What a Gem! This is in such a random location, but is an awesome place. Very cute, old school and with that touch of good customer service. It's not a chain and seems to be run by a family who were all nice. The lady at the concession stand even asked if the temperature inside the theater was too cold so she could adjust the temperature. Thoughtful! You gotta love that personal touch. Place: I found this theater charming. Feels and looks like it's a theater from a small town in somewhere, USA. Don't come here and expect your "normal" chain theater dealings, enjoy it for what it is, an experience. There's only one show room. With a really huge screen and plenty of seating! Suggestion: Bring a cushion for you to sit on, maybe one of those they sell for baseball game seats, your bottom will thank you later! After all the seats are kind of like stadium seats, these however did have very little cushioning and this will get uncomfortable over time. The concession stand has the usual items you'd find in chain theaters, but also offers other items like a variety of chips/candy selections, Energy drinks/ juices and coffee. I do want to note that the pop corn was slightly different when I went because it wasn't buttery and I'm making the assumption that because of the low volume in people they might have received, it might have not been as fresh.... Prices: The prices are great! For both the tickets & at the concession stand. No arm & leg prices to get you here, but just fair pricing. Monday's they have specials on ticket prices too and I believe they do other days as well. Parking: There's street parking and they also have a parking lot to the left of them (if you are facing the front of the theater) that's free and had plenty of parking when we went. Enjoy! read more

Gardena Cinema - As soon as you walk in you hit the concession stand. Which is adorable and old school. - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

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I attended a Prince event called Take Me with You. It was the movie Purple Rain and DJs after the movie. It was such a fun night. I had a hotdog and drink the food was good. It's a movie theater, so it had your typical refreshments. The theater is an older one, so the seats are a little uncomfortable. It was a fun idea to be able to dance and move around to all the best Prince songs after the movie. I hope they continue to do events like this! read more

Movie theatres aren't dying there's just too many multiplexes showing the same boring junk. Real movie fans will always want to see film on a screen and thankfully it seems Gardena Cinema has a good chance of making it since they moved away from first runs. Not having to drive to midCity/Wilshire is a giant plus. read more

Wish I could go to this cinema, but I'm 1 hour away! I might just make the drive. I just watched a story on the news and it's a theatre that transports you back in time. Makes me very nostalgic! Hope the community rallies and visits the theatre! They need patrons! Please help out the theatre! read more

Amazing small place don't take anything personal just enjoy everything that is there and praise the fact that someone alone has been working hard to keep that place alive its awesome read more

Enjoyed the screening of Every Which Way But Loose with Clint Eastwood. It's a quirky and fun film. Gardena Cinema is a great family run business. It's essential that we continue to support family run businesses that strive to innovate and deliver a great customer experience. Covid19 has been devastating for movie theatre operators. Let's do what's necessary to support these vital pillars of community entertainment. From the Great Depression to Covid19, these establishments have provided an escape from the challenges of everyday life. read more

Super fun night at the Gardena Cinema drive in! It was very well run by friendly staff who helped with keeping the vehicles spaced well apart. Everyone was wearing masks while outside and the snack bar was socially distanced well. We really enjoyed seeing Back to the Future! read more

Gardena Cinema - Parked at the drive in before the movie! - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

Absolutely love this place me and bf come here quite often and it's always clean, staff is always very helpful and friendly. Very good service. Love this place read more

Saw a Tiktok saying it's in danger of closing down I hope that's not true me and family would always go here when we were younger it's also the last family owned movie theater in Los Angeles read more

First time coming here to watch the Mario movie with my daughter and brother and I honestly liked it! The popcorn was good, the nachos were okay but other than that staff were friendly and makes it feel like my childhood definitely will be coming back! read more

This is my second time at this cinema and I got to say prices are fair not only per tickets but for goodies too. Please keep in mind this place is old school and like other reviews say: you get what you pay for but if you're open minded and don't mind having certain luxuries that big chain theaters now days have, then you might enjoy a movie here. Also on Monday's are $5.00 and Tuesday's have movies with Spanish subtitles. read more

I was so excited to try this little local threater. I took my two daughters (6 and 2) and my sister to see Aladdin on a Monday. The man selling tickets told me I had to pay for 4 tickets because it was Monday. But right in front of me was a sign saying no walking kids were free. Then he tired to say if I bought 3 tickets at normal price I'd still be spending more then 20 dollars. So I should buy the 4 tickets. It ashame to see local businesses trying to rip off people. Your sign clearly says my daughter is free. But because we came on the 5 dollar mondays, you wanna upcharge us. How is that right or fair?? read more

Gardena Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

I love this theater. It is nasty, run down, no parking, old uncomfortable seats, old structures in bathroom, only one movie showing and video games that are turned OFF. Why go? The tickets are cheap. The concessions are cheap. The sound system is good. The screen is actually clean and they focus their films. Pre film entertainment is weird. There is a recorded announcement before the movies that drones on and on about trash, not drinking alcohol, etc. and then repeated in Spanish. Go a little later or hang out in the lobby. There is a balcony available for parties. You will never have trouble finding a seat. The auditorium is HUGE. There is only street parking, so you'll have to hunt for a spot in front. The concessions are cheap, so you can see a movie and get something to munch on for less than $20. (When was the last time you could do that in a chain theater?) The owners are nice. They will offer you posters and other promotional materials. Theyhave a customer loyalty card, too. Check around town for fliers to get free popcorn. You just buy a drink. What a deal! The popcorn is made fresh and they even have flavored salts. What it lacks in amenities is made up in service and cheap prices. I always look to see what is showing first, before going to another theater. read more

This cinema is amazing. I'm not sure where the parking is exactly. We parked in the front of the cinema. Free 3 hour parking. $9 a ticket for general admission. The man gave us our tickets then walked around to unlock the door. It was nice to know that this place is safe. The lobby area is small. I believe they only have 1 theatre, maybe 2? The lady owner was so nice! Took our concession order. We got a pizza combo (two slices and a drink for $5). I'm not sure if this is every day or just a special. She heated up our pizza without us asking. I thought that just showed the care and quality they put into their business. There were 2 workers cleaning the theatre as we were walking in to sit. They even apologized for the popcorn mess. Both workers were so nice. This is such a cool spot!!! I wish Las Vegas had a place like this. read more

Gardena Cinema - Sitting in the theatre - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

Lots of seating, parking, and tasty snacks. I love supporting small businesses. Will definitely be back. Had an auditorium feel to it. Great lounge music while you wait for show to start. read more

Gardena Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

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Service is always great when I come here. Usually there aren't a lot of people here and you get the whole theater to yourself. They have popcorn, nachos, and everything available at the snack bar for a reasonable price. Tickets prices are around $9. read more

I can't Believe there is still such a thing as a family run and owned movie theater. five dollar Mondays? Wow. And still first run movies. I will be coming back over and over to this place and bring my friends. Also, they have original movie posters for only $20. Great gifts. read more

I remember coming here when i was little and i loved it I thought I can continue the tradition and bring my daughter we came to watch aladdin when i went to buy a ticket they charged me for my daughter even though shes one and she doesnt walk yet according to their sign they dont charge non walking children and then i went ahead and purchased popcorn and soda I proceeded to add jalapeños and popcorn seasoning which tasted old and expired cus the seasoning was stuck together which should had been a red flag for me it made me throw away my snacks because it tasted old this theater would gotten 5 stars if the service was better and their snacks need to be more fresher and buy new stuff dont just saved whats left and re use it i dont know if i would ever come back again read more

Gardena Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

I had no idea this place even existed but I'm so glad I found it now! It's true that there is only one movie room (which has like at least 250 seats) and they only show one movie for a several-week period. But, you come here for the price! Unlike other movie theaters that cost anywhere from $15-$20 for a non-matinee show, this theater only charges a max of $9 for the ticket. And you'll be watching one of the hottest movies to come out at the time. The seats are old fashioned, but still comfortable and the screen quality is good. Plus, it's kinda neat to be sitting in a huge theater, with only a few people. It almost makes the movie more enjoyable since you don't deal with the noise that usually comes from other theaters that are full of movie-goers. I even heard that popcorn is only $4! Would definitely come here again the next time a great movie is playing. Parking: I heard that there are a few spots available in a nearby lot. But, the theater is also close to a residential area, so I was able to find street parking without any difficulty. read more

Found an event at this drive in because I was searching for a showing of Twilight or any of the films in the Saga (just an idea) but found a showing of Grease instead. I always wanted to see Grease at a drive in so my friend and I bought a ticket. The gates opened at 6:30 but we got there at 7:10. We had no trouble coming in. The staff was great and so nice and all had masks. We were shown to our parking spot. Something to keep in mind is that this parking lot is small. Didn't affect our experience in anyway just pointing out that tickets might be limited. The event we went to sold out and they added a second showing at the last minute. They also put taller cars in the back. Smaller cars are in the front. All spots were distanced. They had a dj playing music. You could bring in your own food or buy stuff at the concession stand which was open but you must wear a face mask. You could also use the restrooms inside the lobby. The restrooms were nice and clean. Everything was socially distanced. After the movie, we had a little car trouble. My car was not turning on for whatever reason even though we had the car off during the showing as I have a portable radio and didn't need my car radio. We were looking around for help and the staff came and they had a portable generator and gave us a charge. I don't know if they always have that or if someone saw us struggling and let the staff borrow it but either way, we were grateful. We would definitely come again! read more

Gardena Cinema - Drive in view - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

I'll just keep it simple. Last time coming here. Service was horrible. The ticket holder rejected our entrance just because we couldn't understand one another. Just tossed my credit card back at me through the slot and said see you tomorrow. People just be aware of bad service here. He was probably having a bad day.Any who thanks. Wouldn't recommend to come here anymore.... read more

Cute little cinema near my house I have been wanted to go to for years. Decided to finally go especially to support a family business. The male at the ticket counter was a little rude but maybe he was having a bad day. The cinema is very cute I liked to set up. The room was chilly and the seats were uncomfortable but in all I liked the experience of a non cooperate cinema. Parking is easy and free, I would for sure go back and support them. read more

Family owned & operated. I was a little sketchy at first but once I went inside I LOVED how it looked and felt. Vintage, Old School vibes. The staff was friendly and polite. Good pricing on tix, about 9 dollars for General admission but online I bought a ticket for 11 that included a small popcorn too. Snack Bar has everything you would want including chips that regular theaters wouldn't sell. It's a one screen Cinema so the the screen is HUGE as well as space for seating. I truly enjoyed it & loved how different it is from your typical movie theater. Would def come here again and would recommend any one to this place especially for a family outing. Has space for all! read more

First time watching a movie at this theater. I've lived in Hawthorne for about four years now and this mom n pop theater is playing a movie I want to watch. Ok, it's totally old school but it's not crowded, considering It is a new movie. Oh did I mention it's $9 for adults!! And just in case you're wondering, they do accept debit cards. read more

Gardena Cinema - Finally watching It! First time watching a movie here. Totally old school, however it's not crowded and the tickets are cheap! - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

This might be one of the tackiest theaters I've seen in a long time. To some people a theater that looks like it hasn't been remodeled since the 50's considered quaint, I guess. The area is shady, there's only street parking, and the staff was highly uncooperative. Appearently the beauty shop next door is run by a VERY territorial woman, that's possesive, and unnessarily confrontational about "HER" spot in front of the theater. (keep in mind, there are no parking spots) This person went as far as to try yelling, and bullying for the spot out front. Once the manager heard the ruckus of this incident he did nothing to de-escalate the situation, instead turned to appease the beauty shop lady, and wanted us to find another spot on the street, since this was "HER" spot on the street. No problem, we moved and took our business elsewhere, since our patronage wasn't wanted, or appreciated. We now know how this theater operates, and treats it's customers. We will not be back, and will be informing everyone we can about this establishment. read more

Went to Gardena Cinema to watch Beetlejuice. Due to Covid the cinema is showing movies in the parking lot drive-in style. Cool 75 year old cinema family owned and operated since 1976. The staff was nice and friendly. I would definitely visit Gardena Cinema again! read more

I live near by and decided to give this theater a try. I really wanted to like it as I live close, however, two things make me want to give it a one star. One, my daughter is one and a half and the man at the booth charged me for her. I've never paid for her, in other theaters if they are under two they are free. I asked him if she gives me a hard time and doesn't want to watch the movie (zootopia) will he give me a refund if we step out at a certain time. He said no. If you don't have kids you probably have never struggled w this or even know these standard theater policies. Normally they do refund you if you step out before half of the movie time. We decided to pay all three tickets since we were already there. We went in and... Two, we bought nachos and the lady was about give us our nachos on a dirty tray, when she realized that the paper in the tray was dirty (had cheese and don't know what else) instead of giving us a clean tray all she did was change the paper on the tray. The sides of the tray (more like a small basket) were dirty. I asked her if she was going to give us a clean tray and she said that she already changed the paper. Sadly will not be coming here to ever again. I ended up paying much more as I had to pay for my toddler that ended up sitting on my lap anyway, than if I would've gone be o the galleria or Del Amo as they wouldn't charge me for her. read more

I love this place!!! Cute mom & pop set up. The people who work there are so sweet! There are a TON of seats but we practically had the whole place to ourselves. Tickets for Aladdin were $9 they have popcorn and nachos! Perfect date night spot!! read more

Wasn't the best experience I didn't like the vibe of the place Looks dirty I felt dirty When i went inside the theater it was only me my sisters And no one else I got some popcorn it was literally on the display and already served It was probably sitting there all day I got some stale nachos And a drink for $20 I fell asleep half way And when I woke up my neck hurt ;( The chairs have no support I would rather pay more to have better quality service read more

Life is dull. So movies give people the chance to experience things they can only dream about. That being said, when the movie is over and done with, sad sad reality is waiting for you: that you've ended up shelling out more than $15 at AMC or the like for something that is nothing more than what dreams are made of. Having said that, the Gardena Cinema can keep you dreaming... in 3D!! I paid $20 for 2 of us to enter into the 3Dreaminess world of Baggins and the whole whole gang (this was a while back ago). A cozy theater! I second the whole flashback to the 80's lobby reference someone made. But you don't go for food. Go to keep dreaming! read more

I like to go to Gardena Cinema with my family, It reminds me of going to the movies when I was a kid, big screen, big marquee with the title of what's playing on it. Best of all it's right around the corner from my house. Another plus is that it is family owned and operated. They remember us and and always chit chat with my kids and ask how are they doing. I think they put in a new digital sound system and projector last year. If you live in the Gardena area stop by and give them a try. read more

Gardena Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

Dislike the theatre, the candy was expired a nd they would not replace nor give me my money back. The owners are mean.

Back to the 70's this place is. Except none of the 70's crowd is present but has all the pre-chain invasion mom and pop atmosphere. The place is huge inside with a nice big ceiling with blue hue and specs that makes you think of star lit night, very moody. I usually find parking on the street but I've used the Korean Market's parking lot (security guard saw me going and coming from the theater area and I wasn't warned), just return before they lock up. It's a huge change in pace compared to the chain theaters and that's why I come here. The seats are from the 70's so take a cushion if you're planning on seeing long movie. One minor grip is sometimes the far left and right edges of the movie overlaps the curtain but no biggie (the huge red curtain parts when the show starts, another nice touch). Friendly family owned place with friendly service. They do their best to keep the place from turning into a ghetto scene and they're doing a good job, you can relax and take your entire family there (or a book to read before the show if going alone, just fantastic). read more

We went for the first time today. We walked in and I felt like I was in the old days. It was so nice to see something stay simple because it works. The staff was super friendly and the snacks at the snack bar we're affordable. I will be taking my kids back for sure. During the winter definitely wear your coats it's a little chilly in that big theater read more

Gardena Cinema is a mom and pop theatre on Crenshaw in Gardena. The seats are not exceptionally comfortable nor well-spaced but so what. Support your local independent theatre for a change. My son and I saw Transformers here and the screen and sound were equally impressive to that of the huge modern chains. No, this isn't a pretty place. This is not modern and upgraded. This is your hep granddad and grandma's venue. Be thankful that these still exist where you don't have to drink Dasani and worry about how you look. You might be there in the theatre alone. Enjoy! read more

Gardena Cinema - My son and I enjoying an empty theatre and loving it. #GardenaCinema - Cinema Near Me - Gardena, California

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I love this theater it is Sensory friendly to families who have special need children. This theater is run by a wonderful caring family who care about their community and the families affected by autism and other disabilities. The coolest thing that most people never realize is the " Balcony". The Gardena Cinema has a balcony area that features over 100 seats to throw a theater party. I have had the pleasure of throwing my kids over 5 movie party there. The owner is so welcoming to families decorating for movies like Avengers, or Thor anything. The price is affordable and reasonable with booking a date and set time. The balcony is sound proof kids can make as much noise as possible while eating pizza and watching the move. This is the best part of this theater that I have grown to love and admire. Check it out and ask about throwing a movie party in the balcony private area, it totally ROCKS ! read more

It's like a time capsule. Cinema from the 60s, used to be Spanish only in its hay day. The staff are lovely. They speak Spanish and English. They show movies in Spanish every Tuesday. The prices are affordable. Support your community!!! Si eres hispano o estás buscando un cine donde den películas originales o dobladas al español pásate por el Gardena read more

I'm a mother of two boys with autism and to say this place is our gem! The family is so nice and caring the prices are affordable they have specials on Monday and Spanish on Tuesdays it's a place that needs so much more business! It's a classic style theater and very cozy atmosphere we love it! read more

Great price fresh popcorn all the time lots of parking I really like this place new movies without the expensive price the employees are friendly and very accommodating this is like a big home theater read more

Wow. Really nice theater in Gardena. This theater is from the late 1940s. It has that vintage feel and it's clean. Staff is friendly and personable which is always a plus. The theatre is huge!!!! This was our first time here and we'll definitely come back..It's nice to come to a local place instead of going to a big chain theater because of the drive, privacy and always great to support local businesses. I hope you check it out! read more