Do you love catching the latest blockbuster or indie gem on the big screen? Whether you’re a movie enthusiast or just someone who enjoys an occasional night out at the theater, you can make the experience even more rewarding by signing up for a movie theater loyalty program. These programs offer some fantastic perks, from discounted tickets to free snacks, and are a great way to get more out of your movie-going experience.
In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the top movie theater loyalty programs in the U.S., breaking down what you can earn with each one. So grab your popcorn, and let’s get started!
Alamo Drafthouse Victory Rewards: A Unique Theater Experience
Alamo Drafthouse is known for its unique theater experience, offering dinner, drinks, and movies all in one. Their Victory Rewards program is designed to match the brand’s distinct appeal, offering rewards that go beyond just tickets and snacks.
What You Can Earn:
- Points Per Visit: Instead of earning points per dollar, you earn points based on the number of visits and earn rewards as you go.
- Unique Rewards: Rewards increase in value as you earn points; for example, two points earns you a free popcorn while six points will get you a free dessert, and 50 points will get you a free entree and special surprises.
- Special Birthday Treat: Get a birthday sweet just for signing up.
Is It Worth It?
If you love the Alamo Drafthouse experience, their Victory Rewards program is a great way to enhance your visits. While the rewards system isn’t as straightforward as some other chains, the value of the perks are a big draw for cinema fans. And if you frequent an Alamo location, you should check out their season pass memberships.
AMC Stubs: The Gold Standard for Moviegoers
AMC Theatres, one of the largest chains in the country, offers a popular loyalty program called AMC Stubs. With multiple tiers (free and paid), there’s something for everyone, from occasional moviegoers to avid fans who visit the theater weekly.
What You Can Earn:
- AMC Stubs Insider (Free Tier):
- Earn 20 points for every $1 spent on tickets and concessions.
- Every time you hit 5,000 points, you get a $5 reward to use on tickets or snacks.
- Weekly ticket savings on Discount Tuesdays.
- Free refills on large popcorn.
- A birthday perk of a free large popcorn.
- AMC Stubs Premiere ($15/year):
- All the benefits of the Insider tier, plus:
- Earn 100 points per $1 spent (5x the points and they never expire!).
- Skip the lines with priority service at the box office and concession stands.
- Free size upgrades on popcorn and drinks.
- Birthday perk also includes a fountain drink.
- All the benefits of the Insider tier, plus:
- AMC Stubs A-List ($24-$29.99/month, depending on location):
- All the benefits of the Premiere tier, plus:
- The ultimate perk for serious moviegoers! With A-List, you can watch up to three movies per week in any format (including IMAX and 3D).
- All the benefits of the Premiere tier, plus:
Is It Worth It?
AMC Stubs is perfect for frequent moviegoers who want to save on tickets and snacks. The A-List is especially appealing if you go to the movies often, as the monthly fee pays for itself after just a couple of visits. If you’re a more casual theater goer, there’s no reason not to sign up for the Insider tier since it’s free!
Cinemark Movie Rewards: Flexibility for Every Movie Fan
Cinemark’s loyalty program, Cinemark Movie Rewards, comes in two main versions: a free tier (Movie Fan) and a paid tier (Movie Club). Both options offer solid benefits, but Movie Club is particularly enticing for those who enjoy regular movie nights. There is also Movie Club Platinum for those who visit 25 or purchase 60 tickets in a year.
What You Can Earn:
- Movie Fan (Free Tier):
- Earn one point for every dollar spent on tickets and concessions.
- Redeem points for tickets, snacks, and even movie merchandise.
- Get member access to special screenings and discounts.
- Extra discounts on Tuesdays.
- Special birthday treat.
- Movie Club (starting at $10.99/month):
- All the perks of the free tier, plus:
- One free movie ticket each month (any unused tickets roll over to the next month).
- 20% off concessions.
- The ability to bring friends at a discounted rate ($9.99 per ticket).
- No online fees when booking your tickets.
- All the perks of the free tier, plus:
- Movie Club Platinum (starting at $10.99/month for Movie Club – members who qualify are automatically enrolled)
- All the benefits of Movie Club, plus:
- Two free bonus credits when earning Platinum status.
- 25% off concessions.
- All the benefits of Movie Club, plus:
Is It Worth It?
Cinemark Movie Rewards is a great option for casual moviegoers who still want to earn rewards. But if you’re someone who heads to the theater at least once a month, the Movie Club tier offers excellent value, with tickets and snacks discounts making it easy to justify the monthly fee.
Marcus Theatres Magical Movie Rewards: A Midwest Favorite
If you live in the Midwest, you’ve likely heard of Marcus Theatres. Their Magical Movie Rewards program is easy to join and offers plenty of benefits for members.
What You Can Earn:
- Points for Every Purchase: Earn one point for every dollar spent on tickets, concessions, and online purchases.
- Use Rewards Towards Movie Tickets and Snacks: Every 100 points will earn you a $5 reward to use towards movie tickets and concessions.
- Bonus Perks: Members of the Magical Movie Rewards program also get free refills on fountain drinks, a free refill on a large popcorn for their birthday, and discounts on Value Tuesdays.
Is It Worth It?
For those living near a Marcus Theatres location, Magical Movie Rewards offers a straightforward way to earn rewards towards tickets and snacks. With the birthday perk and regular offers, it’s definitely worth joining, especially since it’s free.
Regal Crown Club: Big Savings, Big Rewards
Another major player in the movie theater world is Regal Cinemas, and their Regal Crown Club loyalty program offers moviegoers a simple yet rewarding way to earn perks. And it’s free!
What You Can Earn:
- Earn Points: Get 100 points for every $1 spent on tickets, concessions, and select purchases at Regal theaters.
- Free Tickets: Redeem points for free movie tickets once you’ve accumulated enough. For example, 7,500 points will earn you a free standard 2D movie ticket.
- Discounted Snacks: Use your points to snag discounted (or even free!) concessions. Love popcorn? You can redeem points for popcorn, candy, and drinks.
- Unique Rewards: The Crown Club Store features other items that points can be redeemed for including everything from art prints to collectible tickets.
- Special Promotions: Crown Club members get access to exclusive discounts and special promotions, including sweepstakes and giveaways.
Is It Worth It?
If you live near a Regal theater and frequent it often, this program is a no-brainer. The ability to earn points on both tickets and concessions means you’ll be cashing in for rewards fairly quickly. Plus, the free-to-join factor makes it accessible for everyone.
Movie theater loyalty programs are an excellent way to get more value out of your movie-going experience. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or just go a few times a year, there’s likely a program that suits your needs. With rewards ranging from free tickets to discounted snacks, these loyalty programs make the magic of the movies even more enjoyable.
So, next time you head to the theater, don’t forget to sign up for the loyalty program—and start racking up those rewards!
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