Athena Cinema

The Athena Cinema is a movie theater housed in a historic building on South Court Street that specializes in independent films and artistic productions. The venue operates three screens showing a diverse range of programming for audiences interested in cinema beyond mainstream releases.

The building opened in 1915 as the Majestic Theatre and originally served the growing community as an entertainment venue. After undergoing various changes over the decades, Ohio University took over operation in 2001 to preserve its cultural importance.

The venue plays a central role in the local film community, drawing students and residents who seek out independent and artistic cinema. Visitors find themselves among people who value cinema as an art form rather than just entertainment.

The theater is located downtown and easy to reach on foot or by public transportation. Visitors should arrive early to secure good seating, especially for popular films and weekend screenings.

In the 1960s, students organized a successful protest against rising ticket prices that resulted in the establishment of reduced matinee rates. This student activism shaped the theater's policies and made it a place where the community had a voice.