Remodeled Bethesda Row Cinema Opens May 3

The newly remodeled Bethesda Row Cinema is set to open May 3 with new amenities such as a full-service bar, luxury reserved seating in each auditorium, three-dimensional projection theaters and an expanded concession menu, according to theater spokeswoman Stephanie Kagan.

"Each of the eight auditoriums has been outfitted with new screens, sound systems and special leather chairs designed to provide maximum comfort to patrons. Plus, the theatre has installed a new digital system that will provide a satellite feed for live domestic and international performances," according to a statement from the theater, which has been owned and operated by Landmark Theatres since 2002.

"From the minute you approach the theatre and see our stunning new marquee, our hope is that our guests notice the attention to detail in every facet of the theatre and share our excitement as we begin a new chapter at the Bethesda Row. We have spared no expense to give our patrons the best movie-going experience in town," Landmark Theatres’ CEO and President Ted Mundorff said.

"...[Every] aspect was designed to meet the demands of today’s discerning customers," according to the theater's statement. The remodelling was designed to give the theater a more contemporary feel, from the over-sized lounge seating, local brews and film-themed cocktails in the bar, to the fully automated box office, the theater's statement added.

May's film lineup includes Academy Award nominee Kon-Tiki and (starting on May 10) Baz Luhrmann's The Great Gatsby. The theater's first "live event" will be the London National Theatre's live production of The Audience, starring Helen Mirren, which will be broadcast on Saturday and Sunday, June 29 and 30.