This is a hidden gem downtown. You literally could walk right by it and never know you had. FilmScene is a small, non-profit theater that lives in the pedmall. It shows over 300 feature films a year boasting a two-screen venue and a really cool rooftop. It's a small theater, for sure-- but with the Chauncy being built-- this is JUST the beginning. (I read over 200 seats, and three additional screens will live in the bottom two stories of the high-rise. I can't wait!) The movie going experience is exactly what you want it to be, but never really get anymore. Each theater is small with fabulous sound. There are small couches in the front row, and comfortable chairs in the back. The ads as you wait are silent and not at all gimmicky. All I could think was... the sense of community I felt as I watched. And that is rad. FilmScene boasts vegan popcorn, candy, hot drinks, soda, multiple local brews and wine. (With free refills on large popcorn and large sodas) Also, their membership programs look very reasonable. Between discounted ticket prices, discounter (or free) concessions and even 10% off at a handful of local restaurants. So much is done right. I'll leave you with this final amazing number. My family of four recently attended a kids movie. It was their first film of the day, sure-- but we bought two adult tickets, two kid tickets, a coffee, a large (refillable) popcorn and a water. We spent $21 total. Yes, you read that correctly-- with admission, we spent what you would on a bucket of popcorn at MOST theaters. All I know is, during the summer, their rooftop is open to enjoy a drink pre or post screening. And while I haven't done that, I will sooner than later AND YOU SHOULD TOO. read more

What can you say about this gem of a theater but has not already been said? Having worked at movie theaters throughout college I can tell you that the pressure for the big movie theaters to play the biggest movies that will sell out or bring it the largest crowd is, is immense. Those theaters rarely take any kind of risk with a small movie that may or may not be the next Hollywood blockbuster. Honestly, they really are a blockbuster hit but are often really good movies that have a voice which should be heard. That is where Film Scene comes in. It fills the void created by monstrous movie theaters which are more concerned with the quality of their heated reclining seats as opposed to the quality of the movie. Now, you should know, when you go to see a movie at this theater, do not expect super comfortable seats. There are some good seats in the back of the theater but the closer you get to the screen, the worse they are, so be sure you get there early. The concession stand is reasonably priced with a good selection of candy, decent popcorn, and a wonderful selection of beer. I would also highly recommend the rooftop viewing of any movie they show. It is really awesome up there. Get some tickets, grab some popcorn, twizzlers, a cold beer, and enjoy a really good movie lovingly presented by true film lovers. read more

FilmScene - Cinema Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

What a gift to Iowa City! Right downtown + an amazing film selection spanning major blockbusters and independent films. Please check it out!

I wish I could give a full five stars, but some of the seating prevents me from doing so. I love this venue for independent, artistic, and foreign films. It so refreshing to see the selection they offer in contrast to the variety at my local theater. read more

This just might be one of my favorite spots in Iowa City! They offer a great variety of independent films, plus some traditional and non-traditional snack and drink items, including several tap beers. The overall style is an inviting modern-contemporary and that rooftop patio? Oh my, rooftop patios are a sure way to my heart! This particular rooftop is even equipped with a large screen for viewing an array of popular movies. Of course you would, FilmScene! read more

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What a legit spot this be! We came over on a Saturday morning for the $5 kiddo movie - Kung Fu Panda was playing! Papa does have a soft spot for animals doing Kung Fu! This place is a great little gem on the ped mall! Showing independent films and some mainstream ones, and doing family shows on Thursday and Saturdays to boot. Standard movie fare, but with the addition of beer and wine - Winning! Goodish selection and certainly better than anywhere else this side of Chicago methinks. Rumor has it a rooftop patio exists as well - this must be explored and can only make that which is awesome, mas awesome! Worth checking out whatever your film tastes, because after all, they've got beer! read more

A great independent movie theater right in the heart of Iowa City, they offer movies that you can't get in other locations. They offer multiple showings a day, with the theater itself not being huge and the popularity of the movies they show it can be sold out at times. For any movie fan that loves the art of film and wants to see amazing movies that for whatever reason aren't playing in your big theater this will become a regular stop for you. They do serve alcohol here and other hot foods, seen someone grab a burrito. The concessions are pretty reasonable and the variety is much more vs traditional theaters. Overall wonderful experience, they staff is really friendly, the theater is beautiful, and the experience is awesome. Happy to have an alternative spot to watch great movies that aren't getting the respect they deserve. read more

I'm at Film Scene at least once a week. The folks at the counter are all super friendly and fun to chat with. They choose movies that are fantastic to my taste - I've never seen a film there that I didn't like. Scene 1, the larger theater is perfect with a variety of seating types, all of which are comfortable. The smaller theater, The Screening Room, has theater projection and sound, but is otherwise basically just a conference room with office chairs. I do my best to avoid seeing movies in this spot. read more

If you have a chance to see a film at this theater, I highly suggest you take it. I have made a habit of going to as many "Late Night At The Grindhouse" events as I can. The staff seems to truly share my love of horror, especially under the radar..possibly more than slightly cheesy horror. I have not made it to any other films they have playing there yet, but I am sure I will before long. There seats are simply amazing when it comes to Iowa City movie theaters. read more

FilmScene is a great addition to downtown Iowa City. Here are the 3 main reasons: 1. The films. They get high quality stuff--the films you'll see on year-end critics' lists, and also old classics and themed series. My two favorite experiences here--first, the Paris New Year's Eve, watching the Paris ball drop at 5pm and then When Harry Met Sally with my wife. Great idea for parents who want to celebrate New Years' out without paying for a babysitter! Second experience--I was one of the lucky few to score the special Mission Creek ticket to see Jim Jarmusch and his band SQURL live-score surrealist films by Man Ray. They did this in New York City, and here. Unreal. 2. The roof. Really, the rooftop is one of the best stops to hang out and drink in IC. Last summer, they were handing out nachos, but I'm not sure if they're still doing this. But seriously, the rooftop is the kind of place where if you squint, you can kind of forget you're in Iowa and feel like you're in a larger city back on the east coast. 3. You can get local Iowa craft beer to take with you into the theater itself. Lion Bridge Workman's Compensation, plus a tempeh burrito while I watch a Richard Linklater film? Yes to this. If you have any investment in supporting a strong, vibrant arts culture in Iowa City, it's vital that you get yourself here. read more

Come here ever since I was a freshman and love this nice and small place a lot! Will support filmscene even haven't try their popcorn : )

Fantastic little theater downtown. Reasonable ticket prices, beer on tap, intimate setting, and excellent movie selection give FilmScene a winning combination. The last point can't be emphasized enough, in the 5 years I've lived here I never went to the Bijou because nothing grabbed me. Since FilmScene opened I've seen one movie and have plans to see two more that they will be showing. One thing to mention though is that seats may be at a premium for popular shows since they only have ~50 seats. Paying an extra dollar per ticket to order online is a bummer, but it is probably worth the extra cost to avoid being disappointed to find a show was sold out. read more

Filmscene has been a bright spot for me since I moved to Iowa City. The atmosphere is much more sophisticated than other local theaters, particularly because of better snack options and wine and beer offerings. They also show a lot of great independent films and documentaries that you can't see anywhere else locally. In addition, they have a commitment to showing a diverse set of films. It's a great place for a night out with friends or a date night. I also enjoy going by myself from time to time. Wonderful place to see movies! read more

The staff are super friendly and the movie/documentary selection is always well curated. We don't live in town but we go out of our way to do dinner in the area, stop at one of the bars right next door until showtime, and then grab some wine/beer/popcorn for the movie. They often show movies that I want to see which aren't showing anywhere else in the area. We just became members and hope to come more regularly. Definitely check out the rooftop patio; just ask if you don't know how to access it. You can't go wrong coming here! read more

This theater shows a lot of independent and documentary movies, as well as cult classics and new releases. The rooftop patio is great for sipping cider before or after a summer matinee. I also really like the Late Night at the Grindhouse movies. read more

Nice resource for Indy films, but matinees are $9 compared with $5 on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday at Sycamore, Coral Ridge, and Wehrenberg, where they have much better seats, sound, and projection. read more

It was love at first sight. They have everything I have ever wanted in a theatre: stellar picks in flicks at fantastic prices, locally owned, delicious popcorn, and draft beer. The theatre itself was intimate, clean, and comfortable. The staff- friendly, knowledgable, and good looking. ;) Became a member on the spot. No regrets. Check it out! read more

Finally, Iowa City has an indy movie house! Low key, flicks that rarely make it to the cinemaplex, and you will probably be sitting next to a friend, a neighbor, or someone you know through the co-op, a class, or a music event. read more

A good variety of movies you wouldn't normally see in theaters, they have plenty of free or reduced price events for Iowa students during the school year. Having most of the Oscar films right before the awards is another nice touch. read more

A wonderful venue for independent film. Great selection of stuff, nice staff and seating is adequate. My only criticisms are: One, the front two rows are absolutely unbearable on the neck even when slumped. (its a small theater) and second, the scheduling is not set very far in advance. However they do have a great email subscription service that keeps you informed with great graphics and links to previews etc. Hats off to the great folks that run this joint!! read more

Nice little movie theater downtown offering a chance to see independent films. It's cheaper than the mall, serves beer, and generally offers a different cinema experience than you'll find elsewhere in town. I definitely recommend checking it out. read more

Great place to see art house cinema. Love it! However don't enjoy being treated rudely by their staff. Volunteer Wendy makes me want to avoid this place. read more

As odd as the movie venues are so goes the times. Check your watch, check the schedule. Things may not appear to be as they seem. Great place to see a movie. Plenty of options too. What's this about a roof viewing? Hmm... Easy location but not too near a parking spot. read more

Absolutely great place. Iowa City needed a good movie theater downtown. Great variety of films, including high-quality independent releases, a few perennial favorites (e.g., It's a Wonderful Life), and a lot of quirky stuff (e.g., the late-night slasher series). There's usually a good beer or two on tap, and the rooftop patio is very cool. read more

As a cinephile, I salute you, FilmScene. Iowa City really needed you. The theatre is charming and intimate, and the curation is decent. The couches are comfortable, too. read more

It is wonderful to be able to see movies that the critics love in a movie theater and not have to wait for them to come out on DVD. The staff is friendly and helpful. Beer and wine are available at the concession stand. read more