culture
The Story Behind Anchorage's Film Scene and the Venues That Created It
Four open theaters and the Anchorage International Film Festival provide the foundation for local cinema options in Anchorage.
How we reported this
Over 30 movies are currently playing in the Anchorage area as of July 2026, supported by four primary open movie theaters that deliver varied viewing options to residents.
The current landscape of Anchorage cinema reflects the ongoing operation of established venues that continue to host screenings year-round and prepare for larger events such as the Anchorage International Film Festival. These theaters sustain access to both first-run and second-run films while the festival adds a curated layer of programming later in the year.
The Four Primary Theaters
Cinemark Century Anchorage 16 and XD operates with 16 screens and serves as one of the main locations for current releases. Regal Tikahtnu provides 17 screens and handles a substantial share of first-run showtimes. Regal Dimond Center Cinemas runs 9 screens and adds further capacity in the area. Bear Tooth Theatrepub functions with a single screen as a second-run cinema where patrons order from a full food and drink menu while seated.
Bear Tooth Theatrepub sits at 1230 W 27th Ave and maintains its format of combining film screenings with table service for meals and beverages. This approach distinguishes the venue within the local set of theaters that otherwise focus on standard auditorium viewing.
Anchorage International Film Festival Venues
The Anchorage International Film Festival is scheduled for December 4-13, 2026, with screenings planned at Bear Tooth, Anchorage Museum, E Street Theatre, and Alaska Experience Theatre. The Anchorage Museum and E Street Theatre remain open as screening locations. Alaska Experience Theatre at 333 W. 4th Avenue has been closed since June 2018, which means festival organizers list a venue that is no longer available for use.
These venue choices shape the festival schedule and require attendees to confirm current locations through official channels ahead of the December dates.
Accessing Current and Upcoming Screenings
Showtimes for the more than 30 movies playing now can be checked through major theater apps such as those from Cinemark and Regal Movie Tickets. The Anchorage International Film Festival maintains its own site for details on the December 4-13, 2026 program and participating venues that are confirmed open. Residents can review listings directly on these platforms to plan visits to the four primary open theaters or the festival events.