If you grew up in El Paso, the phrase bassett movies el paso probably triggers a very specific smell. It's that heavy, buttery popcorn aroma that hits you the second you walk through the mall entrance near the food court.
Honestly, the movie situation at Bassett Place has always been a bit of a survivor story. While other malls in the city have struggled or turned into ghost towns, the theater at Bassett has stayed weirdly relevant. It’s not just a place to see a flick; it’s basically a local institution that has reinvented itself three or four times since the 60s.
The Evolution of the Bassett Movie Scene
People forget that there wasn't always just one giant multiplex there. Back in the day—we're talking 1965—the original cinema was the Fox Theatre. It was a freestanding building. Can you imagine that? A single-screen palace where going to the movies felt like a genuine event.
By the mid-80s, the vibe shifted. United Artists Bassett Cinemas Six took over, repurposing an old S.S. Kresge 5 & 10 store. If you were around in 1997, you probably stood in a line that wrapped around the building for the Star Wars Special Edition releases.
Then came the massive change in 2007.
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Premiere Cinemas moved in and built an 18-screen monster that eventually added an IMAX screen in 2013. That’s the version we know today. It's the anchor that keeps the mall breathing.
Why People Still Go There
You’ve got the giant IMAX screen, which is obviously the main draw for blockbusters. But there's something else. Premiere Cinema El Paso Bassett + IMAX does this thing called "Flashback Cinema."
It’s where they show classics like Interstellar, Casablanca, or Titanic on the big screen again. For a lot of El Pasoans, it's the only chance to see these movies the way they were meant to be seen.
The seats? They’re mostly those plush, high-back rockers. Some regulars on Reddit complain that the IMAX seats are starting to feel a little "lived-in," but most people agree it's one of the most reliable spots in town.
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What You Need to Know Before You Go
- Spanish Screenings: This is El Paso, so obviously, they’re on top of it. They use the TheaterEars app so you can listen in Spanish, and they often have dedicated screenings with subtitles.
- The Food Situation: Look, the food court in the mall is... fine. But the theater itself has the goods.
- The Crowd: Weekends are loud. If you want a quiet experience, Tuesday matinees are your best friend.
Actually, speaking of Tuesdays, they do discount days that are legitimately cheap. It’s one of the few places where a family of four can see a movie without needing a small loan.
The Real Vibe of bassett movies el paso
There is a certain nostalgia that hits when you walk through the mall to get to the theater. It feels like the 90s in the best way possible. While the newer theaters on the West Side or the East Side have more "flash," Bassett feels like home.
It’s located at 6101 Gateway West, right off the freeway. You can't miss it.
The "Secret" Perks
Did you know they do sensory-friendly screenings? They keep the lights up a bit and the sound down. It’s great for kids or anyone who gets overwhelmed by the typical ear-blasting IMAX volume.
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Also, they’re one of the few places that still participates in major fan events. Whether it's a Stray Kids concert film or an early access screening for a Marvel movie, they usually have it.
Actionable Advice for Your Next Visit
- Check the Flashback Schedule: Don't just look for the new stuff. See if a classic you love is playing on a Sunday or Wednesday.
- Join the Rewards Program: Premiere has a "Reel Rewards" thing. If you go more than once a month, the free popcorn and soda upgrades actually add up.
- Use the Inside Entrance: If it’s raining or 105 degrees outside (which is most of the time), park near the Target or Kohl's and walk through the mall. It’s a much nicer walk than the parking lot.
- Validate Your Time: If you’re seeing a long movie (like those three-hour epics), double-check your parking spot. Security is usually cool, but the lot gets packed on Friday nights.
The theater at Bassett Place isn't just about the pixels on the screen. It's about the fact that it's been the heart of El Paso entertainment for over sixty years in one form or another. It’s survived the death of the "movie palace," the rise of streaming, and a global pandemic.
Next time you're looking for something to do, skip the couch. Head down to Gateway West, grab a large popcorn, and remember why we like watching movies in the dark with a room full of strangers.