Fandango simplifies the movie-going experience, allowing you to discover showtimes, purchase tickets in advance, and even stream select films. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on how to use Fandango to watch movies, both in theaters and at home.
Navigating the Fandango Universe
Fandango offers multiple ways to enjoy movies, catering to both the traditional cinema experience and the convenience of at-home viewing. Understanding these options is key to maximizing your Fandango experience.
Choosing Your Viewing Method: Theaters vs. Streaming
The first step is deciding how you want to watch the movie. Fandango’s primary function is ticket purchasing for theatrical releases. However, it also partners with Vudu, its on-demand streaming platform, offering a selection of movies for rent or purchase. This dual functionality requires you to identify your desired viewing format right from the start.
Accessing Fandango: Website or App?
Fandango is accessible through both its website (Fandango.com) and its mobile app (available for iOS and Android). Both platforms offer the same core functionalities: browsing movies, finding showtimes, and buying tickets. The app, however, provides the added convenience of storing your digital tickets directly on your phone.
Watching Movies in Theaters with Fandango
This section details the process of finding movie showtimes and purchasing tickets for in-theater viewing using Fandango.
Finding Showtimes and Theaters
- Search for your movie: Start by typing the movie title into the search bar on the Fandango website or app. Alternatively, you can browse the featured movies on the homepage.
- Enter your location: Fandango needs to know your location to display nearby theaters. You can manually enter your zip code or allow the app to access your device’s location.
- Browse showtimes: Once you’ve selected your movie and location, Fandango will display a list of nearby theaters showing the film, along with their corresponding showtimes. You can filter by time of day, theater, or specific features (e.g., IMAX, Dolby Cinema).
- Select your showtime: Click on your preferred showtime to proceed to the ticket selection process.
Purchasing Tickets
- Choose your ticket quantity: Select the number of tickets you need for each ticket type (e.g., adult, child, senior).
- Sign in or create an account: You’ll need to either sign in to your existing Fandango account or create a new one to complete your purchase.
- Select your seating (if available): Some theaters allow you to choose your specific seats. If this option is available, a seating chart will appear.
- Review your order: Double-check your movie, showtime, theater, ticket quantity, and seating (if applicable) before proceeding.
- Enter your payment information: Enter your credit card details or use a saved payment method. Fandango also supports payment options like PayPal and gift cards.
- Confirm your purchase: Click the “Purchase” button to finalize your order. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your digital tickets or a confirmation number to redeem at the theater.
Retrieving Your Tickets
You have several options for retrieving your tickets at the theater:
- Mobile ticketing: Use the Fandango app to display your digital tickets directly on your phone. Simply scan the barcode at the ticket taker.
- Kiosk retrieval: Use your confirmation number or the credit card you used to purchase the tickets at a self-service kiosk in the theater lobby.
- Box office pickup: Provide your confirmation number and photo ID to a cashier at the box office.
Watching Movies at Home with Fandango (Vudu)
As Fandango partners with Vudu, accessing on-demand movies requires linking your Fandango account to Vudu.
Accessing the Vudu Library Through Fandango
While you can’t directly watch movies on Fandango, you can access the Vudu store through Fandango.
- Navigate to “Watch at Home”: On the Fandango website or app, look for a section labeled “Watch at Home” or similar wording. This section will showcase movies available for streaming on Vudu.
- Browse Vudu titles: You’ll be redirected to the Vudu store (or prompted to link your account if you haven’t already). Here you can browse a wide selection of movies available for rent or purchase.
- Search for a specific movie: Use the Vudu search bar to find a particular title.
Renting or Buying Movies on Vudu
- Select your movie: Click on the movie you want to watch.
- Choose your viewing option: Select whether you want to rent or buy the movie. Renting provides access to the movie for a limited time (typically 30 days to start watching and 24-48 hours to finish once started). Buying gives you permanent access to the movie in your Vudu library.
- Choose your video quality: Select your preferred video quality (SD, HDX, UHD). Higher quality typically costs more.
- Complete your purchase: Confirm your purchase and payment method. The movie will then be added to your Vudu library.
Watching Your Purchased or Rented Movie
- Access your Vudu library: Log in to your Vudu account on the Vudu website, app, or compatible device (e.g., Smart TV, Roku, Chromecast).
- Find your movie: Navigate to your library and locate the movie you purchased or rented.
- Start watching: Click the “Play” button to begin streaming the movie.
Fandango FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about using Fandango to watch movies:
FAQ 1: Can I cancel my Fandango ticket purchase?
In many cases, yes. Fandango typically allows cancellations up to a certain time before the showtime. Check the cancellation policy on your order confirmation or within your Fandango account. Refunds are usually processed back to your original payment method. However, some theaters may have stricter cancellation policies.
FAQ 2: What is Fandango VIP?
Fandango VIP is Fandango’s rewards program. Members earn points for every ticket purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts on future tickets, streaming rentals, and other perks. It’s free to join and offers various benefits for frequent moviegoers.
FAQ 3: How do I use a Fandango gift card?
During the checkout process, select “Gift Card” as your payment method and enter the gift card number and PIN. The gift card balance will be applied to your purchase. If the gift card balance doesn’t cover the entire cost, you can pay the remaining amount with a credit card or other accepted payment method.
FAQ 4: Can I use Fandango to buy tickets for all theaters?
Fandango partners with a vast network of theaters, but not all theaters are affiliated. Check Fandango’s website or app to see if your local theater is listed. If not, you may need to purchase tickets directly from the theater.
FAQ 5: How does Fandango handle seating assignments?
Fandango reflects the seating policies of each individual theater. Some theaters offer assigned seating, allowing you to choose your specific seats during the ticket purchase process. Others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
FAQ 6: What do I do if my digital tickets won’t scan?
If you experience issues with scanning your digital tickets, try increasing the brightness of your phone screen. If the problem persists, visit the box office and present your confirmation number and photo ID.
FAQ 7: Can I use Fandango to buy tickets for multiple movies at once?
Yes, you can add tickets for multiple movies and showtimes to your cart before completing your purchase. This allows you to buy tickets for several different showings in a single transaction.
FAQ 8: How do I link my Fandango account to Vudu?
When you try to rent or buy a movie through the “Watch at Home” section of Fandango, you will be prompted to either sign in to your existing Vudu account or create a new one. Follow the on-screen instructions to link your Fandango and Vudu accounts.
FAQ 9: Is there a Fandango service fee?
Yes, Fandango typically charges a convenience fee for each ticket purchased. This fee helps cover the costs of providing the online ticketing service. The fee amount is usually displayed before you finalize your purchase.
FAQ 10: Can I pre-order tickets for upcoming movies on Fandango?
Yes, Fandango often allows you to pre-order tickets for highly anticipated upcoming releases. Look for the “Tickets on Sale Soon” or “Advance Tickets Available” banners on the movie’s listing.
FAQ 11: What happens if a movie I bought tickets for is canceled?
If a showtime is canceled by the theater, Fandango will typically issue a full refund to your original payment method. You may also be given the option to exchange your tickets for another showtime.
FAQ 12: How do I contact Fandango customer support?
You can find Fandango’s customer support contact information on their website, usually under a “Help” or “Contact Us” section. Common methods of contact include email, phone, and live chat.