Classic Cinemas Elk Grove XQ — Local services in Elk Grove Township

A small, local theater tucked behind a quiet strip mall. My roommate and I have been frequenting this theater since moving to the suburbs and it's one of those things that never impresses you yet never disappoints you either. The theaters and facilities are always clean, probably because of the type of traffic that comes in and out. It's not a premier type of theater so big crowds are subjective to what you feel defines "big crowds". No special events or showings here, only normal movie releases; go to an AMC if you're looking to view one. What I do like about this place is the popcorn seasons. They have 5-6 shakers ranging from sharp cheddar to caramel. All of them are great and the popcorn itself tastes a whole lot better than AMC's stale counterpart. Concessions are on the cheaper side but with that you trade selection. You really only have the pick of a few items.

Staff is nice. Most are forgettable and fill the roles of a revolving door of high school kids, but there are two long time staff there that are nice to talk to.

Most importantly, don't come here seeking the latest IMAX experience or big screen. Go to Rosemont or South Barrington for that. This is a local theater with a lot of character. It does the job and does it...

This is a great theater! First off, none of the individual theaters are super huge. Every one is an intimate screening, or at least feels like it. The seats are really comfortable and have three options for each person: heated seats, reclining mode, and moveable headrests.

Just having recline and heated seats makes me want to visit this winter even though it's out of the way for me.

They also have had some great specials:

1. $6 Tuesdays on any movie new or old
2. Special Screenings: they have been running classic 80s movies and I got to see The Last Starfighter (a fave from my youth) and Flash Gordon (which I didn't recall being so absolutely terrible). There are so many other special screenings coming up that listing them here doesn't do them any justice. I can' wait for the re-releases and theme movies. I don't necessarily need to stay and listen to the talks afterwards, but the trailers are for the other older movies coming up.

I'll be definitely be back for new and old films. And they have a lot of parking and a great mall on the other side with some good dining...

Since this place has so many good reviews I'll concentrate on the differences between this and the "big boys". Tickets are significantly cheaper, concessions are also significantly cheaper, there are soda fountains instead of a coke freestyle. The seats are actually more comfortable as the controls are recessed into the side of the seat so you don't accidently bump them, they have the option to heat the seats and adjust the headrest. When you walk in the concession is right there, not 50 ft of wasted space away, 2 people 2 large drinks and 2 large popcorns ran me about 50 bucks vs 70 at the other place. Guy at the exit of the auditorium at the end of the movie had a bowl of mints which was a very nice gesture. Unless something changes this is my new go to and recommendation for friends in the area.

Edit: Almost forgot one of the most important things (for me at least), movie started within 10 minutes of...