Film Forum

"This is the last independent, nonprofit cinema in New York City. Little has changed about this humble, unpretentious theater since it first opened in 1970 as a screening space for independent films—there's the big marquee outside, lighting up an otherwise quiet stretch of West Houston; a ticket booth with microphone and glass partition; and a red carpet underfoot. It's retro without feeling dated, a warm place out of time. Behind the concessions counter, by the way, are some very nice people selling some very good espresso and baked goods (try the cakes carrot and orange bundt) in addition to regular sodas and candies. From new and obscure cinema made outside the US to a dazzling assortment of global classics that has most recently included Midnight Cowboy and Le Samourai, you can rest assured that every last thing on the marquee is worth a few hours of your time."

"This is the last independent, nonprofit cinema in New York City. Little has changed about this humble, unpretentious theater since it first opened in 1970 as a screening space for independent films—there's the big marquee outside, lighting up an otherwise quiet stretch of West Houston; a ticket booth with microphone and glass partition; and a red carpet underfoot. It's retro without feeling dated, a warm place out of time. Behind the concessions counter, by the way, are some very nice people selling some very good espresso and baked goods (try the cakes carrot and orange bundt) in addition to regular sodas and candies. From new and obscure cinema made outside the US to a dazzling assortment of global classics that has most recently included Midnight Cowboy and Le Samourai, you can rest assured that every last thing on the marquee is worth a few hours of your time." - Charlie Hobbs, Alex Erdekian, Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

"A self-described “cinema of ideas,” Film Forum has thrived against the odds since its humble premiere: 50 seats and a single projector in 1970. The nonprofit (typically open 365 days a year) closed for a few months in 2018 to upgrade the seating and sightlines and add a fourth theater to its West Houston Street location. What remains the same is its compelling mix of indies and foreign films, classics, and retrospectives. The loyal fan base includes celebrities Ethan Hawke, Natasha Lyonne, and Matthew Broderick along with a new generation getting inspired by the Film Forum Jr. Sunday matinee series."