Castro Theatre

I am so happy that the SF Intl Film Festival is playing movies at theaters in and around the Mission like the Castro Theater, Victoria Theater, and Alamo Drafthouse. I saw The Fixer tonight at the Castro Theater and the place was packed. They had a Q and A with cast and crew members after. This theater is a beautiful, old-​fashioned space. One of a kind in SF!

This review is for The Little Mermaid singalong only! I’ve yet to come for a normal movie showing. This theater reminds me of The Grand Lake theater in Oakland. Maybe that’s why I like it so much. The architecture inside is beautiful!
Before everything got started, there was an organ player performing to keep the crowd entertained before the movie started. He was fab! I wonder if he also plays at the Grand Lake!
The singalong cost was roughly $ 18 – 19 with the service fee of purchasing online. It’s actually a tad bit pricey, but the experience was totally worth it. When you walk in, you’re greeted by people in costume handing you a «fun pack.» It basically contains silly things that go with your movie/​singalong.
Right before everything starts they explain to you when to use the items in your fun pack. Blow bubbles when Ariel takes her first bath. Wave the wand when Sebastian conducts. Wave around your glows stick when blah blah. Make kissing noises when you see the couple together. Make hissing. Noises when you see the evil Ursula. You get it lollll.
The crowd was so into it. At one point someone behind us started evil laughing. It was great.

Great time at the historic Castro Theatre in the Castro district. Definitely a lot on unique and interesting faces in the place tonight. The theatre seats 800+ and has a balcony. There is a rustic and old hollywood feel to the theatre but it is absolutely beautiful on the inside. Great venue for lectures, plays and shows.

Did the Little Mermaid Sing-​a-​Long and it was amazing!!! So fun with props and all. Excited to come back for all the other cool events they host here :)

My favorite place in SF! I mostly go for the standard double features (usually several per week), so I can’t speak as much to the special events. $ 11 for 2 movies most of the time, sometimes it’s 3, sometimes 1.
I find that pretty much anything they put on is worth watching if you’re a serious movie person. If you’re not a serious movie person it’s still well worth finding something on the schedule that’s appealing and checking it out. The theater is beautiful and huge, 1920s Art Deco.
To people asking about the organist: there is one playing most of the time before and in-​between features, and it’s great. Not always, but 50%+ in the evening.
Please don’t talk during movies, keep your phone off, and don’t put your feet up on the seat in front of you (the whole row is attached). Thanks!

Came here on a Monday evening to sit amid a crowd of cheerfully raucous adults waving glow sticks, wearing paper crowns and watching and singing along to the full-​length, retouched, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast!
Great, old theatre, tons of excitement and energy. One girl turned around and asked me if I came willingly. Please. I bought tickets a month ago.

Amazing theater. Beautiful and great events. Only note to management is PLEASE keep the staff talking to a minimum. You can hear everything from the lobby when your sitting in the back of the theater.

The Castro Theatre is a near perfect place.
The first time I went was to see Vertigo. It was also a perfect introduction to San Francisco for me.
I also went for the Found Footage Festival Meets Everything Is Terrible Sketchfest show, and this was the perfect venue for crazy old videos.
I’m super excited for the Noir City film festival this weekend, and I’m keeping a look out for any upcoming shows where they use their organ.

My boyfriend and I yesterday came to this theater to see the Drunk History TV show event. We had a great time. The historical theater appears to be built around the 1920s during the art deco era. It is a spacious theater with lots of seating that includes a large balcony with even more seating. The seats are comfortable but there is not much arm room between seats.
Pros:
–comfortable seating
–elaborate art deco interior
–plenty of seating that includes a large balcony
–great events held here
–great sound throughout
–large screen
Cons:
–takes a long time to get out of this theater at the end of events
–difficult to find parking nearby
–not much arm room at the seats

I love a old timey theater. It really transports you back. Well it was a great venue for the last (yes let’s all cry) prescreen of the last season of Downton Abbey’s first episode. Well that was a mouthfull!
The Castro Theatre is in the heart of the Castro. Fairly easy to get to by Bart and Muni if you’re like me coming from the East Bay. You basically come out of the Muni Station and bam there you are. You won’t miss it. Well I almost did after my friend basically pointed… it’s there. HA! Well inside you have both balcony and orchestra seating. They have a large screen and what’s that? a Wurlitzer? Yes indeedy it is! I *heart* old timey music! They do sell popcorn, snacks and beverages. as well. I didn’t get to try out their commode, but I’m sure it’s old timey too :)
Loved getting to experience Downton Abbey in this theater. It was quite fitting and hope to get to see another show here again.

Cash only, but that’s ok. They show so many great old (and some new) movies with a little organ playing to kickstart the evening. A beautiful cinema like you don’t see very much nowadays, so seeing this filled with people is just great.
Saw «Back to the Future» here and Christopher Lloyd was supposed to show, but because of weather his plane got cancelled. Luckily for me and my friend — they still had the DeLorean outside + we got a full refund even if we still got to see the movie with a theatre full of wonderful geeks (saw some hoverboards there…). Had such a nice experience that I returned soon after to see «Vertigo», great screening. Coming back soon Castro, you’re doing great!

gorgeous. Historic. Fabulous.
But when you have an event that sells out like tonight’s «Addams Family Values»… Perhaps your concessions shouldn’t be CASH ONLY! We had a group of 20
Hungry homosexuals… And because you’re Amish, you lost out on all of our money. Doubt you care… But here you go. One star.

Yes, this theater is iconic and beautiful — most of it. I came here to watch Margaret Cho and the seats were worn down. Margaret was also very political with her performance and did not enjoy it one bit — waste of money.
Would love to come back again and give it another try though.

Had another amazing time at the CT but this time it was a wonderful show put on by none other than Peaches Christ and her gaggle of drag queens. One notable drag queen was none other than Bianca Del Rio, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 6.
It was a fantastic show set to the tune of What Happened To Baby Jane and the best part is that it was the inaugural show along with some hilarious unscripted moments!!! I had the best time and the theater itself couldn’t have looked any better in his restored grandeur.
Can’t wait to see another show in the Grand Dame of the Castro!

Everyone who works at Castro Theater, much like most of the residents in the neighborhood, are super sweet. They’re so chill and super nice. I love the selection of shows at the Castro Theather. There’s always something new and unique showing, from sing-​alongs to comedy shows.
As far as the actual theater goes, I’m not a huge fan. The numbers on the seats and rows are super confusing, which ruins the experience when people show up late to a show and they’re trying to find their seat. Because of this, I would recommend arriving early and picking a seat in the middle of any row so no one will disturb you. The sound and lighting production is not the highest quality either.
There is lots of culture here that I can appreciate. Although it’s not my favorite theater in San Francisco, I would definitely come back to see certain shows!

This place is magnificent. The men’s bathroom was an interesting stroll downstairs. The main lobby is quite small.
I had the pleasure of watching Reel Rock 10 at this venue. The screen is massive, but the projector could be updated. Sure, if you sit on the balcony there is no problem viewing the screen because it’s so large, but the image quality from up front was not fantastic. I realize that this could also be due to the film given to you guys was not very high resolution either.
Nonetheless, I had a great experience at this theatre. And look up when you go inside.

A truly grand and historic theatre that’s used for so many purposes that patrons might forget to pause and ogle the exquisite ornamentation over the stage and on the ceilings, as well as the artwork along the side walls.
The real treat is the organ player before each show. Not only is the playing itself exquisite, but it’s always amazing to see how the organ’s sound fills every nook and cranny of the theatre. Unquestionably a San Francisco gem.

The owners of the Castro just had the Wurlitzer Pipe Organ removed. This was one of the last Wurlitzer Pipe Organs in the city. However, the organist wants a new electronic organ (which will cost $ 700,000) and is going to raise money to get it. Castro Theater wants a new free organ so they are okay with removing the old wurlitzer because an electronic organ will cost less to maintain. Super disappointed in this move by the Castro Theatre.

The Castro is not only a SF historic landmark, it’s one of the few proper theaters in SF that elevates the movie goers experience. Aside from the very ornate and luxurious interior, patrons are treated to a Wurlitzer pipe organ that’s played before film and events. The large neon «CASTRO» sign is emblematic of the theater and the neighborhood.
I’ve attended a screening here of Inglorious Bastards with Quentin Tarantino as a guest star, watched blockbuster movies and sing a longs. The Beauty and the Beast sing along is the best! Staff and movie goers dress in costume and you’re given a goodie bag for the show. Bubbles, a paper crown and noise makers really make the whole experience so much FUN! Take that Century Theaters: p
Partaking into the tradition that is the Castro Theater is uniquely San Francisco. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Love this theater! It’s beautiful and HUGE! Which is great… You don’t have to worry about them selling out too often… Unless it is a special engagement. Like when they had the dude from Princess Bride there and they were showing the movie… That was sold out way early. BOO.
The best part? Their sing-​a-​longs! Who doesn’t love belting out «UNDER THE SEA» with a giant group of people while watching The Little Mermaid?

Opening films, big productions & events happen at the Castro Theater. I just saw Richard Gere get an award on stage.
There was an interview about his body of work. It was a good discussion.
He was very modest & humble… cool. He spoke about meeting the Dalai Lama and what they talked about. really cool.
I can’t think of any other theater where these events could happen. Seriously!

Mr Rinky was such a good sport-​he accompanied me to the «Beauty and the Beast» sing-​a-​long. I have now been to 5 Sing-​a-​Longs: 3x“Sound of Music”, 1x «Wizard of Oz,» 1x West Side Story” and today The B&tB ing-​a-​long.
We were greeted by our hosts dressed as Belle and Beast.
Pre-​movie entertainment with LIVE organ music!
The program started off with a costume show for kids. About 12 kids walked across the stage in B&tB costumes and various other costumes, including a pirate!
When «Snow White» appeared our hostess exclaimed, «Oh look it’s Snow White, Belle’s best friend!» Hee hee.
She complimented the other kids too – «Ohhhh you look amazing!» So sweet!
The sing-​a-​long was great (as usual) I was surprised at how many songs I actually remembered since seeing the movie years ago.
The audience was enthusiastic, Everyone was there to have fun!
If you haven’t been to a Sing-​a-​long yet and love to sing… GO!
There’s at least one a month.
Here’s the link:

I’ve been wanting to go see a movie at The Castro Theatre for a very long time. I finally got to go when they were showing Vertigo.
It’s a beautiful venue, and I thought it was so cool that there was an organ player before the movie.
And for such a historic theatre, and for being in a popular neighborhood, the ticket prices are reasonable. I didn’t buy anything at the concession stand, but my roommates did and they said it was expensive. Better to eat beforehand.
Be sure to check out their website to for a calendar of all the movies they’re showing, which includes sing-​a-​longs!

Art Deco movie theater in the heart of Castro, showing both new & classic films!
My attendance has been 100% film noir this year and last at the Noir City film festival… and I have enjoyed every minute. Can this place be cold and drafty? Sure… but you’d be cold and drafty after 90 years of daily use.
Sit in the balcony for a matinée — an experience you can rarely get today anywhere. This theater is a neon gem outside at night and an architectural gem inside anytime!

«Dammit, Janet… I love youuuuuu!»
Castro Theatre shows really cool movies. I came to see the «Rocky Horror Picture Show» once, one of my olé time favorites. I’ve always wanted to dress in drag like «Magenta,» and carry a blow dryer for Halloween and sing… «More, more, more!!! Then sing and perform the TIME WARP DANCE…
«It’s just a jump to the left
And then a step to the right
With your hands on your hips
You bring your knees in tight
But it’s the pelvic thrust that really drives you insane,
Let’s …do …the …Time …Warp …again!»
I was also here for their silent films of Chaplin, and Bette Davis «Whatever Happened to Baby Jane! Remember her famous line? «But ya’rrrr Blanche, ya’rrrrrr!» The inside is very nice and nostalgic! Love their staging too.
If you’re into old films, silent, the 50s, or independent films and foreign, you’ll really enjoy watching it here.
Until then, Cheers! ~ :p

I love the Castro Theater. We went for the Frameline Film Festival and got decent seats on the left side.
I enjoy the organist who ascends to stage level and plays beautifully. I also like the artistic scenes on the side walls and the ceiling fixture which is just gorgeous.
I was tempted to have a small bag of organic popcorn but I had just eaten so I passed.
This is a wonderful place to see a variety of films.

Eine meiner schönsten Erinnerungen an San Francisco war der Abend, als ich mit Freunden zum Sound-​Of-​Music-​Sing-​A-​Long hier im Castro Theatre war: mein Freund und ich waren in Lederhosen und die Damen hatten Dirndls oder dirndl-​ähnliche Sachen an. Es war ein Mordsspaß!
Das Castro Theatre ist eine San Francisco Institution und ich kann wirklich nur jedem ans Herz legen, sich hier einen Film anzuschauen: sei es als Teil eines Filmfestivals oder einfach nur, um sich einen alten Klassiker anzuschauen. Es ist eine Reise wert: die Atmosphäre ist hier einfach was ganz besonderes. Das Kino ist über 90 Jahre alt und wenn man hier drin sitzt, dann weiß man, warum ein Kinogang für die Generation unsere Großeltern so etwas besonderes war…
Zu Beginn eines jeden Films, steigt eine Orgel aus dem Parkettboden hervor — und der Organist spielt Klassiker, wie «San Francsico — Open your Golden Gate», bei denen alle Zuschauer mitsingen und enthusiastisch mitklatschen. Hier ist ein Video davon:
Muss ich noch mehr sagen?

No dejeis de asistir a una obra de teatro o pelicula de cine en este impresionante teatro. El estado de conservación es increible y al entrar parece que viajas al pasado. Pese a la antiguedad el sonido y calidad de la imagen de las peliculas es muy bueno.

Incroyable cinéma de quartier que ce Castro Theater.
Alors qu’en France les cinémas de quartier disparaissent les uns après les autres au profit de multiplexes sans âmes (et capitalistes) ^^, ici on chouchoute ses trésors.
Je né compte plus le nombre de Sanfranciscains croisé depuis le début de notre séjour qui ont eu cette même réaction en parlant de ce cinéma: «The castro Theater? Ohh my, it’s just AMAZING, you have to go there», le tout dit avec force expressions et gestuelles bien sur ;-)
Ce fut donc notre sortie en ce samedi soir, le film «Rushmore» de Wes Anderson, séance de 9h20, au Castro Theater.
Quel soirée mes amis ! La salle de cinéma est magnifique. Le plafond, les peintures au mur, les siège en velour rouge, et l’orgue absolument superbe !
Un musicien nous a fait patienter avant que le film né commence et c’était juste magique :-)
Lorsqu’il eu fini son «récital», son orgue est redescendu et a disparue de notre vu, le tout sous une salve d’applaudissement enthousiaste. Puis le lourd rideau de velour rouge s’est ouvert et l’écran est apparue. Le film a commencé quelques instant plus tard, sans AUCUNE publicité !
Nous sommes ressortie de cette séance de cinéma enchantés, le sourire aux lèvres, et une furieuse envie d’y retourner !!!
Dommage demain ils passent les oiseaux d’Hitchock, je né supporte pas ce film… J’ai tropp peuuuur ^^

Tolles altes Theater und Kino in San Francisco. Mit ca. 1400 Plätzen für ein Kino gigantisch. Das Theater hat Parkett und Balkon und auch eine Orgel die rauf unt runtergefahren werden kann. In der Regel anspruchsvolles Kinoprogramm.

Voulez-​vous regarder un film ou voulez-​vous une expérience ?
Les deux sont le même chez Castro Theatre, le dernier des théatres grandes de San Francisco. La salle est majestueuse et fleurie. L’ambience est classique. Et la meilleure partie? Comme au bon vieux temps, un grand organe de pipe monte du sous-​sol et un bonhomme le joue jusqu’au début du film.
Si vous regarderez un seul film dans San Francisco, regarderez-​le chez le Castro.