Chicago has some totally awesome indie movie theaters that are like nothing you’ll find in the suburbs. At these places, you can catch all sorts of thought-provoking, creative films that give your mind a workout.
If you’re craving films that are offbeat, quirky, or just tell stories you won’t see at the multiplex, get ready to find your new faves. Here’s our list of where to watch cult, foreign or indie films in Chicago.
First up is the Gene Siskel Film Center in the Loop. This place shows super smart indies that give your brain a workout! You’ll see tons of obscure international picks, controversial docs, and new movies that haven’t reached the burbs yet.
Don’t expect any light popcorn flicks here – the Siskel goes for films that challenge you and spark debate. Before each movie, an expert shares inside scoop to prep your mind. Then after, you can stay for deep discussions to unpack all you just saw. Pretty mind-blowing, right?
My next fave is the Music Box Theatre up in Lakeview. This place takes you back to the golden age of cinema, I’m talking the 1920s! Stepping inside this vintage venue with its glowing marquee is like time travel.
The single screen theatre has fancy ornamental ceilings, and they even have an old organ musician playing before shows. It’s such a cool blast from the past. You’ll get your indie hits plus throwbacks and cult faves. Come dressed up and make it a glam night!
Pro tip: Catch the latest indies at noon on weekends and you can enjoy the Music Box brunch. Now that’s a double feature!
Okay, the Alamo Drafthouse is a chain, but it’s a chain doing indies right. Their location in Wrigleyville has comfy recliners where you can order burgers, nachos, milkshakes – you name it – right to your seat as you watch.
It’s like the joy of dinner AND a movie, at the same time! While the Alamo plays lots of big blockbusters, they save plenty of screens for indie gems, cult classics, and other non-mainstream picks.
With bottomless popcorn and a tasty menu, you’ll be fully fueled for an indie movie marathon. Schedule a hang here and make a night of it.
Up in Logan Square, you’ve gotta check out the century-old Logan Theatre. This place opened in 1915, can you imagine? It’s got loads of old movie palace charm.
But don’t worry, the indie movies they screen are new! We’re talking hot festival favorites, award winners, and limited release gems. They play cult classics too, so you can finally watch classics as they were meant to be seen – on a BIG screen.
If you reallllly want to go deep into indie cinema, Facets Cinematheque in Lincoln Park should be your go-to. This cozy little non-profit venue plays mega obscure movies you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
We’re talking bizarre international picks, avant garde cinema, mind-twisting arthouse flicks, you name it. With super limited seating and everything run by volunteers, you know Facets is made purely for love of indie film.
Don’t expect crowds or noise – their screenings are so intimate you can really get lost in the movie magic. For hardcore film buffs ready to travel off the beaten path, Facets delivers the goods.
Last but not least – Century Centre Cinema in Lakeview. This place has multiple screens only playing independent and foreign films. With a whole menu of indies playing at once, you can curate your own custom film festival.
Bounce from award-winning dramas to charming comedies to mind-bending suspense. Discover new fave directors from around the world. With so much variety, you’ll have an indie blast. And don’t worry, with reserved seating, you can easily marathon movies without racing for seats.
Final Thoughts
Well, there’s my personal tour of Chicago’s best indie haunts. Next time blockbuster fatigue strikes, skip the big guns and head to one of these spots instead. Now you know where to watch your favorite cult, foreign or indie movies in Chicago. And discover real cinematic gems.
