I went to a movie tonight with my boyfriend playing at Empire Theatres to see the new X-Files movie which, in our opinions, was just fair at best. I don’t want to ruin it for anyone by giving any of the surprises away.

What I do think is worthy of “giving away” is how bloody expensive it was along with just an all around poor experience. It cost over twenty bucks for the two of us to get into the theatre and then $10.60 for ONE large popcorn and ONE regular pop. My perspective by this time, was of the feeling that I had possibly been pillaged. Then we sat down and watched 15 minutes of commercials and previews. Confined in a room, having paid to be there and having no choice but be marketed to, is not great an experience that I enjoy. Hence, our lack luster experience at Empire Theatres.

Now let me describe our recent experience at City Cinema, the local “alternative” theatre. We knew to go about 10 minutes before it is scheduled to begin because sometimes you can’t get a seat. Graeme Putnam of Sketch 22 fame greeted us and gave us our tickets and we stood in line for popcorn and I ordered a dark roast coffee. It cost $2 and $1.50 respectively ($3.50 compared to $10.60 for nearly the same - 300% price difference, is it not?).

We took our seat amongst other people and had a chance to talk and listen to the friendly murmur of the small, eclectic crowd. The movie started on time with had no commercials or trailers.

As such, the small guy, City Cinema, has garnered my customer loyalty and I hope you check.