The Nightlight

So wonderful to have found this spot! This is a comfy cozy independent theatre with amazing selections. The decor and entire vibe is so cute, and you can really feel the love for cinema in there. I will be returning again and again to see what else they are showing. Loved seeing Hertzfeldt’s work there.

My daughter and son-in-law came up from Columbus over the weekend. We saw Penguin Lessons as my daughter is a DVM and LOVES penguins. We have been to many smaller independent theaters in the Columbus area and love the vibes of a small theater. Even though Night Life is going through a renovation, my husband, daughter, son-in-law, and I loved the theater. This is a true Akron gem!

A very cozy theater with very friendly staff. They play really interesting and unique movies. Worth visiting again and again.

My partner and I went for the first time on Valentine’s day and they were showing Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. We had never seen it before and this was the best possible place to view it for the first time. The Nightlight is intimate and classy, such a fun place for date night. Excited to go back!

The Nightlight is a gem for independent films and documentaries. It's in a great neighborhood with a bar and pizza place nearby. It shows unique films with a great vibe. I recommend getting tickets online.

It was a great little theater and well priced. The movie wasn't the greatest but that's not because of them.

Great theater, with a friendly staff.

Fun small movie theater with films not usually show at major theaters

The Nightlight is one of my top three favorite places in Akron along with Akron Coffee Roasters right next door and Angel Falls down West Market. You can't go wrong spending a night at the Nightlight. You go to see a movie, something usually a bit more indie, a classic, or arthouse, and as soon as you step through the doors you're transported to a different world or a different time. (At least I am). And yet, it feels like a timeless place. Like this is a place that has always existed and will always exist. If I'm wandering through the post-apocalyptic wasteland and don't stumble upon the Nightlight I would be woefully surprised. It's mystical, know what I mean? They've just completed their ambitious second screen project. In the process, they've completely renovated their other spaces. You can now pick up a themed cocktail (or mocktail), a Norka or a Cheerwine at their extensive and sizable bar. There's plenty of seating at the counter if you'd care to take one and chat it up as if you're at a cocktail lounge. On the left side of the bar is a nice snack collection to choose from. Pick up all kinds of candy before you make your order for drinks and popcorn at the counter. They even have some vintage options that'll bring tears to your grandparents' eyes. The popcorn is everything you'd want from a movie theater, so don't miss out. They've also added a brand new movie library behind the bar. Here, you can take a plush chair by the fireplace and discuss whatever great movie you just got out of. It's the kind of place that makes you want to puff on pipe tobacco. Their bathrooms also got an overhaul! If you're a fan of The Shining, it'll feel like you stepped into the bathroom where Jack chats with Delbert Grady. I won't spoil the library. The second screen is a great addition. Now they can play more movies and host more showings. It's a beautiful theater as well. You'll have to see it and experience it for yourself. I'm obsessed with the red carpet. The whole place, not just the theaters, is dripping with style. They've captured and mastered an aesthetic. Not only do they create this space, they also partner with all kinds of other local venues for unique showings. Like Pulp Fiction at the Civic, The Shining at CVNP's lodge, and other classics at Lock 3 in the summer. You'll also get the chance to meet directors and producers who come to town with their films. As a writer, this is a special and encouraging experience for me. The executive director of the Nightlight, Jenn Kidd, is one of the kindest people you will meet. She makes everyone feel like a valued human being, not just a patron or customer. People are important to her, that's why she's helped create and foster this welcoming community space. And it does feel like that, a community. One that is safe and inclusive. All of the staff are lovely people. I don't tire of seeing them and hearing their thoughts about the movies. You'll meet all kinds of cool strangers as well. One of the best parts about the Nightlight is their membership program. They have varying levels, but honestly the gold tier is the way to go. For $20 a month, you can go to every showing. That's right, $20 a month gets you a ticket to every showing! On Mondays you can also bring a guest for free, along with several extra tickets to use at your discretion throughout the year. You also get free popcorn with every showing. It's a great deal, honestly, if you ask me it's a steal. Jenn, if you're reading this, make physical membership cards! It would be very very cool. I would pay extra for one, I'm so serious! I'm just imaging that bad boy in my wallet and it gives me a sweet feeling. Perhaps I'm just a mawkish sap. I moved back to Akron after living out of state for about 6 years. A lot of my old friends had moved away. Before I found a new group of great people, I didn't have all that much to do besides work, take care of my grandma (Mimi), and hangout around Angel Falls with my childhood bestie. How many times can you go to the Bomb Shelter without going a little crazy? And then the Nightlight showed me its face! I had somewhere to go, that changed a lot for me. Now I go to the Nightlight with so many different friends! I always take my out-of-towners as well. Full circle for me. I still love going alone too, that won't change. I also always meet great strangers there. Thanks for being that place for me for over a year now. It is truly a gem. Thanks for providing it! Check them out on social media and subscribe to their email list, you won't regret it. They're severely lacking in recent reviews, so give them a glowing one!

This theater is adorable and shows a wide variety of unique films. Went here to see a movie called Wicked Little Letters and my fiancé and I absolutely loved it. We will for sure be here numerous more times. Such a nice local place and they even are in the process of adding a second screen to accommodate more guests. 100% should check out a movie here if you want something a little different from your normal movie going experience.

First time at an Indie movie theater and I enjoyed myself. This place is located a short walk from a parking garage when you can't find street parking. When you walk in the lobby is set up to knowledge the history of the theater (which I love) and then when you go down the hall you come upon the bar where you can get a drink and/or some popcorn for the movie. The theater was set up with a few rows of extremely uncomfortable chairs and if you have long legs be prepared for some added discomfort. There were a couple of sets of recliners in the front row so get there early if you'd like one of those. Overall, I enjoyed myself.

Warm fuzzies from my young adulthood! The Nightlight is an indie movie theater in the heart of a funky Akron 'hood. When I was a younger man, I fell in love with an indie/art theater in Montclair NJ known as The Clairidge. There, I was exposed to the artistic visions of a wide range of cinematic viewpoints. Then, I moved to the heart of The Rustbelt. This is a great place to live, don't get me wrong. But the exposure to artistic opportunities are not what they are in more cosmopolitan regions. Enter The Nightlight in Akron. This hole-in-the-wall (and it IS a hole in the wall) theater is obv passionate about the art of cinema. They curate their film lineup with great care. I love people who have passion, and the staff fits this bill like a glove. When you walk into the foyer, you're greeted with what can only be described as a DIY aesthetic. There is a plaque commemorating the founder(s) of the place, as well as a decently apportioned bar. The theater room itself is a throwback.The seats left my middle aged back screaming (although there were recliners positioned at the front of the tiny space; get there early if you want to grab one). Before our film started, we were greeted by a host who thanked us for coming out and explained what we were about to see. How cool is that? I love indie cinema and I want places like this to survive long term. The Nightlight does it right, and it is a great place to expand your mind, people watch, and see a film that doesn't involve insipid super heroes.

Fantastic night out. They've got a small theater, and bar where you can get mixed drinks or wine. The prices are reasonable and it's a wonderful place to support. I saw the documentary by quest love, on Harlem Woodstock. Loved it.

This is the perfect place to see a movie with friends or date night. They offer a bar and excellent popcorn and candy selections. The inside is decorated with an eclectic collection of movie posters. There's always something new and interesting to see here. They offer a wide selection of memberships too that make it easy to come back often.

Since I last wrote this review - 2018, wow - I've become a member here. Living not close to Akron, The Nightlight intentionally brings me to Akron. I am not a "big theater" person. I love the intimacy of the one, small theater, the niche film decor and the fun cocktail bar. Literally, few places exist as special as the Nightlight. I like that you can catch a "big" movie here like Little Women but also still see vintage classics and more avant garde Sundance movies. The artistic director, Brittany, is brilliant. As a cinephile that follows films closely I deeply appreciate the thoughtful cross-section of programming she selects. The Nightlight keeps the art of film alive in an otherwise slim sphere in NEO. The Nightlight is a non-profit, so if you see yourself loving this place and coming more than once, just become a member. Your money is doing good. I love getting regular member emails and being the first to hear about what's playing. I don't get here quite as much as I like due to sheer distance, but I tell absolutely everyone about this endearing and wonderful place!

The Nightlight is a great indie theater right in the heart of Downtown Akron. The staff is awesome and ticket prices are very reasonable. They have a concession stand that also has adult beverages! Which is a plus! If you are COVID conscience, they have a high tech air filtration system to help keep very one safe and comfy.

A gem! Awesome theater to see independent films in Akron. Clean and comfortable. Can't wait to go back.

This theater is a cute location! The site works with local and regional groups to show films that often get neglected! They have very comfortable chairs and a lovely concession stand! Aside from parking being limited to the street, this is a great theater for you to attend with a friend or date!

This place is an absolute favorite for the casual movie-goer and cinephile alike! They feature many independent films in a cozy setting that is accompanied by a full bar and snacks. They are a registered non-profit and also offer student pricing for tickets!

We love this theatre and sadly do not take nearly enough advantage of it as we should. Has a bar with cocktails and spirits..wine and craft beer and candy and popcorn .. so we will enjoy the comfy chairs and put our feet up and enjoy fat heads bumble berry and thirsty dogs old leg humper and share popcorn.

One of my favorite movie theaters ever. Popcorn is great and not expensive. The prints are clean. There are people around to answer questions and to help if u need anything. Film selection is fantastic if you enjoy art house films. For example, "Living"with Bill Nighy was great. Nighy was nominated for an Academy Award but it did not get a lot of play at the chain theaters. It is very clean and nicely done. It is bright and the people are nice and often there are two pix in one night. Can't say enough about it

Akron's most excellent theatre for off the beaten path films. Art house, foreign films, Oscar nominated shorts, Bechdel fest, documentaries... I haven't seen a bad film here. The staff are engaging and warm. The seats are almost too comfortable. Great beverage selection and excellent popcorn. Akronians should be grateful to have such a wonderful spot.

Went to see a movie, got there early to get a good seat and was told they weren't seating but would make an announcement. The announcement never came and my wife and I had to sit in the back after others had already entered. I guess I shouldn't have asked for permission first.

20 minutes from my parents' house (which is in the middle of nowhere) is the best place I've ever watched a movie. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Go here.

The Nightlight is a locally owned theater that shows mostly independent films. I was very impressed with this theater. It's reasonably priced ($9 General admission), they have comfy seats, especially if you're lucky enough to get the front row like we did, craft cocktails, local brews, and truffles. Upon entering we purchased our tickets and ordered a cocktail. You'll see a lighted sign that says tickets right at the bar. Conveniently you can order a drink, snack and tickets all in one place. The cocktail went with The Hunt for Wildering People theme. Cute idea. The drink was a rum, champagne, mint concoction that was pretty tasty and for only $7, you can't beat that. Another thing I really enjoyed was the intro at the beginning. The "host" came in before the trailers started and welcomed us then gave a rundown on future events and movies. He really set the tone for the night and got us excited for the movie. I'd also like to mention this is a very small theater, so I recommend buying your tickets online to ensure you get a seat. I feel like we got lucky with our seats and tickets. It ended up being a sold out show. Five stars all the way.

Came here for the first time on Sunday to see the Northman. The movie itself was pretty good. When we walked in we walked up to the counter and got our tickets scanned. The gentleman behind the counter was friendly, but having not been here before we didn't even really know where to go from there and no guidance was offered. Since we had to use the restroom we went ahead and went down the hallway to the restroom area. When we came out we weren't even sure where the theater entrance was, but the door directly across from there appeared to get you into the theater. I enjoyed when the host came out and spoke about the movie, that was interesting. The seats, aside from the reclining ones in the very front, aren't that comfortable to be honest...but it's a small indie theater so I wasn't expecting too much. When the movie ended we did exit through the main door. The person behind the counter just stared at people leaving, I would think he would have said something...anything? Thanks for coming, have a good evening? I don't know, I just found it odd. Seems like it might be cool to come on a weekend night and have a couple of drinks. I might go back and try that one of these days.

I don't want to label this place, but it is a place for those with a niche. Not hipster at all. It's a great addition to Akron and a great escape from the "big" theaters. The place has new seats but I liked it even before it had the new seat. I like the finer things in life, but I also equally appreciate that of the less. Love all around. Movie selections are always on point so I really do appreciate a place like this. I was introduced to The Nightlight be a very dear friend of mine so this makes it even more special. I love the bar and my favorite seat is in the far back right corner. I'm glad those seats did not get upgraded. It's "my" spot. I arrive early just so I can get this seating location. Forever a customer!

Cozy intimate cinema with a small craft cocktail bar, comfortable seating, and eclectic cinema selections you won't find at the big box theaters.

This is one of my favorite places in Akron. I love supporting local businesses and I love watching movies, so what more could I ask for? The last movie I saw here was a documentary about coffee competitions. I love the assortment of movies that this theater shows, it's a great location to show indie films. There's a bar where you can purchase cocktails, candy, local beers and other fun foods that you wouldn't find in a normal theater. It really helps to shape the whole hipster / underground movie experience. This little theater really redefines the typical movie experience. I can't wait to go back soon!

Have been to see a couple films here when visiting the family in the Akron area, and it is such an enjoyable experience! Based on what I have seen, they curate the selection of films they offer very well. The entrance serves as an art gallery for local artists (seems to support both professional artists and local school art programs), and there is plenty of seating if you arrive early and have to wait. There is a good bar / coffee & tea selection to enjoy while you wait for the rest of your party to arrive, and you can enjoy said refreshments during the film, as well as more traditional cinema snacks and soda pops. The best part of the experience is that this brilliant art cinema manages to be super inviting and comfortable and to avoid all the pretension usually associated with such establishments. This means it makes an equally good date night as it does a family outing!

The best little place to see a movie in Akron. You really want to get there early enough for the fancy, cozy seats in the front row but even if you don't it will be okay. I love the variety of artsy films and even some mainstream. The candy bar and the cocktails don't hurt either! Give it a whirl and support local small business. You won't be disappointed.

Love, love, love this gem tucked away on High St. There is this little bar where grown ups can be grown and the seats are comfortable in the theater, which is small seats 44, but I like it. Had my husband's 50th movie themed party end with a showing of The Shining.

What a great place this is. I had been wanting to come here for quite some time and finally timing and what was playing worked out. Really fun atmosphere with a very friendly staff. It has a very unique menu at the snack bar and the cocktails are large! As of this week, they now have recliners in the front row where my friend and I sat. It also is located right around great restaurant choices and very close to a parking garage that's free after 6pm and on weekends. After hearing about this place for awhile now, I definitely was not disappointed.

Instantly became my favorite theater. Cozy and intimate with just ~50 seats. Full bar too. Definitely coming back. Support Local!

What a great place to see a film. The reasons: * Intimate theater with only about 50 seats. * An audience of fellow film lovers, meaning they are quiet and respectful. * Bright, crystal clear projection and screen. * Locally owned and supported, by film lovers. * Great films you won't see anywhere within 30 miles. * And, of course, a full bar. This is a wonderful place.

The Nightlight is a great addition to the downtown Akron corridor. Films are affordable and diverse in subject matter. The staff is very friendly and helpful in making a drink selection to complement your feature ( a wide variety of cocktails and beer, as well as non-alcoholic selections, including house-made butterbeer). The bartenders will even help you decide which flavor of Jeni's ice cream will suit your palate and compliment your beverage. The theater itself is not over-crowded and I cannot imagine a bad seat in the house. It's intimate and cozy, including a few oversized chairs in the front row. The films are introduced by a staff member, giving you insight into the background of the film, which I thought was a nice touch. This place is definitely something that has been missing in the growing culture of downtown, and I certainly hope to see it grow and thrive for years to come.

Found this theater a few months after moving to the area from Los Angeles and it filled a void that I'd been missing big time. The drinks are fun, the beers are delicious, the movies are wonderful and after each movie I've seen here, the conversation with the employees afterwards completes the experience perfectly. One of our favorite date spots for sure!

The Nightlight is a wonderful addition to the Akron entertainment scene as it offers a cozy, intimate setting where you can catch a good indie movie. There is a single theater that holds about 40 people complete with a bar in the lobby stocked with reasonably priced espresso, liquor, beer from great local breweries, and desserts. The movie was prefaced with a short intro by one of the employees and then followed by only 2 trailers of the other movies the theater is currently playing. My girlfriend and I saw Under the Skin, which was amazing(but a whole other review in itself), and had a great time! TLDR: The staff was very friendly, the environment was comfy, and the experience was great. I would recommend the Nightlight to anyone who has an interest in film, indie flicks, and local gems. I would, however, advise that you check the movie times and buy tickets ahead of time as the theater fills up fast and has limited seating and show times.

If I could give the Nightlight a huge hug and/or limitless high fives just for existing, I would. When their Kickstarter campaign to open a cinema for independent films in downtown Akron was released, I could not have been more excited. They were doing ME a favor, after all, bringing the more obscure cinematic releases to this part of northeast Ohio. In execution they have exceeded my expectations. They feature films that even the Cleveland Cinemas (Cedar Lee, Capitol Theatre) often have not released and (lucky me!) they are a much closer drive from my neck of the woods. The first film I saw there was Under the Skin where I was blown away by the sound quality. Serioudly, the sound system will ROCK your socks off!! Every showing since has been a great experience including Zero Theorem and A Girl Walks Alone at Night (probably my fave of the year). I like their recycled theater seating plus the two comfy chairs down front (*shakes fist* I'll snag you some day!). It is such an intimate theater and so fun when a group of people truly excited about a film are assembled together. For example, the atmosphere for Zero Theorem in a room of Terry Gilliam fans made my experience just that much better. Their staff is super nice and you can just tell how much they care about the cinema. I enjoy the personal intro given at each showing which adds a special touch. My recent visit, they didn't have any popcorn available when I picked up my tickets and the movie was starting so they brought some freshly popped in to me. It does not get any better than that, folks! Plus you can try a craft brew while you watch, featuring bottles from locals Thirsty Dog, Fat Heads, Great Lakes and more!

Love this place! Always have a blast when I come here. The films are great. It's a great way to spend an evening. Small, but that makes it more great! Come here for a nice evening if you love great films.

Fine addition to the Main & Market & Maiden Lane block downtown. Theatre really designed for hanging out before and after as much as screening the movie. Was never one for much food and drink at a movie, but they have plenty of craft brews and cupcakes if you're so inclined. The projection is top shelf on an oversized screen. It almost has the feel of a mini-IMAX system. But two drawbacks are limited leg space and limited seating. It's also a bit dark even with the house lights, so made for cautious moves when exiting. On street parking is no problem, and great restaurants and music right around the corner. It may take a few movies longer to arrive from either coast, but the Nighlight looks to offer as good a selection as found in the Village or West Hollywood. Overall, a classy return to the first legit cinema downtown in-- wha?--nearly 50 years?

I could not have been more pleased to come across this new theatre that from what I read has only been around for a short while. The movie I went to see was the excellent "Heaven Knows What", a 2014 NYFF Official Selection. Nightlight has a terrific lobby.area with a really snazzy bench that goes from the front to the back where one can hang out before a film that instantly gives you a loungey "feeling" that you're not just in another theater, but one that caters to clients that love to sip a drink while waiting on their feature film. The Hausu poster was a gem as well as the one for White Material. The concession stand/box office, again, was rich in a variety of treats it was almost a chore for me to pick what I would like. And how long has it been since anyone can say they paid 8.50 to see a movie? That is the price of most VOD films released prior or at the same time as their theatrical release. Or, if you live in NYC, the member price at Lincoln Center, Film Forum, and IFC. The real surprise was the theater itself -- it's just one, but very ample, hosting about 50 seats and two sets of love seats, one up front, one in the back. I almost chose the rear love seat, but since I was one of a few movie goers, I chose to sit right up front. I fully wish all the best to Nightlight; I can see where they only as of yet offer at most three showings for one theater on weekend nights. Art house theaters are much in demand and I can see them scoring well with the people of Akron who don't want to have to drive all the way to Cleveland to see what they can see closer to home. If they can secure another space for a second theater, and perhaps bring in indie directors for special events, they'll truly come through much in style like the Quad and Angelika have done in NYC.

OUTSTANDING! I am so happy that Akron now has a venue like this for independent films. This is probably the coolest little theater I've discovered. There are probably 50 seats in the theater, with a row of upholstered chairs up front. Get there early if you want one of those. Staff introduce the film before it starts, which adds to the whole experience. The box office/bar/snack bar/coffee shop is a nifty place to hang out with others before and after. It is just so cool to meet others who enjoy independent films. It used to be so difficult to find certain films at one of those multiplex places. Now I feel like I've found a new home theatre. They sell memberships to support The Nightlight, with discounted tickets as your bonus. Follow them on Twitter or email to keep up with the schedule, and buy your tickets in advance to guarantee yourself seats!

Went to see Stop Making Sense last evening and was really impressed with the space. I dug the raw look of the lobby. Nice comfortable seating, outstanding sound system. The Nightlight also had a bar/cafe serving little more upscale beer and latte's . No pBR here. I'm hoping they show House around Halloween. Anyone who loves indie and art house films owes it go themselves to pay the Nightlight a visit! I've lived in Chicago and Minneapolis and feel lucky enough to have this establishment here in Akron

This small "boutique" theater is a delight. No more than around 60 seats (?) all of which are comfortable, some of which are more comfortable than the lounge chair in your living room. They serve beer and alcohol in a bar and of course the usual theater snacks. Popcorn is about average maybe a little better than most theaters. Parking can be easy if there's spaces right out on the street, or a tad more difficult if you have to turn left on market Street and park in the next street over. No big deal one way or the other. Of note: there's an ice cream place right next-door.

Awesome little theatre. Friendly employees, good selection of drinks and a cozy auditorium. I have a feeling I'll be a frequent customer!

We love the Nightlight, have been coming regularly since it opened. One of the perks in addition to great movies and a great atmosphere is that it has a bar. This last visit the drink prices jumped dramatically - $12 for a glass of wine and $5 for a can of beer. Too high - especially for the wine.

Contrary to another reviewer, the movie theater is NOT huge. It seats around 50. It's a great place to watch an indie film, plus the snacks are out of the ordinary for a movie theater. Beer and mixed drinks are available. Also, Jeni's ice cream sandwiches and scoops of fresh candy (loved the drk choc malted milk balls) and popcorn, of course. The crowd is respectful and quiet, something I've come to really appreciate. It has a "film fest" feel to it when the employee introduces himself and the film to the audience beforehand. Love this place. Only minus is that the films are on the loud side. Will talk to someone next time it happens.

The movie theater was huge! Over priced but then again so is every other theater. The staff was super friendly and courteous. Would love to go back.

I wish I could give them 4 3/4s....maybe I should round up, oh well. This place is GREAT. Check them out and see for yourself. My only gripes are that sometimes when the air/heat turn on it can be hard to hear certain films (especially older films) and that most of the seats aren't the most comfortable, which is a stinky thing when one is watching a long movie. Neither one of those things will ruin most people's experience, though. They generally have good selections. Great drinks. Amazing atmosphere and always friendly staff. Alright, I'm changing my review to 5, but just know it's 4.75. (Smilely face/winking).

I visited the Nightlight for the private screening of an upcoming Kickstarter film. The atmosphere inside is awesome! I'd be very interested in checking this place out again sometime.

Excellent theater with a great bar selection and food.The theater is small but it makes up for it for the quality selection of movies it plays and the great sound quality it provides.

I absolutely LOVE the Nightlight. When I moved to Akron a few years ago I was really disappointed that there was no arthouse movie theater. Since the Nightlight opened I have been able to see so many movies that I otherwise would have missed. The staff is very nice and knows their stuff.

I went to The Nightlight this past Saturday as they were featuring a couple of films from the Cleveland Film Festival. Wow! Really cool, intimate, very hip theatre. Seats about 50 showing independent as well as mainstream films. Refreshments are just as cool and different as the theatre itself. Highly recommend this place. Loved it!

The Nightlight fills a serious void in the Akron area! I'm so glad there's an arthouse/indie film cinema in the area now that serves excellent local beers and old school cocktails. The selection of local, Ohio-made snacks (Jeni's ice cream... Blue Door pastries...) is really great too! Can't wait to go back.