Cinerama has long been a one-of-a-kind fixture in Seattle's film scene. Paul Allen's single-screen theater and its massive screen offer a unique throwback moviegoing experience unlike anything else in town. In August, Cinerama closed down for major renovations, though "renovations" might be putting it mildly. The cinema was essentially gutted and refitted with all new everything: seats, screen, sound system, concessions, and even a vibrant new mural on the building's exterior. After months of work, Cinerama reopens on Thursday, November 20 for the opening weekend of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay (Part 1).

The most noticeable change upon entering the theater the new high-end faux leather seats. There's also increased space. Cinerama's new chairs are wider than their predecessors and the theater now offers unmatched leg room with two feet between the rows. Because of these tweaks, the total number of seats has been reduced from 798 to 570.

Once the lights go down, films will be shown via the new Christie 6P laser projector, a system specifically designed to make the most of 3D movies. (The theater also has kept all the technology needed to screen 35mm, 70mm, and three-strip Cinerama films.) To pair the improved sights with better sounds, Cinerama installed a Dolby Laboratories and Meyer Sound audio system in the walls and ceiling for a more immersive aural experience. The old gray screen has been replaced with a new white Matt Plus screen that offers improved uniformity in color and contrast.

The food and drink selection has also been drastically overhauled. (Fear not Cinerama regulars, the signature chocolate popcorn remains.) The revamped menu is loaded with local flavor: Brave Horse Tavern pretzels, Uli's Sausages, Field Roast vegan sausages, Cupcake Royale, Skydottir Epic Cookies, Full Tilt Ice Cream, and Theo Chocolates. Each snack falls between the $4–$6 price point. At long last Cinerama can be added to the list of boozy theater, as the concession stand now features Elysian Brewing, Fremont Brewing, Seattle Cider Company, and Proletariat Wine Company on tap for $6–$8. For those seeking a sober refreshment, Caffe Vita coffee and Miro Tea has also been added to the menu at $3 a pop.

The other major changes involve ticketing, and aren't as positive. Seating is now entirely reserved (unpopular opinion alert: that's a pretty huge bummer) and the price for Cinerama screenings have all been raised to a flat rate of $15 regardless of showtime (not unreasonable considering how much tickets are at surrounding cineplexes). There's also now $1.50 service charge when ordering tickets online (Cinerama's online ordering was previously service charge free).

Beyond The Hunger Games, the next film on the Cinerama schedule is The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies, which opens December 16. There will also be a special The Hobbit marathon event on December 15. While Cinerama remains focused mainly on big blockbuster features, there have been discussions about adding two more (yet undisclosed) series or festivals to go along with its Science Fiction and Horror Film Festivals. There are also plans to try and work in more children's matinees and neighborhood events.

Update: What do you think about reserved seating at movie theaters? Let us know in our new poll.