Saw Boogie Nights. It was great. Ordered a large popcorn and water. Love this place. read more

Rialto Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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If I could give half stars, I'd give it 3 1/2 stars but as it is I refuse to give it just 3 so here we are. Admittedly I haven't been here since the remodel, so take this lightly, but I am a little salty about it. I'm all for revitalizing places in order to draw in more of a crowd but it does feel a little out of place now. Kind of giving "what is wrong with you? Why are you BLUE?" Yay: -old as hell -cute n quirky -keeping a local cinema alive -does live shows too which I can appreciate -they go hard for Rocky Horror Nay: -be prepared to search for parking -seems to do less independent/artsy movies and stuff now and more live shows (and such and as a movie lover it hurts a smidge) -seriously, why is it SO blue read more

We bought tickets to a string quartet, playing at 6:30 pm. The booming bass coming from the neighboring business echoed into the theatre as we tried to enjoy this concert. There is no parking, and the event turned out to be subpar. Good luck having a better experience here. read more

I've been a Rialto fan for years, and a member of the movie club, but apart from the movies, you'll find concerts, comedy shows and other events. The theater is small, vintage, seats are good, and there are concessions for beer, wine, popcorn, etc.. The Rialto is a Raleigh landmark - don't miss this place. I'm going tonight. read more

First time visiter and honestly was very impressed. They were out of large popcorn buckets so I had to get the small/medium but it had dollar refills so not so bad. Watched the original Halloween on the big screen in a classic theater and it was worth every penny. Theaters pretty clean, seats are comfy, sound and picture quality is good, and lastly the staff was very friendly. I'll be back Tuesday for silence of the lambs! read more

Loved seeing Raleigh's Chatham County Line at the Rialto. What a great conversion from an old movie theater to a live performance space. While we had terrific seats up front, I seriously doubt there's a bad seat in the house. The Rialto offers beer, wine, and mixed drinks at several bars. Old black and white episodes of the Lone Ranger played on the screen before the performance and during the break which added a cool nostalgic vibe to the evening. The only knock on the Rialto are the very limited restrooms. Expand these a bit and get that coveted fifth star! Keep em Rocking Rialto! read more

Rialto Theatre - Chatham County Line - Cinema Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

When it comes to movie theaters, there's nothing like stadium seating and humongous cup-holders but every now and then, old-school is the way to go. Take the Rialto at Five Points for example. Crappy and beat-up front awning, goofy plastic tile letters displaying the current movie but it's still perfect for a throw-back experience. The Rialto is not the place to go watch Harry Dark Knight Potter Part IV in Hyper-Dolby Surround Sound. It's a theater to go watch small, artistic independent movies, like The Artist. Not everybody's cup of tea but oh well! Pay yo money at the small ticket box office, pop inside the small foyer for a cocktail or snack and it's time to sit back and relax. Beer was a reasonable $3.50 a bottle and apparently you can get an entire bottle of wine (score!). The theater itself is clean and recently renovated with a slightly taupe and tan, retro-feel to the space. Two large art-deco lights on the ceiling provide the interior lighting and the screen sits atop a small raised stage. The sound is decent but won't blow you out of the water like IMAX or Carmike 15. No big deal given the type of movies shown at the Rialto. Overall it's a solid movie-watching experience, definitely a step up from its sister theater, the Colony. With its convenient location you've also got some good dining and bar options within a couple of blocks. Just don't forget, it's cash-only here and parking can be tricky in this hood. But it's worth the extra effort, if you're in the mood for a movie that makes you think a bit. The Rialto is the perfect setting for a couple of hours of classy cinematic entertainment... read more

Rialto Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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The Rialto is my go-to spot for independent films in Raleigh. The atmosphere is quaint, cozy and welcoming. Only 1 theater at the Rialto so this place is not about choices, it's about the film! They do have wine and beer options at the theater which is always a plus. Parking can be tricky so make sure to arrive a little early to park and get your seats read more

I love this place! I miss the Colony as I went there every week (or as often as the movies would change) and since the Galaxy closed (that was my favorite place) I go to the Rialto more often. I do wish more foreign and independent films showed in the area. The staff here is always friendly and the popcorn is good. I like the bottled sodas. Seats are comfortable and there is something fun about going old school! read more

The Rialto is located in Raleigh's 5 Points, and is an awesome place to see independent films. The theater has two screens, and usually only has films that have only had a pretty small release. The theater serves beer (always a plus) and is an old style theater which means you're not going to get the multiplex experience, but you definitely don't need it for the types of things they show here. Friday nights they also always show the Rocky Horror Picture Show. There are tons of "regulars" to the show who come dressed up and interact with the movie read more

Rialto Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

What a great place to see a movie. Got a spot smack-dab in front of the theater on a Friday night. Fabulous date spot. It feels like a very classic theater and shows movies that are not necessarily mainstream. We saw "Goodnight Mommy", which was chilling, unnerving, and a times, downright nausea-inducing. (And not to braaaaag, but I called the plot twist about halfway through the movie.) Can't wait to come back here. Rocky Horror is at the top of my list. It's been awhile since I've seen it in a theater, so I am long overdue. October seems the perfect month for another visit to the Rialto. read more

A nice independent movie theater to visit. I only been here once to watch a Wes Andersoon film that is only shown in select theaters. I arrived 5 mins late, thinking I would come in the midst of trailers. However the movie starts right at the listed showtime. So if you plan to watch a movie here, arrive right on time or a few minutes early, so you don't end up missing the beginning of the movie. I'm not sure if they have a parking lot but there is plenty of parking on the street. The venue only has one auditorium. When I walked in I was impressed with the audio speakers on the roof with dim lighting and the expansiveness of the view. The best part was when I sat down. The chairs were so comfortable and it easily reclines back and forth. Which gave me an enjoyable experience while watching the flick. read more

Rialto Theatre - Outisde - Cinema Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Hubs and I have been coming to the Rialto for a long time, and I frequented the Rialto while I was in college. I have always been a fan of indy movies and the Rialto is one of the best Indy theaters around...except for it's sister theater, The Colony. This theater has a great old school feel, not much has changed over the years which is a great thing. You won't see your box box theater amenities here, but that is what makes it so great. The chairs are super comfy, although you will run across one or two here and there that are broken, but once you settle in, you can lay back and relax as if you were flying first class! Probably the best thing about the Rialto is that you can order wine or a beer to enjoy with your film. Who needs popcorn and a big ass Coke when you can have an ice cold beer?! If you do want popcorn though, you can partake in that too. They have all of the candies and goodies you want to snack on. If it is opening night of a film, you better get there early because the theater fills up quick since there is just the one theater playing the film. The Rialto is a great staple of Raleigh and the Five Points area! read more

I went to the Rialto at the behest of my husband for Rocky Horror. He loves Rocky Horror. I am meh. That is love-me going to see Rocky Horror at midnight. The theater is great. Swooping seats that are cozy, beer and wine served, (though not at Rocky Horror due to under agers) and non Big Chain movies. I will definitely be back, but not at midnight. I need my rest. It is a cash only environment, and parking can be sparse, but it is worth it. read more

Oh, Rialto. How you can make the movie-going experience feel Old School Hollywood classy again. Oh how you can offer me a reasonably priced glass of wine or beer and cushy velvet seat and the most eclectic and worthwhile selection of art-house films I could ask for on one screen (with the exception of that one time you decided to show the craptacular "Whatever Works" and I almost didn't forgive you). Most recently we caught the Coen Brothers' "A Serious Man" (highly recommended) here, and there's just something about the Railto's art deco atmosphere and snob-less vibe that convinces me to cough up the $8 (oh! cash only here, don't forget to visit the ATM on your way over) I rarely fork over these days at the multiplexes. read more

One of my favorite spots in Raleigh! I love coming here to catch a good independent film. I've always loved the old-school, independent theaters and the Rialto is a really good one. Located in a great spot in Five Points, they serve beer and wine along with the normal movie snacks. It's just so much nicer going to see movies here than the big multiplexes, more of an experience and much less apt to be interrupted or annoyed by obnoxious movie-goers. Just remember, it's cash only. If you're looking to see a good film in a great spot, then definitely check out the Rialto. read more

Do you remember the movie theater in Jim Carrey's movie "The Majestic?" Rialto Theatre looks very much like the old version, before Peter/Luke reopened it to its former glory. No, I am not saying this theater is decrepit and need to be abandoned; You shouldn't expect to line up here to watch the next IMAX action-packed mega-blockbuster like Avengers 2. What you do get here is that privately and locally owned hospitality and lax services. Refreshment is sold here, but if you decide to be cheap and pop over to the gas station next door to get your box of Jujubes and Raisinets, he will scorn you shameful with his piercing eyes! The theater itself is pretty awesome. I dig the fact I can recline ALL THE WAY back on the seat! although some guy walked behind me almost kicked me in the head. The seating is not deep, but wide and deep, so during a packed house show you might have to shift in your seat to see pass a big head. read more

If you live in Five Points, it would be a shame if you have never visited the Rialto Theatre. Before modern multiplexes, you had ornate movie houses consisting of a single quaint auditorium with a huge interior, stadium seating, and an elegant architectural design. Built in 1942, the Rialto Theatre displays characteristics of the era; it still retains the traditional performance stage and vintage recessed lighting. If you are looking for a classy, retro movie experience, the Rialto will not disappoint. The Rialto Theatre is one of Raleigh's gems. They typically show independent films rather than big budget studio movies that lack a creative visionary spirit--something you cannot usually find at multiplexes. In addition, they serve beer and wine for those who enjoy a good alcoholic beverage with their movie. Keep in mind that the Rialto is cash only, so stop by an ATM on your way. Also, the only parking at Five Points in on the street, so take that into consideration when planning your trip to the Rialto Theatre. read more

You may not always want to see the movie playing at the Rialto, but when you do, it's the greatest place to see a movie ever. The first reason for the Rialto is its location - you have many great choices for walkable dinner and a movie (see Lilly's Pizza and Hayes Barton Cafe). The second reason is that they have a bar. Buy a bottle of wine for $15 and they'll give you dixie cups to enjoy it in during the movie. The last reason is that you don't really need 3D, stadium seating, or the suburbs to enjoy a movie. The character of the Rialto counts for so much more. read more

The perfect evening for me: dinner at Lilly's then a movie at The Rialto. The Rialto, Galaxy Cinema (Cary), and the Farmer's Market are the only reasons I keep cash on me. Hit the ATM before you go, bring your student ID if you got one, get some beer, and enjoy the movie. The seats are comfortable, and they have drink holders! Parking can be tricky around here since there's no lot. You should park on the street. So, learn how to parallel if you need to see a movie because it's worth it. I actually sometimes park near Lilly's and then run across the street--and by run, of course, I mean look both ways and walk. If you go to the last show on Friday night, you might be lucky enough to see the folks headed to The Rocky Horror Picture show, which screens every Friday at midnight. read more

Is it weird that I always think of the Rialto as one of the best kept secrets in plain sight? Somewhat bleak from the outside and a blast from the past inside. Some of the better theater experiences in the area are here to behold. This is not your dull lazy Crossroads megaplex. Enjoy a beer or a wine (like other independents in the area) and relax in one of the more comfortable surroundings. And bring cash! I feel like every local who ever ventures to a cinema, should stop by the Rialto once a year at least, for a refresher on what cinema used to be. read more

I've been going to the Rialto since I was a freshman in school. My girlfriend at the time brought me there to see a band (was it Jane's Addiction?) and soon after I started making the trip to see films that they weren't showing in g-boro. Honestly, the fact that the Rialto was there was one of the deciding factors behind me moving to the capital city. Love the sound system. Love the seats. Love that they still show independent films. LOVE that they serve booze. I always make it a point to show up early to bulls***with the staff about whatever films/bands they've soon recently. They could not be nicer or more fun. LONG LIVE THE RIALTO! read more

If I could give it 6 stars I would! Love Love this place! We found this place driving back to Fayetteville and decided to give it try... Beer, Popcorn and One cozy movie theater..it was the perfect bookend to a Valentine's Day weekend! This place is cash only so be prepared for that.... It has an old school feel to it that I love.. We parked in an adjacent lot..kind of a dodgy area...but usually that's where the best places are! This is a perfect date night movie theater...just make sure You are careful not to kick the beer bottle when the movie goes silent....but if You do, it's ok, because everyone seems to! read more

Almost every time we visit our son in Raleigh, we also go see a movie at the Rialto Theater. We are never disappointed! They show excellent movies that would never come to benighted Greenville, North Carolina. The popcorn is fresh and delicious, and they have a nice variety of soda pop and beer and wine to boot. We recommend the Rialto highly. . Jim and Nancy read more

We've been going to movies at the Rialto for years. Love this place. It has friendly staff, great popcorn, good drinks and atmosphere. Monday movie nights are classics for only $5, a real deal. read more

This is another Raleigh institution, in fact, it's the last of the movie theaters I used to frequent as a teenager in the 70s and I learned way more about art and life at spots like this than I ever did in high school. The Rialto has adjusted with the times as much as they can while supporting quality cinema plus cult favorites like The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It's not upscale by any means and has an old-timey quality that sometimes evokes a high school auditorium but they have great snacks and beverages and it's plenty roomy for me. As far as I know this is the last movie theater doing interesting and worthwhile programming inside the beltline. I kind of doubt there's anything like it in North Raleigh but stranger things have happened! It's also one of the spots that makes Five Points one of the cooler neighborhoods in Raleigh. read more

My favorite theater, along with The Colony and Six Forks Station. Took my teen daughter and her friend to see The Artist and they fell in love with the Rialto, as I did the first time I entered this grand theater. Amazing how the patrons of the Rialto (and The Colony) are so much more 'behaved'. They are quiet when the movie starts, except for the occasional beer bottle that rolls down the aisle. They are courteous and in my experience, I don't ever have the noise and abrasive behavior that regular movies and chain theaters bring in. The 'service' is friendly and the atmosphere is wonderful. Definitely a wonderful place to spend two hours watching amazing movies. read more

Every trip to the Rialto is unforgettable. The movies played at the theatre coincide with their romantically retro atmosphere draped with old school lighting, and carpeting throughout. The staff is always extremely friendly, and inviting. Cash Only. Go check it out. Places like this are what makes Raleigh great. read more

This is the best theater in Raleigh. The Rialto specializes in films with artistic merit. They have local beer on draft, bottled domestics, wine - and concessions aren't over-priced. Bring cash, or if you forget, go down the block to the ATM at BP. I've been to the theater more than a dozen times and I've never had a bad experience! read more

Rialto Theatre - "Chandelier" - Cinema Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Love the quaint, homey feel from the moment you walk inside. Admittedly, it doesn't really look like much from the outside, but do go in - it's adorable. I love that it's one showing of one movie at a time. They do feature multiple movies, but the times/days are staggered since there's only one screen. It's nice to enjoy popcorn, soda, or beer/wine if you'd prefer! Even though it's a small theatre, it seats a lot of people! The screen isn't gynormous, so I'd recommend sitting a little closer than you may at a large stadium seating type of theater. The seats are very comfortable - they even lean back and rock a little....also nice for closer up seating since it forces your head back a bit. I appreciate the types of movies they show here - typically more independent types and of course the annual Rocky Horror - which I haven't been to yet..We saw Silver Linings Playbook this weekend and it was great, the crowd was great, atmosphere was spot on. Made for a wonderfully cozy and fun night. Afterwards we walked right next door to The Point Restaurant. read more

Reasons I love the Rialto: - one movie at a time - beer - wine - popcorn - Five Points - locally owned - cash only - comfy seats (newer ones too) - quirky flicks - Rocky Horror Picture Show (yeah- still going....) read more

Rocky Horror. This is where I lost that particular cultural virginity and... You understand. It's a place I remember. Successful indy movies are often called cult films, and the Rialto helps you understand why. There's very much a cult surrounding the place (independent of the much larger, more dangerous cult built around Rocky Horror). The people swear by the theater (literally)... It's like a spiritual home for many die hard movie buffs around Raleigh. The facility isn't in the greatest of shape, with more than its share of wear and tear, but the people are what make the place great, and they're as much a part of theater as any screen or cellulose. read more

Bf and I finally made it here last Sunday for the matinee showing of "Moonrise Kingdon" after talking about checking out this theater for more than a year. We were nervous when we drove past a long line of ticket-purchasers without seeing a place to park on the street, especially since we didn't now how big (or not big) the theater is, and we didn't want it to be a) sold out or b) just sold enough so that we'd be stuck in the front. We did find a place to park and walk, and we made it in plenty of time to get in and get our (back but centered) seats, even though it was exactly showtime. In fact, the movie didn't start until about 10 minutes later, probably since they saw the lines of people waiting to get in. It's nice that such a small private theater has that kind of control instead of having to stay on a corporate schedule. I took off one star because with the amazing bar selection (I chose Saranac Root Beer, mmmm), all bf wanted was a coffee, but it was not available. Also, when we left, three staff members were standing at the bar. I said, "Thanks, bye," and none of them responded. I was a little confused about that. I like to feel welcome! Bring cash here for tickets and concessions, and get the popcorn. It's so buttery and good. read more

Completely obsessed with this venue (after I manage to find parking). Love the charming vintage signage and decor, but with the ambiance comes a cash-only pricetag -$8/ticket. Totally worth it for the right movie. Perfect for date night. They have a great selection of cheap (but quality) wine and beers on tap (Still getting over the fact that you can order drinks at the movies!). Especially love that when you order a glass of wine, they fill it alllllll the way to the top. The theater is surprisingly modern and has stadium seating and gorgeous, comfy velvet chairs. Its an independent theater, so they mostly show arthouse movies that are hard to find elsewhere. Just saw The Artist (which I LOVED), and it was the perfect venue to see it in. Bring cash. Thank me later. read more

The upside: People come here to see movies--not to play on their phones, have conversations, or behave like savage animals. They serve beer and wine. The prices are extremely affordable. Seats are comfortable. The downside: Only one screen--so there's a limited availability of film(s). Other: they do show The Rocky Horror Picture Show on Fridays. You'll either love it or hate it. I love that this place exists. I have had movie-going experiences here that have never been replicated, and that makes it special. I hope it never goes away. For the person who has never been there: They do not have 3D, stadium seating, or sound systems that will peel your face off. They don't need it--because they show films that don't need that garbage. Don't go there expecting to have the experience you'd have at a multi-plex--and if you do, don't bitch about it here, because you should know better. read more

My recent move back to Raleigh has led me to find all of my old hangouts and test out some possible new ones. The other day I went to The Rialto and had a great time! Beer selection was great and the list of future movies will have me going back...a lot! read more

I've only visited this theater a handful of times while I've been here in Raleigh but it truly is stable if you need to tell anyone how to get anywhere in five points or to downtown if you mention the Rialto even if someone hasn't been they know what you're talking about it's an American classic. I went to go see the movie won't you be my neighbor while it was there and it was cool comfortable, the attendance were very sweet they offer snacks and now they do indeed take card I brought cash because I couldn't remember. read more

I love this place. What can I say? Saw the new Mr Rogers film there and cried my eyes out. Impeccable customer service. Please support this place so they stay around. Love it. read more

My first trip to the Rialto was as a high schooler. I met some friends and was told we were going to a late showing of a movie. That's all. I noticed there were some interesting clothing choices among this crowd, and sure enough, this late night showing was one of the Rialto's Rocky Horror Picture Show Friday nights. I've since then maintained that everyone needs to go to the Rialto on a Friday night twice in their lives. No more. No less. For the most part, your regular indie movie-going experience applies to the Rialto. Art-tastic crowds, traditional seating, and the availability of beer to wash down your film school sensibilities with. There always seems to be someone interesting hanging around and watching these movies, though. From a strange older gentleman claiming that one movie was secretly about him to a marine who, during the closing credits, leapt onto the stage to inform us all that the documentary we had just watched was just liberal propaganda. If you're lucky, you'll get a side show as good as the movie. read more

I enjoyed my first trip to the Rialto. It was the perfect place to go on a rainy day date. If you're looking for a place with all the snacks you can eat and lots of movie choices this is not the place. It is the choice however if you enjoy an alcoholic beverage to go with your movie. Wine, Lonerider and Torch on tap, and a few in bottles and cans. Can't go wrong with that. The theater itself fits a good number of people and the seats are pretty comfortable. The seats are at a slight angle so don't try putting a full beer in the cup holder or you will lose some to the seat/ground. I am usually freezing and losing my toes to frostbite in movie theaters but the temperature was just right. No sweater needed. Movie choices are pretty good as well. I plan on frequenting this theater more often. Just remember to bring cash because they don't take cards. read more