America's leading independent cinema, three screens on West Houston programming new American independents, international arthouse, and restored repertory prints with the authority of a 50-year institution. Film Forum is where American independent cinema and its audience have maintained a continuous conversation since 1970 — the premieres, the retrospectives, the print restorations, the Q&As with directors who started their careers showing films in this room. The lobby is cramped; the seats are functional; the projection is immaculate; the programming is the best in the country. If you see one film in New York, see it here.
Location
West Village, New York
Map
Insider Intel
Film Forum runs two parallel programmes: new releases on Screens 1–2 and repertory on Screen 3. The repertory programme is the soul of the place — restored 35mm and 4K prints of classic and obscure films, often with director or scholar introductions. Check the schedule for double features and themed series. The front seats are close; aim for the middle rows.
Weekday evening for the most engaged audiences. Weekend matinees sell out for popular repertory titles — arrive early. Opening nights for new independent releases attract the New York film community. Summer series bring outdoor screenings nearby.
Film Forum is a non-profit — the institution survives on ticket sales, memberships, and donations. Annual membership gives discounts and priority access. Tickets sell out for popular programmes; buy online. No food beyond concessions. The cinema has three screens — two for new releases, one for repertory. The West Houston location is walking distance from the subway (Houston St on the 1 train). The cinema has no reserved seating — arrive early for popular screenings.