Prince Charles Cinema

More than a cinema, this is a part of London's culture. Famous for cult films, classics and moments of pure joy like their annual sing-a-long screenings of Muppet Christmas Carol. Bar serves alcohol alongside the sodas and popcorn. Staff are lovely. It's all a bit retro but that's the point.

Now this is it! A gritty art house cinema and underground. Unpretentious, yet in the west end! Shows b-movies, marathons, indies, specialists screenings some with q&a’s, the lot. Tarantino loves the place and as any film buff will attest, they would agree. A charming place. Shame there aren’t more like this around any more (the one in brum closed down a couple of years ago due to lack of funding). This place needs a listing status on it to ensure it never closes down. And should be on everyone’s bucket list to see a film in at least once.

This cinema hosted the best sing a long event I've ever attended! Will definitely attend more if they host other musicals of interest. The staff were also really lovely

No other cinema like it in London or anywhere else in the UK as far as I know. Love the atmosphere of the cinema downstairs gives old school grindehouse vibes and upstairs more classy modern atmosphere. Great variety of films shown something for everyone. And by far the best thing about the cinema is the no nonsense attitude towards phones can people seriously not go a couple hours without looking at there phones.

Look… I love this cinema with all my heart. I go here at least once a week sometimes make multiple visits a week, even in a day. I love the place, the staffs are lovely. It is somewhere that makes me instantly happy everytime I go. There are 2 things that prevent it from being the best: 1. Seatings especially in Screen 1 can be challenging. I have resorted to buying seats as front row as possible because I would say I almost always have someone’s head block my view. This is due to the flat-ish seating arrangement they have. Hence why I prefer Screen 2. But that’s hardly a big issue 2. The main issue is. I find it baffling how I would think the people who goes to Prince Charles would be intelligent, sophisticated cinephiles with proper cinema etiquette. But every. Single. Time. We would get multiple Max Caddy cackling and giggling throughout the film. And it would be at the most serious and unfunny scenes too. Most notable for me would be when I watched the Final Cut of Apocalypse Now, a lady on my left with laughing OUT LOUD like a seal. Then Andrzej Żuławski‘s Possession, people were cackling like it’s a comedy when it’s the most intense and philosophical thing ever. I love the cinema but people’s stupidity really puts me off. The cinema has had a few Max Caddy housekeeping over the years I understand, which is GOOD. But it’s funny how the people who have seen that Max Caddy housekeeping clip and still proceed to behave like Max Caddy. I once was at a viewing of 2001: A Space Odyssey and I had to say out loud out of frustration “what’s so funny?!” and sometimes I’ve even thought of walking out mid-film due to this. If people laugh when it is intentionally and contextually funny that is perfectly fine. But people laugh at the most serious scenes sometimes even devastating scenes. I’ve had girls giggling throughout a viewing of Hiroshima Mon Amor once… I am convinced these people would watch Schindler’s List like a comedy. This isn’t the cinema’s fault but if any further improvements on the housekeeping rituals to prevent more Max Caddys that would truly make the performance experience drastically better. Because there’s nothing worse than immersing yourself completely in another universe just to be disrupted by mindless giggling.

This is one of my favorite cinemas to visit in London. It has a lovely old-school charm that makes it stand out from the usual modern multiplexes. The atmosphere feels relaxed and nostalgic, perfect for anyone who enjoys cinema in its classic form. One small thing to note is the seating. If you are on the shorter side, it can be tricky to find a spot where your view is not blocked by the person in front of you. I would recommend sitting somewhere in the middle, closer to the front rather than too far back, because the screen is smaller than you might expect for a large cinema. Once you find the right seat, though, it is a comfortable and enjoyable experience. I once attended their Lord of the Rings marathon they do them every month and it’s a full house with a fun vibe, which started at 9 p.m. and went through the night until 9 a.m. They played the extended cuts, which was impressive but quite a challenge to sit through. I made it to about 1 a.m. before calling it a night, but it was still a fun experience and shows how much effort they put into curating special events. What I like most about this cinema is its variety. They regularly screen older films, interesting independent titles, and classics that you might not have had the chance to see on the big screen before. It is a refreshing change from the mainstream cinemas nearby in Leicester Square, which often all show the same new releases. They also offer a membership that brings the ticket price down, which is a great option if you plan to visit often. Overall, it is a charming, character-filled cinema that keeps film-going special, especially for those who appreciate timeless and unique screenings.

I love this cinema. The staff are so friendly and accommodating! Nothing is too much trouble for them. They even offered store my mother's electric wheelchair in the staff room and I have made friends who have been able to safely store valuables too. The staff make it a very warm and welcoming environment where everyone feels very safe. There are rules but they are for the safety and enjoyment of others. I had a great experience at the wicked sing a long as they turned it into an interactive experience too. I love going to the occasional marathon and think it's great that they send someone out for security during the breaks or even if my friend wants a cigarette break during the film and lock the doors during the films. It attracts a lot of friendly people and I have made good friends there that I now go with to other films and marathon. Even strangers offer to help my mother up and down the stairs and try and buy her drinks and snacks from the bar so she is comfortable. I fully recommend.

This is the greatest cinema in not just London but the entire world. I've been to 3 different film marathons and loved the atmosphere each and every time. This isba place for film fans with a selection of classic and contemporary films showing everyday. The staff are great, seats are comfortable and it genuinely feels like a second home to me

popped in and I saw the king talking to a wall saying it was the dead queen????????????????????????????

I finally popped my Prince Charles cherry and went to see 'The Room' last Friday night. I can see myself falling in love with this place. The Prince Charles is well known for it's collection of indie movies, while it shows some new releases, they're normally the more unusual choices over the big block busters shown around the corner on the Square. It's true draw, however, comes from their cult movie nights. For example, 'The Room', where else could you see that in London, let alone be allowed to throw spoons at the screen? They also have double bills, marathon screenings and sing-a-long-a movies! I can't wait to see Rocky Horror at Halloween! And they serve beer! Some of the marathons appartently do a beer & pizza night, but I haven't experienced that yet... It was only my first time but I'll be sure to update you when I've been a few more times.

The Prince Charles Cinema scores 5 stars several times over for its old-school big screen, inspired events, fantastic listings and general sense of film-loving fun. Sink back into one of the super-comfy seats facing their big screen and it's like stepping back into a golden age of cinema. The rows of seats slant up towards the screen rather than down towards it. This means the screen towers above you, and, looking along the tops of the seats towards the screen as you do, makes it a feel like more of a communal experience. The second screen is more modest, but given a hint of fun and class by the stars-at-night lighting on the ceiling and the Frank Sinatra soundtrack playing before the film starts. The films shown are those at the end of their run elsewhere in London, but also older classics and cinema curiosities too such as 'so-terrible-it's-a-cult-film' Birdemic. Prices are reasonably cheap, particularly if you buy the £10 annual membership: unlike the other independent cinemas in London (Curzon, Cine Lumiere, ICA, BFI) whose discount-securing membership schemes are seemingly calculated to pay off only after seeing 20 odd films, the £2.50-£4 discounts earned by £10 Prince Charles cinema membership means that membership pays off almost immediately. Kudos. It also hosts plenty of events for the more dedicated film lover: midnight-crossing triple and quadruple bills (often trilogies or quadrilogies), singalongs and even quote-a-longs, in turn giving you a glimpse into the sub-culture of film fandom. With its old-school feel, honest pricing and fun celebration of all aspects of cinema, it almost doesn't come as a surprise that directing legends of independent cinema Quentin Tarantino, Kevin Smith and Nicolas Winding Refn have gone out of their way to support the Prince Charles' existence and urge cinema fans to do likewise. I was lucky enough to catch a memorable post-'Red State' Q&A there with Kevin Smith and his passion, humour, hilarious story-telling and honesty were all there to see. Cinema or no cinema, this is one of London's gems in its own right.

Great cinema for cult and repertory film. Badly let down though by hellishly uncomfortable seats which recently replaced really comfortable leather seats... why?

If you're really into film, and love a mix of independent and more mainstream pictures, Prince Charles is one of those places you come across and are so happy, you almost can't believe it exists, it's just such a treasure. Firstly, the location is incredible, I mean, its in Leicester Square... just on the edge of Chinatown. There's always a good mix of films playing - usually something foreign, something independent, and then a crowd-pleasing mainstream flick. But what will make you a devotee is the fact that they have *amazing* offers... £10 will make you a member for a year, and then you get a discount on admission: it's only £1.50 for a matinee and £3.50 evenings/weekends. Even if you decide not to pay the nominal membership fee, ticket prices are no more than £5... which is all such an incredible bargain to see films properly on the big screen. And don't worry, you don't feel like you're in the bargain basement of movie theaters...it doesn't smell, your shoes aren't sticking to the floor, their two theatres are good-sized... the vibe is more just cool and independent... the type of more off-beat cinema you'd find in Shoreditch - there's an very indie charm to it all. The staff is also great. Not only are they super-friendly - they know their movies... they'll be upfront whether or not a movie is really worth seeing if you ask them for their opinion and fill them in on your own taste in film. The experience is all very personal... much like the movie houses of old must have been, when the same person who takes your ticket is the one who got you your popcorn. They also host a monthly singalong for "The Sound of Music"... I haven't done it yet, but I've talked to some of my friends who have and say it's *so* much fun... it's definitely on my "to-do" list.

The best cinema in London (if you are lucky enough and pick a day where a half decent film is playing) The Prince Charles Cinema is an unspoilt cinema in the heart of the West end that shows a variety of films- both art house and popular blockbusters- at a quarter of the price of Leicester Square cinemas. The films shown are usually a few months behind the timetables of other cinemas- you can usually catch a film at The Prince Charles Cinema if it has stopped being shown on general release. With its red, velvet curtains, double seated sofas, mezzanine level seating and bar, the cinema is a perfect place for a date, and a cheap date at that. Some of the showings cost as little as £1.50.

I remember the first time a friend took me to the Prince Charles Cinema. I was astounded - a film, in Leicester Square, for only 3 pounds! I was a student then, so I even got a concession. As we descended the stairs, I was expecting a dingy little cinema, with grubby furnishings. Instead, to my surprise, there was film memorabilia and a small bar. The drinks were even allowed inside - a phenomenon I thought only happened in Europe. There were red plush chairs to sink int after a busy day in the city. Even the films were to my taste, most were quirky and well made films that had come and gone from the cinema a while back. This I think is a ploy of genius, allowing you to revisit old favorites in the big screen or catch up on that one you missed. There are some fun screenings as well, like the sing-a-long Mamma Mia, which sounds like a great Sunday with the family!

I remember that when I first happened upon this cinema in the first few wintry weeks I moved to London, I got quite excited. After all, what a great idea! The people who run the Prince Charles show a combination of movie classics and recent Hollywood releases (anything over three months old). The savings in this policy are significant, and they get passed onto you! As low as £3 a ticket during the week, with a more usual price hovering around £5. The balcony seats are best, and a personal favourite is the lower lobby with lots of Tarantino memorabilia. The PCC really feels like its run by enthusiasts! They also do a Sing-A-Long Sound of Music which has words to follow on the screen and which draws a kooky crowd for its popular Sunday matinee. Altogether now, 'I am sixteen......'

I went to this cinema this morning for the first time. I went to see the premiere of a friend's film, and it was a very appropriate and beautiful venue for the occasion. I have to say, it is incredibly comfortable and loungy. The red upholstery and décor gives it a certain early 20th century feel, which I really love. The best thing has to be the prices. You can see a film for 1.50 if you are a member or 3-5 pounds if you are not a member. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that has to be the cheapest around by far. The cinema shows old classics as well. If you are around in January then you should definitely try and catch one of the double-bills. I think everyone should try to see The Goonies and The Lost Boys on the 12th of January.

Get a lifetime membership to this cinema. There is really no reason not to, especially if you are going to be staying in London for more than the next 5 years. Not only do they do amazing screenings of classic films, they also do half and half popcorn PROPERLY! If you love films that have audience participation or if you missed seeing a film when it was at every other cinema this is the place to check out. They have a great selection of classic films, sing-a-longs and bitch-a-longs as well as Indy films. The only way i can think to make this cinema better would be to have sofa's instead of seats.

I love the Prince Charles cinema, not only is it the cheapest cinema in Lecister Square at £3.50 a ticket in the afternoon and £4.50 in the evenings it also shows films which have been in the big cimemas a few months before so it gives you an opportunity to see the films you have missed out on. You can buy a glass of wine and some popcorn at the shop here also! Oh and there is a great chineese supermarket across the street that have a great selection of teas!

The last three films I saw in this cinema was Inland Empire, Mulholland Drive and Lost Highway all three films directed by David Lynch.

Great venue and amazing selection of films shown. Went here for my first time and bought a membership. I've been back a few times since, most recently for their Labyrinth Mascarade Ball which was so so much fun. They even gave us a bag full of interactive items to use during the film.

Fantastic theatre! Great movies, fab location and wonderful staff. The seats are comfortable with plenty of leg room. Good selection of beers, including our very favourite Delerium Red. It would be nice if they had a few more choices for snacks but whatevs. Still an amazing venue.

I presumed that the person who had told me there was a Leicester Square cinema that charged £4.50 or less a ticket was stuck in pre decimalisation! I was staggered to find out that they were right and that it's possibly the best place in London to see a movie if you like the 'authentic' feel. I went along to one of the Monday night double bill showings - 2 movies for the Princely sum of £9! You're probably lucky to get the first 20 minutes for that price in any other Leicester Square cinema! It has one of those lovely lived in feelings - old plush red seats, no automated ticketing systems of any kind and a bar right ouside the door to the downstairs screen! You can even hire screen privately - If I ever win the lottery I'll be indulging in a 6 film Star Wars marathon... It's a pretty easy choice with this cinema - if you want to go somewhere that feels like it believes in the magic of the movies and doesn't have the sterile feel of the multiplexes then the Prince Charles is for you. One proviso - I love this place but I wouldn't come and watch a special effect laden blockbuster here as the screen isn't the largest. They probably wouldnt' show them anyway!

Confused about whether PCC is the best cinema in London? Here is a Q&A to help you: -Were you too young/non-existent to see classics like Jaws & North by Northwest on the big screen? YOU'RE COVERED! -Are you tired of even attempting to explain who Jodorowsky is? SHOW YOUR FRIENDS! -Just gotta throw some plastic spoons at the worst movie ever? ROOM YOURSELF SON! -Need a little cry with a Pixar marathon? No judgement here! DO IT. -Wanna make cat calls at Captain Von Trapp while singing with Maria? All while dressed as a nun and drinking red wine? Gurrrrllll, you are in for the BEST NIGHT EVER! Just do yourself a favour now and buy a membership! It pays for itself in 4 films, and with the line-ups they've been having the past year, will not be a problem to do. Plus there are always weekly member specials. Very often there are live director/actor Q&As- how cool is that!? Clean toilets, free old posters, ticket collection outside and don't forget the happy and hilarious fellow cinema goers to sit with because they love this place just as much as you. I happen to love the action flicks on beer & pizza nights. Obviously, the pizza isn't vegan (but they do have vegetarian one), so give it to a friend and bring your own slices of joy (no sharing). What are you waiting for!?

£1.50 for a film in Leicester Square? You've got to be joking or mad or..... just maybe you've discovered the Prince Charles cinema. Located in a side street about 50 yards off Leicester Square, you'll find this little gem showing a mix of films - some recent screenings as well as older films, usually grouped into themes. They also host sing a long events when the cinema descends into a convent of nuns or Rocky Horror Show fans in full costume! There are 2 screens. The upstairs cinema is slightly more expensive than the downstair. There's a concession stall on the ground floor and a bar. The screens won't be the largest you've seen but perfectly adequate for the size of the cinema. So wander down and have a look at the films showing on the boards outside and you could save yourself a fortune.

This has to be one of the most beautiful cinemas in London. The red seating is on a decline that at first seems strange. I quickly adapted and slipped into a relaxed state. The deep red curtains that line the perimeter gave off a warm, theatrical feeling and mixed with the lighting I felt like I was in another world. You can watch current films at the Prince Charles Cinema for £1.50. This is incredible value. I have a special fondness for this due to the regularity that this cinema screens thought provoking movies like The Corporation and The Secret. The screen isn't the biggest in London and the food options are limited to popcorn and sweets. Other than this Prince Charles Cinema is fantastic.

This place is great! Cheap tickets. Booze and salty popcorn. Comfy seating. The downside of selling cider and beer is the need to use the loo midway into a movie. So I suggest trying to find a spot near the end of the row and maybe up a bit higher so as not to disturb anyone. Otherwise an awesome spot to watch a movie.

"They're eating her...and then they're going to eat me...OH MY GOOOOOOOOOOOOOD!" "I did not hit her! It's not true! It's bullshit, I did not hit her! I did NAAHHT!... Oh, hai Mark." "Do not disturb my friend, he is dead tired." PCC is pretty unique and has survived the demise of the midnight film theatre and is one of the few places which still offers that sort of thing. The film choice is what can only be described as eclectic - limited run films (such as Iron Sky - the one about Nazis on the moon), classic films (a diverse selection from The Iprcress File to Spirited Away to No Country for Old Men), and then the cult films, ranging from 80s horror films (Texas Chainsaw Massacre) to The Good Bad Film Club (featuring films such as the life-changing The Room and Troll 2). They also have special event nights such as 'Swear Along with..." (South Park/Team America), 'Beer, Pizza, Explosions!' for a lazy Sunday night (with Rambo, Predator, or Commando), and Trilogy nights (Indiana Jones - not the 4th one; Die Hard - not the 4th one). Whichever way you cut it, they have something for everyone. I've only been to the main screen with its large, rather tall, comfy, reclining seats (I always wonder whether the shorter people in the audience can see, but it seems like it's not a problem), and the floor dips in the middle, so the vast majority of seats look up towards the screen. It's far nicer and more comfortable than most cinemas out there (and there's no sticky floor!), and I think I could manage a trilogy session there. Pricewise, it depends on what you see and the time: matinees are £8, evening/weekends are £10, seasonal films are £6.50, and sing-alongs £15. The reasonable £10 annual membership gets you a couple of quid off every film, so as Peter S says, it pays itself back fairly quickly. I must say, I've really avoided going to the cinema in general in the last few years, maybe going about twice a year. Ridiculous prices, uncomfortable seating, the sticky floor, sticky seats and textbook cinema smell...I've just not really been all that excited about the experience. PCC, however, does so much right and it's just so much more fun than going to your average cinema. I mean, how many Odeons do you know which are allegedly haunted? How cool is that?

The downstairs cinema has some of the comfiest cinema seats I've ever had the pleasure of dropping my ass into. They are at a weird sunken angle, which I thought would be annoying at first, but ends up giving you the sensation that the screen is right on top of you. Rad. After one visit I went back for a membership, and have already gone a couple times for cheap after work flicks. It's a nice feeling when you get to avoid normal London movie prices. Not only that, you can grab a pork bun in Chinatown on your way in. Finally, it's got a great movie-nerd vibe. I went recently for a screening of the modern masterpiece 'The Room' and was amazed at the size and enthusiasm of the crowd. Great movie choices as well- lots of classics, cult classics (anyone want to join me for Blue Velvet next week?), and quality second-run flicks. Easily one of my favorite discoveries in London to date, and a place I know I will be spending a lot of time. I'm pissed I didn't find out about it sooner.

I won't make this long winded, but if you're into classic/cult movies, as well as new releases, this is the only cinema in London you need. They have singalong events, quotealongs (where you're encouraged to make as much noise as you want) double bills, and at some they even include free slices of pizza/beer/bacon rolls etc. The kind of movies on show here include things like Stand by Me, Tarantino marathons, Scorsese retrospectives, the Toy Story trilogy, all the Die Hards, Pyjama parties.. you get the idea. It's amazing. Best cinema ever, and also QT's favourite UK picturehouse.

I've been a member for 5 years now as I was given it as a present and I've never looked back. Along with Genesis and Curzon nearby it is undoubtably amongst the best in London. It's less about current blockbusters, but ore about independent films and foreign films and docs too. They have TONS of special screenings and actively ask members for their advice on social media. The staff are friendly and they have one huge room downstairs for most specials and a more intimate one upstairs. I go there at least twice a month when I can. Being a member you get half price tickets and a yearly pass is ONLY £10. Absolute steal! TBH it's best top get a lifetime membership for £40. Must go to if staying in London. I cannot say enough good things about this cinema. It's a true gem.

Great cinema in Central London, they show lots of alternative movies, host singalong nights! (yay!) and the tickets are CHEAP! Become a member and tickets are even CHEAPER! A great cinema!

My favourite cinema in London...possibly the world. They whole vibe and attitude of the PCC is perfect for people that love cinema but aren't willing to crawl up their own backsides over it just yet. I wish they would still do a proper Rocky Horror shadow cast showing (Singalonga doesn't count) but even with that gone the PCC is still a great place. Firstly, the value can't be beat in London and especially for a Leicester Square cinema. The rest of the cinemas in Leicester Square will cost you £10 or above even for an afternoon showing. At the PCC a first run showing in their small upstairs cinema will cost you £7.50 without a membership or £6 with a membership. It is the second run showings in the main downstairs cinema where the value really shines though. Without a membership the showings will cost you £5 but with a membership they will cost just £1.50 for a matinee! Part of what is so great about the PCC is that the second run films aren't just thrown into the schedules. They are usually interesting films that might have only recently come out of the first run theatres or they could be real classics. Their double bills are always good fun and could be something like two Brat Pack films back to back or films that are tenuously linked by an actor. Either way, you know the people attending will be of the right spirit and the experience will be as good as the films. I have, more than once, paid to see films at PCC that I actually own on DVD. If a cinema can manage to get you to do that they must be doing something right.

The place for lovers of the cinema golden age. The Prince Charles' downstairs theatre is unlike anything you'll be used to, with a seating area that slopes up towards the screen. But, likewise, the screenings, pricing structure and approach to concessions (hello, inexpensive beer) are unlike anything you'll be used to. The Prince Charles makes your movie-going experience rather an easy-going pleasure instead of a frenetic rip-off. I thoroughly enjoyed my Saturday matinee viewing of Moonrise Kingdom at the Prince Charles after trying and failing twice to see this flick in a conventional cinema when it was first released (it was always sold out). Sure the popcorn they sold me was a bit stale, but on the flipside it was cheap. Yes, I had to do a bit of chair shuffling, as some tall guy decided in a half-empty cinema that he needed to sit right in front of me. But the Prince Charles's charm has most certainly got to me. I can't believe it's taken me four years of living in London to finally catch a film here. I don't think I'll be getting tickets for the Sing-a-long Sound of Music like the girl in front of me in the queue did, but I hear there's a Muppet marathon on in August. I'm totally in for that. PIGS IN SPAAACCCEEEEE.

I thought I would just add a couple of words to the reviews on this wonderful place about my experience at the Halloween "Rocky Horror Picture Show" sing-a-long. As an avid fan of the film, I was very excited when my friend suggested we should spend our Halloween night here. This was my most memorable Halloween experience ever. Since me and my friend are a bit on the shy side and did not really know what to expect, we only decided to dress as 'transilvanians' but you should have seen how many 'Dr. Frank-N-Furters', 'Rocky's, 'Janets', 'Brads', and 'Riff Raffs' were present at the screenings. This was not your average screening, mind you, since everyone was drinking, there was an entertaining host, a goody bag with items you had to use throughout the screening and you can imagine the fun we had when 'the Time Warp' came on. This is not an experience for the faint-hearted, and I would imagine that it would be a nightmare for anyone who does not know the films well enough or who hates musicals. But with many other sing-a-longs lined up, musical lovers unite and come experience these wonderful sing-a-long events.

I like how they do Q & As here with filmmakers and how they do special screenings. They really seem to do a good job of catering to making their customers happy. Its in a great location, right next to a place called Leicester Square, holding up right next to all the big monster theaters. There are a variety of places to eat, and is neighboring Chinatown & fast food joints. The times I've been in this area, its always been packed, tons of random people, doing random things. The downside of this location is there's a public toilet right in front of this theater, and its pretty gross walking out to some dude peeing. Its cheaper than the monster theaters, and they show the films that are not as mainstream. Prince Charles Cinema is special, its what the cinema used to be.

Okay so there's a mustiness aroma vaguely reminiscent of wee when you first walk in, or maybe that's just because i'm overly hygenic, perhaps even OCD at times. This cinema in central london is one of a kind and I adore it, so much so I demanded from the boyf a lifetime membership as a birthday gift. SO worth it. You could choose to go to one of the corporate big boys in the Square round the corner at £16 a ticket per adult plus £12 for what is essentially syrup and water and some popped corn drenched in heart-attack inducing sugar sullenly served. Or you could pay £1.50 (at it's cheapest) or £7 at it's most expensive to see a new, recent, or avant-gard classic film and glug a reasonable £3.50 half bottle of wine at the same time, served with a smile and a chat from the film-lovers that work there. It's a no-brainer. There is nothing not to like; if you pay the little bit extra you get to go to the plush leather seats upstairs with maximum leg-room; otherwise pay the cheap rates downstairs and catch a flick with an ecelctic mix of tourist, media student, penniless bum and who knows who else. Perfect whether you're on your own, with a date or with a bunch of mates. NB: perhaps don't drink as much wine as my pal and I did during die hard four and chatter at full volume (though we were convinced we were whispering). having said that, our neighbours were INCREDIBLY tolerant. apologies neighbours and apologies PCT. although i have been VERY well behaved on all subsequent visits.

I love love love the PCC! Though their tickets prices have been fluctuating a lot, I have no problem with that because I have a membership =O) They are now also doing one Golden Ticket show a week meaning a movie that only costs... £1! Yes. £1. Sometimes it's quite a surprise. When a movie that looks interesting to me comes out (not anything I'm dying to see), I like to wait a few weeks to see if it will make it to the PCC. Sometimes they do. Sometimes they don't. But I've rarely been devastated from it. Then I gladly buy my discounted membership ticket, munch on some home-made cookies, and sit back and relax in their comfy new leather chairs.

Visited Prince Charles Cinema for the first time this evening. We were in the screen downstairs. The seats seemed to be in a dip in the middle and I had to sit on my coat to see over the top of the seat in front (I am short but don't normally have this problem!). The seats were really comfy (better than most cinemas I've been to) and the picture and sound quality good but the screen was much smaller than other cinemas. Easy to get to and it looks like the tickets are cheaper than other London cinemas so great for a bargain as it is so central.

Great place to catch an old favourite with other fans or see a movie you might not have heard of before. The staff are friendly, the theatre is dark with plenty of comfortable chairs and the bar is open with a selection of drinks before the showing. What more could you want from your indie cinema experience? Tickets are less expensive than the others in Leicester Square and with a membership being only £10 annually, or £50 for a lifetime (with some other perks included besides discounted films) there really isn't any reason to not visit this place every week. Their wide selection of indie films playing appeal to any and all cinephiles, and maybe the casual viewer too.

I would refine my drafted review more - but it pretty much covers all bases! I had been meaning to come to this cinema for months after signing up to the weekly newsletter and when I finally got around to it, I was not disappointed. Amazing seating, there's a dip in the floor and it rises towards the front, which is surprisingly effective. From reading the weekly newsletters, its obvious they have a great taste in film and come up with imaginative concepts to add a little extra to your cinematic experience (like 'Rex Manning Day' for a screening of Empire Records - dressing up encouraged!). Also, it's independent, so you feel good spending money there. A final bonus is that it has a great central location for getting food beforehand from Soho or Chinatown - a good idea for an unusual dinner and movie date.

Okay I feel bad giving this awesome cinema a three but I don't feel I can give it any higher.... I went to the screening of Lion Ark, which was absolutely fantastic, but it was in the downstairs cinema and on entry I regretted buying seats positioned in the middle. The seats weirdly dip down in the middle, like from the front of the cinema to the back the lowest point is in the middle which really shouldn't happen. It meant if you're sitting in the middle, the seats in front of you are higher, and given the screen isn't THAT big you really struggle to see the whole screen and to see over other people's heads. Makes it a little awkward! The cinema itself is nice, old style with a stage at the front and a curtain that covers the screen until the film plays. The seats are large, leather and comfy which recline a little which is nice, but there isn't a lot of leg room so if someone is trying to squeeze past you there isn't a lot of space (which meant a very messy spilled drink! The foyer area is small but cosy, it really is like an old school cinema and I really liked it but the way the seats are laid out is really problematic as it makes it hard to see the screen and you have to crane your neck throughout the film! I'd certainly go back, but i'd pick my seats better next time.

Where do you start writing when you are greeted rudely by a dressed up Frank N. Furter? Oh Yeah. We were greeted rudely by a dressed p Frank N. Furter. We were yelled at for getting drinks and being laggers. Well all in the theme of a singalong rocky horror picture show. Everyone made such an effort to dress up and the goody bag was much enjoyed- especially the latex glove. With a lot of instructions we managed to learn the dance moves to the most important songs and to shout "Ar#$hole" at brad and "SL*T" at Janet. The only thing was that there were long queues for the bar and the loos, and that is never good, even in a room full of a lot of people essentially hanging out in their underwear.

I'm going to be super straightforward here, the four stars are all and only for what this cinema offers. It's the best Indie cinema around and their schedule is always brilliant. I've been three times: once to watch The Princess Bride over two years ago, a second time to re-watch The Princess Bride (I know) and again last Saturday for an Adult-only screening of the Sing Along edition of Frozen. Will likely go back this friday as well for a sing along screening of Grease. See what I mean? It's just awesome. They have the best cults screening, and they always organise themed marathons and all-nighters. I might get myself a membership at this rate (£10 for a year, £50 lifetime - gets you discounted prices on all tickets). It's just such a fun place to spend an evening night. I'm not a massive fan of the downstairs screen (never seen the upstairs one) because of its silly layout (it's kinda caved in the middle...so the best seats are actually on the front row. Like...WHY?) and the toilets are teeny tiny and can barely move in them. Apart from this, really cool place.

The Prince Charles cinema is located just off Leicester Square and hosted a sold out viewing of Tommy Wiseau's masterpiece "The Room" on Friday night. The seating is on a decline as opposed to the regular incline favoured by every other cinema I have been to. Despite this I didn't suffer from someone's unusually large head blocking the screen and felt surprisingly relaxed. With a beer in hand I watched the Citizen Kane of bad movies. The atmosphere was great, with the whole audience in on the joke as a result I had a replenishing supply of plastic spoons to hurl at the screen at regular intervals. With tickets for some films priced at £1.50 I'll definitely be making a return trip.

This place is too cool. I only went for the first time last month for their Studio Ghibi month where they showed one Studio Ghibi movie a week, and my friend picked Laputa, Castle in the Sky. Tickets are quite cheap, but prices differ on what movie you watch. They have member and non-member prices. You can get a lifetime membership for £50 or annual membership at £10 (£7.50 for concessions). Seems a good deal to get 10% off tickets and also discounts at local businesses. Unfortunately if you book online there is a booking fee, but you don't need to pay this if you buy the ticket in advance at the cinema. They were giving out free mince pies last month at the counter, super cool. There were free posters in a bin to the right of the counter also. This is definitely a good place for fans of good and classic movies. They have singalongs, regional/international movies that aren't usually shown in the mainstream cinemas. Overall it feels like you are sharing an experience with like-minded fans rather than a bunch of random strangers, as the atmosphere inside the cinema is so much more friendly. There were no kids kidding my chair during the movie, thank goodness, even though the movie is an animation. Might pop back in for the right movie, I know that my producer friend frequently has his movies shown here!

Cheap, central, and a little bit grubby round the edges, this place has at least the first point in its favour relative to the ridiculously priced cinemas in the vicinty. Ideal for students, those on a budget, or for a cheapish date ( in combination with a meal for two in Chinatown).

Fun films, cheap prices, and decent popcorn = a win. I'm a popcorn snob. An American popcorn snob. The British approach to movie theatre popcorn (and popcorn in general) is highly dismaying. But, at the PCC it's not as bad as others. Not great. But decent. You have no idea how much that says about a place. Plus, they serve cheap-ish (for a theatre and for Leices.Sq.) beer. I was happy to first venture to the PCC for a screening of "The Princess Bride." Seeing that film in a room full of people who loved it as much as I do, and who laughed at all the right parts - and sometimes made us laugh at the wrong parts - was great. This theatre inspires a really great attitude and feeling for moviegoers. A better sound system in the lower theatre would be useful, but it's not a complete loss. And for the price, it's just peachy. Plus, they play host to the singalonga series. I've not yet been, but it's only a matter of time...

A lot of charm, a lot of cheap and just a little bit of pain in the arse. From getting rowdy and inappropriate at Sound of Music sing-a-long to sighing at the wonder of Breakfast at Tiffanys, I have never not had a good time at the Prince Charles. Yes, it's mega cheap, £5 a ticket most times, but for that you are not getting big cinema seats and you can forget cupholders. This means extreme discomfort when people are climbing over you to get to seats and spilling your beer on you. Sweet. Also the area of the concession stand and ticket seller/ticket collection is so small that if 5 people are standing there, it is jammers. I don't really care though, because they show old movie classics and I adore their attitude and independence. Long live the Prince Charles.

Prince Charles Cinema is one of the best things about living in London. Its screenings are a mix of more recent offerings (movies which opened two months earlier) and cult screenings. The most recent movie I caught was a screening of the original Godzilla movie (part of the ongoing East Asian movie season), a film I never thought I'd get to see on the big screen! Another great movie I saw here was The Room, quite possibly the best worst movie ever made. Sure, it's not a fancy cinema, but the seats and the screen in the downstairs cinema are of a decent size. The sound system is adequate as well. It's free seating so if you anticipate there being a lot of people at your screening, it's best to go a little early. I haven't had that problem the three times I've been there though. If you're an avid movie-goer, it's well worth getting a membership here, as membership entitles you to a between £2.50 and £3.50 off the usual price. A one year membership costs £16 currently, while a lifetime costs £50. The cinema operates a bar selling bottles of Stella Artois, Budvar, Magners and Smirnoff Ice. Prices are pretty reasonable, I think. Around £5 for two bottles (I think). And drinking alcohol while watching Godzilla definitely enhanced the experience!

A London cinema institution. Old school cinema, with comfy chairs and a slightly odd yet endearing configuration when you look up at the screen in a reverse raking effect. The tickets are cheap (although they won't have the films for a few weeks after their release dates), the food and drinks are reasonably priced. They put on film festivals, sing-alongs, quote-alongs, all night screenings (Every Wes Anderson film in one sitting recently!) and other interesting and crazy events. Keep an eye on the listings, they change regularly.

I still am only just coming to terms with how good this place is, and how cheap it is. We came to see an independent film that we couldn't see at regular cinemas. The location is great - right by Chinatown and Soho. We got some Chinese bakery and snuck it in (teehee!). The seating plan was interesting, there is a dip in the middle so that - I assume - people at the back can see. However, we sat in the middle, and watched the whole film whilst feeling rather 'short'. It was only when leaving did we realise our error. Perhaps the middle is for the tall people? You can become a member to the Prince Charles Cinema for about £10 (changes from time to time I think) and then the films are even cheaper. If I lived/worked closer, I would certainly do that!

It's big and comfortable, it's cheap and it plays many many good films. Once in a while they host free screenings or 2 for 1. There is a good crowd that jumps and screams during horror films and laughs when it's funny, memorable screenings of HOSTEL and THE ORPHANAGE, THE KING OF SCOTLAND, I'M A CYBORG, RELIGULOUS, just to name a few... And did I mention it's totally central? Almost just next to the ODEON in Leicester Square.

I can afford to keep this one brief. I come here a lot. It's cheap as chips. It's as cute as a button. It's always got interesting films and special nights. It does sing a long Rocky Horror Picture Show. Can't fault the place.

It's the choice of film that distinguishes the Prince Charles Cinema. In the heart of cinema land where you find all the big box office's it's nice to find somewhere that shows not only the new films, but also the classics. With a very good selection it's not hard to find something for every taste here - Fancy a sing-along, some anime, fancy a movie marathon, a dress up session, or just to re-watch that classic movie you've always loved on the big screen? I've watched Blade runner, the labyrinth, the Alien's marathon and seen the screening of Devin Townsends 'on a thread' tour DVD. The cinema is comfy with big deep seats and the clientele are passionate about their films, so tend to be on the more respectful (unless it's a sign along) side. I do however find the drinks and foods they sell to be on the expensive side. Although I do like supporting the venue, so if you're not on the budget and want to take in your own (they rarely check), then I'd recommend grabbing something from the bar. I'd personally recommend the Brewdog IPA - but unless you ask they'll decanter it into a plastic cup.

I can't bear Leicester Square, with it's swarms of tourists and ridiculously over priced cinemas churning out Hollywood blockbusters, but thankfully, the Prince Charles Cinema just off the square offers a great alternative. If you don't mind waiting a few months to see a film (their policy is one of late release therefore they can save on film buying costs) then I suggest you do and come here to see it. Not only because the prices are fantastically cheap (£4 for matinees and £5 for evening and weekends, even cheaper if you become an annual member) but because this is a proper cinema, not just a garish money making scheme like the ones on the square. They show a selection of Hollywood's and a few art films, and ironically, for me, it's also great as I usually miss films the first time round, so screenings a few months later are just fine. They have a film lovers taste, with a few whimsical flicks thrown in too. I can just imagine the guys who own it (I actually have no idea who does) sat round eating popcorn, watching old videos going, "oh man we just have to put this on next month!". For example over Christmas week they're showing double bills of 'Scrooged' and 'Home Alone'... Christmas staples! The seats are the comfiest I've sat in in London and the screens have red velvet curtains, just like the old days. It's perfectly understated and it's the sort of place you can relax in with a monster hangover, or come on your own to, if you can't find anyone who also wants to see that little obscure picture that came out a few months ago that no one else remembers. They're currently undergoing a major refurbishment so fingers crossed the same old charm will remain.

I love the Prince Charles cinema, not only is it the cheapest cinema in Leicester Square at £3.50 a ticket in the afternoon and £4.50 in the evenings it also shows films which have been in the big cinemas a few months before so it gives you an opportunity to see the films you have missed out on. You can buy a glass of wine and some popcorn at the shop here also! Oh and there is a great Chinese supermarket across the street that have a great selection of teas!