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| - Unlike my previous cinema reviews, I will not start with the usual rant about why I seldom go out to movies anymore (feel free to read it in my earlier reviews). When I go down to the Carlton Cinemas, it is not for a Hollywood blockbuster or special effects movie; it is to see those smaller movies that fit well in the small auditoriums. They are fairly small with low-ceilings, maybe about 100 seats each, and the screens are similarly sized. The seating is very comfortable though, and each theater has a good slope so even the tall couple sitting in front of me this week did not block my view. The sound systems were updated some years ago, but no 3D or other specialty features, so all movies are $10 regularly and $5 on Tuesdays.
I never see the box office open when I go, so I always buy tickets at the snack bar or self-serve terminals. The snack bar is pretty standard in its fare, but the theater is also licensed to serve alcohol, which you can take with you to the movie. The lobby is pretty much the same as it has been for years, but the entire place is kept very clean and is generally quiet compared to other cinemas. There is a larger lounger as you come in where there is often some event or presentation going on, and a smaller quiet one on the other side, and old movie posters mixed in with those of upcoming features. Although the cinema does show some big movies, it always carries lots of independent and foreign films that are in limited release (sometimes not showing anywhere else in Toronto). Overall, always a more enjoyable experience for a lesser price than the average movie night, but not for those seeking special effects or a video game before the movie.
As a final note, the movie that I went to see this past week was 'Wexford Plaza', a quirky local film about Scarborough 20-somethings going nowhere. And this pointed me to the Wexford Restaurant for breakfast the next day. (review to follow...)
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