Historic Movie Theaters

Description:

This classic independent movie theater contains one single screen and normally shows more obscure films, but does however mix in the Hollywood blockbuster. The interior of the theater contains a very lavish "Egyptian"-style decor. For a more enjoyable experience, sit back and relax with popcorn and a soda from the refreshment stand. For film times, ticket prices and further information please call or see their website.

Our Local Expert Says:

A great place to see movies. Especially if you end up in the Cinerama dome, which dates from 1963. The other 14 auditoriums are recently constructed and have stadium seating.

Description:

This 14 screen Megaplex provides an atmosphere for watching movies like no other. The projection and sound equipment is all state-of-the-art and the seating is bigger and roomier than normal megaplex seating. The ArcLight also features a 21 and over screening where you can enjoy your favorite beer, martini or cocktail while you watch the movie. For film times, ticket prices and further information, please call or see their website.

Description:

This theater was opened in 1922 after King Tut's tomb was discovered in Egypt on November 26, 1922, and Egyptian fever was gripping the nation. "Robin Hood", starring Douglas Fairbanks, was the first film to show at the Egyptian. A year later, "The Ten Commandments" had its premiere there. It was eventually sold to American Cinematheque, who restored it to its original glory. Besides screening classic films, new independent films and documentaries, it also occasionally rents out the theater for special events, such as the premiere of "The Prince of Egypt", which re-opened the theater.

Description:

Originally built in 1926, this theater was completely renovated in 1991 by Pacific Theatres and The Walt Disney Company. It's now a premier movie palace that Disney uses to showcase its animated and children's features. Special features begin with a live stage show with a singing and dancing chorus of familiar Disney characters. Often short cartoons will precede the main show. Be sure to call or check the website for the movie and show times.

Description:

This tiny Movie house has three screens for your viewing pleasure. For a more enjoyable experience, sit back and relax with popcorn and a soda from the refreshment stand. For film times, ticket prices and further information, please call the box office.

Description:

This place is both the Silent Movie Theater, and Cinefamily. It is run as non-profit community-based cinema run for the benefit of movie lovers. The Head Programmer at this unique place is Hadrian Belove, co-founder of the cult video store Cinephile. They do continue the tradition of playing silent movies on the first Wednesday of the month (and also a floating Sunday afternoon). This cinema offers you the chance to see movies that you will probably not be able to see anywhere else.

Description:

Los Angeles is the capital of the entertainment industry but there isn't a big audience to appreciate the treasures of the cinema's past. Thankfully, in addition to the museums and cultural organizations, there's still a commercial theater dedicated to screening classics and cult favorites. On this big screen, you can see all the classics with other cinematic hits. Credit cards are not accepted.

Description:

This single-screen theater is one of the best venues in Los Angeles to see independent and art house films. With 475 seats, the theater screens foreign films, art films, documentaries, animated shorts and more. If you are a frequent moviegoer you can get a Landmark Discount card that will give you five admissions at concession rates. On Saturday nights the Nuart is packed with fans of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Description:

Another restored relic of L.A.'s old Art Deco movie theaters, this small venue holds about 1,500 for such performers as Lucinda Williams and The Aquabats. It offers upstairs and downstairs views of the stage, but plan on standing all night as there are usually no seats available.

Description:

Saved from the wrecking ball in the mid-1980s, this 1930s-era Art Deco showcase is perhaps the most beautiful theater in town. Countless national and international acts such as Beck and Audioslave have played here. In addition, plenty of non-pop music events such as Penn & Teller and Cedric the Entertainer complement the schedule.

Description:

Perhaps the strangest yet coolest concert venue in town, with an elaborate decor in the mode of a Mayan temple (or something), this former movie house is a fine relic of L.A.'s glorious past. It seats about 1,000 for such performers as PJ Harvey and morphs into Club Mixx with hip-hop DJs on Friday nights. The place is in a part of Downtown that most people don't usually visit, but there's plenty of parking and the interior makes it seem like another dimension.

Description:

After the Palace Theatre was converted for silent films, the Orpheum vaudeville circuit moved here for its remaining years. Like the Los Angeles Theatre, it emulates the opulence of a French palace, with a marble lobby, a gold gilt ceiling and a rare organ. The theatre is not now open to the public, except for once or twice a year during special events hosted by the L.A. Conservancy. Call the Conservancy for details.

Description:

This classic movie house dates back even before the heyday of Hollywood Boulevard. Built in 1931, the theatre hosted the premiere of Charlie Chaplin's classic City Lights (attended by special guest Albert Einstein). Featuring a stunning central staircase and gold brocaded drapes, the theatre evokes the splendor of a French palace. Unfortunately, the theatre is now only accessible once a year when the Los Angeles Conservancy opens it for an annual screening. Call the number listed for details about the annual screening.

Description:

The Warner Grand Theatre located in San Pedro is placed in a magnificent art-deco building and is one of the last remaining theaters which have been left untouched. This opulent theater hosts the San Diego Opera and is rated as one of the best in the country. The building also plays host to a number of foreign film screenings and live performances. The venue is renowned for its musicals, jazz concerts, operas and orchestras.