In Los Angeles, film is important, and there are movie theaters on every corner to prove it. While we all love to see the latest blockbusters and hits, it’s good to have an outlet for the more independent fare that may not get as much attention. Los Angeles has got that covered. Some of the greatest independent theaters in the world are right here in the City of Angels.
Read on to discover the best independent movie theaters in Los Angeles!
The New Beverly Theater (West Hollywood)
The New Beverly is definitely one of Los Angeles’ most famous independent movie theaters. Originally constructed in the 1920s, it’s been numerous things for numerous generations, including: a nightclub, foreign film theater and even a live nude dance club. Yes, the New Beverly has seen it all. The theater nearly closed its doors for good in the 1990s until filmmaker Quentin Tarantino swooped in and bought it. Thanks to Quentin, the theater is now a thriving hotspot that plays indie, cult and classic films, all in 35mm.
The Cinefamily (West Hollywood)
No indie movie theater list would be complete without mentioning The Cinefamily. This nonprofit theater is one of the hippest and coolest theaters in the City of Angels. Known for screening just about every fun thing under the sun, its programs include silent films, indie classics, foreign cinema, cult classics and much, much more. But that’s not all! The Cinefamily also revels in having live comedy shows, live music shows, special film screenings with actor/director Q&As, and even huge parties and film festivals. It’s practically a guarantee that you’ll have the time of your life at this theater.
The Downtown Independent (Little Tokyo)
Located in the Little Tokyo district of downtown Los Angeles, The Downtown Independent is a single-screen cinema house that shows all the best cult, indie and foreign fare you can find. It also provides a location for live theater performances, fashion shows and music performances. But perhaps the neatest thing at all … The Downtown Independent serves beer!
The Echo Park Film Center (Echo Park)
This special little theater, located in the heart of trendy Echo Park, is home to a nonprofit organization that specializes in screening documentary, indie, foreign and cult films. Its mission is to provide the arts community with affordable and easy access to film and filmmaking resources. Movies are shown Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m., and all that’s asked is a $5 donation.
The Nuart-Landmark Theater (West Los Angeles)
Built in 1929, The Nuart is a great venue for independent, cult and restored classic cinema. It’s a bit more unique than other theaters, as it screens only one film several times a day for a week. Every Friday, the theater has a special “midnight movie show” with a different movie. It also screens The Rocky Horror Picture Show every Saturday night! This theater is a must-see!
If Los Angeles and it’s movies are up your alley, check here for apartments in the area!
