Historic Alex Theatre Returns to First-Run Feature Films After 35 Years

GLENDALE —  The historic Alex Theatre has officially returned to first-run feature film exhibition for the first time in 35 years, marking a major milestone in the history of one of Glendale’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey serves as the theatre’s first first-run feature film since Terminator 2: Judgment Day in 1991, ushering in a new era for the nearly century-old venue.

Since opening in 1925, the Alex Theatre has been a defining landmark in Downtown Glendale and a centerpiece of the City’s cultural life. Originally built as a movie palace during Hollywood’s Golden Age, the theatre later evolved into one of Southern California’s premier performing arts venues following its restoration in the early 1990s. Today, the Alex is honoring its cinematic roots while continuing its longstanding commitment to live entertainment, concerts, dance, comedy, film festivals, educational programming, and community events.

The theatre’s return to first-run cinema follows a significant investment in newly installed 35mm and 70mm film projection systems and upgraded audio technology, allowing audiences to experience films in one of the highest-quality theatrical formats available. As filmmakers and moviegoers increasingly embrace premium large-format presentations, the Alex Theatre is once again establishing itself as a destination for exceptional cinema in Southern California.

“Glendale’s historic Alex Theatre is an enduring part of both our city’s identity and the rich history of Hollywood and the entertainment industry,” said Mayor Ardy Kassakhian. “For a century, this remarkable landmark has welcomed audiences to experience the magic of the movies, and its stage and screen have hosted major film premieres attended by some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. The return of first-run feature films after 35 years is a fitting tribute to the Alex’s original purpose and the legacy it helped build. As the theatre begins its second century, we look forward to welcoming new generations to experience this iconic venue and create memories of their own.”

“We are reclaiming our place as one of Los Angeles’ premier venues for cinema,” said Miles Williams, Artistic Director of the Alex Theatre. “With our new large-format film projectors, upgraded audio systems, and growing community of film curators, we look forward to welcoming cinephiles and movie lovers of all ages to experience films in our historic theatre.”

Ahead of its public opening, the Alex Theatre hosted preview screenings for invited guests, City partners, members of the media, and content creators on July 16. Public screenings began July 17, officially marking the theatre’s return to first-run feature films and the beginning of a renewed commitment to cinematic programming.

Owned by the City of Glendale and operated by SAS Entertainment Partners, the Alex Theatre continues to serve as one of Southern California’s premier cultural destinations. Located at 216 North Brand Boulevard, the theatre welcomes audiences year-round for world-class entertainment while embracing a new chapter that celebrates both its rich history and its future as a premier home for film.