OUR TV Movie Theaters - WHY?

[DeanFL]

A relatively minor irritant, but now increasing since we became MoviePass members...

It seems that a larger % of good 'adult' films have been/are shown only at Rialto. Example - today. The Darkest Hour, Shape of Water, Greatest Showman, Wonder Wheel, Crooked House are ONLY at Rialto.

We went today to see Shape of Water... at Rialto. The theaters are small, the narrow screens are mounted high, and no "theater seating" with the angled floor (thus the need for the high screen). And the small washrooms only out front. The ticket lines to seat the very popular 'The Darkest Hour' were out the door.

The theaters in Lake Sumter and Brownwood are much larger and have the latest amenities. It's a pleasure to spend a few hours there...

WHY??? does management seem to place the good adult-like films only at Rialto? I know, I know Star Wars and the like go to BW and LSL. Just seems with our sprawling North<>South population across TV it would warrant a better spread across our theaters of good popular movies.

[John_W]

This is not new, it's been going on as long as I lived here, 2011. It depends on the size market they deem that film will draw. What gets really bad is when they estimate low numbers and put the wrong film at SS. A couple of years ago Gone Girl was playing only at SS, we waited a week after opening, then went to the 1pm show and the line for that movie was out to the door. I counted I think, 143 seats in that theater and everyone was full.

I have all the premium movie channels in HD on Directv, about 45 and all commercial free. So I've refused going to SS anymore, the last time was to see Nebraska back in 2014. I figured it defeats the purpose to pay for all those channels if I don't watch them, now I can look forward to seeing the film in six months or more at home.

[EdFNJ]

Don't quite understand. There are 3 "R" rated movies at LSL and only 1 at SS. I understand what you meant by "adult" but technically there are more "adult" movies at LSL. Just not the ones you want to see. :D

I thought all the theaters had stadium seating. I guess the oldest one (SS) doesn't. I'll have to note that. Back up north even the newest theaters had smaller screens than our TV set has which is why I'd never pay $16 to see a movie there! Went to our first movie since we moved in here a year ago on Christmas day at LSL and really liked the theater. Huge screen, stadium seating, great sound and great food! Sorry, Don't mean to rub it in! :D

What is MoviePass?

[Bjeanj]

I can’t tell if you are just ranting, or are actually looking for an answer. If ranting, that’s cool. If you are looking for an answer, I doubt anyone here can do more but speculate. For example, it was the first theater built many years ago, which at that time this may have been considered a very nice theater?or that they flip a coin to determine which movies to show at the Rialto vs LSL or Brownwood? Don’t know.

[Mleeja]

I would like to see at all (or any) of the theaters offer premium seating, where the seats are essentially love seat recliners with a drink tray in the middle. Have seating for maybe 30 people. Make the cost of this seating twice the cost of regular admission. They will still sellout!

[DeanFL]

Don't quite understand. There are 3 "R" rated movies at LSL and only 1 at SS. I understand what you meant by "adult" but technically there are more "adult" movies at LSL. Just not the ones you want to see. :D

What is MoviePass?

What I really meant by 'adult' was topic interesting to an adult audience, not simply the rating due to language etc.

Movie Pass - check it out at their site. And/or search on ToTV --- it is a GREAT deal if one has time to see movies...

And re my OP post - not simply a rant, but if someone has an answer or perhaps the ear of the owner/scheduler...

[Chatbrat]

I have to agree with the OP,its a shame "quality" movies are only shown @ the Rialto--while the "pop" movies IMHO in most instances are nothing but glorified big screen video games fill Brownwood and LSL

[thelegges]

We still have not gone to barnstormer theater, due to what movies are showing. Op right seems SS has better choices for movies

[Jayhawk]

Read the entire story and it makes sense why they do this.

3 Answers - How do theater owners decide whether to show a movie? - Quora (https://www.quora.com/How-do-theater-owners-decide-whether-to-show-a-movie)

[Taltarzac725]

The Rialto was the only theater open when we moved here in June of 2005. The seats were very uncomfortable and noisy. Thankfully, the Old Mill Playhouse opened around November of 2005 and offered stadium seating, leg room, and quiet and comfortable seating.

The Rialto seems to get the art house movies and those geared to an adult viewer.

[spring_chicken]

I've been to all 3 theaters and quite enjoy seeing movies at the Rialto. I've had people sit down directly in front of me and it did not block my view one bit.
I've never heard anybody gripe about a screen being mounted too high, so I have no idea what that's about.
I supposed if they put half those movies at sumter or brownwood, you'd have people bitching about it, too.
You just cannot please 150k nitpicking seniors.

[8notes]

A relatively minor irritant, but now increasing since we became MoviePass members...

It seems that a larger % of good 'adult' films have been/are shown only at Rialto. Example - today. The Darkest Hour, Shape of Water, Greatest Showman, Wonder Wheel, Crooked House are ONLY at Rialto.

We went today to see Shape of Water... at Rialto. The theaters are small, the narrow screens are mounted high, and no "theater seating" with the angled floor (thus the need for the high screen). And the small washrooms only out front. The ticket lines to seat the very popular 'The Darkest Hour' were out the door.

The theaters in Lake Sumter and Brownwood are much larger and have the latest amenities. It's a pleasure to spend a few hours there...

WHY??? does management seem to place the good adult-like films only at Rialto? I know, I know Star Wars and the like go to BW and LSL. Just seems with our sprawling North<>South population across TV it would warrant a better spread across our theaters of good popular movies.

I agree. I suspect it is because the Rialto is such a crappy movie theater, the only way they can get decent audiences to frequent it, is to have the best movies. And I have to add, that even at Barnwood and Old Mill Run, the soundproofing doesn't seem really great. Depending on what's playing next door, you can hear booming and other sound effects that can be distracting. And why do they play the opening trailers so loud? I bring earplugs, it is way too loud for me. On the plus side, I do like the stadium seating at Barnwood and Old Mill Run, and they keep the theaters clean. You never seem to find sticky floors, or popcorn all over the floor.

[Kahuna32162]

Just got our MoviePass subscriptions as a Christmas present and can't wait to start using them at all 3 theaters. As more people catch on to this great deal, my fear is the smaller theaters will be more and more overcrowded.

[coffeebean]

The big brash blockbuster musical, “La La Land” was booked only in The Rialto in SS. I could not understand why this huge musical was booked on such a small screen in The Villages so I contacted the man responsible for booking the movies in the theaters.

This was not the first time The Rialto had a movie which would be enjoyed so much more on a large screen with a great sound system. I was told by the man responsible for booking the movies that he puts those type of movies in The Rialto because if he didn’t no one would ever go to that theater. He said The Rialto has to make money too so he puts the popular movies there even if they would be enjoyed more on a large screen.

The man who is responsible for booking the movies in The Villages theaters is Craig Franco. He can be reached at 352-750-5411. Voice your concerns to him. Maybe he will get the message.

[8notes]

Just got our MoviePass subscriptions as a Christmas present and can't wait to start using them at all 3 theaters. As more people catch on to this great deal, my fear is the smaller theaters will be more and more overcrowded.

I've got one too. It certainly will be busy in the winter with the seasonal residents, but come April or May, it should be fine.

[circletrack]

The Rialto is almost 20 years old isn’t it? Of course it’s not going to have the big, more modern amenities as the Barnstorm, but for a smaller theater, I’ve always had an enjoyable experience. The place is still maintained well, and I believe the seats have been replaced in the last couple of years. I actually appreciate that the screen is mounted higher as no matter how tall someone is, they don’t block your view. Sure some call it small, I’d say it’s intimate.

As far as the type of movies booked there, it seems to be TV’s boutique theater, often playing the more high-minded and independent films, with a couple of normal flicks here and there.

[justjim]

OP, I tend to agree with your post. I too have often wondered why almost alway the better movies were shown at the older SS theatre. The Rialto definitely needs an upgrade.

Lately we seem to find it difficult to find any movie at any TV theater that appear worth seeing. Anybody else have this problem? Maybe our age (LOL) but they just don’t make good movies anymore.

[DeanFL]

The big brash blockbuster musical, “La La Land” was booked only in The Rialto in SS. I could not understand why this huge musical was booked on such a small screen in The Villages so I contacted the man responsible for booking the movies in the theaters.

This was not the first time The Rialto had a movie which would be enjoyed so much more on a large screen with a great sound system. I was told by the man responsible for booking the movies that he puts those type of movies in The Rialto because if he didn’t no one would ever go to that theater. He said The Rialto has to make money too so he puts the popular movies there even if they would be enjoyed more on a large screen.

The man who is responsible for booking the movies in The Villages theaters is Craig Franco. He can be reached at 352-750-5411. Voice your concerns to him. Maybe he will get the message.

CB, Thanks much for your response and the contact name. We will certainly contact him and comment on this issue.

As for: 'I was told by the man responsible for booking the movies that he puts those type of movies in The Rialto because if he didn’t no one would ever go to that theater.'

I was assuming this was the true reason, but hoping not. It's a shallow reason as he may be depriving some TVrs from going to see a particular movie in that venue- and perhaps losing revenue as well. We will think twice to see a movie there...

[coffeebean]

Honestly, it aggravates me the movies that would be much more enjoyable on larger screens are booked in the theater that does not have a large screen.

Before the movie even arrived in The Villages, I would have bet money “The Greatest Showman” would be shown in The Rialto. That is perfectly ridiculous to me. I don’t have a problem with the layout of The Rialto theater or the lack of stadium seating. That is not it at all. My concern is the fact that these movies that should be shown on large screens are not getting that treatment. I just shake my head at the stupidity of it.

[GoodLife]

OUR TV Movie Theaters - WHY?

They are not "OUR" movie theaters, The Morse family owns them. Pretty sure they book the movies in a way that is most profitable for them.

I would like to see at all (or any) of the theaters offer premium seating, where the seats are essentially love seat recliners with a drink tray in the middle. Have seating for maybe 30 people. Make the cost of this seating twice the cost of regular admission. They will still sellout!

Invest in a 4k TV and a nice couch. Your scenario of a 30 seat theater would probably require ticket prices of $150 each due to economics, reduced popcorn revenue etc. Or you could build such a theater yourself and see how it works out financially.

Read the entire story and it makes sense why they do this.

3 Answers - How do theater owners decide whether to show a movie? - Quora

Obviously nobody bothered to read your link, which explains why a capitalist would book films in a particular way at different theaters

Basically the longer the "run" of a movie at a theater, the higher the profit margin goes up for the owner. So putting your movies with longer staying power at smallest theater makes cents.

[GoodLife]

Honestly, it aggravates me the movies that would be much more enjoyable on larger screens are booked in the theater that does not have a large screen.

Bigger screens do not equal better quality. As long as projection equipment is similar, a 30 foot screen in a 150 seat venue is the same as 90 foot screen in 450 seat venue.

[GoodLife]

Lately we seem to find it difficult to find any movie at any TV theater that appear worth seeing. Anybody else have this problem? Maybe our age (LOL) but they just don’t make good movies anymore.

I am with you there, they don't make them like they used to. Compare a movie like Pride and Prejudice with todays crap. Its like night and day.

Anyway, movie theaters are going the way of the dinosaurs. Overpriced tickets and caloric bomb popcorn with butter flavored soybean oil just doesn't compute with HD streaming or renting a blueray at Redbox, all in the comfort of home with no driving, parking, waiting in line etc etc. Time from theater release to streaming or DVD rental gets shorter all the time. 3-4 months for blockbusters and even faster for less commercial films. I can wait for new releases a few months, if it's a poor attempt at cinema I've only wasted a couple bucks.

[coffeebean]

Honestly, it aggravates me the movies that would be much more enjoyable on larger screens are booked in the theater that does not have a large screen.

Bigger screens do not equal better quality. As long as projection equipment is similar, a 30 foot screen in a 150 seat venue is the same as 90 foot screen in 450 seat venue.

All movies these days are digital. The quality of the picture is not the issue. The larger screen gives a much more "immersive" feeling. Those squatty screens in The Rialto are not why I pay money to go to the movies. I would prefer to wait for the movies to be on cable and watch on my big screen TV in my own home. But.....that is just how I feel about having to pay money to view a movie in a theater on a small screen.

[coffeebean]

Regarding the movie theaters with the upgraded recliner seats.......

Our local movie theaters in New Jersey upgraded their theaters with those awesome recliner seats with the drink holders in the middle of two seats. Yes....the seat capacity is much less but.....the theater closest to our home still offered $5 ticket price for movies before 10am, every day even on their largest screens. All of their movies had a showing which began before 10am. That is the best movie theater deal we will ever see. To have a deal like that in those super comfortable recliner seats with adjustable foot rests was amazing.

[barrianyoung]

I suppose what movies are shown where has to do with projected income from each movie based on the local population (including outside TV).

[mrdarcy]

AMC theater at Lake Square Mall in Leesburg has recliner seating. It’s a nice experience. That mall is re-inventing itself as an entertainment venue. You can browse the great inventory at Books-A-Million while you wait for your movie to start. I recommend checking it out.

[EdFNJ]

I believe they do the same thing with the nightly entertainment in the squares (also very subjective based on ones taste of course). Like the movies most of the more popular groups are in SS more times than anywhere else. SS is the tiniest square for seating & dancing (like the theaters). Obviously they are trying to get more of a certain age group down there since (sorry Nucky :) ) the "further north" you are in TV the older the demographic. I got that info from a number of real estate agents so take it with a grain of Villages Turf but after living a month on the historic side befroe we bought our home I can see where they get that from. The older the area the older the average age of the residents are which does make sense since that area has been around longer.

[EdFNJ]

AMC theater at Lake Square Mall in Leesburg has recliner seating. It’s a nice experience. That mall is re-inventing itself as an entertainment venue. You can browse the great inventory at Books-A-Million while you wait for your movie to start. I recommend checking it out.

I hear that mall has recently been resold. I think the 2 places you listed are 2 of about 6 stores remaining in the place. The first and last time we were there (about 7 months ago) it was Movies, T-Mobile, book store and pin ball palace and a couple other stragglers. Probably 10 "customers" in the place including us. A smart group of peole could make it a "Villages Destination" and maybe get some REAL stores in there. Generally speaking though, indoor malls are on their death throes so probably nothing will help.

[GoodLife]

I believe they do the same thing with the nightly entertainment in the squares (also very subjective based on ones taste of course). Like the movies most of the more popular groups are in SS more times than anywhere else. SS is the tiniest square for seating & dancing (like the theaters). Obviously they are trying to get more of a certain age group down there since (sorry Nucky :) ) the "further north" you are in TV the older the demographic. I got that info from a number of real estate agents so take it with a grain of Villages Turf but after living a month on the historic side befroe we bought our home I can see where they get that from. The older the area the older the average age of the residents are which does make sense since that area has been around longer.

Yep you heard right. The average age of Villagers north of 466 is 97 years old, we never die and sell our homes to the whippersnappers who congregate down south. We have a secret contract we made with Harold and his young son Gary that all the best movies and music groups will forever play in Spanish Springs. This is a secret clause in closing contracts that you would never know about unless you bought up here which you couldn't unless you were at least 90. :22yikes:

[EdFNJ]

Yep you heard right. The average age of Villagers north of 466 is 97 years old, we never die and sell our homes to the whippersnappers who congregate down south. We have a secret contract we made with Harold and his young son Gary that all the best movies and music groups will forever play in Spanish Springs. This is a secret clause in closing contracts that you would never know about unless you bought up here which you couldn't unless you were at least 90. :22yikes:


See, they were right! ;)

[champion6]

AMC theater at Lake Square Mall in Leesburg has recliner seating. It’s a nice experience. That mall is re-inventing itself as an entertainment venue. You can browse the great inventory at Books-A-Million while you wait for your movie to start. I recommend checking it out.

I hear that mall has recently been resold. I think the 2 places you listed are 2 of about 6 stores remaining in the place. The first and last time we were there (about 7 months ago) it was Movies, T-Mobile, book store and pin ball palace and a couple other stragglers. Probably 10 "customers" in the place including us. A smart group of people could make it a "Villages Destination" and maybe get some REAL stores in there. Generally speaking though, indoor malls are on their death throes so probably nothing will help.Yes, new owners. Of course, they have an optimistic outlook. Link to newspaper article: New mall owners share ambitious improvement plans - News - Daily Commercial - Leesburg, FL (http://www.dailycommercial.com/news/20171219/new-mall-owners-share-ambitious-improvement-plans)

[EdFNJ]

Yes, new owners. Of course, they have an optimistic outlook. Link to newspaper article: New mall owners share ambitious improvement plans - News - Daily Commercial - Leesburg, FL (http://www.dailycommercial.com/news/20171219/new-mall-owners-share-ambitious-improvement-plans)



They are still missing out on their biggest market just a few miles down the road. Their plans don't look too promising other than the "covered entrance" to keep all the customers dry. :) :)

That $22 million bucks invested . Good luck to them. Maybe the 3rd try will be the winner.

Paddock indoor mall in Ocala is decent but the last time we were there there were 5 places in the food court and you couldn't even get a slice of pizza. There is a nice newer outdoor mall a mile or so away.




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[mrf6969]

In this past week we have seen a movie at Brownwood and one at Spanish Springs. Yes Brownwood has all the new wonderful amenities but why do they continue to put out the worst popcorn with that unnatural yellow/orange coating and they dump loads of salt on it?? The Popcorn at Spanish is much lighter, fresher and has just the right amount of salt. Great job Rialto!!

[toeser]

Except theaters make most of their money at the snack counters. Smaller audience, smaller profits.

[Mac McLean]

Not only is the theater old and outdated but it doesn't have a "Family Restroom" like the others. My wife is disabled and can't use the one that is there. We are boycotting the Rialto until they remodel and add one. The theater management seems to be balancing the use by booking certain film at the Rialto only. Why else would you go to that theater unless it was the only one playing the movie you want to see.

[Taltarzac725]

Not only is the theater old and outdated but it doesn't have a "Family Restroom" like the others. My wife is disabled and can't use the one that is there. We are boycotting the Rialto until they remodel and add one. The theater management seems to be balancing the use by booking certain film at the Rialto only. Why else would you go to that theater unless it was the only one playing the movie you want to see.

Sorry to hear that.

Can she use the restroom to the south of the Rialto? It is near the wall of the Rialto movie theater.

[GypsyBuddy]

I have traded emails back and forth with the man that schedules movies at theaters and got nowhere. He said to me "no one else complains". My problem is the seats in the Rialto that kill my back. I tried that theater 3 times...first time with back pain that began 15 minutes into the movie. Second time I took a bolster pillow...third time I took two pillows. Nothing helped and now I am stuck with whatever comical, scifi, weird, or stupid movie is shown at one of the other two theaters. The man is Craig Franco and his email address is craig.franco@thevillages.com. Write to him and let him know that many more people would be attending these nicer adult themed movies if they could sit comfortably. The most comfortable seats are at Brownwood where they usually put movies made for the younger crowd. Doesn't make sense. I have become frustrated in not getting satisfaction from Mr. Franco, but if those of you reading this post will all write to him maybe things will change around here.

[ladybugsmom]

It’s to draw more people if course. The theater is smaller, older & more uncomfortable. It’s been like this for five years. It really bothers me as Rialto is the longest drive for us from south of 466A. It’s another “political” move by the powers that be in TV.

[DeanFL]

I have traded emails back and forth with the man that schedules movies at theaters and got nowhere. He said to me "no one else complains". My problem is the seats in the Rialto that kill my back. I tried that theater 3 times...first time with back pain that began 15 minutes into the movie. Second time I took a bolster pillow...third time I took two pillows. Nothing helped and now I am stuck with whatever comical, scifi, weird, or stupid movie is shown at one of the other two theaters. The man is Craig Franco and his email address is craig.franco@thevillages.com. Write to him and let him know that many more people would be attending these nicer adult themed movies if they could sit comfortably. The most comfortable seats are at Brownwood where they usually put movies made for the younger crowd. Doesn't make sense. I have become frustrated in not getting satisfaction from Mr. Franco, but if those of you reading this post will all write to him maybe things will change around here.

Thanks so much for his contact info. And his phone # from another poster here. I am the OP of this Thread - and could not determine who to talk to in order to escalate our feelings on this topic. We had joined MoviePass a month ago and now see a few movies per week. TV theaters get full price ticket $$$ from MP even though our cost is $9.95/month. So now TV theaters are making $$$ from us - but we plan to not attend movies at Rialto if he continues to not schedule the offerings better across all 3 theaters. If, in fact, his reasoning is that people would not go to Rialto unless he force-fits films there...that's ridiculous.

[fastboat]

The theaters definitely got better with each new one built. Don't know what it would take to replace the uncomfortable seats at SS but if you wait a few weeks there is always Red Box or On Demand by most carriers.

[Bogie Shooter]

It’s to draw more people if course. The theater is smaller, older & more uncomfortable. It’s been like this for five years. It really bothers me as Rialto is the longest drive for us from south of 466A. It’s another “political” move by the powers that be in TV.
Could you explain what this means?

[Barefoot]

WHY does management seem to place the good adult-like films only at Rialto?

I suspect it is because the Rialto is such a crappy movie theater, the only way they can get decent audiences to frequent it, is to have the best movies.

That's always been my assumption about movies shown at the Rialto.

Yep you heard right. The average age of Villagers north of 466 is 97 years old, we never die and sell our homes to the whippersnappers who congregate down south. We have a secret contract we made with Harold and his young son Gary that all the best movies and music groups will forever play in Spanish Springs. This is a secret clause in closing contracts that you would never know about unless you bought up here which you couldn't unless you were at least 90.
:a20:

[Dan9871]

I think having three movie theaters running mostly new, different movies in The Villages is a really good thing. Good selection, good theaters. If showing a lot of the big draw movies at the Rialto is what it takes to keep it open then I'm all for it.

Maybe it's just me but I find the seats at the Rialto more comfortable than the ones at The Old Mill in LSL.

We're in the southern part of The Villages so it would be nice if all the movies we wanted to watch were screened at Barnstorm, which is our favorite of the theaters, but it's not a deal-breaker for us. We're up in Spanish Springs a few of times a month any how going to The Sharon, or the Terra del Sol theater, or the Rialto. At least when we go out of one of those theaters we know were not going to have to be driving back home in a sudden snow or ice storm :-) like we often did before we moved to The Villages.

[John_W]

...It really bothers me as Rialto is the longest drive for us from south of 466A. It’s another “political” move by the powers that be in TV.

This year is the 20th Anniversary of The Rialto Theater. No homes existed south of 466A until 2011, that six years ago.

[Taltarzac725]

They could use a fourth movie theater in the Villages. This might be a better option. Somewhere in the center of the Villages.

I like the seats in the Rialto since they fixed them quite a ways back. The lines for the popular movies at the Rialto are a problem. I just wait a few weeks for them to grow shorter.

[Bogie Shooter]

They could use a fourth movie theater in the Villages. This might be a better option. Somewhere in the center of the Villages.

I like the seats in the Rialto since they fixed them quite a ways back. The lines for the popular movies at the Rialto are a problem. I just wait a few weeks for them to grow shorter.

And where would that be?

[MACoppola]

Comfy for sure, but less seats available. We have them up north and the shows are always selling out fast. Never have enough seating.

[Taltarzac725]

And where would that be?

A 4th movie theater in the center of the Villages? Where would that be? Hard to say now with Fenny. Somewhere around Colony Plaza maybe?

[GoodLife]

The answer for why the best movies are screened at Rialto was given in a link provided by Jayhawk on the first page of this thread. The movie theaters here are not OURS, they are privately held businesses engaged in making the best profit possible.

For a big blockbuster movie, the theater might only get 10% of the ticket price in the first week (with 90% going to the studio), but this profit sharing relationship flattens as time progresses. Therefore, theaters may target movies that have more “staying power” such as Slumdog Millionaire. This is also why theaters may choose to show movies for 10+ weeks because every ticket is pure profit for them at that point.

[Barefoot]

They could use a fourth movie theater in the Villages. This might be a better option. Somewhere in the center of the Villages.
Good luck on getting residents from Fenny and from Marion County to agree on the center of The Villages. :laugh:

[Taltarzac725]

Good luck on getting residents from Fenny and from Marion County to agree on the center of The Villages. :laugh:

Getting Villagers to agree on anything is hard Barefoot.

[Timothy]

C'mon! This thread is proof-positive that there are always a few who will find something, ANYTHING, to bitch about. TV theaters are generally clean and comfortable. We have golf cart access to 27 first run movies everyday! You want true improvement? Demand cocktails at happy hour prices!!! Tim

[Sandtrap328]

Has anyone used "Movie Pass"? I understand it costs about $10 per month and is an app on your smartphone. It sounds like for the $10 per month, you can see one movie a day at any theater.

[Taltarzac725]

Has anyone used "Movie Pass"? I understand it costs about $10 per month and is an app on your smartphone. It sounds like for the $10 per month, you can see one movie a day at any theater.

There are several users of movie pass on here.

[phefferon]

I've been here 13 years. I haven't minded the Rialto until this Christmas. We went to see the Barnum movie and the volume almost drove us out of the theatre. So next we tried LSL for the Dickens movie. Thought with larger space it would be better--but no--just as loud. Is this a change? Do they think we are all deaf? Would appreciate other people's experiences.

[EdFNJ]

Has anyone used "Movie Pass"? I understand it costs about $10 per month and is an app on your smartphone. It sounds like for the $10 per month, you can see one movie a day at any theater.

COSTCO has MOVIEPASS for $89/year. Just ordered 2. Seems like a no brainer. Online reviews are generally good with a few issues. Check out their FAQ before buying.

Negs listed all on web reviews over include:

No 3D or "special showings"

Must be within about 100 yards of the theatre to order a ticket.

Horrendous or non-existent customer support when you need it.



Other than that is seems like a good deal, especially at the COSTCO price around $7/month

[EdFNJ]

If anyone wants to take advantage of the Costco $89 MoviePass discount and you don't belong to Costco I'd gladly order it online for you if you get me the $89. It's just an electronic "promo code" you enter when signing up that I can forward to you. Takes a couple HOURS to come by email from Costco. Got it and setit up. Now just waiting for the card.

You can trust me. I'm (formerly) from NJ. :D :D :D

[EdFNJ]

I've been here 13 years. I haven't minded the Rialto until this Christmas. We went to see the Barnum movie and the volume almost drove us out of the theatre. So next we tried LSL for the Dickens movie. Thought with larger space it would be better--but no--just as loud. Is this a change? Do they think we are all deaf? Would appreciate other people's experiences.

This seems to be the same at virtually any theater anywhere, especially with the new dolby systems.

Just buy by some of those cheap foam earplugs from Walgreen. My wife uses them at the squares because she hates the overly loud music from the speakers. It cuts enough sound to make it bearable for her.

[CatskillBill]

Lots of movies are meant to be seen on the big silver screen at the theaters to get the full effect, and just don't cut it on a TV. JMHO


This is not new, it's been going on as long as I lived here, 2011. It depends on the size market they deem that film will draw. What gets really bad is when they estimate low numbers and put the wrong film at SS. A couple of years ago Gone Girl was playing only at SS, we waited a week after opening, then went to the 1pm show and the line for that movie was out to the door. I counted I think, 143 seats in that theater and everyone was full.

I have all the premium movie channels in HD on Directv, about 45 and all commercial free. So I've refused going to SS anymore, the last time was to see Nebraska back in 2014. I figured it defeats the purpose to pay for all those channels if I don't watch them, now I can look forward to seeing the film in six months or more at home.

[coffeebean]

I've been here 13 years. I haven't minded the Rialto until this Christmas. We went to see the Barnum movie and the volume almost drove us out of the theatre. So next we tried LSL for the Dickens movie. Thought with larger space it would be better--but no--just as loud. Is this a change? Do they think we are all deaf? Would appreciate other people's experiences.

On more than one occasion, in The Villages and in theaters up north, I have requested the volume be lowered or raised depending on the volume. My requests have always been received well and taken care of. Just ask.

[Barefoot]

Do they think we are all deaf? Would appreciate other people's experiences.

I would hesitate to ask the manager to turn down the volume.
I think there are lots of movie goers in TV who don't hear well and appreciate the higher volume.
Like edFNJ's wife, I have good hearing. I don't mind wearing earplugs during movies.

[joldnol]

AMC viaport is the way to go.....cheaper and modern. When you buy your ticket you get an assigned seat. We buy them on line and show up 5 minutes before showtime knowing our seats are secured.

[EdFNJ]

On more than one occasion, in The Villages and in theaters up north, I have requested the volume be lowered or raised depending on the volume. My requests have always been received well and taken care of. Just ask.



That was nice of them (and surprising they did it up north) although That might not be fair to those who like it loud.

It must have been a local theater?

---------------
My user name should be EdF(formerly from)NJ and glad to be gone. [emoji3]

[Bosoxfan]

Try AMC theaters in Leesburg. Mich more comfortable, less mmoney🤔

[circletrack]

Try AMC theaters in Leesburg. Mich more comfortable, less mmoney🤔

I’m thinking the golf cart access outweighs the cheaper ticket.

[John_W]

Lots of movies are meant to be seen on the big silver screen at the theaters to get the full effect, and just don't cut it on a TV. JMHO

The theater in question is the Rialto at Spanish Springs. That's the one place that "films that require the big screen need to be seen" will not be shown. That's the whole debate, the thoughtful artsy films are only shown there, not at LSL or Brownwood.

I found the only ones that I require the theater experience are the 3D movies. I have gone to a few 3D films at the theater, Gravity, Godzilla, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, Jurassic World and Kong Skull Island to name a few. I probably wouldn't of gone to any of those if it wasn't for 3D.

[Garden guru]

The big brash blockbuster musical, “La La Land” was booked only in The Rialto in SS. I could not understand why this huge musical was booked on such a small screen in The Villages so I contacted the man responsible for booking the movies in the theaters.

This was not the first time The Rialto had a movie which would be enjoyed so much more on a large screen with a great sound system. I was told by the man responsible for booking the movies that he puts those type of movies in The Rialto because if he didn’t no one would ever go to that theater. He said The Rialto has to make money too so he puts the popular movies there even if they would be enjoyed more on a large screen.

The man who is responsible for booking the movies in The Villages theaters is Craig Franco. He can be reached at 352-750-5411. Voice your concerns to him. Maybe he will get the message.

Just like everything else here in "Paradise", it's all about the money. Time to boycott the Rialto and start seeing those same movies in Ocala or Leesburg. Two can play this game!

[Chatbrat]

the answer is to, rotate "good" movies between the 3 theaters in TV

[GoodLife]

the answer is to, rotate "good" movies between the 3 theaters in TV

Apparently not to the actual owners of the theaters

[DeanFL]

Well, for the first time since living in The Villages we went to an outlying theater outside of TV. Wanted to see 'Darkest Hour'---- but NOT at Rialto with the small high screen, no stadium seating, uncomfortable seats.
Took the tip from posters here and went to AMC 12 in Leesburg - 30 min drive for us, about 15 more than going to Spanish Springs.

We have MoviePass so price was no object. The AMC Leesburg theater:
1. OMG the seats are FABULOUS - POWER reclining with a full footrest as well. So comfy and soft leatherlike. Full padded armrests - with tons of room. Would love a few at home...
2. Reserved seating - either online or when buying at the ticket office...like buying a ticket for Savannah or Sharon.
3. The ticket price for a 60+ senior before 5pm is $5.29. $5.66 with tax. Yes that is NOT a typo.
4. The Mall is being renovated and has some nice new stores too. So the trip there has another purpose.
5. They have a very wide assortment of food/snacks and alcoh beverages at the theater too.

Bottom line for us - since we dislike Rialto venue...any movie we want to see that is playing there> we go to the Leesburg AMC12. So worth the trip.
And we will let Craig Franco (Mgr of TV theaters) know that. We like to give TV merchants our business, but not this time, until the Rialto is improved.

[8notes]

Wow! Thanks for the heads up. I went to the Rialto recently, and had a kink in my neck after sitting there for two hours staring UP at the screen. Not very comfortable. That is a big difference in price. Sure makes me feel like the Villages Theaters are ripping us off, particularly at the Rialto.

[EdFNJ]

How do you do reserved seats with Movie Pass there? I'm waiting for mine to arrive and am curious. Not even sure how Moviepass works in general! LOL

Well, for the first time since living in The Villages we went to an outlying theater outside of TV. Wanted to see 'Darkest Hour'---- but NOT at Rialto with the small high screen, no stadium seating, uncomfortable seats.
Took the tip from posters here and went to AMC 12 in Leesburg - 30 min drive for us, about 15 more than going to Spanish Springs.

We have MoviePass so price was no object. The AMC Leesburg theater:
1. OMG the seats are FABULOUS - POWER reclining with a full footrest as well. So comfy and soft leatherlike. Full padded armrests - with tons of room. Would love a few at home...
2. Reserved seating - either online or when buying at the ticket office...like buying a ticket for Savannah or Sharon.
3. The ticket price for a 60+ senior before 5pm is $5.29. $5.66 with tax. Yes that is NOT a typo.
4. The Mall is being renovated and has some nice new stores too. So the trip there has another purpose.
5. They have a very wide assortment of food/snacks and alcoh beverages at the theater too.

Bottom line for us - since we dislike Rialto venue...any movie we want to see that is playing there> we go to the Leesburg AMC12. So worth the trip.
And we will let Craig Franco (Mgr of TV theaters) know that. We like to give TV merchants our business, but not this time, until the Rialto is improved.

[Nucky]

Eddie NJ Boy, we get all the good movies up here because our homes are paid for and we have no silly bond. A whole lot more disposable income. And I'm just kidding around so don't anybody get twisted. I really did like the Rialto, plenty of room. I belong to a group called "Ocho Hombres" and we go to see manly movies only when our wives let us. LOL.

[circletrack]

Just like everything else here in "Paradise", it's all about the money. Time to boycott the Rialto and start seeing those same movies in Ocala or Leesburg. Two can play this game!

Yes, drive your car, instead of golf cart, outside of town to save money. That will show them!
Those pesky business owners always trying to make a profit. The movies should be free to all!

[JerryLBell]

The wife and I caught "The Shape of Water" yesterday at the Rialto. It was surprisingly crowded and we ended up sitting way down front and arching our heads back to look up at the screen way up on the wall. Man, have we gotten spoiled in the last 10 or 15 years by theaters with stadium seating! I had thought that I'd go see "Darkest Hour" there but now I'm not as interested. I've been meaning to try the AMC in Leesburg anyway, so I may just look into seeing it here (if it's even there!).

<Edit>
I just checked and it is there (thanks for looking, Taltarzac725!). Also playing is Molly's Game, about which I hear good things. Since some pointed out how ridiculous it is to drive clear out there, I checked the distance. For me (I live at the south end of TV), it's about half an hour's drive. That happens to be about the same length of time it takes me to get up to Spanish Springs to go to the Rialto. And since I'm a MoviePass user, there's no cost difference. Guess I'll be braving leaving the bubble and giving them a try sometime soon.
</Edit>

[Taltarzac725]

The wife and I caught "The Shape of Water" yesterday at the Rialto. It was surprisingly crowded and we ended up sitting way down front and arching our heads back to look up at the screen way up on the wall. Man, have we gotten spoiled in the last 10 or 15 years by theaters with stadium seating! I had thought that I'd go see "Darkest Hour" there but now I'm not as interested. I've been meaning to try the AMC in Leesburg anyway, so I may just look into seeing it here (if it's even there!).

It seems to be there. Darkest Hour: Get Tickets | Focus Features (http://www.darkesthourtickets.com/?gclid=CJnZ0eHUw9gCFdGYgQoddooA4g&gclsrc=ds)

[CWGUY]

The wife and I caught "The Shape of Water" yesterday at the Rialto. It was surprisingly crowded and we ended up sitting way down front and arching our heads back to look up at the screen way up on the wall. Man, have we gotten spoiled in the last 10 or 15 years by theaters with stadium seating! I had thought that I'd go see "Darkest Hour" there but now I'm not as interested. I've been meaning to try the AMC in Leesburg anyway, so I may just look into seeing it here (if it's even there!).

<Edit>
I just checked and it is there (thanks for looking, Taltarzac725!). Also playing is Molly's Game, about which I hear good things. Since some pointed out how ridiculous it is to drive clear out there, I checked the distance. For me (I live at the south end of TV), it's about half an hour's drive. That happens to be about the same length of time it takes me to get up to Spanish Springs to go to the Rialto. And since I'm a MoviePass user, there's no cost difference. Guess I'll be braving leaving the bubble and giving them a try sometime soon.
</Edit>

There is also bus service to Leesburg from Spanish Springs. $1.00 each way and 1/2 price over 60. :popcorn:

Welcome to the Lake County Transit Division Website - RideLakeXpress.com (https://www.ridelakexpress.com/)

[DeanFL]

The wife and I caught "The Shape of Water" yesterday at the Rialto. It was surprisingly crowded and we ended up sitting way down front and arching our heads back to look up at the screen way up on the wall. Man, have we gotten spoiled in the last 10 or 15 years by theaters with stadium seating! I had thought that I'd go see "Darkest Hour" there but now I'm not as interested. I've been meaning to try the AMC in Leesburg anyway, so I may just look into seeing it here (if it's even there!).

<Edit>
I just checked and it is there (thanks for looking, Taltarzac725!). Also playing is Molly's Game, about which I hear good things. Since some pointed out how ridiculous it is to drive clear out there, I checked the distance. For me (I live at the south end of TV), it's about half an hour's drive. That happens to be about the same length of time it takes me to get up to Spanish Springs to go to the Rialto. And since I'm a MoviePass user, there's no cost difference. Guess I'll be braving leaving the bubble and giving them a try sometime soon.
</Edit>

We saw 'Darkest Hour' there (AMC Leesburg) yesterday. As I said in previous post- the seats are simply fabulous and a 350 pounder could be comfy they are so big. One downside is, for MoviePass goers - cannot (as far as I can tell) reserve seats beforehand - must go to the theater and go to app to purch tics then pay with MP card at the booth to reserve seats - easy with kiosk. The movie was very good but dark and slow-ish; I almost fell asleep in that darn soft recliner.... So - no more Rialto for us - will go to Leesburg for movies only shown at Rialto.

[EdFNJ]

Eddie NJ Boy, we get all the good movies up here because our homes are paid for and we have no silly bond. A whole lot more disposable income. And I'm just kidding around so don't anybody get twisted. I really did like the Rialto, plenty of room. I belong to a group called "Ocho Hombres" and we go to see manly movies only when our wives let us. LOL.


You Wize Azz NJ Guy! :boxing2: :D I have no mortgage but do have the James Bond. Hadn't been to the movies in probably 10 years till we got here and it was a balmy 28 degrees (that's why I need FAST internet) :D But I really like that nice new clean theater with thick soft seats and clean johns down here in the southland of T.V. (where by the way it's also 20 degrees warmer).

[Barefoot]

I belong to a group called "Ocho Hombres" and we go to see manly movies only when our wives let us. :a20:

[Taltarzac725]

:a20:

I have a neighbor who goes alone to manly movies. His wife does not share his taste in James Bond, Harry Potter, Star Wars, etc., movies. I did go to a movie with him but he drives the golf cart way too fast for my taste. Watchmen (2009) - Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/watchmen/)

We are sometimes at the same movie.

I can remember pretty much who I saw a movie with back to 1970.

[coffeebean]

I would hesitate to ask the manager to turn down the volume.
I think there are lots of movie goers in TV who don't hear well and appreciate the higher volume.
Like edFNJ's wife, I have good hearing. I don't mind wearing earplugs during movies.

Don't these TV theaters have those hearing impaired devices for the hearing impaired to hear the movie better? I just assumed theaters in a retirement community would offer those devices so the volume of the movie doesn't have to be so loud. It seems to me that would be the better way to go rather than for the folks who are not hearing impaired to wear ear plugs.

[coffeebean]

That was nice of them (and surprising they did it up north) although That might not be fair to those who like it loud.

It must have been a local theater?

---------------
My user name should be EdF(formerly from)NJ and glad to be gone. [emoji3]

Loud can be so harmful to your hearing. When the little hairs inside the ears vibrate.....that's too loud. I wouldn't ask unless the volume was hurtful and uncomfortable.

[Taltarzac725]

The morning shows seem to have captions. Call the theaters for more information.

[Barefoot]

Don't these TV theaters have those hearing impaired devices for the hearing impaired to hear the movie better? I just assumed theaters in a retirement community would offer those devices so the volume of the movie doesn't have to be so loud. It seems to me that would be the better way to go rather than for the folks who are not hearing impaired to wear ear plugs.
Good point! :thumbup:
I've been assuming that other people like the volume LOUD, but perhaps everyone is wearing earplugs like me.

[coffeebean]

Well, for the first time since living in The Villages we went to an outlying theater outside of TV. Wanted to see 'Darkest Hour'---- but NOT at Rialto with the small high screen, no stadium seating, uncomfortable seats.
Took the tip from posters here and went to AMC 12 in Leesburg - 30 min drive for us, about 15 more than going to Spanish Springs.

We have MoviePass so price was no object. The AMC Leesburg theater:
1. OMG the seats are FABULOUS - POWER reclining with a full footrest as well. So comfy and soft leatherlike. Full padded armrests - with tons of room. Would love a few at home...
2. Reserved seating - either online or when buying at the ticket office...like buying a ticket for Savannah or Sharon.
3. The ticket price for a 60+ senior before 5pm is $5.29. $5.66 with tax. Yes that is NOT a typo.
4. The Mall is being renovated and has some nice new stores too. So the trip there has another purpose.
5. They have a very wide assortment of food/snacks and alcoh beverages at the theater too.

Bottom line for us - since we dislike Rialto venue...any movie we want to see that is playing there> we go to the Leesburg AMC12. So worth the trip.
And we will let Craig Franco (Mgr of TV theaters) know that. We like to give TV merchants our business, but not this time, until the Rialto is improved.

DeanFl.....Please forward this email to Craig Franco and to who ever his boss is (Mark Morse maybe). I think that is what is going to possibly get something done about this issue with the Rialto. Thanks.

[Dan9871]

DeanFl.... I think that is what is going to possibly get something done about this issue with the Rialto. Thanks.

I have no issue with the Rialto. I'm very happy that we have three theaters in The Villages all running first run movies.

The Rialto is a bit small so sometimes once you get there it 's not worth going to because the only seats left are in the front rows. But that's happened to us at both Brownwood and Old Mill too.

We find the seats there are just fine.

We're in the southern part of The Villages and the AMC is over twice the distance it is to the Rialto. Unless the AMC is running a movie I want to see that isn't shown in The Village I wouldn't go that distance. My guess is that the movie manager knows that too so I don't think a threat to go to AMC instead of the Rialto will have much effect.

I do wish the movies moved from theater to theater but my guess is that there are issues besides making sure the Rialto gets customers involved.

[graciegirl]

The owners of the theaters must find their business plan works.

They must attract enough business to keep them afloat and turn a profit.

I think, just like everything else here in The Villages, as time went on and improvements were available, new areas were made better. Roads, cart paths, movie theaters were improved.

[DeanFL]

DeanFl.....Please forward this email to Craig Franco and to who ever his boss is (Mark Morse maybe). I think that is what is going to possibly get something done about this issue with the Rialto. Thanks.

I plan to do this when emailing Franco this week. Only concern is that he seems to favor showing good popular adult-themed movies only at the Rialto.
Example-this week, ONLY shown at Rialto - 5 very popular current movies>

Lady Bird
The Shape of Water
Crooked House
Darkest Hour
The Greatest Showman

I forgot to mention that the Leesburg Mall is transitioning to an entertainment Center. We were surprised to see a bowling alley, huge arcade/game center, AND a large indoor go-cart track-with electric carts. Plus the upgraded AMC 12 theaters. Not promoting this...simply FYI-ing.

[Taltarzac725]

The owners of the theaters must find their business plan works.

They must attract enough business to keep them afloat and turn a profit.

I think, just like everything else here in The Villages, as time went on and improvements were available, new areas were made better. Roads, cart paths, movie theaters were improved.

I believe that the Villages' developers and their company owns these theaters but I could be wrong. I was the only person at the showing of The Exorcism of Emily Rose in Auditorium One at the Old Mill Playhouse. It seats 300 or so. I was seeing things from the corner of my eyes watching that kind of movie. In some others movies there might have been 4 of us if the theater was lucky for some of their movies.

[graciegirl]

I believe that the Villages' developers and their company owns these theaters but I could be wrong. I was the only person at the showing of The Exorcism of Emily Rose in Auditorium One at the Old Mill Playhouse. It seats 300 or so. I was seeing things from the corner of my eyes watching that kind of movie. In some others movies there might have been 4 of us if the theater was lucky for some of their movies.

You are right Tal. They aren't packed. THAT would be another negative thread. We will see how this works out, if a New theater complex is being built.

[Taltarzac725]

You are right Tal. They aren't packed. THAT would be another negative thread. We will see how this works out, if a New theater complex is being built.

They have to keep running some of their movies because their contract with the distributor states that according to Rachel Ballou. I went to some film festivals and people were allowed to question them about why they show some movies when there are sometimes no one in the theater watching it.

Ms. Ballou manages the Villages Theater Division the last I looked. It has been a while since I looked though.

[SFSkol]

In the 70's I was assistant manager for the largest theater in the county with 999 seats. At that time movie distributors leased the house out for a period of time. We had The Exorcist run for, I think 6 months. (Saw it about 100 times.) We were the only theatre in the county to show it. The percentage that the house gets grows each week the longer the picture shows. I believe that is still how it works. That might be why many showings are empty.

Our Hungarian projectionist was a member of the very strong, at that time union, and was a midget. He had performed as a Munchkin in the Wizard of OZ. We also had an Ambulance parked out front for the first few weeks paid for by the studio to give aid to those that fainted. We had two fainters and one false labor emergency.

[Barefoot]

In the 70's I was assistant manager for the largest theater in the county with 999 seats. At that time movie distributors leased the house out for a period of time. We had The Exorcist run for, I think 6 months. (Saw it about 100 times.) We were the only theatre in the county to show it. The percentage that the house gets grows each week the longer the picture shows. I believe that is still how it works. That might be why many showings are empty.

Our Hungarian projectionist was a member of the very strong, at that time union, and was a midget. He had performed as a Munchkin in the Wizard of OZ. We also had an Ambulance parked out front for the first few weeks paid for by the studio to give aid to those that fainted. We had two fainters and one false labor emergency.
I find that very interesting. :thumbup:

[EdFNJ]

Loud can be so harmful to your hearing. When the little hairs inside the ears vibrate.....that's too loud. I wouldn't ask unless the volume was hurtful and uncomfortable.

(Humorous reply follows):

While I cannot blame you one bit "too loud" is a very subjective personal feeling as is one's pain threshold. One's pain might be someone else's pleasure. 😁😁.

One can easily reduce their loudness pain without taking away someone else's loudness pleasure by use of a remedial device (a pair of 16c foam earplugs) but one cannot add loudness pleasure back to some stranger in the crowd that has had it removed by another stranger in the crowd who is not enjoying it. 😁 😁

Personally, had I been there enjoying the pain I would have been upset.

Safeword optional 😁😁😁😁😁

[Shadow8IA]

The Rialto plays the independent films. These are the artsy films that normally win the awards. I’m not a huge fan of independent films but it’s nice they can offer them for the people that like them.
The seats seem to sit lower to the ground. Once in the seat I’ve never had problems but I wouldn’t want to sit in the front rows at any theater.

[coffeebean]

The Rialto plays the independent films. These are the artsy films that normally win the awards. I’m not a huge fan of independent films but it’s nice they can offer them for the people that like them.
The seats seem to sit lower to the ground. Once in the seat I’ve never had problems but I wouldn’t want to sit in the front rows at any theater.

The Rialto usually plays the blockbuster films too, especially musicals. Let's not lose site of the point the OP made. The Rialto is most certainly an inferior movie theater compared to the other two theaters in The Villages.

My main gripe with The Rialto is the theater does not have one large screen that even comes close to the large screens in the newer theaters. Why put the blockbusters and the big brash musicals on a small screen? That just does not make sense to me.

I can endure having to look up at the high screen in the Rialto. I can endure the loud volume of the movies anywhere if I have to. I have put tissue in my ears to make the volume more comfortable.

I do not like that the theater with the smallest screens are showing the big block busters. Another example of poor scheduling in these theaters....."The Greatest Showman" is now playing at The Rialto. That is purely asinine, in my opinion. Another big brash musical put on the smallest screen in The Villages. That is not good customer service at all.

[8notes]

I agree. With the $$ The Villages has coming in, there is no reason we the residents have to settle for a second rate movie theater where many of the blockbusters are shown. I suggest people make their opinions known on the yearly residents survey. As far as the noise, I carry the foam earplugs with me at all times when going to the movies in case there is a problem. But every once in awhile even those don't do the trick, and I have to leave, and try to tell the manager if there is one around.