Atom app: Your ticket to the movies

NAME Atom

WHAT IT IS An app that gives you movie timetables, lets you reserve tickets — for you and a group of friends — and even order popcorn.

HOW MUCH Free

COMPATIBLE WITH iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, requires iOS 10.0 or later; Android 5.0 and up

WHAT'S GOOD Speaking in movie terms, Atom isn't just a remake of Fandango or similar sites. Search for movies playing at a theater near you, select a showtime and buy your ticket. Open the app when you arrive and your ticket will be scanned. (You can also buy tickets at atomtickets.com.) If you're going with a group, select the friends you want to join you. Once you purchase your ticket, Atom will send invites to the others. Arguably Atom's best feature is that you can click on the concessions icon and pre-order snacks and sodas. At the theater, head to the Atom Tickets line at the concession stand, scan your ticket, pick up your refreshments and enjoy the show. After the closing credits, you can rate the movie and post your review.

WHAT'S NOT It seems to list only chains (AMC, Bowtie, Regal), so if you're looking for artsier offerings at niche theaters like Huntington's Cinema Arts Centre or Malverne Cinema 4, Atom may not be the ticket. 

BOTTOM LINE Atom makes going to the movies a lot easier. If only it could guarantee that the movie is worth the price of admission.