We have a running joke between us. My man has a natural instinct for what works and what doesn’t. What should be watched out for and what should be jumped into. What’s gonna stink and what’s gonna smell like roses.

Except when it comes to movies. 

We don’t know how this can happen so inexplicably often, but he just can’t pick a movie. We’ve sat through some really long and grueling this-is-two-hours-of-my-life-I’ll-never-get-back films, preceded by him begging me to let him try just one more time. This one will be good, he says.

I, on the other hand, have much less natural instinct about really important issues, but I pick great movies. Heartwarming, inspirational, two-hours-you-wouldn’t-mind-doing-again kind of movies. 

Last weekend, it was my sweet man’s birthday, so we combined his talents (where to see a movie) and mine (the movie) and saw Hidden Figures at downtown Austin’s Violet Crown.  It was so good.

If you happen to be visiting Austin on a rainy or chilly weekend, never fear.  The Violet Crown is near.

4-hour validated parking

Oscar-caliber dine-in menu (Pear Gorgonzola Pizza!)

trendy vibe

comfy leather chairs and a big screen

concessions with things like specialty salads and treats from  Austin Cake Ball

full bar and specialty coffees

fresh popcorn that tastes like homemade with real butter

a great place to walk around afterward and discuss the movie

So, if it’s time to surprise your guy with an evening out, you just can’t go wrong at the Violet Crown. Or, you can combine his special day with an appointment for a  straight-edge shave across the street at Finley’s, followed by a comfy chair at the cinema.

Just make sure you know which one of you should pick the movie. 

Encouraging intentional adventure and a night out for your special guy,

PS – Who is better at picking the movies, you or him? Have you been to a really memorable theater? What’s the best movie you saw in 2016? Comment below.