Let’s face it: San Diego isn’t quite the cream of the movie
crop. Not to discount our slice of California dessert, but when you stumble
upon an online article talking about the metropolitan filmic glory of New York
or Los Angeles, city doubt starts to set in a little. But, like every region,
this land we call home for four years contains its share of cinematic havens
for those fleeing the multiplexes.

Landmark Hillcrest Cinemas easily assumes the title of best
theater in San Diego. Encased in the Village Hillcrest shopping bastille, the
deceptively large complex houses six screens, showing everything from
bigger-name independent films to stuff only the most astute hear of. Film is
king in the Landmark system, not after a parade of cash of trivialities. They
don’t skimp on the concession extras, but they know that watching a good movie
doesn’t need substitutes or additions, making sure you come out changed, moved
and satisfied.

If you want a premium — and I mean premium — movie-watching
experience, Mission Hills’ Tops Presents: Cinema Under the Stars presents new
favorites and old classics just about every weekend; all, you guessed it, in an
open-roof theater. Each film includes trivia contests, film discussions and,
most importantly, amazing seating (ottoman, zero-gravity lounge chairs, etc.),
doing it’s damndest to turn an average trip into an event. Tickets must be reserved
in advance, and the $12.50 cost will make quite an empty pocket, but it’s
interesting to experience an alternative way to watch your favorite Adam
Sandler comedy or Alfred Hitchcock thriller.

But the best bet for you car-less few (or who hate the thought
of getting gas) is the Price Center Theater, showing second-run features every
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The price is definitely right at $3, and once
the lights dim you’ll almost forget that the room doubles as a lecture hall. If
you’re stranded on campus, need a study break or want to hole yourself up in a
darkened room (every UCSD student’s dream), our theater’s probably the most
comfortable thing next to getting some shut-eye.