We’ve all been to the movies at some point in our lives and as college students, it’s hard to find the time and let’s face it, the money, to splurge on movie tickets.
There are still some hidden gems both locally and in the greater Los Angeles area that offer an eccentric atmosphere for an entire evening that is well worth the money. For those interested in unconventional movie viewing, these theaters offer new experiences and some spice to your nightlife.
The Cinefamily at the Silent Movie Theater located on 611 North Fairfax Ave in Los Angeles was founded in 2007 and offers 14 shows per week, complemented by live music, special guests and other social activities.
As said in an email, Moorpark College Film Studies Professor Alison Hoffman, Ph.D has known about The Cinefamily since before it was open.
“I’ve been a big fan of The Cinefamily, since they opened in 2007,” said Hoffman. “The Cinefamily’s insistence on movie-going as a social experience, one that fosters community and creativity, is vital in this era of isolated media consumption.”
The Cinefamily is a nonprofit organization with an impressive Board of Directors working behind the scenes. Movie industry figures such as screenwriter Michael Bacall co-writer of “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World” and “Project X”, co-executive producer Phil Lord of the popular “TV show How I Met Your Mother” and even some Hollywood actors such as Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Elijah Wood holding positions on the Advisory Board.
“I like how Cinefamily brings film lovers and creative practitioners together in one collective space,” said Hoffman. “Without question, it’s the most exciting, lively and adventurous film venue in Los Angeles.”
With events ranging from free to around 20 dollars, every experience comes with some kind of special element and is sure to impress.
Nestled just off Lakeview Canyon road in Westlake Village lies the Westlake Village Twin Theater, a small yet cozy movie house that circulates the lesser known indie and foreign films. With just two screens, the theater offers a more intimate feel for its viewers as well as being moderately priced at 10 dollars a ticket.
Moorpark College student and 20-year-old psychology major Juliette Masliah loves going to this particular theater.
“My boyfriend and I go all the time, we love how small it is and the really interesting movies they show,” said Masliah.
The Twins’ small size allows it to focus on its patrons by offering fresh popcorn and a large variety of candy. Staff will also offer mints to movie viewers as they leave.
A truly beautiful theater located on S. Broadway in Downtown Los Angeles is The Orpheum. Opened in 1926, this massive and ornate theater holds 2000 people and has housed many great celebrities throughout the years. From Judy Garland to Aretha Franklin to modern day movie screenings, The Orpheum has seen a myriad of talent.
With three levels of seating, ticket prices range from 25 dollars to up to 80. The Orpheum is also the home of one of three remaining Mighty Wurlitzer organs left in Southern California. The interior design and architecture as well as the bright, Broadway lighting on the exterior are a blast from the past with a modern performance twist.
Movie theaters are most familiar in large buildings, but why not screen films in a cemetery? Cinespia Hollywood Forever Cemetery located on 6000 Santa Monica Blvd. in Los Angeles is the perfect outdoor movie viewing experience.
“The first screening I attended was of the classic Hollywood thriller, ‘The Spiral Staircase’ (1945),” said Hoffman. “After that, I was hooked. The relaxed, warm and inviting vibe you feel when picnicking before the screening embodies the things I like most about Los Angeles.”
Guests can bring food and blankets and watch a movie in a Hollywood historic landmark. Opened in 2002, Cinespia has hosted hundreds of screenings of movies of all kinds and even pre-screening DJs to make the most of an evening for moviegoers. While the tickets are more on the pricey side, starting at 18 dollars, every minute is filled with music, a good atmosphere and films. For a truly unconventional and entertaining experience, Cinespia is a guaranteed pleaser.
There’s nothing cooler than a classic drive-in. At the City Market of LA, the Electric Dusk Drive-In presents the classic bring your car and your date to a movie with a present day twist. Driving your car is not the only option, as the drive-in does offer astroturf seating for a lawn like feel.
Tickets come in from 9 to 13 dollars per person, and 2 dollars more if bought at the gate. Cars are arranged smallest to biggest so no one will have a blocked view. With a snack shack on site and being pet friendly, the Electric Dusk Drive-In is a throwback, great for summer evenings of movie going fun and ease.