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It’s been about eight months since movie theater megachain AMC bought Vancouver-based Cinetopia and reopened the local company’s locations under the AMC banner.

Vancouver moviegoers have had time to try out the revamped multiplexes and so far, the verdict hasn’t been stellar.

“I was excited for AMC, and it’s been a letdown in terms of expectations vs. reality,” said Vancouver resident James Bennet, a frequent theater customer. “It definitely changed the vibe coming from Cinetopia — you miss it.”

Complaints have focused primarily on the loss of Cinetopia’s signature food services, as well as general concerns about perceived understaffing and maintenance issues. Reached for comment, AMC acknowledged delays in some services during the rebranded theaters’ opening months, but pushed back on other concerns.

AMC rebranding

Cinetopia made a name for itself in the Portland area as a luxury alternative to conventional multiplexes, featuring full-scale bars and restaurants connected to the lobby area and cozier auditoriums with in-seat meal service.