A Trip Back in Time: The Dunbar Theatre

A trip to the Dunbar Theatre gives me a great nostalgic feeling, like stepping back to my 12-year old self, and how I saw movies as a kid. It’s a Vancouver theatre that evokes memories. I would estimate that 95% of the movies I’ve seen in the last 15 or 20 years have been in a giant, 20 theatre multiplex with stadium seating and a mile-long hike from the automated ticket machine to the designated theatre. There are so few old theatres left in Vancouver these days, and the Dunbar is one of the greats.

A Vancouver Theatre Experience

The Dunbar only has one theatre. It plays only one movie at a time, a few times a day, sometimes for only a week or two until it brings in the next movie. Don’t judge the theatre on its exterior, which seems to scream “I’ve seen better days”. The seating was replaced recently, resulting in an really comfortable viewing experience. Think cushy semi-reclined seats, a gently sloping floor and arm rests that hold your drink or lift up so that you can cuddle with the someone special you brought with you. Have I mentioned the leg room? Heaps of it! No danger of feeling cramped in this Vancouver theatre.

The main level is quite large and can accommodate a large number of movie-goers. In my experience, even on a busy night, there are so many seats that your view is never obstructed. There is even balcony seating if you want that front row feeling without the neck strain.

Have you ever gotten to a movie early and found it difficult to chat because the volume of the pre-show music and advertising is so loud? I find this doesn’t happen at the Dunbar and they tend to keep the music at a low enough level that you can still easily carry on a conversation without shouting.

Freshest Popcorn Around

I find it difficult to go to a movie and not order popcorn, though sometimes I can manage some restraint. Not at the Dunbar, though. This next part is important: do not pass the concession. Stop. Order popcorn. You’ll thank me later. This is not typical movie theatre popcorn. This is the freshest, fluffiest popcorn I’ve ever tasted at a theatre and well worth every penny. As an added bonus you will use use fewer pennies at the Dunbar than you would at most any other Vancouver theatre, as the prices tend to be a bit lower.

The concession only takes cash but the ticket window will give you cash back on your debit card when you buy your tickets.

Taking the Kids

Given that the Dunbar only shows one movie at a time, it won’t always be a great place to take the kids. You will obviously want to base your decision on what movie is playing. When you do take your little ones though, the theatre has plenty of booster seats and those raised arm rests are the perfect way to keep them close. Whether for a matinee with the kids or date night with your someone special or a chick flick with the girls, check out what’s playing at the Dunbar the next time you’re in the mood for a movie. Don’t forget to order the popcorn!