The Theater Has 3 Screens. Built in 1939. Operated by Landmark since 1976. Located in the upscale River Oaks Shopping Center at the corner of West Gray and Shepherd, the River Oaks is one of Houston's last true movie palaces, having kept its beautifully ornate Art Deco interior since it opened its doors in November, 1939, with the film Bachelor Mother starring David Niven and Ginger Rogers. The Houston Post described the theatre as “. . .thoroughly modern in every respect. Quiet dignity rather than garish display is reflected in the color scheme and appointments of the interior.” At its inception, the theatre was operated by the Interstate Theatre chain, run by Karl Hoblitzelle, who once said, “the entertainment industry, more than any other business, is built upon good relations with the public.” That policy still exists today as the management team of the River Oaks, as well as the Greenway, works very closely with many community groups in marketing independent and foreign language films.
The River Oaks has boasted many world premiere engagements and is Houston's home for the Annual Academy Awards® Viewing Party. The River Oaks also features an eclectic mix of Friday and Saturday midnight shows.
Visit the River Oaks for Houston's best independent film and foreign language cinema and cap the evening by visiting La Griglia, Birraporreti's or any of the other award-winning international restaurants surrounding the theatre.
