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Balboa Theater
Category: Arts & Entertainment Cinema Cinema [Edit]
3630 Balboa St(between 37th Ave & 38th Ave)
San Francisco, CA 94121
Neighborhood: Outer Richmond
(415) 221-8184
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 12 pm - 11 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
252 reviews for Balboa Theater
252 reviews in English
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Review from Cathy K.
Updated - 8/21/2011 2 photos
One of my pit stops on my 'Me Day' ~
I love seeing films at this two-screen theater with heart and soul.
Built in 1926, you can feel its history, old movie posters adorn the lobby, vintage signage, the old popcorn maker...
They have a great snack bar which includes specialty dogs - i.e. Aidell's and veggie; Tazo teas, Cafe Trieste coffee, popcorn with a library of complimentary seasonings, chocolates, It's-Its, etc.
In addition to a couple of main stream films, every now and then they host special screenings of filmed stage performances - i.e. Swan Lake, MacBeth, Pearl Jam concert. Check their website for upcoming shows, it has a wealth of information.
In this age of dwindling independent movie houses, I truly hope this gem thrives. Long live Balboa Theater!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/25/2008
My *favorite* neighborhood-indie-arthou se theater.
*Nice variety of movies.
*Great friendly staff.
… Read more »
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Review from Amanda C.
San Francisco, CA
2/5/2012
I love this small independent movie theater, there aren't many left. This is a great place to catch independent and blockbuster films.
They have a great discount card, 5 movie tickets for 37.50 which comes out to 7.50 a ticket. Did I also mention you get a free small popcorn bag with your discount card. This place is awesome, they also have some sutro bath history items inside. -
Review from Jason B.
12/11/2011
They need your love.
Balboa Theater: Founded in 1926. Full of charm and history. Out of the way. Chilly (bring a jacket). Archaic compared to the latest and greatest in movie theatres.
Muppets: Founded in 1954. Full of charm and history. Out of the public eye. Warm (for your heart and soul). Archaic compared to the latest and greatest in computer animation.
No better opportunity to support one while seeing the other. Both are far from archaic in my book. You could in fact argue we need them more than ever. -
Review from Gen M.
San Francisco, CA
11/13/2011
Came here with my boyfriend on a movie date to see Tower Heist. I haven't been in here since i was a kid. It's one of those old fashion movie theater that the ticket was those festival number tickets for raffles and the auditorium screen didn't really fit one wall. I like old fashion. I'm a vintage person, don't get me wrong. It was cold in the theater and a few people came.
A lot of people saw Sutro Palace, which was showing next door to us.
I'll be back here. :) -
Review from Christine R.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2012
Neighborhood gem/theater in San Francisco, one of the oldest. It's one of a kind, bring cash only. Bank of America is across the street or an ATM nearby. I used to eat at Sugar Bowl Bakery next door and catch double feature matinees. These days, I have to grab a bite at Kam's or Henry's. I love this iconic piece of land, and it's accessible by Muni. It was sad to see the Alexandria and Coronet shut down. As long as faithful locals like myself keep coming here & Yelping about Balboa, this theater will stay alive for many generations to come (like my kids & their kids)!!!
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Review from Jaina D.
10/28/2011
A fine, old-school cinema with some of the best programming anywhere (great mix of old and new with little festivals and surprises), I am so glad this place is going to be around for awhile yet.
Small, neighborhood cinemas are a rare treat these days--it's time for it to become overwhelmingly trendy. C'mon!!! -
Review from Daniel S.
San Francisco, CA
11/9/2011
Came here last night with my girlfriend on a movie date to see Tower Heist. This place is VERY old. hahaha I never been here before so I didn't know what to expect. The theatre has a womping 2 auditoriums. The one we had was VERY VERY TINY. Looked like my high school auditorium with no stage. There were less than 100 seats. But their were only about 10 people in the movie theatre with us. The screen was tiny as heck and it was super cold inside. The sound system couldn't have been more ancient. They need a major upgrade but its a small theatre what you expect?
Don't come here expecting to see the next 3D flick. No 3D here, and did I mention everything is cash only. They have an ATM outside.
Yes I know it sound like Im complaining a lot but don't get me wrong, I do like this theatre. It has the old school feel. No crowds or anything. Lots of people went to go see Sutro Palace. But in all it was a nice theatre. Very intimate and old school. And just a few blocks away from my girlfriends house! Will be back. =) -
Review from Carina M.
San Francisco, CA
9/26/2011
I'm not a fan of long reviews so I'll keep it short and to the point.
Pros: small, quaint, quiet neighborhood (so there's parking), and little restaurants/cafe's nearby, has that neighborhood cinema/local theater feel.
Cons: if the movie playing in the other theater (there's only 2 showrooms) has really loud scenes...you can hear them, cash only (Bank of America is on corner so not too bad), not the cleanest place.
Overall: the fact that there's parking and it's somewhat of a hidden theater makes this a great spot to see that movie that just came out without having to wait in long lines or be fearful that the show is sold out. -
Review from Joanna R.
9/2/2011
This reminds me of Camera 3 in San Jose.
Vintage-like. Shows the movies that are basically independent films and movies that not a lot of people are interested in, but I am.
I like that. I'm glad I found a place that I can come to, to watch movies that I enjoy. It's cozy and old fashioned. I like. -
Review from Angela L.
8/14/2011
ATMOSPHERE:
Yay I like this place. Tiny theatre. Its cute. -
Review from jade l.
7/30/2011
I've only been to the theatre once--it looked lovely and historic and celebrates uniqueness, but I just wasn't a fan. The smell sorta assails you when you walk into the theatre. its not overly stinky, but a musty old smell. you forget about it after a little bit, but we definitely bought chocolate to try and cover it.
It looks like a nice neighborhood theatre, but its also old, and has no cupholders. (i mean, of course it wouldn't, but i also knocked over my drink twice.) i appreciate it for what it is, but i would still prefer to watch movies in a nicer setting. -
Review from Tracy T.
Updated - 1/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great popcorn with REAL butter. Free seasonings (white cheddar is the best)! Very good movie experience. :)
Been a faithful patron of this theater ever since I've discovered it 4-5+ yrs ago. If a movie I'd like to watch is available here, I choose this place over the mega-theaters every time!
People complain about the small screens. I personally do not mind missing the detailed close ups of actors' faces in which I could count their acne scars.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/28/2008
I love this place. I always get so excited when they show a movie I have been waiting to see… Read more »
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Review from Me Being R.
San Francisco, CA
11/27/2011
BEST POPCORN EVER!!! Who would of thought yeast and popcorn would go together??? The Balboa is my neighborhood theater, I don't support my local businesses once a year, but 365 days a year! I do agree with some of the other yelpers, the theater is cold, so if you are reading this before you go off to catch a flick, just bring a sweatshirt or jacket... you'll be fine. I'm vegetarian, so what if the tofu sausage is mircowave, it hits the spot! I love it when they show double features. Recently they just had a neighborhood meeting (I missed it) re: possible closure, but Eric Mar & neighbors are determine to keep it open. Even though, I'm unemployed at the moment, I want to support it as much as I can
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Review from Vicente G.
San Francisco, CA
12/13/2010
Movie at the Balboa Theater after dinner nearby - awesome!
The theater only has 2(?) small screens, but it's SO much cooler to watch movies at these old, quirky theaters. The staff here is very friendly and helpful. I saw a movie here when they had a guest speaker before and after the film, and it was great to be able to participate in the Q&A in such an intimate setting. You can't beat the price, so go and support your historic SF theaters! -
Review from Mike B.
San Francisco, CA
1/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Quirky, historical, and beautiful, Balboa theatre is full of personality and allure that is lacking in so many modern, big box megaplexes today. Located on the western outskirts of SF on a gently sloping street than tumbles into the ocean, it's blinking neon sign and message board has served as a lonely nightlight in this remote and quiet part of the Outer Richmond District for almost 100 years, beckoning any lost visitors to drop by and catch a flick. Two movies are offered nightly at a reasonable price. In a theater that's purely authentic, it's only fitting that real butter comes with your popcorn, not the chemical stuff served at the newer joints.
I had to dock a star for the sound system. I understand the small screens- the place was built long before the newer projectors and technology could show movies on larger screens and it can't be expanded for larger screens. But I don't understand why the age or size of the movie theatre means that you can't upgrade your sound system.
It's one of the last standing in a dying breed of neighborhood, two screen movie theaters. I'll always look here first to see what's playing. -
Review from purple z.
San Francisco, CA
2/6/2011
Love this theater, its authentic and not some generic multiplex. The staff is really nice.
RE the interior - have been there several times and I'd say the musty smell is about a 2 out of 10, its not offensive and not a big deal. Glad that I didn't listen to other reviewers, b/c I would have missed out on a great little theater. -
Review from Kristin M.
San Francisco, CA
5/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Small screens yes, but I like that I'm not sitting in a big ass theater with a million other people. And because the location is rather remote it's not terribly crowded either. Fun trip into the world of historical, independent theaters. The theater manager even came out before the show to give away Blue Man Group tickets. The cons of these types of theaters: smaller screen, older chairs (i like having the option to put my arm rest up and snuggle up to my husband). It is in my hood so I will return when they are playing something I want to see. Prices are alright too!
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Review from Kaven T.
San Francisco, CA
7/8/2008
Sometimes Yelp, you really fail me. Why do people keep giving 5 star to places when their really 2-3 stars? Is it because you have to be cool and support the independent places? Just because it independent, doesn't mean it's doesn't suck.
I'm going to be frank here, this place literally smells like feet. It's like a collective of people wearing flip flops and sandals decide to rub their bare feet on the seats. I was watching Mongol and couldn't get over the fact that the smell kept hitting me every 30 seconds, it was like clockwork. I don't think a box of odor eaters could save this place from the smell.
I'd might of given it another star if there wasn't the smell because it nice and small and has a independent feel to it but seriously this place had nothing special unless small seats, small screens and crappy sound is makes this place unique and great.
Now excuse me while I put on these jeans that are obviously too skinny for me and protest the working conditions of laborers that made my jeans. -
Review from Liz K.
Cary, NC
2/19/2008
$8.50 for movie tickets? Heck yeah!
Popcorn with a variety of flavors? Heck Yum!
Support a small local independent movie house? Heck, of course!
Theme nights which include dress up? Heck, it's Halloween. But, its not!
A cool variety of independent and mainstream film? Heck, I'm so there!
I love this small independent movie house.
The downfalls were mentioned in a few other post which include:
tough parking -but that's because its a piping hot little area with cool restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Of course parking would be tough, its SF!
old theatre seats -yeah, i know, yuck! but thats minor compare to what you get in exchange for $8.50.
cold in the theatre - remember to bring a jacket, scarf, maybe gloves.. -
Review from Juliane N.
San Francisco, CA
1/17/2008
This was actually the first time I've ever been to a theater so small. I like how it's independent and it's like a neighborhood theater. The staff here is so nice and seems really down to earth.
The tickets were cheap, $8.50! -
Review from Cosmolicious L.
Castro Valley, CA
2/4/2007
Holy crap. I can't believe this is one of the only old theaters left. Best popcorn and snacks in the city. 70% dark chocolate bars! AND! Sparkling water with fresh lime. Plently of great date night places to eat within walking distance too.
Best. Date. Night. Ever.
I have to go now.
IfyouknowwhatImean. -
Review from Nobu K.
San Francisco, CA
11/29/2006
I have to give 5 stars.
It's in my neighber hood.
I do understand that business point of view.
It is difficult to keep a movie theater going.
We have lost numbers of local theater in SF.
We used have many theater.
Is anyone remember that the movie theater was on Taraval and 19th.
I think it called "Surf theater".
I was very sad to see losing Empire and Colnet.
I was with my boys in those theater often, holding their hands, they were so exited.
I have a mixed feeling about those moment, and the theater.
I don't know.
But,
I do know that I want this theater keep going.
Hey,
New 007 will be showing on this Friday!
I just love 007 because he is so sex addicted dirty old man.Listed in: Outer Richmonder !!! - Named…
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Review from Andrew C.
7/28/2008
When I started coming here (2000) Gary Meyer (Co-founder of Landmark Theatres and more recently Co-Director of the Telluride Film Festival) had just recently taken over the theater. Back then double features were the order of the day with a mix of indie films and 2nd runs of current popular films.
I used to go a couple times per week . . . enough that the staff would recognize me and chat . . . yes, I had no life . . . I mean it was for the great selection of snacks and the numerous free popcorn toppings!! Yeah, that's it! ;-)
Anyway, things have changed over the years with double features more the exception rather than the norm and ticket prices rising (but still not at big chain levels). I hope these things don't portend deeper issues with the theater. I'd hate to see another neighborhood theater go under. -
Review from Jack H.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2010
You can see a movie here free on your birthday. Every year. Need I say more? http://balboamovies.com/
One of the better dinosaur indie movie houses left in the area. Genuinely friendly staff. Relatively cheap ticket prices and they generally have pretty good movies running. Great 1960's movie house vibe as long as you're willing to overlook the gum stuck under the seats and sticky aisles. A lot of great restaurants within close walking distance. -
Review from Jeff S.
San Francisco, CA
6/6/2008
Clearly I'm going against the grain here with this review... but these reviews are about what I would expect from the all too hip San Francisco moviegoer trying to prove just how cool they are.
I'm all for supporting the little local guy and fighting against "the man", but really... you need to have something to offer besides appealing to my local pride. And I'm not one to give praise to the little "boutique" theater just to prove my edge and individuality and to flip off the squares that go to the multiplexes. I hate the big loud and obnoxious movie theater chains as much as the next guy, but you know what... their seats are comfortable, their sound equipment is top notch, and their projection systems are pristine.
What happens when you go to a little local place like the Balboa Theater? You get crappy uncomfortable seats, you get two speakers in the front that were probably made when "stereophonic" was something that sounded cool and futuristic, and a projection system that rivals what my dad used to show home movies back in '76. This may work for a revival of Gone With The Wind, but it just doesn't cut it for all but the indiest of indie modern movies.
You also get crackpot audience members (see above) who like to once again prove their disdain for modern society by booing at every commercial before the trailers... Ooooh, consumerism... BOOOOOOO. Why are you even seeing Sex And The City if you hate consumerism so damn much?!?!? Is it for their local NYC pride and not their love of Manolo Blahniks? Oh, and lets not forget the guy popping the Champaign cork in the middle of the movie... Cheers (actually, one extra star for that guy)
Sorry... Oh, and its 2008... get a credit card machine. -
Review from Drue C.
San Francisco, CA
3/28/2007
So, for everyone who finds the Outer Richmond to be a wasteland, you have been missing out and clearly have not been to the Balboa (followed by a beer at the Hockey Haven).
This is the best deal in town. If they are playing second run movies you will get a double feature for less than you will pay for a single movie at those "other" theaters. If it is a first run (mainstream and indie alike) you will still pay less than other theaters.
It is not fancy, but they have all sorts of special guest speakers...directors etc., plus you get in free on your birthday, they have matinee deals, good prices on snacks as far as theaters go (with yummy popcorn flavorings) and great people working there too!
This is truly a unique independent theater. Its been around since 1926 and is not to be missed!!Listed in: Movies? I like movies!
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Review from Jen P.
Los Angeles, CA
1/24/2009
Dear Balboa Theater,
I love you. I can always count on you to show me a good movie. You have a passion for film, I can tell. In the times that we've spent together, I've been reminded of how beautiful and meaningful movies can be. You've taught me a lot about that... sometimes places like the Metreon and Century Theaters try and woo me, and what they have to offer is cool and all, but something about them is so artificial. You, Balboa Theater, are a classic movie house. The venture to the outer Richmond is worth it once I arrive in your quaint, welcoming little building. I don't eat popcorn, but the seasoning you have looks good and my friends tell me it's amazing. Sometimes I wish your seats were a little squishier, but hey -- we all have our flaws that make us who we are. I have stinky feet, but you already knew that. I'll see you soon buddy.
Always,
Jen -
Review from Kimi m.
El Cerrito, CA
6/24/2007
This is my favorite indie theater in San Francisco.
Unfortunately, this seems to be part of a dying tradition as more and more indie theaters are closing down and/or being bought up by the corporate giants. I really hope this one lasts!! So for your next movie, go here!
I really do feel like I am supporting a business I respect when I see a movie here. I like that feeling. It doesn't hurt that the prices are more than reasonable and the movies that they choose to show are generally movies I would want to see anyway.
Final tidbits: The matinee specials are a steal. You get to see a movie for free on your birthday!! They also serve vegi dogs, use real butter on their popcorn, and have nutritional yeast as a topping option for popcorn (good and nutritious!) Further proof that this place rocks. -
Review from Dianne N.
San Francisco, CA
12/1/2007
The Balboa rocks! I always get a good view, great independent movie and popcorn with REAL butter.
It doesn't have steller sound & visuals, but it's cozy.Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Nathalie L.
Houston, TX
2/23/2008
Frozen Junior Mints! The Balboa gets four stars right there for having these. I love, love, love frozen candy and never thought I could enjoy them outside my apartment. Mmm...they also have frozen KING SIZE Snickers in case you're not going to eat anything else that day.
Bathrooms are clean, the film quality was good (first run movie, though) and quiet crowd. Definitely bring a coat, as it was a bit chilly inside. I took Muni so I didn't have to deal with the parking situation. The staff also seemed really friendly. I think they actually let some people in just to buy fresh popcorn! -
Review from Denise M.
7/2/2008
I've never been one for the smaller theaters, but that's mainly because I have yet to have a good experience in one. It's just not the same as the modern, THX Surround Sound theaters nowadays. Throw in stadium style layout with leather seats... it's hard to go back to the simpler neighborhood theaters.
Years ago, I watched the Blair Witch Project here. It was the most horrible time of my life. There was no A/C - that on top of that, the way the movie was filmed made me so sick. The overall experience was just miserable.
I'm not saying I won't give this theater another chance - but most of the time, I'm not big on the selection of movies that play here. -
Review from betty b.
San Francisco, CA
3/6/2010
This place deserves a great review....sigh...and so I must.
I almost don't want to write great review for this place because I'm afraid I'll go there one day to see a movie and be surrounded by hipsters. Apologies for hatred of the vapid part of my own millenial generation in advance but I don't want to ruin my awesome movie experience listening to, "Oh My God. This place is sooooooo rad."
Rad? We used that word in the 80's when we were little kids watching Gem and GI Joe. Saying it with a sense of irony doesn't make you cool. Nor does going to the Balboa Theatre make you rad.
However, the Balboa is cool and rad without the skinny jeans and brady bunch mom haircut. This theatre reminds me of those days as a kid, right before corporate America crushed our dreams with LOEW's and big business stripmally theatres, and the surviving theatres still had the look of an old performance hall with strange wall paneling and lights and curtains where you could see acting companies or a concert on the odd night out. Some were even family owned! What an odd concept.
Not to mention the staff is nice, occasionally hosting silly trivia contests for prizes (the one I was at gave the winner the entire collection of Sherlock Holmes movies) for actually knowing something about the original films. Screens are big enough for the room sizes, (I believe there are only two theaters inside, but might be three?), and the sound is also good. And you can see a free flick on your birthday which is sweet.
I like walking here on rainy nights with my beloved to see a movie in a theater that reminds me of times hopefully not all gone. A true blue neighborhood theatre. -
Review from Eric M.
San Francisco, CA
5/28/2007
Finding a nice movie theater with a big, neon marque is a rare occasion. Most of these old theaters have been knocked down and replaced with the megaplexs we see so often. I was pleasantly surprised to find this theater right near my house when I moved out here.
The theater sits in a little entertainment oasis, a small gathering of restaurants, cafe's and shops that hug the blocks of 36th Ave through 39th Ave. The Balboa Theater is the center of attention. The lobby is warmly decorated, with nice pictures (not movie posters) decorating the walls, warm red carpets, and soft lighting. The 'box office
is really just the end of the concession counter, and ticket prices are very reasonable (a good deal cheaper than AMC). Before the movie, the manager comes in and lets everyone know what the upcoming events are, then asks some questions about the flick, the answers to which are rewarded with free movie passes. Films start with no commercials, just previews.
It is a great experience and I highly recommend you take a break from the big theaters. If there are any downsides, it would be that the screens are on the small side and the film equipment is not exactly super high tech. Don't expect to find digital projectors or other fancy items here. Do expect to enjoy a great night at the cinema though. -
Review from Cade P.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 10/6/2008
I have some call-outs. Nothing personal, but this theatre is a real gem.
They've apparently cleaned up quite a bit! I never got to experience it pre-recent cleaning and renovation, but I think everyone should give it a new chance. The manager even spoke to the audience on a busy Friday right before rolling the previews, and thanked everyone for our business, yadda yadda yadda... (sorry, I hate Seinfeldian quotes, but "yaddas" are so appropriate). It wasn't annoying, but quite heartfelt and genuine. Just like the Balboa Theatre.
Tiffany Y., Kaven T., Jocelyn J., and Perci N. need to go back and give the good ole' "Balb" (as I lovingly refer to it) a second try.
Jeff S. also thinks this place stinks, and wants it to get a credit card machine. He owes it to himself to give it another try as well. As for the CCs, "Hello!" You live in San Fran-Effing-cisco! Few places can afford a CC machine! That said, they DO have an ATM and there's a Bank o' America on the corner outside and to the right.
Douche and Recover!™* Build a bridge, and Get the Eff over it!
P.S. Get the $32.50--5 movie pass. They're good for 6 months or more and when you buy your tickets in bulk, they end up being cheaper. Plus, you can use each one for up to two people per use.
That way, in a pinch, you can still take a date out when you're cashless. Brilliant!
P.S.S. I went to the pizza place across the street, right before the movie, and we had leftovers. I know it's evil to take food in, but I wasn't going to just ditch it (we walked from my place--too many blocks to quickly take it home before the movie and too much pizza to waste). I walked in, with the whole box, and of course they mentioned that I couldn't take it in. Duh, I was prepared. I simply asked the very busy concession workers if they'd mind holding it for me until the show was over. They gladly took it and it was ready for me upon leaving.
I love "the Balb!"
* "Douche and recover" trademarked by yours truly. ;-) When appropriate, use freely and often. If asked where you found such a horribly funny, yet useful phrase, tell them CadeRageous.Listed in: Outer Richmond (Represent!)
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/24/2008
I have lived in this neighborhood for over a year now and finally went to check out this place. My… Read more »
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Review from Kimmunist M.
San Francisco, CA
8/24/2007
I have an unnatural love for The Simpsons. When the movie came out I couldn't wait to see it. I didn't want to share my absurdly religious experience with a bunch of strangers. So I walked down the street to the Balboa Theater to catch the early show. I was blown away by how much this experience reminded me of going to the Broadway Theater in downtown Plainview Texas in the early 70's. It's small, homey, and everyone knows each other.
Instead of 30 minutes of bullshit commercials and movie previews the guy who sold me my ticket came down and gave us Simpsons trivia. He passed out a few posters to the people who got the questions right. Then they started the movie. I didn't have to sit through any jackass cartoons telling me to turn off my cell phone or trying to sell me overpriced crap from the concession stand.
I love this theater because it's independent, there's never a crowd. However, I did go back to see The Bourne Ultimatum and they did show previews. But that's ok. At least there were no ads. -
Review from Hugh B.
San Francisco, CA
4/9/2007
When it comes to going to the movies, often I find myself nearly as concerned with the venue as with the picture. While the Century 20 Daly City is but a few minutes away, I will do everything humanly possible, including driving across town through traffic, in order to avoid the cattle-car experience of that cinematic hell hole. Conversely, I'll seriously consider a 4-hour documentary on belly-button lint if it happens to be playing at the Balboa.
While the accoutrements at the Balboa are evocative of an earlier era (i.e. screens are modestly sized, and seats that are, shall we say, traditional), these shortcomings are more than offset by reasonable prices, great popcorn, friendly staff, relatively easy parking, excellent rotation of films, and regular double features. It's definitely an old school environment, but clearly run by and for film lovers. When seeing a film in theater #1, I always make a right turn at the door when entering the theater, as the loge seats are definitely roomier and comfier. -
Review from Sue M.
Fairfax, CA
2/29/2008
I love this theater for all the reasons stated below. I'll just add:
1) I saw Bruce Campbell here do a booksigning/director's Q&A with his film "The Man With the Screaming Brain" a couple of years ago. You just can't top that. I got to speak with Bruce emmereffing Campbell. Thank you, Balboa Theater.
2) There are about a dozen places to eat within a block. And since this ain't the trendy part of town, you're not going to wait for a table. You can have dinner and a movie, stress-free and for a song. -
Review from Corey V.
1/29/2009
I love going to independent theatres. I just really like the feel. Sure the seats aren't in great shape, they don't always have the largest screen or best sound system, but they're cheap, the food is good and for god sakes man the screen is still 100 times bigger than any TV! The seats are still in better shape than my couch and I don't feel overwhelmed by massive crowds. The $5 bucket of free refill popcorn is awesome and the toppings they offer for the corn are overwhelming.
Parking near the theatre can be tough, but drive a few blocks away and you're bound to find something. You have also got to love the restaurants in the area. Perfect for a pre or post movie meal.
My friends and I saw a Bollywood Kungfu flick here that was only playing at two other theatres in the area. You have to love the selection. -
Review from Tiffany Y.
San Francisco, CA
8/12/2008
Ehhhh.
This place is convenient and it's never crowded even on days when a movie is opening....but it's crappy. Total old school theater, no cup holders. The employess seriously look like they're straight out of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre...that's how much they hate working there. Annnnnd it's cash only, I guess it was perfect timing cuz I JUST lost my credit card, so I had cash, but still annoying!
Buuuuut, I DID love pineapple express and the fact there were only about 10 other people in the theater so we got dibbs on where we wanted to sit and no nonsense going on during the movie is always nice. I'll go back since it's more convenient than the Van Ness theater, maybe the employees will be happier this time!Listed in: Richmond District whaaaaaat!!!
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Review from Temujin B.
Seligman, AZ
4/26/2006
Have to agree with all the high praise and glowing reviews from previous posters.
Gary Meyer is doing for the Balboa what he did for the late great UC Theater and he's doing so at a time when rep house cinemas are an endangered species.
Better support this place with your regular patronage, people. Lest this place ends up joining the ranks of movie houses like the UC Theater, The Royal, Coronet, Northpoint, Alexandria, Regency, St. Francis, Strand, Electric, Act 1 & 2, and the Rialto which all went under from a combination of mismanagement, public indifference and market saturation due to VHS/DVDs and those goddamned fifty screens plus multiplexes. And the Four Star on Clement and the Oaks in Berkeley will soon be closing up, as well.
