The Cinefamily

This is an intimate, eclectic movie theater, that really does have a family atmosphere. I’ve been coming here for the Bowie retrospective, and I’ve been very impressed at how thoughtful and dedicated the staff have been. Not only that but the audiences are friendly and cheerful!

Love this place. Weird, awesome movies and art films. You can really feel how much everyone who works there love what they do and they put together some really cool collections of obscure clips, foreign films, etc. I recently saw a Bowie retrospective that was so damn good I finally joined the family. Now I get all my movies for free, and a gratis popcorn for every show, doesn’t get much better than that. Seats get a little uncomfy after a while. Couches are the most popular at the front, but usually all reserved (online $ 8 fee to reserve) for the more popular showings. Love the afterparties on the back patio, always a good time!

Selection of movies is pretty good, but they only play digital projections on a relatively tiny screen. The seats are uncomfortable, they have some dirty couches you can upgrade to, but they are usually already reserved by the most annoyingly vocal members of the audience. If I wanted to watch reasonably not-​hard-​to-​find digital copies of old films on a dirty old couch I can just stay home. Thanks, but no thanks.

Our first Cinefamily experience was regrettably lousy. I’m sure it’s a fine theater and I know they have great programming, but tonight they had some sort of «technical difficulties» and so they just left everyone standing on the street in the cold with no sense of hospitality of any kind and no communication. After waiting like that for about a half an hour we had splitting headaches and sore feet and didn’t even want to see the movie anymore and left. Too bad, because I’m sure it would have been very interesting. But with the impossibility of parking in the neighborhood, no one answering the phone at the theater, and just getting left hung out to dry, we won’t be back. If we lived within walking distance it might be worth another try, but driving from Pasadena for a complete waste of time was a drag.

My favorite place in LA. Come early to score a couch seat.

Hubby brought me here for a screening of Larry Fessenden’s 1997 Habit. We snagged a metered parking spot right in front, but I can’t say I enjoyed waiting in line outside the theater, overhearing desultory conversation about how the Red Hot Chili Peppers started at Fairfax High School across the street (Like, I don’t even like their, like, music!).
I did like the theater’s homey interior, though, and felt at home with the other film geeks stretching out on leathery little couches and squeaky chairs attached to floppy tray tables. My Pete brought me a large coffee and bottled water, which I placed on the tray table next to me. This was then nearly knocked over by the burly fella sitting nearby. Admittedly, my mild admonishment of said fella felt silly later on when my adorable hubby ended up kicking someone else’s tray table over, knocking over what sounded like more than one bottle but being addressed with a soft «It’s fine.» Suffice it to say, those seats aren’t comfy for tall folks. Still, nobody got miffed, and the vibe stayed mellow, and it’s ok with me.
After the screening, Fessenden had a conversation with some self-​proclaimed filmmaker who too often posed lame quasi-​questions and dithered about his own crap horror flick. Fortunately, Larry Fessenden’s a pro and impressed us with his good humor and storytelling, despite seeming slightly intoxicated. Cheers!

This place has the BEST weird crazy movies!!!
I love going here with friends & dates for really unique experiences.
I wish that they had more than one bathroom, that line gets crazy. and the seats are SUPER uncomfortable after one movie so double features can be rough but the staff is always great & the movies are weird & fun!

Continuing my tour of LA’s greatest movie theatres I saw «Pulp: A Film About Life, Death and Supermarkets». I arrived worriedly an hour before the showing unable to print my ticket only for the oh-​so-​cool box office girl to sort out my issue instantly with a smile and calm attitude. I came back later to see people milling around the entrance hall before choosing the most uncomfortable seat in the middle of the front row. The first few rows consisted of couches and it was unsure whether they were free for us to sit on or not.
Two excitable gentlemen, the theatre’s programmers, bounded up to the front of the sparsely populated room and addressed up excitedly talking about how the theatre is a not-​for-​profit venue and how they heavily rely on memberships and their volunteers to keep it running. They were clearly passionate about what they do and mentioned how much they adore the documentary we were about to watch. Their enthusiasm was so infectious it even made me overlook the venue’s bad sound. I have a feeling that if I move to LA permanently I’ll be purchasing a membership to this theatre.

I came here for Greg Simkins’ screening of «I’m Scared». This is a great little spot to rent out for private screenings. There’s also a nice area out back that can be used for receptions. All of the employees here are really friendly. The only issue you may have here is with parking. The theater does not have its own parking lot. There is metered parking on the street, a little paid parking lot a block south, and some parking in the residential area nearby.

What a sweet, bizarre gem of a place! Although it’s neon signage beams strongly on Fairfax Avenue, this tiny independent movie house feels like a well-​kept secret.
They screen cult films, one-​offs, and last night my companion and I checked out a series of Brothers Quay short films. Between each 10 – 15 minute short, two guys walked up to the front of the theater and manually adjusted the size of the screen to optimize the viewing experience.
Not gonna lie, the moment we stepped into this place, I was super freaked out and wanted to run. Every seat was packed, staring at grainy black and white footage, a mostly silent film except with a disturbing shrieking and scratching and repetitive images of fingernails and screws and a woman hunched over her desk, scrawling charcoal gibberish, and rubbing her fingers and legs together in a very disturbing way. It turned out to be a short film about a woman writing letters to her husband from an asylum. At first I thought everyone watching the film must be the weirdest loonies in L.A., but then after you get comfortable you realize how cool of an arthouse movie experience Cinefamily is. And that there is a line waiting outside the door for people waiting for the next showing.
The place was once a silent movie joint, as you can see from the marquee outside, and the theater, which probably seats around 150 at most, has big images inside along the walls of silent film stars.
I’ve got to check out their online movie calendar as I’m sure they’ll show one of my favorite old films and this is a truly unique place to see one.

Also known as the Silent Movie Theater, this is probably the only theater in the state with the balls to show movies like Samurai Cop or Disco Godfather. They have an epic array of film screenings, complete with star-​studded Q&A’s, live scores and DJs, and lots of special surprises.
Popular screenings of cult classics will sell out, so buy in advance. They’ll run $ 12 – 20 a ticket. The front of the theater is reserved for members. So if you’re wondering how to get a cushy couch, that’s how. The theater is old, so the seats are old — don’t expect thick leather reclining. Also, the screen is old school, it’s part of the charm. Don’t expect a curved screen that shoots smoke and lasers in your face. The screen isn’t that big so be sure to get in line early for a decent seat. You can still see from the back row, but you’ll probably want something in the middle if you can.
If a screening sells out, there’s a standby line an hour before show time. You have a pretty decent shot to get in if you’re within the first 20 people, but you will probably be separated from your group and/​or have to sit in a metal folding chair in the emergency exit aisle.
There’s a stage for special performances/​events. There’s a concession stand complete with soda, popcorn and even fresh cupcakes. The staff is diverse, knowledgeable and quite personable. And there’s a patio out back for private parties. Not bad, right?
I’m a big fan of their Halloween horror slates. Though I have been disappointed with their countdown series. They’re not true countdowns, but rather more of a somewhat organized montage of crazy shiz they like to ramble about. I’d do it differently, but you can’t please everyone.
There’s plenty of options for mainstream crap, but for the films with a cult following, undiscovered gems, and unearthed garbage you have to see to believe, this is a goldmine. Check out the calendar or get on the mailing list, something will be sure to catch your attention at least once a month.

One of the few, awesome places left that help keep independent cinema alive. I’ve been here for a couple of screenings, mostly the sneak previews/Q&A sessions, which are free! I buy tickets sometimes too though, I’m no fuckboy. It’s a great little place with a welcoming environment, cool back patio, fairly easy to find street parking, and above all, awesome independent features.

My friend and I saw a screening of The Tribe at this theatre a few weeks ago. Although I loved the film and found the employees all very kind, there were a few things I wish I had known before making the hour long drive. For starters, there was no designated parking lot so we literally had to creep down a few streets before I found a spot. As we walked in, I ran into the person in front of me because the theatre (where the film was being screened) was pitch black. I literally held my hand up in front of my face and couldn’t see it. They had one very sweet usher looking for seats, but it was pointless because hello? I couldn’t see her. I finally told my friend to sit in one of the single seats and I was able to scoot a chair next to him. One last thing, there was only one bathroom so expect to wait if you come here.
In spite of all this, the movie was so good that it made up for everything. The actress from the film was there to answer questions after the show, so I was pretty pleased about that. Overall, I would come again but maybe a lot earlier.

This place is a Los Angeles treasure. I’ve never once been disappointed by a screening there — the films are well-​curated, the people are friendly, and the seats feel like your best friend’s comfortable living room sofa. My only complaint is that, having moved from Weho to Los Feliz, it doesn’t have the walking-​distance convenience it once had. I may never forgive myself.

Cinefamily is a unique offering in Los Angeles (from silent films, to film screenings to Q&A’s, to guest artists and other reunions of sorts… Cinefamily gets creative)!
Over the years, I have met various individuals that have been involved in cults and in college, I did some writing on the subject. One day my husband called me when he heard of an event happening at Cinefamily surrounding a group called, «The Source Family». He asked if I wanted to attend. And, I accepted.
This event involved the Source Family documentary film, a menu around the film and history of the famous restaurant they owned and operated in Los Angeles, a Q&A by former members and a reunion performance of the members that had a band.
Let’s just say, «this is why I love LA»!
Prior to the screening, I enjoyed an «Aware Salad» on the patio behind the theatre (a dish that was served at the famous Sunset Blvd. Source Family Restaurant, in it’s heyday!) We learned of the untold story of Father Yod and his demise and enjoyed a psychedelic performance by the surviving members of Ya Ho Wa 13 (the family band).
Cult research may not be your thing… but…
Get on their mailing list at Cinefamily and you never know who will be popping in and what they may be offering. Al Pacino had an event last week!

Strange that I’ve never actually seen a silent movie at the Silent Movie Theatre, but I digress…
This is a really cool old place that shows an interesting variety of films.
I hadn’t been here in over a decade, but recently visited for a midnight viewing of a classic cult horror flick, and it was awesome. The employees are really friendly, the crowd was respectful (as in, they didn’t talk, text, or kick seats throughout the movie).
There was plenty of free street parking on the Friday night that we were here. Lots of good places to eat and drink nearby; you can make a whole fun evening out of it.

Never been happier with a decision than I was with choosing this place for Valentine’s Day. Googled «romantic Los Angeles Valentine’s Day.» Some of the results made my want to throw up and get some counseling. The others, great suggestions. Example — this place.
On Valentine’s Day ONLY, they offer 2 showings of Casablanca (which my date and I had never seen). They do a phenomenal job with staffing this place with the NICEST people. Literally, from the front door to the patio to the snack bar, everyone I encountered was top notch (even the announcer guy who kinda blew me off in the lobby about a question… I’ll forgive you).
They had a guy do an announcement prior to the screening (aforementioned gentleman). He did a GREAT job at prefacing the venue and the film — especially considerate for those who’ve never been before.
Everyone complains about the seating but it was FINE! It reminded me of those auditorium chairs from elementary school. They have couch seating for $ 8 more a person — HIGHLY recommended if you can make it happen (hard to get!).
Screen quality was good. Overall picture was clear and the sound was consistent with that of a nearly 80+ year old film. The décor was Valentine’s Day ish and the serves FREE strawberry shortcake and drinks afterwards. This place is an absolute gem. This will be a staple for many Valentine’s Days to come.
Thank you cinefamily for an awesome experience!

Awesome little gem of a theater easy to overlook as you drive by. I went her to see The Interview, back when it was rumored to only be available online or in indy theaters — you got me Sony! — and I’m so glad I did. It’s a quaint little theater with character and a cozy feel. In fact, it has four rows of leather couches in the front for VIP ticket holders, and first come, first served for anyone else in the empty couches. I loved being able to kick my shoes off and snuggle up on the couch with my friend. While this ended up being a mainstream film after all, I like that this theater focuses on indy films and artists. I’m definitely interested in checking out some indy shows on the schedule.
Minor reasons for the reduced star:
— Time on the ticket was not the start time; it was the door opening time. So we arrived a little early but had to wait in line outside. Then there was a full 30 minutes of waiting in our seats before the film actually started.
— They keep the theater very chilly. It was a cool, rainy day, so AC didn’t seem necessary. Hey, maybe include blankets on the couches :)
I can’t wait to go back.=!

If this place weren’t a non-​profit independent theater, they would get less than 5 stars. The seats aren’t that comfortable, it’s small, lines get long, but really it’s great for what it is.
They show unique films and host other events. I easily purchased tickets online in advance. They also have a box office onsite which can be used to avoid online fees. There are couches, but most of them are reserved (which you can pay extra to do). They have your typical movie theater concessions, and for less than at the chain theaters. I’ll be back for other screenings for sure!

I went to Cinefamily to see Pulp, the documentary and was pleasantly surprised. I had read older previews and was expecting the worst sound and a very crowded place. We got there half an hour before the movie started, so we were able to get a two-​seater couch without having to pay the extra $ 8. If you want to make sure you get one, though, you can select the $ 8 upgrade when you purchase your tickets online.
The sound system was not great, but it wasn’t intolerable. There was a DJ before the movie started and at that moment, I can state the music was too loud and it gave away the sound equipment’s quality.
I look forward to going there again. I loved the atmosphere, the couch area ad the fact that there was a presenter.
A big bag of popcorn (not that big, really) is $ 5 and a medium-​sized soda, $ 3.50.

This is a small theater that has been a part of the LA landscape for a long time. It used to be called the Silent Movie Theater but is now owned by Cinefamily, although the sign still stands and they do show silent films on Wednesdays. The screening room is pretty tiny when compared to the mega theaters of today.
Most of the seats are similar to school auditorium seats without pitch, but with extra cushion. However, the first few row of seats consist of cushy, comfortable couches that seat 2 – 3 per couch. These are the seats you want! The screen is situated high enough for comfortable viewing here. Leg room could be more generous.
If you are looking for state of the art and great acoustics, this is not the place for you. If you want cozy, quaint, and nostalgic, then this is it. But upgrading to a seat on one of the couches is the only way to go :) .
Parking– After 5pm Monday-​Saturday, free parking is available across the street at the Fairfax High School lot. On Sunday, because of the weekly swap meet, the school’s lot will open at approx. 7pm

So cute and underground, they also let you bring your own food and the couches are the comfiest thing ever. The only thing I would change is being able to select what couch you sit in, when you arrive they usually already have a couch with your name on it. I got a side couch but wanted a middle couch so it was kind if a bummer. When I went to cinefamily the front row of couches (really close to the screen) was first come, first serve. Not sure if that’s an every day thing or if that was just for that night.
POPCORN or SODA
Regular: $ 3.00
Large: $ 5.00
Reserved couch seating *buy tickets online*
$ 5.00 each person