Things to Do: West End Cinema

I'm a movie buff but over the last couple of years, between work and other activities I haven't been able to go to the movies as much as I used to. I'll catch a movie here and there at one of the many film festivals held in the area and go see one of the new releases every once in a while but it's not like how it used to be.

During the month of February, Living Social offered a promotion called Flirt Fest during the week of Valentine's Day. One of the offers, was tickets for 2 to the new West End Cinema. I figured this was my chance to try out a new theatre and check out what new films were out there.

I decided to check the place out on a Friday evening with a friend. There were several indie films and documentaries playing but we ended up seeing The Fighter. We bought our tickets from an animated gentleman who told us they had the best popcorn in the city. I typically don't order popcorn but I figured why not. They also had bar that served a nice selection of cocktails along with tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Since it was cold that evening, we both ordered hot chocolate with a shot of Bailey's Irish Cream. What could be better?

We walked into our theatre as soon as we were told we could enter and took a seat right in the middle. It was definitely cozy in there. I would guess the theater could hold 30-40 people at best. Although I'd been to other theatres that screen the same types of movies, I'd never been in a theatre so small. The whole time I kept commenting on how cute it was. I definitely felt like I was watching the movie is someone's private home theatre, not that anythings wrong with that, in fact it added to the charm.

I'd have to say the best part was how clean the place was and how friendly the staff were. For such a small theatre they have an ample amount of movie available. Also, their website is incredibly easy to use. You can view the descriptions, check out trailers and purchase tickets online. West End Cinema is definitely a hidden gem, can't wait to catch another movie there.

West End Cinema
2301 M Street NW
Washington, DC 20037
202-419-3456
http://www.westendcinema.com/

Things to Do: Cary Grant Film Series

Every Monday from now through August 16, The National Theatre will host their annual Summer Cinema series.  This year's film series will feature the work of famed actor Cary Grant.  Oh and did I forget to mention it's FREE.  These films will run from 6:30 - 8:30 PM every Monday (with the exception of July 5). 

Although the film screening is free, you'll need a ticket to enter.  Tickets will be available half an hour before the show time and are first come, first served. 

What a great way to beat the heat this summer.  For more information about the upcoming Cary Grant showings, click here.

National Theatre
1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20004
202.628.6161
http://www.nationaltheatre.org/index.htm

Things to Do: Movies on U Street

U Street Movie Series:
Harrison Field Under the Stars


Harrison Field on V Street between 13th and 14th Sts.
June 8 – September 21, 2010
Gates open at 7:00 PM
Movies begin at 8:30 PM

Join the folks on U Street for a FREE outdoor summer evening event watching movies under the stars.  If you've been to Screen on the Green, think a more intimate, cozy version.  We’ll be showing four great music-related films to pay homage to U Street’s musical past – schedule below.
Word on the street is they are also planning to a live DJ before the movies begin for your listening entertainment.

Gates will open at 7:00PM and movies will start at sundown around 8:30PM.

BONUS: Free popcorn for the first 100 people!
MOVIES
June 8: Michael Jackson’s This Is It (rain date June 15)
July 13: Buena Vista Social Club (rain date July 20)
Aug 10: The Soloist (rain date Aug 17)
Sept 14: Duke Ellington’s Washington and Soul Power (rain date Sept 21)