6 independent movie theaters where you can catch your favorite local films

Gone are the days when your only way to see a movie is in commercial theaters in malls. Today, there is a push towards the devolution of cinema from mainstream distributors to micro movie houses that spotlight indie films and rerun ones you’ve missed.

 

Cinema ’76 Film Society

160 Luna Mencias St. Brgy. Addition Hills, San Juan | Unit 01, 3rd Flr. Anonas LRT City Center Aurora Blvd. Bagumbuhay, Quezon City
637-5076
facebook.com/cinema76fs

Seats at Cinema ’76 can fill up to more than 70 people. Photo courtesy of Cinema ’76’s Facebook page

A first of its kind, Cinema ’76 is affiliated with independent production house TBA Studios. They screen films both mainstream and indie, old and new, for a small number of audiences in their cozy setup. They recently opened a branch in Anonas, which can accommodate more viewers as well as show two movies simultaneously.


Cinema Centenario

95 Maginhawa St., Quezon City
0945-5367054
facebook.com/PHCinema100

This movie house can accommodate 65 people on these cushioned mahogany chairs

This microcinema in Maginhawa is dedicated not only to showcasing local films but also educating the public about the craft by hosting workshops, talks, and lectures in its intimate space that can fit up to 65 people.


Cinematheque Centre Manila

855 T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila
256-9908
fdcp.ph

In 2016, the Cinematheque was established under the mandate of the Film Development Council of the Philippines. Apart from Filipino films, they also host international film festivals and exhibits.

 

Black Maria Cinema

779 San Rafael St., SQ Film Laboratories Bldg., Plainview, Mandaluyong
782-4566
facebook.com/BlackMariaCinema

High resolution digital projection with surround sound is what sets this Mandaluyong theater apart from other independent ones in Manila. The studio behind it also offers pre-prod and post-prod services for filmmakers as well as equipment rentals.

 

UP Film Institute

Ylanan Ave., University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City
981-8500
filminstitute.upd.edu.ph

Photo courtesy of UP Film Institute

Home to emerging filmmakers, it is no wonder that UP has its own theater to show the works of its students as well as those of its alumni. Its expansive space with plush individual seating could match that of commercial cinemas’ except they don’t charge as much.

 

Museum of Contemporary Art and Design

De La Salle-College of St. Benilde School of Design and Arts, Dominga St., Malate, Manila
230-5100
facebook.com/MCAD.Manila

Photo courtesy of MCAD’s Facebook page

A series of free movie screenings is hosted at the CSB School of Design and Arts every month with varying themes. Although held inside school premises, it is generally open to the public.

 

Header photo courtesy of UP Film Institute 

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