Vista Theatre

https://onthegrid.city/los-angeles/east-hollywood/vista-theater

On the Grid : Vista Theater

"The Vista is a movie theater for people who love the act of going to the movies. Built in 1923,it retains much of it's golden-age-of-Hollywood charm and architecture. There's something about a big red curtain being pulled aside on the theaters only screen to kick off a flick that makes the experience that much more enjoyable. The extra leg room and cozy seats help too." - Cris Cimatu

https://la.eater.com/best-restaurant-dishes-los-angles-series/284940/best-movie-theater-popcorn-los-angeles

The Best Movie Theater Popcorn in Los Angeles | Eater LA

"Opened in 1923 and recently restored with a new 70mm projection setup after a 2023 reopening under new ownership, this single-auditorium neighborhood movie palace retains its original charm—cone-shaped glass chandeliers, statuesque heads, and an adjoining coffee shop called Pam’s Coffy—while enforcing a strict no-cell-phone policy. A single concessions stand just inside the front doors churns out small-batch popcorn tossed with real butter (even the largest size is under $10), alongside candy, hot dogs (including vegan), White Castle burgers, RC Cola and Mexican Coke, and beer and wine; the popcorn machine rumbles under warm yellow light and the butter coating delivers a creamy, well-salted, fully enveloping flavor." - Rebecca Roland

https://la.eater.com/2023/11/8/23951282/quentin-tarantino-vista-theater-reopening-los-feliz-movies-cafe-los-angeles-coffy

Quentin Tarantino’s Movie Theater Reopens With a New Cafe Called Coffy - Eater LA

"The Vista Theater finally has a reopening date. On November 11, the 100-year-old movie theater, which filmmaker Quentin Tarantino owns, will screen a 35mm version of the 1993 movie True Romance; tickets are already sold out. The single-screen theater has been closed since 2020." - Mona Holmes

"Vista Theater, East Hollywood. The Vista is a movie theater for people who love the act of going to the movies. Built in 1923,it retains much of it's golden-age-of-Hollywood charm and architecture. There's something about a big red curtain being pulled aside on the theaters only screen to kick off a flick that makes the experience that much more enjoyable. The extra leg room and cozy seats help too."

Los Angeles

https://www.eater.com/2021/4/12/22379828/newsletter-from-the-editor-new-restaurant-openings

Six Restaurant Openings to Watch as America Reopens | Eater

"A wine bar and mezze-focused spot located on the 69th floor of a downtown Los Angeles skyscraper, pairing small-plate mezze with skyline views." - Amanda Kludt

Sean Tuell

Google

Awesome movie theater experience. The programming is an excellent mix of new and classic films. Top notch refreshment options and comfortable seating. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The vintage theater has had a recent facelift. It’s updated, clean and beautiful, yet still retaining all its old Hollywood charm. Added bonus… Pam’s Coffy, an amazing coffee shop right next door. Well done! I highly recommend. Happy Trails!

Gavin

Google

Such a beautiful theater, restored and maintained under Tarantino’s ownership. Everything is displayed on film, sometimes in 70mm. It feels a lot like a time capsule from the 1920’s in a good way.

Kegan Williams

Google

I love this place. It's very old school and has a lot of charm. Seeing movies on film again makes me happy, and they have classics that you can't see anywhere else. It's worth going to if you love movies.

Josh Garcia

Google

I've been to few of the indie / art house theatre's in LA and I think this one, is one of the best based on the seats and comfort alone. It's something that's immediately noticeable compared to other places. I'll gladly buy a ticket here over other theatre's when I'm in the area

Adri A

Google

Absolutely one of my favorite spots in LA! Beautiful theater. Fantastic programming of new and classic features on film. Great snack and drink selection thats affordable and always tasty. Parking in the area stinks, so plan to arrive early so you're not hunting for parking and then hunting for seating in a very, very dark theater.

Daniel Akins

Google

This was probably my favorite movie experiences. It's absolutely beautiful! The staff was very friendly, the picture and sound were excellent. This was my first time seeing 70mm. I'm hooked! Highly recommended!

James Devenpeck

Google

Beautifully restored theater that shows movies on actual film.

Michael Harrold

Google

Vista Theater movie experience - 5 🌟! 2023 was an excellent year for classic theater remodeling and Vista Theater was just one of them! This beautifully remodeled theater was famously purchased by celebrity writer/director Quentin Tarrantino in July 2021. The theater closed after the sale to start renovations and to celebrate its 100th year anniversary, reopened again in 2023. Los Angeles has only a handful of 100 year old theaters so it is nice to see an artist like Tarrantino take an interest in theater preservation to help preserve these classic places for current and future generations to enjoy. I had a fun time reading about Vista Theater on Wiki before writing my review. This theater has seen a lot in its 100 year history! But its current ideation is a perfect escape for movie fans. Part of Tarrantino's goal for the Vista is to screen film prints. There are no plans to convert to a digital projection system and that's great to hear. I wanted to see Thanksgiving there but missed my chance. Instead, my first visit was for The Zone of Interest. An intense and complicated film that was wonderful to see on a big screen. The theater itself is amazing. The decor is another Egyptian theme and there are lots of elements inside the lobby and the screening room that add to the theme. The row of glowing statues on each side of the theater was neat. The concession stand serves great popcorn. It is a 400 seat theater with lots of room for tall guys like myself to stretch out. I don't know what the parking situation is like. I walked over since the theater is close by. It also looks they are adding a cafe or something of that nature in the front of the building. If you haven't visited the Vista since the renovations or if you haven't visited at all, I encourage you to stop by. It is a great film going experience!

Joe L.

Yelp

Love it! Miss it Need to go there more often. Just a classic cool theater Can't wait to visit again

Dr. Bill B.

Yelp

When I used to live in Los Feliz in the nineties (and occasionally since then!)...we used to DELIGHT in catching a film at the Vista Theatre (and the kind've "Art Nouveau" atmosphere, and reasonable ticket price made this a VERY special venue. Now I might have missed something, but when I checked about viewing a particular film two weeks ago...it appeared (with a new owner), that the ticket price has now zoomed to $21, which makes it a "NO-GO" for those of us who are retired, and/or on limited income...VERY SADLY. The MAX I could handle (kicking & screaming) would be, say, $8 to $10. I'm hoping that maybe soon there'll be a matinee arrangement, say, so that we could have the real joy of returning (in a similar way to how the Tim Robbin's group (The Actors's Gang), during plays, will often designate Tues. night as a "donation only" evening, which--in my view--shows a GREAT DEAL of class)(and a sensitivity for those who are suffering financially these days!))...rather than just remain fuming in anger and disappointment. God bless!!!

Er3yn G.

Yelp

Got tickets for a date night to see Phantom Thread on 70mm. It's a great price for LA. But be warned parking is a nightmare. I love the venue, the old school feel of the ticket booth and handprints out front. Even the consession stand has a timey vibe to it. And despite the seats being the old fashioned red plush it was fairly comfortable for two and a half hours. I even love how much room there is between the seats. But my favorite part is the pre show. I love that they show old trailers to match the movie. All in all, I would totally come back here to see one of my favorite movies back on the big screen

B L.

Yelp

The 3 stars = nostalgic affection. First of all, let me say that The Vista was my favorite movie theater in LA, even before I moved to Silverlake 20something years ago. Nothing better than being greeted by the Epic Manager in a Spider-Man suit, going in and buying a large popcorn, cherry coke and Red Vines and plopping down into a seat with PLENTY of leg room and watching a first run flick (drama comedy action superhero animated documentary). I even joined the Secret Movie Club because they had special screenings of classics there (Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, The Thin Man, etc.) on Saturday mornings. Having a neighborhood theater like this was magical and appreciated. No offense, QT, you do show some interesting stuff - but other than Oppenheimer and Zone of Interest I have had no desire to go there and I am a BIG BIG movie fan. I think I saw Pulp Fiction there when it was first released in 1994! We miss our beloved neighborhood movie house. I miss my Sunday matinees at The Vista. We are begging you, please consider showing MORE first run movies. Please?

Angelina E.

Yelp

What a cool movie theatre! I love older, nostalgic theaters that have character and Vista checks those boxes. Quentin Tarantino owns this theatre and opened a little coffee shop right next door to the theatre called Pam's Coffy, dedicated to Pam Grier. The coffee shop serves good coffee and pastries and cereal in the morning. I got a coffee and brown sugar pop tart that was delicious, even though it was served cold. Lots of vintage lunch boxes on display. The movie we came to see was the original Ghostbusters film from the 80's and watching it on the big screen in 70mm film did not disappoint. The inside of the theatre is beautiful with a ton of leg room between aisles. Like seriously, so much room for activities. If you enjoy watching movies and like nostalgia and are a fan of Tarantino movies, then you really need to come here. Fun visit!

Paige K.

Yelp

Fantastic theatre. Concessions were reasonably priced. I'm short, but there is LOADS of legroom if you need it. As well, I really want to thank the Vista for showing "The Brutalist" in 70mm. In Los Angeles, I would have thought plenty of theaters would be showing the film in 70mm, but alas The ArcLight is gone & everyone else just wants to cram in as many showtimes as possible per day. So THANK YOU, Vista (& Quentin) for showing this film as it was meant to be seen. P.S. If I could wish for 1 thing from the Vista, it would be for assigned seating. That is the one thing that would make this theater (chefs kiss) perfection. Just a thought for you guys...& Quentin??? Please???

L G.

Yelp

The new renovation is beautiful (old school Egyptian art deco charm) and the programming is great. Kind of a scene!

Shawn C.

Yelp

Went here last night for the first time to watch "The Brutalist" in 70 mm. Packed audience, but plenty of leg room, and the friendly staff did an ace job quickly moving the concession line during intermission. Going to check out upcoming showings, as I'd love to go back.

Ted T.

Yelp

Great theater! Can't wait until they open up Pam's Coffy. I have no complaints. Easy street parking if you're willing to walk a little. I went to a 2:45 pm matinee, but I parked on Sunset Drive and there was plenty of parking at 6:30 pm. Sound was fantastic. Screen and picture excellent. Nicely remodeled. Love the history and QT's memorabilia. The seats were comfortable and, no exaggeration, I sat on the front left side and there was more room between rows than I've EVER experienced at a theater. In 45 years of going to the movies! . (I could lay my 6'4 self on my back and stretch my legs out and I could just BARELY touch the seat ahead of me. This will be great for my 6'3 son who always annoyingly puts his feet up on the seat in front of him.) (Not sure if the middle seats are this roomy) Why not a 5 star review? I think I was a little too excited, especially since this is the True Romance theater and has such a great history, and I was a tiny bit underwhelmed. Huge QT fan. I go to all his locations - the original Video Archives location, Del Amo Mall, South Bay, Reservoir Dogs spots, listen to his podcast, read Cinema Speculation that is even better than all his movies.... I'm a bigger fan of his love for movies than his actual work as a director. I took my boys here during Covid just so I could bore my kids endlessly about the history of this theater and the Swingers (1996) locations nearby .... So to say my expectations were high is an understatement. The Vista reminded me a lot of Vidiots in Eagle Rock that I had just visited 10 days ago and blew me away. I had low expectations for that one, and through the roof ones for the Vista. (Much bigger theater than Vidiots) Like a combination New Beverly and Vidiots. That's high praise. Can't wait to go back - the programming looks amazing. I guess I was looking for fireworks and I just got a darn nice theater.

Mark S.

Yelp

Since re opening the Vista has played just one movie QT thinks we should see, Zone of Interest, ( no WW2 for me please, glutted with a lifetime of it.) This weekend they have Oppenheimer which I just streamed on TV. Clearly, we are NEVER getting our neighborhood 1st run blockbuster movie theater back. QT has Los Feliz 3 programmed Indie/ art film. Why Vista? I just want to see the big popcorn movie local like we used to be able to do. But QT steals everything, so why should I be surprised that he stole my neighborhood movie theater?

David S.

Yelp

The best movie theater in LA. Maybe the world? Great neighborhood. Great parking. Great popcorn. Great coffee next door. I am not really sure what to say. If you want to see a movie go here.

Tabitha B.

Yelp

So glad this gem wasn't lost and thankfully reopened. Concessions were decently priced, tickets were decently priced, bathrooms were super clean. There's always tons of leg room at this theater, it's just as great as it used to be if not better!

Jeremy C.

Yelp

Such great memories view play here! Every movie I want to watch has played here with the perfect print. Wonderful way to experience films!

Leonardo B.

Yelp

Came to see midnight screening of Carrie today. That was a waste of time and money and we had to walk out. The print was magenta and honestly unwatchable. I was hoping the Vista wouldn't follow the footsteps of the New Beverly and show horrifically bad prints but I guess it was unavoidable. I should have learned from past experiences at the New Beverly to never expect that the prints are going to look good... from now on I'll only come to the Vista to see new releases, because at least new releases are guaranteed to look good. It surprises me that Tarantino being a filmmaker himself would allow the work of a fellow director to be shown in such a horrific way. I guess profit will always win. It would be a great idea to describe the condition of the print from now on.. to simply say 35mm is not enough at this point and to disregard people's time is actually worst than to disregard their money. I prefer to see a digital screening than to see the garbage that was screened today. The American Cinematheque and even the Academy are doing digital and it's always a treat to see restored films looking the way they are supposed to look. But I guess the need to serve the hipsters and only show film, no matter how horrible it looks, is greater than delivering a great viewing experience to your patrons. P.S. deleting my comment and limiting new comments in your Instagram posts about the screenings of this movie will not change the facts.

Penny S.

Yelp

I'm so happy the Viata has reopened after its makeover. My favorite theater in the area!

Alex R.

Yelp

The Vista has FINALLY reopened!! And when I saw no one had written a review after its opening weekend, I decided the task was mine. They played Thanksgiving (it was amazing) for the first weekend back. I saw Grindhouse at the Vista, so it couldn't have been more perfect of a return screening. Mr. Tarantino was even there watching the movie with us. He's done a fabulous job retaining the charm of the place with some nice updates. The women's bathroom is completely new and twice as large. Amazing. New seats that are more comfortable, but still the wonderful spaced out rows we all love. The picture quality looked amazing and the sound was fabulous. The staff were all so kind and helpful. It's so good to have The Vista back! FYI, I bought tickets through Fandango. No go get your tickets and show the best theater in town some love!

Steven B.

Yelp

Really cool old school movie experience and friendly staff! Only reason it wasn't 5 star is due to cleanliness but that goes with the old theatre I guess...definitely felt like I was in an 80's style theatre.

Christina L.

Yelp

I love the Vista Theater! One of my favorite places in Hollywood and I'm so happy it re-opened. I truly feel like I am going back in time to Old Hollywood. Also it is so clean and the staff is so nice, making for a really great cinema experience.

This Field Is Required. T.

Yelp

Typical of someone is superficial and false as Quentin Tarantino to take credit for other peoples work, the Vista theater, which was actually restored prior to his purchase, has proven no exception to the theory that everything he touches turns to Doodoo. What used to be a great place to catch relevant films has now turned into a vanity theater house catering to his weird tastes and likes. You can have it.

John A.

Yelp

Beautiful venue. Sound was very loud. Great seating with leg room. Wonderful place to see a movie (or two).

Jacob F.

Yelp

Great way to see new release films on film. Picture and sound are excellent and the programing is interesting if less expansive than the New Beverly.

Scott J.

Yelp

A beautiful movie house from the golden age of cinema. When you step inside this majestic theater, you are instantly gobsmacked like a giddy small child who doesn't want to contain oneself just yet because WOW! Goosebumps are revealed and your excitement is building as you find your seat, but suddenly you are taken aback with sensory overload as you try to see all of the ornate beauty of the theater. If you have a complex of not looking up much, come to this theater weekly to remedy your affliction, because this theater will give you the confidence you need. Its inspiration filled with good feelings. The Vista is good for the soul.

Jackson B.

Yelp

One of the best theaters in L.A., experience-wise. However, only playing old movies seems like such a waste of an historic theater (recently renovated) with its new screen technology. Love the coffee house (Pam's Coffy) and the concessions stand--very unique food and drink items. Unfortunately, I would highly suggest showing more first-run blockbuster movies. It's definitely Quentin Tarantino's pet project, showing old movies that he likes, but hey, if you have the money, you can buy your own theater and play what you want, which is what this feels like.

Johnny J.

Yelp

The refurbished Vista looks great. New seats, a nicer lobby and bathroom, and thankfully no major changes to the classic look of the theater itself. I'm not a fan of the changes to the exterior but I suppose I'll get used to it. (Also don't love that the shirts they're selling say the theater is in Hollywood when it's clearly in Los Feliz. At least the merch for the new coffee shop shows some local pride!) Unfortunately, the murky sound issues remain. Dialogue was really hard to make out at some points, meaning the sound problems weren't addressed in the years-long remodel. This issue only happens for me at this theater. What a bummer. Even more disappointing, for the first half of the screening, the timing of the sound was actually just slightly off, making the lips move before the dialogue and giving the experience of watching a dubbed film. Really odd. I had to leave the theater to mention it to the staff and they did fix it in the second half of the film but disappointed there wasn't better quality control. Hoping it was just an off night!

Andrew B.

Yelp

Gorgeous refurbished theater that had a great film program. While it does feature mainstream films, its focus is more on classics and off the path films. Great concessions, and a bonus with Pam's Coffey next door for some caffeinated options! Tarantino did this place justice.

Charles S.

Yelp

Super cool old school one screen theatre. Cool styling on the interior. They upgraded the sound and they show awesome movie in actual film! FUN!

Patrick B.

Yelp

Absolutely beautiful theater. Saw a 70mm print of Ghostbusters. Sound is great, everything is on film, very cool experience.

Adam T.

Yelp

A very cool theater, but I am a wheelchair user, and man, it's so lame how many theaters like this relegate the wheelchair space to the very back row, often in the corner. Would it hurt your bottom line so much to have one or two seats removed closer to the front for people in wheelchairs??

Karen M.

Yelp

Cool theatre! Historical landmark recently renovated and it was worth the wait. This is the theatre where Alabama dropped her popcorn on Clarence..true romance 4eva!!

Windy O.

Yelp

Best theater, best price and best sound experience in Los Angeles. Omg! See 35 mm and 75 mm if you can . Greatest greatest

Cory S.

Yelp

do not see a serious movie here. one of the worst places i've ever seen a movie. the exterior and interior design is cool, but this theater is the most distracting place to see a movie. i sat 5 rows from the door but could still hear everything that was happening at the concessions which was so loud and really ruined the movie for me. there's only one screen there so i don't see why they can't try to work quietly knowing we are watching a movie right on the other side of the door. also, it's designed so that any time someone needs to get up to go to the bathroom, they walk up the aisle straight in front of your view and then open the door and let all the light and noise from the concessions in. it happened every 3-5 minutes during the movie and was so distracting. nobody was told to walk up the sides as to not impede anyone's view, and nobody at concessions was told to keep the noise down. the most egregious part of all was when the final shot was playing for our movie and the music was still playing at an emotional moment, a crew member opened the doors and let the light in when the movie hadn't even finished yet. so many people turned in frustration. i will never go back here. they truly don't care about your experience.

OolooKitty M.

Yelp

Beautiful restoration, and the seats still have the same great legroom! they have lots of old-fashioned candy and the sound is much improved from the old days! I'm sad that the women's restroom didn't retain any kind of old-fashioned look but at least there are more stalls now. So glad our neighborhood gem is open again.

Jim T.

Yelp

One of the few remaining single screens left in LA. Recently remodeled by owner QuentinTarantino.

Willy R.

Yelp

Best Movie Theater in My Life Ever of All Time (up till now and I'm gonna be 200yrs old) 1) Outside looks classic 1A) Cool Egypt Inside 2) Cool Guy Dresses Up for some movies 3) Popcorn flavor it good 4) Leg room it good 5) Classic Snacks Ads it good 6) Sound it Good 7) Temperature it Good 8) Chair comfort it good 9) Have coffee if no drugs Bad - men bathroom pee pee time no good because wash hands/peepee/poopoo shuffle is too close to strangers Bad - Snack Line Too close to second line and lines merge at back confusing for people on their phones Bad - outside line in hot sun next to traffic people look at you and if you are me sometimes they laugh Bad - This one guy who used to work there always warned me about my future but he ended up not working there and my future came true. I need to find you because why didn't you tell me it was real? I don't believe in psychics and then you scared me. Thank you.

Keith H.

Yelp

I'm a sucker for vintage movie theaters, so when I had an opportunity to check out the Vista Theatre during a recent trip to LA, there was no way I would miss checking out this place. Located on Sunset Boulevard near the Los Feliz/Silverlake area, it's a small cinema that plays new releases while also being available for private rental. Given it's size, this is clearly not a multiplex, but they do play wide release films; for example, I saw Alien: Covenant when I was in town, and they started playing the most recent Pirates of the Caribbean sequel during my same trip. Since this theater has been around since 1923, this is a must-see if you are a vintage architecture buff. There's an Egyptian-inspired motif with the wall decorations and ornate entryways, and the majestic chandeliers give it an Art-Deco feel. The seats were comfortable, and the film audio quality was great. The icing on the cake was the fantastic popcorn (served with real butter), and my only regret was that I can't make this my go-to movie theater. You should definitely check it out!

Gleicyane G.

Yelp

You wouldn't think by looking at it from the outside just how big it really is. And how beautiful it is. The interior design transports you back in time, even when your watching Hollywood's latest release. Watching movies here is probably my favorite movie going experiences. So awesome.

Gary I.

Yelp

Cool, smaller scale boutique movie theater from possibly the late 1920's. Inside looks like a miniature version of the Egyptian Theater on Hollywood Boulevard near Highland on the wave of Egyptomania after the discovery of Pharaoh Tut'ankh'amun in 1922 fully intact. The Egyptian motifs are everywhere....in the space under the marquee, in the small lobby with a classic concession with popcorn, sodas, candies. Entering the theater, the Egyptian theme is replete w/ chandeliers, pharaoh heads, scarabs, cobra heads, etc. Screen is not gigantic, but more than adequate. Thankfully the speakers weren't blasting away at 200 decibels in full rumbling bass mode. Comfortable, ample seats do not tilt back, but are wide & leg room is for people who are 8 feet tall. I went to a last minute invitation by the One Incorporated in a movie showing of Bayard & Me, a movie about interracial-intergenerational adoption of one man for another back in the day when the right to marry was restricted to only heterosexuals. So there were archival displays of homophobic repression from over 30 years ago. Nice theater, but parking seems street only so it would be advisable to target getting to Vista about 30 minutes before show time to account for finding parking, walking to the theater, delays due to traffic. Or there is a Redline subway station on Vermont & Sunset 1/3 mile directly due west. 4-Yelp stars.

Guillermo G.

Yelp

A historic theater with a beautiful decor. Along with the Los Feliz 3, the Vista has it's own personality, a uniqueness. I love the Egyptian theme and the enormous screening room. This is one of my favorite theaters ever, not just in LA. Staff is great. Concessions are fresh. Picture and sound are awesome. Can't beat it. A true gem. Street parking only.

Colby S.

Yelp

I've always wanted to see a movie here (went to see Birds of Prey) after seeing pictures of the theater online so I'm glad I got my chance now because I absolutely love it! It has a fascinating history behind it as it was originally going to be a Spanish-style theatre based on the exterior but then after King Tut's Tomb was discovered in 1922, even though the designers/builders were too far along in the process to redo the outside, they managed to go all out on an ancient Egyptian theme inside the building. The decorations are lavish and spectacular with hieroglyphics, paintings, sculptures, lamps and more! It's just a colorful, vibrant theater that is so unlike the plain boxes we build nowadays. Ticket prices are cheaper than the normal big chain theaters, the food selection is pretty basic, your usual popcorn, candy, soda, etc, but I absolutely adore the legroom in the seats! The space in between seats is about as wide as the aisles in normal theaters really! Very impressive! They've also upgraded to the latest in film technology/projectors, but from what I've heard they also show classic movies and indie films in traditional 35mm celluloid as well. There's some free street parking nearby though I didn't go on the opening night of some big blockbuster so I can't comment on how the parking situation will be then. If only I lived nearby because this would absolutely be my go-to theater!

Michael S.

Yelp

What an amazing theatre! I wish I had known about it before. Went to watch the new Star Wars with a friend who's been there many time and he kept raving about Vista Theatre and man was he right. It has such character and it's not busy. The best part, it's a fair price unlike those other movie theatre's that charge so much for everything. I also loved the spacing between the seats very spacious.

Albert L.

Yelp

An old school blend of Spanish and "Egyptian" inspired architecture, this almost 100 year old structure is a time machine that takes its visitors to a time when multiplexes didn't exit and theaters were clearly influenced by a more glamorous time in Hollywood history. Although Vista Theatre is old and only has one screen, the screen and digital projection is of the latest kind and the sound system is incredible. In addition, the incredible amount of legroom (enough to put another row of seats between the actual rows) makes the viewing experience very very comfortable. Although the seating isn't actually stadium seating, you won't have to worry about someone's head blocking you as well. If you want to feel transported back to time and enjoy a movie in a venue that is built to worship movies, you can do no better than this quaint theater with its deceptively ornate interiors and great movie going experience awaiting you inside.

Dora H.

Yelp

This theater was a journey through time. I've passed this establishment a couple of times while driving down Sunset but never bothered going... I could not believe that it took me so long to finally discover this theater. The facade of the building gave me the impression that the interior would be very shabby old and run down. On the contrary, it is actually a wonderfully built theater! The Egyptian theme ran along the walls upon entering, and carried itself into the theater itself. The legroom inside the cinema was more than enough even for the most tallest person in the room! Because it is an older building, it isn't set up in a stadium style, and kept true to its vintage settings. The slight incline and room between rows provided me with a fine view of the screen. What I enjoyed about my experience was the intro song, it felt very nostalgic and with the fuzzy specs found on the screen, it just pushed the effect further. I also found it interesting that they played a short cartoon right before the movie played! Wonderful theater, and a must visit for local in Los Angeles!

Darren B.

Yelp

Old School Hollywood Theatre at the end of Hollywood Blvd. Its nice that places like these have been saved and even better, also upgraded, so they stay relevant against the big chains. I was happy to see that the crowd for matinee turned out to be pretty size-able. The staff was pleasant and dressed to impress, the Egyptian theming was fun and in old school fashion, the Egyptian head busts lining the walls, was very 'white', despite being gold . PS: The soda and popcorn LARGE is also old school and smaller than you're used to; before they both came in bucket sizes.

Parker G.

Yelp

What a find! I'm so happy that I happened upon Vista Theater while walking through the Silver Lake area! We had just eaten by the Sunset junction at Sawyer, and were walking up the street to just explore and talk when we happened upon this adorable discount theater! It's a tiny one screen theater, with a small box office at the entrance. The tickets were only $9.50 (basically a bargain in LA) so we decided to stop and watch the new Beauty and the Beast! They had workers taking the tickets at the entrance and welcoming everyone in, and were dressed up as beauty and the beast! The theater inside is gorgeous, I loved the cute theme inside with Egyptian like sculptures along the sides. The little ads for popcorn and soda that played before the movie looked like they were straight out of the 80's and were so cute! I loved the movie going experience here! If you're looking for a fun time at a more affordable price, this is definitely the place to go!

Samantha S.

Yelp

My friends and I caught Once Upon a Time in Hollywood in 35mm here. It was my first time at this theater, and what a beautiful, classic space, inside and out! The seats are comfortable. The picture and sound quality are good. In addition, ticket and concession prices are much lower than the average at newer, less impressive theaters! They also had posters on display in the lobby for fictional films from the movie, which gave us a good laugh when we noticed them as we were walking out. In my opinion, there's no question about this theater except what to see next.

Vanessa M.

Yelp

I really wanted to watch Star Trek and was having dinner with a friend earlier. We tried to match the time and Vista was showing it at 9:50. I have never been here but always drove by and saw great reviews about it on yelp. Parking is street only, which sucks and can be a hassle. They only play one movie and you do not get to reserve seating. Just like old school days, first come first serve. I kind of liked that in some way, when you come here you get a feeling like your teleported back in the past! No reserve seating, only plays one movie, and general ticket is only $9.50! I think matinee is $6.50?! Did not know that could exist. As you enter the food and drink stand is right in front. When you walk in, it really has that warm and inviting feel to it. The inside is pretty vintage! The theater is a bit smaller than others. You get plenty of leg space! but sucks since you can't put your legs/feet on top of the chairs. It's not really stadium style, so the seats don't go upwards that much and the seats are also placed right in front of you instead of a bit to the side so if someone sits in front you are kind of screwed. But because there is such a huge gap in between in may not be all that bad. The inside was so pretty and classic. The audio was not as crisp from what I remember, but the picture quality was real crisp. They don't play that many previews either, which was a bit of a bummer since that's my fave part! I have discovered from my friend today the perfect movie snack. Some may have already discovered it but popcorn, with some butter and red vines are a great combo!! A bit of sweet and salty taste, I was pretty hooked, yet so thirsty at the end. Just a little fyi :) Other than the little mishaps of the seats and parking, this is a great movie theater to check out for the price and overall feel! I also like how it's not so crazy packed, since most theaters are in malls or central popular area, this felt more intimate and straight to the point.

Jahcobie C.

Yelp

The Vista is by far my favorite movie in LA. Not only is it a jump and skip away from me but I feel the world transform when I step inside of the theater. Imagine, walking in and seeing gold plated Egyptian sculptures fitted against crown molding. Red accentuates and balances the gold. The screen is large and center making sure every seat can enjoy Sony Digital projection. The aisle and chairs make it feel like you're in a comfy reclining chair at home binging your eyes out with your newest visual addiction. Aisle are large that many time I make it into a semi bed, throw a beautiful scarf around my upper body and sail to a place so far away. A place where I'm protected and for the duration of the movie I can escape from the ugliness of life, the instant updates from around the world that hammer my phone. Concessions, ever since I was a little boy I've loved movie theater popcorn , it the perfect symbolism. I order my popcorn like my dad use to and when I order it reminds me to thank him for helping me discover the perfect popcorn. The popcorn is cheap here! I believe around $5.50 for a large that come with a free refill. You can also ask for a water cup and fill it up at the communal fountain. Recently I've gotten a MoviePass which makes everything so much better. I can see unlimited movies for $10 bucks a month. This Memorial Day weekend my homegurl and I went to 3 different movies. One ticket to the movies pays for you pass. Misc. Tickets are $9.50 for adults, show up earlier to get your ticket and if you want wait in the line so you can get any seat(s) you want. Feeling stressed? Go to the Vista! Full off Boo's Philly Cheesesteak? Go to the Vista! Ps. Boos in about 2 blocks away down Virgil. Feeling sad or lonely? Go to the Vista! Loving my review? Show some appreciation and then go to the Vista!

Nubia O.

Yelp

I love this old school movie theater. It's been my number one go to since I first moved in to Echo Park. I have awesome memories with my friends and family here. I have watched many great and some not that good movies here, but I still love the place and the people running it. I love the red drapes arround the walls and the Egyptian theme even in the restroom. This is one small room with three sets of seating kind of an stadium type. From the screen the seating go slightly up back to the entrance, this helps with a pretty much nice view from wherever you seat at. I love how spacious it is between rows so it's very comfortable seating overall. You buy tickets at the entrance/exit box office only. I hope they come up with online tickets and assigned seating soon. Tickets are very affordable $9.50 for adults, $5.50 for children and the matinee special for $6.50. Behind the ticket booth there's the lobby with a small consession stand with two registers. Snacks consist of hot dogs, pop corn, soda and theater candies only. Ladies restroom to the left and men's restroom to the right. This place is located at one of the busiest intersections here in LA so be aware of street signs before parking your car as there's only street residential parking and meter as well. If you plan to come to a movie opening get here early or you won't be able to get tickets. I love how they have someone dress up in movie characters at the entrance taking your ticket depending which movie they're showing.

Eric V.

Yelp

This is one of the best theaters in Los Angeles. It is historic. This theater goes back a very long time. First off the leg room in between rows is incredible. There is no way you will get out of your seat for people to get in the row. The seats are comfortable. Nicely cushioned and in good order. The theater is equipped to play 70mm or the latest in digital movies coming out. The sound is exceptional. It is up to date and not antiquated. The staff is always attentive and assists you with a smile. The snack bar is quaint and offers all the amenities of a theater chain. Most importantly this theater reminds me of all the private screening rooms they have at Warner Bros, Paramount, and Universal. The decor inside is Egyptian looking and the red drapes that adorn the walls start at the ceiling and come all the way down. If you want old school theater with character, then come here.

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