The only movie theater in Kentucky's Ohio County has closed, leaving moviegoers in the area without local options for watching movies on the big screen.

The Cinema 33 in Hartford, Kentucky closed unexpectedly on February 27, 2026 when owner Luke Burden came to work that day to find an eviction notice posted on the door, which was secured with a lock that didn't match his key. He posted the following message with a photo of the eviction notice:

Scream 7 was set to play tonight.

Without access to the building, there isn't much I can do.

Unfortunately, it doesn't appear we will be able to do that. If something changes, I'll be sure to publicly post, but I don't see that happening.

I maintained the best prices possible for as long as I could hope everyone enjoyed everything while it existed, and thank you all for the support, and I'm happy for every ticket I ever sold.
Inflation of lease has me locked out.

Support every other local business while they still exist.

According to an article published recently by WBKO 13 News (see below), the property owner alleges that Burden failed to pay rent in 2025. The article says that Burden was sent a notice to vacate in October 2025, which Burden disputes receiving.

The end result is that the only movie theater within more than 20 miles is no longer open. Burden posted messages on Facebook saying that he hopes to move on to opening the Tri-City Drive-In in Beaver Dam, which he purchased in 2017.

Where to Watch Movies on the Big Screen

Moviegoers in the area will need to visit one of the other nearby theaters, including the Malco Owensboro Cinema Grill & MXT in Owensboro, which is 23 miles away.

Related News Articles

• Cinema 33 eviction leaves Hartford without its only movie theater -- WBKO 13 News [Mar 2, 2026]