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The Varsity Theatre – Integrity and local ownership set movie house apart
By NIKKI GUILLOT
Photos by JULIE JOLESCH
There's a special place in the Drake University neighborhood called the Varsity Theatre. If you're looking for a movie theater that will provide quality entertainment at every showing, look no further than this locally owned movie house. The movies run on an average of two weeks for two showings a day and the price is better than any place you can find in the suburbs.
ATMOSPHERE
For the moviegoer of discriminating tastes, the Varsity is the place to be. The films shown tend to be independent or controversial films and the atmosphere follows suit with an adult and engaged feel, even providing an email mailing list sign up outside of the "Fahrenheit 911". The entrance is small and intimate, the crowds are often older adults and the floors are never sticky. The local ownership of this theater is evident in the friendly nature of the employees and the distinguished taste in the films shown.
CROWD
Unlike the megaplexes you'll find in West Des Moines and other suburbs, you won't find hordes of parent-less teenagers and mile-long lines for concessions. You won't need to show up 45 minutes before the movie starts just to make sure you navigate the crowd and the airport terminal sized theater. This theater attracts intellectuals and many regulars. Expect for the concessionaires to recognize you if you stop by for consecutive films.
GRUB
The Varsity not only has very reasonable prices on both tickets and food, but you'll get what you pay for every time. The popcorn is fresh and the sizes are generous.
PRICES
Expect to fork out $7 for any film, at any given time. Candy of the theater sizes will run you about $3 and a drink will vary but plan for another $3. In all, it'll cost you less than the excruciating drive, wait and ticket purchase in the outreaching suburbs.
WHY IT'S UNIQUE
The Varsity was the only theater in the Des Moines metro area to actually show Michael Moore's "Fahrenheit 911" and they always choose the most recent and off beat movies. For your money, there's no better, locally owned movie joint. Plus you can see a movie and then hike over to the campus bars while you inevitably discuss what you've just watched.
Varsity Theatre
1207 25th St.
Des Moines, IA 50311
515.277.0404
7 to 9:30 pm. Mondays through Saturdays
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