South Shore Movie Theaters May Not Reopen Until End Of July

BRAINTREE, MA — If you were planning to escape to an air-conditioned movie theater during this week's steamy weather, you're going to have to put those plans on hold.

Phase 3 of Gov. Charlie Baker's reopening plan began on Monday, and that means movie theaters can begin to open again with screenings limited to 25 people or fewer. But no major movie theater on the South Shore will reopen this week — and likely won't until the end of July.

The Braintree AMC may not open until July 30, according to the company. Kansas-based AMC is also in the midst of a major financial struggle. The company said it might have to close for good due to coronavirus, but may have found a way to stay afloat, according to recent reports.

Regal, which operates a cinema at the Independence Mall in Kingston, plans to reopen its theaters on July 31. Showcase Cinemas, which operates theaters in Dedham, Randolph and Foxborough, has announced a reopening plan, but hasn't scheduled any showings.

Local theaters like Patriot Cinemas in Hanover and Hingham also remain closed.

As of Wednesday, the only movie-going options in the area were drive-in theaters. The Mendon Twin, 35 Milford St., is showing older movies, from "Grease" to "Black Panther." A drive-in has also popped up in Marshfield, also showing older movies like "Jaws" and "E.T."