Scott W.
Yelp
Well, I don't know if you'll confuse this with Tinseltown, but you won't get stuck with a cameo where you get ripped off.
I just spent two nights here. Two big pluses: walking distance to Universal, and cheap digs. I mean, just parking at Universal is half the cost of a night's lodging.
I've read reviews that have talked about roach infestations, swearing loiterers, and aesthetically unpleasant switchplates for the lights. To which I respectively say, didn't see any, no vulgarities ever soiled my ears, and if switchplates are worth paying more money for then stop reading this review now because you and I are two very different people.
The room is basic - all I used was the bed, the bathroom, the fridge, and the coffeemaker. They have hard pillows which I generally like (though they are large hard pillows, enough that my odd neck position ended up in an Advil sunrise). No issues with the bathroom or fridge. Coffeemaker's top lid was permanently unattached. But it still makes coffee - functionality trumps aesthetics.
Downsides: no breakfast offered - there is an IHOP down the street if that helps. And they advertise their shuttle to Universal - but when you make one trip a day and it's 11:35, face it - you don't really have a shuttle to Universal. But again, it's an easy 20-minute walk.
There are a number of dining options nearby for dinner including a Thai place across the street that has good reviews. Not for this time, but if I have a next time I'll have it there.
So that's the Monumental Movieland Hotel. They're ready for your closeup whenever you are.