The spirit of indie theaters lives on in Somerville Theatre! The illuminated sign inside reminds me of vaudeville--a throwback to the old, old school. This joint's been around for 100+ years. The fireplace & spooky-looking owl is not decor you'd typically find at a moviehouse. Neither is the Museum of Bad Art in the basement. I believe it's Theater 1 that looks like a stage with curtains framing the screen & balcony seats. Gems all around. Prices are lower than anywhere I've ever seen; $9 for a first-run movie (no student discount.) They play a good mix of films: $2 family films on Saturdays (might just be for the summer, though), slumber party where cult classics are played at midnight, silent films, & film festivals. I've seen two films here so far: This is the End & The Way Way Back. I'll be back for more, especially since the theater is steps from the Davis Square T. PS: parking is a bitch. We circled for 30 min once & still couldn't find a spot! Take the T here! read more

Live shows in a classic Victorian style main stage that just happens to illuminate the celluloid onscreen and crank out a juvenile crowd-pleaser like Ted during the week. $8 is the most you'll spend to see a flick, with $5 pre-6p weekday matinees dropping even new releases to ridiculous lows (provided you play hooky). Nothing THX-certified, IMAXimized or pushing the third-dimension*, but let's face it - even most Hollywood blockbusters use that shizz as a gimmick. Anytime I've anticipated a major release, Somerville Theatre's shown it. Any movie festival that's caught my eye has screened, at least in part, at the Davis Square institution. And if that doesn't tickle your movie-going fancy, here are the three things everybody else mentions, mainly because they warrant the love: 1) Real butter on the low-priced popcorn. 2) Owls with glowing red eyes will haunt your soul. 3) Beer. In the lobby. Go get you some. ------ * I've been informed that Cinema 5 is, in fact, REAL-3D ready. Glasses down! read more

This is one of those times you wish you had a half star. Four stars for a $7 movie on a Saturday night. Four stars for putting LOTSA butter on the popcorn (I hate it when they skimp on the butter; I mean you are paying BIG BUCKS for popped corn, they could toss some extra butter on there...but I digress) Three stars for a theater that BADLY needed a fan (too hot and too many people is not good). Three stars for the nasty lady by the staircase who was yelling at me as if I were theater hopping. Butter and cheap trump heat and rude, so four stars it is. read more

What's that you say? Beer? Beer in a theater? You mean I can come by on a Tuesday night to watch the Joan Rivers documentary with a BEER IN HAND? Yes darlings, it is true. The Somerville Theater serves beer. And not just that, they have popcorn with REAL BUTTER too! And adorable metal owl light fixtures in the cinemas. And fairly nice screens. And not-quite-uncomfortable seating! Oh, and of course, the Somerville Theater is home to a variety of strange and wonderful events and live acts. Love, love this theater, its prices and decor, its friendly employees and the sense that it is a part of the Somerville community-- not just another random business. I'll see you at their next midnight showing of Roadhouse! read more

The big manager is terribly unprofessional. I came in from Hollywood to check the theater out for a huge event I'm bringing to the area and he kicked us during our movie out because an employee didn't like someone we were with!! I was shocked. In the middle of the movie he asked 7 of us to leave because one of his staff had an issue with a patron and had to give back over $100 of revenue. They brought me to this theater because they said it was unique and special and offered something special for the event I was going to do. After the way I was treated there is no way in HELL I would ever step foot in this place again, let alone pay to rent the whole thing out for a event. I hope the owner reads this and does something about this terrible employee. I now have to spend all day tomorrow looking for a new theater to rent out for this event. read more

This theatre is in a great location. And, it's cool that they sell beer but I can't drink during movies - I would have to pee non-stop. It's old school and I like that about it. But, the seats are pretty uncomfortable and the theatres are so small that it's hard to see. We saw Dark Knight here and it was really long and my neck hurt by the end of it. Not to mention, the bathroom is in a creepy location. I was kind of freaked out by Heath's Joker performance. So, when I bolted downstairs to the bathroom in the middle of the movie and I was the only one in the dark hallway I got a little creeped out. Started thinking any psycho could be hiding down there. But, I admit, I have an overactive imagination. Nice location and nice independent theatre vibe, but not very comfortable. read more

Gotta love the fact that you can see a burlesque show here one weekend, see a movie during the week, and then attend a film festival the following weekend. My only gripe is the theater's sound system is severely lacking. Beer and wine with the normal concessions? Just add whiskey and lets call it my living room. read more

I've always liked this theater, and will continue to do so. However the previous time I went there (to see Moon) with my daughter the projector broke down, and we were given make-up tickets. She's been obsessing over them ever since and today on her 18th birthday when we went back to see The Fantastic Mr. Fox the theater refused to honor them. The *Manager* went so far as to call me "not a liar" in front of that same daughter - but clearly he considered me, and her, to be so. I guess that just goes to show a place can be great, and still be managed by a jerk. If someone tries to pawn off a "free pass" on you when the projector breaks down, make sure to take it to the manager before you leave for his initials. read more

Another five stars? Yes please. Davis Square offers so many interesting thing to do. WIth great bars, good restaraunts and just a fun place to hang out in general, its no wonder they have a most excellent movie theatre as well. The Somerville Theatre is a hub for not only showing recent movies, but also acts as a venue for live music as well as fun film marathons, not limited to sci fi, action and classics. Right outside of the Davis Square T Stop, this place is definitely a place to check out. Built in 1914, this theatre is full of so much rich history that carries a wonderful legacy. With a very classic looking front and filled with memorabilia of days past, Somerville Theatre keeps true to keeping it local and staying a top theatre amongst the several movie theatre chains popping up all over Boston. They are set up with your typical movie theatre staples; concessions, multiple theatres, but they do also offer huge portions of tasty ice cream and also a bar where you can purchase beer and bring into the theatre. This is very progressive and it helps the theatre stand out as favorite amongst all around the surrounding areas. The main theatre is simple breathtaking. Reminicent of theatre venues of old, it is vast and overwhelming that you will feel transported back in time. If you ever get the chance, try to catch a live show to see how well this place converts for live concerts, theatrically and musically Down in the basement, be sure to check out the Museum of Bad Art, AKA MOBA. If you get there early, immersing yourself in silly and often misfired pieces of art is a must. The artwork changes from time to time, but laughs and utter confusion will be had after your experience. With a chance to see movies, music and theatrical shows and even bad art, Somerville Theatre is a pillar in the Davis Square community that will continue to entertain audiences of all walks of life for generations to come. read more

Came for slutcracker and the theater itself was beautiful. However, a huge issue to my friend and myself was that we could only get 1 beer at a time and the bathroom was so far! Even Fenway lets you buy 2 beers. How can we leave during intermission and each get a beer and each go to the bathroom in the basement when we're in the balcony? Maybe I missed a bathroom, but that was where everyone went. Came a second time for a movie and the seats are comfortable and the staff were waiting right outside to ensure it was ready for the next show, which I appreciate at someone who worked at a movie theater through high school. read more

If the Somerville Theatre ever closes, that will be the official Death of Davis Square. In the years since I've moved here, we've seen the fall of Someday Cafe, the arrival of CVS, and recently, the compromising of Sacco's Bowlhaven. These things do not bode well, but as long as this cinema stays open, there is hope for Davis. Somerville Theater doesn't have stadium seating or or the super nice seating you'd get at, say, the Loews Boston Common, but they've done a really job at presenting their films. They're almost always in good focus and the sound in most of the theaters is pretty good for a "cheap" theater... though I've noticed the larger theater in the basement has some warbliness in the sound that they need to address. Also in the basement: The Museum of Bad Art, which rules. The art changes too so its alway worth checking out. They also do cool special screenings (very bummed to have missed the screening of Jaws they did earlier this year) and occasionally feature films you can't find anywhere else. Unlike the Brattle, they don't moan and groan about how independent they are and hit you over the head with their martyrdom. Granted they aren't AS indo as the Brattle but thats a good thing cuz the Brattle is usually for snooty toolbags. If I ever become a super-duper rich person, this is the first type of place I'd think about buying. OH YEAH and of course there's the beer. They have some of the best Harpoon you'll get anywhere. Every movie is better with a beer. And they even have an affordable small popcorn. Insane! read more

To be upfront, I do really like the Somerville Theatre overall. This review is for my specific experience last night, which has single handedly managed to sour me on this theatre for the time being. We arrived early for a 7:15 movie, around 6:35. Got some beers/ciders and settled in. At around 7:12 I went back upstairs to get a second cider, and was refused service at the bar. I was bone sober, and was trying to get a cold drink before the movie started. I was told by the bartender that he had "just served me and would not serve me again for another 25 minutes at least." I've NEVER been refused service at a bar, let alone while sober at a local movie theatre. It was embarrassing and unnecessary. I just hope that bartender doesn't treat everybody he deals with that way. It'll be a while before I return. read more

The Somerville Theater is an older building, as is common in New England. It's got "well-worn" charm that blends New England's appreciation for history and heritage, and an "artsy" feel that reflects Somerville's demographic. For visitors to Somerville, and especially New England, this will come across as "dirty" and "uncomfortable". One man's "grafitti" is another man's "art". One man's "charm" is another man's warped floorboards and rusting pipes. The seating is designed as it was many, many decades ago, when Americans were shorter and obesity wasn't a consideration when dealing with "averages". As a 6' 3", 300 pound man who highly values his personal space, seating was crammed together, the aisles were not properly spaced, and even putting my arm around my date caused me to bump and brush the people next to me, next to my date, or behind me. Because of the narrow spacing of the aisles, I was constantly fidgetting and adusting to see past the heads of the people in front of me. The very front edge of the stage wasn't even visible to me most of the time. read more

The Somerville Theatre in one word= Awesome! Beautiful historic building which is conveniently located in the heart of Davis Square, right next to the T stop. Harpoon+ Cider on tap= hurray for beer service in a theatre!! The popcorn is super fresh and tasty. The ticket prices are very reasonable and the staff is super friendly. The stadium seating and lots of leg room is a big plus. I love that they showcase great independent musicians and wonderful plays and shows. Saw the Slutcracker last year--hilarious! Somerville Theatre is a real gem! Definitely worth a stop if you're on a date, movie night or just feeling nostalgic! PS: The Museum of Bad Art in the basement is super cool and worth checking out, not to mention free! read more

Do you know what it's like to watch Wolf of Wall Street with 2 beers in one hand and a beautiful lady's thigh in the other? I do, thanks to the Somerville Theater. This is really just a great neighborhood theater. It's literally next to the T and surrounded by great bars and restaurants. If you want a chill but solid date night, I don't know of any better place to go. read more

Almost always a good movie selection. I usually want to see at least one of the movies they are showing, if not all of them. Lately, they have been getting movies that aren't even second run. I saw "Borat" here and it's only been out for three weeks. You've got to love the prices too, although you do get what you pay for (none of those fancy seats like the new theatres have). The only negative that I can think of is standing outside to buy tickets, although it only sucks in bad weather, and I have never had to wait more than 2 or 3 minutes. And they DO take credit cards, as long as you don't go to the "Cash Only" window. read more

This movie theater is one of my favorite places. They have small theaters, but with good screens and sound quality. They play both first-run mainstream and limited-release movies. Tickets are very reasonably priced, even on weekends when they get slightly more expensive they are cheaper than almost anywhere else. The location is great, right in the heart of Davis. You can also enjoy great concessions including beer and wine. I have also seen some of the best concerts and performances here on their main stage. And in the basement? The Museum of Bad Art! Which is the perfect thing to do if you are always early for movies like me. read more

My go-to movie theater, even though I live in Fenway. Completely worth the trip. Here's why: - Cheapest ticket prices in Boston. You may even have some extra cash left to buy yourself a pop corn. Yes, THAT CHEAP. - BAR! A freakin bar. With wine and beer and it's even good. Have you noticed how well wine pairs with pop corn? If you come here, you will. - The whole place is freakishly cute. If you've been to the Coolidge Corner theater, this place has a similar vibe. - A ton of amazing places to eat around, before or after the movie: Mr. Crepe, Amsterdam Falafel, Mike's, Boston Burger, and JP Licks for dessert. What else could one ask for? - The Museum of Bad Art downstairs - a museum. You hear this?? MUSEUM. - Last but not least - this place has amazing concerts once in a while. Make sure to regularly check this schedule. If this list does not convince you, then I don't know what will... And let me repeat: wine. with. popcorn. Cheers!!! read more

This is a really cool theatre. I've been here once before during the Boston Film Festival, and then we went today to see Gone Baby Gone. It was a cool movie theatre, and was reminded of such when we walked in. First off, there's a sign on the door that says: "no children under 8 during evening movies. It's always MUCH appreciated that a theatre understands that's a bad idea. Tickets are $5. It's a short bus ride from our house. There's ice cream across the street. This place is cool. They lose a star for the crazy people they draw in here during the day. We dealt with two crazy old dudes with hip hop ringtones taking calls in the theatre, and one crazy woman who told them to shut the f-up, and then people crying hysterically at the movie. Yes, it was good, but you've gotta ask yourself, was it really that good or did you just need a good cry? read more

THIS IS A REVIEW OF THE SOMERVILLE AS A MUSIC VENUE. I saw a live show at the freshly-repainted Somerville Theater this past weekend. What a treasure. The amazingly talented main act I saw aside (M Ward - you should love him), this place has achieved something I have never experienced before: intimacy and prestige. This place is a "theater", meaning is has padded seating in curved rows, a balcony, seats on the wings. and the grandeur of high ceilings with something not-too-far beyond stenciling. But it's tiny! It's incredible how they pull of the magnificence of a true, old-fashioned theater while still making the ambience cozy and - when the lights go down - magical. The acoustics are wonderful; if the room is silent, you can hear the artist breathing. When the kick drums are in full effect and the electric guitars wail, the room handles it like a lady (whose headbanging or moshing, you choose). read more

I've been here a few times for films, both in the larger theater and one of the smaller ones. The acoustics are good, and it's definitely got that classic theater feel, which is always nice. It's also relatively close to the Davis Square T, which is always very good. I also had a chance to go to a film here during one of the Somerville Film Festivals (that would be the smaller theater experience). That was also a good experience in terms of film watching, as the theater was both quaint and well set-up. read more

I just got back from seeing the Magnetic Fields at the Somerville Theatre...Honestly, I've seen more shows here than movies (I'm kinda not a movies-in-the-theatre person) and as always was impressed with the acoustics, especially as my seats were the second row back from the wall of the balcony. Even being so far away, the acoustics were about just as brilliant as when I've been on the floor. My only complaint is that the balcony appears to have been designed for people who are under 5 feet tall, and I am about 5 inches over that limit. I had to contort myself into a rather awkward position, that had I been wearing a short skirt would've been fairly scandalous. Of course, we were all piled on top of each other so no one would've noticed, plus I don't really wear short skirts, especially in February. But yeah, the venue is great, one of my favorite ones for seeing shows. They also have beer and wine which is reasonably priced for all you drinkers (I'm a dork and carry bottled water everywhere) They also play an eclectic selection of art house and second run movies which is pretty neat. And there are owls, which is, of course, awesome. The only thing more awesome is going to play a string of candlepin bowling after seeing a movie or show, but sadly that my change soon. But owls and music and booze=A+++ read more

Every fall I start off ski fever at the Somerville Theater because... Warren Miller tours the US and stops at the Somerville Theater! For a great ski video go Nov 2 & 3 at 7pm http://www.warrenmiller.com/wmiller/higherground/trailer/index.html get your tickets in advance through ski market. read more

The Somerville Theater rocks. Top 5 reasons to go here: 5. The tickets are cheap ($7 weekdays, $8 weekends, $5 matinee) 4. The movies are awesome (generally the better movies that came out 3 months ago) 3. The theater has been around since 1914! Get your slice of Davis Square history here. 2. They get great concerts and events that pass through-- and prices are always reasonable. And the #1 Reason: THEY NOW SERVE BEER! Amen. read more

I love the fact that you are sitting in an actual theater. The seats are still comfortable, my date's legs weren't cramped (and he is 6'3" or 6'4"), and as an added bonus after the movie, wen went downstairs to see the museum of ugly art. I think this theater is a nice treat, you get to experience some nice decor, have booze if you want, watch a show, and then go see some art (ugly art, but art), and it's right in the heart of Davis sq so you'll have plenty of options for dinner before/after a show and/or bars to go out to if you want to do that as well. read more

This independant movie theater is a landmark within Somerville and dates back to 1914. Yup, it's nearing a century of age and is still going strong to this day. I've been there on numerous occasions, whether to enjoy a screening of the Big Lebowsky or to see the Social Network more recently. Despite it's old age, the place is great and the prices are more than affordable. They've also hosted a plethora of events, including a private U2 concert for a pack of lucky fans. They are also the host to the annual 'Slutcracker" show during the holidays and many more events throughout the years. Concerts, plays and movies. They do it all and they do it well. But what really differentiates it from other theaters is their liquor licence. While you can't have any of the hard stuff, you can still enjoy a glass of wine, or beer while you attend a show there. And that my friends, is awesome. It's located just stone's throw away from the T stop as well and street parking is easily available. Honestly, I have no complaints about the place. It's great to have this in the neighborhood. read more

Shhh... don't let the seekrit out. I flat out lurve this movie theater. That's right L-U-R-V-E. Apparently they have concerts and I've never been to one, but I lurve it as a straight up movie theater. The tickets are the lowest in the area-- you won't pay more than $7-8 a ticket for an evening show. Really. And, they have beer on tap and Harpoon at that. That alone, is worth it. They don't get all of popular release movies in there, but there's usually one or two that I want to see and that's what really matters. In fact, I'm emailing Patrick F right now to see if he wants to see the new Bond movie there :D read more

What do you do when you're in a 3 + year relationship want to go out on a date but are trying to save money? Come here. The prices are reasonable, they sell beer and wine - you know to guarantee the romance, and their movie selection is small but great. It's such a treat to watch a film in the main theater! I also love the Museum of Bad Art in the basement. Hilarious! I've also seen some concerts here and they have been the best ever. The venue is awesome. Big enough, but it's still pretty intimate. Awesome. Also, my friends rented out the theater for a birthday party, we surprised him with our own personal viewing of Pee-Wee's Big Adventure. The price was so great, and they let us bring in our own food. The staff was amazing. So come here on date night, a concert, to view the bad art, or rent the space out. Seriously - support this great local venu. read more

Local theater that only charges $8 for first run movies? Yes please! Wait, say what? There's more? The Museum of Bad Art is in the basement? AND they serve alcohol at the concession stand?! Why go anyplace else? read more

There is something rare and nice about supporting non-chain places. This particular theater reeks of nostalgia, with the old-school marquee out front, a small, intimate lobby and low prices! I'll be honest, I wasn't aware of the beer service, but it's definitely a plus. I'm not sure I would drink beer in the theater (as I feel popcorn, candy and soda are an integral part of the movie experience), but it's nice to have options. Although I live right y the Harvard Square theater, I almost prefer this one, which is in a great location. Literally, it's next to the T. If you can't walk here, public transportation to the rescue. read more

Nothing else to say that the 300+ positive reviews haven't covered, but just in case you need a few highlights: - Beer & wine (and not a bad selection) sold in-house for $5! - $6 movies before 6 PM, $9 after - Museum of Bad Art in the basement in case you're super early/bored - A good showing of movies (I saw Elisyum last Sunday) - Online ticket purchasing for just $1 extra So worth the hour long commute. read more

THE place to go for that movie that came out last month you didn't get a chance to see. The prices here, especially for matinee's, are very friendly, and the same goes for the snacks. Now take in to consideration that I'm a tall drink of water. Over 6 feet. So when I'm constantly complaining about crappy seating, I know this might not be a problem for all of you. But I wish and pay that this place could get some decent seats. You gotta be around 5 foot to fit into these things. And the sound ain't doin' much for me here eaither. There was constant static during V For Vendetta that was pretty annoying. But all in all this is a great place to have around. They also have concerts here in the big theater on the first floor. There the kinds of acts you'd usually find at the Middle East Downstairs or maybe the Avalon. It's a good place to see a band, everyone gets a good view and the place has suprisingly good accoustics. If they'd only get some new seats I'd give 'em five. Edit: They did one better by adding delicious beer and first-run movies. Five it is. read more

Came here yesterday to see Little Women. Arrived 5 minutes late and the movie didn't start until 15 min after scheduled time (which was good for me, as someone who is chronically late). There were no previews so the movie started right away and was played on 35mm film. Tickets were $10, there is beer and popcorn for purchase. They show lots of old films here as well and host a variety of events. Would recommend checking it out! Great little theater. read more

What makes this neighborhood theater so great? They have not one, not two, not three, not four, but five screens of second run films with an occasional first run film thrown in like Simpsons or the Bourne Ultimatum - it's the most inexpensive movie ticket around. They also have midnight screenings of everything from Wet Hot American Summer to Roadhouse. Every spring, the theater hosts the Boston Independent Film Festival where they pack dozens and dozens of independent, documentary, and experimental films into just a few days. Their main art deco theater also features regular music performances from artists such as the Books and Cat Power. And most importantly, you can buy beer in the lobby. This all adds up to a funky charm that big chain theaters cant match. read more

as another yelper said..the sound can be horrible. I also could not hear a lot of lines in the Dark Knight. However, the place serves boooz (wine and beer), which if you do not mind taking a bathroom break in the middle of a movie, is a wonderful thing. A movie at this theater can be a great compromise date night...the girl can watch a chick flick while the guy numbs the pain with some beer. read more

They serve beer, which is good. BUT! the concession stands are CLOSED like 30 minutes after the last movie starts. this makes no sense. fix it. read more

This is the best place to see a movie...ever. The ticket prices are around the same as everywhere else ($7.00 or $5.00 for matinee ...sp?). They usually have a different selection of movies ranging from Kendall type like The Last King of Scotland & Babel to more mainstream flicks like 300 or The Departed. If your lucky enough to see a film in the main theater that's always a plus.The popcorn is very cheap and my g/f has mentioned a few times that it "tastes healthier"....also they offer TEA yes TEA which is awesome and have several varieties. I hate going to any other movie theater and usually wait it out til it hits the Ville. If you need to take public transportation you can take the Red Line to Davis Square and it's next door. And after the movie go to Mikes for cheap beer and tasty pizza. Oh...they also put on great live concerts AND I HEARD BEER IS ON THE WAY....BEER AND A MOVIE,,,OKAYYYYYYYYYY read more

I've only been to this place a few times. But I will definatly make the trip out here more often after today. Went to see Tron today, about 20 minutes into the movie the projector messed up (I actually think who ever loaded the film put it on incorrectly), but they gladly refunded our money and gave us a free ticket. I came back a couple hours later for the next show and it was perfectly fine. Also you cannot beat the price. 5.00$ for early shows 8.00 for late ones. Thats ridiculous this day and age. 5.00$?!! Worth the trip for sure. read more

The Somerville Theatre is a must attend for anyone in the area. From it's selection of classic films to its beautiful layout (complete with red curtains) to the popcorn stand where the vendors put as much butter as you request, this quaint theatre is a small marvel in the area. While their mainstream film selection is limited, they always have a solid selection. The service is wonderful, and you get the feeling that everyone was hired with the necessary qualifier that they have a deep love for film. I highly recommend coming on a night when they're playing a film as part of their director series. They choose a director and just play his movies over a series of weeks. It's a wonderful crowd and they always choose someone worthy of coming back to the big screen (Paul Thomas Anderson has been the chosen director of late). So swing by for a matinee (fairly priced at $7) the next time you're in the area. It's my favorite theatre North of the Charles. read more

A great place to see a movie. Right next to the T. Good atmosphere, yadda yadda yadda However, whoever chooses the films they show has a crack problem. F*cking Knocked Up has been there for the whole summer --go the f*ck away already. And that kind of thing happens all the time there. A couple of recent movies started there a week or two after the DVD came out. The other issue is going to concerts at the Theatre. If you get seats in the balcony you better be under 5'3, because they are jammed together. And not every show they hold there is a rager where you are up the whole time. I am pretty sure this fat guy next to me at Ryan Adams needed his legs amputated after the show when gout set in. I gotta say, the snack counter is rather uninspiring. And I know they have beer there, but its UFO and Harpoon. Hey, in a bar that's great, at a movie I want something I can chug down with Milk Duds and Popcorn like a Coors Light or something. read more