Dublin is a city that breathes stories, so it’s no surprise that our cinema culture is just as rich as our literary one. Whether you are looking for a state-of-the-art IMAX experience, a 1920s-style cocktail with a movie, or a niche indie film tucked away in Temple Bar, the capital has a seat waiting for you.
As of early 2026, the Dublin film landscape is more diverse than ever. Here is a factual guide to the best spots to catch a film, from the mainstream giants to the hidden alternative gems.
The Cultural Cornerstones
For those who view film as an art form rather than just entertainment, two locations stand above the rest.
The Irish Film Institute (IFI)
Located in the heart of Temple Bar, the IFI is the home of Irish film culture. It isn’t just a cinema; it’s a national archive and a hub for independent cinema. With three screens and a cozy café-bar, it specializes in world cinema, documentaries, and restored classics. If you want to see a 35mm print or a rare foreign-language masterpiece, this is your first stop.
Light House Cinema
Situated in the rejuvenated Smithfield Square, the Light House is arguably one of the most vibrant cultural spaces in Ireland. Known for its colorful, subterranean screens and its iconic “wall of fame,” it perfectly balances major blockbusters with independent releases. It is also the frequent host of major festivals like GAZE and the Dublin International Film Festival.
The Luxury & Vintage Experience
If you want to turn movie night into a special event, Dublin’s luxury cinemas offer a level of comfort that makes it hard to return to standard seating.
- The Stella Cinema (Rathmines): A beautifully restored 1920s theatre. Think red velvet armchairs, footstools, and even beds at the front of the screen. The cocktail club upstairs is the perfect place for a post-movie debrief.
- Stella Cinema (Ranelagh): Tucked away in the Devlin Hotel, this is a more intimate, boutique version of its Rathmines sibling, offering a sleek mid-century modern vibe.
- Brooks Private Cinema: Located within Brooks Hotel on Drury Street, this is an ultra-exclusive screening room that can be booked for private events, making it a favorite for birthdays or corporate gatherings.
The Mainstream Powerhouses
Sometimes you just want the biggest screen and the loudest sound possible for a summer blockbuster.
- Cineworld (Parnell Street): Boasting Dublin’s only IMAX screen and immersive 4DX technology (where your seat moves and you might get a spray of water during a chase scene), this is the city’s largest multiplex.
- The Savoy (O’Connell Street): Ireland’s oldest cinema in operation. While it has been modernized, Screen 1 still retains a sense of grand scale that modern multiplexes often lack.
- ODEON Point Square: A great choice for those looking for a quieter mainstream experience near the Docklands, often featuring the latest high-tech “iSense” screens.
Alternative & Seasonal Gems
Dublin also offers “outside-the-box” ways to watch movies that don’t always involve a traditional theatre seat.
- The Sugar Club: Located on Leeson Street, this venue often hosts cult classic screenings in a cabaret-style setting. You can sit in plush booths while enjoying a drink and a pizza.
- Retro Drive-In Movies: Usually popping up at Leopardstown Racecourse during the winter and spring months, this is the ultimate throwback experience. You tune your car radio to the film’s frequency and watch from your own vehicle.
- The Mutiny Theatre: A tiny, secret 39-seat cinema near Fitzwilliam Square used for private screenings and industry events, known for its vintage aesthetic.
At a Glance: Where to Watch
Below is a summary of the top spots and where to find their current schedules.
| Cinema Name | Vibe | Location | Current Listings |
| Irish Film Institute | Arthouse & Archive | Temple Bar | Check Showtimes |
| Light House Cinema | Trendy & Indie | Smithfield | Check Showtimes |
| The Stella Cinema | Luxury & Vintage | Rathmines | Check Showtimes |
| Cineworld Dublin | IMAX & Blockbusters | Parnell Street | Check Showtimes |
| The Savoy | Historic Grandeur | O’Connell St | Check Showtimes |
| Brooks Screening Room | Private Boutique | Drury Street | Inquire Here |
| Retro Drive-In | Seasonal/Outdoor | Leopardstown | Check Events |
