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Oxford Theatre
Category: Arts & Entertainment Cinema Cinema [Edit]
6408 Quinpool RdHalifax, NS B3L 1A8
(902) 423-7488
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
21 reviews for Oxford Theatre
21 reviews in English
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Review from Terry K.
Halifax, NS
12/1/2011
I've always loved going to the Oxford Theater. It's a historic experience with the decorated walls and old theater feel. This theater has been open for 74 years in Halifax and the leg room in the upper balcony testifies to that fact. I really like thinking that my mother and father went to this theater when they were in there dating and here it is, still operating as a theater. The movies that tend to run are off the beaten track from the regular box-office and tend to be progressive. They have in the past had late night movies that run for charity fundraisers but I haven't seen these advertised for a while. I would love it if more shows that I was interested in seeing were played. That seems to be the main problem with the Oxford is a lack of bigger shows. You can be fairly sure that when a show I want to see comes, I go to this theater over the others just for the experience of sitting in the top balcony, stretching out my legs ,and enjoying the experience.
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Review from Emmanuel C.
Halifax, NS
2/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
It had been ages since I'd been to the Oxford. Recently went to see Monsieur Lazhar... extraordinary movie, hint hint! Movie aside, it was such a treat to find myself in this great "old school" theatre! It just makes it that much more special to go see a movie and be able to sit in the upper balcony!! Reminds me of an old theatre I used to go to growing up in Quebec City.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was that my popcorn was cold.. :( -
Review from Leslie F.
10/31/2011
The first movie I ever saw at The Oxford was Flipper. While my feelings about Elijah Wood and dolphins may have changed slightly over the years, my love for The Oxford is as strong as ever. There's nothing quite like taking in a movie at this cool old theatre.
On the corner of Quinpool and Oxford, the theatre is a bit out of the downtown area, but well worth the trip. There is only one screen, but they have a reliable stream of quality films circulating here, generally featuring the more artsy/independent-style films with critical acclaim. . Even though it's now under the Empire Theatres banner, it really hasn't lost any of its old school charm, and offers one of the best cinema experiences in the HRM.Listed in: Yelptober
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Review from Vanessa J.
Halifax, NS
10/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
What is there to say that hasn't been said. This is a beautiful, old school theater with an awesome balcony. If I know I'm coming here, I try and arrive extra early, so I can nab a front row balcony spot, which has tons of leg room.
The movies here are generally not your Hollywood blockbuster, but are often the artsier, critically acclaimed films. The film type, combined with the atmosphere can really elevate the typical movie date .
I do have an issue. for such a large theater the concession stand is tiny, and while this wouldn't normally bother me since I don't buy snacks at the movie, they have closed the ticket desk and you now buy both snacks and tickets here, which can make the lines extra long. Buy your tickets online.Listed in: 30 Day Challenge Lists
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Review from Rhia P.
8/18/2011
Really, is there anywhere better in town to see a movie?
Old school charm, balcony seats, bizarre and unexplained symbolism on the ceiling grates and statuary...
Sure, if it's busy you're standing outside to line up for your tickets, and sure, the concession's got no razzle-dazzle, but it's golden age through and through, so who's complaining?
And they get a great selection of quirky movies that aren't everywhere else in town. -
Review from Adam S.
Halifax, NS
7/2/2011
Nothing against aficionados of that sort of thing, but I have a hard time convincing myself that 3D and seats that inflate on cue and strobe light CGI and all of the other charms of modern cinema-dwelling are worth the money. Pile on as many flashing lights as you want; a stinker by any other format is just as ripe.
There must be more than enough people sharing that outlook in (primarily south-end) Halifax for the Oxford Theatre to remain open and, one presumes, profitable. A throwback to end all cultural throwbacks in the city, the theatre has outlasted all of its brethren that were squished by concrete office towers, burned to the ground, or replaced by retail throughout the second half of the 20th century.
It has the ambiance of an old movie house in a city like San Francisco, yet the conspicuous absence of a proper entrance hall. The washrooms are decidedly old-school and the most modern technology on site is possibly the motorized butter dispenser. Lest you be imagining some college-town firetrap cinema with moth-eaten seats, however, rest assured that the proprietor, Empire Theatres, does not seem to be winding the place down. The seats are modern and plush and comfortable, and the balcony legroom is one of the great comforts in the city. They're also conducting exterior renos through summer 2011, literally giving the place a new coat of paint.
The lines tend to drive some people nuts; the concession stand feeds into the one-kiosk ticket lineup, which feeds into the street. There are no automated ticket computery kiosk things. This isn't a huge deal in warmer times (even if it's raining, there's an overhang on the side of the building under which you can usually line up), but in the middle of February you may want to shoot for a matinee.
Staff are always great; while we were all piled outside waiting to buy tickets for a recent show, a staff member came out to allay fears that we wouldn't get in before the curtain was raised.
I do thank my stars for the Oxford, as it generally runs lengthy engagements of borderline-arthouse and independent fare (recent pictures included "Incendies" and "Another Year") that, rather notoriously, have no other proper fixed venue in Halifax. It's the fulcrum of the annual Atlantic Film Festival, too, and there are also frequent midnight fundraiser screenings during the university year.
My big wish, one that would no doubt decimate the balance sheet, is that the city had the population to make regular matinee retrospectives here a viable concern. For now, that sort of thing is still relegated to projectors in art galleries (when it happens at all), so my big-screen "Godard in the 1970s" fever dreams will continue as normal.
More importantly, while they may run the odd Batman sequel, I imagine I will never see a film in four-dimensional SmellScope at the Oxford Theatre. I also don't have to contort past a Dance Dance Revolution machine to see a movie. Don't ever change, you. -
Review from Ben B.
4/11/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I can't BELIEVE I haven't reviewed my beloved Oxford Theatre already. Maybe my confusion came from the daily handwritten love letters I've been writing (in cursive) on perfume-spritzed stationery in hopes of expressing my love for this crucial strand within Halifax's cultural fiber.
Like Audrey Hepburn or Elizabeth Taylor, the Oxford is truly timeless. With old, balcony-style seating, grandiose statues lining the interior walls, and a classic albeit weary-looking red curtain covering the screen before previews, it immediately adds a touch of class to any of the indie, artsy, and critically-acclaimed feature films that come through its doors.
Despite being part of the Empire Theatres conglomerate, the Oxford seems to use its classical clout to keep the riffraff out screening films like Never Let Me Go, The Education, The King's Speech, and Brokeback Mountain over the usual Saw sequels and teen comedies. Knowing that just about any movie playing at the Oxford will be better than the alternative, a trip to this Quinpool gem makes for the perfect Sunday matinée.
Swooooooon.Listed in: Quinpoolin'
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Review from Kimberley M.
Halifax, NS
4/10/2011
I love that this theatre hasn't lost it's charm over time. It's a classic location on Quinpool and my rule of thumb when deciding what movie to see, is that whatever is at the Oxford is usually a "must see".
I love the small entrance with the old ticket window, the worn-in seating that is more roomy than any other new theatre and the charm of the interior. Definitely a good date location.
The best part is that the movies don't normally appeal to the teenage generation, so you're more likely to find yourself among an older, more bookish crowd, rather than the usual friday-night theatre crowd.
An excellent alternative to Bayers Lake or Dartmouth Crossing any day. -
Review from Laura P.
9/11/2010
Cinema has not lost its certainty at this fine theater. A place to indulge in old-world tendencies and fine balcony seating, the Oxford emphasizes films through the spectrum to show.
Audrey Tatu as Coco Chanel was a lovely film to experience amongst such aesthetic charm, and the spot has been known to host some reputable shows. I'd love to catch some Anna Karina on the big screen, hint hint! Of course there are also regular modern day comedies and romances to fill up the seats. But old world theater sure would be great, if they could swing it.
An alternative to the neo-plastic quarters of the modern day movie theater. Just another element of Quinpool's great charm, I'm always on the look out for show times.Listed in: A Weekend Guide for Out of…
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Review from Katie M.
Halifax, NS
3/9/2010 1 photo
You know that person that is renowned amongst their friends for doing embarrassing things in public like dancing with strangers or giving money to every hobo on Spring Garden? Well I am known as the friend that falls asleep in movies. For this reason I am a big fan of the Oxford Theatre. The seats here have the distinction of being much larger than the typical seat at other Empire Theatres. They are spacious enough to curl up on with a coat for a blanket.
When I do manage to stay awake at the shows, I really enjoy the ambiance that accompanies going to this theatre. The upper and lower level seating and "old timey" décor give you the impression that you're going to a movie premiere in some swanky little town. If you want a treat, keep your eyes peeled for Fan Favourite Features, when they play great classic movies. (I just watched Schindler's List here and Psycho was great at Halloween.)
Hot Hint: There's only one concession stand in the lobby, so plan to get there early if you want to beat the rush for treats! -
Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
10/13/2009 2 photos
The Oxford Theatre is an excellent homage to old time venues. With it's old pillars and mounted wall sculptures you can pretty easily close your eyes and imagine you're about to see the likes of Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart appear on screen. And since this theatre occasionally plays old classics, you might even be in luck.
With one large screen there is only ever one show at a time playing at The Oxford. Despite the fact that this theatre is owned by Empire Theatres, you can still find off beat documentaries and indie sleepers playing at the Oxford.
The best seats in the house exist in the upper balcony so be sure to head up there next time you're at the theatre. The Atlantic Film Fest makes good use of The Oxford every september too so be sure to mark your calendar for next year! -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
12/9/2009
The closest thing Halifax has to an independent cinema is this charming theatre owned by the massive Empire Corporation. The Oxford theatre is a throw back to the good ol' days when seats were uncomfortable, pillars obstruct your view and you didn't have a choice of movie.
And in a weird way, this is really enjoyable.
The theatre has a lot of character and generally brings in a great slate of films throughout the year. Movies that may not fit in at Halifax's other cinemas tend to have great runs here. This can be a double edged sword though, especially if you see a movie early in its run. For example, I saw The Road almost three weeks ago and it's still playing. Long runs are fine for larger venues with multiple screens, but I feel as though extended runs can drive business away.
And this isn't the kind of venue you want to stay away from. I am constantly watching the Marquee and every Friday on my walk to work I look forward to seeing what's playing next!
A minor complaint is the concession stand. For a theatre that revels in its throw back atmosphere, the harshly lit concession area ends up being a real mood killer. Also, as is the case with every theatre, snacks are ridiculously over priced. Hey Oxford theatre, how about some old timey prices to go with that old timey vibe! -
Review from Chloë E.
Vancouver, BC
1/8/2009
Midnight at the Oxford brings back so many memories of horror flicks and the Wizard of Oz. As a fundraiser, various groups screen classic movies at 12 midnight.
During the more usual movie hours, the Oxford runs more select films. I'm remembering plenty of Oscar-nominated films, but also foreign titles. -
Review from Ang M.
Halifax, NS
11/3/2009 1 photo
I like the Oxford Theatre because it's a bit of a throwback to the old single-screen no-stadium-seating movie experience, and it's been around for so long that it feels like a comfortable old shoe.
It tends to bring in the "indie"-type films, so it's almost the closest thing Halifax has to a rep cinema while actually being part of a massive chain. The trouble with the Oxford is that, once it gets a film that draws a good crowd, it seems to stay there for EVER. I thought they had changed the name to "Brokeback Mountain Theatre" a few years ago, it played there for so long.
Also - and this is my personal bugaboo - the lack of stadium seating means that, without fail, the tallest guy in town is guaranteed to come in late, and at the last second, sit directly in front of me. *sigh*. Happens every time. Whaddaya gonna do?
This place could seriously use a washroom upgrade, too. Three teensy awkward booths and no place to line up makes for challenging times after everyone's finished their "small" 8000-ounce cup of Coke. -
Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
3/13/2010
The Oxford Theatre is old-school movie theatre at its best. With one screening room, the experience is cozy and insulated from the general noise and crowding that fills modern multi-plexes.
You step into the foyer after paying for your ticket at a cage, and proceed directly to the snack counter. All the favourites are there, although they don't have the expanded offerings of fries, yougourts, pizza and such available at the big theatres.
After purchasing your snacks, you enter the theatre on the mid-level. This is where the true experience begins: the seats are plush and comfortable, especially if take a few steps into the balcony area. I don't think I've ever sat in a more comfortable theatre.
My sister and I watched "Phantom Of The Opera" here (I'm dating myself!) and the combination of the rich surroundings with the movie plot really helped us get into the groove of the movie. We felt as though we could be sitting in the opera house with the rest of society, waiting for the Phantom to unleash his wrath. (Ok, so we have a good imagination!)
The Oxford runs mostly art-house movies or movies that aren't considered to have a big enough draw at a multi-plex. Keep your eye on it and if you have a chance - go! We need to keep the Oxford in town and the only way to do that is to support it with our dollars.
One small drawback - you'll either have to take the bus (which is easy - the #1 stops right outside on both sides of the street) or find street parking which can be dicey on Quinpool. -
Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
12/29/2009
I have to give the Oxford Theatre a 5 star because it is the only free standing one we have left. Unfortunately the old Capital Theatre downtown was torn down for some wonderful offices. Not the best move on our part.
The Oxford is a great experience. -
Review from Lacey H.
3/4/2010 2 photos
The Oxford Theatre, a place of old-world charm and nostalgia, paired alongside modern day delights like starburst and popcorn spices.
I love this theatre. When I was a child, going to this place blew my mind. Balcony seating was beyond my comprehension, and I thought it was the fanciest, most lovely place to witness a film.
Although it is kid brother to the Empire Theatre giant, it somehow retains it's joie-de-vivre as an almost independent little movie joint. I also appreciate that most movies screened here are in keeping with a certain objective, not too blockbustery, and never too much action. They're usually well acted, often dramatic flicks, that fit nicely with the overall ambiance.
The Oxford Theatre seems like the kind of place you'd take your date in the 50s. Maybe you would try to hold hands during the film, while of course, maintaining a sense of decorum. Oh my, now those were the good 'ol days... -
Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
4/14/2010 1 photo
I have to say that I am guilty of loving the new experience of the newer theathres. Oxford theatre was the one to go to in its days. Normally with lines around the corner on both sides to see the newest up and coming movies and dying to rush in to get a balcony seat with all your friends. oh boy if the walls could talk.
Normally when we used to enter one would run to the concession stand and one to save the seats. Even though they were comfortable and cozy I feel very closed in within side of the old walls.
I know that many love the Oxford theathres that is why you really need to go and experience it for yourself and form your own opinion. -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
9/9/2009
The Oxford Theatre is a great example of how a Classical way of doing things can still survive and flourish in today's over-done capitalistic society. With just one movie screen to rely on, the Oxford Theatre has successfully attracted a steady stream of audience members both young and old. For me, it is due to its stylish testament to the old Theatre layout. Yes, there is balcony seating! And a beautiful dark red lines every seat. A part of its success is definitely its location. Being on the corner of Oxford Street and Quinpool Road, two very busy streets day and night, has definitely made it convenient for the public to access this beautiful theatre. But it is just icing on the cake when you add its old theatre classical appearance along with great customer service.
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Review from Anna H.
Halifax, NS
12/14/2009
Given the choice, I am always more inclined to see a movie in a funky, old theatre like the Oxford rather than a new mega-plex theatre. Maybe it's the heavy red velvet drapes that slide away from the screen before show-time, or the statues that stand in each of the front corners, gesturing towards the film you're watching, or the option to sit in a balcony. Whatever it is, I love it.
Showing only one movie at a time, the Oxford is not always guaranteed to be playing something you want to see but more often than not I'm interested in what's there. I'm just glad that we've got an alternative to Empire Cinemas here in Halifax. -
Review from erin g.
Halifax, NS
9/5/2010
i love movie theatres like this & i'm so glad there is one here. it's a great nostalgic vibe. i love the balcony & to get the seat the the edge is the best thing! it's great to go here if you like to pretend it isn't 2010 & you're life is super dreamy.
