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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Indie movies

Indie films shown in a setting that respects the director's vision rather than just playing the latest blockbuster.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Movie theater

Classic indie movie theater with intimate screening rooms offers a cozy vibe for film lovers. Shows independent films and arthouse cinema including rare and international movies. Seating is comfortable in a clean, well-run space perfect for unique screenings.

Shows international and independent films along with obscure and classic movies not found in typical theaters. Offers a unique arthouse cinema experience with documentaries and rare screenings.

An alternative screening space since 1970, this theatre offers a good selection of independent films in a clean environment.

People are saying

"I found amazing independent movies I couldn't find anywhere else."

"The seats here are really comfortable."

"I loved catching the best indie movies here."

Good to know

1

Every Sunday, they have PG movies for families for $11.

2

It is advisable to go early to get a good seat.

3

The theater can fill up fast for popular titles.

02
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Movie theater

Small, cozy arthouse cinema with an old-school vibe and intimate atmosphere. Screens are compact, and seating is tight but comfortable enough for indie film viewing. Venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis and attracts an intellectual audience interested in unique, thought-provoking movies.

An intimate venue with a nostalgic vibe shows a strong focus on independent and international films. The small size creates a cozy atmosphere, making movie watching feel like a private gathering with friends.

Oldest functioning venue for art and independent films offers a solid mix of indie and high grossing movies. It serves as a key spot for premiering independent films and arthouse cinema.

People are saying

"I found the movies here to be in a charming, cozy theater."

"The bathroom here was really clean and well tended."

"I found it to be a great indie movie theater."

Good to know

1

The showtime is at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.

2

The ticket price for seniors is $8.

3

A student ID could provide an even better price.

03
Anthology Film Archives image 1

Eclectic movie theater with flat auditorium and retro charm fosters a community of film enthusiasts. Programming focuses on independent and experimental films, often featuring filmmaker appearances. Seating varies from tight to improved, with steam heat keeping the space warm.

A unique vault of experimental cinema and independent films fills the theater with a strong sense of community among film enthusiasts. The selection includes obscure dramatic films, avant-garde works, and a rotating lineup of hard-to-find titles.

A beacon of independent films and documentaries, this place screens a wide range of indie movies. It also supports filmmakers by showcasing their work, including friends involved in the projects.

People are saying

"I found the movies here to be rare, independent, and avant-garde."

Good to know

1

The theater offers screenings and Q&A events for a unique experience.

2

There is a retro event called HOMECOMING for cinephiles ending soon.

3

Membership includes free movie nights and is affordable.

04
SVA Theatre image 1
Event venue

Small event venue offers intimate atmosphere with comfortable seating and great sound quality. Spacious aisles and a large screen create a cozy yet open environment. Modern amenities support independent film screenings and conversations on a grand little stage.

Central location draws film and art enthusiasts. Shows independent and international films, including premieres and festivals like the queer film festival with free drinks and food. Features Asian and Bosnian films and hosts one person shows.

Screenings feature a mix of independent films and box office hits. The venue offers modern amenities tailored for indie movie viewing.

People are saying

"I loved watching independent and international films here."

"I found the theater to be a great venue with a cool atmosphere."

"I watched indie movies here; it's a great venue."

Good to know

1

There is a wheelchair lift down to the accessible restroom.

2

People are not allowed to use the bathroom after the show ends.

3

The place does not offer refreshments.

05
Quad Cinema image 1
Movie theater

Small theater offers intimate seating and a sophisticated atmosphere focused on independent films. Attached cafe serves excellent coffee and drinks, perfect for before or after shows. Clean, modern design blends with unique artwork and thoughtful film curation.

Shows a wide range of independent and foreign films not found in larger theaters. Offers a comfortable, clean environment with excellent coffee to enjoy during screenings.

A restored beacon for independent film, this theater offers a perfect setting to watch great indie movies.

People are saying

"The picture and sound quality for movies here is great."

"It's a cozy and intimate space, not too big."

"The bar at this place is great."

Good to know

1

The cinema specializes in showing limited distribution high quality films favored by mature audiences.

2

The prices at the cinema are unbeatable, including the price of concessions.

3

You can bring coffee from the next door cafe into the movies.

06
IFC Center image 1
Movie theater

Small, intimate theater with comfortable stadium seats offers a cozy spot for indie film fans. Features curated indie and international films with a focus on arthouse and unique storytelling. Large, elevated screens and high-quality sound ensure clear views and immersive experience.

Offers an amazingly curated selection of indie, international, and classic films. Hosts midnight movies and special events showcasing unique and adventurous storytelling.

Small, intimate theater with old-fashioned seats specializes in arthouse and independent films from around the world. It offers a great venue for a wide variety of indie movies.

People are saying

"I found the indie and art films here to be great."

"The seats here are really comfortable."

"It's the best theater to watch indie movies."

Good to know

1

They host midnight movies and special events.

2

The theater shows vintage Christmas movies, such as 'Itโ€™s a Wonderful Life'.

3

The venue does not offer reserved seating.

07
Metrograph image 1
Movie theater

Independent cinema offers intimate seating and a big, clear screen for a focused movie experience. Programming features indie films and esoteric global selections, including 35 mm showings. Upstairs lounge boasts a curated film library and cozy bar with stylish decor.

Indie and esoteric films fill the screens with a fantastic global selection beyond just European and American arthouse. The theater offers some of the most interesting programming and a truly immersive cinema experience.

Features a great selection of independent films, including some shown in 35 mm. Offers affordable indie movies and old films in a dedicated indie movie house setting.

People are saying

"I loved watching the cool, well-curated movies here."

"The upstairs bar is great for after-party screenings."

"You can grab adult drinks while enjoying an indie movie."

Good to know

1

It is advisable to book tickets early and sit towards the back of the theater for optimal comfort.

2

The theater does not accept Apple Pay, which can catch customers off guard.

3

No refunds are offered for tickets bought by mistake due to the website not updating the order.

08
Film at Lincoln Center - Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center image 1

Small, intimate movie theater with plush, comfortable seats and a light, airy atmosphere. Quiet screenings attract an audience interested in avant-garde and contemporary films. A nice cafe off the lobby offers a calm space before or after movies.

Unique cinema experience with thought-provoking films like 'Souleymaneโ€™s Story' about real-life struggles. The theater offers spacious seating and affordable tickets compared to regular cinemas.

People are saying

"The movie theater is cozy with comfortable, oversized seats."

"It felt small and cozy inside."

"I found the theater here to be great."

Good to know

1

No refunds are available for tickets.

2

Tickets can be transferred for the same movie.

3

The film center is much more affordable than regular cinema.

09
Nitehawk Cinema image 1
Movie theater

Movie theater combines 35mm film projection with table service for food and drinks during films. Atmosphere feels intimate and retro-hipster, with vintage decor and strict no-talking policy. Bar upstairs offers specialty cocktails themed to movies, creating a relaxed vibe for mingling.

Comfortable chairs with individual tables let you enjoy movies with dine-in service and themed cocktails. Indie short films often play before the main feature, adding a unique touch to the movie experience.

People are saying

"It's a unique and special movie theater I'll visit again."

"It's a great spot for a date night, perfect for cozying up."

"The specialty cocktails themed to the movies were delicious and strong."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as shows often sell out quickly.

2

The theater offers a unique dining experience with food served during the film.

3

Arrive early to enjoy the pre-screening ads and special footage.

10
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Movie theater

Small theaters with reclining seats create a cozy, old school vibe. Walls decorated with nostalgic actors add to the atmosphere. Family-friendly energy includes kids running around and a casual, lively mood.

Offers a comfortable local theater experience with clean bathrooms and a family-friendly vibe. Tickets are affordable, and the cinema maintains a charming, old-school feel while staying very clean.

People are saying

"The reclining seats for movies here are so comfortable and spacious."

"The bathrooms here are really nice and clean."

"I loved the old school vibe and charming vintage feel here."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays feature $8 movie tickets with a free small popcorn.

2

Concession prices are reasonable compared to other theaters.

3

Parking can be difficult to find on weekends.

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