6 Unique Movie Houses in the Metro to Catch Intriguing Films

Address: 160 Luna Mencias St. Brgy. Addition Hills, San Juan

Fans of indie films might already know of Cinema ’76 Film Society. It is not your typical cinema: it has seats made of comfy couches with throw pillows on them for a cozy viewing experience and it only allows 50 to 60 people to come in per screening.

The movie house is known to screen indie movies as well as other Philippine cinema classics that have not been shown in theaters for years. Its name is derived from the year 1976, which is considered as the last golden year of Philippine cinema.

Address: UPFI Film Center Magsaysay and Osmeña Avenues UP Diliman, Quezon City

University of the Philippines Film Institute’s Cine Adarna maybe one of the most dated cinema houses out there, but with its age comes reputation. The 800-seater theater is known to screen quality local and foreign films. What’s more, it’s censorship free! So expect no cuts and no alterations when you watch intriguing and controversial films here.

Aside from its screenings, the UP Film Institute also hosts various workshops for creatives with topics that range from photography to writing. The entrance fee depends on the film they’re screening so watch out for their schedule on their Facebook page.

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Address: 855 T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila

For some people, watching movies is more than just a pastime—it’s art appreciation. If you want to learn more about the art of filmmaking, make sure to visit Cinematheque Centre Manila in Ermita. A project by the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the center houses a 101-seater theater, a café, and a museum of film memorabilia featuring the works and personal items of artists like Lino Brocka and Gerardo de Leon.

Aside from airing local and foreign films with provocative themes, they also host workshops for aspiring actors and writers. Rates vary depending on the films, but make sure to visit their Facebook page because they sometimes screen films for free!

Address: Unit G, 154 Maginhawa Street, Diliman, Quezon City

Although it’s not a movie house per se, Blacksoup Café + Artspace in Maginhawa is a place for creatives that hosts poetry nights, improvisational performances, and film showings for free. The café also has a dynamic menu which gives customers an exciting surprise every visit.

Blacksoup Café + Artspace screen movies that range from local indie to foreign award-winning films that will truly pique your interest. The schedule of film showing varies so make sure to check their Facebook page from time to time.

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Address: 4th Flr, CCP Building, Pedro Bukaneg, CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd. Pasay City

If you’re itching to see a good movie and are willing to travel all the way to Pasay, Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Arthouse Cinema can be your new favorite spot. The cinema has a year-long free screening program that will surely fill you up with an interesting and exciting mix of movies from past to present.

Aside from films, CCP Arthouse Cinema is also known for hosting dialogues and workshops where they invite well-known personalities from the film industry. Always be on the lookout on their Facebook page for the schedule of films.

Address: 95 Maginhawa St., Quezon City

One of the newest micro cinemas in Manila, Cinema Centenario joins the list of establishments that are strong advocates of local films. They are also supporters of independent filmmakers who need a space to show their creation to the world.

Cinema Centenario’s theater can accommodate 65 people with seats made out of mahogany and constructed to resemble the old standalone cinemas in the Philippines from years past. They also air films even past midnight, which makes it perfect for night owls! Check their Facebook page for their weekly schedule of screening and workshops. The standard fee for film screenings is PhP200.