This will go into effect on Friday, October 15 at least with all the Austin locations. The initial stages irritated me because they tacked on a few more bucks per seat. They did react to people (such as myself) grumbling, making accusations of the Leagues & Co. catering to the one-percenters in our midst, people who are making Austin shittier and more Republican/Teabagger.
However, I am in the camp of agreeing with the policy since there is no upcharge in their final implementation, namely when buying seats online which is how I do things with Alamo 90 percent of the time; Dredd was the first movie we’ve attended on the spot in weeks, otherwise, we plan ahead. I worked at two other theater chains, I know the grief when there are few good, remaining seats. Plus this is no different than concerts. I’ve enjoyed my times on the floor with general admission. If it’s a band I’m nuts over, I make sure I’m there early, otherwise, I don’t bitch, shove or weasel my way up.
Let’s see how it pans out in the long run. I think there will be no change in attendance.