Laemmle's Grande 4-Plex

I'm positive 99% of Angelinos don't even know this cinema exists. Hidden below the Downtown LA Marriott, Laemmle's Grande seems to be stuck in the late '70s, but delightfully so. While the screens are small and the sound system leaves much to be desired (I hear some of the screenings are now in stereo!), they have finally begun to replace the old fabric-pilled seats, you can't beat the price for first-run movies, and there are no lines to speak of. While this cinema predates stadium seating, sight lines are excellent as there are no crowds whatsoever. The odd quirks of the Grande are what keep me coming back: the option to buy regular or frozen Junior Mints, the employees who seem to actually enjoy their work, the mix of blockbuster and arthouse fare, and a simpler, less-hectic movie-going experience. Pros: no crowds, off the beaten path, keeping it simple Cons: poor audio, small screens more

I went to see Star Wars III three days after it hit theaters and to my surprise.... My guests and I did not have to wait in line to pay for tickets, there was no line at the concession stand, we managed to have a row of seats to ourselves, and to top it off this little theater has a very friendly stafff. Will go again to avoid the crowds. Pros: no crowds, laid back more

NICE THEATRE IF YOU WANNA HAVE SOME PRIVACY. Great spot for celebs. more