Justina Bonilla

Justina Bonilla A film enthusiast, with a passion for classic, musical, cult, and horror films. Justina is also a freelance writer and blogger.

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12-Hour Overnight Streamathon! Saturday, Oct. 24th – Sunday, Oct. 25th!

The Frida Cinema

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This is a magical space. My first film experience here was Mullholland Drive, and I would have that no other way. The people that work there are all charming and fun to talk to. I really need to visit more often, as it’s just such a radical place.

Cari M.

What a gem. I’ve lived in Orange County for twenty years and never knew of a repertory theater here. I’d expect to drive to L.A. to find a venue as cool as this.

Joe V.

The Frida Cinema is a force to be reckoned with! And a non-profit at that. A place that offers documentaries, the classics, foreign cinema, and everything else outside the mainstream world. This cinema is one of the only few running that do this. There is nothing like it.

Zaina H.

Went to The Frida Cinema today to see a 3 o’clock showing of The Void, which was listed on their home page. When I got there, I saw the marquee said the first show was at 5. I went in & asked what time The Void was playing and they said 5 — but they could run it for me at 3. That’s customer service above & beyond! Thanks to The Frida Cinema for making one very happy customer that didn’t have to go home & drive back 2 hours later.

Paul H.

‘A Blast from the Past’ are the words I’d use to describe this tremendous jewel contained within the artsy downtown Santa Ana. …These people aren’t selling the next best thing in Hollywood, they’re promoting COMMUNITY!

Allan O.

Went to see North by Northwest as a date night a couple weeks ago. I am a huge Cary Grant fan and yet had never seen this one so I knew I had to see it on the big screen so this was perfect! Cute little theater in Downtown Santa Ana near bars and restaurants. Will definitely be back for some more throwback movies or artsy films.

Sandra K.

I love this place! I’m one of the former “regulars” a The New Beverly Cinema in L.A. and I’m so glad I don’t have to drive all the way out there for my art house, vintage, cult and special film events. I love the fact that they’re a non-profit organization.

Al B.

I had a chance to visit the Frida Cinema last night for a screening of the original 1954 Godzilla and had such a great time! They had a very informative Q&A session afterwards with knowledgeable Ishiro Honda biographers.They also had the lobby set up with merchandise tables and a book signing. Well done Frida!! Have more events like these please.

Kiri C.

What a cool theater! This is a local Santa Ana gem that was just recently refurbished. They play great classic movies, and though we were here for an arts event, the historical charm just can be found the moment you step foot inside the lobby!

Eduardo B.

If your tastes in film go beyond the Hollywood mainstream, I encourage you to check out Frida. We’re lucky to have this great organization in Orange County that supports independent cinema.

Joe L.

This place rocks. The rest of this review is only to meet the minimum length requirement for yelp reviews, heh, imagine that. Failing to meet a length requirement. Couldn’t be me, No way José. Not in a million years. But yeah this place rocks.

Heriberto R.

This theater is seriously awesome! If you ever need the perfect place to watch independent films, foreign films, cult classics, or basically anything interesting you won’t typically find in mainstream media, this is it.

Ruth T.

What a hidden gem! I had such a lovely time at a recent showing of Godzilla (1954). This theater is a bit timeworn, yet undeniably quaint and charming with an unconventional feel. And interestingly enough, the audience served as the sweet element of surprise. Those in attendance created an atmosphere of delight, comfort, and personal acceptance… and get this.. there was an actual host who presented a brief preface to the film just prior to viewing. Very collegiate, which I loved! All in all perhaps you could say my experience was analogous to viewing a film with a large extended family; something you certainly won’t find in your traditional run of the mill theater. This is indeed a special place, highly recommended for those seeking a unique and memorable movie experience.

Mekayla W.

My new favorite theater! Such a friendly atmosphere and the staff is super friendly too. I’ve only been twice after discovering this gem about a week ago. I can’t wait to come back and view more movies here.

Jay D.

Had the pleasure of meeting Dolores Huerta at the screening of her documentary. Loved it very much. I’m glad a place like this exists in Orange county!

Yesca C.

This is such an amazing theater filled with nothing but love! I’ve been coming to this place for years and what’s nice is that I know I’m supporting a non-profit theater. They’re always helping the community, supporting local small filmmakers, proving something beautiful and wholesome and just being so well put together.

Lisset M.

Its hard to describe what they have captured here, the set up is very nice and a very classic feel. The staff are helpful and kind and the event we had at the theatre was really a lot of fun. I want to come back for “Rocky Horror” and the “Rudeboy OC” movie coming up soon. Thanks for keeping my childhood alive with this blast to the past!

Robert B.

I love the Frida, as an avid movie watcher, it’s great to have a place to go where many classic, cult and underrated films are shown. I had the pleasure of attending “The Decline of Western Civilization” screening with director Penelope Spheres doing a Q&A. Her films are so historically important and impacted me at a very young age. I am forever grateful for the experience, like nowhere else would this be possible. I think it’s truly amazing what the staff and everyone involved is doing for the community. They bring the magic of the silver screen without charging you an arm & a leg to attend their special events/screenings. I highly encourage any film lover to check out the Frida, no matter what film you choose, you will not be disappointed! They have an awesome online presence as well (IG, Website) where you can ask any them any questions or view their monthly calendar. They also host local art shows, film festivals showcasing new artists and film-makers.

Kim S.

We are so lucky to have this gem in our town. Fantastic, diverse, interesting movies that you can’t see anywhere else. They are community focused, showing low cost kids movies on the weekend and free movies on the rooftop in the summer. The customer service is warm and welcoming. This is clearly a labor of love and we are all benefiting. Thank you for being you Frida Cinema!

Tabitha A.

Great independent theater with a fantastic staff. Everyone was friendly and efficient. They had great seats and sound!! If your a popcorn lover grab it. They have vegan butter. Taste great and healthy! Without the guilt! Thank you for showing Mandy!

Dean D.

LOVE this theater..OMG. I’ve been here several times now for different events. I’ve attended 2 of the 3 Scott Pilgrim events thrown by Cinemattack. I was even the lucky winner of the Scott Pilgrim album on vinyl. I don’t have a record player..but may as well be a trophy for me because I never win anything! lol. I also attended “The Last Unicorn” event with Peter S Beagle- the author speaking and answering a Q and A afterwards. This was so awesome. I have always loved loved this movie and it was so great to actually see it on the big screen for the first time. Getting to meet Peter afterwards was a very special moment for me.

Elizabeth A.

I recently rented the theatre for a six-day event and it was an incredible experience. The staff at the Frida is accommodating, helpful, and overall a pleasure to work with. The theatre has so much character and is such a gem! I would highly recommend the theatre for anything from just seeing a film to renting the space. I know I’ll be back here time and time again!

Brandon P.

The Frida Cinema

Orange County's Year-Round Film Festival