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Star Wars Return of the Jedi™ in Concert
May 22 · 7:30 PM · Phoenix
Movie Screenings & Film Events in Phoenix, Arizona
17 upcoming·3 free
This Weekend in Phoenix, AZ
All Events (17)
Screenings in Phoenix, AZ(2)
Power Ballad2 screenings
May 27, 2026 · Phoenix
EARLYFREE
Pressure
May 27, 2026 · Phoenix, AZ
EARLYFREE
See concerts, premieres, and other film events(13 in Phoenix, AZ)
Screening Venues in Phoenix, AZ
Top Screening Venues in Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix Symphony12 screenings
Mind on Movies3 screenings
Harkins TEMPE MARKETPLACE1 screening
Orpheum Theatre - Phoenix1 screening
About Phoenix, AZ's Advance Screening Scene
Show full Phoenix, AZ screening guide
Phoenix and the greater Scottsdale area represent one of the fastest-growing screening markets in the Southwest. The metro area's population boom over the past decade has caught the attention of studios looking for large, suburban, family-oriented test audiences. Phoenix offers a screening experience that is notably less competitive than coastal markets like LA and New York, meaning your chances of securing passes and getting a seat are significantly better. The dry, sunny climate means outdoor screening events are also a regular occurrence, particularly in the cooler months. For moviegoers across the Valley of the Sun, from Tempe to Scottsdale to Chandler, advance screenings are more accessible here than in most comparably sized metros.
The Screening Scene
Phoenix's screening scene is driven by its large suburban audience and the presence of Harkins Theatres, the largest privately owned theater chain in the United States, headquartered in Scottsdale. Studios use Phoenix to test how wide-release films, family movies, and faith-based releases play with mainstream suburban audiences. Free passes are distributed through Gofobo, Advance Screenings, and local radio stations. The Phoenix Film Festival in spring adds independent and international screening opportunities that don't exist through mainstream channels.
Top Screening Venues
Harkins Camelview at Fashion Square in Scottsdale is a premium venue that frequently hosts studio advance screenings. AMC Arizona Center in downtown Phoenix and AMC Esplanade in Phoenix are high-volume commercial screening locations. Harkins Tempe Marketplace in Tempe draws a younger, college-adjacent crowd near Arizona State University. The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts occasionally hosts film events. FilmBar in downtown Phoenix is the city's hub for independent and art-house screenings.
Where to Go
Scottsdale, particularly around Fashion Square, is the most active screening neighborhood for studio events. Tempe Marketplace, near Arizona State University, draws younger audiences and gets a solid share of screenings. Downtown Phoenix has AMC Arizona Center and FilmBar for commercial and indie events respectively. Chandler and Gilbert in the southeast valley occasionally host screenings at their Harkins locations.
Tips for Phoenix Screenings
- Tempe Marketplace and Scottsdale locations host the most advance screenings in the metro area.
- Phoenix screenings tend to be much less competitive than LA or NYC, giving you a better chance of getting passes and seats.
- Summer blockbusters often screen in Phoenix due to the city's strong suburban family audience. Expect family-friendly titles to have the highest availability.
- Harkins Theatres loyalty members sometimes get advance notice of screening events before they're publicly listed.
- Outdoor screening events are common in Phoenix during fall and winter when the weather cools down. Check local event calendars.
Best Times for Screenings
Phoenix's screening calendar peaks during the summer blockbuster season (May through August) and the holiday release window (November and December). The Phoenix Film Festival in April is the biggest local film event, with dozens of advance screenings and filmmaker panels. Winter and spring bring pleasant outdoor screening weather and a mix of awards-season holdovers.
Harkins Theatres, the largest privately owned theater chain in the United States, is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. Founded in 1933, the chain operates over 30 locations across the Southwest and has been a consistent partner for studio advance screenings for decades.
Nearby Cities in Arizona
Frequently Asked Questions: Phoenix, AZ Screenings
How do I get free movie screening passes in Phoenix, AZ?
SeeItEarly aggregates free advance screening passes from 30+ sources including Gofobo, Advance Screenings, and studio websites. Browse our Phoenix, AZ listings, click "Get Passes," and follow the instructions on the source site. Most passes are first-come, first-served — so check back often.
What advance screenings are happening in Phoenix, AZ?
We currently list 15 upcoming events in Phoenix, AZ, including 14 film concerts. New events are added daily as studios announce promotional screenings in Phoenix, Arizona.
Are advance movie screenings really free?
Yes — most advance screenings are completely free. Studios use them to generate buzz and gather audience feedback before a movie's official release. Some premium events or film festival screenings may charge admission, which we clearly label.
How early should I arrive to an advance screening?
Arrive at least 45-60 minutes early. Free screening passes are typically overbooked, so seating is first-come, first-served. Arriving early increases your chances of getting a seat. Some popular screenings fill up fast, so earlier is always better.
What theaters in Phoenix, AZ host advance screenings?
Popular screening venues in Phoenix, AZ include Phoenix Symphony, Mind on Movies, Harkins TEMPE MARKETPLACE. Studios rotate between venues, so new locations may appear as screenings are announced.
How often are advance screenings held in Phoenix, AZ?
Screening frequency in Phoenix, AZ depends on the season. Peak periods are May through August (summer blockbusters) and November through December (holiday releases). During peak season, Phoenix, AZ may see multiple new screenings per week. SeeItEarly updates listings daily.
Screening Guides
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