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Tip Store: Entertainment: Movies
Cheap Cinema Tickets
Approximate $ Savings: $20+
I purchase cheap cinema tickets from www.spendless.net.au/medibank. Hoyts family ticket is $36 for 2 adults and 2 children. Can purchase tickets for other cinemas too. Can phone or sign up to place orders and tickets sent out. Great idea for presents.
Contributed by Susan Ohanian, 23rd March 2014
Website: www.spendless.net.au/medibank
I purchase cheap cinema tickets from www.spendless.net.au/medibank. Hoyts family ticket is $36 for 2 adults and 2 children. Can purchase tickets for other cinemas too. Can phone or sign up to place orders and tickets sent out. Great idea for presents.
Contributed by Susan Ohanian, 23rd March 2014
Website: www.spendless.net.au/medibank
$10 Movie Deal for Telstra Customers
Telstra is currently offering $10 movie ticket and candy bar upgrades any day of the week (except after 5pm on Saturdays and on public holidays) including booking fee. There are surcharges for Vmax and 3D. All you need to do is be a Telstra customer and login to select your location and screening.
Contributed by Jenna Kennedy, 21st April 2013
Website: http://www.telstra.com.au/latest_offers/loyalty/
Contributed by Jenna Kennedy, 21st April 2013
Website: http://www.telstra.com.au/latest_offers/loyalty/
3D Movies
Approximate $ Savings: $2
Going to see a 3D movie is more expensive than a regular movie. But with so many 3D movies planned for this year it is going to be hard to avoid them. I recently learnt if you bring your own 3D glasses the movie ticket will be cheaper. So don't throw your 3D glasses in the recycle bin as you leave the cinema, keep them and tell the ticket seller when you buy your next ticket. The money you save can go toward a bottle of water or a snack.
Contributed by Christelle Buckschun, 19th January 2013
Editor's Note: One of our Cheapskaters, Pamela, recently did just that and saved $3, she talks about it in the forum thread How have you saved money today? Cath
Going to see a 3D movie is more expensive than a regular movie. But with so many 3D movies planned for this year it is going to be hard to avoid them. I recently learnt if you bring your own 3D glasses the movie ticket will be cheaper. So don't throw your 3D glasses in the recycle bin as you leave the cinema, keep them and tell the ticket seller when you buy your next ticket. The money you save can go toward a bottle of water or a snack.
Contributed by Christelle Buckschun, 19th January 2013
Editor's Note: One of our Cheapskaters, Pamela, recently did just that and saved $3, she talks about it in the forum thread How have you saved money today? Cath
Movie Fun Night at Home
For a fun night that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Firstly I go to the library and rent a set of DVDs (sometimes a trilogy). I get home and make home-made pizzas. We lay our largest blanket on the lounge room floor, put the pizzas and drink (usually those 1 litre bottles of fizzy you get for under $1.00) and we sit in front of the TV and watch the movies. During the course of the night we pop corn and eat home made biscuits and drink milo. We've done this for many years and it has become a fun night that my teenage kids often pick for their birthday night treat. Lots of memories, laughs and its even better when everyone gets changed into their pjs. Lots of fun
- Contributed by Mary Campbell, 10th August 2012
- Contributed by Mary Campbell, 10th August 2012
Free Entertainment
Instead of renting DVDs from the shop....borrow them from your friends. Everyone has a collection of DVDs, get everybody to write their names on theirs and swap... it is a great way to try before you buy for kids movies and most adult movies you only watch once unless it is a favourite. You must set up rules like put the DVDs straight back in cases and no dirty fingers, respect others property and maybe write down who has what to keep track of movies.
- Contributed by Debbie Smith, 4th March 2012
- Contributed by Debbie Smith, 4th March 2012
$1 New Release Movies
Approximate $ Savings: $5 to $25
Instead of going to the movies to see new releases, we wait about three months for them to come out on DVD. If you hire it at Civic Video on Tuesday you can get new release movies for $1 each overnight, but they are not due back until 6 pm on Wednesday. This is great for school holidays as you can hire up to six movies and then have two days and one night to watch them. We also hire them on Tuesday during school term but get the three day hire recent release movies for $1 to be returned by Friday at 6pm.
- Contributed by Debbie Smith, 16th July 2010
Instead of going to the movies to see new releases, we wait about three months for them to come out on DVD. If you hire it at Civic Video on Tuesday you can get new release movies for $1 each overnight, but they are not due back until 6 pm on Wednesday. This is great for school holidays as you can hire up to six movies and then have two days and one night to watch them. We also hire them on Tuesday during school term but get the three day hire recent release movies for $1 to be returned by Friday at 6pm.
- Contributed by Debbie Smith, 16th July 2010
See First Run Movies for Less
Recently I went with a group of girlfriends to see a movie, and we only paid $10 each per ticket. We bought a book of 10 tickets from Hoyts for $100. There were only 7 of us, but the remaining 3 tickets were snapped up pretty quickly for later. The only condition is that we couldn't use the tickets after 5pm on a Saturday, but we went on a Sunday night anyway. Great for a cheap girls night out.
- Contributed by Janelle Collins, 14th June 2010
- Contributed by Janelle Collins, 14th June 2010
Your Local Library is a Source of DVDs
Join your local library and you can join libraries in other areas (driver's licence or form of ID required) usually for free, or just $2-3 for the library card. DVD's from libraries are FREE. Most libraries you can get them out for 1-2-3 weeks, and renew them, even online. Their taste is generally, family or subject oriented. Some are recently released, others classics. There is usually a huge turnover, so regular visits mean more titles. There is usually more than one library in your local council area. Enjoy!
- Contributed by Ervin, Beaumont Hills, 6th June 2009
- Contributed by Ervin, Beaumont Hills, 6th June 2009
Try the Shows at Your Local Community Theatre for a Real Treat
I love to go to the theatre and over the years I have seen some memorable productions in Sydney, Melbourne and London. I have paid up to $200 a ticket for some shows - not something I can afford to do too often. Recently my son has become involved in community theatre and I have been delighted with the shows that I have seen at some of the local theatres in my area and in Sydney's south. Tickets have ranged from $15 to $30, some theatres do discounts for group bookings, and every one of the shows has been great value for money. There are hundreds of incredibly talented performers in our midst who tread the boards locally in drama and musicals while they live the dream of being discovered. The shows are professional, sometimes even using the same props and stage settings as the original show used and are a great value night out. Keep an eye on posters at your local theatres and community newspapers usually have a story just before a show opens. Recently I have seen To Kill a Mockingbird, Boy From Oz, Suessical, Fiddler on the Roof, Cloudstreet, Urinetown and will see Dusty, Oliver, Statefair and Sweeney Todd before the year is out and all for less than I paid to see two shows in Sydney last year (without even counting the cost of travel, dinner and hotel rooms).
- Contributed by Karen, Horsley, 14th May 2010
- Contributed by Karen, Horsley, 14th May 2010
Enjoy Movie Snacks at a Discount with a Voucher
I went to the cinema the other day (Birch / Event) and purchased a voucher for small popcorn and coke to give as a gift. The girl then asked if I wished to redeem it then and there, which I was confused about until I found out the price. Normally it costs $9 for small popcorn and coke when seeing a movie, however the voucher is only $6.50!!!
- Contributed by Chantel Levkovich, 25th June 2010
- Contributed by Chantel Levkovich, 25th June 2010
Use the Library to Research DVDs Before Buying
Join your local library - this saves you money. Instead of buying the latest book, I pick up a catalogue from my book store (or you could browse on the net for the latest bestsellers) and then decide which book I would like to read... then I reserve my spot for this bestseller at the library... sometimes you may have to wait one or two months, other times a week or two depending how popular the book is.. but it does save you money and space... instead of paying $20 for a book you pay a small fee at the library..my library charges 80c. I also do the same with DVDs. I was thinking of borrowing Sex and the City box set DVD from my local video shop but decided to browse through my library catalogue. You can do this on the net... and I was surprised to find that my library did have the DVD. Series One I had to wait a few weeks for, but series two and three were there straight away. Same applies to CDs.... borrow and listen to them before you buy... that way you know if they are worth buying.
- Contributed by Krystyna, Bangor, 6th February 2009
- Contributed by Krystyna, Bangor, 6th February 2009
Using Library Network to Resource DVDs
Approximate $ Savings: $40-50 per season
I have found a great way to watch television series without the expense of purchasing them is through ordering them from the Library. Most libraries are now connected with a vast network of resources, for instance in Victoria you can borrow from any library in the state. So I just log into my library catalogue, put a hold on the series we want to watch and then enjoy the season for free. This way we get to decide if we would really like to watch it over and over again without the expense. We have saved hundreds of dollars through library borrowing.
- Contributed by Jacqui, Wongthaggi, 3rd February 2009
I have found a great way to watch television series without the expense of purchasing them is through ordering them from the Library. Most libraries are now connected with a vast network of resources, for instance in Victoria you can borrow from any library in the state. So I just log into my library catalogue, put a hold on the series we want to watch and then enjoy the season for free. This way we get to decide if we would really like to watch it over and over again without the expense. We have saved hundreds of dollars through library borrowing.
- Contributed by Jacqui, Wongthaggi, 3rd February 2009
Art House Movies for Less
If you are into Art House movies, then Cinema Nova in Carlton (380 Lygon Street) offers movies for $6 on Mondays before 4pm. After 4pm, movie tickets only cost $8 per person. More information on movie times, etc can be found at http://www.cinemanova.com.au/info.html
- Contributed by Loris, Flemington, January 2009
Website: www.cinemanova.com.au/info.htm
- Contributed by Loris, Flemington, January 2009
Website: www.cinemanova.com.au/info.htm
Free DVDs From a Vending Machine
I have just discovered a new way to view DVD's - legally without downloading. In my local supermarket is a vending machine - the selection changes regularly. Your first hire is FREE and on Wednesdays they are also free (you need the promo code which is supplied after signing up) - if you go to www.oovie.com.au you will find a list of locations, movies etc. If you don't go for a free movie they are a reasonable $2.99 overnight. Hope this helps others like me who never make it to the movies and are a little hesitant about downloading.
- Contributed by Renata
Website: www.oovie.com.au
Editor's note: This absolutely intrigued me so I had to check it out as soon as it popped into my inbox. The website is a little confusing but there are certainly plenty of Oovie kiosks around and with movies free on Wednesday (and they really are as long as you return them on time) it's a great opportunity for some free school holiday entertainment for the kids. Congratulations Renata, I hope you enjoy your Cheapskates Club membership. Cath
- Contributed by Renata
Website: www.oovie.com.au
Editor's note: This absolutely intrigued me so I had to check it out as soon as it popped into my inbox. The website is a little confusing but there are certainly plenty of Oovie kiosks around and with movies free on Wednesday (and they really are as long as you return them on time) it's a great opportunity for some free school holiday entertainment for the kids. Congratulations Renata, I hope you enjoy your Cheapskates Club membership. Cath
Be Prepared to Look Around a Post and See a Show for Less
Approximate $ Savings: $80 per ticket
Recently I went on an all girl trip to Melbourne whilst there we decided to go see the stage show Mama Mia. Excitedly we lined up for tickets only to almost fall over when told they only had tickets in "A" section at $109.90 each. Deciding that was way to much we were about to walk away when the lady said she had tickets available at $29.90 but we couldn't sit together and would have to lean around a post to see - we decided to do it! The seats were great, not a huge lean like we thought, and they only got better because five minutes before the show was to start the usher moved us into the middle of the "A" section all together with an empty row in front of us because those seats hadn't sold. We were later told buying these sight restricted seats for the matinee is a sure fire way to save a small fortune as they are available at most theatres, football games and even the tennis!
- Contributed by Lisa, Kurri Kurri, 5th May 2010
Recently I went on an all girl trip to Melbourne whilst there we decided to go see the stage show Mama Mia. Excitedly we lined up for tickets only to almost fall over when told they only had tickets in "A" section at $109.90 each. Deciding that was way to much we were about to walk away when the lady said she had tickets available at $29.90 but we couldn't sit together and would have to lean around a post to see - we decided to do it! The seats were great, not a huge lean like we thought, and they only got better because five minutes before the show was to start the usher moved us into the middle of the "A" section all together with an empty row in front of us because those seats hadn't sold. We were later told buying these sight restricted seats for the matinee is a sure fire way to save a small fortune as they are available at most theatres, football games and even the tennis!
- Contributed by Lisa, Kurri Kurri, 5th May 2010
Sharing Movies
Approximate $ Savings: $20/month
We used to hire a movie from the video shop every Friday night. Then we decided to share our videos. We have family just around the corner.. so we hire a movie on a Friday night one week, then give it to them to watch on a Saturday morning, the following week it works the other way. We still get to watch new release movies, but at half the cost we used to have. At $10 per movie, we save $20 a month - but don't miss out on anything.
- Contributed by Elizabeth, Blackstone, 5th March 2010
We used to hire a movie from the video shop every Friday night. Then we decided to share our videos. We have family just around the corner.. so we hire a movie on a Friday night one week, then give it to them to watch on a Saturday morning, the following week it works the other way. We still get to watch new release movies, but at half the cost we used to have. At $10 per movie, we save $20 a month - but don't miss out on anything.
- Contributed by Elizabeth, Blackstone, 5th March 2010
Free DVD Rentals
Approximate $ Savings: $49.95 or more
Start with a simple Google search on 'DVD free trial'. At the moment a number of online DVD rental companies are offering one month or 2 week trials. During the trial you will be able to select up to 10 DVDs (Bigpond) and have them sent to your letterbox. Just make sure you return the DVDs before the end of the trial to not be charged. Then you may end the service at the end of the free trial time. As there are several companies offering this at the moment, you could have up to 3-4 months of free movies over the holidays. Companies that I have found so far are Bigpond, Quickflix, Webflicks, Kino. It was great timing for me as I injured my leg and had to stay at home for 3 weeks so got the DVDs sent straight to my mailbox so I didn't need to walk far, and they include reply paid envelopes for you to return the DVDs at no cost. At 10 DVDs a month for a free trial, and average price of $4.95 each, that's a saving of $45.95, and even more if you repeat with a few companies for a few more months. Bigpond will send out 3 DVDs at a time.
- Contributed by Jane, Bondi Junction, 10th December 2009
Start with a simple Google search on 'DVD free trial'. At the moment a number of online DVD rental companies are offering one month or 2 week trials. During the trial you will be able to select up to 10 DVDs (Bigpond) and have them sent to your letterbox. Just make sure you return the DVDs before the end of the trial to not be charged. Then you may end the service at the end of the free trial time. As there are several companies offering this at the moment, you could have up to 3-4 months of free movies over the holidays. Companies that I have found so far are Bigpond, Quickflix, Webflicks, Kino. It was great timing for me as I injured my leg and had to stay at home for 3 weeks so got the DVDs sent straight to my mailbox so I didn't need to walk far, and they include reply paid envelopes for you to return the DVDs at no cost. At 10 DVDs a month for a free trial, and average price of $4.95 each, that's a saving of $45.95, and even more if you repeat with a few companies for a few more months. Bigpond will send out 3 DVDs at a time.
- Contributed by Jane, Bondi Junction, 10th December 2009
Bulk Movie Tickets
Approximate $ Savings: $70
Going to the movies can be expensive, but you can save money if you purchase a book of 10 tickets from the big cinema's (Village/Hoyts). Individual tickets cost around $17 per adult, a book of 10 ticket costs $100, saving $70. The tickets are valid for 6 months and can be used anytime except for after 5 on sat, and public holidays. Also the tickets are good for putting in birthday/Christmas cards as last minute gifts.
- Contributed by J'Arne, St. Leonards, 22nd September 2009
Going to the movies can be expensive, but you can save money if you purchase a book of 10 tickets from the big cinema's (Village/Hoyts). Individual tickets cost around $17 per adult, a book of 10 ticket costs $100, saving $70. The tickets are valid for 6 months and can be used anytime except for after 5 on sat, and public holidays. Also the tickets are good for putting in birthday/Christmas cards as last minute gifts.
- Contributed by J'Arne, St. Leonards, 22nd September 2009
Free TV Guide and Saving $192 a Year
We found we were buying the paper on the weekend just for the TV guide and this was costing $16 a month. We stopped the subscription and now check the TV guide on the Internet each day for the evenings or weeks programs. http://www.ebroadcast.com.au/TV/static/SydneyNight.html? Just change to your state. A saving of $192 a year.
- Contributed by Cheryl, Sunbury, 23rd September 2009
Website: www.ebroadcast.com.au/TV/static/SydneyNight.html?
- Contributed by Cheryl, Sunbury, 23rd September 2009
Website: www.ebroadcast.com.au/TV/static/SydneyNight.html?
Own Your Own DVDs for Less
If you live in Tasmania you can go to Chickenfeed and pick up some DVD's for only $2 each. At first I didn't buy any as I thought that at that price they wouldn't be any good. But a friend of mine decided to get a couple of them just recently and she was surprised that it was good entertainment for very little cost. I decided that I would get some for myself as well and now we both have about 15 or 20 DVDs between us. They are not the mainstream movies and not with mainstream actors either but they are a lot cheaper than other DVDs and a lot better than hiring them from a video store. At least you can call them your own and can watch them as many time as you like. When you decide that you no longer want them you could even try selling them on eBay, and you might double or even triple you money.
- Contributed by Jodie, Mornington, 4th October 2009
- Contributed by Jodie, Mornington, 4th October 2009
Audio Visual Entertainment Library
Approximate $ Savings: $30-70 per month
For many years I have been subscribing to a book club (approx $30/month),buying movie/tv/concert DVD's (approx $25-50/month) and music CD's ($10-20/month). Few months ago, my job was made "redundant". I have since cancelled my book subscription and re-connected with my local library. Now I borrow books, DVD's and CD's instead. To my pleasant surprise, my local library has most of my favourite shows/TV series and books and if I really want to keep a copy, that's the time I buy. Just a reminder though, please NEVER copy/burn DVD/CD as, firstly it's illegal and secondly we already have it free for 2 weeks (and longer if renewed). The library not only is a very valuable part of my/our community but most importantly, it saves me heaps of money, frees up my limited storage space and encourages me to walk.
- Contributed by Lydia, Oakleigh, 14th April 2009
For many years I have been subscribing to a book club (approx $30/month),buying movie/tv/concert DVD's (approx $25-50/month) and music CD's ($10-20/month). Few months ago, my job was made "redundant". I have since cancelled my book subscription and re-connected with my local library. Now I borrow books, DVD's and CD's instead. To my pleasant surprise, my local library has most of my favourite shows/TV series and books and if I really want to keep a copy, that's the time I buy. Just a reminder though, please NEVER copy/burn DVD/CD as, firstly it's illegal and secondly we already have it free for 2 weeks (and longer if renewed). The library not only is a very valuable part of my/our community but most importantly, it saves me heaps of money, frees up my limited storage space and encourages me to walk.
- Contributed by Lydia, Oakleigh, 14th April 2009
Pre-record to Avoid the Ads
An great idea that I have used for the last year is set all your programs to record on your video recorder or DVD recorder. You can either set them a week in advance or as a regular recording as most recorders allow this (ie every Monday at 8pm). I get to fast forward through all the ads and if I save up a couple of episodes of the same show, watching them back to back is like hiring a video without having to pay for it. Sure you may be a day behind everyone else (if your recorder doesn't allow you to watch while you're taping), but it's so nice to be able to stop a program if someone phones me. I don't miss a minute and I can concentrate on the phone call.
- Contributed by Nicole, Sydney, 20th January 2009
- Contributed by Nicole, Sydney, 20th January 2009
Get the Latest Release DVDs for Less
Recently looking for DVD's to give as gifts I found that the local DVD rental store had ex-rental DVD's for at least half the price of a new DVD in any of the department stores. The DVD rental store also gives a guarantee on the DVD purchased. Draw back would be you have to wait a couple of weeks after movie is first released on DVD and usually the store logo is somewhere on the actual disc. But at half the price or less why not. Especially great for kids DVD's . Check out your local store. - Contributed by Sharon, Wishart, 8th August 2008
Cut Price Cinema Means More Movies for Families
Approximate $ Savings: $30+ for a family
Taking the whole family to the movies can be expensive. I did some research and our local Hoyts Cinema charges $9.90 for all tickets. This was not the most expensive. Some charge $15 for adults. Then I found that Croydon Cinema sells adult tickets for $6 and children's tickets for $4.50. These prices apply for sessions before 5pm. We have four children so going to the local Hoyts would cost about $60. We went to Croydon Cinema on Saturday, which took 15 mins in the car (on Eastlink) and paid half that, $30. By the way it takes 10 minutes to get to our local Hoyts Cinema. What a saving and we still got the cinema experience! I recommend this cinema to anyone in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
- Contributed by Catherine, Blackburn North, 22nd July 2008
Taking the whole family to the movies can be expensive. I did some research and our local Hoyts Cinema charges $9.90 for all tickets. This was not the most expensive. Some charge $15 for adults. Then I found that Croydon Cinema sells adult tickets for $6 and children's tickets for $4.50. These prices apply for sessions before 5pm. We have four children so going to the local Hoyts would cost about $60. We went to Croydon Cinema on Saturday, which took 15 mins in the car (on Eastlink) and paid half that, $30. By the way it takes 10 minutes to get to our local Hoyts Cinema. What a saving and we still got the cinema experience! I recommend this cinema to anyone in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
- Contributed by Catherine, Blackburn North, 22nd July 2008
Great Movie Specials
Approximate $ Savings: Save $1,440 per Year
My husband and I love to go the movies to see the latest releases and arthouse movies, but at $15 per ticket, the costs really do add up and I can't imagine the costs in a year if you had children!! We have found two alternatives though, available to everyone in Launceston and surrounds:
1. The Launceston Film Society - Offering around 40 arthouse movies a year (showing 3 times a week) for a membership fee of around $75 this is great value...website www.lfs.org.au
2. Launceston Country Club Flicks Cinema - FREE entry to a movie each Monday evening, usually latest Hollywood releases with a few chick flick specials as well. We are new to town from Queensland and can't get over the wonderful saving for movies in great venues!! EnjoyÖ
- Contributed by Karen, Launceston, 18th July 2008
My husband and I love to go the movies to see the latest releases and arthouse movies, but at $15 per ticket, the costs really do add up and I can't imagine the costs in a year if you had children!! We have found two alternatives though, available to everyone in Launceston and surrounds:
1. The Launceston Film Society - Offering around 40 arthouse movies a year (showing 3 times a week) for a membership fee of around $75 this is great value...website www.lfs.org.au
2. Launceston Country Club Flicks Cinema - FREE entry to a movie each Monday evening, usually latest Hollywood releases with a few chick flick specials as well. We are new to town from Queensland and can't get over the wonderful saving for movies in great venues!! EnjoyÖ
- Contributed by Karen, Launceston, 18th July 2008
No More School Holiday Late Fees
Approximate $ Savings $20 a week
With school holidays coming and having spent a fortune on holidays borrowing DVDs from the video shop and getting fines for them going back late I visited my local library and found not only do they have an amazing collection of children's and adults DVDs and videos but they lend them for 3 weeks so no need for late fees!
- Contributed by Trisha, Sylvania, 4th July 2008
With school holidays coming and having spent a fortune on holidays borrowing DVDs from the video shop and getting fines for them going back late I visited my local library and found not only do they have an amazing collection of children's and adults DVDs and videos but they lend them for 3 weeks so no need for late fees!
- Contributed by Trisha, Sylvania, 4th July 2008
Movies on the Cheap
Approximate $ Saved: $7+
Movie going on the cheap! If you're like me and can't believe the price of a trip to the cinemas these days but still love going as your splurge well you're going to love this tip. I join a club call Cinebuzz with Greater Union/Birch Carroll and Coyle cinemas on the Internet a few years ago (www.greaterunion.com.au). They basically offer a different movie every week for $8. The movies are never very old, for example they are offering Indiana Jones at the moment. They also have a lot of other freebies and competitions as well. Free to join and I always take a packet of sliced apple to eat while I'm watching so $8 is all I spend!
- Contributed by Keira, Coolum Beach, 19th June 2008
Movie going on the cheap! If you're like me and can't believe the price of a trip to the cinemas these days but still love going as your splurge well you're going to love this tip. I join a club call Cinebuzz with Greater Union/Birch Carroll and Coyle cinemas on the Internet a few years ago (www.greaterunion.com.au). They basically offer a different movie every week for $8. The movies are never very old, for example they are offering Indiana Jones at the moment. They also have a lot of other freebies and competitions as well. Free to join and I always take a packet of sliced apple to eat while I'm watching so $8 is all I spend!
- Contributed by Keira, Coolum Beach, 19th June 2008
Big Screen Movies
Approximate $ Savings: $20-$50
This tip is for: Perth and suburbs My family loves seeing the latest blockbusters on the big screen but find it hard to justify the expense. A trip to the movies can cost up to $30 for 2 adults, not to mention all the extras like popcorn, chocolate, lollies and drinks. Instead of spending all that money at the cinemas we now make a trip to the shops to get all our nibbles (which end up being about 1/3 of the price) and make our way to the local drive-in. Tickets at the Galaxy Drive-In (Perth) are $8.00 per adult and if you go on Friday, Saturday or Sunday there is a double feature showing. Children aged 4-12 are only $4.00 each and children under 4 are free. To find out whatís showing at Galaxy Drive-Ins check out their website http://www.galaxydrivein.com.au
- Contributed by Stephanie, Kinross, 1st June 2008
This tip is for: Perth and suburbs My family loves seeing the latest blockbusters on the big screen but find it hard to justify the expense. A trip to the movies can cost up to $30 for 2 adults, not to mention all the extras like popcorn, chocolate, lollies and drinks. Instead of spending all that money at the cinemas we now make a trip to the shops to get all our nibbles (which end up being about 1/3 of the price) and make our way to the local drive-in. Tickets at the Galaxy Drive-In (Perth) are $8.00 per adult and if you go on Friday, Saturday or Sunday there is a double feature showing. Children aged 4-12 are only $4.00 each and children under 4 are free. To find out whatís showing at Galaxy Drive-Ins check out their website http://www.galaxydrivein.com.au
- Contributed by Stephanie, Kinross, 1st June 2008
Video Ezy Movie Guarantee
Approximate $ Savings: $6 per video
On Saturday/Sunday mornings call into your local Video Ezy store to check out the movie guarantee. Quite possibly there will be no copies available of something you would like to watch so get the guarantee card, they're valid for a month, and next time you call in the movie is free!
- Contributed by Teresa, Moree, 17th May 2008
On Saturday/Sunday mornings call into your local Video Ezy store to check out the movie guarantee. Quite possibly there will be no copies available of something you would like to watch so get the guarantee card, they're valid for a month, and next time you call in the movie is free!
- Contributed by Teresa, Moree, 17th May 2008
Everlasting DVDs
Buy a spool of blank DVDs, about 50c per DVD and when your children receive a new DVD, copy it, give the copy to them to watch and keep the originals in a save place. When the copied one becomes too damaged to watch, copy it again. This saves between $15.00 and $30.00 per DVD. With 3 children under 4, I learnt this tip the hard way!
- Contributed by Teresa, Moree, 2nd May 2008
- Contributed by Teresa, Moree, 2nd May 2008
Free Cinema Club Makes Movies Cheaper
Approximate $ Savings: $20 Cinema trips can be expensive, join Reading cinema membership club for free and you'll revive discount vouchers to movies, confectionary and even free screenings. Plus every time you visit you'll build up points which can be used as cash for more discounts.
- Contributed by Helen, Jan Juc, 4th February 2008
- Contributed by Helen, Jan Juc, 4th February 2008
Odeon Star Movie Tickets
Approximate $ Savings: $4.00 approx each ticket
Hubby and I have begun going to the Odeon Star picture theatre on Jetty Rd at Semaphore, a beachside suburb of Adelaide. The price of all tickets, all sessions, all days and the latest movies is only $6, which is quite a saving on the bigger picture theatres. We pocket the savings and add them to our Night Out Jar and when we have enough, we have dinner and a movie night. Not really too far to go and if you couple it with a nice romantic walk on the beach or the jetty, just up the road, it's a wonderful night.
- Contributed by Julie, Elizabeth Downs, 15th February 2008
Hubby and I have begun going to the Odeon Star picture theatre on Jetty Rd at Semaphore, a beachside suburb of Adelaide. The price of all tickets, all sessions, all days and the latest movies is only $6, which is quite a saving on the bigger picture theatres. We pocket the savings and add them to our Night Out Jar and when we have enough, we have dinner and a movie night. Not really too far to go and if you couple it with a nice romantic walk on the beach or the jetty, just up the road, it's a wonderful night.
- Contributed by Julie, Elizabeth Downs, 15th February 2008
Movies Under the Stars
Most video shops have cheap movie days for new release for $1.95 There are some places that have free movies at night, just take a rug and a picnic and watch the movies. Look in the local newspaper and they normally let you know what's happening that week and where.
- Contributed by Donna, Morisset, 16th December 2007
- Contributed by Donna, Morisset, 16th December 2007
Movies on the Cheap
Approximate $ Savings: $9 - $14 per person
We all know how crazy expensive a night at the movies for a family is, so do it cheap ... on Tuesday nights at the Morningside Civic Video store in Brisbane, Queensland they have $1 movie hire. That is for all movies - new releases, weekly hires etc. Hire a weekly movie on the Tuesday, then wait and watch it as a family on a Friday or Saturday night, turn the lights down, and eat microwave popcorn and whatever other treats usually enjoyed at the cinema. It's a more affordable way for a family to enjoy the movies. Expense will be about $10 maximum (better than $15 per person at Greater Union cinemas).
- Contributed by Luisa, Balmoral, 13th July 2007
We all know how crazy expensive a night at the movies for a family is, so do it cheap ... on Tuesday nights at the Morningside Civic Video store in Brisbane, Queensland they have $1 movie hire. That is for all movies - new releases, weekly hires etc. Hire a weekly movie on the Tuesday, then wait and watch it as a family on a Friday or Saturday night, turn the lights down, and eat microwave popcorn and whatever other treats usually enjoyed at the cinema. It's a more affordable way for a family to enjoy the movies. Expense will be about $10 maximum (better than $15 per person at Greater Union cinemas).
- Contributed by Luisa, Balmoral, 13th July 2007
DVD Swaps
You will often find that your friends and family have large DVD collections, usually of movies that you don't have in your collection! Why not have a swap party once a month over coffee, where everyone brings 5 DVD's from their collection to swap. Much cheaper than paying to rent or buy.
- Contributed by Karen, Launceston, 30th June 2007
- Contributed by Karen, Launceston, 30th June 2007
Video Savings at Video 2000
Approximate $ Savings: $3.95 per week min to $13.95 per week Watching movies on Tuesdays has just become cheaper Again!
Recently we discovered our local Video and DVD hire store (Video 2000 Kaleen) has begun a new deal called "Dollar Tuesdays." Each Tuesday, they offer ALL new overnight and new weekly releases for $2.00 each (a limit of 2) instead of $5.95 each for 3 for $14.95 (regular price); older 'Blue Dot' weekly releases are now $1.00 each (a limit of 5) instead of $3.25 each or 5 for $10.00 (regular price). They also sell pre-viewed DVDs for $11 to $16.50 (or 4 for $40) or videos $4.75 (previously 9.50) too. People may need to check their own video stores for their special deals. Video 2000 has 7 stores in Canberra, 20 in Brisbane, 10 in Darwin, 5 in Townsville, 4 in Cairns and a selection across rural Australia (but none in Sydney or Melbourne - the closest was Warrnambool - sorry Cath). This has been a great way to enjoy many of the latest movies for a fraction of the hiring cost. This week we've needed to hire a DVD required for a school assignment for only $2 - that's $3.95 saving for us, just by remembering Dollar Tuesday! If we wish to see a movie at the cinemas we aim to go on Tuesdays as the local price is $8-9.00 (instead of $15.00 other days). Some licensed clubs also offer FREE films for members and guests during school holidays; i.e. Canberra Labour Club, Belconnen offers a new film daily; Manly Warringah Leagues Club, Brookvale (Sydney) offers free films on Thursdays. Sometimes the National Art Gallery, ACT also offers films free or at reduced prices of $5-7. My friends enjoy the latest films in Sydney for $6 adults and $5 kids at the Dumaresq Street Cinema, Campbelltown (all day, every day). You can check out the latest movies showing on their website, www.dumaresqstreetcinema.com.au/.
- Contributed by Corina, Kaleen, 6th March 2007
Recently we discovered our local Video and DVD hire store (Video 2000 Kaleen) has begun a new deal called "Dollar Tuesdays." Each Tuesday, they offer ALL new overnight and new weekly releases for $2.00 each (a limit of 2) instead of $5.95 each for 3 for $14.95 (regular price); older 'Blue Dot' weekly releases are now $1.00 each (a limit of 5) instead of $3.25 each or 5 for $10.00 (regular price). They also sell pre-viewed DVDs for $11 to $16.50 (or 4 for $40) or videos $4.75 (previously 9.50) too. People may need to check their own video stores for their special deals. Video 2000 has 7 stores in Canberra, 20 in Brisbane, 10 in Darwin, 5 in Townsville, 4 in Cairns and a selection across rural Australia (but none in Sydney or Melbourne - the closest was Warrnambool - sorry Cath). This has been a great way to enjoy many of the latest movies for a fraction of the hiring cost. This week we've needed to hire a DVD required for a school assignment for only $2 - that's $3.95 saving for us, just by remembering Dollar Tuesday! If we wish to see a movie at the cinemas we aim to go on Tuesdays as the local price is $8-9.00 (instead of $15.00 other days). Some licensed clubs also offer FREE films for members and guests during school holidays; i.e. Canberra Labour Club, Belconnen offers a new film daily; Manly Warringah Leagues Club, Brookvale (Sydney) offers free films on Thursdays. Sometimes the National Art Gallery, ACT also offers films free or at reduced prices of $5-7. My friends enjoy the latest films in Sydney for $6 adults and $5 kids at the Dumaresq Street Cinema, Campbelltown (all day, every day). You can check out the latest movies showing on their website, www.dumaresqstreetcinema.com.au/.
- Contributed by Corina, Kaleen, 6th March 2007
Blockbuster Double Day Tuesday
Our family likes to get movies from Blockbuster for our entertainment. Normally an overnighter is $6.95 each. They do have deals but normally you have to get 4 for $14.95. We found out that Blockbuster where we are has what they call "Double Day Tuesday". They don't advertise it widely but on Tuesday you can get double the normal amount of DVDs or Videos for the same price. As we are movie buffs, we get the latest releases and can get 8 for $14.95. Who has time to watch 8 overnighters you say? Blockbuster have everything from 2 nighters (they no longer have overnighters) to 7 nighters in their new release section. We always make sure we ger no more than 1 x 2 nighter and then 7 x 7 nighters so we can have them on the weekend. If we wanted to, we could get 20 weeklies for $14.95. Now that's a bargain! Also, by getting them on Tuesday, most things have been returned from the weekend and are in whereas on the weekends, everything is often out by the time I get there on a Friday night.
- Contributed by Diana, Toowoomba, May 25th 2005
- Contributed by Diana, Toowoomba, May 25th 2005
It Pays to Ask the Question
Recently we upgraded to Foxtel digital and about a week after the install we lost our signal. My husband troubleshooted but nothing he did helped so we had to call for a service callout. We lost our signal on a Friday night and the serviceman came on Wednesday. He determined that it was a technical fault and not user fault so I asked if I could get a refund for the days we didn't have it. He said yes all I had to do was phone Telstra. Which I did and as an act of good will they gave me a $45.00 refund which is over half of my monthly charge, for 5 days!!! All I had to do was ask the question.
- Contributed by Belinda, Berowra Heights, May 25th 2005
- Contributed by Belinda, Berowra Heights, May 25th 2005
Site for Discount Cinema Tickets
http://www.readingcinemas.com.au/ This link has competitions and books of discounted movie tickets within Australian/NZ locations
- Contributed by Kaye, Dianella, May 23rd 2005
- Contributed by Kaye, Dianella, May 23rd 2005
$12 Movie Night for the Whole Family
Instead of spending $60 to go and see a movie which lasts about 1 hour 30 mins I decided to have movie night. I go and buy all the foods we would eat at the movies and hire 1 or 2 DVD's and set up the lounge room like a movie theatre. All this for about $12 and the kids think it is great.
- Contributed by Judy, Ayr, April 13th 2005
- Contributed by Judy, Ayr, April 13th 2005
Finding Free DVD Hire
Entertainment DVDs are expensive to hire, but I have found the best way to get movies for free. Go to www.google.com.au, then type in free DVD hire. This will list quite a few companies that have online DVD hire services. They each have an introductory trial period and I have tried two of them for a month each. This doesn't cost anything and means you can view quite a few movies for free, but you must cancel within the time limit so you do not get charged. After you have watched all the movies you want to see with these companies, you can then go to a DVD/video store called Video Busters, where all movies are only $2. Look up www.videobusters.com.au for your nearest location.
- Contributed by Susan, Kew, March 1st 2005
- Contributed by Susan, Kew, March 1st 2005
More Leisure, More Savings, Less Stress!
By taking the time to learn to program my VCR eight years ago, I have been saving time and money for years without realising it! I sit down once a week and program the shows I'd like to watch for the upcoming week. I use long play on my VCR and can get anywhere from 6-10 hours of programming though I usually only watch a couple of hours worth. The savings really started to present themselves once I started watching the recorded shows. I'd watch them when I had the time, sometimes this could mean a week later! Often I would start watching a show only to find that it wasn't really that interesting after all, and fast forward to the next show. So how did the savings pile up? Not only do I fast forward any programmes that I have lost interest in, I also fast forward EVERY advertisement! By doing this, I save around 15 minutes per 60 minute show, plus I am never tempted by advertisements to want more things. No barrage of ads insisting I need more of everything, no more annoying McDonalds ads at dinnertime to drive the kids crazy! I've been doing this now for almost eight years and am amazed at the savings - do try it!
- Contributed by Kaye, Dianella, March 25th 2005
- Contributed by Kaye, Dianella, March 25th 2005
Buy DVDs Ex-rental
Depending on your video store this can even work for gifts. Look for DVDs without huge EX-RENTAL stickers (which can be hard to remove). Our local Video Ezy just puts small, standard, price stickers on their ex-rental DVDs, and the Video Ezy sticker on the disc itself is easy to remove, leaving an as-new looking DVD!! Obviously check for scratches before giving as a present - but we have never had a problem with scratched ex-rentals.
- Contributed by Christabel, Bentleigh, February 1st 2005
- Contributed by Christabel, Bentleigh, February 1st 2005
Cheaper Cinema Tickets
Check out cheap cinemas in your area. Most of the time (but not always) you have to wait a bit before they get the newer movies, but the savings can be worth it. Another option is to join a movie club that gives you discounted tickets, or take advantage of programs that give you cheap tickets on certain days (e.g. cheap Tuesday, RACV members' Monday). Examples of cheap cinemas in Melbourne include Waverley Cinemas (www.waverleycinema.com) where prices range from about $2.75 to $9 if you have their (free) movie card. The Village cinemas at Waverley Gardens are another option with all tickets $5.50, or $3.50 if you join their movie club. Palace cinemas also have a movie club that give you discounted tickets (and 4 free tickets a year as well).
- Contributed by Christabel, Bentleigh, February 1st 2005
- Contributed by Christabel, Bentleigh, February 1st 2005
New Release DVD for $2? Borrow from the Library!
After spending a great deal of money on new release DVD's and then having to watch them in one night, I have now joined the local library and found that I can also borrow DVD's for $2.00, up to 5 at a time. Best of all you get to keep them for a week as opposed to overnight. Recently I ran out of time and was able to extend them for one week. Two weeks of new releases for $2.00, you can't beat that. - Contributed by Sharyn, Bendigo, October 14th 2006
Free DVD Hire
How much do you spend on DVDs a month? You can order any DVD you desire from your state library via the internet - all for free. They will deliver to your local library and email you or call when it has arrived. It is a cheap way for your kids to see all their favourite movies, and for you to catch up too!
- Contributed by Anita, July 11th 2006
- Contributed by Anita, July 11th 2006
School Holiday Movie Rental
Video Ezy have an offer for children during school holidays. They will issue you with a special card that allows you to hire one weekly movie for FREE each day of the holidays. You can have up to 10 movies out at one time
- Contributed by Lucinda, Horsfield Bay, July 11th 2006
- Contributed by Lucinda, Horsfield Bay, July 11th 2006
Cheap Movie Tickets - 2
The Village Cinema at Waverley Gardens Shopping Centre in Melbourne has $5.50 movie tickets to all movies, all sessions every day. You can join their club for $7 and pay just $3.50 per ticket, an even better bargain. - Contributed by Cath Armstrong, June 29, 2004
Cheap Movie Tickets - 1
Cheap movie tickets (from $1.90 per ticket!) are available at Waverley Cinema, Pinewood Shopping Centre, Blackburn Rd, Mt. Waverley. Go to the website and join, then collect your movie card to get the discount prices. Your movie card is FREE and allows you and any number of guests to purchase tickets at the discounted prices. Prices vary from session to session, to a maximum ticket price of $7.70 for brand new release movies! At these prices, you can afford to take the family to the movies as a treat!
- Contributed by Cath Armstrong, June 29th, 2004
- Contributed by Cath Armstrong, June 29th, 2004