With its eclectic detailing drawn from the Near East as well as the Far East, the Oriental was an architectural landmark from the day it opened. Operating since the end of the silent era, it remains Milwaukee’s only functioning movie palace from the 1920s. Even the economic decision to split the theater in three hasn’t diminished the Oriental’s splendor. In the ’80s and ’90s it screened mostly foreign and domestic movies from beyond Hollywood. Although lately blockbusters and Oscar contenders are filling more of its screen-time, the Oriental is still a place to catch movies that will never be shown in any nearby multiplex. Recently, the Oriental added full bar service in the lobby.

Oriental Landmark Theatre
2230 N. Farwell Ave.
414-276-8711

http://www.landmarktheatres.com/

Runners-up: The Majestic, The Rosebud Cinema Drafthouse