Chloe: Oh. I noticed.
Tonight Chloe and I went to see Under The Skin an odd, artsy, experimental type alien movie with Scarlett Johansson. The theater was packed and there were people trickling in during the trailers and the first 10 minutes of the movie. A number of people got up and left, presumably because of the tone or nudity in the movie, and there was a woman skrintching a plastic bag for the last 15 minutes or so. It was a bit of a distracting experience. Here are some suggestions to ensure a fluid and pleasurable movie going experience.
1. Have an idea of what it's about. You don't need to read a review or know the actors or the director or know a plot synopsis. But know what you're getting into. If it's an artsy alien movie or a depressing period drama you have certain expectations or can intuit what kind of a movie it's going to be. Unless you're a movie buff who sees movies indiscriminately don't wander into a movie theater and select the film that is most convenient for you time wise. This is doubly true if you're at an independent movie theater. The tone, content, or narrative(or lack there of) can surprise you if you haven't prepped sufficiently. You don't want to be caught on a Friday night seeing a movie that makes you feel uncomfortable or stupid.
2. Be on time. If you can, be on time. Find your seat and get yourself situated. This will prepare you for your cinematic experience and it is courteous to your fellow patrons. If you're all situated and quiet and have your drinks and snacks ready it limits interruptions which can impede on others experiences. If you arrive late, no big deal, slide into the nearest open seats, you have sacrificed your right to be choosey about where you sit. If the theater is packed go directly to the front. Don't ask people to move, don't stand in the walk way whispering to your friend, don't use your phone as a flashlight. You are late, the people already there were not late, respect that. Besides sitting up in the front can be fun, give it a try.
3. Be Quiet. Put your phone on silent and put it away. If you need to check the time do so discreetly. Be aware of who is around you and how close they are. If you are in a crowded theater go to the lobby if you need to do any extended phone use. You can whisper or react to your friend or loved one periodically but don't talk. Don't engage in a conversation. You can talk about the movie after. You are in a public place where people have paid money to see this thing, respect that. Be aware of your snacking volume. Don't be rustling in a plastic bag, opening a ton of packages, or adjusting the position of your bags once the movie has got going. If you need to open a delicious baggy of sour patch kids wait for a loud noise, a shouting scene, or anything that is not building suspense/a climax.
Simply put: be respectful. You are a human in a room with other humans.
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