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Landmarks River Oaks Theatre
2009 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019, United States
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ma
Review №1

If you want to have a real old style cinema... if you are an essay movies fan... if you love that atmosphere of... I don’t know, I just love this movie theatre! Much better than much newer ones!

Yo
Review №2

I had just purchased tickets to see A Rainy Day In New York with my date and we were sitting by the isle and not even 5 minutes into the movie, I saw a huge rat run across the isle.I immediately told my date: lets go well talk in the car.She freaked out when I told her and swore to never return.I understand that this is a very old theater, but there is no excuse to not have regular visits from an exterminator as part of your operating procedures. This is disappointing because this is the only theater in Houston that shows limited release and foreign films that cant be seen anywhere else.Please River Oaks Theater, fix this serious problem immediately!!

Sa
Review №3

I love the history of this old theater and the location is excellent. Its fun that they have a bar on site as well. The only reason I didnt give them 5 stars is because the seats are not very comfortable and have less leg space than a regular theater but besides from that, it is wonderful.

El
Review №4

My favorite place to see a movie in Houston. It is obvious they carefully pick their selection of films to show.

Su
Review №5

This was travel back in time for sure. It’s an OLD theater, they have done great with the upkeep, looks great. 1 screen, original box office outside. One concession stand, in small lobby then straight into the small theater with the big screen. The Rocky Horror Picture show was awesome. They put in a great show fir sure! Love you xm but the bag of supply’s for $2. Wish you could do it old school style bring your own water guns , toast , glitter etc . I want to go back and see an actual movie there. Lots of History. Can’t beat the price $11 for a great time !

Jo
Review №6

My wife and I once moved to West Gray because we were sold on living down the street from this theater! Absolutely my favorite theater Ive ever been too and have never seen a bad movie there. The film selection is great and they also have great popcorn!

La
Review №7

Great art-deco theater built in 1939, playing first-run art and midnight cult films. It has amazingly missed the high-rise omnipresent building cranes to date. Hopefully, Weingarten Realty will continue to be a responsible corporate neighbor and leave it standing as part of the River Oaks Shopping Centre. If you can manage to see your film in the large downstairs (original) theater, it is significantly more comfortable and with better sound than theaters #2 and #3 upstairs. There is a fun bar though upstairs.

Sa
Review №8

A charming historical theater with an indoor bar. Their service is great and the theater is in pretty good shape, but expect less seat and leg room than theaters like AMC.

T
Review №9

Loved visiting this preserved old time cinema- the theatres are small which was nice and seats are comfortable. The popcorn was so yum and fresh! Theres no assigned seating, so get in early if you want your pick!

Ge
Review №10

This theater has been well maintained in a classic style. I have enjoyed coming here for films that dont screen at the larger theaters. They serve adult beverages, which can add fun to the experience. One issue is that parking can be a hassle. However, theres a structure across the street that has free parking and is a safe bet. It would also be nicer if it were easier to walk to enjoy a drink or bite to eat with friends after movies; cafes and restaurants in the neighborhood tend to be closed by the time a night time screening ends.

Au
Review №11

Love this vintage theater that hosts special events that allows audience participation.

An
Review №12

This theatre was built in late1930’s in the Deco style of the era Originally one cinema with one screen converted to three screens. Hosts premiers special events. Still a normal movie theatre albeit one with a full bar upstairs. It has an ambiance you will never find at the mall cineplex. May favoured place to watch films. Parking can be a challenge. Arrive early cafes shopping adjacent to theatre.

Ma
Review №13

Comfortable in every way and beside the place tidy, amazing place.

Su
Review №14

Love the movie selections, but the restroom conditions are deplorable. Don’t know how this theater has not been condemned by City inspectors. Downstairs theater with capacity for 500+ has just one unisex bathroom. Upstairs theaters have two separate bathrooms, however the condition of the men’s room is awful and needs major renovation. On Dec. 28, 2019 half of the men’s room was “Out of Order”!

Ti
Review №15

Love the atmosphere there. The midnight screenings they host weekly are really sweet to attend.

Ed
Review №16

I had a wonderful experience at this theatre. I usually would catch the Studio Ghibli films or foreign movies that arent out at other movie theaters. Its nice and cozy. Great for a date, alone, group or family.

Er
Review №17

5 stars because it has a bar, duh! This is an older theater but its well kept. Be aware that some of the screens dont have a ton of seats so its best to go early. You will most likely need to park in the free parking garage across the street.

Ar
Review №18

I love coming here for a more intimate movie experience. They play independent movies here and do local events like rocky horror picture show. They have great popcorn and vegan cookies that taste delicious!

Ro
Review №19

Love the old art deco bldg.

Fe
Review №20

This is truly a gem of a movie theater. My movie buddy and I went to see some unforgettable movies there including Shape of Water, At Eternitys Gate, and The Favourite, to name a few. The theater is always clean and the staff very friendly. Theres no better place in Houston to see art house films. Parking can be a tad challenging so get to the theater a tad early.

St
Review №21

Its a fantastic place to see a movie. Its really a great theater!

Re
Review №22

Historic theater that is still on business after many years in the location. They dont have lounge chairs but they do have a charming atmosphere and classy look. Theres also a bar upstairs if you feel like imbibing before the show.

Ar
Review №23

Just the building standing there is a blast from the past... Classic theater architecture, and that wonderful marquee... Ive lived in Houston for the so long, & I have not seen a movie here. It is past time to change that!!!

Br
Review №24

Great experience for someone who loves historic buildings. For that reason it is a fantastic place to visit with beautiful architecture. Seats were normal sized for skinny Americans back in the days when Americans didn’t eat so much and were not considered fat.

Ja
Review №25

I appreciate how they are intentional about showing movies I cant see anywhere else in Houston.

Je
Review №26

This is Houstons BEST theater if you enjoy smaller artsy/independent movies and documentaries. It has an old timey feel, not too expensive, and a classy upstairs bar. You can take drinks into the auditorium too.

Ma
Review №27

Lovely. Saw The Irishman in one of the upstairs theaters. Staff was very helpful and attentive. Love the River Oaks!!!!

de
Review №28

Lovely historic theater. Nice and comfy seats. Classic screen and stage theaters. They offer a concession stand and full bar upstairs. Parking is free and pretty easy to find. Plenty of ladies restroom stalls.

is
Review №29

Nice place to watch movies

C.
Review №30

Nice limited release theater. Comfortable seats

Je
Review №31

I can no longer recommend the production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show in Houston. But I do love the theater so it gets five stars.

Ga
Review №32

Only been here once but didnt have an issue. Stayed downstairs and watched a great film! Lots of room in the theater and everyone was nice and helpful. The prices for food are a bit much, but it is River Oaks! Overall, an enjoyable experience and I would definitely visit again.

b.
Review №33

Great movies in an Art Deco styles vintage theater. Unfortunately the seats must be theOriginal seats - they’re torturous.

Ch
Review №34

A lovely theater dating from the 30s. A bar makes the movie going experience that much better. And BTW, absolutely do not miss the midnight movies, especially the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Still as much fun as ever.

Al
Review №35

A go to favorite for me!Houston’s art house for film. This is iconic establishment shows the beautifully done movies you see nominated and winning Oscars every year. As well as, the cult favorites on Fridays and Saturdays during the Midnight Madness series.For real fun, catch the midnight showing and reenactment of the Rocky Horror Picture Show on Halloween— a pure delight!

Sh
Review №36

Always something here that you wont find everywhere else.Sometimes only showing 1 night.3 theatres inside. Snacks in lobby or upstairs (barv too)Walk to many dining options before or after. Its great this old theatre is still providing entertainment.

To
Review №37

Excellent small old school movie theater. Heart staff and sophisticated patrons. Nice little bar in lobby as well!

La
Review №38

Rocky Horror is awesome

Ry
Review №39

Went to see reboot there. It wasnt too bad for an old theater. Seating could be a little better spaced out. From what I counted it seats about 300.

Be
Review №40

Nice little gem to enjoy a movie in an old school theater!

Mi
Review №41

Unusual movie theatre. Serve good food in comfortable surroundings. But pricey but an interesting experience!

ia
Review №42

Apart from the fact that non mainstream cinema movies that are accessible here and elite crowd of viewers who appreciate it. Some of the theaters inside dont have straight walls, which is a bit disorienting first and seat space is a bit small.

Da
Review №43

Even with a couple of minor drawbacks, this is pure favorite movie theater in town. Showing both new and indie films, as well as midnight classics screenings, it is a must to have and visit. The architecture of the theater and surrounding mall is gorgeous too.

Da
Review №44

Wonderful old-style theatre. Great movie selections. Long live The River Oaks Theatre!

Ch
Review №45

I love you so much, please never change. This place is one of the saving graces of humanity. Definite go to for new releases, classic screenings, foreign language juggernauts, you name it. All in all, a good time.

Li
Review №46

This is a jewel of a theater. No maybe its not all fancy with loungers and blankets, but the seats are comfortable and the theater itself is Art Deco. Cute little bar upstairs and you can take your drink into the theater!

K
Review №47

Greatest film theater in Houston. Rich history. Tradition of showing the finest films from around the world. Great directors of today once sat in those seats years ago.

Da
Review №48

This iconic theater takes you back in time. I love coming here!

Jo
Review №49

Beautiful theater :) everytime i go its amazing service! They have some yummy juicy hot dogs there, if you get a hot dog please get a cherry coke its a good combo. The employees are super chill, one employee has a supreme ball and hes so cool. They also play excellent films there.One last thing I just wish they had some juicy burgers :( but oh well the world isnt perfect.

Br
Review №50

Always a pleasure when we go see Rocky Horror Picture show. Never disappointed and always enjoy the show!

E
Review №51

Bae an I had a blast here for the movie premiere

Ud
Review №52

Old school ccommmunity atmosphere. Good for the price.

Tr
Review №53

GR8 venue for drinks & a movie that you cant see anywhere else!

Cl
Review №54

If you want to find a good movie this is the place

Sa
Review №55

This movie theater is so cool. It makes feel like Ive traveled back in time! They have unique movies screened here.

Ma
Review №56

Love this little place. Historic, small, little bar upstairs. Different movies apart from mainstream theaters

An
Review №57

They have some very eclectic taste in what they show which is nice. They also cater to an older crowd so be prepared so have cell phones going off and whispering during the movie

Ma
Review №58

A gem in the city. Great selection of films, good popcorn.

Ja
Review №59

Our tried and true, neighborhood movie house is a monthly treat for our family. We make an afternoon or evening out of the excursion, having a bite nearby at one of the neighboring restaurants in the historic River Oaks Shopping Center. The films are well curated, and are not what one finds at a typical movie theater. Enjoy the ambiance of days past when attending.

La
Review №60

I like this small movie theater and I love most of the movies I see here.

Ch
Review №61

Went to see Raise Hell Molly Ivans.Once again the River Oaks did not disappoint. Always a great film to offer and the nostalgia is endless.

Ke
Review №62

Lover of Independent Films. River Oaks delivers time and time again. A treasure of Houston.

Ha
Review №63

Avant Garde movies. Independent studio movies. Excellent movies. Long history of serving this segment of the public.

jh
Review №64

Seats were clean. Patrons were quiet and polite. Full bar but I didnt make use of it.

Da
Review №65

Cozy and cool. Nice little bar and intimate feel in the theater. Limited seating, which I prefer. Oldschool feel and look. Big thumbs up! Perfect for night out with the wife or girlfriend.

Jo
Review №66

Been going there for uears. Great! Stepping back in time.

Je
Review №67

Enjoyed a great movie. Hot fresh popcorn cold drinks and best of all cold Junior mints.

Je
Review №68

The staff is rude and entitled. They talk down to people. Even the people in the area are incapable of speaking to others. They have no real food to offer. I highly suggest eating before you go in to watch a movie. Their theater seats are old and uncomfortable. The theater where you watch the movie looks like its been under construction for a long long looooong time. I would never go back unless they had $1 movies. The only saving grace that gave them a second star was the bartender, he was a decent guy.

Ne
Review №69

Great theatre to enjoy any movie. Love their comfy theatre and great ambience.

Sh
Review №70

Love this theater and their selection of diverse and interesting movies.

Bu
Review №71

Love it

Ry
Review №72

One of my favorite theaters to go to. I make it a point to see a movie there whenever Im in town.

Mo
Review №73

Great place to see limited run and art-house films.

Te
Review №74

Our Senior Saints enjoyed an outing.We saw the movie Amazing GraceAretha Franklins taping.

Th
Review №75

Glad theyre back!

Ma
Review №76

Great experience ROBERT is so very niceAwesome customer service with a smile!!!

Al
Review №77

Amazing show so much fun Ill be back next year!!!

Li
Review №78

The movies qualities are good.However, the a/c was barely running and the seats were hard.Very uncomfortable.

Ed
Review №79

Beautiful historic theatre. The staff there were very friendly and courteous. Will definitely be back.

Sa
Review №80

Such a nostalgic and cool place to see a movie. Not to mention that the staff has been excellent over the years. My mother was in a wheelchair and everyone went above and beyond to help her navigate to the movie we were seeing on the second floor.

Ch
Review №81

Great theater that shows movies the big chain theaters dont

Ad
Review №82

Its a nice small theater, but that doesnt really matter because most of the time if youre coming here its because its the only place in town showing that movie youre coming for. And Im very thankful for that.

Jo
Review №83

My most favorite movie theatre anywhere. Has an old fashioned charm which is hard to find anywhere else. People who work there are always so polite and courteous. I have never once failed to love my movie- going experience there.

Ro
Review №84

Quaint theater that always has a unique film to show.

Ha
Review №85

Cute little theater. Love that they play independent films and documentaries.

Da
Review №86

Really great theater

Sa
Review №87

A nice place to watch different movies

Ma
Review №88

Huge and elegant main theater. Saw rocky horror picture show here and it was amazing

Ka
Review №89

The midnight movies on the weekends are super fun.

Na
Review №90

River Oaks Theatre is truly a Houston landmark. Its the only remaining Golden Age arthouse theater still screening independent films in the city, and one of the few historic buildings still functioning as it did when it first opened in 1939. While the upstairs smaller theater spaces are a bit stale, the enormous main theater space flanked by original Art Deco friezes and retains its grand old-world charm. I had the pleasure of working at ROT during my university years, and what I loved about this theater included the popcorn machine, vintage cage door elevator lift (still working!), analog film projector, the foreign titles, and Midnight Movie screenings. If you are visiting Houston for the first time, be sure to catch a film here for an authentic and quaint moviegoing experience.

Pa
Review №91

Beautiful old theater with great films.

Jo
Review №92

I love this place. Its very old and authentic. They show the best movies, one no one else will. And Vegan Popcorn!!

We
Review №93

Iconic! Great location. Cozy.

Je
Review №94

I love this place. Best venue to catch a flick in Houston. Always feels like and event and like a hidden gem everytime I walk in.

Do
Review №95

The most charming theater, especially the smaller ones upstairs. Feels like theater in the round. My favorite theater!

Tr
Review №96

Just love this theatre. Its character, movie selections, and popcorn are real.

Zo
Review №97

The employees are nice but the theater is freezing cold which makes for a very long 2 hours.

La
Review №98

Wonderful art-deco theatre built in 1939. There are 3 theaters inside. The old balcony has been divided into 2 small theaters. If possible, see your movies in the downstairs cinema.

Jo
Review №99

First time at this movie theater and I thought it was very nice. The staff is very nice and the theaters are comfortable. For the price I paid to see a movie it was worth it.

Ph
Review №100

Love the vintage feel of this theater. They offer a unique variety of movies.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:2009 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019, United States
  • Site:https://www.landmarktheatres.com/houston/river-oaks-theatre
  • Phone:+1 713-524-2175
Categories
  • Movie theater
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Offerings
  • Food:Yes
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