I love Calgary's old theatres for the independent films that they show, and the all around love for the community that they demonstrate too. The Uptown is an example of business that loves what it does, and has found new models to support itself too. In addition to supporting CIFF and local film, it is home to the Marquee Room and is available as a venue for parties etc.
So it is as both a film lover and as a party-goer that I give it five stars. The Marquee Room is definitely awesome, but so is the lower level. I recently attended an afternoon christmas party which featured food and mingling and then a movie and it was perfect. I was totally impressed with the quality of the service in addition to the coziness of the lobby floors couches and tables.
Of course, the quality of the films is tops too. The staff genuinely love the films, and the popcorn and other goodies are all very tasty.