I recently attended the Downer for my first time for the Milwaukee Film Festival. It was a very retro, classic theater. The space had character and charm. The concession popcorn was so good! I really enjoyed the space and will be coming again for a show! read more

Downer Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

My movie experience at the Downer Theatre was nothing short of perfect! It felt so good to go back in time for the night. You buy your movie ticket at the outside ticket booth & right as you enter you're at the concession stands. The popcorn was yummy and the staff was friendly and helpful. The bathrooms were cute and clean- even offered free sanitary pads and tampons! The movie seats were comfy and the theaters had the most ornate details. Highly recommended. read more

Great neighborhood theater with charming vibe, friendly workers, and interesting movie choices. It's a special independent movie theater! read more

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I love little neighborhood theaters like Downer! Built in 1915, Downer Theatre is a little slice of history nestled amongst the thriving eateries on Downer Avenue in Milwaukee's upper East Side. Offering two screens, it's the oldest operating theater in Milwaukee. They show mostly independent and foreign films. Most recently, we went during the Milwaukee Film Fest to enjoy one of the festival films (Bill Nye: Science Guy). Obviously, with the size and age of the theater, there is no stadium seating and no luxury loungers. But, what it lacks in modernity, it more than makes up for in pure vintage charm. While it has been updated (in 1990), they tried to stay true to the spirit of the original theater design (which, of course, is all burgundy and ornate gold leafing). They even chose carpeting that closely resembles the theater's original carpeting. The seats are pretty basic, but comfortable. I didn't notice any issues with the sound or video quality while we were there. Neither are astounding, but both are completely adequate. Their popcorn is both ridic and ridonk. Which, is to say...so buttery and delectable. It is seriously some of the best movie theater popcorn I have ever had. I don't know what they're doing differently than the rest of the theater world, but, good heavens, I hope they keep doing it. If you enjoy vintage theaters and independent films, you'll love Downer. Get to it! read more

Downer Theatre - Exterior - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The Downer Theatre is A-Okay! I love the indies, and the Downer has two theaters (theatres?) that show films that the Bigs overlook. I recently caught the John Coltrane documentary Chasing Trane here, with an introduction and Q&A with the filmmaker, who just happened to be from the Greater Milwaukee area. It's opportunities like that which put the independents above the Bigs. The theatre itself is a little in need of an updating, as the seats are not that comfortable. I don't need or want a recliner, just a little cushion action is all! You can get beer here, and the popcorn smelled heavenly. There are plenty of restaurants in the area from Pizza Man, Café Hollander, to make a night of it. And street parking within a block is easy to get! I'm down with the Downer. read more

Downer Theatre, much like the Oriental, is a true Milwaukee landmark. The charm of this historic venue is never lacking. It is a very small theater, with only two screens. But I find that they always are showing something of interest, usually an indie film and maybe a few more mainstream films. They are part of the Landmark Theaters group, so they tend to show Oscar nominees and films you won't find elsewhere. And though they don't have all the bells and whistles of the megaplexes being built today, they have seating that is comfortable enough and popcorn that is far superior. Also, the prices, though still inflated, are much better than most bigger theaters. Lastly, the location is ideal for any date night or night out with friends or family. There are several good options for dining nearby: Cafe Hollander, Pizza Man (right next door), and Belair. Also, if you get to your movie a bit early, you can always peruse the amazing selection of books at Boswell for a bit. Additionally, Pizza Man and Downer have had promotions going for a date night deal - certainly worth inquiring about. Can't recommend this spot enough for a lovely evening out of the house! read more

Downer theater is a true historic landmark that shows neat indie films and documentaries typically not in theaters. The theaters themselves are quite small and have an intimate, nostalgic feel. This combined with the classic seating style makes it a great destination for date night! (Not to mention they often partner with local restaurants and do a dinner and a movie deal). My only negative is that this theater is very similar to The Oriental Theater, however I feel The Oriental Theater has a more unique look and feel inside. But, Downer is in a better location. It's honestly dealers choice. The product is ultimately very similar. read more

Downer Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Great experience! We went to see Batman last Friday (3/18/21) night and the three employees working the concession area were SO KIND. Oh my goodness, give these people a raise. Super positive, offering suggestions, answering questions - just great. I usually go through a concession area with little to no memory of the experience because it's so transactional. We were smiling walking into the theater because of the employees...great job! read more

The highly marketed shows, that play everywhere already anyway, aren't usually here and that's the thing I like most about Downer. The location is pretty great, too. I recommend pre or post visit at Pizza Man for food and wine. Cafe Hollander is also a block walk, but the lesser of the two in terms of food, unless a huge beer menu is what floats your boat. Good to know that Pizza Man validates the parking in the lot across the street, which I didn't realize until last night. However, the validation is only up to three hours. So if you are catching that show and eating a meal, you'll likely owe a few bucks. The theater itself is small and only two shows play: one on the left, one on the right. But I find this quaint atmosphere nostalgic and endearing. I do wish they'd get with modern times and offer more at concessions, though. It's on my short list of preferred theaters! I have this appreciation for these smaller theaters, it just more comfortable and manageable. read more

So, used to live down the street. This place has a special place in my heart. And, it has not changed one bit- which makes me very, very happy. read more

What a priceless fun spot tucked in the upper East side of Milwaukee Clean well attended and reasonable Just saw the academy's short films Wine good popcorn read more

The Downer is a Milwaukee classic. It is very small, with only 2 screens. The concessions stand is out of an old-time movie. Coming here is an experience that really takes you back in time a bit. I'm happy to have a small theater like this close to my home. They show outstanding movies constantly -- I can always count on the Downer to have the ones I am hoping to see! Go to Pizza Man before your next movie date. They offer a dinner deal with 2 tickets to the Downer. It's the perfect date night combo! read more

A big point on my "things to love about Milwaukee" list, is our impressive collection of tiny, historic theatres. I frequently visit the Avalon, sometimes pop in at the Oriental, and was excited to visit Downer for the first time. Overall, a very strong experience. I was concerned that it would be difficult to park in the area (south sider bias), but it was easy - across the street, in the neighborhood. The theatre is strategically located between Boswell Books (for killing time before a show), and CVS (should you need anything else). I loved the old-time vibe of the ticket seller in the booth out front! The lobby hits the right notes as well - small, but well stocked, perfumed by popcorn. Somewhat unusual for Milwaukee, the customer service was stellar- smiling, friendly, helpful - the mark of employees who enjoy their work. I felt welcomed. A glass of rose, and an ample bag of popcorn in hand, I was ready for the show! Here's where we lose one star - which is totally a "me" problem, but mentioning in case others are finicky - this theatre has long rows of seating on either side of a center walkway. This is less than ideal, because no matter where you sit, you are forced to hold your head at a slight angle throughout the show - and given the low backed seats, this is particularly uncomfortable. Screen quality was solid, though mounted rather high for such low seats. Seats are low and the cup holders are a bit large for the wine glasses - making the fit precarious. Overall awesome, would recommend, and will likely return - but be prepared to only be about 85% physically comfortable. read more

Downer Theatre is a very old school. If you're looking for the recliners, assigned seating, and food service, Downer is not the theater for you. If you want that historic feel, and to see movies that are not "mainstream," head to Downer! It even has folding seats. Walking in feels like stepping into history. It's definitely worth visiting. read more

I think I'm giving the downer 3 stars since I have lots of fond memories of walking here on many a boring night from the uwm dorms back in the 90s. They used to do a promo where u could buy 5 tickets for like $20some to be used at either the downer or their 'prettier sister', the oriental. (Disclaimer: i have no idea if they still do this.) Anyhow.... This theater often get Really obscure or indie films that don't show anywhere else along with a few more main stream flicks. (I saw ' trainspotting' here to a packed house when it first came out) It's a pretty older theater. I personally didnt find the seats uncomfortable, or the screen bad. However... -They dont take discover card. -it was 7.50 for the matinee, and 4.50 for a medium drink. Kinda pricey. -the projector did make a very audible noise (kinda like a broken fan) thruout THE whole movie -I was a wee bit chilly temperature wise. Anyhow....id still go here if I really want to see something, but its not my first choice. read more

Fun, historic, place to watch independent movies. We had a great experience on the holiday weekend matinee. Although the concessions are expensive, they make up for it with care and quality. First, the popcorn is served with real butter. Second, The server carefully layered the popcorn in with butter so as to have it thoroughly mixed. What a treat! It's a refreshing change from the generic, glitzy places you find in shopping malls. read more

Milwaukee is so lucky to have a gorgeous hundred-year-old theater that shows so many amazing independent films on the East Side. The theater I'm describing is called the Oriental Theater over on Farwell Avenue. The Downer, on the other hand, is its gimpy little brother moviehouse closer to UWM. It gets the marginal foreign, indie, and art-house films. It is dusty and understaffed and the ceiling has a couple holes. But what arthouse cinema didn't look like that at some point or another? With all of its faults I love The Downer all the more. When the Oriental is too busy showing some high-falootin' Brad Pitt vehicle like The Tree of Life, you can count on The Downer to be running the obscure Werner Herzog documentary. It's a fellow loser and true friend in my hour of need, it's there for me when the glamorous Oriental abandons me for the popular kids. read more

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I love this theater. It's quaint and small, but has everything you need to enjoy a good film.They tend to show Indie films - you'll probably never find a big budget movie at the Downer, which is why I love coming here. And hear me out, they have the BEST popcorn in the city. Yeah, I said it. The manager there takes serious pride in his popcorn-making abilities, and he is very good at it. And the best part? They make it with coconut oil, not that fake butter crap that the Marcus theaters use. I like Marcus theaters, but their popcorn blows. There are two movies showing at all times at the Downer. My most recent visit was last Saturday night to see Nebraska. Once again, I saw a great movie at a great price. That's another thing to mention - if you're a student, you can see an evening movie for 8 bucks. I consider that to be a deal. No one trying to sell me a "VIP" seat just so I can sit higher up. I believe the Downer also offers a discount for seniors. The only thing that would make the Downer better would be offering beer and wine like the Oriental ( another theater on the East Side that is a Milwaukee must-see). I like kicking back with a popcorn and a PBR. Definitely go here, and see a movie you may not have normally taken the time to see. It's good to mix things up, and this theater is a wonderful place for a date night. If you don't have a date, it's also a great place to go solo. read more

Good retro feeling theater. Quality of service is top notch. Seats are comfy. Love their usual preference of indie films. It's in quite neighborhood so a great place to spend Friday/Saturday evening. read more

Downer Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I'm in the camp that the Downer is charming for its "flaws." What this theater lacks in creature comforts it makes up for in character. No, the seats aren't plush and large and comfy, nor are they terribly stable, but honestly? I'd rather catch an independent flick here than spend the same -- if not more -- on some big budget deal at the iPic. The bathroom may be a bit, well, dated, but hey! At least its unique. They may only have two screens, but the films they screen are generally more in keeping with what I'd like to see than what's shown at most theaters. This place FEELS like a movie theater; a real one, an old one, and as I noted before, one with character. I may or may not have smuggled in some delicious red vines. I may or may not have enjoyed said delicious red vines while enjoying the Oscar-nominated "The Artist." Who can say, really? I may or may not have. read more

Yeah, you wouldn't come here to watch the Avengers or anything loud and special effect crazy, but there's something about the feel of an old theater when you're watching something low budget and artsy (that wasn't filmed in George's attic). I like drinking beer at a theater, even in a plastic cup. And I do thoroughly appreciate the personal welcome at the start of the films. It's just low-key and low-profile to make it cool without coming off as contrived. And like the Oriental, they do a great job of timing with their coming attractions. Somehow, there's always one coming up that looks great within a few weeks of the one I'm watching. One of my favorite things about my new neighborhood is being two blocks away. Evidently, it's the only way to go someplace on Downer without having to spend 20 minutes circling for a spot that won't get you ticketed. read more

I like this two screen theater alright. Not as much as the Oriental but it's cozy and warm in the winter and it shows good independent movies. They have good concessions and friendly staff. read more

This historic theater is absolutely beautiful! The architecture and design are fabulous! We visited recently for the Milwaukee Film Festival and could not ask for a better time! Every one that worked there and for the film festival were courteous and helpful. No they don't have your huge seats like at a Marcus theater but that isn't too be expected here. The sound quality of the theater was very good infact I think it was better than at a Marcus theater. I can't wait to visit again! read more

Downer Theatre - Waiting in line! - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This is a beautiful old movie theater that is the perfect place to see a serious movie. I haven't been in a packed movie house this century, but there wasn't an empty seat for "The Imitation Game." There also wasn't a single person standing up in the middle of the movie blocking my view, no mobile phone use or texting, no talking (a couple of gasps were audible at understandable moments), and they put real butter on the popcorn in concessions. The staff here is much more on the ball than is standard for movie theaters, although there was a long line to get in, the one fellow in the ticket booth moved the line in with alacrity. The only problem with the theater is parking. Make sure you allow time for finding parking if the weather isn't good for bicycling here. Street parking is a little challenging, and you still need coins for the public lot two blocks north. In that lot I've gotten improper citations not once, but twice, both times I won the appeal because of PICs that included my license plate, the meter, and a time stamp - make sure you're putting coins in the meter for your space (it's not immediately obvious, even to the parking enforcement officers). read more

Downer Theatre - What's with this line? This is no blockbuster. ... - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Landmark is the theater in Milwaukee that (for the most part) is the place you can see films that didn't make it into the big box theaters and didn't go straight to DVD (although in the case of "Hyde Park on Hudson" it should have gone straight to DVD and then been filed in the Worst Movies section of the physical or internet store where you get your movies). Landmark is a small theater, with just two screens. The seats are not stadium style and are pretty old, but definitely sufficient. It is most comfortable if the place is not packed. Being packed is rarely a problem Landmark has, so you are likely in the clear. The screen is a normal size (not mega-huge like the big box theaters are now installing). The service tends to be really good, usually just one or two people. They have the basic concessions like popcorn, soda, candy. They also offer a wide variety of popcorn seasonings (self-application) such as cheddar cheese, parmesan garlic, ranch, etc. I definitely appreciate this. The largest popcorn (and largest soda - a bucket size!) offers one free refill. Landmark often makes it on the list of things to see in Milwaukee, and it is worth a stop. If you are looking for the historic experience, check out its sister theater the Oriental on Farwell, about half a mile away. read more

I think it is hilarious that folks are bothered by the sound of the projector! The seats, screen, sound, and yes the noise of the movie feeding through the projector reel! are what makes this a Real nostalgic theater! read more

TBH, it's probably a 3.5 but they get an upswing for friendly workers, the bubbler inside the bathroom and just being a BAMF that shows indie films. Parking is a nightmare, you'll never be on time, it's probably a little pricey considering there's none of the creature comforts you'd find at other theaters and it's not even fancy like the Oriental, but it's still quaint and wonderful and the kind of place you'd miss if it were gone. So if my extra $2 a ticket ensures we have a place like this forever, take it with my blessing. read more

I love this place! It's historical and the theaters are pretty large. The seating is nothing special though. I have enjoyed a few indie flicks here. They only have two theaters, but the movies change fairly frequently. Usually one of the two is a Hollywood film/blockbuster. Pro tip: They have delicious popcorn. read more

Many people have nostalgic reasons for loving the Downer Theater, and I am no different. This was my neighborhood when I first moved to Milwaukee 13 years ago. I remember going to see movies alone here, and I loved it. This is definitely a no-frills theater, but you get all the basics as far as snacks and drinks. The draw, of course, are the more obscure films you get to see here. Milwaukee, we are really lucky. read more

I only just visited this place for the first time since I moved to Milwaukee in 1998. My wife and I went to see "What we do in the shadows", a mockumentary about vampires/werewolves that was like "Real World". What s great movie at a rather awesome theater. The popcorn with butter and nutritional yeast was fantastic! The screen, although smaller than most had plenty of good seating. This isn't your mega - theater with super seating or ultra large high def screen, but it has charm and plays some rather awesome and hard to get movies. Usually I only see movies like this at The Oriental, but it was refreshing to go to a different venue. When we left, the street was completely dead. Suprising since there are some nice bars nearby... I'll definitely visit again! read more

Charm, Downer has it. Great staff, it has that too. Loved the previews- a couple of quiet gems I look forward to seeing, the respectful audience, and again awesome staff. Anna Karenina was great in that environment ! read more

Ok - so I was a bit harsh in my previous review. I went to see the Artist recently - and I gotta say I couldn't imagine seeing this film at any other theater. The historic setting was perfect. But for real - those seats are so dang uncomfortable.. and fix the dang SMUDGE on the screen! read more

Maybe it's just a Landmark theater thing, but man, I love them. I don't think Downer is as cool as Oriental is.....but Oriental is something special. I showed up at 5:02 for a 5pm movie and was able to grab popcorn and a drink before making my way into the theater just in time for the personal introduction to the movie. I love that they give a brief talk about the movie and talk about the upcoming movies, it's a really awesome personal touch. Movie was great, popcorn was great, soda was a little flat, but that's okay, I'll definitely check out the Downer again. read more

The staff is awesome! The popcorn is the best in town! I really enjoy going once a week for popcorn

Lots of charm in this theatre! Definitely feels like you are walking back in time when entering the theatre. Things I appreciate: -Beauty of the old theatre -Chairs that remind me of chairs in the 90's, just up to the shoulders -The concessions sell tea and coffee for those of us who do not drink soda -Booze also available Things that could be better: -Parking -Sound in the theatre Overall, charming large theatres with indie options. Worth a visit. read more

I love the Downer. I think it holds nostalgia for me as well since my husband and I used to go to movies here while we were first dating. Are people going to complain about how the chairs are rickety, the screen has a big smudge on it, sometimes the movie stops, and the temperature cannot be controlled well? Yes. But not this girl. Any theater that has Indie films I fully support and think they are great for our community! read more

Oh my, what a blast from the past! I totally dig old theaters. Yeah, it doesn't have stadium seating or digital projection or a bitching sound system. Whatever. It's quaint and has 'charm' which most people would call stains and dirt and grime. My only gripe is price. If I'm gonna be slumming it, $10 for a ticket is pretty steep. Otherwise, this is a cool local place to catch a flick. read more

Love the history of the theater, but it leaves something to be desired. I was able to overlook the spot on the screen, but the incredibly loud projector, I could not. We sat about 1/2 way up in the aisles and at times during the movie all I could hear was the projector. It drowned out some of the dialogue of the movie. Also, the chairs were not comfortable. I did, though, love that they used "real butter" on the popcorn rather than the "butter flavoring" served by many other theaters. I do love to support indie theaters, but something needs to be done to improve the movie going experience here! read more

The Downer is a charming Milwaukee landmark, with its old style and historic ways. While it's certainly not flashy, it makes for an enjoyable movie-going experience. As part of the Landmark Theatres group, it brings in a nice variety of indie films that are often only found in town at the Downer or Oriental. Added perk? There are lots of cafes, stores, or coffeeshops nearby at which to pass time before or after your film. read more

Going to the Downer is like going to your Grandma's house. It's gonna be creaky, old, a bit weird and sometimes smell funny. But if you go with the right mindset, you'll find a way to make the nostalgia work for you and be able to cozy up and enjoy a cool, indie film. Sound and screen are good but not superstar mall theater quality. If keeping it real, keeping it local and keeping it indie help enhance your movie going experience, try the Downer Theater and it's sister theater, The Oriental read more