Updated for 2025

Boston’s got a killer lineup of movie theaters, from old-school spots spinning cult classics to big screens blasting the latest blockbusters. Whether you’re chasing indie flicks or IMAX vibes, these 10 cinemas are where you want to be for your next film fix. Grab some popcorn, settle in, and check out these dope spots.

1. Coolidge Corner Theatre

Location: 290 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02446
Why It’s Cool: This Brookline joint’s been at it since 1933, a nonprofit with Art Deco swagger. It’s got indie films, foreign picks, docs, and midnight cult screenings. Boston.com readers call it the best around, with cozy seats and a chill crowd. You can sip beer or wine and grab fancy snacks during the flick.
Pro Tip: Hit their midnight shows for stuff like The Room—it’s a total riot.

2. Landmark’s Kendall Square Cinema

Location: 355 Binney St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Why It’s Cool: Tucked near MIT in Cambridge, this spot’s a magnet for indie fans. It screens foreign films, docs, and rare releases you won’t catch at chains. Reclining seats, sharp screens, and beer or wine keep it comfy. It’s big on film festivals and Boston premieres too.
Pro Tip: Snag tickets online for hot screenings, especially during festival season.

3. AMC Boston Common 19

Location: 175 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111
Why It’s Cool: Right by Boston Common, this 19-screen monster’s your go-to for blockbusters. IMAX and Dolby Cinema bring unreal visuals and sound, with plush seats to match. It’s super central, though snacks hit the wallet hard. Perfect for catching the latest superhero flick or a premiere.
Pro Tip: Grab a bite nearby before the show—check Top 5 Iconic Boston Foods to Try for spots.

4. The Brattle Theatre

Location: 40 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Why It’s Cool: Harvard Square’s classic arthouse, open since 1953, is all about the throwbacks. Double features, noir, and sci-fi series pack its single screen. Tickets are cheap, and the vibe’s straight out of another era. They toss in filmmaker Q&As and themed festivals too.
Pro Tip: Swing by for their noir or sci-fi marathons for a deep cut.

5. AMC Assembly Row 12

Location: 395 Artisan Way, Somerville, MA 02145
Why It’s Cool: In Somerville’s Assembly Row, this 12-screen spot’s got recliners and crisp sound. You can order pizza or milkshakes to your seat, and parking’s a breeze. Boston.com readers give it props for new releases and the sleek setup.
Pro Tip: Get there early to hit Assembly Row’s shops or grab a burger—see Top 5 Burger Restaurants in Boston for the Best Burgers.

6. Somerville Theatre

Location: 55 Davis Square, Somerville, MA 02144
Why It’s Cool: This Davis Square staple mixes indie films, first-run movies, and live gigs in a historic setup. The main screen’s massive, and the old-school decor’s got charm. Some folks say it could use a touch-up, but it’s a local go-to for quirky screenings.
Pro Tip: Check their schedule for silent films with live music or concerts.

7. Alamo Drafthouse Seaport

Location: 60 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02210
Why It’s Cool: In the Seaport, Alamo Drafthouse keeps it fresh with meals and craft beer served at your seat. It shows blockbusters, indie flicks, and cult throwbacks, with a strict no-talking rule for peace. Themed events like quote-alongs pull big crowds.
Pro Tip: Try their themed menu specials tied to the movie you’re watching.

8. West Newton Cinema

Location: 1296 Washington St, Newton, MA 02465
Why It’s Cool: This family-run spot in Newton’s a six-screen indie theater with heart. It plays arthouse films, new releases, and occasional classics. The vibe’s laid-back, seats are comfy, and tickets are easier on the wallet than big chains. Locals love its small-town feel.
Pro Tip: Check for their special screenings of older films like Casablanca.

9. Dedham Community Theatre

Location: 580 High St, Dedham, MA 02026
Why It’s Cool: This two-screen indie cinema in Dedham keeps it simple with new releases and classic films. The setup’s cozy, tickets are cheap, and the popcorn’s solid. It’s a neighborhood favorite for catching a movie without the big-city hassle.
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with dinner at a nearby Dedham Square spot.

10. Cabot Performing Arts Center

Location: 286 Cabot St, Beverly, MA 01915
Why It’s Cool: Just north of Boston in Beverly, this historic spot mixes film screenings with live shows. It plays indie films, mainstream hits, and cult picks in a restored theater with killer acoustics. It’s worth the trip for its unique lineup and old-school charm.
Pro Tip: Look for their film-and-live-music combo events for something different.

Why Boston’s Cinemas Are Worth It

Boston’s theaters are a mix of gritty history and big-screen kicks. Spots like Coolidge Corner and The Brattle dig into artsy films and cult vibes, while AMC’s multiplexes drop blockbuster heat. Social media’s buzzing with posts about packed midnight shows and festival lineups, proving the city’s all about movies. Make it a night by hitting a cultural spot after—check Boston Hidden Gems: Literary Haunts for Book Lovers for ideas.

Tips for Boston Movie Nights

Book Ahead: Grab tickets online for big releases or festivals to dodge sellouts.
Scope Indie Schedules: Check theater sites for one-off screenings or Q&As.
Save Cash: Look for student discounts, memberships, or National Cinema Day deals.
Plan Transit: Downtown parking’s rough, so check lots or hop on the T.

Wrap-Up

Boston’s cinemas are a dope way to catch a flick, from The Brattle’s retro charm to AMC Boston Common’s big-screen punch. Save this list for your next movie run and tell us your favorite theater in the comments. Want more Boston spots? Hit up our Curated Lists for other picks.

10 Best Cinemas in Boston