Rialto Cinemas Elmwood — Attraction in Berkeley

We went to see Past Lives there - beautiful cinematography, beautiful soundtrack, beautiful story. But you know what took us out of the movie for its entire duration? People opening their popcorn bags all throughout. Instead of buckets, the concession sells them in paper bags that make SO much noise. You're trying to get into the movie but all you hear is the sound of wrappers. It's infuriating. And when we thought everyone had finished their popcorns and we could enjoy the ending... the theater turned on the lights BEFORE the movie ended. So we watched the last few scenes with spotlights on, colors completely washed off the screen, and a full view of our noisy neighbors. SIGH. Ou recommendation: go here to watch blockbusters that will drown out all the wrapper noises, but save yourself the trouble if you're trying to watch anything else. Sorry for the rant but this is one big reason for watching...

I've been wanting to write a review about this awesome theater that screens independent films. I've gone here a few times over the years while visiting the Berkeley/Oakland area. This summer I happened to walk by and saw that the Leonard Cohen Hallelujah documentary was screening, so I went in the afternoon the next day. Boy was I surprised! Not only was everything wonderful with the theater, but the film directors were present for Q & A following the film. This was an overall great experience that was one of my favorite moments from this past summer. I hope this place continues to thrive and serve the community. (At the time I visited in Summer 2022, an ID, vaccination record, and mask were required. I carry this information with me at all times and was happy to comply and feel safe during...

Right about now I would’ve spent $60 in tickets, popcorn, Cherry coke and candy. Happily watching Jurassic World Dominion but I forgot my vaccine card and even though I am triple vaxxed they wouldn’t let me in. The theater looked pretty empty anyway. So I’m sure they could’ve used my money. The Elmwood Theater is a treasure but they are shooting themselves in the foot with their mask, ID and vaccination card policy. The Elmwood Theater has struggled many times before and has always found support from the neighborhood. Well, when the next desperate cry help comes from Elmwood Theatre,...