Gene Siskel Film Center

Related:	amc thoroughbred 20
Address:	164 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
Phone:	+1 312-846-2800
Site:	siskelfilmcenter.org
Rating:	4.6

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 26

Jay Hawkinson

The Film Center is one of the few cinemas that I can give a 5-star rating. The only negative thing is its location which is only convenient for those immediately downtown or can easily hop on the Red Line. I dont hold this against the theater because as a first run independent cinema and repertory theater, this is one of the best out there. Besides the excellent weekly programming, they also curate some amazing film series as well as host touring series like the Miyazaki films. Prices are reasonable and the double feature deal is the way to go when offered. Also due to the types of films screened the Film Center attracts a crowd that respects film, i.e. you dont have lots of talkers or texters during a viewing. Thats huge in my book.

Nelson Whipple

A program of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Siskel shows a variety of classics, foreign films, themed film series, and other types of presentations. Seats are comfortable and spacious. There is a lounge area with tables and chairs by the concession stand, which sells a variety of items, including beer. Events occasionally include a pre- or post-presentation lecture with an individual associated with the film or another expert. The theater is conveniently located by the Lake and State L stop.

Nicholas Williams

Outstanding venue and location. The seats are not as comfortable as I might have liked, but it was a great experience. There are no obstructions to the screen, the audio/sound reinforcement/Dobly is great and the assembled audience seems to be conscientious, respectful and totally relaxed. The lobby is a nice, moderately sized area with chairs and tables when you can enjoy a snack, buy paraphernalia and engage others. Great place to see any movie, let alone first run or Indies.

Betsy Thompson

A cozy little theater for mostly independent films and events. A wonderful space and tribute to Gene Siskel. The variety of movies is great, since they show a lot of indie films, documentaries, and films that arent typically shown along with blockbuster hits. The location is great as well. Transportation, shopping, and restaurants are nearby so you can make a day (or night) of visiting the film center.

Cedric McCay

A great place in the middle of the Loop to catch interesting and unique films. Clean and spacious theaters with excellent projection and color; sound quality is not a problem at all. Lots of areas for post-viewing receptions or just waiting. The restrooms are quite tidy. I come annually for the Black Harvest Film Festival. Customer service with the ticket counter staff could improve quite a bit, though.

Rochelle Williams

Quaint, intimate theaters with stage area & podium for after screening interviews with movie producers, directors, actors, etc., at front of theater screening rooms. On site Ticket booth for purchases & will call, refreshment counter for popcorn , water, soda, limited beer & wine selection, ADA elevator for wheel chair accessibility & accommodation.

Manuel Colón

This must be a new arm of The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and I like it! Right in the heart of Chicagos theater district, the location is on point. They offer a great diversity of commercial and indie films and the theaters are smaller and more cozy. I went here to see the Paraguayan film "7 Boxes" and would consider coming back, for sure!

Anthony Ramirez

theaters are small, but the seating is close. Comfy seats but not stadium seating. But you can still see the screen irregardless. Great off-the-map movies, documentaries, foreign films, and experimental films no one else would have except the Siskel. Not even Music box or Landmark. Upscale with reasonable prices, discounts if your a student.

Andre Walker

Maybe Im crazy, but when I am paying for a service, I expect people to be a lot friendlier to me. The staff here are not that wonderful. I only recommend going to this theater if you cant find another one in the city playing your movie. On the upside, at least they serve wine and beer to help you forget about the awful service you receive.

Benhur Calaguas

I watch a lot of TMC (Tuner Movie Classics) and sometimes I find the selection of movies kind of limiting. So if I want something more avant garde than whats on Netflix or Hulu, I go check out the Gene Siskel Theatre. Sure the place wont play xXx the Return of Xander, but they will play Zardoz and thats enough for me.

Sherry Rasmussen

The Siskel Center brings amazing films to Chicago that you wont find anywhere else in the city. The audience consists of people who are there to see the film, not talk to their friends or view their cell phones. The concession stand includes great beer and wine. The Film Center is a gem.

Nick Obis

Good movies -- independent films, foreign films, one-off screenings, 35mm -- friendly staff, laid-back atmosphere, decent selection of beers and wines at the concession stand -- plus popcorn, coffee, tea, and popcorn. Plus projectionists who know how to project films.

Harvey Morris

Hands down one of the best special event spaces in Chicago. I hosted two events there for Social Media Week Chicago and the staff was great. The attendees were in love with the comfy seats, the great acoustics in the theater and overall vibe of the space.

Daniel Fults

Smaller Film Center that shows more indie, classic, and foreign films (as well as documentaries). Very cozy and nice place with reasonable pricing for most showings. Saw a documentary film that included a Q&A with the Director afterwards. Two thumbs up!

Nathan Colquhoun

This was a great theater to stop in for our only night in Chicago. We watched the Maya Angelou documentary and were welcomed warmly with food provided by community partners. Overall it was a comfortable and high quality cinema experience.

Laura Villanueva

Polite staff, but terrible popcorn, and uncomfertable seats that you cant see over if another person is seated in front of you. Really wanted to like this place, great location, and interesting movies, but I know better places.

Andrew Kyser

If youre interested in the kind of movies that dont make it into normal theaters, keep an eye in Gene Siskels calendar. Such a wide variety of fascinating stuff that I usually didnt even know about beforehand.

Etniak Kainte

Decent place to catch a quality film. Prices of concessions are reasonable (i.e. non-exorbitant) and my screen, though small, was generally conducive to a pleasant viewing experience.

Rovetta M

Great place to see documentaries and international films. Last week was my first visit to the theater, I found the staff personable and the theater clean. I will definitely return.

Kiara Williams

I love this place! I say in on a discussion with a film maker and it was wonderful! Large enough yet intimate with great customer service. I will be looking into a membership!

Sylvie Hutchings

My favorite place in the city for independent and foreign films. Best membership too. If you like movies become a member. Best money spent supporting a great organization.

A Private User

Incredibly rude on the phone when I called to ask about accessibility issues for a friend who has trouble walking. Dismissive, derisive, unhelpful, and harsh. WTF.

Vrendy C.

Never got a chance to see a film here but the entrance view from the street caught my attention. Beautiful nostalgic sign and facade. Very historic looking.

amir mohtat

Its one the best cinemas in Chicago. Im never disappointed by the quality of the movies that are shown here. Easy walk from work to catch a nice indie film.

John Holst

Saw the Spock documentary For The Love Of Spock. His son skyped to the theater afterwords. Was a great experience. Staff was friendly. Everything worked.

Aubrey Konrath

Saw a great French film here. Parking is a little bit of a pain and expensive near by, I would go with public transit next time. Great theatre experience.