How to See Free and Cheap Movies in NYC

Videology in Williamsburg

I love movies. Whether it's drooling over Ryan Gosling in a rom-com, getting absorbed in the plot twists of a thriller, or taking in the action of a super hero flick, the way a movie can transport the audience to another world is just so enjoyable. Unfortunately, going to the movies is no longer a budget-friendly form of entertainment, at least not in New York City. I almost gagged yesterday when I stopped by the theater on 34th St and saw that a ticket for the Great Gatsby in 3D is $18.50! To make matters worse, living in a tiny apartment, I don't have space for a TV or DVD player so I can't even rent my old favorites. But I refuse to let these finance-related issues get in the way of my movie enjoyment. Living the frugal life in NYC, I've discovered some free and cheap ways to see films on a regular basis. I'll let you in on my secrets:

• Go early!- Did you know that if you see a movie before 12 PM at an AMC theater, it's only $8? To me, this is still a pretty steep price for an hour and a half of entertainment, but it's better than shelling out $13.50 to see the same movie eight hours later.
• Attend a pre-release screening!- Major production companies sponsor free screenings for movies that are not even out yet as a way to generate buzz about their films. Tickets can be purchased online and usually go fast. I stay updated on new screenings by visiting Screenings.com, a site that lists current free showings by city.
• Go to the library!-I've mentioned this before, but individual New York Public Libraries host free movie screenings almost everyday. This week alone there are showings for an array of films including recent blockbuster Gangster Squad, Audrey Hepburn classic Breakfast at Tiffany's,  and 1940's musical Stormy Weather. Check out their calendar of film screenings here to see what else will be showing. 
• Check out Videology!-This place is almost too good to be true, and I've kept it a secret because I selfishly don't want anyone else to find out about it. But out of a moral obligation to my fellow penny-pinchers, I will share. Located in Williamsburg, Videology is a bar and movie rental store with a screening room in the back. They have movie screenings almost every night, many which are free. Drinks are available for purchase and viewers are allowed to bring their own food in. The calendar of events is as eclectic as the crowd it attracts. Visit their website for directions and a list of upcoming screenings.
• See a movie outside!- As the weather warms up, outdoor movie screenings abound. Central, Bryant, and Thompson Square Park are just a few of the city parks where I've caught a movie. And Rooftop Film just kicked off their season of outdoor movie showings, some of which you can see free of charge. 

Going to a full price movie every once in a while is worth it. But there are so many other options when it comes to seeing quality cinema that doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. Happy movie watching!

Why I Love the New York Public Library

Call me a nerd for saying this but the New York Public Library system is one of the best free institutions that this city has to offer. With multiple locations in every neighborhood and borough, the NYPL is much more than just a collection of local libraries. It is one of the most overlooked resources that New Yorkers have at their finger tips. I got a library card last September and my affinity for the library has since grown. Here are a few reasons that the NYPL is so great:

1. Free WiFi- Although I love cozying up in my hole-in-the-wall apartment to get a bunch of computer work done, there are times that I just need to be in a different setting. When you're on the lookout for somewhere to bang out some assigned online reading, catch up on emails, or write that gazillion page paper, your options are a noisy coffee shops or your school lounge. But never fear, pop into any of the New York Public Libraries and you can use their wifi...for free! There are usually comfy chairs and ample desk space to spread out. It's always quiet and no one bothers you to buy another coffee after your fourth hour there.

2.Access to their online catalog- The NYPL's holdings number in the tens of millions. For real, ! googled that!  Their catalog includes everything from academic journals to recently released movies to your favorite magazine to that bestselling book you've been dying to read to Mumford and Sons' new album. Once you have a library card, you can access their entire catalog online and put whatever you're little heart desires on hold. As soon as your local library receives the item, they email you to let you know you can pick it up. And it's all free! You can even renew things online so there's no fear of racking up a bill in overdue fees.

Keep reading for the third and most important reason I love the NYPL and useful links to get you started.