Magic Lantern Theater is a popular theater located in Ketchum, Idaho. This theater is known for its unique atmosphere and live entertainment. It offers a variety of shows, including films, live performances, musicals, and much more. The theater is housed in a historic building that has been renovated to preserve its original charm. The interior of the theater is beautifully decorated, with vintage-style furnishings and art deco accents. The seating area is spacious and comfortable, ensuring that guests have an enjoyable experience during their visit.

Ketchum movie theater struggling during pandemic

A nearly 50-year-old movie theater in the Wood River Valley is weathering the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic. KMVT went behind the scenes as the owner says he is worried they could go out of business. (Jake Brasil)

KETCHUM, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) -A nearly 50-year-old movie theater in the Wood River Valley is weathering the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic. KMVT went behind the scenes as the owner says he is worried they could go out of business.

The Magic Lantern movie theater has existed in Ketchum for 47 years. The whole time it has been under the ownership of Rick Kessler. KMVT got a chance to sit down with him on Sunday, and he explained what the movie theater industry looks like right now.

“First one is COVID,” Kessler said. “They are scared to come here. My audience is flat out scared to come here, and then I did not have much to show them.”

He said his audience is typically the older crowd, and due to the pandemic, not many people are coming out. The health crisis has also caused a significant drop in new movie releases.

“There is nothing to drive them to the theater,” Kessler said.

New and old movies! At The Magic Lantern! Starting Wednesday November 25th we are playing Gary Olman in Mank, The Croods.

Posted by Magic Lantern Cinemas on Tuesday, November 24, 2020

The future is unknown, but the worry is nothing new to Kessler and his business. Some movies, such as “Wonder Woman 1984,” are going to a streaming service the same day as movie theater release, Kessler believes distributors may be diminishing the value of their product, and thinks movie studios could really build up their exhibition business.

“I worried about going out of business when home video came out that was my first worry. “There is always a worry on the horizon, then a big picture comes out and you are filling the place,” Kessler said. “I can only hope that people rediscover going to the cinemas after being locked up for 10 months.”

Copyright 2020 KMVT/KSVT. All rights reserved.

Magic lantern theater ketchum

Terms for Movie Passes:

Movie passes may be presented for admission to any movie showing at the Magic Lantern Movie Theater. This card is not redeemable for cash. This card will not be replaced if lost, stolen, or damaged in any way. Terms and conditions are subject to change.

If The Magic Lantern closes due to inclement weather any tickets pre-purchased will be refunded in form of a gift certificate.

Online ticket purchases:

Thank you for choosing Magic Lantern Movie Theater, Bridgton. Maine Theaters generally open 20 minutes before showtime. Online ticketing customers will have to pick up their tickets at the ticket counter and this may require waiting in line at the theater. All online sales are final. There will be no refunds! Balcony tickets CANNOT be purchased online- balcony tickets MUST be purchased in person at the box office. You may be asked to show a valid government ID. The balcony area is for guests 21 and over.

Here at the Magic Lantern, we do not allow any backpacks, bags, or large purses into our theaters. If you need the contents for medical (or other) reasons, we reserve the right to inspect them. Otherwise, please leave them in your vehicle.

Outside food and beverages (including outside containers and bottled water) are not allowed into our theaters.

For tickets sold for balconies, you must provide a valid government-issued photo ID stating you are 21+! Please make sure you have it handy when purchasing balcony seating- there will be no one under 21 admitted to the balcony area. Balcony tickets CANNOT be purchased online- balcony tickets MUST be purchased in person at the box office. You may be asked to show a valid government-issued ID. The balcony area is for guests 21 and over.

Here at the Magic Lantern, for the safety of both our customers and team members, we do not allow any firearms, knives, or weapons of any kind to be brought into the theaters or Web's Tavern. We reserve the right to ask you to bring your item back out to your vehicle. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your cooperation.

Refunds For Movies can only be issued in the first half-hour of the scheduled movie for tickets bought in-house.

Movie Rating Policy

We strictly enforce the MPAA rating system here at The Magic Lantern.

Film

During the fall, winter, and spring, the Sun Valley Museum of Art presents documentary, independent, and international films that would not otherwise be shown locally. Films are often presented in connection to SVMoA's museum exhibitions as a way to enhance and deepen understanding of the theme or concept being explored.

The seating area is spacious and comfortable, ensuring that guests have an enjoyable experience during their visit. Magic Lantern Theater is best known for its film screenings. It regularly shows both classic and contemporary films, offering a diverse selection for movie enthusiasts.

Upcoming Film

Thu, January 25

Film

FILM: Angel Applicant (First Screening)

4:30 PM

Film

FILM: Angel Applicant (Second Screening)

7:00 PM

Thu, February 22

Film

FILM: Oscars Shorts—Live Action (First Screening)

4:00 PM

Film

FILM: Oscars Shorts—Live Action (Second Screening)

7:00 PM

Thu, February 29

Film

FILM: Oscars Shorts—Animated (First Screening)

4:30 PM

Film

FILM: Oscars Shorts—Animated (Second Screening)

7:00 PM

Thu, March 07

Film

FILM: Oscars Shorts—Documentary (First Screening)

4:00 PM

Film

FILM: Oscars Shorts—Documentary (Second Screening)

Movie Showimes in Sun Valley, ID 83353

Sorry, we don't have movie times at this theater for the date you selected.

BoDo Cinema

Mean Girls (2024)

"Plastic is forever."

The Beekeeper (2024)

"Expose the corruption. Protect the hive."

Night Swim (2024)

"Everything you fear is under the surface."

The Book of Clarence (2024)

"How far would you go to prove you're not a nobody?"

Wonka (2023)

"Every good thing in this world started with a dream."

Migration (2023)

"Odd ducks welcome."

Anyone But You (2023)

"They only look like the perfect couple."

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023)

"The tide is turning."

The Iron Claw (2023)

"Sons. Brothers. Champions."

Soul (2020)

"Is all this living really worth dying for?"

The theater also hosts special events, such as film festivals and themed nights, where guests can enjoy a curated selection of films. In addition to films, Magic Lantern Theater also showcases live performances by local and national artists. These performances often include theater productions, comedy shows, music concerts, and other entertaining acts. The theater's stage has state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, creating an immersive experience for the audience. Magic Lantern Theater has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. It attracts a diverse crowd, including families, couples, and groups of friends. The theater's welcoming ambiance and friendly staff make it a popular choice for entertainment in Ketchum. Overall, Magic Lantern Theater is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for quality entertainment in Ketchum. With its wide range of shows and beautiful setting, it offers a memorable experience for all visitors. Whether you're a film enthusiast or a fan of live performances, this theater is sure to impress..

Reviews for "The Magic Lantern Theater in Ketchum: Preserving the Magic of Cinema"

1. John Doe - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with my experience at Magic Lantern Theater in Ketchum. The seats were uncomfortable and the theater itself was quite run-down. The sound quality was subpar, which really detracted from the enjoyment of the movie. The ticket prices were also a bit high considering the state of the theater. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this theater unless you have no other options in the area.

2. Jane Smith - 1 star - My visit to Magic Lantern Theater in Ketchum was a complete waste of time and money. The staff was unfriendly and unhelpful, and the atmosphere in the theater was very lacking. The movie I watched had constant technical issues, with multiple interruptions and problems with the projector. It ruined the whole experience, and I left feeling frustrated and disappointed. I would strongly advise against visiting this theater.

3. Peter Brown - 2 stars - The Magic Lantern Theater in Ketchum needs a serious update. The outdated decor and uncomfortable seating make for an unpleasant viewing experience. The snack options were limited and overpriced, and the overall cleanliness of the theater was questionable. The management seems indifferent to the state of the theater and the satisfaction of the customers. I won't be returning to this theater any time soon.

The Magic Lantern Theater in Ketchum: A Cultural Hub for the Community