The Paris Theater

Located at Grand Army Plaza (across the street from The Plaza Hotel and the Apple Store), the Paris movie theater is an iconic theater that has been a part of New York indie and foreign film scene for generations. I think nearly every native New Yorker (or at least Manhattanite) film buff has been there. This is a wonderful throwback theater that is one of the coolest places to take in a film. It’s a one-screen theater with ground floor and balcony seating. Over the years they’ve kept up on refreshing different aspects of the theater. For example, they have an absolutely killer sound system that can rock the lower frequencies beautifully. They have a tiny concession stand where you can pick up a snack. On this visit it was to see the Netflix film ‘ Frankenstein’, which was very good. In general they screen great films that you don’t normally hear about. In closing, Paris is a great theater. The staff is very friendly, the films screened are interesting, and the atmosphere is very nice. Highly recommended!

Paris Theater is another favorite movie theater in New York City, especially for Netflix originals. Whenever there’s a Netflix film I really want to see, this is my go-to spot, and it genuinely never disappoints. What sets Paris Theater apart is the overall experience. There’s a formal introduction before the movie starts, which adds a classic, cinematic touch you don’t get at most theaters anymore. They also keep trailers to a minimum, so you’re not sitting through endless previews. The theater itself is clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, which makes the experience even better. Another major plus: the Q&A events. It’s a huge bonus getting to watch a Netflix film and then hear directly from the people behind it. I’ve attended Q&As here for Glass Onion and Wake Up Dead Man, and they were both memorable and well-run. These events really elevate the theater beyond just being a place to watch a movie. Do not choose seats all the way to the side in the first 5–6 rows. I had to once (they were the only seats left), and part of the screen wasn’t fully visible from the side angle. I assumed every seat would offer a full view of the screen, but unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. That’s the only reason I’m giving this theater 4 stars instead of a perfect score. Overall, Paris Theater delivers a premium, old-school movie-going experience with modern appeal. Between the Netflix premieres, Q&As, great presentation, and pristine environment, it’s absolutely worth visiting, just choose your seats wisely.

Lovely small theater and welcoming staff & security. As everyone mentioned, make sure to sit close to the screen and there is plenty of leg room if you're an average sized person. I enjoyed seeing Frankenstein here last night and didn't have any issues, although it wasn't super full since it was the last screening of the night. Make sure to buy a seat if possible where nobody is sitting in front of you. I thought the popcorn was average but priced fairly, maybe get the candy if you're looking for a snack. They had free promotional posters this weekend too.

If a movie came out and I had a choice between seeing it in this theater or another standard theater, id choose this one. Great screen and audio quality. I also love the Q&As and programming. The annual Big and Loud series is a must go if youre a cinema lover.

The movie itself was great, but my experience at the theater was uncomfortable. The person seated next to me was quite large and ended up taking over a significant portion of my seat, which made it hard to sit properly or enjoy the film. I had to lean to the side the entire time, and because of the angle, my view was blocked by the person in front of me (I couldn't change seats because the theater was full). It would be wonderful if the theater could consider wider seating for big people, or redesigning the rows to provide more personal space and better sight lines. That said, the venue itself is very charming and the staff were friendly and helpful.

Great theatre for classic/throwback screenings. The screen is comparatively small so you can definitely sit closer than you’d think. I’d say 3rd-7th rows may be best. The sound here is amazing as well, which was the main takeaway for me. Classic snack counter on the lower level. Nothing fancy, just a good time at a classic cinema!

Really nice place. I love the old movie theatre vibes. The screen is not your regular AMC'S XXL size, but the feeling is amazing. Popcorn are good but pricey, yet the little box takes you back to your childhood. Also, the location is amazing for a date.

My experience on 10/21/2025 at the Paris Theater was deeply disappointing and raised several concerns regarding accessibility, customer care, and overall guest comfort. The staff interactions lacked warmth and attentiveness. The concession employees spoke very quickly, making their instructions difficult to understand, and the overall atmosphere felt rushed and unwelcoming. More concerning, however, was the theater’s refusal to accept cash payments. Employees informed me that I could “convert” my cash into a card, which I found both confusing and exclusionary. This policy effectively discriminates against and disadvantages those with limited literacy or technological familiarity. Refusing to accept legal tender raises ethical and possibly legal questions about equitable access to public accommodations. When I attempted to share my concerns with the manager, Dan Ward, he dismissed my feedback without genuine consideration. Additionally, the theater was uncomfortably cold throughout the screening — so much so that my hands went numb, making it difficult to focus or enjoy the film. The Paris Theater has long been a cultural landmark in New York City, but my recent experience suggests a decline in both hospitality and inclusivity. I hope management reexamines these policies and practices to ensure that all patrons feel welcome, comfortable, and respected.

What I got: Adult Ticket (~$17) Fresh Popcorn (~$7) Regular Fountain Drink (~$4) Aya's take: As a New Yorker, I'm ashamed at the amount of times I've walked past this legendary Paris Theater without ever checking it out! It turns out the Paris Theater is the longest running arthouse cinema in NYC and is Manhattan's only single-screen cinema with 535 seats. You may notice an "N" logo and that's because as of Nov 2019, Netflix operates the theater. We had tickets for Psycho (1960) directed by Alfred Hitchcock. This is part of "HITCH! The Original Cinema Influencer" going on May-June 2025. It's the 4k restoration of the movie which was out of circulation in all formats until 2020. We also got a brief introduction of the movie and Hitchcock by Columbia University film professor and writer Annette Insdorf. The concessions are located downstairs and I will say are surprisingly affordable! The Popcorn & Fountain Drink were the perfect snack to accompany this horror/mystery movie. If you're a New Yorker or just visiting, add Paris Theater to your itinerary!

I had the pleasure of seeing a special screening here. The staff provided great customer service. The bathrooms are clean and there is a concession stand that is affordable. The only down side is this theater does not accept cash at the concession stand downstairs or at the ticket booth. There is a machine downstairs that converts your cash into a card. You can use the card towards your purchase at the concession stand.

I visited the Paris Theater for a double feature on Thursday night and had a great time. It claims to be the longest-running arthouse cinema in the City - opened by French distributor Pathé as a showcase for their films and opened on September 13, 1948. The theater is now owned by Netflix, so it hosts some Netflix-specific events and screenings in addition to screenings of classics, foreign films, and more. When I went on Thursday night, it was the night of their "A Century of Romance: Star-Crossed, On the Run, and Happily Ever After" series. I caught two classic romance movies - Design for Living from 1933 and The Miracle of Morgan's Creek from 1944. The theater is nice - very large - with an orchestra floor and a mezzanine. There's a small bar area downstairs where I grabbed a coffee between the screenings. Independent movie theaters aren't having a great time of it right now, and some around the country are closing. So it's great that Netflix has kept the Paris open, not just for screenings of their films and shows but also for cinema series and events! I'd happily return to the Paris for another screening!

What an outstanding one-screen movie theater! They are ideally located in Manhattan and present well-chosen movies. They also offer delicious, fresh popcorn!

Excellent projection, great choices of repertory 35mm films. I like the layout too--it's a very old school place, but it's clean and clearly well taken care of. They did a great job redoing it. If you're looking for reclining seats, you've come to the wrong place. This is what movie theater seats used to be like--and they were better this way. Not uncomfortable, but not too comfortable. My only complaint would be that the sound here is kind of reverb-y, so when a character is speaking on screen you get that kind of quick echo, almost doubled effect. They could do a better job deadening the sound in the auditorium in order to remedy this. The popcorn here is great, by the way. And the popcorn box is very attractive.

I came here to see the Netflix premiere of the Diplomat. I was told that Netflix purchased this theater and is now showing exclusive premieres. I recall a couple months ago the theater was packed for an Emily in Paris premiere. We were told to arrive early due to overbooking. We had to wait outside for a short time but eventually made it inside. They provided popcorn and water in the front. Afterwards you are escorted to your seat. There is a main row on the first level and additional seating in the balcony. The seats were very tight. You were bunched up next to the people around you. This was not enjoyable. The show was great even though it was only one episode which lasted about 40 minutes or so. I don't know if I would last for an entire movie in these tiny seats. Netflix should definitely spend some money to renovate this theater. Nice spacious seating would help a lot. I would love to come here for the next premiere but probably would not go out of my way.

Comfortable seating. Good acoustics. I recommend this movie house because it is clean well-run, excellent film choices.

Paris Theater is a historic landmark. James Dean hung out here when he came to NYC to become a superstar. This theater shows movies that you don't see everywhere. I'm sure I've done a review before but it's gone. I recommend you check out the current movies and events and visit this classic movie house.

There was an issue with a screening in September and this theater could not have been nicer and more correct in assuming responsibility by offering multiple courtesy passes to make amends. Some would say they are covering themselves but in a city that is world renowned for hustlers and pencil pushers, one should take note of their class and desire to back intentions with actions. They won my respect and loyalty by way of their dignified gesture.

One of my favorite Movie theaters to go to alone or with another movie lover. Their movie selection is amazing, always has been (I've been coming here since I was 12 years old with my father, who shared my love for movies). We loved watching foreign movies that would not arrive in Latin America. besides the curation, the sound and screen is superior to what you'll see at AMC or other blockbuster movie theater places. Its a home away from home, a place where you can just rest your mind for a couple hours at anytime (I would come here pre covid for lunch). *Its a single screen movie theater. *the staff is helpful and knowledgable *seats are comfortable Their selection is incredible, I recently watched TAR, and despite not loving the movie, I love the experience. They have hours for everyone- from noon to 8pm on weekdays and weekends till 6pm. They are expanding the hours and days (When I went they were open 5X a week, now I see seven at the website. Its also extremely cheap- 16 dollars for adults, 14 for children, seniors and students. If you have a movie lover in your circle, take them here for a guaranteed lovely experience.

A brief history via their website: Paris is actually the oldest Arthouse cinema in NYC, the only remaining single-screen Cinema in Manhattan. Started as a French film hub, and built by a French man, giving it its elegant Opera Theater feeling. OK fine I'll admit: the first place I heard of this place was that SATC episode where Carrie dates the city and goes out to the one and only Paris Theater. That's what got me there originally, but something keeps me coming back over the years... Prior to the Pandemic, Paris Theater had closed down (I thought, for good). It was to my pleasant surprise that I searched Google to find it has reopened, under new management, and partnering with Netflix! (cinema gentrification, but I'll take what I can get.) It was so good to be back! Masks not required for vaccinated guests--which may rub some people the wrong way, but was like 7th heaven for me, personally. Just like old times, staff was super polite and hospitable-- like you're going to a Broadway show. The best part is, you're not paying dat Broadway price! I would highly recommend getting a coffee from the barista/concessions downstairs for the full experience (decaf available). Netflix actually is still keeping the theme of Arthouse cinema-- I chose to go to the screening of The Wages of Fear (1953). Go show them some support!

Love this theater and the retrospective programming as of late. A warning though, avoid sitting in the balcony. At a recent screening, an employee (I assume the projectionist) kept opening a door and slamming it closed. It happened at least 10 times. They clearly didn't give AF.

I live in Manhattan and have been at the Paris Theater many times. I am always struck by the quality of the film print, sound and ambience. The staff is uniformly excellent and the manager, Cody Anderson, is responsive and helpful. This is the best movie theater in the City./

We had a ton of fun here. My wife and I attended the SAG AWARDS screening of Don't Look Up, at the Paris theater, two months ago. It's a really nice theater with a great staff. They were super helpful and friendly. The seats are comfortable and they actually have a concession stand (this has been quite rare at most of the SAG screenings we've attended). It's one of those theaters where no matter your seat, you can see basically everything. The stage was very visible when the Q&A took place after the film. We saw some rando unknown actors talk about the making of the film; Jonah Hill, Meryl Streep, and...uhh...Leonardo DiCaprio? WHO THE EFF IS THAT GUY? Anyway, I suggest you check out the Paris Theater. It's a cool spot!

Best sound system I have ever heard in a movie theater. I thoroughly enjoyed suspending my disbelief in Paris.