Hollywood Isn’t the Only Option. When people think of movies in California, they usually think of Hollywood, Netflix, and big-screen blockbusters. But there’s another side to California’s film scene — one that’s quieter, more intimate, and often more powerful.
We’re talking about independent films — stories made with smaller budgets but bigger ideas. And in California, you’ll find thousands of people skipping the multiplex in favor of cozy indie theaters and outdoor movie nights under the stars.
So where can you experience this kind of cinema? Let’s take a tour of the best places to enjoy indie movies across the Golden State.
Why Watch Indie Films?
Independent films are more than just low-budget movies. They bring fresh stories, new directors, and meaningful topics. These films often win awards at festivals like Sundance or Tribeca, even if they never make it to Netflix.
They also offer a special atmosphere — small theaters, real conversations after the film, and a chance to feel like part of a movie-loving community.
So where can you experience this kind of cinema? Let’s take a tour of the best places to enjoy indie movies across the Golden State.
Why Watch Indie Films?
Independent films are more than just low-budget movies. They bring fresh stories, new directors, and meaningful topics. These films often win awards at festivals like Sundance or Tribeca, even if they never make it to Netflix.
They also offer a special atmosphere — small theaters, real conversations after the film, and a chance to feel like part of a movie-loving community.
Best Indie Movie Theaters in California
1. Roxie Theater (San Francisco)
This is the oldest continuously operating theater on the West Coast, running since 1909. It shows indie films, documentaries, and classics. The Roxie also hosts film festivals and post-screening discussions.
Website: roxie.com
2. The Frida Cinema (Santa Ana, Orange County)
A nonprofit theater run by locals and loved by the community. It screens indie films, retro favorites, animation, and more. Every detail shows care, from the film selection to the theater design.
Website: thefridacinema.org
3. Laemmle Theatres (Los Angeles)
This family-run cinema chain has been around since 1938. It specializes in indie, international, and documentary films. Locations include North Hollywood, Santa Monica, Glendale, and others.
Website: laemmle.com
4. The New Parkway Theater (Oakland)
This theater feels more like a living room. You can sit on sofas or beanbags, order food, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. It shows independent and socially relevant films.
Website: thenewparkway.com
5. Arena Cinelounge (Hollywood)
This place takes bold risks and shows films most big theaters won’t. Expect indie horror, genre films, and experimental stories. There’s also a stylish bar in the lobby.
Website: arenacinelounge.com
1. Roxie Theater (San Francisco)
This is the oldest continuously operating theater on the West Coast, running since 1909. It shows indie films, documentaries, and classics. The Roxie also hosts film festivals and post-screening discussions.
Website: roxie.com
*****
2. The Frida Cinema (Santa Ana, Orange County)
A nonprofit theater run by locals and loved by the community. It screens indie films, retro favorites, animation, and more. Every detail shows care, from the film selection to the theater design.
Website: thefridacinema.org
*****
3. Laemmle Theatres (Los Angeles)
This family-run cinema chain has been around since 1938. It specializes in indie, international, and documentary films. Locations include North Hollywood, Santa Monica, Glendale, and others.
Website: laemmle.com
*****
4. The New Parkway Theater (Oakland)
This theater feels more like a living room. You can sit on sofas or beanbags, order food, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. It shows independent and socially relevant films.
Website: thenewparkway.com
*****
5. Arena Cinelounge (Hollywood)
This place takes bold risks and shows films most big theaters won’t. Expect indie horror, genre films, and experimental stories. There’s also a stylish bar in the lobby.
Website: arenacinelounge.com
*****
Outdoor Screenings: Movies Under the Stars
Watching a film under the night sky with a blanket and friends is a special kind of experience. California is full of great open-air movie options. Here are a few of the best:
6. Street Food Cinema (Various Cities)
This event combines movies, food trucks, and live music. It takes place in parks around Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, and sometimes San Diego. You’ll see cult classics and newer indie films.
Website: streetfoodcinema.com
7. SF IndieFest / Film Night in the Park (San Francisco)
These are free outdoor screenings in parks like Golden Gate and Dolores Park. Bring a blanket, snacks, and friends. Sometimes they screen films fresh from festivals.
Website: sfindie.com
8. Hollywood Forever Cemetery Screenings (Los Angeles)
Yes, this is a real cemetery — and a legendary one. People gather to watch classic or horror films by moonlight near the graves of famous stars. It’s a unique and unforgettable setting.
Website: cinespia.org
9. SLO Film Festival + Sunset Drive-In (San Luis Obispo)
This festival combines the charm of a small town with the power of independent film. You can also enjoy drive-in screenings from your own car.
Website: slofilmfest.org
Watching a film under the night sky with a blanket and friends is a special kind of experience. California is full of great open-air movie options. Here are a few of the best:
6. Street Food Cinema (Various Cities)
This event combines movies, food trucks, and live music. It takes place in parks around Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, and sometimes San Diego. You’ll see cult classics and newer indie films.
Website: streetfoodcinema.com
*****
7. SF IndieFest / Film Night in the Park (San Francisco)
These are free outdoor screenings in parks like Golden Gate and Dolores Park. Bring a blanket, snacks, and friends. Sometimes they screen films fresh from festivals.
Website: sfindie.com
*****
8. Hollywood Forever Cemetery Screenings (Los Angeles)
Yes, this is a real cemetery — and a legendary one. People gather to watch classic or horror films by moonlight near the graves of famous stars. It’s a unique and unforgettable setting.
Website: cinespia.org
*****
9. SLO Film Festival + Sunset Drive-In (San Luis Obispo)
This festival combines the charm of a small town with the power of independent film. You can also enjoy drive-in screenings from your own car.
Website: slofilmfest.org
*****
Why It Matters
Going to an indie screening isn’t just entertainment — it’s a way to:
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Check the schedule — indie films may only play for a short time.
Arrive early — outdoor spots can fill up quickly.
Bring a blanket, pillow, or snacks — it’s usually casual and fun.
Stay for post-film talks — sometimes these are the best part of the night.
Going to an indie screening isn’t just entertainment — it’s a way to:
- Support independent filmmakers
- Keep local arts and culture alive
- Explore different ideas and stories
- Experience movies as art, not just content
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Check the schedule — indie films may only play for a short time.
Arrive early — outdoor spots can fill up quickly.
Bring a blanket, pillow, or snacks — it’s usually casual and fun.
Stay for post-film talks — sometimes these are the best part of the night.
Independent cinema is where real stories live. These films may not have big budgets, but they have something else — heart, honesty, and originality.
California is one of the best places in the world to enjoy this kind of film experience. Whether you’re in a cozy neighborhood theater or sitting under the stars, you’ll find movies that move you, inspire you, and stay with you long after the credits roll.