Nothing compares to a couple of hours spent in front of the big screen, especially after a long workweek. As soon as you enter the theatre, the outside world fades away. Learn about Calgary’s best movie theatres—from major chains to cosy, intimate arthouse venues—on calgary-trend.
Cineplex Cinemas
The Cineplex chain operates theatres across Canada and is renowned for its cutting-edge digital, 3D, and IMAX projection technologies. Its headquarters are in Toronto.
In Calgary, Cineplex boasts several locations offering the latest Hollywood blockbusters and independent releases. Whether you’re looking for luxurious seating, a massive screen, gourmet dining, or family-friendly gaming zones, Cineplex has something for everyone.
Cineplex VIP Cinemas University District
Located at 3953 University Ave NW #250, this VIP adults-only cinema in Calgary’s University District features five auditoriums equipped with reclining seats and premium food and beverage service delivered directly to your seat. Opened in 2021, the cinema employs laser projectors for stunning colour, brightness, and contrast.
The theatre also features a licensed lounge where you can relax before or after your movie. Whether you’re enjoying pizza with friends or a glass of wine on a date, it’s an excellent venue for indulging in comfort and entertainment.
Cineplex Cinemas Seton and VIP
This 11-screen cinema at 19683 Seton Crescent SE offers leather heated recliners, a full bar, and upscale dining options. With food and drinks delivered straight to your seat, it provides a premium movie-going experience. Guests can enjoy craft beer from local breweries and exclusive gourmet dishes.
Cineplex East Hills
Located at 205 E Hills Blvd SE, this seven-screen theatre includes a dedicated kids’ auditorium with fun seating and a child-friendly film selection. Other auditoriums feature luxurious reclining seats and motion-enabled seating for an immersive experience.
The theatre also hosts XSCAPE entertainment centres equipped with the latest video and gaming technology. As a partner of SCENE, Canada’s largest entertainment loyalty program, Cineplex offers discounted tickets at select locations.
Landmark Cinemas
Landmark Cinemas is Canada’s second-largest theatre chain, offering premium large format (PLF) screens, RealD 3D, and self-service beverage stations. Its Calgary locations include theatres in Country Hills, Market Mall (Varsity), and Shawnessy.
Landmark Cinemas Market Mall
Opened in 2019, this luxury five-screen theatre is known for its premium recliner seating with motorized footrests. Reservations are required to ensure your spot in this elevated cinema experience.
Canyon Meadows Cinemas
This family-run theatre on Macleod Trail features a variety of films, from laugh-out-loud comedies to poignant dramas, at affordable prices. Canyon Meadows Cinemas offers 10 screens and competitive snack pricing daily.
Originally a Cineplex location, the theatre was revived in 2001 as a discount cinema by Natalie Hunter, who also operated Okotoks Cinemas. Overcoming challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the theatre has become a community favourite, even hosting drive-in events to keep the spirit of cinema alive.
Scotiabank Theatre Chinook
Located in Chinook Centre, this 17-screen cinema offers blockbuster films in IMAX, DBox, Real-D 3D, 4DX, and Ultra AVX formats. Known for its immersive experiences, it opened Alberta’s first 4DX auditorium in 2019, featuring motion, scent, mist, wind, and other effects to enhance movie viewing.
This theatre is also a venue for private screenings, corporate meetings, and special events, leveraging the power of the big screen for impactful presentations.
Globe Cinema
Situated at 617 8 Ave SW, Globe Cinema is an arthouse theatre showcasing independent and artistic films since 1995. Formerly known as Towne Cinema, it was rebranded to Globe Cinema after renovations. The theatre often hosts annual film festivals and provides a platform for alternative and intellectual cinema.
Arthouse films delve into profound human and social issues, offering a stark contrast to Hollywood’s mainstream productions. These films often feature creative storytelling and are produced with smaller budgets by independent studios.
