The GF theater's are totally controlled by Carmike. Since there are so few screens, the company will tend to only put the big name movies on screen. The local management just doesn't have much say. I believe when Fahrenheit 9/11 came out a lot of people were upset that GF didn't get it. Many bitched to Carmike and they finally were able to get it.
I don't mind going to a dumpy theater as long as it's only a buck or two. GF pays more than any market I've lived in and I was able to go to very swank theaters.
I can't believe the Cities don't have a cheap theater. At least not that I've found on the southern side.