25 Facts About Harkins Theatres

The Origins of Harkins Theatres

Harkins Theatres has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its beginnings.

1. Founded in 1933: Harkins Theatres was established by Dwight "Red" Harkins in Tempe, Arizona. He was only 18 years old at the time.

2. First Theatre: The first Harkins Theatre was called the State Theatre. It was a modest venue but marked the beginning of a significant legacy.

3. Great Depression Era: Despite being founded during the Great Depression, Harkins Theatres managed to thrive and expand, showing the resilience and determination of its founder.

4. Family-Owned: Harkins Theatres remains a family-owned business, with Dwight Harkins' descendants continuing to run the company.

Expansion and Growth

From its humble beginnings, Harkins Theatres has grown into a major player in the movie theater industry. Here are some key milestones in its expansion.

5. Largest Family-Owned Theatre Chain: Harkins Theatres is the largest family-owned theater chain in the United States.

6. Over 500 Screens: The company operates more than 500 screens across multiple states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas.

7. Innovative Designs: Harkins Theatres is known for its innovative theater designs, including stadium seating and state-of-the-art sound systems.

8. Ciné Capri: One of their most famous theaters is the Ciné Capri, which features a massive screen and luxurious seating.

Technological Advancements

Harkins Theatres has always been at the forefront of technological advancements in the movie industry. Here are some ways they've led the charge.

9. First to Offer Digital Projection: Harkins Theatres was one of the first chains to offer digital projection, providing a clearer and more vibrant movie-watching experience.

10. 3D Technology: They were early adopters of 3D technology, allowing audiences to enjoy movies in a more immersive format.

11. Dolby Atmos: Many Harkins Theatres locations feature Dolby Atmos sound systems, which provide an unparalleled audio experience.

12. Laser Projection: Some theaters have upgraded to laser projection, offering even better picture quality and energy efficiency.

Community Involvement

Harkins Theatres is not just about movies; they are deeply involved in their communities. Here are some ways they give back.

13. Harkins Community Fund: The company established the Harkins Community Fund to support local charities and non-profit organizations.

14. Summer Movie Fun: They offer a Summer Movie Fun program for kids, providing affordable movie tickets during the summer months.

15. Charity Screenings: Harkins Theatres frequently hosts charity screenings, where proceeds go to various charitable causes.

16. Educational Programs: They offer educational programs and field trips for schools, helping to foster a love of cinema in young students.

Unique Offerings

Harkins Theatres offers a variety of unique features and services that set them apart from other theater chains.

17. Loyalty Program: Their loyalty program, My Harkins Awards, allows frequent moviegoers to earn points and redeem them for free tickets and concessions.

18. Ultimate Lounger: Many locations feature Ultimate Lounger seats, which are plush, reclining chairs for maximum comfort.

19. Gourmet Concessions: Beyond the usual popcorn and soda, Harkins Theatres offers gourmet concessions, including pizzas, sandwiches, and craft beers.

20. Private Screenings: They offer private screenings for special events, allowing groups to rent out an entire theater for a private viewing.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Harkins Theatres that might surprise you.

21. Popcorn Perfection: Harkins Theatres is famous for its popcorn, which is popped fresh daily and made with a secret recipe.

22. Longest Running Theater: The Valley Art Theatre in Tempe, Arizona, is the longest-running theater in the Harkins chain, operating since 1940.

23. Exclusive Merchandise: They sell exclusive merchandise, including collectible cups and t-shirts, which are popular among movie fans.

24. Film Festivals: Harkins Theatres often hosts film festivals, showcasing independent and international films that might not be available in other theaters.

25. Environmental Initiatives: The company is committed to sustainability, implementing various environmental initiatives such as recycling programs and energy-efficient lighting.

The Final Reel

Harkins Theatres has a rich history and a bright future. From its humble beginnings in 1933 to becoming one of the largest privately-owned theater chains in the U.S., it’s clear Harkins has made a significant impact on the movie-going experience. With innovative features like Cine Capri and loyalty programs such as My Harkins Awards, they’ve kept audiences coming back for decades. Their commitment to community involvement and charitable efforts further sets them apart.

Whether you're a film buff or just enjoy a night out at the movies, Harkins offers something special. Next time you grab your popcorn and settle into those comfy seats, remember the legacy behind the screen. Harkins Theatres isn’t just about watching movies; it's about creating lasting memories. So, enjoy the show and appreciate the history that makes Harkins a beloved cinema destination.