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Independent Movie Theaters in Orlando, Florida

Independent movie theaters offer a viewing experience that is often quite different from that of the major movie-theater chains. For example, some independent theaters offer a selection of films that includes more foreign films and films from independent studios, and fewer of the same old Hollywood blockbusters. Orlando residents who wish to see movies at an independent theater have several options either in town or just a short drive away.
  1. Aloma Cinema Grill

    • At the Aloma Cinema Grill in Winter Park, you can eat and drink in style while you watch the latest movies. This small theater has only three screens, but the food and beverage selection more than compensates for this shortcoming. The menu includes appetizers like cheese sticks and nachos as well as pizzas, burgers and subs. You can also enjoy a beer or a glass of wine with the show.

    Downtown Media Arts Center

    • Orlando's Downtown Media Arts Center is a cinema for art lovers. In fact, the first floor of the theater is an art gallery with a cafe. Upstairs, there's just one small screening room devoted to showing foreign films and independent films that you may not be able to see anywhere else. Sometimes, independent films compete in "film slams," with the audience choosing the winner.

    Enzian Cinema Cafe

    • Located about eight miles away from Orlando in Maitland, Florida, the Enzian Cinema Cafe is a nonprofit theater that hosts the Florida Film Festival. There is a cafe and a bar with Happy Hour specials attached to the theater. The screening room is also laid out like a dining room, so you can eat while you enjoy the film. The Enzian mainly shows a mixture of independent films and older "cult classics." It also hosts outdoor screenings of classic films in Winter Park. The "Popcorn in the Park" films are free for anyone who wants to come.

    West Orange 5

    • The West Orange 5 cinema is located in Ocoee, about 12 miles away from Orlando. This theater mainly plays films from the big Hollywood studios, but its nontraditional atmosphere makes it worth the drive. The West Orange 5's theaters have a mix of stadium seating and a dining area with tables and rocking chairs. You can order your choice of food and drinks to consume during the show. The theater also has private viewing booths that can be reserved ahead of time. On Labor Day weekend, West Orange 5 hosts the annual Central Florida Film Festival.

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