What Malco Theatres is and where to find locations

Malco Theatres is a regional movie theater chain based in Memphis, Tennessee, that operates multiplex cinemas across the South. The company has been family-owned since 1915 and runs theaters in Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. Malco does not operate nationally — you will only find their locations in these four states.

To find a Malco theater near you, visit malco.com and use their location finder. The website lists every operating theater, shows which movies are currently playing at each one, and displays showtimes. You can also call a specific theater directly; phone numbers are listed on the location pages.

Malco operates both standard multiplex theaters and premium format locations. Some theaters offer IMAX screens, Dolby Cinema, or RPX (Malco's premium large-format option). Not every location has these formats, so check the theater's page to see what screens are available before you buy tickets.

Key Takeaways

  • Malco Theatres operates only in Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana, so availability depends entirely on your location.
  • You can buy tickets online through malco.com, at the box office, or at the concession stand, and prices vary by location and showtime.
  • Malco offers matinee showtimes at lower prices than evening showtimes, and some locations have discount days during the week.
  • Premium formats like IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and RPX cost more than standard screens and are not available at every theater.
  • Malco does not operate a rewards program or membership subscription, though individual theaters may run local promotions.

Ticket prices and how to buy

Malco ticket prices are set by each individual theater location and vary based on the time of day and the format you choose. Matinee showtimes (usually before 5 p.m.) cost less than evening showtimes. Premium formats like IMAX or RPX add a surcharge on top of the standard ticket price.

You can purchase tickets three ways: online through malco.com, at the box office window, or at the concession stand inside the theater. Buying online lets you reserve your seat in advance and skip the box office line, though some locations may charge a small online booking fee. Advance purchase is especially useful for opening weekends or popular films when showtimes sell out.

Some Malco locations offer discount days — often Tuesday or Wednesday — when all tickets cost less regardless of showtime. Check your specific theater's website or call ahead to confirm whether it participates and what the discount price is, because this varies by location.

Concessions, seating, and theater amenities

Malco theaters sell standard movie concessions: popcorn, candy, fountain drinks, and hot foods like nachos and hot dogs. Prices are typical for movie theaters and higher than grocery store prices. Most locations accept both cash and card payments at the concession stand.

Seating varies by theater age and renovation status. Newer Malco locations have reclining seats with cup holders and armrests that move up or down. Older theaters may have standard fixed seating. Check the theater's website or call to ask about seat type if comfort is important to you.

Amenities differ by location. Some Malco theaters have arcade games in the lobby, reserved parking, or wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating. A few locations offer reserved seating, which means you choose your exact seat when you buy your ticket online. Not all theaters have all these features, so review your specific location's page before you visit.

Premium formats: IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and RPX

Malco operates three premium large-format options at select locations. IMAX uses a massive screen and special projection technology to show movies in a wider aspect ratio. Dolby Cinema offers enhanced color and brightness. RPX is Malco's own premium format with a large screen, upgraded sound, and enhanced image quality.

All three formats cost more than standard screens — typically $2 to $5 extra per ticket, though the exact surcharge depends on your theater and showtime. Not every movie is released in these formats; studios choose which films get premium releases. Check malco.com when you select your showtime to see which formats are available for the movie you want to watch.

Premium formats are most noticeable for action films, animated movies, and visual spectacles. Dialogue-heavy dramas may show less difference. If you are unsure whether the extra cost is worth it for your movie choice, read reviews or ask theater staff which format they recommend for that particular film.

Accessibility and accommodations

Malco theaters are required to meet federal accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Most locations have wheelchair-accessible entrances, accessible parking spaces, and accessible restrooms. Many theaters also have wheelchair seating areas in the auditorium.

If you need specific accommodations — such as a companion seat next to wheelchair seating, a hearing loop, or closed captioning devices — call your local Malco theater in advance. Staff can tell you what is available at that location and may be able to reserve an accessible seat for you. Accommodations vary by theater, so do not assume all locations have the same setup.

Malco does not charge extra for accessibility accommodations or companion tickets. Service animals are permitted in all theaters. If you have questions about a specific accommodation, contact the theater directly rather than relying on the website, because staff can give you the most accurate information about what that location can provide.

Policies for children, late-night showings, and R-rated films

Malco enforces the Motion Picture Association (MPA) rating system. Movies rated R require anyone under 17 to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children under 6 are typically not permitted in R-rated films after 7 p.m., though policies may vary slightly by location. Check with your specific theater if you have questions about a particular film or time.

Some Malco locations show late-night or midnight showtimes, particularly for major releases. These showtimes are subject to the same rating restrictions as daytime showings. Malco does not operate an adults-only theater or late-night programming separate from its standard schedule.

Infants and young children are permitted in all ratings during daytime hours. If you plan to bring a baby to a matinee showing, you do not need to notify the theater in advance. However, consider how loud the movie will be and whether your child will sit through the full runtime, as you cannot get a refund once the film has started.

What to do if you have a problem or complaint

If you experience a problem at a Malco theater — such as a technical issue during the film, a broken seat, or poor customer service — speak to a manager on duty when ready. Most issues can be resolved on the spot, and managers have the authority to offer a refund or a ticket to a future showing.

If you cannot resolve the issue in person, contact the specific theater by phone using the number on malco.com. For corporate-level complaints or feedback, Malco's main office is in Memphis and can be reached through their website contact form. Response times vary, but the company typically replies within a few business days.

Keep your ticket stub and any receipt if you plan to file a complaint later. Having proof of purchase and the date and time of your visit makes it easier for Malco to investigate and respond to your concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into a Malco theater?

Most Malco locations do not permit outside food or drinks, though policies may vary slightly by theater. Some locations make exceptions for medical dietary needs — if you have a specific dietary restriction, call ahead and ask the manager. Malco's concession prices are set by each location, so costs differ between theaters.

Do Malco theaters have a rewards program or membership?

Malco does not operate a chain-wide rewards program or subscription membership. Individual theaters may run local promotions or discount days, so check your nearest location's website or call to ask about current offers. Some locations offer discount Tuesdays or other weekly deals.

What is the difference between RPX and IMAX at Malco?

RPX is Malco's proprietary premium format with a large screen and enhanced sound and image quality. IMAX uses a much larger screen and special projection technology, and is available at fewer Malco locations. Both cost extra, but IMAX typically costs more. Not all movies release in both formats.

Can I reserve seats online when I buy my ticket?

Some Malco locations offer reserved seating through malco.com, but not all do. When you select your showtime online, the website will show you a seat map if that theater has reserved seating. If no seat map appears, that location uses first-come, first-served seating and you choose your seat when you arrive.

What should I do if the movie didn't start on time or there was a technical problem?

Tell a theater employee or manager when ready. Most technical issues are resolved quickly, and staff can pause the film if needed. If the problem significantly affected your experience, ask the manager about a refund or a free ticket to return another time. Managers have the authority to make these decisions on the spot.