Chattanooga's Ultimate Movie Experiences: Which Theaters Perform Best?

In this age of high definition entertainment at home, it takes a lot to make many of us part with our hard earned cash. That's especially true if the cost of seeing something on the big screen can be watched for a fraction of the expense later in our own homes. The following movie theater's make the extra expense well worth getting off the couch.

Rave Motion Pictures - It doesn't get much better than this in Chattanooga. Known around town as "The Rave," the theater features 18 screens, all with stadium seating and DLP digital projectors. The switch to digital negates the scratchy, lint stained glimpses previously offered with film. Several of the screens can handle 3D, for the new wave of films coming out. If you see a new release on opening week, chances are the film will be shown in one of the deluxe theaters with what's possible "The Rave's" best amenity: anamorphic widescreen. These screens are enormous. "The Rave" also includes plenty of leg room, carpet, and hi-back recliner seats in its auditoriums, plus a party room and game room. Tickets start at $6.75 for matinees and jump to $9.25 for evening showings. Tickets can be purchase online, at the box office, or at an ATM-like machine at the front door. 3D films include a $2.75 surcharge. Movies can begin as early as 11:00am in the summer. "The Rave" is located at 5080 South Terrace. (423) 855-9652

Carmike's Northgate 14 - If "The Rave" seems a little pricey, Northgate makes for a great second option. The theater features 14 screens, all with stadium seating and DLP digital projectors. A few auditoriums were recently upgraded to handle 3D films. The screens aren't as big as "The Rave," but neither is the expense. Tickets start at $6.75 and jump to $9.50 for shows after 6:00pm. However, if you see a movie between 4:30 and 6:00pm, the "Super Bargain Matinee" price is just $5.50. 3D films include a $2.50 surcharge. This theater is also known for special events. Occasionally, the theater hosts special showings of limited release films, with stars/crew members on hand for discussion after the showing. Also, beware if you're seeing a movie on the weekend. You may encounter a teen crowd, based on proximity to Northgate mall. Movies generally begin about 1:00pm. Tickets can be purchase online or at the box office. The Northgate 14 is located at 310 Ring Road in the Hixson area. (423) 870-9833.

Carmike's Wynnsong 10 - Since the Regal Theater in the mall closed, this theater has increased its ratio of quality first run films. This is a pretty standard theater in this day and age. While the seats are stadium style, the screens and auditoriums are a tad small. For this reason, many locals head here to avoid crowds and the chance of a new release being sold out. Films are shown digitally and the theater is equipped for 3D films. Tickets start at $6.75 and jump to $9.50 for shows after 6:00pm. However, if you see a movie between 4:30 and 6:00pm, the "Super Bargain Matinee" price here is just $5.25. 3D films include a $2.50 surcharge. Movies generally begin about 12:30pm. Tickets can be purchase online or at the box office. The Wynnsong 10 is located at 2210 Gunbarrel Road. (423) 855-1005.

Regal Hamilton Place 10-17 - The name sounds funny, since screens 1-9 no longer exist. Regal all but pulled out of Chattanooga, but decided to leave its pre-stadium seating style theater in operation for discount films. Most of what is shown here has either just been released on DVD or will be within the next month. This theater is serviceable for a cheap night out . Staff keeps this location well maintained, so it doesn't feel like your typical discount theater, aside from the old-style graded seating. Tickets are always $3.00, no matter what time. The only exception is on Wednesdays, when all movies are $1.00. The Regal is located at 2000 Hamilton Place Boulevard. (423) 855-5951.

IMAX 3D Theater - Tennessee Aquarium - This two screen theater near the Tennessee Aquarium generally features educational films. While you're more likely to find "Under The Sea" playing, during the winter months this IMAX location lets a little Hollywood in. Previous non-educational showings include "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," "Happy Feet," and "The Polar Express." IMAX screens are designed to encompass your peripheral vision. These screens are painted silver to maximize the amount of light reflected back to the audience. Shows start at 11:00am and wind up about 6:00pm, except during the summer when the last showing is at 9:00pm. Tickets are $8.50 for adults and $6.00 for children, regardless of time. There is no 3D surcharge here. The IMAX is located at 1 Broad Street. (800) 262-0695.

Carmike's Bijou 7 - This theater is really only notable for its tendency to carry arthouse films in limited release. The complex is highly outdated and overpriced for its offerings. It will soon be replaced by a new, state of the art theater next door. Tickets are $6.75 for children and $7.00 for adults during matinees. Then the price jumps to $9.00 for adults. However, if you see a movie between 4:30 and 6:00pm, the "Super Bargain Matinee" price is just $5.50. The Bijou is located at 215 Broad Street. (423) 265-5308.