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Vista Theatre

4.5 star rating
based on 151 reviews

Category: Cinema  [Edit]

4473 Sunset Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 660-6639
  • Good for Kids: Yes

151 Reviews for Vista Theatre

Photo of Christina S.

Elite '08

116

399

Christina S.

Orange, CA

5 star rating
09/19/2008

TALK ABOUT TONS OF LEG ROOM...... The Vista is a cool place... WE came here the other night to watch "Burn After Reading"....... The fact that you can walk to Tiki Ti's and other local bars then catch a film is rad.. The location.. Brilliant... The fact that you will not have people stumbling over your feet due to the tons of leg room earns them 5 stars...

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54

Cameron Y.

San Mateo, CA

5 star rating
09/22/2008

Coolest movie theater I've ever been to.  Hands down.  It's so reminiscent of Hollywood in the 20s and 30s with dramatic stone pillars and eerie Egyptianesque busts lining each side of the theater itself.  You can tell they've hardly changed anything since it opened 80 years or so ago.  The busts are lit from below, lending the whole place a really regal feel.  Plenty of legroom.  They even played an entire episode of The Three Stooges before the movie.

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24

24

Aaron D.

Echo Park, CA

5 star rating
Updated - 09/14/2008

Well they have added more seats so the aisles aren't quite as spacious as I originally bragged about. However, there is still quite a bit of room, more than usual. Also, they were playing a hilarious 3 Stooges as a preview to Burn After Reading, which is hilarious.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating 08/04/2008

    The Vista Theatre simply rocks. It is beautiful inside with rockin Egyptian decor. The screen is… Read more »

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Photo of Sarah L.

Elite '08

28

78

Sarah L.

Los Angeles, CA

3 star rating
09/09/2008

This theater is beautiful and old. All of the older people at my company seem to think its some kind of secret, and they delight in telling all us young'uns about it, even though its at one of the busiest intersections in all of Hollywood. They only play one movie at a time, and usually it's a good one but wait. Listen. This is important. The concession stand doesn't have gummi bears OR skittles. Neither one. I think this is illegal in some states, and if it's not, it should be.

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10

dan m.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
09/14/2008

This theater rocks, plain and simple, they have taken out every other aisle so it has the most leg room of ANY theater. in fact you couple walk side by side with your date to get to your seats and not touch  either legs or seats. Also best price for a new release theater in los angeles.

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Elite '08

8

68

Charles C.

Redmond, WA

5 star rating
09/14/2008

The cinema experience doesn't get much better than this! Fair prices, comfortable seating with ample leg room, quality sound and picture, a great audience, and a classic movie house vibe!

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Rikki D.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
09/11/2008

One thing I definitely miss about Los Angeles are the old Hollywood movie theatres.  The Vista is the best.  Egyptian themed.  Not to mention you can still catch a matinee for $5.

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Ashraf C.

San Jose, CA

5 star rating
09/09/2008

Very nice theater. Lots of legroom for tall folks like me as I am 6'3". Loved the theming. It was egyptian themes and a really unique experience. We went last April to watch Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Was pretty crowded. Luckily we bought our tickets ahead of time and didn't have to wait in the long line to buy tickets right before the show.

The theater only shows one show on one screen, hence, its somewhat amusing when people go up and say "I'd like a ticket for the 9:45 show of insert name here"

Overall a great experience an and I think I'll take in some more shows there whenever I go back to the LA area.

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Photo of Danielle F.

Elite '08

9

159

Danielle F.

Santa Monica, CA

5 star rating
08/01/2008

Remember when you were a kid and your parents would take you to the movies? The smell of the old theater, the popcorn. The days before we were inundated with advertisements while waiting for the show to begin.

The Vista is simply classic and beautiful. I go out of my way to come here. Even though the theater is old, the sound is state of art and the chairs are comfortable. There is always a great crowd which makes going to the movies so much fun.

Like the old days.

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14

15

Tony S.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
08/01/2008

One of the best place to see a movie in Jollywood. Beautiful Vintage theater, lotsa room, never had talkie idiots at a show. Don't be chump and spend 30$ at a MEGA CRAPPA PLEX. Go Here. They more times then not have a great show playin.

Word.

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50

Ryan C.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
08/05/2008

The Vista is by far the best theatre in Hollywood to catch a movie. Friends and I have been here in the past to catch some great comedies such as Borat, Superbad, and The Love Guru. Parking can be scarce and it usually takes several trips around the block to look for a spot which usually ends up being a block or two away. Matinees are a good steal at $6.50 unlike others that charge double. Once you step inside you will definitely be surprised at the size of the place. With good amount of seating, ample leg room, and no loud mouths to ruin the movie... it makes the experience just that much better.

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7

25

David W.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
07/22/2008

Beautiful theatre with ticket prices that take you back to the good ol' days.
Ok, maybe not that far, but I saw the Dark Knight for $9.50... and matinee's are around $5.
The popcorn is some of the best in town and did I mention the theatre is cool and clean?

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83

110

Sergio R.

Claremont, CA

4 star rating
07/11/2008

Came here last night for the Garden Party Premiere
This theater definitely makes for a  great movie experience

Great leg room
Comfortable seating
LOUD sound system
Good stuff

It's also pretty cool watching a movie in a historic single screen theater

I actually found the Egyptian theme to be a bit gimmicky, but still great

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Justin C.

Redondo Beach, CA

4 star rating
08/17/2008

I don't get up here often but have worked a few movie events.  The place as you can see gets rave reviews as it's retained it old-style movie palace feel.  The owner who bought the place has invested heavily and installed digital sound which makes for a great showing.  In the front of they have a sidewalk of fame which some indie-film stars have put there hand and foot prints into.  Jack Black put his buttprint there too!
The Vista shows first-run movies and usually picks the best release for that month.  Can't beat the price and the employees do a top job of keeping the place looking good and working well.

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Elite '08

64

335

Adrienne D.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
07/11/2008

What a beautiful theatre-- 1920s art deco, completely restored-- and huge aisles! Perfect. I went here for the first time last night for the premiere of Garden Party (no, I didn't realize it was also a Yelp event, I was invited for someone else) and after some hassle of looking for parking (luckily I was able to turn around and park in the KCET lot for the event, but I think street parking would be a chore when that lot isn't open) I entered the theatre and was very impressed. The seats are comfortable and the aisles are huge, I couldn't touch the seats in front of me even if I stretched my legs out all the way. I want to return and bring my film guy.

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74

17

Ron M.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
08/12/2008

Silverlake's Neighborhood Treasure and one of the best in L.A.. Lavishly restored, Egyptian-themed historic movie house. Great sound and picture, insane amounts of leg room, fresh popcorn, and first run movies programmed to the tastes of Los Feliz/Silverlake residents. Best of all, they still offer weekend matinee's for less than 5 bucks! For a movie grand opening you'll have to wait in line. This is right up there with the Arclight and the Egyptian as one of the top places to see a movie in L.A.

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6

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. ..

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
08/13/2008

OMG, my favorite movie theater in Los Angeles.  Cheap, old school, classic.  They only show one movie at a time, but it's usually the big movie of the weekend.  It's just such a treasure.

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Photo of Abigail A.

 

2

8

Abigail A.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
08/01/2008

The Vista theater is one of those not-so-hidden jewels of Hollywood.  It's a classic type movie theater that have never fallen behind on the times.  The place is a definite throwback to the old theater days, with a huge old school movie marquee, and the fact that it only plays one move!  

The venue is completely up to date, with a huge screen, a kick ass sound system, and not to mention amounts of leg room unheard of in the conventional movie theater chains most of us frequent now a days.  All that, plus the fact that it's so much cheaper than hitting up one of those big chains, makes the Vista Theater a win-win no matter what!

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Heidi H.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
06/16/2008

I wish everything played at the Vista! I've lived walking distance (uh, when I'm not being lazy) for more than four years and I've seen several films here. The theatre has a cool Egyptian theme and holy leg room! If you're like me and you have to pee often (hey, I'm a girl!), you don't have to worry about stepping on people in your row. I have actually scrunched down in my seat before and stretched my legs forward as far as they'd go - and I still didn't touch the seat in front of me.

Best of all, they still have matinee pricing for the first show of the day, and you've got to love a theatre where a costumed superhero (or Jack Sparrow) greets you at the door.

Things to remember:
* The Vista is cash only.
* Parking will be a challenge, but I've always found spots on Hillhurst.
* If you're seeing a big, sure to be sold-out movie opening weekend, you'll want to get there pretty early, because people start lining up about 45 minutes ahead of the show.

And if you're hungry after your movie, walk across the street to Il Capriccio's woodfire pizza restaurant on Hollywood. Tasty!

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edward d.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
07/26/2008

The Vista rules without fail.  Not to mention you can stretch your legs out and people can still walk in front of you. That comes in pretty handy for those Paul Thomas Anderson epics.  The popcorn is fresh and the manager dresses up like the main character in the movie. So basically Batman was taking my ticket last week.  What more do you need?

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Photo of A C.

 

16

2

A C.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
08/12/2008

Tall people will love Vista. This theater has removed every other seating row. People over 6 feel will love it. Tickets are $5 for afternoons, plus popcorn and drink, but to have all that space is a pleasure. Only thing next they need is to have moveable arm rests to cuddle :)

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Photo of Doug L.

 

11

32

Doug L.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
07/23/2008

Vista Theater is a true Los Angeles landmark. It's the best movie experience you'll have in LA.  I can't recommend it highly enough.  I wish there was an option for 6 stars!

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Aaron A.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
07/23/2008

Everything about the Vista is tip-top. The seats are comfortable, and the isles are wide (I think they took out every other row).

Parking is street, but not too much else to complain about.

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David L.

Burbank, CA

5 star rating
07/23/2008

I adore the Vista. Been going there for 20 years.  When they ripped out every other row of chairs to increase the leg room I was so happy. It's beautiful, the matinee prices are low, and there's plenty of free parking down the street. This is my favorite movie theater in Los Angeles. I like it even more than the Chinese.

One bit of trivia, Ed Wood's office used to be upstairs. You can see the Vista as a location in several movies including "Throw Mama From The Train".

They really crank up the air conditioning so you might want to have your date bring a sweater.

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1

51

Sherm G.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
07/20/2008

My favorite place to watch a movie as of late...my only regret is that I wish I started watching movies here years ago and not just last year; I've lived in LA for most of my life and I feel like a total dud for having missed out on this wonderful movie theater for so long.

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Kale B.

Studio City, CA

4 star rating
08/22/2008

An oldie but goodie. This is a one screen theater that has the interior design of a set from Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. It isn't stadium seating so if you are the shortest person you know you may not enjoy your experience as much as the giant in font of you, but that is usually only a problem on opening weekends. But the awesome thing about the seating is the fact that you have enough leg room to park your car in. Honestly I love the Vista. (Assuming its showing the movie you want). It has a great atmosphere for watching movies and the price can't be beat at $6.50 for a Matinee or $9.50 for an evening show. Yes there is often a line that stretches around the block to get in, but don't worry that's normal and the Vista is like a clown car or a porn star's Vagina... Either way you will be amazed at what will fit in there.  Parking I will say can be a bit of a bitch as its only street, but just go down to Commonwealth and there is usually something. One of the best things about the Vista though is the crowd. People are excited, cheer, and occasionally applaud. It makes for a fun experience. This is great theater that I can't recommend enough. Just get there early as you have to buy your tickets BEFORE you get in line.

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2

10

Maggie K.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
08/07/2008

Love this place! Movies for less than $10 and a great date place. Classic movie theatre and the manager who dresses up as characters for some of the movies is BRILLIANT!!!!

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4

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J Y.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
07/03/2008

The most leg room of any movie theater.  The Egyptian theme is kinda weird, cuz it makes you feel like you should be watching The Mummy every time you're there.  It's not stadium seating, so if the person in front of you happens to be Shaq, enjoy his shiny bald head for the rest of the movie.  Also, the seats are a little old school, not exactly those crazy automotive seats at modern theaters.  Other than that, there is just something about this place that is really cool.  I especially like how there is only one theater, because it makes the place really dedicated to that one show much like an opera or play.  Kind of an artsy fartsy place, if you're more of a tech geek or yuppy j.crew person, maybe not the best place.

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Elite '08

47

90

Dalia K.

Los Angeles, CA

4 star rating
07/11/2008

I know everyone is raving about the ample leg room, but I'm a tall girl and that's a lot of freakin' leg room! As my friend said - I always enjoy resting my feet on the back of the chair in front of me...but I guess I shouldn't complain. More is better than being cramped.

Also, is it just me - or do all the statues surrounding the theatre look like the Virgin Mary??? Yes, I understand that there is an Egyptian motif going on...but tell me I'm not the only one that has that thought!

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2

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Seana M.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
05/28/2008

The best theater in the city.  Tons of leg room.  Cheap tickets.  Real butter on the popcorn.

Done and done.

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Andrew M.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
05/27/2008

Living a couple blocks away, I pass by the theatre all the time. I finally decided to take the plunge and go see the new Indy flick there. I was a little apprehensive because good sound and picture quality are a must for my viewing pleasure, but this venue gets 5 stars easy. Not only was the picture and sound quality great, admission was only $5! I think the last time I paid $5 for a matinee was in the mid 90's (Admission after 6 is only $8). So below is a break down of the pro's and con's

PRO
--Great admission price
--Plenty of leg room, more than enough to have people comfortably walk in front of you. You also don't have to worry about people kicking the back of your seat!
--Soft cushioned chairs (they don't recline though)
--Great lighting
--Cool old Hollywood Egyptian style interior (see photos)
--Nifty blue walkway lights
--Best of all, they have Kit-Kats at the concession stand!

CONS
--Scarce parking
--Cash only

Overall, I LOVED this theatre. It is my new favorite theatre by far and would recommend it to anyone.

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Jell O.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
06/02/2008

Not a bad seat in the house.  Ample leg room.  LOVE this theater.  Sooo glad it's in my hood.  Great place for concerts too.  We saw Spiritualized here and I don't think I've ever been to more comfortable concert.  

Try to walk if you can and read the parking signs carefully if you park a couple blocks toward Commonwealth.  Definitely gotten a couple tickets here.

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Kyle R.

Los Angeles, CA

1 star rating
08/10/2008

Awful! Awful! Awful! Awful!

This is the single most over rated Theater in the World. It is what San Fransisco is to the American city.  Sure, it will fool you with it's arty decor and cheap tickets and buttered popcorn, but don't  let it win! The fact that everyone buys their ticket moments before each showing on this single screen jerk shack ensures the scenario of standing in line with "Arty" Los Feliz beatniks and out of town foreigners who think L.A. is too dirty, both of which have no problems sharing their opinions with you. I DISLIKE this part. Then, the sound and picture quality is less than desired, my brother in laws living room schools this place on quality. The location of this theater also adds to the suffering experience. Have you ever tried to get around the six way fork of Damnation that is Hollywood/sunset/virgil? Oh my f-ing jesus! Not even on foot can you navigate this intersection with out risking death. BOOO!!! Boo, I say!!!! If you want a good movie experience, open your cheapskate wallet, go the Arclight Hollywood, shell out $14 bucks and experience the single greatest movie theater that has ever been designed by man....or God.

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Amelia H.

Glendale, CA

4 star rating
07/15/2008

I love the Vista, but I haven't been in a while.  I used to live down the street and would walk up there all the time to catch a movie.  Now I live farther away and the parking is a problem.  Last time I went we got a ticket ($45!) for parking in a permit only zone.  

It's a beautiful theater, though and the prices are great.  If you go make sure you read the street signs carefully, the permit only signs look almost identical to the signs that say you can only park 2 hours from 9-6.

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Christine L.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
06/05/2008

i love love loveeeee this theatre.  Its a one show theatre.  Egyptian theme d. Great sound & picture.  The audience are more locals. Silverlake, Los Feliz, Downtowners Yay!!  and its cheaper than most theaters!

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Red G.

Burbank, CA

5 star rating
06/25/2008

A wonderful place to watch a movie!  It has a wonderful interior and I also love the fact that the rows are so far apart, lots of leg room!

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Tricia L.

Alhambra, CA

5 star rating
05/25/2008

I can't wait til Indy takes my ticket at the door on Wednesday!  

LOVE this theater.

Note: Cash only!

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shari s.

Whittier, CA

5 star rating
08/12/2008

i freakin love the vista. watched pirates of the caribbean and indiana jones here (and some other movies) but seriously...this is the best theatre to watch fun movies at. the aisles are huge, lots of leg room. and i dunno why but i like how this is just a one screen theatre, it makes a movie night just um special...haha wuteva. go here, its fun, its fantastic, its pretty inside :D

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Robb R.

North Hollywood, CA

4 star rating
08/14/2008

yea its got a great feel to it.. the sound and screen are quite right..

its no arclight..  but the interior design makes up for it.

they take credit cards.. i seem to remember they didnt used to.. but i may be wrong.. either way its cool.. cause the ATM at Vons or whatever grocery store is across from it( it maybe a Ralphs) is close but oh so far...  

that crazy intersection makes it feel like a year before you even get to the parking lot..

speaking of parking.. its street parking.. i just take the subway from noho..

and then of course walk the rest of the way from sunset/vermont...

ive had some good experiences here...

go to go to..

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Photo of Spider M.

 

10

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Spider M.

Hancock Park, CA

5 star rating
06/04/2008

This is absolutely my favorite place for movies! Reasons:

1. Good quality picture/sound (could be better, but look at the other PROS)
2. Excellent Atmosphere/ Building and Decorations show lots of history and culture
3. The Audience consists of hipsters, yes....but they are a positive movie going component to the experience. They positively respond to the films. They want to be there and are not disruptive.
4. The pre-movie trailers and notices. So nostalgic!
5. The legroom of the seats! U can live there!
6. The manager! He's super cool and often dresses up as the movie characters (Spider-man, Indiana Jones, etc.)
7. $8 movie tickets ($5 for matinee)

CONS:
1. Poor parking (my friend and I once got a ticket. Very inconspicuous signs.
2. Relatively small.
3. Not the best picture/sound.

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