Stepping into Film Forum feels like stepping back in time to a different version of New York. That’s appropriate since it’s been in operation since 1970. The vibe is cozy—not in the real estate sense that actually means "claustrophobic," but in the sense that you’ll feel right at home and want to stay for a while.
Going to BAM always feels like a special event, and with good reason. It’s a local institution and features some of the best film programming in the city. If you’re looking to get your face blown off by a cutting-edge sound system, look elsewhere. But if you want to see the latest festival darling or experience an old-school classic on the big screen for the first time, look no further.
This West Village standout boasts impressive series year-round for even the most eclectic tastes. Whatever your mood, there’s probably something playing today at IFC to match it. Its selection of eclectic midnight features can’t be beaten. Is it the most modern spot on this list? Definitely not, but the vibes are good.
Alamo pioneered the whole “get dinner and a beer at the movies” vibe in the modern movie era, and they’ve got it down to an art. The seats are comfy, the popcorn has free refills (and it should, at $9 a bowl), and they program fan favorites year-round in addition to new hits.