The Historic Artcraft Theatre

Related:	main place mall movies
Related:	main place movies
Address:	57 N Main St, Franklin, IN 46131, USA
Phone:	+1 317-736-6823
Site:	historicartcrafttheatre.org
Rating:	4.8

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 13

Matthew Jones

This is my review of the historical Artcraft Theatre in downtown, Franklin, IN, about 20 minutes away from Greenwood, IN. The facade/outside of the theatre is gorgeous, with color bright red, white, and yellow lights. They did a wonderful job renovating this older theater and making it look like new. The outside has almost an Indiana State Fair Midway amusement ride-like feel to it, but it is done in a classy and beautiful manner. Also has an old Roaring 20s Broadway feel to it as well. The inside is bright and colorful, and staffed well with what seems like primarily high school to college kids, with some older adults as well. They even sell clothing merchandise if you are a fan of the Artcraft. Going inside the movie theater, you feel like you are in the 80s, with the retro looking popsicle lights on the walls and original posters for "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones" hanging on the walls. It definitely feels retro inside. Before the screening of the movie, the general owner/manager of the theatre comes out and talks about shows to come, the turning off of all electronic devices, and other things. He leaves and they screen a short little comical film from the 30s or 40s that is like Looney Tunes that is silly, and makes one laugh. Then everyone in the audience is asked to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, as the national anthem is played. A surprising twist, but I have no issue with a little patriotism. Then the movie you came to see begins. The film quality is not bad, but you can definitely tell it is not high definition, like what you would expect at a movie theater. If I were to compare it to a format, it would be 480p as compared to 720p or 1080p definition. Movie ticket prices are really cheap- most of the time it is $5 and sometimes $10 for special events. Concessions are VERY reasonable- when I went a medium tub of popcorn was $4 and a large was $6, and you got unlimited refills. So concessions are refreshingly cheap compared to what you would receive at a movie theater. All and all, I give this place a 9.5/10. The only real improvement they can do is to somehow increase the resolution of some of their films to higher definition. But an outstanding venue to watch old movies, cheap concessions, and accommodations. For the atmosphere, you pay very little. Great place for a cheap date or movie night with someone or a family.

Matthew Rodgers

This is easily my favorite theater in the world. They play a variety of classic films at the request of the patrons (there is literally a list where you can write requests). And the films are all at least ten years old. Also, they play Warner Brothers cartoons before each showing. Their concession stand is stocked with various delicious goodies and some of the best popcorn youll ever taste (all of which is donated). This theater is honestly amazing. Additionally, it is entirely run by volunteers which helps keep down ticket prices (I believe the most you can possibly pay is five dollars for a ticket). The heritage center in the town is also restoring the theater to its original glory so that it effectively allows you the opportunity to step back into simpler times in centuries past. I highly recommend giving this theater a chance.

Matt White

Its a beautiful theater with a great atmosphere. Love the feel of the place, as well as the traditions, movie selections, and pre-film events. If you decide to go to an especially popular showing, youll want to arrive early because of the crowds. Also, concessions leave much to be desired. The prices are extremely reasonable but waiting for 45 minutes to an hour for concessions is asking a bit too much and this element of the theater needs to be updated to keep pace with the business. The restrooms are also pretty small and extremely limited in capacity. Theyre renovating, so hopefully these issues will be addressed. Overall, pretty good experience aside from these points. Will probably come back.

Michelle Butler

I cannot say enough great things about this place! It is like the theaters from years ago and I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT IT. They play older movies and even take suggestions! We go to see Hocus Pocus every Fall and National Lampoons Christmas Vacation and A Christmas Story every year around Christmas. They have all the movie goodies to buy as well. The seating is also like the old time theaters so it can be a little uncomfortable for larger or tall people Ive been told. I love this place. You can even get yearly memberships!

Laura VanArendonk Baugh

My favorite movie theater, period. Vintage Vaudeville house restored as classic film theater and community center. Not for those who want to duck in unseen and sit in the unfeeling dark -- all the volunteers here are friendly, the pre-show is funny, the tie-in prizes are adorkable, and the popcorn is locally grown and the best youll get in a modern movie theater. You may never eat pre-popped franchise popcorn again.

Megan Powell

I have been volunteering here since the 4th grade and I am now a senior about to graduate high school! This is my second home and I would not trade it for anything in the world! The other volunteer members are more like my family and the friends I meet become my siblings! I love this place and will always come back no matter where life takes me because this is my home and home is where the heart is!

A Private User

Cute 1922 theatre shows classic films to raise money for restoration. All-volunteer operation has excellent service. Evening shows include games, skits, door prizes, a cartoon and more, all for $5 admission ($4 for students, military, seniors). Theatre is dated, but clean and comfortable. Best popcorn in the state of Indiana (its locally grown). Great fun, and very reasonably priced!

Morgan Carrillo

Love coming to the Artcraft! Most movies today arent worth seeing, but the Artcraft allows you to still see quality film on the big screen and its reasonably priced. In addition to a great show, the popcorn is local, there are raffles for prizes and the Star spangled banner is sung. Its all about the full movie experience here.

Ashton Sullivan

This theater is the perfect escape from lifes everyday worries. Theres nothing quite like experiencing a classic in a classic theater! All of the staff are volunteers so you know they want to be there! They are always friendly and genuinely love what they do! If you are the ultimate movie buff or theater junkie, look no further!!

Thomas Lutes

What isnt there to love about this place? An amazing group of people came together to restore a business that has something for EVERYONE. Everything including concessions are fairly priced, and the staff is first-class! My only criticism is that the seats are now in need of an update, but Im sure its on the list.

Colin Dullaghan

A local treasure, and thats putting it mildly. We drove down from Broad Ripple to see the holiday special presentation of Elf, and came away wishing we lived in Franklin. The environment is a unique, authentic and fun setting for a movie, and the people running the place have an obvious and infectious enthusiasm.

Flannery Vaught

One of the Crown Jewels of Franklin, this historic theatre offers film festivals and the tickets are ultra affordable compared to most other historic theaters- offers a unique viewing experience with skits and giveaways! The volunteers are all friendly and the popcorn is legendary.

Daniel Stone

This old movie house is great. They show some of the best old movies. Everyone there is friendly and helpful. Everyone there also work as volunteers. Popcorn and coke are also great. The prices there can not be beat anywhere. Once you go there, youll go back again and again.