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Rio Theatre
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Cinema Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Cinema, Performing Arts [Edit]
1660 Broadway EVancouver, BC V5N 1W1
Neighbourhoods: Grandview-Woodlands, The Drive, Kensington-Cedar Cottage
(604) 879-3456
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 4:30 pm - 12:30 am
Sat-Sun 1:30 pm - 12:30 am
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
30 reviews for Rio Theatre
30 reviews in English
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Review from Rheanna F.
Vancouver, BC
7/21/2011
Her name is Rio and she is a great theateeeer!
Just like that river running through a dusty laaaaand!
(Sorry, even though i can't think of a clever substitution for the second line, i still couldn't resist.)
Incredibly, i still haven't been here for one of their Friday night double features, but i love coming here on Tuesday when tickets are half price!! When was the last time you saw a movie for 6 bucks?! It reminds me of when i was a kid and had to walk uphill both ways in a blizzard to get to the pony that i rode to school. Did i mention they don't charge anything extra for 3D movies? Well, i'm not a fan of 3D, but if i have to watch a 3D movie i'd rather not pay extra for it!
Do you know what else i LOVE about Rio? There are no shitty Telus ads, no crappy car commercials, and no banks trying to tell me how they can make me money. The only ads you see are for local businesses, they are BEFORE the movie starts, and i have actually seen some places on the big screen i WANT to check out! Total hats off to Rio for keeping it local!Listed in: Below the poverty line and…
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Review from Jenna B.
Coquitlam, BC
5/21/2012
Erm ah I'm torn between giving this place 5 stars or 1 (or if I could a zero).
I have two stories to tell of my Rio Theatre experience. Emily Carr had our Grad Media Show at the Rio Theatre this year. (Which btw was a fantastic show)
I lost my wallet during the event. The Rio Theatre searched multiple times to locate it. For that I'm super grateful. It was super kind of them. 5/5 stars for being awesome
However, on the other side of things. This place is not accesible, and I came here with my mother who is wheelchair bound, and several other people in wheelchairs were in attendance of the event. THE RIO was NOT accommodating. We had notified them in advance. Our wheelchair bound professor called to leave messages never receiving a response. There was a table with equipment on it that if it had being moved could have allowed space for wheelchairs. The theatre refused to move it because the equipment was plugged in. In fact was there were random chairs blocking potential seats for others as well as space for wheelchairs. The Rio did nothing. I was very frustrated. Our own professor was stuck sitting sideways between equipment and seats.
It's an okay theatre depending on where you get seated. The lobby isn't so great for events but overall it's a good theatre. Too bad it's not accesible. -
Review from Edward L.
4/23/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Came here to watch a live event.
Parking here is isn't the best at all, but if you're lucky you can find some spots a few blocks away on the side streets.
The foyer is way too small for the venue, so the lineup for the food counters piles up and makes it difficult to get around. There are cool mirrored ceiling tiles. I couldn't stop staring upwards at the top of random people's heads.
The seats themselves aren't the most plush, but they get the job done. I like how the arms can be raised, but also don't move too easily (they kinda "stick") so you can adjust the angle to your liking.
Accoustic-wise, the theatre also isn't too bad, thanks to the DJ setup in the back. Of course it's no Dolby Digital, but the sound is clear enough to not cause problems.
Not sure if it's a daily promotion, but cans of Cariboo beers are only $3.50. Not too bad for cheap drinks.
Small classic theatres like these are a dying breed, so enjoy them while you can. -
Review from Dru C.
3/12/2012 4 Check-ins Here
One of the only theaters in Vancouver that doesn't act like a stadium. I love the location of this theater as it is right in the middle of the skytrain stops. On top of that the prices to watch a movie here is so cheap. Me and my friends come here from time to time just to watch the good old movies (The Shinning by Stanley Kubrick, and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory).
Sometimes they have amazing performances done by local artist or some of them from California, they would use this place most of the time to perform. The pricing to book this place isn't as expensive as I would have thought. It can be a great place for movies and smaller events.
I am happy as the place recently got approved by liquor license for their theater and now they have drinks on tap!! For sure I will come here all the time for my old movies. Excited to see them become such a successful company after many years, finally...
Great location, great prices, and such a great establishment!! :D -
Review from Jasmine O.
Vancouver, BC
5/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
Oh yeahhh pretty theatre 2 blocks from my house! Whether it's an open mic night, a burlesque show, a fundraiser or a movie, you'll get the same rad-tastic atmosphere, service and eccentricity you know you came for. Ummmm hey, is that beer your selling? I'll keep on coming...
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Review from Kathleen L.
Vancouver, BC
12/25/2011
Rad east van theatre! Great staff, prices, and snacks. I love the friday night midnight movies and their liquor permits! It's a place to feel comfortable with friends and alone.
$6 tuesday night movies are a treat.
can't recommend the place enough. -
Review from Tai V.
Updated - 1/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
I went to the last midnight movie for a while.. :(
Love Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tho!!
They just got approved for a liquor lic. but were left in the dark that they may not have any movie screenings while holding this license..
Hopefully they work it out soon b/c The Rio you keep me outta trouble on friday nights!!
Occupy The Rio!Listed in: 99 B-Line
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/31/2011
Went here for the first time to watch Beetlejuice.
Honestly, I never go to the theater cause it… Read more »
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Review from dZilla T.
Vancouver, BC
6/19/2011
Great movie theatre. Have never been there when its been too packed so seating was never an issue. The fact that they have a lot of indie movies is great. The midnite movie choices are pretty awesome too, specifically because they are the movies I never got to see in theatre and they are normally a 'cult classic.'
12$ for the ticket (which is normal) - half on Tuesdays
5$ a piece for popcorn and pop.
Great place! -
Review from Sarah D.
3/26/2011 ROTD 2/10/2012
Wow, this place has a pretty solid 5 star average. Sure tells you something, doesn't it? The Rio Theatre has undergone an amazing transformation over the past few years. I remember walking past this place when I was younger, and it was a sketchy cinema at best.
My favourite part of the Rio Theatre is their late-night classic movies on Friday night. For $8 (or $7 with a costume) you can relive your childhood/teenage years with a group of enthusiastic peers. I'm especially looking forward to the Labyrinth night coming up on April 29th. (Can anyone say mullets, tight pants and codpieces?)
I will be turning 30 in a year and a half, and I'm seriously considering renting out the Rio for my party. You can invite a sh*tload of people, drink, party, and watch whatever movies you want. Doesn't that sound like an absolute blast?
Ahhh... I love the East Side. Please Rio, don't ever go away. -
Review from Cyndi H.
Vancouver, BC
3/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
A perfect score!
Tech highlight: Best screen ads anywhere. Super lo-fi: and I'm captivated by all of them because of it! 80's-style simple images... I felt like I was a kid again at the cinema. Best of all, when the actual movie comes on, you'll be shocked by the sheer quality of the film--they didn't skimp out on their equipment! I could see every little wrinkle on every actors face. A fun surprise after the low budget (awesome) commercials. I need to go to more movies here.
Taste highlight: Real buttered popcorn and a great variety of toppings (I went to town on jalapeno and white cheddar).
Comfort highlight: The arm wrests actually lift up so you can cuddle with your date.
Transit highlight: Right across from the Commercial St Skytrain and there's free parking on Broadway.
Solid!Listed in: East Side wonders!, Hipster Hangouts, The Drive, Free Parking!, Bring The Posse!
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Review from Emma L.
Updated - 10/13/2011 6 Check-ins Here
I still love the Rio, but I wish they had the whole schedule for the month up in advance. I had a last Groupon to use before the 25th and starting in late September I was trying to figure out what movie we'd go see, but their October schedule wasn't up yet. It's the 13th today and they still don't have anything listed for Oct 23-26. Are they closed those days? Private events? Regular movie screenings? Who knows! A little more planning would go a long way, Rio.
Listed in: Date night!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/2/2011
Awesome indie theatre showing first run films. The manpanion and I saw True Grit there last night… Read more »
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Review from Eva B.
3/19/2011
Well the Rio Theatre has definitely changed in the last few years. I chalk this up to the new owners.I go here regularly to see movies, but have also been to a couple events and was pretty impressed. I went to a midnight showing of 'Where the Wild Things Are' when it first aired. Before the movie started they had a costume contest and a comedian/ great MC to entertain the crowds. I recently went here for a private showing/birthday party. We brought our own dvd 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom' so we could relive our childhood. They are licensed so alcoholic libations were served and the staff were super cool. They let us have fun, no party poopers here. I also know that they have concerts here occasionally which I think would be worth checking out.
The bathrooms need an update, but are clean. They have new comfy seats where the arm rest folds up so you can cuddle with your sweetie. On Tuesdays admission is half price so $6. If you buy a yearly membership ($10) you get $2 off your admission. Not the best deal, but if you are a regular it would be worth it. They do only have one theatre so make sure you check the roster before heading out.
The owners and staff are friendly and try to stay connected to their customers and the community that surrounds them. I have been trying to think why I like the Rio so much. I think is because it has a bit of that 'Cinema Paradiso' vibe. -
Review from Nicole F.
11/8/2010 1 Check-in Here
I LOVE the Rio!!!
I don't come here as often as I should. Most of the time when I am here it is for the Friday night double feature. The best time was for Hedwig & The Angry Inch (and Velvet Goldmine, which we didn't stay for... *gasp*) and everyone sang along, there was even a costume contest which my friend Alexis won. I haven't seen Rocky Horror here yet which is totally my fault and I will do my best to rectify the situation next year.
Another good one was Pulp Fiction and True Romance. I love both of those movies so much it's retarded.
Don't fret if you are tired and plan to come for the midnight double feature. They do sell a variety of energy drinks. As well as booze sometimes, but I've never noticed it when I've been there.
I ended up here last night for Jackass 3D. It's $3 extra admission to see anything in 3D. Normally $10.
We were up in the balcony area so the view was great. No sore necks for us!
Don't try to carry a case of beer in.. they'll um.. catch you. (IT WASN'T ME)
The bathrooms are always spotless when I'm here. I like the strange closet-like doors with the swinging latches.Listed in: Favourites
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Review from Lex B.
10/7/2010
The Rio has the best attitude, atmosphere, and events that far exceed almost any other theatre in Vancouver. The difference between this theatre and other indie driven off-beat cinema is that the Rio is just laid back fun that doesn't take itself too seriously.
You can go to the Rio to catch anything from one of the latest mainstream flicks, to old favorites and cheesy craziness, both new and old. Last night I caught The Social Network, in the past I have left there with my bra full of rice and toast crumbs from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and I won the costume contest when I went to see Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I've sipped cider (they are sometimes licensed) and sang at the top of my lungs with a theatre full of people doing the same.
Their Friday double features are always fun as well (even though on a Friday I can't possibly stay awake for two movies after midnight.) For special events they often include live performances as well!
The Rio is no question my favorite place to see ANY film. If you haven't been there, you simply must go. -
Review from Cait j.
Vancouver, BC
4/21/2011
Yes, just like everyone else, I love the Rio.
I havent actually been on any other occasions than the Friday late night features, but they rule. Great movies you missed in theatres the first time, or never thought you'd get to see on the big screen. These nights are my style because the crowd is usually in to it, quoting lines, laughing before the punchline and chatting quietly. I recently went and saw Crybaby (starring the fuckinggorgeous Johnny Depp of the late 80's) and the girl behind me sang every song. Every song! Priceless.
The staff are friendly and always do a bag search but "forget" to mention that they can see all of your movie snack and beverage contraband. Thanks for that.
Support the Rio. -
Review from Anthony W.
Surrey, BC
2/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have never been here until tonight. I saw a fantastic live show with nerd-extraordinaire Jonathan Coulton. I always thought the theatre to be too small for a concert from the outside. Now, you can't judge a book by it's cover certainly you can't judge a theatre by it's front doors experience!
I would totally come here again. -
Review from Alex B.
East York, ON
9/25/2010
The Rio Theatre is the BEST indie theatre in Vancouver.
Years ago the management changed at the Ridge Theatre and it went to crap, recently the Rio has become the spiritual successor to the Ridge and the location and neighbourhood is much better.
The Rio has great film lineups and has inherited the Spike and Mike festivals.
Do yourself a favour, check out their lineup, make a plan, call some friends and have a fun night out with a great film. -
Review from Cameron M.
Toronto, ON
11/12/2008 1 photo
The Rio is one of the great landmarks in Vancouver and now that it's been refurbished a great cinema too. As an alternative to the Grindhouse nature of the Van East cinema, The Rio is a little cleaner and newer though it still offers the community feel of the one scree cinema.
Its prices are a little more, perhaps to compensate for that clean newness but the feel is the same. It's a great place to go as a group and see people from the neighborhood.
One huge highlight lately is the Rios big screenings. Sometimes they'll go out of their way for a big midnight premiere and really go all out. Their Snakes on a Plane preview was wacky and much better than the movie deserved. Also great is their new midnight horror double features on Fridays. Great back to back classic horror with a stage show and all sorts of goodies for the audience. A great night out for any horror fanatic. If you haven't checked out the Rio , you ought to give it a shot. -
Review from Sohayl H.
Vancouver, BC
7/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Rio is local business done well in an industry overpopulated by giant corporations. They provide a unique and creative side of cinema without falling behind in the department of sound, 3D, seats, image quality and most importantly popcorn!
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Review from Simon R.
BC
11/28/2008 1 photo
Ah, the Rio. Large and archaic, it's remnicent of a weekend at a small town theater, except that you can't just drive-in. In the comfortable red chairs the place is often a little sparse, allowing you to lean forward on the empty seats. Balcony seating is available free of charge, but viewers are often exposed to more PDAs (Public Displays of Affection).
Also, this is where I went to watch the Euro 2008 Germany versus Spain grudge football game. Being of German heritage I lost money on the match, but it was well worth it, if only to be amazed at how they were selling beers just like in European theaters, which they sometimes do for special events.
They mostly show cheap Hollywood movies, and on the weekends they play midnight showings. Every so often they do back-to-back horror classics too, if you can sit through both Re-Animator and Dead Alive.
There is only one screen though, so those hoping to movie-hop should go to one of the multiplexes downtown. -
Review from Gabriel C.
Vancouver, BC
3/30/2011
I agree with the five star rating for the Rio. In addition to all the amenities that everyone else has mentioned I want to specifically mention the "good vibes" aspect of this place. It is what keeps me coming back. From the midnight movies to the special events to the occasional costume contest this place is a community all its own. The staff is always happy and impishly irreverent. This place rocks.
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Review from Kelsey P.
Vancouver, BC
8/2/2010
I love this place. I love how they play midnight marathons ( Monty Python night was a personal fav ). I also love that there's a balcony you can sit in and the staff are often times dressed up. And they have a great selection of popcorn shakers! Thats almost reason enough to come here!
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Review from Danielle L.
Burnaby, BC
10/11/2011
The Rio is a fabulous theatre with a variety of films from vintage to new releases. I love the vintage vibe of the theatre and double feature nights where you get two movies for the price of one. One of the best places to hangout in Vancouver, hands down!
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Review from Doug M.
Victoria, BC
3/25/2010 1 Check-in Here
this place is bloody fun! I have spent many friday nights at this place for there old double feature movies. And they actually try and get the reel film before they simply go rent the DVD to play. I must say the best one I have seen here is clockwork orange, Warriors and faster pussycat kill kill. Kepp it up guys yoru doing something amazing
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Review from jenny m.
Vancouver, BC
10/16/2009
The Rio is an old school laid back theater that shows a great selection of art flicks, documentaries, indie, cult classics and live theater. In the last few months we've seen Objectfied, The Rocky Horror Picture Show (with a live cast), Baraka, and Dust & Illusions. All fantastic. I tend to prefer these older theaters that feel part of the community, comfortable and homey, and have some history. Hard to know whether a show will be packed or not, but always worth it.
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Review from silver s.
Vancouver, BC
7/31/2010
Love, love, love this movie theater!
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Review from Bryan W.
Vancouver, BC
10/4/2010
This theatre is unlike any other theatre in Vancouver.This indie theatre shows first run films as well as midnight showing of older films every friday night.I like this theatre because it has good character and you are always sure of a seat when a popular movie is playing there.It may look small from the street but its actually pretty big with good sound.Defintely a good addition to the broadway and commercial area
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Review from wanderlust c.
Vancouver, BC
8/31/2008
Great Value on broadway and the Drive
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Review from Luisa D.
8/29/2009
I'm embarrassed to admit that I've never seen a movie at The Rio before. Well, that is about to change! The Rio was built in 1938 and has been completely restored with surround sound and 458 luxury seats. I went last night to the midnight screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. That, in itself, was an experience. I haven't seen this in a theatre since I was a teenager and this showing had costumed performers silently shadowing along with the movie on the huge stage below the screen. The audience was in full participation too. While we waited in line outside performers sold little 'prop' bags for $2 complete with Ziplocs of rice, pieces of melba toast, cards, newspaper, toilet paper and noise makers. The theatre itself is super comfortable and large with a balcony. They sold ciders and beer too. I'm not sure if they always have the cigarette-style girls walking down the aisle with cold drinks for sale but they did last night. I didn't drive but they do have free parking. If you want to support an independent theatre then you should definitely check out The Rio.
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Review from quincy l.
Vancouver, BC
1/31/2009
went for the midnight classics. price is good. atmosphere is good.
bad side the "movie" is just DVD. HD would be better. but not all classic are in HD. sound is little too loud.
