A full-service upstairs bar provides a range of liquid options. Look online or call to make sure that the movie you're seeing is there and not on one of the two second-floor screens, carved out of the balcony, that are cramped with less-than-optimal acoustics.
The Landmark River Oaks Theatres, which shows art house and independent films exclusively, has a magnificent first-floor theater that has the feel of an elegant, old-time movie palace with a big screen, art deco friezes on each side of the screen and lots of seats. And best of all, there are no commercials before a movie begins. Movie offerings are a mix of blockbusters and independent films.
Sundance Cinemas, located in Bayou Place in downtown Houston, continues to offer online ticket sales, the opportunity to pick your seat in advance, and a large lobby bar with extensive food offerings in addition to traditional popcorn and a soda. Robert Redford's dream movie complex is now owned by Carmike Cinemas, which kept the name and same film-going attitude. Ticket prices can vary from $16 to $44, but discounted tickets are available for Sapphire members who pay an annual $29 fee.