SIFF Cinema Uptown is a Movie theater located at 511 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109. It has received 877 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 stars.
The address of SIFF Cinema Uptown: 511 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
SIFF Cinema Uptown has 4.5 stars from 877 reviews
Movie theater
"This is a year-round theater associated with the Seattle International Film Festival"
"What's not to love? Some of the staff recognize me and I like that, as they are very friendly"
"Had my first visit here last night for a preview screening, was pleasantly surprised"
"Let me be clear"
"I’m seriously so disappointed :( I’ve always wanted to go here! They had a showing of Muppet Christmas Carol! Unfortunately, we were turned down because the foster children with me (9 and 10) didnt have their vacc cards (with the parent that recently abandoned them!)"
This is a year-round theater associated with the Seattle International Film Festival. It's the old Uptown Cinema and it preserves a long-time Seattle theater, a good thing in itself. This isn't the fancy suburban theater with plush seats, etc. -- the seats are pretty basic but comfortable. There are three screens, a larger screen and then two smaller screens. They are all OK. The concessions, on the other hand, are more upscale, with a lot of choices and beer and wine served. If you are already a member of SIFF, you can use the punchcard that came with your membership to get free popcorn. The theater screens a lot of indie and foreign films and it's at the lower end of Queen Anne Hill, which means there are a lot of drink and dining choices close by -- including a Dick's with indoor seating directly across the street. Along with the Uptown, SIFF also has its film center at Seattle Center and runs the Egyptian Theater on Capitol Hill -- so SIFF really is a year-round celebration of film. If you're attending a weeknight or weekend screening, SIFF has two parking lots with free parking -- just ask for a permit at the box office.
What's not to love? Some of the staff recognize me and I like that, as they are very friendly. I love that I have a membership which I'm going to give myself for a birthday present this year but don't tell as I want to be surprised. I love the movies, God Bless You people for showing great films that other first run theaters don't> A wonderful example is "Moonlight Kingdom", anyone notice in that film that 95%of the time everyone is very kind to each other , even when they're upset. I absolutly love the popcorn seasoning bar, how cool is that. I like to bring a little tray and try all the flavor. To let you know I trumpet your greatness all over the place. What a great deal a years membership for a measly $55.00 and then all year almost every movie is $5.00 for me a PROUD card carrying member and the 5 free popcorns. That is so sweet.
Had my first visit here last night for a preview screening, was pleasantly surprised. Theatre might not have the bells and whistles of the newer, more modern theatres, but it was clean and the seats were very comfortable and I didn't feel crushed against my neighbor, even though I was in a two seat row against the wall - big points for that. Didn't check out the concessions, but they have alcohol and rumor has it their popcorn is excellent. On my way out I spent a few minutes speaking to the gentleman manning the entry, very friendly and knowledgeable, as the others working appeared to be. Free parking at close lots (see pic)on weekday evenings, and weekends until 2p. Lots of places to catch a bite, and an easy walk to Seattle Center. Definitely a place to come back to.
Let me be clear. The theater itself is amazing, best theater in Seattle by a mile. The popcorn is the worst thing I have ever willingly allowed to enter my digestive system. It uses coconut oil instead of butter which is nice if you’re vegan (and willing to ingest something that smells like BO), but for everyone else it does nothing but produce misery for the world. It should be mentioned that there is no alternative non-vegan popcorn, so unless you are able to sneak in a full bag of popcorn your options are starvation or masochism. If this theater changed the popcorn it would be the best theater in Washington and my exclusive choice. So if it ever changes don’t even consider other theaters just go here.
I’m seriously so disappointed :( I’ve always wanted to go here! They had a showing of Muppet Christmas Carol! Unfortunately, we were turned down because the foster children with me (9 and 10) didnt have their vacc cards (with the parent that recently abandoned them!). I understand the caution, but don’t show a children’s christmas movie when vaccines were only JUST made available for kids. And like im super pro vaccine, work with kids, work at a preschool. The young woman at the door was super sweet, but the manager or whoever? soooo rude about it. gross. Be better. Kids have had a very rough year. Like very, VERY rough. Sad to see them be let down again. Classic indie theatre lol
This was my first time visiting the SIFF Cinema. My son has volunteered here over the past few years. I really like supporting establishments of this type. This theater has a very good comforting feel, not pushy like the big chain theaters. The food & drink menu prices are very good. The chairs are comfortable with a rocking style back, they are also clean. The restrooms were clean and all amenities were fully stocked. I LOVE that parking is INCLUDED!! Seems like all the inner Seattle theaters charge parking, but not the SIFF. They have a very good membership program. I plan on driving down fro Everett on more viewings at the SIFF Cinema in Queen Anne.
Theater is pretty solid and the concessions are pretty cheap. Small bag of popcorn is $4 and large bag is $6. It’s open seating so if you come in a big group to a popular showtime, come early to reserve your seats. Seats are alright — not the comfy reclining leather types you’ll find at regal or dine in theaters. They’re cloth seats and a bit on the smaller side. Furthermore legroom is average. There is NO parking from the theater. You’ll have to find street parking or paid lot parking. The reviews that mention otherwise are outdated and refer to precovid times. Overall a good & cheap theater if you’re local and not looking to park.
One of the few movie theaters in Seattle that curates indie/arthouse/foreign films and you can tell that the organization that runs this theater genuinely cares about film. They always have a great selection of movies and it's usually worth it go out of your way to see a movie here. I will say though that the comfortability of the seats is pretty awful. I get it, it's an old theater, but it could really use a seat upgrade. The back of the chairs have no cushion whatsoever and there is no recline at all. I was definitely in pain after leaving our 2 hour movie. Anything longer and I don't think I would have lasted in those seats.
First, have enjoyed SIFF for many years. Each year, have tried to see the Oscar nominated Animated features. This year was very frustrating and unsuccessful. Why? the times noted 'on line' did not match the actual showing for that day. I tried on 2 occasions this past week. the other issue, the Animated feature did not show at 1:30 but at 8pm! Why put a show, kids might enjoy, on a week end at such a late hour. I am not impressed with the manager who currently runs the showtime schedule. Showtimes on the web should match the actual times for each day. Animated features should be mid day. No excuses for either.
One of my favourite theatres! Thanks to SIFF for rescuing the Uptown from demolition!! In a city that is cursed with more and more banal architecture every day, we need more touchstones like the Uptown. Featuring independent and international films year round, during May and June it becomes one of the main venues for the Seattle International Film Festival - one of the largest and oldest festivals in the US. Some will complain the seats are not as comfy as modern theatres, but please remember this place is over 50 years old and a non-profit palace for cinema.
The Uptown, like the other SIFF Cinema theaters, is a charming place to watch films of all kinds. The options for food, snacks, and drink are also plentiful - yes you can get alcohol here before your show. The staff are always so friendly and helpful. The movies are chosen carefully and with a lot of thought - they show a lot of the timeless films here and it's something I really appreciate. Worth getting a membership and supporting all the great things they do here for film and the people who love and appreciate them!
SIFF purchasing the Uptown was the best thing to happen to lower Queen Anne in years. Everything they show is exactly what I want to see. Mind readers I tell you. Popcorn is some of the best in town too. From programs and festivals like Princess Bride screenings around the holidays with live rodents of unusual size (that you can swat with inflatable swords no less) to award winning movies on a stand alone basis, I will keep coming back to SIFF. Support your local theaters! This one can’t be beat.
Clean, safe, and well maintained theater. Big screens with sharp projected images and great sound systems set at appropriate levels. We saw a French film with subtitles and found the text easy to read while maintaining view of the film's beautiful cinematography. This probably just me, but I'm not a fan of lean back theater seating. If there was some way to lock the seats in place that would really make this venue more enjoyable. We love and support SIFF and hope you will to.
Great yelp elite experience. This is my first time being invited to an advanced screening of a movie and it was a great experience. The procedure is fairly easy. When you enter the theatre, yelp folks are going to check you in. There are some snacks that you could get from the concessions stand. The theatre is good as well. Overall I was quite happy with this event. A big thank you to Lauren for organizing such great events. I am glad to be a part of Yelp elite squad.
The prices are increasingly outrageous. It now costs $9 (with a membership card). To put that into context, a mere three years ago it cost $5. And those $3.50 online ticket fees that used to be a dollar. The employees there mostly volunteer. Yes they have costs, but they are caving into big tech money and pricing out film lovers without deep pockets. Not sure how they still call themselves a non profit. Too many other good theaters in town I'd rather support.
Siff Uptown is very likely my favorite movie theater in all of Puget Sound (though The Egyptian isn't far behind). It's difficult to get a BAD seat regardless of which theater the film is in, concessions have variety while still catering to old school favorites, and parking is free if you get a voucher from the box office. Price wise it falls in line with pretty much every movie theater in the region but has a much more knowledgeable and engaging staff.
Historic cinema in a trendy neighborhood with a fair selection of movies not available elsewhere. Straddles the border between blockbusters and art house movies. Will frequently host festivals including the granddaddy Seattle International Film Festival, which now owns it, so check frequently to see if something interesting is happening that is not available at the average multiplex. Seating is unusually clean and comfortable for a historic theater.
Great actual theater inside, outside was littered with trash, staff seemed unprepared for the number of people on the night I arrived to watch the Mr. Roger's film. Their office seems to be unaware of their own hours of operation, and they don't seem to have an answerable phone God forbid you need to call them. Despite the shortcomings, the actual Inside theater was an enjoyable experience when it got started. Great sound and picture.
For what seems to be a fairly small theater, it sits a LOT of people. The chairs are fairly comfortable and the sound system and projector are adequate. The concession stand is pretty efficient, which is refreshing, as most movie theaters are incredibly slow to process customers. The only negative is that the aisles have no lighting whatsoever, so if you want to leave during the credits, do so at your own peril.
Just horrible. Let’s show muppet Christmas carol but not allow children. 6 adults had our vax cards but 2 little ones aren’t vaxed yet. Stopped us at the door. Kids in tears. And the thing is, they didn’t even look at our cards, just glanced. Then they went in the theater and started kicking out other families they had let in. Saw 2 groups kicked out. What a joke. Filthy place anyway, stay away.
Lovely ~5 screen cinema mostly focused on art and limited release movies. Theaters are older, but intimate. Good beer and food selection. Plus there are some unique experiences available with SIFF. Parking is around the back alley. Turn right off Queen Anne then right again. Signs are painted on the side of the building. Bus access within 2 blocks via D-line, 1, 2, 8, and 13.
Great little theater in the heart of Seattle. Everything is great about this venue, except (of course) parking. They actually have a free parking lot dedicated to the Theater, but I couldn't find it, and ended up paying $18 for 2-4 hrs (visited for the Oscar winning Short Films) and very much recommend seeing a movie here, as well as Finding The Free Parking in advance! Lol
Came here to watch Your Name, the Japanese anime movie, which was hard to find in theaters because it's foreign. I'm glad there's a theater in Seattle that plays more obscure, hard-to-find movies! The staff was very nice, and it's awesome that there's free parking. That said, the theater itself could use a remodel -- the chairs are very uncomfortable and creaky.
Always has the newest indies, love the seating, love the snacks. You can even nab real food if you miss dinner, which has been a lifesaver for me. Become a member! You get a popcorn punch card (Did I mention the popcorn is buttery and fantastic?) and cheaper tickets! Lots of sweet volunteers to take your tickets keep this place amazing.
Simple theatre located in lower Queen Anne that was showing "Boy Erased". Ticket price was reasonable (obvi wouldn't be mad for cheaper) and theatre was nice and comfortable. The actual theatre was pretty massive and clean. I very much enjoyed my movie and I will be attending again when another movie is showing that I desire to see.
SIFF Uptown is a gift to the Seattle community. It shows a great a varied selection of indie films, offbeat major films and manages to preview a fair few big budget films. Membership is a great deal and that they offer free parking close-by, some free popcorn with your membership and great previews. It is such a deal!
Old theater, old seats, but great movies. The popcorn is yummy and most of the guest are truly movie lovers and respect the no cell phone during movies rule. I’ve been to this theatre half a dozen times and have only had issues with one kid and his cell phone. Sadly management wouldn’t say something so we had to.
Love this place. So friendly and they have a great selection of movies. I went there to see Boy Erased and had an awesome experience. It was clean, personable, and very obviously not a huge chain, which I appreciated! Such a cute local theater. Definitely a must if you're looking to see a movie in Queen Anne.
Went there with my girlfriend to see the premiere of the Tibetan film "The Sweet Requiem" during SIFF 2019. It was great, nice small homely venue. Oh also got to meet one of the actor "Rabyoung Thonden Gyalkhang. He was really cool, very nice person to talk to. Over all great fun experience. Great volunteers
Clean facilities for a night out watching a flick. Concessions isn't something to brag, but Dick's is just right outside as well as other food venues. You'll find more indie flicks than other theatre chains, so if you are looking for variety (especially during the summer), SIFF is a great place to start :)
The theater itself (seats, screen etc) is pretty basic but the movies available here are excellent if you like high quality but a bit off the beaten track. They're not "art house" weird stuff that almost nobody really likes. They're good films that are usually just looking to establish wider distribution.
Doesn't frequently show movies that I want to watch, most are independent movies, but to each their own. And in my opinion, the location is very outdated. The chairs are old, rickety, and uncomfortable. However, I do love they sell alcohol, but I'm not sure the value is there for the lack of comfort.
the restrooms are always very dirty and the doors to the stalls don't close and lock. gross! also, the seats are very uncomfortable with springs poking out of most of them. if only siff would invest money in these things instead of paying their director so much. shame. I'm embarrassed for them.
One of many reasons to live in Seattle, SIFF and its associated theatres provide welcome respite from the "usual suspects" when it comes to film. SIFF Cinema Uptown is a cozy place to catch a great movie at a reasonable price. The staff are helpful and informative and the popcorn is good too!
We're from out of town, and decided to check out a movie from SIFF. The theater was very well organized for the showing. The staff was friendly. The seats were comfortable, and it was clean inside. It was a good experience. I would definitely see other movies here if I lived in the area.
Good theater, comfy seats. I've come here for the Film Festival and for screenings and have enjoyed them all. Got the bonus of $1 on National Popcorn day! But on a normal day, the popcorn price is still better than the huge chains. I appreciate these small theaters! :)
For a small theatre it's an awesome place! Had gone to see a very old film, The Last Unicorn, and was surprised to find such a gem. If you like older theatres that have that nostalgicl feel to them, go. You'll enjoy the experience. Exceptionally nice and warm staff
HUMP Seattle is the reason I visit annually. Great quality screen, well done sound system, and friendly staff that enjoy their job. Who wouldn't when you think about it. Also, parking is amazingly easy despite it being smack dab in the middle of lower queen Anne.
A great theater with diverse Independent films as well as new releases! Super friendly and helpful staff. Serves adult beverages and there are numerous food options within walking distance. Very supportive of local independent film makers! Love this place!
Great movie theater experience! The seating is quite comfortable and the concessions are fantastic. These people are serious about showing important films. You won't be disapppinted if you choose to make this place your prime movie seeing destination.
Cool local theater. Parking is a nightmare. Went on a Friday night, and had to park several blocks away. Be careful of the parking lots around the area. Most of them seem like they are pay-to-park, but when you look closer they are for residents only.
Great movies, old and new. Local, foreign, art-house, and even the occasional blockbuster! Great curation and film festivals. Fun events! The only thing that isn't the best is the old screen/digs but even if they're ord they are still serviceable.
Great art house theater. Its three screens show consistently fine independent films. All three auditoriums are spacious and the seats relatively comfortable. A huge plus -- they offer free parking -- a rarity in densely packed lower Queen Anne.
Tehere was a huge spot in the middle of the "screen which bothered me a lot". It is I guess an alternative cinema where to watch differend type of movies. I would always prefer the Imax by space needle which is absolutely better in all aspects
This place is awesome! Good vibes, friendly staff, comfy seats. The main thing that really takes this place over the top is the prices though. I can't believe there exists a theater with fairly priced concessions! It seriously seems you're
Love this place, I usually go to the SIFF Movie Club every month, I prioritise seeing new releases here and at the Egyptian over the Regal or AMC but mostly I see movies that aren’t playing at either (or they will play two weeks after I
This is a small 3 screen theater with a lot of local charm. They show a lot of great indie films and serve beer which makes up for some rather old and uncomfortable seats. They have digital projection so picture quality is still great.
This theater is lovingly maintained by SIFF staff. The programing is excellent, with a variety of films ranging from foreign, documentaries and independents to Hollywood Blockbusters. Prices are reasonable and the popcorn is delicious.
Great staff, reasonable snack prices, always reliable to start a movie on time. I prefer the two smaller theaters. I think the big theater still needs a little work, but that definitely doesn't interfere with the movie experience.
Seattle's version of the Laemelle. They have free parking at 2 nearby lots. Wish I'd known that before paying 18 dollars for 3 hours. Comfortable seats. Saw Tigers Are Not Afraid. If I lived here I'd join they'd membership.
A great cinema house to see films. I saw, the David Crosby doc, Once upon a time in hollywood and the Roy Cohn doc. The popcorn is always good and the staff is super friendly. I would recommend you see a film here sometime.
Great venue that shows more than the usual Hollywood fluff, run by Seattle International Film Festival. Strongly urge you to check out an indie production, a classic re-release or a stage production at this classic theatre.
Old cinema purchased by SIFF. They show SIFF movies during the festival, and indies/foreign films the rest of the time. "Old world charm" - an old fashioned cinema upgraded to the modern era. Get the frozen Junior Mints!
The reception area was pretty small, but the theaters themselves were nice and roomy. I went to a pretty busy feature, so it probably wasn't as luxurious as it could have been but it's a cute theater in a good location.
Good selection of movies. Just 3 screens but there are plenty showtimes for each time of day. One screen has a semi visible line through the whole screen that kind of bothered me, but you stop noticing it after a while.
Fantastic, small, older 3-screen theater. Sign up for a membership for ticket discounts and a free popcorn card. Vast variety of movies during the SIFF festival in June. (Movies in the summer? It's a Seattle thing.)
Sweet staff members, great service, clean theaters and bathroom all on top of excellent screening choices in a classic Seattle building. Sound systems are excellent, too. And popcorn is made with coconut oil.
Love the film choices. Loads of films that you can't see at the megaplex theaters. The concessions are reasonably priced and the staff is terrific. I knocked off a star because the seats are so uncomfortable.
One of my favorite theaters. I've had my films screen on both of the large screens and it's always a pleasure. They support local independent cinema and serve beer on tap. 11/10 would screen there again.
If you want to see some less-widely distributed films, this is a good choice. Mainstream enough to have amenities, but indie enough for small stuff. An older building but renovated in the last ten years.
I haven't had such a classic movie experience in so long. The staff were really friendly and the popcorn is amazing as well!! It's a cute local theatre. I'd come back next time I'm in the neighborhood.
I saw 5 films here in weeks while staying a few blocks away. This well loved theater shows its wear and age. The seats can be wonky at times. But staff, concessions, and film selections are all solid.
Older theatre in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle. One of the best places to find independent and foreign films. Pro-tip: hit up the popcorn toppings bar, so many options!
A great local theatre with lots of independent films coming through. They also have themed show nights with quote-along movies and more. If you're looking for a fun night out at the movies come here.
Great place to see foreign films and new releases. You can get beer and wine to take into the theatre. The big festival is always fun and they do lots of smaller themed festivals throughout the year.
Solid and cozy theater. I've mostly been for SIFF but the experience is good for the larger theaters. Staff isn't as helpful finding seats as they should be for the sold out things. Good concessions.
This is a great local theater. I attended for the 48 hour film festival. Popcorn is great, and lots of options at the concession area. Seats were comfortable. Parking is street parking or paid lots.
Great Saturday Morning Cartoons series! We watched Mirai and enjoyed the free donuts and coffee. I loved the previews and discovered that SIFF offers a bunch of indie film showings. I'll be back!
Great movies, good staff, same prices of concessions as anywhere else. Down side is parking can be difficult and seats are a bit small but very well positioned where any seat offers a good view
SIFF is among the greatest arts orgs in Seattle. They enrich my life consistently. Just get a membership and see as many movies as you can from all around the world. It makes for a good life.
Amazing selection of films. Note: Disabled seating is at the very top of the theater, so if you or the person you are viewing with is disabled be prepared to be very far away from the screen.
Appreciate SIFF cinema. The increase in off-festival programming has been fantastic. The documentary festival recently was fantastic. I only wish I had more time to see the films they offer!
This is the only place outside of Turkey where I've watched Turkish movies. Who knew!? (KEDi and Blue were both great.) I hope one day I can make time for some of the other movie festivals.
This is a Seattle Film Festival theater & has great people screening tickets & working the concession stand. Having a Stout or Porter beer option would break great, not just the IPA swill.
An older nostalgic theatre. Good sound system. Good popcorn. Free parking all weekend and after 6pm Mon to Friday. Great selection of movies. Membership is worth it if you come here.
Fun experience, great film selection, good concessions and beer! It’s clean, the staff is nice, and it’s run by a good crowd of people as far as I can tell. I hope to be back soon.
Neat theatre, and the pop their own popcorn--how cool is that? Very comfortable seats in the theatre. I wish we lived here so I could see more of the great movies they had coming!
usually the first place to show the best international movies. Great atmosphere. Finding a parking spot can be nightmare. Use their parking if you can't find an on street parking.
SIFF hosted the Bonebat Comedy Horror Festival last weekend and was a very nice place to spend the day. Bonebat was worth the time and money - a well-curated show was presented!
Great theater, beer selection, and staff. SIFF members get a discount. Chincy senior discount ($1.00). Nice wide screens and sound system. Nice Uptown location; almost iconic.
I didn't get the movie I saw (Suspiria) but it is a cool venue. Beer and wine served and it's nice there is a theatre playing something different then major Hollywood films
I love siff uptown, go here a lot, almost always no one there. Staff is friendly, and they have good food options, one of the few theaters that has actually decent coffee!
Seeing Jakob Dylan and Co two nights in a row at the Uptown was a one of a kind event. Thanks for the moment. Great film too. Inspiring. That echo in the canyons of life.
Wonderful films you often can't find in other area cinemas. Friendly staff but worn out theaters on a filthy street. This area of Queen Anne has become very gritty.
First time visiting this theater. Loved it, especially the reasonably priced drinks and popcorn. They even have Italian Sodas, but ask them not to fill it too full.
Awesome local movie theater. It's small, so don't expect a huge variety, but has great local appeal. Nice to catch a movie and grab a beer at the concessions stand
The best staff, the best films, a bastion of culture in Seattle. If your not frequenting SIFF, you are probably spending too much money on overpriced Seattle food
SIFF is always a good venue to see popular films. All their theaters are well run, clean, organized and have better pricing than the big Corporate theaters.
I love this little theatre. They don't play everything I want to see, but it's always a treat to see something here. Good prices on tickets and popcorn!
Thank god this place exists! Great experience all around. Staff is amazing, popcorn was heavenly. It's like being transported back in time. Loved it!
It’s always great to catch a film at a SIFF theater. The staff is great, the treats are local and fun, and the movies are top notch.
Love the SIFF theater. We have been members for years and they always show interesting films that you can’t find in other theaters.
Comfortable seats and very well organized. Staff had it down. Expertly controlled crowds and organization so it never felt crowded.
Improvements have been made and the theatre is in a more comfortable space. I just wish the primo seats were in better shape now.
Very helpful and friendly staff especially on Christmas Day for the Fiddler On the Roof - it was Awesome …
SIFF saved this incredible 3 house theatre where you can experience a truly great movie house with elegance and history.
Cool staff, superb movie selection, comfortable seating, leaving me feeling totally and utterly in love with my date!❤️
It's so much better to go to a local theater than it is to hit one of those big chains. I love the SIFF!
Comfortable seats, clean and well maintained theatre. Good sounding system. Friendly customer service.
They have great collection of movies. Definitely worth checking out if you like non-mainstream movies