You’re driving up Commonwealth Boulevard, heading past the Walmart, and you look up. There it is. Perched on top of the hill like a quiet sentinel of local culture, Hollywood Cinema in Martinsville Virginia doesn't look like your typical flashy AMC or Regal. It’s got that specific, unpretentious vibe that defines so much of Southside Virginia.
Honestly, if you're not from around here, you might drive right past it. But for the folks in Henry County, this 5-screen independent theater is basically the heartbeat of a Friday night. It’s a "throwback" in the best sense of the word, though it’s definitely sparked some heated debates in local Facebook groups lately.
The Vibe and the Reality of Hollywood Cinema in Martinsville Virginia
Let’s be real for a second. We’ve all been to those mega-multiplexes where the popcorn costs more than a steak dinner and the staff acts like they're guarding Fort Knox. Hollywood Cinema is the polar opposite of that. It’s independent. It’s small. And yeah, it’s a bit rough around the edges.
Some people call it "charming." Others say it needs a deep clean.
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I’ve heard stories from locals who swear the popcorn is the best in the state—salty, buttery, and actually fresh—but then you’ll find a review from someone complaining about a sticky floor in Theater 3. That’s the reality of a small-town theater. It doesn’t have the corporate polish of a big chain, but it has character. The tickets are often significantly cheaper than what you’d find in Roanoke or Greensboro, sometimes sitting around $5 for a matinee. In 2026, that’s practically a miracle.
What’s Playing and When to Go
Because it’s a 5-screen setup, they have to be picky about what they show. You aren't going to find every niche indie documentary here. They focus on the heavy hitters. We’re talking the big Disney sequels, the latest Marvel flick, or whatever horror movie is currently making people jump out of their seats.
Currently, if you look at the 2026 winter lineup, they’ve been cycling through big titles like Avatar: Fire and Ash and Zootopia 2. They also do these cool throwback events. Lately, they’ve been running the Lord of the Rings trilogy—Fellowship, Two Towers, and Return of the King—which is a huge draw for the local geek community.
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- The Movie Line: (276) 656-3456. It’s old school. You call it, you listen to the recording.
- The Location: 909 Commonwealth Blvd. It’s "on the hill."
- The Competition: Movie Town Theatre is the other big player in town, located over on Veteran Road. People in Martinsville usually fall into one of two camps: you’re either a Hollywood Cinema loyalist or a Movie Town regular.
The "Dirty" Debate: E-E-A-T and Local Sentiment
To give you the full picture, we have to talk about the elephant in the room. Cleanliness. If you check recent reviews from 2025 and early 2026, you'll see a divide.
One regular, Brian W., noted that while the value is unbeatable, the theaters often need a "deep clean." It’s a common refrain. You might find trash in a cup holder or a restroom that’s seen better days. But then you talk to someone like Adreana O., who loves the place because the owners are friendly and the environment isn't crowded.
It’s a trade-off. You pay less, you get a more "lived-in" experience. For many families in Martinsville, the low price point is what makes movie night possible. When you have four kids, a $5 ticket vs. a $15 ticket isn't just a preference—it’s the difference between going out and staying home.
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Technical Specs and Comfort
Don't let the "old-school" label fool you entirely. They have updated to digital projection. You’re getting 2D and 3D options with clear sound. The seating isn't the high-end luxury recliner style you see in the city—they are more traditional sloped-floor seats—but they get the job done.
Interestingly, while Hollywood Cinema maintains its independent status, the industry around it is shifting. Big chains like Regal (owned by Cineworld) have struggled, making these local independent spots even more vital for community identity. When a town loses its theater, it loses a piece of its social fabric.
Actionable Advice for Your Visit
If you're planning to catch a show at Hollywood Cinema in Martinsville Virginia, here is the "expert" way to do it:
- Call ahead. Websites for small theaters can be notoriously glitchy. The phone line is the only 100% certain way to know if a showtime hasn't been swapped.
- Bring cash. While they take cards, sometimes the systems in older buildings can be finicky. Plus, it speeds up the concession line.
- Go for the Matinee. If you want the absolute cheapest experience and the most choice in seating, the early afternoon shows are where it’s at.
- Check the local school calendar. If Martinsville City or Henry County schools are out, expect the place to be swarming with teenagers. If you want a quiet date night, stick to a Tuesday or Wednesday evening.
Hollywood Cinema is a reminder that movies don't have to be a sterile, corporate event. It's about a dark room, a big screen, and a bucket of popcorn. It’s not perfect, but it’s ours.
To make the most of your trip, try to arrive at least 15 minutes early to navigate the parking lot on the hill and get your concessions before the lights dim. Supporting local businesses like this ensures that Martinsville keeps its unique entertainment options alive for another generation.