There are plenty of first-run theaters in the area, but films that are foreign, controversial or "artsy" have frustratingly short runs, if they run at all. It's a paradox, considering the number of films shot in Wilmington and the high level of local interest, but the situation is improving. The net number of screens from Wilmington to Shallotte is now 46. Most of the movie theaters in the region offer matinee showings every day during the summer, on holidays and weekends throughout the year at $6 per ticket on average. Full-price tickets typically cost $8.50. Discounted prices for seniors are also available at most theaters. Some area theaters now offer advance ticket sales ranging from the day of purchase to three days in advance. Since there are so few theaters outside Wilmington, we've listed all theaters together.
Cinematique of Wilmington
254 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 343-1640
A valuable film resource is Cinematique of Wilmington, the series that brings acclaimed foreign and classic films to town for three-day runs every other week (sometimes more often). Films are show at historic Thalian Hall at the corner of Chestnut and Third streets in downtown Wilmington. Cinematique is a bargain at $7 a ticket. It's sponsored by WHQR 91.3 FM, the local public radio station. Show times are 7:30 PM Monday through Wednesday, but schedules may change to accommodate Thalian's stage schedule. You can receive Cinematique mailings by calling (910) 343-1640 or writing to Cinematique of Wilmington, 254 N. Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Carmike 16
111 Cinema Dr., Wilmington
(910) 815-0212
With 16 screens, this theater required a street of its own (Cinema Drive), linking Market Street and Kerr Avenue. The stadium seats and leg room are the most generous in town, with the least possibility of an obstructed view.
Mayfaire 16
900 Town Center Dr., Wilmington
(910) 256-0566
This updated version of Market Street's facility is situated centrally between Ogden, Wrightsville Beach and the Intracoastal community. You can expect to find at least one screen with something other than major blockbuster fare.
Cinema 4
1020 Carolina Beach Rd., Carolina Beach
(910) 458-3444
This spot is a cozy four-screen complex in the Federal Point Plaza shopping center. This theater is a good choice if you relish the thought of a night at the movies away from long lines and Wilmington's traffic.
Surf Cinemas
4836 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport
(910) 457-0320
Situated south of the intersection of Long Beach Road and N.C. 211 (Southport-Supply Road), this four-screen theater is convenient to the entire Southport-Oak Island area. Please note that children younger than 2 years of age are not admitted.
Coastal Stadium 10
5200 Bridgers Rd., Shallotte
(910) 754-7469
Since its opening in 2003, Coastal Stadium 10 has been serving Brunswick County with 10 giant screens and state-of-the-art digital surround sound. It is handicapped accessible and includes high-back rocking chairs, an expanded cafe and menu, and it has a party room available for birthdays and group outings. Computerized ticketing allows advance ticket sales, credit card purchases and online purchase of tickets. Early bird special prices for the first show of the day (before 2 PM) and bargain matinees (before 5 PM) are available. Ask about the free Kids' Series during the summer months.
