As one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in California, Berkeley boasts an eclectic movie scene that caters to every taste. From independent gems to Hollywood blockbusters, there’s always something exciting playing on the big screen in this bustling university town.
This comprehensive schedule will keep you up-to-date on all the latest movie releases, screening times, and special events at Berkeley’s top theaters.
Movie Theaters in Berkeley
Berkeley is home to a diverse range of movie theaters, each with its own unique character and offerings:
| Theater | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Landmark Theatres Shattuck Cinemas | 2230 Shattuck Ave. | Seven-screen cinema specializing in independent and foreign films |
| The Rialto Cinemas Elmwood | 2966 College Ave. | Three-screen cinema showing a mix of indie, classic, and mainstream movies |
| The UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall | 2036 University Ave. | Historic theater hosting live performances, concerts, and film screenings |
| The Pacific Film Archive | 2575 Bancroft Way | University-run cinema showcasing a wide range of films, from documentaries to experimental works |
| The New Parkway Theater | 474 24th St. | Non-profit cinema with a focus on classic and cult films |
Current Movie Releases
Opening This Week:
- Avatar: The Way of Water – James Cameron’s long-awaited sequel to the highest-grossing film of all time |
- Puss in Boots: The Last Wish – The beloved feline swordsman returns for a swashbuckling adventure |
- The Whale – Darren Aronofsky’s critically acclaimed drama starring Brendan Fraser |
Upcoming Releases
January:
- M3GAN – A killer doll terrorizes a family in this sci-fi horror film |
- Infinity Pool – Neon’s latest thriller about a couple who get entangled in a sinister cult |
- Missing – A suspenseful search for a missing American woman in Colombia |
February:
- Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania – The MCU’s smallest heroes return for a quantum-sized adventure |
- Magic Mike’s Last Dance – Channing Tatum’s final performance as the legendary stripper |
- Creed III – Michael B. Jordan takes the reins of the Rocky franchise |
Special Screenings and Events
The Berkeley International Film Festival (April)
- Berkeley’s premier film festival showcasing independent films from around the globe |
The Black Film Festival of Berkeley (February)
- Celebrates the achievements of African American filmmakers |
The Berkeley Science Fiction Film Festival (Summer)
- Showcases the latest and greatest in science fiction cinema |
Tips for Planning Your Movie Night Out
- Book tickets in advance: Popular movies and screenings tend to sell out quickly, so it’s wise to secure your seats in advance.
- Check for discounts: Many theaters offer discounts for students, seniors, and members.
- Arrive early: Give yourself enough time to find parking, purchase concessions, and find your seats before the movie starts.
- Bring snacks: Movie theater concessions can be pricey, so consider bringing your own snacks to save money.
- Be respectful: Turn off your phone, avoid talking during the film, and clean up your trash.
Explore Berkeley’s Movie Scene
Berkeley’s vibrant movie scene offers a cinematic experience for every taste and budget. From the cutting-edge screenings at the Pacific Film Archive to the nostalgic screenings at the New Parkway, there’s always something new and exciting to discover on the silver screen.
So gather your friends, check the schedule, and get ready for a memorable night out at the movies in Berkeley!