In the USA, there are some amazing cinemas housed in beautiful and historic venues, from Texas to Illinois. These secret gems are often independently run, have a dedicated fan base among locals and often innovate ideas about what a cinema can be. From cinemas in Austin which are as much brewhouses as film screening venues, to olde worlde theatres which still have silent movie equipment in working order, there’s no more magical way to experience films than a trip to one of these special independent cinemas.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Austin
In downtown Austin, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is as dedicated to showing the latest in great cinema and celebrating classic films as they are about awesome food and drinks. The cinema celebrates Austin’s local breweries, and the innovative bar staff mix up great cocktails. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss their special menus inspired by the films they’re currently showing - like an African-inspired menu for Black Panther and a Pakistani feast designed by Kumail Nanjiani for their screening of The Big Sick.
Crescent Theater, Alabama
A historic movie theater that’s been in operation since 1885, the Crescent Theater’s single screen is the ideal location for the intimate independent and arthouse programming it shows, screening one film only for a certain period of time. The cinema was bought by Max Morey in 2008, and his independent and friendly management has built up a rapport with a loyal group of local punters, who proclaim it to be one of the most special cinemas they’ve been to.
Music Box Theater, Illinois
In Chicago, the Music Box Theater is one of the most aesthetically stunning theaters in America. Built in 1929, it’s been operating continuously since the 1980s, showing the best new arthouse cinema and remembering classic films. What makes this cinema special is the architecture - described as dreamy and atmospheric, the ceiling of the theater is lined with dark blue fabric and lit with twinkling stars and moving cloud formations, while the seating and alcoves are inspired by an Italian courtyard. In 2015, a lounge and garden were added, serving drinks from local producers and creative and refreshing cocktails.
Byrd Theater, Virginia
So stunning it’s been made a State and National landmark, the Byrd Theater in Richmond, Virginia is also managed by a non-profit, who oversee its continued restoration. Built around 90 years ago, this elaborate and grand movie theater is decked out with gold leaf arches, marble walls and a huge crystal chandelier on the ceiling. It’s also home to an original Wurlitzer theater organ, once used as an accompaniment to silent movies. The cinema today shows a range of different films, mostly on their second run but for the bargain price of $4 a ticket. All in all, it’s a charming cinema that’s well worth a visit.
Museum of the Moving Image, New York
A renowned media museum as well as a cinema, the Museum of the Moving Image in New York City hosts numerous film festivals and arthouse movie screenings, all within its historic building. The museum used to be the site of Kaufman Astoria Studios - the largest film studios in the United States in the 1920s and 30s, with classic film stars like the Marx brothers and Rudolph Valentino recording here. After catching a screening in one of the two main movie theaters, explore the award-winning Jim Henson Museum and enjoy some of the interactive exhibitions where you can dub your voice to replace Marilyn Monroe’s in a film clip and learn how to create stop motion animation.
Bear Tooth Theatre and Pub, Anchorage
One of the only cinemas in America to produce their own craft beer, there’s nothing better than sitting in their charming screening room with a bottle of Broken Tooth Beer in hand. All of the seating in their 275-seat theatre also comes with a table in front, so you can order from their restaurant and enjoy it while you catch a movie. They serve great pizza, burritos and salads, and if you’re not a beer fan they make awesome margaritas. Showing independent and second run film screenings, it’s a relaxed place to unwind at the weekend.