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Best Alternative Movie Theaters In Detroit

Tired of blockbuster billion dollar budget mainstream movies? Grab some popcorn and enjoy exceptional foreign films, cult classics, documentaries or vintage black and white flicks at the Detroit Film Theatre, the Redford and a few other gems near you.

Detroit Film Theatre

5200 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, Michigan 48202
(313) 833-7900
www.dia.org

The Detroit Film Theatre is part of the Detroit Institute of Arts and is located in the rear of the museum. The theater itself is a gorgeous historical venue with a balcony and a small café. Their programming includes foreign language films, documentaries and old black and white movies. Occasionally they offer films with a live orchestra accompaniment!

The Burton Theatre

3420 Cass Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201
(313) 473-9238
www.burtontheatre.com

The Burton Theatre is an art house cinema located in the Cass Corridor in what use to be the auditorium of the former Burton International School. They show independent, foreign and cult films and they serve popcorn and Faygo in glass bottles!  What is not to love?

The Redford Theatre

17360 Lahser Road
Detroit, MI 48219
(313) 537-2560
www.redfordtheatre.com

The Redford Theatre is slowly being restored back to its original glory. Their programming is fantastic – think Abbott & Costello, The Three Stooges and campy horror films. They also have live pipe organ performances and are operated by an all-volunteer staff. You can help preserve Detroit's history by purchasing a ticket at the Redford Theatre!

Main Art Theatre

118 North Main Street
Royal Oak, MI 48067
(248) 263-2111
www.landmarktheatres.com

The Main Art Theatre in downtown Royal Oak is owned by Landmark Theatres. They show the latest independent films and have a great midnight movie series. They also have hot tea and locally grown, organic fair trade coffee!

Maple Art Theatre

4135 West Maple Road at Telegraph
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
(248) 263-2111
www.landmarktheatres.com

The Maple Art Theatre in Bloomfield Hills is also owned by Landmark Theatres. Indie movies play here before they are picked up by the bigger chains for broader distribution.  See your favorite actors and directors earlier at the Maple Art Theatre!

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