When a movie ticket costs $8, and additional snacks don’t come any cheaper, a moviegoer will probably start to wonder if a trip to the theater is even worthwhile. The answer to that question is yes and no. In actuality, it all depends on the movie.

When on the subject of “The Dark Knight,” that’s an easy decision. Yes, it is definitely worth it and yes, all of the hype is well deserved. Heath Ledger’s final performance as the Joker is certainly one of his most impressive. One of the only downsides to “The Dark Knight” is the voice of the Knight himself. Christian Bale’s deeply raspy portrayal of Batman may have a few viewers laughing.

“WALL-E” is still playing in some theaters for those who have not seen it and is another film that is deserving of its hype. Another product of the Disney-Pixar team, the movie gives the audience incredible animation along with a unique story that causes even its younger viewers to think about their impact on the planet.

“Mamma Mia” is tricky. If you aren’t an ABBA fan, you might want to save your money. If you aren’t a musical fan, the same advice applies. If you aren’t big on cheesy dance numbers during every song, once again, don’t bother. If none of those things bother you, “Mamma Mia” might be for you.

In a comedy genre getting progressively action-filled, “Pineapple Express” is a sight to behold. Filled with enough witty comments throughout to have viewers constantly smiling, the movie is overall worth a trip to see. There is strong action and violence during the second half but those willing to brave this aspect will not walk away disappointed.

“Step Brothers” depends entirely on the viewer’s taste. On one hand, it contains vulgar humor that would satisfy some, but on the other, one could just as easily find the same type lacking of any humor at all. The film does contain some family-related subjects for those who look past the humor for some further meaning.

Upcoming movies are also promising much to audiences.

“Hamlet 2,” a comedy which was a hit at the Sundance Film Festival, is about a high school drama teacher who writes an original play in order to save the school’s drama program and makes multiple enemies in the process.

“The Rocker” is another comedy starring actor Rainn Wilson from “The Office” as the last resort for his nephew’s band in need of a drummer.

Another project from the Oscar-winning Coen brothers, “Burn After Reading” is a celebrity-filled story of a misplaced disc belonging to a CIA agent and the two men who plan to benefit from discovering it.

Some indie films playing in select theaters include the Napa Valley winery tale “Bottle Shock,” the 1994 centered “The Wackness” and “Brideshead Revisited,” based on the novel by Evelyn Waugh.

If you’re going to spend money on a movie, it helps to be informed. Whether a movie enthusiast or a student in need of a night out, there is a movie to suit your tastes.