The Fountain Theatre in Mesilla, NM presents independent, foreign and documentary films daily.
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Fountain Theatre Mesilla

4.8
·199 reviews·Mesilla, United States

Historic nonprofit arthouse cinema in Mesilla, NM, showcasing independent, foreign, and documentary films with charm and character.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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The Fountain Theatre in Mesilla, NM presents independent, foreign and documentary films daily.

Fountain Theatre Mesilla

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic nonprofit arthouse cinema in Mesilla, NM, showcasing independent, foreign, and documentary films with charm and character.

4.8
(199 reviews)

"A quaint cinema with a lot of charm, showing great films that big chain theaters won't show."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Membership Perks

Become a member for special ticket prices and support this nonprofit gem!

☕ Snacks & Sips

Enjoy fresh popcorn with real butter, brewed coffee, and drinks from La Posta next door.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Arthouse Cinema

Historic Arthouse Cinema

Mesilla, New Mexico

Experience independent, foreign, and documentary films in a beautifully preserved historic building.

Unique Film Selections

Unique Film Selections

Discover award-winning LGBTQ+ cinema, Mexican masterpieces, and films you won't find at mainstream theaters.

Community Support

Community Support

Support a beloved nonprofit that keeps unique cinematic experiences alive in Mesilla.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Arthouse Vibe

This nonprofit gem screens independent, foreign, and documentary films. Don't expect blockbusters; come for unique cinematic experiences. Membership offers special ticket prices, and donations help keep this historic theater alive.

Comfort and Charm

While the theater boasts charm and a great sound system, some find the seats less than comfortable and the AC a bit too cold. Consider bringing a light layer for your visit to this historic Mesilla spot.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Special screening events
Why
Unique film premieres & festivals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@kaylareporting
111.3K likes • 860.5K views

🎟️ Membership Perks

Become a member for special ticket prices and support this nonprofit gem! Reddit

☕ Snacks & Sips

Enjoy fresh popcorn with real butter, brewed coffee, and drinks from La Posta next door. Reddit

Was able to snag a seat to FATHERLAND at The Fountain Theatre to see @Patrick Keleher do his thing. Excellent play! Support Local and Live Theatre and if you have the chance - make sure you catch this young man doing his thing!
@missoneil
83.2K likes • 1.6M views
Congrats to the Fountain Theatre - Mesilla, NM for being our 1000 location on our location database! Check out our website to find the next location for your production! #nmfilm #NMFilm #filmlascruces #filmmaking #locationshoot #locationscouting
filmlascruces
93 likes • 1.6K views

🧥 Bring a Layer

The AC can be a bit chilly, so a light jacket is recommended for comfort. Reddit

🎬 Discover New Films

Check their schedule for award-winning LGBTQ+ and foreign films you won't see elsewhere. Instagram+1

Coming soon to The Fountain Theatre in Mesilla followed by the premiere of my teaser trailer for Birth of the Acid Western. This will be the one and only screening of Orville Wanzer’s second (and last) feature film George Andrews. Wanzer wrote, directed and starred in this self-referential film about a literature professor who gets in a car accident leaving him hospitalized with a head injury, d...
acidwesterndoc
13 likes • 448 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Membership Perks

Become a member for special ticket prices and support this nonprofit gem! Reddit

☕ Snacks & Sips

Enjoy fresh popcorn with real butter, brewed coffee, and drinks from La Posta next door. Reddit

🧥 Bring a Layer

The AC can be a bit chilly, so a light jacket is recommended for comfort. Reddit

🎬 Discover New Films

Check their schedule for award-winning LGBTQ+ and foreign films you won't see elsewhere. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(199 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Fountain Theatre for its charming historic atmosphere, good picture and sound quality, and its commitment to showing unique arthouse, foreign, and independent films. It's seen as a vital community space that offers a refreshing alternative to mainstream cinemas, though some find the seats less comfortable and the air conditioning a bit too cold.

"Good pricing, picture and sound were fine. Comfortable fresh popcorn and brewed coffee. Great art house features."

Michael Langford

"What a quaint cinema! Was pleasantly surprised by the inside. A small cinema with a lot of charm. One can oruchase drinks from La Posta next door, and there are very reasonably priced drinks and snacks at the commissary. Special ticket prices all week, and it pays to be a member. Doesn't show mainstream films, and is supported by donors. Only downside is that the AC is a bit too cold, and the seats weren't the most comfortable, but it's worth it. Keep spaces like this alive!"

Hannah Molyneux

"Beautiful, theater. If those murals could talk."

J. Bob Rolo

What People Like

Historic charm
Unique film selection
Good value

What People Dislike

Uncomfortable seats
Cold AC

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Fountain Theatre is located in historic Mesilla, New Mexico. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to the theater with exploring the charming Mesilla Plaza. Instagram

Yes, there is typically parking available in the vicinity of the theater, especially around the Mesilla Plaza. Street parking and nearby lots are common options. Instagram

Absolutely! The Fountain Theatre is situated in the heart of historic Mesilla, making it a pleasant walk from other attractions like the Mesilla Plaza, shops, and restaurants. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are generally reasonable, with special pricing available all week. Becoming a member offers further discounts and benefits, and the theater relies on donor support to operate. Reddit

While advance booking might be recommended for popular screenings or special events, it's often possible to purchase tickets upon arrival. Checking their schedule online is a good idea. Instagram

The Fountain Theatre specializes in arthouse films, including independent features, foreign films, documentaries, and award-winning cinema like LGBTQ+ and Mexican masterpieces. They do not typically show mainstream blockbusters. Instagram+1

Yes, the Fountain Theatre offers membership options that provide special ticket prices and other benefits. Supporting the theater through membership is a great way to keep these unique screenings going. Reddit

Operating hours vary depending on the film schedule. It's best to check the Fountain Theatre's official website or social media for the most up-to-date showtimes and operating hours. Instagram

🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience

The Fountain Theatre is described as a quaint cinema with a lot of charm. It's an old-school movie theater that offers a unique and intimate viewing experience, often featuring beautiful murals. Reddit

Reviewers generally find the picture and sound quality to be good. The theater is noted for having a good sound system that doesn't overwhelm the audience. Reddit

While the theater has charm, some visitors have noted that the seats aren't the most comfortable. Bringing a small cushion or wearing comfortable clothing is sometimes suggested. Reddit

Information on specific accessibility features can vary. It's recommended to contact the theater directly to inquire about accessibility for patrons with disabilities. Instagram

You can purchase drinks from La Posta next door and enjoy them at the theater. The theater also has its own commissary with reasonably priced snacks. Reddit

🍽️ 🍿 Food & Dining

The Fountain Theatre offers fresh popcorn with real butter and brewed coffee. You can also purchase drinks from the adjacent La Posta restaurant and enjoy them inside. Reddit

Yes, the Fountain Theatre is located in Mesilla, which has a variety of dining options, including the popular La Posta restaurant right next door. Reddit

While the theater itself may not sell alcohol, you can purchase drinks from La Posta next door and bring them into the theater. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Typically, photography is not allowed during film screenings to avoid disturbing other patrons and to protect copyright. However, you may be able to take photos of the theater's interior or exterior before or after a show, especially if permitted by staff. Instagram

The historic architecture of the Fountain Theatre, both inside and out, offers great photo opportunities. The charming Mesilla setting also provides a picturesque backdrop. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Fountain Theatre primarily screens adult-oriented arthouse films, it can be a unique outing for families with older children interested in cinema. The historic charm and intimate setting offer a different experience than a typical multiplex. However, it's crucial to check the film schedule beforehand, as most screenings are not geared towards young children. Consider it for a special occasion or if your children have a particular interest in independent or foreign films. Instagram+1

💰 Budget Travelers

The Fountain Theatre is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Ticket prices are described as reasonably priced, and becoming a member offers further discounts. This nonprofit venue relies on community support, so your ticket purchase directly contributes to keeping unique films accessible. Plus, you can save by bringing your own snacks or enjoying affordable options from the commissary. Reddit

❤️ Couples

For a romantic and unique date night, the Fountain Theatre offers a charming alternative to mainstream cinemas. Enjoy a film in a historic setting with a curated selection of independent and foreign movies. You can even grab a drink from La Posta next door to enhance the experience. It’s a perfect spot for couples who appreciate culture and a more intimate atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Fountain Theatre in Mesilla, New Mexico, is more than just a movie theater; it's a piece of local history. Housed in a historic building, it has been a cornerstone of the community for years, showcasing films that often differ from mainstream offerings. Its nonprofit status means it relies on community support, making each visit a contribution to preserving a unique cultural space. The theater's charm is evident in its architecture and the intimate atmosphere it provides for film lovers. InstagramReddit

This venue is particularly noted for its commitment to screening independent, foreign, and documentary films. This dedication allows audiences to experience a wider range of cinematic storytelling, from critically acclaimed international productions to thought-provoking documentaries and LGBTQ+ cinema. The theater has hosted special screenings, including 4K restorations of Mexican cinema classics, highlighting its role in preserving and celebrating diverse film heritage. Instagram+1

Visitors often remark on the quaint and charming atmosphere of the Fountain Theatre. While the seats might not be the most luxurious, the overall experience is enhanced by the unique setting and the quality of the films shown. The good picture and sound quality further contribute to an enjoyable movie-going experience, making it a beloved spot for those seeking something beyond the typical multiplex. Reddit

The Arthouse Film Experience

The Fountain Theatre Mesilla is a haven for arthouse cinema enthusiasts. Unlike large chain theaters, it focuses on films that challenge, inspire, and offer diverse perspectives. This includes a strong selection of independent features, foreign language films, and compelling documentaries. The theater actively promotes films that might not get wide distribution, providing a vital platform for unique storytelling. Instagram+1

Recent programming highlights include award-winning LGBTQ+ films, such as 'Hidden Flora,' which garnered accolades at the Las Cruces International Film Festival. They also showcase significant international cinema, like the 4K restoration of the 1951 Mexican masterpiece 'Victimas del Pecado.' This commitment to diverse and culturally rich films makes the Fountain Theatre a valuable cultural asset. Instagram+1

For those looking to deepen their appreciation for film, the Fountain Theatre offers a curated selection that encourages discussion and discovery. The intimate setting enhances the viewing experience, allowing audiences to connect more deeply with the narratives presented on screen. It’s a place where film is celebrated as an art form. Reddit

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