The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is expanding its celebration of the moviegoing experience with the launch of the Academy Marquee Theater List, a new global initiative that will recognize exceptional movie theaters for their commitment to preserving the magic of cinema.
Announced ahead of the Academy’s 100th anniversary in 2027, the program will spotlight 50 outstanding theaters from around the world that provide memorable audience experiences while serving as cultural landmarks in their communities. The inaugural list, scheduled to be unveiled in the spring of 2027, will include 25 theaters in the United States and 25 international venues.
Unlike awards that recognize films or filmmakers, the Academy Marquee Theater List shifts the spotlight to the venues where audiences experience movies together. The initiative acknowledges the vital role theaters continue to play in an era increasingly dominated by streaming platforms and home entertainment.
“We are thrilled to launch the Academy Marquee Theater List, which will celebrate moviegoing and honor theaters that bring communities together through the power of cinematic storytelling,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor said in a joint statement.
The program will honor a wide range of cinemas, from historic movie palaces and neighborhood independent theaters to modern multiplexes. Eligible venues must operate year-round in permanent brick-and-mortar locations and may specialize in either first-run releases or classic repertory screenings.
Applications are now open to theaters worldwide. A committee made up of Academy members representing all branches of the organization will evaluate submissions before forwarding recommendations to the Academy’s Board of Governors for final approval.
Judges will consider several factors when selecting honorees, including community engagement, programming, presentation quality, accessibility, historic preservation, theater design, and concessions. The Academy hopes the criteria will recognize theaters that not only screen films but also foster a meaningful connection with moviegoers.
Selected theaters will receive official Academy certification to display in their lobbies and will be featured across the Academy’s digital platforms, including its website and social media channels.
The idea for the initiative was proposed by Academy Governor and filmmaker Jason Reitman, whose passion for preserving the theatrical experience helped shape the new recognition program.
Applications will be accepted through Aug. 25, 2026, with tiered submission fees available for early, regular and late entries.
As the Academy prepares to celebrate its centennial, the Marquee Theater List underscores the organization’s continued commitment to protecting the communal experience of watching films on the big screen. By honoring theaters alongside filmmakers, the Academy hopes to inspire audiences to continue supporting the cinemas that have long served as gathering places for storytelling, culture and shared cinematic memories.