When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Secret Movie Club
Why Secret Movie Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Secret Movie Club is a distinctive Los Angeles-based movie theater created by filmmakers for movie enthusiasts. Nestled in the vibrant Arts District of downtown Los Angeles, this club offers a rich communal experience centered around film culture. The flagship theater at 1917 Bay Street is not just a place to watch movies but a creative space where curated screenings are often shown on 35mm film to preserve a traditional cinematic experience. The club hosts a diverse range of events including exclusive streaming parties, film festivals, premieres, filmmaker workshops, director Q&As, open mic short nights, and various movie culture parties. Moreover, Secret Movie Club frequently organizes pop-up events at landmark movie palaces throughout Los Angeles and San Diego, expanding its vibrant community outreach. These special marquee events often feature rare film series and in-person interactions with filmmakers, enhancing its appeal to cinephiles seeking deeper engagement. Through its year-round programming and efforts to co-write the next chapter of movie culture, Secret Movie Club has established itself as a dynamic hub for both movie makers and lovers looking for more than just a typical moviegoing experience.
Here's what people think of Secret Movie Club
As of recent, Secret Movie Club holds a 4.3-star rating based on 56 reviews.
Based on 56 reviews, Secret Movie Club holds a solid rating of 4.3, reflecting generally positive feedback from attendees. Users frequently praise the club for its unique atmosphere, emphasizing the intimate and community-driven environment that sets it apart from conventional theaters. The curated selection of films, often on 35mm, receives particular appreciation, along with the quality and diversity of events such as Q&A sessions with filmmakers and exclusive premieres. Positive reviews highlight the club's dedication to fostering a creative and inclusive film culture that enriches moviegoing experiences. On the contrary, some negative reviews mention occasional issues with customer service and event organization, which have affected a few patrons’ experiences. A few customers note difficulties in communication and responses from management, reflected in complaints documented by external sources. However, these drawbacks seem outweighed by the enthusiasm for the club’s mission and the community it builds. Overall, the reviews suggest that Secret Movie Club offers a meaningful and engaging space for cinephiles, with most patrons valuing its cultural contributions despite some operational imperfections.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jim Garrett
Really amazing screening experiences and creative community enrichment! The “wonderful life” show on Xmas eve, assorted one in a lifetime creator Q&As, and all manner of interesting programming keeps me coming back
Jim Sherman
I don't think I'll ever get used to the changes in this neighborhood I once lived in and in which I passed many tense nights and saw too many dead bodies. I guess gentrification means more peace? Anyway what a great building, idea, and situation. It was a great place to celebrate a birthday party
Marissa Rutka
We hosted a private screening of our short film this past weekend at Secret Movie Club, and we had a phenomenal experience! The space is so cool and perfect for both mingling before and after the film and also watching it. Craig was so thoughtful about every single detail and very communicative throughout the whole process. Would 100% recommend working with Secret Movie Club. They will be my go to place for any future private screenings or events!
Aviv Rubinstien
I worked with secret movie club for a screening of a film I directed, and they were the best: friendly, accommodating, and extremely high quality picture and sound. I even got a free coffee mug kit of the deal and it’s my new favorite. Craig is the greatest.
Brian Lovelace
Listen, I love a good art house cinema; Laemmle, Landmark, Alamo — all wonderful editions to Los Angeles. This location and adaptation of a 'cinema' just ain't it. This location honestly reminded me of everything I hated about film school. Pretentious movie snobs that think they're better than everyone else because they watch European noir films. But I digress... this 'Secret Movie Club' location is, at the end of the day, a warehouse loft that a bunch of hipsters decided to turn into a half-baked theater. Even if you can get past the pretentiousness, you're immediately smacked in the face with the reality that this is not a real theater. Firstly, seats are not tiered at all, meaning that if you are more than a few rows back, tough luck, you're not going to be seeing 1/2 the screen contents. Secondly, rows are narrow; too narrow for a person to pass by once somebody is sitting. Seats fold down like most old-fashioned theaters, but in my experience, felt like they folded too far down, making me feel like I was sliding forward and off the seat throughout the film. In terms of projection quality, it's actually decent. The film we watched was RAW, which was digitally presented. Colors were accurate and projection was crisp. It seems they are using a high resolution projection system, but it's definitely not laser, as blacks were washed out. After the seating issue, the worst comes with sound. The system is completely uncalibrated with absolutely no sound deadening in the theater area at all. Most of the mix came from the center channel and left the audience ears pounding with the booming, echoing sounds of speakers being pushed passed their ideal frequency ranges. This would be my number two priority to fix (after tiering the seats) as a business owner. I get it. Being a small business is difficult. But these are issues that will make myself and others never ever visit this location again. Pair the layout and technical issues listed above with how overpriced tickets are, alongside the generally sad and poorly organized concessions area, I don't see this becoming a frequent visit for many folks — no matter how many niche films are being shown. Experience was one star. Extra star for trying something different.
How to reach Secret Movie Club
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Why Secret Movie Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at the Secret Movie Club with your friends is an invitation to experience cinema beyond the ordinary, making it a memorable gathering spot for groups who share a passion for films and community. This venue is not just a place to watch movies; it’s a creative hub where movie lovers and filmmakers connect through curated programming and special cinematic events. When you bring friends here, you’re cultivating a shared cultural experience that combines the magic of classic 35mm film screenings with film festivals, exclusive premieres, and interactive Q&A sessions with directors. The atmosphere fosters lively conversations, making every visit a cultural outing that sparks deeper bonds and enriches your appreciation of film art. The downtown Los Angeles Arts District setting adds an urban, artsy backdrop perfect for group outings, blending entertainment with a vibrant local scene. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply have a unique night out with friends, Secret Movie Club offers a dynamic, film-centric environment that turns a routine movie night into an event that you’ll cherish and talk about long after the credits roll.
What types of activities does Secret Movie Club offer that make it perfect for group meetups? Secret Movie Club specializes in a variety of engaging activities that suit diverse group interests while maintaining a focus on cinema culture. Its core offering is curated movie screenings, often featuring rare or cult classic films projected on 35mm film, providing a nostalgic and authentic viewing experience that stands apart from conventional digital screenings. Groups can also enjoy thematic film festivals that celebrate particular genres, filmmakers, or cinematic eras, allowing for a shared exploration of film history and new discoveries. Interactive director Q&A sessions and filmmaker workshops offer an educational and immersive angle, ideal for groups keen on learning more about the art and craft of movie-making. Beyond screenings, there are exclusive streaming event parties that blend digital accessibility with social interaction, often accompanied by themed parties or after-hours events. Open mic short film nights invite local creators to share and discuss their work, fostering a community spirit and encouraging group interaction around emerging talent. This broad range of activities ensures that a meetup at Secret Movie Club is not only entertaining but also intellectually stimulating and socially engaging, making it a perfect choice for groups looking for a meaningful night out.
Why is the Secret Movie Club’s downtown Los Angeles location ideal for hosting meetups with friends and family? The Secret Movie Club is located in the heart of the Los Angeles Arts District, an area renowned for its creative energy, cultural hotspots, and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal backdrop for a group outing. The neighborhood’s urban synergy complements the club’s ethos of celebrating artistic and cinematic culture, offering attendees a chance to extend their meetup beyond the theater. Groups can explore nearby trendy cafes, restaurants, and art galleries either before or after a screening, transforming a simple meetup into a full cultural excursion. The accessibility of downtown LA via public transit and ample parking options also makes it convenient for guests coming from different parts of the city. Moreover, the intimate, creatively designed space of Secret Movie Club’s flagship theater on Bay Street fosters a sense of community, making it easier for groups to interact and connect in a cozy yet stylish environment. This perfect blend of location, ambiance, and convenience maximizes the appeal of Secret Movie Club for groups seeking more than just a movie night but also an enriching social experience.
How do Secret Movie Club’s special events enhance the group experience? Secret Movie Club is known for its signature marquee events that elevate the typical movie outing into extraordinary communal celebrations. These marquee events include film premieres, elaborate film festivals, and special series featuring rare titles, often accompanied by filmmaker participation through in-person Q&A sessions. For groups, this means an opportunity to interact directly with the artists behind the films, gaining unique insights and sparking conversations that build a tight-knit community feeling. The club also hosts after-parties and themed event nights that extend the social atmosphere beyond the theater, creating memorable shared moments with friends or family. Pop-up events at iconic historic cinemas across Los Angeles and San Diego further expand the scope of options for groups seeking distinctive cinematic environments. Such special programming strengthens the sense of exclusivity and belonging, making each visit feel like a unique event tailored for movie aficionados and social groups alike.
What makes Secret Movie Club’s film format and programming unique for group movie nights? One of the defining features of Secret Movie Club is its dedication to screening films in traditional 35mm format whenever possible, which offers a rich visual and auditory movie experience that digital formats cannot replicate. This choice appeals strongly to cinephiles who appreciate the texture, warmth, and authenticity of film projection, transforming movie watching into an immersive art event. Their curated programming includes not only cult classics and rare titles but also independent and experimental films that encourage curiosity and conversation among viewers. This distinguishes Secret Movie Club from mainstream theaters that prioritize commercial blockbusters, making it an ideal venue for groups wanting a more refined and authentic cinematic experience. By focusing on diverse programming and maintaining a traditional film presentation, Secret Movie Club provides a special space for groups who value film as both entertainment and cultural expression.
How does Secret Movie Club support community and creative engagement? Beyond just movies, Secret Movie Club acts as a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates and supports the local and broader filmmaking community. They offer filmmaker workshops that teach the technical skills and artistic processes of making movies, perfect for groups interested in exploring creative pursuits together. The open mic short nights provide a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work, creating an inclusive environment where audiences can engage with fresh voices and innovative ideas in person. This community-oriented approach means that meetups here are more than social gatherings—they become opportunities for learning, inspiration, and creative exchange. For groups that include budding filmmakers or film enthusiasts, the club fosters a shared sense of participation in a dynamic and supportive artistic scene. This inclusive environment enhances the social and cultural value of group visits, making Secret Movie Club a meaningful place to connect over shared passions in a collaborative spirit.
What amenities and services does Secret Movie Club provide for groups hosting private events? Secret Movie Club offers private rental options, allowing groups to customize their movie experience for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or special interest meetups. Renting the space guarantees privacy and flexibility, enabling creative control over programming and scheduling. The theater’s intimate size is perfect for small to medium-sized groups seeking an exclusive event without sacrificing the quality of a full movie theater experience. Their ability to host parties as part of the screening event creates a festive atmosphere, often including food and drink options sourced from nearby local vendors in the Arts District. Professional event support from the Secret Movie Club team ensures smooth logistics and a memorable experience tailored to the group’s needs. This combination of unique space, expert staff, and customizable services makes Secret Movie Club a superb venue for any group looking to create a distinctive and engaging event around the shared love of film.
Why do customers rate Secret Movie Club highly and find it appealing for meetups? With a 4.3-star rating from 56 reviews, Secret Movie Club is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere, unique film programming, and the sense of community it builds among attendees. Reviewers often highlight the charm of watching films on 35mm prints in a cozy theater emphasizing artistic and cultural value. The engaging Q&A sessions and special events are cited as memorable highlights, giving visitors deeper insight into movies and their creators. Many patrons praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall experience by fostering a warm and inclusive environment. The downtown location and its proximity to other cultural landmarks add to the positive reputation, ensuring that a visit here is not just about the movie but also about enjoying a vibrant arts-centered outing with friends or family. This consistent quality and cultural richness contribute significantly to the venue’s appeal for group meetups.
How can visitors plan their meetup to get the most out of Secret Movie Club? To maximize the experience of gathering at Secret Movie Club, visitors should check their website for a current calendar of events, as the club regularly updates its schedule with special screenings, festivals, and workshops. Selecting a themed event or a filmmaker appearance can make the meetup particularly memorable. It’s advisable to book tickets early, especially for marquee events that attract large audiences, to ensure seating for your entire group. Considering the surrounding Arts District’s dining and social options can help plan a full outing that includes meals or drinks before or after the screening. Groups interested in a customized or private experience should inquire about rental availability well in advance, allowing time for tailored planning with the club’s event staff. By taking advantage of these resources, visitors can create a seamless, enriching, and enjoyable group experience that blends film culture, community engagement, and social fun.
In summary, Secret Movie Club offers a unique destination where friends and family can rally around a rich, immersive movie culture, participate in diverse cinematic activities, and enjoy the vibrant ambiance of Los Angeles’s Arts District. Its combination of traditional film screenings, exclusive events, creative workshops, and community-building programs makes it an exceptional venue for any group looking to combine entertainment with cultural enrichment.