Gardena Cinema

Great time at this theatre for a friend’s birthday! They rented out the theatre for a private screening of her fave movie! The vibe was so nostalgic of the old days, with the concessions and popcorn, the feel of the place, it was a great place to have a bday party for sure!! I’ve posted the prices for renting it out; this was taken January 10, 2026.

Great local establishment! Used to go here prior to it becoming a non profit, I enjoy it so much more now. Live music, special events, showings with writers/directors, original seats, cosplay contests, affordably priced, out of the box entertainment that makes life much more enjoyable. Please visit Gardena Cinema and keep it running! You won't be displeased.

This place has so much local history very authentic since the 70s . It has a huge theatre room the film and the sound were great. My friend and I watched scream just us. They had delicious icees, and nachos. They play the movies in Spanish on Tuesdays which is cool.

I haven't been here since I was a kid! It's so crazy that this little spot is still standing! It's clean, friendly, they have cool showings! Support local!

First time here for the BOULEVARD NIGHTS event. The event said: 6:30 - 7:30 (Meet & Greet). I arrived around 6:30 and I didn't see any actors sitting at the Meet & Greet/Photo op table. Later actor Richard Yniquez walked in and chatted with a few folks before going upstairs to a restricted area off limits to the public. Also the Q&A session wasn't really a Q&A, except that they only let one audience member ask a question. In my opinion, the event could've been planned a little better. But outside of that, listening to the writer and actors talk about their memories of the film was pretty cool.

The Gardena Theater feels like stepping back in the day old school movie charmbibe you don’t see much anymore. Fair prices at the concession stand and a timeless atmosphere make it worth the trip every time.

I came for the Gardena Picture Show to see [wonderfully curated and presented] local short films and will definitely be returning. Heartened to be part of such a great crowd — the event vibes were great🍿 I’m so excited to find out there’s a family-run theater in the South Bay that that has cult/indie programming (as well as first-run blockbusters, I may be back for Barbie 💖) when usually I’d be driving all the way up to Hollywood or DTLA to see a film like In The Mood for Love or a secret Stephen King feature. Cheers to Judy Kim for supporting local artists at this historic venue, and everyone who contributed to the Gardena Picture Show. (The vintage seats inside were a bit snug around the hips for me—noting as a heads up for folks with bigger bodies, the seats are about the width of a standard airplane-seat and have stationary arm rests/dividers).

Very awesome classic theather I had an amazing time I highly recommend to visit this gem while u can very clean and friendly service 🙂

Truly the best place I've been shown in years. Gardena Cinema is a family owned independent theater that has been passed down for a generation. I was lucky enough to be told about this place from a friend and was able to get tickets to a benefit comedy set from Bill Burr. The event was to raise money and it was sold out. What an incredible event! Since then, I've returned to watch some great older movies and participate in some fundraising events to help out. This place is so worth it and the movies they show are varied and wonderful to see on screen.

There's something magical about watching a film in a spot that hasn't been swallowed by chain-theater sameness. No $12 artisanal water, no confusing "premium" seat pricing, just pure old-school vibes. The screen lights up, the room goes dark, and suddenly you remember why you fell in love with movies in the first place. The seats might not recline like a La-Z-Boy, but honestly, that's part of the charm. I came here for the movie, not a nap.

This place is a gem! It has been owned by the same family for almost 50 years, but has actually been in business for almost 80! I come from a small town and love the warmth and crunch of a local-owned movie theatre. I went with a friend who used to work at a theatre like this and we were all for the adventure. Plus the cinema was showing a special documentary Ryse Up Documentary, a film about Ryse Williams, about a local guy, so it would be a special and touching evening - and it was! First of all, follow their social media to see what cool events are coming up! That is how we heard about this screening. It was easy to buy tickets online, and super easy to check in at the box office having done so. We parked in free parking, walked in, there was a volunteer greeter who was super friendly and read my tarot cards! The line for food and drinks was quick. I got a large popcorn and a drink. I think next time I will get a hot dog and nachos because they looked amazing! They had tons of extra stuff that you can sprinkle on your popcorn from tajin to cheese popcorn flavors. They also had a wide range of condiments for the dogs. I loved the view from the lobby past the cushioned door and into the rows of seats! There are so many rows of seats plus it had seats up front facing the audience for the events they hold. This screening was having a Q&A with the director. We walked in and got our seats. I was almost disappointed that the floors were not stickier and the seats were not dustier! Since this was a special event there were no previews. Just an introduction and we went right into the beautiful documentary about a shining local son. Being surrounded by his friends and family made it even more touching. After the film there was a Q&A where we learned more about the documentarian's connection to Ryse, the film making process, and where the documentary will go next. What a special and emotional evening! Let's help these guys get to their big anniversary next year! They breathe new life into your favorite films, host themed weekends, they have events with Oscar-nominated films where the director comes and speaks. They also support the art of cinema through projects like this documentary or the Movie Screeners club where filmmakers get to screen their project for an audience and get feedback. They have fun memorabilia on their eBay page (I've bought a few scripts to read). Make it a goal to go at least once, and I feel like you may get hooked!

Went to see "Army of Darkness " here on 10/19/25. First time here. If you love the old school, single screen movie theater experience, this place is amazing. Just reminds you of what the movie theater experience used to be like. Every staff member I encountered was great and friendly. Plus FREE parking. Can't beat it.

Has been owned and operated by the same family since 1976! I'm glad this place is still around. I went here a few times as a kid when I actually lived in Gardena in the 1990s. Had a wonderful time here ... please support Judy Kim's theater ! Consider becoming a member or even volunteering and or check out a showing ! There aren't many places like this anymore, we lost over 1000 screens in the United States during the pandemic including the landmark on pico...which was like a second home to me ...so please check them out !

This place is so reminiscent of a time when going out to the movies on the weekend was an experience. Doesn't look like much from the outside. It actually looks old and beat up. The same goes for the part of the city it's located in. I was invited to a showing of a low budget, independent film, so I wasn't expecting much. Tickets were purchased online prior and shown at the box office window. When I walked in through the door, I thought to myself, "What the?" The concession stand is old school small. They even have a payphone that looks like it still works, although I didn't pick up the receiver to see if I could hear a dial tone or not. I also noticed numerous plastic baskets of free VHS and DVD movies. It wasn't until I walked into the theater that I said to myself, "Oh wow, so many seats!" Note, seats are old school, not as padded as we've gotten used to. The night was an experience for certain. The filmmaker had a band play before the movie. Their set was over an hour. It wasn't a private showing, so I got a kick out of observing the elderly Asian couple who most likely comes and watches a movie every weekend. So, if you're interested in seeing an old movie, like "Psycho," a blockbuster from the '80's, or something weird from the '70's, this is the place to come because they're showing it. It's a privately owned theater. The owners are trying to keep a piece of history alive. Parking: They have their own free parking lot right next to the theater. There is also plenty of free, street parking.

If you wanna see a movie in an old-school movie theater, this is the place to go. Pretty much, this is the last man standing of family-owned theaters in the whole of the greater Los Angeles area. And, it is a true testament of time. The moment you walk in here, you feel like you've stepped back through the decades and you're seeing a movie at a theater that you went to when you were a child or a teenager. Great place! This is a large and very spacious theater. They have a lot of seats. Meaning, for the most part, you're going to be able to sit in your own little section and not be too bothered by other patrons. This theater commonly shows movies from back in time. They offer a great selection of vintage, classic, and 3-D films. Personally, I came here to view the premier of one of my friend's films. And, it was a great location to see the movie. This theater also has a very old-school refreshment counter. They offer many of the expected theater food and drink items from times gone past. If I were to make one comment about their drink offerings, the one thing that they do not offer is bottled water. Yes, they do have a little self-serve water container over to one side of their counter which is free. But, as times have changed so much, and a lot of us just don't want to drink traditional soft drinks and things like that, or get water from vessels that who knows how many other people have touched, I would suggest that they offer bottled water. That's just my opinion... Overall, this is a great place to go and see a movie.

visited gardena cinema for the first time this afternoon for a screening of one of my all time favorites army of darkness (1992) and oh my god what a hidden gem!! i've lived in LA for about 4 years and i frequent all of the independent cinemas but somehow this was a blind spot for me. the staff was so kind and helpful and i LOVED the horror decor in the lobby - it's clear that this is a theater that loves a good horror flick! also parking is an absolute dream with a HUGE free lot adjacent to the theater specifically for gardena cinema patrons. i drove 45 minutes from silver lake to check this out and i will absolutely be going again. PLEASE SUPPORT THIS LOVELY FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS!! keeping historic theaters going is so important, especially ones like this :)

Charming!!! So much personality in the building itself, from the stand alone nature and it's marque, to the lobby and the balcony crying rooms. The owner Judy is a passionate and compassionate person. There's always something special happening at Gardena Cinema. The volunteers work so hard and so a beautiful job of keeping the theater operational. Everyone involved clearly has a love of cinema and the cinematic experience.

I have a good memory this lovely place long time ago since 1997. I'm very respect to Kim's family They so kind and diligent all the time. I wish this Cinema Never move and close!

I never knew this theater existed. We met the owner, Judy Kim. The theater has been around since the '70s. The movie we watched was called "Better Luck Tomorrow." It was my first time watching the movie, and it's a beautiful Asian film. They also show previously screened movies here, and the space is available for rent. Just follow them on Instagram. They also have a huge parking lot next door, so parking won't be an issue.

Such an awesome old school cinema theatre. Loved all of our visits so far along with the atmosphere. Everyone that works there is super nice. They always have cool events (like the one pictured) where they bring in musicians before the film to perform some of the score. Huge plus is definitely the parking as well, it's a huge spacious lot. Only drawback is the popcorn; well, the butter specifically. Unfortunately it was not edible, we had to send it back. But they apologized and gladly gave us another order with no qualms which was truly appreciated.

Staff was extremely nice and theatre was huge. I really enjoyed my time here. I will be coming back to support this family owned business.

What a cool theater. An Instagram friend posted about this place, so we went to see House of Wax in 3D. Very old school, with a great concession stand- reasonable prices too. All of the employees were so friendly and happy to answer questions. Will definitely be back here!

Step back in time and enjoy classic movies in this historic theater, with a large parking lot and extensive concession options. The friendly owner and staff provided personalized attention, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!

I had the best time watching Barbie here! We had a date night and we were so pleased! It's so quaint and cute inside and the owner and my boyfriend and I talked for a long time and got some great movie posters! This is such a cute gem in our neighborhood! We'll be back.

It has a special place in my heart as I worked there in the 1970's while attending college.

I drove 18 miles/50 minutes to Gardena Cinema to see a 2:30 screening of The Killers (1946) starring Ava Gardner. I was excited to see this film on the big screen. When I entered the auditorium, the first thing I noticed was that it was very cold. I didn't worry about it because if anybody can warm you up, it's Ava Gardner. 2:30 No movie. 2:45 No movie. 2:50 Someone announces that there are technical difficulties. 3:00 Someone brings the audience a German film festival tote bag and asks for more patience. 3:15 Someone announces that we are going to be shown three shorts that are part of a competition. 3:20 Trailers played followed by the beginning of the first short. 3:31 Obviously, there will be no Ava Gardner; therefore, I leave. I realize that there can be technical difficulties that are not the fault of anyone; however, at some point shortly after 2:30, the audience should have been given a refund. If anyone from Gardena Cinema responds to this I'm sure they will say that I did not ask for a refund. My response in anticipation of that comment is this. Why should I have to ask? Whatever positive spin Gardena Cinema tries to put on this situation is unacceptable. I did not receive what I paid for. A refund should have been instigated by the business. I will never go to this place again. I left the unwanted German film festival tote bag draped on the seat next to me. If anybody wants it, go get it.

I attended a Prince event called Take Me with You. It was the movie Purple Rain and DJs after the movie. It was such a fun night. I had a hotdog and drink the food was good. It's a movie theater, so it had your typical refreshments. The theater is an older one, so the seats are a little uncomfortable. It was a fun idea to be able to dance and move around to all the best Prince songs after the movie. I hope they continue to do events like this!

This place is awesome!!! You need to support local movie theaters. Historic and family run, if you're anywhere near Gardena, please stop by and see a movie or come to an event...

Campy good times. I unironically hope they never update the place. It's a very classic experience.

This is a cool single screen 800 seat theatre. Was there trying to support a small business & dying industry. They offer food & an intimate viewing experience.

Movie theatres aren't dying there's just too many multiplexes showing the same boring junk. Real movie fans will always want to see film on a screen and thankfully it seems Gardena Cinema has a good chance of making it since they moved away from first runs. Not having to drive to midCity/Wilshire is a giant plus.

This is a wonderful movie palace. 800 seats. The family is so friendly and wonderful. Lots of treats to pick from at the concession stand. Definitely come to this beautiful single screen theater. The last single screen movie house in Los Angeles. Please come out and support this wonderful Theatre. First run films here like Black Panther 2 . They also show classic films to like Clint Eastwood westerns and other wonderful movies you grew up seeing

Umm first off TOATS cute place. We watched The Shining in the drive in theatre as a fun little date night. The theatre owner spoke briefly in the history of the theatre which i felt like was a nice touch and you can tell she really cares for it. You can of course bring your own food but they have all the movie snacks you can think of. We are definitely going back here.

This small Classic theater takes me back to when I was a kid. This is what going to the movie theater was like. I actually bought some thing from the owner off of OfferUp and that's how I ended up at this nifty cool, retro theater Judy the owner has been there since 1976. When her family purchased the theater, very cool lobby reminds me of when they were independent movie theaters still like when I was growing up. This is a very cool piece of history and I was able to park right in the front. Looks like there's a parking lot that is fenced and gated for when the venue is open I was there when it was not open it would be nice to see it with the lights on and popcorn going :-) just meeting Judy and seeing the lobby made me smile and remember a simpler time. I will be going back very soon support your local theaters Independent theaters are practically nonexistent. This is a very cool find.

Amazing small place don't take anything personal just enjoy everything that is there and praise the fact that someone alone has been working hard to keep that place alive its awesome

This place deserves more business & definitely more favorable reviews. In a day-and-age where surround sound, table service, and memory foam recliners dominate chain theaters, this one room (yes I mean that literally) movie house gives you a small taste of the simplicity of yester-years... This place is locally owned & run by an older couple & their daughter, and they sure put in a ton of hours to keep this space up & running smoothly. Hard work at it's finest right here! Yes, the popcorn isn't the freshest & there isn't much in the way of climate control, but this makes you all the more immensed in the movie experience rather than just coming to snap some Instagram photos. You truly get to enjoy a movie in a classic, preserved setting the likes of which the most of this city/country has long since forgotten. This shouldn't be overlooked! Cute, romantic, honest, & wonderful. This place is a Memorable date night as well as a birthday party venue at Extremely reasonable prices. Come here!!

What a Gem! This is in such a random location, but is an awesome place. Very cute, old school and with that touch of good customer service. It's not a chain and seems to be run by a family who were all nice. The lady at the concession stand even asked if the temperature inside the theater was too cold so she could adjust the temperature. Thoughtful! You gotta love that personal touch. Place: I found this theater charming. Feels and looks like it's a theater from a small town in somewhere, USA. Don't come here and expect your "normal" chain theater dealings, enjoy it for what it is, an experience. There's only one show room. With a really huge screen and plenty of seating! Suggestion: Bring a cushion for you to sit on, maybe one of those they sell for baseball game seats, your bottom will thank you later! After all the seats are kind of like stadium seats, these however did have very little cushioning and this will get uncomfortable over time. The concession stand has the usual items you'd find in chain theaters, but also offers other items like a variety of chips/candy selections, Energy drinks/ juices and coffee. I do want to note that the pop corn was slightly different when I went because it wasn't buttery and I'm making the assumption that because of the low volume in people they might have received, it might have not been as fresh.... Prices: The prices are great! For both the tickets & at the concession stand. No arm & leg prices to get you here, but just fair pricing. Monday's they have specials on ticket prices too and I believe they do other days as well. Parking: There's street parking and they also have a parking lot to the left of them (if you are facing the front of the theater) that's free and had plenty of parking when we went. Enjoy!

Wish I could go to this cinema, but I'm 1 hour away! I might just make the drive. I just watched a story on the news and it's a theatre that transports you back in time. Makes me very nostalgic! Hope the community rallies and visits the theatre! They need patrons! Please help out the theatre!

Enjoyed the screening of Every Which Way But Loose with Clint Eastwood. It's a quirky and fun film. Gardena Cinema is a great family run business. It's essential that we continue to support family run businesses that strive to innovate and deliver a great customer experience. Covid19 has been devastating for movie theatre operators. Let's do what's necessary to support these vital pillars of community entertainment. From the Great Depression to Covid19, these establishments have provided an escape from the challenges of everyday life.

Absolutely love this place me and bf come here quite often and it's always clean, staff is always very helpful and friendly. Very good service. Love this place

First time coming here to watch the Mario movie with my daughter and brother and I honestly liked it! The popcorn was good, the nachos were okay but other than that staff were friendly and makes it feel like my childhood definitely will be coming back!

Saw a Tiktok saying it's in danger of closing down I hope that's not true me and family would always go here when we were younger it's also the last family owned movie theater in Los Angeles

Super fun night at the Gardena Cinema drive in! It was very well run by friendly staff who helped with keeping the vehicles spaced well apart. Everyone was wearing masks while outside and the snack bar was socially distanced well. We really enjoyed seeing Back to the Future!

I was so excited to try this little local threater. I took my two daughters (6 and 2) and my sister to see Aladdin on a Monday. The man selling tickets told me I had to pay for 4 tickets because it was Monday. But right in front of me was a sign saying no walking kids were free. Then he tired to say if I bought 3 tickets at normal price I'd still be spending more then 20 dollars. So I should buy the 4 tickets. It ashame to see local businesses trying to rip off people. Your sign clearly says my daughter is free. But because we came on the 5 dollar mondays, you wanna upcharge us. How is that right or fair??

This is my second time at this cinema and I got to say prices are fair not only per tickets but for goodies too. Please keep in mind this place is old school and like other reviews say: you get what you pay for but if you're open minded and don't mind having certain luxuries that big chain theaters now days have, then you might enjoy a movie here. Also on Monday's are $5.00 and Tuesday's have movies with Spanish subtitles.

Service is always great when I come here. Usually there aren't a lot of people here and you get the whole theater to yourself. They have popcorn, nachos, and everything available at the snack bar for a reasonable price. Tickets prices are around $9.

Lots of seating, parking, and tasty snacks. I love supporting small businesses. Will definitely be back. Had an auditorium feel to it. Great lounge music while you wait for show to start.

I love this theater. It is nasty, run down, no parking, old uncomfortable seats, old structures in bathroom, only one movie showing and video games that are turned OFF. Why go? The tickets are cheap. The concessions are cheap. The sound system is good. The screen is actually clean and they focus their films. Pre film entertainment is weird. There is a recorded announcement before the movies that drones on and on about trash, not drinking alcohol, etc. and then repeated in Spanish. Go a little later or hang out in the lobby. There is a balcony available for parties. You will never have trouble finding a seat. The auditorium is HUGE. There is only street parking, so you'll have to hunt for a spot in front. The concessions are cheap, so you can see a movie and get something to munch on for less than $20. (When was the last time you could do that in a chain theater?) The owners are nice. They will offer you posters and other promotional materials. Theyhave a customer loyalty card, too. Check around town for fliers to get free popcorn. You just buy a drink. What a deal! The popcorn is made fresh and they even have flavored salts. What it lacks in amenities is made up in service and cheap prices. I always look to see what is showing first, before going to another theater.

This cinema is amazing. I'm not sure where the parking is exactly. We parked in the front of the cinema. Free 3 hour parking. $9 a ticket for general admission. The man gave us our tickets then walked around to unlock the door. It was nice to know that this place is safe. The lobby area is small. I believe they only have 1 theatre, maybe 2? The lady owner was so nice! Took our concession order. We got a pizza combo (two slices and a drink for $5). I'm not sure if this is every day or just a special. She heated up our pizza without us asking. I thought that just showed the care and quality they put into their business. There were 2 workers cleaning the theatre as we were walking in to sit. They even apologized for the popcorn mess. Both workers were so nice. This is such a cool spot!!! I wish Las Vegas had a place like this.

I can't Believe there is still such a thing as a family run and owned movie theater. five dollar Mondays? Wow. And still first run movies. I will be coming back over and over to this place and bring my friends. Also, they have original movie posters for only $20. Great gifts.

I remember coming here when i was little and i loved it I thought I can continue the tradition and bring my daughter we came to watch aladdin when i went to buy a ticket they charged me for my daughter even though shes one and she doesnt walk yet according to their sign they dont charge non walking children and then i went ahead and purchased popcorn and soda I proceeded to add jalapeños and popcorn seasoning which tasted old and expired cus the seasoning was stuck together which should had been a red flag for me it made me throw away my snacks because it tasted old this theater would gotten 5 stars if the service was better and their snacks need to be more fresher and buy new stuff dont just saved whats left and re use it i dont know if i would ever come back again

I had no idea this place even existed but I'm so glad I found it now! It's true that there is only one movie room (which has like at least 250 seats) and they only show one movie for a several-week period. But, you come here for the price! Unlike other movie theaters that cost anywhere from $15-$20 for a non-matinee show, this theater only charges a max of $9 for the ticket. And you'll be watching one of the hottest movies to come out at the time. The seats are old fashioned, but still comfortable and the screen quality is good. Plus, it's kinda neat to be sitting in a huge theater, with only a few people. It almost makes the movie more enjoyable since you don't deal with the noise that usually comes from other theaters that are full of movie-goers. I even heard that popcorn is only $4! Would definitely come here again the next time a great movie is playing. Parking: I heard that there are a few spots available in a nearby lot. But, the theater is also close to a residential area, so I was able to find street parking without any difficulty.

Found an event at this drive in because I was searching for a showing of Twilight or any of the films in the Saga (just an idea) but found a showing of Grease instead. I always wanted to see Grease at a drive in so my friend and I bought a ticket. The gates opened at 6:30 but we got there at 7:10. We had no trouble coming in. The staff was great and so nice and all had masks. We were shown to our parking spot. Something to keep in mind is that this parking lot is small. Didn't affect our experience in anyway just pointing out that tickets might be limited. The event we went to sold out and they added a second showing at the last minute. They also put taller cars in the back. Smaller cars are in the front. All spots were distanced. They had a dj playing music. You could bring in your own food or buy stuff at the concession stand which was open but you must wear a face mask. You could also use the restrooms inside the lobby. The restrooms were nice and clean. Everything was socially distanced. After the movie, we had a little car trouble. My car was not turning on for whatever reason even though we had the car off during the showing as I have a portable radio and didn't need my car radio. We were looking around for help and the staff came and they had a portable generator and gave us a charge. I don't know if they always have that or if someone saw us struggling and let the staff borrow it but either way, we were grateful. We would definitely come again!

I'll just keep it simple. Last time coming here. Service was horrible. The ticket holder rejected our entrance just because we couldn't understand one another. Just tossed my credit card back at me through the slot and said see you tomorrow. People just be aware of bad service here. He was probably having a bad day.Any who thanks. Wouldn't recommend to come here anymore....

Cute little cinema near my house I have been wanted to go to for years. Decided to finally go especially to support a family business. The male at the ticket counter was a little rude but maybe he was having a bad day. The cinema is very cute I liked to set up. The room was chilly and the seats were uncomfortable but in all I liked the experience of a non cooperate cinema. Parking is easy and free, I would for sure go back and support them.

First time watching a movie at this theater. I've lived in Hawthorne for about four years now and this mom n pop theater is playing a movie I want to watch. Ok, it's totally old school but it's not crowded, considering It is a new movie. Oh did I mention it's $9 for adults!! And just in case you're wondering, they do accept debit cards.

Went to Gardena Cinema to watch Beetlejuice. Due to Covid the cinema is showing movies in the parking lot drive-in style. Cool 75 year old cinema family owned and operated since 1976. The staff was nice and friendly. I would definitely visit Gardena Cinema again!