The Egyptian Theatre

4.0 star rating
105 reviews Rating Details

Category: Cinema  [Edit]

805 E Pine St
(between Harvard Ave & Broadway)
Seattle, WA 98122
Neighbourhood: Capitol Hill
(206) 781-5755
Good for Kids:
Yes
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105 reviews in English

  • Review from Tamiko T.

    • 37 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    1/19/2012

    The Egyptian is a gem.  Since it is a single screen theater, the selection is quite limited (compared to the Regal Hegemon Cinemas) but it is well curated.  When I stroll pass the conveniently located theater, they are usually playing that one movie I want to see!  Their weekend midnight showings of cult classics (such as Ghostbusters & American Psycho) are especially fun to attend to if you are a night owl.  

    The first time I visited the Egyptian, I was just trying to kill some time before a meeting.  I wandered in through the big wooden doors when I was greeted by Tom.  Now Tom is quite something.  If the Egyptian is a gem, Tom is the motherload of diamonds.  He informed me that he had been working at the Egyptian for quite a number of years (I don't quite remember... 12? 17?)  He informed me that there are literally hundreds of masonic symbols throughout the interior & exterior of the building from when it was a Freemasons' building.  Then he excitedly exclaimed, "The other day I found a new one!"  He also told me that the cafe inside the Egyptian was started by the first guy who popularized espresso drinks on the streets, and later Starbucks took his idea and took over the world.  

    If you go to the Egyptian look for Tom!  (He's real, I swear.)

    Basic Info:
    $10.50 general; $8.00 bargain (M-F ALL SHOWS BEFORE 6PM, SAT/SUN-HOLIDAYS 1ST SHOW OF DAY); $8.00 senior (62+); $8.00 child (-12); $8.25 student (SUN-THU); $8.25 midnight
    Concessions: Great coffee shop drinks, soda, popcorn & other snacks.

  • Review from Ninette C.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    4/8/2012

    I'm not usually into vintage theaters (I know some theater snobs will scoff at me but its just my personal opinion) but this one is one of the better ones. I've seen "Food Inc." during SIFF and "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" here.

    It still doesn't have the comfortable seats of the multiplexes but I like that its big and spacious.  There's a balacony area.  Even the bathrooms are spacious! The theater is open.  There is only one screen so I'm guessing that the sounds echo throughout the theater. Silly last note: free water! lol

  • Review from Heather H.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    4/5/2012 1 Check-in Here

    I only scold myself for not having come here to experience the indie stream of films being shown here on a regular basis.  
    You don't come here to have the Imax experience, but more of an authentic vintagy feel. imagine watching Amelie on a gigantic Imax screen. It just wouldn't have the same feel to it.
    i've yet to encounter fussy kids or the idiots with the blaring cell phone screen here. Instead i'm loathing that I didn't grab a hot bag of popcorn to munch on.  Its an older theater but well kept. (fyl: the place is a little drafty so bring that cozy coat) The bathrooms are nice and clean ladies!

  • Review from Thai D.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    4/26/2012 1 Check-in Here

    Old school aesthetic, without feeling old.  I like classic theaters like this.  Good screen, good sound, decent seats...  The best thing, though, are all the classics (and modern classics) they show at midnight on the weekends.  All in all, a great theater.

  • Review from Lauren B.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    4/4/2012 3 Check-ins Here

    Built in 1915, this gorgeous theatre was a pleasure to visit. Beautiful carved wood in the shape of scarabs and pharoahs put me in an adventuring mood. I wish I had worn one of those tan explorer helmets, whatever you call them. As is the current trend our tickets were ludicrously expensive ($11 apiece) but would have been $8 if we had made the 3:30 or 5:30 showings. Anyway it was worth it, and I loved Jiro Dreams of Sushi, a brilliant film made more exciting by its revelation behind the red velvet curtain. Til next time, Egyptian Theatre!

  • Review from Stef M.

    Redmond, WA

    4.0 star rating
    4/5/2012

    Cool theater! Caught a showing of Jiro Loves Sushi here last night and was impressed by the building (again - I dimly remember having been many years ago) and the cool selection of films that they'll be showing in the near future. They only show one movie at a time, but the ones they pick to show look really interesting! I love supporting interesting local spots like this - check it out sometime!

  • Review from Joyce J.

    San Jose, CA

    4.0 star rating
    4/4/2012 1 Check-in Here

    Came here to watch Jiro Dreams of Sushi and loved this theater. The early show tickets are 8 dollars. The staff is pretty friendly. They would let you leave tickets in "will call" for friends. The theater is roomy and comfortable. The setting reminded me of an old school theater. The early show was not crowded. Also there is free water in the concession area. Pretty nice.

  • Review from Nelson Y.

    Redmond, WA

    3.0 star rating
    4/4/2012 2 Check-ins Here

    I liked the old fashioned historical feel but this place is really old, the seats felt creaky, and the screen was small (and projector quality was shaky throughout).

  • Review from Amy G.

    Seattle, WA

    3.0 star rating
    12/5/2011

    I saw Pulp Fiction last night at the Midnight showing. I always jump at the chance to see my favorite flicks on the big screen so I was pretty excited to see this. We bought our tickets early not knowing how packed such a popular movie for young people would be. We definitely didn't need to buy them ahead of time but then again, we didn't have to wait in line either.

    The lady at the booth was kinda rude. I told her "two for Pulp Fiction" and she goes "so 9:45 show?" I was confused because I was pretty sure my husband said they were only showing Pulp Fiction at Midnight. I asked her again "oh, is Pulp Fiction playing at 9:45 too?" and she goes "no, that's just the midnight show." Durrrr ok. My husband then commented about student price (which is the same price as midnight showing) as a joke and she just kinda stared blankly at him. No biggie though.

    We got there 20 minutes early and they were like "yeah, we may start lining people outside soon for the show.... you could go get a drink or something." Since I didn't think we'd be standing outside I didn't exactly dress the the warmest but still that was no biggie. We walked around for a bit, came back and realized nobody was standing outside. This also wasn't that big of a deal because he said 'maybe' so I think it all depends on how many people they expect which they didn't really know 20 minutes before the show. So no worries on that one either.

    We went inside, bought popcorn and soda. The prices were reasonable and the medium sized popcorn was HUGE. The staff was very friendly and prompt. Then we found out why people stand outside on occasion. The last show was JUST coming out right at midnight so it got pretty crowded inside. The staff got everyone out in as orderly a fashion as possible and the awaiting moviegoers in ASAP. The guys running the people know what they're doing for sure.

    The theater itself was really nifty inside. I like the older Egyptian-style decor. I was also pretty happy that the seats had some level of stadium incline. I expected them to be completely flat. So we picked our seats and settled in. Yes, the seats were a little uncomfortable but not the worst seats I've sat in at a theater by far.

    The theater got fairly full as I expected. Unfortunately a sorta annoying date sat behind us and they talked at somewhat inappropriate times throughout the film but that's not the fault of the Egyptian. Next time I'll sit on the side where it's less likely for me to hear others' conversations.

    The sound quality was sorta poor but it's an old theater so whatevs.

    Overall I'd give this 3 1/2 stars.

  • Review from Kate S.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    6/8/2011

    Im more than likely not adding a lot to what has already been said here... but

    Fabulous theater!

    Great location.
    Fun and interesting architecture.
    Alright comfort-ability on the seats (no adjustable arms and I end up wiggling a time or two during the film to get comfy again).
    ~Great~ selection of films (especially midnight viewings).
    The bathrooms are always clean and never have a line.
    And the concessions are awesome -- all those flavors you can add to your popcorn? A barista & espresso for your late night coffee needs? Free water that you can get for yourself? Yay.
    The people who work here seem pretty nice as well!

    I'll be coming here often. 'Nuff said.

  • Review from Thrill K.

    • 78 friends
    • 67 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    6/1/2011 6 Check-ins Here

    I love movies. And I love coming here to watch them. The seats are comfy. Plenty of leg room. I'm short so I have leg room anywhere.

    They have a good sound system too. Their Popcorn is ALWAYS fresh. I've never had stale P. corn there. Plus,they have those flavored P.corn flavor salt things. I like the Ranch and Parmesan best.

    The Men's bathroom is small. The door opens right into a main passage way. Walk by when it's open and get a great view of...you get the picture.

    If you wanna get the picture. Come to the Egyptian! C'mon,I had to say it.

    They show Midnight Movies every Fri-Sat night at Midnight of course.

    This place is Thrill Killer approved. Check It OOOUUUTTT!!!

  • Review from Corinne H.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    6/13/2011

    The Eqyptian is an old, beautiful, and quite large theater....the experience is just so much different from a commercial theater....in a positive way.

    Some cons though...chairs are a little squeaky, and there is not quite enough of an incline to keep short people like me from watching the movie behind several heads.

  • Review from Marc M.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    5/23/2011 3 Check-ins Here

    I have been to the Egyptian four times and all four of those were for Seattle International Film Festival midnight movies and I'm not sure if I would want these to be held at any other theater. This is a classic movie theater that has a great old school vibe to it which is perfect for film festivals and other types of special screenings. Not a typical place to find the latest first run mega blockbuster but that's not the point. You go here to experience film as a fan of the medium which is good because you will be in a theater (hopefully) full of like-minded individuals.

    The seats are very comfortable and the screen is decent enough size but not anywhere near something like the Cinerama. They do have cup holders that are attached to the seat in front of you which I prefer over the ones that are at the end of your arm rest. Don't ask me why, I just like it better. The concession stand offers popcorn and soda along with candy and ice cream options. pretty standard fare although they do offer a couple gourmet candy items which is a nice touch.

  • Review from Jon L.

    Bellevue, WA

    4.0 star rating
    4/5/2011 1 Check-in Here

    The Egyptian is one of those single screen theatres that is dwindling in numbers around the country. This was actually a Masonic temple that eventually became a movie venue.

    The theatre looks antiquated on the outside, but the inside is actually pretty well maintained. You will not find stadium seating or much of any amenities here. The concession stand is this little place called Cafe Cairo which is located in the room next to the restrooms, away from the auditorium. As opposed to the typical location of a concession stand right outside.

    The Egyptian decor was actually added in by SIFF in the '80s according to the theatre's website description. It feels a little kitschy, but it makes the place standout. The films shown here are generally independent or foreign films, so you will not see current blockbusters here unless they are an Oscar nominated critical darling. Also, they have midnight showings on Friday and Saturday of cult classics.

    Having seen several movies here, I have nothing but good things to say about this place. It is unique, the movie fare is good, is in a prime location on Pine and there are plenty of places nearby to have a bite or drink before or after a film at the Egyptian. This is one of the few movie theatres in Seattle that I am willing to drive over from Bellevue to go to.

  • Review from Katy H.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    2/14/2011 4 Check-ins Here

    I've written nearly 700 reviews and somehow the Egyptian wasn't on that list? Well - let's fix that right now!

    The Egyptian makes for a great date spot. Here you wont run into small screaming children, loud movie goers who think it's funny to comment out loud, or people who are talking and crunching and munching constantly. I'd venture to say that most attendees are film fanatics as this theater shows smaller release films, foreign films and the like. If you want a Will Smith or Tom Cruise movie, you won't find it here!

    You also won't find tons of obnoxious previews or commercials that remind you to buy a coke or popcorn. It's all about the film here. I've come here to see some great indie films and have always found the experience to be positive and memorable. The theater is rarely totally full and the seats, while not brand new, are cozy.

    I also love the building. It's the old Free Mason's building. So cool!

  • Review from Leaf W.

    • 160 friends
    • 169 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    3/20/2011

    I don't know that there are any other cinemas in Seattle that even PLAY midnight movies. Maybe the SIFF cinema, but not as reliably.
    There's almost always something coming up that I'm super excited to see, and the cafe inside offers coffee drinks & food-ish items other then just popcorn and candy. Sadly, the balcony is often closed off, but when it IS open, it's an amazing view. I love the way the paths into the theater curve into themselves and then into the viewing area, and the old fashioned seats. This is the way they ought to always make theaters.

  • Review from Rachel H.

    • 15 friends
    • 210 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    1/31/2011

    The best part about the Egyptian are their weekend midnight movies. They show a variety of midnight films from bad 1970's 3-D porn to Spice World.

    Aside from the midnight movies, the Egyptian is a large single screen theatre that features independent and foreign films. It's an old theatre, which means no stadium seating. S you short people better bring a phone book to sit on.

  • Review from Me H.

    • 154 friends
    • 931 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    7/9/2008

    I still remember the first movie I ever saw here it was Run Lola Run back in 1999 and it was fantastic unfortunately not all films I've seen there have been as fantastic but that's ok I don't blame the Egyptian on my sucky taste in  movies.

    The Egyptian is one of my favorite theatres to go see an independent or foreign film at.  The lobby does have a bit of a smell to it but I can get over that because the Egyptian decor is cool and makes this theater unique from all the others ones in the area.

    The seats are actually pretty comfortable as well but be careful where you sit you may end up with a head blocking your view which if you're seeing a film with subtitles can be a bit of a pain the neck.

    Oh and if you are ever afraid the movie will sell out have no fear you can buy your tickets online just to be on the safe side.

  • Review from Angelina L.

    • 44 friends
    • 230 reviews

    Lynnwood, WA

    4.0 star rating
    7/25/2009

    Went to this place the other night to watch a movie that I wasn't so enthralled with, but enjoyed the old movie theatre feeling it had to the place.

    Seats were bearable and creaky but not horrible.

    Interior architecture and décor was cool and made me think of some 1940s theatre.

    Staff was so/so except for the manager... She was awesome...

    Good sound system.

    Didn't pay for the movie or snacks, so I can't speak of pricing...

    This place has its on little charm & you should visit it at least once to see a movie.

    Fact:  This used to be a Masonry building and if you look at the door knobs, you can still see their symbol on them...

  • Review from Bunneh L.

    • 431 friends
    • 326 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    2.0 star rating
    6/4/2007

    I caught my second SIFF film here last night.  (A Korean flick called "Woman on the Beach."  Don't bother.  Really.)  The bathrooms reek of piss.  Actually even the front lobby reeks of piss a little.  The AC was on full blast and was gusting cold air all over my exposed limbs.  (One of my all time pet peeves is air blowing directly on me, so you can imagine my irritation.)  I had to put my cardigan on, wrap my hoodie around my legs, and take my lovely date's shirt and place it over my chest to keep from freezing to death.

    I think the sound failed for a few seconds at some (non-critical) point during the movie, which would make it the second equipment failure I've experienced at the Egyptian in one week.  

    Boo to movie theaters that can double as meat lockers!

  • Review from Tony G.

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    7/9/2008

    This is what I want out of a movie theatre. Old building with beautiful Egyptian design inside. Now days, movie theatres do not take pride in their interior design so it was nice to see that the Egyptian had a cool theme inside.

    The concession stand seemed to be cheaper as well. If I remember right, a large refillable popcorn here is $5.75 and large refillable drink is $4. Ok, that is not "cheap" but I'm sure it is a bit cheaper than other theatres.

    We sat through a long movie (Mongol, it's great btw) so luckily the seats were pretty comfortable, the sound was good, and the screen was large.

    Another plus was the parking garage that was across the street.

    Zipzap Zubidy Bop!

  • Review from Riss J.

    Kirkland, WA

    4.0 star rating
    6/2/2008

    4.75

    Of all the theaters I've been to in the last few months, which isn't much, but to me is a lot...THIS is what a theater should be like.

    The seats were actually more comfortable than most of the "newer" theaters I"ve been to.

    I figured out the problem, the seat backs are too SHORT at most theaters to let my amazon-tall self slouch and relax comfortably.  The seats here aren't amazing, but are preferable to me.

    The dcor, oh god, how can you not love it? I almost didn't notice all the hilarious SIFF "previews" as I was gawking around at the ornate and beautiful details in the theater.

    The sound system got a bit "tinny" on really loud parts, but overall was just as good, if not a bit better, than other theaters.

    This was day two of the free SIFF previews yelp sent me on (thanks yelp and Michelle, was wicked fun!!),...and the best of the two. Better movie in a better theater w/ excellent yelper company by my side.

    Next time I want to see a movie, this theater is in my top picks to see what's playing first.

  • Review from Bryan K.

    • 102 friends
    • 204 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    12/23/2007

    I saw the Big Lebowski here a few weeks ago for the Saturday night midnight show.

    I had burnt marshmallow flavored popcorn and some complimentary water.

    Can life get much better than this?

  • Review from Matt R.

    • 307 friends
    • 267 reviews

    Edmonds, WA

    4.0 star rating
    6/9/2008 2 Check-ins Here

    I saw a good SIFF movie here.  Free of charge thanks to Yelp!  Thanks for that.

    This place has really great atmosphere.  Free ice water in the lobby.  It has an awesome sound system.  When the characters were talking really low, I had no problem following their dialog.  I can't wait to see some midnight movies here.  They play tons of them, though I'm kind of confused as to when they start.  Hmm.

    Minus one for the seats.  Sometimes I loathe being tall.  It happened at this theater.  I adjusted, readjusted and then realized I would have to deal with it and be uncomfortable.

    Had a funny experience in the SIFF line.  Some girls were drinking  on the patio at Bill's across the street.  Seeing that we were waiting in a MOVIE line, they shouted, "Hey!  Who played the dad in Back to The Future?"  A couple of people yelled back at them, "Crispin Glover!!"  They thanked the people and one of them got on their phone and told the person they called, "Yeah, it was some dude called Christian McLover!"

    I don't know about you, but that sounds like one sexy sandwich*.

    *Yup, I stole this joke from a hilarious movie.  Which one was it?

  • Review from Shekinah S.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    3/12/2009

    The Egyptian Theatre makes me cry.

    OK, OK, not the theatre itself or the employees, but I'd say 80% of the movies I've seen here have left me in tears; from a few sniffles (Milk, Pan's Labyrinth) to full on embarrassing - in - public - bawling (Brokeback Mountain). That being said, the only movie I've seen here that I really didn't like was I [Heart] Huckabees, and oh well, at least is was a quirky movie instead of some crappy blockbuster.  Besides, I [Heart] Mark Wahlberg.

    The movies are well chosen and I appreciate that. I also really, really appreciate that prior to the movie, you must only endure a few previews (usually for foreign films) instead of half and hour of previews and half an hour of ads (like at the big chain movie theatres). The interior of the theatre is, of course, awesome, I never get tired of looking around. Tickets aren't that cheap, nor are the concession items, but hey, a movie isn't a cheap night these days...

    ... UNLESS YOU ARE IN PORTLAND! More on that in a coming review...

    Even though it doesn't offer $3 movies and beer, you should support this local theatre!  It's on the Hill so parking is a bitch.  Cheap ramp nearby though.

  • Review from Shirley Y.

    Seattle, WA

    3.0 star rating
    6/26/2009

    The Egyptian reminds me of El Capitan on Hollywood Blvd, except on a smaller scale. I appreciate the old school feel and the balcony seating. Because the theater is a little old, the seats are cushy but wayyyy creaky and sometimes missing an armrest.

    This is very unfortunate for a fidgety person like me.

  • Review from Celeste T.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    9/11/2011

    BEST INTERIOR EVER. Seriously. I like the indie theater feel and their midnight shows of campy old stuff. Their popcorn is great, too, and it's awesome that you can get a latte in their coffee bar as well.

  • Review from Amber A.

    • 17 friends
    • 70 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    1/20/2009

    What I like about the Egyptian:

    1) Its big yet cozy feeling with its theatre-esque vibe
    2) They play midnight flashback movies
    3) Can always find a decent seat (unless its during SIFF but still not too shabby)

    Things that could use improvement:
    1) I second the comment about it always being too cold in there despite the numbers in the audience.
    2) They play the same movie for a month or so at a time. Since I live right next door it sorta sucks to have to go out of the way to find a movie instead of hitting up my local spot

    All in all, its probably my favorite Landmark theatre

  • Review from clint w.

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    3/28/2010

    Talked a couple of friends into seeing a foreign mystery.  Since the movie was getting good press and was only playing a week, we grabbed tix early and then headed out for a quick beverage first.

    The Eqyptian is old and creaky.  Yes, the pitch of the seats sometimes makes viewing a lil dicey if you are vertically challenged.  Yes, if the movie is poorly attended, it can be a little chilly.  And yes, sometimes you can catch a whiff of funkytown in the air.  

    It has all that and more!  It's charm is undeniable.

  • Review from Sonya L.

    Edmonds, WA

    4.0 star rating
    5/1/2007

    The Egyptian has been my home for numerous midnight movie events.  The fact that they played my favorite film Back to the Future there should give them a million points alone.  I've also seen several other movies there, both at midnight and during the daytime.

    The screen is massive and makes movies a real spectacle.  

    On the down side, the Egyptian is rather a pain to get to when it comes to parking (especially if you want FREE parking), but for the most part, it's worth the wait.  

    The seats can be uncomfortable (especially for a 180 minute viewing of The Godfather Part II!), but generally, the overall design and layout of the theatre makes up for this fact - the theatre is beautiful!

  • Review from Tom B.

    Brier, WA

    5.0 star rating
    2/20/2009

    One of the original movie palaces and still a classic. Beautiful brick exterior, ornately wrought interior decorations. Great programming. Wonderful urban feel. Cool midnight movie program.

    Cons: parking's a bitch, and the seats aren't all that great--small, old, busted springs. But you have fun in addition to the movie, and that's thanks to the theater. I'll probably always love this place, as long as it doesn't start falling down.

  • Review from Jerome s.

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    • 11 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    4/3/2012

    i dig the midnight movies!

  • Review from Tyler H.

    • 60 friends
    • 99 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    9/24/2006

    The main problem with this place is its name. Or rather, that I always get it confused with the Varsity or Neptune. Typical conversation ...from yesterday:

    "So, honey, where is 'Science of Sleep' playing?"

    "It's playing at the Egyptian."

    "Crap! I don't want to drive out to the U-Districts! Parking is going to suck!"

    "Hon, you're thinking of the Varsity again. The Egyptian is the theater that's, like, three blocks away."

    "Aces!"

    Anyhow, that minor piece of confusion aside, I really like the Egyptian. As others have mentioned, its got a good selection of films, and rarely gets even vaguely full.

    But, even though it usually doesn't fill up, I recommend going early so that you can get a seat in the midway isle row. Tons of leg room, and no heads blocking your view. Movie bliss!

  • Review from Andy K.

    • 58 friends
    • 103 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    10/7/2007

    Pros:
    Great creaky old movie house; midnight movies; happy to let you bring your own snacky food; in my neighborhood; plays a good mix of movies.

    Cons:
    $9.25 for a movie? You think you're that good? You could win a lot of hearts and minds if that were $8, or even $9, carrying quarters sucks.

  • Review from Lindsey S.

    • 103 friends
    • 114 reviews

    Bothell, WA

    4.0 star rating
    3/30/2010 1 photo

    Hi, would you like to choose from 20 different popcorn toppings at your discretion?
    Um. Heck yeah.

    Ok, so I didn't actually COUNT how many different toppings they had, but it was a lot. Chocolate S'Mores, White Cheddar, Sour Cream & Chives, Caramel, it goes on and on...

    First time ever going the other night and I had a great time here! I love the atmosphere of this place. The tickets were only like $10, small popcorn $6 or so bucks. They did have some candy and then 'fancy' candy there at the concession stand.

    We saw 'Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' and it wasn't super packed which was nice, (it was a Monday night.) It was different for me to have the drink holders on the back of the chair in front of me... and not in the arm divider thing. Made it very hard for me to put me feet up :)

  • Review from Shep G.

    Bellevue, WA

    4.0 star rating
    5/30/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Was here for SIFF, such a wonderful theater, a true classic.

  • Review from Delilah R.

    • 118 friends
    • 349 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    4.0 star rating
    6/6/2008

    The main attraction for me is the decor!  I'm a sucker for detail and I love the theme of this theater!!

    I'm not a huge fan of the seats.  I feel that they could be upgraded and also sort of felt squished between the people who were sitting around me.  The celly was on vibrate and it turns out...the seats picked up the vibration three seats down.  When the movie was over, the ladies were questioning who's phone was going off the hook.  Damn sensitive seats.

    The SIFF film I saw, "New Castle" was awesome.  This is the Australian surfer boy film that the ladies are raving about.  Even more rad was the actors being there after the movie for the Q&A portion that follows.  Hawt!!

    Seeing so many responses about the midnight movies here will have me coming back sooner than later!!

  • Review from steve c.

    • 89 friends
    • 275 reviews

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    6/22/2009

    I thought Harvard Exit was my favorite Seattle theater, that is until I visited the Egyptian for the first time. It's old, like the HE, it's ornate, like the HE, it shows indy films, like the HE, and it actually used to be a theater theater, like the kind that has a stage; this is unlike the HE.

    The only thing I didn't like about the Egyptian was the sound. That wasn't enough to knock any stars down from it, though.  One last thing: how many time better are Harvard Exit and the Egyptian Theater than say an AMC or Regal multiplex?

    The answer?  They are 137.432 times better.

  • Review from Lily H.

    • 146 friends
    • 203 reviews

    Seattle, WA

    5.0 star rating
    10/22/2006

    Okay, the seats are creaky (even more true of the Uptown theater on lower Queen Anne), but the Egyptian is one of the few remaining movie houses with only one screen, and a very large one at that.

    Ornate Egyptian Revival/art deco interior decor makes this a classy if funky stand-out, especially after one has suffered through monstrosities such as the rabbit-warren of screening rooms at the kitschy Metro Cinema or at the already down-at-the ears Meridian 16.

    I have been surprised over the years by the consistency of quality of the selection of films shown here  (among commercial venues, the highest, along with the Harvard Exit) shown at this large, single-screening movie theater.

    This has included the crowd-pleasing "Amelie" to the art-house "Brokeback Mountain," Pedro Almodovor's "Talk to Her," and the remarkable World War II documentary "The Sorrow and the Pity."

    I saw "Brokeback Mountain" twice here, and I was astonished that no one at either screening was talking to the person next to her/him, loudly munching popcorn, wandering in and out, "looking for the action," or laughing at a continuous barrage of sound-bites, which is usually the case when I've seen a "flick" in a movie theater.

    Audiences often feel as if they are entitled to do anything they would do in front of their own television at home so that the movie screen has become just an enlarged television.  Talk out loud whenever you feel like it, discuss the film, and prop your shoes on top of the seat in front of you...  

    There definitely IS an audience for "serious" cinema, not just cheap thrills, in Seattle, and I've found it frequently here.

    (Also, one can always find here a seat away from someone or ones that are talking or munching popcorn in the seat(s) next to or behind you, not possible at the Seven Gables, Uptown, multi-plex).

    Pray AGAINST the day that the Landmark Corporation doesn't tear the whole building down and put up a 6-story condo/multi-cinema-plex.   We've been awfully luck so far.

  • Review from Rav K.

    • 3 friends
    • 6 reviews

    Houston, TX

    4.0 star rating
    12/21/2010 2 photos

    Hands down the best theater in the state of Washington!

    While visiting family in Seattle, I was fortunate enough to catch the Seattle Film Festival. Several of the screenings took place at the Egyptian Theater, and it was simply a magical fit!

    Everything about this place is unique and exciting, from the section to the setting. The theater picks the best movies at any given time, one can simply pick a movie at random and not be disappointed. The setting is even more impressive. With large displays of Cleopatra and Egyptian mummies, if it were not for the snow outside, I would have thought I was in Egypt. Perhaps the best feature is it's location, it is located near countless good restaurants and cafes. If you are looking for a good time, this local is one of the best in the pacific north east. The cost is a little high compared to other indie theaters, but it's is easily justifiable.

    The only negative with the theater is that once is that watching movies in in other theaters will never be satisfying once you have experienced the Egyptian Theater.

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