Most of these cinemas offer refreshments which are far more imaginative than the normal popcorn and nachos. The seating areas are also much nicer, with some cinemas boasting plush red velvet comfort, while others have double seats and couches for those who would like a bit more intimacy with their movie.

The programming at the smaller theatres is generally more imaginative and varied than you might expect.

Because many of these theatres run new releases several weeks after they first come out, if at all, they can keep their operating costs lower and can afford to show things which might attract a more niche audience.

Some of these smaller cinemas in London are part of chains, but they are not imbued with the kind of bleak corporate monotony that seems to infect the large chains. The Everyman Cinema Club and the Ritzy Cinema are good examples of these kinds of “independent chains”.

London institutions like The Electric Cinema, Rio Cinema, and the Phoenix Cinema (pictured) have been in operation since the early days and have recently made a comeback due to community support and interest.

Other theatres like the Prince Charles Cinema, Shortwave Cinema, Rich Mix Cinema, and Renoir Cinema have not been around quite as long, but are well-loved by London moviegoers nonetheless.

Of course, the BFI IMAX is an amazing cinematic experience of a different sort. It takes a special sort of movie to really make an impression here, but when you get the right one, you will be blown away.

The room is carefully balanced so the sound and video interact with the audience in such a way as to make them feel like they are really part of the action.

London cinemas offer something for just about every sort of film buff.

Going to the BFI IMAX makes you feel like a kid again as you are dwarfed by the immense screen and swept away by the amazing sound system.

The Electric Cinema is the oldest cinema in London, having opened its doors to the public way back in November 1911 for a silent film version of “Henry VIII”.

Instead of the same old movie experience, try the Everyman Cinema Club; you are sure to become a big fan.

Unlike most cinemas in London, the Phoenix Cinema is owned and operated by a charitable trust made up of volunteers from the local community.

The Prince Charles Cinema has a reputation for offering excellent films at almost ridiculously low prices and should rank high on any movie lover’s list of places to go.

The Renoir Cinema is not usually the place to go for a first run movie, but you will find films being screened here that are hard to find anywhere else.

Those looking for a cinema in London should consider the Rich Mix Cinema; its fabulous 62,000 square foot arts venue is full of surprises.

If you are looking for a London cinema with vintage charm and an authentic feel, look no further than the Rio Cinema.

The Ritzy Cinema still has the plush old seats with wide armrests and special touches that make you feel as if you had time travelled back 50 years or so.

Cinemas in London like the Shortwave Cinema are rare; it is completely independent and run by a small film company.

Photo courtesy: RachelH_

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