Love love love The Castro Theatre!! Five stars all the way. But omg WHY is the popcorn so salty? It's like comically salty. I thought I just got a bad batch the last time, but I returned and it was the same level of eye watering saltiness. Did I eat it both times? Yes I did. But did I deeply regret it the next day? Also yes. I'm begging you, please use less salt so we can only have hangovers from your drinks. Love you! read more

After living in the city for over 15 years and then working in the Castro I can finally say I checked out the Castro Theatre! From the outside, the theatre looks quite small but I'd say it seats at least 200 people. I came here for an Inforum event recently to see Tim Ferriss. It was my first Inforum event and I was super excited since I've wanted to check one out for awhile and they finally had a speaker I was interested in. The theatre itself is pretty clean, food is basic and that of a typical theatre (popcorn, red vines, soda) but I couldn't find anywhere in the theatre that sold wine or beer as the event said there would be. Some of the more obvious things to point out. No parking in this area, at all. Bathrooms seem limited as I could only locate one in the entire building. Seats are fairly comfy! Overall, I'm so glad I came and I'm looking forward to coming to future events at this location :) read more

The Castro - Tim Ferris and Naval Ravikant (CEO of Angel List) about to begin! - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

I grew up coming to this theater my mom used to work here so I got to see all the free movies at all the free candy and popcorn and sodas lol what I like about this theater is that it's old school they have a organ player at 7 o'clock and he plays in between the two movies intermission n the crowd always interacts with the movie,and I like that nowadays with these new technology movies nobody does they just go sit watch and leave so this theater is really nice. The best time go here is during the summer because they have a lot of movies that you could catch up and watch especially old ones and they even have sing-alongs like grease and a lot of other musical movies which is pretty cool. So if you just want to come relax and enjoy old school of a theater and interact with the crowd sing-along to some great music then come on by and check it out. Thanks for Reading my Review ~Lizzie ~ read more

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This is a great venue for SFSketch Fest. Got to see so many great reunions from Animal House movie cast reunion and 20 year reunion of Office Space. This venue is great for Q&A sessions. The theater looks classy inside. The only downside would be going to the men's bathroom all the way to the basement. This place has been a host to many cinema legends. read more

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Kim Novak : How I Met Her, Madeleine, and Judy too. I rarely see films while on vacation; I'd rather be out exploring my surroundings. In August of 2012, I was lured into submission with a screening of a 70MM print of Alford Hitchcock's, Vertigo (one of my all time favorite films). Earlier in evening, we'd been out celebrating our anniversary in the Mission, and walked over to the theatre to purchase tickets for the film. When the guys at the door found out it was our anniversary, they comped our tickets! What a sweet surprise. The Theater's Spanish Colonial Baroque facade pays homage to the Mission Dolores Basilica Church, located a few blocks away. (The mission was featured in Hitchcock's, Vertigo). Inside, an organist plays a Wurlitzer pipe organ before screenings. It harkens back to a time when seeing a film was a glamorous outing. I love old movie houses. In my hometown of Portland, Oregon, we have a small handful of these gems remaining. Quick facts: Built in 1922, designed by architect Timothy L. Pflueger, it's one of the oldest operating movie theaters in the country. It became a San Francisco historic landmark in September 1976. The box office kiosk, the wooden doors, and tiles in the foyer are all original. It is owned by its founding family, the Nasser brothers, one of the oldest movie-business families in San Francisco. Besides showing films, they offer unique programming and events. Check their online calendar. Flash forward to 5/20/18: Serendipity strikes again, a 60th Anniversary screening of Vertigo was playing the weekend we were in town. TCM's Eddie Muller was to interview the legendary Kim Novak!! #dead We snagged VIP tickets early on, and sat in the second row, center. Novak talked about her art, films, and the current #metoo movement. I was floored! I never thought I'd get a chance to see her in person. At 85, she looked fantastic! She was down-to-earth and gracious. Here's a short video and article on that magical evening. https://youtu.be/Lrp-I2n-9vo https://www.sfchronicle.com/movies/article/Vertigo-star-KiNovak-talks-Hitchcock-12931509.php After the film we made our way upstairs for a meet and greet. It was so crowded up there! Kim didn't come with security. What?! The fans were all up in her face. Finally I got to meet her. She took my hand, and I don't recall much else. She also gave my husband's cheek a soft caress. Unreal. Outside the theatre, we watched as she exited. A homeless man who wasn't wearing shoes, and looking very disheveled, shouted out, "I love you Kim Novak!" Novak, stopped what she was doing, and gave this man a hug! It was a sweet moment that I'll never forget. Being kind is a virtue. Afterwards we went for drinks at Twin Peaks (located next door) While there, we met these fun ladies who were also at the screening, and invited them to sit with us. As we sipped cocktails, Kim Novak and her family walked in! They sat at the table next to us! Unbelievable. It was crazy to watch her chow down on pizza, more Judy Barton than Madeleine Elster. We tried to remain calm and show her the same kindness and respect that she'd shown the guy in front of the theatre. We left her alone. read more

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I love the Castro Theatre and have been here many times over the years. Last night, I went with friends to the Bohemian Rhapsody Sing-a-Long, which was one of the most fun nights I've had in years. Of course I had already seen the movie, which you should anyway but it makes this kind of event even better, and then seeing it this way was a special treat. With a $16 admission, you get a goodie bag filled with a paper gold crown, which most people wore, a glow stick, a popper thing, and a little bottle for blowing bubbles. The theatre was completely packed with a diverse crowd ready for fun. The Castro Theatre is beautiful, they have a live organist, arranged a little costume show off, and seem to care about their patrons enjoying themselves. We sang, we sighed, we whooped, we applauded and we hissed, we laughed and we cried, and we were all in it together. Like Queen says about Queen, we were a family, at least for a couple hours. And it was magical. I shall return. read more

The Castro - Castro Theatre - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

I love a old timey theater. It really transports you back. Well it was a great venue for the last (yes let's all cry) prescreen of the last season of Downton Abbey's first episode. Well that was a mouthfull! The Castro Theatre is in the heart of the Castro. Fairly easy to get to by Bart and Muni if you're like me coming from the East Bay. You basically come out of the Muni Station and bam there you are. You won't miss it. Well I almost did after my friend basically pointed...it's there. HA! Well inside you have both balcony and orchestra seating. They have a large screen and what's that? a Wurlitzer? Yes indeedy it is! I *heart* old timey music! They do sell popcorn, snacks and beverages. as well. I didn't get to try out their commode, but I'm sure it's old timey too :) Loved getting to experience Downton Abbey in this theater. It was quite fitting and hope to get to see another show here again. read more

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I'm ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille... Norma Desmond may be right...the movies are still big, it's the theaters that got small. OK, she didn't quite say that in "Sunset Boulevard", but the Castro is the way movie theaters should be. A big, ornate palace with fancy lighting, trompe l'oeil art, and a big balcony...for, uh, extracurricular activities. Of course, there is the Mighty Wurlitzer organ with the back of a modest man playing a medley of the evening's cinematic music capped off by a rousing rendition of "San Francisco" that would make Jeanette McDonald tear up except that she's dead. I've been coming here for years starting with a Chaplin film festival in the 1970's. The programming is generally terrific and getting more eclectic every year. I still remember the beautifully restored version of "My Fair Lady" they showed in the early 90's. And I've seen some great independent films that have debuted here like "The War Tapes" and "Dirty Laundry". The sing-alongs are a lot of fun - "The Sound of Music" is probably the best of the bunch because there's nothing like trilling Rodgers & Hammerstein tunes while you're escaping the Nazis. "Mary Poppins" is fun, but the lyrics move so quickly it's hard to keep up with the motor-mouthed Brit speak, while "Grease" comes with a tote bag of goodies for you to apply within the context of those hand-jive ditties. I have to say my favorite showing was likely a midnight madness special where we were treated to the epic triumvirate of disco-era roller skating cinema - the Romeo & Juliet heart tugs of "Roller Boogie" with a very chesty, spandex-stretched Linda Blair; the street-gang cool of "Skatetown U.S.A. with a baby-faced Patrick Swayze, and best of all, the resplendently incoherent "Xanadu" with a geriatric Gene Kelly dressed in various pimp outfits. There is a lot of audience participation no matter what the film, so it's best just to let yourself go. And now I see Connie Francis is coming for a live performance...and is there a better place for her to sing "Where the Boys Are" than the Castro? How cool is that? read more

Stunning historical venue with amazing architecture. Home to special events and the annual FrameLine LGTQ+ Film Festival (amongst others). Outstanding in pretty much every way. read more

Whether it was a Sound of Music sing-a-long, a screening of Unsinkable Molly Brown with Debbie Reynolds in person, kicking off ski season with the latest Warren Miller flick, or catching Notorious on a big screen, every event here has been well worth the price of admission. Yes, the sound system could use an upgrade, the floor is sticky, and the concession lines can be quite long. But all in all, the place is a classic and the experience is well worth it. My only real complaint is that sometimes certain members of the crowd want to be as much of a show as the actual movie. I think this is great before and after, and somewhat ok during the sing-a-longs, but during a quiet scene of a classic movie I really don't want to hear some bozo yelling out a line that he/she thinks is funny. Watch the movie people. My advice is to go here at least 3 or 4 times a year for different activities. Try to catch a special event or simply watch a classic movie you haven't seen in years. I know the Kubuki and the Sundance have rocking seats, some places have bars, and all the newer theaters have large bathrooms and concession stands, but if you want a truly Big Screen theater, there are only a few left. So support them while you can before they are all gone. The Castro itself is a classic, like the Paramount in Oakland. It's a great theater so walk around it, check out the décor and the construction. Then sit an enjoy one of the largest screens in the bay area. read more

"Dammit, Janet... I love youuuuuu!" Castro Theatre shows really cool movies. I came to see the "Rocky Horror Picture Show" once, one of my ole time favorites. I've always wanted to dress in drag like "Magenta," and carry a blow dryer for Halloween and sing... "More, more, more!!! Then sing and perform the TIME WARP DANCE... "It's just a jump to the left And then a step to the right With your hands on your hips You bring your knees in tight But it's the pelvic thrust that really drives you insane, Let's ...do ...the ...Time ...Warp .......again!" I was also here for their silent films of Chaplin, and Bette Davis "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane! Remember her famous line? "But ya'rrrr Blanche, ya'rrrrrr!" The inside is very nice and nostalgic! Love their staging too. If you're into old films, silent, the 50s, or independent films and foreign, you'll really enjoy watching it here. Until then, Cheers! ~ :p read more

The Castro - Changing of the "Signs for the show!" - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

Opening films, big productions & events happen at the Castro Theater. I just saw Richard Gere get an award on stage. There was an interview about his body of work. It was a good discussion. He was very modest & humble...cool. He spoke about meeting the Dalai Lama and what they talked about..really cool. I can't think of any other theater where these events could happen. Seriously! read more

The Castro - Question & answer period with the director & lead actor of the new Yves St. Laurent film - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

What a wonderful place. I have so many memories at The Castro Theater. Great films, comedy events, sing-along classics, SF Gay Mens' Chorus Holiday Shows, and more than a few romantic date nights. The Snack Bar has quality snacks, even some healthy-ish choices, and freshly made popcorn. All at reasonable prices that go toward keeping this hallowed location open ! As soon as you can go to the Castro Theatre (their schedule is on line), enjoy a classic film or a live show... .... and look up! Marveling at the classic interior and unmatched ceiling art are a great pastime, better than a half-hour of commercials shown at mainstream theaters. Enjoy!! read more

Enjoyed my time watching a limited premiere of Bianca del Rio's second movie, Hurricane Bianca: From Russia With Hate. Bianca herself was there and sat in the audience with us! So amazing. The theatre itself was beautiful with a lot of stunning decor on the walls and ceilings. The seats were nice and comfy and honestly you could get a great view of the stage from anywhere (unless a tall person comes and sits right in front of you). Huge screen and the sound is set just right whether you're in the very first row or in the back. Before the movie started, an organ and the player literally rose from under the stage. It was... weird. But entertaining in a way? His back was to us, I guess to showcase that he was actually playing and how many pedals his foot had to work with. An interesting way to distract that we were still waiting for the movie to start. My only complaint would be concessions. The people were wonderful, the cashier tolerated my paying her in solely quarters (I had a lot of change weighing me down). When it's a popular event such as this, the line really has nowhere to go so if you're at the tail end you may find yourself waiting on the stairs that go to the balcony level. Ah yes, the complaint. Do Not Order The Popcorn. It tastes like packing peanuts with kernels stuck in them. Also, if you find yourself having to order the popcorn for some reason, Do Not Add Butter. It's basically grease. Tastes like nothing, coats your fingers and everything except the popcorn! You know you're just putting something in your mouth that shouldn't be there, let alone sold in a huge theatre. Make sure you eat beforehand, there's really only the packing peanuts, candies, soda/water and some random "homemade" goods like cookies. But for sure I'd come back! The Castro District is lovely, fun, and there's so much to do around there. And even leaving the show around 11pm, I felt safe walking outside in the area. Kay, wrapping up. Review over. read more

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I love this beautiful old theatre! Going to see movies here is a very special experience because the theatre is very beautiful (inside and outside) and the organ man plays (almost) every evening show! The seating is great. A while back I tried the balcony for the first time. Awesome! read more

The Castro - Seat saving CAN BE sexy if you do it right - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

I love this place for the nostalgia of an old theatre. Not only do they play movies but they also put on shows and different events. We have been to a Grease sing a long which was so much fun. The crowd really gets into it and sings all the words. The hosts also provided props and directions (blow bubble when you see...) that made it that much more fun. We have also seen quite a few Peaches Christ drag productions here. The cast, crew, and venue work hard to make the show the best that they can. Every time we have visited we have had a great time. If you are looking for a fancy new theater with recliners, gourmet snack bars, assigned seats, etc look else where. They also do not work with MoviePass however the experience is still worth it. read more

The Castro Theatre is such a beautiful space. I attended the Moth GrandSLAM on 3/21/19 and I had a fantastic time! The event was packed, and I am glad that I got there early! Doors opened at 7 PM, and the show started at 8. My friend and I got in line at around 6:30 which allowed us plenty of time to get checked in and find seats! There are plenty of great places to eat in the area beforehand as well. The theatre is right across the street from the MUNI metro station which makes it super easy to get to. read more

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I'm pretty sure this is the coolest theatre I've ever been to. It reminds me a little of coolidge corner in Brookline (Boston), but much bigger and cooler. Afterall, there's an organ player! That alone makes the experience worthwhile. I saw the ferris bueller/rushhmore double feature here the other night - $10 for two movies. Granted, I didn't really care about bueller but even still that's a great deal. Audience was a bit vocal, which normally would annoy me, but for bueller seemed appropriate. I can't believe how many times I've walked by here, seeing great films playing on the marquee, and not checking it out. Not anymore! I think this will be my new home away from. read more

Very classy decor, nice spot for a movie premiere. Lined up here to catch the main attraction of the Asian Film Fest, and boy was it crowded. Castro had a good capacity to seat of the winding line that circled around the block. Complete with a red curtain-ed stage and an pipe organ player (see Paramount Theater in Oakland). Fun spot to catch a unique film. read more

The Castro - Yes, we're open - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

Come here for "The Little Mermaid" sing-along!!! It is the most fun sing-along I have ever been to! I look forward to this every year! They give you a prop bag with a crown (so everyone can be a princess!), a dinglehopper (you should know what this if you are a true fan!), and other things to help you interact with the movie. This was my favorite movie as a kid and the sing-along at the Castro makes me feel like a kid all over again. Sing at the top of your lungs with a room full of people doing the same (some people actually recite every line of the movie - I've heard it)! It is also encouraged that you dress up as your favorite character - there's a costume contest before the showing. It's super fun. And then if you are feeling a bit hungry from singing so enthusiastically, get a cookie from Hot Cookie! :D They also do a Sound of Music sing-along every year which also looks super fun. They should do more Disney movie sing-alongs! read more

Up where they walk, up where they run, up where they stay all day in the sun... This theater is beautiful and historic. Love the architecture and ambiance. I saw The Little Mermaid Sing Along here with my gal and guy pals and we had so much fun! It was fun watching and singing along to one of my favorite Disney movies! I loved the props! Anyway, the theater itself is very historic and so San Francisco. I love it! The ceiling arches and chandelier is so glorious and inspiring. Makes me want to pursue architecture as a hobby! This is a truly a great place to see, watch movies, and just sit be amazed by the beauty of the theater! Go Arts! read more

The Castro - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I was here for an event and wanted to see an 100 year old theater. Based on the signs on the theater, a lot of events only have around 100 people. The theater is beautifully done which you do not see anymore. read more

The Castro - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

I would love to give 5 stars because the theater and all it represents and brings to the community is truly worthy of 5 stars. But on the night Nov 29th 2019 my decision to spend my birthday at their Sound of Music sing along did not pan out to be the fun I expected and theater's proprietorship left much to be desired.... such as a hot drink and a warm blanket. It was 45 degrees out and the heater was broken. Announcements before the show where made on the stage - we were not to complain, they already knew and there was nothing to be done. I wasn't too concerned but as the show went on a cold draft had me and my friends shivering with our coats, scarves, and hats on. (I am not exaggerating) My wife was having severe Raynaud's attacks in her feet and hands. She had gloves on too. Since I felt so much cold air blowing I thought maybe they had something on but the air coming out was cold. I went and asked and was spoken to by a grumpy doorman who told me it was a draft and snapped that I could leave and get a refund if I wanted to. At intermission everyone rushed to get hot drinks and there were many comments as to how cold folks were. A good number left. My advice to the management is: next time this happens, in the least hot drinks should be on the house. Having a hot drink really helped. And intermission could be longer if needed so everyone could get a hot drink. Having no heat on such a cold night is unacceptable and a health challenge for some. You probably saved as much on your heating fuel bill as serving free hot tea or coffee would have cost you and it would have felt like you actually cared about your patrons. Your doorman was less than empathetic. Is he burned out? Was he frustrated by having to field all of the complaints and have nothing much to offer back? If you care, I suggest you review how to handle such situations with more grace and professionalism AND that you empower the staff. Give comps to everyone, free pass to return or free drinks... something read more

Beautiful venue. I've been here a few times for the Moth Grandslam event (a story-telling contest). I'd highly recommend checking out the Moth, but I also recommend coming to the Castro Theatre for any event. It's very centrally located near Market Street, and it's right by the muni stop. The Theatre itself is spacious with vintage architecture. Really cool to be in an older theatre that has been so well taken care of. read more

Wow! Take me to a surprising place where I haven't been to! I entered, impressed with its well maintained antique details on the inside as a theatre. In addition to that, one can leave it to Castro to bring out watching a classic film sing-a-long, above the norm! Some people were dressed themed to the film, such as Mary Poppins, and there was a contest on best dressed prior to the film. Upon entering, one gets sound poppers and other fun package to chirp along to the film! It was quite an experience and memorable! The theatre is theatrical and one of a kind! Must visit! It's remarkable! read more

This gorgeous theatre was built in 1922 and, according to Wikipedia, it's ceiling is the last known "leatherette" ceiling in the USA. Possibly the world. There are so many ornate details.. if you just let your mind wander a little you can imagine stepping back in time. We saw "Drag Becomes Her" here with Jinkx Monsoon, BenDelaCreme, Peaches Christ, Heklina and more... and it was hilarious. Sold out show. Great sound, comfortable seats, not a bad view in the house and a friendly crowd. I snuck out just before the end in order to avoid long bathroom lines, but my friends did mention that the cocktail line prior to the show was long. Parking is a bit of a challenge also. Plan accordingly. read more

Still my go-to theater for unique shows and experiences. It warms my heart that this theater didn't fall to the wayside like so many other beautiful theaters that used to dot this great city. Lately the shows I've been going to are sing-a-longs as well as some Peaches productions. A fun time is always had here and I even enjoy bringing my friends who are less like me if you know what I mean. Looking forward to the next show in March, Drag Becomes Her ;-) read more

I am one of the few people I know who had never seen The Sound of Music in its entirety. So having already experienced the Beauty and The Beast Sing-Along with my best friend and daughter, I knew it was time to cross over into mainstream society and join the masses in singing along with Julie Andrews. We purchased our tickets online and after a trip on BART and Muni, we were ready. As other reviewers have mentioned, the Castro is a historical landmark, a beautifully preserved Art Deco building. You feel like you're going back in time as you enter the auditorium. In keeping with preserving the past, the Castro specializes in screening classic films, cult classics, and unique celebrations including the beloved Sing-Along Sound of Music. Our hostesses gave us instructions on how to use our party passes: flash cards to be held up during "How Do you Solve a Problem like Maria", fabric swatches to help Maria decide on new clothes for the children, and poppers that went off whenever we noticed romantic fireworks. We were encouraged to sing along but also to interact to our hearts' content. The audience didn't disappoint with its zingy one-liners and running commentary. There was also a costume contest featuring the cutest dirndls and lederhosen. Because the Sound of Music is a long film, there was a much appreciated intermission for snacks and restroom break. The snack bar has better prices than the local multiplex, better fountain drinks(Cherry Coke, how I've missed you!) and even hot drinks. The Castro shows movies for all audiences e so don't miss out on a Bay Area treasure. read more

The screens are high-quality, the sound is amazing, and the concessions are tasty. It's the perfect place for a night out

Good news the new lease holders are again popping the pop corn fresh not buying cold popcorn and just re heating it in the Castro's old pop corn machine. Now in two different size box's no more bags. Not as big as before but at least they have the machine working. read more

How could anyone not love the Castro Theater? In a world of cineplexes and mass-audience movie houses, the Castro Theater is a monument to a time when movie theaters were opulent jewel boxes designed to lift people out of drab wartime woes and depression-era poverty. That this theater hasn't been torn down to make way for "progress" is a minor miracle. The films they show are either classics (often with the star of the show on stage to speak and answer questions from an enraptured audience), or carefully curated, quality, first-run films. They also sponsor film festivals. They are an important part of the San Francisco film community. Going to the Castro Theater is always a fun experience. You know you are in for a treat as you line up for whatever event is scheduled for that particular evening. My most recent visit was to see Sing-along Bohemian Rhapsody with my friend Sally. I would wager that nearly everyone there had already seen the movie. Still, there we all were, seeing it again, wearing gold crowns, waving our glow sticks, and blowing bubbles -- all of which were provided with the price of admission. Young, old, strangers, friends, we were all united for a few happy hours as we put aside the cares of the real world and joyfully sang along with Freddie. One of my favorite things about the Castro Theater is the pipe organ recital at the start of films. It is a quintessential San Francisco moment when the first chords are struck as the mighty Wurlitzer ascends from its hiding place under the stage and rises up into the theater. The organist is talented, working those foot pedals and coaxing every ounce of majestic sound from this amazing instrument. He ends the brief recital with the familiar tune that makes San Franciscans' hearts beat a little faster: "San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gate." The audience sings along to a rousing chorus, and that is the signal for the show to begin. Anyone who does not revere and cherish this one-of-a-kind experience must be, I think, new to The City. To those few people who care more for state-of the-art amenities than a precious San Francisco icon, I would say that maybe they would be happier in a place with less history, fewer classic landmarks, and architecture without soul. If we don't appreciate and patronize these places, they will disappear, and we might as well all live in Ho-Hum, USA. The Castro Theater is one of the many reasons I am proud to say, "I live in San Francisco." read more

Beautiful historic theater!! I cannot wait to go to another show here. We saw the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus perform here in December and it was moving and especially powerful to see them in the Castro Theater! read more

I use to work at The Castro Theater, worked outside in a booth selling admitting tickets, also worked as a candy girl & Usherette in the late 1950's & early 60's . Nostalgic! Dated a young man who worked across the street at his dad's grocery store, nice guy too & good looking! Those were the days! Wonderful memories! read more

First time in Castro theatre to watch Blade runner saga. Came on a Friday and enjoyed every bit of it. I paid 13 bucks for the ticket, not too bad for watching back to back two movies. There are many antique-yy details in the theatre, even the popcorn section looks vintage! I think I will be watching many movies here, loved the theatre, loved the neighborgood :) read more

The Castro is not only a SF historic landmark, it's one of the few proper theaters in SF that elevates the movie goers experience. Aside from the very ornate and luxurious interior, patrons are treated to a Wurlitzer pipe organ that's played before film and events. The large neon "CASTRO" sign is emblematic of the theater and the neighborhood. I've attended a screening here of Inglorious Bastards with Quentin Tarantino as a guest star, watched blockbuster movies and sing a longs. The Beauty and the Beast sing along is the best! Staff and movie goers dress in costume and you're given a goodie bag for the show. Bubbles, a paper crown and noise makers really make the whole experience so much FUN! Take that Century Theaters :p Partaking into the tradition that is the Castro Theater is uniquely San Francisco. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. read more

I hate to jump on the nostalgia* and Castro bandwagons, but I love the Castro Theatre. It lives up to the hype, and seeing a movie here is an absolute treat. It's also fun having to go downstairs and around a corner to find a rest room. *For those of you who are thinking, "John S., every one of your freaking reviews has everything to do with your childhood, so shut up about hating nostalgia, you hypocrite," I'm talking about nostalgia for an era before one ever lived (e.g., when every movie theater had organists), not the early '80s. read more

There are so few of grand single screen movie houses left and SF's Castro Theatre is a true treasure, the grandest movie palace in the Bay Area. This and Stanford Theatre are my two favorite places to watch movies; the Castro is the more opulent (and comfortable because it has more leg room) of the two. The inside of the Castro is stunning with generous amounts of gold gilding, gold velvet curtains, burgundy velvet seats (with cup holders), muted fresco paintings inspired by the Renaissance and at the center of it all, the Mighty Wurlitzer organ. Being here reminds me of the time (long ago, in the 20's and 30's) when going to the movies was an event. The organ rises and the organist begins his magic ten minutes before show time. I just watched Planet of the Apes on the big screen for the first time and have a deeper appreciation for the tongue in cheek humorous dialogue, bizarre story (thank you Rod Serling), brilliant music (thank you Jerry Goldsmith), ape costumes, Lake Powell, and incomparable acting (Charlton Heston, with more screen presence than anyone I've ever seen). I could sense that others in the audience shared my deep love for POTA from their well-timed chuckles. For those of you who missed POTA, they're showing it again on September 29. It's a madhouse! A madhouse! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQME8mx4DMo) Cash only. General admission is $9.50. read more

The Castro - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

Last night there was an advance screening of Quentin Tarintino's "Inglorious Basterds" at the Castro Theathre & it rocked! The turnout was expectedly large & Quentin strolled in alone (no bodyguards or assistants) & plopped himself into a seat almost dead smack in the middle of the theatre. (The balcony was closed off to all but a couple of handfuls of folks, so we though that's where he'd sit, but was wrong.) As usual, the Wurlitzer pipe organist played old-fashioned tunes while we waited for the theatre to fill up. For some refreshing reason we were not told to turn off phones & cameras were allowed. Many of us took pics of the theatre & Quentin arriving, during, & leaving. After the kick-ass movie, Quentin conducted a protracted question & answer session w/out any assistants. A rarity. He did not exude any diva-esque ego nor seemed rushed. Kudos to him! After answering dozens of questions, he left in a vintage car. Another example of him walking to the beat of another drummer, which was cool. Santa's Yelper sez: "Let's kill dem Nahtzees! Heh." read more

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Sure, it's pretty and it's historic ... but the audio is absolutely terrible. We stopped by for Sketchfest to see RiffTrax Live which is primarily an audio experience and we could barely hear about a 1/3 of what was said. Maybe as a movie-going venue the audio is better? But for people actually standing up there with mics it was beyond abysmal. I really hope next year they choose a different venue. read more

Yes, this theater is iconic and beautiful - most of it. I came here to watch Margaret Cho and the seats were worn down. Margaret was also very political with her performance and did not enjoy it one bit - waste of money. Would love to come back again and give it another try though. read more

The Castro - Cinema Near Me - San Francisco, California

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