Silver screens return to Boston as 4 movie theaters in works

Boston was once aglow from more than a dozen movie marquees, but thanks partly to the popularity of streaming services, only two remain lit today.

While the city might not see that many movie theaters again, its current number will soon triple as four cinemas are slated to open, with three already under construction, The Boston Globe reported.

But don’t expect the new silver screens in town to be like the theaters of yore. Yes, you’ll still be able to munch popcorn and candy, but you can chase them with a cocktail from the bar or have a full meal if you so desire — all while lounging out in a reserved reclining seat.

“This will move Boston into the 21st century,” Bob Gallivan of Kerasotes ShowPlace Theaters told the Globe.

Kerasotes is slated to open a 10-screen complex at Seaport Square later this year, and Gallivan hopes that even non-moving-going Bostonians will be drawn to the new theater. “You go to have a drink, hang out in the lobby. Hopefully, it’s pleasant enough that people stop by even if they’re not going to the movies.”

Complexes are also under construction in North Station and Dorchester, and a fourth is in negotiations forRoxbury.

Gretchen McCourt, executive vice president of ArcLight, which will open a 15-screen theater in North Station, said Boston fit the bill of “places where people really enjoy getting out of the house.”

Several theaters were “fighting” to be included in the South Bay Shopping Center in Dorchester, but “AMC really sold us on how much they’re investing in new technology and providing a good customer experience,” Brad Dumont of development firm Edens said. AMC will open a 12-screen IMAX theater there.