The Oriental Theatre

David Walton Smith

4 months ago

Oh man, this place is a treat. I’m always seeking out the local, old school theaters when I travel and this one is def in my top 3 ever. Just stunning inside — the outside/front is kind of unassuming, but then you walk in and it’s a proper movie palace. A lot of these old theaters *feel* old; ornate but kinda shabby, but not the Oriental. This place is spotless, full of really cool details. It’s the kind of setting that truly appreciates cinema, elevating the experience of watching a film on the big screen. If I had one minor gripe — the noise from the lobby can be heard during the quiet moments of a film. Wish there was more sound dampening between the theater’s back wall and the lobby.

Chris D

8 months ago

What a cool place! The theater is in a bustling area of Milwaukee and is intimate and unique. The atmosphere is dark and interesting, with lots of "oriental" designs which are beautiful. The accessibility is good, and the acoustics are good for someone like me who has a bit of a hearing impairment. There are plenty of spots for wheelchairs to park, and the sight lines are good from every angle. The refreshment stand has lots to offer, and the restrooms are accessible despite being in an older building. This is not your typical movie theater, and you can see arthouse films along with box office offerings. There is street parking as well as parking garages nearby ($7 for 5 hours), and the costs are super reasonable. Getting here is not a hard drive, and I hope to return soon.

Scott W

a year ago

Been to this theater numerous times. It's a unique experience, in so many ways. The is one of the few locally owned theaters that isn't playing the standard movie lineup that you get in all the other theaters chains. Her you get a wide variety of oscar winners, documentaries, foreign, art, and other niche genres. The theater itself is a gem for Milwaukee. It has been lovingly restored to much of it's original majestic beauty. The lobby still provides an actual person in the ticket book. Beyond the lobbies are gender bathrooms, that are always cleaned and fully operational. The snack counter has a great collection of cocktails, soda,seltzer, beers and water. The popcorn is fresh and some of the best that you will find in the city. And the staff have always been friendly and helpful. The seats are not the dream loungers, but regular seats that are well padded and comfortable. The seats are kept clean as well as the floors. My sense is that patrons here are doing a much job of helping to keep the place clean, than you might find in other theaters. A great place for catching a great movie.

kpossibles

a year ago

Great historic movie theater! I especially like the popcorn here, the butter topping is super delicious. Great programming and movie selections, along with the Milwaukee Film Festival each year. I would recommend joining as a member since you get a free members-only movie screening each month and discounts on concessions. If you haven't been to a Rocky Horror showing, it's a can't miss event! It's open seating, so just be aware in case it's a popular 1 night only screening and you're arriving late since you will get the remaining seats. Parking might be a pain if you're not used to the area, but there's usually free street parking nearby after 6pm plus parking structures & lots if you hate to parallel park on a busy east side street. Definitely recommend stopping by one of the nearby bubble tea shops or bars before or after the movie for a sweet treat!