Detroit is a fast-paced city, and the residents are just as fast-paced when supporting the latest in entertainment; going to the movies is one form of entertainment enjoyed by Detroiters. Five local movie theaters in Detroit will be reviewed and shared with you.
In the early 1900s, Detroit was the home of grand theaters such as the Redford Theater [1915], The Michigan [1926], The Majestic [1915], and The Ren Cen Theater [1977], just to name a few. But by the mid-1900s, moviegoers surpassed the movie theaters for the newly invented television. This transition hurt many theaters at the time.
These theaters were more than just places to watch films; they were symbols of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The Redford Theater, with its stunning Japanese-inspired decor, hosted not only movies but also live performances and community events. The Michigan Theater, originally a movie palace, later became a concert hall, reflecting the city’s evolving entertainment needs.
Despite the passage of time, some of these historic theaters remain, preserving the architectural grandeur and nostalgic charm of the early 20th century. While modern multiplexes dominate the movie-going landscape today, the remaining classic theaters continue to offer unique services and amenities, keeping the spirit of old Detroit alive for current and future generations.
The Redford Theater
The historical and oldest erected movie theater of the two, The Redford Theater is a paradise for the classic and silent movies buff and/or lover.
Located and operated in its beginning as a ‘neighborhood movie house,’ The Redford Theater still has the original Barton Organs used during the silent movies era. Comfortably seating nearly 1,700 people, The Redford offers events such as the Tarzan Double Feature and Three Stooges Festival; moviegoers also have an opportunity to watch movies outside, under the moonlit sky.
During that time period, ticket sales for The Redford’s events were as low as $4.00.
The Ren Cen Theater
The Ren Cen Theater, known as Ren Cen 4 Theater or Riverfront 4 Theater, has been a major attraction for Detroiters. Mainly located in the heart of downtown Detroit, inside the Renaissance Center, and has continued to grow progressively with the changing times. If you’re in the mood for the latest in contemporary entertainment [movies/films], Ren Cen 4 is the place you want to be for a night out on the town.
The Ren Cen 4 Theatre in Detroit’s Renaissance Center closed on June 30, 2015, after 35 years of operation. The decision was made due to declining attendance and the evolving entertainment preferences of the public.
The lobby area for Ren Cen 4 has a cash bar for moviegoers looking for a cocktail, beer, or wine while waiting for the movie to start. The average price for an adult movie ticket is $8.50, or you can take advantage of Ren Cen 4’s “Dinner and a Movie” offer: for $27, you are the theater’s guest and will receive a host of complimentary items/services, and great deals for a wonderful night out on the town.
The theater gained the “4” to its name when Ren Cen Theater progressively added more movie screens, making the theater a 4-screen establishment.
The Majestic
Included in the historical movie houses in Detroit, The Majestic has evolved into an entertainment center, offering both music and film attractions. Although falling victim to the demise of the aforementioned 1900s movie theaters and closing their doors, The Majestic was designed for motion picture showing/viewing.
With a seating capacity of more than 1,500, The Majestic is the largest establishment designed for the purpose. Having added music as their main venue, The Majestic has limited film events.
Low-Priced Movie Tickets in Detroit
Detroiters also have opportunities to watch movies at the lowest price, besides free! An all-time favorite on the skirts of metro Detroit [Greater Detroit], Cinemark 16 was a teenager’s dream during my school days. Located just minutes outside the city of Detroit lines in Warren, Michigan, this theater has movie tickets priced as low as $1.00; new arrival movies are standard ticket prices.
If you don’t mind driving a few extra miles for a family deal, AMC Theaters would compliment the choice. Known for $5 movie ticket deals, through “non-special engagements” days, AMC has an animated atmosphere for its visitors; a family-friendly setting. AMC has budget-minded family meal deals, with a large variety of goodies to choose from and a convenient condiment set-up.
Detroit is home to various theaters, each offering its own special movie-watching experience. To make your search easier, here’s a list of great theaters in and around Detroit, along with their addresses.
- AMC Forum 30 – 44681 Mound Rd., Sterling Heights, MI
- AMC John R 15 – 32289 John R. Road, Madison Heights, MI
- AMC Livonia 20 – 19500 Haggerty Rd., Livonia, MI
- AMC Star Gratiot 15 – 35705 Gratiot Avenue, Clinton, MI
- Bel Air Luxury Cinema – 10100 East 8 Mile Road, Detroit, MI
- Chesterfield Crossing Cinema 16 MJR – 50675 Gratiot Ave., Chesterfield, MI
- Cinema Detroit – 4126 Third St., Detroit, MI
- Cinemark Southland Center & XD – 23000 Eureka Road, Taylor, MI
- Detroit Film Theatre – 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI
- Emagine Canton – 39535 Ford Road, Canton, MI
- Emagine Macomb – 15251 23 Mile Rd, Macomb, MI
- Emagine Novi – 44425 West 12 Mile Road, Novi, MI
- Emagine Palladium – 209 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, MI
- Emagine Rochester Hills – 200 Barclay Cir., Rochester Hills, MI
- Emagine Royal Oak – 200 North Main Street, Royal Oak, MI
- Farmington Civic Theater – 33332 Grand River Avenue, Farmington, MI
- Ford Wyoming Drive-In – 10400 Ford Road, Dearborn, MI
- Henry Ford Giant Screen – 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI
- MJR Cinema 14 Partridge Creek – 17400 Hall Rd, Clinton, MI
- MJR Cinema 20 Marketplace – 35400 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, MI
- MJR Grand Digital Cinema 16 Troy – 100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI
- MJR Grand Digital Cinema 16 Universal – 28600 Dequindre Ave., Warren, MI
- MJR Grand Digital Cinema 16 Westland – 6800 North Wayne Road, Westland, MI
- Penn Theatre – 760 Penniman Ave., Plymouth, MI
- Phoenix Theatres Classic State Wayne – 35310 Michigan Ave., Wayne, MI
- Phoenix Theatres Laurel Park Place – 17310 Laurel Park Drive North, Livonia, MI
- Redford Theatre – 17360 Lasher Road, Detroit, MI
- Regal UA Commerce Township – 3033 Springvale Dr., Walled Lake, MI
- Southgate Cinema 20 MJR – 15651 Trenton Rd., Southgate, MI
- Summer Drive-In Plymouth – 14900 N Beck Rd, Plymouth, MI
- The Birmingham 8 Emagine – 211 S. Old Woodward Ave., Birmingham, MI
- The Riviera Cinema Emagine – West River Centre, 30170 Grand River Ave., Farmington Hills, MI
- Windmill Pointe Park Theaters – 14920 Windmill Pointe Dr, Grosse Pointe Park, MI
Your Movie Night in Detroit depends on what type of movie experience you are looking for, and there’s a variety of accommodating, cost-saving theaters for you to choose from. Enjoy yourself!
