Came here to see a "midnight" screening of Silent Night, Deadly Night. It was a special screening with the director Mike P. Nelson. We arrived a bit early to grab seats. Happy to see the seats were updated/upgraded from the last time I visited years ago. The seats don't recline but they are more plush, more comfortable than before. We grabbed popcorn and pop from concessions. I've always heard good things about the popcorn. It was good. Concession prices aren't too wild. The bathrooms are smaller, 2 stalls and 1 was out of order for women. I do like that the theater is connected to a parking ramp via a hallway. As well as the restaurants in the area. You can grab dinner and walk over to the movies w/out stepping outside (esp. in the winter). read more

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I don't know what is better: one of the best savory, buttery, popcorn you'll ever have here OR the location, beautifully tucked away and hidden from the busy, hectic city, where it is built alongside the Mississippi River and safeguarded within these comforting, charming European-vibe cobblestones. Would also not mind if they are equipped with more modern reclining seats. However, with its historic appeal and paralleling picturesque surroundings, it shouldn't matter. read more

The Main Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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This is the cutest restored old cinema I've ever seen. It is run by MSP Film Society, and there are discounted tickets with membership. Even without membership the prices are great. They offer a good mix of independent, mainstream and international films as well as midnight showings of classically so-bad-they're-good movies. The seats are comfortable and the bathrooms are clean. I would give it 5 stars, but I've come here several times and always feel like the volume is a little too high... not from the audience, I mean the movies are actually turned up too loud for me. But maybe that's just me, because nobody else seems bothered by it. read more

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Cute little theatre on a beautiful street. Definitely has old school charm. Chairs are comfy and price is reasonable. Definitely love that this theater is a Minneapolis staple for the film industry. Love the old school theater vibes right by the water. Staff is very friendly, pop corn is great and ambience is great as well. Definitely if you're a film buff this would be a great place to go they have lots of independent films which I love definitely going back maybe to see the lion king 2! read more

The Main Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Went here to see the new Bob Dylan movie. I've been here a few times before and I have always loved the feel of this older theater. They a lot of times host different events and tend to have a few more indie films available than most bigger theaters. They used to only serve cans of pop but now have a fountain which is nice and their popcorn is always delicious. Bathrooms are always clean and they're more like single bathrooms compared to the normal stalls which is nice. Seats are pretty comfortable and seem more up to date. Not recliners but they do rest back a little bit. I would definitely recommend the main if you want a check out this cute older theater that is placed right on the river. :) read more

Cute little theater but far inferior screen size and sound than other area competitors. Some of the theaters make you walk in at the front which is distracting as a viewer. I'd rather pay a couple bucks more and go to an AMC read more

We've been to the Main Cinema twice in the last month and a half and it is such a great cinema. It's affordable, they show a great variety of films, and the concessions offer many options. We saw the MSPIFF showing of the People's Way with Q&A after, and it was really well organized from the preamble to the Q&A. We also saw Sinners for a Tuesday showing - can't beat $5 tickets anywhere in Minneapolis. Great experience all around. read more

A favorite of mine based on nostalgia and my love for the St. Anthony Main area. Love that you can see a lot of the smaller independent films the larger chains often overlook. However, Main Cinema is in dire need of refreshing their concession offerings. Both the snacks and beverages feel uninspired - more sparkling water options and single serve wine would be a hit based on the patron demographics. read more

If you miss that "old school" movie theater and also like comfy seats, this is the place for you! They show great independent movies and host various film festivals throughout the year. Not to mention that it's run by the MSP film society, a local non profit organization. So support small local businesses read more

This is my theater now. In a unique twist, the changing-of-ownership sequence for this theater has landed on the non-profit MSP Film Society. When this happened they made some crucial changes which are very much for the better. First of all, they kept the very comfortable (though non-reclining) seats but they increased the leg room. It's really very comfortable to watch a movie here. Also, the changes to the concession stand offerings are good ones. For one thing, everything is cheaper than normal. The portion sizes are more like what you'd actually want, instead of a gargantuan load of snacks to justify the gargantuan price a major cinema chain is obliged to charge. And there are some boozy beverages on offer alongside canned soft drinks. I absolutely love that I can just get a 12oz can of pop instead of being forced to pay twice as much for way more than I need or want (or can contain before needing an inconvenient restroom break). This is how it should be. And the popcorn is fluffy and delicious! And a small popcorn is the perfect amount for one person and fits in the cup holder! The slate of movies continues to be a mix of mainstream and art-house titles; as I type this in February 2024 it is leaning heavily toward the latter, but that's because it's awards season. That said, this isn't where you'll come to see a Marvel movie. You will find some very ecclectic film-festival-type titles on their marquee. For that matter, actual film festivals happen here. A couple of caveats: parking might seem tricky, and it's definitely trickier than in a suburb with ubiquitous parking lots. But it's not as bad as I'd expected. I can always find a metered street spot, but if you're willing to walk two blocks, look for free street parking just north of University. Or if you don't care about price and you just want to be assured of a place to park, there is a ramp at 2nd St & 2nd Avenue, and it's connected by a tunnel to the building. The other caveat is that if you like very fancy presentation, like the kind of bright screen that makes CGI really pop, you'll probably notice that their digital projectors are not quite to the level of what Big Cinema can afford. It doesn't bother me, but it's worth noting. One more thing: no reserved seating. All showings are general admission, so arrive early if you're concerned about not getting a good seat. EXTREMELY friendly and helpful employees here! Great urban-cinema ambiance! Really lovely theater. read more

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I absolutely love this neighborhood theater. The ambiance is a little retro and entirely charming. They show a wide variety of movies and I can't wait until I go back! They also have midnight mayhem, which shows really bad/ great movies like Tammy Trex and Killer Condom. read more

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My companion and I went to see Poor Things and this was actually first movie watching experience. The theater is renovated recently the seats don't recline but do rock. The price for tickets is cheaper with a MFS membership from$10 to $6. Concessions were decent. We share a popcorn and got a bottle of water each. My only complaint is there were a lot of can opening going on through the film that can be a distraction. Maybe the cans are opened at concessions when ordered. Otherwise will probably return in the future. read more

The Main Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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This theatre holds so many memories - I'm so glad to see it "restored" to a beautiful, cleaner and still fun venue. The interior redesign was subtle to me, I noticed the seats right away but otherwise takes a closer look. The nostalgia feels are still there 100% and I'm glad the MSP film society took over, added captions and offered us this venue for the Yelpies last night. A little sad about the loss of fountain pop (im a fountain pop girly) but the popcorn remains delightful. Can't wait to bring my parents here for a movie night soon!! read more

The Main Cinema - Exterior sign in classic theatre style still holding strong - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Yes, it's a dated theater....but it's a really cool independent theater by the water and home of the MSP Film Society, bringing the best international and independent films to Minnesota Audiences. Last Sunday, I enjoyed the Cat Video Festival 2024 here! Now the Cat Video Festival is a yearly summer festival and has been showcased outside. Now, just for that reason, I've been avoiding going since I don't really appreciate the HOT summer of Minnesota too much, which is especially distressing in recent years, thanks to Global Warming. So when I learned that Cat Video Festival was held inside thanks to to the MSP Film Society and the Main Cinema, I was totally all for it ! It was so AWESOME! I had so much fun! Thank you so much for hosting this fun event at your lovely theater. It was so fun to enjoy watching cute kitties in an air conditioned comfortable theater with reclining seats with other cat lovers! Thank You! read more

The Main Cinema - The Main Theater featuring the Cat Video Festival! - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Cute local cinema! Loved the atmosphere. I also loved that they made their popcorn with coconut oil! A much healthier option than most theaters. read more

One of the best places in Minneapolis. A true gem. Only thing that could be better is if they played film prints of old movies (16 millimeter, 35 millimeter). But I love how this place plays indie movies you can't find anywhere else that are new in theaters. It's also just a cool little theater. read more

Finally made it to The Main Cinema after it's remodel and ownership change that occurred earlier this year! I'm glad that this cinema is still operating in my neighborhood. I know part of the ownership change was a remodel, and the new style was evident at the ticket counter but the theater I was in was the same as before (it was already pretty nice), so I can't comment on the improvements that they made there yet. There are two reasons I'm dropping my rating down a star: concessions and website user experience. For concessions, I was pretty disappointed with the slimmed down options vs. the previous, more traditional theater offerings from the former St Anthony Main theatre. I was looking forward to getting nachos and Milk Duds (I know, I know, not healthy but I love that fake cheese life!!) and was disappointed to see that popcorn is the only savory option, and the candy selection was super limited too-- no Duds and only 5 options. They also no longer offer fountain drinks, just cans and bottles. A pretty good selection of drinks but definitely a bit more bougie... for example 4 different varieties of San Pellegrino. They were sold out of beer. My beef with the website is that theres a ton of content on the website but it was hard to navigate and felt like none of it was relevant to me, a simpleton just hoping to see a potential Oscar contender on a Saturday afternoon. Overall, all these changes make sense given this theater is now owned by the film society, and definitely seems to be catering more towards film buffs, who I assume are soaking up all the website content and also might prefer fancier concession options (I get it-- many people are grossed out by nacho cheese lol. Agree to disagree). But for the simpleminded movie fan just looking for something to do in a specific window of time, I found myself missing some of the classics. I did see that a ton of positive and negative reviews came in on this page related to the decision to add closed captioning on all films... I think they walked that decision back because my showing of Banshees of Inisherin didn't have them. read more

I love this theater! I've been coming since I was a kid. Since being taken over by MSP Film Society, the film selection has gotten much better and more diverse. Snacks could improve, though the popcorn is still amazing and it's nice to have beer and wine options. Chairs are comfy. Staff is great. Parking can sometimes be difficult to find on the street. read more

How do you not have popcorn or fountain drinks at a movie theater? A heads up would've been nice so I could've cancelled these tickets. Theater 1 where we sat smells musty and disgusting. At least there were cheese itz...just kidding, I was given a smashed bag. read more

Why does St Anthony Main get 5 stars? Because they hands down have the BEST popcorn at any theatre in the twin cities. It will only cost you $7 and you get a free refill. That have 3 screens, tickets are usually $9 but they also have student discounts, matinee pricing, and discount Tuesday. Parking can be tricky, but I love coming early and hitting up one of the bars along the st Anthony main stretch for a drink before the show. The theater has a sign posted that you can bring food and drink from the restaurant next door but I haven't tried it yet. I honestly go here just for the popcorn. Definitely try catching a movie here sometime. It's got a classic theatre feel, friends staff, and some unique showings. read more

The Main Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Go to this theater and talk to the bar lady and get the Oreo popcorn. Best theater around

We recently saw Barbie there ...good sound ( not horribly loud ) comfortable seats . Love small historic theaters.

Apparently the theater is now including closed captioning on all of their films. While I am all about accessibility, I personally cannot mentally enjoy reading dialogue while hearing dialogue in the same language, thus this doesn't work for me when I'm paying money to go see a film. Further, there is literally zero word on their website or on their social media regarding this decision, only a small sign at the box office that you might see after our already made your plans and arrived at the theater to see the film. I've attempted to contact the theater multiple times for clarification on this and I have not heard back. Ideally I'd love to see them include closed captioning on some one their screenings (50%?), and to communicate clearly on their website which screenings will have closed captioning. As it is I will no longer be attending screenings at one of my most favorite theaters in the city. read more

This theatre is located in one of my favorite areas in the Cities. It's quaint and old-fashioned. Ticket prices and concessions are cheaper than your larger cinemas, but you won't find recliners here or stadium seating. The seats are cushy enough though. With only 5 screens, this theatre shows new releases, but as this is where the MSP Film Society is housed, you'll be treated to some great art house, documentaries, and foreign films as well. Parking can be rough. It's a popular area so you may end up driving around the block a few times before finding a spot. Don't let that deter you, though. Take a stroll around the area and grab a drink at Aster. Makes for a great day. read more

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The theater has got the prices you can't beat! Matinee prices are $6 which is amazing. They have great regular pricing as well - $6 for students (with an ID). I haven't paid more than $7 or $8 for a ticket here. The parking is easy to find - street parking and a parking lot if you'd rather not embarrass yourself parallel parking. There are bars and restaurants around here, not the mention the beautiful Stone Arch Bridge! It's amazing in the summer :) The theater itself is pretty small hence the 4 stars. The theaters are all clean and temperatures are perfect. Unlike some other theaters, St. Anthony Main Theater is free-for-all seating which can be either a pro or a con depending on how you see it. All in all, I come to this theater pretty often! I've even been here twice in a day ;) Don't miss the popcorn and drink deals! read more

I absolutely adore this theatre! It has character and charm. Clean, friendly staff, and I like that they have so many foreign films. I really enjoyed the French Film Festival this past summer as well as the inexpensive popcorn and soda. The theatre allows you to bring in food and drinks from the restaurant next door. Parking is mostly paid street parking, also relatively easy to bike to. read more

I applaud this theater's historic decision to add open captioning for all screened films! Thank you for caring about basic human rights for everyone in our community. I am a hearing person. I use captions all the time when I watch movies because I have family that is HOH and now I cannot watch films without captions. I know many other hearing people who always use captions as well. For those who gave this theatre a low rating because you found the captioning distracting - consider giving it another chance. It takes a bit of time but your brain does adjust to having captions and keeping your eye on the action on screen! Bravo to the people behind this initiative! Thank you to the cinema owner who took this chance - you are doing a service to us all. read more

My husband, myself and our friend saw the new Blade Runner here. The theater is very small and not the cleanest but staff is nice and the popcorn is everything I ever want in a bucket. The seats are pretty close together and can get uncomfortable through a long movie but other viewers seem more respectful than at large corporate theaters. Wonderful area except parking can be a pain Popcorn is made fresh and the butter is made from soy, not dairy! The employee was amused when I was excited about this, not disgusted as most customers are. I was only disappointed that our movie was the last one and I couldn't get a refill... I can't wait to go again. read more

So glad the MSP Film Society took over this place. They show a really good range of films, from hollywood blockbusters to independents and foreign language films. Tickets are comparatively cheap and the seats are super comfy, too. read more

Loved that this theater has open captions! Thank you so much for providing this access.

I have never been to a movie theater before that didn't require me to have my own captioning device or request captions in advance. The experience of having open captions that everyone can use is so wonderful and makes for a really great viewing experience! read more

Andy and Tori are excellent hosts! They made it effortless to enjoy the movie. Quick concessions, reasonably priced, and a solid variety that won't give you analysis paralysis. I ordered a Pryes Miraculum and Peanut M&M for under $10. Clean floors and comfy seats with convertible armrests, your feet don't stick to the aisles (that's a first for me). Tidy bathroom. The staff and venue easily melt away any overwhelm you might feel at bigger theater. If you live in downtown the location is second to none, highly recommend this spot! read more

In a beautiful part of Minneapolis, this theatre offers some of the newest movies in an older-style theater. Tickets are a bit cheaper than your typical AMC theater, but keep in mind the screens and seats aren't as nice or big. Movie pass works great hear. $5 Tuesdays get busy, so don't expect to show up right at the start of your movie and not possibly get a ticket. Their normal concessions are not as pricey as others I've seen - but what I love the most is the restaurant they've partnered with allows you to take food into the theater. Easy biking around here; parking is a bit more difficult, but there are street meters. Give this place a try! read more

This theater is the NE counterpart to Lagoon theater in Uptown.Though a little less known it is located with in the amazing St Anthony Main theater. Other than offering current Hollywood films. It also shows independent / foreign films on Screen 3 Here are the extras - Free Parking validation in a ramp when you come to see the movie here. - you may or perhaps you should take a stroll around the st Anthony main street and enjoy the falls before your movie starts. - Grab a drink or a bite to eat in the near by cafes. - During Spring it hosts International Film Festival for approximately three weeks. It is perhaps the closest you can get to having a "European" experience with in Minneapolis. At the end of your experience you may say to yourself ... hmmm life is good With that said, can your local chain theater beat this experience? I doubt it ;-) read more

My favorite theater in town. I go here as often as I can; they get a good mix of wide-release and limited-release films. They don't get every major release, but they usually have at least one movie I want to see each week. I particularly love going here on Tuesdays, since they have $5 for all movies (except Sony movies) and a medium popcorn and medium soda for $2. And the medium popcorn would be large anywhere else; seriously, I can make a meal out it. If you go on a date, going on Tuesday will save you a lot of money. I almost always have a pleasant experience seeing movies, and the times I haven't had good experiences have been because of the movie being terrible...but the theater can't be blamed for that. read more

What a great place to see a movie! The seats are comfy and the popcorn is awesome. I went on Tuesday night, and they offer $2 popcorn, $2 drinks and cheap tickets. It was a late afternoon show, but there was still a good crowd. The selection of shows is limited, with some big studio films and some indies. It's in a great neighborhood and I walked to be able to enjoy the scenery and the nearby park. read more

This is my favorite movie theatre in the Twin Cities--intimate, fairly priced, and friendly. I've been here multiple times, but today we came to see A Star is Born. We both bought individual sodas, but the Couple's Package (one large popcorn and two medium sodas) is usually our go-to--it's a great deal! One of the managers, Andrew, chatted with us while we waited to enter, which was a nice touch. The place is always kept clean, and I can't get over the delicious popcorn smell. Tucked away in a cute area of Minneapolis, this theatre is a hidden gem. I'd highly recommend to anyone! read more

The Main Cinema - Cinema Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Five words - booze allowed in the theater. I heard Pracna and St Anthony Main now have common ownership, so you can bring your alcoholic beverage in with you - just ask for a "to-go" cup. This means I got to leisurely sip my rose during the movie. How civilized! And six more words - Minneapolis St Paul International Film Festival. St Anthony Main hosts this weeks long event, and it is magical. I've attended for the past five years and had the chance to see some great stuff. (And some really weird stuff - FYI Scandinavian films are... "different.") No matter what, check this place out. And then take a walk along the river and enjoy Minneapolis! read more

My favorite little theater, though it seems to be becoming more popular and thus more crowded. Still, the crowds here are definitely better behaved than those at AMC Roseville. read more

I tried to join the Film Society prior to ordering movie tickets, but I have an old password that the system didn't accept. Even after I chose a new password, it somehow could not complete the transaction. I phoned, but the society staff member was not able to help. Along with several friends, I arrived a half hour early for the movie. Although there were only a few people in the lobby, we were told to go out and line up in a hot, stuffy area adjacent to the theater. Several men came and cut to the very front of our line, but were quickly directed inside. The usher told us they were board members. After waiting for about fifteen minutes, watched over by a young staffer, another staff member arrived and told us we didn't have to stand and wait; we should just walk into the theatre. Others, who hadn't been told to wait outside, were already doing this, and many of the good seats were already taken. As the movie started, I found that its subtitles were blocked by the person sitting in front of me, even though he wasn't a tall person. I am guessing that many of the upcoming films at this theatre will have subtitles. Perhaps the theatre floor should have had a slant--or maybe the screen could be positioned up a little higher. Leaving, the parking payment machine was not working for the person in front of us, and all of us waiting were directed to pay as we exited in our cars. That machine also had hiccups, although there was a person helping. Felt frazzled as the evening ended. Since the Film Society is asking for contributions, I suggest that it do a bit of work examining its user experience. read more