This is a great, independent cinema. They show a mix of some blockbusters, many independent movies, an occasional screening of a movie from yesteryear, sometimes a surprise movie and some movies that are very locally based. Sometimes they even have the director or someone else directly involved in the movie making an appearance for an audience q&a after the show (for example, they have a movie which was directed by a young, Portland director wherein he will be appearing for a q&a next week. Another time they had a young man who did a documentary about his travel down the Columbia River in a canoe he had built). They offer this variety while doing an exceptional job of curating the films and keeping the mix of films showing at any given time diverse. They also vary the show times nicely with the actual number of showings of a particular flick also varying by the day, with show times also fluctuating to different times on different days. The theater itself has comfortable seating that is well tiered so that heads do not get in the way of one's viewing. Also, the seating is positioned so most seats look directly at the screen as opposed to having to tilt one's head a bit to watch the film. I find the size of each theater to be intimate but not small, probably seating in the 130-150 person range. The sound systems are excellent. The theater floors are kept clean, as are the restrooms. The website is well constructed, easy to navigate and filled with information. I am not a big movie goer, especially since Hollywood has placed the wow factor and other film features far above the screenplay value. In my youth I was a regular filmgoer, enjoying the big Hollywood productions, but also the indie flicks playing at the indie theaters. I now find myself being pulled back before the Bigscreen as a result of finding this theater. When visiting Corvallis, which I do frequently, if I have not decided on what to do while their then the Cinema's website is often a go-to for consideration of finding something fun to do. I am impressed with this independent theater and encourage all to visit the website regularly to find new and interesting movies to sink yourself into for a few hours. read more

Salem Cinema is Salem's repertory movie theater with several screens, and stellar programming. They will show select first run films that no one else gets. Movies need to show in theaters to qualify for an Academy Awards nomination. If they were made for streaming, and they need theatrical, Salem Cinema may get them. That was the case for Kathryn Bigelow's House of Dynamite. It's a Netflix property so most people will see it on a small screen. It deserves a big screen like the Salem Cinema. The Salem Cinema is in a modern building with some vintage interior panels. It is very clean. The rest rooms are clean. The theaters have great seats and good sound. I did not hear any sound bleed between theaters. They do a good job with their vintage graphic design. Where the Salem Cinema could improve, thus the loss of a star, is to expand their food and drink options. They have a large seating area in the lobby. It was empty. There is a dedicated parking lot. Keep an eye on their schedule. You may find something new or old that is not playing elsewhere. read more

Salem Cinema - Inside - Cinema Near Me - Salem, Oregon

See all

Great venue for independent films and special showings. I've been here many times but have never remembered to check in until today. I went to see Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid with a friend today; the movie was playing in honor of Robert Redford. As many times as I've seen this film since it first came out in 1969, seeing it again on the big screen was fabulous! Popcorn for lunch is always a treat and the popcorn here is wonderful, especially with the addition of Parmesan cheese and nutritional yeast. The staff is friendly and patient, even if one is decision-challenged when trying to decide on what to drink. Looking forward to the next time I can have popcorn for lunch! read more

All the films shown are curated and presented for a variety of audiences and their tastes. Theater itself is great, with a meeting dining area in lobby. read more

Thriving local theatre which I love to see. Saw Pillion here Y: -local theatre -you can really tell they care about keeping cinema alive and well beyond their own profit -has a mixture of up and coming movies and old ones -interesting/niche assortment of concessions -ample parking -cute inside -good chairs -gen admin tickets N: -Pepsi products, no cherry coke -edifice isn't super obviously a movie theatre imo -fancy leather chairs but they don't recline- walkways pretty small inside movie theatre read more

I love this cinema. Great selection of movies you can't find anywhere else. Clean, excellent popcorn with real Parmesan cheese! I started going to the movies again thanks to this place! read more

This is the most darling theatre I have ever been to, and I cannot get enough of it. I absolutely love their film selection, the theatre itself is clean and well-designed, and the staff are lovely to interact with. You can submit special requests and they might just play your movie! I am so happy that I found this special gem of a spot. I'm already a regular. read more

Salem Cinema - Bodies Bodies Bodies! - Cinema Near Me - Salem, Oregon

Love this theater. Lots of independent movies and great popcorn with a selection of additions, including yeast! Yum!

I love this theater so much! Independent, great films! Vintage atmosphere, nice seats! Great concession center! We live coming a few times a year! read more

This was the first time we've been to this theater. It was really nice. Comfortable chairs, nice theaters and my husband liked their popcorn! It's kind of in an unexpected part of town, but now we know it's there, we would totally go there again. One other cool thing is that they have tables in the lobby, I think for dining... maybe before a movie? Makes a dinner and a movie date pretty easy! read more

Salem Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Salem, Oregon

Where does one get a little taste of culture, international film, independent releases in Salem? Right here at Salem Cinema. As the city's only independently owned / operated movie theater, they undoubtedly cater to the demand that few of the big screen theaters would ever show. This is about as good as it gets for the arthouse cinema experience. These boutique theater experiences have always held a soft spot for me, especially before the internet made films across the world more accessible. Whenever the home experience becomes a drag, it's places like this theater that gets folks out of the house and given the opportunity to experience it via the big screen. The movie rotation is often weekly, though be sure to check their website for the latest and greatest. Admission starts at a cool $9 for new releases and $8 for bargain shows / military / student ID holders. Senior citizens and children are $7. While there is occasionally a film that may be appropriate for the latter, it's quite likely the majority of the films are adult oriented. Parking is limited to street side and is on a first come first serve basis. The staff is usually pretty friendly and the theater setup is actually quite small. Unless a film is hot, the crowds are usually not going to be an issue here. I hope this city gem remains in good standing for the years to come. read more

I want to preface this by saying that I love Salem cinema as a venue and have been coming here for years on occasion. They're the only independent cinema in Salem which I really appreciate. The staff has been kind and helpful. Today, my friends and I were excited to visit Salem for the first time in a while (we're Willamette alumni). We'd missed the popcorn with nutritional yeast at Salem Cinema! We stopped in to have a snack and a drink and play cards. A woman who must have been the manager or owner approached us as we were playing and she asked us to leave. She said that there were "plenty of other coffeeshops" in a condescending tone. It felt like she was treating us like loiterers despite the fact that we're loyal patrons and purchased food while we were there. As we were leaving she continued to complain about us to her companion. I want to see Salem Cinema do well, but I did not appreciate the way we were treated today. read more

Great small theater. Friendly staff. Vegan popcorn (without butter). First time going to this theater but it won't be the last. To be able to buy tickets online with no extra fee, get there to be greeted by a friendly, knowledgeable, ready-to-help staff, and have delicious popcorn with nutritional yeast topping... sending . See you soon! read more

I adore this little theater. I've been four times, and twice, the owner has come out and stood down in the front, chatting and talking, and then asks people what they think of their experience. She asks for feedback on her advertising and web presence, as well as what kinds of films the audience might be interested in and things like that. It's wonderful to know, first hand, that you are supporting a truly local business and that the owner is right there, trying to take care of her clientele. I made a vow then and there that if there was a movie that looked even slightly interesting, I would go to this theater. The theaters themselves are small, but the seats are extremely comfortable. This is a theater the way they were designed when they first came out. Rich seating and atmosphere, a wonderful popcorn smell on entering, and the decor is just perfect. I know at least one theater also has the front row removed, and a set of leather couches put in. I sat in these myself once, and my only complaint was I had to creak my head up to see the screen. But since I could slouch in the seat, it sort of evened out. The films shown here are usually that; films. They've often won awards and many are in other languages with sub-titles. Sometimes, though, a film will come through here that suddenly gets nationwide buzz, but I've seen it first. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is the first one I can think of. I watched this on a whim, and then a few weeks later, suddenly I can't get away from this guys books and people talking about the films made of his novels. I also saw "Black Swan" here, before I even knew what it was about, and the next thing you know, everyone is talking about Natalie Portman's fabulous performance. Well, I saw the movie before anyone had even heard about it. Well, anyone in my circle of friends, at any rate. I love that films will come through here that you may not get a chance to see anywhere else. I love that there isn't a THX surround sound system that's trying to deafen you, so that they can give you every little ounce of bullet ricochet. I love this place, and would hope that everyone in Salem supports this theater, so that we can continue to have movies of this caliber to watch, in such a fine location. read more

Went here for the first time. I went and saw a documentary about Fred Rogers called "Won't you be my neighbor ". It was pretty good. The theater is smaller than most. They mostly show documentary or independent type films. It's a really nice place though. Now that I've been here, I will probably come more often. I love documentaries and it's a nice place to kick back and relax. read more

Nice place to see a movie without being overly crowded during the week day. I guess they don't do matinee prices. Paid $9 for a movie that started at 2:30. read more

A wonderful little emerald right here in Salem. I'm so grateful we have this movie theater. Comfortable, clean, cozy. The only place to see smaller independent movies in town. There is a small area set up with café tables and chairs in the lobby, perfect for after movie conversations or a place to wait for your companion. They sell jumbo fabulous 2 dollar cookies and very decent coffee, among other things. Usually there is plenty of parking available, with a lot in the back and some street parking in front. Come to an early show for a dollar off admission. Your fellow cinema goers tend to be more thoughtful and reverent here which means you get to watch your movie in blessed quietness - something increasingly elusive at the big blockbuster chains. Gosh I love this place. read more

I always love movie viewings, here. Along with the emphasis they have on everyone being quiet. I love the respect for the Art & the Artist. Film viewings are relatively ritualistic experiences for me. Isolating distractions, darkening the peripherals, disabling bothering technology. I love it. I would recommend to anyone and everyone. read more

Nothing prepared me for just how small the theatres in this place would be. Not to worry though, as Salem Cinema doesn't play those Hollywood hits that attract thousands. Instead, they run many independent films that attract a more, oh...let's say "cultured" crowd. The small theatres offer stadium seating with just one difference: Faux leather couches at the very front to replace the neck wrenching seats. If I had had a more satisfying (read: gut busting) lunch at Maynards just prior to our show, I would have selected the couch. read more

I love Salem Cinema. I love, love love Salem Cinema. Support it. Take your dates there. Go there. Love it. It can not go away! It must be a part of Salem!! It's beautiful, it's films are cultivated and genius, and it's awesome. read more

If you came to Salem Cinema looking for newer, more mainstream movies with a big Box Office budget, you'll be disappointed. If you want a place to go watch independent movies, that has good coffee, a few different screens, and great staff, this is your place. I used to be somewhat of a movie snob, and not in the good way. I would give in to the popular trailers and see what the industry paid a lot of money to expose to me. But there is a whole hidden gem out there of independent movies that simply doesn't have the budget to market and advertise in the same ways. These movies are sometimes award winning, and worth the watch! I love the small town feel of Salem Cinema and I am so glad that we have this here in Salem. There are a few screens to show a few different films, and there is a concession stand for popcorn, coffee, soda, etc. With some random, yet delicious, pastries. It's every bit as spendy as a big budget theatre (I do hope one day theatres will catch on that they don't NEED to, and SHOULDN'T charge that much for snacks!) I will definitely go back! read more

The movie selection is really good, it gives a great opportunity to see films outside the mainstream. The employees are also always very nice to me, none of my problems lay with them. My main problem is how you're not likely to get a response if you try to contact the theater through email or by phone. Twice in the past, I've emailed and called about different things (most recently, I asked when they'd be getting Call Me By Your Name), and I've never received a response. I am checking the website daily, even multiple times a day, just to see if the website is slow to update, but to no avail. Tomorrow I'll check again, in hopes the list of films will be properly updated, but I think it's pretty annoying for their website to advertise a 'contact us' page when there's a slim to nil chance you'll ever get a response. I really like the theater itself, but I'd love to see improvement in contact between the patrons and whoever is in charge of responding to phone calls and emails. read more

I will admit it, I normally doing go see a movie in the theater unless it's a big blockbuster or I'm on a date. The price these days is out of control. Still, I ocassionally go see an indie...and I am so thankful that Salem Cinema is around. Now, their old location...that would have gotten 4 stars. But the new one is really cool and looks gorgeous. I'll be honest, if you want to impress a date and look like you are pretty "with" it, take them here. read more

Never disappointed with this place. They have movies you'll never find anywhere close in a great venue with awesome service. Can't go wrong with that. It's smaller so people can be distracting if they don't follow movie theater etiquette but that's not on the venue. Great sound, comfy seats and charmingly nostalgic atmosphere. Highly recommend seeing an off big screen, independent film here. Give them your business. You won't be let down. read more

Great selection of independent & foreign films! I had been dying to see "The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest" but missed my opportunity when it was playing in Portland. I found out it was playing at Salem Cinema and decided to make the little trek down. The theater is small, but the seats were comfortable and the picture & sound quality were fine. My favorite thing? The popcorn! I asked for it with butter and the lady at the concession stand offered to add an extra scoop of real melted butter for twenty-five cents. So delicious. :-) read more

This is one of those businesses that makes me think Salem is culturally headed in the right direction. It warms my heart to see them doing well. I'm a admittedly a big movie snob. I watch the Academy Awards with great interest every year. I follow film festivals. You can watch most of the nominees right here at Salem Cinema. The staff is knowledgeable about movies and they will chat you up in the nicest way. Contrary to popular belief, there is a difference between good art and bad art. If you want to avoid the line at Birdman IV next summer might I suggest you give this place a shot. read more

Pros: Nice Theatre, with a small town feel. They play unique movies (ones with more purpose) like Won't You Be My Neighbor. The sound is good and the seating is very suitable for the type of turn outs they get. They are an independent and locally owned theatre. Cons: They take just as much advantage of you at their concessions as the almighty, greedy Regal. Huge dissappoimtment! I go to Silverton Cinema for this reason as they are local and very reasonably priced, both in the ticket and the concessions. 6.50 for a bag of popcorn and 5.00 for a soda! No thanks. read more

Definitely my favorite theater in Salem, and they often have movies I want to see that aren't playing elsewhere. Seats are comfortable, no complaints with the screen or sound quality. It's also a bit cheaper than the megaplexes - $8 for a regular ticket rather than $9 or $10. Snacks are cheaper and better too; real cookies, chocolate, etc., and I think it's possible to get both a drink and something to eat for $5 or less, which you can't do at the chains. read more

Great movie selection - always something of high quality to watch. Also, there's a great candy, snack, and drink selection that you won't find at any other theater. Try the popcorn with real butter and brewer's yeast! read more

I was invited to revisit the Salem Cinema as they have converted to Digital Cinema Projection. My wife and I went on New Years to see Birdman. This movie is so visually rich, and I was amazed at the quality of the new projector. I work with video and know much about projection quality, and I did not once see the projector noise or any color shift whatsoever. I was truly lost in the movie, and that is all I ever want to experience when at the movie theater. Great theater to watch great art films. read more

Very nice theater...as it was my first at this new location...saw Babies. The front lobby is very nice -- and it has an extensive food/drink selection (including coffee). The movie theater itself is very nice inside -- raised stadium seating with comfortable chairs. The only weird thing was that before Babies started, the owner lady came out to speak with the audience -- and proceeded to lecture us on cell phone usage and being quiet throughout the show. Uh....we're not children...gosh! Anyway, its worth visiting here...as its pretty nice. read more

Great ambience and selection for concessions. Movie selection is varied and typically indie. Also, the tone of the venue matches the clientele - no screaming kids or bored teens screwing around on their phones mid-movie. read more

Love going to Salem Cinema. Remember to order some fresh popcorn and add toppings! Clean, comfortable and locally owned.

Loretta (owner/operator) and crew are wonderful, every time. Love the theater, love the movies they show, love the snacks they offer, love it all. And it doesn't hurt that since the move from Pringle Park Plaza they are literally 5 minutes from our house. We are regulars and will always patron here. read more

Wonderful movie selections, super clean and comfy. The snacks look tasty, although we didn't indulge. Went on a Friday at 8 PM and it was pretty empty, which makes me sad - this place is a real treasure! read more

We have been enjoying this theater for about a year now. We were all set to see a movie today, and when we opened the door to go in, out ran a mouse. That did it for us. Won't be back. read more

Very nice experience. Classy and friendly ---substance without snobbery. ;-) For the reviewer who took offense at being reminded of courtesy(cell phones, etc.): Oh, yes, SOME of us ARE children in this regard, and I'm sure many, including my wife-and-self, appreciate an ownership who believes that patrons will understand that a polite courtesy reminder can reduce distraction by those who are either forgetful or habitually unthoughtful (sadly an increasing state of affairs in our beeping/whistling/singing gadget filled culture. Kudos to the owner for a show of social courage in standing up for the pleasurable ambiance we enjoy in her establishment! read more

Lovely little cinema with the independent films! You can get parmesan on your popcorn too, for 25 cents extra. :)

I used to live in Salem and always enjoyed the selection of movies that Salem Cinema had to offer. Having gone to movies at their new location in the past year, I have to say that it is now my favorite theater. It is always very clean and the staff are very friendly. Plus, I really appreciate the higher quality selection of treats and drinks that they offer. It really makes going to the movies a special treat. I also appreciate the fact that the other patrons are quite and respectful throughout the movie. This week I purchased some of their Cinebucks over the phonoe for a Christmas gift. Since I live in Minnesota I was unable to pick the tickets up in person. I emailed Loretta Miles and she worked with me to make arrangements for my Dad to pick them up. While there was a small mistake with the initial delivery of the Cinebucks, Loretta went above and beyond to make things right. I really felt that she cared and that she wanted to ensure that I was happy with my purchase. Thank you Loretta for ensuring that my Christmas gift arrived on time and in full. Next time I am in Salem I will definetly make time to see a movie here. read more

Salem Cinema's new building, which opened in April of 2009 for the 4th annual Salem Film Festival, is absolutely stunning and, contrary to the prior review, the ticket prices have stayed exactly the same. It continues to be the best bargain in town for first-run film. It is still the only movie theater that offers a student discount as well. (Prices are $8 general, $7 students, $6 seniors & bargain shows at the time of this review as opposed to $9.50 general or $7 senior & bargain at the Regal Theaters in town.) According to the staff, they plan on using the area with tables and chairs for a cafe where customers can order appetizer-type dishes and desserts, as well as beer and wine, to enjoy an evening out. I, for one, am incredibly excited by the prospect of getting to watch a movie with friends and then have somewhere to sit and talk about it afterward. Plus, they've just always played the best movies in town, hands down! read more