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Red Vic Movie House
Rating Details »
Neighborhood: Haight-Ashbury
1727 Haight St
(between Cole St & Shrader St)
San Francisco, CA 94117
(415) 668-3994
1727 Haight St
(between Cole St & Shrader St)
San Francisco, CA 94117
(415) 668-3994
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- Hours:
Mon-Tue. 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Wed. 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wed. 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Fri. 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Sat-Sun. 1:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
- Good for Kids:
- No
205 reviews for Red Vic Movie House
If they had an organ player play before the start of every film, it'd undoubtedly be my favorite theatre in SF. Instead, right now it's tied with the Castro Theatre.
They have these amazing couch-like pew seats that you sit in, which allows you to have a sprawl-tastic experience like no movie theater you've been in before. 'Nuff said.
I've lived in San Francisco for as long as I have and I haven't reviewed the Red Vic? This must be remedied immediately.
This is the first movie theater I went to when I moved here. It was cheap and felt like I was in someone's living room, on the couches.
Last night i went to see THE ROOM, a movie that only a theater like this would show. It was sold out. The Red Vic regularly sells out. It plays all the artsy stuff chain theaters won't - and some of the stuff the chain theaters play in third run. It's good cheap entertainment and something that is sorely needed in San Francisco. Luckily it doesn't look like it's going away anytime soon.
"The Good Old Naughty Days" - They had porn in the 1920's?
In between BF's obligatory visit to Amoeba, and our journey to finding a Sunday happy hour (which we did!), my eyes tunnel visioned on the Red Vic's list of movies "currently playing"... and being that we had already missed Sunday's screening of this (very naughty) film, we came back on Monday night to catch its final show...
Pros: Indie, vintage, non-cineplex, cozy, church bench seating (with cushions - and don't be fooled by other reviews, the seats are pretty damn comfortable).
Cons: Expensive. $9 to experience the Red Vic... but for the right movie, totally worth it.
So, to answer my own question...
They had porn in the 1920's? Hell yes, and those bastards are dirty.
Pros: Cheap. Interesting movies. Friendly staff. Unusual bench seating can be nice for couples/groups.
Cons: The bench seating can be hard on the bum and back after two hours, and my friend with a bad back refuses to go there after trying it once.
I'd also guess that those benches could get pretty damn tight during a busy showing.
Great concept but this place could use some work. This theater is cash only, typical. I was super excited to see early 1900's french silent porn, and it did not disappoint! Unfortunately my ass hurt so bad from the old theater seats, I swear the springs in those chairs want to get fresh. They look like theater seats you'd see at the dump. I was jealous of the patrons in the bench seats, but it could have just been the cuddling. Paying $9 for a movie was okay, I'm down with the dough going to an independent theater than paying for Prop 8 bull. They serve the popcorn and drinks in stylish wooden bowls/plastic cups. It gives that homey feel of watching a movie at someone's house sans comfy chairs. Keep an eye on their calendar, and never ever forget about the Castro Theater.
Another great SF indy movie house that shows indy movies that the other theaters won't. Where else could I have seen a screening of "American Mullet?" I'll echo the other reviewers: those wooden benches ... ouch. I wouldn't last through a double feature in here. But overall, I love it.
Any theatre that shows midnight screenings of THE ROOM automatically earn 5 stars.
The Red Vic not only does that but squeezed me and my friend in when it was pretty much packed.
If i had to miss the screening it would have torn me apart. Lisa.
Name me another theater with:
1) plushy benches so you can cuddle up with your sweetie
2) real mugs for your hot tea
3) nutritional yeast for adding to your popcorn
You can't, can you??
Wonderful place to see a movie! Locally-owned and run (not a large corporation). They have such interesting and unique films showing--this weekend (Aug. 2) they're showing The Great Muppet Caper!
I like how they're environmentally conscious. Popcorn is given in wooden bowls and soda is given in plastic cups. The seats are also comfy--some seats in front are padded "benches" and paired in two so you can sit with your sweetie.
They have a printed out calendar of films and it's on their website too! The films are so unique but also sometimes a common movie. Very nice theater.
This is a FUN movie experience. The theater, employees, and audience have a lot more personality than anything you'll find in the mega-theaters downtown, plus they played the trailer for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles before the movie alongside a funny homemade no-smoking warning.
They also play not only new movies but also the classics...The Warriors was just on the big screen last month, for those of us who missed out when we were little. I like the place so much I don't even worry about whether the bowls and cups are clean...instead I think it's great that they're not using throw-aways. Now that says something!
I like how the employees actually seem to LIKE working there, unlike many of those at most major cinemas. The Vic typically runs old movies, so I only go there if it's an obscure title that I don't have or can't find on DVD.
$9.00 for adults is kind of steep for something I can get on DVD, so going to the Vic is more for the ambience than just for the flick. There's couches for couples to snuggle in. (or threesomes to squeeze into.) The bench seating definately makes the place snogging-friendly. They do have a $30.00 for for admission punch card, but it's cheaper (if your schedule allows) to take advantage of their $7.00 2pm matinees.
For my 100th review on Yelp, I thought I'd write up something on this funky little theatre.
It's small, but shows some unique and interesting films. I went here recently with my wife to see the Craig Baldwin film Mock Up on Mu. The film was okay, but I thought that this theatre had a lot of character. We will be watching the calendar for this place to see what other films they have here in the future. They show new indie stuff as well as old classics.
You know how in more corporate theatres they have that little cup on the armrest where you can put your drink? Well, they DON'T have that here, sodas are in plastic cups, and popcorn is in wooden dishes. They handwash all this stuff after the audience leaves. It's small, old-fashioned, and green. It's also nice and clean. It's cash only too--there is an ATM in the pizza place next door. There's also a Wells Fargo across the street, but drawing out money at night in that neighborhood could be risky.
If you're in the mood for something unique (not only in terms of movies but also venues), stop by the Red Vic. It's a nice place with nice films and nice folks.
Finally went and saw something in the Red Vic.
First impression---meh.
But the staff is all very friendly, kind, and seem like they actually want to be there. The theatre itself has padded benches in most of the rows, which makes it much more comfortable. I personally hate most movie seats, so this was a very nice pleasant surprise.
They make their own little movie intros (you know, reminders to turn off cell phones, not to leave trash on floors, etc.). Very cool and fun bonus.
Nice selection of movies.
Only drawback is the lack of food choices. The ones they do have are quite nice though--gourmet chocolates and other nicer-than-your-regularly-overpriced-movie-candy selections. I'd gladly pay their prices because the offerings are much better.
Great little movie house. Was here for the first time this weekend to see "The Room", which on a side note is a MUST SEE movie....
Meanwhile, in San Francisco....
It's a fun little place, not overpriced. Popcorn was a little weird/stale, but loved that it was served in wooden bowls.
Go. You'll have fun :)
Saw a movie here last month
Very friendly employees. The lovely lady at the door even tried to tell us a joke.
Well, we didn't really laugh, but at least she cared to make one.
Will definitely come back later.
Every time I come here I forget how much I like it. And how I really should be coming more often...
Good stuff:
in the evenings street parking is usually fairly plentiful and no meters to worry about...
the staff rocks! and I'm pretty sure they're all volunteer. awe!
popcorn in wooden bowls, thumbs up!
WIDE variety of carefully selected awesome films that rotate super frequently so you can almost go every other night and always catch something different.
the red vic free paper (featuring all the upcoming films they will be showing). I remember coming by when I was still in high school and grabbing one and thinking it was so, so cool. I think I may have even unfolded it and hung it up in my bedroom, I was that into it.
couches and cushioned benches. need I say more?
go!
Awesome little movie theater. The benches were an interesting quirk, and so were the bowls for popcorn and mugs for drinks. Plus they have a great discount on Tuesdays (i recall it was 7.50 a person?). Saw "Moon" there last night, which I highly recommend you see.
I haven't reviewed the Red Vic yet?! Unbelievable!
The Red Vic is on par with the Balboa as far as my favorite movie houses in SF.
Last night, we came here to check out Steve Martin in "The Jerk" - good times. Tuesdays were discounted for $7 so I felt I got even more of a deal than normal.
Friendly service, great selection of rare and locally-produced movies, and it's locally run. What else could you ask for?
I can't really write a yelp review stating anything new about this theater that other yelpers haven't covered yet.
The five stars is for the cozy atmosphere and the fact that if I bring a date here, we can sit in an awkwardly uncomfortable loveseat and makeout like rabid teenagers.
(FYI, Tamie and I sat in the middle loveseat but did not makeout during The Muppet Movie due to the fact there were children present.)
It's clear that this place is run with a lot of love and care, which is probably part of the reason why it's still around. I can't think of anything bad to say at all: film selection is great-- every month has something for everyone; the staff are friendly and welcoming; and yes, the bench style seats really do make it that much easier for couples to cuddle. Which, they do. (Haven't noticed anyone snogging during films, though, so I guess even audience members at the Red Vic tend to be more considerate than your average theater.)
Also: I still find their little short film with the house rules (no smoking, clean up your space, etc) amusing every time I see it.
Red Vic is a great spot, and boy do they have interesting taste for films! You cannot buy tickets for the movie until about 15 minutes before the film starts. Luckily the Alembic and Escape from New York Pizza are next door in case you arrive too early.
I've always heard my friend the Judge sing Red Vic's praises, but I always figured it was because he lived basically upstairs from the theater. Plus he's an interesting character himself, he always tells me about some goth "Blood wrestling" that I've GOT to see. I dunno about that..
Anyhow, I went a few weeks ago to catch a campy sci-fi horror movie called the Lost Skeleton of Cadavara. It was an excellent choice. And it really does showcase the Red Vic's strength, interesting titles, that probably wouldn't have very much time at a "corporate" movie theater chain.
Tickets are $8.50, and the schedule of the movies they are showing is listed on their website. Good date place, lots of close places to eat and drink, and the small intimate theater setting is nice.
You'll feel less stupid shelling out 20 bucks for two on a movie because it's not some mega chain who pumps out every Denzel Washington blockbuster.
Great snacks! You've got the usual popcorn (no obnoxious buckets in sight!), but my boyfriend and I prefer a cup of coffee with a ginger molasses cookie.
Red Vic's is one of those nostalgic places that make you wish movie theaters still ran this way. So, 10 reasons this place is awesome?
1. Popcorn in wooden bowls (I think I ate salad out of these bowls in the 90's) & Soda in clear cafeteria-ish cups.
2. Decent comfy seats-Along with normal seats & pew seats (feels like church to me!...maybe movies are the new religion!)
3. Either I'm in a half church setting or in grandma's house holding the bowl of popcorn in my lap and soda wedged between my thighs, because sorry honey, there are no cup holders!
4. NO rude, interrupting people!!
5. Again NO rude, interrupting people!
6. Indie flicks are always such an eye pleaser.
7. As mom always said, put away your dishes @ the end.
8. SMILES :)
9. 3 Yelp stickers on the window. Hoorahh! The seal of approval!
10. I need a ten...Oh yeah...black cherry soda. Word!
Love it! The Red Vic is a very cool independent cinema with a diverse selection of films, ranging from obscure indies to commercial releases, cult classics, critically-acclaimed documentaries, local films, and foreign favorites. Sure, the regular seats aren't the most comfortable, and it might not be as cozy as other movie houses, but the experience is still totally worth it. It's usually not too packed, so my friends and I love to stretch out on the cushioned "pews." Because we can. The theatre is small enough that every seat is a good seat, and it has a friendly, intimate feel. Welcoming staff, unique concession options, mostly good films, and a great location. I nearly always start up interesting conversations with my fellow movie-goers (generally an interesting crowd anyway). I also feel totally hip when I come here.
Also, the bathroom is bright cerulean blue with little painted-on underwater creatures. Awesome.
So I came here a couple weeks ago (or was it a week ago) for the SF Shorts. I have to say it has a very nice and cozy atmosphere. When asked where I wanted to sit I was instinctively drawn I could not resist the draw of the converted church pews (and they were unusually comfy...not at all how I remember). When I sat down, I nervously looked for the nun who was going to appear out of nowhere and swat my knuckles with a ruler...
I have to say this is my favorite independent movie theater...pass the bowl of popcorn please!
This movie house plays great flicks. I went there for the annual 4:20pm showing of the Big Lebowski (on 4/20). I can't remember much of it, but I think I had fun. Some people were dressed up as characters from the flick, which is always fun.
They have real butter and yeast for your popcorn.
They showed a few retro advertisements, including an old one with John Waters telling everyone not to smoke.
Only downsides is that the seats aren't that comfortable and they don't have cupholders on the armrests, but whatever...
The Dude Abides.
You cannot beat the Red Vic Movie house for watching classic films. It has an old school movie/film ambiance, not found in theatre's today. The staff is very friendly. I love the Red Vic.
Note To Self: Self, do not see a long movie here. Remember when you saw The Assassination of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford and it was almost three hours long?? Remember how those incredibly lumpy seats started to hurt your ass and then your lower spine started to join in on the uncomfortableness?? Remember that??
So, they have uncomfortable seats. What else?? They have church benches, coffee served in ceramic mugs, popcorn served in wooden bowls, and home-made cookies and brownies. The theater has a DIY mentality which one would assume comes with the theater being a CO-OP. What's a co-op Bucky K. you ask?? A co-op is when a band of theater projectionists and popcorn makers band together, make weapons from speaker wire and movie posters, attack the owner, and keep him in a broom closet, and make the theater their own. It's like an American version of Stalinism with a smidge of Darwinism minus the Walrus.
The theater doesn't begin tickets sales or even open their doors til 20 mins before showtime and all tickets are $8.50. Most shows are second-run and the line-up is always interesting and borderline fringe. I dig it the most. Speaking of fringe, if you are lucky you will see some street toughs get into a fight over a weed deal gone bad while you are walking to the theater. Just consider that a free preview.
Very cool theater and I am currently flogging myself for taking so long to visit...
The Red Vic is one of those reasons you should be thankful to live in a big city like San Francisco. I suppose you'd call it an art house theater, and as some reviewers have mentioned it's been worker owned and operated since 1980. All good things, as is their tasty popcorn, and comfy seating.
But the real reason to patronize the RV, and this should go for any theater, is their stellar film calendar. You can find it online but they always have print versions just outside the box office, and it's with this latter version that you can plot and plan your monthly viewings. Take December 2007, for instance, which screens The Simpson Movie, Across the Universe, Joe Strummer: The Future is Unwritten and Control amongst others (each movie shows for 1-3 nights tops).
You can see, it's a mixture of hard-to-find documentaries and larger release films that get another "big screen" chance. Planning into January 2008, look for me watching The Darjeeling Limited, Lynch, and My Kid Could Paint That.
Tickets are $8.50 for adults but you can get a 4-admission punch card for $27.
As my loyal fans know, I like the movies. Good movies, bad movies, educational movies - bring 'em on. Being the movie guy that I am, I was shocked to realize that there was a movie house in SF that I hadn't been to yet...the Red Vic!
*cue theme from Jaws*
That all changed when I saw Sharkwater last night. Beautifully shot and a movie with a message - go see it! If the sharks don't float your boat, take a look at some of the movies that were/are at the Red Vic in December:
Once (my favorite movie of the year)
The Simpsons Movie
Control
Baraka
In the Shadow of the Moon
Across the Universe
Winged Migration
Joe Strummer - The Future is Unwritten
As you can see, the Red Vic is the perfect place to catch either an indie darling or a film that you might have missed in the metroplex before it comes out on DVD.
It's really a four star theater that gets bumped up to five for the film lineup, serving popcorn in wooden bowls and for the communal church pew-esque seating in the first couple of rows. I'll definitely be back.
There is nothing like watching a movie the Pope would most definitely not approve of while seated in church pews.
If you like small art house theaters who play pre-film shorts of angels taking popcorn bowls to the lobby and monsters eating people who don't take their trash to the lobby as a reminder not to leave your garbage under the seat then this place delivers.
I know its a co-op and all however $8.50 for a movie that came out far enough in the past to be available for $4 at the local video store seems a bit steep.
Somehow this does not prevent me from seizing the opportunity to check out David Bowie in tights on a screen larger than the one I have at home.
Just go.
Just got back from seeing a movie about Dr. Bronner of "ALL-ONE-FAITH" soap fame. You just do not see the same quality of movies at large movie houses. I have never been let down here, and come as often as I can. There will forever be a Red Vic (schedule) poster on our wall.
Tip: If you like the Red Vic, you also need to check out the Lumiere http://www.yelp.com/bi...
You are a jackass if you have lived in S.F. for a number of years and haven't checked this place out.
Embodies so much of what I love about our city.
Yay Red Vic! Ya-hoo for you!
Another throw back to years gone by.
As a young adult, we use to come here for the old campy movies, old comfy sofas, popcorn in a bowl and drinks in a reusable plastic cup.
Have since gone yeppy and want the comforts of cushy seats and big big screens. .
But I do highly recommend this place as its one of the few places that started the whole cycle of recycling. . .And they show great movies.
My first experience at the Red Vic was years ago when I saw Pulp Fiction for the first time. I walked knowing I just saw something special - I just couldn't remember it - and then we went Kaz a Man next door - that was fun but don't remember that either. I think there was more in the hookah than the tobacco. Back to the Red Vic - one of my favorite movie houses of all time - the ipidimy of an art house. comfy seats, (if your a shortie make sure no tall sits in front of you there is not much of a slope) good sound and a good size screen.
I was there for my cousin's screening http://www.yelp.com/ev...
Go see some art and get enlightened at the Red Vic Fo Sho. Tell em "Fo Sho" Sent you.
Go see my cousin's film Fo Sho too!!! "A World Between" http://www.aworldbetwe...
I came here to see Manufactured Landscapes last night. I love the idea of a collective movie theater. It feels so San Francisco. It felt great to support something other than the enormous AMC theater in SOMA or on Van Ness.
I just couldn't give the last star because the seats were SOOOOOOOOOOOOO uncomfortable. My bum still hurts.
Red Vic you're awesome.
They hosted a screening for me last week (http://www.yelp.com/ev...) and were awesome every step of the way.
I love the intimacy of the room and just the friendliness and lack of pretension of the folks who work there are giving me the warm fuzzies right now.
I wanna make more movies just so I can show them there.
the red vic has the potential to be one of the best theaters in the city, but it just can use more care. The screen is very small and the projection isn't that great.
i love the couch seating setup, its really a cool idea.
i love the red vic despite the fact that i always insist on sitting on the love seat pews that make my ass feel like what a comatose's ass must feel like when they wake up after a few years. i even love the fact that they don't take cards...i perpetually only carry three thousand dollar bills, which they won't give change for.
but what i really love about the red vic is that they serve popcorn in those big wooden salad dishes that my grandma would make us wash and dry immediately after using that always smelt of wishbone brand italian dressing, that the pop (errr, soda) is served in the larger version plastic cups that we drank milk out of at summer camp and that there is always ass loads of literature to grab on your way out for the bus ride home.
...and besides, where else can a girl go who wasn't old enough to have some guy shove his tongue down her throat and practically taste the inside of her socks when labyrinth, dr. strangelove or the muppet movie originally came me out?
