The arthouse scene is thriving here. In order of personal preference:
IFC Center: The newest addition to the scene, which opened on July 17, 2005 at the site of the old Waverly Theater in the Village. I've only been in their main theater, which is small but comfortable and has a big screen with both digital and 35mm projection. The sound system is new, and you can tell.
Landmark Sunshine: Opened in late 2001 in the East Village. Five auditoriums, all of them with big screens and digital sound. The main auditorium downstairs is bigger than you'll find in many multiplex theaters.
Lincoln Plaza Cinemas: Upper West Side near Lincoln Center. One of the city's venerable arthouses. Independently owned and operated by people who really care about the quality of their presentations. Six theaters, all of them comfortable, but the big negative is that the screens are small. I generally compensate by sitting closer.
Film Forum: Same neighborhood as the IFC Center. Damned by many for its functional lack of charm, it shows things that you can't get anywhere else, and both the audience and the ownership are film enthusiasts.
Angelika Center: Many won't even go there, but they still get exclusives that you can't see elsewhere. A refurbishment in the last few years has made the seats more comfortable, but the screens are small, the sound systems are antiquated, and the subway runs directly beneath the theater, which is in a basement. Nothing wrong with the place if you know what you're getting into.
Quad Cinema: Midway between the East and West Village. I go there only when it's something I can't get anywhere else.
The
Metro Twin on Upper Broadway recently reopened, and it's supposed to be nice, but I haven't been there.
Also, check the listings for the AMC 25 in Times Square and the Regal Union Square 14. Both of these get arthouse fare on a regular basis. They're standard-issue modern multiplexes.
Consider off-Broadway. Much of the best stuff is there.
M.
