Things are looking up for cinema goers who love looking up at that big screen.
The AMC Evanston 12, at 1715 Maple Avenue, reopened its doors on Wednesday, Nov. 9. By the following Sunday for matinee showtimes, doors were being opened numerous times, providing a breath of fresh air for movie lovers.“I’ve been walking by this theater, I was so sad when it first closed down,” said Larry Wolf of Evanston. “I couldn’t believe it because it’s kind of like my Sunday refuge. There’s just something about seeing a movie in a theater.
Wolf’s overall favorite film is the 1942 movie “Casablanca” with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. For the holidays, Wolf will not miss seeing the 1946 Frank Capra film “It’s A Wonderful Life” with James Stewart and Donna Reed.While these selections might have been screened elsewhere at Chicagoland boutique or art house theaters, Wolf has been coming to this Evanston movie destination for more than a decade with his children.
“The theater is a great complement for our many restaurants and will bring lots of extra foot traffic for nearby businesses,’ Coakley said. “Plus seeing a movie in the theater is a great experience. You can’t really replicate that at home.” “I’m really happy that it’s open again because it’s like one of my favorite theaters,” Stanley said. “It’s always nearby. The deals are great.”Stanley attends matinee showings of newer films for cheaper tickets and to avoid large crowds.“Cinema’s important in many ways,” Stanley said. “On the entertainment level, it’s nice to escape. On the more artistic level, it’s very inspiring.