Movie theatres offer variety
By Alyssa Tomasello
The movie theatre is a versatile environment, ideal for multiple occasions. As a typical evening with friends, sometimes sitting in front of the same big screen over and over again can get a little monotonous. For a sense of variety, there are plenty of options in the Bay Area to mix up the movie going experience.
Located less than twenty minutes south of Santa Clara on Hillcap Avenue are the Capitol Drive-In Theatres. These theatres bring the ambience of earlier times to the 2000s.
Originating in the 1950s, the drive-in movie theatre has been an American icon.
Although many of these theatres that were once so popular have ceased to exist in recent years, this San Jose branch continues to thrive. These theatres are especially popular with the younger generations. Featuring over eight different screens, the drive-in is the ideal spot for a night out with friends or for a date.
Snuggle up in the bed of a pick up truck, or stay cozy inside the comfort of your own car and turn on the car stereo for the ultimate movie-going experience. One of the benefits of attending the drive-in is for the economic advantage. It works out to be much cheaper than other theatres with tickets costing just $6.75 per person, and the audience has the option to bring in their own concessions. On Tuesdays tickets are only $4.75.
The Aquarius, located in downtown Palo Alto on Emerson Street is ideal for a cultural experience. The Aquarius Theatre features both independent and foreign language films. The tickets are reasonable, with general admission costing $9.75.
One of the best traits of the Aquarius is its location in the center of downtown. It is situated among numerous shops and restaurants, making it the perfect addition to an evening out. Also, from summer through fall, the Aquarius runs a Midnight Madness series, featuring late night show times of classic and cult films on Fridays and Saturday nights. Moreover, the theatre features two screens and both rooms are ornately decorated.
Popular among Santa Clara students are the theatres at Santana Row, CineArts. As many will contest, an evening out in Santana Row is ideal. This brand new theatre features the hottest selection of movies around.
"The Santana Row movie theatres are super convenient," freshman Emmy Quinn said. "I love being able to ride my bike there. Also, there are so many movies to choose from and a great concession stand."
Whether in the mood for some light shopping, dinner or Pinkberry, make the night even more special with a trip to CineArts. But, be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time, this theatre is very popular and tends to sell out fast.
AMC Mercado is right off the 101, past Great America Parkway. This theatre is huge, featuring over eight different screens, AMC Mercado features supreme digital quality with stadium seating. Located across from In-N-Out Burger, this theatre is ideal for a night out with friends. Ticket prices are relative to those at CineArts in Santana Row. Students enjoy the convenience of AMC Mercado. "This theatre is so much more accessible than Santana Row. I don't have to worry about not being able to get a ticket on opening night, or whether or not I will have trouble finding parking," said freshman Jenna Saso. "I love this theatre."
There are so many options in the area. Depending upon your interests and plans there are various theatres made just for you.
If you are looking for a comfy, intimate night out, try the Drive-In. Maybe you prefer a nice dinner and a movie. If so check out Santana Row or the Aquarius.
Or maybe you just want a convenient place to check out the new box office hit; try the AMC Mercado. Each theatre is unique and displays quality movies on the big screen.
Contact Alyssa Tomasello at atomasello@scu.edu or at (408) 554-1918.