By Jackie Fender
Films are made to be seen on the big screen. Whether a high octane blockbuster hit loaded with special effects or a gritty, indie cult classic, a director creates a piece of work with the intention of it being seen by adoring fans and critics alike in a darkened theater while nibbling on buckets of generously buttered popcorn. Though there seems to be a spike in theater going folks during the summer months and around the holidays, movies are released to the big screen weekly, vying for spying eyes’ attention. WIth no shortage of movie theaters awaiting film buffs to fill the rows, here are a few local and unique gems awaiting you in the South Sound.
The Grand Cinema
The Grand Cinema is perhaps the most recognizable theater in the South Sound as a go-to for foreign, independent and local films. As a 501c3 non-profit organization, The Grand is run by a board and employed by an army of volunteers. This equates to an aura of genuine film admiration emanating from theater. If a film is among the Oscar nominations and award winners you can bet it was ready for viewing during The Grand’s film rotation. Not only do they show some of the best examples of film making but The Grand also hosts a gaggle of film related festivities like the Tacoma Film Festival, 25 Faces of Independent Film, 72 Hour Film Competition and Tacoma Film Camp, to encourage Tacoma’s creative community culture. Furthermore, The Grand likes to get the minis started on movie amore early on with Free Family Flick every third Saturday of the month, sponsored by Click Cable TV. The first 100 to file in through The Grand’s doors at 10 a.m. get to view the featured G rated flick free of charge. See The Grand Cinema’s website here for listings
The Grand Cinema
253-593-4474
606 Fawcett Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98402
Blue Mouse Theatre
The Blue Mouse Theatre is a gem of a theater in the heart of North Tacoma’s Proctor District. Boasting historical architectural design and charm, the theater has been in the business of showing films since 1923. As Tacoma’s only discount theater house, Blue Mouse has a weekly rotating viewing of films you missed at the larger multiplexes at a fraction of the price. Blue Mouse continues to elevate the local film culture by hosting the Tacoma Sister Cities International Film Festival, Destiny City Film Festival, and Blue Mouse keeps it real with showings of the cult classic “Rocky Horror Picture Show” on the second and fourth Saturday of every month. It’s a must visit if only to marvel in the vintage appeal and historical significance. See Blue Mouse Theatre’s website here for listings.
Blue Mouse Theatre
253-752-9500
2611 North Proctor
Tacoma, WA 98407
The Olympia Film Society
Located in the heart of Washington’s capitol lies the Capitol Theatre. This historic landmark has been used as a theater since its inception in 1924 and was revived to its former glory in 1990 by the Olympia Film Society (OFS). As a non-profit, OFS’ mission is, “To enliven and enrich our community by presenting and fostering the development of independent and underrepresented film, music and allied arts,” is brought to life with weekly showings of award winning films and events that include live music, Art in the Mezzanine and their annual Olympia Film Festival. They also host special onetime screening events on the regular. Visit their website here for listings.
Capitol Theatre
360-754-6670
206 5th Avenue Southeast
Olympia, WA 98501
Gateway Movies 8
There’s not a thing wrong with being thrifty and certainly no one could blame you for waiting out the hubbub that comes with the release of a new film. Gateway Movies 8 in Federal Way is another discount film destination just for you. For a whopping $2 you can watch blockbuster hits with the big screen experience. Plus they have hotdogs for a buck. See Gateway Movies 8’s website here to view movie listings.
Gateway Movies 8
253-946-9224
2501 South Gateway Center
Federal Way, WA 98003
All photos courtesy of Jackie Casella Fender
