The great news is there are so many awesome movies for kids out during each school holiday period that appeal to the big kids just as much as the little ones!  

We have made a complete guide to what’s on at the movies during the school holidays, so you and your Brisbane Kids know what is coming up and you don’t miss a thing – you can check them out for yourself below.

Please note that release dates are correct at time of publishing. however, they maybe postponed for various reasons. We will update this information as it changes so you are receiving the most up to date information. 

Easter Holiday 2024 Movie Releases

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (rated PG)

Release Date: 21 March 2024

When the Spengler family reunites at the legendary New York City firehouse with the original Ghostbusters, they unveil a secret research lab to enhance ghost-busting. But when an ancient artifact unleashes evil, old and new Ghostbusters must unite to save their city and prevent a second Ice Age.

You can check out the trailer for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire here –

Kung Fu Panda 4 (rated PG)

Release Date: 28 March 2024

After nearly a decade hiatus, Jack Black reprises his role as Po in “Kung Fu Panda 4”, bringing laughter and martial arts mayhem. Po, the unlikely kung fu master, faces a new challenge as destiny calls him to become the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, signaling a hilarious adventure ahead.

You can check out the trailer for Kung Fu Panda 4 here –

 

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (rated M)

Release Date: 28 March 2024

This follow-up to Godzilla vs. Kong sees the mighty Kong and the fearsome Godzilla fighting an undiscovered threat that challenges their very existence – and our own. Exploring the origins of these titans and the mysteries of Skull Island, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire uncovers a mythic battle that helped forge them both and tied them together forever.

You can check out the trailer for Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire here –

The Tiger’s Apprentice (rated PG)

Release Date: 4 April 2024

In the heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown, young Tom’s ordinary life takes a fantastical turn as he discovers his grandmother is the guardian of a mysterious phoenix egg and he embarks on a journey to protect the egg alongside a diverse group of creatures embodying the Chinese zodiac.

You can check out the trailer for The Tiger’s Apprentice here –

Richard The Stork And The Mystery Of The Great Jewel (rated PG)

Release Date: 4 April 2024

Adopted by a stork family at a young age, Richard is a sparrow wintering at the Great Lake in Northern Africa. After finding out he will not be leading the stork flock back north after the winter, Richard decides to venture out on his own. On his adventure, he meets Samia and her sparrow flock, who have been captured by greedy peacock Zamano and his evil marabous. In order to free the sparrows, Richard and Samia must work together to solve a riddle and find the Great Jewel.

You can check out the trailer for Richard The Stork And The Mystery Of The Great Jewel here –

Movies later this season (Autumn 2024) & beyond

The Garfield Movie (rated PG)

Release Date: 30 May 2024

Garfield, the famous indoor cat who hates Mondays and loves lasagna, embarks on a thrilling outdoor escapade. Reuniting with his long-lost father, the streetwise cat Vic, Garfield and his loyal companion Odie are thrust from their cushy existence into a hilarious, high-risk heist orchestrated by his father.

You can check out the trailer for The Garfield Movie here –

Inside Out 2 (rating TBC)

Release date: 13 June 2024

After running a fiarly successful operation so far, Riley’s emotions – Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust – are introduced to some new emotions that are not happy to just take a back seat – Envy, Ennui, Anxiety and Embarrassment!

You can check out the trailer for Inside Out 2 here –

 

To find some old movie favourites to watch on DVD or to stream over the school holidays, or for the best cinema experiences, check out our Movies We Love section. For more fun school holiday ideas make sure you check out our Brisbane Kids Event Calendar, or sign up for our newsletter here.

Movie Cinemas with Cheapest Tickets

Before we get into all of the great discounts and deals you can get on the pricier tickets, it is worth mentioning the cheaper cinemas. Many of these cinemas offer ticket prices that are always pretty good value for money, gifting you the cinema movie experience without the hefty price tag. With daily prices that quite often match (or beat) the discounted versions, we love the following cinemas.

Cineplex

Cineplex has seven different locations and aims to ensure that their “prices remain the lowest in Southeast Queensland so that you can enjoy the latest movies any day of the week”. They do a good job at achieving that, too!  The cinemas, while a little older, are comfortable, their candy bar is stocked and their prices are very reasonable. Standard Adult tickets are only $10, kids $8 – but there are also discounted movies and sessions which come out even cheaper!  Even the ‘deluxe cinema’ tickets don’t go higher than $15.00 for guests.

Adult Tickets: $9.00 – 11.00
Student Tickets: $8.00 – $11.00
Children / Pensioner: $7.00 – $10.00
Locations: Bulimba, Hawthorne, South Bank, Victoria Point, Redbank and Nerang. 

United Eldorado Indooroopilly

Tucked away discreetly on a corner in Indooroopilly is the United Eldorado, a family-run cinema. On Tuesdays for specific movies and in certain theatres, you can get $8 adult, senior, and children’s tickets. Sign up online and get tickets for as low as $9.50 for kids and $11.50 for adults. For an extra few dollars, you also have the option to upgrade your ticket to a recliner seat.

Adult Tickets: $11:50
Student Tickets: $9:50
Children / Pensioner: $9:50

Limelight Cinemas 

With locations in Ipswich and Morayfield, Limelight Cinemas offer incredibly cheap everyday movie ticket pricing starting at just $10! They also offer a reward based program that can be used to redeem free tickets. 

Standard ticket: $10
Locations: Ipswich and Morayfield 

A few things to check when you are looking for cheaper movie tickets at any Brisbane cinema location. Many cinemas have specials on Tuesdays and  for night viewings (even if they aren’t mentioned on this list). Also be mindful of hidden costs known as booking fees which we have seen as high as $2 a ticket!?

Drive-In Cinemas

Another cheap movie ticket option is to opt for the outside cinema experience, instead of indoors. Pile some blankets, pillows, and the family into your car and head to one of the local Drive-In Theatres to take in the stars on the screen and above you!

Tivoli Drive-In

Located at Chuwar, Brisbane, families love the old-school fun (and prices) at the Tivoli Drive-In. For just $15 per car, they screen a single movie every Friday night, and two on Saturday nights and are the cheapest drive-in cinema close to Brisbane. Jump online and find out which films they will screen for the upcoming month. There is no booking tickets; just rock up in your car on the night and buy your ticket as you enter.  Live music acts play pre-movies, fur babies are allowed, and a cafe is on-site too. No wonder families love this community-focused drive-in!

Price: $15 / car

How to get discounted movie tickets

RACQ

RACQ (and all similar insurances in different states) offer fantastic cost-saving options for movies that are super easy to access if you are a member.  Valid at BCC and Event Cinemas, there are various price options on their site, depending on what day you go and at what time.  Once you have signed in you can see the different costs for specific days and times, which can help you choose your movie screen based on which one is most cost-effective. They also offer discounts on snacks at the candy bar.

Valid For: BCC and Event Cinemas
Accessible To: RACQ Members
Discounts Available: Up to 50% off e-vouchers for movies and snacks.
Website: RACQ

Shopback

ShopBack is a shopping platform that rewards you just for spending your cash. You can sign in online or download the app to your phone. Once in, simply search for cinemas and you will see great discounted movie tickets available for Event Cinemas. Currently, tickets for children are only $11.50 and adults are $13.50 (not to be used after 5pm on a Friday or Saturday). Once you have the ticket, you can redeem it online (but will get a surcharge) – or at no extra cost, you can do so in person at the box office.

Valid For: Event Cinemas
Accessible To: Shopback members via website or app
Discounts Available: $11.50 children / $13.50 adult tickets as well as discounts in Gold Class.
Website: Shopback

Groupon / Scoopon cheap movie deals

Groupon and Scoopon are two well-known discount sites that offer you a wealth of amazing deals across the board. Simply download the apps to your phone (or access them via their websites) and keep an eye out on the current deals they have running for nearly everything you can think of. Both of these apps have deals for movie tickets regularly – with some deals offering a staggering 70% off at times!

Valid For: Various Cinemas
Accessible To: Groupon and Scoopon members
Discounts Available: Various depending on what deals the sites currently have running.
Website: Groupon / Scoopon

Event Cinemas Cheap Tuesdays

Another way to get cheaper tickets to Event Cinemas is to sign up for Cinebuzz (their rewards program) and book in to see movies on a Tuesday for half-price tickets. With the Cinebuzz membership, you will also get access to special saver sessions as well as points that can accumulate to reward you with free tickets.

Valid For: Event Cinemas
Accessible To: Cinebuzz Members
Discounts Available: 50% off on Tuesdays and access to saver sessions.
Website: Cinebuzz

Telstra + Cinebuzz

You can save even more on your Cinebuzz tickets if you are a Telstra Plus member. With this you are able to not only purchase your movie tickets at a cheaper rate, you can use your points to pay for them! 

Valid For: Event and Village Cinemas
Accessible To: Telstra Plus and Cinebuzz Members
Discounts Available: Purchase tickets with your Telstra Plus Points and get discounted movie tickets
Website: Telstra Plus / Cinebuzz

Foxtel Rewards

For members of Foxtel’s Reward program, you can benefit from cheaper movie tickets at any HOYTS cinema. As a Foxtel Rewards member, you can currently enjoy $12.50 movie tickets and $28 HOYTS LUX tickets every single day of the week at any HOYTS cinema. If you book online, there is a booking fee of $1.50 per standard ticket for all tickets. 

Valid For: HOYTS Cinemas
Accessible To: Foxtel Rewards Members
Discounts Available:  $12.50* movie tickets and $28 HOYTS LUX tickets
Website: Foxtel Rewards Tickets

HOYTS / Qantas Rewards

If you are a Qantas Frequent Flyer, HOYTS may become one of your favourite (and cheapest) cinemas to visit with the family. To qualify for cheaper tickets (or to purchase tickets using your QFF points), you must sign up for the HOYTS rewards program.  This is free and will give you 10% off standard tickets, $11 movie-of-the-week options, and other special benefits.  For $15 a year, you can also join their VIP rewards – which give 25%b discounts.

Valid For: HOYTS Cinemas
Accessible To: HOYTS Reward and Qantas Rewards Members
Discounts Available: $11 movie of the week tickets, use Qantas Points.
Website: HOYTS Rewards

Health Insurance Cheap Tickets

If you have private health insurance then there is a very good chance that you are also eligible for some cheaper movie ticket prices. BUPA, HPF and Medibank offer customers discounts at the box office, with benefits ranging from 25% to 50% at both HOYTS and Event Cinemas. It’s definitely worth looking into what your insurance company offers when you are searching for discounted tickets.

Valid For: Various Cinemas
Accessible To: BUPA, HBF, Medibank
Discounts Available: 25 – 40% off ticket prices.

If you are looking for some more amazing deals on experiences you can enjoy with your family you might also be interested in:

Discount Vouchers

Event Cinemas ‘bring your baby’ sessions

Bring Your Baby sessions make going to the cinema with your little ones affordable and easy.  Lights are kept on dim throughout the movie and the sound is turned down to ensure the safety and comfort of all patrons.

Tickets are only $10 per adult (+ online booking fee). Children 0-3 years are FREE of charge when sharing a seat with a paying adult. 

Session Times for Bring Your Baby movies typically start between 10:00am and 1pm and are mostly held on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays.  Occasionally cinemas will offer Bring Your Baby sessions outside of these hours so be sure to check the website for new sessions. Also note that Bring Your Baby sessions do not run during school holidays.   You can also get more information on the up-coming film line-up to see what’s showing in a cinema near you.

Bookings are highly recommended as they can be quite popular.  You can book online at https://www.eventcinemas.com.au/ for a small booking fee of $1.25.

Tips and Things to Remember

When it comes to leaving the house with babies and toddlers, planning ahead can be an essential ingredient.

• Patrons are welcome to take in snacks and drinks for babies and toddlers, so long as they don’t bring hot food or glass into the cinema. Try taking a few snacks or a little picnic to keep your toddler distracted.
• Younger babies will also settle well (maybe even sleep) after a good feed, so bring along anything you need and perhaps try feeding at the beginning of the session.
• Sleeping babies are more likely to remain settled if they are kept comfortable and secure. A small blanket will help keep them warm.  You might consider bringing a baby carrier so your hands are free for other things, such as the popcorn or helping your toddler.
• If your toddler will be due for a nap, bring along a little pillow and blanket for them to snuggle up with on the seat next to you
• Taking a few toys is a great way to keep the little ones amused during the movie
• You could consider bringing an iPad or tablet for older toddlers. Be sure to bring headphones and turn down the brightness on your display, so it doesn’t disrupt other movie goers.
• If you are bringing a toddler along with you, you may want to consider the content of the movie you’re watching as it may not be suitable
• Although the audio is quieter than in standard sessions, you may want to consider bringing ear protection for your baby. Check online as there are now many options available for purchase and a wide range of ages catered for.  We do recommend speaking to your child’s GP for professional advice on hearing protection.
• If you haven’t already, make sure to sign up with Cine Buzz rewards to get an extra $1 off your tickets and earn reward points. Points can be redeemed for free movie tickets and rewards members also get access to advanced screenings.
• Due to Health and Safety Regulations, prams are not permitted in the isles or walkways. However, most cinemas will allow you to store your pram at the front of the theatre providing all isles and exits are clear.

Locations offering ‘bring your baby’ sessions

As popularity for these movies sessions has grown, so has the number of Cinemas offering the experience.  You can currently attend Bring Your Baby sessions at the following Brisbane locations:

• Browns Plains
• Capalaba
• Carindale 
• Chermside
• Garden City/Mt Gravatt
• Indooroopilly
• Loganhome
• North Lakes
• Springfield
• Strathpine

Saving Money at the Movies

Heading to the cinema and watching the latest blockbuster on the big screen is a favourite past time for many. While visiting the cinema might be fun, it can also be costly. 

The good news is attending a ‘Bring Your Baby’ session will see you scoring cheaper tickets than regular sessions. For further savings, deals and offers and to accumulate points for future discounts, be sure to sign up to Event Cinema’s FREE loyalty program before you book your tickets. 

While we know the smell of popcorn, a cold drink and a choc top is tempting when you visit the cinema, to save money, consider filling hungry tummies before you visit. 

You might also be interested in learning more about how to save money on movie tickets.

Best PG 13 Movies for Teens

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

The Plot: A man living a dull life dreams up romantic and action-filled scenarios to escape from monotony. He sets out on a romantic and action-packed journey when his job is threatened.

Year Made: 2013

Genre: Adventure / Comedy / Drama

Rating: PG

Hunt for the Wilderpeople

The Plot: Ricky Baker runs away to the wild when his foster mother dies. However, his cantankerous uncle Hector joins him and gets to know him better on their way out of the wild.

Year Made: 2016

Genre: Adventure / Comedy / Drama

Rating: PG

What We Did On Our Holiday

The Plot: While visiting family in the Scottish Highlands, a troubled couple try to put on a happy face, but their three children innocently reveal all of their biggest secrets.

Year Made: 2014

Genre: Comedy / Drama

Rating: PG

Paper Planes

The Plot: Dylan and his dad are struggling to stay connected after the death of his mother.  When Dylan picks up the art of turning a piece of paper into an aerodynamic paper plane, he decides to compete in the upcoming regional finals of a paper plane flying competition.

Year Made:  2015

Genre:  Family / Drama

Rating: G

Red Dog

The Plot:  Based on the true story of Red Dog, the film revolves around how a dog develops a strong bond with Grant, who becomes his ‘true master’.  When his master dies, Red Dog wanders the full length of Australia in search of him.

Year Made: 2011

Genre: Family / Comedy

Rating: PG

BABE

The Plot:  Babe, an orphaned pig, learns to herd sheep after Arthur Hoggett, a farmer, wins him in a contest at a country fair. However, Rex, Hoggett’s lead sheepdog, doesn’t like Babe.

Year Made:  1995

Genre:  Family / Fantasy

Rating:  G

Oddball

The Plot: An eccentric chicken farmer, with the help of his granddaughter, trains his mischievous dog Oddball to protect a penguin sanctuary from fox attacks in an attempt to reunite his family and save their seaside town.

Year Made:  2015

Genre:  Family / Adventure

Rating:  G

Storm Boy

The Plot:  Storm Boy lives a lonely life with his reclusive father on a desolate coastline, but when he forms a close bond with a pelican, Mr. Percival, his life takes a new and unexpected turn.

Year Made:  2019

Genre:  Drama / Family

Rating:  PG

The Worlds Fastest Indian

The Plot:  New Zealander Burt Munro is a motorcycle enthusiast who spends years rebuilding and perfecting a 1920 Indian motorcycle. Eventually, he puts everything on the line and sets a land speed world record.

Year Made:  2005

Genre:  Drama / Sport

Rating:  PG

Cool Runnings

The Plot:  A Jamaican bobsleigh team, including a reluctant coach, fights against the odds to compete in the 1988 Winter Olympics. They train in a harsh and sunny climate for a sport that chills them to their bones. Based on an inspiring true story.

Year Made:  1993

Genre:  Sport / Comedy

Rating:  G

Hidden Figures

The Plot:  Three female African-American mathematicians play a pivotal role in astronaut John Glenn’s launch into orbit. Meanwhile, they also have to deal with racial and gender discrimination at work.

Year Made:  2016

Genre:  Drama / History

Rating: PG

Spirited Away

The Plot: Ten-year-old Chihiro and her parents end up at an abandoned amusement park inhabited by supernatural beings. Soon, she learns that she must work to free her parents who have been turned into pigs.

Year Made:  2001

Genre:  Fantasy / Adventure

Rating:  PG

Goonies

The Plot: A group of children facing their last days together before a development paves over their homes stumble onto evidence of a pirate’s treasure attracting the attention of a family of criminals.

Year Made:  1985

Genre:  Adventure / Family

Rating:  PG

The Karate Kid

The Plot:  Teenager Daniel LaRusso is bullied by Johnny Lawrence, who is adept at martial arts. To defend himself, he tries to learn karate from Mr Miyagi, his apartment’s kind handyman.

Year Made:  1984

Genre:  Drama / Action

Rating:  PG

PG movies for teachers

All of the movies above are rated PG when writing this article. We suggest going to commonsense media for a more details synopsis of the movie, especially concerning triggers like the loss of parents or, in the case of Red Dog, the passing of an animal. Once you have an acceptable shortlist, we recommend putting the decision back on your students and letting them vote for their favourites. This idea came directly from Brisbane teens. 

Are there any other great tween movies we haven’t listed?  Please let us know, and we will add them!

There are many places around Brisbane where you can enjoy outdoor movies, including many free options. Find the best ones to suit your budget and location below.

Free Outdoor Movies

Movies in the Park, Various Locations

Brisbane City Council regularly runs free movie screenings in local parks. This is the perfect way to enjoy big screen entertainment without paying a cent or venturing far from home. Just bring your own picnic and a rug or chair and you have the makings of a great family night out.

To find out what movies are coming up and where, visit brisbane.qld.gov.au to view the event calendar. If you fancy a free indoor movie experience, there are also free movies in local libraries for you to enjoy!

Lone Pine Outdoor Cinemas, Fig Tree Pocket

Lone Pine Outdoor Cinemas runs free movie screenings every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month outside Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (entry to the sanctuary is not required). There is a screen at the Riverside Cafe where there is seating and tables and you can buy a bite to eat or a beverage (adult beverages available too). Or you can bring blankets and pillows to watch the screen by the grassy amphitheatre.

Start times are nice and early, which is great for younger kids, and there is free parking. You can even bring your dog (on a lead). There’s also a market there from 4pm on the same days, with a variety of food trucks so you can buy dinner or snacks. Visit koala.net or Lone Pine Markets & Movies to see what’s coming up next.

Movies in the Park, Manly

Manly Harbour Village is a great seaside venue that holds a free month movies in the park event. Bring a chair or picnic blanket and settle down to enjoy a great family movie. You can bring your own food, or visit the nearby local Manly Harbour Village restaurants to get a lovely take-away dinner or snacks from fish & chips to pizza and gelato.

Go to manlyharbourvillage.com to find out what movie is on this month.

Paid Outdoor Movies

Moonlight Cinema, Roma Street Parkland

Head to Roma Street Parkland from December through to March for a full program of open-air cinema screenings, showing movies to suit everyone’s taste. Enjoy all the fun in the Parkland in the afternoon, then head to the Moonlight Cinema for an early evening family film and to grab dinner at one of the food trucks onsite.

Check out moonlight.com.au to see this year’s movie program.

Openair Cinema, Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

Every summer (usually in October) is the Openair Cinema, showing a range of new releases and classic flicks. There is also live music to enjoy and food and drinks for purchase too. You can even get seat-service on your lounger if you book to be seated in the Star Lounge area. Others can bring your own blankets or hire a lounger.

Head to openaircinemas.com.au to see this year’s line-up of movies.

Tivoli Drive-in, Chuwar, Ipswich

Want to watch an outdoor movie even in the rain, where you can take the kids already dressed in the PJs? Then a drive-in theatre is probably the place to go! This drive-in is open every Saturday night and has early start times and very low prices per car. There are also market stalls from 4pm and there’s a great cafe too.

You can read all about the Tivoli Drive-in here.

Yatala Drive-in, Yatala

For a fun drive-in movie experience where you can enjoy the latest blockbusters from the comfort of your own car, you can head to Yatala Drive-in Theatre. It is open 7 nights a week and often works out cheaper than taking the whole family to normal cinema sessions. There’s even a ’50s style diner for that authentic all-American experience and great movie food and snacks to enjoy!

Visit yataladrive-in.com.au for all show times and further information.

If you are keen to head to the movies but worried about affordability then read our locals guide on How to Save Money at the Movies.

Choose the Cinema Carefully

We all like the convenience of big chain cinemas in local shopping centres, but they are often the most expensive options for seeing movies. It is definitely worth shopping around to find other options near you. Smaller, local cinemas are often a LOT cheaper, and are no longer the dingy dives we remember from years ago.

There are even some chain cinemas that are definitely cheaper options. For example, Cineplex cinemas pride themselves on their affordable pricing. United Cinemas’ Eldorado cinema in Indooroopilly also has competitive prices. Blue Room Cinebar also offers recliner seats and meal and drink service, with a fraction of the usual superior class cinema ticket prices.

Join Cinema Reward Schemes and Memberships

It is also worth checking out local cinemas’ reward schemes. Signing up for these or cinema memberships can often give you some great savings and perks. Here are some of the reward schemes and loyalty programs on offer in Brisbane.

United Cinemas Moviebuys — a loyalty program where you earn points and every sixth movie is free. The cost is $10 per year, but you get a free movie ticket on activation.

HOYTS Rewards — HOYTS rewards scheme is free to join and you get a discount movie of the week and candy bar promotions

Event Cinemas Cinebuzz Rewards — a reward scheme that is free to join. See six movies and get one free, earn points and get a discount movie each week.

Blue Room Cinebar — a loyalty program that you can sign up to here.

Look out for special offers

With so many special offers on cinema tickets, you can easily watch movies all year round and never pay full price for tickets again. It’s just a matter of making a small effort to look out for special offers before you go.

Brisbane Kids Magazine

The first place to check is the latest issue of the Brisbane Kids Holiday Guide. The magazine is filled with awesome coupons, and often features really good offers on movie tickets at local cinemas. It also has a great section detailing all the best new family movies that will surely be a hit each season! You can find the latest issue at issuu.com/brisbanekids.

Entertainment Book

If you have the Entertainment Book, you can get special offers on cinema tickets. 

Social Media

Many cinemas also advertise special offers, early bird deals and other discounts via social media pages such as Facebook and Twitter. Always make sure you check their pages for specials before you go, or follow them to be in the loop whenever any new offers are listed.

Buy at the Box Office

We all love the convenience of shopping online, but unless there are online specials, it’s not always the cheapest option. There are often hidden fees with buying online, such as a booking fee or processing fee. If you go to the cinema regularly, these extra costs can soon add up. Avoid the fees by buying at the box office instead.

Check Your Memberships

Certain memberships also offer discounted movie tickets. For example, RACQ members receive special RACQ membership prices at Event and Birch Carroll and Coyle cinemas, with up to 45% off ticket prices. Make sure you check with your insurance provider if it’s not RACQ too!

Many phone companies also have movie offers to members. For example, check out Optus and Telstra offers here.

For any companies you have signed up with, be sure to check if they have relevant offers before you buy tickets!

Find the best day and time

Picking when to go to the cinema can actually have a huge effect on the price of your tickets. For example, many cinemas offer things like ‘Cheap Tuesdays’ or ‘Monday Discount Days’. Plus matinee session times are often a fair bit cheaper than evening showings. Be sure to visit your local movie theatre’s website before you go to work out when is the cheapest time to go.

Save on the Sweet Treats

It’s surprising just how easy it is to spend more of refreshments than you do on the actual movie tickets. Here are our top tips on how to save money on sweet treats:

• Eat before you go so no one is super hungry and craving everything they see.
• Take kids’ water bottles with you so that they can stay refreshed without having to buy soft drinks.
• Chat to the kids before you go about what they’re allowed to get so there are no dramas about begging for extras when you get there.
• Stick to popcorn. It’s a great cinema tradition and will keep kids occupied. If you avoid the lollies from the start they won’t come to expect them every time.

Avoid the gimmicks

There are lots of cool and fun cinema options nowadays, such as 3D and IMAX films, screens with recliner chairs or other luxuries. While these are great novelties, they usually come with a hefty price tag. Stick to normal showings to save money and you’ll be able to go to the cinema more often!

See FREE Movies!

What better way to save money at the movies than to go to a FREE movie screening? You’d be surprised how many of them there are all around Brisbane!

Councils across South East Queensland often have free movie screenings in a park or your local library that we list on our calendar. 

Manly Harbour Village also offers free movies in the park. See manlyharbourvillage.com for all upcoming events.

Be sure to visit our Movies We Love page for all the latest family movies that kids will love! 

Movie Deals for Cine Buzz Members

You must be a Cine Buzz member to access this special $8 movie ticket pricing at BCC Cinemas, however Cine Buzz member can buy tickets at this price immediately, and will additionally continue to receive award points towards free movies!

If you’re not a member of Cine Buzz, why not look at joining so that you too can take advantage of this amazing ticket price? Cine Buzz is free to join, and, by presenting your membership card each time when you book, the more movies you see the closer you get to a free movie! Just see 6 movies, and you will receive a free ticket on your next visit!

You can find out more about the fantastic Cine Buzz Rewards membership benefits here.

Membership to Cine Buzz is free, and is valid at both BCC and Event Cinemas. Join now at www.bcccinemas.com.au/Cinebuzz/.

BCC Cinemas in Brisbane

BCC has four great suburban cinema locations across Brisbane, including –

• Morayfield
• Strathpine
• Toombul
• Capalaba

To find a movie screening at a BCC Cinema near you, please visit www.bcccinemas.com.au.

This year sees a host of great family movies coming to the big screen. You can find out all about them in our Movies We Love section.

Are kids allowed in gold class?

YES! we googled and kids are definitely allowed in gold class but they need to be accompanied by an adult because its a licensed premises. Surprisingly they offer a kids menu which is priced a lot more affordably than the adult menu (it is a small menu). Kids are also welcome to order popcorn and the obligatory frozen drink with the other food and the staff will bring that in at the pre-allotted time.

6 kids in gold class

For the purpose of the experiment we took 6 kids to see The Secret Life of Pets in Gold Class. Disregarding the overwhelming cost (but not unlike a theme park experience), we came to some interesting conclusions. When you walk into the Gold Class cinema foyer you would normally stand with another (hopefully) well mannered adult and quietly go about ordering some food and beverages to come in at certain times. You would discuss at lowered volumes the merits of some champagne at the beginning or sharing a nachos. This does not happen with 6 kids.

Instead you try to ask them all what they want and you do this while they struggle to maintain a sense of decorum. In the end you frantically order what you think they will like and you try and get the attendant to match the food and drink to the right child. Then suddenly due to stress you find yourself ordering a corona to take the edge off. If I had to compare it to another experience it would be taking a plane flight. You’re standing in the waiting area and everyone is hoping you aren’t on their flight and you stand there praying your kids won’t totally lose their bananas.

What the kids liked about going to Gold Class

• They loved sitting next to their friends
• They loved the reclining chairs
• They loved feeling like this was a special first class experience
• They loved being able to eat hot chips and a sundae in a movie

What the kids didn’t like about Gold Class

• We went to see a kids movie in the middle of the day but there were adults in the cinema without children. We did have to be more vigilant in calming the children down to ensure they didn’t bother other guests who were paying a lot to be there. That said, it’s a kids movie, on a weekend and if they didn’t like kids it was probably a poor time choice. That said, part of the fun of kids movies is going a bit bananas and I generally don’t mind a bit of bananas either.
• The kids didn’t particularly like eating hot food in the dark, a much as they still liked eating it (if that makes sense). There is something inconsistent in the texture of hot chips that doesn’t happen with popcorn. Supporting this statement, they didn’t eat them all and 3 of them felt weird about eating the sundaes that they would have gobbled in a pinch had it been light.

What we didn’t like about taking kids to Gold Class

• I didn’t like being so separated from my children. I missed their laughing being right next to me.
• It was hard to help with their food being so far away from them
• It was stressful keeping 6 kids relatively well behaved i A Gold Class cinema experience

Would we take kids to gold class movies again

I would absolutely take 1 child by myself or 2 with another adult to a Gold Class movie for a very special treat. It is quite an intimate experience and best exjoyed only with the person sitting next to you. It would be an awesome coming of age gift or one of those one on one dates that calls for something special. It is also quite a safe place for young adults to get used to using their manners and seeing a peak of adult life.

Overall, I would rather take my kids as a group to a general cinema or for something special a vmas theatre or a boutique cinema that offers some special extras. I much prefer all my kids being around me to enjoy them enjoying the movie. My 7 year old has the best laugh in the world, like a jolly old man and I felt sad not to be right next to him enjoying it.

Cineplex Cinemas at Redbank Plaza

Cineplex Australia is the company that has taken over the management of the Redbank Plaza Cinema. Cineplex is a family run business that has grown to become the largest privately owned cinema brand in South East Queensland. They pride themselves on combining state-of-the-art technology with affordable pricing, to bring customers the best possible cinema experience at surprisingly low prices. They are also committed to providing a friendly, down-to-earth service, which customers are sure to enjoy. Redbank Plaza are understandably pleased to have such a quality cinema provider on board, and to be able to provide the community with an improved cinema experience at great low prices.

The Cinema Refurbishment

Cineplex is part of a $4 million refurbishment of the current Redbank Cinemas! The complete overhaul has updates the cinemas with brand new seats and carpets throughout, as well as new screens. The foyer has been refurbished and features a new candy bar and licensed cafe lounge.

The new cinema complex features Queensland’s largest deluxe auditorium for those looking for a fancier cinema experience but still at affordable prices. The VIP deluxe cinema has everything you would expect from an up-market cinema venue, from reclining seats to a hot food and drinks service.

Best of All … the Prices!

The best thing about the new Redbank cinemas is the prices! The admission prices are the lowest we have seen anywhere in really long time. The prices will start at just $4.50 for kids and concessions, and $6.50 for adults. What’s more, the VIP deluxe cinema experience starts at just $12.50. So you can can pretty much take the whole family to the VIP cinema for less than normal cinema ticket prices – $23.30 for 2 adults and 2 children at Cineplex compared to $82.80 at V-MAX! You will also save money in the candy bar with a large drink and popcorn combo for $7.50, while a small popcorn is $2, choc top $2.70 and bottle of water $2.50.

Redbank Plaza is located on the Ipswich motorway in Redbank.

Get movie times from Cineplex Australia who were kind enough to provide the images for this article. 

MOVIES THE WAY YOU WANT TO SEE THEM

Chermside Cinemas offers tickets at standard Event Cinema prices, from approximately $18.00 for adults and $13.00 for children, with tickets for 3D and other special events costing extra. Gold Class tickets are from $25.00 upward, depending on session and time. Gold Class tickets are the same price for adults and children, with the added bonus of being able to pre-purchase meals, beverages and treats to be delivered to your seat during the movie, with comfortable recliners to relax in.

Tickets can be purchased online or in person, with online bookings also incurring a booking fee of $1.20 per person for standard sessions or $3.40 per person for Gold Class bookings. The perk with online ticket purchases is being able to secure the seat you want before you arrive, and having priority service on arrival.

The amenities offered are family friendly, with standard pricing. You will find the snack bar fully stocked with all your favourites, from popcorn to chocolate snacks and ice cream, as well as a range of drinks, including the much loved frozen soft drink. A popcorn and drink combo will usually set you back around $10-15.  They also host frequent special events, as well as screenings aimed at parents with young children and babies. The Bring Your Baby sessions are offered at discounted prices and usually start mid morning to midday, lightly lit so parents can keep their eyes on young ones while enjoying a movie, without the stress of bothering other patrons.

The added convenience of the cinema location means your cinema visit can be incorporated with some retail therapy, or dining at one of the many restaurants and cafes within the Westside Shopping Centre complex, either before or after your movie.

How to get there

There are a number of transport options. There is public transport, including frequent buses traveling to the shopping centre from neighbouring suburbs. Driving your own vehicle is also a good option because there is free and reduced-price parking available. The first three hours of parking is free, as well as free if entering the car park after 6:00pm. The best parking for the cinema is level 2 on the top roof, entering via Hamilton Road or Banfield Street.

While not the cheapest cinema in Brisbane, Event Cinemas offer great specials and promotions for members of their rewards program Cinebuzz Rewards, which you can join online or in person. For every 6 movies you see, you get one free, as well as regular deals and weekly movie of the week discounts emailed straight to your inbox. They also have cheap Tuesday with discount tickets from $10.50 for everyone. Some places like Grilld also offer deals from time to time when purchasing meals providing movies for free or cheaper than you would otherwise pay.

Check out the Chermside Cinemas Facebook page to hear about any specials/promotions, and treat your Brisbane Kids to a fun and memorable movie experience they are sure to love. For movies all across Brisbane you should check out our Brisbane Movies with Kids information.

Tips and Tricks for Going to the Movies at Chermside

1. Book ahead online. You can do this both on computer and print your ticket, or on phone and simply show the barcode that presents when you confirm payment. The awesome benefits of this system are that you can choose you own seat AND when you arrive at the cinemas, you are able to jump the queue.
2. Eat before hand. Head to the movies either after dinner (6.30 session) or after breakfast (10.30 session). Avoid the lunchtime sessions for not only the need to eat more food but also because the younger kids especially tend to be crankier in the afternoons.
3. Don’t worry about taking babies into kids movies. Remember it is a kids movie but if you are really concerned then just head to one of the morning sessions that seem to be dominated by parents with young ones. If you are really concerned then check out their sessions especially for parents that tend to run once a week.
4. Take your own snacks. It is a no-brainer right?
5. Look for family movie sessions. Event Cinemas is well known for their family tickets. For $38 you can take 2 adults and 2 children to a host of new release kids movies (generally cartoons).

Going to the cinemas in the school holidays

Some would say ARE YOU MAD! Going to the movies in the school holidays seems like a rookie move. Surely the movies will be packed out. YES, they are busier than usual but if you pre-book online then you can be assured of an hour or so of captivated kids and a chance to catch your breath. For $40 for the entire family for family movie sessions, it is actually not a bad deal at all.

You can find out more about Chermside Cinemas on the Event Cinemas website at http://www.eventcinemas.com.au/cinema/chermside