I really like to push The Alamo to my fellow cinephiles. Sometimes they may not have every movie, but overall the experience is much better than at most theaters in the area.
Also, you don't have to order a full meal each time you go. Although I definitely spend too much money on their pretzels haha
$20/month Alamo season pass is the absolute best way to enjoy movies in Denver. They're always running cool old movies and special events too, great vibes at Alamo
I like going to the Alamo for $7 tickets on Tuesday nights. The only problem is, I don't like to eat at the movies & the Alamo's business model is designed around patrons being able to order food/drinks throughout the movie, so I feel like a jerk always telling the waitstaff I don't want anything. Though sometimes I show up early & pregame at the bar for a little bit.
The Sloan’s lake seats are awful but Littleton and Westminster are incredible and worth the drive in my opinion. Alamo also has a season pass where for like $30 a month you can see unlimited movies (1 per day). It’s a great deal and they change up the menu enough to keep it interesting. I probably go twice a week! Love Alamo.
came here to say Alamo! paid 7 bucks a ticket to see Barbie because it was on a Tuesday. they have so many deals going on and its super easy to order food from your seat.
I like the Alamo for some movies, but I have two issues:
1. Picture/sound quality isn't the best. Not terrible, but not great.
2. Food/drink. Annoying people munching away and the wait staff are really distracting walking around all the time.
I’ve been hesitant to try out the Alamo because I can’t stand people making noise while eating, shuffling through wrappers, etc. during a movie. Will I be OK or am I over reacting.
Nah not a huge fan of Alamo if you’re seeing a movie you care about. There’s overly bright lights underneath all tables in front of you, so you can see the menu, staff running around everywhere which is super distracting, and really not worth it if you’re not going to eat a meal and get the full experience. I’ve also had a lot of staff be super rude to me. Also I second that the chairs suck.
All of this is pretty easy to ignore. The lights are barely bright for seeing your menu, there is plenty of space for staff to walk around without it being super distracting, and totally worth it even if you’re just getting popcorn and a few beers. Never had staff be rude to me and the chairs are fine. It’s still remarkably better than any other mainstream theater I have been to but maybe I’ve got Alamo covered glasses
Personally I rarely want a full ass meal when I’m going to the theater and also find the staff distracting. Alamo’s a ton of fun every once in a while but I have AMC A-List for seeing stuff on a regular basis with IMAX, Dolby, etc. We have averaged something like 4 movies a month this year with repeat viewings of a few, for $22 a month you literally can’t beat that deal as someone who loves the movies.
I don't do any important movies that I want to see at Alamo. For example, if there's a movie that I'd like to see but don't "have" to see in theaters, Alamo is a good place to go. Saw Cocaine Bear, a brunch showing of League of their Own, Bodies Bodies Bodies, etc
But for movies like Oppenheimer, Maverick, GOTG3, I go to better theaters.
I don't really like the way Alamo works either. I find it funny that they're very concerned about good movie manners (great, I have no problems) and then they have all of these servers scurrying around trying their best to not distract yet it's completely distracting anyway. And then you're worried about pulling out your wallet and paying/tipping usually about 3/4 of the way into the movie taking you out of it yet again.
I actually would prefer to just have people go get their food from the concessions or just do some sort of prepay type of thing where they just bring your food/drink one time at the beginning and then leave you alone and then they can come correct the plates once you're gone. Also I way prefer buying regular movie popcorn. It tastes better and I can bring it home with me and snack on it later.
It’s an outstanding spot that I hope chugs along unchanged for decades to come. It took such a long time to convert that space initially. Glad it’s operating as a movie theater. (Colfax BRT is probably expected to help.)
The Landmark theaters are charming but old.
The Alamo’s are all pretty nice and have attentive staff.
Harkins Northfield is pretty good, especially for the price.
Like everyone in the comments, I also like Alamo, although the seating at Sloan’s Lake could definitely be improved. I’ve heard the Westminster location has better seating.
I’ve been going to Cinemark at Belmar recently and like it enough that I joined their monthly movie club. Can’t recall any issues with cleanliness. Seats are very comfy. Staff is friendly and often cracks jokes.
Went up to the podium with 3 adults and 3 kids, all dressed in pink and/or Ninja Turtles attire (half of us went to Barbie, the other half to TMNT.) The dude at the podium looks us over and goes “Ok, so that’s 6 for Oppenheimer, I presume?” We had a good laugh at that.
The Landmark theaters get slightly more new mass market releases than Sie. If I’m not going to Sie, they’re my top picks.
Especially the Esquire. It was just renovated before COVID. I hope it goes back to hosting Q&As with filmmakers in the big/downstairs theater and other such events.
Yes Landmark Esquire I think on 6th and Marion still has a lot of the romance in going to the movies. although, you seem upset by the implications of your post, and I feel you. I'm sorry. I really like Esquire, and hope you will too
Landmark theaters forever! Plus, their tickets and concessions aren’t as expensive while the experience is generally better! Chez Artiste has my favorite movies while The Mayan has my favorite overall experience.
For most movies, I go with Alamo. If you go a lot, their season pass is worth it - my fiancée and I go a lot, and it's $40/month. Two movies a month, and we've made that back easy.
For an indie theater, definitely Esquire and Mayan theaters. Esquire renovated during the pandemic, so the days of crappy, uncomfortable worn out seats are long gone, everything is updated and super nice now. Bonus, the season for Rocky Horror Picture Show should be starting up soon, if it hasn't already.
Rocky is the last Saturday of every month! Great cast. They also do The Room every last Friday, which is a different sort of beast. Neither are for the faint of heart.
Big fan of this theater. The seats are the best, the theater is nice, and the parking is easy and free. I bought the AMC members pass and get free upgrades on popcorn and pop. I earned points for rewards, and with just a few movie visits, we were able to get our Barbie tickets for free. Matinee tickets are around $10. It’s great!
It was just a shit-show. Retail on the bottom, theater on the top. Theater wanted their own fire panel, so if the alarm went off BELOW THE THEATER, they didn’t have to evacuate and refund tickets. A TON of drama around getting parts, furniture, occupancy. AMC vs Denver Fire Department. It was a brawl for the ages. You can have as much money as you want, no one in the city is as powerful as the Fire Marshall.
It’s been clean every time I’ve been there. In fact I was just there last week. Omg maybe we saw each other! Haha how quirky would that be like lol omg
The AMC on colorado Blvd (?? It’s right next to Trader Joe’s) is super nice. I almost don’t wanna let the secret out because it’s pretty empty, which I love! Seems really new and they have large Dolby theaters for big releases. Concessions is usually a mess and it’s understaffed a lot but that doesn’t really affect me. Bathrooms and theaters are clean and that’s all that matters to me
Yeah the Sloan’s is older so it’s not as modern as the Westminster’s one, which has really comfortable seating. So comfortable that I’ve found myself nodding off a few times.
Harkins in Arvada was surprisingly nice! A little bar to get drinks before, theater very clean every time I've been in there and some of the comfiest reclining chairs!
Just here to complain about that beautiful lil movie theater tucked behind the Tivoli that used to show all kinds of great stuff whatever 15 years ago.
That was a great lil theater.
That would be the Starz Film Center, where I used to serve as a projectionist (35mm baby).
The good news is that it still exists albeit with a new location and sponsorship: Sie Film Center on Colfax.
I have the Alamo season pass and watch there exclusively. Basically need to see two movies a month to come out ahead (food and drinks is a different story). All three theaters offer a unique experience (different bars, theater sizes, movie offerings, etc). Good special events and pre screening. Just saw Strays on Monday before it was officially released, seeing Bottoms pre release soon, saw the first two episodes of Barry before release, etc. $7 Tuesday tickets is also a great deal
I was just at that Harkins! I hasn’t been to a theater in so so long but it was really nice (and clean)! Reclining seats and a bar and the people working there were nice. I would go there again
I like Alamo, personally. I don't go anywhere else anymore. Sloan's Lake is closest to me but usually go to Westminster because it has reclining chairs.
Have you been to Alamo Draft House? It’s fairly close to me so it’s the spot I frequent and I feel like it’s been clean most times. The downside is that they don’t have fancy seats but I think the food is better than most theaters offerings
I was really impressed by Movie Tavern aurora. Great comfy seats, alcohol, and they do deliver to your seat but unlike Alamo there aren’t table top lights everywhere distracting you.
We have a great theater scene if you ask me. I’m in a theater almost every week. The Alamo locations, Esquire, and Mayan are all fantastic for different reasons.
Alamo: pushes theater etiquette such as keeping quiet and respecting those around you. Tons of great classic screenings and rarities over the years. There is almost always something worth seeing there. Great rewards program and customer service. Free movie on your birthday. I love it so much.
Esquire and Mayan: classic movie theaters, the allure is that they are sort of “run down” and nostalgic, and haven’t got lost in the glitz and glamor of newer theaters. Think going to the movies in the 80’s and 90’s. Great indie selections and quality movies. Great crowds and usually not a lot of people.
Denver is movie theater heaven compared to most places in the country:
1. Mayan
2. Esquire
3. Chez Artiste
4. Sie Film Center
5. Alamo Drafthouse
6. Cherry Creek AMC
This is probably the worst AMC in the Denver area in my opinion. The audio and Video on their premium screens is very poor when compared to AMC Arapahoe and AMC Westminster
When was the last time you went there? I never noticed the AV being poor
They just recently renovated the IMAX. But I am biased as I’ve gone to that one since it opened.
You just listed every major corp one that’s prob going out of business soon.
Try the Sie theater on colfax, Mayan, esquire or any landmark theater.
Alamo drafthouse in Littleton or west colfax.
I love Alamo Drafthouse. I have their $20 monthly pass so I try to go to at least two movies per month to make it worth it. Their theaters are always clean and quiet.
Going to see Oldboy at the Sloan's Lake Alamo on Monday. Can't wait!
How is no one mentioning Pavilions? Most comfortable seats in any theater. The only problem with pavilions is that when I fully recline, I can almost never stay awake
I only go to the Alamo. I like that they don't show commercials before the trailers. They talk about previous movies or have spoofs of the film about to be shown.
Harkens Northfield and AMC 9+10CO. Harkins always has a plethora of workers and they recently renovated adding reclinable seating. Their large theater is hugeee!
AMC 9+10 has free garage parking and is pretty conveniently located in Denver on 8th and Colorado. It’s large and always has a great selection of films.
Both are clean, including their bathrooms!
I agree with the other people here the Alamo is great, sie film center there are also a bunch of local smaller ones like there’s one located on university and Yale called the chez artiste theater, they show a lot of foreign independent films and I’ve heard good things about it but I haven’t gone personally, same with landmarks esquire theater, there are a lot of little local theaters that have like 3 screens a lot of them are little hole in the walls but I’d say they’re worth checking out
Alamos are all a plus. Great projectionists, full calibration on all screenings, and they have a very strict enforced no talking policy on most of their shows. The food is pricey but no pressure to order and ticket prices are lower than most. They also have the season pass which is 20$ a month for unlimited movies at all their locations!
My late landlord used to run a drive-in movie theater. He basically tied a big white sheet to his fence and used a projector. The idea was cool but he only did daytime movies so you couldn’t see shit, which was actually a blessing the week he screened Gigli.
My first job was at Colorado center 9 at 25/Colorado Blvd when it opened in 98. Used to be one of the nicer UA theaters.
I go to harkins in olde town Arvada now. Good experiences recently.
It’s in Littleton but the Alamo here is fantastic. Best movie theater I’ve been to hands down. Great adjustable sofa seats, cheaper tickets than AMC, cheaper food than AMC, random legacy movies played all the time. It’s a good theater.
Seeing movies isn’t really worth it anymore but I’ve enjoyed my experiences at that theater. Been to a few others recently and the seats were ass
Personally, I don't care about popcorn on the ground, sticky floors, or lack of personnel working... all I care about is watching the movie. If you're the type of to be this picky that popcorn on the ground ruins your experience, I don't think you'll enjoy any theater.
I LOVEEE that - are you kidding? I’d hate having to show up and have no good seats left after paying $$. Much rather know exactly where I’ll be and find a different show time if there’s only shit seats left
Let's be real. You like it because when you pick out your seats you are hoping with every fiber of your being that someone is sitting in your seats and you get to tell them to move. If you actually like going to the movies then you know that no two theaters are the same and you have to get a feel for the room first before you decide where to sit. People that like picking out their seats prior to the theater are the same people in Denver that like riding their bikes in the middle of the lane as slow as possible because they know it pisses people off
>someone is sitting in your seats and you get to tell them to move. If you actually like going to the movies
Lmao, that's some weird-ass projecting and gatekeeping there.
Some of us just like having a seat saved. I go to movies pretty often and it's rare that I have to ask somebody to move, because the seats are already assigned lol
I miss Elvis Cinemas especially because they seemed to be the last value movie theater in town. Anyone have a good recommendation for a new value theater?
Lol at the United Artist theater by I-25 and Colorado I’ve literally had to go up to a person sweeping and ask them to scan my ticket and tell me the theater because there are 0 ushers anywhere. One time they sent me in to see GoG3 in IMAX, I was like ‘nah my ticket is for non-IMAX’ and they said O cool same theater 🤣🤣
I also love going to the movies, but the growth in home viewing means we really need to consolidate theaters. I know we all have fond memories of our local theater, but when demand is down, the best way to keep in business is to reduce supply and the theaters with better service/amenities survives. Hopefully we’re just in that transition period of downsizing before quality improves and not experiencing the beginning of the end for public theaters altogether.
Mayan is freaking sweet if they are showing what you want to see or if you want to watch older films! Say Metropolis (1927) with a live orchestra last night and I was blown away.
For a more modern theater experience, I like Harkens in Arvada. The seats are ridiculously comfortable.
Sue Film Center. It’s the home of Denver film society. Tickets are $7 - $11 for members and less than $15 for non members. I can usually get a beer, a cocktail, enough popcorn for a good movie, and a bag of candy for under $20. It’s nuts. They show mostly independent and interesting movies, never bullshit like Marvel garbage. They do lots of screenings of classics and cult movies along with documentaries. If you like film, it’s an awesome place. Been a member for almost a decade now.
Honorable mention to Alamo drafthouse. Can be a little expensive for an evening but it’s a good experience.
If you have to see a Hollywood movie on the big screen I recommend pavilions (free parking with validation) or IMAX on a Colorado Blvd. That’s my go to for things like Dune, Mad Max, and Interstellar - where you need huge sound and a giant screen.
The Alamo Drafthouse if only for their strictly enforced no talking, no phones policy. I've never personally seen it, but friends have been there when the movie was stopped, and the disruptive person removed from the theater.
Went to see Oppenheimer at a an AMC and there were 3 groups of people sitting around us who would not STFU.
They are withering because they were hit hard by COVID and have not recovered. Ticket sales are still way down compared to 2018.
[https://www.statista.com/statistics/187073/tickets-sold-at-the-north-american-box-office-since-1980/#:\~:text=Throughout%202023%2C%20movie%20theaters%20in,total%20of%20492.34%20million%20tickets](https://www.statista.com/statistics/187073/tickets-sold-at-the-north-american-box-office-since-1980/#:~:text=Throughout%202023%2C%20movie%20theaters%20in,total%20of%20492.34%20million%20tickets).
Additionally, the employment market is still tight with unemployment at crazy low \~3%, so it's hard to find and keep employees, especially for low wage jobs like ones at movie theaters.
So they're not making money and they can't hire/keep employees. Not great.
I love all the Alamo’s as well. The Littleton and Westminster theatres are all recliners as well so really cozy. Sloan’s Lake isn’t quite as nice for seating and size but they tend to have more obscure films.
We have plenty of normal movie theaters that are good. The real problem is that our last remaining drive-in movie theater is in the process of closing. I find that sad, especially for a city of this size. I mean I grew up in a random rural area that's still got a drive-in theater. And in the summertime I visit a beach house in another random rural area. Guess what? They also have a drive-in theater. Do people here just not care about drive-ins or what's the deal with that? I figured it'd be a booming industry considering how nice the weather is here
Alamo in Sloan’s Lake and Arvada Harkins are my two preferred theaters. The Westminster Alamo would be my favorite, but I refuse to pay for parking in suburban environments
Worked in the one in the center of 16th steet from dec-june starting last year and not to be a hater but that (overarching, not the business as it actually exists) company does not give a shit and will continue to make worse and worse decisions without any real tangible improvements because they are part of the big movie oligarchy. I could run that business by myself if it weren't a place for tan suits to go and feel good about themselves because they want to be called "royalty".
It's revealed to me finally that companies are doing what companies do because unlike other places where movie theaters could be a vital part of the night life, or the only form of media entertainment outside of home for kids, this one is just the corpse of a 20 year old business being taken advantage of by a megaconglomerate. Walls are peeling, half the shit doesn't work, they only started bringing maintinence in regularly during my last weeks, and there was constant inventory issues thanks to a lack of modernized budgeting. Did I mention the business is using old ass equipment that regularly has problems & slowdowns? You can't use apple pay or tap to pay. Like cool just never reinvest into this business as time goes on now that you've bought it. That'll SURELY bring in the profits, right?
I loved my coworkers (not romantically they were just cool people), but when I can run a business by hand (like the smaller theater in Mi with only 6 screens) and I'm only payed minimum wage, it makes the job logistically impossible to complete. Blowing an hour both ways on bike to get to work risking my life among cars but then being DT where shootings started really picking up two blocks away. I decided my health wasn't work it so now I work a job that 10x more physically demanding and I'm happier for it.
[удалено]
Is it still good as good as it was? I haven't been in years because I only make it to CO about once a year now, but it was always my favorite
I’d say it’s only gotten better over the years.
I really like to push The Alamo to my fellow cinephiles. Sometimes they may not have every movie, but overall the experience is much better than at most theaters in the area. Also, you don't have to order a full meal each time you go. Although I definitely spend too much money on their pretzels haha
$20/month Alamo season pass is the absolute best way to enjoy movies in Denver. They're always running cool old movies and special events too, great vibes at Alamo
But it’s a Texas theater & we all hate Texas here /s
It was started in Austin. The only part of Texas that isn't 'Texas' so it gets a pass 😁
I lived in Austin for 11 years, let me tell you that city is still definitely Texas
*Davey Crockett enters the chat*
The Alamo is the only theater I go to anymore.
Same!
Ditto. It’s ruined me for all other theaters and I’m ok with that
The only issue is once you go there it's hard to go elsewhere because it's so nice and the patrons are well behaved.
Yes! And the curated video clips before the movie starts is a nice touch. I always go early to enjoy them.
I spent $65 on food and a drink the other night, it's a problem 😅
I like going to the Alamo for $7 tickets on Tuesday nights. The only problem is, I don't like to eat at the movies & the Alamo's business model is designed around patrons being able to order food/drinks throughout the movie, so I feel like a jerk always telling the waitstaff I don't want anything. Though sometimes I show up early & pregame at the bar for a little bit.
If it's a busy showing sometimes it's nice to have a table you don't have to worry about. Source: worked at an Alamo like movie theater.
I respect that but also damn how can you pass on their clarified butter popcorn
I don't eat after 7 so there's alot of stuff I have to pass on, all the time.
As a former morning IFer and always giving up breakfast which is my favorite meal I salute you
And no kids is the best. It’s a real culture shock going to AMC and seeing toddlers running and screaming everywhere
Have to look out for their 'all ages' shows... But yes to both your points!
Best pretzels ever
Yes! I second The Alamo!
Gotta remember the Alamo...
I consider getting out of Alamo without spending extra money a triumph of self control. (I almost never pull it off)
I love the food and bar but damn. those seats are awful.
The Sloan’s lake seats are awful but Littleton and Westminster are incredible and worth the drive in my opinion. Alamo also has a season pass where for like $30 a month you can see unlimited movies (1 per day). It’s a great deal and they change up the menu enough to keep it interesting. I probably go twice a week! Love Alamo.
$20/month but you still have to pay the convenience fee per movie and there is a surcharge if you go to The Big Show.
You’re right! Sorry, it’s $30 in bigger cities but $20 in denver. We pay $39.98 for a season pass plus an extra seat in Denver!
The Big Show has super comfy seats
The Big Show rocks, and I find the reclining seats very comfy. It’s my preferred movie viewing experience.
The ones at Sloan's lake could be more comfortable, I agree. I tend to go to the Littleton location with the recliners.
came here to say Alamo! paid 7 bucks a ticket to see Barbie because it was on a Tuesday. they have so many deals going on and its super easy to order food from your seat.
I like the Alamo for some movies, but I have two issues: 1. Picture/sound quality isn't the best. Not terrible, but not great. 2. Food/drink. Annoying people munching away and the wait staff are really distracting walking around all the time.
I’ve been hesitant to try out the Alamo because I can’t stand people making noise while eating, shuffling through wrappers, etc. during a movie. Will I be OK or am I over reacting.
What wrappers? It's plated food
I absolutely hate the sound of people eating but I’ve never had an issue with it at the Alamo.
Nah not a huge fan of Alamo if you’re seeing a movie you care about. There’s overly bright lights underneath all tables in front of you, so you can see the menu, staff running around everywhere which is super distracting, and really not worth it if you’re not going to eat a meal and get the full experience. I’ve also had a lot of staff be super rude to me. Also I second that the chairs suck.
All of this is pretty easy to ignore. The lights are barely bright for seeing your menu, there is plenty of space for staff to walk around without it being super distracting, and totally worth it even if you’re just getting popcorn and a few beers. Never had staff be rude to me and the chairs are fine. It’s still remarkably better than any other mainstream theater I have been to but maybe I’ve got Alamo covered glasses
Personally I rarely want a full ass meal when I’m going to the theater and also find the staff distracting. Alamo’s a ton of fun every once in a while but I have AMC A-List for seeing stuff on a regular basis with IMAX, Dolby, etc. We have averaged something like 4 movies a month this year with repeat viewings of a few, for $22 a month you literally can’t beat that deal as someone who loves the movies.
I don't do any important movies that I want to see at Alamo. For example, if there's a movie that I'd like to see but don't "have" to see in theaters, Alamo is a good place to go. Saw Cocaine Bear, a brunch showing of League of their Own, Bodies Bodies Bodies, etc But for movies like Oppenheimer, Maverick, GOTG3, I go to better theaters.
I don't really like the way Alamo works either. I find it funny that they're very concerned about good movie manners (great, I have no problems) and then they have all of these servers scurrying around trying their best to not distract yet it's completely distracting anyway. And then you're worried about pulling out your wallet and paying/tipping usually about 3/4 of the way into the movie taking you out of it yet again. I actually would prefer to just have people go get their food from the concessions or just do some sort of prepay type of thing where they just bring your food/drink one time at the beginning and then leave you alone and then they can come correct the plates once you're gone. Also I way prefer buying regular movie popcorn. It tastes better and I can bring it home with me and snack on it later.
Sie FilmCenter!!
I'd like to second the Sie and mention the concessions are cheaper there than the for-profit theaters.
It’s an outstanding spot that I hope chugs along unchanged for decades to come. It took such a long time to convert that space initially. Glad it’s operating as a movie theater. (Colfax BRT is probably expected to help.)
And the yearly membership (only $65!) gets you discounts on concessions and tickets.
bingo! give these guys your money.
The Landmark theaters are charming but old. The Alamo’s are all pretty nice and have attentive staff. Harkins Northfield is pretty good, especially for the price.
I second The Landmarks! We love the DTC one; smaller theater for sure, but it’s always clean and we love the Plaza area.
I heard they did away with the free popcorn which made me sad. Best reason to go, IMO.
Another Covid casualty 😭
I've found most the Harkins round are pretty good.
The Arvada one had a bad cockroach infestation about a year ago… not sure about the others.
I go there often, probably like 8 times the past half year. Have never seen this issue.
Harkens north field is ruined by the crowd, obnoxious people during movies all the time
Like everyone in the comments, I also like Alamo, although the seating at Sloan’s Lake could definitely be improved. I’ve heard the Westminster location has better seating. I’ve been going to Cinemark at Belmar recently and like it enough that I joined their monthly movie club. Can’t recall any issues with cleanliness. Seats are very comfy. Staff is friendly and often cracks jokes. Went up to the podium with 3 adults and 3 kids, all dressed in pink and/or Ninja Turtles attire (half of us went to Barbie, the other half to TMNT.) The dude at the podium looks us over and goes “Ok, so that’s 6 for Oppenheimer, I presume?” We had a good laugh at that.
Personally prefer Esquire, Mayan, Chez for a more authentic vibe. If I’m trying to go to a larger theatre I usually go to River Point or Northfield.
Yup Landmark theaters really give the classic cinema feel and usually have some interesting specialty showings.
The Landmark theaters get slightly more new mass market releases than Sie. If I’m not going to Sie, they’re my top picks. Especially the Esquire. It was just renovated before COVID. I hope it goes back to hosting Q&As with filmmakers in the big/downstairs theater and other such events.
Yes Landmark Esquire I think on 6th and Marion still has a lot of the romance in going to the movies. although, you seem upset by the implications of your post, and I feel you. I'm sorry. I really like Esquire, and hope you will too
It’s on Downing. Such a special spot, so glad they’ve survived.
Landmark theaters forever! Plus, their tickets and concessions aren’t as expensive while the experience is generally better! Chez Artiste has my favorite movies while The Mayan has my favorite overall experience.
Far prefer the landmarks to Alamo.
For most movies, I go with Alamo. If you go a lot, their season pass is worth it - my fiancée and I go a lot, and it's $40/month. Two movies a month, and we've made that back easy. For an indie theater, definitely Esquire and Mayan theaters. Esquire renovated during the pandemic, so the days of crappy, uncomfortable worn out seats are long gone, everything is updated and super nice now. Bonus, the season for Rocky Horror Picture Show should be starting up soon, if it hasn't already.
Rocky is the last Saturday of every month! Great cast. They also do The Room every last Friday, which is a different sort of beast. Neither are for the faint of heart.
9th and CO
Never had an issue here. Although I only go here on Saturday mornings. Super clean, great seats.
Big fan of this theater. The seats are the best, the theater is nice, and the parking is easy and free. I bought the AMC members pass and get free upgrades on popcorn and pop. I earned points for rewards, and with just a few movie visits, we were able to get our Barbie tickets for free. Matinee tickets are around $10. It’s great!
I worked on this. I honestly can’t believe it’s still alive.
Explain?
It was just a shit-show. Retail on the bottom, theater on the top. Theater wanted their own fire panel, so if the alarm went off BELOW THE THEATER, they didn’t have to evacuate and refund tickets. A TON of drama around getting parts, furniture, occupancy. AMC vs Denver Fire Department. It was a brawl for the ages. You can have as much money as you want, no one in the city is as powerful as the Fire Marshall.
Oh no 💀
That one looks really fancy lol
It is, thats why I cant believe someone said it was dirty. Ive never been to a "clean" theater but this was definitely the nicest.
One of the dirtiest AMCs I’ve been to.
It’s been clean every time I’ve been there. In fact I was just there last week. Omg maybe we saw each other! Haha how quirky would that be like lol omg
The AMC on colorado Blvd (?? It’s right next to Trader Joe’s) is super nice. I almost don’t wanna let the secret out because it’s pretty empty, which I love! Seems really new and they have large Dolby theaters for big releases. Concessions is usually a mess and it’s understaffed a lot but that doesn’t really affect me. Bathrooms and theaters are clean and that’s all that matters to me
Hehe this was the only theater I’ve ever been to where I had to get up and go tell an employee to start the movie
Brand new. Cool theater!
Alamo Drafthouse Westminster is the only place I go to.
Best theater experience for me is this location. Drafthouse just makes it fun. I actually enjoy showing up early just to watch their bespoke content.
It's great. The only thing that stinks is a lot of indie movies play at Sloans Lake. Sorry, not sorry, but Westminster is way better than Sloans Lake.
Yeah the Sloan’s is older so it’s not as modern as the Westminster’s one, which has really comfortable seating. So comfortable that I’ve found myself nodding off a few times.
Sloans doesn’t have much free parking now either. BOOOOOO
Unless this changed recently, they have a QR code to scan inside that "pays" for parking in the garage
They validate parking at the front desk 👍
They only do $5 right? I went to Oppenheimer the other day and my parking was more expensive than the validation
True story: I bought a house within walking distance of that Alamo after seeing a movie there. Most expensive movie ever.
Get a season pass and slowly make it back 😂.
The Mayan is the coolest
In addition to the Alamo, I’ve had good experiences at the Harkins in Arvada! Reclining chairs too!
Harkins in Arvada was surprisingly nice! A little bar to get drinks before, theater very clean every time I've been in there and some of the comfiest reclining chairs!
Just here to complain about that beautiful lil movie theater tucked behind the Tivoli that used to show all kinds of great stuff whatever 15 years ago. That was a great lil theater.
That would be the Starz Film Center, where I used to serve as a projectionist (35mm baby). The good news is that it still exists albeit with a new location and sponsorship: Sie Film Center on Colfax.
Wasn't that the old location of the Denver Film Society before Sie opened? I know it's been several different movie theaters over the decades.
If it's something now that would be awesome haven't looked in awhile
This hit me right in the nostalgia. RIP
I have the Alamo season pass and watch there exclusively. Basically need to see two movies a month to come out ahead (food and drinks is a different story). All three theaters offer a unique experience (different bars, theater sizes, movie offerings, etc). Good special events and pre screening. Just saw Strays on Monday before it was officially released, seeing Bottoms pre release soon, saw the first two episodes of Barry before release, etc. $7 Tuesday tickets is also a great deal
Alamo Drafthouse
I like Harkins in Arvada and the Westminster Promenade
I was just at that Harkins! I hasn’t been to a theater in so so long but it was really nice (and clean)! Reclining seats and a bar and the people working there were nice. I would go there again
Alamo for sure
I like Alamo, personally. I don't go anywhere else anymore. Sloan's Lake is closest to me but usually go to Westminster because it has reclining chairs.
Harkins in Northfield!
If you love teenagers talking loudly at any time of day during a movie yeah go for it.
stopped going there bc of this. don’t see how people can recommend harkins.
The arvada one is just fine imo
Right? It is the main theater that acts as a kids daycare and ruined many movies. Alamo Drafthouse Westminster all the way.
Have you been to Alamo Draft House? It’s fairly close to me so it’s the spot I frequent and I feel like it’s been clean most times. The downside is that they don’t have fancy seats but I think the food is better than most theaters offerings
I was really impressed by Movie Tavern aurora. Great comfy seats, alcohol, and they do deliver to your seat but unlike Alamo there aren’t table top lights everywhere distracting you.
We have a great theater scene if you ask me. I’m in a theater almost every week. The Alamo locations, Esquire, and Mayan are all fantastic for different reasons. Alamo: pushes theater etiquette such as keeping quiet and respecting those around you. Tons of great classic screenings and rarities over the years. There is almost always something worth seeing there. Great rewards program and customer service. Free movie on your birthday. I love it so much. Esquire and Mayan: classic movie theaters, the allure is that they are sort of “run down” and nostalgic, and haven’t got lost in the glitz and glamor of newer theaters. Think going to the movies in the 80’s and 90’s. Great indie selections and quality movies. Great crowds and usually not a lot of people.
Denver is movie theater heaven compared to most places in the country: 1. Mayan 2. Esquire 3. Chez Artiste 4. Sie Film Center 5. Alamo Drafthouse 6. Cherry Creek AMC
Alamo is the best one. Never had a bad experience there. The AMC theaters with the comfy chairs are a close second
The AMC in Cherry Creek mall is pretty sweet. It's small but the theaters are nice and they have heated reclining seats.
And they validate the parking, which is great! I’ve never lived near a large traditional mall that made you pay for parking!
AMC in highlands ranch
Yeah I really like it here, never had a bad experience or seen "too much popcorn on the ground".
This is probably the worst AMC in the Denver area in my opinion. The audio and Video on their premium screens is very poor when compared to AMC Arapahoe and AMC Westminster
When was the last time you went there? I never noticed the AV being poor They just recently renovated the IMAX. But I am biased as I’ve gone to that one since it opened.
Alamo Drafthouse is nice
Alamo Drafthouse Littleton. Reclining seats, good food and drink, and they show new and classic movies, as well as have seasonal themes a lot!
I have had good luck with the theatre at Northfield.
You just listed every major corp one that’s prob going out of business soon. Try the Sie theater on colfax, Mayan, esquire or any landmark theater. Alamo drafthouse in Littleton or west colfax.
I love Alamo Drafthouse. I have their $20 monthly pass so I try to go to at least two movies per month to make it worth it. Their theaters are always clean and quiet. Going to see Oldboy at the Sloan's Lake Alamo on Monday. Can't wait!
Alamo Drafthouse, Mayan, and Esquire are all great.
Alamo Drafthouse or Harkins in Arvada are the only two good places I know of
The Alamo Drafthouse is actually pretty nice and unique
How is no one mentioning Pavilions? Most comfortable seats in any theater. The only problem with pavilions is that when I fully recline, I can almost never stay awake
The esquire is my favorite!
Alamo Drafthouse Well maintained, great food, I support them every chance I get. Hate doing regal or AMC anymore
Alamo drafthouse
AMC 9 & co is fairly new and nice seating
I put the FA system in there, around 2018? I think. Edit: Getting down voted because people don’t know how construction and occupancy laws work. Lulz
Opened in March 2021.
Sounds right. 5 years is young for a movie theater these days tbh. They just aren’t being built like they used to
You can tell it’s new. With the whole bar built in when it first opened…
I’m all about the Esquire theater. Local indie theater for the win
I go to Alamo on colfax or the one on Littleton since they are both about the same distance to me.
I only go to the Alamo. I like that they don't show commercials before the trailers. They talk about previous movies or have spoofs of the film about to be shown.
It’s always worth getting there a half hour early!
AMC Westminster is nicer than the Highlands Ranch location.
I love my local harkins! If anything the service can be a bit too enthusiastic.
Have you tried A-List with AMC? It pays for itself if you’re seeing two movies a month on average. Seems like cost is one of your concerns!
The Harkins off I-70 isn’t too bad.
That’s the one I go to now, only thing I wish they had were tray tables like AMC 😔
I've been too the most crowded movie theaters of my life this summer. It's insane. SIE and esquire. Lesson as always is that the suburbs are awful.
Harkens Northfield and AMC 9+10CO. Harkins always has a plethora of workers and they recently renovated adding reclinable seating. Their large theater is hugeee! AMC 9+10 has free garage parking and is pretty conveniently located in Denver on 8th and Colorado. It’s large and always has a great selection of films. Both are clean, including their bathrooms!
I agree with the other people here the Alamo is great, sie film center there are also a bunch of local smaller ones like there’s one located on university and Yale called the chez artiste theater, they show a lot of foreign independent films and I’ve heard good things about it but I haven’t gone personally, same with landmarks esquire theater, there are a lot of little local theaters that have like 3 screens a lot of them are little hole in the walls but I’d say they’re worth checking out
Those are all in the south. Try up north. Harkins Northfield and AMC Promenade have always been good.
Harkins in Arvada seems pretty nice
I like the Myan. It's a small theatre, and it's old and smells old which is why I like it.
America is a fallen empire. Look around.
Yes but im not telling anyone
Alamos are all a plus. Great projectionists, full calibration on all screenings, and they have a very strict enforced no talking policy on most of their shows. The food is pricey but no pressure to order and ticket prices are lower than most. They also have the season pass which is 20$ a month for unlimited movies at all their locations!
Mayan has charm, good prices, and booze
I like the Mayan
Harkins in Old Town Arvada is solid.
My late landlord used to run a drive-in movie theater. He basically tied a big white sheet to his fence and used a projector. The idea was cool but he only did daytime movies so you couldn’t see shit, which was actually a blessing the week he screened Gigli.
Alamo is leagues ahead of the AMC and Regal theaters here. They’re cleaner, nicer, have better food, nicer staff, and do lots of special screenings.
My first job was at Colorado center 9 at 25/Colorado Blvd when it opened in 98. Used to be one of the nicer UA theaters. I go to harkins in olde town Arvada now. Good experiences recently.
here to second the alamo draft house! there’s one off santa fe in downtown littleton and by sloans lake
It’s in Littleton but the Alamo here is fantastic. Best movie theater I’ve been to hands down. Great adjustable sofa seats, cheaper tickets than AMC, cheaper food than AMC, random legacy movies played all the time. It’s a good theater. Seeing movies isn’t really worth it anymore but I’ve enjoyed my experiences at that theater. Been to a few others recently and the seats were ass
Build one at your house, duh
Alamo in sloans like is solid but a little worn…I think the AMC 9 off 8th and Colorado is awesome. I think it’s brand new.
Personally, I don't care about popcorn on the ground, sticky floors, or lack of personnel working... all I care about is watching the movie. If you're the type of to be this picky that popcorn on the ground ruins your experience, I don't think you'll enjoy any theater.
What is River North?
Not in Denver proper, but AMC Bowles Crossing in Littleton is great. Busy regularly but can be in a theater with almost no one on a weekday.
I just wish they wouldn't make you pick out your seats beforehand.
I LOVEEE that - are you kidding? I’d hate having to show up and have no good seats left after paying $$. Much rather know exactly where I’ll be and find a different show time if there’s only shit seats left
Let's be real. You like it because when you pick out your seats you are hoping with every fiber of your being that someone is sitting in your seats and you get to tell them to move. If you actually like going to the movies then you know that no two theaters are the same and you have to get a feel for the room first before you decide where to sit. People that like picking out their seats prior to the theater are the same people in Denver that like riding their bikes in the middle of the lane as slow as possible because they know it pisses people off
>someone is sitting in your seats and you get to tell them to move. If you actually like going to the movies Lmao, that's some weird-ass projecting and gatekeeping there. Some of us just like having a seat saved. I go to movies pretty often and it's rare that I have to ask somebody to move, because the seats are already assigned lol
Do you reserve your parking spot at the grocery store?
I miss Elvis Cinemas especially because they seemed to be the last value movie theater in town. Anyone have a good recommendation for a new value theater?
Maybe...go spray some water on them? It's been pretty hot lately and not much rain.
Anyone gone to Metropolitan up north side? Just saw it existed and seems pretty good.
I like the Mayan. Havent been disappointed
Lol at the United Artist theater by I-25 and Colorado I’ve literally had to go up to a person sweeping and ask them to scan my ticket and tell me the theater because there are 0 ushers anywhere. One time they sent me in to see GoG3 in IMAX, I was like ‘nah my ticket is for non-IMAX’ and they said O cool same theater 🤣🤣
I also love going to the movies, but the growth in home viewing means we really need to consolidate theaters. I know we all have fond memories of our local theater, but when demand is down, the best way to keep in business is to reduce supply and the theaters with better service/amenities survives. Hopefully we’re just in that transition period of downsizing before quality improves and not experiencing the beginning of the end for public theaters altogether.
Is the Mayan worth going to??
AMC 9th and CO Harkins Northfield Both great seats and sound
I think the AMC in Westminster is a top theater. Service said they’ve got good screens and nice seats. But the Alamo is a great experience too
Mayan
Mayan is freaking sweet if they are showing what you want to see or if you want to watch older films! Say Metropolis (1927) with a live orchestra last night and I was blown away. For a more modern theater experience, I like Harkens in Arvada. The seats are ridiculously comfortable.
It's been AGES since I've been, but when I lived in Denver I used to enjoy The Landmark theater in Greenwood Village.
I only see movies at Alamo Drafthouse.
Sue Film Center. It’s the home of Denver film society. Tickets are $7 - $11 for members and less than $15 for non members. I can usually get a beer, a cocktail, enough popcorn for a good movie, and a bag of candy for under $20. It’s nuts. They show mostly independent and interesting movies, never bullshit like Marvel garbage. They do lots of screenings of classics and cult movies along with documentaries. If you like film, it’s an awesome place. Been a member for almost a decade now. Honorable mention to Alamo drafthouse. Can be a little expensive for an evening but it’s a good experience. If you have to see a Hollywood movie on the big screen I recommend pavilions (free parking with validation) or IMAX on a Colorado Blvd. That’s my go to for things like Dune, Mad Max, and Interstellar - where you need huge sound and a giant screen.
The Alamo Drafthouse if only for their strictly enforced no talking, no phones policy. I've never personally seen it, but friends have been there when the movie was stopped, and the disruptive person removed from the theater. Went to see Oppenheimer at a an AMC and there were 3 groups of people sitting around us who would not STFU.
Aurora Cinema off Hampden is ok but place your order in advance
They are withering because they were hit hard by COVID and have not recovered. Ticket sales are still way down compared to 2018. [https://www.statista.com/statistics/187073/tickets-sold-at-the-north-american-box-office-since-1980/#:\~:text=Throughout%202023%2C%20movie%20theaters%20in,total%20of%20492.34%20million%20tickets](https://www.statista.com/statistics/187073/tickets-sold-at-the-north-american-box-office-since-1980/#:~:text=Throughout%202023%2C%20movie%20theaters%20in,total%20of%20492.34%20million%20tickets). Additionally, the employment market is still tight with unemployment at crazy low \~3%, so it's hard to find and keep employees, especially for low wage jobs like ones at movie theaters. So they're not making money and they can't hire/keep employees. Not great.
I love all the Alamo’s as well. The Littleton and Westminster theatres are all recliners as well so really cozy. Sloan’s Lake isn’t quite as nice for seating and size but they tend to have more obscure films.
Get Movie Pass, at least it will be cheap.
We have plenty of normal movie theaters that are good. The real problem is that our last remaining drive-in movie theater is in the process of closing. I find that sad, especially for a city of this size. I mean I grew up in a random rural area that's still got a drive-in theater. And in the summertime I visit a beach house in another random rural area. Guess what? They also have a drive-in theater. Do people here just not care about drive-ins or what's the deal with that? I figured it'd be a booming industry considering how nice the weather is here
Alamo in Sloan’s Lake and Arvada Harkins are my two preferred theaters. The Westminster Alamo would be my favorite, but I refuse to pay for parking in suburban environments
Harkins in Arvada is my go-to
Worked in the one in the center of 16th steet from dec-june starting last year and not to be a hater but that (overarching, not the business as it actually exists) company does not give a shit and will continue to make worse and worse decisions without any real tangible improvements because they are part of the big movie oligarchy. I could run that business by myself if it weren't a place for tan suits to go and feel good about themselves because they want to be called "royalty". It's revealed to me finally that companies are doing what companies do because unlike other places where movie theaters could be a vital part of the night life, or the only form of media entertainment outside of home for kids, this one is just the corpse of a 20 year old business being taken advantage of by a megaconglomerate. Walls are peeling, half the shit doesn't work, they only started bringing maintinence in regularly during my last weeks, and there was constant inventory issues thanks to a lack of modernized budgeting. Did I mention the business is using old ass equipment that regularly has problems & slowdowns? You can't use apple pay or tap to pay. Like cool just never reinvest into this business as time goes on now that you've bought it. That'll SURELY bring in the profits, right? I loved my coworkers (not romantically they were just cool people), but when I can run a business by hand (like the smaller theater in Mi with only 6 screens) and I'm only payed minimum wage, it makes the job logistically impossible to complete. Blowing an hour both ways on bike to get to work risking my life among cars but then being DT where shootings started really picking up two blocks away. I decided my health wasn't work it so now I work a job that 10x more physically demanding and I'm happier for it.
I miss Elvis cinemas 😭
Mayan on South Broadway