouse is the go-to place for all things creative. Jengo’s Playhouse is the go-to theater for the Cucalorus Film Festival. Located in the heart of the Wilmington Soda Pop district, Jengo’s Playhouse comprises the theater, which seats roughly 70 occupants, and three houses that, during the off season, operate as AirBNBs.
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When not hosting the Cucalorus Film Festival, which occurs every November for the past 28 years, Jengo’s Playhouse is open to the public should they want to book it to host their birthday parties, corporate events or, as they say on their site, any other wacky events. They are a community first company that strives to help the community thrive. When you book the venue, you may not have the latest in theater seating, but you will have access to concessions, as well as their own private bar.
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According to this one Google reviewer, “Brilliant, unique place to catch a film. Plus they make a mean mocktail in the back bar!”
Jengo’s Playhouse
815 Princess St
Wilmington, NC 28401
We hope this rundown of some of our favorite Wilmington movie theaters inspires you to go out and see all of the latest new movies out now in theaters.
