[category]
[title]
It is no secret that Lakeview’s Music Box Theatre is one of Chicago’s most cherished landmarks. Between its atmospheric Italian-style courtyard, the legendary Dennis Scott serenading audiences at the organ and the intimate charm of the Music Box Lounge, the theater is a true cultural institution. Now, it seems the rest of the world is finally catching on.
Just in time for next weekend’s Academy Awards, Time Out has updated its list of the 100 greatest cinemas in the world right now. Among just 15 U.S.-based entries, the Music Box lands at No. 9—an impressive nod for a neighborhood arthouse.
RECOMMENDED: The 14 best movie theaters in Chicago
The Music Box placed ahead of several revered international cinemas, further cementing its global reputation. (Though we’d argue that local favorites like the Davis Theater and Facets Cinematheque deserve their flowers, too.) Still, it’s gratifying to see at least one Chicago institution recognized among such a celebrated collection.
“With its golden interior, projected clouds drifting across the auditorium ceiling like a daydream on a loop and a lounge stocked with film memorabilia and cocktails inspired by cinema’s glory days, the Music Box Theatre is a Chicago institution,” the guide reads. “While its programming has long secured its status as an arthouse landmark, the Music Box’s real magic lies in its community spirit—bringing together filmmakers, obsessives and casual moviegoers, united by the celluloid flicker of the silver screen.”
The accolades arrive as the theater prepares for a major expansion. This summer, the Music Box will take over two adjacent storefronts on Southport Avenue to add a new 115-seat auditorium. Funded in part by a $1.2 million city grant, the project will create more room for independent films, local events and extended runs—ensuring this Chicago classic keeps rolling well into the future.
For cinephiles building a bucket list, check out the full list of the world’s best movie theaters.