Business Segments (Reconciliation To Net Loss Attributable To Common Shareholders) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Business Segments [Abstract]
Total segment operating income	$ 6,094	$ 8,508
Depreciation and amortization expense	112	139
General and administrative expense	3,448	3,539
Operating income	2,534	4,830
Interest expense, net	(2,673)	(3,759)
Other income (expense)	16	(45)
Loss on sale of assets	(7)
Income tax expense	(889)	(1,625)
Equity earnings of unconsolidated joint ventures	347	413
Income from discontinued operations		77
Net loss	(672)	(109)
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	4	(130)
Net loss attributable to Reading International, Inc. common shareholders	$ (668)	$ (239)