The Oriental Theatre | Milwaukee Film Historic Cinemas

What a cool place! The theater is in a bustling area of Milwaukee and is intimate and unique. The atmosphere is dark and interesting, with lots of "oriental" designs which are beautiful. The accessibility is good, and the acoustics are good for someone like me who has a bit of a hearing impairment. There are plenty of spots for wheelchairs to park, and the sight lines are good from every angle. The refreshment stand has lots to offer, and the restrooms are accessible despite being in an older building. This is not your typical movie theater, and you can see arthouse films along with box office offerings. There is street parking as well as parking garages nearby ($7 for 5 hours), and the costs are super reasonable. Getting here is not a hard drive, and I hope to return soon.

Been to this theater numerous times. It's a unique experience, in so many ways. The is one of the few locally owned theaters that isn't playing the standard movie lineup that you get in all the other theaters chains. Her you get a wide variety of oscar winners, documentaries, foreign, art, and other niche genres. The theater itself is a gem for Milwaukee. It has been lovingly restored to much of it's original majestic beauty. The lobby still provides an actual person in the ticket book. Beyond the lobbies are gender bathrooms, that are always cleaned and fully operational. The snack counter has a great collection of cocktails, soda,seltzer, beers and water. The popcorn is fresh and some of the best that you will find in the city. And the staff have always been friendly and helpful. The seats are not the dream loungers, but regular seats that are well padded and comfortable. The seats are kept clean as well as the floors. My sense is that patrons here are doing a much job of helping to keep the place clean, than you might find in other theaters. A great place for catching a great movie.

This isn’t your ordinary movie theater - this feels like an experience every time we go to a movie here. It’s truly like you’ve been transported back into vintage Hollywood! Elegant, quaint, wonderful staff… if I could go to every movie here, I would! Even the bathrooms have charm! Always clean, not so many previews before the movie that you forget what movie you came to! Concessions are great. You pick your seats as you enter and what’s open. I’m even willing to give up reclining seats - seems a fair trade! Make sure to check out the film festival - so many events going on!

Great historic movie theater! I especially like the popcorn here, the butter topping is super delicious. Great programming and movie selections, along with the Milwaukee Film Festival each year. I would recommend joining as a member since you get a free members-only movie screening each month and discounts on concessions. If you haven't been to a Rocky Horror showing, it's a can't miss event! It's open seating, so just be aware in case it's a popular 1 night only screening and you're arriving late since you will get the remaining seats. Parking might be a pain if you're not used to the area, but there's usually free street parking nearby after 6pm plus parking structures & lots if you hate to parallel park on a busy east side street. Definitely recommend stopping by one of the nearby bubble tea shops or bars before or after the movie for a sweet treat!

Amazing historic theatre featuring many of its original details, which includes Indian, Moorish, Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles. Its design shows the amazing work of it original artists. The Oriental Theatre was built in 1927 as a single auditorium originally seating over 1,400 guests, but currently it's divided into 3 separate smaller theatres. The Abele Cinema (in center) is the closest you'll get to the original grandeur of a bygone era, but the back rows of the lower level have been removed to accommodate two smaller 220-seat cinemas on each side. Also, the balcony was closed off, so I'm not sure it's ever open for movie seating. Some of the modern updates include 4K digital projection with Dolby Vision 3D; and 35mm and 70mm film projection with 8-channel Dolby Digital Sound in the Abele Cinema. The Theatre's main lobby, restrooms, and concession stand are all wheelchair-accessible, and all three of its auditoriums have reserved seating for guests who use wheelchairs. In addition, all three of its cinemas are equipped with hearing loop technology, enabling any patrons with T-coil hearing aids to receive audio signals directly to their device.

The Oriental Theater is truly a monument to the way film viewing should be for everyone. Watching a film in a beautiful theater with amazing sound and vintage architecture adds to the experience, but the staff and amenities are what make you keep coming back. The selection of films that are showing plus the additional runs of older and rare movies is pretty top notch, and being a Milwaukee Film Member is worth the membership. I moved to my current home just to be closer to this great institution of cinema and I hope it's still around for decades more to come.

What a beautifully restored, grand theater! It's absolutely gorgeous and makes you feel like you've stepped back in time to the golden age of cinema. I've only seen movies in the main theater, which is also stunning. The selection of films are very well curated and offer film lovers classics across decades and genres. If you're in Milwaukee, you owe it to yourself to stop by and enjoy a film in this wonderful theater.

Coolest place to see a movie. The decor is restored vintage art deco. Best popcorn--tender white popcorn and real butter. Parking is mainly street parking but its usually not too hard to find. Highly recommend!

What a cool place! The theater is in a bustling area of Milwaukee and is intimate and unique. The atmosphere is dark and interesting, with lots of "oriental" designs which are beautiful. The accessibility is good, and the acoustics are good for someone like me who has a bit of a hearing impairment. There are plenty of spots for wheelchairs to park, and the sight lines are good from every angle. The refreshment stand has lots to offer, and the restrooms are accessible despite being in an older building. This is not your typical movie theater, and you can see arthouse films along with box office offerings. There is street parking as well as parking garages nearby, and the costs are super reasonable. Getting here is not a hard drive, and I hope to return soon.

Came for the documentary series festival and loved the atmosphere! It had great character on the inside of the building. I've never been to this spot and have spent very little time in this neighborhood but I loved it

Been to this theater numerous times. It's a unique experience, in so many ways. The is one of the few locally owned theaters that isn't playing the standard movie lineup that you get in all the other theaters chains. Here you get a wide variety of oscar winners, documentaries, foreign, art, and other niche genres. The theater itself is a gem for Milwaukee. It has been lovingly restored to much of its original majestic beauty. The lobby still provides an actual person in the ticket book. Beyond the lobbies are gender bathrooms, that are always clean and fully operational. The snack counter has a great selection of cocktails, soda,seltzer, beers and water. The popcorn is fresh and some of the best that you will find in the city. And the staff have always been friendly and helpful. The seats are not the dream loungers, but regular seats that are well padded and comfortable. The seats are kept clean as well as the floors. My sense is that patrons here are doing a much job of helping to keep the place clean, than you might find in other theaters. A great place for catching a great movie.

I wouldn't call myself a cinephile but I do love a good Indy movie, and Anderson films always come through with the quirky comedy and mid century aesthetic so I had to go to the Oriental for the screening of the Phoenician Scheme. This my first visit to the theatre since Landmark sold it the Milwaukee film festival. I did struggle with customer service because no one answered the phones, but other than that not much has changed, which is actually a great thing. The beauty of the building and ambiance are always an experience.

I LOVE the Oriental Theatre. Milwaukee Film has done an amazing job restoring this century old movie theater and bringing an array of films to Milwaukee that you'd think theaters with more screens would be showing. Even though there's only three screens, there's rarely an issue having independent films playing next to blockbusters. Food concessions are limited to popcorn and candy while they have a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you're a Milwaukee Film member, both tickets and concessions are slightly discounted, which is a nice perk.

Incredible theater! The inside is gorgeous with so much history and East Indian decor. I really enjoyed the ambiance and the drink and snack options were great. This theater is definitely a place to take friends and family and "wow" them with charm and history. A lMilwaukee landmark!

Incredible theatre for movies! I've been coming to the Oriental since the '80s, before it was divided up and now it's been restored to its original glory and it couldn't be better! The Milwaukee Film Fest is hosted here and is a can't miss annual event of screenings, something for everyone. I like that the Oriental shows the animated shorts and other Oscar-nominated films before Oscar time and love the selection of movies throughout the year, this is a movie house, not an event space and reviewed as such! Stellar movie house!

This place is so cool. I absolutely love old movie palaces--they just have more history and more character. The Oriental opened up recently after shutting its doors during the pandemic. They've been remodeled wonderfully. There is a main theater, and then two smaller theaters. I saw a movie in one of those small side theaters, and while it is a smaller screen, it's also a smaller room. It's actually cool because you almost feel like you're in a private screening! The decor is just beyond amazing. You have to catch a movie here. Lastly, their prices are reasonable. I paid $13 for the ticket, and then another $13 for a small popcorn and a local cider. Coming from Austin with its Alamo Drafthouse, I like that they captured a lot of that personality while keeping the prices a little lower.

This is the place to see a film. This nearly 100 year old restored gem screams cinephile paradise. After being so revolted by the Marcus and AMC ear-bleeding, Who concert sound systems, the awful chemical popcorn and Icee machines, and the ridiculously long trailer parade, it is comforting to return to a place where people care. The popcorn tastes like butter. The film selections are ideal; a fine mixture of arthouse and box office sensation. We've seen several great films here in the past six years. Nice work, Oriental. You dazzle me.

I've been to this theater twice now and it's by far the most beautiful place I've ever watched a film. If you haven't watched a movie here, DO IT. Like, right now. Why are you waiting??

I attended the Milwaukee Film Festival (MFF) as a Yelp Event. It was a great time for me and a friend. We enjoyed the popcorn and a wine cooler at the Oriental Theatre. I hadn't been in the Oriental for years and it was a treat just to be inside the historic place. I wish I could have wandered around or gotten a tour of the venue itself. It brought back some warm memories of older days. I saw the movie, Light Needs. It's a documentary style film about plants -- which was amazingly interesting. It was filmed here in Milwaukee so a lot of the scenes had familiar locations in them. Many of the interviewees were in the audience. I loved the artistic side of the film but it really got me to thinking about how we live with plants and interact with them in our environment. I left the theatre thinking about all the ways plants and humans are interdependent -- not just for oxygen and water but for support and life, happiness and friendship. Yes, I said friendship! All-in-all, the afternoon was very enjoyable and I am thankful to the Oriental and the MFF for hosting this event and inviting Yelp Elite. It was an extra treat to be able to chat with the Director of the Film in the TalkBack after the show. I also appreciated being able to meet the plant curator from UWM libraries -- who does an amazing job with very little support. If you get a chance go over to the UWM libraries and see the fabulous plants all over then library. Then ask for the plant curator and thank him for his work. He does it from a place of love and respect for his mom! Totally amazing!!! If you still have time, get on over to the Oriental and view a MFF. You won't regret whatever you pick -- even it it sounds a little strange, it's probably going to be thought provoking! I totally enjoyed my choice. I hope I get to go again next year!

This is such a beautiful, historic theater. It's incredible how much the ambiance and decor here add to seeing a movie. Refreshments are reasonably priced and there is always something interesting showing. I hope they will bring back the organ player for evening showtimes--that was always such a nice touch. Support independent film!

The theater has an interesting vibe - definitely not the normal mall movie theaters. Almost feels like a Broadway theater, but with a screen instead of a stage. But there is also a stage. I was a little dubious at first, when the previews were rolling, cuz the sound was only on in the front of the theater. it was echoing and hard to hear. Thankfully they turned all the surround speakers for the feature, and it was awesome. I didn't go up to the balcony, but even in the 3rd row from the back on the right side, I had a good view of the movie. Overall, felt clean though not new, and I had a pleasant experience.

Great ambiance. Awesome popcorn. Great movies you can't find elsewhere. Saw Ethan Hawke's new film, Wildcat.

This theatre is a great hidden gem within Milwaukee. Not only is it surrounded by amazing restaurants, it is in such a cute part of town with plenty surrounding activities. They have current movies in a unique venue that speaks to the history of Milwaukee. The seats are comfortable, bathrooms are clean, and the treat selection is excellent. Movie theater popcorn too! Highly recommend going to see a movie just to see the old time decor of the theatre.

I have been to the Oriental Theater a few times now and every experience has been wonderful! The ambiance of the theater is great and has a unique but still classic movie theater feel that is uncommon these days. The popcorn is also really good and they have a selection of alcoholic beverages for those of age. The theater shows a mixture of new releases, old favorites, and more artsy films. The selection and variance in films is extremely nice and always gives visitors options. I am especially excited for when they are going to show Hocus Pocus closer to Halloween! If you have not been to the theater yet, it is an absolute must and you won't regret it!

I saw a movie at Oriental Theater for my first time a few days ago. I attended a showing of Cha Cha Real Smooth as a part of the Milwaukee Film Festival. It was such a cool experience, and honestly I wish I was able to attend more shows! When we arrived, the lobby was bustling with people and set up with information, staff members, and mke film fest clothing. There was a pretty long line for concessions, but it moved quickly. My husband and I split a large popcorn (it is very large) and candy. There are plenty of alcoholic drink choices, we even saw boozy ice cream being offered! (Ahh, Milwaukee.) The theater itself is gorgeous!! I spent time looking around and taking in the architecture of the building and art in the main theater. The ceiling is beautiful, and the acoustics are pretty great compared to other older theaters I have been in. Mke Film Fest did a wonderful job hosting the 15- day event. Cha Cha Real Smooth is a fantastic film, and I'm so happy I got to see it in such a wonderful theater. I will definitely go back!

I'm doing this kind of late for Sunday when I went so pretend I did this review on Sunday and not Thursday. I saw Guardians of the Galaxy 3 and even though we were in the smaller theater it was really nice. Hopefully I get to see a movie in the main theater at one point. I haven't been here before until Sunday. I want to see more movies here! It feels so fancy and it gives me that older movie theater vibe. Also I found out that this movie theater (and others) have subtitles while you watch the movie! It's not super consistent with everything they say though but it's ok. Some whole lines in Guardians of the Galaxy were cut out and shown on screen. (Also one line in particular I understand why it maybe didn't show up on screen incase kids are watching.) But other than that I think it's a really cool movie theater and I should try to come here more often if possible!

A beauty. The architectural details have been restored/ kept up well. Unique line up of films not to mention great popcorn.

The MKE Yelper insisted I see this theatre after our pasta bowls around the corner (2/17/20). The Oriental Theatre reminded me of the older film sites in Seattle, like The Egyptian and the former Harvard Exit. The theatre staff allowed quick peeks at cordoned off areas, very kind. Literally, in glance go. Kind of had that National Lampoon Vacation, rush pause and go at various sites of interest.

How have I not reviewed one of my favorite theaters yet? I have been coming here since I was a teenager to enjoy Rocky Horror, first dates, and time with friends. The MKE Film Festival is one of my favorite events every year. This historic, charming, beautiful theater is the cherry on top of a good movie. Snacks are yummy, staff is nice, and the renovations that have been done are AMAZING. So grateful to have this jewel on the east side. Be aware that parking might be hard to find, but that's all part of the experience. And enjoy a meal at Ma Fischer's after!

This is an awesome place to watch a movie solo or with friends the popcorn is delicious, the staff is great!

This is a very cool, classic movie theatre and I'm glad it is being preserved. It is also convenient for me as I live in downtown Milwaukee. But the theatres themselves are dated and if I'm going to spend a lot of money to see a movie in a theater, rather than renting at home, I much prefer a modern theatre with stadium seating, larger more comfortable seats, and reserved seating. One tall person sitting in front of you in a theater like this would ruin a movie.

After my first experience at the Oriental Theater I can confidentially say it won't even be my last experience there this month! Loved every aspect, comfy seats, lots of leg room, the architecture is a movie of its own and don't even get me started on the popcorn! It tasted like they used real butter, can't wait until next time!

I've been a big fan of the Oriental Theatre for many years, attending films and the Film Festival numerous times over the past couple decades. I'll never forget the energy and excitement of seeing Fahrenheit 9/11 at The Oriental, or the time that a friend was accused of being a prostitute while waiting for me outside the theatre. I was optimistic that Milwaukee Film taking the spot over from Landmark Cinemas would mean continued success but that doesn't seem to be the case, unfortunately. My fiancé and I had our first date year many years ago and I thought it would be the perfect place to take our engagement photos. I used the webform on the Oriental website and explained what I was looking for, inquiring about the cost, and that we would be happy to work around the theatre schedule for this hour (or less). Weeks went by, no answer. I went back to the website and noticed an email address and decided to send an email directly. Same lack of response. A friend suggested reaching out to Kris Pollard, as she heard him interviewed on Radio Milwaukee frequently. As a former member of Milwaukee Film, his name often appeared in my Inbox so I decided to give him a try. He responded immediately, indicating that he would pass this along to the Operations Manager. Another week and still nothing, and now I am getting nervous about having enough time to schedule the photos so one can be used for a Save the Date and I've had to give up on having these pictures taken at the Oriental. Very disappointing response that is sullying the many good memories I had here. Finally, several weeks after my initial inquiry, I received an email advising that the theatre is not doing any private theatre rentals (which isn't actually what I was asking to do).

The Oriental Theatre opened recently after some renovations/the pandemic. It's even more wonderful than before. I am so impressed that the Oriental is taking things seriously and requiring proof of vaccination status or proof of a negative COVID test, matching an ID, and masks are required unless you're actively eating or drinking. Some of the (new!) seats are blocked off to ensure proper distancing, too. All of these precautions made me feel a lot safer and relaxed. I got my usual, Junior Mints and a small popcorn doused in nutritional yeast and was happy as a clam watching Candyman.

I have been watching movies in this theater ever since I was a young boy catching the 21 North Ave bus to the east side. Ma Fishers has been in the same spot as well as the bowling alley. A lot of businesses around have come and go. Not the Oriental Theater though. The interior is grand and detailed. The colors are dark with the exception of the gold splattered around the old detail and architecture. I cant believe I have never made a review for this theater. We so happen to stop in to see the movie "US" and the director from the cult classic "The Room" was there taking pictures and signing autographs. I believe the business might have been sold to the Milwaukee Film Festival. Correct me if im wrong. There are no fancy seats that recline, there is no fancy self serving drink dispenser or hot donuts for you to buy and it is still worth every dime. The area surrounding the theater is as much of an attraction as the theater, there are a couple of bars, bowling, restaurants, grocery stores and more all within walking distance. Parking can me a bit frustrating at times. Otherwise, enjoy yourself, get to your movie early and enjoy nostalgia.

The Oriental Theater was one of the first spots I rated on Yelp back in 2008. I loved the theater then and continue to love it now, but I still wish sound were a little better in the theater. This had been a Landmark Theatre for over four decades until 2018 when Milwaukee Film took it over. The place has been spruced a bit. The seats are good and comfortable and offer drink holders. The restroom situation has been improved, with both men's and women's restrooms now available on the first floor. The Oriental has one large, historic theater that still features it's 1927 East Indian decor. In 1988, the Oriental added two theaters by dropping a wall under the front edge of the balcony with a walkway down the center, creating two small theaters under the balcony. Those theaters are tiny, but the sound is good; meanwhile, the larger theater is huge, comfortable and impressive, but the sound is still not great. On one recent showing, during quiet scenes in the big theater, the sound from the smaller theaters was VERY noticeable. Milwaukee needs theaters like this, and with no movie screens in the downtown area, the Oriental remains the most convenient options for downtown residents and a great source of arthouse films for the entire city. Tip: Become a Milwaukee Film Festival member for $75 per year, and you'll not just support the remarkable annual festival but also get discounts on tickets/concessions at the Oriental Theatre, $2 off adult evening admission at the Avalon Theater, Rosebud Cinema, and Times Cinema, and a monthly invitation to free Members-Only Screenings.

The oriental theatre is beautiful and unique! The ornate decorations make you feel like you are at a much fancier event than just the movies! In addition to the usual theater snacks (popcorn, candy and soda), they also serve wine, beer and colectivo coffee/tea. The only Downside is that they only show 3 movies at a time so you won't find everything there. They do show some movies that are hard to find elsewhere though and have extra theme nights and staff pick nights where you can see older movies back on the big screen. I will definitely come back!

This place is a Milwaukee treasure. They seem to be in the process of getting new seats, but I didn't notice anything wrong with the one I sat in. Seemed just fine to me. Not fancy like those at newer places, but those theaters don't have the street cred of showing the more groundbreaking, independent or art house films that the Oriental does. Great location on the East Side, but that also means you need to allow 10 minutes to park. I have a lot of love for the more historic buildings and businesses here in Milwaukee, and this place makes my heart sing.

So happy I'll be seeing a lot more from this majestic cinema palace! Went for an event earlier today and I'm so excited for this season's film festival as well as all the other amazing showings they'll have! Seeing such an investment that's going into making this local theater a world class theater brightened my perspective on Milwaukee's focus on film! The remodeling will take time but anything worth having takes time and investments! The atmosphere is retro and hipster as it fits perfectly on the East side! Can't wait to go back!

This is a neat theater, although the line to the concession stand was rather inconvenient and awkward. They should work on having a better system for that. The host checking people in was a no thank you. Her attitude left a lot to be desired. My friend purchased tickets for the both of us. And upon scanning the tickets after telling her it's for two, we walked through. Then she's stopping me from entering the theater asking me where my ticket is? Uh, we just told you it was for two.... She said "I need to scan two barcodes then." Okay, why didn't you explain that upon scanning the first one? We literally told you that the tickets were bought together. Also, whenever I've bought tickets together, it's always under the same barcode.... Anyway, that was annoying, hence the deduction of the star, but other than that the theater itself is fine. Very high ceilings so I imagine it gets really cold in there. I don't particularly like that the seats aren't really set up on an incline. It makes things a bit annoying for us short people. I'm just happy that no one tall sat in front of me. This was my first time seeing Harold and Maude. Quite interesting film to say the least. Overall I had a good experience and would not be object to coming back.

We went to The Oriental for a Sunday movie showing of Fantastic Fungi. They feature such a unique spread of movies and also seem to focus on lifting up the Milwaukee community. Every part of the experience was top tier. One of our party members was going to arrive late and we had the tickets printed double sided, so it wasn't possible to leave one at the desk. So a staff member asked for a description of our guest and let him in anyway! So friendly and welcoming. On top of it all, they have a great spread of local tap beers and some other cans to offer.

dude this place is sick employees are chill, auditoriums are massive and pretty popcorn is popcorning delightfully

Going into the Oriental Theatre is like stepping back in time. It is ornate and beautiful. You would never know the extent of the space by looking from the outside. The movie we saw was set in the Cold War and depicted a movie marquee much like the Oriental's! Seats are a little low, and there is not assigned seating but I appreciate an old theater like this, and one that plays indie flix. They have RHPS monthly, free refills on the large popcorn, and matinee discount prices. I will definitely be back for the character and uniqueness of this hidden gem!

This is a theater, not cinema. Which instantly gives you a different experience compared to any other mainstream cinemas around. Seats are comfy, movie collections at unique ( doesn't suit commercial goers). Been here coupe of times, experience has been so smooth. If you are a MoviePass member, you can do an eticket booking. Parking is bit of an hassle if you choose Saturday or Friday evening shows, as it does not has dedicated parking lot. All in all, very unique experience. If you are planning to have an magical moment, this would add to it.

The auld queen is back. Some of us had an early peek at the restoration of the Oriental before it was finished (last summer) and it was very impressive then. Well, now the restoration is pretty much complete and it is a thing of beauty. All the old features we knew and loved, ceramic lions, giant chandeliers, and mythical creatures are all there and the mystical, green-eyed, budha-like figures in the auditorium are still there, watching over you. New restrooms are on the main floor (those of us who have trouble climbing stairs are most grateful). There was a ton of money that went into the construction, including new flooring in the corridor that leads to the restrooms. New seats are installed in the main theater and the Oriental is equipped for digital and film projection. There are 1,080 seats (554 floor, 526 balcony), 4K digital projection with Dolby Vision 3D, 35mm and 70mm film projection and 8-channel Dolby Digital Sound. As always, parking is an issue on Milwaukee's busy east side. There is street parking that is always jammed and limited off-street parking. Plan on arriving early because you may spend 1/2 and hour driving around, looking for a place to park. Be prepared for a hike to the theater from a parking place. We were there for the cat video movie, a fund raiser for animal shelters and the place was packed. There was some issue with the sound during the film and I don't know whether that was an issue with the theater sound system or an issue with the film. Time will tell, I suppose. Lastly, the tradition of running the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show on Saturday nights/Sunday mornings has resumed. My days of being in the participatory audience are long gone but the show goes on. What? You're a virgin? Better get there soon. The auld queen of theaters in Milwaukee is back and waiting for you.

The Oriental Theatre is a true treasure in Milwaukee. I'm beyond grateful for this venue and all that it does to bring our community together. It also holds an historical importance, as it has been open since the 1920s. The interior has been maintained very well, considering the age of the building. And all of the many fine, ornate details are simply breathtaking. Its a magical place really, with top-notch popcorn to boot. (There's also wine, beer and yummy candies!) The only thing that could be considered a drawback, is that this theater hasn't been updated to have plush, larger chairs as many of the modern theaters have today. And in fact, the balcony of the main theater has some rather out-of-date seating - but still a very cool view and experience! New chairs or not, this theater is my favorite of all time. Some other items of note:The Milwaukee Film Festival has been housed here since its creation, which has a huge impact on the Milwaukee area. Additionally, the theater hosts one night showings of theater productions, draws in quite the crowd for Rocky Horror Picture show on a monthly basis, and has other events like the puppet show for Night of the Living Dead. The movies they bring in are always of excellent quality and are rarely shown elsewhere. Additionally, they do bring in blockbusters like Star Wars, which is really fun to experience at such an ornate and fabulous theater. Landmark Theaters has been operating the theater for much of the recent past, but in summer of 2018 the theater will be run by Milwaukee Film. Though change is always a bit scary, I can't imagine a better organization to take over running this incredible, historical theater. The current staff has always been incredibly kind and professional. I'm certain Milwaukee Film will carry on the wonderful customer service and love for film.

I really missed the movie going experience when I moved to college, so I decided to check this place out to see The Batman. It looks pretty cool form the outside, and it's even cooler on the inside. A super retro aesthetic making for great photo ops. They only have three theaters but that's ok for a vintage, local theater. The cinemas themselves are a decent size, comfy chairs but not the type of comfy you find at AMC or something. Concessions are pretty good at standard movie prices and they have showings later into the evening as well. If you want to catch a movie on the east side, this place is an excellent choice. 8/10, I expect to become a regular here

The oriental is a real movie going experience...its kind of vintage Hollywood meets Turkish bathhouse meets art deco with a few Buddhas in there. They serve alcohol, including lots of fancy schmancy drinks and lots of interesting concession items. There's a balcony. There's no official parking lot cuz this is the eastside and all. They get some more arty/critically acclaimed movies. It's a good place to see movies nominated for academy awards while you sip a white Russian.

What a jem! There is nothing better than seeing a movie here. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere takes you back in time, and the popcorn is amazing. I just love this place. The main theater is so beautiful and honestly could make a bad movie 10 times better. I would pay just to look inside the Oriental -- that's how cool it is! It's such an iconic Milwaukee spot. If you haven't had the opportunity to see a movie here, you should go right now! You will not be disappointed. The recent remodel is also very nice. I was nervous to see all of the changes, but they stayed true to the Oriental and just spruced it up a bit in places that were very needed. Buy your tickets online if you want to skip the sometimes long ticket line!

So excited to have gone here last night. Wanted to see State of Jones and they were playing at most convenient time. Was i ever pleasantly surprised to walk back into time in this cool old theater. The ambiance is killer - how can you compare this to a modern theater? Well you just can't. This is when visits to theaters were special occasions and not the norm. Like when my great grandma took my mom to a movie and dressed up in a dress suit with a hat - now that's style. It's beautiful and the sound quality and screens are top notch. You can get classic movie snacks, drinks (wine/beer/cocktail), and friendly staff. And the movies here are a mix of current runs and film festival heroes. Every second Saturday at midnight is Rocky Horror complete with toast and rice (bring your own of course). Haven't seen it at this theatre but it's on my list now.

-You get to watch a movie -you get to drink a wine/beer/cocktail -you get to experience the beauty of this place -you get to hear your theaters upcoming movies summary from the manager What else do you want? I can't personally ask for more in a theater!

My love for the Oriental Theatre runs deep. If I lived closer I don't think I would go to any other theatre. As it stands, we don't live downtown and it's not an easy trek, but I have visited here many times over the years running back to college days (wow I now feel ancient). My friend and I would visit here often as we were students at nearby UWM. This is a gorgeous theater, it is a true movie experience. They have sublime popcorn and their service has always been well done. As with older theaters the seats are smaller and lower to the ground but nothing I couldn't work with. I also love a great indie flick and they always have any interesting couple of choices to consider! Please, please, please never go away and leave us Oriental Theatre.

This is a very unique movie theater very cool looking. Will be watching Demolition tonight. First time going here has that old time feel to it which is awesome and it's not HUGE

Seriously? The Oriental is showing 'Avengers: Infinity War' on opening weekend? Here's an idea. Show some of the many great indie films getting absolutely no distribution outside of NY and LA. Or maybe cut ticket prices to attract people away from the giant recliners at the local google-plexes, and to offset having to look at the back of some idiot's head who stumbled in late and sat right in front of you. Hoo boy.

What a fabulous old theater! Love the interior architectural design & decor they have maintained. Why go to a regular theater when you can step back in time while you are at it? I'm also a big fan of popcorn and their movie-theater popcorn was some of the best I've ever had. They get a bonus star for having clean & well-stocked restrooms on a Saturday afternoon, too. :-)

Classy, elegant historic renovated theater. I first learned about it from John Gurda's excellent documentary, "The Making of Milwaukee," and I've been coming back ever since. Milwaukee has many restored historic movie theaters, and they make the movie going experience so much better than at a contemporary chain multiplex. I even love going to the restroom here, the tile work is beautiful. Parking can be challenging, we prefer to ride our bicycles here. Stop by Vintage for a drink before the movie.

The Oriental Theater is one of my favorite spots in all of Milwaukee. Walking inside feels like taking a trip into old world Milwaukee. The architecture and design is beautiful. Make sure you take a peek up stairs too! There are only three screens, but this is the place to see smaller, independent films that may not come to a larger chain theater. I love that they show all of the Oscar nominated films each year. Seeing an awards show worthy movie at a Landmark Theater seems so right. It's a pretty good chance that the movies on their marquee Dec-March will be nominated for an Oscar! Most of the movies I see I go by myself. The Oriental Theater is a perfect spot for a solo movie experience!