Movie Price Guide

Entry: January 17th, 2011

Cashing in at the Concessions Stand

Ah, the concessions stand. Much maligned by movie-goers, opting rather to starve their way through two hours of previews and runtime rather than subject themselves to the controlled economy inside the theater, the snack shop is not without its relative bargains. Yes, stocking yourself with adequate food and drink is will likely cost you more than the price of admission itself (depending on the theater and show time, of course), but if you do decide to break the bank and succumb to a hankering, it’s best to get the most bang for your buck.When ordering popcorn or beverages at the movie theater, there is one cardinal rule of thumb that prevails even above your perceived notions of rational human consumption. The tub of popcorn may look large enough to bathe a toddler and perhaps the large drink could cure a camel’s thirst, no matter, the bigger the better. Why waste money on popcorn and soda you stand little chance of finishing? Value.In the world of marked up prices, an extra 50 to 75 cents to upgrade the full scale from small to large will often net 2 to 3 times as much popcorn. The standard small sized bag is little more than a few handfuls, with medium only offering marginal improvement. Similarly, a small drink is one built-in straw and handle away from a kiddie cup.Still not sold? While the credits may roll on in-theater experience, there is no “The End” in terms of snack time last call. You are more than welcome to take your soda and popcorn with you, service as a cool refreshment for the road home or midnight munchie later at home. Though pizza may get more credit, day-old popcorn is perhaps the best kept secret in the scavenger diet. If you come to the theater with a crowd, two straws makes soda sharable among friends, while tubs of popcorn offer plenty of room for reaching hands. Most theaters even offer incentive to move their largest size available, offering free refills to anyone bold enough to finish their order. Just re-fill before your leave the theater and take home a treat for all to enjoy.