WRIGLEYVILLE - The Austin, Texas-rooted movie theater chain makes its long-awaited debut in the Midwest in early 2023 as its six-screen '80s-influenced labyrinth of a complex now claims another home for itself on Addison and Clark. The Wrigleyville Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is one of many additions to the chain's expansion as the franchise expands into over 30 locations nationwide. This distinct cinema-eatery indulges in movie-going culture while reflecting on the past of how movies have previously been enjoyed. More notably, the Chicago location honors writer, director, and filmmaker John Hughes through its official dedication to his iconic work.
An official plaque cements Hughes' influence on the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema's latest location, reading "director John Hughes has left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness with witty, charming, and heartfelt films like SIXTEEN CANDLES, THE BREAKFAST CLUB, and PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES. In FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF, he perfectly captured the mischievous and carefree spirit of youth through one teen's epic day playing hooky, cementing Chicago as a cinematic playground in the process. Because of his incalculable influence on cinema, as of Thursday, January 26th 2023, this Alamo Drafthouse Cinema shall hereby and forevermore be known as the John Hughes Cinema." Hughes' son James Hughes participated in the dedication ceremony followed by a string of screenings of his father's most beloved titles in each theater. A tour of the complex boasted the theater's impressive auditorium-style seating (with luxe leather reclining seats in every row), and bone-rattling sound system that keeps time-worn audio crisp.
Despite the delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wrigleyville Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is determined to make its mark on the Windy City. Their Video Vortex Lounge doubles as a swanky throwback to the era of VHS and DVDs, offering free rental services for physical media. Patrons are encouraged to frequent the theater's video library and check out media as a part of their effort to grow the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Chicago's social atmosphere. In addition, those without DVD players or VCRs are able to rent them from the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema for a small fee. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema doubles as a bar and eatery, offering a full menu ranging from specialty cocktails to signature sandwiches.
A variety of recent releases are promised to spend their time on screens, but the theater places a heavy emphasis on its brand-exclusive series, Only at the Alamo. Each collection features movies that recognize certain themes or niches in film and set the spotlight on their success. The Wrigleyville Alamo Drafthouse Cinema resides at 3519 N Clark St SUITE C301, Chicago, IL 60657, and officially opened its doors to the public on January 27, 2023. Individual movie tickets, season passes, and gift cards for the Chicago location are available for purchase through the branch's official website. For those unable to make the trek into the city, the theater offers an on-demand service that ensures that you'll always remember the Alamo.