The Rio Theatre, located on Broadway at Commercial Drive (which is extremely transit convenient), is a fixture of the Commercial Drive neighbourhood. I don't know the entire history of the theatre, but apparently it was built in 1938. The Rio is known for screening cult classic movies and live shows, and in 2012, it fought the outdated BC Liquor board so that movie theatres could serve alcohol -- a big win! In the past, I have gone to a handful of shows (mostly movies showing at the Vancouver International Film Festival), but I didn't go often for two reasons: many of the movies I was interested in started way too late for me (such as at 9:30pm or 11pm), and years ago, I had a really negative experience. I don't recall when the incident happened -- perhaps it was after they had acquired a liquor licence -- but you had to be 19+ to go (that's the legal drinking age here), and while I was much older than 19, apparently I looked young, so I used to get so much shit for my appearance. Shortly before the event, my ID had expired and I was waiting for a new one to come in the mail. In the meantime, I was using my passport as ID. The person at the door was extremely rude and aggressive and made a big deal of specifically asking ME for ID -- from his tone, I think he didn't expect me to be of age. I pulled out my wallet from my purse to grab my ID, then remembered that I didn't have it as it was being renewed, so put it back into my purse and reached for my passport. As I was reaching for my passport, the rude and aggressive employee sneered, "Oh, you forgot your ID, I see, huh?" Yes, even thought this was nearly 15 years ago, I still remember this incident, and it always upset me. The guy was so fucking rude. Also, they used to insist on stamping your hand, and I hate having the inside of my wrist stamped because the ink rubs off on the side of my shirt, so prefer to have the top of my hand stamped. This guy was also rude about this. Anyway, due to events not working with my schedule and my encounter with the rude employee, I had little interest in going to the Rio unless it was for the film festival. However, recently, there have been several events I have been interested in: a screening of The Shawshank Redemption with a Q&A with Gil Bellows in July; a screening of The Room presented by Greg Sestero in August; a screening of Clue in October; a screening of the original Carrie presented by Mike Flanagan in October; and a film festival movie in October. And each time I had a great experience -- no more rude and aggressive employees! The most recent event I went to was John Waters live on December 3. My husband is a huge John Waters fan, so I bought tickets for his show. However, I had only bought the regular tickets, and my husband then told me he would have liked the VIP tickets (better seats, a signed poster, a post-show Q&A). On the Rio website, they clearly state that all sales are final and that tickets cannot be returned or exchanged. So what did I do? Emailed them asking if I could exchange the regular tickets for the more expensive VIP tickets, despite their policy. Their answer was an enthusiastic "absolutely!" and it was easy to exchange the tickets. Amazing customer service! I am a fan of the Rio and I look forward to seeing more shows and events! [Yelp collections: Theaters] read more

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One of my favourite classic theatres for classics and oddball films! They do shows too but I mostly here for the movies! Theatre is old but very maintained. Definitely a visit if you are looking for a good classic movie to watch! read more

Came to this theatre to watch a documentary with my family--Boat People: A 50-year Journey. When I came the lineup was LONG.. It was a sold out show! I snuck to the front and saw my mom inside so I asked the doorman if I could come in to be with her. He let me in lol. The theatre is small and the screen even smaller, but it was still a good experience. There's a balcony with seating as well. The seats and floors seemed clean. The behind the scenes they played before the movie had the volume wayyy too loud though. It was hurting my ears. Luckily the movie wasn't like that. My partner lost her sunglasses in the theatre but was able to call them the next day, and they had them! She picked them up no problem. read more

Rio Theatre - A selection of seats - Cinema Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

We had an excellent time at the Rio during the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival! I love an independent movie house that doubles as a live venue. There are no bad seats in the house and they have yummy treats including great popcorn. If I lived in Vancouver this would be a regular place for me. read more

Stepping into the Rio theatre is a walk back in time! This classic iconic cinema has shown many classic movies & hosted World Cup Soccer viewing parties. At the beginning of 2018, it almost shuttered its doors for good! Due to high costs & pressure to build upwards at this prime location - the Rio almost shut down! Even the director/actor - Kevin Smith, jumped on board to save the Rio & flew in just weeks after having survived a massive heart attack! He offered his support through a fundraiser to help keep the Rios doors, stay open! Survive it did & let's hope for many more years to go! The Rio is a large theatre with a balcony upstairs, comfy seats, good popcorn & most important - sells alcohol! Cheers! It is quite an alternative type theatre with the quirky dress up midnight showings it hosts, burlesque performances, to far out guests - Stormy Daniels is on the way! Easy to get to - take Skytrain to Broadway Station or catch #99 Express on Broadway & get off at Commercial Drive. I came to watch Amazing Grace again(saw it at 5th Ave Cinema a few weeks ago) because it's such an awesome musical!!! I love Aretha Franklin! RIP read more

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How have I not reviewed the Rio yet? It's one of the only movie theaters I go to! They're the only theatre other than the Cinemateque that specializes in showing old and unique films on the big screen. No new garbage Hollywood blockbusters here! My favourite was seeing Todd Brownings "Freaks" from 1932. For those who love 80's movies, they show a ton of them at the Rio. Also, their snack concession is not overpriced and they serve booze! read more

Best local theatre, great shows, great staff. Always a good time. Would highly recommend getting on the mailing list so you don't miss out.

Absolutely immaculate vibes. We were there to watch Hundreds of Beavers and it was easily one of my top theatre experiences ever.

Thanks Yelp for tickets to Improv Against Humanity. It was our first time visiting the Rio and great to meet up with fellow Yelper and friend Rohan S. This was a Valentine's Day-themed edition and the Fictionals were great...though the show was more sex themed. The venue was packed with great audience participation. And love that they serve alcohol which you can bring back to your seat and watch the show. It was a very positive experience and happy to return for another show. read more

Rio Theatre - Very entertaining improv. - Cinema Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I went to watch Purple Rain for Friday night late show. It was 1 year anniversary since Prince had passed away. It was enjoyable night some audience sang and gave hand clap along his sing. Friendly staff, nice seat and plenty leg room. I want to come back again. read more

Came here to watch a live event. Parking here is isn't the best at all, but if you're lucky you can find some spots a few blocks away on the side streets. The foyer is way too small for the venue, so the lineup for the food counters piles up and makes it difficult to get around. There are cool mirrored ceiling tiles. I couldn't stop staring upwards at the top of random people's heads. The seats themselves aren't the most plush, but they get the job done. I like how the arms can be raised, but also don't move too easily (they kinda "stick") so you can adjust the angle to your liking. Accoustic-wise, the theatre also isn't too bad, thanks to the DJ setup in the back. Of course it's no Dolby Digital, but the sound is clear enough to not cause problems. Not sure if it's a daily promotion, but cans of Cariboo beers are only $3.50. Not too bad for cheap drinks. Small classic theatres like these are a dying breed, so enjoy them while you can. read more

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Visited here recently to see the movie "Loving Vincent" (which I HIGHLY recommend, BTW)! What a nifty, old movie theater! Being a child of the 60's, this theater really brought back memories of movie houses of my youth: they were more elegant than present-day cinemas, with a large stage, and ornate carvings on the walls, and thick velvet draperies and balconies with fancy railings. There's even a small concession stand where I got a big bag of fresh popcorn for $5 and change, and hubby got a beer for $6. I liked how I was able to purchase tickets online for my movie and save a few bucks per ticket by doing so. Also, it was pretty cool that a guy at the entrance scanned our ticket and then stamped our wrists. It just made our movie night out feel more special than had we gone to a run-of-the-mill cineplex, you know? There's no parking lot here but there was ample street parking when we visited, and since it was on a weekend, we didn't have to pay a meter. Note that meter paying is good for up to two hours on weekdays. (There was an underground paid parking lot in the back, btw). I see that this venue has various live performances and shows here. What fun! It's truly like an old-time revue. read more

We had a great time watching Tammy & the T-Rex last weekend as the movie was an absolute GEM, the staff was awesome, but there was only one concern. The drinks are always an extra reason to go to a late night movie, however the POPCORN is less than desirable, meaning it smelled and tasted like burned buttered-gunpowder with oily residue sticking to our hands and tummy which can lead to mouth ulcers and potential tumours which in due course can be reported to the health authorities. Please have the machine cleaned or replaced as all aspects on this historic Movie goers delight is FUN for all, except for the refreshments of the non-fresh popcorn that gives a bad taste in our mouth for who enjoy cult-classic movies in a Theatre. read more

I love to support local whenever possible and was excited to go to the Rio for the first time but was immediately disgusted with the way the staff talk to the patrons. My partner and so went to grab drinks and popcorn for our party of 6 and ordered 5 drinks and 2 bags of popcorn for us all to share. The staff scoffed at our order and said "2 bags?! You're going to have to wait for that much" I replied yes that was ok and when they brought the bags over he says "You're lucky as F*** to get this".... Ummm excuse me? Lucky af to get popcorn in a movie theatre that we as paying for?? Then he says "in a theatre of 400 and you order 2 bags?!" Probably not going back again, I'd rather watch movies at home with that kind of treatment. read more

Usually love coming here but the staff are extremely hostile and rude! We love supporting local businesses but immediately felt unwelcome. Total buzzkill and not very professional. Very disappointed! Nobody deserves to be talked to like we were. read more

The Rio is a true community hub and the last holdout of the old movie theatre venues besides the Vogue. Taking up the void left by the Ridge and Hollywood, and spearheading much needed change in the antiquated Vancouver liquor law battle, the Rio is a true Vancouver treasure. I love this venue because it caters to more than just one entertainment need for the community. Sure they do movies, but they do MORE movies for shorter runs unlike the Park which cycles too slowly. Those movies are often curated better than anything else the city offers, including Filmfest faves, and documentaries. Also, they do annual events such as world cup, and Oscar parties, but that is not even close to the extent of it. They have regular monthly events like: -Burlesque -Gentlemen Hecklers -Critical Hit Show -..more And if there is any question that this venue holds a key role in the arts in our city,.. consider the fact that it was a perfect growth opportunity for Paul Anthony's Talent Time which outgrew the Biltmore, and clearly was a successful incubator for Improv against Humanity which became popular enough to move on to the larger Vogue theatre on Granville.. It is this diverse entertainment portfolio that keeps me checking the calendar every week. Why only 4 stars? Because they never frickin reply to email inquiries!! That is the only reason. read more

This theatre is pretty awesome. Whether it's World Cup soccer, an indie music show or the David Bowie film "The Man Who Fell to Earth" I'm watching here today, it's always a satisfying experience. I love that they use this theatre for such a variety of shows. Also, it's an old school movie theatre venue. We have lost too many of these nostalgic spots in Vancouver. They have comfortable seats with cup holders for the beer, wine, water or pop you purchase at their counter. There's also Classic popcorn and candy to enjoy along with the show. The staff is friendly in a down-to-earth atmosphere, and they're efficient. I highly recommend this theatre for whatever type of show you choose to see. It's most likely going to be an alternative flick or indie band that you see here. read more

Rio Theatre - Ruby & Smith jamming on the ukelele for the heart & stroke foundation. - Cinema Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

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Theatre brings back a lot of memories since I used to come here as a kid and teenager. It's changed to Rio Theatre now, but also retained quite a few of the older theatre style. This was perfect to watch Improv Against Humanity. The stage is set really high so the person in front isn't blocking you in any way. It's also the right size so the actors are audible. The big screen in the back is great during intermission or extra prop during the show. Washrooms need a bit of work in terms of janitorial services more often though. There's about 5 or 6 stalls and the floors are gross. read more

Ah, the Rio. Large and archaic, it's remnicent of a weekend at a small town theater, except that you can't just drive-in. In the comfortable red chairs the place is often a little sparse, allowing you to lean forward on the empty seats. Balcony seating is available free of charge, but viewers are often exposed to more PDAs (Public Displays of Affection). Also, this is where I went to watch the Euro 2008 Germany versus Spain grudge football game. Being of German heritage I lost money on the match, but it was well worth it, if only to be amazed at how they were selling beers just like in European theaters, which they sometimes do for special events. They mostly show cheap Hollywood movies, and on the weekends they play midnight showings. Every so often they do back-to-back horror classics too, if you can sit through both Re-Animator and Dead Alive. There is only one screen though, so those hoping to movie-hop should go to one of the multiplexes downtown. read more

Rio Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Screw you Famous Players and your overpriced theatres with your stale popcorn and expensive beverages! The only place I am going to watch movies from now on is the Rio theatre! I'll have to make sure I'm punctual for the shows at the Rio though, cuz this place ain't so secret in East Van, it gets packed to the tits in there! And now I know why. Yea they have the regular candy, chocolate, licorice and things to make your sweet tooth cringe AND you can get a grilled cheese (I hope they have ketchup - I didn't check but I was sure tempted to order one up!) However, I was very busy thoroughly enoying my liquid dinner which consisted of a lime slushy margarita drink complete with rock salt on the rim of the plastic cup. Class friends, all class. They have beer and wine as well, and you really should take advantage of it because these people fought tooth and nail to get these drinks to you in this here theatre. This is the alcoholic landmark of where the shit hit the fan in Vancouver and a lot of blood sweat and tears went into making it possible for you to have a drink at the Rio while enoying one of your favourite flicks so you better drink up! The Rio also has a cute girl who roams the isles offering you sweet treats before the show, so if you ran in to get the best seats and forgot to grab some snacks, you can flag her down with her super sute cigarette-style box filled with candy, so you don't even have to get up! Laziness at its finest! The Rio rocks! read more

I can't hide it any longer... I love The Rio! I want to scream it from the rooftops! Everything they do here is pure gold, and I'm so happy that I live within walking distance (or meandering distance after a couple of bevvies!) I love the range of shows they put on, whether you're there to see a new release movie, a cult classic, or a live show you know you're going to have a blast. The staff are all great - very East Van, the seats are super comfortable, and the moveable armrest is just perfect for snuggling up to your beau! The fact that they have a liquor license is fantastic - being able to get a reasonably priced drink with your huge tub of popcorn improves every event and feels like such a luxury in semi-prohibitionary BC! Every seat provides a good view of the screen and stage, and sitting in the balcony particularly makes me feel like a naughty school kid in the back of the bus: kind of exclusive, and like I'm having *slightly* more fun that everyone else! Especially when I have beer. I love that they cater to such a broad range of locals here - I've seen burlesque, cult classic movies (The Room, anyone??), improvised Dungeons and Dragons, midnight movies, improv, live music - you name it, they've done it! I'm so glad to see them doing so much - especially when so many other beautiful smaller theatres are being forced to close. Grab your friends and go visit The Rio asap - you'll adore it! read more

Wow, this place has a pretty solid 5 star average. Sure tells you something, doesn't it? The Rio Theatre has undergone an amazing transformation over the past few years. I remember walking past this place when I was younger, and it was a sketchy cinema at best. My favourite part of the Rio Theatre is their late-night classic movies on Friday night. For $8 (or $7 with a costume) you can relive your childhood/teenage years with a group of enthusiastic peers. I'm especially looking forward to the Labyrinth night coming up on April 29th. (Can anyone say mullets, tight pants and codpieces?) I will be turning 30 in a year and a half, and I'm seriously considering renting out the Rio for my party. You can invite a sh*tload of people, drink, party, and watch whatever movies you want. Doesn't that sound like an absolute blast? Ahhh... I love the East Side. Please Rio, don't ever go away. read more

My favourite venue for checking out anything! The world would be a better place if there were more Rio Theatres. It's a large unpretentious place to watch movies and live theatre, where the crowd is always mixed and friendly, as are the staff. You can have a great night out without breaking the bank here (read: cheap date!). The tickets for shows are very reasonable, and they have beer for $5. A large popcorn is $5.75, and it's an extra 50 cents for butter, which I STRONGLY suggest you do. It'll be the best 50 cents you've ever spent! I don't understand why this isn't in the manual for Working in a Movie Theatre 101, but the butter needs to be layered, so that there is butter throughout. The classic mistake is just pumping it over the top. Not enough coverage!! I knew they had it right when my friend stood up with butter-stained pants. A solid two thumbs up!! read more

The Rio has the best attitude, atmosphere, and events that far exceed almost any other theatre in Vancouver. The difference between this theatre and other indie driven off-beat cinema is that the Rio is just laid back fun that doesn't take itself too seriously. You can go to the Rio to catch anything from one of the latest mainstream flicks, to old favorites and cheesy craziness, both new and old. Last night I caught The Social Network, in the past I have left there with my bra full of rice and toast crumbs from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and I won the costume contest when I went to see Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I've sipped cider (they are sometimes licensed) and sang at the top of my lungs with a theatre full of people doing the same. Their Friday double features are always fun as well (even though on a Friday I can't possibly stay awake for two movies after midnight.) For special events they often include live performances as well! The Rio is no question my favorite place to see ANY film. If you haven't been there, you simply must go. read more

The Rio is just a perfect storm of amazing. Burlesque shows and cult classics and mainstream whatever and you can drink on certain nights. Kapow. They have the best random schedule. The staff here are rad. Super friendly, playing dress up, and hooking you up with popcorn and treats with pleasure. Come here for the mainstream whatever you want. I just watched Star Trek... on opening weekend after buying my ticket a mere 7 minutes to show time. Aaaaand I watched it in an unpacked, completely douche free theater. Yep, I'm down with that noise. read more

Rio theater was an amazing experience. I recently stumbled on to the Critical Hit Show, a D&D themed comedy thing and it was absolutely amazing. It blew my mind how differently I had imagined Rio theater to be. To start, the advanced tickets that Rio sells on their website is extremely accessible. If you are as keen as me when it comes to these things, you'd probably want to pick up tickets as early as possible. Advanced tickets saved me $3 per person. To pay $6 for a show just seemed like an amazing deal. The concession at Rio was something I've never seen before as well. A good beer selection along with popcorn that's cheaper than silver city! What more is there to say?! But to make things even better, the concession people walk up and down the isles during the show with more beer for those who are paying by cash. I loved that! What surprised me the most was the crowd. Sitting in that theatre just made everything around my group feel cozy. It was like everyone here was friendly and understood each other. I've never had that experience in a theatre before and that was absolutely fantastic! My impression of Rio definitely changed after this experience and I'll keep an eye out for more upcoming shows at this theater. read more

Her name is Rio and she is a great theateeeer! Just like that river running through a dusty laaaaand! (Sorry, even though i can't think of a clever substitution for the second line, i still couldn't resist.) Incredibly, i still haven't been here for one of their Friday night double features, but i love coming here on Tuesday when tickets are half price!! When was the last time you saw a movie for 6 bucks?! It reminds me of when i was a kid and had to walk uphill both ways in a blizzard to get to the pony that i rode to school. Did i mention they don't charge anything extra for 3D movies? Well, i'm not a fan of 3D, but if i have to watch a 3D movie i'd rather not pay extra for it! Do you know what else i LOVE about Rio? There are no shitty Telus ads, no crappy car commercials, and no banks trying to tell me how they can make me money. The only ads you see are for local businesses, they are BEFORE the movie starts, and i have actually seen some places on the big screen i WANT to check out! Total hats off to Rio for keeping it local! read more

The guy at the ticket booth was honestly quite rude to me because I took a while fishing for my confirmation stuff, that was.... unkind lol, he motioned me go away because I took one extra minute??? The people inside though, are really nice. The theater itself is old school, has pretty good vibes in there. I got popcorn which could have been a LITTLE saltier but it was pretty awesome. They sell alcohol and some snacks. love that they feature small indie films and replays of old films like The Room. Would go back, but screeeeww that guy at the ticket counter, he's in desparate need of a chill pill read more

A salute to sauciness! Maybe it's because I had the pleasure of watching a bevy of beauties grace this stage at the Valentines Burlesque Duos or because I had enough wine WHILE watching to make things particularly rosy. Or maybe, just maybe, this salute is due to the fact that I saw one of their posters today in a butcher shop of all places (holy marketing reach batman!). But however it came about, I have a major heart on for the Rio. For those who love all things glitter and sass, this spot isn't new to the scene. Their event mandate seems to be "we'll try anything once", which means their calendar usually sports some of the most eclectic entertainment in town. From burlesque, to spoken word with a stop off at live comedy and cult double features... this place could fill up my social agenda on any given week. And sure, the fare is pricey. But have you been to a movie lately? Dems the norm folks. And where else can you grab a drink and watch a flick? Or better yet, score a cider from an ADORABLE beer/cider vixen, without having to battle the line? Nowhere. Nowhere else. This place battled some serious red tape to stand out from the crowd and I heartily salute them for it! If I lived in a magical world where I could change anything that irked me in the slightest? I would fix the latches on their bathroom stalls and put in another paper towel dispenser, because it always seems to be out. Better yet, on burlesque evenings, I would make the bathrooms unisex, so us females who will inevitably fuss over stockings and zippers don't have to wait in a line as long as kingdom come when intermission rolls around. But all in all, they are teeny little gripes in the grand scheme. The Rio is thinking outside the box, doing it well and we are darn lucky to have them. See you for spoken word burlesque soon? The answer you're looking for is: "Obviously." read more

Went to Improv Against Humanity last night and laughed so hard that I got a wicked ab workout. Come for the comedy, but leave with a 6 pack. Seriously it was so funny it hurts. Basically, volunteers go on stage to play a game of Cards Against Humanity, and the actors have to act the scenes out. You've played before RIGHT?! You know how intense this game gets! Legendary. That is all. read more

Hands down, I've always had a fantastic time here! I've been a few times, movies and live performances here are always pleasurable. This place has great staff, fresh and friendly. If you've never experienced this place. You've seriously got to check it out. It's just something that feels good! If you go once, you'll absolutely go again. Best night out in awhile! Thanks read more

A perfect score! Tech highlight: Best screen ads anywhere. Super lo-fi: and I'm captivated by all of them because of it! 80's-style simple images... I felt like I was a kid again at the cinema. Best of all, when the actual movie comes on, you'll be shocked by the sheer quality of the film--they didn't skimp out on their equipment! I could see every little wrinkle on every actors face. A fun surprise after the low budget (awesome) commercials. I need to go to more movies here. Taste highlight: Real buttered popcorn and a great variety of toppings (I went to town on jalapeno and white cheddar). Comfort highlight: The arm wrests actually lift up so you can cuddle with your date. Transit highlight: Right across from the Commercial St Skytrain and there's free parking on Broadway. Solid! read more

Purchased tickets to a concert on the 28th. When I arrived we were informed there were "no seats left, and would have to stand in the aisle". Stand in the aisle? In front of people who are seated and watching the concert? We stood in the back doorway behind about 15 other people who seemed to have met the same fate before heading back out to check again. We weren't the only ones frustrated by the lack of accommodation for those of us without seats as we briefly discussed with another couple whether the venue perhaps had oversold. Regardless, no one at the venue was even remotely helpful, perhaps even flippant regarding the fact that there were nearly 20 people stuck standing in front of a door way towards the back of the venue. I've been to the Rio multiple times before and this was far and away the worst experience I've had and would never under any circumstances purchase tickets to a concert there again. Frustrated, and dissapointed. read more

This pains me. It really does. I would rather be writing a 5 star review for the Rio. But I am not getting anywhere near 5 star service. For the last week I've attempted to go see Elysium, and both days that were convenient to myself and my movie going friend ended up having their showings cancelled. Luckily the first time it happened I had decided to double check the time online, and then saw that they all of a sudden had a different event happening. The second time (yesterday) we showed up for the 7pm showing only to find a notice on the window advising that all the Sunday shows were cancelled. Online the schedule still indicated a full day of showings. Fine, shit happens, but update the GD schedule so people don't head down only to have to turn around again. read more

I LOVE the Rio!!! I don't come here as often as I should. Most of the time when I am here it is for the Friday night double feature. The best time was for Hedwig & The Angry Inch (and Velvet Goldmine, which we didn't stay for... *gasp*) and everyone sang along, there was even a costume contest which my friend Alexis won. I haven't seen Rocky Horror here yet which is totally my fault and I will do my best to rectify the situation next year. Another good one was Pulp Fiction and True Romance. I love both of those movies so much it's retarded. Don't fret if you are tired and plan to come for the midnight double feature. They do sell a variety of energy drinks. As well as booze sometimes, but I've never noticed it when I've been there. I ended up here last night for Jackass 3D. It's $3 extra admission to see anything in 3D. Normally $10. We were up in the balcony area so the view was great. No sore necks for us! Don't try to carry a case of beer in.. they'll um.. catch you. (IT WASN'T ME) The bathrooms are always spotless when I'm here. I like the strange closet-like doors with the swinging latches. read more

Erm ah I'm torn between giving this place 5 stars or 1 (or if I could a zero). I have two stories to tell of my Rio Theatre experience. Emily Carr had our Grad Media Show at the Rio Theatre this year. (Which btw was a fantastic show) I lost my wallet during the event. The Rio Theatre searched multiple times to locate it. For that I'm super grateful. It was super kind of them. 5/5 stars for being awesome However, on the other side of things. This place is not accesible, and I came here with my mother who is wheelchair bound, and several other people in wheelchairs were in attendance of the event. THE RIO was NOT accommodating. We had notified them in advance. Our wheelchair bound professor called to leave messages never receiving a response. There was a table with equipment on it that if it had being moved could have allowed space for wheelchairs. The theatre refused to move it because the equipment was plugged in. In fact was there were random chairs blocking potential seats for others as well as space for wheelchairs. The Rio did nothing. I was very frustrated. Our own professor was stuck sitting sideways between equipment and seats. It's an okay theatre depending on where you get seated. The lobby isn't so great for events but overall it's a good theatre. Too bad it's not accesible. read more

Great movie theatre. Have never been there when its been too packed so seating was never an issue. The fact that they have a lot of indie movies is great. The midnite movie choices are pretty awesome too, specifically because they are the movies I never got to see in theatre and they are normally a 'cult classic.' 12$ for the ticket (which is normal) - half on Tuesdays 5$ a piece for popcorn and pop. Great place! read more

Think I have had some of the most fun you can possibly have with your clothes on in this place! Even though sometimes I wasn't all that clothed and the performers were partially naked (she smiles remembering the poetry slam/burlesque show) I have witnessed some head shaking off the hook talent and participated in some great campy stuff there. If you see something is going on at the Rio and think to yourself "That sounds amazing or weird or cool or beautiful or strange or illegal" buy a ticket and go! read more

Great community theatre. I was here to cheer on a poetess friend at a dirty haiku competition for a burlesque show with live music, with beer! So no, life can't get any better. The whole feel of the theatre is really retro - velour red seats, wooden front stage with real character, owners that can sass up the joint with one sentence and a raised eyebrow, and entertainment that was just plain amazing. I would have liked it if they had replaced the broken chair arm for my seat, but whatever, it happens. This is the kind of theatre that I will support without a doubt. It really reaches out to the community and from the response, the community really reaches back. Oh, and it shows crazy movies at 11 on Fridays. Blue Velvet? After being turned on? Well, whatever floats the boat! But the Rio is such a huge boat that you're not going to need a lifesaver. read more

The Rio Theatre is the BEST indie theatre in Vancouver. Years ago the management changed at the Ridge Theatre and it went to crap, recently the Rio has become the spiritual successor to the Ridge and the location and neighbourhood is much better. The Rio has great film lineups and has inherited the Spike and Mike festivals. Do yourself a favour, check out their lineup, make a plan, call some friends and have a fun night out with a great film. read more