Lights, camera and a podcast at The Garland

Above : The Garland Theater is Spokane’s No. 1 bargain movie house. (Photo/Dan Pelle, The Spokesman-Review)

In the midst of all the problems that the last few years have thrown at movie theaters, we’re lucky that so many of those in our region are still in business.

That includes The Garland .

Because it specializes in second-run films, The Garland has long been a favorite for those on a budget. Regular admission runs just $5, with shows on Wednesday running half price.

That’s a bargain for anyone wanting to see such films as “Death on the Nile,” “Dog” and “Sing 2” on a big screen. And opening Friday, the theater’s slate will include “Spiderman: No Way Home” and “The Batman.”

The Garland also is beginning what it’s calling Totally Tubular Tuesday Shows, which will feature “throwback” films also for $2.50 admission. Next Tuesday’s feature: “Twister.”

Tuesday’s showing will preceded by a live taping of the movie podcast Lucky Boy Reviews .

Finally, The Garland has a new website, which means that patrons can purchase tickets in advance and not have to stand in line.

Come next winter that should be as welcome a treat as, say, swigging a Jasmine Dragon cocktail in the theater’s lobby.