Reviewed by: Lisa Battles
Attention movie buffs: check out these cinefile experiences in Huntsville
Reading time: 3 minutes
If I have learned anything from my time here in Huntsville, it’s that we have a strong population of cinefiles. These folks not only know their movies, but also have a tremendous appreciation for all genres of films.
That’s why I was curious to find out about some of the lesser-known events and gathering spots for local movie buffs. Here’s what I found:
Experience some movie nostalgia
I may be revealing way too much about my age, but I look back fondly on visits to the video store to rent movies for the weekend, walking around Blockbuster or your local mom-and-pop video store to choose that night’s entertainment.
Eventually, mail-based movie rentals took over and then were replaced by streaming services. And just like that, the movie rental store was all but gone. However, we recently stumbled upon Big Mix Video, Huntsville’s only video rental store and were stung by nostalgia.
Our trusted videographer, Ben Johnson, was able to take deeper a look inside Big Mix Video, and spoke with its owner, David Gillespie:
- Where: 309 Dallas St NE, Huntsville, AL 35801
- When: Wednesday-Saturday, 12-6PM
- More Info: Facebook
Do you know about Schlockbuster Presents?
Described as a “monthly movie club in Huntsville specializing in the weird, wild and wacky that you want to see onscreen,” Schlockbuster Presents hosts a movie night once a month that features some cool and offbeat flicks.
Typically scheduled for the second Friday of each month at Campus 805, this movie club showcases the likes of “New York Ninja,” “Sweet Meats,” “Tokyo Gore Police” and more. This is an irresistible experience for local movie buffs.
- Where: Campus 805 Stone Event Center, 2620 Clinton Ave W, Huntsville, AL 35805
- When: Second Friday of each month | Doors at 6:30PM, show at 7PM
- Before You Go: Follow them on socials below to check the lineup + age restrictions
- More Info: Facebook | Instagram
Get to know The Independent
If you are wondering if Huntsville has its own independent theater, you would be pleased to know that the concept is in the works. The Independent is a project that aims to fill that void.
Currently, The Independent operates out of Mad Malts Brewing, where its screenings are held every two weeks. However, plans are in the works for a brick and mortar theater, and fundraising efforts are underway.
- Where: Mad Malts Brewing, 109 NW Maple Ave, Huntsville, AL 35801
- When: Every other Sunday | Shows usually start at 6PM
- Get Tickets
- More Info: Facebook | YouTube
Check out this second-hand movie store
If you are old enough to remember watching movies on VHS cassettes, you will love this walk down Memory Lane. KBS VHS on Jefferson Street in Huntsville makes you feel like you have stepped back in time.
This place has used books, CDs, memorabilia and tons of VHS tapes.
Are you one of Huntsville’s movie buffs? Have you ever been to these spots? Let us know on Facebook, TikTok, Threads and Instagram, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
