I’m a movie snob. I admit it. Those big, blockbuster comedies that everyone goes to see are just not my style. Give me the independent flicks any day—and growing up in a small town, I didn’t have the option to see so many indie films until I moved to James Island, the home of the Terrace Theater.
The Terrace is Charleston’s only real art-house theater, although the city is brimming with other terrific options for movies. James Island also has the James Island 8, which offers a lot of popular picks and eight screens. Other areas of the Lowcountry have several theater options, including IMAX and the Cinnebarre, where you can even have dinner as you watch. However, the Terrace is in a class by itself, since you can count on it for a selection off the beaten path.
This past weekend, for example, was one of the hottest Saturdays in Charleston history. It was too hot to go to the beach or enjoy anything outside. It made perfect sense, therefore, to see a movie. After all, movie theaters have some of the best air conditioning around! It was a great time to see a matinee showing of Woody Allen’s newest flick, Midnight in Paris, which was thoroughly enjoyable. Talk about a great way to spend the day! Plus the theater was recently remodeled with much more comfortable seats and even small tables that fold out for your concessions.
Speaking of concessions, the Terrace offers a bit more than your usual soda and greasy popcorn—although there is plenty of that as well. Enjoy a glass of wine or a beer with your movie, since the Terrace has a wide range (over fifty) of beverages. And now, guests can beat the summer heat with Paolo’s Gelato, an Italian type of ice cream made downtown on John Street. For candy addicts your choices include gourmet chocolates and other unusual confections. If you do choose popcorn, you’ll enjoy doctoring it up yourself with the array of butters and seasonings at the bar.
The Terrace offers a lot of show times, but if you’re looking to get matinee prices then make sure to get there early. Tickets typically cost $10 per person, but shows before 3 pm are just $7 per person. If you’re a senior citizen with proper ID, you can enjoy $7 in the evening. Military with ID is $8 in the evening.
The theater really lends itself to being a community space, regularly hosting events like the Charleston Film Festival, art shows, poetry readings, plus other private and public events. Contact the theater if you’re interested in renting the space; they’re more than happy to accommodate.
The Terrace is located at 1956D Maybank Highway, in James Island. You can visit their website for shows and other information at www.terracetheater.org.
