Best Indie Movie Theaters In Chicago
While you might be able to watch a movie on your computer, TV, phone or tablet, heading to an independent movie theater in Chicago to catch a film is a unique experience. Indie theaters tend to offer a wider selection of fare ranging from foreign films, small-budget flicks and the big blockbusters. The following list of indie movie theaters in the Chicago area are just the right places to see a film. For an additional list of independent movie theaters in the Chicago area, check out this article.
The Brew & View At The Vic Theatre
3145 N. Sheffield Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 929-6713
www.brewview.com
Where do you go if you want to see a second-run film while sipping a beer? In Chicago, you might want to check out The Brew & View at The Vic Theatre in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood. If the Vic does not have any performances scheduled, then patrons can watch films at The Brew & View, including recent fare like "Gravity" and "Nebraska." Older films are on the rotation, too, including favorites like "Ghostbusters," "High Fidelity" and "The Blues Brothers." Don't forget your ID, as you need to be 18 or older to enter and 21 or older to drink. You can enjoy pizza while you watch a film and wash it down with drinks from Miller Brewing Company.
Davis Theater
4614 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 784-0893
www.davistheater.com
Located in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood, Davis Theater plays first-run films. Films that played recently at Davis Theater include family-friendly movies, such as "The Lego Movie," and movies for adults, including "Need for Speed." An onsite concession stand ensures patrons can grab snacks or something to drink before the show starts. The Davis Theater also offers specials throughout the year and participates in several community events. If you'd prefer, you can purchase your movie tickets in advance so you can skip the line.
Facets Cinémathèque
1517 W. Fullerton Ave.
Chicago IL 60614
(800) 331-6197
www.facets.org
For movie buffs who prefer foreign films and indie flicks, consider checking out what's showing at Facets Cinémathèque. Located in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, Facets shows an assortment of films you likely won't see in your typical movie theater. Recent events include a showcase of director Jan Němec's films, as well as showings of the films "Love & Air Sex" and "It Felt Like Love." Facets will also host the 12th annual Chicago African Diaspora Film Festival, held between June 13 and 19, 2014.Kids can participate in learning more about film, too, as the theater hosts an assortment of events for kids, including the upcoming 31st annual Chicago International Children's Film Festival between Oct. 24 and Nov. 2, 2014, which showcases movies geared to children. You can also take the movie-going experience home with you, as Facets has a movie rental and purchase store onsite.
Related: Best Indie Movie Theaters In Chicago
The Harper Theater
5238 S. Harper Ave.
Chicago, IL 60615
(773) 966-5091
www.harpertheater.com
If you're looking for a theater to watch first-run films, then consider checking out The Harper Theater, located in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood. The theater plays first-run films and has a 3-D system, and it also offers reserved seating. Valet service, available for $5 starting at 5 p.m. on the weekend, is also available. Feeling like a snack or something to drink? The theater's coffee beans are from roaster Metropolis Coffee Company, and the onsite cafe also serves movie theater favorites like nachos, pretzel bites and hot dogs.
The Wilmette Theatre
1122 Central Ave.
Wilmette, IL 60091
(847) 251-7424
www.wilmettetheatre.com
The Wilmette Theatre, which opened its doors more than 100 years ago, offers an assortment of films for patrons. You can catch a blockbuster film, more independent fare and foreign films at the Wilmette Theatre, too. The community-centered theater is located in Wilmette's downtown area and is just a few blocks from the Metra station, making it a convenient place to unwind. The theater also presents live events, including plays, concerts and other performances.
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