Is Movie Food Worth It in 2026? Cineplex Movie Review

Let's go to the movies! Today, we're switching it up and we're reviewing our movie experience instead of a restaurant. We went to Marine Gateway to watch the new Mario Movie. Is it worth it in 2026? With the rise of streaming, many are opting to just wait until movies come out on streaming platforms (like Disney Plus, Netflix). However, the movie experience is something that can't be replicated at home.

Movies can be very expensive. On Tuesdays it's half off admission at Cineplex, but otherwise for General Admission, it can easily be around $20 and more (plus add ons). If you want to buy popcorn, snacks, and drinks, it can easily be $100 for a family of 4. 

Luckily, I'm part of the Cineclub - every month for $9.99, I get one general admission ticket and can buy one more ticket at that price (extra charges for 3D). This is incredible value because if I'm busy a certain month or the movie listings aren't appealing, these tickets carry forward. Given the many Cineplex locations in the Lower Mainland, this presents great value and accessibility. I can use these tickets at any location. 

We were hungry so we decided to go buy lunch. Cineplex has really expanded their food offerings to more hot food in addition to the typical hot dogs, nachos, chips, popcorn, and candy. They even have poutine now! We got one sandwich each: the pulled pork sandwich and the fried chicken sandwich. 

As part of the CineClub, you also get 20% off food and free online booking; it was a great deal for us and something to consider for food options for the future. Without the app, they would be close to $20 for 2 sandwiches, which is pricey. Through the app, you can also pre-order food (only snacks and popcorn). So how did those sandwiches taste? Is it worth $17 after discounts?

Yes. Wow...these were very good for a movie theatre. The chicken sandwich rivals some of the best in the fast food game. The chicken was large in portion and very crispy. The pulled pork sandwich was also very juicy and had a flavourful sauce. Even the buns were toasted! If these sandwiches had more vegetables, I think they're on par with restaurant level food. 

In fact, you can get restaurant quality food at Cineplex VIP, but we opted for the 3D experience so we were pleasantly surprised that you can get this food at the concessions. 

In terms of the movie experience, we greatly enjoyed the Mario movie. A great sequel and filled with nostalgia. From the music, to the characters, despite some minor plot issues this was a fantastic movie and would recommend it.

Overall, it was a great trip to the movies and we look forward to going again. Watching the movie in theaters has its perks and despite the cost, can be worth it versus sitting at home in front of the TV. And I actually prefer Cineplex food over fast food! Although you have to pay more, perhaps it was the experience that made the food taste so good. Spiderman next? 2026 has a lot of movies coming out.

Hits:

• Very tasty sandwiches
• Expanded menu caters to more palates
• Made fresh and quick service

Misses:

• Without the Cineclub, tickets and food are expensive
• Food can be inconsistent if long lines

Rating: 4.5/5 - Would definitely and strongly consider buying food at the movie theatre if there aren't any other restaurants nearby. What's next in our foodie adventures?