This theatre was fine. Nothing really special to recommend it but it does the job. It's pretty centrally located and close to the subway. read more

I decided to take advantage of the limited time $5 Tuesday movies and luckily the Varsity cineplex was screening the movie I wanted to see. The whole day I was looking forward to going to the movie, but more specifically, to get their classic poutine to eat while watching the movie. I got to the theatre and the ticket scanning was pretty quick and smooth (I ordered my ticket online), and considering there was a line of about 4 people in front of me. I headed toward the washroom and it was pretty clean, there was also a cleaning staff member at here at the time. I headed to the concession counter and there were long lines here. I couldn't see the poutine list on the menu screen on the overhead but it's a VIP theatre so they must have poutine available. After a few minutes of waiting in line, it was my turn to order. I asked if I could order a poutine. The lady at the counter said I have to go around to the vip bar/food section to the left of us. That was kind of annoying, after waiting in this line. So I went to the correct area and ordered. They said it would take about 10 minutes for my order to be ready. It was ready in about 8. That was good. The poutine came in a large flat white takeout box. Typically at the other cineplex's I've been to, the poutine came in a smaller more compact brown takeout box. The one I received today felt very obnoxious when I opened it in the theatre and was eating it while the movie was playing. The lid was just so big and it stuck out. As for how the poutine was, the fires were good with a fair amount of cheese curds. However, the gravy was really thick and there was way too much of it. Because it was a big flat box they only put in a layer of fries so to me it seemed they over did it on the gravy because there was so much space in the box. Mind you, the box wasn't full (it would probably amount to the aforementioned small brown box at other locations). Ultimately, the gravy ruined it because I was getting globs of thick gravy. And it was different to scrap of or avoid it because I was in the dark. To conclude, if you're looking forward to a poutine to eat while at the movies, go to the scotiabank location. read more

Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP - Classic poutine - Cinema Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

The Varsity has been my favorite theatre since I've lived in downtown Toronto, over 24 yrs now! However, in saying this- the varsity is in need of some love. Surely cineplex can afford to invest in this theatre specifically because of its location in Yorkville. It serves a clientele that are seeking an elevated experience, and unfortunately it's not giving this anymore. The VIP specifically is very run down looking. The seats are small, cramped and worn. They do not recline like other VIP locations- and overall it feels very dingy when you walk inside before they turn down the lights. I recently paid over $50 for my partner and I to see The Roses and I feel like it wasn't worth the price considering the condition of the cinema. Come on Cineplex- let's show this place some love! read more

was really excited to watch The Conjuring 2 at Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP, but my experience was incredibly disappointing. Despite purchasing VIP tickets, the seats were extremely uncomfortable -- surprisingly cramped, even for someone as petite as I am. I expected better quality and comfort, especially given the premium price. To make matters worse, the customer service was both poor and inconsistent. When I asked for a soft drink, I was told they had stopped serving. That would've been understandable -- until I saw another customer come up right after me and get served without issue. It felt unfair and unprofessional. Overall, I left very dissatisfied with what should have been an enjoyable night out. For a VIP experience, this fell far below expectations. read more

Located on the busy bloor street is this cinema showing some of the latest box office hits. Whilst a little confusing to get to, it does add to the charm of a cinema being tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the shopping tourist clad street outside. Theres plenty of refreshment options outside and inside, with your general popcorn etc available. Be aware, lines do get long on popular times. Washrooms are really clean, and the staff are super friendly. Whilst there aren't many screens and the cinema screen is smaller than most, I found it to definitely be one of the cleaner Cineplex branches that I've been to and will be coming again! read more

Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP - Inside! - Cinema Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

so many theatres have closed in this area... cumberland RIP Uptown RIP and a couple of others that i don't care enough to look up (yelp doesn't give us anything, nuthin) i prefer a matinee i saw dune 2, theatre was nice and quiet.... but man that movie was long!!! 20 minutes of terrible marvel trailers and some dreadful looking Godzilla versus King Kong trailer, why do we need that movie?! And then a reboot of another Ghostbusters movie; looks as dreadful as King Kong versus Godzilla! And too many commercials. Still, nice to get back into a theatre!!! read more

Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP - Cinema Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

It's a well-maintained complex and they movies i. offer regular, iMax and VIP. They have a bar that you can sit and enjoy some drinks and snacks before the movie starts or order some at VIP. The seats are comfortable and rather clean. It's also accessible by subway which is convenient. read more

Movie and dinner. Did not know they had Tuesday special. Opted for Fish Tacos again with a drink. I love their seating area. It's spacious, clean and well lit. Given that it is inside a movie theatre, surprising how quiet it can be. Service was friendly and timely. read more

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Isaac provided five star customer service! Firstly, he greeted me with positive and welcoming full attention. I needed help changing seats for tickets previously purchased ahead of time; and he was patient and accommodating while I phoned a friend to confirm their seating needs. Cineplex is fortunate to have Isaac as a staff member!! read more

This is a smaller theatre and I wasn't able to get in to see the movie on the day. I went having not pre-booked a ticket, but I did get to enjoy the restaurant. It's basic pub, food, but I really liked the surroundings and the seating was comfortable. If all I need is for a place to have a drink and a bit of a nosh, this theatre restaurant is perfect. read more

This was the only theatre showing 1917 for its limited engagement run before the full release on January 10, 2020 so I made the trek out to the Cineplex Varsity to see it. It's located in a fun area but the parking can be not so fun. Luckily you can park in the Manulife Centre and get it validated by the theatre to pay an extremely reasonable $3 flat rate for parking but only after 6pm on weekdays and weekends/holidays for up to 4 hours. This theatre just feels nice and new all around. The decor is quite modern and there are a lot of extra amenities including a sitting area with some chairs kind of near a set of restrooms, massage chairs with charging stations in one of the corridors, and a lounge that serves alcohol. I was also surprised that even though this theatre is a bit smaller, the ancillary concession stands were functional making it quick and easy for you to grab snacks and get back to your theatre. I was in a regular theatre room and found the seats to be pretty comfortable. The backs were pretty high and I could lean comfortably. The cushions were still pretty plush as well. The picture and sound quality were both good as well. I never found the sound to be too loud. Finally, what really impressed me is that even though this theatre was in a nicer area and seemed newer, they still offered the Cineplex Tuesday deal so tickets were half price! You can purchase your tickets online and they can scan them on your phone. As always, don't forget your Scene card if you collect points! read more

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The projection is so dark and dim in many of their auditoriums that it makes movies unwatchable. Daytime scenes look like twilight. Not only that, but the dimness makes everything look grey and dull. When we complained this week, the manager told us that the projectionist said the problem was the bulb being too dim. This is thus a Cineplex decision not to replace the bulb, which is unacceptable. We should crowdsource which Varsity auditoriums have unbearably-dark projections; ours was #4. read more

I guess The Varsity is my 4 star review place, but honestly? One of my favorite 'malls'. The movie theatre is one of my favorite theaters, too. Staff has been friendly, theatres cozy but not too big, and the food area decent and quick. Because I think people forget this theatre is here, it's usually not packed. It's not the closest to me, but I like it. And since I'm such a big fan of the supermarket downstairs and the Indigo, it's like three birds and one stone. Worth it! read more

**Review on the Yelp Elite Experience -- Screening of The Founder** Woot, I was so thrilled to be one of the 15 Toronto Yelp Elites to have made it into the Elite event and got tickets for 2 to see The Founder movie 2 days before its official premier :D Upon reading the movie ticket, it says that the screening is intentionally overbooked and the tickets are distributed on a first come first serve basis. As a result, my plus one and I decided to play it save and we came over to the theater right after we finished work. We arrived at around 6pm and there was already a line waiting for the tickets. Fortunately we were fairly early that we were able to beat the crowd and got a good seat in the middle of the auditorium. However, my friend who also got the tickets arrived just before the movie was able to start and he got turned away because the theater was full. The theater is a lot smaller than other Cineplex theaters that I've been to, such as the one at the Fairview Mall. However, since the threatre is location near the Financial District, there is a Lounge that you don't see very often at other Cineplex theaters. In the lounge they serve drinks, desserts, and even dinners. I'm not sure about the prices, but I'd expect everything to be pricier, similar to how the concession stand is, since it is located at the theater. The auditorium is a lot smaller than the ones that I'm used to as well, but the seats and the picture quality are still ok, so no complains here. It seems that the screening was intended to generate buzz for the movie and also for audience testing, since we were asked how the movie went as we were leaving the auditorium. Also, they encouraged us to share our experience on social media. Other than Yelp Elites, there were also many people who were invited to the screening, including bloggers, movie critics, and media persons. Overall I had a great experience at the screening of The Founder, and the movie about the founding story of McDonald's exceeded my exception. The only thing that set this experience apart from a 5 star review is due to the fact that it's overbooked that many were turned away at the door. I understand why they did that but it was still unfortunate that my friend couldn't come in and they didn't provide with him a free ticket to another movie, so he had to pay to see another movie instead. read more

Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP - The Founder screening - Cinema Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Who doesn't love a big screen blockbuster film, delicious popcorn with real butter (!) and an ice cold drink, in a super comfortable chair in a spotlessly clean screening room! Staff are super polite and professional, too. In the VIP theatre, we often order our drinks and food as we seat ourselves before the film starts, and a Cineplex server returns in a few minutes with everything we ordered! Cineplex has returned to our lives in a big way, located in the heart of Yorkville, so it's part of a great night out! Nothing compares to a movie on the big screen. read more

Worst squeaking uncomfortable seats in the world! Makes airplanes seem comfortable I don't recommend this theatre. It really needs a good refurbishment. read more

Arrive at least 20 min earlier to choose the seats and order food or/and drinks. The seats are clean and comfortable, I have no complaints here. There are only about 28 seats and it can get crowded very fast. The price is pretty high - almost $20 but with a coupon we got a good deal: 50% off. read more

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The regular auditorium feels larger than some of the other cineplex theatres. It was a more narrow room, so sitting sides or centre wasn't too different. It was also a pretty flat arrangement of seats rather than some places where you may end up with seats that are either too close to the screen, or too high to get a good view. I think this is better, but the screen also feels further away. Floor under my feet was all sticky though, which ruins everything. read more

For the VIP, the screen is definitely smaller than the usual - maybe a little too small for a pricey theatre experience. Some people like the homey feeling, but I prefer the wide screen. There also wasn't any seat selection for the VIP for some reason. As a family of four, we weren't able to sit together. Luckily, we got to sit in pairs. There is an individual mobile pickup by the ticket purchasing stand. The late night Tuesday was also very busy! Beware! read more

Take-home Message: The VIP tickets are NOT worth it. I recently arrived at this theater to see the movie we'd researched online. It turned out that the time we'd chosen was showing in the "VIP" Theater. Well, the VIP theater turns out to be about the size of a 1960's porn cabaret complete with what looks like a velvet curtain. The VIP theater is an extra $7 over the normal price of the movie (so $20). The GOOD: The theater is licensed, so you can order drinks and have them delivered to your seat. The prices are on the high end of normal, so not that bad. The BAD: I've seen home theaters (OK, pretty nice home theaters) that are larger than this venue. It's the size of a closet (see the attached photos). Older sound technology...not industry standard even. The seats seem to have been replaced from the appalling photos, but they're still not especially comfortable or VIP. Basically, I really resent being scammed into the VIP theater. So folks at home: 1) Double-check with the theater website itself that your showing is not VIP (Google won't tell you). 2) Don't go to the VIP showing unless you really want to drink during your show. 3) VIP is 19+ if for some reason you do go for it. 4) There's a Dollarama with a huge candy selection on Yonge. Coincidence, I think not! Minor UPDATE: I wrote them feedback on their website. I got a very pro forma e-mail...I think they've heard complaints here before. read more

Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP - The VIP screen taken from the next to last row. Yes folks, it is indeed that small. - Cinema Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I love to go to the cinema. By myself, on a date, with a friend, I've considered sneaking in a dog. Anyway, I just like to go sit in the dark, eat crap and be entertained. My favourite place to do this is Rainbow Cinemas for it's old school charm, but The Varsity is a close second. It's housed in the Manulife Centre above The Bloor Street Diner which has a good brunch buffet and an Indigo books. Anyone who doesn't love stuffing themselves and cruising books and candles before a movie should have their head checked. Hmm, maybe it's me who always enters the movie theatre with four new books that should get a grip, but I doubt it, it takes a special person to turn a solo rom-com adventure into an $80 ordeal. The varsity has all of the snack options so there is no need to decide between your popcorn, nachos or sweets and has eight regular theatres, six of which are stadium-style. Beyond this usual multiplex fare The Varsity also has smaller VIP screening rooms. You pay a little more for a much smaller room and screen (about 20 seats I'd say), comfier chairs and you get movie snack waiter service. Want a beer with that popcorn? Fear not, they're licensed. PEPPER POINTS OUT the VIP rooms aren't ideal for sad movies if you're a crier. I saw The Bucket List here many moons ago, and I was a little embarrassed to be sniffling in such close proximity to so many strangers. Also why was I the only one crying? Morgan Freeman dying is simply too much to bear. read more

VIP Review: I frequent the Varsity a lot and recently tried their VIP cinema again after the recent renovations. The VIP theatre seats more than it previously did and the seats are all new. However, it does not compare to the Shops at Don Mills VIP theatre. The Varsity VIP cinema does not have the same reclining chairs they have at the Shops at Don Mills VIP Theatre. The Varsity chairs do not have a button to make the chairs recline like they do at The Shops at Don Mills. I looked around for the button but was unable to find it. The only way my chair would recline was if I put my feet against the chair in front of me and pushed backwards. I also didn't like how I couldn't select and reserve my seat like I can at the Shops at Don Mills. I also found the Varsity to be a little short staffed. I waited for a couple minutes to find someone to take my ticket and let me into the theatre. No one came around so I just walked in. After watching the movie my friend and I went to the VIP lounge. The lounge is really nice if you sit by the window and the employees are really friendly and helpful. Normal Cinema Review: The Varsity is always really busy. You usually need to purchase your tickets over an hour in advance to see a new release or it will be sold out. I find the Varsity theatres to be smaller than the other theatres I frequent. I prefer Empress Walk, the Scotiabank theatre and Silvercity Yonge and Eglinton over the Varsity theatre. The theatres I listed are newer and bigger than the Varsity. They also have tiered seating on a higher slope, which makes it easier for people to see the screen past the people sitting in front of them. read more

This is the easiest theatre to get to if you ride the Subway. That said, this place is really hit or miss. Some of the screens are great, others are tiny in the way you've forgotten old school theatres used to be. I've also had one terrible experience here where the audio was so low it was nearly impossible to hear anything. When I mentioned this I was told it was just the way it is. That seemed ridiculous to me, but it is what it is, I suppose. I've come back a bunch because it's convenient, but be aware - you might be in for a great time, however it could be a terrible time. read more

Vastly overpriced and low-quality food, as you'd expect, but that's no reason to overlook it. But my main beef is that $20 VIP tickets buy you a badly-worn seat in a closet-sized theatre (6 rows, with most having 6 seats each). Those getting up in the back rows will block the projection. I'm 5'9", and could just barely see over the seats in front of me. Anyone shorter is going to have their view of the screen obscured. My date and I were shocked at how badly the seats needed to be upholstered/replaced. Cineplex should be ashamed and embarrassed. Absolutely not worth the price over a standard ticket. read more

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The Varsity was the cinema I used most. The easiest downtown cinema to get to from the west end...a short underground walk from Bay station. However, as my mum won't let me out at night I only go to matinees. Since, it seems, that the Varsity no longer does matinees, I must patronize other cinemas. OK, I've given it four stars for old times sake. read more

I must admit since Cineplex rolled out their new VIP theatre experience: I have become obsessed. Fun fact for those that may not know: the Varsity was one of the first Cineplex theatres to offer VIP back in the 90's. Over the holidays, I headed to the Cinplex Cinemas to see Shape of Water with a pal, which was being offered in VIP. My friend had never had the luxury of taking in a true VIP experience, and I was more than excited to give it to her. While the regular theatre is overall pretty incredible, with large cushy chairs and a great selection of films (that most other Cineplex's don't get) - there is one recommendation I would make here. Don't pay for VIP at Varsity! Since it was one of the original Cineplex theatres to roll out the VIP concept, the auditoriums are a lot smaller than average which means a much smaller screen and no ability to chose your seat ahead of time. While this may like small potatoes when you're paying $19.99 each you want to feel like you're getting the best bang for your buck. Again, I love the Varsity Theatre and it's one of my favourite Cineplex theatres in the city. Just not for VIP! read more

First time visiting here despite working in the area for more than two years... This theatre is small, nicely laid out & has friendly staff. Only negative is that screen #8 had small seats that did not recline...that's a slight problem when trying to watch the James Bond Spectre movie... read more

Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP - Cinema Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Don't pay for VIP. Not worth it at this location. Cramped and uncomfortable seats. Small screen. Not at all a VIP experience.

I don't go to the movies often. You have to give up your first born child to buy one pass and the movies that come out are crappalicious. However, that being said, there are times when I do have to cave and go see a flick. My usual 'go to' theater in Toronto. Love the neighborhood that the Varsity is in. You can go grab a meal before or after the movie; heaps of good places around here. It's also pretty safe. You can walk around here late at night and you won't feel terrified. Also, it's r i g h t by Bloor Station. Clientele is respectable. You won't find teenaged yahoos here so you can have an enjoyable movie viewing experience. Seats could be more comfortable. Free parking would be a huge plus. A-ok. read more

For your not so big blockbusters you will be able to find many of those movies at this theatre. There is definitely a lot less teens etc at this theatre vs Scotiabank but it doesn't have as much to offer in terms of amenities but has all the essentials. The good thing is that it doesn't have the price tag that Scotiabank does. The theatres are decent and clean. The screens are nice but not as nice as some others in town and the theatres all seem pretty cozy. Unfortunately for me I've never seen a movie in the VIP theatre and now I really want to after seeing all these reviews that mention it. read more

This movie theatre is a good option for folks downtown, and being in the Manulife Centre, it means that there are options for coffee or a bite (Second Cup, Bloor Street Diner), before or after the movie. They have a snack area including seating, and you can get Yogen Fruz as well as the usual popcorn and other snacks. Handy to get to as it is right at Bay and Bloor. Comfortable seats in the theatres too and good sound. Check it out! read more

Convenient theater downtown but in a depressing indoor mall that was partly under construction in winter 19-20. Shows some independent films. Volume was good, seats comfortable with plenty of leg room. Regular admission was about 18 CSD. Get there 20 minutes early for weekend movies if you want a seat or else you'll be in the very front. Small theaters with middle rows reserved seating which costs more. Bathrooms clean but hand dryers way too loud. Should remove those and have paper towels instead. Inside tip the Cineplex website is absolutely awful on mobile and you may have better luck downloading the app. Give yourself at least 5 minutes to make and validate the account. read more

Watched Argo at the silly 25 seat VIP theatre yesterday. Great movie in a stupid venue. The VIP theatre is small, and smelly. A complete waste of $20. Stay home and get Apple TV (jailbroken) a surround sound system, and have a good time. The extra $5 is not worth it to be in VIP. Good: Roomy seats if you are overweight, and lots of leg space if you're tall. A side table to put your beer and stuff. $3.00 underground parking with validated ticket after 6pm. Bad: Seats have rips, and are are in bad shape. Somebody's head will be in the way if you are right behind them and they are tall. The place smells old. The SCREEN is 1980's small. The SOUND is not the current industry standard. read more

This review is on the *VIP* part of Varsity VIP Cinemas. After The Social Network was sold out on opening night, we decided to go see Wall Street 2 at the VIP theatres and pay the extra $5 (original ticket $11.98+taxes) to see what it was all about. So what do you get for an extra $5? - someone to ask you what you want at the concessions and get it for you. This only happens before the movie starts, and either you can wait until they come ask you, call them over, or as you walk in you tell them. Seems like they have 2 people working the theatre. you still have to pay the regular fee. so really, all you're getting is the not waiting in line - you can order alcohol. we got one pint of beer and a glass of wine = $12 - leather plush seats with arm bars that raise. they are close to gether in pairs, with a small table to put your food beside it. I don't know if I would want to share this with another person. the seats, not the table. - the lovely smell of airplane (for some reason) - smaller screen, and you're up close to it. we were in the 2nd row, and it was big, but not too big. except I saw the texture of the screen from where I was sitting, and it kind of bothered me - it's also lower, so if someone got up to go to the bathroom, you'll see a head running across your view - intimacy of watching the movie with a small group, feels like you're at home. when I'm a little tipsy, and I'm that comfy, I think i was a little obnoxious. Sorry people! - 1 ad, 2 trailers, then the movie started These theatres have been here for a while, but not sure if they have updated the technology like other theatres. Would I come here again? I'm not sure. Maybe if it was something I really needed to see, and there was no other tickets. Great for groups, you'd get the whole place to yourself. read more

The theaters are clean, seats comfortable, and the audience civilized. I love that they offer Fresca as a fountain drink and I can get 10% off with my Cineplex points card. I don't often find myself in this neighborhood but if I did, I'd see more movies here, especially in the summer when I am as sweaty as balls in polyester briefs and The Varsity blasts their A/C. (I am voting No, Not Good for Kids. Please don't let your bratty rug rats ruin my one good escape in life.) read more

Great location but very poor food choices though there is a fairly decent wine list in the lounge. Wish Cineplex would add a Freshii or similar outlet to their snack bar. In addition the women's bathrooms are terrible: 1) there's always at least one stall closed for maintenance and 2) the rest of the toilets spray water all over the seat when they're flushed. 3) Last, they have those horrible, deafening hand dryers that are absolutely ear splitting. They must be so damaging and I can't believe they're in such widespread use. Give us paper towels, please please please. read more

I actually like kids a lot... but I am a firm believer that during a movie, children should be seen and not heard! - Give little Sally some Milk Duds if it will shut her up! - Little Billy needs to tinkle... get off your fat ass and bring him dad! - And who the hell brought their baby to a rated R movie... what is wrong with you?! Varsity VIP has saved me from bludgeoning children and parents alike who do not se eye to eye with my movie credo... You see it's 19+ (which is a good start) and is essentially the movie theatre version of first class on the plane (where children are forbidden and stuck in the cannel where they belong!) The seats are large, comfy and provide lots of leg and aisle room (no more crotch or ass in the face decision making blunders boys and girls). The best part (drum roll please) is that they serve booze in this theatre and will bring it to you! Yup no more sneaking in tall cans with that illegally concealed liquorice, for $9 you can have your Cranberry/Vodka delivered to your seat before previews. For the extra $6 it costs to go to a VIP movie it's well worth it and will help you keep your sanity. So again... I love children, they are tomorrow's bright future... but Varsity helps me keep them the fuck away from my movie time! read more

DEFINITELY MY FAVOURITE CINEMA IN TORONTO. I've realized lately that I'm not nearly as avid a moviegoer as earlier versions of myself. However, when it's time to sit in a comfy cinema with popcorn bucket in hand, Varsity is the only place to go. The clientele seems to be a bit older than Scotiabank Theatre (nee Paramount) and AMC Yonge/Dundas, so I tend to have an infinitely more enjoyable experience. They offer the pre-paid online ticket purchase option, which cuts the lineups to nill, plus they'll validate your underground parking at Manulife Centre to $3, which is awesome on a cold winter's night. The best part of Varsity is the VIP option. It's well worth the $4 approx. surcharge, but the perk are great. WARNING- the screens are significantly smaller, hence the title 'Screening Rooms'. They offer in-seat service including popcorn and alcohol sales (finally Canada!). Best of all, there's super-comfy seats and small crowds so you can really immerse yourself in the experience. read more

The seats are comfortable, the theatre is generally clean, the VIP is superb and the bar/restaurant is decent. I am not that much of a fan but I can't give them three stars either. The staff here have been very friendly. I went to see a bad movie twice and they refunded our money. You can do it within half an hour from the time the movie starts. The large refillable pop corn can be fattening. Can be really fattening. Match that with coke and you'd reach your calorie intake for the entire week. Your gym trainer will love you. Hooray to push ups! read more

This used to be my preferred movie theatre but ever since they introduced reserved seating in the two middle rows (for extra $$ of course) I avoid it. What's next? An extra charge to sit in any seat not in the first two neck-breaking rows? Also, if you arrive 'late' and all the general seating is gone (remember - two whole rows are no longer in play, therefore less capacity) your only option is to pay for an assigned seat in the reserved rows. Gouging at its most ridiculous. read more