Come in for the delicious popcorn. Stay to watch a great film! The Oriental Theatre is a unique Milwaukee movie theater making an impact with independent films, the film fests it hosts, events, and more. I have enjoyed coming here and being a film member since Milwaukee Film took over. The theater building is unique and creative with the main theater holding some very unique architecture and decor. They have a second floor but for some reason it is very rarely open. That is a disappointment. The theater has snacks and drinks for purchase, with some pretty good popcorn and the brewer's/nutritional yeast makes it great! There is no parking onsite; street parking only. For events, it is best to come early. read more

Once a good activity on a cold New Year's day? Going to see a movie at the O. The O is such an amazing historical landmark. Even though they have split it into 3 separate theaters, it still retains its charm. Some people love the new dream lounger setups at some other local theater chains, but I find the regular seats very comfortable. And besides you don't have to deal with people eating a 4 course meal, with all the lip smacking. People come here to actually watch the movie. Today we saw the new release of "Song Sung Blue". If you are going, bring a big box of tissue. It is a beautifully made movie, great screenplay, acting, and directing. So, so, good! read more

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Super cool historic theater on the east side. Great programming and movie selections, along with the Milwaukee Film Festival each year. Instead of playing the standard movie lineup that you get in all the other theaters chains, you get a wide variety of oscar winners, documentaries, foreign, art, and other niche genres, all in a theatre which features many of its original details, which includes Indian, Moorish, Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles. read more

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Went to the Oriental for Milwaukee Film Festival. This was a great experience. From the beautiful, historic decor, to the great sound and screen! The staff was so nice and the place is clean. Street parking a few blocks away, which was fine. Look forward to every year! read more

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Such a beautiful venue, went there for Milwaukee film festival. Good selection of drinks, I got a fountain drink and a popcorn. read more

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I love this theatre!! It is just a beautiful theatre! Definitely my favorite one in my Milwaukee. I went recently for the Milwaukee Film Festival and everyone there was so kind! I would recommend anyone from out of town to go see a movie here! read more

I can't get over how absolutely stunning this theater is! It is such a cool experience! The staff are friendly, the tickets are reasonably priced, you get to see unique films, the theater is gorgeous and they have excellent popcorn. Highly recommend checking it out for a date night or night out! read more

Oriental Theatre - The theater - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What a cool place! The theater is in a bustling area of Milwaukee and is intimate and unique. The atmosphere is dark and interesting, with lots of "oriental" designs which are beautiful. The accessibility is good, and the acoustics are good for someone like me who has a bit of a hearing impairment. There are plenty of spots for wheelchairs to park, and the sight lines are good from every angle. The refreshment stand has lots to offer, and the restrooms are accessible despite being in an older building. This is not your typical movie theater, and you can see arthouse films along with box office offerings. There is street parking as well as parking garages nearby, and the costs are super reasonable. Getting here is not a hard drive, and I hope to return soon. read more

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Hadn't been to this gorgeous historic theater in decades, and I'm so glad I returned! This is a hidden gem on the east side of Milwaukee that we need to remember. Saw the premiere of Song Sung Blue and they literally rolled out the blue carpet for us! Staff was super helpful and friendly as the theater was packed! Seats are comfortable and plenty of legroom with cupholder. popcorn was fresh and tasty. It was so special. Plenty of clean restrooms too. read more

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The Oriental is an absolute gem in Milwaukee. It is gorgeously ornate, each theater is unique and it's always a joy to watch a film there. The food/drink selection is top notch. I love this place! read more

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First time going to this beautiful theatre. We went for the "Song Sung Blue" movie premiere. They did pretty good with the crowd management getting us in. It was assigned seating so there was no rush to find good seats, you get what you get. Concessions are reasonably priced and the popcorn was just right. Walking in it felt like an old school theater with the opulent and grand appearance. Will definitely come back for a few more shows. read more

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Came for the documentary series festival and loved the atmosphere! It had great character on the inside of the building. I've never been to this spot and have spent very little time in this neighborhood but I loved it read more

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Such a great place to watch a film! Great concessions, comfortable seats, and it has been beautifully renovated and restored. We found street parking nearby. Can't wait to come back! read more

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Don't miss the unsurpassed experience of seeing classic films within a grand movie palace. read more

Oriental Theatre - Rita Rinelli acts out the do-it-yourself experience in the Oriental Theatre lobby, 2017. - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I LOVE the Oriental Theatre. Milwaukee Film has done an amazing job restoring this century old movie theater and bringing an array of films to Milwaukee that you'd think theaters with more screens would be showing. Even though there's only three screens, there's rarely an issue having independent films playing next to blockbusters. Food concessions are limited to popcorn and candy while they have a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you're a Milwaukee Film member, both tickets and concessions are slightly discounted, which is a nice perk. read more

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Incredible theater! The inside is gorgeous with so much history and East Indian decor. I really enjoyed the ambiance and the drink and snack options were great. This theater is definitely a place to take friends and family and "wow" them with charm and history. A lMilwaukee landmark! read more

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I wouldn't call myself a cinephile but I do love a good Indy movie, and Anderson films always come through with the quirky comedy and mid century aesthetic so I had to go to the Oriental for the screening of the Phoenician Scheme. This my first visit to the theatre since Landmark sold it the Milwaukee film festival. I did struggle with customer service because no one answered the phones, but other than that not much has changed, which is actually a great thing. The beauty of the building and ambiance are always an experience. read more

Oriental Theatre - The Phoenician scheme poster - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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I love this theater. Parking is convenient in the area so there is easy access. The staff at the theater is always so helpful and kind. There are ample restrooms. The concessions are not unreasonably expensive, especially with a Milwaukee Film membership. We love the bottle wine option! The seats are comfortable and there is plenty of leg room. The main theater is stunning! The screen is huge and the acoustics are great. There are plenty of great places to eat in the area after the movie. read more

Incredible theatre for movies! I've been coming to the Oriental since the '80s, before it was divided up and now it's been restored to its original glory and it couldn't be better! The Milwaukee Film Fest is hosted here and is a can't miss annual event of screenings, something for everyone. I like that the Oriental shows the animated shorts and other Oscar-nominated films before Oscar time and love the selection of movies throughout the year, this is a movie house, not an event space and reviewed as such! Stellar movie house! read more

This place is so cool. I absolutely love old movie palaces--they just have more history and more character. The Oriental opened up recently after shutting its doors during the pandemic. They've been remodeled wonderfully. There is a main theater, and then two smaller theaters. I saw a movie in one of those small side theaters, and while it is a smaller screen, it's also a smaller room. It's actually cool because you almost feel like you're in a private screening! The decor is just beyond amazing. You have to catch a movie here. Lastly, their prices are reasonable. I paid $13 for the ticket, and then another $13 for a small popcorn and a local cider. Coming from Austin with its Alamo Drafthouse, I like that they captured a lot of that personality while keeping the prices a little lower. read more

This is the place to see a film. This nearly 100 year old restored gem screams cinephile paradise. After being so revolted by the Marcus and AMC ear-bleeding, Who concert sound systems, the awful chemical popcorn and Icee machines, and the ridiculously long trailer parade, it is comforting to return to a place where people care. The popcorn tastes like butter. The film selections are ideal; a fine mixture of arthouse and box office sensation. We've seen several great films here in the past six years. Nice work, Oriental. You dazzle me. read more

Oriental Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I've been to this theater twice now and it's by far the most beautiful place I've ever watched a film. If you haven't watched a movie here, DO IT. Like, right now. Why are you waiting?? read more

Oriental Theatre - This is such a gem of a place in Milwaukee, truly a piece of history and culture. If you have not been seen a film at this theater, do ir - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I attended the Milwaukee Film Festival (MFF) as a Yelp Event. It was a great time for me and a friend. We enjoyed the popcorn and a wine cooler at the Oriental Theatre. I hadn't been in the Oriental for years and it was a treat just to be inside the historic place. I wish I could have wandered around or gotten a tour of the venue itself. It brought back some warm memories of older days. I saw the movie, Light Needs. It's a documentary style film about plants -- which was amazingly interesting. It was filmed here in Milwaukee so a lot of the scenes had familiar locations in them. Many of the interviewees were in the audience. I loved the artistic side of the film but it really got me to thinking about how we live with plants and interact with them in our environment. I left the theatre thinking about all the ways plants and humans are interdependent -- not just for oxygen and water but for support and life, happiness and friendship. Yes, I said friendship! All-in-all, the afternoon was very enjoyable and I am thankful to the Oriental and the MFF for hosting this event and inviting Yelp Elite. It was an extra treat to be able to chat with the Director of the Film in the TalkBack after the show. I also appreciated being able to meet the plant curator from UWM libraries -- who does an amazing job with very little support. If you get a chance go over to the UWM libraries and see the fabulous plants all over then library. Then ask for the plant curator and thank him for his work. He does it from a place of love and respect for his mom! Totally amazing!!! If you still have time, get on over to the Oriental and view a MFF. You won't regret whatever you pick -- even it it sounds a little strange, it's probably going to be thought provoking! I totally enjoyed my choice. I hope I get to go again next year! read more

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This is such a beautiful, historic theater. It's incredible how much the ambiance and decor here add to seeing a movie. Refreshments are reasonably priced and there is always something interesting showing. I hope they will bring back the organ player for evening showtimes--that was always such a nice touch. Support independent film! read more

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The theater has an interesting vibe - definitely not the normal mall movie theaters. Almost feels like a Broadway theater, but with a screen instead of a stage. But there is also a stage. I was a little dubious at first, when the previews were rolling, cuz the sound was only on in the front of the theater. it was echoing and hard to hear. Thankfully they turned all the surround speakers for the feature, and it was awesome. I didn't go up to the balcony, but even in the 3rd row from the back on the right side, I had a good view of the movie. Overall, felt clean though not new, and I had a pleasant experience. read more

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This theatre is a great hidden gem within Milwaukee. Not only is it surrounded by amazing restaurants, it is in such a cute part of town with plenty surrounding activities. They have current movies in a unique venue that speaks to the history of Milwaukee. The seats are comfortable, bathrooms are clean, and the treat selection is excellent. Movie theater popcorn too! Highly recommend going to see a movie just to see the old time decor of the theatre. read more

Oriental Theatre - Movie theater sign! - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

I have been to the Oriental Theater a few times now and every experience has been wonderful! The ambiance of the theater is great and has a unique but still classic movie theater feel that is uncommon these days. The popcorn is also really good and they have a selection of alcoholic beverages for those of age. The theater shows a mixture of new releases, old favorites, and more artsy films. The selection and variance in films is extremely nice and always gives visitors options. I am especially excited for when they are going to show Hocus Pocus closer to Halloween! If you have not been to the theater yet, it is an absolute must and you won't regret it! read more

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Great ambiance. Awesome popcorn. Great movies you can't find elsewhere. Saw Ethan Hawke's new film, Wildcat. read more

Oriental Theatre - Lobby - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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I saw a movie at Oriental Theater for my first time a few days ago. I attended a showing of Cha Cha Real Smooth as a part of the Milwaukee Film Festival. It was such a cool experience, and honestly I wish I was able to attend more shows! When we arrived, the lobby was bustling with people and set up with information, staff members, and mke film fest clothing. There was a pretty long line for concessions, but it moved quickly. My husband and I split a large popcorn (it is very large) and candy. There are plenty of alcoholic drink choices, we even saw boozy ice cream being offered! (Ahh, Milwaukee.) The theater itself is gorgeous!! I spent time looking around and taking in the architecture of the building and art in the main theater. The ceiling is beautiful, and the acoustics are pretty great compared to other older theaters I have been in. Mke Film Fest did a wonderful job hosting the 15- day event. Cha Cha Real Smooth is a fantastic film, and I'm so happy I got to see it in such a wonderful theater. I will definitely go back! read more

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I'm doing this kind of late for Sunday when I went so pretend I did this review on Sunday and not Thursday. I saw Guardians of the Galaxy 3 and even though we were in the smaller theater it was really nice. Hopefully I get to see a movie in the main theater at one point. I haven't been here before until Sunday. I want to see more movies here! It feels so fancy and it gives me that older movie theater vibe. Also I found out that this movie theater (and others) have subtitles while you watch the movie! It's not super consistent with everything they say though but it's ok. Some whole lines in Guardians of the Galaxy were cut out and shown on screen. (Also one line in particular I understand why it maybe didn't show up on screen incase kids are watching.) But other than that I think it's a really cool movie theater and I should try to come here more often if possible! read more

Oriental Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What are the current movies and times? I love this theater. I have seen many excellent movies at this theater.

The MKE Yelper insisted I see this theatre after our pasta bowls around the corner (2/17/20). The Oriental Theatre reminded me of the older film sites in Seattle, like The Egyptian and the former Harvard Exit. The theatre staff allowed quick peeks at cordoned off areas, very kind. Literally, in glance go. Kind of had that National Lampoon Vacation, rush pause and go at various sites of interest. read more

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How have I not reviewed one of my favorite theaters yet? I have been coming here since I was a teenager to enjoy Rocky Horror, first dates, and time with friends. The MKE Film Festival is one of my favorite events every year. This historic, charming, beautiful theater is the cherry on top of a good movie. Snacks are yummy, staff is nice, and the renovations that have been done are AMAZING. So grateful to have this jewel on the east side. Be aware that parking might be hard to find, but that's all part of the experience. And enjoy a meal at Ma Fischer's after! read more

Oriental Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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A beauty. The architectural details have been restored/ kept up well. Unique line up of films not to mention great popcorn.

After my first experience at the Oriental Theater I can confidentially say it won't even be my last experience there this month! Loved every aspect, comfy seats, lots of leg room, the architecture is a movie of its own and don't even get me started on the popcorn! It tasted like they used real butter, can't wait until next time! read more

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I've been a big fan of the Oriental Theatre for many years, attending films and the Film Festival numerous times over the past couple decades. I'll never forget the energy and excitement of seeing Fahrenheit 9/11 at The Oriental, or the time that a friend was accused of being a prostitute while waiting for me outside the theatre. I was optimistic that Milwaukee Film taking the spot over from Landmark Cinemas would mean continued success but that doesn't seem to be the case, unfortunately. My fiancé and I had our first date year many years ago and I thought it would be the perfect place to take our engagement photos. I used the webform on the Oriental website and explained what I was looking for, inquiring about the cost, and that we would be happy to work around the theatre schedule for this hour (or less). Weeks went by, no answer. I went back to the website and noticed an email address and decided to send an email directly. Same lack of response. A friend suggested reaching out to Kris Pollard, as she heard him interviewed on Radio Milwaukee frequently. As a former member of Milwaukee Film, his name often appeared in my Inbox so I decided to give him a try. He responded immediately, indicating that he would pass this along to the Operations Manager. Another week and still nothing, and now I am getting nervous about having enough time to schedule the photos so one can be used for a Save the Date and I've had to give up on having these pictures taken at the Oriental. Very disappointing response that is sullying the many good memories I had here. Finally, several weeks after my initial inquiry, I received an email advising that the theatre is not doing any private theatre rentals (which isn't actually what I was asking to do). read more

The Oriental Theatre opened recently after some renovations/the pandemic. It's even more wonderful than before. I am so impressed that the Oriental is taking things seriously and requiring proof of vaccination status or proof of a negative COVID test, matching an ID, and masks are required unless you're actively eating or drinking. Some of the (new!) seats are blocked off to ensure proper distancing, too. All of these precautions made me feel a lot safer and relaxed. I got my usual, Junior Mints and a small popcorn doused in nutritional yeast and was happy as a clam watching Candyman. read more

This is a very cool, classic movie theatre and I'm glad it is being preserved. It is also convenient for me as I live in downtown Milwaukee. But the theatres themselves are dated and if I'm going to spend a lot of money to see a movie in a theater, rather than renting at home, I much prefer a modern theatre with stadium seating, larger more comfortable seats, and reserved seating. One tall person sitting in front of you in a theater like this would ruin a movie. read more

This is an awesome place to watch a movie solo or with friends the popcorn is delicious, the staff is great!

I have been watching movies in this theater ever since I was a young boy catching the 21 North Ave bus to the east side. Ma Fishers has been in the same spot as well as the bowling alley. A lot of businesses around have come and go. Not the Oriental Theater though. The interior is grand and detailed. The colors are dark with the exception of the gold splattered around the old detail and architecture. I cant believe I have never made a review for this theater. We so happen to stop in to see the movie "US" and the director from the cult classic "The Room" was there taking pictures and signing autographs. I believe the business might have been sold to the Milwaukee Film Festival. Correct me if im wrong. There are no fancy seats that recline, there is no fancy self serving drink dispenser or hot donuts for you to buy and it is still worth every dime. The area surrounding the theater is as much of an attraction as the theater, there are a couple of bars, bowling, restaurants, grocery stores and more all within walking distance. Parking can me a bit frustrating at times. Otherwise, enjoy yourself, get to your movie early and enjoy nostalgia. read more

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