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Best of Metromix Detroit 2013Independent Movie Theatre

There's plenty to do in the Motor City, but who doesn't love date night at the movies? Here we honor some of the area's best theatres showing independent films, hosting film festivals and exuding ultra coolness. If you think we left out a deserving nominee, let us hear about it!

Redford Theatre

17360 Lahser

Detroit, MI 48219

Do you have a thing for classic movies? Do you like real butter on your popcorn? The historic Redford Theatre provides both in a cozy, fully restored, theater that even has its original Barton theater pipe organ. Decorated in the style of an old-school Japanese theater, the winner in this new category for 2013 is known for its weekend showings of some of cinema's most-beloved flicks, often with appearances by the stars.

Nominees

Maple Theater

Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301

The three-screen theatre recently underwent a $1.5-million renovation, giving it a considerably more upscale look. The theater features special film programs and amenities like a bar serving liquor, beer and wine, a coffee shop, locally catered food, valet parking on weekends and a waitstaff.

Landmark Main Art Theatre

118 N. Main

Royal Oak, MI 48067

Neighborhood: Downtown Royal Oak

Everyone knows the Royal Oak art house for high-profile foreign and independent films. But this also is a popular spot to screen homemade movies. The Mitten Movie Project hosts screenings here on the second Tuesday of each month. Others rent the Main for single-night screenings because it has digital projection already installed. The box office opens 15 minutes before first show time and closes 15 minutes after last show time. Work by local artists often hangs in lobby.

Detroit Film Theatre (DIA)

5200 Woodward

Detroit, MI 48202

Neighborhood: Cultural District/Midtown/Wayne State

This intimate theater showcases featured DIA film presentations. Stunning architecture and a modern sound system highlights this fully-restored theater. Visit the website for current film schedules and ticket pricing.

Michigan Theater

603 E. Liberty

Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Neighborhood: Downtown Ann Arbor

Constructed during the silent film era, this 1700-seat theatre, decked in gold leaf and rich velvets, is home to the Barton Theatre Pipe Organ, one of the only theater organs in existence that is still played in its original home on a regular basis. With acoustics perfect for classical music, the Michigan Theater has been home to the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra since 1984. A smaller 200-seat screening room is housed under the same roof and reserved strictly for films.