We can start an online
VIP FILM CLUB fundraiser for indie houses
Many excellent alternative and independent movie theaters exist across the United States, offering a carefully curated alternative to mainstream blockbusters. These theaters specialize in independent, foreign, arthouse, and classic films, and many are historic landmarks. Contact me about it!
New York
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Angelika Film Center (New York, NY): An iconic art house theater and a premiere spot for international and independent cinema for over 30 years.
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Anthology Film Archives (New York, NY): This international center, founded in 1970, focuses on experimental, independent, and avant-garde cinema.
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Film Forum (New York, NY): Beginning in 1970 with 50 folding chairs, this theater has grown into a space for a broad selection of classic and independent films.
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Metrograph (New York, NY): This independent theater focuses on premieres and screenings from rare archives, including digital 35mm.
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Cobble Hill Cinemas (Brooklyn, NY): A local favorite that offers an eclectic mix of indie and classic films.
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Spectacle (Brooklyn, NY): A volunteer-run theater with a calendar of overlooked works, offbeat gems, and radical polemics.
California
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Castro Theatre (San Francisco, CA): A historic and opulent movie palace that shows classic films and hosts special events.
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Gardena Cinema (Gardena, CA): An old-fashioned, single-screen independent theater that has been family-operated since 1976.
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TCL Chinese Theatre (Los Angeles, CA): Though it hosts many blockbusters, this 1927 theater is too iconic to be overlooked, having premiered countless films over its long history.
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Laemmle Theatres (Los Angeles, CA): A small but important regional chain of independent theaters in the Los Angeles area.
Massachusetts
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Coolidge Corner Theatre (Brookline, MA): An independently operated movie theater known for its Art Deco design and curated film selection.
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Brattle Theatre (Cambridge, MA): This is one of the nation's most famous independent theaters, known for its repertory programming of classic and foreign films.
Wisconsin
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The Oriental Theatre (Milwaukee, WI): This ornate, Indian-inspired landmark has a curated selection of current, indie, and classic films. The theater was built and opened in 1927 as a movie palace with East Indian decor. It is said to be the only movie palace to incorporate East Indian artwork.
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Downer Theatre (Milwaukee, WI): A classic Milwaukee landmark that screens international and independent films.
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The Union Cinema since 1972 has been providing UWM and the local community with a diverse, entertaining, and intellectually engaging film and video program. They offer first-run foreign, domestic, documentary and experimental films.
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The Cinematheque (Madison, WI): Located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, this venue offers free screenings of classic, independent, and art films.
Unique Theaters in Chicago (my hometown)
Music Box Theatre
3733 North Southport - Lake View neighborhood
Step into a world of cinematic charm at the Music Box Theatre, where over 30 years of history meet unforgettable movie moments for friends and families alike.
The Logan Theatre
2646 N. Milwaukee - Logan Square is where I grew up...
I saw dozens of movies in this family-owned classic theatre that's been around since 1915. From Star Wars to Friday the 13th I enjoyed many nights here with my friends. This landmark been lighting up Logan Square's nights for generations. Enjoy the legacy of unbeatable entertainment and fun!
Gene Siskel Film Center
164 North State Street - The Loop
Experience cinematic excellence at the Gene Siskel Film Center – over 30 years of showcasing independent, international, and classic films. Experience the theater's year-round celebration of the art of cinema!
Davis Theater
4614 North Lincoln Ave. - Ravenswood
Discover Indie charm, history, and community at the Davis Theater! From vaudeville to talkies, relish cinematic magic and events. Your go-to Indie destination awaits!
Landmark's Century Centre Cinema
2828 N. Clark Street - Lake View East
Unveil the Indie Magic: Landmark Theatres—Your Gateway to Cinematic Delights! Explore captivating independent films in a sophisticated, adult-oriented atmosphere. Visit us at Landmark for an unforgettable reel experience that's more than just movies; it's pure entertainment.
FACETS CINÉMATHÈQUE
1517 W Fullerton Ave - Sheffield Neighbors
A must visit into the vibrant realm of FACETS, where indie cinema has thrived since 1975. Embark on a film odyssey with the help of 45+ years of experience, sparking dialogue and neighborhood action. Unveil the magic of movies—it's more than just entertainment; it's an exhilarating experience. I worked here when I was in college!
Doc Films' Max Palevsky Cinema
1212 East 59th St. - Hyde Park
Uncover indie cinematic treasures at the heart of The University of Chicago, where Doc Films delivers artistic excellence and socially relevant stories in a state-of-the-art setting.
Patio Theater
6008 W Irving Park Road - Portage Park
Step into cinematic nostalgia at The Patio Theater – Chicago's treasured movie palace. Enjoy beloved films beneath a starlit sky, surrounded by grandeur and history. Join us for an unforgettable evening under twinkling stars, state-of-the-art sound, and a beautifully restored lobby.
Harper Theatre
5238 S Harper Ave - Hyde Park
Step into a cultural hub where diverse ideas spark, conversations flow, and cinematic magic happen. Immerse in quality, from locally roasted Metropolis Coffee to captivating visuals and sound. Your voice shapes our spotlight. Join a thriving indie film community and claim your seat at Harper Theatre today.
EXAMPLES
Out of a list of over 6,000 film festivals now in existence lets focus on the TOP 10 ALTERNATIVE routes (all US events) INDIE FILM FESTIVALS!
THINKING GLOCAL - lets examine many Milwaukee Film lovers may be living around the world. How can we make everyone who wants to help alternative film theaters / indies / art houses succeed? Let us create an online streaming platform (in stages) that allow us to cross promote and keep up with what new screenings are taking place and offer members a way to participate and support the movement. Many possibilities!
We could have a section for trailers promoting new releases and where they are playing (or entered if a film event). Each member theater or director could sponsor a calendar screening or meeting for our society.
The VIP Film Club can be a useful means to promote a fundraising film related event that raises money for the theater while also helping the makers produce great content (that can be shared and reviewed here)
Lets start the buzz - this is an easy to manage outreach project and it only requires limited time away from the daily activities you are already doing. We're developing an idea that can be quite impactful at no cost.
Plenty of opportunity for the indie film community to participate as they can either as producers, sponsors and/or affiliates of the VIP Film Club.
What inspires you about this international online promotional VIP idea?
Giving away free movies can be a powerful marketing strategy for indie movie theaters to increase overall revenue, build customer loyalty, and create a strong community presence. Instead of generating immediate ticket sales, the primary goal is to attract more customers to spend money on high-margin concessions and return for paid viewings.
Benefits for movie theaters
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Drives concession sales. The profits from food and drinks are a major revenue source for theaters. Free movie events, especially during slow times like weekday matinees, act as a "loss leader" to attract customers who will spend on popcorn, candy, and other concessions.
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Builds customer loyalty. Loyalty programs that offer freebies, like a free movie ticket or popcorn after a certain number of visits, can motivate repeat business and make customers feel valued. Exclusive "member screenings" for loyalty program subscribers can also build a sense of community.
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Boosts attendance during slow periods. Free movie nights can be scheduled on weekdays to increase foot traffic when theaters would otherwise be empty. This turns a dead time into a revenue opportunity by activating the concession stands.
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Creates community goodwill. Hosting free family-friendly movies or partnering with a local library for a community film series can foster a positive image and attract new audiences. The feel-good nature of the event can also generate positive publicity and word-of-mouth marketing.
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Introduces new customers to the experience. By giving first-time visitors a free movie, theaters can remind them of the unique, immersive experience of seeing a film on the big screen. This can convert them into paying customers for future, highly anticipated releases.
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Generates marketing buzz. Themed events, like "80s movie marathons," with free or discounted admission can create social media buzz and generate excitement. This kind of event offers an experience that can't be replicated at home.
MORE INDIE THEATERS TO CONSIDER VISITING
Texas
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Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (multiple locations): A popular theater chain known for its dine-in movie experience and zero-tolerance policy for in-theater distractions.
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ANYONE know of others??
Connecticut
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Bantam Cinema & Arts Center (Bantam, CT): A recently restored movie house that focuses on independent films, as well as providing family and educational art opportunities.
Oregon
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Hollywood Theatre (Portland, OR): This historic landmark showcases independent films and local filmmakers and is known for its screenings of 70mm prints.
Worldwide
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BFI Southbank (London, UK): A venue run by the British Film Institute, which screens a huge variety of films from different genres and eras.
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Cine Lila (Athens, Greece): One of Athens' many mid-century, open-air cinemas that are a cornerstone of the city's cultural life.