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Empire Theatres Bayers Lake
Category: Arts & Entertainment Cinema Cinema [Edit]
190 Chain Lake DrHalifax, NS B3S 1C5
(902) 876-4800
Now Playing:
Battleship, Chernobyl Diaries, Citizen Gangster, Dark Shadows, The Dictator, The Five-Year Engagement, The Lucky One, Marvel's The Avengers, Marvel's The Avengers 3D, Men in Black 3,
More Movies »
Men in Black 3 in 3D, The Pirates! Band of Misfits, The Pirates! Band of Misfits 3D, What to Expect When You're Expecting
Showtimes on RottenTomatoes.com
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- Good for Kids:
- Yes
18 reviews for Empire Theatres Bayers Lake
18 reviews in English
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Review from Emmanuel C.
Halifax, NS
3/8/2012
This is a very convenient place to go catch a movie! Lots of parking, lots of theatres, usually a pretty mainstream movie selection (that's why we have the Oxford after all) and a great IMAX screen!
Tuesday is cheep day and always makes for a good time out. Its very easy to get to and if you don't mind walking a little bit (never more than a minute and a half), its very easy to find parking. When they have kid friendly movies, they always seem to offer kid friendly times to go with the movies. -
Review from Charles T.
Halifax, NS
2/21/2012
It is the easiest theatre for me to get to with lots of parking and comfy seats. What is not to like? Well sometimes the movie selection but I think that is more a commentary on the quality of movies these days. Of the theatres in Halifax it usually gets the best variety of movies, although a lot of times some of the more independent movies only go to the Oxford or Park Lane which is a little annoying given the size of the theatre in Bayers Lake, you would think they could devote a few screens to these films.
I always find it clean, the staff helpful, they have all the snacks you might want at the theatre and earned a lot of bonus points when they started carrying the caramel sauce for the pretzel bites again. I fell in love with that combo a few years ago and then they stopped having it. I am not a big movie snack person, usually happy with a bottle of water, as the cost of them is nuts, but I do enjoy my pretzel bites.
You can't go wrong going to Empire Theatres Bayers Lake, especially on Tuesday, thank you cheap night! -
Review from Rosalyn A.
Halifax, NS
1/28/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I like making the drive out to this theater because of the comfy seats and selection of movies. I wish they had a different way to line up for concession, with everyone all standing together I find myself more intimidated and often opt out of purchasing the not-so-healthy-but-so-delicious popcorn and treats.
The staff are always very friendly and willing to help out. The manager is pleasant and willing to help you out if you need it!
My reasons for only giving 4 stars go for any theater...don't put your feet on the chair ahead of you if someone is sitting there; having ones hair ripped out by a dirty boot is truly not pleasant. Also if you want to discuss every aspect of the movie, rent it! haha -
Review from Vanessa J.
Halifax, NS
10/15/2011
Being car-less, this is not my theater destination of choice, but every now and then, perhaps to see an IMAX movie, going to a movie I missed because I waited too long to see it and it is no longer playing in Halifax, or I just happen to be shopping at Costco, I check out a movie here.
I enjoy that that they have a bunch of ticket kiosks, and a separate ticket office, so I don't have to stand in line at the concession stand which can often have long lines.
They have a large arcade, not my thing, but people seem to enjoy it.
I do like that they have some new couch seating areas, which are good in case your dinner finishes early, and you arrive before they let you into the theater.
I'm not sure how I feel about the rocking chairs, at the moment I enjoy them, but I have never had a person sitting in front of me, rocking and I think that could be annoying.
Overall, this is a fine theater, but I feel that it can often be too busy for my taste, and out of the way for me. It can also be a long walk to your parking spot.Listed in: 30 Day Challenge Lists
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Review from Tiffany T.
Halifax, NS
8/2/2011 3 Check-ins Here
This is my go-to place to see movies. Mostly because I live close.
I can't really say anything bad about any particular experiences except one a few years back where I thought a movie was in 3D, when really only the first 18.5 minutes were (guesses anyone?) and I paid for a 3D movie. The issue was rectified when the manager placed some free admissions in my hands (thanks!) Unfortunately, there isn't really any other venue to compare to besides the numerous other locations, which I find deliver all similar experiences (besides the Oxford, which is ran my empire anyway.)
Empire Theatres Bayer's Lake has gone under numerous reno's in the past year and now has those comfy rocking chairs.
Going to the movies is not what they used to be; EXPENSIVE! You know, 2 movies and 2 combos can take you up to the $50+ mark.
Service is OK, nothing extremely special or outstanding. The line-up for concessions can be long and people can butt ahead very easily (on my last trip, gosh that irritates me), also it can take quite a while to get anywhere. SO, if your planning on getting grub, go early! -
Review from Mel B.
Halifax, NS
7/12/2011
This is my theatre of choice, especially now that they have the comfy rocking chairs. The staff is always very friendly and helpful. The set up is really great now, the self service booths for tickets or you can get both tickets and concessions right at the concessions stand which make things move a lot smoother- no more having to show up an hour before just to get tickets and a snack.
My only complaints are that it can be a bit pricey, the popcorn is sometimes not great and lately the movies themselves seem to be played to loudly. It can cost my fiance and I upwards of $50 for a night out. This is easily solved however by going on cheap Tuesday. The popcorn can be a little stale if you go during non peak hours but they are really good at replacing it if you complain. The loudness is just recent and I do believe that it has more to do with the actual movies themselves however I shouldn't have to cover my ears just to watch them (and I'm only in my 20's trust me I've been to loud concerts/clubs with no problems).
All in all Empire Theatres delivers a great place for date night as long as you go on a Tuesday. -
Review from Jesse G.
Timberlea, NS
1/29/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Oh, Empire Theatres. Your inconsistencies are what stole your stars.
I come to the theatre often. I enjoy seeing movies. So, first off, I have to say I don't appreciate the prices. Mind you, they're not entirely unreasonable compared to other places I've been down in the States, but still; I'd like to be able to build my own combo, but doing that can rack up a pricey total. The combos aren't bad though, I can live with them. The ticket prices are better, but every so often they rise, and it always hurts. But, I digress, while a complaint, it is not something the theatre itself can remedy, and has no bearing on my review. But it is worth noting, seeing a movie can easily run over $20 a person.
The food. This is half the reason I come to the theatre, really. When the food is good, it. is. GOOD. The popcorn is crunchy and light, salty and butter. The fountain pop is perfection. The poutine here? It can be amazing. I say can be, because it can also be downright disgusting. I think this place needs stricter food rules. Now and then I'll get a poutine with half cooked fries, and cold gravy. I'd get a refund, but for the constant huge line. And the popcorn goes stale sometime. But, like I said. Most of the time, amazing.
The staff also tend to be inconsistent, which befuddles me to this day. The majority of the employees don't seem to care a great deal about their jobs, and while being pleasant and courteous, don't offer much more. A select few are very enthusiastic, and discuss the movies with you. This is the service I would expect. If you work at a theatre, you should be interested in movies, and you should bring that to your sales patter. Alas, it is not always the case, and I find that disappointing!
Lastly, we come to the building itself. Recently renovated, it is a VERY nice place. It is constantly clean (there may be a few spills during peak hours, but what can you expect?), and the seats are comfortable. So, so very comfortable. The screens are good, the sound is awesome, and it has the theatre experience you pay for. The realD 3D is awesome, and I prefer it over the IMAX 3D for most movies.
I've never had a bad experience at the theatre, but I have had a few that are mediocre. So I give you three stars, Empire Theatres! Go forth and be more consistent with your employees and food, and you could be amazing. -
Review from Mel H.
10/24/2011
I don't really come to this theatre too much- Bayers Lake is kind of like no man's land to us downtown dwellers. Anyway, this theatre is FREAKING HUGE. And as such isn't as cozy and personal feeling as say an Oxford or Parklane. On the other hand, once you're in the theatre, it's the same experience as any other Empire property.
Listed in: 30 Day Yelp Challenge
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Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
Updated - 7/10/2010 3 photos
Empire Theatres has gone under some major renovations. I have to say, some I like , some not so much. But everything is not completed as yet.
We went to see ATeam, great movie.
One issue is when you need the refill of popcorn. You are suppose to be able to go up to the counter and not stand in the line again, which makes since when you think about it.
The problem is, no one there tells you. I hope they read this, someone or some sign needs to be put. I saw so many kids waiting in the line to get a refill, heck the movie is running already and they are missing it.
The manager is directing people to the next open window, completely obvious to the kids standing in line, with popcorn bag and drink. I went and pulled them to take them to the counter. Maybe I should work there.
Empire, get a few signs up. Oh yes, signs, not quite sure why the line for IMax is across and down from the entrance and hidden behind a huge vending machine. Everyone in line gets to watch people walk directly into the entrance, without noticing the HUGE line up.
This is a MAJOR ERROR on the managements behalf. They really do need a better system in place for that.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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2/20/2010
Sorry to all you non fans of the IMAX, I just don't get it though.
We went to Avatar again last… Read more »
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Review from Candice W.
St John's, NL
10/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
I don't really go to the theatre often, and this one is mega outside of town, but the place is MONSTROUS, efficient, and very orderly. I had no idea where my friend was taking me, seemingly somewhere dark and secluded outside of town, but Bayer's Lake (where the theatres are situated) is like a whole commercial city.
Theatres are filled with tweens, as per usual, but we still managed to buy concessions without having to punch anyone out. Plus you can buy your movie tickets at the concession stands now, who knew? -
Review from Laura P.
7/22/2010
So I did my first Imax this week. Inception was the film of choice, and with it being so talked up AND complete with brilliant cast (Joseph-Gordon Levitt, Marion Colliard, Leo, and our Ellen Page... yes!), the full-out sensory experience was necessary.
This place is huge. It was packed full of folks, although there was no wait at all to get tickets. I opted to skip the concessions stand, and while my two pals waited it out, it was my responsibility to get to the theatre and secure tickets.
This mission was somewhat of a fail. The usher directed me to the "left" instead of the "right"... thus completely confusing me and causing a substantial bout of wandering. I did finally find it, and managed to get 3 seats together, although the Imax theater is a bit tighter than others.
A great movie, and great theatre experience. Comfy seats, prime cinematic suave, and a fresh scope of the facilities extensiveness. For those looking for full range, this is the Empire Theatres to head to. Out of the way from central Halifax, if you can swing it- do it. -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
11/5/2009
Bigger is better!
This Empire Theatre is the biggest movie theatre in Halifax. I'm not sure how it compares to the one at Dartmouth Crossing in Dartmouth, but they have to at least be the same size. But I feel this one is probably slightly bigger thanks to its IMAX theatre. Oh yes, you can watch 3D movies here as well!
This Empire Theatre has been around for a long time and is conveniently located in the Bayers Lake area. If you are unfamiliar with the area, think one big playground for adults. There is a Chapters bookstore (for my American friends this is the equivalent to a Barnes & Noble), several restaurants and shopping centers. The majority of the restaurants in the area are more family dining experiences. Not really meant for Fine Dining.
But the movie theatre itself is huge! They still haven't figured out the best way to make the popcorn line shorter faster. But all-in-all, its a sure bet that if you are going to see a movie, the best choice is the Empire Theatre's in Bayers Lake. Big movie screens, big chairs, sometimes big people. In the end, one big great experience! -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
1/4/2010
The Bayers Lake Empire Cinema 18 is the crown jewel as far as Atlantic Canada theatres go. It's the biggest theatre east of Quebec and is valuable for movie fans in the area. That being said, it can be a frustrating experience.
The theatre almost always feels understaffed. They have recently "upgraded" to mostly automated ticket kiosks that seem to never be working. This means the lines are long and slow to get tickets, especially on busy nights.
The selection of films is usually great, a nice mix of major releases and slightly lower tier films, often playing at numerous times throughout the day. If your movie is playing, it's almost always playing at a time that is convenient for you.
Empire 18 is one of the few theatres in the area that supports 3D movies, which can be an expensive but exciting treat, especially if the 3D is done very well. I do find it annoying that they claim you have to pay an extra two dollars or so for the 3D glasses, but if you save your pair from the last 3D movie, you're still forced to pay the fee. It seems unfair, but it's not like there are other options in our area.
The IMAX theatre is a novelty but generally useless. Most films are not shot in IMAX, meaning you're just seeing a film on a bigger screen and not an actual IMAX "experience." That being said, when a film that really makes use of IMAX cameras is released (example: The Dark Knight), you should check it out. But be warned, most of the time you're paying an extra few bucks for a bigger screen and nothing more. It's not worth it.
Despite my problems with this theatre, it is still an excellent spot for film fans to check out a movie. Get there early and you'll be fine, wait until the last second and you might be too late. -
Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
4/23/2010
This isn't my favourite place to see a movie. I find it to be a little too big for my tastes; I much prefer smaller theatres where you don't feel like a sardine smushed into a too-small can.
The line-ups here are always horrendous. I strongly advise stopping by a couple hours before showtime and buying your tickets from the express kiosks. You can even buy vouchers for the concessions stands there, which helps to make your trip a bit easier.
I will say that this theatre offers fantastic concessions. Where else do you essentially have several fast-food restaurants to choose from while you settle in and watch a flick? -
Review from Ruth D.
Halifax, NS
1/4/2010
Seriously - I know it SOUNDS great to have 18 theatres and 15 movies to choose from. And usually it's not a bad choice of theatres. although they are smaller than I'm used to coming from Toronto, where the smallest ones are comparable to the larger ones here.
So, while normally I don't like to complain...this was our experience on Sunday: crowds for the early matinees but only 2 kiosks were open to buy tickets. Finally after 20 minutes (and almost missing the beginning of many films) one other opened up. No one seemed to be in command.
Got to the IMAX 3D for Avatar to find it full. A number of people milling about in the dark (ads were already running), to find only a few individual seats, mostly in the front. There was a staff person who did nothing to help seat people or tell someone out front that it was full. When we asked about the situation, he didn't really seem to listen.
Out to the lobby to try to get the film in another theatre, similar story so after, another wait for customer service - the agent was very sweet, we just got a refund.
All in all, less than a great experience. -
Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
5/2/2010 1 photo
Although the Bayer's Lake movie theatre is a good choice, it doesn't quite compare to the one in Dartmouth Crossing. The seats are much more comfortable at the Crossing and the newer more modern theme is also an eye catch.
I've watch a number of movies in both IMAX and regular picture. I was a big fan of the IMAX picture and will continue to pay the money to see a good movie in this more than amazing theatre!
I always find the staff friendly and accommodating. I recently went to the movies with a friend of mine and they accidental knocked my full bag of popcorn on the floor just as the movie was about to start. At that point, I wasn't sure if I was more mad at the fact that the movie was about to start or whether it was because my popcorn was poured beneath my feet! Needless to say, an usher (or employee) seen it and got me (yes...they went and got me) a new bag of popcorn. I didn't miss my movie, nor did I need to pay for a new bag.
The line ups are usually quick long, but move rather quickly. They usually have all of the popcorn lines and admittance lines open during these peak times. -
Review from David H.
Halifax, NS
1/28/2011
It's a usual big box monster theatre in one of the ugliest parts of Halifax. The seats are comfortable (even though it is annoying that they recline a bit) and the theatre is good overall. However, the food is crazy expensive (they really want $4.49 for a chocolate bar -- no kidding) and I have to say that their nachos are rather disappointing (and a small portion) too. For seeing a movie it can be OK, even though I much prefer the Empire 8 Park Lane downtown, but don't buy food there.
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Review from Stefano TK A.
Dartmouth, NS
6/29/2010
Something about this theater always makes me smile, if you have a choice of where to go to see your flick this is often a nice treat.
