By Gus Saltonstall
The Uptown Film Center, which is working toward opening its permanent home in the former Metro Theater, is hosting free, outdoor movie screenings this summer and fall.
“Some of our favorite movie memories happen outdoors during the summer,” said Ira Deutchman, president of Uptown Film Center, in a news release. “There’s something special about watching a film beneath the evening sky, surrounded by neighbors, friends, and families. We wanted these screenings to be completely open to everyone and be a place where people can bring a blanket or lawn chair, relax, laugh, sing along, and experience the joy of moviegoing together.”
Here are the details and dates to know.
“Summer of Soul” on August 6 at 8 p.m.
- Location: Morningside Park
- Co-presenters: Friends of Morningside Park, the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District, and the West 111th Street Block Association.
“Mamma Mia!” on August 22 at 8 p.m.
- Location: Amsterdam Avenue between West 109th and 110th streets
- Co-presenters: Columbus/Amsterdam Business Improvement District and the West 111th Street Block Association.
“In The Heights” on September 18 at 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Riverside Park north of the 96th Street Tennis Courts
- Co-presenters: The Riverside Park Conservancy and the New Friends of Metro Theater.
The outdoor series is supported in part by public funds from the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development, in partnership with the City Council and the office of New York City Councilperson Shaun Abreu.
In 2025, the nonprofit Upper West Side Cinema Center purchased the long-vacant Metro Theater at 2626 Broadway. That fall, the nonprofit announced the theater’s new name—The Uptown Film Center. The nonprofit is currently raising money to complete the renovation and reopen the theater, and has set 2028 as its target opening year.
Along with the fundraising, the Upper West Side Film Center is hosting different activities and events in the neighborhood, such as this summer film- screening series.
You can learn more about the free, outdoor movies — HERE.
Read More:
- UWS Metro Theater Gets a New Name: Goal to Reopen in 2028, New Details, Renderings
- Bare Beams and Steel: A Look Inside the Planned Renovation of the UWS’ Former Metro Theater
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