movie theatres

Thankfully, there are a few good options for the movie lover in you, and two are easy walking distance from campus.

Empire 7

Conveniently located on Princess St. mere minutes from McDonalds and many ghetto locations, this theatre is your best bet for getting some mainstream movie escapism. There are seven theatres in this cinema, all of which have ample seating. It’s a good idea to get to a movie early, like at any theatre, when it’s playing for the first time or it’s a popular movie-going night. Box-office prices are average, at $7.95 for students (show your ID, or use the express box office and don’t bother with that at all). Be ready to get cash out (and lots of it- popcorn seems to follow oil prices there) before you go to the theatre because the concession stand will not do debit or credit cards.

The Screening Room

The Screening Room is a small, independent cinema with two screens. It’s located down Princess St. near the Sleepless Goat. This theatre is known for playing films that are less mainstream, but culturally rich. If you are in the mood for a good, intelligent film, this is the place to go. It is very popular among film students. Admission is $8.00 and deals are offered for certain matinees and cheap nights (Tuesdays usually).

Cineplex Odeon

Best of luck getting to this behemoth. It has a great selection of films and stadium seating to boot. The problem is its location. The Cineplex is located at the RioCan centre on Gardiners Road, which is way out of walking range. If you think you can take the bus there for an evening film, leave in the morning. The price is also rather expensive, as you’re paying for a premium theatre experience (not that the Empire isn’t as good, it just lacks the seats!). Cabs will take $14.00 out of your wallet. Once you or one of your housemates gets a car, however, go for it- you’re apt to find some films there that aren’t showing on Princess.

ASUS Movie Theatre

If you don’t want to shell out the dough for a real movie theatre experience, go to the ASUS movie theatre on Sunday evening at Dunning Hall. ASUS plays relatively recent films, and charges significantly less than your average theatre.

Cinema Kingston

Cinema Kingston is run by the Department of Film Studies at Queen’s University and aims to bring non-Hollywood films to Kingston. Films are screened monthly on the Queen’s campus, in a large auditorium at 94 Stuart Street, near the Kingston General Hospital.

Above: The Famous Players is easy walking distance from campus.

Above: If you feel like a slice of suburbia, grab a cab out to the RioCan center, have yourself dinner at Montanas and Jones the night away.