A lot has changed since we did our first survey of where to sit in New York City movie theaters back in 2016.
For starters, there was the pandemic, which closed down theaters for nearly an entire year, sending audiences to streaming services.
I went from seeing more than 100 movies a year in theaters to just 12, total, in 2023. Yikes.
But the city’s theaters didn’t just miraculously survive the pandemic — many of them have emerged with newer, better amenities.
There have been some sad shutterings (RIP Landmark Sunshine), welcome renovations, expansions, and openings (looking at you, Alamo Manhattan).
Today, most places have advanced-ticket seating maps online so you can see the layout of your theater before you spend money – is it playing on a big big screen or one that’s closer to flat-screen-TV size?
So here’s a look at some of the best spots for movie viewing within each category: the big chains, the dine-ins, and the independents – as well as advice on which screens, and even which seats, within the multiplexes give you the most comfortable moviegoing experience and the biggest bang for your 20-bucks-and-up.
Note also that there are still plenty of Oscar nominees out there right now, and you have several weeks before the big show on Mar. 10 to see them all.
The big chains
With its sheer variety of offerings, general plushness, and excellent picture and sound, the Lower East Side’s gigantic Regal Essex Crossing is the current king of the city.
It opened on Delancey Street in April 2019 and boasts 14 screens with around 1,200 recliner seats.
The four or five biggest screens are among the best in town, and here you’ll find excellent sightlines and ample legroom anywhere in the last three rows.
Some theaters within the complex even have little two-seater nooks set aside in the back, which could be great for couples.
Other noteworthy Regals around town: Regal…
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