Finding movies in Wilmington DE used to be a simple choice between two giant multiplexes and maybe a sticky-floored bargain house if you were feeling brave. Things have changed. If you are still just driving to the nearest mall without checking the schedule, you're missing out on the actual soul of the Delaware film scene. Honestly, most people don't even realize that Wilmington has become a weirdly vital hub for independent screenings and high-end tech that rivals Philly or Baltimore.
You've got the Riverfront, you've got the historic downtown spots, and then you've got the suburban giants. They all offer something totally different.
The Riverfront Powerhouse: Penn Cinema
If you want the "big" experience, you go to Penn Cinema Riverfront + IMAX. It’s the only place in the entire state of Delaware where you can catch a true IMAX screening. Most people head here for the blockbusters—the stuff like Avatar: Fire and Ash or the upcoming 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple—because the screen real estate is just unmatched.
They have those leather power recliners that basically let you lie flat. It's dangerous. I’ve definitely seen people fall asleep during the trailers because they got too comfortable. It’s locally owned, which is a nice touch for a place that feels this high-tech. Parking is easy, but the real pro tip is hitting one of the nearby restaurants like Iron Hill or Taco Grande first.
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Why Theatre N is the Indie King
If Penn Cinema is the loud, flashy younger sibling, Theatre N @ Nemours is the sophisticated cousin who actually knows who directed that obscure Swedish drama you saw on TikTok. Located right on West 10th Street, this place is the heart of independent movies in Wilmington DE.
They don't do The Avengers. They do things like the Wilmington International Film Festival and screenings of The Pool of Nobodies or Arrest the Midwife. It’s a boutique vibe. You aren't just a number there; you’re part of a crowd that actually cares about cinematography. Plus, it’s one of the main venues for the Wilmington International Film Festival (WIFF), which has been blowing up lately.
The Suburban Heavyweights
Sometimes you just want to go to the Brandywine Town Center and not think about it. Regal Brandywine Town Center is the old reliable. It’s massive. They’ve got 16 screens, and while it might not have the IMAX branding of the Riverfront, their RPX (Regal Premium Experience) setup is a solid runner-up for sound and picture quality.
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Then there’s Cinemark Wilmington Movies 10. This is your budget-friendly alternative. It’s not the newest, and it doesn't have the fancy bells and whistles, but it’s consistent. If you’re taking a group of five kids to see Zootopia 2, your wallet will thank you for picking Cinemark over the premium spots.
The "Secret" Screenings Most People Miss
Most Delawareans don't know about The Screening Room at 1313. Tucked inside the 1313 N. Market Street building, it’s an ultra-intimate space. This is where the Delaware Film Syndicate (the group formerly known as the Wilmington Film Mob) hangs out.
If you want to see a local short film made by a guy who lives three blocks away from you, this is the spot. They host filmmaker meet-and-greets and Q&A sessions that you just won't find at a Regal.
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- DelArt Film Society: They hold screenings at the Delaware Art Museum. Usually, it's classic or holiday-themed stuff like Home Alone or Casablanca.
- The Delaware Contemporary: Located on the Riverfront, they often host "Lunchtime Shorts" where you get a movie and a meal from a local food truck.
- Outdoor Movies: During the summer, parks around New Castle County do free screenings. It's basically a rite of passage to sit on a damp blanket in Rockford Park and watch a Pixar movie while fighting off mosquitoes.
What is Actually Playing Right Now?
Since we are in January 2026, the schedule is surprisingly packed. The big talk of the town is the theatrical re-release of The Lord of the Rings trilogy in 4K—those showtimes at Penn Cinema are selling out fast.
On the horror front, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple is the main draw for the mid-month crowd. If you’re looking for something more "prestige," Theatre N is running several nominees from the winter festival circuit, including Four Mothers and Marty Supreme.
How to Do Movies in Wilmington DE Right
Don't just show up. That’s the easiest way to end up in the front row, crane-necking for two hours.
- Check the local festivals first. The Wilmington International Film Festival is usually in the fall, but they do "best of" screenings year-round.
- Validate your parking. If you’re at the Riverfront or Downtown, this is the difference between a $15 movie and a $40 movie. Penn Cinema is great about this.
- Join the Syndicate. If you’re actually a film nerd, join the Delaware Film Syndicate. They have a network of cast and crew and host "Mob" events that make the experience feel way more social.
- The Tuesday Discount. Almost every theater in the area—including Regal and Cinemark—runs a discount day on Tuesdays. You can usually snag a ticket for $6 to $8.
Wilmington isn't just a stop between Philly and New York anymore. It’s a legitimate film town. Whether you’re looking for a 70-foot IMAX screen or a 50-seat indie basement, the options are there if you know where to look.
Actionable Next Steps: Check the upcoming schedule for Theatre N if you want to support local arts, or book your IMAX tickets at Penn Cinema at least 48 hours in advance for major 2026 releases like Avatar: Fire and Ash to ensure you get a seat in the back three rows. If you're a filmmaker, head over to the Delaware Film Syndicate website to see when their next networking "Hideout" event is scheduled.