Los Angeles Theaters Light Up Holiday Season with Classic and New Releases

The days leading up to Christmas are often the busiest on the calendar, yet they also bring the most cinematic moments of the year. While holiday decorations sparkle and parties buzz, many find relief in settling into a theater for a 90‑minute story or a longer feature. In Los Angeles, cinemas are ready to deliver that escape, offering a mix of nostalgic celebrations and new releases.

Academy Museum Celebrations

The Academy Museum is marking the 25th anniversary of the beloved film Love & Basketball. The Dec. 20 screening at the Ted Mann Theater is sold out, but a stand‑by option is available on the museum’s site. Director Gina Prince‑Bythewood will join the event for a Q&A, giving fans a chance to hear the filmmaker behind the story.

The museum’s calendar is full as December ends. On Dec. 20, Star Wars — Episode IV: A New Hope will bring the Force to the theater, and on Dec. 27 the 4K version of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story will arrive for audiences eager for the latest in the franchise.

American Cinematheque Lineup

American Cinematheque offers several dramatic and comedic treats in its year‑ending schedule. Auntie Mame will hold court at The Egyptian on Dec. 19. The following night, Father of the Bride will bring matrimonial mirth to the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica on Dec. 20. Bad Santa will pop up at the Los Feliz Theatre for a couple of nights leading up to Christmas, appealing to fans of its saucy humor.

The New Beverly’s Holiday Hits

The New Beverly is all about holiday fun and occasional mischief. Gremlins will create holiday havoc on Dec. 18. Die Hard will deliver the classic “yippee‑ki‑yay” spirit on Dec. 23 and 24. And A Muppet Christmas Carol will play on Dec. 20 and 21, bringing a beloved classic to the screen for the season.

Regal Cinemas’ Holiday Gems

For those who want to revisit treasured childhood classics, Regal Cinemas is showing a bevy of holiday gems through Dec. 31. Patrons can find their local theater and discover the lineup by visiting Regal’s website.

Why Cinema Matters This Time of Year

During a period that can feel overwhelming, the simple act of watching a film in a theater offers a pause. It provides a space to relax, enjoy a story, and share that experience with friends or family. Whether it’s celebrating a milestone anniversary, watching a timeless classic, or catching the latest blockbuster, Los Angeles theaters are ready to keep the holiday spirit alive on the silver screen.

Key Takeaways

• Love & Basketball celebrates 25 years with a sold‑out Dec. 20 screening and a Q&A with Gina Prince‑Bythewood.
• The Academy Museum’s calendar features Star Wars — Episode IV: A New Hope on Dec. 20 and Rogue One 4K on Dec. 27.
• American Cinematheque offers Auntie Mame, Father of the Bride, and Bad Santa in the weeks before Christmas.
• The New Beverly hosts Gremlins, Die Hard, and A Muppet Christmas Carol during the holiday season.
• Regal Cinemas provides a range of holiday classics through Dec. 31.

The holiday season may be hectic, but the theaters of Los Angeles provide a welcome escape, celebrating cinema’s ability to bring joy and comfort during the most festive time of the year.