Though MoviePass has been around since 2011, it didn’t break into the mainstream until Tuesday. That’s because the company announced it would slash the price of its all-you-can-watch movie buffet to a mere $9.95 a month.
As someone who has been a MoviePass subscriber for the better part of the past two years, and who until this week was paying $50 a month for my unlimited moviegoing privileges, I was thrilled to hear the news.
Over the past few days, however, I’ve found myself fielding countless questions from friends, colleagues, and Business Insider readers about the service and whether it’s really as good a deal as it sounds. With that in mind, here’s are the answers to the questions I’ve been asked most:
What exactly is MoviePass?
MoviePass is a subscription service that allows you to see up to one movie a day in theaters.
How much is it?
As of Tuesday, MoviePass now costs $9.95 a month.
Can I really see as many movies as I want for $10? Or does that guarantee a price of $10 per movie?
Nope! You really get to see as many movies as you like for the flat monthly rate.
How does it work?
When you sign up for MoviePass, you get a debit card sent to you in the mail. When you're ready to see a movie, MoviePass will load that debit card with the full cost of the ticket, which you then pay the theater. The only cost you pay is your $10 a month to MoviePass.
Click here for a step-by-step explanation of how to use MoviePass.
Where can I get it?
You can sign up for free on MoviePass.com
What theaters support MoviePass?
MoviePass claims it works at 91% of theaters in the country, including chains such as Regal and AMC.
Reddit user xur17 made a handy website where you can enter your ZIP code to see what theaters around you accept MoviePass. In addition, you can download the MoviePass app on your smartphone and check there as well (iOS, Google Play).
Can I use MoviePass to see any movie?
Yes, provided that it is a standard, 2D showing. MoviePass will let you see any film that isn't 3D or IMAX.
Can I use MoviePass to buy more than one ticket at a time?
No. When you select a showing, your MoviePass debit card is loaded with funds equaling the price of a single adult ticket at the theater you selected.
Are there any blackout dates? Can I see a movie the day it comes out?
There are no blackout dates. You can see "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" on opening night, if you'd like.
Does MoviePass work at independent theaters?
Yes. MoviePass is accepted at most big theater chains and indie theaters, alike.
Is there a limit to the number of movies you can see in a month?
Nope! You can use MoviePass to see as many movies as you like - one per day.
Can you see the same movie more than once?
MoviePass does not allow you to see the same movie more than once. Though you could always just buy a ticket to a different movie and sneak into your desired screening, at your own risk.
Can I lend my MoviePass card to someone else?
No. Your MoviePass card is your own. It is connected to your smartphone, so you couldn't give anyone your card to use unless you gave them your phone as well.
Does it work at theaters with reserved seating?
Yes. Your MoviePass card acts as a regular debit card. It doesn't matter if seating is reserved or not.
How far ahead do I have to reserve a ticket? Can I just use it on a whim?
There's no specific time frame when you're supposed to use MoviePass. Simply use it the same way as you would any other debit card.
Does MoviePass work outside of major cities?
Yes, MoviePass works all over the country.
Can I use MoviePass to order tickets online through sites like Fandango?
No. MoviePass requires you be within 100 yards of the theater (using the GPS on your phone) in order to let you check into a screening. If you want to buy a ticket in advance, you need to go to the theater early.
Can I share my MoviePass membership with a friend?
You cannot. Your MoviePass membership is your own.
Why has AMC Theatres come out against MoviePass?
Basically, AMC has said it does not believe that MoviePass has a sustainable business model, claiming it will eventually go out of business. The theater chain's concern is that by the time that happens, people will have gotten used to paying just a few dollars per movie, and will stop going to the movies altogether due to the high price tag.
MoviePass' CEO, however, is confident in the company's business model and believes AMC's worries are unfounded.
Should I be worried that AMC will stop accepting MoviePass?
As of now, no. In an interview with Variety, MoviePass CEO said he thought the statement from AMC was just "bluster."
"The fascinating thing is we use a MasterCard debit card," he said. "We pay full price for the tickets we buy. We comply fully with the rules of MasterCard and AMC has signed agreements with both their credit card processor and with MasterCard to comply with all the rules. They would essentially have to not take MasterCard in order to block us. I don't think you can cancel that agreement without severe penalties."
