Published: November 6, 2026
MINNESOTA - As the holiday season approaches, Emagine Entertainment is preparing a full schedule of movie premieres, special screenings, family-friendly activities, and seasonal promotions throughout November and December at its Northwoods Theater Group locations, including nine theaters across Minnesota.
The entertainment lineup includes anticipated theatrical releases such as The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, The Cat in the Hat, and Godzilla Minus Zero, along with opportunities to revisit classic films on the big screen.
Families can also meet Santa Claus at participating theaters beginning November 28th, while veterans can take advantage of a complimentary movie ticket offer on Veterans Day, November 11th.
The Minnesota locations participating in the Northwoods Theater Group's programming include Eagan, Lakeville, White Bear Lake, Plymouth, Rogers, Monticello, Waconia, Delano and East Bethel.
Major Movie Releases Coming to Minnesota Theaters
Emagine Entertainment has announced several new releases scheduled throughout November, with select locations offering premium screenings, themed merchandise and special experiences.
November 6: The Cat in the Hat and Godzilla Minus Zero
Two highly anticipated films are scheduled to arrive at Emagine Entertainment theaters on Friday, November 6, offering moviegoers two very different experiences: a colorful animated family adventure and an action-packed continuation of the Godzilla franchise.
The Cat in the Hat
Based on the beloved children's character created by Dr. Seuss, The Cat in the Hat brings the mischievous, imaginative feline back to the big screen in a new animated adventure.
The story follows the Cat, known for taking his antics too far, as he gets a chance to prove himself by cheering up two siblings adjusting to a new home. Accompanied by the children's grumpy goldfish and the unpredictable Things, the Cat tries to restore some happiness through imagination, humor, and elaborate adventures. However, his unconventional methods threaten to create even more chaos along the way.
The film combines comedy, adventure, and themes of childhood imagination, family, and adapting to change.
Rated PG and running about one hour and 54 minutes, the animated film is geared toward families and younger audiences. Emagine Entertainment will celebrate the release with premium large-format screenings at participating locations, character cutouts, costumed theater employees, and themed merchandise.
Godzilla Minus Zero
For audiences seeking a more intense theatrical experience, Godzilla Minus Zero continues the story established in Godzilla Minus One, returning viewers to a Japan still recovering from the devastation of war and the destruction caused by the enormous creature.
Set two years after the events of the previous film, the story follows a country struggling to rebuild its communities, restore stability, and reclaim a sense of normalcy. As Japan begins to recover and its citizens find hope for the future, a new threat emerges, once again putting the country's survival in jeopardy. The film explores the consequences of destruction, the challenges of rebuilding, and humanity's struggle against an overwhelming force.
Combining action, drama, and horror, Godzilla Minus Zero is rated R and runs about two hours and 15 minutes.
Emagine Entertainment plans to offer the film in IMAX and other premium large-format presentations at participating theaters, providing audiences with an immersive experience featuring expansive screens and enhanced sound. Theaters will also offer release-related merchandise.
Both films are scheduled to open November 6, although premium screening formats, promotional activities, and merchandise availability may vary by Minnesota theater location.
November 13: How to Rob a Bank
The upcoming action-comedy crime thriller How to Rob a Bank is scheduled to arrive at Emagine Entertainment theaters on Friday, November 13, bringing a modern twist to the traditional bank heist movie. Directed by David Leitch, whose previous films include Bullet Train, The Fall Guy, and Deadpool 2, the movie combines high-stakes robberies, fast-paced action, humor, and the growing influence of social media.
The story follows a group of tech-savvy bank robbers who take an unconventional approach to their crimes by broadcasting their heists online. Rather than attempting to remain anonymous, the criminals turn their robberies into viral spectacles, attracting thousands of followers and gaining widespread attention. However, their growing online popularity also creates a dangerous vulnerability.
As the group continues carrying out increasingly ambitious robberies, a veteran FBI agent and a talented software engineer begin tracking their digital activity, using the criminals' online presence to uncover clues about their identities and operations. What begins as a series of attention-grabbing robberies quickly develops into a high-stakes pursuit as investigators close in and the group prepares for its most ambitious heist yet.
The film explores themes of internet fame, digital surveillance, modern technology and the consequences of pursuing notoriety in an increasingly connected world. The movie features an ensemble cast led by Nicholas Hoult, Zoë Kravitz and Pete Davidson, alongside Anna Sawai, Rhenzy Feliz, Christian Slater and John C. Reilly.
Rated R, How to Rob a Bank runs about two hours and one minute, according to Emagine Entertainment.
To celebrate the release, Emagine is offering early-access screenings and special promotional experiences at select theaters. Participating locations may feature themed drink coasters, decorative drink stirrers, and graffiti-inspired stencil artwork reflecting the film's crime-centered storyline and contemporary visual style.
The early-access screenings will give moviegoers a chance to see the film ahead of its November 13 release. Specific screening times, promotional activities, and merchandise availability may vary by Minnesota theater location.
November 20: The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping and I Play Rocky
Two major theatrical releases are scheduled to arrive at Emagine Entertainment theaters on Friday, November 20th, including the highly anticipated return of The Hunger Games franchise and a biographical drama exploring the remarkable story behind one of Hollywood's most iconic films.
The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping
Based on the bestselling novel by Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping takes audiences back to the dystopian nation of Panem, exploring events that occurred 24 years before Katniss Everdeen entered the arena in the original Hunger Games story. The film centers on a young Haymitch Abernathy, portrayed by Woody Harrelson in the original film series, long before he became the troubled mentor who guided Katniss and Peeta Mellark through their own deadly competition.
The story begins on the morning of the reaping for the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell, when the Capitol introduces an especially cruel twist to its annual competition. Instead of selecting the usual 24 tributes, the Capitol doubles the number of participants, forcing 48 young people from Panem's 12 districts into a deadly competition designed to reinforce the government's control over its citizens. Among those selected is 16-year-old Haymitch, a resident of District 12 whose life is suddenly transformed when he is chosen to participate.
As Haymitch enters the arena, he must navigate deadly threats, shifting alliances, and the Capitol's elaborate efforts to turn the districts' suffering into entertainment. During the competition, he forms an unlikely alliance with fellow tribute Maysilee Donner and joins efforts to challenge the Capitol's authority from within the Games. The film explores themes of survival, sacrifice, political oppression, and resistance while providing additional background on one of the franchise's most recognizable characters.
Directed by Francis Lawrence, who previously directed several installments of The Hunger Games franchise, the film features Joseph Zada as young Haymitch Abernathy. The ensemble cast also includes Ralph Fiennes as President Coriolanus Snow, Mckenna Grace as Maysilee Donner, Elle Fanning as Effie Trinket, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, and Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman.
The movie is rated PG-13 and has a reported runtime of approximately two hours and 38 minutes.
Emagine Entertainment plans to offer the film in IMAX, premium large-format and 3D presentations at participating theaters, providing moviegoers with several viewing options. Additional promotional activities will include early-access screenings, themed photo backdrops, collectible pins and merchandise beginning November 13.
Emagine White Bear in the White Bear Lake area will also host a special book club screening, giving fans of Suzanne Collins' novel a chance to gather and experience the film adaptation together. The event is intended to bring readers and moviegoers together to discuss the story, its characters, and how the film compares with the original book.
Specific screening times, ticket availability, and participation details are available through Emagine Entertainment.
I Play Rocky
Also scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on November 20 is I Play Rocky, a biographical drama telling the true story of how a young Sylvester Stallone overcame significant obstacles to create and star in the original Rocky film. Set during the early years of Stallone's acting career, the movie follows an aspiring performer struggling to establish himself in Hollywood while facing financial difficulties and repeated rejection.
Determined to create an opportunity for himself, Stallone writes the screenplay for Rocky, a story about an underdog boxer from Philadelphia who receives an unlikely opportunity to fight for the heavyweight championship. Although the screenplay attracts interest from Hollywood producers, Stallone faces a major obstacle: studios want to purchase his script but are reluctant to cast the relatively unknown actor in the leading role. Rather than surrendering his vision, Stallone insists that he must portray Rocky Balboa himself, even when doing so threatens his chances of securing a lucrative deal.
The film follows his determination to bring the project to life despite financial pressures, industry skepticism, and the possibility that his refusal to compromise could cost him his opportunity. His persistence ultimately leads to the creation of the original Rocky, released in November 1976.
Produced on a relatively modest budget, the film became a major commercial and critical success, earning the Academy Award for Best Picture and launching one of the most recognizable franchises in movie history. Directed by Peter Farrelly, whose previous work includes the Academy Award-winning Green Book, I Play Rocky stars Anthony Ippolito as a young Sylvester Stallone. The supporting cast includes Matt Dillon, AnnaSophia Robb, P.J. Byrne, Toby Kebbell, Jay Duplass, and Stephan James, who portrays actor Carl Weathers.
The film explores themes of perseverance, ambition, creative independence, and the challenges of breaking into the entertainment industry.
Rated PG-13 with a runtime of approximately two hours and eight minutes, I Play Rocky arrives in nationwide theaters nearly 50 years after the original Rocky debuted on November 21, 1976.
Emagine Entertainment has announced that merchandise associated with the film will be available at participating theaters. Both The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping and I Play Rocky are part of Emagine Entertainment's November theatrical lineup, although screening formats, promotional merchandise and special events may vary by Minnesota location.
November 25: Hexed
Walt Disney Animation Studios is bringing an all-new animated fantasy adventure to theaters just in time for Thanksgiving, with Hexed scheduled for release on Wednesday, November 25. The family-oriented film combines magic, adventure, comedy, and a coming-of-age story centered on the relationship between a teenage girl and her mother.
The story follows Billie Doe, a 16-year-old girl who has always struggled to fit in and understand why she feels different from those around her. Voiced by Hailee Steinfeld, Billie is an impulsive, unconventional teenager whose life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers she has extraordinary magical abilities.
After accidentally unleashing her powers and causing chaos at school, Billie finds herself transported from her ordinary suburban life into Hexe, a mysterious realm inhabited by witches and other magical beings. Her mother, Alice, voiced by Rashida Jones, has spent years attempting to protect Billie from the truth about her abilities. However, when Billie's powers are revealed, Alice is forced to follow her daughter into the magical world she had tried to keep hidden. As the two navigate the unfamiliar realm, they encounter unusual creatures, powerful witches, and long-buried family secrets that could change Hexe's future.
Among the characters they meet is Beef Roger Crummchuk, a reclusive, three-eyed magical cat voiced by Walton Goggins, who reluctantly becomes an ally during their journey. They also encounter Queen Celeste, voiced by two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster, a powerful and sinister ruler determined to maintain her control over the magical realm. As Billie begins to understand her abilities, she must also confront the complicated relationship with her mother and discover what makes her unique.
The film explores themes of self-discovery, family relationships, acceptance, and the challenges of growing up, with the mother-daughter relationship serving as a central element of the story.
Fawn Veerasunthorn and Jason Hand direct Hexed, with Josie Trinidad serving as co-director. Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller wrote the screenplay, with an original musical score by Kris Bowers. The voice cast also includes Tracey Ullman, Stephen Fry, Henry Winkler and Dan Stevens. The movie marks Walt Disney Animation Studios' 65th animated feature, continuing the studio's tradition of original animated storytelling.
Rated PG with a runtime of approximately one hour and 49 minutes, Hexed is expected to be among the family-oriented theatrical offerings available during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
To celebrate the release, Emagine Entertainment plans to offer premium large-format screenings at participating Minnesota theaters, giving audiences an opportunity to experience the film's colorful magical environments on larger screens. Select locations will also feature themed pretzel bites, coloring sheets, and promotional displays inspired by the movie. Merchandise associated with Hexed is scheduled to become available beginning November 20, ahead of the film's theatrical debut.
The release comes as families prepare for Thanksgiving gatherings and the start of the holiday season, providing another entertainment option for those looking to spend time together outside the home. Specific showtimes, premium screening formats, merchandise, and promotional activities may vary by Emagine Entertainment location.
Santa Claus Coming to Minnesota Emagine Theaters
One of Emagine Entertainment's largest seasonal activities will begin Thanksgiving weekend, when Santa Claus visits Northwoods Theater Group locations across Minnesota and other participating states.
The scheduled appearances will give families opportunities to meet Santa and take holiday photos in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
In Minnesota, visits are scheduled between November 28th and December 12th.
Minnesota Santa Visit Schedule
The scheduled appearances include two Dakota County theaters: Santa visits Emagine Eagan on November 28th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by Emagine Lakeville from 2 to 4 p.m. that afternoon.
Families interested in attending are encouraged to confirm event details with their preferred theater before visiting, as schedules may change.
Veterans Day: Free Movie Ticket for Veterans on November 11th
In recognition of Veterans Day, Emagine Entertainment will offer one complimentary movie ticket to veterans who present a military ID on Wednesday, November 11th.
The promotion is limited to one free ticket per eligible guest. The offer gives veterans the chance to enjoy a movie at participating Northwoods Theater Group locations in Minnesota.
Veterans are encouraged to contact their preferred theater for any additional ticket restrictions or redemption details.
Thanksgiving and Black Friday Holiday Promotions
Emagine Entertainment is also introducing several holiday promotions beginning Thanksgiving week, including gift card incentives and reusable popcorn buckets.
2027 Refillable Popcorn Buckets
Beginning November 26th, moviegoers can purchase Emagine's 2027 refillable popcorn buckets.
The buckets will initially cost $25, with a promotional price of $20 during Black Friday weekend.
The company has not provided additional details about refill pricing or redemption conditions in its announcement.
Holiday Gift Card Promotion: November 26–December 25
Customers purchasing $100 in Emagine gift cards in person will receive $20 in Emagine Cash.
The promotion runs from Thanksgiving Day, November 26th, through Christmas Day, December 25th.
The offer applies to qualifying in-person gift card purchases.
Black Friday: Free Popcorn Plushie
On Friday, November 27th, Emagine will offer a collectible popcorn plushie with an in-person gift card purchase of $50.
The promotional plushies will be available while supplies last.
The Black Friday offer cannot be combined with the separate $100 gift card promotion.
Elf Merchandise Arrives November 23rd
Holiday merchandise associated with the movie Elf will become available for purchase beginning November 23rd.
The merchandise launch comes as Emagine prepares for its seasonal movie programming and holiday events.
Classic Movies Returning to the Big Screen
In addition to new releases, Emagine Entertainment will feature a selection of classic films and special engagements throughout November.
Through its Flashback Cinema programming, select theaters will screen familiar favorites, including:
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Back to the Future (1985)
White Christmas (1954)
The Polar Express (2004)
Christmas in Connecticut (1945)
The lineup includes several holiday-themed movies, giving families the chance to enjoy seasonal favorites in a traditional theater setting. Emagine's Big Screen Classics programming will also feature A Beautiful Mind at select locations.
Specific dates, showtimes, and participating theaters may vary.
Additional Special Screenings and Anniversary Releases
Emagine's November schedule also includes special theatrical engagements, anniversary screenings and returning films.
Announced titles include Rocky (50th Anniversary), Wild at Heart, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Heated Rivalry, Doctor Who: The Satan Pit, and Festive Fun with Peppa.
Science fiction fans can also revisit Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two in IMAX at participating theaters. The lineup also includes a special Dune: Part One & Part Two double feature.
These screenings will not necessarily be available at every Minnesota location. Moviegoers should check individual theater listings for availability.
Additional Food, Beverage, and Charitable Promotions
Emagine's seasonal food and beverage menu will remain available through November 8th at its Northwoods Theater Group locations, including Minnesota theaters.
The company is also continuing a charitable merchandise promotion tied to the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday film.
Collectible pins will be available for $3 through January 31, 2027, with proceeds benefiting Variety, the Children's Charity. The organization supports children and families through charitable programs and initiatives.
Where to Find Emagine Entertainment Theaters in Minnesota
The Northwoods Theater Group operates nine Minnesota locations, including two in Dakota County.
The Minnesota theaters included in the company's November and December programming are Emagine Eagan, Emagine Lakeville, Emagine White Bear, Emagine Willow Creek in Plymouth, Emagine Rogers, Emagine Monticello, Emagine Waconia, Emagine Delano and Emagine East Bethel.
While the company has announced a broad lineup of activities and promotions, not every screening, premium format or special event will be available at every location. Moviegoers can visit the Emagine Entertainment website to find theater-specific schedules, purchase tickets and review upcoming events.
With Thanksgiving approaching and Christmas activities beginning later this month, Emagine's November lineup offers Minnesota residents a variety of entertainment options, from major movie premieres and nostalgic favorites to holiday shopping promotions and opportunities for children to meet Santa Claus.
Source: Emagine Entertainment / Northwoods Theater Group, November 2026 programming announcement.
Written by: Will Wight
