I mean who doesn't love a local theater that plays unique films. This is a film lovers dream. The concessions are great and reasonably priced and they have Faygo. What's more Detroit than that? The theaters are cozy and it's such a special feeling to watch films with a community like this. It's also not far from other popular places so you can have dinner and a show or go out for drinks after. I would rather support a local business like this than go to big chain anyway. read more

My ol' Cinema Detroit review has been badly in need of an update for years now as they've been in a new building for I don't even know how long now. Everybody talks about this place being quirky but you should have seen their old spot! Honestly, I miss the old Burton school, even still. It was kind of an awkward set up, as they detailed in a little film short they ran during the previews directly before and after the move, but it just had charm and style for miles. The entrance from the parking lot was a strange walk around the rear of the building that felt sketchy to many and though they had a lift it wasn't the most disabled friendly place but it seemed like they made do. I loved that place. I saw a lot of movies there. The current digs my sister used to live at back in the 90s when it was a couple of lofts. There's a nice waiting room with couches which CD didn't have before. Adult tickets are $9. It's cheaper for students, seniors, members and kids. Concessions are eminently reasonable. I got a small popcorn and a can of Faygo grape (they were out of Red Pop and Rock n Rye) with my ticket for less than $15. Small popcorn really is small here, though, not like at a multiplex where even the small is like $7.50 and is freakin huge. Cinema Detroit also carries La Croix for all you hipsters, but I won't hold it against them. There's two auditoriums and last weekend I was busy avoiding changing a flat tire in awful weather so I saw movies in both. If Beale Street Could Talk showed in the larger room, which is actually movie theater size. Sit up front if you're short. Unlike at the Burton school, a proper movie theater with a floor that gradually ascends the further you get from the screen, the floor here is flat with no risers further away from the screen. The screen is up just high enough that the silhouettes of people's heads ended for me before the bottom of the picture projected begins, but I can see how more vertically challenged viewers might run into problems here. No tiers!! The two rows at the very rear are tall stools but other than that everybody is right at the same level. It's just a big room that somehow lacks the ambience of a true cinema. That's where the current location of Cinema Detroit loses that fifth star from me. The smaller theater is barely a theater at all but it's so homey and intimate I like it a lot better than the big one. It seats 16 and has mostly well broken in couches. Same deal for shorties, but the room is only 4 rows deep. It's like you have this really cool friend who turned a room in their house into a theater to show off-beat movies. I saw The Wife there. It must have been intense drama week at Cinema Detroit. Both films were very good, but they both packed an emotional whallop. Especially If Beale Street Could Talk. Besides the venerable Detroit Film Theater in the back of the DIA, Cinema Detroit is the only game in town for art house and independent movies. If you're talking 7 days a week, it IS the only game in town, as the DFT's schedule is pretty limited (and they lack a second mini-theater to show multiple films). Beyond that, you're driving out to Royal Oak, Bloomfield Township or even Ann Arbor. Hell, even with all the new businesses that have sprung up in the D the past several years, the Bel Air out at 8 Mile and Van Dyke is still the only multiplex showing mainstream fare in the city proper. And once in awhile Cinema Detroit will show a more wide release movie. I remember they had Black Panther. Go ahead and make an Old Man Yells at Cloud meme about me grumbling how the former Burton school location was better. It had a pool table in the men's room! The row of lockers lining the basement hall still had graffiti from back when it was a school! I still like Cinema Detroit but I just don't go anywhere near as much. Hmmm, maybe they flattened my tire... read more

Seating is not tiered, so 1 star off, and they don't offer a butter option for their popcorn, so another star off. Other than that, the concessions are well priced, seating comfortable, and sound in decent. read more

Cinema Detroit - Parking is directly next to the theatre on the north side of the building off of 3rd. - Cinema Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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It is awesome to have a place to see smart, independent films in Detroit. Quirky location that really works.

This cinema is an experience in itself! Feels like you're watching with a group of your friends and harkens back to the days of "going to the pictures". Everyone's super friendly and ready to tell you all about the history of the building, just ask. We saw "Don't Ask Twice", a film by Mike Birbiglia and Ira Glass, (if you're a NPR fan you should go!), so we were sitting in the smaller screening room. Love the red carpet touch! Two diet cokes and candy came to $4, a price I haven't experienced at the movies since the 80's! The building pre-dates the 1900's, so reading other Yelpers complain about the aesthetics/comfort level compared to the Imagine or any other modern theatre is ridiculous. You're coming her to be part of history and pat roof Detroit. We love it. read more

Cinema Detroit - Small screening room - Cinema Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

If you are looking for a hi-tech posh viewing experience, keep going! The sound quality was poor, difficult to hear at some points during the movie, and it's not hi-def But I liked the over all VIBE. It's not your typical run of the mill theater. If you like something intimate and off the besten path pop in. . read more

Cinema Detroit - Cinema Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Cinema Detroit has stolen my heart especially since it's in my neighborhood. This lovely Little Slice of Heaven in the middle of the cast Corridor will be my spot anytime I feel the need for darkness and a movie. They've got Faygo and fresh popped popcorn. I love the seats and the widescreen is very crisp. They must have the best projection equipment because even these Classic Movies I'm watching here are crystal clear. The lovely building was once the furniture store but since they purchased it and opened it up to restore it as a theater seeing the interior is absolutely stunning. The Beautiful tile ceiling the lovely wooden walls and of course the antique Cabinetry at the confection stand are all worth a visitperiod support a theater inside the city which has parking right by the door and a great schedule with the same prices you'll get at any theater. The only difference is you will love this theater you will absolutely come back and you will say thank you Cinema Detroit for being here for me. I have to say thank you to Yelp for inviting me to this theater to a event because if you had not invited me I would have continued to drive by it and missed it for the gem it is. read more

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I came last night for a "Yelp Culture Club Secret Cinema". I didn't stay once I found out what the movie was (yes, I'm a wimp and don't do scary...lol), but I will definitely be back. This is a small local theater that shows indie films, classics (like Rocky Horror Picture Show this time of year), and even new/first releases. There are only 2 screens, the popcorn is fresh and inexpensive, so are the canned beverages and other snacks. It's a welcome change from big theaters. My only complaint is the floor...it's flat and for someone like me who's only about 5'6" and likes to sit as far back as possible in the very middle of the row, the view of the screen isn't exactly optimal. The seats do not recline like most theaters today, but they are comfortable. read more

I've been going to Cinema Detroit for several years so have experienced its other location. I think this one is the best. The movies are always interesting and frequently not something you can see somewhere else. For those worried about going to a movie theater in Detroit, don't. It's in a good spot and there is both a parking lot and street parking. Inside the ticket prices are reasonable and the popcorn is delicious and cheap. The seats aren't the greatest, but I understand, this isn't a standard theater with big corporate pockets. Sound is fine and you can see the screen with no problem. All in all, a good experience - and I love the diverse and eclectic audience you will encounter. Another great Detroit experience not to be missed. read more

I enjoyed my experience here. Attached parking, nice staff. No complaints! I also don't think the seats are that bad like others have complained about. I think it's about expectations- I think this place has charm and I wouldn't have it any other way read more

This place is pretty cool. I came here for the first time yesterday for the Cinetopia fest. THE PROS: -Free parking. Apparently the area isn't "that great," as a friend told me before going, but the parking is monitored and at noon (when we went) it felt safe to me. -Really cool building. It used to be a school, and the basement (where the men's bathroom is + 1 of the theaters) has lockers in it still. -The theater itself (we were in the upstairs one, I believe the Cinema has 2, maybe 3, total) was nice. Felt a little like the Bham 8. THE CONS: -The seats were a bit small. I'm not a small girl in general but it felt a little squished. -Because the cinema only has about 2 theaters, I'm guessing in general (ie not during Cinetopia) there's not a ton of movie choices. Could be wrong on this though. THE RANDOM: -The men's bathroom has a pool table in it! (my friend, a guy, insisted I see this, lol. We checked to make sure the coast was clear first.) -The women's bathroom, which I did use (lol), definitely felt like a school bathroom. I'm about 5'4 and I could see over the stall dividers which was pretty funny. I'd like to come back here again, maybe for an indie movie at some point. Cool venue. It used to be called the Burton Theater, too, I believe. read more

Cinema Detroit is a great example of don't judge a book by its cover, or in this case, a place by its exterior. Initially I did just that - holding back from visiting this place for a good 3-4 months after my arrival in Midtown due to its not aesthetically pleasing nor inviting exterior and parking lot. But when I put those hesitations aside this past January, I was very pleased with what I found, and have been back several times since. The small staff seems to take genuine pleasure in programming films that are not available anywhere else in metro Detroit. Prices are reasonable - $8 student, $9 regular - and very reasonably priced concessions complete with fresh made popcorn and local Faygo beverages. I've only seen films in the (presumably) larger upstairs theatre, and it has generally been a good experience, with the most memorable probably being the recent "It Follows" that fit perfectly into the surroundings since it was partially filmed in Detroit. I had a similar, but not quite as memorable (because of the film, not the venue) experience watching "Lost River", also filmed in Detroit, last night in this theatre. Bottom line is that Cinema Detroit seems to genuinely care about the community and is well worth keeping your eyes on to see what's playing and what they are offering. Features change regularly due to their small size, so keep your eyes peeled! read more

Apparently I haven't written a review for here yet! This is my favorite theatre in the area. Reasonably priced tickets and snacks. The popcorn is delicious (always an important part). There's a free parking lot and you're close to dining and bars. The seating is super comfortable, even in the cozy screening room. You can sign up for their email list to stay up to date on all of the cool new indie (and mainstream) releases! read more

I needed a break from family and came across Cinema Detroit when searching for theaters. I was intrigued that it was a smaller theater and primarily showed independent flicks. I decided to check out their first showing of the afternoon Moonlight. I got there about 40 minutes before the first showing. I walked up to the door and it was locked. I wasn't sure Cinema Detroit was open but there were two cars in the parking lot and I saw a sign mention the doors opened 30 minutes prior to first showing. The time went by pretty fast and before I knew it the doors were open. I was literally the first customer of the day. The guy working the counter (not sure if he was the main owner) was friendly. I bought my ticket and normally I don't drink soda but I was drawn to the retro looking Faygo bottles (I used to drink that stuff like crazy growing up in the Motor City) and decided to get some along with a medium popcorn. Total cost was $13 which I thought was pretty reasonable. The popcorn needed to be made so I went inside the theater to settle in. The room felt a bit cozy. They had about 150 seats maybe doing a quick mental count. I normally sit way in the back to avoid crazy kickers but figured since I didn't expect a major crowd, I opted to sit in the middle of the room near the center of that row. I found the seat comfortable. I could hear the popcorn maker finishing so I was about to get up and pick up my order after snapping a couple pics. However the owner brought in the popcorn for me which was cool. Just when I thought I'd be the only one watching another patron came in. Eventually two other couples popped in just as the previews were beginning. So there were six of us in all. Moonlight wound up being a great movie choice. I was comfortable sitting the only minor issue being that the room got chilly at times when the heat would stop coming in. But it was nice being able to see a movie without some of the craziness you get in a larger theater. The neighboring area where Cinema Detroit sits seemed fine. I didn't worry about leaving my car parked in the street. I will definitely be back to check out future titles. So cool to see a place like this in the Motor City. read more

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Great local "theater" - they have 2 rooms to screen films ranging from mainstream and independent. Mind you, this is not a luxury theater with recliners and hot food on demand. Think of this as a local business with a large room, large screen, and several chairs. Very casual. The theater has a sizeable parking lot - prices on tickets are very reasonable (~$9) and concessions are very reasonable as well ($1 for a Faygo, $2 for a glass Coke, $2-$6 for popcorn). Once again - I want to stress that this a very low budget theater with minimal bells and whistles. They do not have many showtimes and not every movie is available. However, the staff is very friendly and it's a great place to stop by with friends in the local Detroit neighborhood. I give it 5 stars not as a movie-goer but as a Detroit resident happy to see local businesses supporting the community. read more

More like 3.5 stars. It is nice to go to a theater in Detroit but sadly like everyone mentioned, it is a bit ghetto. Felt like they just took an old school, removed the desks, installed some seats and a projector to call this place a theater. There are plenty of parking but you have to go through this narrow alley to reach the front of the building to enter. The concession stand is where you buy tickets and snacks. There is a women's restroom upstairs and a men's downstairs. They are elementary school style bathrooms. The main reason for the mediocre star count is because of the chairs! When you sit down its like you've fallen down a well. I had to sit all the way on the edge of my chair to stay stable and to read the subtitles. For $9/movie which is almost the price of an actual theater with nicer accommodations, I do feel that they theater needs some work. Despite all that, it does have a cozy feel to it. Definitely wouldn't want it to shut down. read more

Well that was fun. Love the concept, great experience. Will definitely be back again. The charm of this operation is really what makes the experience--building, neighborhood, small screening rooms, local snacks for sale. Yet, in this day and age it's a little hard for people of my height (I'm not tall) to get past the flat auditorium flooring in a movie theater. Wondering if there is a way around this that would still be in keeping with the aesthetic of the theater? read more

Five stars because I love everything about this movie house and think they deserve as much support as possible! We recently saw a showing of Honeyland, a huge winner at this year's Sundance (and incredibly hard to find). It was a very cool experience and unlike any "regular" movie theatre around. read more

Take all the nostalgic, magical, slightly transgressive places you've ever been, layer them into a cake, and slather on some cinema frosting and you'll have Cinema Detroit. The entire building is basically scaled for a child (I'm assuming this was a former elementary school?) which will make you feel like a giant and like a time traveler at the same time. Then there's the kind of secretive, stripped-down burlesque, speak-easy, lit up alleyway entrance which will give you the feeling like you're doing something a little naughty. And lastly there's the after-hours thrill of occupying an emptied institutional building and using it for something else. The sanctioned unsanctioned. The sound isn't phenomenal and I'm thinking most of the releases are screened digitally now (or at least Birdman was when I saw it). But what art house theater can afford emulsion and paying union projectionists anymore, let alone 22.2 surround sound? Go support a place you will likely never find anywhere else. At least not in the States. I literally scream-whispered, "I'm f*cking freaking out here!" the second I stepped inside. Tickled all the right places. If you want to escape reality for a runtime of 120 minutes, this is your portal. Amazing space. Good people. Independent cinema. read more

I've visited this establishment many times. I've dealt with the most uncomfortable seats in the world, the terrible sound affect, just this past winter a day after big snow fall there parking lot wasn't cleaned of the snow Then finally this Sunday 10/01/17 Iwent to see the 530 Columbus movie and it was showing in the tiny screening room. The noise was so loud from the other theater you clearly hear it in The screening room. I went and said something to the owner (glasses semi bald guy) he said he would turn the sound down. He never did. Sound level was still the same. When the movie got out I complained to his wife Blond Hair Glasses about why he didn't lower the noise. She rolled her eyes at me and said he did and was telling me something about the sound level this high dialogue this high, talking to me like a little child rolling her eyes. Weird thing is this doesn't happen at The Michigan Theater or Main Art where you hear noises from the other theater. I didn't enjoy the movie because of the noise and the owners weren't concerned about my complaints they roll their eye's at you and lie to you. I've spent my last dime at this dump. read more

Cinema Detroit - Cinema Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

I love both theaters, especially the smaller, cozy screening room with the couches. It is my favorite theater anywhere.

My friend debuted his indie film here. There is a parking lot, which I was happy to see, and I was welcomed when I entered the building. The theater space was a good size, had comfortable theater seats and a quality screen. The sound was excellent and the equipment seemed good. No glitches at all. My only complaint would have to do with maintenance of the building. Specifically there were MANY spider webs in the theater and once I started noticing them I got creeped out at the size and number of them. I wish the upper parts of the area were swept out or vacuumed or whatever it takes to keep the webs at bay. When the lights went down I nervously hoped a spider or spiders wouldn't land on me! Some sprucing of the concession area would be nice as well. read more

I went here twice in two days with my friend while visiting Detroit. This is a charming spot for seeing new art films. It's a place you just *want* to like because it's unlike a commercial theater, partly because of the strange flaws that you wind up forgiving even as they really do disrupt the experience of the film you are seeing. The seats are comfortable, the prices affordable and they choose films well. The small screening room with couches makes you feel like you are at a friend's house. The main problems, as everyone notes, are that the sound bleeds from one theater to the other, and the seats in the main theater are not graded so that the tops of the seats partially obscure the view of the screen. These "quirks" make the experience here a little like a movie night in the Detroit version of Stars Hollow, but they keep me from giving the place five stars. read more

Not sure why everyone on yelp is so taken by this place, I get that it may have a certain charm but honestly it is in need for some restoration. Restoration and not renovation would definitely keep the place's charm. First off, the entrance is through the back, a very narrow alley walks you to the backdoor. There's one cash register for snacks and tickets. I liked the vintage feel. Up one more level is the theater with multiple posters of indie movies old and new. The chairs are not very comfortable. The sound is not surround. The screen is decent size and ok quality. We watched "It Follows" which provided a perfectly creepy experience all together. I see no reason why they can't restore many aspects of this theater while maintaining its charm. I go for the movie and not the charm anyway. I would come here again if a good film is showing. read more

This place has been revamped for the better! New owners and a new name- previously Cass City Cinema at the Burton Theater, now Cinema Detroit. Came here a few weeks ago for the 48 Hour Film Horror Project, and had a great time! The picture was great, the sound was spot on, and the refreshments did just that. Refreshed. They offer popcorn, candy, Mexican cokes, and Faygo products at ridiculously reasonable prices. The theater itself is very charming and has a lot of character. Brick walls, wood floors, impressive display of historic cameras in the main foyer, and marble in the bathrooms. You get an instant sense of pride when you walk into this building, you can almost smell the history. Don't come here and expect to see the next monthly Tyler Perry movie- this theater shows movies with substance. The parking lot is nicely lit and a security car also sits in the lot watching over your cars while you enjoy your movie. The entrance may be confusing to some but if you can read you'll find your way in. Looking forward to coming back here for a nice little date night with my husband. Maybe I can con him into coming here when they are showing 'Love Actually' later this month to get into the holiday spirit... :) read more

I had never been to Cinema Detroit before, but I absolutely loved every minute of it! Even though the movie, Mandy, was a bit ridiculous, I just loved it. This place reminded me of somewhere I would just stumble into in the middle of Chicago but instead it's right on my doorstep in Detroit! The vibes this place gives off are just wonderful and I can't wait to make a visit back here. The concessions are truly no frills and honesty, that works best. I can't stand how crazy the movies have become these days selling burgers, fries and what have you. Unless I'm going to a dine-in theatre, this works perfectly! Yes, it's vintagey, but that's part of the big appeal for me. I had a great time here with my husband and we will be back! read more

Rocky Horror Picture Show halloween weekend, Cinema Detroit the perfect place for this show. Arriving for the 10 o'clock show the place has a good buzz with the lobby full of movie goers dressed in some great movie themed costumes, you could tell the movie was gonna be fun. And Cinema Detroit also had prop bags to help you get into the movie, prop bags had some rice, glow stick, toast, whistle lips, a news paper, some tissue, rubber gloves and cards. I wasn't sure what all stuff was for but as the movie go's on you figure it out, and the other movie goers are all getting into it. They started with a pledge for the virgin's then a little costume contest where all that entered won, the movie was very interactive with people yelling, singing, dancing and using their props, I thought that was pretty cool. Cinema Detroit and this audience made The Rocky picture Horror show lots fun and this was the perfect place to watch it. read more

Just saw another movie as a part of Cinetopia- the Detroit and Ann Arbor film festival. We saw it in the theater in the basement. The sound system is still old, but the chairs reclined and we're super comfortable. The main issue I had was that all chairs were on the same level, and their backs were really high, so if you're short you need to sit in the front row. I'm 5'1 and I couldn't see almost a quarter of the screen. read more

Cinema Detroit - My view of the screen. I was in the second row and the seat in front of me blocked my view of 1/4 of the screen. - Cinema Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Really unprofessional staff. Sarcastic and passiveāggressive response to legitimate questions.

What a great spot! My sister and I went here to see "I Am Not Your Negro". We originally thought we were going to have to travel into the suburbs to see this movie. Then we found this place, and our first thought, honestly, was "wow... looks a little sketch." Couldn't be more wrong. The theatres are intimate and cozy, the picture and sound quality is fantastic, and the goodies are very reasonably priced. And the movies! There is a fantastic place in Midtown where you can see those great documentaries and indie/foreign films that you've wanted to check out! The staff is amazing, the vibe is perfect, and they have a parking lot! If I owned a theatre, this is exactly what I would want it to be. read more

Had a great time in this theater. A fun event put on for the 48 Hour Film Project. Looking forward to going back sometime. Definitely a hidden gem. read more

If you want to see an indie film, this is the place to do it. Two screens, one in a fun screening room that is small and cozy and one larger one with movie theatre style seating. The concessions are perfectly priced...the popcorn is the best AND they have Faygo. Next time skip the Main Art and check out Cinema Detroit. read more

I took both of my daughters and son-in-law to see Donnie Darko. We all loved the unique atmosphere of the theater with the exposed brick, and the comfort of the genuine theater-style seating. There is a cool lounge area near the concessions (which were super affordable, BTW), and it was a nice place to sit for a few after the film. Apparently, a couple from the area owns and runs the theater themselves, and from what I can tell, they are doing an excellent job. We will definitely be back! read more

I go here once a year when they air the Sundance fun festival shorts. It's always an amazing experience and hope they Continue to run this feature in the future read more

Unique place to watch indie films. Don't expect fancy reclining seats - it is all about the quality cinema here. Definitely worth checking out. read more

Excellent place to watch an independent or foreign film. I have seen a half dozen movies here, and they have all been good, which makes me ask why I don't go more often? I like the two theaters- one very small and cozy, the other roomier with some camaraderie. Check it out for yourself! read more

I guess the best way that I could describe this venue is quirky. As you enter, the lobby has the feel of a living room with couches, tables and other homie comforts. This area is located near a staircase seemingly in its original wood. I believe it goes to an additional theater space , but can't be sure because we didn't tour the facility . Prior visits here to bring my daughter to their last showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show make me privy to the fact that tickets are purchased at the same counter as the concessions. Speaking of the concessions they're quite interesting, offering small and medium popcorn plain, no butter is offered. They do however have several shake on flavorings, including a vegan yeast that has a cheesey like taste. Also beverages mainly consist of local sodas Coca-Cola and a bottled ginger beer. They have a small selection of candies. It is definitely not a modern theater setup nor is it reminiscent of older movie houses such as Old Redford. It feels almost like a pop-up movie theater. But still, it is a fun location and I will be returning. read more

As a cinephile, what better way to watch great films than in a former school building in downtown Detroit? Growing up in the city, it has been decades since I saw a film in the city, so it's my pleasure to visit and support such a wonderful cinema. There are two screening rooms set up in what used to be auditoriums of the former school. I like the museum aspects of the venue as when you enter into the theater, there are rare and fantastic projection tools from over 50 years ago! If just for the experience, please visit Cinema Detroit at least once. read more

Had the best day ever here!! We got to watch Isle of Dogs with our dog & a ton of other dogs! I loved coming to this theater before this event & hope they continue to host these fun dog friendly movies!! read more

Saw cinema on Channel 62 Eye on Detroit. Thoroughly enjoyed Sound of Redemption The Story of Frank Morgan. My husband and I visited yesterday for first time. Bought tickets on line directions to theater perfect. Plenty enclosed parking. Tim, received us warmly upon entering with the aroma of fresh popcorn being made. Same level, 3 bathrooms clean with attendant very visible. 2 viewing rooms. Main room had very comfy theater type seats. The smaller of two rooms ok. Old sofas, chairs and folding chairs your choice. All in small audience clapped at end of film. Overall good experience will return. read more