A fantastic independent cinema to see a wide range of movies from recent releases to indie films to international movies to classic films. There's always a great selection to pick from. The popcorn is really good here too. read more

I wish I could show the same love for this theater everyone else has...it's a very old theater that's never been updated. You're reminded of the 70s and 80s in here as the chairs are old, the style of theater is that of an old one and so is the audio and video equipment. Don't get me wrong, I come by for the chance of watching throwback classics as they play old movies and independent movies. It's fun to watch movies you grew up to on the big screen but the movie experience isn't the greatest. For newer independent movies in a newer theater, the World Exchange usually gets some. Either case, those theaters are far from sitting in TIFF Bell Lightbox in Toronto. For more throwback movies you can check out the new Mayfair that opened in Orleans or the newly renovated Mayfair on Bank St which I believe are much better theaters. Coliseum recently had a throwback movie month and played classics on their modern screen with modern audio and video and that was amazing. The nostalgia is great here but honestly with the Mayfair that opened in Orleans and the renovation of the Mayfair on Bank St I really hope the Bytowne follows their lead. read more

I was there years ago and it was great! I see nothing wrong with the owner keeping the QR code for a while. If recent customers surveyed were for it then I agree. It's the owners decision, not for people who have never been there to decide. There is no racism and discrimination involved because there are other theatres out there. And there is no need to threaten his choice in running his business. read more

Great theater. It's one big theater. I went there with family and expected a lot better. Many issues... Floors were sticky. We had to wait outside after we paid in freezing cold weather. They only accept cash. Rude cashier employee dosent talk it's pay and leave. The sound of the movie wasn't that good. Needs to be louder. For 12 frigging dollars I expected a lot better. They need to improve if they want to see me return. But probably wouldn't return read more

Not snooty, just eclectic. I think some people might be turned off by the fact that this seems likes a place that shows "films" (pronounced with two syllables), and not just movies. Yes there are a lot of foreign and independent movies, but that doesn't mean high-brow or inaccessible. In fact, these movies have to work harder to find a North American commercial audience. The only difference is there is a lot less Adam Sandler. How could that be a bad thing? Try this. Instead of looking at the big print calendar - which tends to be a bit overwhelming - just try to find an odd time of the week, say Sunday afternoon at 3 or Wednesday at 5 when you are free and the place won't have many fill-um types. Just show up, attend the first thing that's playing, and I guarantee you will have a good time. Also, regular admission is cheaper than the name-brand places and the seats are comfortable. Come back and yell at me if I'm wrong. read more

One of the best things about living in Sandy Hill is being walking distance from the Bytowne (Rideau between Nelson & King Edward). The programming (a mix of indie, international, Canadian and classic "Must-See Cinema") is varied and always high-quality. Think going to Sundance without the price of a plane ticket. Robert Fontaine, film reviewer on CBC radio, consistently highlights the Bytowne's offerings on his Thursday afternoon All-in-a-Day reviews. I recommend signing up for the Bytowne's weekly emails highlighting and reviewing the movies for the week ahead. The popcorn is also fantastic (and served with real butter). The tickets are now $10 or $7 with membership or for seniors, cash only. I wonder if the owners have been reading Yelp reviews from 2008, because a lot of the complaints in those reviews have been addressed. For example, there are brand-new seats (spring 2013) downstairs...but my feet don't reach the floor so I have switched to the balcony. The balcony seats have also been replaced with refurbished chairs. There is also now a digital projector since film companies don't actually produce film any more ... so the same excellent picture quality you'd get at a big-box theatre. The construction on Rideau is nearly finished so even if you don't live walking distance yourself, you can easily drive or take OC Transpo and have a lovely night out. For dinner-and-a-movie, try Alirang (around the corner on Nelson) or Horn of Africa (across the street and up a block). read more

If you're smarter than the average bear, a pseudo-intellectual, or trying to impress your date with your memorized repertoire of French new-wave cinema, then this is the place for you! Actually, the Bytowne is a wonderful place that's always a fun experience. Things I love about this cienema: 1. It's not in a box store complex 2. It's an actual old-school movie theatre 3. It shows films done by people who care about fimmaking 4. It shows foreign language films 5. It's super affordable! Honestly guys, what's not to love? read more

I have been living in Ottawa for almost 4 years, and strangely I have only been to the Bytowne twice. I figured I should add a review since I was only just there last week. I really love old theatres, so I appreciate that the Bytowne is still kicking after nearly 70 years. I like the Bytowne Guide, because sometimes you just want to hold the information in your hands rather than Google it. They have updated theatre seating and a digital screen, so you have the comforts of modern technology in an old fashioned setting. Why only 4 stars? I found the service to be a little chilly. They are also cash-only, which will always be a personal pet peeve of mine (sorry). While it lacks the character of the Mayfair, it's in a much more convenient location, and it's a another great option for indie and foreign films. I'm going to make a point to visit more often, and get a membership! read more

Here's the thing - you are not going to the Bytowne for the latest and greatest in theatre technology. You are going to the Bytowne to see quality non-mainstream movies. Overall the theatre is fine. The seats are comfortable, the sounds system is good, and the picture quality is fine. For the prices you are getting good value for your dollar. The theatre is also accessible for people in wheelchairs, and they have a FM Audio Assist system for those who are hard of hearing. If you are driving, there is no dedicated parking lot, but there is street parking. Tickets are $10 for adult non-members, and $7 for seniors/members. Bring cash as there is no debit/credit. If you know people who love movies, the Bytowne has gift certificates available. There are lots of places to eat around the Bytowne and it isn't too far from the ByWard Market. You can definitely make an afternoon/evening of it. I'm not a huge film fan, so I won't be going here often. However, during those times when I find a movie that I want to see and the big theatres don't carry it, I'll definitely remember the Bytowne. read more

This is the best theatre in Ottawa if you're looking for independent and classic films. The ByTowne screens three movies on weekdays and four on the weekend. They carry films that usually don't go to the multiplexes and some of the titles that the Mayfair takes a while longer to screen. Most of the films they carry are new independent movies, but they also screen one classic/cult movie a week and often help host the occasional small film festival. The prices are reasonable, especially for members. It's $9 for nonmembers, $6 for members (plus $10 for year long membership). If you're a movie buff living in Ottawa, there's no way you don't know about this theatre. If you're new to town or visiting, I'd definitely suggest you choose the ByTowne (or Mayfair) if you're looking for a great movie experience. read more

Tired of the mega-hit-movies playing at your local multiplex? If I see another action movie featuring the hero slowly walking towards the camera as something explodes behind him I will explode! Looking for something deeper or smaller and more real in scope? Bytowne is the cinema for you. It is an original old-school theatre (no cup holders, no debit or credit card transactions!) that plays new independent films and documentaries, plus it turns back time and shows old classics (Psycho! Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid!). You can also find films that finished their major release. And, you won't break the bank watching this top notch entertainment. Non-members pay only $9 and members pay only $6! My wife and I discovered this treat one Sunday afternoon as we wandered around outside the Byward Market district. At first I feared it was some cheesy adult theatre. But, I was delighted to note it was an independent cinema. Where else in the city could you find Religulous playiing? read more

Bytowne Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Ottawa, Ontario

Lovely vintage theater in downtown Ottawa. Has the old style balcony seating, too. I've been here for a few films as well as the animation festival, and liked it over all. I definitely recommend the popcorn because they actually use real butter, too. read more

Here for the Ottawa international animation festival and this cinema is definitely down with the old school vibe. I'm a big fan of the balcony seating, you can still see everything and you feel all fancy sitting above everyone. Note: popcorn is just dece but this place is great to catch some animation shorts! read more

I love this theatre. It's magic. I've never had a bad experience here. Great films, wonderful atmosphere and for the most part, respectful moviegoers. Always so pleasant. And the popcorn is real. read more

Okay, so the chairs are uncomfortable and they don't serve beer but those are the ONLY bad words to say about the Bytowne Cinema. The popcorn is great. Buy a membership for $10 and watch $6 movies all year long. Go to matinees even on weekdays and you have a daily choice of 2-4 independent, new, classic, documentary and plain old fantastic movies. This weekend they are bringing in a touched up version of Monty Python and the Holy Grail in addition to a new documentary and popular film. This is the best film listing I have seen since my heavily subsidized college theatre. Check it out and support this place, it is a rare gem. read more