Southwest Theaters Lake Creek 7 by Research Boulevard is a cheaper alternative to go see movies because the ones that are shown have already been out for several months.

All shows before 6 p.m. are $4, and after, $5. Pricing has increased because of renovations with the seats; they can now lean back, raise the feet, and are made of leather. They are pretty comfortable, but now seats must be reserved while buying tickets when originally they could be chosen while in the room. This is can be quite irritable due to the fact that it not only increases the length of the line, but a typical situation someone might run into is someone holding up the line due to arguing with whomever they’re coming in with or a staff member.

There are 7 theater rooms, all of them are small, however, they do have enough space for the rows of seats to be spread out for plenty of legroom. 3D movies are played, but only one out of all the movies being shown and the movie that is 3D will not have a 2D option. The lighting in the rooms can be excessively dim, in turn, it can be difficult to see, so be careful when looking for your seat number.    

Staff members are seemly and consist mainly of older teenagers. They get their jobs done, and if there is a problem, they will either take care of it quickly or get someone who can help. They do service with a smile, although sometimes it feels like they would rather be anywhere else.

The food is average theater-wise. There aren’t a whole lot of candy options, but enough to satisfy someone’s need for sugar. The nachos are chips dipped into queso, which can feel gross and unsatisfying. The popcorn is the best item available. It has as much butter on it like any other theater popcorn.

Hygiene is clearly a priority at Southwest. Frequently there are staff members sweeping during quiet times of the day and the bathrooms are so remarkably clean it appears as if no one has been in there at all. Theater rooms are taken care of quickly and expertly.

There is not an abundance of clientele even on the busiest days. Although I can not provide a description of a typical clientele’s attitude, I can say they are rarely alone. Patrons here tend to come in groups, such as families, partners, friends, etc. I have had no complaints about people talking or doing anything else to disturb the screening. In fact, the room is quieter than any other theater I have been to.

Southwest Theaters is cheaper, more comfortable, and cleaner than any other theater I’ve been to. It’s a great place to see second-run movies. I rate it 4.5 out of 5 Maroons.