The Brattle Theatre — Attraction in Cambridge

Single screen, double features, theme weeks, director discussions, author readings, free community screenings, staffed and supported by passionate cinephiles and volunteers. No escalators, cardboard displays, or 20 minutes of previews for the newest Hollywood sequel. I don't know exactly what it is, but I refuse to believe there's anywhere else in America - definitely in Boston - that so embodies the magic of the movies (even the Coolidge, Kendall, or Harvard Film Archive that are all so excellent in their own right). When you sit down in that dark, you feel at home and part of a community in a way that somehow just doesn't happen at a 26 screen Loew's. It might not the nicest theater in town, but If I could give the Brattle 10 stars, I would. Special events regularly sell out, so be sure to arrive early or get...

While there are a variety of super cool events that the Brattle hosts and acts as a great community space, I will say the actual viewing experience here is not the best. The seats in the theater are all directly in front of each other, not staggered, so unless you are front row or aisle, it’s likely someone’s head will be directly in front of you blocking some of the screen. I watched a foreign film with subtitles here, and I was struggling to read. I’m also on the shorter side, so that definitely doesn’t help. But given that I could see other people bobbing and weaving their heads to get a better view throughout the movie, I don’t think I was alone in my struggle. So while I definitely support the Brattle’s cause to show unique films and events, be prepared for the seating and...

Went to an afternoon showing on the Sunday of the Boston Underground Film Festival with my daughter. It was an hour and a half animated shorts collection my brother put together, and it was very interesting and entertaining. Lots of talent from these artists that my daughter appreciated as she's studying animation. The Brattle is an old style theater for those who haven't been there. No seats that tilt back or hold your drink, but they were comfortable to me for the hour and 40 minutes I sat in my seat. I know they show older movies here, so definitely a fun place to go for a date or night out. Also, it's right near Harvard Square, so there are plenty of places to eat before or after the movie. Definitely...