I visited Vancouver playhouse to see Vancouver film festival special screening- KOKUHO. It was great movie and I didn't feel long at all for this 3 hours movie. Theatre opened for audience 1 hour before the showing time which I really appreciate we didn't have to wait in line in the rain. Everything was very organized. We watched movie very comfortably. Only thing I want to mention is sound system comparing to movie theatre. Overall, it was a great experience. read more

thursday night at viff, 7pm screening of tarantino's once upon a time...in hollywood. the theatre itself is a gem for film lovers, comfy, plush, red velvet seats with wide armrests, roomy aisles where no one has to stand up for you to pass, and little plaques on the back of the seats with dedications and memoriams that remind you this is a space built by the community, for the community. and yes, cup holders included. it's the kind of place you want to keep coming back to, whether you're a casual film fan, a year round viff patron, a volunteer or a donor helping to sustain the arts. they host not just screenings, but also conversations, podcasts, and events that make viff a cultural hub beyond the big screen. now, the quirks: the ac was pretty weak, and for a 2 hour 40 minute film, the concession stand closing before the credits rolled was a bummer, especially when popcorn sizes already lean on the smaller side. it was nice that they had a self serve water dispenser though. but those seats, that atmosphere, and the sense of being part of a larger film community make it worth supporting. read more

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Always wonderful selection of expertly curated films. Comfortable seats with ample legroom. Great volunteers!

It was the new year! Things are always quiet and winding down. I saw an ad for The Count of Monte Cristo online. I loved that novel and this was in French so I thought it was a good idea. Start the new year with some culture. Booked the ticket online. Got a confirmation and QR code within seconds. There's plenty of street parking around the area and its cheap. I booked the last show. I walked to the Theater and went straight in after checking in. The line to buy food was long at that time. They have some pop corns, drinks, choice of liquor. Wish they had hotdogs or nachos. The place was clean and not too big. It was easy to find seats. The ushers are courteous and will guide you. Then I just waited for the movie and relaxed and enjoyed. Will have to certainly come back here more often. read more

VIFF Centre - Festivals Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I remember decades ago I went to my very first VIFF movie "Romper Stomper" with Russell Crowe. It was one of those foreign movies that got my blood boiling given the subject matter. These VIFF international movies continue to be a refreshing option to the standard Hollywood formula movies that I easily grew tiresome of with predictable plot endings VIFF continues to bring worthy movies that open the mind to new perspectives and escape our local existence for a few hours. Time well spent! I always find several movies worth watching each year and try to support VIFF as a non profit that broadens my horizons. The number of volunteers of this Society speaks to the dedication this fine organization With the new of staying home and streaming, there is much to be appreciated about actually going out "VIFF and Chilling" particularly at cool theatres like the Vancouver Playhouse, The Rio, International Village Cineplex who often does allot of independent films (vs blockbusters) and of course the Park Theatre. There are tons of great restaurants around all these venues too VIFF fan here and I encourage you to check it out. Besides couples of all ages attending, I also see allot of young singles attending these venues in the last 5 movies which I thought was very cool. read more

VIFF Centre - Vancouver Playhouse - Festivals Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Back in the day, VIFF and VAFF were a regular stomping ground me. .Hides face. Covid hit and routines changed Was really excited to be back at VIFF this year. Watched 3 screenings and 1 live chat. This is to sound constructive, as the screenings are all over the city and is a tiered system. One must study the guide if one bought a pass. However if purchasing al la carte. Their website needs allot of work. One would click on a tab, and it's not entirely all laid out. I really wished I got my hands on the physical guide. After x minutes, I really wanted to quit using the website as it works but one cannot see the full calendar and has to be very specific. Also, if you are there to be exposed, links to previews are not always included. One must open another tab and find it on YouTube. Considering the films are less not mainstream, many times you will not find the appropriate films. Understandably there is x budget for PR, however a link to instagram, YouTube to a trailer could've been an easy fix. VAFF really need more volunteers to grow this project. read more

Great intimately sized theatre to watch indie films. I have been here twice so far and both times have been seamless experiences. The website is easy to use to book tickets, which you just present as QR code when entering the theatre. It is such a great find. Seats are comfortable and venue is clean. As a U25 member, you get so many perks and it is all free, I can't recommend it enough! Great way to get into supporting smaller names in cinema. They also have a small concession for pocorn/drinks. read more

This is more of a suggestion than a review. VANCITY THEATRE, I think it's time to have assigned seating. Here's why, (a reminder to be assertive so as not to be taken advantage of, no matter what your race is). MY RANT.... I don't know why this is still bothering me but it does! I just have to say something just to get this out of my chest. Last Saturday, February 9, 2019, I went by myself to Vancity Theatre to watch The Legend of the Demon Cat. I was there 9pm, half hour before the film starts because it's first come first serve. When I got there people were chill. They were drinking wine, chatting and eating their popcorn while waiting for the film ROMA to complete. Then a group of people started lining up by the door. I though, what the heck, I should line up too. Then others followed. The line up was long. It was a good thing I went to the line when I did. Then it was time to go in. I was walking slowly at the same time was looking down my phone when an old white dude walked infront of me! Really?! This is happening here?! In Vancity Theatre located in an affluent neighborhood, where film goers are supposed to be elite and "cultured"?! Are you kidding me?! What bothers me was not that dude's behaviour but mine. I should have said something, right? I was just too lazy to care. But that shouldn't be the case. I also just realize that I was one of the few Asians there. The person originally infront of me was a white lady, also by herself. The couple behind me were also white. It got me thinking. Why would this idiot get infront of me and not behind me or infront of the white lady ahead of me. Is it because I'm Asian and thus will not say anything?! I really hate myself now. I SHOULD HAVE SAID SOMETHING! GEEZ! read more

VIFF Centre - Festivals Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

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Fine theatre which is home to many great events here! A really special theatre with comfy chairs and lots of interesting speakers and movies. Great programming. Seen a lot of cool movies here offer the years both new and classic gems. Nice balcony too. read more

Finally had the opportunity to check out VIFF this year. VIFF 2021 marks the 40th anniversary and offered a ton of interesting films. Very cool to see the thriving cinema culture throughout the province. I liked how there was also online streaming this year, otherwise there were various in person cinema viewings all over downtown. read more

VIFF (The Vancouver International Film Festival) is a yearly film festival held for two weeks, beginning at the end of September and spanning the Thanksgiving weekend. Hundreds of movies of all genres from around the world and shown and it's an extremely popular event, with most films selling out. I don't go to VIFF as often anymore due to finances and a busy schedule, but I always try to go to at least a few screenings. This year, I went to something different, a "Creator Talk" instead of a film. I'm signed up for the VIFF newsletters, and through one such newsletter, I found out that Michael Schur, the creator of the TV shows "Parks and Recreation", "Brooklyn Nine-Nine", and "The Good Place", would be having a 90 minute talk at VIFF. Both my partner and I like those shows (we love The Good Place), and we were fortunate enough to snag tickets for the event on September 30th which quickly sold out. I'm not sure if I will have time to go to any films this year, but I am really glad I went to the Michael Schur talk. read more

I recently visited this theater, as I wanted to see The Irishman on a big screen. I had wanted to purchase tickets online but wasn't able to find the appropriate link to do so, so I first visited here, waited in line to get tickets, only to be told that they were sold out. I was not happy. I returned four days later and, this time, I was able to get a ticket. Once inside, I was very impressed. I liked the large, spotless lobby and concession stand where, apparently, you can purchase various alcoholic beverages, along with snacks, and you can take your drink inside the theater with you. I liked how there were tables and chairs set up in the lobby to sit and eat or drink with your friend/s before your movie starts (kinda like a little artsy bistro). And I REALLY liked the actual theater itself: the seats are wider and plusher than most, and they are very comfortable (my movie was over 3.5 hours in length, so seat comfort was quite important for me!). Also, there was a podium at the front of the theater, in front of the screen, and it was cool how a lady spoke at the dais prior to the movie starting, introducing the film and noting some interesting facts about the movie we were about to see, and introducing us to VIFF in general. I don't know if they do this with every movie, but for me, this in-person introduction was unexpected and made the movie-watching experience feel more interesting and "special" (for lack of a better word). The speaker mentioned how one could get a membership here for $2 with the price of admission to this film, but when the movie was over and I left the theater room, nobody was manning the membership desk outside. I kept my ticket, so hopefully they'll honor it and I'll be able to sign up for membership at a later date. The only reason I am not giving this facility 5 stars is because it would be a huge improvement if people like me could easily purchase tickets for shows online (so we don't go to the cinema here to be told our show is already sold out), and because I think it would also be very helpful to have assigned seating. Otherwise, this is a wonderful theater, and I hope to become a member. read more

This place is interesting. When I first told about Vancity Theatre and I had in mind the Scotia Bank Theater. I thought to myself wondering if Scotia Bank changed its name Nope its a totally different theatre. I am guessing this place must have lots of plays happening. Not really a place to watch movie. But the seats are spacious. Rows are spacious to walk through. Not to mention its very clean inside. The place has pretty good surround sounds. Will recommend this theatre! Well I came here to watch the screener Snowtime. read more

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Holy smokin' películandia! I don't think I've been to a more posh cinema. I love the modern exterior architecture, the almost grand foyer with it's super comfy leather chairs and bistro tables, and the concession is more of a cafe and which also serves wine by the glass. The theater is bigger than it looks with an upper balcony, and the seats are large and comfortable. I was really surprised by the amount of space in front of each seat. Even the drapery is nice, a rich orange-red velvet that I could hardly take my eyes off until the film started. Our film choice on the other hand was sincerely poor. (A huge understatement). This film we saw could've been edited in half and achieved the same result instead of dragging us torturously along for 2 hours and dropping us off at a dead end, scratching our heads wondering what the hell we just witnessed. One of the most unclear stories I've ever had the misfortune of watching. Our own fault as we waited until the last day to use our vouchers which included a (good quality) popcorn and a beverage. read more

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The best place I could have been in this industry Bright and best location in the city I would recommend for anyone interesting a bright and lovely place to come here I confused at the first place with Scotia Bank Theater, But this one is totally different in name and content I will visit them again and again as a film maker, this is one of the places I am in love with read more

You can't beat the seats here at this theater. They're both wide and deep offering plenty of leg and shoulder room. There is mezzanine seating that is accessible from only the lobby as they most always are. If I would have known about the mezzanine seating before hand I would've sat up there, but the staff didn't mentioned it. On the up side, we scored dead center seats which offered a great viewing of the show. I was impressed with the sound system, the show I watched was a doc/concert of Sigur Ros and the sound came through beautifully. Beer and wine are both sold here, along with pop, popcorn and candy. If you've never been here before you will have to become a member... It's only $2 and last one year. Great venue, even greater seats... It's first class flying for sure. read more

VIFF Centre - Festivals Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

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Love love love this theatre! Just moved to Vancouver from San Fran and so happy there a great artistic theater here with eclectic genres and pretty space. I also saw some VIFF movies here during the festival and they were awesome. Also, they serve wine read more

This is my favourite movie theatre in Vancouver. It is seriously like an all year round film festival. I love that they screen foreign films before they have even been approved by the rating agencies in BC! So you have to get a membership (so they can say it is a private screening) and be 18 or older. Membership is a whopping $2 per year. Thankfully there is no application so they couldn't reject me! (Although do I really want to be a member of a society that accepts me? Hm...I digress.) The films are selected by the same people behind the Vancouver International Film Festival - which explains why they have so many interesting unknown films well in advance of them being available anyplace else in Canada. It is a mid-sized theatre with only 175 seats - but those are really comfortable, cushy, and have LOTS of room. Everything is designed for the film buff to really enjoy a top selection of flicks in a theatre that gives you a bit of a feel of being in someone's living room (particularly the volunteer run concession stand that frequently has homemade cookies!). Tip: Check out their double billings where it is only $13 to watch two movies. Great deal! read more

Hooollleee, you guys! Want the best seat in the house? No problem -- every single one of the seats at Vancity Theatre is it. All the seats, they all be the best. Big and wide and plush with fuzzy armrests that have cup holders built into them, the seats here are by far the most comfortable in all of Vancouver. By far. The best. And that's just the seat! There's so much legroom that my gargantuan bag can sit comfortably at my feet while I avoid the awkward "do I stand up or just bring my legs to my chest as this person shuffles in front of me to get to their seat" thing because there is SO MUCH ROOM. It's no wonder this is my favourite theatre in the city -- the building itself is a bright and beautiful space with a concession stand that sells more than just popcorn (read: beer and wine), and the showings make it pretty much like a year-long film festival. Add a state-of-the-art sound system, and Vancity Theatre becomes one of the most interesting venues in Vancouver. So while you won't see a mainstream flick here, you will get a daylong Game of Thrones marathon or Sigur Ros documentary or avant garde Norwegian comedy. No wonder I love it so much. read more

A great theatre with a good selection of world, art house, Canadian, and American cinema. They also run various mini festivals throughout the year as well as the big one - VIFF. First time visitors beware that there is a $2 membership fee to pay - so you may want to give yourself an extra 10 mins before the movie starts. The seats are the most comfortable in Vancouver, and you can have a beer! Speaking of beer, it's very reasonably priced and there's a decent selection given that it's a theatre bar (which are usually awful). read more

How have I never been here before? This place is amazing. They only play foreign and independent films. The first time you go, you have to pay a $2 membership fee (good for a year) as this is a loophole that lets them play films that have not been screened/rated. The concession stand serves wine and beer, the seats are comfy, they have a balcony, and the people are friendly. Basically the ideal theatre experience. read more

I've been to Vancity Theatre several times over the past few years during VIFF and I must say that this is definitely my favourite theatre in Vancouver. The concession serves the usual popcorn, chocolates and pop, but it also offers wine and beer. The staff at the concession and at the door are so friendly! My favourite part are the seats which are so soft and you do not have to fight for an arm rest as they are twice the width. There is ample leg room (a real issue for me), and the theatre floor is not sticky. You do have to pay a nominal charge of $2 for a one year membership, but that is to get around playing films that may not have been rated. read more

I love the movies they show here. They have different themes and film festivals that go on throughout the year and they are all unique and very interesting. The space is lovely and the seats are a little too comfortable (almost fell asleep a couple of times). I've also gone here for law conferences and the technical and front desk services are wonderful. I've had more experience with the technical department and I must say they really know what they are doing. They are nice and on top of the ball, and that is not always common when using other audio visual companies. If you want to go to an international film fest or see an obscure movie that they are showing again, this is definitely a good place to go. read more

The most comfortable seats and beer at the concession stand? Hell yes! I've been to Vancity Theatre quite a few times between Doxa and VIFF and I'm going to continue to patronize the place because of my good experiences here! I wish all movie theatres were this comfortable! read more

Best seats ever. Oh Vancity Theatre, how you rock my socks... with big comfy Quinette seats in an intimate space it feels like a private show, for about 175 people. Oh, and I forgot the legroom. There's lots. Want to soak your feet during the show? Be my guest... it might not be allowed but there'd be room to do it if they approve. Another bonus? It has a great mingling space, with a grown up concession stand that serves alcohol. Word. So great for events. I'm all over it, in case you haven't noticed ; ) read more

The Scene: A modern theatre featuring indie flicks and fests, conveniently located in the Granville Entertainment District, just a few steps from a slew of dining spots and watering holes. The concession stand features beer and wine besides the requisite movie popcorn. The Characters: A black-clad chorus of hipsters enters the theatre stage right and position said hips in spacious seating with leggy room and handy holders (for aforementioned wineglasses). The din of cultured conversation cuts as the lights dim. And, now the reel action unspools. The Review: Accolade-worthy. However, also noteworthy are the refined but limited concessions, clean but smallish and ho-hum lobby and loos, and a tight entry to the cinema that bottlenecks through one door. Coming Soon: I'll be back. read more

This is one fancy place. They usually show foreign , indie, arthouse , documentary and festival type films. I was surprised to see that one can help themselves to water from a cooler with pint glasses (woo!). The concession is pretty highbrow too. There's a nice selection beers available like 33 Acres, Postmark, Parallel 49. Also if you're not a beer person, wine and cider are available. Popcorn is really tasty too! read more

Love this theatre. Local. Independent, alternative & festival films. Watched Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck in this theatre recently and now watching Haida Gwai. They're showing more from the recent Vancouver International Film Festival. Great spacious seats, an plush outside lounge area and beer/wine are available to bring into the theatre. Awesome. read more

Good customer service. The $2 membership is worth it. The movie selection is good too! Thanks.

Love this theatre. Excellent selection of films. Intimate seating. You can have a wine in the reception area. Great place to meet friends to hangout and chat before the show. read more

I have been here a few times now. Most recently for DOXA the documentary festival. This is very nice, well thought out welcoming space. The seats in the theatre are so comfortable. They swallow you up and hold you there for the movie. The sight lines are good even for short people like myself. The sound quality is excellent. There is a great gathering space at the front of theatre. This place works well at making a night out a good experience. read more

Really unique theater: feels like waking into an office tower but the films they show are very fun. My sister and I caught Angry Indian Goddesses and I think it may newly be one of my sister's favorite films. The seats are cool and pretty comfy and it feels great to support a local joint. read more

Best theatre in Vancouver. Bar none.

Home to many fantastic films and events.

In any city around the world, when one respect the movie, they wait until the line is absorb. I arrived 15 min advance which is enough at any other theatre... They started the movie even if there was about 25 persons waiting in line... This is unrespecfull for the people waiting and for the movie!!! read more

An absolutely fantastic cinema that plays movies you can't see anywhere else. Great seats, a balcony, cheap popcorn/pop, beer/wine, and that velvet curtain. One of my favourite theatres. read more

I feel bad, really bad, writing a negative review of VIIF...but, as an occasional film attendee, I found the system very confusing. I purchased on line tickets for a film I was interested in, and my receipt gave the Seymour address and said pick up at venue. No mention of another place on the receipt. We went to do that and were then advised we needed two dollar memberships. Ok, we didn't know. Here's more money. Then we found out our film was at the playhouse. Good thing we hadn't yet paid for parking. The playhouse is anicer venue since we wouldn't have had to wait outside in the rain like at Seymour street. We went rushing down to the playhouse, and were told since we had memberships, we could go upstairs. So people were being let in without memberships. I know people love VIIF but this experience won't motivate me to attend another film. read more

I greatly value that this theatre carries films that you wouldn't get to see otherwise. I'm also appreciative of how roomy and comfortable the seating is. While I understand trying to keep concession prices reasonable, I'd pay a little extra for freshly popped popcorn to which you could add extra butter. The dry and overly salted stuff that is available is my only gripe. read more

Excellent theater in Yaletown. Vancity Theater carries a good selection of world / independent cinema. There's a 2$ membership fee. Comfortable seats. Very clean. Good selection of drinks and snacks at the bar. Great location. read more

This is a sweet place to see documentary, international, and non-mainstream films, as well as some old gems. Seats are super-comfy, the snack bar has lots of goodies, and the lobby is roomy and relaxing...which is important as the films are often tightly scheduled. read more