The Aero Theatre, its name a tribute to the aerospace industry, was built by the Douglas Aircraft Company. The Streamline Moderne-styled theatre was designed by architect R.M. Woolpert and originally opened its doors to moviegoers in 1940. In 2005, the American Cinematheque spearheaded a renovation of the theatre and re-opened as the Max Palevsky Theatre at the Aero in Santa Monica. The theatre was updated again in 2019 and 2021 with new projection equipment, enhanced sound and facility upgrades. Popular programs at the classic neighborhood theatre include Sneak Previews, Retrospectives, Revivals, Restorations, in-person discussions with filmmakers, classic films, Midnight Movies, Screwball Comedy Festival, New Year’s Day with the Marx Brothers, HFPA Golden Globe Foreign Language Nominee screenings, and the annual All-Night Horrorthon. Now Showing at the Aero