The Little Theatre

Movie theater · Rochester

The Little Theatre

Movie theater · Rochester

1

240 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14604

Photos

The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null
The Little Theatre by null

Highlights

Indie & foreign films, rotating art, music, cafe, historic theater  

Placeholder
Placeholder

240 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14604 Get directions

thelittle.org
@thelittletheatre

$ · Menu

Information

Static Map

240 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14604 Get directions

+1 585 258 0400
thelittle.org
@thelittletheatre
𝕏
@thelittleroch

$ · Menu

Features

wifi
payment credit card

Last updated

Aug 22, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@postcardnews

An Art Deco landmark for indie and international cinema since 1929, now run with WXXI. Expect smart series, live events, and a lively cafe—regularly spotlighted by local critics and preservation groups.

https://thelittle.org/events/
Things to Do in Rochester (2025)
View Postcard for The Little Theatre

John Spaulding

Google
This is a fantastic gem of a theater in Downtown Rochester. Art Deco styling that is fantastic. It's been refreshed but still holds onto parts of the original building. From the marquee out front, the ticket booth, concessions stand. Beautiful theater. Has a stage, not sure if they do performances. They do show a large variety of films. Seating capacity is just under 300. I'm glad that it is kept in such good condition.

M B

Google
My literal favorite place in Rochester, probably New York State, possibly the US. When reading their weekly newsletter or “Now Playing” area on their Web site, consider stepping outside of your comfort zone! Because I only watch films at The Little, I see an amazing variety when looking at my ticket-stub-mementos at the end of the year. If you choose to take advantage of the variety of The Little’s offerings, I promise you will not regret it. This theatre really cares about the community. I encourage the community to show up for this theatre!

Brandon Brown

Google
The Little is a warm, welcoming place run by wonderful people where you can catch the latest in indie and offbeat film, along with frequent special screenings of mainstream flicks and deep-cut gems. They are always playing something cool. Get a sandwich and a beer at the cafe and you can even make a day of it. Don't forget to check out the Anomaly Film Festival in the fall!

Mike Rich

Google
It is a wonderful small theater. Popcorn is always fresh and tasty. You can get a beer or wine for a movie if soda is not your thing. The seats could be more comfortable, but it's not that bad. Always great movies playing and such diversity

Fabian Velez

Google
My first time going to The Little Theater was in conjunction with Fringe fest. I loved the live performances in the intimate setting, I will definitely be looking for more activities and consider coming to them for regular screenings as well. Can't wait to come back for more!

T S

Google
It’s so nice to have a theater like this where they value the old school cinema and still have 35mm screenings showing movies from all over the world and from different time periods. Staff were friendly and price is affordable. Love their thematic months.

R B

Google
Cute theatre, a bit confusing on the entry part, but figured it out with some assistance from the staff. $12 for a movie, seems a little steep. Did not order anything for the movie, but comfortable seating, and good screen and sound. It was an overall positive and enjoyable experience.

Yana Lysenko

Google
I love this theater so much. It’s a true gem and a historic relic in the city and one of my favorite spots in Rochester. It plays an excellent assortment of movies, all the employees are kind and helpful, and the popcorn and baked goods are excellent! Try the black and white cookie too. I haven’t lived permanently in Rochester for years but whenever I’m back, this is the first place I think of visiting again. Prices are still reasonable in these times. Support your local cinema!!!
google avatar

patchy g.

Yelp
Lovely place, would be great if they started the movies on time. The whole gimmick was 7 on 7 at 7. Not 7 on 7 at 7:32pm. This isn't a high school, we don't need a half hour intro for the movie 7 that came out in 1995. I dig your mission but if we need that long of an interlude maybe start that at 6:30pm. Other than that great idea and awesome independent theater.
google avatar

Marissa B.

Yelp
The Little Theatre is an asset to the Rochester community and will always have my support. I have been going to The Little for over 10 years and I feel they have stepped up their programing in the last few years. They host fun and engaging themed series (Saturday Night Rewind, Spooktober, So Fetch) and film festivals (Anomaly,Rochester Teen Film Festival, Cat Fest) They make screenings an experience with giveaways, custom made pins, and even custom drinks to pair with the movie. I won a Marty McFly Funko Pop at a Saturday Night Rewind Screening of "Back to the Future" I always feel welcomed and you can tell the staff cares about your experience. The Little Theatre gets me excited about film! They also have the best popcorn out of all the movie theaters in the greater Rochester area. Legendary popcorn with real butter! I can't say enough good things about The Little. One of my favorite places in Rochester.
google avatar

Hannah L.

Yelp
One thing about me? I'm a sucker for places that are able to take me back to a different era. And The Little is the perfect place to time travel. Went here with my best friend who lives in the area. She's been telling me about how wonderful it is for years! The building itself is so historic. If I'm not mistaken, it was originally built in the 20s, and you can tell through some of the architectural design. The individual theaters are on the smaller side, and are a tad worn down, but that was no big deal to me. I think admission and concession prices here are more than fair. In addition to popcorn and candy, they offer up baked goods from local cafes, which is a really nice touch! One thing I noticed that I really appreciated was that they make it a point to screen "indie," lesser known films -- typically you can't find that at large movie theater chains. They also frequently host special screenings and events which proves to me that they have really deep roots in the community. If I was native to Rochester, I'd become a Little Theater member, hands down. It's a little slice of history and you can see great movies for decent prices. What more could you ask for?
google avatar

Brian R.

Yelp
Best in Movie- Music-Coffee-Desert in Rochester, NY True Gem of the East End ! Live music 7 days a week!
google avatar

Danielle S.

Yelp
What a thrill to be back at The Little a year and a half after my last visit! I enjoyed watching Virtual Little movies at home (and it would be cool if they kept virtual movies available), but there's just something about that theater experience. I called ahead to reserve tickets for a Saturday afternoon show, and you can pick where you want to sit (center, side aisle, etc.). My tickets were waiting for me when I got to the front desk. An usher took us to our seats, which were sufficiently spaced away from other patrons. Seats in front, behind, and next to us were taped off. You can remove your mask once you sit down. If you like The Little, consider becoming a member. You get free show tickets, discounts at the cafe and snack bar, and you get to support a great local organization working to bring great entertainment to our community. It makes a great gift too!
google avatar

Adham H.

Yelp
The Little is a must experience for everyone! Whether you're visiting Rochester or you live here, you must check it out! Live music at the cafe, theater performance on the stage or a movie! You won't go wrong with anything you choose.
google avatar

Wyatt L.

Yelp
We visited The Little today for a movie to beat the heat and get some AC. It's a very nice theatre and pretty inexpensive. We paid $9 each for a blockbuster movie they were showing. Like many others, I highly suggest getting some of their popcorn made with real butter. That slaps. Also great to support a local Indy film venue. We love it here and will be back.
google avatar

Megan C.

Yelp
Absolutely love the Little! We went last night for $5 movie Monday (to see Jojo Rabbit) and I was reminded of all the reasons this place is the best! Great indie selections you can't get anywhere else in town, reasonable prices for movies & concessions, and a bustling cafe. The scenery all around the theatre is also lovely, from the marquis to the alleyway that leads from theater 1 to the parking lot. They have a robust membership plan that includes a whole host of perks. It goes without saying that Little Popcorn (follow on twitter if you don't!) is some of the best movie theater popcorn available, and the staff is always friendly. Concession and ticket lines move slow, so make sure to leave some time if you're planning to make a stop. Last night's movie was an isolated experience, but the theatre (or someone in it) smelled so badly of body odor for the entirety that my experience was a bit compromised. Parking on busy nights is a bit of a struggle, but street parking is free after 6 and pretty plentiful in that stretch of East Ave. Don't skip a trip to The Little - especially if you're a move buff. They host most of the city's film festivals and are always innovating what the community should see next.
google avatar

Arvid Y.

Yelp
I'm a fan of The Little Theater. The small local independent movie theater is a nice contrast to the huge commercial cineplexes that commonly exist. The small and intimate movie going experience is a nice throwback to earlier times. Prices here (even without membership) are a few dollars cheaper than the commercial theaters. This goes for the concession stands as well. A popcorn and drink won't hurt your wallet too much. Don't expect the latest Marvel movie to be on screen here, but instead a handful of well-selected (and reviewed) indie movies and foreign films. The atmosphere is also relaxing and laid back. A bit less frantic than the commercial movie theaters. They don't have La-Z- boy seating, but it's been renovated and overall comfortable. Overall, one of Rochester's gems and definitely worth checking out.
google avatar

Kenya M.

Yelp
I love this theatre. I've been several times for screenings of old stuff. Most recently, the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Before that, Ghostbusters. Smallish theatre. Excellent popcorn. Good snacks. I also attended a Breakfast with The Grinch event. That was a little bit of a mess.
google avatar

Rachel G.

Yelp
This is where my hubs and I will go for a little date night time. I love to see lesser released films and docs! Haven't been in a few months. I think Midsommar was the last film we caught here. I think we are overdue! I really enjoy the small intimate movie experience here. The seats a bit snuggly situated together, no recliner or faux leather here! It reminds me a bit going to the movies back when I was a kid in the 80's (dating myself here) before the megaplex became the standard for movie-going. The popcorn is a-mazing and you must must have it! Always some yummy baked goods available too. I must bring my teens here. I can't even imagine when they will think of The Little- We always hit the cafe for a little wine or coffee before catching the show, sometimes we will see a musical performance. It's a fun and rare place, check it out!
google avatar

Kristen H.

Yelp
Great indie, art house theater in downtown Rochester. I hesitate giving five stars for two reasons 1. Parking is sometimes a challenge 2 . Seats are not the most comfortable Other than that - concessions are delicious and prices right.... great selection of films, locally owned and operated!
google avatar

Amy S.

Yelp
One of my favorite places in Rochester. They show a great selection of foreign and international films. They usually show 4 or 5 films at a time. They show films that the chain theaters don't show. They also have delicious popcorn and vegan jam bars from red fern. My only complaint is parking can be a pain and their parking lot is very small but there is usually street parking right near by.
google avatar

Taylor O.

Yelp
My friend and I came here for a Yelp event. It started in the café then included a movie. This theatre is pretty cute and holds onto historic Rochester. The front lobby looks like an old school theatre; from the ticket booth to the consessions stand. The showing rooms are small and comfortable. The place is very cool because they host different movie theme nights and showings. Very cute historic piece of Rochester.
google avatar

Kimi W.

Yelp
Oh my goodness! This little indie theater was so cool! For some reason, the front entrance was closed, so we wandered in the back. In a separate café (?) area, they were hosting live music, but we visited to see Sorry To Bother You in the theater. We purchased refreshments (reasonably priced!) and then found our seats. The individual theater was maybe 1/3 the size of a traditional movie theater, but it was perfect for a small showing. The area was clean, and the picture and sound were crisp with no problems. Aside from being a bit disturbed by the movie (still a great movie; I think being disturbed was the point), we really enjoyed the entirety of our visit. I love the concept of a small theater that shows mainly indie films.
google avatar

PJ C.

Yelp
We go in streaks when it comes to seeing movies at the Little. We are downtown all of the time but when we do see movies we tend to go for the suburban stadium seating... But the Little's selection of movies always draws us back (usually after seeing a preview at the theater we say there's another movie we need to see - movies that don't get much of the typical press). They are in the midst of upgrading their seats which in those theaters that have not yet seen the change really need it. I just love the funkiness of the place and the cafe with the live music on most nights is a bonus. This place is a gem!
google avatar

Stanley M.

Yelp
The Little is a true gem of a movie theater... kinda like the Alamo Drafthouse minus beer. It's a seriously cool place to catch a first run independent film, the theater is noted for it's ability to program & slot films that may be a bit too outré for the big chains. On top of that, the attached cafe serves up a wide variety of foodstuffs (paninis, wraps, salads, quiches and soups), tasty desserts, Italian sodas, coffees, tea, beer & wine. Live music can be heard most days; regulars include the Djangoners, Margaret Explosion, Annie Wells, Connie Deming, Charlie Mitchell Trio & the ever eclectic Watkins & Rapiers. If you're visiting Rochester, make sure to include a stop @ the Little.
google avatar

Lia D.

Yelp
The Little is a must visit when in Rochester! It is a classic, endearing theater that features indie, foreign and art films. The Little draws you in with its vintage look inside and out. Ticket prices are super reasonable, leaving money to get some of the BEST movie theater popcorn you can buy. The cafe is cute, featuring local art, with great food options. They have traditional movie seats within the theaters, but they are kept clean and comfortable.
google avatar

Jamie L.

Yelp
I love this movie theatre. The last three movies I've seen (and cried during) were here so I feel like we have something very special. The POPCORN is yummy. Besides playing excellent indie and major films, they host a variety of events ranging from comedy shows to live music in the cafe to special film screenings. I would recommend signing up for the weekly newsletter to receive information on all their events. There's a small parking lot, which fills easily so street parking is another option.
google avatar

Mariah H.

Yelp
Easily one of my top three favorite places in Rochester. The Little shows a more curated selection of movies than your standard options; the mix of indie, foreign, and films that might generate buzz at award season is appreciated. I'm always able to see something interesting and unique. In addition, the Little regularly holds events such a film screenings, themed series, etc. There's constantly something going on. Prices are more than reasonable (downright cheap compared to something like Regal or AMC), the new seats are exceptionally comfortable (standard theater seats, not recliners, which I appreciate), and they have the best popcorn around. The Little is a must-visit, whether you're new in town or have lived in Rochester for thirty years. Get the popcorn. Seriously. You'll thank me later.
google avatar

Sara D.

Yelp
The Little Theater is an old fashioned type of movie house. It has lots of charm and they present off the beaten path movies series as well as artistic venues presentations(Opera,ballet, arts). The little cafe have a nice mix menu to munch before or during the movie. Their popcorn is the best in town. I've been here for film festivals. Can't wait to go back.
google avatar

Anna A.

Yelp
Great place to watch some independent films. Awesome cafe attached with frequent live music.
google avatar

Sik I.

Yelp
I will give the Little five stars just because coming here is a "classic" and "cozy" feeling that you can't beat. I won't compare it to the big wigs like Regal and AMC because the reason I come here is when I want to escape the typical "cinema" experience that big companies have created. The Little is local, runs independent movies and has enthusiastic staff which feels like a local family. The concessions and movies are cheaper. The pop corn is excellent! The seats are not as comfortable as I would like but the positives outweigh any negatives. They play special shows of classic older movies at times which I have been hoping to go to but haven't been able to yet. Parking can be tricky on busy weekends but I haven't had major problems. Will continue to enjoy and support The Little.
google avatar

Nicole M.

Yelp
I have been a member of the Little for over a year and love it. If you get a membership (student is $35=2.90 a movie) and a regular membership is $50 ($4.20 a movie) it ends up paying off in the long run. The cool thing about the memberships is you can also treat the person you are going with and just have the staff member sign off on one of your boxes in your card. I prefer to come to the little rather than seeing more summer blockbuster sequel crap that hollywood spits out. The movies here are excellent. Last week I saw the latest Almódovar film, and an independent american film. Can't wait to see Blue Jasmine next week.
google avatar

Breanna B.

Yelp
If I am going to see a movie, the first thing I do is see if it's playing at the Little Theatre. I'm going to support our local Rochester independent theatre any chance I get. I prefer the unique movie experience you get at the Little, especially when I can stop in the cafe for a yummy latte and snack before head into the theater. I love that I can count on the Little to show the indie or lesser known films that I often get excited about when national promo commercials air. When they say "only in select theaters" I can trust it will make its way to the Little. In addition, the Little hosts a great deal of film series and showcases local & student filmmakers. For most considering a movie's impact on their pocket change, the Little has a fair price for a great film w/ adult tickets at $8 and students at $5 (Sun.-Thurs.). Support your local theater!
google avatar

Joley B.

Yelp
New Seats? When did that happen? Has it really been than long since I've been here? A friend and I visited a couple of weeks ago to check out "The Book Theif" and had a good time in the new seats. I really like the Little. It's a great place to catch an independent film, and I love being able to support local businesses. It's nice to have a place that offers international films and holds events like the Polish Film Festival. For a small city to have a gem like the Little is a privilege! I've eaten in the cafe before and it is an eclectic little spot that's has live music to enjoy. A great place to grab a warm drink and catch up with a friend. Parking can be tricky sometimes as the area can get pretty busy. Be prepared to walk a short distance on those busy evenings.
google avatar

Julie B.

Yelp
If the seats were like amc I would give 5 stars. Can't beat the price at all especially on a weekend and night. There r 5 theaters all together. They show movies that r indie films but also oscar winners. Came to see award winning Dallas buyers club. They also have cheaper concession and a little restaurant with live music.
google avatar

Cara J.

Yelp
The Little is one of my favorite places of all time. I looooove going to the movies and they are easily my favorite because they have the widest spread. They have all the best treats and I've just (recently) discovered the cafe and their food is amazing and responsibly priced. I also love that if I want to catch a couple of movies I can just go get a bite to eat in there before my next flick. I've been a member for the last couple of years and I'm very happy with that life choice. I've seen so many movies and learned so much and am so grateful this is so close to home. Their staff is amazing and honestly if I could only go to one place in Rochester for infinity I would happily choose the little.
google avatar

Eileen G.

Yelp
Little theater is the best. Great movies, documentary films with discussions and other Indie film events. Cafe provides up close music and entertainment. Highly recommend
google avatar

Kari C.

Yelp
Recently planned an event here and worked with the awesome management here. They were very kind, attentive and quick to communicate with our various requests. Awesome, Rochester staple with such a rich and amazing history. I highly recommend planning a private event here or just going to see a movie. Top notch!
google avatar

Laura B.

Yelp
Saw 'Blue Jasmine' here on a Thursday night. Theatres 2-5 are in the back, as I had to have help figuring out haha. :-) Clean theatre, relaxed kids working the place, and it seems very renovated and modernized, despite the cool antique-styled exterior. Loved it here, especially with the half-full house of a weeknight. Cafe snacks are very affordable, which I would never even attempt to say about larger multiplexes. An adult nighttime ticket is $8. I would definitely return!
google avatar

Janelle S.

Yelp
Can a theatre get any better than The Little? This place keeps me EDUCATED. I love everything they have to offer. The screenings with discussions after, the throwbacks, the new releases. They truly have it all. The staff are always great, their website is incredibly easy to use (and it is very helpful to grab tickets in advance to the popular events!). Staff are always helpful and the food looks delicious. Outside of the concession stand, you can plan a longer stay and check out their little cafe! Coffee and tea, salads, soups, and sandwiches! They have live music on certain nights as well! There is always something fun going on here!! You can't go wrong with a trip to The Little.
google avatar

Brandi M.

Yelp
My favorite theater to go to due to atmosphere and low prices. Always relaxed feel and great vintage decor. Reasonable ticket prices with many discounts including student which cannot be used on weekends but good for those looking for something to do during the day! Food also reasonable and good size compared to over priced theaters. I will continue to come here for the great atmosphere & good service!
google avatar

Kate D. B.

Yelp
The Little is one of my favorite local movie theatres because if it's showing there, I probably want to see it. Art house, indy, local film festivals -- it's a film-lover's dream. The Little is all about atmosphere, and there's nothing better than this place when it comes to fostering the Rochester family of movie-lovers. And you can get a soup or sandwich at the local cafe and have your dinner in front of the big screen (but leave at least 15 minutes for them to prep it before your movie). Tickets to regular shows are never more than $8, and there are two ways to get deals: you can buy a 5-pack of vouches for $35 (they never expire) or you can go on Mondays, when admission is only $5. There are also a ton of member benefits, including a late-night option that will get you into any of their later showings (starting around 9pm) for the grand old price of F-R-E-E. The best thing about The Little? Every year, they show the Animated and the Live Action Oscar-Nominated Shorts usually around 3 weeks before the Oscars. If you've never seen them, it's a fantastic way to expose yourself to a bunch of new films. After all, if you can see five movies in one sitting -- you're sure to like at least one of them!
google avatar

Michael S.

Yelp
The Little is a wonderful theatre if you like smaller and more independent films, and you don't like large crowds. Like the name suggests, The Little Theatre is, well, little. The size of each of the 5 screens is much smaller than you will find at any big name movie theatre chain. I, personally, like that. It gives a closer, more intimate feeling with the movie you're seeing. The Little doesn't just show indie movies, though. I watched Big Eyes there last night, and they are also showing The Imitation Game right now. The Little is also cheaper than the big movie theaters. Tickets are normally $8 for any showing, but Monday nights are $5, they give student discounts with an I.D., and you can save $2 on a ticket most nights if you are a AAA member. There are a couple nice restaurants right down the street from The Little if you wanted to have a dinner and a movie date, and Harts is right next-door to the theatre if you need to do a little grocery shopping and support local growers and makers. Be warned that there is limited parking. The Little has a very small lot, and Harts is 1-hour parking for customers. You might get lucky and find a meter parking space on the street, but if you are having trouble, just down the street is a gravel lot that is free of charge to park in. The Little is a great theatre, and it makes for a nice date night.
google avatar

Jen R.

Yelp
After being here twice I can give this place a proper review. This is a great local independent & foreign film center. Small, cozy and prices are terrific and the seats well can be a bit uncomfortable. Films seem to run about two weeks more or less from what I can ascertain. This is a place for people who really LOVE FILM. The front door has an old school marquee but the entrance for the time being is in the back. They do have parking but it becomes filled fast and street parking can be spotty. The staff is great and seems almost like a family they know the regulars really well. Popcorn is DA BOMB and get the butter with it! YUMMEH. Go support your local movie theater.
google avatar

Claire Z.

Yelp
I feel smart when I go to The Little. ... Ok, there's actually a lot more to say than that. The Little is great. It is a completely different sort of experience than going to one of the megaplexes around here. The movies are more interesting and varied than the same old stuff that goes to the big places. Their refreshments are gourmet and tasty. Their employees are hip and friendly. It is also cheaper than the big theaters! And cheap is good, especially when it is also better!
google avatar

Saul M.

Yelp
Absolutely one of Rochester's best treasures. The main theatre is an Art Deco style with a neon sign and an old style movie board. I love getting the art house experience in this throwback theatre. The many festivals that the Little hosts are also darn good. Membership entitles you to nice discounts and students also receive a price break. Love this place!!!
google avatar

laura W.

Yelp
This theater tugs at my heart strings. It's so precious. Don't expect a ritzy, new theater. The seats aren't stadium or with enormous drink holders... but they do play amazing independent films at great prices. They also do awesome things like documentary series, women's history month films, etc. Regular tickets are $8, matinees $6, students/seniors $5- but GET THIS, students can sign up for a membership for $35 and get 12 tickets (which can be used all on you or you can share with the people you go see the movie with!). The snacks are super reasonably priced... and I like that they use real butter on the popcorn. You can get sodas, coffee, tea... if only they served beer. That's the only thing holding me back from throwing five stars out.
google avatar

Christina H.

Yelp
What can I say that hasn't already been said? It's an adorable cinema that somehow manages to fit 4 screens through its winding hallways. A fully stocked refreshment stand with baked goods from their cafe (I wish the cafe opened earlier than 5 - it looked adorable but we missed out being there for a matinee). Staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. They may be in need of some renovations, but that is most definitely part of the charm. I wouldn't want them to change anything!
google avatar

Susan L.

Yelp
We were members of the Little during our last several years in Rochester and we saw lots of interesting films there. We also loved the café, which had occasional live jazz performances - and they had delicious food items, plus I liked the hot apple cider during the cold winters. I think the Little is one of Rochester's treasures!
google avatar

Ren P.

Yelp
My ideal movie theater offers films that venture beyond Hollywood tripe, is devoid of louts who shine laser pointers on the screen, isn't so packed that I'm forced to freestyle though teeming humanity to access the ticket counter and restroom and one of the last few empty seats in the theater, sets the volume below the threshold for hearing damage, and provides me with a comfortable seat. In the case of The Little, I say 3.75 out of 5 ain't bad. Gripes first, 'cause that's the mood I'm in. The Little suffers because it is a commercial venture and because this is Rochester. In this far-from-primary market it can be 6 months to a year after the debut of a film before the Little can lay hands on it, and some films I've looked forward to haven't come at all. The Little will also park an example of popular/lucrative drivel (Poster Child: My Big Fat Greek Wedding) on a screen long-term in a bid to make some money, while other edgier and less accessible films have blink-and-you'll-miss-them engagements. The movie times drive me nuts. The early evening times are too early to comfortably make after coming home from work. If we decide to eat and then catch the "late" show, we frequently have an hour to burn before the film begins. When it's too much trouble to figure out how to fill it, we ditch the film and do something else. Once in the theater, the surprisingly uncomfortable seats bust my butt, punish my back, are impossible to slouch in properly, and are so close to the seats in front that I splay my legs and invariably find myself playing footsie with my neighbor. The theaters betray the dirt of ages - that ground-in, tired dirt that can't be washed away and that I always associate with an elderly person's long-time residence. And, oh my, the chunky, gloppy, nasty, black insulation stuck to the ceilings .... That said, I appreciate The Little and am glad it's here. I'm still blown away thinking about them having FIVE screens. Very cool. The other theaters that I've known (in other cities) that show independent/alternative films only have one or two. The Little may not be able to show everything that's out there, but they do a great job of bringing a lot of little-known and talked-about-in-independent-film-circles films to Rochester. There's almost always something interesting showing on their screens, and devoting their screens to the year's multiple film festivals (offering a great variety of unknown and truly alternative efforts) is a great idea. They also set aside the occasional week to showcase a set of related films. There isn't anything else in the area to rival them. There's hardly ever a crush of people, and those that come have come to see the film, not be an irritant. The Little doesn't need to blast the volume to drown out the miscreants. The cafe offers some decent stuff (with vegetarian-friendly soups and sandwiches), and I rarely have trouble finding a seat. Although, it's a small space, and it can be tough to eat here if you don't get into the live music - there's no escaping it. Parking isn't bad, if you're flexible. I can infrequently find a spot in their small lot, I only look for a spot in the lot they share with 2 Vine if it's right before the last film showing, and most times I just head straight to the garage on Scio. There is a gravel lot on the other side of 2 Vine - it's probably fine but I don't get good vibes from it.
google avatar

Caitlyn P.

Yelp
This is quite honestly one of my favorite places in all of Rochester. Even though I recently moved out of state, I'm still signed up for the weekly email newsletter just to read the genuine notes sent out by the staff and see what new and fun events they are hosting. As an independent movie theater it's much smaller than your average theater, but that's part of its charm. Movie tickets are inexpensive and there is a discount for students - take advantage of that! The movie selection is always varied and a lot of the independent films you can't find at a Regal or Cinemark theater are shown here. There is a cafe right next to the movie theater with great coffee, wine, and food, and I don't know what magic they put into their popcorn, but it's delicious. The staff is INCREDIBLY kind and friendly and very knowledgable of the films that are playing if you're not sure what to see. The Little Theatre hosts a lot of great events, too! They put together film series, showing movies of a specific category, like the Audrey Hepburn Film Series and a tribute to Philip Seymour Hoffman's works. If you HAVEN'T been, you should definitely check it out, and if you HAVE been, make it your regular movie-watching spot!
google avatar

Joyce H.

Yelp
Fun indie theater in Rochester! It's very charming-yet-modern. They have 5 theaters -- one in the main building and 4 in the back. My family and I watched a film in Theater 2 on Thursday night. It was decently attended. There were also a few fixed gear bikes out back too. Haha. They also feature a cafe with live jazz and a nice concession stand. I agree that the chairs can be updated to be more comfortable, but overall it's a great theater worth supporting.
google avatar

Nat R.

Yelp
The Little Theater was my first "art house" movie theater experience in college and as such will always hold a special place in my heart. (One of my greatest film experiences ever was watching Pulp Fiction on opening night in Theater 1 in an absolutely packed house!) Even today just the sight of their marquee while driving down East Ave makes me super happy. All nostalgia aside, the Little is pretty much the perfect place. First off, there are five screens which allow for a pretty decent selection of independent films each week. The seats are comfortable and the sound is good. I love that they play music and show local ads for local businesses and non-profit organizations before the movie instead of the silly, obnoxious Hollywood nonsense you get at the multiplexes. Where the Little really excels is the adjacent cafe & superb concessions! I used to love going to the cafe after class on Friday evening for a light dinner and glass of wine before the show. And they usually had really great live jazz on the weekend....how awesome is that?!?! Once it was time to go in to the movie, I would hit the concession stand for a cuppa tea and a naimo bar....so much better than a $6 coke & $7 styrofoam popcorn from the above mentioned multiplex! If all this is not enough, the Little is a non-profit organization so you can feel good about spending money there. You can even become a member which gets you a whole bunch of perks including free admission to a certain number of movies. (When I was a student, I think it cost me $35 to become a member and I got 12 free admissions!) The Little rocks....pure & simple.
google avatar

Dave L.

Yelp
This is the best movie theater hands down. I have never been to any better. Not only is it a great place; prices are amazing for admission; the choices for snacks are very cool abd reasonable. And the popcorn.....BEST POPCORN EVER!! It really is. I recommend coming here as often as you can. There is a cafe, with a great selection of desserts wine and coffee. Jazz in some nights. If you have come just come! You won't find a better place!!!
google avatar

Amanda P.

Yelp
The Little Theatre is one of my favourite things in Rochester. I've been a member since I moved here and have never looked back. Whoever curates their movie selection has done a wonderful job! I visit the Little on regular occasions with friends, or even just by myself. It's always been cheery and inviting. This evening, for instance, I decided that I'd read my book over a coffee at Fuego, grab dinner at Hart's, and then catch the 7 pm showing of Infinity Polar Bear (cute movie; great acting). It made for an excellent solo evening. If you're ever in a similar mood of exploring the city solo, I'd highly recommend it!

Lex C.

Yelp
Very nice place to chill with people who enjoys each others company. Very humble looking place without all the fancy things other new, big theater now have. I wasn't expecting reclining chairs like Loews in Webster, but a cup holder for your soda would be nice. The place was clean, staff were friendly. But wasn't expecting to pay $11 for two small sodas and two small popcorn at The Little. The plus side here is that, you don't have to deal with stupid juvenile punks and ignorant people talking during the showing. I guess this is where the cultured crowed hangs out. It was cool to see an old movie on the big screen. Reminds me of my younger days of going to the movies with your friends before Netflix and YouTube.
google avatar

Christina M.

Yelp
We went to the Little Theatre Saturday late evening and were pleasantly surprised by the casual vibe, friendly people, and overall atmosphere for a weekend evening on the east end. Great date night spot. The beverages at the cafe were reasonably priced and the coffee was very good. Great to be able to grab a coffee before heading into a movie. The selection of movies is excellent and we will definitely be back for another low key date night.