Locals in Beeston will see the latest blockbusters on their doorstep when the town’s first new cinema in half a century opens next week.
The new Arc Cinema seems likely to show new releases Cruella, A Quiet Place: Part II and The Conjuring 3 on its opening night, next Friday (28 May).
Theatre managers have yet to reveal their first-night line-up. But the remake of 101 Dalmatians (Cruella) and the two horror movies are released next week.
The eight wall-to-wall screens will have 700 leather, electric reclining seats, offering what it says will be one of the best cinema experiences in Nottinghamshire.
Six of the eight screens will also have stunning quality, using the latest digital laser projection and surround sound.
“It looks absolutely brilliant,” said Neil White, who lives in Beeston and runs the respected Every Film blog.
“It’s been many decades since we’ve last had a cinema in Beeston. The signs have gone up and people are really looking forward to it.
“It fits with the whole regeneration of the town. Having the cinema there is a bonus.”
Beeston’s last cinema, The Essoldo, on Queen’s Road, closed in September 1968.
The Arc is located on Station Road, in Beeston Square, next to the Beeston Centre tram stop. All the screens will be fully licensed.
The cinema’s arrival in the town has been warmly welcomed by locals.
Jane Coates, at the Meat4U butcher on The Square, said: “I think everyone’s dying for a bit of normality now and I just can’t wait to go and see the new James Bond film.”
Brenda Wilson, also from Beeston, added: “The sooner it opens, the better. I’ve got grandchildren and I’ll definitely take them.”
Paul Balchin, who lives in nearby Bramcote, welcomed the opening – but was concerned about the potential effects of lockdown, which saw a huge increase in home streaming subscriptions.
“It looks impressive,” he said. “But people have Netflix and all these other streaming services now, so it needs to be affordable.
“However, going to the cinema makes a change from going to the pub – and you don’t need a car to get there because they’ve got the tram right outside.”
The Arc has yet to reveal details of its ticket prices and show times.
