I don't think I had ever been to this theater actually. Small independent theaters are becoming harder to find and glad this still exists on Houston Street on the west side. It's been around since about 1970. I went to see something called "No Picnic" the other weekend. Trust me, it's artsy as hell but it was neat to see images of old New York in the 80's. Most films are not main stream, are independent, foreign, or they will have some nostalgia throw backs. I saw Ninja Turtles (the og) is playing soon as well as The Muppet Movie and Young Frankenstein. I didn't hit up the concessions but they have the usual goods and a small selection of beer on top of soda bevs. I feel like if you are trying to impress someone on a date this is more quirky than just taking them to a regular AMC. read more

The Film Forum is a treasure for NYC and offers such a great lineup as a repertory cinema house. Here one can feast on foreign, independent and documentary style films seldom seen elsewhere. Those who have interest in a director, producer, actor or actress can get their fill over the course of a week or two featuring such artists, often with the choice of the original 35mm film format, restored and remastered films and/or modern digital formats. The only budget conscious considerations and constraints are the audio and acoustic qualities and the seating will not be on par with mainstream theaters. In exchange, one will take away rich and unique experiences never matched at mainstream cinema houses. If you're keeping tabs on the Film Forum, you can catch the directors, producers, writers, and actors in conversation, presentation and response from audience questions at the premiere of the films on Fridays and the weekends. I'm usually working too much and miss these lectures and presentations, which always sell out quickly. I saw Dread Beat an Blood last week about Linton Kwesi Johnson, the famed Jamaican Dub Beat and Poet artist who spent his teen and adult years in Brixton. Where else could you see this? Only at the Film Forum. Have no fear of the price of concessions. They don't beat you over the head with their prices and a large bag of popcorn I can salt to my tastes is my preference with a bottle of water or beer. The baked goods always look tempting... I have seen films here at the Film Forum far more often than I review the repertory cinema house, but the experience is consistently good to great and feeds the mind as much as a feast for eyes. 4.5 stars! read more

This was my first time visiting this movie theater to see a indie movie. My experience was cool the popcorn and soda was cheap I believe it was $5 each. Pop corn was fresh it didn't come with salt but they had the salt on the side you can add it yourself. Which I actually respect because sometimes you don't want your popcorn salty. The menu was full with baked goods, tea, coffee whatever you like they had it there. The seats are comfortable it wasn't packed inside so everyone was seating all over. I had the whole row to myself. I would recommend this theater to anyone looking to watch indie movies or just experience the vibe. Staff were very helpful with everything I believe adult tickets are $18. Everyone should go watch a movie !!! read more

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Simply the BEST film programming, the Film Forum is one of the BEST reasons to live downtown; delicious concession stand offering the BEST unsalted popcorn in the Universe! This beloved theater is hip, cool, current & old school. I've been coming here for years! Thank you, Team Film Forum! You are wonderful. Concession Stand Faves; Popcorn (ask for a punch card) Dark Chocolate Vegan Cupcake Egg Cream Soda Seltzer! read more

Film Forum - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

Excellent independent film theatre - good selection of movies and clean! Excellent, excellent banana bread - moist and flavorful! Go really well with either coffee or tea. High recommended. We bought a loaf back to California as souvenir! read more

Film Forum - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

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I love you Yes I love Film Forum Great popcorn too! Just go. Do it. Today. What a fantastic cinema read more

Film Forum - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

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Always fabulous. Great Films! Art Films. Always at least one great movie or more than one.

I used to go to the Film Forum all the time in college but I hadn't been in ages until I visited a week or so ago when I was in NYC over Labor Day weekend for a spontaneous solo weekend. It's a nonprofit cinema that's been around since 1970. But what makes it really special is its programming. It screens some really special retrospectives, classic films, and interesting new independent films. I visited during their Spielberg Festival and saw a Spielberg I'd never seen before (Close Encounters of the Third Kind). The film was great, but the Film Forum makes movies special. It's old school (don't expect recliners and in-theater food service here) but has a great concessions bar (love a concessions bar with real espresso machine so I can get some caffeine before a movie if I need a pick me up). And you can know that Film Forum cares about movies - about exposing people to movies they haven't seen or might have a hard time accessing, about getting people to love film. Just a great and classic NYC movie theater. Definitely check them out and support a great independent cinema if you love movies or want to learn more about them or just want to experience a NYC classic. read more

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Such a community! I love it here and the movies they choose to show. THE BAKERY!!!!! It's a silent sneak attack. So good! read more

New York's classic art house cinema. Good prices, professional screenings and good refreshments. The programming of the films is top notch. If you love film this is the place for you. read more

Film Forum - The screening of Eno. A film that is never the same. - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

pretty cool theater, felt more elite than just a typical movie theater. they however don't offer butter for the popcorn, only salt. so if you're a glutton like me, just be aware of that and maybe bring butter on the side respectfully. other than that, they have a very sexy array of sweet treats like cake and cookies and brownies of sorts and that made the movie magical for me. read more

Film Forum shows the best films/movie/cinema. People with NYC ID's can get a year long free membership which allows for discounted tickets. The staff is sweet. I always leave this place with fond memories. Totally reasonably priced. The new seating is so clean and comfortable! The ushers are kind. I've always had an easy time getting tickets the day of. Film Forum is reliable for screening all my favorite films. The best place to see classic cinema. Concession stand is limited but that's not why any of us are here. A great place to support if you love film, the arts and/or what makes New York "New York." read more

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If you are a cinephile or cinema nerd like myself, Film Forum should be high on your list of movie theaters to visit. It is located in an interesting pocket of Manhattan near West Village, Greenwich Village, Little Italy, NoHo and SoHo. The fact it is still there after many decades is a triumph in itself. It has outlived many theaters in the city. I was reminded of how much I value and appreciate Film Forum when Richard Roundtree passed away recently. Film Forum is the cinema where I first saw Gordon Parks's iconic '70s classic "Shaft" many moons ago. So glad this place is still here. read more

For movies, 5-stars. But I think they have some other issues. I came to see a movie and during the screening, a rat ran up the aisle and ran back 15 min later. I told the ticket guy and he kind of didn't seem to care or was not surprised. Another time I came early and planned to get popcorn, but first I washed my hands. The soap dispensers were too short to fit your hands under nor did they actually work. So I don't know how the employees are washing their hands with soap and water. I didn't get popcorn. Great place for movies, except for the rats. Watch your feet! read more

Hands down one of the nicest places to see a movie in Manhattan!! The film selections are excellent: from new Wave cinema, to repertory ( I. E. Hitchcock films, Doris Day) To offbeat French cinema ( recently saw a movie with Philippe Noiret) to documentaries- one on Joan Baez- this venue has it all. There is not a bad seat in the house The seats are comfortable, the place is clean , the staff is professional and the coffee bar is great( I didn't taste the popcorn-as in general I don't care for popcorn) I would definitely recommend this theatre as a great place to spend an afternoon. Many a cinephile has spent portions of their days here!!!!! read more

Never disappointed!!! Coming back soon for ancora...... especially for foreign movies read more

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I have loved the Film Forum forever! But please...provide customer service training to the grumpy, dismissive, almost hostile public facing staff. read more

Classic King Kong as a double feature presented by Francis Ford Coppola in 35 mm glory. Become a supporter and purchase a membership for $125, to receive benefits and discounts of an expanse variety. The seating is comfortable, the theater is modern and the walls are decorated with sketches and tributes to films of long ago. Everything is convenient and accessible which I appreciate. The staff is a collection of young film lovers, and patrons that support the theater range from the neighbors kids, to the elderly 94 year old man who would not miss an opportunity to see King Kong, alone ...enjoying his solitude. Along with the IFC, and City Cinemas, local independent theaters, with the support of the community, thriving. read more

Easy film experience at the Film Forum. Bought ticket online, just before the showing of Amazing Grace sold out. They're very organized, and had relatively large crowds of excited moviegoers to wrangle. The wait is not for the faint of heart. At least the weather was cooperating! I dont think I'd brave the rain or snow to wait 30-45 minutes outside. Nice comfy seats. Still a big fan and enjoy movie showings here. read more

Film Forum - Moving documentary of Aretha Franklin's 1972 gospel concert in Los Angeles - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

I absolutely am a cinephile, film buff or whatever you want to call it; I love movies. When i heard about this place I just knew I had to pay a visit. Luckily for me, my stay in NYC coincided with the Film Forum's "The Complete Hitchcock" month. Not only was I able to watch one of Hitchcock's great works on the big screen, but it was Psycho no less. For its size, the Film Forum hold a decent amount of people per screening room, id say 100 or so. The screen is not your theater screen, but still fairly large. Regardless, I love the cinematic experience one gets from watching a film in a room with a bunch of strangers, it add an extra layer to the film. I am glad that this theater exists and classics are still being shown to the masses. Tickets are $14.50 per ticket, but well worth it to see a classic. My showing of Psycho started at 5:30, and when I got there at 5:10 there already was a large line waiting. My suggestion would be to buy your ticket online and to show up early to the box office to pick up your ticket and get into line. read more

Film Forum - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

Great selection of movies but horrible staff and customer service. All of them: the box office person, the ushers, and the rest are seemingly totally bored and upset with their jobs and show no consideration or pleasantness towards customers. I have witnessed this during 5 recent visits. One example: Even if it is storming weather outside, the staff refuses to let people (and the majority are elderly) in a few minutes early. They see that people are suffering outside but they will only open 1 minute after 12. Why so nasty and inconsiderate? read more

Much like its selection of cinema, this venue is not cookie cutter. Just as you won't experience the latest action blockbuster here, do not expect stadium seating or reclining seats often found in larger theater chains at the suburban mall. I mean this in the most complimentary way possible. Film Forum frequently debuts and screens quality, under-the-radar films. For instance, you may find a new release that you'll likely not be able to catch anywhere else (except perhaps the Angelica) not only in NYC, but in the entire country due to its independent or foreign nature. You may even find them showing a re-release of a classic, much beloved gem. During my recent visit I attended a limited engagement; Film Forum was screening the latest installment in a British documentary series (the only opportunity to see it until its released on DVD). A prior visit included a screening of Tampopo - a wonderful, albeit hard to find, Japanese comedy from the 80s about ramen. Attending a screening here is a cultural experience in and of itself, because of what they carefully select to show, you'll be sure to enjoy something enriching. Audiences are aware of this as well and you can sense it in the respectful nature of fellow movie goers. There is no talking or cell phone use, it's a very pleasant experience. read more

Film Forum - Exterior at night - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

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I love the Film Forum and am a member. A+ on film selection and staff so I hate to complain, but...today when I was there I noticed the seats are very uncomfortable. Before they renovated everything was fine. The new seats seem to have a headrest of sorts (for short people) but I'm tall and so it wasn't a great feature, plus the seat cushioning is rock-hard. Otherwise the movie was great and I'm so thankful they've reopened. read more

A standard when it comes to special movies or those hard to find old classics. The seats could be more comfortable but over all a good place to go and enjoy the best worldwide filmmaking has to offer . read more

Film Forum - Entrance and banner - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

When visiting a city like Paris I am thrilled with it's many pleasures, not the least of which include the dozens upon dozens of repertory movie houses, old fleapit cinemas, Art Deco theaters, screening rooms, and so on. An embarrassment of cinematic riches that city holds; being constrained to DVD is a non-issue, unlike living in the subs of Pennsylvania where it is a maddening reality. The cinema experience, particularly for older films (especially those not on dvd!) is invaluable, which is why I try as often as I can to trek up to the Film Forum, my absolute favorite theater in what is the most important American city for cinephiles. Director's retrospectives, special engagements with equally special presenters, shining beautifully restored revivals, fascinating foreign fare and independent homegrown attractions, excellently chosen double features, themed seasons... I could go on and on in description of everything that makes the Film Forum's programming amazing. Even things that normally irk about going to local multiplexes make me happy as a clam here- I personally love that I have to make sure to come extra-early to buy my ticket* and stand in a substantial line for something like Godard's "Made in USA" , its a joy to be surrounded by people who love movies as much as I do....although occasionally, you do run into a Woody-Allen-In-Annie-Hall-visiting-the-Forum type experience.... I even love the one or two blinking individuals with a million shopping bags crinkling all through the previews. It is a perfect cinematic haven, and well worth the pricey ticket and the trek up. I only wish I lived down the road. *cash only read more

Film Forum - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

Leave it to the Film Forum to louse up its renovation. They previously had the most uncomfortable seating---by far---of any movie theater known to mankind. So this spring they embarked upon a renovation project, one of whose aims was specifically to make the seating more comfortable. Well, guess what? They didn't. There is more leg room, but the seats are just as narrow and now they are HARD. Hard as in "squirm" hard. How'd you manage that, Film Forum? You had to do just one thing and you loused it up. And I'm not even getting into the programming, which is a mixed bag at best. Or that double features have been largely eliminated. Or that ... (etc.) read more

We came for a screening of Casablanca in 35mm. This is one of my favorite films so I didn't want to miss it, of course the movie is still one of the best ever made but not here to review that. Buying tickets was painless online and made it a lot easier once the line started to go out the door, so I recommend that highly. Pro-Tip, your receipt gets you an actual ticket at a scanner there, it is NOT your ticket. I am not into artsy, indie, avant-garde foreign films, just not my thing, but that's obviously their bread and butter here, but occasionally they show classics, which I love. The concession stand there was nice with options like coffee and pastries, but also popcorn, but it's kinda bland with only some sea salt for it. The theater we were in was long and narrow but with staggered slight rise seating so you could see well. But, obviously it's New York, the seats are tiny and I had a tall guy's knees in my back for 2 hours, not the most comfortable movie going experience, but this isn't Loew's and that's not a bad thing. The bathrooms were crazy tiny, so if you can hold it go elsewhere when your movie lets out. Overall, I'd come to see some classics when they show them again but that would be the only way to get me back. read more

Film Forum - Cinema Near Me - New York, New York

I love this theater! It's small but it's not meant for huge blockbusters. I came on a Saturday afternoon and the room wasn't completely full. They sell the usual movie theater staples like popcorn and soda. BUT they also have baked goods (like real baked goods!) and even lattes and coffees. WHAT? Awesome! The staff was extremely friendly. I didn't have my ticket stub to run to the ladies room but they let me go back in - no worries and even told me where the bathrooms were. The bathrooms aren't overly cramped and tiny - like the rest of NYC. They're really, really clean and brightly lit. They didn't smell or anything. Huge props for that. Also, the patrons knew movie theater etiquette. Didn't see a SINGLE phone go off or someone texting. No one purposely sat RIGHT in front of another person (therefore, blocking my view) and no talking throughout the film. No one put their leg up on the chair in front of them (what magical theater is this?)! Definitely would go back!!! This is much better than most theaters and the patrons and staff make it even better! read more

Film Forum is perhaps the best place in the city to see retrospectives, reissues, classic films, foreign films, and independent films, all at once. Their list of films, in fact, usually includes a classic plus two new films. Perhaps the screens are not that big, and the seats not the most comfortable, but here I got the opportunity to see on the big screen some films that I only saw on TV when I was a kid in Italy, like Pietro Germi's "Divorzio all'italiana"[1], Alberto Lattuada's "Il Mafioso"[2], or Robert Altman's "The long goodbye"[3], to just mention a few. Only at Film Forum you can get a series about the original Godzilla movies from Japan and, more recently, one about Akira Kurosawa, one of my favorite directors of all times. I even like the smell of popcorn in this place! An extra star for being nonprofit. Since 1970. ----------------------------------------- [1] http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0055913/ [2] http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056210/ [3] http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0070334/ read more

Great programming curated with care and a true love of film always brings me back to Film Forum. If you check it out for a first time and nothing catches your curiosity, keep checking back or get on the mailing list because there are real treasures to be found at Film Forum. read more

I'm a big movie goer so I love the whole big experience of going to a movie complete with the crowd, the big screens, popcorn smell in the air and so on. Going to the Film Forum was a very different experience. Geared towards foreign and sometimes obscure fare, this theater has a much more intimate feel to it than your average multiplex. I found this to be the theater's strength. Even though the interior looks like it has been renovated in recent time, there are still elements of a "neighborhood theater charm" present including the black tiles with white letters used to spell out the names of movies over each theater entrance. The staff of the theater is friendly and the wait on line to get into our showing of "Metropolis" was not long at all. When I got into the theater, I was surprised how small it was, and how small the screen was compared to what I am used to seeing. While the seating does angle up slightly as you get towards the back of the theater, the slope isn't very high so if you're not super tall like me, you'll need to find just the right seat where you don't have 6' 2" guys sitting right in front of you. While the screen may not be super huge, I quickly forgot that as I became engrossed in the movie. The seat was a bit uncomfortable, but it was smaller than your average modern day seat, a reminder of just how long this theater has been around. This is hardly my favorite movie theater of all time, but it definitely has a lot going for it, and if other movies pop up in the future that interest me here I'll look forward to that visit! read more

I came here on a Sunday to see a Kurosawa film and was pleasantly surprised by the venue and the movie ;-) This place is pretty plain but it makes up for it by showing great foreign films, movie classics, indie films and the forgotten flicks. I really appreciate places that are unique and holds its own character. This is def one of those places. Don't expect an IMAX screen or fancy reclining chairs, but do expect a great 2 -3 hours re-discovering an old movie classic or an unheard of indie phenomenal! FYI: this place is cash only. read more

An oasis for fans of classic cinema, the pretentious set, and older folks from the neighborhood. Friendly, indy vibe, extremely well-behaved crowds (those grandmas won't be throwing popcorn at Fellini and Antonioni retrospectives), and beautiful restorations of half-forgotten foreign and domestic gems are always on offer. Go for a date, become a member, or just come hide away from the world outside. It wouldn't hurt to start accepting credit cards, but I'm just glad it exists. read more

Film Forum is a wonderful way to experience new indie films, retrospectives, classic films, foreign arts films and is a vital hub for a filmmaker and those who love film. New seats bring more legroom though still not super comfortable. Staff is polite and informed. I've not had any concession food so I can't speak to that, but I get there as often as I can. As these types of venues are shutting down lately, it's vital that we give our support to a place like Film Forum so that we can continue to be lucky enough to have the opportunity to see such a vast array of work. read more

One of my favorite indie film theaters. This place is small with only three screens, but it makes up for it with the dedication that goes into curating their movies. The entire theater​ has a super retro vibe and cool interior touches like the spare theater​ seats in the lobby. This theater isn't going to knock your socks off. The seating is a little uncomfortable, ​the concession​ stand options are limited, and the theaters aren't the largest. But, with all of that aside, they offer viewers a lovely variety of older 35mm films. You come to Film Forum for the chance to see older titles and in the presence​ of fellow people who truly enjoy movies. If you're looking for a switch from the mainstream AMC or Regal blockbusters and want a quirky or throwback film, I'd recommend Film Forum. read more

Went here a while ago. The prices here are pretty cheap compared to some of the other indie places. A good place to see eclectic films. Nice staff. read more

Been coming here since 1986. If there is one thing I would wish if I was to discover a lamp with a genie, it would be that Bruce Goldstein would live another hundred years and keep programming and that the Forum would continue as New York City continues to crumble and the rents keep rising to $13,000 a month, which is what the apartment I lived in in midtown from 1991-95 rents for now. The reviews below, some of them, are comical in their petty complaints. Actually, it can be said that some of the clientele are of the "crusty" variety, those whom you see on the subway at 3 AM, muttering to themselves. You could provide them with a full-course Italian meal, served by butlers, and they'd complain the water in their glass was too wet. read more

My favorite place to see a movie in New York. Granted, they generally don't have any of the latest releases, but when you can come across gems like the Godfather on the silver screen, who cares? Great revolving selection of movies, easy online ticket sales, very decent non-traditional concession, and friendly staff. Half a point off for uncomfortable seats and some obscured views (e.g. support beams in the middle of some seats - nice work!) but I'll round it up to 5 stars anyway since I love this place. read more

A one of a kind theater in Manhattan. This is one of the few independent nonprofit theaters in the US. Each program is carefully curated for American indie and foreign art films. If you want to use your credit card, go to their website, or use their new Film Forum App to buy a ticket. They'll give you a confirmation code. You have to walk to a ticket machine in the lobby to get a real paper ticket. The ticket booth only accept cash. read more

Okay. So I'm a long way from Brooklyn. Being up in the Boogie Down Bronx means that I have to reorient myself. Film Forum is a good spot to catch the kind of black and white films that are often offered at some of my best food hook-ups in the BK. So it's a bit of a jaunt to get here, but not as far as it is to get to Brooklyn. The theater itself is comfortable. The seating is a bit of concern for those who like to sit far enough away that the screen looks like your tv. Which is what happened this time. I usually let the woman choose the seat, because I'll always sit too close for most. As soon as we sat down, she was concerned about someone tall sitting in front of us. I had to switch seats with her, but after that we were Copacabana cabana. I grabbed one of their calendars and planned the next two months of my life. read more

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