Love going to the movies, but hate the loud crowds, stale popcorn, and expensive tickets? Consider making the switch to Calgary’s local, independent entertainment spots and leave the big corporations behind!
Why Indie Theatre?
Going to the movies becomes a mundane & repetitive experience when visiting big-chain theatres owned by large corporations with multiple branches. With every theatre playing the same films and having the same experiences, whether it’s the snacks or the architecture, Calgary’s entertainment scene becomes oversaturated with blandness. Teens are left feeling bored when the movie theatre experience isn’t much different from binge-watching Netflix at home. Why go to the movies at all?
To avoid this, consider supporting Indie theatres during your next outing. These local theatres come with several benefits. When booking tickets, you’ll notice that they offer cheaper prices compared to the chain theatres. Additionally, you’ll beat the annoying crowds and get aesthetic pictures, since most Indie movie spots tend to go for a retro/vintage vibe when it comes to their architecture.
When visiting these theatres, you may notice the absence of currently trending, high-grossing box-office films playing on their screens. This careful curation of new media allows for niche talents to be showcased, while giving you the opportunity to see the film first, completely unbiased. You’ll be able to say you saw the movie first before it blows up on TikTok. Each ticket bought from these independent theatres allows for local businesses to stay afloat while keeping the city’s history alive.
Indie Theatres For Your Next Visit:
The Plaza Theatre
Address: 1133 Kensington Rd NW, Calgary, AB T2N 3P4
With the bright neon sign outside listing showtimes & classic red velvet curtains, the Plaza Theatre will give you all the vintage vibes you need. When it comes to food, popcorn and cold movie theatre food aren’t your only options. With a giant food truck and bistro-like seating area outside, you get delicious eats along with aesthetic pictures. As for the movies, they play everything from upcoming Indie hits to cult classics. After the sun sets and the hanging fairy lights come on, the whole scene turns into something straight out of a vintage romcom. Your Instagram feed will thank you after this one!
Globe Cinema
Address: 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0W9
Globe Cinema can be recognized from a block away thanks to the massive overhanging sign outside. Calgarians feel as if they’ve been transported to New York City thanks to the neon lights and the vibe of this theatre. Commonly referred to as “arthouse theatre”, Globe Cinema is for avid movie-lovers looking to watch high-quality films that remain underground/not popular. They play a wide variety of foreign films and ones from smaller film companies. If you’re ever in downtown, this theatre is a great pit stop.
Canyon Meadows Cinemas
Address: 13226 Macleod Trl #110, Calgary, AB T2J 7E5
If you’re looking for a blast from the past, Canyon Meadows Cinemas is like a time capsule. Walking in feels like you’ve stepped straight into a 90s movie with its neon accents and classic cinema carpet. With $5 tickets, this is the ultimate spot for teens on a budget. They also have a “Dirty Soda” bar where you can get TikTok-inspired drinks to sip on. They play classics on the big screens, like 10 Things I Hate About You (playing this week!) and The Polar Express, playing into the 90s-movie-theatre vibe. It’s cheap and has that retro charm that makes for a fun weekend hangout with your friend group.
Cochrane Movie House
Address: 218 5th Ave, Cochrane, AB T4C 0S4
Sometimes you just need to get out of the city, and the Cochrane Movie House is perfect for a mini road trip. This family-owned spot has a warm energy and vintage architecture. It comes with all the small-town/old-timey vibes you can dream of, and feels more immersive than any big-chain theatre in Calgary. Grab a delicious scoop of ice cream from MacKay’s and then head here for a screening! Featuring everything from blockbusters to comforting holiday classics, the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make the drive worth it.
Conclusion & TL;DR
The experience of a local theater is unbeatable compared to the same, boring experience you get at corporations. They remind you why movies are meant to be seen on the big screen with your friends and your family, and foster connections between yourself and your city. Whether you’re looking for the vintage aesthetic, cheaper ticket prices, or exploring the underground film scene, these independent theatres check off every box. By visiting them, you’re supporting the Calgary small-business scene and keeping Calgary’s history & culture alive.
- The Plaza Theatre: Vintage romcom vibes, food truck eats, aesthetic photos
- Globe Cinema: Days in downtown, “arthouse” foreign films
- Canyon Meadows Cinemas: Student budget ($5 tickets!), 90s nostalgia
- Cochrane Movie House: Weekend road trips, cozy, small-town experience
Next time you’re planning a night out, ditch the massive corporations and give one of these indie spots a try. Your wallet, your taste buds, and your social media will appreciate it.