We bet you've heard of the TCL Chinese Theatre - but did you know some of these fun facts about the historic cinema palace? The movie theatre, which opened on May 18, 1927, is arguably one of the most famous Hollywood cinematic icons.
1. The TCL Chinese Theatre has the biggest IMAX auditorium in the world. On September 20, 2013, the theatre debuted its new IMAX theatre with a 3D showing of The Wizard of Oz.
2. Along with having the biggest IMAX auditorium, the TCL Chinese Theatre is also the only IMAX theatre to have a curtain.
3. There are nearly 200 handprints, footprints, and autographs in the Forecourt of the Stars at the Chinese Theatre. The most popular handprint to visit is Marilyn Monroe. If you look closely, you'll see her handprints are darker than anyone else's. That's because so many people have placed their hands there.
4. The TCL Chinese Theatre has hosted countless premieres. The 1977 premiere of the original Star Wars film, Episode IV- A New Hope, was also shown at the TCL Chinese Theatre. You can still see the footprints of Darth Vader, C-3PO, and RD-D2 near the entrance of the theatre.
5. TCL Chinese Theatre Creator Sid Grauman is partially responsible for moving Hollywood to, well, Hollywood. Before he opened the Egyptian Theatre in 1922, the center of entertainment was based in Downtown Los Angeles. A mere five years later, the Chinese Theatre was built.
6. Grauman took a trip around the world and was impressed by Chinese architecture, which led to the theme of the TCL Chinese Theatre.
7. Many artists contributed to the beauty of the TCL Chinese Theatre, including film star Keye Luke from the "Kung Fu" television series. He painted the two wall murals; one above the concession stand and one above the exit doors in the lobby.
8. The Theatre hosted the Academy Awards from 1944-1946. This was the first time a theatre had ever been an Oscars venue - all other venues had been hotels.
9. You can take a 30-minute walking tour to learn more about the history of the famous movie palace. Want to become an expert? Book your tickets here for a VIP Tour.