Finding movie times, reviews and much needed cheap tickets

July 24, 4:05 PMSF Internet ExaminerTracy Yen

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Source: 2009 Warner Bros.

The summer movie season beckons as the bright sun warms the Bay area. Kick back in a nicely air-chilled movie theater with friends and loved ones. For those who enjoy planning, here are ways to make the trip simple and save a few bucks on a dud.

1) Check out the latest movie trailers
Try:
Apple.com
Movies.com
Moviefone.com

2) Don't want to be tricked into a snoozefest or gory suspense. Read some reviews.
Try:
SFGate.com's Movie Reviews section
SFWeekly.com Movie Reviews section
RottenTomatoes.com
EW.com's movie section
IMDB.com's Now Playing section

3) Check movie times first
Many of the movie review sites also include theater times. Look for a search tool or a button.

Also try:
Fandango.com

4) Buy tickets in advance
Two tricks to employ. If the selection is promoted as the biggest thing since slice bread, consider the online processing fee as aspirin for the headache of a wait narrowly avoided.

Second trick and by far the best I've found, buy tickets in bulk from Costco. Stock up on the movie tickets for major theater chains. Even if the movie listing states no passes, this isn't the same thing. It's a pre-paid ticket. It is important to check the Costco tickets for restrictions, though most are good for new movies the second it opens. Tickets fit snugly into the wallet for any last minute movies too.

Enjoy the cinema!