While streaming has taken over the world, sometimes you want a classic movie theater experience: buttered popcorn, sour candy, and seeing your favorite actors on the big screen with surround sound.
However, living in New York City, you quickly learn that movie theaters are expensive. As a college student, I am always looking for ways to make intelligent financial decisions, so I set out to see if movie packages were the right economical choice.
There is no shortage of theaters in NYC, but the three most popular ones the Pace University community flocks to are IPIC Theaters down in Seaport, Regal Cinemas in Battery Park, and Alamo Drafthouse right in Fidi. The standard ticket for each theater is $16.50 at IPIC, $18.50 at Regal, and $18.99 at Alamo.
Regal Cinemas offers an “Unlimited All Access membership” for $23.99/per month and $287.88/per year. This membership allows you to see any movie anytime. Members also receive 10% off of all food and non-alcoholic drinks, a free large popcorn and soft drink gifted to you on your birthday, early access to new movies with Regal Unlimited Screenings, and opportunities to bring a friend for free to select showings.
I spoke with Pace University students Sabrina Medina, a senior at the University, and Paige Coffman, a sophomore; both students have a Regal Battery Park membership. Medina explained that they charge a 50-cent fee when you book your ticket and a $4.00 fee if it’s a 3D movie. Medina stated, “I think it’s so worth it. I accumulate points and get discounts on popcorn and soda.” Coffman said she enjoyed her membership but felt the Union Square location is better for indie movies, whereas the battery park location is mainly for new releases.
Alamo Drafthouse offers the “Biggest Boathouse” membership for $29.99 per month. This membership is good for up to one regularly priced movie per day, and you can reserve seats up to 7 days in advance. Standard online convenience fees still apply.
IPIC doesn’t offer a monthly membership like the other two theaters. Moviegoers can purchase the IPIC “Gold Membership,” a $29.00 annual membership with some perks; however, you still have to buy a regular-price ticket whenever you want to see a movie. Perks include 10% off select food and beverage, one free premium plus ticket, a free birthday dessert and champagne for two, invitations to special screenings, etc. Both Alamo and IPIC offer a dine-in experience with extensive food and beverage options.
The movies are a time-honored tradition that college students everywhere still enjoy, and membership packages are a good option for those that want to go to the movies more regularly. In NYC the abundance of options when it comes to movie theaters can be overwhelming so I hope this article gives you a better idea of what fits your preferences!