I enjoy seeing films at this theatre, and am so grateful it's still open, especially after all the theatres in Berkeley and Albany have closed. read more

I always try to support local theaters and thought I'd try this one but the staff was incredibly rude and unprofessional-- so I don't recommend coming here. Seeing a movie is a real luxury nowadays and it's not worth the hassle and aggravation. The Grand Lake Theater is just a few blocks away and I had a much better experience there. read more

One star for nice comfortable seating but I couldn't make out what people were saying on the soundtrack. AWFUL. Only suitable for movies with almost no dialog. read more

Excellent movies per those persons who evaluate the quality and value. Avoids inappropriate content to assure adequate content. Thanks for your service! read more

What a lovely little theater. The staff is always so helpful and kind but the two folks behind the counter today (I went to a 4:50 showing 9/4 idk what their names were!) were above and beyond in the kindness department. There was a disgruntled guest (he was in the wrong for sure) and they handled it so well and respectfully while dude was being disrespectful as hell. read more

Everything you could ever want in an historic movie theater. Make sure to see a movie on the main screen there at least once in your life. Our usher had a film reel tattoo, how cool is that! read more

The Piedmont Theatre is in a very good location in Oakland. It consistently shows great movies that don't show gratuitous violence and sex. Most importantly, it has the best friendly and long-term staff of any movie theatre that I've ever attended. read more

Yesterday, as I was walking past the Peidmont Theater, I noticed a movie that I had wanted to see was playing at this small gem of a theater--"Where the Crawdads Sing". My partner somehow had the same idea, and so we went. Peidmont Theater isn't as fancy as the Grand Lake Theater, but it still has it's own old fashioned style. There are 3 different screens. They keep the place clean and orderly. We happened to go on a Tuesday night--tickets only $7 each. The seats were comfortable. The staff was friendly. There are a lot of places to eat in the neighborhood or you can easily drive to other restaurants nearby. read more

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I love watching movies at my neighborhood theater that I can just walk to after or before a yummy Shimizu sushi and Fenton's ice cream dinner The Piedmont Theater offers the showing of 3 independent movies and is conveniently located in the heart of Piedmont Avenue, where you will not find a scarcity on dining and shopping. The prices are lower (~$10) popcorn is fresh, and the movie experience is pretty good. I love supporting local theaters, especially the ones that show the less popular independent films. read more

Piedmont Theatre - Watching The Farewell on a whim - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

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Love this theater-- such a cute and sweet local spot. I rec signing up for their free rewards program, and buying tickets online beforehand if you want to avoid waiting in line read more

If you buy the tickets online before everyone you are still seated last. The employees do nothing to help.

Love the very few historical movie theaters. Not as comfortable as the big conglomerates, but way more authentic and pleasing to be in for a movie. I always check there first before any other place. Must check. it out. read more

1st time here for a movie. Got lucky and found street parking close by right in front of Piedmont grocery and across the street from Blue Bottle coffee. Parking was free on Sunday. Saw the Parasite movie, the Korean film getting awards and Oscar buzz. This theater is an older theater that plays the indie and foreign films. Good to have these in the neighborhood. read more

I'm a sucker for historic theaters, so I was already predisposed to like the Piedmont Theatre. The fact that it's located walking distance from Fenton's is a plus, but there's enough to like about this theater to make it one of my favorite movie destinations. They offer a great selection of recent releases, with a tendency towards showing limited release/indie films. Even though the Piedmont was opened in 1917, the interior is well-maintained while maintaining the old school feel of the architecture. I've only tried the popcorn in terms of refreshments, but like all the Landmark Theaters I've been too, it's topnotch. The auditoriums are on the smaller side, so you should arrive a bit early to get good seats. Also, if you go on Saturday evenings, you get to participate in a raffle where you can get movie memorabilia and certificates to local establishments. read more

Piedmont Theatre - Since 1917! - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

I was genuinely surprised how comfortable and up to date the seats were. Normally, when you think of a classic movie theater that has been around for over a hundred years, you think small seats with springs poking you in the nether regions. Also, the sight lines from my seat to the screen are perfect. Tall guy sitting in front of me? No problem! My seat is higher up the slope, so all is good shorter people! I later struck up a conversation with the theater's assistant manager and he pointed out the hardwood floors were original, but sanded, glossed, and sealed to perfection. The whole place had an air of "people who work here and the people who come here to see movies genuinely care about this theater." Maybe because it tends to show more independent and arty films, which tend to attract a more enlightened and conscientious crowd? Who knows? I went on a Saturday night and I found out they have prizes to give out (keep your movie receipt--it has a unique number on it!) to a few lucky winners! I actually won a book ("The Tolkien Reader") and some promo photos related to the movie ("Tolkien"). See photo. The assistant manager who ran the prizes giveaway mentioned that the book was donated by Spectator Books, which is located directly across the street from the Piedmont Theatre. Nice to see two local, independent businesses helping each other succeed--patronize them both! All in all, a wonderful night that enhanced my movie going experience. I highly recommend you come to see that next intriguing independent film at the Piedmont Theatre--especially on one of the two Saturday night showings. You'll be glad you did! read more

Piedmont Theatre - Free prizes from The Piedmont Theatre! - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

The Piedmont Theater is Oakland's oldest operating movie theater at over 100 years old! (Wikipedia says it opened in 1917.) As a historical landmark, I think it's super cool with a ton of character and charm. But as a great place to watch a movie? I think it's just okay. The amenities are a bit old and dated (as expected). The theater rooms themselves are on the smaller side, so the screens are smaller, and the seats are very run-down. Think of old, tough black leather seats you might find on an old bus. Not a lot of support. Parking can be hard to come by since the theater is located right on Piedmont Ave, so it is all street parking. In the past I have had luck parking up Ridgeway Ave past the 7-11 in the neighborhoods, but you will have to walk 5-10 min so plan accordingly. In terms of pricing, adult tickets are $9.50 for matinee and $12.50 for evenings. Not over-priced, but not necessarily a deal either. I like opting for the Grand Lake Theater's $5 matinees. Overall a neat place to see an indie movie if it isn't showing anywhere else, but not my first choice. read more

Last night I thought of Marie K. (again). I won't try to add to what's been said here already. This is a fine place for a show; Piedmont Avenue perfect for date night with another. Or date night by yourself. The movie house is the perfect period at the end of an early supper, milkshake, stroll in the cemetery at dusk kind of afternoon. This will be out of context in days, so I need to hurry. I thought of Marie K. last night because I saw Midnight in Paris at the Piedmont. And that's why I'm sending this to you today. I'm weeks late. I apologize. I wasn't sure I wanted to see it, that's all. It's lovely! If you like Woody Allen or maybe just a fun well-woven story with the ironies and a not so contrived superficially cranial message that gives you a headache before the show's over (Inception) you really should check this out. Thank you Marie for reminding me of what I almost missed. read more

Old timey theater showing the latest flicks. Recently checked out Lady Bird (also 4 stars, in my opinion). Kudos for their raffle on Saturday night from local businesses and me walking away with a gift certificate to a local florist. SCORE! Popcorn tasted gnarly, so there's that. A nice selection of candy/snacks. Seats are old, but so is the theater, so don't expect those modern plush boys, 'cause that ain't happening. Overall, a solid movie theatre in a amazing location, smack dab in the middle of Piedmont. Grab some eats from any of the many restaurants, cafes and ice cream shops on Piedmont, take in a flick and make date night a total win! read more

It's small and old-timey and sometimes you the only one in there, munching popcorn with the projector man and residual ghosts from 1979. Mad nice. Proper. read more

Love the charm, love the more independent films! It's parking in Piedmont so that's not fantastic but that's life. Didn't realize this was a Landmark theater. I wish they offered beer and wine like so many Landmarks do. All in all, very pleasant. Good seats although not the full reclining "leather" master of the universe seats they have in so many theaters (well, the one we were in anyway). Dug the vibe, very friendly employees and cool flicks. Beer would make it perfect. read more

Fantastic experience here at the piedmont Theater! Peter was a great host and truly made my Saturday night. Thank you Peter. read more

My favorite theatre in the East Bay. They always have an interesting selection of independent films. Best of all, of you're here on a Sat night, an endearingly snarky employee will raffle off movie paraphernalia. read more

Saturday Nights - drawings for prizes from ticket stub numbers!! Won a $10 gift certificate from a local shop!! read more

Piedmont Theatre - It's nice out today on Piedmont Ave. - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

Cute theatre. There's just something about old movie theatres. You don't have all the glam that theatres have nowadays but they have all the charm! Pros: Independent/unique films, prize give-aways, standard movie food items here, alternate seating (so no one is directly in front of you) Cons: Seating is not super dated but also not comfortable. Prices are similar to more upgraded theatres, for an older theatre. Although this isn't one of the plushest movie theatres, it's still worth a visit to enjoy the great selection of movies they provide. read more

While not as fancy as the nearby Grand Lake Theatre, the Piedmont is just as much an integral piece of the historic Oakland fabric. It's the oldest theatre in Oakland and one of the best places to see independent, less-commercial, films. They host a few different film festivals every year, of which, my favorite is Frameline FF. There is usually plenty of parking in the area, either on one of the side streets or in the near-by parking lot. The neighborhood is really cute with many good places to eat or grab a cup of coffee and the cemetery at the end of the street has some of the best views in the East Bay, so make time to take a stroll along with seeing a movie! read more

I really enjoy going to the newer movie theaters such as the Lots in Dublin. But there's something about watching a movie in 100 year old moviehouse. The classic charm, the give all lend itself to connecting with history and the neighborhood. read more

Piedmont Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

We came here to see Terrence Malik's "A Hidden Life," and we were not disappointed. I really liked the set up of the small theatre. It was cozy and the area we sat in was somewhat secluded and spacious. The chairs did really hurt my back. They leaned back with any weight on it. The chairs would not stay upright and if you tried to sit up straight you were going to leave there with back strain. The concession stand is cool and has a good amount of options. The person behind the counter was nice too. I probably wouldn't come back unless they are playing a movie I really want to see but isn't offered anywhere else, just because I felt like it took days for my back to recover and I'm in my twenties! read more

Classic old time theater with a great main theater, but really theater number 3 sucks... seats are comfortable but the screen is angled away from you so you have to turn your body which is UN comfortable. Avoid theater number 3 read more

I came here to see 4 pm show and nobody was inside and the door was locked. I waited an hour for the next show time. Still nobody. I wonder what happened. I wish that they would post a notice to say no movie showing. Huge disappointment!! read more

I always go and see a movie when I visit my sister. The selection of movies is always art festival best! It's such a charming theater! read more

I went to see a movie on a Friday night and there were maybe 5 couples. You know why? Because you charge the outrageous amount of $13.25 for a movie. Here's a thought, drop it to a reasonable price and you might just get behinds in to those lonely seats ‍ read more

Another old-timey theater to give you the warm fuzzies! We saw The Descendants in the upstairs theater (I'm not sure what the difference is from the downstairs screens), a snug little room with about 60 seats. You can easily hear your fellow movie goers cracking jokes, crunching on their popcorn, or sneaking a smooch from their date so don't expect to get away with any disruptive behavior, you lovebirds. Much like the other fabulous indie theaters in the East Bay, Piedmont has real live announcements before the movie, not in lieu of but in addition to the requisite commercials and previews. They also had a raffle drawing for some local gift certificates, which is a pretty rad bonus considering all you have to do is sit there and have the right ticket number. Like, who gives stuff away for free anymore? Love it. The architecture isn't as stunning as say, The Cal, but I like the coziness of Piedmont. It seems to attract lots of sweet older couples, which can never be a bad thing. I can't comment on the concessions, as I'm infamous for BYO-ing, but I bet they use real butter on their popcorn. I just have a hunch. Parking is a definite pain, so arrive early to hunt for a spot and snag yourself a prime seat. No matter how dull your movie selection may be (ahem, Descendants), you'll be comforted by the fact that your movie-going dollars are supporting a precious local enterprise. read more

It's cool that this theater has history, they do a raffle at the beginning, and that they offer a great selection of movies, but there are some downsides. Downside 1: The seating area is in need of renovation. The aisles are tiny (I say this as a 5'2'' woman of average weight) and the seating aisles are not raised enough, so a person who sits in front of you can easily obscure your view even if they aren't that tall. Pro tip about seating: do not show up late! We were not late (thank god) but we witnessed others struggling to find seats in the dark and walking over people as they tried to squeeze through the tiny aisles. Downside 2: the theater rooms are too close to one another. We were here to watch Portrait of a Lady on Fire (which was excellent - see it!) and the film has lots of quiet moments that were disrupted by the movie next door.. I think it was Parasite based on the sounds? Parasite is an excellent film too but it sucked to hear shrill screaming and intense music while attempting to get lost in the sensual and longing gazes that two beautiful French women were giving each other. There were a lot of beautiful scenes in the film that were ruined by the noise next door. I'm not sure my gf and I will be back here again.. maybe only if there is a film we want to see that isn't playing anywhere else but here. read more

Pretty cute local theatre for the small Piedmont street neighborhoods. But similar to most common critiques of movie theaters: charging terrible prices for stale popcorn is an awful combination. I saw Parasite, which was an awesome movie! Hilarious. My partner left for water and asked if I wanted anything. I offered some cash for a small bag of $7 popcorn, and we snacked old, hard chewy popcorn. If you're going to gouge (like most theaters do), at least offer warm, fresh popcorn. Sounds like a minor complaint, but it's also $7. Anyway, I generally just go to New Parkway. Food is actual food, plus they have a beer. Much better experience for the same price. read more

Went to a special showing on Thursday nite to this Piedmont Theater involving Chinatown residents back in the 60's fighting the city establishments for equitable housing in SF Chinatown. The small theater has comfortable chairs, old wooden floors and pretty good tasting butter popcorn. Parking on the streets wasn't too bad for 7pm. I come back because the number of tasty restaurants lines both sides of Piedmont ave. read more

Piedmont Theatre always has the best selection of movies showing! They feature great choices in independent films and movies that make you feel and think rather than react to special effects. I love the small town charm of this theater with the smaller auditorium and vintage decor. No bright obnoxious fluorescent lights and overstimulating ugly decor here. On Saturday nights they also have a raffle for ticket holders which features prizes from local businesses, which further integrates the community feel of this theater. It's a super sweet and entertaining part of the Saturday night experience! The only thing holding me back from a 5 star review is that the theaters can get pretty stuffy. I think that an HVAC upgrade would make this my ultimate destination. read more

This is my favorite theater in Oakland. They are always playing great artsy movies, popcorn is excellent, staff is pleasant. The facilities are always clean and well-maintained. My favorite thing about it is that it still maintains that neighborhood-y vibe. One way they do this is by having *prize giveaways* on Saturday nights. Every showing, they give out multiple prizes, all from local businesses right here in Oakland! How cool is that?? I love supporting smaller theaters and this business really feels like a part of the community. Thank you, Piedmont Theatre! read more

So delightfully adorable. This movie theater is like a living room home theater. The seats are comfortable, and the aisle's are wide, so no stepping on toes, when you have to get in and out of your seat. During the popular movie showings, always in the beginning, an adorable gentleman comes out to give a tiny speech about the movie, and of how he hopes we will enjoy the film. He also reminds the audience to turn off their cell phones, and today while I watched The Theory of Everything, he stated something along the lines of 'It's a theory that if you turn off your cell phones, you'll enjoy the show!' We all giggle, and feel welcomed, as he ends with, 'I hope all of you had a great Thanksgiving!' At the end of tonight's showing, the audience clapped, because we've just seen a wonderful movie, where the itty details oozes with emotions, and deep connections are made between the viewer, and what's on scene. The tears are many, and a variety of emotions swirl in your hearts. Sometimes, heaving with tears, and at other times smiling deeply. A beautiful film of people, who love people. read more

Piedmont Theatre - Ready to watch The Theory of Everything @ one of my favorite quaint theaters! I won 1st prize here during their Jane Eyre movie! - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

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The Piedmont Theater is one of the unsung theater jewels in the entire bay area. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, the Piedmont is often over shadow by its larger movie house cousins the Grand Lake and Paramount, but the Piedmont has been an Oakland staple since the 1920's. If you love those cookie cutter theaters with the sterile enviorment and brain dead blockbuster films, then the Piedmont is not for you. It really is the theater that caters to the East Bay crowd. Since being purchased by Landmark Theaters, the Piedmont mostly shows art and independent films now which is not bad at all. BTW... The "Saturday Night" raffle rally is sooooo cool with the Piedmont actually given out some cool door prizes... Now the bad part.... One, whereas the main auditorium is fine for your average movie, the upstairs theaters are WAY TOO SMALL. I man the movie screens might be on par with some of the largest hdtv's on the market today. Clearly NOT the cutting edge movie experience you would expect. Second, can't speak for the ladies, but the mens' restroom is SUPER TINY... Think one toilet and urinal. Now imagine 100-200 guys trying to fit into that restroom after a movie. Third, Parking is a bitch... A pain... Almost nonexistent unless you grew up in the area and know all the parking hiding spots in the Piedmont shopping area. Be warned-Oakland parking meters blanket the area in force just looking to write a parking citation to the unprepared motorist. You've been warned... lol read more

Piedmont Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Oakland, California

Came here recently for a weekend matinee. Really small lobby, but pretty decently sized theater interior. Clearly an older theater since nowadays it's the other way around. Could not avoid the snack bar for the buttered popcorn and got talked into a larger soda for "only" another 25 cents. Bathrooms were old but clean. Managed to find parking on the side street only a couple of blocks away. I think I was lucky. It is so tough to find parking in the Piedmont Ave. area. Kind of quaint for a theater employee or manager to address the crowd in person before the movie. I must say that the seating was wonderful. Not only comfortable, but I can't recall having this much leg room before in a theater! read more