I had a great experience in this cinema, Kyle and Gabe, the managers of the cinema are the most…read morededicated, resourceful and helpful people from all the cinemas that I've been too in Manhattan. This is a beautiful indie theatre, and I recommend you go watch your anticipated movies in this theatre. God bless the managers and I will keep coming back to this theatre because of the remarkable experience I've had watching my anticipated films.

I was delighted to see the absence of assigned seats. This wouldn't be my first choice for Jurassic…read morePark, but the visual and audio quality for Conclave were top-notch. There's a well-chosen stash of indies and a few more prominent names, for example The Substance. I knew nothing of the movie I Love You Forever but from the description, I'm thrilled to see it's playing here; this 89-minute offering is the kind of film that was once abundant in Manhattan but now is too often relegated to forums like ShitFilm, The Streaming Service Exclusively For Phones. Only four stars due to sightlines, which wouldn't be ideal in a sold-out or close situation. Nonetheless, I'm glad to see an indie spot holding on, with a bit more shine than a couple of its remaining competitors.

My first time at at a free movie event and it was wonderful! Great views of Manhattan from across…read morethe river especially if you catch the sunset. Watched Big here. Even at the very back we could still hear the movie fairly well. The movie didn't start until 8pm, so plenty of time to make it after work. Large grassy area but I'd highly recommend bringing a blanket to sit on for more comfort.

It's still amazing coming here every summer to watch a movie…read more It's gets really packed and security now checks everyone before they enter. Smorgasburg is a partner for the event now so there is food and alcohol served. Just make sure you're early!!!! It gets packed fast! Bring a blanket to sit on.

I adore an independent DIY theater. It always reminds me of my life in Berlin where film is a way…read moreof life. This place is tiny, I recommend coming in early for a good spot. They also let you bring in food. My biggest tip would be to sit in the outer part of the row. The seats gave me flashbacks of being on an airplane. It was a tight squeeze getting out. Literally nobody was moving and then there was this random ballon and some guy's feet. I ended up tripping on someone's foot. And plummeting to my almost death. Embarrassing. During the middle of the film and with a small crowd, the racquet could not me missed. So I'm saving you from any future embarrassment ahead of time. The movie I picked was "B Movie: Lust and Sound in West Berlin 1979-1989" documentary. I have been trying to see this film for over two years. It captures the essence of life in Berlin in the eighties. It was truly a magical and creative space where musicians and artists would come from all over to experience. You will spot famous young baby versions of Tilda Swinton, Nick Cave, Blixa Bargeld, Keith Haring and many more. I love the music during that time in Germany so live footage of Malaria, Abwärts and Einstürzende Neubaten was incredible. I will definitely be returning with Vannesa's dumplings in hand and my seat in the outer row. Thanks Spectacle for still caring about film and sharing it with us. This is the kind of place that makes NY a unique and wonderful place to live in.

What a gem! I can't believe they're still here and screenings are still so cheap! Go give them your…read moremoney! It's gotta be the cheapest date in town. You can bring your own refreshments. It's pretty cold in the winter tho, they are clearly saving money on their heat. It's very, very, very barebones inside. I still love it.

Attended a 7pm Tuesday performance with pie tasting beforehand…read more I've seen many live performances, from big names on Broadway to small productions, but this experience will forever hold a special place in my heart! To start, the Barrow Theater is a small, intimate space. At a first glance, the performance area reminds you of an old fashioned cafeteria--heavy, wooden tables and benches situated in rows across the entire space. You get very close and personal with your neighbors, as the public is sat in a way that allows close interaction with performers during the show. There is a mezzanine with additional seats as well. That seating is somewhat uncomfortable. The wooden benches reminded me of church pews--very narrow seats that will ensure your posture is straight and rigid throughout the entire performance. Not the most comfortable of seats, so those with back issues, consider this when reserving seats. It's not a problem for younger audiences. For older folks or anyone with back/neck/leg problems, recommend reserving a seat in the main (orchestra?) seating area. The show lasts 2.5 hours with one 20 minute intermission, so prepare your behind for a lot of seating on rigid, wooden benches. Before seeing the performance, you have an option to try their famed pies. The website mentions that a former White House chef is responsible for those pies. After trying them, I became a believer! My expectations were pretty low [I'm not a fan of pies], but the vegetable pie blew my mind. Seriously spectacular! Better than meat ones. Do your taste buds a huge favor and order the vegetable pie. The dough was flaky and flavorful. Crispy shell (with shaved, golden parmesan baked on top), chewy texture on the inside. The vegetable medley was fantastic--sooooo much flavor, I couldn't believe cooked veggies could be that delicious! Rainbow carrots, marsala, shallots, artichokes, brussels, wild mushrooms, cheddar cauliflower and parmesan make up the pie filling. Every pie is served with potato mash with shaved truffles. I don't eat mash, but that one was delicious--shaved truffle was a perfect touch to add fragrance and that extra punch to creamy potatoes. The portion filled me up. Very hearty. Consider this for your dinner--you won't regret the experience! The show takes place on the first floor, where you were just eating your pies. The actors make perfect use of the limited space. Live band is playing in the corner. Actors get close and personal with the audience, dancing on tables and engaging you throughout the entire two and a half hours. Definitely didn't expect such intimate experience! Honestly preferred it to the big Broadway theater layout, because I got much more enjoyment out of being so close to (and almost in!) the performance. Nothing beats being in the same space as the performers--you feel engulfed in the atmosphere. Totally captivated. Like you are living through the story along with the actors. The performers were brilliant. Just spectacular--the sheer talent in that small space was overwhelming in the most magnificent way. I left without words--I was so impressed with what I've experienced that I couldn't even express my delight. Every performer was a true character. The songs, the live music, the acting, the masterful use of small space and décor--everything was top notch. Some scenes almost made me cry, some spooked me to the bone. Traveling back home around 11pm, I felt a chill running down my spine as I remembered some powerful and dark moments from the performance. Hours after the show I still felt its' after effect. Now, that's what an absolute success of a show feels like! A must for any and all live performance enthusiasts!!!

Accessible via the 1 train to Christopher St. or A/C/E/B/D/F/M to W 4th St…read more Barrow Street Theatre, which is located inside the Greenwich House, is small in size but big on heart. The same building also houses a nursery school, among other things. The front desk in the center of the lobby has a check-in clipboard for visitors as well as some publications. The right wall has glass cases of memorabilia on display and for sale and a corner office that serves as the box office. The opposite wall has a staircase to the upper mezzanine, as well as another corner room that serves as both bar and coat check. After I picked up my ticket, I was able to use the men's room upstairs (two sinks, two toilets, and two urinals). The lobby employees dressed as pie-shop workers are pretty friendly: not sure if they were in character or just being cordial. The Sweeney Todd seating arrangement consists of five (six?) wooden tables & benches (seating 12 each) positioned perpendicular to the stage, and 3-4 rows of tiered upper and lower mezzanine seats in the back of the room. I was fortunate enough to score a seat at one of the benches, and my neighbors and I were instructed to keep the tabletops clear at all times because "anything could happen". As you have probably heard, the actors move all around the room during the course of the show, even appearing in the balcony a few times. Regardless of where your seat is, you'll need to turn your head to see all of the action. Despite being closer to the action, I confess that I found the table seating extremely awkward: I spent the entire show with my torso twisted 45 - 90 degrees and trying to avoid direct eye contact with the girl sitting across the table from me. People sitting at the tables closest to the front will be the primary and most obvious targets of audience participation, e.g. when I saw the show, Mr. Todd screamed at an audience member in the front to move so that he could sit the beggar woman down and properly fake-murder her. This and two other instances were the only I observed where a direct response from an audience member was required. If you get serenaded by the beggar woman or Mr. Todd himself, you can for the most part just enjoy the eye contact without having to do much else. To give you an idea of how close the actors get to the audience: I got to see Anthony's boots up close and feel the fabric of Johanna's dress (not by choice) while they were at my table. The pit is a 3-man group of clarinetist, violinist, and pianist (who also blows the tin whistle when a character is murdered). The lobby is just barely large enough to contain the entire audience during the 15-minute intermission, so I recommend walking around the block (away from the smokers and construction) instead of slowly suffocating inside. I didn't have to pee during intermission, so I can only guess how horrible the lines for the restrooms must have been. Interestingly, programs (non-Playbills) are placed on tables the lobby at the end of the performance, rather than given out before the performance. I was fortunate enough to see most of the original company (minus Brad Oscar). Most of the principals in the current cast will be departing the show later this month, starting with Norm Lewis on 8/14, so if you still want a chance to be within spitting distance of any of them while they're still together you have about 2 weeks before the cast gets reshuffled.

Such a great theater. Very clean and nice space. The seats were very comfy and I like how they are…read moreprivate. Also the popcorn was reasonably priced and tasted super yummy.

Ambiance is incredible, the little pods for two feels intimate and luxe. The movie theater seating…read moreset up feels like a luxury upgrade on run of the mill counterparts. You have a little coffee table to put your food and the seats recline. I feel like the transition from "iPic" ownership to "The Cinemas" is a definite downgrade in term of concessions however. You used to be able to get cocktails and a full menu of food delivered to your seat. You now order from second floor concessions and they buzz you to come back for your food -- menu is decidedly more limited than IPic. It's standard movie fare, whereas IPic was much more elevated. I will say the bar was still excellent.

The 2026 New York Asian Film Festival is running from July 10 to July 26, 2026 across five New York…read morevenues, including Film at Lincoln Center, SVA Theatre, IFC Center, Anthology Film Archives, and the Korean Cultural Center New York. On Friday, July 24 at 4 PM, BTS: The Return, Bao Nguyen's documentary about the band recording their comeback album was going to be shown at the SVA Theatre, 333 West 23rd Street in Chelsea. Bao Nguyen introduced the film and did a brief Q&A afterward. The screening was free and I just had to RSVP to the event. I arrived about 3:45pm and after a brief security check, I was in SVA Theatre. There were some snacks and merchandise for purchase in the lobby. Restrooms were by the entrance. I went into the theater on the same floor and chose a seat. The seats were comfy and the sound quality was very good. I enjoyed watching the documentary at the SVA Theatre. I am very supportive and happy that the New York Asian Film Foundation exists to ensure that new Asian cinema is seen, shared, and celebrated--expanding cultural understanding, amplifying new voices, and positioning Asian cinema as an essential force in global film culture. This is so important.

I came to this theater over the weekend to see Home Alone for its 35th Anniversary, presented by…read moreD23 (Disney). It was a lot of fun! This was my first time attending an event like this and my first time at this venue, so I didn't know what to expect. I brought my partner and a friend, and they both had a great time. There was a one-hour interactive game with the audience, which was really engaging. It was fun for the children. They also allowed the audience to come and go in the beginning of the event, so people could grab food or drinks around the neighborhood. The whole event was approximately 3hrs includes the movie showing. It was fun watching on a big screen. One downside of the venue is that there was no concession stand. I assume that's because it's not a typical theater. The venue is owned by SVA (School of Visual Arts), so you can't expect too much in that regard. I was surprised by how old the place looks. It definitely has a vintage feel to it. The venue was decently clean and that's all that really matters to me.

From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a cozy, speakeasy-style atmosphere. The lighting…read moreis intentionally low, which adds to the ambiance, just something to keep in mind. And yes, it's absolutely kid friendly. Everyone was incredibly welcoming from the start. You and your guests have your own private room, complete with music options and temperature controls, making the experience feel personalized and comfortable. We enjoyed a delicious private dinner before the movie, and our host was extremely knowledgeable, explaining each dish that was served. When it was time for the movie, we simply moved a couple of feet over to our private viewing area with heated reclining seats. Blankets were also available, which made everything even cozier. Unlimited popcorn and refreshments throughout the movie were a great bonus. While it's definitely a splurge, it was well worth it. We were able to enjoy the movie in peace without distractions, and as the parent of an immunocompromised daughter, having a private, clean space made the experience even more meaningful. We'll definitely be back!

5/31 Being invited to Metro Private Cinema was a…read moremind-blowing experience and it is a game changer for dining and movie goers but first, the founder of Metro Private Cinema is the same founder of the Alamo Draft house in Yonkers. The vision from Alamo manifested into something even more spectacular. BEHOLD- METRO PRIVATE CINEMA Entering Metro Private Cinema, the employees greet you with great enthusiasm and welcome you in. Escorting or directing you to one of many resting areas near the glorious bar, until your cinema is ready. As you view the establishments interior, you're recognizing the original movie posters throughout the entire private cinema on every wall in sight. Yes, even in the spotless and tidy restroom that are located upstairs when you enter, and also down stair, passing through a plethora of private cinemas. I want to talk about the experience. You walk into your room of choice from a setting of 4 to 20 people. The room designated for 4 people can be utilized for 2 people. Moving forward, we had a dining experience set up for 4 guests. We are served a 13-course meal with music and libation, or water. I NEED YOU TO APPRECIATE WHAT IS HAPPENING. Tranquille sounds of old are playing on Vinyl's. We don't need all that new stuff just enjoy the music provided. You're getting nostalgic sentiments. You are seated at the table, and a spread is set before you, along with Negroni shots and an introduction from your personal waitress(er). Our waitress was Elzyata. She provided exemplary customer service and satisfaction. See the picture of menu, not listing in review to curtail details. Gnocchi are not listed. After the meal, desert was giving to each guest and placed on the theater seat that is behind the dinner table. I am impressed right now because I am looking at the red wall. I am pausing to give a description. Have you ever been to a movie cinema or seen it on TV. In my youth, I remember going to the cinema and just when the movie was about to start, they open the curtains. Well, that red wall is a curtain and our waitress, (standing ovation) raised the curtain as the movie started. BLANK STARE! OMG, I am now amazed! We are enjoying the movie now, I am stuffed and I think about popcorn. BAMB popcorn is presented. The timing of the entire ordeal was in sync, flawless, and perfect! I appreciated the night out and the new experience that offered intimacy, relaxation, privacy, bonding, a safe zone, and most of all a memory that I will cherish. The price value is set for the amazing experience, and it is within my budget because there is no price on living and having a fantastic evening amongst friends. I have to give a shout out to the Branzino dish, something new to add to my palate. Inspire more, Yelp more!

The opening day of every season is the craziest day of that summer. People wait in line for 5pm for…read morethe "gates to be opened" and run, trampling each other to claim a spot. A dangerous situation. Looks hilarious when filmed from the bird's eye view. If you want a good seat, come at 5, right when people are allowed on the lawn. Grab a blanket and occupy an area. Then you have three hours till sunset to chill or walk around. No one touches others' blankets, so don't worry about leaving your stuff unattended (obviously take all your valuables with you). The movies typically last till 10ish. A refreshing outdoor experience to get yourself out of the office and enjoy some "fresh air" in the center of the city. A lot of people bring enticing spreads and even alcohol to spend the whole lazy evening picnicing in anticipation of the movie.

You know that scene in The Hunger Games where the tributes are counting down the clock and all of…read morethem are waiting with bated breath to leap down and race to the Cornucopia to grab life saving supplies?... That's basically what happened last night in Bryant Park for the outdoor screening of Raiders of the Lost Ark. Granted, I was one of "those" people in front who sprinted like a mad woman to nab a highly coveted blanket spot in the middle of the field next to that brown leaf but this was just pure, epic ridiculousness. I honestly wish I could have stood in the middle of the park and done a panorama video as the people came rushing towards me. It would have made a great opening scene in an apocalyptic film. (FYI the staff takes takes this event very seriously so don't annoy them by stepping over the tiny rope boundary between cement and field. The way they were acting, you think you'd set off a mine if you set foot on the grass before we were given clearance. Sounds familiar, no?) Once the mad dash has happened, you can sprawl out and enjoy chatting with friends and checking out the hot guys... specifically those dressed up like Indiana Jones. After perusing the field, you could tell which people were the regulars. Obviously we were amateurs because we did not even think to bring any of the stuff that our fellow neighbors for the evening had brought. We were surrounded by wicker picnic baskets, bottles of wine, champagne, champagne and wine glasses, decks of cards, pizza boxes, cheese and fruit platters, and anything else picnic worthy. Hell, someone was even smoking pot towards the end of the film. This isn't San Francisco people! Now get this, people are lining up around the field around 4 pm. They don't let you swarm it till 5 pm... and the movie doesn't start till sundown which is 8:30 pm roughly. Plus there's like 10 minutes of previews and a cartoon (weeeee!!!) before the film actually starts so you're looking at a 8:45 start time. Doing the math, I was there for over six hours! Holy moly. No wonder I was tired at the end. I think my favorites of the evening (besides the movie viewing itself) was the mini-dance party we had before the start of the film featuring the old school HBO introduction from the 80s. I wonder if my brother was even conceived yet when this was created but everyone just stood up and started dancing like crazy to this awful 80s tune. Oh how silly we all act together. My other favorite of the evening was the cartoon played after the previews (because in the old days a cartoon was always played before the feature). They played "One Froggy Evening" which if you know Chuck Jones cartoons is the famous dancing frog cartoon. I LOVEEEE this frog!! I was singing and dancing to "Hello ma baby!" with the rest of the crowd and then laughing hysterically at the poor, greedy man who got screwed over. Michigan J. Frog for the win! My only qualm about the evening was the organization of it (or lack there of I should say). If you need to use the restroom, do yourself a HUGE favor and do NOT bring your purse or bag out with you. Otherwise, you will have pulled a "me" and will have to stand in the ridiculously long line to get back in. Had I been warned by any of the event staff, I would have entrusted my purse with my friends and gone out sans bag. Ahhhh!! Other than that, what an exceptional Monday night. Yes, I only got five hours of sleep and yes, I dashed off like Batman into the darkness once the movie ended to catch the train but it was totally worth it. If you live in NYC or visit during the summer, do yourself a favor. Grab some of your friends, a few blankets, an adequately stocked picnic basket and make it over to Bryant Park to make a marvelous memory.