In the ’80s and ’90s, people would flock to the Rainbow Theater in downtown Redlands to see movies like Twister and The Great Mouse Detective.
The Krikorian slowly replaced that quaint piece of history, with its bigger screens and spiral staircase. Now called the Studio Movie Grill, it’s no longer the newest movie theater in town — that distinction belongs to Harkins Mountain Grove.
Harkins opened in March 2016, and with its plush reclining chairs, beautiful screens, and lobby bar, it become the new standard in Redlands cinema. There is a children’s play center, and in June, July, and August, the Summer Movie Fun program gives families an affordable way to entertain their children in the heat.
Ryan King watches at least two movies a week at Harkins, and loves being able to pick a reserved seat — which reclines — ahead of the show, especially when he’s with a group of friends.
“At other theaters, you just line up, wait around for an hour, and hope you get seats together,” he said. “Now, I can just pick my seats, get some food, and come back.”
Tickets at Harkins range from $7 to $12, and there are rewards programs — guests who purchase loyalty cups can get refills for $1.50 throughout the year and My Harkins Rewards gives moviegoers special offers and promotions. By participating in Popcorn Perks, customers can refill a medium popcorn bag 36 times in a year, with proceeds going to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.
King said he appreciates the variety of films shown at Harkins, and looks forward to his visits.
“I really enjoy the time spent here,” he said. “It’s worth the money and I will be back next week.”
Just remember to silence your cell phone before your movie adventure starts. —Winry