Balboa Theater

Based on 195 votes
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Local(415) 221-8184

3630 Balboa St
San Francisco, CA 94121

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Listing
Balboa Theater
Local(415) 221-8184

3630 Balboa St
San Francisco, CA 94121

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User Reviews of Balboa Theater

Yelp.com Review - by Michele g.

4.0 of 5 stars. great atmosphere! food is pretty tasty too!!!
yelp.com - user review - 09/22/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Freddy J.

5.0 of 5 stars. Wow! I didn't know there were old school theatre's like this anymore, especially in a city like San Francisco! Double matinees which is really cute and it feels like going to the movies back in the…
yelp.com - user review - 09/17/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Steve C.

5.0 of 5 stars. amc giggaplex goers stay away... you won't like it here and that's good.
yelp.com - user review - 09/15/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Perci N.

1.0 of 5 stars. Now I know what it's like to watch a movie inside an outhouse.
yelp.com - user review - 09/15/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Kristina C.

5.0 of 5 stars. Best movie theater in town, hands down. They show major motion pictures and cycle them quickly, it's rarely crowded, the staff are very friendly and helpful (and that's saying a lot since only two…
yelp.com - user review - 08/26/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by aspasia s.

5.0 of 5 stars. it ain't five star .. but consistently gives that home feeling ...
yelp.com - user review - 08/14/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Tiffany Y.

3.0 of 5 stars. Ehhhh. This place is convenient and it's never crowded even on days when a movie is opening....but it's crappy. Total old school theater, no cup holders. The employess seriously look like they're…
yelp.com - user review - 08/12/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Ge I.

5.0 of 5 stars. I only live like 2 blocks from this theater. i love that it is close by and also that it is not way over crowed. This theater is small which is also a plus. The staff is friendly. They always play…
yelp.com - user review - 08/10/2008
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Hold your breath.

Smelly Old Seats: Hold your breath. This place stinks. Literally. Good God, don't bring a date here. Just go if you're planning on showering immediately afterwards. F-it, just don't go!
citysearch.com - user review - 08/04/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Ravenna P.

5.0 of 5 stars. I've been coming here for over a year and I love this place, its nice to know that by going here I am supporting the 'little guy' and not some crappy megaplex that has sub-par popcorn and snack…
yelp.com - user review - 07/31/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Andrew C.

4.0 of 5 stars. When I started coming here (2000) Gary Meyer (Co-founder of Landmark Theatres and more recently Co-Director of the Telluride Film Festival) had just recently taken over the theater. Back then double…
yelp.com - user review - 07/28/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Natalie l.

4.0 of 5 stars. Piece of shit theater? Hell no I never would have decided to come to Balboa theater if it weren't for "The Black Night" being sold out everywhere. Why not go to the neighborhood theater so I can just…
yelp.com - user review - 07/26/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Katie I.

4.0 of 5 stars. When I first started coming here, they had double features, and they were the best-paired double features around. I mean, "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" with "Shrek". That's brilliant. Nowadays, the…
yelp.com - user review - 07/25/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Sabine S.

5.0 of 5 stars. There will always be a place thats bigger, better, faster, stronger...but places like Balboa have character and history and make movie-watching an experience in itself. Going here is like traveling in…
yelp.com - user review - 07/25/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Cade P.

5.0 of 5 stars. I have lived in this neighborhood for over a year now and finally went to check out this place. My mom is visiting and she wanted to see the new Batman film, Dark Knight. I checked and this awesome…
yelp.com - user review - 07/24/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Les L.

4.0 of 5 stars. Good old fashion theater @ affordable prices. Few of the gems left in the movie theater business. Located where there're plenty of restaurants to choose from. Dinner & a movie, great way to treat…
yelp.com - user review - 07/18/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by David H.

4.0 of 5 stars. The Balboa Theater is a pretty decent theater in the Outer Richmond. It's not a stadium theater bad ass stereo experience, but it is convenient. The folks working there are friendly too. The overall…
yelp.com - user review - 07/18/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Michelle B.

5.0 of 5 stars. I was worried to watch a movie at the Balboa Theater after one review said the the theater smells like feet... I didn't smell anything out of the ordinary and the atmosphere at the theater was so…
yelp.com - user review - 07/14/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Kaven T.

2.0 of 5 stars. Sometimes Yelp, you really fail me. Why do people keep giving 5 star to places when their really 2-3 stars? Is it because you have to be cool and support the independent places? Just because it…
yelp.com - user review - 07/08/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Jackson G.

2.0 of 5 stars. Like the surrounding Richmond district, the Balboa Theater is just kinda lame. It does have a few redeeming qualities, here they are: 1. Staffed by real people who do not quote a training manual.
yelp.com - user review - 07/02/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Denise M.

3.0 of 5 stars. I've never been one for the smaller theaters, but that's mainly because I have yet to have a good experience in one. It's just not the same as the modern, THX Surround Sound theaters nowadays. Throw…
yelp.com - user review - 07/02/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Mike A.

3.0 of 5 stars. I like the location, and I like the independent vibe, but I saw Ironman there and was dissappointed with the sound and picture. I might go there to see a comedy or drama but I won't be back for any…
yelp.com - user review - 07/01/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Elaine L.

4.0 of 5 stars. The people that work the ticket booth and snack bar are really friendly - I bought a ticket to the 9:35 show, went across the street to grab a quick dinner at Shanghai Taste before the movie, then…
yelp.com - user review - 06/22/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Jocelyn J.

2.0 of 5 stars. Yeah, the Balboa is prob the only theater left in SF that is not corporately owned...but common, can't you clean it up a lil' bit? I don't get what all the excitement is about? I watched Sex n' the…
yelp.com - user review - 06/18/2008
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wth?

To the person that said there are too many immigrants who don't appreciate "these types of things", ...
judysbook.com - user review - 06/12/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Joanne O.

4.0 of 5 stars. I went to the Balboa theatre last evening for the first time in years. My old stomping grounds which held very pleasant memories for me. I like this theatre is independently owned and has an older…
yelp.com - user review - 06/08/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by sophia c.

4.0 of 5 stars. I hate leaving the comfort of my 2 favorite hoods , da sunset and da Richmond. I am so happy that Balboa are playing newer movies so I don't have to leave the my safety bubble. Saw Kung Fu Panda…
yelp.com - user review - 06/07/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Jeff S.

2.0 of 5 stars. Clearly I'm going against the grain here with this review... but these reviews are about what I would expect from the all too hip San Francisco moviegoer trying to prove just how cool they are. I'm all…
yelp.com - user review - 06/06/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Dwigt S.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love having this around the corner from my house. This is an amazingly cute, old-school theater. The selection of independent films shown here is excellent, and the selection of popular films…
yelp.com - user review - 06/06/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Jean P.

5.0 of 5 stars. This theater has brought many movies into my life that would not otherwise have found themselves before mine eyes. This is due to the fact that they play popular features alongside foreign and…
yelp.com - user review - 06/03/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Harry H.

5.0 of 5 stars. This is my neighborhood theater; a quaint throwback to the old-school movie houses of the 50's and 60's. No the audio isn't Dolby surround, and no you won't hear the jack-hammer audio demo here,…
yelp.com - user review - 05/30/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by B P.

5.0 of 5 stars. Nice boutique independently owned theater that shows popular first run films and also some independent films. On your birthday you get in free. Check them out. The price is also nice.
yelp.com - user review - 05/29/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by jette s.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love that I can go see a mainstream movie in the neighborhood without having to go to 1000 Van Ness or G-d Forbid the Metreon. Nice people and a really good concession stand. I won't go anywhere…
yelp.com - user review - 05/26/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Danny J.

5.0 of 5 stars. This place blows my face off. 5 bucks for a double feature? Nothing can help me escape the debilitating loneliness of San Francisco like the Balboa theater double! Went here some time ago and caught a…
yelp.com - user review - 05/25/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Emily J.

4.0 of 5 stars. OK. So its hard to give the Balboa a 4, but I do because I want the independent theatre tradition to continue in San Francisco. I am the type to avoid the large corporate chain theatres, so I like the…
yelp.com - user review - 05/16/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Katherine F.

4.0 of 5 stars. i hope they never close this place down. everyone is REALLY nice there and the customer service is superb. although the actual screen or seating set up is nothing compared to the newer theaters like…
yelp.com - user review - 05/05/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by jen f.

4.0 of 5 stars. i've always referred to the balboa as my fave theater in the city, even though the screens are pretty small. i used to love their double features but they hardly ever do that anymore. and their ticket…
yelp.com - user review - 05/05/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by m m.

4.0 of 5 stars. I went to the Balboa for the first time in 2002. The reason I remember is because I had just been dumped and I walked all the way there from Alamo Square to see "I Am Sam". I wasnt that interested…
yelp.com - user review - 05/04/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Katie P.

4.0 of 5 stars. Yay for the Balboa Theater!!! Great atmosphere, cheaper tickets, a good selection of flicks, yummy popcorn. They have a great punch-card deal that you can buy for like $30 for 5 movies and can use at…
yelp.com - user review - 05/04/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Urban M.

4.0 of 5 stars. I've lived in SF for 12 years and in the Inner Richmond for about 5, and until 6 months ago I had never set foot in this theater. That's changed recently, and in the past 3 days have been there twice.…
yelp.com - user review - 05/03/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Josh J.

4.0 of 5 stars. This is a great richmond gem. Sure they only have two maybe three movies at a time but they are usually the one you really wanted to see or a really cool independent film. You can't go wrong in a place…
yelp.com - user review - 05/02/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Barbara B.

4.0 of 5 stars. I'm one of the geezers you'll find populating this wonderful theater. Have enjoyed seeing films here forever. The staff, pricing and refreshment are tops and I never have a problem parking as I…
yelp.com - user review - 04/22/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Sarah H.

5.0 of 5 stars. God Bless thee Balboa Theater. I can go see a great movie, and eat before and/or after with a walk across the street or have a martini at the local dive if the movie made me sad, or whatever. The…
yelp.com - user review - 04/17/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by bartleby s.

5.0 of 5 stars. Oh, Balboa, with your faded art deco glory and gourmet hot dogs. Really, a great treasure to us in the Fog Bank, and with newer movies, too. Don't get me wrong, I do love SF Noir and the more curated…
yelp.com - user review - 03/23/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Sue M.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love this theater for all the reasons stated below. I'll just add: 1) I saw Bruce Campbell here do a booksigning/director's Q&A with his film "The Man With the Screaming Brain" a couple of years ago.…
yelp.com - user review - 02/29/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by John S.

5.0 of 5 stars. This place rocks. If you like stadium seating and multiple screens, I've heard real estate in Livermore is affordable. Here's the deal. There are very few little theaters these days. You should…
yelp.com - user review - 02/25/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Nathalie L.

4.0 of 5 stars. Frozen Junior Mints! The Balboa gets four stars right there for having these. I love, love, love frozen candy and never thought I could enjoy them outside my apartment. Mmm...they also have frozen…
yelp.com - user review - 02/23/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Liz C.

4.0 of 5 stars. $8.50 for movie tickets? Heck yeah! Popcorn with a variety of flavors? Heck Yum!
yelp.com - user review - 02/19/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Lauren T.

4.0 of 5 stars. Very cool little theater not far from my house. A star is dinged however cause my fella was startled to find a giant spider crawling on his hand! Even if there are spiders...it beats the hell out of…
yelp.com - user review - 02/15/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Salene D.

5.0 of 5 stars. I was introduced to this gem by a SF native. Absolutely love it! The staff is great and the popcorn(with an array of seasoning selections)keeps me coming back. As one who is vertically challenged, I…
yelp.com - user review - 02/14/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Marie B.

4.0 of 5 stars. I love the Balboa Theater. I mean what's not to love?--the neighborhood, independent movie house feel with prices to boot and the popcorn seasonings. The only reason it doesn't get the final star is…
yelp.com - user review - 02/11/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Trigger F.

5.0 of 5 stars. Love the Balboa. I used to live around the corner and this was my movie theatre. They always have a good selection of films and great prices. The staff are always friendly and they have nice…
yelp.com - user review - 02/10/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Cathy K.

4.0 of 5 stars. My *favorite* neighborhood-indie-arthouse theater. *Nice variety of movies.
yelp.com - user review - 01/25/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Frankie F.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love Balboa Theater! I feel good about walking into the place because I'm supporting the underdog and not feeding the beast. Speaking of feeding the beast, I'm super impressed with their popcorn…
yelp.com - user review - 01/21/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Christopher G.

3.0 of 5 stars. This place would be really good if they just tore out the old seats and replaced them with reclining ones. It still has double feature deals and still has good prices for movies. Candy and sodas are…
yelp.com - user review - 01/20/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by M C.

4.0 of 5 stars. I am all about supporting the little independent movie theaters in the city- they are a dying breed soon to be extinct if we don't show some love! But beware, bring a comforter when you come here to…
yelp.com - user review - 01/20/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Anton Szandor L.

2.0 of 5 stars. Uncomfortable seats, closet like theater with tiny screen. I know you're supposed to support the independent movie theaters, but there is a reason that they are dying out.
yelp.com - user review - 01/18/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Tresca T.

5.0 of 5 stars. A small theater with a ton of personality. You won't find a cooler bunch of people who love movies. And they have nut yeast in the lobby for popcorn! Fond memories. The movie prices are affordable for…
yelp.com - user review - 01/18/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Juliane N.

5.0 of 5 stars. This was actually the first time I've ever been to a theater so small. I like how it's independent and it's like a neighborhood theater. The staff here is so nice and seems really down to earth. The…
yelp.com - user review - 01/17/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Fannie S.

5.0 of 5 stars. Love this place. I love the history with old SF theatres. Retro cushy seats, but the sound and screen is to be expected. No stadium seating.
yelp.com - user review - 01/10/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by nora b.

5.0 of 5 stars. Why is your popcorn so damn good? Butter!
yelp.com - user review - 01/05/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Adrian H.

3.0 of 5 stars. Here are my gripes...this was once a single screen movie theater. It was split several years ago into two theaters so when you walk in to one of these theaters you have this feeling that the rooms are…
yelp.com - user review - 01/03/2008
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Yelp.com Review - by Michelle C.

5.0 of 5 stars. Great time here, just wish they accepted credit. Very retro, I enjoyed that about this place. Bathrooms need a makeover. Oh nice that they played good music and no commercials while waiting.
yelp.com - user review - 12/30/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Michael S.

5.0 of 5 stars. I was born and raised is San Francisco, and I have seen it grow to something you can call corporate America. The most obvious change is the movie theaters. They have begun to change into huge…
yelp.com - user review - 12/16/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Bub Z.

3.0 of 5 stars. So, I hear that this place was recently remodeled. It's nice that they have 2 screens only and that their concessions are different (and that they have good tea and coffee). However, there are a…
yelp.com - user review - 12/09/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by becca h.

4.0 of 5 stars. I loved the Balboa more when they had 2nd run double features, but still, they're local, have great popcorn, and friendly staff!
yelp.com - user review - 12/06/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Saskia v.

4.0 of 5 stars. Bring back the $5 double feature matines!
yelp.com - user review - 12/03/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Dianne N.

4.0 of 5 stars. The Balboa rocks! I always get a good view, great independent movie and popcorn with REAL butter. It doesn't have steller sound & visuals, but it's cozy.
yelp.com - user review - 12/01/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by beth m.

4.0 of 5 stars. This is the last independently owned movie theater in San Francisco. Get out there and show your support for the underdog! It's a local theater, interesting indie choices, foreign pics, and a…
yelp.com - user review - 11/29/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Stephanie K.

4.0 of 5 stars. Compared to the monolithic multiplexes taking over the Bay Area, the Balboa is a quirky, cool little neighborhood theater. The matinees are a steal, although I wish they still showed as many random…
yelp.com - user review - 11/28/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Claire H.

4.0 of 5 stars. If you just couldn't get around to seeing that movie for the couple of months it was in theaters and you want to catch it before it's gone; this is where movies go to die. Try to look past the…
yelp.com - user review - 11/27/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Brendon C.

4.0 of 5 stars. I love that there are still a large handful of small neighborhood theaters scattered throughout the city. It's a shame so many have closed, hopefully we can hang on to the ones we have left. The…
yelp.com - user review - 11/26/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Audacity L.

4.0 of 5 stars. I've been coming here quite a bit recently because of the convenience factor and the fact that their small selection of films is usually decent. You can also buy a card for multiple visits for a…
yelp.com - user review - 11/22/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Sue U.

5.0 of 5 stars. love love love this place for a movie! I live nearby so I can easily nip over and catch a flick - why go downtown and fight the crowds when you can have a comfortable neighborhood experience here.…
yelp.com - user review - 11/15/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Justin C.

5.0 of 5 stars. A true neighborhood theater, the Balboa has managed to survive in the modern era, and I'm happy about that. It's a great place for locals to go catch a movie before or after a bite to eat at some of…
yelp.com - user review - 11/06/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by katie z.

5.0 of 5 stars. Love it - One of the best indie theaters around. They have shown some of my favorite movies here including People of the Wind! They do film series often, such as, Film Noir and Man vs Nature.…
yelp.com - user review - 11/04/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Joel R.

5.0 of 5 stars. Excellent neighborhood theater with a great selection of new and independent films. I'm fortunate enough to be within walking distance and I've taken advantage of the $30, 5 movie pass- what a deal!…
yelp.com - user review - 11/04/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Mary P.

5.0 of 5 stars. I haven't been in awhile but this is a great little theater. It's good for going alone or with friends. I'm not sure if they still play double features but it was nice to be able to go and kind of…
yelp.com - user review - 10/20/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Dave R.

5.0 of 5 stars. Its nice to go to a movie theater that doesn't solely cater to the pre-teen set.
yelp.com - user review - 10/09/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Charlie C.

5.0 of 5 stars. changed my life. i was able to walk to a theatre, not a multiplex gi-normous whatnot what have you but a small old theatre with beautiful marquee, eat dinner at a vietnamese restaurant and walk back…
yelp.com - user review - 10/03/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by D K.

4.0 of 5 stars. This place is actually pretty decent old fashion movie theatre. Only 2 movies shown at once. You will see mostly middle age and nice family type of people here. Definitely you won't see any rude and…
yelp.com - user review - 09/26/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Keith W.

5.0 of 5 stars. This place looks small and run down on the outside, but it is one truly deceiving place. On the inside is a rustic theater with 2 large cinemas that I did not expect. They are reasonably priced and…
yelp.com - user review - 09/25/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by kacey h.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love this place! The movie card $30 for 5 movies is a great deal. The people who work here are always super friendly and the movies are usually a combination between independent and mainstream.…
yelp.com - user review - 09/18/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Sandy L.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love this place! From the old wood floor to the fact that it transports me back to another era with the beautiful, albeit uncomfortable, seats. The gentleman that curates the movies does a good…
yelp.com - user review - 09/13/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Wes M.

4.0 of 5 stars. I love how on Yelp I'll review something (say, the Vogue theater) and instantly get a ton of recommendations on something I'd like even better (say, the Balboa). I tried desperately to get people out…
yelp.com - user review - 08/26/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Kim J.

4.0 of 5 stars. I have an unnatural love for The Simpsons. When the movie came out I couldn't wait to see it. I didn't want to share my absurdly religious experience with a bunch of strangers. So I walked down the…
yelp.com - user review - 08/24/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by diana s.

5.0 of 5 stars. Easy parking! Cheap (comparatively)! Clean bathrooms! Fairly comfortable seats! Empty 4pm matinee of "The Bourne Ultimatum," just how I like it!
yelp.com - user review - 08/21/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by kevin f.

3.0 of 5 stars. I know everyone loves this place -- and the staff is VERY friendly, and the concessions are great (they actually have frozen Junior Mints!), and the vibe is wonderful.... But I just can't get over the…
yelp.com - user review - 08/16/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Bergamot L.

4.0 of 5 stars. One of the finest neighborhood theatres in San Francisco and perhaps anywhere. Always great service from the staff and, OH, those yummy veggie dogs! You MUST try one. I've been told that theatres,…
yelp.com - user review - 08/11/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Tiffany M.

5.0 of 5 stars. What?! I hadn't reviewed this before?! Shame on me! This theatre ROCKS. I don't care if the seats are old, the theatre smells stale, and there are no cup holders. It's a historic theatre for crying…
yelp.com - user review - 08/10/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Ryan D.

4.0 of 5 stars. A great old fashioned theater located in the Outer Richmond. While most movie theaters in SF lack easy parking, quality candy and great ambiance. Balboa has it all, including some fun loving, great…
yelp.com - user review - 08/10/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Charles C.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love this theater and try to see my movies here when I can. This theater has a personlal neighborhood feel that is rare in these days of chain store everything.
yelp.com - user review - 08/08/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by sascha b.

4.0 of 5 stars. How close to perfect can a theater be in SF these days? Let's take a gander at the Balboa.... Independent? Check!
yelp.com - user review - 08/06/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Jesse B.

3.0 of 5 stars. I really like the funkiness of this theater and the kick back vibe here. Prices are great. I don't mind the smaller screen because its easy to get a good seat. Only request is clean those seats…
yelp.com - user review - 08/03/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Sobrina T.

5.0 of 5 stars. This is a cozy little theatre. I saw The Simpsons movie tonight and liked all the Simpsons decor up on the walls. And get this, in trying to select my theatre treat, I originally wanted the gummy…
yelp.com - user review - 08/02/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Christine H.

5.0 of 5 stars. My FIRST choice when it comes to movie night, the Balboa is always an adventure. The proprietor will always have something interesting to say about the great films they show there: I can tell he's a…
yelp.com - user review - 07/31/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Marcy M.

5.0 of 5 stars. An ode the Balboa: I still have a little slice of my childhood left in this wonderful seaside movie theater. The dark carpets, slightly uncomfortable seating, neighborhood audiences and unusual treats…
yelp.com - user review - 07/25/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Pauline L.

5.0 of 5 stars. The last time I was here, was when I was 7 years old, a spry and impudent bratty tomboy...it was my first time seeing a Disney movie "101 Dalmatians" and basically I raised holy hell that we got into…
yelp.com - user review - 07/15/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Ashley S.

5.0 of 5 stars. Yay! Wheee!! i love this theater. God I love the movies. And this theatre -- it is so San Francisco and it makes me so happy. I went there the first time years back when they did "Reel San…
yelp.com - user review - 07/09/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Taler C.

5.0 of 5 stars. This is one of the best local theaters around (not that there are many left). They are cheap, and the parking is pretty plentiful except on fri-sat. Balboa has a great concession stand with local…
yelp.com - user review - 07/08/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Valerie L.

5.0 of 5 stars. I love the Balboa! Yes, it used to be dumpier (in the old days when it was part of the UA chain and I used to work summers at the old Alexandria, another great deco palace, now closed), but in the…
yelp.com - user review - 07/07/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Brenda Kaye W.

5.0 of 5 stars. My husband and I wanted to see Ratatouille so we chose to see it at this independent theater that shows current movies. There's free street parking and the movies cost $8.50 general admission--$6 if…
yelp.com - user review - 07/04/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Cam T.

5.0 of 5 stars. Indie. No commercials. No need to bring an extra sweater due to blasting A/C. Free on your birthday if you can prove it. This place also makes me feel like I should be secretly making out with my…
yelp.com - user review - 07/02/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Judy W.

5.0 of 5 stars. This place used to be such a dump, but the new owners have turned it into a great place in the past few years. There are so few indie theaters left in this town, it's a shame - but at least we have The…
yelp.com - user review - 07/01/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Gary M.

5.0 of 5 stars. It is thrilling for those of us who operate the Balboa Theatre to read your comments. Your raves make us proud and constructive criticism is taken seriously. There is support for our showing both big…
yelp.com - user review - 06/28/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Andrea U.

5.0 of 5 stars. My first time at this theater was when I went to see "Knocked Up" and won a free t-shirt on my very first ticket purchase. How's that for a good first impression? It's in a perfect location in the…
yelp.com - user review - 06/24/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Matt F.

5.0 of 5 stars. I REALLY hope this small, independent theater in the sleepy theater manages to stay afloat! It has SO MUCH going for it! Unlike a multiplex, where you feel like a piece of meat being led to the…
yelp.com - user review - 06/24/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by kimi w.

5.0 of 5 stars. This is my favorite indie theater in San Francisco. Unfortunately, this seems to be part of a dying tradition as more and more indie theaters are closing down and/or being bought up by the corporate…
yelp.com - user review - 06/24/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by jen d.

4.0 of 5 stars. Great little theatre that we go to often - close, convienient, friendly people, great atmosphere. It sometimes runs double-headers, but prices are reasonable regardless (especially if you buy a movie…
yelp.com - user review - 06/16/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Peter d.

4.0 of 5 stars. Small, local theatre with some great movies (usually -- i'm not a fan of the art flicks). We love going out for "date night" to the old Balboa Theatre. The prices are very good (around $8.50) and…
yelp.com - user review - 06/16/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by megan w.

5.0 of 5 stars. I'm a dreamer. I spend most of my life in the gutter looking at the stars, so to speak. I also trip and fall a lot. But many of my dreams are quite beautiful: transit villages in Wilmington, Delaware;…
yelp.com - user review - 06/07/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by renae o.

3.0 of 5 stars. I want to support the old rep houses and movie theatres because they're a dying breed. And this one has fun showings. But if you have any sensitivity to mold - be careful. I saw a movie there this…
yelp.com - user review - 06/06/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by rahul t.

4.0 of 5 stars. It's fun. You want to go to a movie that is not a technological masterpiece requiring DTS 5.1 stereo whatever sound with advanced DLP projection. If you go see a comedy or an older movie, it is…
yelp.com - user review - 06/03/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Eric M.

4.0 of 5 stars. Finding a nice movie theater with a big, neon marque is a rare occasion. Most of these old theaters have been knocked down and replaced with the megaplexs we see so often. I was pleasantly surprised…
yelp.com - user review - 05/28/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Sara G.

5.0 of 5 stars. Well admittedly this place wins one extra star from me just for being so damn conveniently located right up the street from my house. However, I think I would like it regardless-- it's genuinely…
yelp.com - user review - 05/27/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Victoria E.

4.0 of 5 stars. I'm a fan of small businesses of all kinds - especially movie theaters. True pieces of classic Americana, Balboa Theater is a most enjoyable place to see a movie. Tasty snack options, very friendly…
yelp.com - user review - 05/24/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Patrick A.

5.0 of 5 stars. It is places like the Balboa Theater that make Bit-Torrent inadequate.
yelp.com - user review - 05/23/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Harmonika S.

5.0 of 5 stars. I LOVE this place! A reasonably priced double feature out in the cold Richmond area (bring a coat!) I am that person who rushes over to the seats near the side exit, so I can leisurely stretch out…
yelp.com - user review - 05/16/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Mattee M.

4.0 of 5 stars. I like this theatre alot. It is rather small,but that doesn't matter. If you are looking to get away from the overally crowded theatre's you should come here. Good popcorn and snacks. BTW- After the…
yelp.com - user review - 05/07/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Peter Q.

5.0 of 5 stars. I heard Sugarbowl's rats migrated over to the theater when they closed. That's why these guys never have to sweep the popcorn off the floor.
yelp.com - user review - 05/02/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Audrey B.

3.0 of 5 stars. Went to see a very terrible film here, so I will try not to let that cloud my opinion of the theater. Sort of a non-descript old theater in a middle-of-nowhere part of the outer Richmond (this is the…
yelp.com - user review - 04/28/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Ann D.

5.0 of 5 stars. I just visited this place for the first time last week (for Blades of Glory) and loved it. It's definitely... old. The seats are small (no faux-leather upholstery or cupholders here), the screen is…
yelp.com - user review - 04/19/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Hugh B.

5.0 of 5 stars. When it comes to going to the movies, often I find myself nearly as concerned with the venue as with the picture. While the Century 20 Daly City is but a few minutes away, I will do everything…
yelp.com - user review - 04/09/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by susan y.

5.0 of 5 stars. I can't believe I've lived in the Inner Richmond for 5 months and haven't been to this theater yet! It's an old fashioned, charming theater with a friendly staff. I think the snacks and popcorn are…
yelp.com - user review - 04/08/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Drue C.

5.0 of 5 stars. So, for everyone who finds the Outer Richmond to be a wasteland, you have been missing out and clearly have not been to the Balboa (followed by a beer at the Hockey Haven). This is the best deal in…
yelp.com - user review - 03/28/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Dan C.

5.0 of 5 stars. Double Feature of 1st run movies for $8.50? oh hell yes.
yelp.com - user review - 03/26/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Desiree V.

5.0 of 5 stars. Being a native to Los Angeles and having frequented the older movie theaters in Hollywood, I have to say that I love going to the Balboa because it reminds me of those types of theaters that are in…
yelp.com - user review - 03/19/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by mugistar o.

5.0 of 5 stars. This charming old movie theater shows a lot of great foreign and independent films and even documentaries, and it has a friendly, old bohemian feel. Go for coffee up the street at Simple Pleasures,…
yelp.com - user review - 03/11/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Donna W.

5.0 of 5 stars. My friend and I went here Friday night past and it is definitely a neat little theatre. It's over 80 years old (they had a birthday celebration where they were showing Buster Keaton films and handing…
yelp.com - user review - 03/07/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Loulou d.

4.0 of 5 stars. An old-timey theatre which does justice to San Francisco, showing revival fare, second-run, and special events. I saw a David Lynch double feature here recently and couldn't help thinking that this…
yelp.com - user review - 02/27/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Johannes B.

4.0 of 5 stars. Indie-Kino a la Schauburg. Etwas heruntergekommen. Aber sehr schoen. 4 Sterne wegen unguenstiger Lage
yelp.com - user review - 02/21/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Lun-na L.

5.0 of 5 stars. So, my review may be a bit bias since I had one of the all-time best first dates here, but Balboa Theater is a great independent movie theater. I'm a sucker for indie movies and this is a great…
yelp.com - user review - 02/18/2007
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Yelp.com Review - by Pat G.

5.0 of 5 stars. I once saw a double feature of "Mulholland Drive" and "The Man Who Wasn't There" at the Balboa Theatre.