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IMAX At Pacific Science Center
Category: Arts & Entertainment Cinema Cinema [Edit]
Pacific Science Center200 2nd Ave N
Seattle, WA 98109
Neighbourhood: Queen Anne
(206) 443-2001
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 10:30 am - 10:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
98 reviews for IMAX At Pacific Science Center
98 reviews in English
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Review from Daniella P.
Maple Falls, WA
4/15/2012
I LOVE IMAX. Soooo this review is going to be a little sympathetic. This was the first IMAX I went to in a loong time. For years even. Now, the sceince center was a long walk around, so naturally we needed to sit down for a rest, to balanced out the energies, you know. 45 minute documentary-perfect. But boy, what I didn't expect! I am used to Bellinghams "3-D movies", yeah...nothing compared to IMAX. I was watching a documentary about orangutans, it was like those little monsters are trying to touch you with their grimy hands! Amazing! If it wasnt for the clean smell, I would feel like I AM in Indoneisa. The glasses we got were so B.A. thet were like the glasses from the film "Charlie and the chocolate factory" before the group entered the t.v. room or what other. Huge, and old school. And different colors-if that matters. I got green! My favorite color!
This IMAX is much more closed in and not as wide but more vertical and high. Better for performance methinks-I am not that sure. Seats comfratable. No commercials. But it WAS a short documentary.
Concession stand is crappy. Dont eat there. Nachos pre-packaged already? Wth? No thankyou! I will just sneek in my own food, thanks. And double the nutrition. Just bring in a fruit and a few raisins with nuts and your good to go. Just make sure you bring a big bag. But I guess the concession sucks because the center spends so much on...well...science!
I was a little...okay...ALOT peeved to see people, no...APES litter like that IN the IMAX! Okay, there are "ganitors for that stuff" but c'mon! What kind of respect is that! As I was walking out, I had to shimey my way out of the aisle over mounds of popcorn unfinished and empty x-large candy boxes.... Like a movie theatre food genocide took place! Even wrappers from outside resturants like Burger King was scrunched up under some seats. Thats awful. AT LEAST THROW AWAY YOU OWN food. There is a garbage can right outside! What, the bags and wrappers too heavy for you?! But this is humanitys fault, not IMAX. *facepalm* yes there is people like that.
As for that, they recycle the glasses as all theatres do...so that was lovely.
Great palce, educational and sweet! Enjoy! Oh, and by the way, not expensive. Not for IMAX! -
Review from Dave M.
5/26/2012 26 Check-ins Here
Set up:
IMAX (PACCAR and BOEING) at Pacific Science Center in Seattle Washington.
Pro's PACCAR:
-All Imax theaters are amazing in their own right this one is no different.
-The Screen is 35' high and 60' wide
-Fully renovated in 2011
-Built in 1962 as an addition to the Space Needle for the World's Fair
-Seats 350 people
-Ticket pricing is comparable, if not cheaper than the IMAX at Tukwila
Pros Boeing IMAX:
-Seats 405 people in Stadium style seating with more leg room than the PACCAR
-Screen 60' high and 80' wide (Largest in Seattle)
-12,000 Watts of Stereo Sound (I hope they play Prometheus on this screen)
-Full service concession stand with organic snacks as well as popcorn and coke products
-Ticket pricing is comparable, if not cheaper than the IMAX at Tukwila
Con's PACCAR:
-Seating is a joke.
-This theater is, as another reviewer pointed out, seems to cater more to children.
(That being said, as of the date of this particular review, The Avengers is out and they are playing it on this small IMAX screen and it makes no sense.)
-No real concession stands, popcorn is made in the Boeing IMAX concession stand and brought to PACCAR and stored in a glass popcorn holder until sold out. All drinks are bottled.
Cons BOEING:
-Restrooms
-Regularly sold out
Summary:
When I realized that the Avengers was playing on the PACCAR screen, I opted to go and see it at the IMAX at the Tukwila mall instead. The seating is a little better, IMHO, and the screen is reportedly only about 20% smaller than the PACCAR screen. Also I can get better concessions at the Tukwila mall. I have only seen one movie at the PACCAR Theater and that was Lorax and I was disappointed. I am of the understanding that the PACCAR renovation that took place in 2011 was a gift to the Pacific Science Center for their 50th Anniversary from a copulation of gifts beginning with a lead gift by the Ginger and Barry Ackerley Foundation to fund the new projection and sound equipment and has the capability to show both 2D and 3D films.
I have seen quite a few movies on the Boeing IMAX and have been amazed by all of them no matter what subject they cover. I was enthralled with the clarity of Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol and can not wait to go back and see Prometheus (Provided it will be shown on this screen). I love that there is a true concession stand here and it feels like I am at a true Theatre and not some science center movie screen.
If your movie is playing on the Boeing screen then I would highly recommend this experience. However if it is playing on the PACCAR and is not a kids movie and you are taller than 5'2", I would not recommend it. It is a matter of preference. I like that I can go to the movie and then leave and walk a 10th of a mile and be at a great pizza place for dinner and it is a movie and date night that isn't at the mall. I like the area surrounding the IMAX as well (Watch for other reviews) the Fountain, the park, the Seattle Center, there is always something going on and it is always a fun filled day for not a lot of money. -
Review from Charles F.
Seattle, WA
5/23/2012
I am split about this review. They have the Boeing IMAX theater which is truly 5 star worthy. It is HUGE! I just love it. They also have the popcorn flavor salts which are probably terrible for you but are oh so tasty. I have been to this theater countless times.
So, my problem is the Paccar IMAX. It totally sucks. I am now suggesting that Paccar stands for "Piece A Ca CaRap". Go to Thornton Place IMAX. It is bigger and has bigger and more comfortable seats. I was in this theater for the first time seeing the Avengers. Fortunately, I had seen it already at Cinerama, a great theater though it is not IMAX. The back row in this theater is made for people with very short legs, like hmmm, children. In fact the whole theater seems like it is made for children. It is tiny. I was not happy with paying as much as I did to see the Avengers in this theater. If it had been in the Boeing theater, it would have been a deal. I will not be back to this theater unless I am seeing one of the shorter cheaper IMAX movies like Hubble or something. No way for a feature film. I will be going to Thornton Place in Northgate. -
Review from Leana L.
5/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
$9 for an IMAX 3D movie? And it was The Avengers? I'm SOLD!
We were on vacation to Seattle and ended up watching a movie.... Hahaha. Totally worth it though! Great movie, great price. It is a small theater and the seats are kind of small (but far from uncomfortable). It did help to know that our ticket money was going to a good cause like the Pacific Science Center. -
Review from Laura S.
5/14/2012 1 Check-in Here
I 'm sorry but we sat in the smaller of the IMAX. Yes, the screen was huge and the sound was great but the seats were small as f**k.
This theater was made for kids because the space between your knees and the set in front of ou was NON existent. I felt so bad or the guy next to me bc he was tall! He looked so uncomfy sitting there. He was trying to position himself but his knees were just hitting the front's seat.
I'm 5'5.5 and I was feeling uncomfy... Imagine someone even taller!
Yeah, the screen and sound was real IMAX but I rather feel comfy than see the quality. I felt like a giant.
If people wanted to get past you... You HAD to stand up to let them through versus being able to move slightly.
Concession: out of a tent and vending machines. Popcorn $5?! Ugh.
Screen is huge! Sound is good but no. I wouldn't go there bc I felt so uncomfy and confined. -
Review from Necia D.
2/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
Don't be fooled by the inferior, wussy self-proclaimed IMAX theaters. This IMAX theater scoffs at the faux IMAX and makes obscene gestures at it in the car window and doesn't even care if it's chased afterward. This IMAX cleans its teeth with toothpicks made from the other diminutive IMAXes and throws them on the floor afterward, even though it sees the recycling and compost bins RIGHT. THERE...It does not care. That is how it is, being mighty.
We saw Mission Impossible 3, my sons and I did, and say what you like but that crazy-ass scientologist put on a good show (major props to Brad Bird, which are promptly rescinded for your little "film a place in Vancouver B.C. and label it Seattle in the last scene" stunt. Tch. Brad Bird. Shakes head slowly). This movie owed much of its escapist pleasure to the fact that this IMAX is sincere in its bigness; it's not just the slightly (if at all?) larger screen that other places seem to claim is IMAX. In this theater, rows of chairs are set into a more steeply inclined space; the screen feels very large, and drops below your feet and well over your head. In an action movie, this is quite exciting, even if you mostly find yourself making a good deal of jokes at action movies' expense. Like SOME PEOPLE who I am.
We got there freakishly early, and "dined" at the food court at Center House. Shiver. A waxen, pallid yellow glow, an apologetic gyro salad, faint or distant urine smells, the collage of napkins to prevent your plate or elbows from touching the tabletops. Ah, Center House. A wonderful place to take surreptitious cell phone photos of people with hickeys.
But the IMAX theater was righteous. My kids were thrilled; I gained MomCred. We can't wait to come back. -
Review from David H.
Seattle, WA
3/14/2012
The Boeing IMAX theater at the Pacific Science Center is the best theater I've been to, IMAX or otherwise. The giant screen, the amazing sound, and for some reason great audiences. It seems whenever I go to a multiplex (or even some of the local Landmark theaters) someone is always talking during the film. I've never had that problem here. I can't say why, but they get points for it anyway.
As some others have pointed out, this is not one of the faux-IMAX screens you find at Regal or AMC theaters. While the newly renovated PACCAR IMAX theater at the Pacific Science Center does run a new digital IMAX system, the Boeing theater runs honest-to-god 70mm film. Actual film! That gives better colors and a larger image. True IMAX screens are basically a 1.33:1 size ratio. For movies with scenes shot in IMAX (like The Dark Knight or Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol) you get the full frame as the directors intended. Digital systems (even digital IMAX systems) crop it like a standard 35mm theater. Having said that, even movies that run at 1.85:1 or 2.35:1 are so much bigger. They just get the letterbox treatment.
As a film buff, I can't say enough about this place. It's truly an immersive experience. -
Review from nam n.
1/11/2012 1 Check-in Here
IMAX movie theater... if you haven't gone. go. the sheer size of the screen, engulfs you, into the movie you're watching. with the oversized 3D glasses, you can look up, down, side to side and all you see is the movie!
amazing crisp sound and picture. you can help but be giddy and giggle like a kid all over again. I will say this... despite the size of the screen - the theater itself is very small. i recommend getting there early for a good seat as there is no more than 10-12 rows of seating. sitting in the 3rd row still gave me a headache and i was unable to enjoy the movie, until i moved back a few rows but ended up on the side. nonetheless. great experience! -
Review from The-Hoa H.
Bellevue, WA
3/28/2012
This imax theater is the shit!! Been goin here since my elementary school days....best graphics, best surround sound system and largest theater screen in the entire world! My family, friends and I still frequent this place for 3D showings of popular movies...and the prices are quite relative to other regular theaters!
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Review from Jonathan R.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 12/20/2011
So I finally got around to going to this theater again for Mission Impossible. First note, the screen remains large and awesome, and is the only place in town to see such a thing. However, it curves over the course of the screen which can be annoying for flatter scenes. Very slight annoyance.
Actual docking of points is I did not accurately recall how uncomfortable the seats are, it's pretty bad. Yes it has stadium seating, but at this screen size, that's not really them going out of their way.
Finally, yes the sound is loud, but is it high fidelity? Not a chance. I remember noting the same thing last time I went. Bass is particularly bad, but just in general, not a very clear sound. And this one really drives it down for me because I know I want to see the third batman in imax, but having seen the trailer for it in this theater, I can be pretty sure I wont' understand a thing anyone says if I were to see it here. That's important enough to make me actually not see it here, and at that point, I have to downgrade it.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/25/2010
So. It's definitely a great theater and possibly the best in town. It's got a big screen, and some… Read more »
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Review from Joel W.
La Mirada, CA
3/23/2012
Typical Imax theater, but seating is a bit more limited than others I have experienced. Still, as long as you get there early and get good seats, totally worth it.
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Review from Denise H.
I really like this place and the movies I have seen here are well worth the money, however, the theater itself is really dirty. Now I know that it is hard to keep theaters clean, especially when you are moving that kind of human volume through your doors, but there is some cleaning that can take place between films.
To make mater's worse, on this particular night, they had an event going on upstairs and had closed off the bathrooms and since it was the premier of Mission Impossible they only allowed those people going into the theater to use the bathrooms at the bottom of the ramp and not those who had already seen the movie.
About 300 people had to trek across the Science Center in the cold to go to the bathrooms and wait in the cold through long lines. The security guard that was blocking off the area for the event did not let anyone through, but he did it RIGHT when the 5:25 p.m. showing let out and as the *:35 showing was going in. It wasn't like he couldn't let the people use the restrooms and then block off the area for the event. All in all it was very poor planning on the part of the PSC and I was very disappointed.
Meanwhile, I was waiting for Buzz to come out and decided to ask questions about my membership. I went to the membership window and was told that she could not answer my questions, I would have to go to General Admissions. Um.... I'm sorry.... THe sign said "Member services" I thought that meant that they could answer "Member questions".
Pardon me for assuming.
I like the IMAX (14 screens) and I love the documentaries. I find the Science center, itself, a little... boring, but the laser shows and the Imax shows and the ability to sit on the lawn and look at the Space Needle really makes up for the lack of "interesting" things to do.
We did visiti the Star Wars exhibit and it was amazing and well worth buying a years membership just for that.
If you have smaller kids, you'll have a ball, however, if you don't, it is hit or miss as to whether or not you might like this place.
I am on the fence, depending on what is playing at the IMAX and laser show. -
Review from Diane J.
12/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love Imax movies. They're fantastic learning experiences and are short enough that I don't fall asleep during the show.
Great place. -
Review from Huy N.
Arlington, WA
3/19/2012
went to go see john carter the other day, it was definitely worth coming to see it here! i will surely be back to see future 3d movie! staff was friendly and very accommodating. me younger cousin loved the outside activity as well as theater will be back for sequel!
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Review from Jeanny M.
Updated - 6/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I'm gonna dock a star for customer service issues.
1) Each time I've prepaid for a ticket and went to pick it up, the cashier would say my card doesn't work and ask for another. I would oblige (even though I primarily use one card) until I realized that they did not enter the right event date in their calendar. So if you prepaid something and go pick up the ticket, make SURE they are on the right date before you start handing over various cards or unfolding the email confirmation print-out with code. This has happened when I bought a day before an event or months before an exhibition.
2) When calling to ask when they will start selling movie tickets to a certain wizarding movie, they will either say: a) they don't know if the movie will be here at all, b) they have to sort through contract issues where the movie may be limited on how many screens it can be shown on and c) maybe end of this week.
These are all lies.
They need to better inform their employees on how to answer questions from the public especially if their online ticketing website hasn't updated.
It seems like they use their twitter account regularly, so rather than check their ticketing website, calling them, or walking up to the ticket window, you should just read your feed on their latest news.
Other than that, the screen itself remains a 5 star for its super awesomeness.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2010
The only TRUE Imax around. Super giant screen (6 stories tall), super stadium seating, mega rich… Read more »
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Review from Taylor C.
San Francisco, CA
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is as good as it gets. The screen itself is 5 stories high and there is full stadium seating covering the entire length of it. I'd suggest trying to sit as close to the last row as possible to get the back view, and the stadium seating helps ensure no one's view is obscured. They start each movie with a demonstration of the capabilities of the theatre, which is impressive enough on its won before the actual film begins. Definitely worth the price of admission
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Review from Macey W.
Seattle, WA
2/4/2012 4 Check-ins Here
Boeing IMAX Theater is the only movie theater I go to, and now I can add Paccar IMAX Theater too, since their long awaited renovation. I absolutely love the screen size and clarity, surround sound, 3-D movies, popcorn powder seasoning, comfy seats, and amazing movie choices they show! I love Boeing so much, I saw Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol here three times, each time getting better and better! Absolutely best theater I've been to and will continue to go to.
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Review from Angel I.
8/17/2011
Yes, the movie screen the only real IMAX screen in town. However, the seats here were also some of the most uncomfortable seats I've ever sat in (which is super important to me). There is very little cushioning in the seats, which makes sitting in a long 3-hour movie quite rough. Also the seats are really close to each other and small.
It is nice to see a movie here and support the Pacific Science Center though, and the sound and picture quality is superb. So I'll ignore the issue of the seats.
It's even better to see movies here if you're a Pacific Science Center member as you get no online ticketing fees and discounted movie tickets that makes the prices comparable or even cheaper than other movie theaters in town. -
Review from Edwin P.
Seattle, WA
3/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is the mother of all IMAX's. The seating in this place is amazing, the screen size and sound are AWESOME! I've seen a few movies here some include The Dark Knight and Sucker Punch.
Everything about this place is great except for the concession stand. The prices are about average for most movie theaters but the only thing I don't enjoy about the concession stand is the popcorn. It just doesn't have that movie theater taste to me like most other theaters do.
I'm still going to give this place a 5 star rating because its not the concession stand that makes the theater, its the amazing screen and outrageous sound that does. -
Review from Ninette C.
Seattle, WA
5/12/2011
Yes, this is the only real IMAX theater in the Seattle area.
I like that there's stuff to look at while you wait and after the movie. The online ordering system is pretty easy.
I just hate, hate, hate parking here! Yes, I go to Queen Anne all the time but its the WORST for the movies! I missed the first 30 minutes of "Inception" looking for PAID parking. So frustrating and obviously I was completely confused!
I keep coming because as I said its the only real IMAX. -
Review from Alaina W.
3/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Suckerpunched by the theater!
I have been to the older Imax theater when I was younger, and only remember watching this humongous screen with a 90-degree neck position. Ouch. This was my first time to the newer theater and the only bad thing I can think of is the price.
We came late to the show, so the movie was just beginning when we opened the doors to find our seats. Man, was it dark! The view was great. The sound was great. The seats were comfortable and the legroom was relatively roomy.
The hike to the theater was a little interesting. Do lines really get that long?
I'd definitely return if there was a movie worth shelling out $30 for. -
Review from Bryan I.
1/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
This IMAX puts all other IMAXs to shame; the absolute best, largest, loudest screen/system that I've seen! Plus it's the same price as other faux "IMAX" theaters throughout the country (some of which are just a few feet larger than a regular screen), and the proceeds goes to the non-profit Pac Sci Center...what's the downside?!??!
As with any theater, but especially with 3D movies, you want to sit in the sweet spot (sucks to get a seat on the periphery).
This theater (and the Pac Sci Center) is a must visit if you haven't been before! Along with Umi Sake House and the EMP, they are pretty much the only reasons to be in Seattle instead of PDX :-) -
Review from Tony K.
Lacey, WA
7/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Precursor - This is the second IMAX screen I have been to, the first being the IMAX screen at Regal Cinemas in Lacey.
I just watched Transformers: Dark of the Moon here and there were many impressive features to this theater over the one in Lacey.
First there is the screen, the 60' tall viewing screen which is the primary ingredient of an IMAX theater. Watching some of the IMAX scenes from the previews and from the movie itself was very impressive and I thoroughly enjoyed having to not just sit still and watch but be more interactive with the film and having to move my head to watch what was happening on various parts of the screen. It added to the larger-than-life feel of the film.
Secondly, the 3D Glasses at this theater are amazing. There are two types varied by color, a blue framed pair and a green framed pair. I wear prescription glasses and I found out that the blue colored 3D glasses are designed to fit over a pair of prescription glasses. I didn't have to position the 3D glasses in an awkward position so I could watch the film, I simply placed them on over my prescription ones and they fit perfectly.
The final feature of this theater that made it better than Lacey was the price of the concession items and ticket pricing. Sure, it's in Seattle and I live in Lacey, but not counting the cost of the trip, which is easier to swallow if one can plan a group outing, carpool, and share expenses. The price of one adult ticket paid online with adding their web site's $2.00 surcharge is $16.25. The IMAX screen in Lacey charges $16.50, the concession items cost more, the screen isn't as large, and the 3D glasses are not as accommodating.
The last point I would like to add is the only real downside of the venue (and it's not the parking which should be expected) is the seating. The seats are stadium style which climbs at a steeper angle than most theaters which is awesome, because you shouldn't be blocked in view by a tall person, but the seats are just too close together, AND you can't even move the arm rests because they are stationary. That's one huge point to the Regal Cinemas in Lacey. The seats at the Lacey theater are way more comfortable.
With all that said, I would still go back to the Boeing IMAX theater and watch another movie, but hopefully it won't be sold out and I can have some more elbow room. Definitely an experience worth checking out. -
Review from Kristine H.
Seattle, WA
12/20/2010 1 Check-in Here
We'd seen a couple of films here but I'd never reviewed the theatre. And after seeing Tron: Legacy tonight, I thought I'd rectify the situation. The tickets were purchased in advance (thanks J.!) and the other half of our quartet arrived early to the theatre to secure spots in the growing queue.
It was a sold out screening (400+ seats) and the place was packed. Thankfully everyone took their seats in an orderly fashion but there wasn't elbow room to spare. Seats were comfortable enough but the arms are fixed so no snuggling occurred. Decent leg room. I'm nearly 5'9" and I didn't feel cramped during the film. The specs on the IMAX screen: six stories high (60 feet) and 80 feet wide, with 12,000 watts of stereo sound.
Before the film began, I bought a large popcorn to share and a vitamin water. I didn't share the latter because it was $3.50... whew! They had free water cups beside the fountain and you can get ice at concessions. No butter for the popcorn, it comes pre-buttered and salted. And DAMN, quickly we realised that was some seriously salty stuff. I think they sold pretzels and various candy too.
I do have one criticism. The floor was sticky and every time I shifted, the treads on my Docs would get stuck. Blech. And the teens to my right were as chatty as gophers during the film. They were also phenomenally messy. When the house lights turned on, you'd think they threw more popcorn on the flood than ate it! Granted the teens were not a fault of the theatre, just wanting to vent. Overall, it's a decent place to see a film but it's expensive so make sure you really want to see it. -
Review from Amy S.
Elk Grove, CA
4/3/2011
Went to see Sucker Punch and it was awesome. The theater is small but the screen was huge and sitting was great w/lots space. This is great for screening, less line and not so strict about the food.
Only thing that i did not like was chair, it was very uncomfortable and old. -
Review from Rona L.
11/27/2010 2 Check-ins Here
This is a REAL IMAX theater! I hate that regular movie theaters are now advertising the IMAX experience just because their screen is a little bigger. Yes, it's a little expensive but I'd rather pay the extra $5 for the real thing - nothing beats coming here to watch a movie (as long as it's a good one).
The screen is HUGE, there isn't a bad seat in the house, the sound is amazing, and you get to play with Pacific Science Center toys while you're waiting to get into the theater.
Watching a movie in IMAX 3D?? That's a win on all counts! -
Review from Beth E.
Seattle, WA
11/28/2010
Most of the time I've wanted to see an action or visually loaded movie (Matrix 2 & 3, Happy Feet, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Harry Potter, etc.), I've come to this theater. It's the largest IMAX screen in the state and has matching sound and customer service. One time my dad forgot his hat in the theater, and when he returned five minutes later to ask about it, the staff had already found it.
I'm not giving it five stars because it's SO expensive, and parking's a pain, in terms of cost, availability, and distance from the theater. You can pay probably at least $8 less for a movie experience that's almost as good at another huge or IMAX screen in Seattle. If you're hardcore, though, this is definitely the place to go. -
Review from Janice W.
11/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Who doesn't love the IMAX when its a rainy day in Seattle? The entire Science center is fun and great for kids. A great spot for groups and little scientists alike.
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Review from Michelle B.
Seattle, WA
5/13/2009 1 Check-in Here
I don't know much about sound quality - I'm pretty happy listening to my clock radio.
I also don't know much about visual effects - Oh, is there a PS2 controller dangling in front of the screen?
What I do know is efficiency and organization - Spreadsheets, flow charts, and schedules with built in buffers are my kind of thing.
Seems like there's a kindred spirit working at the Boeing Imax Theater at the Pacific Science Center. The efficiency that they demonstrated while getting streams and streams of Star Trek fans in and out of the huge theater deserves recognition. But, the true piece de resistance was the way they got everyone in the theater to squish together so that the theater wasn't randomly spotted with single empty seats making it near impossible for a couple to sit together. Bravo kindred spirit, Bravo!
From now on I'm choosing all of my theaters based on logic. Live long and prosper, indeed. -
Review from Betsy H.
Seattle, WA
1/8/2008 ROTD 1/20/2008
Why did it take me so long to come back here?
Really... WHY??
This is such a great place to watch a movie... Here's my list of "why"s:
1. 60' tall movie screen
2. New releases now available (w/ the new digital formats of movies, they can print it on any film - meaning more to watch on IMAX)
3. Comfy seats
4. Popcorn and sodas don't cost an arm and a leg
5. Cool atmosphere (you're at the Seattle Center guys!!)
Check it out! You can even buy tickets online if it's not the day of showing.
http://www.pacsci.org/...Listed in: So Good I Got an Award!
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Review from Seattle F.
Seattle, WA
2/21/2012
This is a real Imax, not the fake ones that the BS movie chains push on people. Great movies, nice location, but book tickets online. The place is usually full.
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Review from Sarah B.
Seattle, WA
3/14/2010
And I thought you could only use 3-d IMAX screens to learn something. But thanks to "Avatar" aka "Smurfs in Hell", I think places like this are going to start doing more business. I mean, gimmicks sell, just look at the Wii. (yeah, I'm guilty of it too)
I've watched a handful of movies this way and never really gotten into it. I mean, sure Harry Potter is in 3d but I still don't care.
I liked going for the geeky science movies. Flying helicopters over giant holes, traveling through space and exploring jungles I'll never travel to. Maybe I'm a bit of a purist or just too old and hardened to understand why anyone would want to see a movie in 3d.
But as for the actual place and going to see something in 3d, this is the place! It's tied in with the Pacific Science Center. So you can geek out there and then go see a movie. Or like most people, just go for the movie. Always check the ticket situation online first. It'll save you a headache.
The crowds tend to be a lot friendlier and social than other theaters. I guess it's the we're-all-wearing-these-stupid-glasses bonding experience.
It is one of the huge IMAX screens too. The steep seats, the many stories high screen and awesome sound. So if you are looking for a true IMAX experience, this is the only theater to go to.
And yeah, they still show science movies. :) -
Review from Me H.
Seattle, WA
1/11/2008
After watching I Am Legend here the other night I remembered why I don't do IMAX movies very often...they make me nauseous. Seriously they do, it's not IMAX's fault I know it's my weird bodies fault. If I didn't get a little nauseated watching a movie in IMAX I'd go back all the time but the huge 60' tall movie screen throws off my equilibrium some how. I'm odd I know but it's what makes me 'special.'
I will add that the Boeing and Eames Imax Theaters had everything you'd want in a good movie theater, comfortable seats, in stadium seating so no matter who sat in front of you they weren't blocking your view of the 60' movie screen. They have popcorn and soda and candy, which reminds me Betsy I owe you for my Diet Coke, thanks again by the way. So if you don't have a weird messed up head like I do go see all your movies in IMAX because seeing people 60' tall is kind of cool in a sick and nauseated way.Listed in: Let's Go to the Movies! Let's…
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Review from Mimi L.
Seattle, WA
1/28/2010
So I've been waiting patiently to see Avatar at the Boeing Imax Theater. It was SO worth the wait.
The screen is HUGE and the sound quality is phenomenal. I was not a fan of 3D movies because I always emerged with a horrible headache...until I saw Avatar here. I actually got a little anxious the first few times they were flying in the movie because you have the perception that you're the one flying over that ledge...yes, it's that realistic (and yes, I'm a little bit afraid of height).
Arrive EARLY!!! I cannot stress this enough. We were 30 minutes early to the show but we couldn't find the entrance to this place. All the doors to were shut and you have to go through this outdoor maze to get there. We still got there 15 min early but the line had already wrapped around twice. We managed to sit in the middle far right side and the view wasn't too bad. I will arrive an hour early next time. They also have these funky old school laboratory apparatus for you to play with while you wait for your movie.
Oh, and buy your tickets online in advance for popular movies. I bought my Avatar tickets 2 weeks in advance...even though the movie had been out for a month already. -
Review from Inna B.
2/7/2009
So I'm a student and money is a little tight right now, so my roommate and I started the day off wondering what free (or, well, mostly free) stuff we could do today. I had a couple of free IMAX passes laying around (for documentaries and not the feature presentations), so we decided to hit up the Seattle Center and go watch Dinosaurs Alive 3D.
The staff seemed alright, but I didn't really have to deal with them much. The screen and sound were great. There were a LOT of kids, but only one baby cried at the movie. Not bad. I wonder how many kids walked out thinking/saying they want to be paleontologists when they grow up! There were some glitches in the film where we had to close an eye or something to see the 3D without it being blurry, but it was mostly good. I'm glad we didn't have to pay for it (would have been ~$16), though, cause it was only a 40 minute film.
The young woman that gave everybody instructions at the beginning and end seemed soooo "excited" to be there. It was kind of amusing listening to her and wondering what she was REALLY thinking.
Over-all it's a nice theater, but not usually worth it unless it's one of those "special movies" that you just HAVE to see on a huge screen with great sound (especially if there's a 3D option). Oh, and you might find yourself waiting in line for a while.
The only time I was disappointed here was when I agreed to join friends for Poseidon. That disappointment had nothing to do with the theater, but it was a good reminder to view a trailer and/or read about a film before paying $20+ to go see it at the IMAX (or anywhere else, really). -
Review from Will L.
6/17/2008 1 Check-in Here
Dinner and a movie. How cliche. How blase. How boring-e.
That's what you think!
You can totally make it work, you just A) have to have interesting company which I seem to luck out with a lot, and B) gotta go to a good theater. And what better place to see a movie than IMAX? Huge-mongous screen, awesome sound, and comfy seats with cup holders! Bring a blanket, though, as it gets chilly. I'm fortunate in that my Latin/Mediterranean heritage naturally makes me a heat radiator. Yes, that's right folks, I'm 'hot!' Watch out! Or maybe it's because I still have enough of a fat layer on me that I can keep myself warm in cool temperatures. Whatever the case, I tend to carry a jacket even in warm weather, which bodes well for my in-shape companions who find themselves freezing in places like this.
If you get there a little early, you can wander around upstairs and check out whatever is on display. This last time there were some cool geological displays and a piano exhibit. Nice, I'm a fan of ROCK / MUSIC. :P
Red Vines are comfort food for me. Back when I was a little squirt, my family would go to the discount movie theater down the street and watch second run movies. There were five of us, so we had to budget this kind of fun in. My dad would always buy a box of Red Vines, my mom would control the bag of popcorn, but that was it. During the movie, we'd be sitting there watching the film, free to grab a handful of popcorn if we wished, and all of a sudden we'd get wacked on the shoulder or head by a Red Vine, as my dad rationed them out and passed them down the line. There was always pop corn to munch on, but the Red Vines... you had to make them last. Take a bite, suck on it, chew it, enjoy it, swallow. Watch some of the film, then take your next bite. If you did it right, you'd get your next vine wacking you in the head before you were done, and then you could stockpile.
So in my opinion, Red Vines beat the squash out of popcorn, any day. On my last visit, we decided to put it to the test, and bought a small bag of popcorn as well as a box of Red Vines. Yep, by the end of the movie, no more than half the bag of popcorn was left uneaten. But we polished them vines off before half the movie was done.
My one complaint about the IMAX? Right in the middle of the end credits, while singing along with "Kung Fu Fighting" (we saw Kung Fu Panda, which was pretty awesome, by the way), the IMAX staff person cut the sound and started announcing that we all had to get up and exit through the back doors. Dude! We were listening (and jamming out) to that! We rebelliously stuck in our chairs until the song was done, watching the cool art under the credits.
And of course, the traditional trip to the bathroom after the movie. No trip to the theater is complete without this. The IMAX theater bathrooms have really cool propaganda signs advertising how environmentally friendly and efficient their toilets are. Always nice to have someplace to look. -
Review from Marc M.
12/22/2010 5 Check-ins Here
The Boeing IMAX theater is obviously the number one place to see movies in the IMAX format. The screen, the sound, and everything else about being there is head and shoulders above any other theater that advertises they have IMAX screens. Truth be told, none of the multiplex IMAX screens give you the true experience as they use inferior projectors and often show regular movies just projected on to what they call an IMAX screen even though it is nowhere near as massive as the one here.
Alright, enough ranting, I'm sure you get the idea of where I'm going with that. Aside from the technical superiority, this is a great location as you can spend the entire day in Seattle then cap it off with a movie, or just make a special trip to the theater to see the latest feature that was filmed or formatted for IMAX presentation. Some people complain about parking downtown, but if you go for an evening show, it isn't very hard to find free street parking that is about the same distance away as any of the pay lots.
Food selection here is basic movie theater fare but with no option to add "butter flavor topping" either by a staff member or yourself! Other than that you have the basic candy selection, soda, water, Icee's, nachos, and pretzels. The employees are always friendly and they do a good job of making pre-show announcements at least mildly entertaining.Listed in: Fives, Movie Theaters
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Review from Delilah R.
Seattle, WA
1/25/2010
True story:
So, I'm sitting around waiting for Avatar to begin (sorta stoked, BT-DUB) and suddenly I hear a phone ring. It's annoying. I get annoyed. Looking to the left and right, I try to figure out who the schmuck with the ringing phone is. I like to give "looks". Turns out, it was the surround sound. Yep. Moments later, a voice came onto the speakers asking the viewers to please silence their cell phones.
I'm not a "sound guy" (obviously, for various reasons...) but I'm pretty sure that vouches for the awesomeness that is the sound system of the Boeing Imax Theater.
First time in and I loved it. Not to mention, i couldn't believe it was only $13.50 for the movie. The 3-D was amazing. It took every muscle in my forearms not to reach out and touch someone. I may have jumped back a time or two thinking that the actors were in my grill. Yep. Rad.
I never came here b/c I didn't really think it was a big deal. Guess what. It is a big deal. Literally. Come see a movie here asap if you haven't and if you love some special effects, I'd recommend Avatar as your first viewing. Word. -
Review from Victoria T.
Seattle, WA
10/3/2008
A friend and I took the child of another friend to see The Dark Knight at this theater.
The whole experience was *supposed* to be phenomenal. It was not.
First of all, the crowd management is, well, unmanaged. Chaos reigns supreme.
Getting through the ticketing area was an exercise in patience. Buying popcorn and sodas was like running a gauntlet. And then, there was yet ANOTHER line to get into the actual theater.
Since the show was sold out, there was absolutely no elbow room and you had better hope like hell that the people around you practiced good hygiene. (I wasn't that lucky. The dude next to me sat through the ENTIRE movie with his mouth hanging open breathing putrid garlic/onion breath all over everybody.)
I could have lived with all of this, barely.
Twenty minutes into the film, the movie stopped. I'd say the reel broke, but the whole thing is digital now. No reels. Just malfunction. After a few minutes, the lights came up.
And stayed up for a good thirty minutes.
This allowed us to all take note of exactly HOW crowded that theater was and panic just enough to start to sweat a little, raising the heat even more. For some it was obvious that minor irritation was quickly fermenting into seething anger.
Once the malfunction was corrected and the film resumed, all was well.
However, I'll never see another sold out film there again. Too freaky. -
Review from Aaron M.
8/18/2009
Do you remember when they used to only show documentaries about space and mountains on IMAX? Well perhaps it shows my age but I do. It was amazing to glide over a mountain and get the feeling that you were moving. Well IMAX had one small problem they couldn't make enough money with these movies and they were expensive to produce etc. So they opened them up to more main stream movies as well. The result is blockbusters on an amazing screen. What more could you want?
Seriously though this IMAX is one of the better ones I have been to and I love to see movies here...as well as documentaries.
