Marcus Theatres To Suddenly Shut Down 10 Screens In Minnesota

In recent years, technology has had a great impact on the number of people who watch movies with the full theater experience. Reports show that streaming services have significantly impacted movie theaters by reducing attendance, shortening theatrical windows, and decreasing box office revenue.

Audiences, citing convenience and comfort, increasingly prefer home viewing, forcing theaters to rely on premium experiences and blockbuster releases to attract customers.

As a movie buff, I've always enjoyed watching a movie in a movie theater versus watching from my couch at home. While it's certainly more cost-effective to stay home, it also often comes with distractions and a less appealing presentation.

I do admit, however, that I visit movie theaters less than I used to, and unfortunately, it appears I'm not alone based on the announcement from Marcus Theaters, which has announced the sudden closure of one of its theater complexes in the Duluth, Minnesota area.

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Marcus Theaters Announces That Lakes Cinema Will Soon Be Closing

Disappointing news arrived on Thursday, April 16, when Marcus Theaters notified loyalty members via email that it would be closing its Lakes Cinema complex, located at 4351 Stebner Road in Hermantown.

The move will result in 10 fewer movie theater screens for the Duluth area. While an exact reason was not given for the closure, the email stated in full:

'We have some news for our valued loyalty members in the Hermantown area. Lakes Cinema will be showing movies for the final time on Sunday, April 19, 2026. We hope you'll plan one more visit with us. Thank you for your support over the years – we have enjoyed being part of this community.

In the future, we invite you to join us at our Duluth Cinema, which features an UltraScreen® as well as fantastic food and drink options. You can still earn points, redeem rewards, and enjoy savings through programs like Value Tuesday when you come to the theatre.'

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The Marcus Duluth Cinema in Duluth's Canal Park does feature 11 auditoriums, with stadium seating available, and a three-story screen, but it's a bit shocking that it will now be the only major movie theater complex for the entire Duluth/Superior area.

What the future holds for the site where Lakes Cinema currently sits, but perhaps another national theater chain would like to take over and create a new, updated take on the theater experience.