Well, the time has finally come! After four books, four movies and numerous items of merchandise including but not limited to: books, posters, and even dolls, the Twilight franchise will culminate with the premiere of its fifth and final movie installment, “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part II.” As has become tradition with movie series installments and big blockbusters, the movie will premiere at midnight Thursday night (or Friday morning, whichever works for you!) and fans are already purchasing tickets. But where is the best place for Northwestern Twi-hards to go and see the be-all, end-all of the Twilight films? Although at the end of the day it all comes down to personal taste, there are a few select places in the Evanston and Chicago area that have stood out as definite winners for an optimal movie-watching experience.
For those not looking to stray too far away from downtown Evanston the Century 12 Evanston/CinéArts 6 and XD on Maple Avenue should be on your list when buying advance tickets. It boasts a café that prepares made-to-order food (and if you’re 21 drinks) that you can take into the theater with you to enjoy as you catch up on the escapades of Bella, Edward and Jacob. This theater is one of several theaters that gives moviegoers the option of either attending only the midnight showing of Breaking Dawn Part II, attending a double feature of parts I and II, or attending a movie marathon that starts at noon, shows all four movies, and culminates with the movie’s premiere. As an added bonus, there is an arcade on the premises. This is great for all video game lovers who want to see the movie, as well as for any guys who have been dragged along by their girlfriends and need something to do!
Also close by Evanston, is the AMC Showplace Village Crossing-18 in Skokie. This theatre has stadium-style seating, which means no matter where you are in the theater you will be able to see, a gigantic plus when going to see a movie that is destined to attract large crowds! And if you want a movie experience that is devoid of noisy fangirls or people who just like to talk through the entire movie, you have the option to rent out a theatre, although this could get a bit pricey! Make sure you have enough friends to chip in if you’re considering renting out. Unfortunately, this theater doesn’t offer the option of going to a double feature of Breaking Dawn I and II but you can attend a movie marathon at AMC that starts at 11:30, or just go see the movie by itself at midnight.
If you’re looking to take in some of the downtown Chicago-area when you go to see the movie, a good option is the AMC Loews on Michigan Avenue. This AMC has the same amenities as Skokie’s AMC but is on Michigan Avenue, the heart of Chicago and within walking distance of several great restaurants. If you’re looking for a quick cup of coffee to keep you alert after being at a movie marathon since noon, you can visit the Starbucks on North Michigan. If you want an actual meal, there are more than ten nearby restaurants.
No matter what you end up choosing, attending the final installment of a four-year movie series is an event and should be done in style. So whether your style is casual chic, or downtown classy, there is a theater that will meet your needs!
Photo Credit: http://moviecarpet.com/movies-2012/movies-november-2012/the-twilight-saga-breaking-dawn-part-2