Globe Cinema is a Movie theater located at 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1H1, Canada. It has received 762 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 stars.
The address of Globe Cinema: 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1H1, Canada
Globe Cinema has 4.4 stars from 762 reviews
Movie theater
"Rude, obnoxious, unhelpful staff, and false advertising"
"This is what I would describe as a typical independent cinema"
"My first time visiting there, I was expecting a small dingy empty place"
"The Globe Cinema is obviously the best, as anyone who has been there can attest"
"This is an amazing place to go"
Rude, obnoxious, unhelpful staff, and false advertising. I'm new to Calgary and whilst exploring the city I stumbled across the Globe Cinema, the billboard stated that Howl's Moving Castle was to be aired on Saturday at 12 and 7. As a fan of the Studio Ghibli movies I entered the cinema to check the prices and perhaps buy tickets if they weren't too expensive. Upon entering, a young female offered her assistance and very kindly informed me that Howl's Moving Castle was actually shown last Saturday (5 days ago). I'm not sure who's job it is to make changes to the billboard but as a cinema, small or large, marketing ones showings is pivotal to attracting an audience. In fact, with the cinema being small it's essential that up to date information is given as I'd imagine that a large proportion of customers refer to the billboard to see what is on for the week ahead. Now my main reason for writing a poor review for the Globe Cinema is due to a gentleman that works for the cinema being incredibly rude and obnoxious to me and my brother. Whilst seeking further information about what is in fact being shown this weekend since the billboard was incorrect, the woman asked her colleague for details; the man whom was wearing a black, studded leather jacket, accompanied with poor body language and a facial expression that was far from welcoming; abruptly said that they're not open until later on and the door shouldn't have been open and that we should leave and come back later. Now you may be thinking, well he has a point, but it wasn't necessary how he spoke to me and my brother. It wasn't our fault that the door was left open, and we were simply looking for knowledge on what was on this weekend, we weren't causing any trouble at all, just having a polite conversation with the motive to perhaps visit this weekend. The man was incredibly rude, unhelpful, and needlessly aggressive. We shall not be visiting the Globe Cinema again and my advice to others is to do the same, a small business relies on repeat custom and to be spoken to so rudely reflects terribly on the business and if this is a common occurrence then I wouldn't be surprised to see the place close down.
This is what I would describe as a typical independent cinema. Their movies tend to be ones that the chain cinemas wouldn't show. I was at the Globe to see a screening of the movie Serenity. The tickets were general admission and we had purchased ours in advance. We arrived about 40 minutes before show time. This left us plenty of time to select seats and visit the concession stand. The concession had regular offerings of popcorn, soda, and candy as well as an offering of selected alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, done cocktails, etc). There is limited space to line up for the concession stand, so getting your snacks early in t arrival is probably a good idea. Our movie was a 7:00 pm showing in theater #2. On entering the theater I was impressed with the cleanliness of the room. Although the chairs were older, resembling theater chairs from the 1980's, the room was very clean. There was no stickiness on the floors and no garbage or food on the floors. The seats were softer than I'm used to, but still adequately firm and comfortable. Although there was only a slight slope to the floor (compared to theatres like Famous Players) I still had a clear view of the screen. Occasionally the head of the person in front of me got in the way of my view, but in general the view was clear. (I am 6 ft tall though, so a shorter person may not see as clearly). The sound was clear throughout the film and, in my opinion, neither too loud nor too quiet. In summary, I quite enjoyed my experience and would certainly go there again to see another movie. I found my visit well worth the $10 admission paid.
My first time visiting there, I was expecting a small dingy empty place. Which... I suppose if there was nobody at this theater you could say the same. However the movie I attended (Colour of Space) seemed like it was sold out. Now.. normally I have intense social anxiety and cannot handle crowds. But this was fine! Despite touching shoulders with the people sitting next to me. This place was great! I go out to movies maybe once every 5 years, but this experience made me want to be more social. The entire atmosphere was very warm and welcoming. All the staff and guests were incredibly friendly. I felt very at home and comfortable among people with similar and shared interests. I went in expecting an average decent experience, and left to go tell people how awesome it was. Seriously great job. Love the environment.
The Globe Cinema is obviously the best, as anyone who has been there can attest. It manages to do what other theatres haven't, that being staying relevant in this day of home theatre and Netflix. The titles available are curated, so you'll never catch a bad film here. And these folks make film festivals possible that otherwise couldn't happen in Calgary. And while not the most important thing, but dearest to my heart, the Globe Cinema has the best movie theatre popcorn in the city, bar none. Their concession also has beer and stuff that looked really good. Oh, and everyone here is really friendly. So just go!
This is an amazing place to go. They typically play independent films or replays of previously released plays. Watch for their specials and deals as various plays are released. One of the best things is their annual Rocky Horror Picture Show sing along. Make sure that you dress up in a costume and give it your all as the movie is playing. Lastly, this is one if the main sites if the Calgary Queer film fest. It has really taken off in the city, and it shows some great films you'd otherwise never get a chance to see. Go and experience it. So much fun!!
Great movie but the host was beyond obnoxious. Unwelcoming atmosphere if you don’t fit into the demographic and social group of the staff. Certainly felt judged by how I dressed and carry myself immediately upon entering. The host introduced our film and made derogatory comments about public servants and expressed his disdain for them. The host was such a poser that he ruined what would have been a fabulous experience for our group. I love the types of movies they show, but I certainly won’t be back and look forward to the Plaza theatre re-opening
I absolutely love this cinema. It's always really fun and I love the old flicks they have showing and activities beforehand. I recently went to the Mortal Kombat tournament and 1995 movie showing, and it was well thought out and planned perfectly. The staff are super friendly and concession is affordable. Being able to have a beer with friends while watching old classics is just amazing. I love that they encourage cheering and witty call outs during the movies, everyone is laughing, drinking and having fun. Prepare for a late one.
I'm not a born n' bred Calgarians so I have no memorable ties to this venue. My partner told me about seeing art house and indie films here back in the 90s. The venue is worn; old fixtures and decor. It feels intentional though, like a broken in pair of jeans. The staff were absolutely delightful, and the audience is part of the experience. No one just wanders in to casually watch a film here. If you're at the Globe you are there for a purpose, and so is the rest of the crowd. Please support local businesses.
Treat to visit an older theatre in Calgary. If you are looking to see a film outside the main stream - good chance you will find it playing here. Located on the west side of downtown, there is amount of street parking available (less since bike lanes were created). Back side of Globe is a indoor public parkade and large outdoor parking lot close by. The seats are comfortable and sound is good. Great place to consider if you are hosting a film screening or event.
Absolutely love the Globe Cinema. I've been here a few times now and will continue to come back to see movies that aren't available to watch on a big screen anywhere else in Calgary. Admission price is fantastic, popcorn is always delicious, and staff are super friendly. The theatre itself reminds me of the the one I grew up watching movies in. Very laid back and nostalgic. I will mention that the concession only accepts cash, but they do have an ATM on site.
I love this theatre. It is such a nice change of pace from the big “plexes”. There is such a nice offering of rep, independent, foreign, alternative, limited run films. The staff are friendly ...what?...layered butter in my popcorn? The theatre goers are so civilized - not loud, or obnoxious, and they do not trash the theatre with their refuse. And the price is outrageous. Two adult tickets for $14! I don’t know how they do it.
So great. Clean, great staff, and amazing movies you won't find on the beaten track. They support the film festivals in Calgary. And the price is very reasonable (also give a Friends of CJSW discount). There is a popcorn/candy/drinks concession downstairs. There is a food/alcohol consession upstairs. Off the top of my head, I dont know if it's wheelchair accessible, so check that if it's relevant to you.
Thankful for venues like this. Parking is scarce but we ducked down the alley and parked underground at 707 on 5 (new building under construction but parkade is open). Nice comfy seats with drink holders for all. Spacious capacity. Concession with beer, sweets and popcorn (can have topping or layered for small additional cost). The staff is friendly and the theatre shows more than just the usual fare.
Movie was sooo good. Venue cool but old. Not disability friendly. Sooo many stairs. Exit stairs very steep. Lower area might be ok. Our show was upstairs. Chairs old, low to ground so hard to get out if u are old and have problems with this. Chairs narrow. Popcorn great. Prices for concession high. Same as landmark or cineplex. Will go again if a great show is there but not for a choice of the venue.
I prefer this cinema to the couple of other independent theatres in the city. Always the place to look to for adult or interesting movie choices. I've seen so many fantastic B-movies and festival choices here over the years. Always playing something interesting if you want a change from bloated blockbusters at the generic suburban multiplex. Good for a start to the night downtown before drinks.
I guess you could call this theatre one of a threatened species. Small, showing all the stuff you've never heard of, full of movie geeks. For some, that sounds awful. For me, it's wonderful. Came here for the local film festival, and it reminded me that going to a movie isn't all about reclining seats and 3D glasses. Some films just look better at the Globe.
Great theatre, very nice quality video and audio, decent ticket prices. They show an assortment of foreign and old films including a lot Japanese films and they often have very very fun screenings. Grindhouse was too much fun and I look forward to more Japanese horror for halloween! One if not the best theatres in Calgary right now for film lovers!
Been coming to the Globe for CLIFF and other movie events like Saturday morning cartoons. It's a older theatre that has character and plays different films for different events. I love the line up they host. As mentioned the place is a bit older. So the chairs are not as comfortable, but to make up for that they do serve alcohol at some movies.
Fantastic little indie theatre! Went an saw Promare tonight, and all things considered I had an excellent experience! They were caught off guard by the turn out tonight which put them behind schedule, but they made sure to start the movie a bit later to ensure nobody missed out on it. I will definitely be back for more events like tonight.
Great place! I watched Princess Mononoke. It sounded like there was something wrong (buzzing/shaking)with the left speaker when I went recently(friend said the same thing). No great parking. I say take the transit, 7 minute walk from the train. They have the regular movie food, good seats with cupholders, and tickets were inexpensive.
I gave one less star only because the seats are not comfy, but honestly, we are spoiled with these recliner seats at new theaters. The Globe is a lovely, classic movie experience and the perfect spot to check out film festival features. The screens and quality of the sound are surprisingly really good and the staff are wonderful.
Very old building with 2 or 3 theatres. It is more famous for off beat movies, award movies, documentaries, and foriegn movies. Popcorn and drinks are cheap compared to the ridiculously prized cinplex theatres, although same taste and quality. Theatres are maintained with bare minimum necessities, as expected.
Went for the recent Japan Film festival which was free. Basic cinema fufilling Indie and foreign film niche quite well. Staff were polite and courteous, bathrooms clean, temperature just right and seats fairly comfortable with ample legroom. Thanks for hosting the fetival. It was a lot of fun!
One of the best theatres in town. Really cool looking and wonderful atmosphere. They’ve always got plenty of great new and old films playing. The push for more independent and community led events, films and more, make this a very wholesome and lovely place. I always see myself coming back.
Reasonably priced movie theatre for international movies. Great location and show times. It has 2 auditoriums. Concession stand offers standard movie snacks and drinks. It's a very cozy place. Good for a date night. Lots of places around to have a drink after the show or dinner before.
Always enjoy taking in a film in what’s one of only two “original” movie houses left in this city. Most recently, attended the New Level Brewing presented FUBAR viewing, and was a blast. Awesome to meet and hang out with Terry as well. Looking forward to the next film fest.
A God damn fine establishment. Seats are comfy, concessions work. Screen and audio quality is as good or better than small cineplexes. My only beef is that they didn’t take credit or debit for concessions but I’ll deal with it. Check it out! I saw Knuckleball at CUFF15 :)
The Globe is basically a Calgary institution. A classic indy theatre that supports both the local and the obscure. The popcorn is always fresh, the beers cold, the video games free, and the staff friendly. Go if you've never been. Go again if it's been a minute.
Love to support local businesses. And they support local film festivals, which is great! I just wish it was more accessible! There are no accessible washrooms. Only 1 of the theatres is accessible by ramp. There is also no drop off zone in front of the theatre.
It had been quite some time since I had been to the Globe and it was nice to see that it still has the charm and feel of the older theater I appreciate. The staff are really friendly, the price of the concession stand are reasonable. It's clean and comfortable.
I just love this place. Having the Uptown theater across the street close down a few years back was an eye opener for me - if this place ever left us too it would be a damn shame. Where else would you go to see a crazy foreign, indy or classic movie in theater?
One of only 2 independent theatres left in Calgary and the only arcade I know of in the city. They bring wonderfully diverse films to the screen, good folks who love film as well. They also rent the space out to large functions. Can't beat the location either.
If you're looking an inexpensive unique movie night I would highly recommend the Globe. Cheap parking after 4 in the area, unique movies you won't find anywhere else in the city and real butter on your popcorn!! They also host lots of fun movie nights
The globe is the last independently owned theatre in Calgary. The concessions are great and the staff are great. There is often local art being displayed on the walls and the films shown are always interested. This place certainly has character.
You get what you get here. Nothing too fancy but tasty popcorn, staff that are friendly and kind and they keep a pretty tight shop. There aren’t many movies to choose from that you’d know, but it’s a great place to discover new things and films.
Great independent films. $10 for adults or $8 for students. Theres free parking after 6pm on street so it makes for an easy and inexpensive night out. Friendly staff and they serve local beer and ice cream in addition to the usual snacks.
I want to thank the staffs so very much for providing a wonderful experience at CIFF and helping me find my lost wallet. I'm travelling from the states, and my wallet has a very important ID that I need for travel. The staffs are really
This is such a wonderful little theatre. It's got that classic theatre feel and the staff is fantastic. I love how they support many different forms of film and theatre from the Night terrors society to the CIFF, it's a wonderful place.
The Globe has started hosting a lot of very interesting film festivals and movie series. Some of these are "Film Noir", "Science in the Cinema", CUFF, etc. They could use more help on the concession stand....it is a very slow line up!
Went here for the final day of the Calgary International Film Festival, and it was overall a good venue for an event like this. However, it does feel quite dated, and not necessarily in the charming way that I would have imagined.
This is a good place to see movies that are not mainstream or to go to special events. I felt the screen was a bit small and the seats a bit cramped compared to mainstream theatres, but it's somewhat expected for a small theater.
They run mostly private events here. It's an older theatre. They still hav Concession counter. Very hard to reach by phone ! Must use computer and contact online. I do Not like the crazy colors and design in Ladies washroom.
Old fashioned cinema. The floor does not have enough inclination then it is easy to get blocked by the people sitting in the front. The projection should be higher, there is room for that in the top of the screen. Cheers!!!
Not really accessible, but they will make it possible to go to something special if you have a light enough manual wheelchair. Amen was the last time a neighborhood theatre showed that kind of empathy and courtesy to you?
Great for checking out underground movies, especially the film festival. Theatre is old and a bit rough, but it adds to the atmosphere. Sound and video are good. Snack prices are a bit cheaper than the chain theatres.
Don't expect the big cinema experience. This is a small theatre, and that's what makes it great. Smaller showings of lesser known, or classic movies, and close ties to local film communities make The Globe a must see
Decent theater in downtown Calgary. They due some unique films and the popcorn is good. Prices are ok. Getting pretty run down though. The seat I was in had no arm rest, and sharp edges where it should have been.
An awesome theatre bringing the weird and the out there to Calgary. They also hold several festivals throughout the year. If the Globe were to close, Calgary would lose an important mainstay of cinema and culture
Love going to movies at the Globe, old films look better on a big screen anyway. Audience participation, costumes and comments add to the ambiance. Very casual, good service and only $10 for most shows. Awesome!
Nice little theatre that has taken good measures to keep patrons physically distanced during the pandemic. Popcorn was great and extra butter really means extra butter. Everyone working there was very friendly.
Went here today for the first time. I loved it. Great prices and service. 10$ for adults and 8$ for student (with id).Their concession was great too. I like that they have forgein films. Will be back for sure!
Theatre was not that great. Unfortunately regional movies get released only in this theatre. Definitely the air circulation and sound quality can be improved to enhance the movie experience for the customers.
The Globe theatre is known for their underground films, as well as their film festivals. I love the venue, very nostalgic and noir. I highly recommend going to check out a movie here just to experience it.
Great theatre. Lots of indie movies and festivals. I would rate 4 stars because it's getting a bit dated, but they serve alcohol which you can drink in the theatre, so they get a bonus point for that!
Solid local theatre with good staff and very good prices. Only real thing I did not like was that I found the chairs a bit uncomfortable for my particularly build, though the cushions were comfy.
It was a really cool experience, however there were some aspects of the theatre that looked like they needed repairs. Other than that, it was incredible and I would recommend going to a showing.
I have been there twice now. It's a small place good for independent films and events. The places needs a good reno by now but it accomplishes it's purpose. Staff is friendly and professional.
Went there to see Dazed and Confused. Staff was friendly. Loved the theater as it felt retro. Was clean. A really enjoyable experience. I look forward to seen other movies at Globe cinema.
Love the old school charm of this theater. Saw a movie during CIFF and was taken back to growing up in Regina, Saskatchewan and gong to the Capitol Theater. Best movie popcorn in the city.
Wonderful little Cinema. Clean, comfy seats and friendly staff. Concession is cash only (afaik) and a bit pricey, but you gotta make money somehow. Look for their monthly Miyazaki movies!
Embarrassingly inaccessible to persons with disabilities. Aside from that went to the Calgary Underground Film Festival here for several shows. Great content and extremely friendly staff.
Super fun little theater to go watch old timey movies. Just saw the good, the bad and the ugly there. And it was just fun. The theater was super clean and the staff were super friendly.
This is what cinemas used to be before the 2000s, classical venue for films not screening anywhere else. Clean, concession reasonably priced, management very open to private screenings.
Left standing in -30 weather for an hour and then told we didnt line up correctly as their sign pointed at the road as the place to line up. Show I went to was great. Venue was trash.
One of the few places left in Calgary where you can still watch non-studio films. Probably the best popcorn of any theater. And host to so many independent events and film festivals.
Quirky place! They do a selection of different movies every month and it's often classic movies. Enjoy their adult showings of movies in the evening, which makes a unique experience.
Had an awesome experience. They play all the best lesser known movies, that and the hidden nature of the theater itself made it even better as there was no one else in the theater.
Good service here and it has a quaint charm that will appeal to all the trendy people today. I had good experience with great atmosphere. Dont go in expecting IMAX quality screens.
Just attended the European Film Festival. Saw the movie Man of God, telling the story of a Greek Orthodox Bishop St.Nektarios of Aegina. Fantastic movie. Very moving. Great venue.
Large hall, excellent sound and image. The film "Dovbush" in Ukrainian and Polish impressed with special effects and excellent acting of the actors. Delicious cider and popcorn
Cool indie cinema. I'm a cuff member so I'm glad cuff and the glove work together so well. Varied selection of films throughout the year. Knowledgeable staff. Support local!
A great staple in Calgary's downtown. Lots of variety and unique films. Also a viewing location for Calgary Underground Film Fest which is also great. Highly reccomend.
I love the Globe, it has a great selection of indie films that change frequently, the theatres are huge and the place is always spotless clean. And the price is great.
Always have a blast at the variety of events put on here. If you're missing the classic movie theatre experience, look no further. Don't forget to layer the butter!
Great movie venue! Seen some great independent movies there. Calgary institution! But they really need new seats. Really uncomfortable for the duration of a movie.
Love the cozy feel of the theater and the popcorn is always delicious! The selection of independent movies is top notch and I love that the host film festivals
Such a great theatre! Love the space. Would be helpful for the sandwiche board to post sold out movies ... the little paper sign on the door doesn't cut it.
Fantastic facility. Came here for a retro night when beer was served. Back to the future was playing. Clean seats, great atmosphere, impressive indeed.
First time visiting this cinema where HIRAYA is showing. It's a good-sized theater venue, a bit outdated seats, a vintage but friendly atmosphere.
I love their involvement in the community, and their showing of movies you wouldn't see in bigger theatres. Their seats, however, are pure trash
Cute little cinema. Reminds me of my childhood. I'm glad they are still open and play some great movies during Film Festivals. Great location.
Good selection of alternative movies. Seats are not bad. The only cinema downtown! Ticket counter personnel could be a bit more friendly.
I love this place. They show great films and their popcorn is very good with real butter. Oh and you can have a beer with your movie! A+
I love this theatre. Great place to see independent films. Also a reasonable place to rent for movie parties, corporate events etc.
Shoutout to the crew who worked the great divide trail documentary showing, you guys helped make our event a success, Cheers
Very nice place to enjoy the movie you love! And I can park in the corner parking lot for $5 all day weekend which is nice!
Here to watch Revolution of Our Times. Thanks for providing the platform to show this important piece of documentary.
i love this theatre more than tarantino loves feet. shoutout to the guy with long hair who’s always at the front ily
Had a great time on finale night at the European Film Festival. The show was amazing and the atmosphere was great.
Awesome old style theater, great for indie flicks, we saw terrifier 2 and it was the perfect place to watch it!
Staff here are super friendly and this theatre has awesome flicks! Film festivals, old horror movies!
Always a great experience! Just an update on previous reviews: the concession takes debit/credit now.
Huge theatres, great sound. Best place to watch older and underground movies. Beer and popcorn.
Thanks to the ⏏️⏩⏪⏫⏬ most excellent dudes outside. I salute you, friends. ♋☮️ @lady_caviar
The Globe is unique movie theater. The movie selection is appealing to real film enthusiasts.
Average experience, they can do more on maintenance and add probably add some air fresheners.
A very cool old theatre with friendly staff and a great place to catch some unique films
All the film festivals have been great experiences/memories. Love this theater!
Saw a couple CUFF films. Cheap compared to bigger theatres. Good atmosphere.
Good films and reasonable prices for concession. Thanks for keeping it reel.
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