The Seattle area is home to a fascinating range of independent movie houses. From the modern invention of Beacon Cinema to the historic roots of Grand Illusion Cinema and Ark Lodge Cinema, visitors can enjoy a variety of unique cinema experiences carrying inspiring memories for years to come.
Eclectic Films and Cloudburst Beer on Tap
The Beacon Cinema is an impressive addition to the Seattle area’s independent movie houses, opening in 2019 and boasting a mere 48 seats. It proudly offers a variety of eclectic films that are introduced by the staff before showtime, all without spoiling the plot! The snack bar even serves up Cloudburst beer on tap, adding an extra element of satisfaction.
Unique Cinematic Experiences
The Grand Illusion Cinema located at 4405 Rainier Ave S in Seattle’s University District is a one-of-a-kind experience. Initially established by UW literature grad Randy Finley in 1970, this second-story tooth tank was remodeled into a single-screen movie house which has been a fixture in the area for decades. Despite recent U District upzoning, the theater still stands and continues to offer its unique cinema experiences. Similarly, the SIFF Egyptian Theater located at 1403 NE 50th St in Seattle’s Capitol Hill provides an unforgettable movie-going experience. This over 100-year-old building originally constructed as a Masonic temple offers a range of programming from black and white classics to the latest releases. Its pharaonic-inspired stage trim adds a unique touch that movie-goers can enjoy during the mid-May film festival.
A Landmark of History and Comfort
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Columbia City, the historic Ark Lodge Cinema has been a beloved landmark for over 100 years. Built as a Freemasons lodge in 1914, the building was converted to a movie theater in 1945 and is now a shining example of Regency Revival architecture. Visitors can catch a screening in the top-floor “prestige room”, where plush velvet couches and armchairs replace the usual folding seats, creating an atmosphere of ultimate comfort and relaxation. It’s truly a sight to behold and a wonderful reminder of how much history can be preserved through creative means.
Popular Events at Capitol Hill’s Central Cinema and Tacoma’s Grand Cinema
At Capitol Hill’s Central Cinema, guests can experience the grandeur of classic movies in a unique atmosphere. MovieCat trivia nights and monthly screenings of Tommy Wiseau’s cult catastrophe are some of the popular events available at this one-of-a-kind venue. Meanwhile, Tacoma’s Grand Cinema is an iconic venue that hosts the Tacoma International Film Festival. Every other week “Weird Elephant” series on Friday and Saturday nights features crowd favorites, making it a go-to destination for movie lovers.
Unique Cinematic Experiences in Tacoma
The Majestic Bay Theatres in Tacoma offers a unique experience for moviegoers, having been the longest continually operating movie house on the West Coast since 1914. Having recently undergone a renovation, the theatre has added two extra screens to its triplex. Similarly, the Blue Mouse Theatre in Tacoma, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year, provides an array of new and holiday-appropriate films. The name comes from a Paris movie lounge visited by founder John Hamrick in 1919. Together, these two long-standing theatres offer locals an exciting cinematic experience.
North Bend Theatre and Northwest Film Forum
Located in Tacoma, the North Bend Theatre is a 1941 movie house with an impressive history. It was chosen by David Lynch for the national premiere of his wildly underrated, absolutely canon film. Programmers at this venue regularly screen cult classics and local fare such as Taylor Guterson’s 2021. Outdoor-centric films from the Mountain Film Festival, Warren Miller, and other sources can also be enjoyed here. For a unique cinematic experience, Capitol Hill’s Northwest Film Forum is worth visiting. This nonprofit specializes in films that contribute to and spur modern conversations. There are often Q&A sessions following a screening with young directors in attendance. NFF also works with local organizations such as the Seattle Queer Film Festival and Earshot Jazz to provide community-focused material. The theater even provides film workshops and rents out equipment.
These movie-going experiences offered in the Seattle area range from intimate escapes filled with classic and carefully chosen films to memorable venues with a long history hiding within them for city explorers of all types. Regardless of what one’s preferences may be, there is no doubt that these dedicated independent movie houses will continue to entertain audiences with their unique offerings. From small theatres with limited seating to grand halls looming from above, the radiating power of Washington’s silver screens proves that movie-going is full of surprises around the corner.
