Film buffs find movie tickets pricey

Watching movies was once the cheapest form of entertainment. Is that still true today? We checked some moviehouses and found a mix of ticket prices that ranged from P197 (SM Megamall) to as much as P500 (Newport Cinemas in Resorts World). We asked moviegoers if they found watching movies cheap or expensive. Their take:

Donna del Fierro, Grade 6 teacher: “Movies are too expensive. With my salary as a teacher, a ticket brought down to P50 isn’t a bad idea.”

Millie Buenaventura, corporate events freelancer: “An affordable price for me would be P100. But, I appreciate the guaranteed seats in cinemas, because it assures comfort and convenience.”

Alexa Dimalanta, student: “I’d like to enter a cinema anytime and be able to watch a movie again. Movies are expensive, so maybe theater owners can offer a student rate of P120?”

Bobet Nocon, self-employed: “Popcorn or any other snack is an additional expense, so I don’t eat while watching a film. Tickets priced at P150 would be reasonable.”

Imogen Ho, freelance artist: “We consider P120 a moderate amount for a ticket. We like watching a film from the beginning, so being able to choose where to sit works for us.”

Ingrid Sarayba, student: “I watch movies in Alabang Town Center because the theaters are clean and aren’t overcrowded—but, the ticket prices are super expensive! Tickets for students should be lower—around P150.”

Rina Pascua, pastor: “Movies at the malls are quite expensive. A good ticket price for my budget is P150. Popcorn makes the viewing experience more fun. I usually watch at Greenbelt 3, because I live nearby.”

Luis Reyes, product manager: “I’m at the cinema from 8 p.m. onwards, usually at Greenbelt 3 because it’s close to home. It would be great if they can lower the price to P150 so I can watch as many films as I want. Unfortunately, it has become expensive. I don’t buy popcorn to stay within my budget.”

Chen Cobarrubias, student: “Drinks and popcorn are a must when I watch movies, and so are cheaper tickets for a student like me. My ideal ticket price would be P160. I watch in Alabang Town Center with my family or classmates because of its clean theaters.”