by Mabel Jane

Created on: January 09, 2010

Independent films are known for their artistic style, low budgets and for their obscurity. Most independent films have limited releases, which means they are no released to all movies theaters, especially block-buster-loving theaters. This adds to the allure and mystery of the independent film, yet also adds to the frustrations of those who love this kind of movie. Luckily, for fans in Philadelphia, there are a number of theaters scattered among the city that show these obscure, artistic wonders.

Ritz Theaters
www.landmarktheatres.com
The Ritz Theaters in Philadelphia are part of the Landmark Theater chain, which, as stated on its website, “is the nation's largest theater chain dedicated to exhibiting and marketing independent film” (www.landmarktheatres.com). There are three Ritz Theaters in Philadelphia: Ritz East, which is located at 125 South Second Street; Ritz Five at 214 Walnut Street and Ritz at the Bourse, located at 400 Ranstead Street. All three theaters are small and show two to five films. Guests can also find out more about the films being shown by picking up the newsletter offered in the theater.

The Roxy Theater
The Roxy, located between 20th and 21st on Sansom is a tiny theater (it only shows two movies) that is often overlooked and under-appreciated. It isn't known for its quality and first-rate appearance. Movie tickets are red raffle tickets and the snack bar is a tiny counter right inside the door. The screen is a bit smaller than the average movie screen and the old-school seats are not stadium. However, the Roxy seems to have a cult following and becomes home-y to the frequent visitor. Plus, it is convenient Center City location and cheap tickets ($8.00). The theater, which usually shows one popular, big-budget Hollywood flick and one independent film is a great place to watch a movie without the hype and glamour– and big spending.

2424 Studios
www.941theater.com
2424 Studios is the new location for the Philadelphia Friends of the Projected Arts, a nonprofit group that supports independent film artists, to show film screenings of rare flicks. The infamous 941 Theater in Northern Liberties, named best new venue by Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly in 2009, was once the home for independent films. However, much to the dismay of its followers and after a valiant effort to save the theater, the PFPA has announced the permanent closing of the theater. For more information on the 941 Theater, the  Philadelphia Friends of the Projected Arts and 2424 Studios visit the website listed above.

For movie times check out the websites of the theaters or moviefone.com.

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