From movie palace to cinema megaplex: The changing morphology of the movie theater

Movie theaters have taken various forms during the twentieth century, evolving from simple nickelodeons and grand movie palaces into functional film boxes. Contemporary era megaplexes demonstrate a repackaging of historic themes in new design forms. These transformations stand as expressions of popular culture while revealing financial and organizational imperatives. This thesis contrasts the morphology and meanings of early theaters on the Los Angeles Broadway Corridor with contemporary theater complexes in Orange County, California.; Entertainment environments continue to be endorsed by public desire for cutting-edge entertainment. Economic imperatives and a continual quest for public appeal stimulate cycles of architectural innovation. The shifting morphology of the movie theater from architectural landmark to consumption megaplex reflects changing priorities and recognition of the need for visibility in the urban landscape.