The Enzian Theater is Central Florida's Home for Independent Film

Beneath the drowsy, moss drenched limbs of ancient oak trees is the Enzian Theater. Hidden away in the city of Maitland, just north of Orlando, the Enzian Theater resides in a quaint yellow clapboard cottage. It is the only not-for-profit alternative cinema in central Florida and its dedication to art-house and independent filmmaking are embraced by the Orlando community.

When driving into the Enzian's gravel parking lot, filmgoers are immediately struck by the impeccably landscaped property. The single-theater building is surrounded by gardens and courtyards teeming with Florida wildlife. With its unique scenery and adventurous programming, clearly, the Enzian is so much more than an average movie theater.

The white lights of the box office marquee illuminate the Enzian's feature presentation and a small patio waiting area is located off to the side. Immediately inside, the foyer is lined with posters from recent film engagements as well as promotional material for the Florida Film Festival, Young Filmmakers Summer Camp and more. Shortly before the main event, the theater doors are opened and guests are welcomed in. The theater seats 230 viewers in an assortment of sofas and tables. The split level floor plan allows unobstructed views from all angles.

The Enzian hosts a number of film festivals and special events all year long, the most notable being the annual Florida Film Festival. It showcases over 150 films and draws over 20,000 filmmakers and movie buffs from all over the country. Cultural film festivals also call the Enzian home. They include the South Asian Film Festival, the Central Florida Jewish Film Festival, and the Gay Orlando Film Festival. In the summertime, the Enzian hosts Winter Park Popcorn Flicks, free films in various Winter Park locations. Bring your own lawn chair and enjoy film classics like "The Goonies" and "The Color Purple".

Before and during the screenings, Enzian waiters discretely serve an assortment of appetizers, sandwiches and desserts. The gourmet dishes range from roasted wild mushroom salad with spinach and arugula and sweet curry vinaigrette to a barbecue tofu sandwich to pizzas. I happen to love the fresh baked chocolate chip cookies and zingy mint tea. A great selection of beer and wine rounds everything out with more than fifteen wine options and well over twenty draft and bottled beers. The patio bar serves sophisticated swills from Manhattans to Mojitos.

As a not-for-profit, the Enzian relies on donations and memberships to continue their community outreach. Levels of membership range from $60 to $2,200 and include discounts on screenings, free popcorn, and other perks depending on the membership level. The benefits are outlined on their website and at the theater. For film times and special engagements, check out Enzian.org.