We've been anticipating the arrival of an Alamo Drafthouse to L.A. for years now. The beloved Austin-based dine-in movie theater chain first announced its plans to expand to Downtown L.A. back in 2014, and we eagerly awaited its arrival as the rest of its adjacent shopping center opened in 2016. So surely, we thought, 2017 must be the year.
It turns out 2018 is the magic number, according to an announcement from local developer the Ratkovich Company. The Alamo Drafthouse will officially open its first L.A. theater at the Bloc, following the completion of the open-air mall's $180 million renovations next year.
Photograph: Courtesy Studio One Eleven
L.A. is no stranger to top-notch movie theaters, but the Alamo Drafthouse has staked its reputation on a strict no-texting and ad-free policy, terrific curation and programming of blockbuster flicks and indie events alike, as well as a locally-sourced and inspired food, craft beer and cocktail menu—all of which you can have delivered to your seat.
The theater will be accessible from both the fourth floor of the parking structure, adjacent to the Bloc's central courtyard, as well from Flower Street at ground level. Expect 12 screens and space for about 560 people, with a mix of 4K digital projection as well as both 3D and 35mm options. And fear not, L.A. drivers, as the theater will offer four hours of free validated parking—or you can hop on the Metro, which has an entrance attached to the Bloc.
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