The 2026 Arizona Architectural Film Showcase has multiple screenings, including Going Attractions: The Definitive Story of the Movie Palace. The documentary explores the captivating journey through the evolution of American movie theaters—from penny arcades to grand palaces—celebrating their cultural and architectural impact. To put the cherry on top, the screening will be held at Phoenix’s historic Orpheum Theatre!

SAVE THE DATE – tickets go on sale soon. Watch the trailer below:

Going Attractions: The Definitive Story of Movie Palaces celebrates the grandeur of the great cinemas of the United States. Built in the 1910s-30s, when movies were the acme of entertainment and the stories were larger than life, so were the venues designed to show them: Thousands of seats, giant screens, exotic and ornate interiors with balconies and lounges, in-house organs and orchestras, amazing marquees, and air conditioning back when homes had none. The film also tracks the theaters’ eventual decline, through to current-day preservation efforts. The film is tribute to America’s great art form and the great monuments created for audiences to enjoy them in.

This is a fun social gathering for all members and non-members to enjoy this silent film classic! All guests are responsible for purchasing their own ticket. Meet the members of the Phoenix Art Deco Society inside the lobby 30mins before the show to say hello, grab a drink, and join our group! Don’t forget to dress to impress at this marvelous 1920s theatre.

Date: April 21, 2026

Time: Show starts at 7:00pm; doors 6:30pm

Location: Orpheum Theatre 203 W Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85003

About The Arizona Architectural Film Showcase

The Arizona Architectural Film Showcase is an annual celebration of architecture through cinema, conversation, and community. Presented in architecturally significant venues, the 2026 edition features three documentaries by independent filmmakers curated by Steve Weiss, Executive Director of No Festival Required Independent Cinema.

Founded in 2002, No Festival Required Independent Cinema has been a vital presence in Arizona’s cultural landscape for over two decades. Led by curator and producer Steve Weiss, the organization has presented hundreds of films and special events that champion independent voices and innovative storytelling. Its programming has been recognized by Phoenix Magazine and Phoenix New Times, and it has collaborated with leading institutions including Phoenix Art Museum, SMoCA, and Arizona Opera. Among its many thematic series, No Festival Required has produced acclaimed programs exploring architecture and the built environment, featuring titles such as Visual Acoustics: The Modernism of Julius Shulman, MALLS R US, and The Competition. Through its thoughtful curation, the organization continues to connect audiences with the art, ideas, an