El Cheapo SIFF-o

My finances have rarely been great, and this year it seems like the rest of the world has unfortunately caught up with me on that score. I’ve been cutting back on spending so much I haven’t seen a film in an actual theater in ages. Who can afford those ticket prices? I wait until films come out on DVD — and then get them from the library.

So what to do about SIFF (running May 21 to June 14 this year), where regular screenings will set you back $11? Here are some penny pinching tips.

First off, you could become a SIFF Supporter (the cheapest membership is $55), that’ll knock off a few dollars on every advance ticket purchase and allow you to buy tickets before the general public can. Early bird packages are available on siff.net right now; ticket sales for SIFF Supporters start May 7, while the poor general public has to wait until May 8. SIFF’s website does state early bird web and phone order do incur a $3.50 service fee however.

But let’s say you don’t want to go that far. Matinee screenings on Fridays at Pacific Place are a mere $5. Matinee screenings everywhere else, every day, are $8. Midnight screenings are also $8. The Films4Families matinees are $6 (don’t overlook this series, there’s some goodies here, like the Errol Flynn version of The Adventures of Robin Hood and What’s On Your Plate, a doc about two 11 year old girls who get curious over what they’re really being served at the school cafeteria).

Are you a student? Your valid ID allows you to purchase day-of-show tickets to regular screenings for $5.

Students and seniors can buy a Reel Deal pass (admission to five $11-or-less films) for $35. The pass can only be purchased in person at the SIFF box office (located at Pacific Place). The Cinematic Six-Pack is another saver, giving you six admissions for $57.

And it might be worth your while hanging out at this year’s “Official SIFF Lounge,” the Boom Noodle, at 1121 E Pike St. Specials are supposed to be offered to SIFF attendees.

For more info: siff.net, 206 324 9996.