By Jim Thomson

Second-run theaters are great. Maybe you missed the movie the first time or you just want to save a buck and enjoy a cold beer with your movie. Portland has many unique and charismatic second-run and pub theaters.


Laurelhurst Theatre
2735 E Burnside St Portland, OR 97214
Originally opened in 1923, it has defiantly stood the test of time. Laurelhurst has also recently been renovated, including the historic neon sign, which has made this a historic Portland icon. The second run films are top notch including independent, foreign, local and hand picked classics for their monthly themed series. You can enjoy gourmet pizza, above average concessions and microbrews/wine while watching your movie. The theaters are on the smaller side and often sell out, show up early. (Minors are allowed, with an adult, at shows starting before 3pm)
Screens: 4
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby: Navarre, Wine Down, Beulahland, India Grill, Pambiche, Dove Vivi, East Burn


Academy Theater
7818 SE Stark St Portland, OR 97215
The Academy was launched over sixty years ago and recently went through a full-scale renovation. After its closure in the 70's, the Academy quickly became an eye sore. It has been restored to a streamlined, modern treasure. Concessions include Flying Pie Pizza by the slices, Nathan's Hot Dogs, organic chocolate, ten microbrew beers on tap and six selections of wine. The Academy is highly family friendly and offers all-age weekend matinees and daily after school specials. Rather ditch the kids? They also offer babysitting on the weekends. (Minors are allowed, with an adult, at shows starting before 8pm)
Screens: 3
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby: Flying Pie, Country Cat, Bipartisan Cafe, Ya Halak, Romo's Latin Quarter


McMenamins Kennedy School, Bagdad, Mission, All
Although all McMenamins restaurants have their own theme and ambience, they are pretty much the same in my book. This also goes for their second run theaters. Each one has rich history in Portland and has been restored well. The menus are all about the same but reliable. Communication breakdown burger is hard to beat. In addition to films, McMenamins theaters often feature local films, live performances and big sporting events. If you can't score a pair of civil war football tickets, the big screen at the Mission is the next best thing. (Minors are allowed, with an adult, at shows starting before 6pm)
Screens: Vary


99W Drive-In
304 E 1st St, Newberg, OR
The fact that the 99W Drive-In has survived real-estate pressure, weather, Oregon rain, seasons, home theaters and daylight savings brings warmth to my heart. The throwback concessions are pretty tasty. A coke and a hot dog are ideal to make it through the late second film. My favorite is the classic trailers and concession commercials from the 50's, 60's and 70's they play between shows. A line of cars often forms before the gates open around 7pm. Getting their early is recommended to get a good spot especially if you are meeting friends. Bring a Frisbee and cards. The season is usually mid spring to mid fall.
Screens: 1
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby: Painted Lady, Pasquale's


Living Room Theaters
341 SW 10th Avenue, Portland, OR
Living Room is more of a gourmet version of the second run theaters. The drinks are amazing as well as the tapes and paninis. Arrive 30 minutes early and you can enjoy your meal in the theater. The bar is so sleek and inviting; I often stay late or arrive early. The films shown are usually independent or foreign and are often already available for rental, but the Living Room beats mine.
Screens: 6
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby:Clyde Common, Mio Gelato, Cafe Voila, Roxy, India Chaat House, Jake's Grill


Valley Cinema-Pub
9360 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Beaverton, OR 97005
This Beaverton pub theater is pretty much what you expect from a suburban second run. The theaters are comfortable and the food and beer is cheap but still good. There are many micro brews and Pizza Schmizza pies to choose from.
Screens: 3
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby: Ernesto's, New Seoul Garden


Clinton Street Theatre
2522 SE Clinton St Portland, OR 97202
More independent films then second run, the Clinton Street Theatre also plays local work and cult classics. Built in 1914, the Clinton is thought to be the oldest, running movie theater west of the Mississippi. They have also been playing Rocky Horror Picture show every Saturday night for 30 years straight (which is more of an experience then a showing). Clinton Street isn't recommended if sound quality, cleanliness and seat comfort are important requirements. If independent movies partnered with a strange, independent ambiance are, the CST is for you. Recently conjoined with the divey Clinton Street Pub, is a good place to grab a beer to take in with you to the movie. (Minors are allowed, with an adult, at shows starting before 7pm and for Rocky Horror)
Screens: 1
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby:Noho's Hawaiian Cafe, Savoy Tavern and Bistro, Bara Sushi House


Avalon Theatre
3451 SE Belmont St Portland, OR 97214
The Avalon also sound/video quality and doesn't server alcohol, but the nickel carnival style games are fun no matter what age you are. The Avalon is often infested with pre-teens, so go later in the evening.
Screens: 2
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby: Khun Pic's Bahn Thai, Belmont Pearl, Pine State Biscuits, Wild Abandon, Aalto Lounge


Kiggins Theatre
1011 Main St, Vancouver, WA
Another family friendly theater with old town charm. The Kiggins offers basic concessions. The theater can be pretty chili at times, but you are allowed to bring your own blanket.
Screens: 1
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby: Tommy O's Pacific Rim Bistro, Pepper's Taqueria, Touch of Athens


Cinetopia Theater
11700 SE 7th St, Vancouver, WA
Ok, so this isn't a second run, but you can enjoy Vinotopia Restaurant and Wine Bar before, during or after your show. Servers will take your order up to 10 minutes before your movie starts in any of the five Living Room style theaters. The wine list is huge and the menu spans the globe. (Minor are only allowed in the three regular theaters)
Screens: 8
Movie Times: Here
What's Nearby:Thai Terrace, Little Italy's Trattoria