Gene Siskel Film Center

SAIC arthouse theater featuring indie, international and old films. The theater and seats are clean. I fav is the quiet the cafe space where you can go and hang out before the movie. Being right across the street from the Chicago theater, it’s the perfect spot for people watching!

Glad to have a spot where limited releases films are shown! Very clean cinema. In the midst of busy State Street. The only reason not 5 starts is they didn’t have concessions - I feel that’s half the fun of a movie… even a box of candy and pop ! maybe cause of Covid? But also I did not find the chairs comfortable. They are soft chairs BUT the back is firm straight , maybe they were so new they didn’t have much “give”. They did lean back , but you had to force it. Great sound! Crisp bold Dolby

I grew up watching Siskel & Ebert so I naturally had to visit when I was in town. Comfortable seats. I was a pleasantly surprised that beer was offered on the menu. Also liked the wall next to the steps commemorating Gene.

I like the selection of these movies. The place has a nice view. The snacks are ni e, hope they could have bigger popcorns. The theater is big and with high sound quality. Seats were normal comfortable.

I had a great time. I went to see the movie "Stony Island" and met Gene Siskel. It was great!

I was really happy to find this place! It’s great to have an arthouse theater right downtown closer to where I live. This was the only place I could find a showing of the new Miyazaki film in Japanese, too. The theater itself was very clean. No sticky floors when you walk around like at AMC. They sell concessions there too for pretty low prices. The screening rooms are on the smaller side, which makes for a more intimate experience. I recommend buying your tickets in advance since there are not very many seats.

Small theatre that showcases unique films that you won't see in the bigger theatres. This place is close to several parking garages, but the best way is on the train Lake/state stops. It's across the Chicago theatre.

The experience was ok... not bad... enjoy

I was in one of the smaller theaters here but my experience was terrific. The theatre was comfortable and clean. My moviegoing experience here had no issues.

Gene Siskel is our go-to movie theater in Chicago. They show a great variety of new indie films that have made their way along the film festival circuit and also playing retrospectives. Thematically, they do a great job grouping their film series. It's also nice that they have a lobby with seats in case you're there early. The tickets aren't the cheapest but for the quality of movies they play, definitely worth it.

Nice mix of eclectic new releases and vintage films, often restored or with Director cuts. They do have an emphasis on minority productions, but overall the selection is good. Get a membership!

I have been a member here (on and off) for 8 or 9 years. I really like the variety of foreign, independent and classic movies offered! The crowd is ideal for those who want a quieter, more mature group (I mean "mature" physically and mentally!) and for $50 a year, one can buy a membership where most films are $6! That's quite a deal, and I try to go at least once a month to get my money's worth. If you live a long way away, there's lots of public transportation nearby for trains and buses. Also it may be a good to buy tickets online for highly in demand shows (it does involve payments to Ticketmaster, boooo!). LIke many theaters they offer decent concessions, not a full bar but many local brews. (Note: there's stores in the area for candy and soda also. This can save time AND money). The lobby is spacious with seating and cool movie posters, but since this is not a multiplex the bathrooms are on the small side, so arrive early.

If you love watching films that aren't mainstream, then go here. Pull up the schedule online and pick a film, they can sell out so plan ahead. This place showcases films you most likely wouldn't see in regular theaters, but have all the quality you'd ask for when watching one. It's impressive to see this kind of dedication to independent films. I enjoyed my time here and I encourage others to check this place out as they are truly supporting the art of film making.

The Siskel Film Center is a municipal treasure, pure and simple. The curation of films here is superb, from the newest foreign films to the rarely seen classics. Some of my favorite movie memories occurred at the Siskel; most recently, Tarkovsky's Stalker, which might be the most engrossing film experience you will ever have. That's what happens here; you have experiences that will stay with you and enrich you forever. Other gems were Gomorrah, the rough and tumble doc about the underworld of the real Italian mob; Goodbye to Language, Godard's 3d film; and many others which escape me at this time. Sadly, I no longer work downtown and do not visit as much as I should, but all Chicago cinephiles who can must spend as much time at the Siskel as possible. Its what sets Chicago apart from all other cities.

I have severe issues with the SMELL of common general air. Consistently the same smell throughout the years and events. Oddly, this is the only public building I know of that has this smell, outside from Greyhound eeky bathroom. Cluttered CONCESSION area and always slow. As much I like and support the FILM CENTER, I must avoid -- FILM CENTER does NOT like me genetically.

Enjoyed the E.U. film event here, and really appreciated the list of film offerings. I was brought here by a friend after a nearby function, whom frequents the E.U. film event annually. I never knew such an event took place in Chicago. Unfortunately, I missed the Greek film on opening night, but we made it to the Bulgarian film. I knew this eastern euro film wouldn't be relatable as the Greek film would've been, but luckily for me, I was moved. The grim reality of the failed state, the poor conditions that shape everyday lives there, the hate and ignorance that permeates the culture, the slavic/ eastern euro stereotypes that render valid to a great extent all present a somber and empathetic reality. The Gene Siskel was very clean, with comfortable seats and concessions. I'm thankful for the indie films - and Siskel - that catapult me away from the megaplexes.

Ok. I'm still gushing and overwhelmed from this event tonight. I really wish that there were more stars to give. Thanks Gene Siskel for having this amazing film festival to share with us. I can't even bring to words what this place means to me. I came here earlier this evening because I received an email in the beginning of the week. It was showing two films on today for $7.00 if you show the email. Cool. So, I took the train and headed downtown on this nice day. I arrived a little so there wasn't a line of people waiting to purchase tickets. I select my movie showed the nice and well spoken polite young lady my email and $7.00 for the movies. This place is set up so nice. You can't help but to take amazingly good pics. I could go on and on about this place. All I can say is that its worth putting this on your places to go list in Chicago. There are so many incredible films to come see with your family friends kids etc. The films are worth coming to see and for you to support the film makers and producers etc. These films are life experience we go through each day. Please go out and witness it for yourself. You will be in for a be in for a treat of your life. P.S They even have a lil snack station where you can purchase popcorn,candy,water,beer and even wine. I was even more surprise and excited to meet on tonight the talented actor Glenn Plummer. Glenn is very known for many films from back in the day and even on today. Also, great meeting The Creative Director Michael Sean of the film 90 Minutes Of Fever which Glenn Plummer was feature in on tonight. After the film there was an open discussion for the movie. The audience was able to ask questions. The bonus and highlight of tonight is when Glenn & The Director came out to greet and allow you to take several pictures with them. Wait for it. They even had food set up on the other side for us. You were able to mingle eat drink etc with Glenn Plummer and staff. I will be coming out for more films to support.

Great small theater to see documentary and short films that you won't see on the big screen.

The screening room is a nice size but intimate. Tonight we were here to see a documentary on Betty Wright "They Say I'M Different", part of the Black Harvest Film Festival that continues through August 30th. The show, sold out was an amazing account of the amazing Activist, Revolutionary Woman, Betty Davis a true pioneer on many fronts including song writing, producing, activism... The after show dialog and Q & A was insightful with Associate Producer Danielle Maggio and moderator DJ/Music Historian Duane Powell. My experience at The Gene Siskel Film Center was amazing.

We just moved from NYC, and I feared I'd miss the great arthouse theaters of that city. And I do, but at least Chicago has the Gene Siskel. In fact, the Siskel is a step up from New York's indie theaters, like the IFC Center or Film Forum. It has the same boutique feel and the same modest-sized screen, the Siskel is clean and offers quite comfortable seats (and a little more space than you generally expect in an arthouse theater in Manhattan.) I wish the Siskel had more than two screens (and I wish Chicago had more theaters willing to show less mainstream fare in the downtown area), but I'm glad Chicago has the Siskel. And, oh yeah, the popcorn rocks and you get a reasonable size of it, unlike the giant tub of mediocre stuff you get in the megaplexes.

I really want to give this place 5 stars but due to the condition of the seating 3 is high as I can click. Ive been a number of times and each time I hope for new seating. Anywhoooo! I recently went to see Love Jones. Totally awesome experience meeting the director and other members of the original crew.

Not the worst theater on the planet but for an art house one it's not that bad. Staff is rude and acts like it doesn't matter that you're there The food is kind of overpriced for Chicago but not bad for a theater. I'm 18 and most of the menu is more tailored for a 21+ audience. I came for a 8:15 showing of High Life and wasn't let in until minutes before the show started. When I went up to give the usher my ticket she looked at it confused and said she didn't know when they were going to let anybody in. Minutes later I saw her let an old lady in but when I tried to go in she said it still wasn't ready. Overall just an average experience- nothing out of this world but not a pile of trash

Had never been here until 2 nights ago. Impressed with the selection of indie films and how an independent theater can survive so close to big theater conglomerates. They have some concessions and a helpful staff.

My friend interrupts my ennui some random, mediocre workday with her email. She invited me to see a movie (that I'd never heard about) at a theater (also that I'd never heard about). All I had to do was figure out where the Gene Siskel Film Center was and the best way to get there. Aaah! A lively interjection in my day. I simply looked up the address of the Gene Siskel Film Center (from Ticketmaster) and discovered that it is right smack dab downtown Chicago. We could easily take the L to the State/Lake stop and BOOM! We're there. The entrance is not nearly as obvious as the glaring marquee of the Chicago Theatre across the street. No. In fact, we accidentally went into (what I assume was) a college residence hall and were promptly directed to the neighboring door. Next, we had to ascend a regular-looking staircase and arrived at a landing. The landing looked like a dissembled art gallery with a ticket window on the right and a strange interpretation of a concession stand on the left. There were people milling about. I asked my friend if she wanted something to eat or drink (after all, she paid for my ticket). A moment later I was shamefaced that the concession stand only took cash. Sorry friend. I can't buy your concessions. The theater was smaller than one at the one at my alma mater (a small, private, Midwest, liberal arts college that has since sprung for a bigger theater). Can you imagine? Let's just call it intimate. We had to sit right next to people rather than having a comfortable buffer seat in between. The seats weren't great and the armrests did not have proper cup holders. The movie itself was fantastic (but this is not a movie review) and I loved the interaction with the director and a cast member. I don't think that has anything to do with the theater though. I think that Jennie T said it well when she wrote, "The theater itself isn't very special." I would take it a step further and say that it's less than special but tries to create faux value with elevated prices.

We can be Independent, together! Watching movies in a theater can be such a joy. Why do we, with all of the DVD and streaming options to us at home, still gravitate to sitting in a movie theater of strangers, completely enraptured, together? The Siskel Film Center is a great place to enjoy independent, foreign, or small-release films with like-minded movie goers. It's really not a stuffy atmosphere like you might think! It's clean, they sell snacks, beer and wine (although those diurectics seemed to have an abnormal amount of people getting up, mid-film), and the price is in-line with most movies these days ($10-11). Picking up their informative newspaper of future releases, I found myself wanting to check out so many films. But not to be hip and in-the-know. I want to be engrossed in the human condition, and I want to be seated next to all of you.

I've been living in Chicago for almost a year and half now, and today was my first time stepping into a theater, which I would've never had known if I didn't accidentally discover the groupon deal. The deal consisted of two (2) tickets ($22 value), two (2) bottles of soda (sold at the concession stand for $4/pop), and a large popcorn for two to share. The deal is $20, paid through groupon and redeemed on site. The theater itself is at a super convenient location where all CTA trains are (you can also access the blue line through downstairs of the block 37 shopping center). The concession stand is over-priced, but which one doesn't? We went for the Bjork: Biophilia live. It was a blast! For those who are fond of Bjork, who is eclectic and eccentric, it's pretty cool to participate the entire concert without flying to London. The only complaint was that the seat wasn't, by any means, comfortable. The AC didn't seem to work efficiently at all, either. I saw many started taking off layers of clothing, so I bet they felt the same way like I did. Overall, it was a pleasant experience. It's great place to experience the cinema art. It's not at all mainstream, yet if you're into some contemporary, independent films, check out this facility. They do offer student discount ($7 for non-art institute students; $5 for art institute students and faculty). There's membership available as well.

I went here this week for the Asian American Showcase. (Sidenote, the movie that I saw here House of Suh was absolutely fascinating). What this theater does for Indie movies is just fantastic. It's a great thing to be able to watch Asian documentaries, I tell ya! The theater only has two or three screens but they seem A-OK to me for my movie viewing. Actual screens were not as big as you would see at a multiplex AMC theater. Wooden cup holders with no bottom so, for example, if you were to bring a can of pop it would slip right through the holder. They sell beer, wine and some snacks which I saw a ton of people purchasing. I just loved the feel of the theater, trendy decor, but could do without the no parking. There is really no parking anywhere and the cheapest parking garage I could find was $23...eek gads!

I finally had the chance to see a film during the recent Persian Film Festival at the Gene Siskel Film Center and what a fine encomium it is to such a great person. As a Chicago native, there were few people more recognizable from my childhood than Gene Siskel ... hopefully he and Roger Ebert are now watching "Grease" over and over again in heaven :) The best part about this theatre is the entrance. It is so marvelous to walk up the sitairs and pass all the cool photos and art on the right. The theatre itself is small that it feels intimate, but could probably host 200 or more people for a big screening. I thought the mixture of foods available at concessions was interesting and unexpected; I didn't expect to see wine, hot chocolate and Skittles all available at the same time. However, seeing the photo of Siskel & Ebert next to each other right before you enter the theatre makes one realize that you are in a place of memories and magic. Long live this center!

By far The Siskel Film Center is the best Independent offered cinema within the loop region. If your looking for the feel of a more local film, documentaries, even animations, this will likely be the place to find those. There's two Actual screening rooms, the big one holding upwards of 250 people and the smaller one for crowds around 40. They offer both regular movie concession and that of alcohol (beer and wine). I've watched countless hours of films here, anything from visiting artists, to documentaries and 35mm prints of films like Hitchcock's "Rear Window", yet never seen a "bad movie" in terms of theater quality. If you haven't stopped in the Siskel, your missing out on rare finds of cinema in the Chicago area. x

Why was the air conditioner cranked way up on a fifty-degree day? I did not realize I was a piece of perishable meat in a thin wrapper until I sat, shivering and refrigerated, inside the theater, trying my best to watch the movie and avoid frostbite.

This is one of the good theaters that show documentaries and movies that are meant to watch. This last time we came to see brimstone and glory and we won't have seen the documentary anywhere else. The place is welcoming. They have a cafeteria and chairs to relax before or after the movie. There are two screens and the chairs are comfortable. They also offer discounted parking near by. Will come and see more movies or documentaries.

Named after the famous movie critic, the Gene Siskel Film Center plays artsy and eclectic movies for people who appreciate the movies. One can even order a great beer to go along with the popcorn. The small lounge area is a good place to relax and wait for your date.

This is one of my most favorite places in the city. Conveniently located on State Street, it is right in the middle of shopping, dining and theatre area. The movie theatre has two movie halls and a nice lobby to enjoy a drink or a snack before the movie.You pay only $6 per movie by becoming a member, which is a great deal. Every month is a different movie selection. They often bring speakers and movie directors, which makes this place an absolute gem for a movie fan.

It makes sense that this theater center gets consistently good ratings for the great variety of classics, foreign, documentaries and other hard to find films shown here. However, the lobby, up one floor from the street, is poorly organized, with lines forming for the box office, small popcorn/refreshment counter and theater entrances all in a single mess. There was one unenthusiastic guy taking popcorn & soda orders. Once inside the theater for our show we found that the rows of rather worn seats had been placed so close together that our knees nearly touched the seats in front of us. We sat down to a loud "clunk"--bars were installed behind the seat backs to keep anyone from reclining even a bit. The experience was akin to economy class on a jammed plane and was about as enjoyable. On the other hand, the documentary we saw was great and we had the chance to talk with the director afterwards, so there's the trade-off. I guess we have to suffer for art.

Gene Siskel Film Center is a fantastic venue to see a film, but don't go expecting to see the likes of Harry Potter, Tron, or anything with vampires; this venue showcases indie and foreign films, and documentaries. In fact, it was the documentary "Orgasm, Inc" (not as sexy as it sounds) that prompted us to go to the Film Center. Ticket prices are reasonable and the seating is comfortable; you almost feel as if you're in a really rich person's house who has a movie theater - it doesn't have that corporate, chain-y feeling. Seats feature cup holders which enabled us to bring Guinness into the movie to enjoy while we watched. Their concession stand (cash only) offers popcorn, snacks, soda, and beer and wine and there are tables to sit at while you're waiting for your film to begin. Employees are friendly and they also offer validated parking, although the theater is so close to public transportation, I can't imagine why anyone would drive here. Gene Siskel Film Center is a fantastic venue that honors one of our most-beloved Chicagoans. I'm sure he is smiling in his grave at his namesake.

Gene Siskel Film Center does so much, even if it's not always good, and even if they're bound to lose money on some things. But they provide options, and I think that's suggestive of the type of work they do in a city like Chicago that doesn't lack smaller and independent theatres. It's not that options don't exist elsewhere, but to have so much, all the time--and to show films that generate dialogue is a pretty precious thing. And it's cheap for students! And you can get alcohol! But a word to the long-legged--snag an aisle seat if you can. Thanks to the film center for hosting the Asian American Film Festival. One certainly doesn't see AMC doing that.

Places like the Gene Siskel Film Center remind me why I'm a "city person". The fact that a documentary on the role of the Grande Duchesse Charlotte of Luxembourg during the Second World War can draw and entire theatre-full of people truly warms my heart. First, the price - so many foreign films, documentaries, and lecture series for only $9! Comparable to (if not cheaper than) your local multiplex. The decent prices extend to the concession stand where you can buy wine and beer (what movie isn't enhanced by wine and beer?) for a mere $5. Beverage temptations sated, I head into the theatre itself. At this point, my brain runs through a mental checklist by which all movie theatres are judged: - Stadium seating? Check! - General feeling of cleanliness? Check! - Armrests generous enough that I won't be playing grabsy with my neighbor throughout the entire film? Check! - Cupholders in said armrests? Check! The film was followed by a brief Q&A session with the producers, enabling me to leave feeling as though I'd hobnobbed with the intellectual glitterati.

Most of the people I've talked to expect Gene Siskel FC to be this fancy, pertinacious, art house, weird kind of experience in film and atmosphere. But then having a chance to go, they are completely surprised at how un-pertinacious and fancy it all is. It's just a place where regular people go to see indie and foreign films. Ticket prices are normal in this day and age ($10), seats and theater are clean and comfortable, staff is nice, and the concession stand offers your standard items plus beer (cash only). It's easily accessible by most trans (entrance is right in front of the red line) and if it helps it's located right across from the Chicago Theater. There is no other theater like it and it honors an icon who loved film very much. There isn't much more to say then that. I've seen many films over the years the latest was... The Illusionist (L'illusionniste) -French animated film, check it out!

January was an orgy of Kieslowski, a thoughtful, subdued, occasionally dryly ironic orgy, but an orgy nevertheless. I had to become a member. The theater is clean, the cafe well lit, the popcorn buttery, the beer and wine plentiful, the patrons polite. They play the audio from the movies in the bathroom (which would be great if I could understand French and Polish without subtitles, but I still appreciate the effort). It's the place to see classics you thought you'd only get to see on DVD, films only otherwise available at festivals or simply something to odd to make it to the Landmark or the Musicbox. A $45 membership gets you $5 movies and 4 free popcorns.

Saw my all-time favorite movie here: 2001: A Space Odyssey (Respectful Moment of Silence for Mr. Kubrick and Mr. Clarke, Please and Thank you). Gave me a whole new appreciation for the magnitude of this work- and that is saying something, as I am already obsessed. I love that there is an alternative to the flopbuster of the weekend where you can go, view beloved classics with an educated, respectful, considerate audience that doesn't text or loudly yak on cell phones thruout a film. No kids left unattended here! The seating is comfortable, clean and well organized. The staff have always been charming and helpful- mostly art students. The website is kept updated so that you can keep checking what to see. Bonus that you can buy a glass of wine, though I ordered coffee and some luscious dark chocolate to enjoy.

The Gene Siskel Film Center screens a wide range of films -- from the time-honored classics to art-house cinema. It also serves as a venue for first runs of foreign and independent films; those that I have attended usually included a question and answer session with the filmmaker(s). The Gene Siskel Film Center is located in the heart of downtown Chicago's theater district on N. State street. There is no elaborate, showy sign at the entrance, but there doesn't need to be. After all, that doesn't really fit the vibe of the theater. Once inside, walk up the stairs and take a seat as you wait. If you're feeling hungry, there is a small concession stand with the typical overpriced munchies, but they also offer beer and wine for purchase. Although the interior is nothing memorable, I value The Film Center's mission to promote innovative filmmaking -- something you don't typically find elsewhere. It's nice to know that my options for a movie-going experience in downtown Chicago aren't limited to AMC or Regal theaters. Plus, The Film Center is conveniently located to all the major CTA train lines. So, why not choose to support independent film artists? It's better than wasting money on another terribly overrated Michael Bay movie, ya know?

The emails I get from the Gene Siskel Film Center say, "Movies are better on the big screen." My first thought when I walked into the theater for the first time was, "Hmm, I thought it'd be a bigger screen." The two theater spaces are very different from those at the typical tricked-out multiplex, but patrons get an intimate setting free from the assaultive elements of the movie-going experience (and at comparable, if not cheaper, prices). Even with as many options for art/foreign/documentary films as there are in the city, the programming at the Siskel is exceptional. As an aside, I've done my share of smuggling snacks into theaters, but tuna salad? Some people have no shame.

The most civilized place in Chicago to drool over Gina Lollabrigida. I've never seen a modern woman with real boobs, no waist and hips like hers. Damn! Bring cash for beer and popcorn; plastic works only for tickets. oh,...this is the best AC I've experienced anywhere in Chicago... to drool over Gina Lollabrigida.

If you are looking to see the most recent Hollywood blockbuster, you will be disappointed with this venue. If you are looking to see a classic film or the most recent independent film with a possible appearance and Q & A session with a producer or director then you will be extremely satisfied with this venue. The lobby is nicely decorated and clean with a fully stocked bar/concession stand. The theaters themselves look kind of old but offer good sight lines to the screen. My only beef was that the seats slightly reclined and being a tall guy led to me being constantly smacked in the knees by the person in front of me. Other than that small concern, I thoroughly enjoyed my evening here.

Worth knowing their movie offerings. Great for indie films, documentaries, intellectual & foreign films. An alternative to the usual commercial theaters.

First of all, my thanks to fellow Yelper V C. for alerting me to the Asian American Arts Showcase. I had heard of it before, but had never checked it out. The showcase features visual, cinematic, musical and literary art by or about Asian Americans. My review today concerns my experience of part of the film festival, being held at the Gene Siskel Film Center. *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** * *** My 15 year old daughter and I had the joy and privilege of viewing two films today that were part of the Asian American Arts Showcase: "The Cats of Mirikitani" and "Owl and the Sparrow". "The Cats of Mirikitani" is a documentary about a Japanese-American artist, Jimmy Mirikitani, born in California, and who was imprisoned in one of the internment camps here in the U.S. during WW2. I wanted my daughter to see it, so that she could understand a bit more of what her grandfather, my father, endured when he was about her age. He was put in one of these relocation centers in 1942 at the age of 16. The film is quite powerful, as we witness the parallels between the experiences of Jimmy Mirikitani and the events of and following 9/11. The film won't be shown again during the festival, but if you ever have the chance to see it, I highly recommend it. "Owl and the Sparrow" is a film directed by an Asian American; it's set in Vietnam. It's a sweet story, often funny, but poignant in that it shows how vulnerable street children in Saigon are. It will be shown again on Monday, April 2. There are many other fine films that will be shown as part of the Showcase. I urge all those who love film, who have an interest in Asian American culture, or who just enjoy learning about humanity, to attend. The 12th Annual Asian American Arts Showcase continues through Thursday, April 12, 2007.

Affiliated with SAIC, the Siskel is a great theater for independent / artistic / international films. There are two screening rooms, and they're smaller in size than your typical modern-day movie theater. The lobby has a side gallery/cafe area where art is on display, and the look of the theater itself is a bit museum-like - very clean, white, minimalistic. Check out their calendar for not-to-miss film screenings, special events (some with directors, actors, film personnel), and more. Recommended!

Great place to catch a film!!! I've lived in Chicago for over four years now but finally made it to this theater recently!!! The theater is small but they have comfortable seating. Tickets here are regularly priced around $10 but are cheaper for students with valid ID and members. There were some technical difficulties while we were watching out film. However, while we waited for the problem to be fixed, the creator of the film came out to talk to us. 15 minutes later we were able to resume watching the film and they gave us free passes at the end of the film to apologize for the technical difficulties. Can't wait to catch my next film here!

I came here to watch a documentary, which was part of the 16th Annual Asian American Showcase. A great place to watch indie, foreign, & documentaries, as well as home to many film festivals. I saw The House of Suh (http://goo.gl/pLBDa), which was about the notorious Chicago murder case from the 90's. We were lucky enough to have some of the appeal lawyers from the actual case in attendance and were nice enough to do a Q & A session after the viewing. The theater itself has a very cozy feel, with big old comfy seats with wooden armrests. There's also a nice waiting area with tables to sit at and artwork to stare at. With unique film selections, ticket prices were reasonable at $10 a pop (plus they have student & member discounts). Plus tickets are also sold online, but I'd rather not deal with the Ticketmaster fees. The concessions had a nice selection, with beer, wine, espresso & lattes, as well as popcorn and candy. But make sure you bring some cash, as the concessions are cash only. Had a great time watching a very interesting documentary and I'll definitely be checking their schedule for future films.

What else can a theater goer ask for?!? A wide variety of independent and foreign films. Employees who always have smiles on their faces and are very helpful. Huge, plush, soft theater chairs. Decent wine and beer offered, which can be brought into the theaters. Fresh popcorn and several candy possibilities. Tables and chairs in the eating area, so people watching can take place. Five steps from one of the red line stops. 2nd floor windows that can be used to people watch on the street. Yep, adore this place!!

Love this center - great place to see obscure foreign films. The seats are comfortable, and the building itself is beautiful, modern and clean. AND you can drink a beer or a glass of wine with your popcorn while you watch the movie - what could be better? Not much, I say!

I checked out the Palestinian Film Festival (http://www.palestinefilmfest.com/) to see a couple of flicks. The total running time was about 1.5 hours for two films. It cost $9, which was reasonable since the theater was really nice: very modern and amazingly comfortable seats. The entire place is gorgeous, a lot of private donors helped to pump a lot of money into this place. It reminded me of MoMA in NYC or something. The cafe is a nice touch, large with nice seats, moderately expensive theater fair (but cheaper than most corporate theaters). Plus, you can order beer or wine with your Snowcaps and Gummy Worms here! My only complaint is that the cafe didn't offer Wi-Fi... not really sure why. Also, if you happen to bring your laptop to wait for a film to start, make sure your battery is charged since the outlets are few and far between.

There is no better location in the Chicagoland area to view foreign and independent film than the Siskel Film Center. SFC is a clean, well-run, establishment that offers $5 movies ($9 for non-members) on a pair of movie screens. There's ample bicycle parking out in front and excellent access to public transporation. Several eateries nearby can round out your movie-viewing experience. Once you visit SFC, you'll never look at Hollywood movies the same.

I should have become a member but I had no idea how much I'd be going to the Gene Siskel Film Center. They just keep drawing me back in with great films, most that you really cannot see anywhere else so well worth the $9. My new favorite discovery is the back lounge area where there are tables and you can sit and watch the Joffrey Ballet rehearsing. It's an absolutely beautiful prelude show in itself. And who doesn't love the juxtaposition of ballet with shoppers at Loehmann's a couple floors below. It's like a live Hopper painting. Be aware that, though they take cards for the movie tickets, they only take cash at the concessions. I never have cash so I always have to run around the corner.

Great place to see films you won't see anywhere else. Plus, the place is clean, comfortable and I'd be willing to bet you a dollar that you won't ever hear any cell phones ringing in the theatres. They even serve wine and beer! And depending on what's playing, you may even be able to chat with the director after the show.

Lovely place: easily my favorite theater in Chicago. Love the selection of films that play. During the summer I caught a Chaplin and found myself having a great time. The theater is cozy but often there isn't a huge crowd so its not uncomfortable. The chairs are plush and comfy. The crowd is mixed: elders attempting to hike up the stairs using a walker, the hipster type and middle aged folk. Just don't try to park here and take the L instead.

This is just another one of the many great urban cultural offerings that make Chicago a fantastic, rich place to live. The Siskel Film Center offers a cool selection of up and coming films , with Q &A with many of the directors after the shows. Obscure stuff sometimes, documentaries of both local and international importance as well as a pretty cool music series. Good popcorn too.