Worst cinema I've ever been to. AVOID LIKE THE PLAGUE. I went there on Wednesday to see Oppenheimer with my local carers organisation and the man there was very rude to us, searched our bags and made us put them inside a transparent plastic box by the reception as some of the bags had outside food from a previous place we went to (fair enough on this, not disagreeing on this policy). We saw the film in Screen 3 which was not even cleaned and there was food everywhere and the floor was sticky and was not nice to sit to watch a three hour film in not to mention how flimsy the chairs are. Once the film ended, we went to get our bags from the box to be met with shouting from a very rude member of staff and her colleague who kept saying "where's your ticket?". Our group leader had our film tickets and when he showed her these she said that's not what she meant and that the guy who made us put our bags in the box in the first place should have given us a ticket for the box, SOMETHING HE DID NOT BOTHER DOING SO HOW WERE WE SUPPOSED TO KNOW THIS? The woman then proceeded to grab my friend's hand and snatched her bag out of her hand and put it back in the box and was continuing to scream at my friend even after we all explained how her colleague did not do his job properly to which she accused us of "lying". She eventually refrained and let us take our bags to which I then said there's a way to talk to your paying customers and this was not the way which then lead to her denial and victimisation of herself. It's fine to do your job but this is really not the way to do it. Absolutely disgusting and horrible customer service alongside unclean cinema rooms and overpriced food- who pays £6.00 for popcorn lol?! Anyway, anyone reading this who has never visited this cinema should take their money elsewhere and not bother coming here. Only good thing that came out of this experience was the fact the Oppenheimer film was a brilliant watch and is worth seeing!

What was meant to be a fun evening out seeing one of the most anticipated movies of the year, ended up in disappointment and a sour taste in my mouth. We were running 15 minutes late for the screening of the film due to train strikes, which we notified the cinema of and reassured them that we will still be attending 30 minutes prior to the screening. Upon arrival the security guard ‘checked’ our tickets without even looking and misdirected us to the wrong screen. We purchased popcorn and drinks and headed to the incorrect screen. Quickly realising, there was nothing on at the screen we were sent to, we returned to ask the members of staff for the correct screen number. At this point they told us that our seats were no longer available, as they have been given away to other customers as we were late, even though we called ahead to let them know. They then told us they can exchange our tickets for a different screening and that they cant refund us for the food which we just bought even though they gave our tickets away. The staff were incredibly rude and dismissive and it took waiting for a senior member of management to grant us a full refund. We travelled a long way and had high hopes but unfortunately we were extremely let down and ended up wasting our whole day. Definitely do not recommend. You are better off watching the films at home….

This review is based on only my latest vist there as my previous experience was excellent. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I went there on Sun 30 July to see Oppenheimer. The great thing about Genesis Cima is that the tickets are dead cheap compare to some other places (only £7). 1) Annoyingly, you cannot take your own chocolate treats. Had a bag of maltesers and 2 chocolate bars. been told to leave them at reception and if I wanted to purchase any, they are sold there for £3.85 a bag. ARE YOU JOKING? Tesco sells them for £1 a bag and you put the price up by 26%?? 2) You cannot choose your seat when booking. What is it, 1995?? Seriously. People had to be moved and ushered because the allocation system is, well, non existant. 3) the screen we were in (#3) was an oven! it must have been at least 30°C in there. After my friend complained, she'd been told the air conditioning was broken and was offered a cup of soda. Sure! 4) The sound was AWEFUL. I have no idea who sets the sound system, but they need to do it better. Impossible to hear properly and the sountrack was way too loud. A real joke of an afternoon. Staff couldn't care less and were slighty patronising. It's such a shame because it's a great relaxing venue, but you NEED to sort your game.

I am extremely disappointed that you cannot take your own food or drink into the cinema, even a chocolate bar or a cold drink! I have been going to cinemas for many years since I can remember, and I have never not been allowed to bring my own food and drink. This is completely unacceptable especially with the cost of living crisis as it is. The tickets are £5 which is fine, but then means those on lower incomes who cannot afford to purchase food and drink inside the cinema are essentially excluded from here due to this policy or expected not to eat or drink anything during the film which is so unfair. Also for those who have medical conditions such as diabetes etc and need their own food bringing in. It is also not advertised very clearly before you enter. We queued for the barbie movie and there were no signs outside saying this policy. All mainstream cinemas such as odeon etc allow you to bring your own food and drink and so do other independent cinema's such as Peckhamplex. The food and drink to purchase inside genesis cinema is extremely expensive. £5 for a small popcorn!! Absolute ripoff. Until this policy changes, I will not come back here. This was not the policy a few years ago. I am disappointed that this is the case now with genesis.

Totally tacking the mickey on student prices and ripping people off by depending what screen there are at?? What difference does that make just for to see a movie without IMax or 3D . Once again rude arrogent and unhelpful receptionists want more money because of power complex. This is the last time that I even pay for a Thursday night for a student discount all day and all you do is illegally surcharge consumers in a cost of living crisis this is businesses close down for a reason! So you gotta pay more money for a movie you want to see but you have to pay extra for screening. I see you don't advertise that on your website and on your blackboards do ya!!!?? how does that even work??? Just to let you know I am done with your cinema because you cant keep conning customers to pay more on their discount all because of a screen that's barly empty and it dosnet have 3d? It dosent make logical and business sense I used to like this cinema and was a regular customer on selected days but now your getting far too greedy so I am done with genesis and best of luck with the bad business.

Great, low-key cinema in East London. Good selection of films, cheap ticket prices with plenty of lovely but, expensive treats including freshly made popcorn from an old school popcorn machine and a great Pik N Mix. The building is classically decorated and has an art deco feel to it, the chairs are comfy but low/deep so kids (or maybe even you) will likely need a cushion (there are plenty at the back stacked up in each screen). The screens are not the biggest but are ok and the sound system is basic but effective and loud enough. The staff are friendly and helpful. All in all a good, low-key (still busy though) and traditional cinema not far from Shoreditch to go see a film. Would recommend checking out if you want somewhere more classic and less commercial with a light arty feel in East London.

I’ve wanted to checkout this cinema since 2019 but, for one reason or another, haven’t been able to until now. I did not have a good time. Firstly, it’s important to mention that everyone that worked there was absolutely lovely. But the place was just…inhospitable. Inside the cinema was So, SO hot. We were unbelievably uncomfortable. The seats in screen three were grim- super dusty and grimy (no sofas as we were lead to believe there would be). People were talking, texting, moving around the cinema all through the film. There also wasn’t anything to block the light when the main door opened, so light kept leaking into the cinema. It felt like a discount cinema, not an art house cinema that truly values film. The place has so much potential, but is so far off the mark.

I was disappointed by our treatment at this cinema. First of all when our tickets had been scanned and we began to walk to our screen we were shouted at to come back and spoken to by 2 separate employees in a very rude manner. They then began to search our bags and remove any food and drinks not purchased on site. I have never experienced this at another cinema, chain or independent. Especially taking into consideration how expensive in-house snacks were (£7.70 for a small popcorn and diet coke), in a cost of living crisis, also taking into consideration medical needs such as celiac disease and diabetes, meaning many may not be able to eat the in house snacks, I was extremely unimpressed and sadly will not be able to recommend this cinema.

A true gem! During our week in London, my husband and I actually went twice. It was awesome to watch movies while sitting comfortably in sofas with a blanket, table for our snacks and even an ottoman for our feet. The perfect middle between watching a movie in the comfort of your home and going to see it in theaters. People frequenting the place are usually movie buffs and not the annoying loud crowd you often deal with in cinemas, thankfully. I also love that they often show older movies or have theme nights. It's such a fun ambiance. The only disappointment was that some of the candy in the self-serve section wasn't too fresh. Otherwise, I just wish there was a Genesis cinema in my town! We'll definitely miss it.

Genesis is a gem in the heart of east london and was always my favourite cinema. Until recently when their heating seems to have been broken all winter. I’ve been told by some staff that the owner just seems too cheap to replace it. We were given comp tickets to use at another time but when I came back and asked if the heat was fixed they lied and said yes but it was absolutely freezing. Either the cost of living has caught up with this place or the owner is just too greedy. Whatever the situation it’s really sad because it’s such a reflection of the times. I just don’t think I’ll ever be going back now. I’d rather watch a good film at home where it’s warm and comfortable.

Yesterday I went to watch Oppenheimer and I was very glad to see that this cinema was very busy.. Genesis is an institution in East London, it gives character to the neighbourhood and it's a beautiful cinema... actually more than a cinema: they have a nice bar on the first floor, a good cafeteria by the entrance, and very cool vibes in general. The staff are also very nice and there's a "historical" security guy that checks your tickets & bags. More than anything what I like about this independent cinema is that it has an identity.. you don't feel like you are in a big chain cinema, but in a cool meeting point for the local community :)

The place was lovely and the staff great the presenters at the event kept us all informed about what was going on and what would be taking place including the photographers taking pictures everyone was dressed up and most of the outfits were absolutely brilliant all in all I would recommend this place for any kind of event party ect well done to the organisers and the people who worked really hard to present the show everyone had such an involvement with it all. Definitely worth my time coming to London from Sheffield to watch my grandson along with other young people do what they are good at. Wish I had their fashion sense

Outstanding independent cinema theatre. Great selection of current blockbuster films. The seating in the baby screenings is more comfortable than home. I'm so glad this place exists as it is a much more worth while experience than any Cineworld or VUE cinema and much better value. Excellent cafe to the front of the premises that boasts very comfortable seating and an array of café choices and lots of vegan options. Lots of movie treats available such as popcorn, nachos and even pick and mix sweets. Really friendly and pleasant staff who make you feel very welcome. Well worth a visit. 5 stars well deserved. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Queued outside in the rain for 15 minutes. The woman who worked there searched my bag and tried to take a packet of crisps from me. I’m 32 and can eat crisps if I want. There’s no seat booking which meant a lot of faffing around before the film. The film had 45 minutes of ads before it started, all of which were non-interesting and not film related. The screen is small in relation to the size of the room. The sound system is no better than what you would have in your home. Ultimately the only people who will go here are those willing to suffer to feel like a hipster in an independent cinema.

Genesis Cinema offers an exceptional movie-watching experience. From its cozy and well-designed interiors to the latest movie selections, it's a cinephile's paradise. The comfortable seating and state-of-the-art sound and visuals enhance the overall enjoyment. The diverse snack options and friendly staff further contribute to a pleasant visit. Whether you're into blockbusters or indie films, Genesis Cinema caters to all tastes. The only minor drawback might be occasional crowded screenings, but the overall experience is definitely worth it.

This independent cinema hall is a true gem! Beyond its cozy seating and diverse film selection, the fabulous bar and coffee shop elevate the experience to a whole new level. Socializing over well-crafted drinks or artisanal coffee adds an extra touch of enjoyment, making it a cultural hub for movie enthusiasts. Genesis has it all – captivating movies, a warm atmosphere, and thoughtful amenities. A definite five-star destination for unforgettable movie nights and memorable gatherings with friends.

What a great hidden gem. This cinema has so much history, life and thoughtfully decorated with tasteful art, lighting and classic furniture. Each theatre has its own unique character - few of the theatres have comfy couches with bar service so you can kick back watch a film and drink your favourite cocktail. Great spot to host events on all scales. Must check out when in London to watch a film, host an event or have a coffee & work in their main lobby. Family owned. Support local businesses.

A East London institution, this is one of the gems of London! I love the dedication to keeping the ticket price reasonable. We love visiting this cinema, it's one of our favourites. From the staff to the laidback decor, its a must for anyone looking for a bargain cinema ticket. The food and drink on offer is also a hit. Its always showing the latest films and I especially love that they have cushions to bump up the seating. It's not a cinema chain, and it has a very local vibe.

Be careful when you go there! They will search your purses and bags so just to force you into buying their overpriced food! Also they don’t seem to care if men working there go through teenage girls bags and purses embarrassing them in the process (rampaging through the female products) this happened to my daughter yesterday! Disgusting behaviour from staff members! I want answers! Even the police needs grounds to search you! And all this from a cinema!

Great cinema. Visited for the bar trash events they had during the summer. Cheap tickets and they push the drinks a bunch. The signature cocktail was done well, the host was excellent and the trivia prizes were a welcome surprise. The showing was great of Stephen King's Maximum Overdrive. The only thing I would say is that the movie was quite late, so had to leave promptly to get the last train from Whitechapel. Follow me on Google Maps for more reviews

Going to have the same complaint as I have with all the "indie" cinemas: so indie but then you have two films taking the place of most of the screens, two mainstream smashes, which have been sold again and again as a cinema fan identity to watch it, while they don't allow any non massive mainstream (not even indie, not even "International") to last more than a few days, barely giving them a chance. The sofa screens are cool though.

I’m writing this review as I sit waiting for my film to start, sweating buckets and crammed into a tiny seat. Do not be fooled by a certain timeout article suggesting this is London’s 2nd best cinema, this place is ****! The screen is no bigger than a classroom projector and the sound is quiet enough to hear a pin drop. In 1884 this place burned down, they should have left it that way. Would give 0 stars if I could…

I had a good day for my first induction at Genesis Cinema as a work placement today with my crew and my boss. We went on a virtual tour experience in this cinema starting with the staff office on the second floor. Then we went outside to show where the restaurant is to eat or drink and even there is also an empty room if they wanna keep their belongings safe and sound without being stolen.

It's an independent cinema worth visiting as they show movies that are not only mainstream but also independent and short movies as well as form part of different movie festivals, such as, e.g., the Fringe Film Festival in London. Also, in the building there is a bar area where you can sit down and have a drink before or after a movie. The seats are not numbered so first come first served.

Absolutely awful screen (3). No air con or anything to cool the room so it was about 30+ degrees in there. Even when we first walked in it smelled really awful. Genuinely ruined the whole film for us. And a lot of other people felt the same. Manager should really do something about it rather than just say "there's nothing we can do and dismiss the feedback" (this happened at the till).

Construction nearby doesn't allow to get a good look at entrance, but like the old school looks preserved. Very nice and friendly ticket taker as well as bar attendance. Young people, I like that very much. Plastic wine "glass" , no excuse 4 that. Fairly clean, can't judge the technical aspect of the projection as the film was 60's looks. For the price I'll go again and recommend.

This was an unexpectedly fantastic experience. My friend hired a screen for her big birthday (I'm not allowed to reveal numbers). The screening room was very clean, the seats were comfortable, the sound system was of the highest quality. We then headed to the bar, where we socialised and just had a jolly good time. Thank you very much to all the staff who made it happen!

It's amazing! The obvious things, you can't take in food that they sale, especially popcorn. Saw a bag in a box, but they gave her a ticket to collect the item later. There's an exhibition there too, and seems like an event was going on. It gave a nice vibe and the seats are super comfy. Limited studio viewings but worth a visit or three. Watched Past Lives in Studio 5

Absolutely best movie theater I’ve been to. We’re from america and were in London for a week. We decided to watch a movie and were greeted with amazing customer service. They have blankets and couches and the prices for the concessions are not as terrible as I’m used to. It makes it even greater that they’re independent. Will come back next time we’re in town!!!

I was there for the 1st Hong Kong Film Festival UK, and I am delightfully surprised by the size and interior of this cinema. Not only it is way bigger than I expected, there were food stalls, and nice spaces for display or exhibition purposes. I was also told Theater 1(the one I was in) sits over 350 people, and it looks and feels very spacious and comfortable.

If I could give this 0 stars I would. Among serious renovations this rundown cinema requires its staff to stop pulling faces at its customers. We can really sympathise how hard it can be to make the popcorn and put it into a box. Don’t even get me started on the screens….they have the audacity to call it a cinema room. Absolute joke of a “cinema”.

My new favourite cinema in London. I visited today to watch The Many Saints of Newark (Sopranos Film). It has a cozy vibe, good screen size, comfy seating, wide selection of snacks and staff are very friendly. Tickets are £5.50 from Monday to Thursday and £10.50 from Friday to Sunday (peak hours). Highly recommend. Will be visiting again soon.

I’ve been here twice now! Each time it’s been great, and the atmosphere around is really enjoyable. The prices are greatly affordable for both ticket entry and food, making it easy for younger people to watch movies and support the industry. The alcohol is quite expensive, but jt is London after all. I’d definitely recommend coming here

Cool and cosy cinema where two of the screens are smaller auditoriums which have sofa seating and tables where you can put your snack and drinks. Definitely a very different and comfortable way to enjoy the cinema. As I said though not all the screens have sofas so make sure you check that you're in one of the "studios" when booking.

Small, poor quality screen. Sound system not incredible and could hear rumbling from one of the other screens during our movie. In general the interior of the building is a bit tired and in need of renovation. The staff even stopped us to search our bags for snacks on the way in . At least it’s cheap. Won’t go back in a hurry. …

The interior in the front was very old and ripped. I don't know if that's is intentional design decision, but it in a very sharp contrast with the nice screen hall. Also the lighting was net suitable for a standard up, and even the performers were making jokes they can't read their script, and had to use their phones flashlight.

My go-to cinema venue. The place is stunning and easy to reach - just a few steps away from Stepney Green station. It has 2 bars that offer food and drinks. The screens are small but the chairs are super comfortable. Seats are not numbered so make sure you get there as soon as you can to secure the best seats.

Alternative cute cinema between Whitechapel and Mile End. Affordable tickets to watch independent and festival acclaimed films that don’t make it to your regular franchised cinemas. It has two screens, a little bar and kitchen in the top floor. Screens aren’t big but enough to enjoy a good film.

The worst not the best cinema. All lights on people are getting in but we were told that our show was cancelled because of the power cut. Apparently it’s not the first time they have this problem so maybe it’s time to invest in better infrastructure or service deal if this is an external issue.

I am currently waiting so far for 20 minutes for the cleaners to let us in. 20 minutes!!!!!! There is only 300 seconds left till the movie starts, okay they are letting us in now after 2 minutes however the room is too big for such a small screen the place I am sitting is slightly obstructed!!!

Nobody has bothered to answer my emails regarding my ticket for my son, I find this so rude and unacceptable. Not only that they don’t even answer their calls. Took my money £18. Didn’t even give me another ticket or solution. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who wants to be ignored.

Not the best cinema experience you can get for so cheap. No crowd control while queuing which means people push and run to get the best seats. Unfriendly people at ticket stand. Drinks were flat and warm and popcorn was cold and stale. Would not return.

I visited for a private cinema screening as my friend bid on the evening at a charity raffle. We had drinks upstairs first in a bar before heading downstairs to screen 3 where we had more prosecco, popcorn and sandwiches in super comfy sofas.

Wonderfully friendly staff, responsive to online inquiries, and the waiting area is lovely with reasonable prices and good confectioneries and drinks. The tickets are well priced, but this could be explained by the downsides which included:

Tickets are cheap. On 31/05/2021, Ive watched the A Quiet Place Part II film here. Sound and image quality was very low. The screen size was super small. Perhaps Ive watched the film in one of their smallest screen. I dont know.. as far as

We came here to watch Guardians of the Galaxy here, the day after it came out. The refreshments before hand were great, one slice of pizza (vegan) was £3.50-4 depending on toppings and very tasty! One large coke was £3.50. We ordered one

If you make a quick movie plan and if you are near the Stepney Green area, this is the best place to book your tickets on the go. Their charges are pocket friendly, and they also provide a student discount of £1 for each ticket. However,

Great experience. Watched Killers of the Flower Moon in a group of 8. Food was ready quickly, bar staff were super friendly, cinema room was perfect temp (sounds weird but it’s true) and the visual / audio quality was fab for the money!

A lovely and independent cinema. As a local resident, I've been a regular customer in the past years and would always prefer this cinema over other (chain) cinemas in London. Great atmosphere, good snacks and always worth a visit.

Awesome! It really feels like watching a movie in someone's basement with a nice setup. The screen is a bit smaller than regular theaters, but plenty big enough. Sound was good, couches were comfortable, and they have foot rests.

Love this cinema, has a great atmosphere and a real community connection to the area and the film industry as well. Not my favorite viewing experience, don’t love the couches but there’s different styles of seating and screens.

This is my favourite cinema in London. Most importantly, the tickets are a really reasonable price, but they also have a really good range of films showing. Would recommend screen 1 or the studios particularly

It was great overall but the website wasn’t clear enough on whether the movie was subbed or dubbed and accidentally booked the dubbed version.. Disappointing but otherwise a great movie theatre for the price.

Fantastic experience here. My initial concern was the lack of access for mobility impaired patrons, however, the cinema is able to help with getting up and down stairs. The seats were exceptionally comfy.

This movie theatre is so cool and different, because it has a lot of style. The screen is not that big and the seats feel kind of old, but somehow that just makes it cozy. I would definitely recommend!

This is by far my favourite cinema. It seems to have everything you could wish for, hot food, cold drinks, quirky events, absolutely wonderful staff and best of all luxuriously comfortable screens.

Great value cinema tickets ranging from £5 to £7.50, we came to see Barbie recently. Booking advised for new releases, and seating is unallocated so make sure to arrive on time!

Great little place for a film or event. The only problem was when the film ended they didn’t turn the lights back on so we all had to leave the theatre in complete darkness.

Independent cinema with good ticket prices and schedule. However, snacks and drinks are extremely expensive and the security guard is very strict on bag searches.

No air conditioning, despite numerous complaints. If you like watching films in saunas and steam rooms, sweat it all out with everyone else at the Genisis Cinema

Absolutely love this place. A small cinema with cosy sofas to sit on and enjoy the film gives it a homely atmosphere. I'll definitely be going back!

Really nice cinema The red sofa are in studio 4 Really comfy and nice Just the sound was a bit I don’t know muffled ?! The popcorn are really good

Disgusting dirty seats and sticky floors in the auditorium! Bar area nice but ridiculously expensive (1 glass of cheap wine £9)!

Great independent cinema with bar and food in a lovely environment. Comfy chairs, good sized screen and sound was excellent.

I will always rate this cinema 5 out of 5! It's a little hidden gem in the beating heart of Bethnal green - a must try!

First time visit, started with a movie premiere. Great venue, unusually bigger than expected. A great place to visit

Lovely cinema. Bit busy and not as clean as I'd like (big popcorn spill when I got to my seat) but a nice venue.

Get seats in the studio for a luxurious comfortable watching experience. Great screen and sound too. Cool vibes

Always a pleasure to come here. Cool space, friendly staff, good food & drink options. What’s not to like!?!

Excellent independent cinema, great atmosphere really cool, chilled vibe.