In some ways, the Alamo Drafthouse represented stability in a rapidly changing filmgoing environment. As a nationally recognizable brand the Alamo offered something for everyone, from the latest blockbusters to repertory screenings of beloved classics, and promoted itself as the distraction-free theater chain: no talking, no texting, no arriving late.
Naturally, Alamo Drafthouse’s unexpected closure in the North Texas marketplace caused widespread concern about the future of moviegoing. The DFW locations, and one in Minnesota, were owned by a franchisee that filed for bankruptcy and shut down these theaters as a result. The broader Alamo Drafthouse chain was unaffected, and quickly announced it was seeking a way to bring the theaters back to life in North Texas.
”When the franchisee pulled out, it became clear that stepping in and reopening the theaters was essential — not only to preserve the connection we’ve built with our guests but also to maintain our strong presence in a city that’s at the heart of the film and entertainment industry,” says Taylor Smith, Alamo Drafthouse’s field marketing manager.
Sure enough, a few months later, the Alamo Drafthouse mothership had taken over all five North Texas locations and began reopening them one by one. Today, movie lovers can catch their favorite films, new and old, or attend events (such as trivia) hosted in the bars at their local Drafthouse.
Even through these curveballs, Smith says that Alamo Drafthouse was able to have a strong showing in the DFW marketplace, which included hosting a red carpet season premiere for Netflix’s Cobra Kai, providing special screenings for films such as Wicked and Nosferatu and upgrading the Richardson location’s recliners and the projectors at the Richardson and Las Colinas locations.
It was commonly accepted that 2024 was a tough year for the movie industry, far beyond any setbacks Alamo Drafthouse overcame in North Texas. Production was recovering from the extensive SAG-AFTRA strikes in 2023, the box office was often disappointing, and “Survive ‘til ‘25” became a mantra for theaters and studios alike.
Well, 2025 is here and, while there have already been challenges, the industry is hoping to rebuild and move forward. And Alamo Drafthouse is looking forward to being part of what comes next.
“In 2025, Alamo Drafthouse is excited to introduce several new upgrades and new experiences to the market,” says Smith.
Remember the Alamo, which we almost lost, and attend some of the screenings during this year's best film festivals.
Kathy Tran
These include new recliners for the Las Colinas Alamo and upgrades to the theaters' bars, including private karaoke rooms at the Cedars location. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg for Alamo, as Smith adds, “This spring, we’ll be launching a new Happy Hour with discounts on beer, wine, appetizers and pizza.”
Smith says that everything Alamo does has one express purpose: “to truly celebrate and appreciate film.” Even with changes in the industry, staying committed to being the theater choice, “For movie lovers, by movie lovers” is at the heart of Alamo’s efforts.
”We want to give you an experience you can’t recreate on your sofa,” she says. “Whether you’re there for the cutting-edge viewing experience, the friendly service, or just to share a laugh with a hundred other people, we want it to be memorable.”
In addition to the screenings and events Alamo Drafthouse hosts each year, Dallas filmgoers are fortunate to live in an area that has been steadily rising through the ranks as a destination for filmmakers and their work.
There are a number of film festivals that take place in Dallas-Fort Worth each year, and 2025 will be no exception. These are communal events where audiences come together to experience new, rare or unique films (often well before they make their way to theaters), and create lasting memories.
Here are some of the best film festivals coming in 2025:
March 21–23
Latin American Film Festival of Dallas
Now entering its second year, LAFFD is a curated festival that celebrates the rich cinematic history of Latin American film and filmmakers. This event will be hosted at one of the most unique theaters in North Texas, the microcinema Spacy (1300 S. Polk St., suite. 60a), and tickets will be available at laffd.com.
For the 55th year, the Angelika Film Center will host the USA Film Festival, in April.
Courtesy of Angelika Film Center
April 23–27
USA Film FestivalCertainly the longest-running festival on this list, USA Film Festival will be marking its 55th year at the Angelika Film Center Dallas (5321 E Mockingbird Lane). After more than half a century, the organization is still celebrating excellence in film and video, and honoring industry veterans (such as Martin Sheen and Billy Dee Williams in 2024). More information can be found at usafilmfestival.com.
Thin Line Fest
A combination “documentary/photography/music” festival that takes place in downtown Denton each year, Thin Line Fest features a mashup of artforms that should have something for everyone to enjoy. The fest's film segment is dedicated to documentaries, and screenings are hosted at Denton’s Campus Theatre (214 W Hickory St). More information can be found at thinline.us.
April 25–May 1
Dallas International Film FestivalDIFF is back and bigger than ever, with the festival’s 2025 outing marking its first as an Oscar qualifying event for award-winning short films. Billed as North Texas’ largest film festival, the event will be hosted at Cinépolis Victory Park (2365 Victory Park Lane) this year, and additional information can be found at diffdallas.org.
June 19–21
The African Film FestivalTAFF places a major emphasis on storytelling. The festival mentors and supports artists of African descent, giving them a network they can rely on, and celebrate the sharing of African culture through film. Information on the 2025 festival is forthcoming and will be posted at theafricanfilmfestival.org.
June 20–22
Pegasus Film FestivalThe kids are all right at the Pegasus Film Festival, a youth-focused fest that screens works by filmmakers under the age of 19. Pegasus Film Festival will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year at the Majestic Theater in Dallas (1925 Elm St.) and additional information can be found at pegasusfilmfestival.com.
The Texas Theatre in Oak Cliff always has excellent programming. The Oak Cliff Film Festival is one solid example.
Ismael Belkoura
June 26–29
Oak Cliff Film FestivalHeadquartered at the Texas Theatre (231 Jefferson Blvd.) but spanning venues throughout Oak Cliff, OCFF is a landmark event each year for DFW’s movie lovers. The curators pride themselves on building a slate that spotlights exciting new films and filmmakers, balancing crowd pleasers with offbeat, experimental and boundary-pushing works. Additional information can be found at 2025.oakclifffilmfestival.com.
July 24–27
Asian Film Festival of DallasAFFD is a celebration of excellence in Asian cinema. Each year, it brings films from every imaginable genre, created by Asian filmmakers, to Dallas. It’s the most cost effective way to experience Asian cultures, and all conveniently located at the Angelika Film Center Dallas (5321 E Mockingbird Lane). Additional information can be found at asianfilmdallas.com.
Oct. 30–Nov. 2
Lone Star Film FestivalIf you prefer your film festivals within easy driving distance of the Stockyards, LSFF has your back. Each year, this fest brings movies from across the globe to Fort Worth, entertaining and inspiring audiences while allowing filmmakers a proper Texas experience in Cowtown. Additional details on LSFF 2025 will be available at lonestarfilmfestival.com.
