Best Movie Theater

1. Regal Irvine Spectrum Screen X, 4DX, IMAX & RPX

500 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine; 844-462-7342; regmovies.com

One of Regal’s highest performing locations in America, the Regal Irvine Spectrum was also the first location to land a Screen X in 2018.

Crown Club members can earn various perks (snacks, movie tickets) based on attendance. The Regal Unlimited movie subscription pass offers better benefits. Regal auditoriums can be rented for birthday and watch parties, private screenings, business meetings and events or group sales.

Richard Grover, VP of communications for Regal, says “along with a great central location and partner in the Irvine Spectrum Center, the theater showcases the latest innovations to the theatrical experience. In the last couple of years, Regal has invested in a multi-milliondollar refurbishment of the theater from the digital lobby experience to state-of-theart auditoriums including five premium moviegoing experiences, with all five only available at Regal Irvine Spectrum.

“The fully remodeled theater features an entrance and lobby featuring LED and digital signage along with a full bar, Lavazza coffee shop and B-Fresh smoothie shop,” said Grover. “All auditoriums are equipped with laser projection and sound enhancements along with multiple premium experiences available” such as king-size recliners and an enhanced menu. 4DX is an immersive sensory cinematic experience. IMAX comprises large, curved screens, expanded aspect ratio and improved audio. RPX boasts uncompressed surround sound. Screen X extends the screen to the auditorium walls with a 270-degree panoramic visual.

LEONARD ORTIZ, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Regal Irvine Spectrum ScreenX, 4DX, IMAX, RPX & VIP at the Irvine Spectrum Center was voted the top movie theater by Register readers.

— George A. Paul

2. Krikorian Metroplex

8290 La Palma Ave., Buena Park; 714-826-7469; kptmovies.com

The Krikorian cinema chain began in 1984, focusing on underserved movie markets in Southern California before being sold to Regal in 1996 and then re-launching in the early 2000s. The state-of-the-art 18 screen Metroplex opened at Buena Park Mall (now called Buena Park Downtown) in 2003.

It was the company’s first “metroplex” concept location, with a lobby inspired by classic movie palaces. The crystal chandeliers, commissioned artwork, custom designed sound system, spotlights on the roof and courtyard fountains provide the outer and indoor facilities with a classy vibe.

Check out the latest blockbuster, sequel and more at Metroplex, which has Dolby Atmos sound, digital projection, luxury electric recliners, stadium seating, plus game and party rooms available.

Orange County’s only 501(c) (3) nonprofit art house theater opened in 2014 and is known for its eclectic schedule. Last summer, rock music laser shows took place on Saturday nights. There are regular monthly film series, indie theater fundraisers, lobby art shows, classic film/director/actor tribute series (David Lynch, Ray Liotta), all-night marathons (the “Twilight” saga), cult classics and more.

“Our mission and work extend beyond simply sharing diverse and engaging films to our community,” Executive Director Logan Crow says. “Core to our efforts is complementing and supporting community arts and education efforts by means of consistent collaborations with local arts institutions, schools, artists, community leaders, and organizations and groups dedicated to social equality and justice.”

The Frida Cinema has “served as a home for live theater, poetry readings, drag shows, civic engagement, concerts, educational classes and panels, pet adoptions, and a COVID-19 vaccination clinic, furthering our vision for The Frida to serve as a community cultural center, and not merely a movie theater.”

3. Frida Cinema

305 E. 4th St., No. 100, Santa Ana; 714-285-9422; thefridacinema.org