5 Points Theatre

Last October saw the opening of Jacksonville's newest and oldest movie house, the 5 Points Theatre, a welcomed addition to the small number of independent theaters in the area that show the quality films that the plethora of large cinemas often unjustly ignore.

Built in 1927 and originally called the Riverside Theatre, this building has a long, tumultuous history and has undergone many closings, re-openings, remodeling efforts, and changes throughout its 80 year existence. It was the first theater in Florida and the third nationwide that was equipped to show talking motion pictures (talkies). More recently, during the 90s and early 2000s it became Club 5 and then the Marquee Theater which both played host to many a wild musical act. In 2007 it was purchased by the Mike Shad Company and renovated to include retail space along the street and offices and lofts above. Now the 5 Points Theatre is once again in the business of showing movies.

Like The San Marco Theatre, the films you'll find playing on the theater's single screen are often those overlooked or underplayed by the bigger cinemas around; from small, art house films to quality blockbusters. We saw "Slumdog Millionaire" there and they're now playing "Milk". Next up is a free matinee showing of a local production called "Doable" on Sat Feb 14. Also like the San Marco Theatre, the concession stand serves draft and bottled beer along with the traditional movie theater food.

The picture quality was good, sound was clear, and the ambiance fitting. Tickets are $8.50, a little higher than usual, but worth it to avoid the screeching masses huddled into the larger theaters around town. I believe the place is still undergoing renovations and the balcony is currently off limits but I think there are plans to open it up in the near future.

5 Points Theatre
1022 Park Street
Jacksonville, FL 32204
(904) 358-0605