This article is part of 34th Street's Philadelphia, Curated issue. Click here to see more of our favorite spots from all over the city.
Who doesn't love winding down the night with a good film? Bumming it in bed—laptop in your lap—is great and all, but if you're looking for a more immersive experience (surround sound, popcorn and all), here are some picks for you. Grab a friend, or a date, and make next weekend a movie marathon.
Ritz Theaters
Photo provided by Ritz 5
Landmark Ritz Five, Landmark Ritz East, and Landmark Ritz at the Bourse
Philadelphia’s three Landmark theaters are all located in close proximity to each other in Old City, each showing the newest in independent, foreign, and classic cinema. The Ritz Five is a charming theater with a cozy feel and a concessions stand that serves tea, hot chocolate, and other homey treats. Its smaller sibling, the Ritz East, is also a go–to spot for watching independent films, while the Ritz at the Bourse leans more toward documentary screenings and is known for its Friday night Midnight Madness showings. Together, the three locations provide pretty comprehensive coverage of new independent and international film releases, all at a very fair price point.
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Price Range: Weekdays: $8 | Weekends: $10.25
Addresses:
Ritz Five: 3904, 214 Walnut St.
Ritz East: 125 South 2nd St.
Ritz at the Bourse: 400 Ranstead St.
Hours: 12 p.m.–10 p.m.
Lightbox Film Center
Photo provided by Lightbox Film Center
The Lightbox Film Center, a nonprofit organization housed within the International House Philadelphia, is the city’s premier location for avant–garde, foreign, and experimental film exhibitions. Located right here in University City, Lightbox not only boasts a curated calendar of showings for seasoned cinephiles, but it also hosts film festivals, speaker series, and panels throughout the year, making Lightbox the go–to place for film events in the city.
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Price Range: GA: $10 | Student with ID: $8 | Members & IHP residents: $5
Address: 3701 Chestnut St.
PFS Roxy
Photo provided by PSF Roxy Theater
The home of independent cinema in Rittenhouse Square, the PFS Roxy Theater is run by the Philadelphia Film Society. Although PFS has two theaters, the Roxy in particular is a hidden Philly gem that shows a mix of classic, mainstream, independent, and international films. After undergoing extensive renovations in 2013, the Roxy has new screens, sound systems, digital projectors, and seats. Every Wednesday is also BYO night, so bring your beer or wine to enjoy your iconic cinema experience for a $3 uncorking fee. Students get $1 off as well, so make sure to bring your Penn ID.
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Price Range: $13
Address: 2023 Sansom St.
Bryn Mawr Film Institute
Photo provided by Bryn Mawr Film Institute
Beautiful, historic, and community–owned, this Main Line mainstay might be a bit of a trek, but what more could you ask for from a movie theater? First constructed in the ‘20s in the Beaux–Arts style, the Bryn Mawr Film Institute has survived as a staple of the Philadelphia cultural landscape for years. They not only screen mainstream flicks and recent releases, but also show show indie films, hold open screenings, and host special events that can't be found anywhere else.
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Price Range: Students & Seniors: $10 | GA: $12.50 | BMFI Members: $8
Address: 824 Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA
