They came to eat popcorn. They came to order a cocktail — or two. 

But most of all, they came to celebrate the long-awaited return of movies to Rochester Hills.

About 500 people of all ages gathered Tuesday night to check out the new Emagine Theatre, which replaced the former AMC movie complex earlier this year. The event was in support of Assistance League, a nonprofit organization that helps fund programs across southeast Michigan. A $25 ticket ($15 for children) bought food from local restaurants, nonstop popcorn and, of course, a movie.

Santa was there; so were carolers and face-painters and clowns. City and business leaders mingled with people in the crowded lobby.

Funds raised during the event will benefit Assistance League's Operation School Bell program, which buys winter clothing for children in need in Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties.

Seven-year-old Gwendolyn Zych of Rochester Hills came to the theater with her aunt and uncle. "I came to see Yogi Bear. I remember the old theater; this one is nicer," she said.

The completely renovated building features 10 auditoriums — all with digital projection and sound and stadium seating. Pizza and cocktails are also served (there is a two-drink limit). The decor inside is sophisticated, with tiles and muted colors throughout.

"The building is beautiful, and we are thrilled," said Ruth Johnson, an Emagine Entertainment executive. "We think we will do very well here; there has been such a positive response so far."

The theater is open for normal business today; showtimes are as follows:

Little Fockers (PG13): 10:40 a.m., 11:40 a.m., 1:05 p.m., 2:05 p.m., 3:35 p.m., 4:35 p.m., 7:05 p.m., 9:45 p.m., 11:35 p.m.
Yogi Bear in 3D (PG) 10:00 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:45 p.m., 7 p.m., 9:15 p.m.
How Do You Know (PG13): 10:15 p.m., 1:15 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 10:15 p.m.
The Fighter (R) 10:40 a.m., 1:40 p.m., 4:40 p.m., 7:40 p.m., 10:40 p.m.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader in 3D (PG): 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 5:25 p.m., 8:30 p.m.
The Tourist (PG13): 12:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 5:15 p.m., 7:45 p.m., 10:15 p.m.
Black Swan (R): 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3 a.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m., 10:30 p.m.
True Grit (PG13): 10:10 a.m., 12:55 p.m., 3:10 p.m., 5:55 p.m., 7:25 p.m., 8:10 p.m., 10:05 p.m., 10:55 p.m.
Tron Legacy in 3D (PG13): 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 11:25 p.m.

These movies will play throughout the week; Gulliver's Travels opens at the theater on Christmas Day. For exact showtimes after Wednesday call 888-319-FILM.

Movies are $5 for everyone until 6 p.m. daily. After, they are $9.50 for adults, $6.50 for children and $7.50 for students and seniors. There is an additional $2.50 fee for luxury seats.