Besides going to a giant multiplex and seeing the blockbuster explosion, why not seek out some independent films at revival art houses? You can see a host of diverse, foreign films at the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Public Library, and some of the best independent movie theaters around, the Coolidge Corner Theater and the Brattle. And in the summertime, you can actually catch a "Free Friday Flick" at the Hatchshell.

Coolidge Corner Theater

The Coolidge Corner Movie Theater shows quirky, independent features, and even things like a 25th Annual Science Fiction Marathon, and amateur adult film night. They also bring out the insomniacs for the midnight showing of some off-the wall stuff. It's a joy to see a movie in this place, complete with original art deco light fixtures. It is accessible by the "T". An extra bonus: The small concession stand features gourmet ice cream and chocolates.

The Coolidge Corner Theater, 290 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-734-2500

Brattle Theater

The Brattle Theater, located in Harvard Square, Cambridge, features such classic selections as Rear Window and Casablanca. This art-house theater is over 100 years old, and part of what makes it special is that it doesn’t feature first-run films. Instead, it focuses on a "theme", and their daily selections of film illustrate that theme. One theme, for instance is "Black and White on Edge", which are black and white film noir selections such as Raging Bull. Check it out.

BrattleTheatre, 40 Brattle St., Cambridge, 617-876-6837

 

Museum of Fine Arts

Foreign film lovers flock to the Museum of Fine Arts for its selection of films from all over the world. Tickets are only $6 for members and $7 for general admission, and you’ll be rewarded with seeing a unique film in a lovely setting. Get there nice and early, so that maybe you can sneak a peak at the artwork as well.

Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., 617-267-9300

Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library, located in Copley Square is the nation’s oldest library. In addition to being a wonderful source of reference materials, the library has art exhibits, lectures, concerts and workshops. Its film series is ongoing, and features an eclectic selection of foreign and independent films.

Boston Public Library, 666 Boylston St., 617-536-5400

Freebies

Some of the best things in life are free, like the summertime "Free Friday Flicks" at the Hatch Shell. Grab your picnic basket and an old blanket and check out such classics as The Wizard of Oz or E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial. The Hatch also has free music and dance performances to almost every night in the summer. You can catch just about every type of performance here, but come Fourth of July, the Boston Pops celebrate here (along with thousands of other people) surrounded by breathtaking fireworks.

The Hatch Shell, on the Esplanade, 617-727-1300.

 

Classic Film Series

On cold, Winter Monday nights, the Wang Center for the Performing Arts shows classic movies such as Gone with the Wind and Ben Hur on a gigantic 64-ft. screen.

Wang Center for the Performing Arts 268 Tremont Street, 617-931-2000