Oh gosh, going to the movie theater or even a theatre show can be an adventure at times.
I've noticed there are some who behave as though it's their first day on Earth in these spots. It's like common sense flies out the window. Or maybe they never had it. I'm not sure.
I have ranted about theater etiquette before. I even wrote honestly how I said something to a mom who wouldn't keep her kid quiet while trying to watch Cars 3. I get it might be a children's movie, but hey, I wanted to be able to hear Lightening McQueen's speech and I couldn't, because her toddler was screeching every few seconds and then running back and forth in the row ahead. It was distracting. And after this went on for a bit, I leaned over and said, "Could you quiet your kid?" She huffed and puffed but mercifully took him out.
Common sense would have told her, hey, my son is being noisy. Constantly. He's not sitting still. He's not interested in the movie. So perhaps I should take him out so others who are able to be quiet and not move around can enjoy. But no.
Anyhow, if you or a family member are unable to do the following, please, stay home.
If you cannot stop coughing. Holy crap, I once saw a movie where this man coughed every few minutes. There would be a poignant speech and it was ruined because he'd be all *COUGH* *COUGH* Throughout the ENTIRE film. If you have a cold or an issue where you cannot stop coughing, do not come to the theater. You are annoying others.
Can't hold still? Your living room is the perfect spot! This is mostly directed to children, but there are some adults who can't seem to hold their limbs still.
If you consider the aisle a jungle gym for your little one. It can be frustrating when parents allow their kids to go up and down the aisle. First of all, how do they get the audacity? How can they possibly think this is appropriate behavior? But I have witnessed this and thankfully, a family who was allowing their toddler to do this was asked to leave by an usher. See ya!
Repeated screaming? Not cool. I get that small ones can be excited, so a screech now and then is fine, but every few minutes? No.
Unable to stop talking? Stay at home. Please. There are some who will talk throughout the entire show or movie. Blah blah blah. Sometimes it's the kids who ask things. At top volume. "WHY IS SHE DOING THAT?" "WHO IS THAT MAN?" WHY IS THAT DOG THERE?" Tell Junior to lower his voice. If you're an adult who cannot stay silent? Shhhhhh. It's why movie theaters specifically state beforehand to BE QUIET.
If you cannot stop looking at your phone, the theater is NOT for you. I have sat next to people who have been on their phone throughout a film. With like 100% brightness. I have asked these folks to put their phones away. I get grumbled at as though I am the issue. Look, if you need to be on it, at least be polite and go out to the hall.
I get it. Your toddler gets excited over Buzz Lightyear so you want to take her to the movies. But if she cannot sit still, it's not fair to others who are able to. Perhaps wait for a Kid Friendly viewing where noise and racing around are acceptable. Have a special needs child? Well, most theaters have viewings for them as well.
And for the grown adults who cannot put phones away: stay home. Movie tickets are like $15 bucks now. I'd like to be able to enjoy myself.
I would add someone like me who can't handle all that nonsense to the list. I have no patience for any of that, so I definitely don't belong there. LOL
ReplyDeleteWell isn't that the dog--gone truth? Bad behavior in movie theatres--there's no excuse. Because, as you point, out, they they stay home in their own LR and be as bad as they like! My secret is to attend the first morning showing on a weekday. Far far fewer in the audience.
ReplyDeleteAll of these points are why I fully embrace streaming now. LOL. I'll never be annoyed again!
ReplyDeleteThis was a fun and relatable read! Your observations made me laugh while highlighting behaviors many moviegoers have experienced but rarely discuss openly.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more! A movie theater should be a place where everyone can enjoy the film without constant distractions. A little courtesy and consideration for others goes a long way.
ReplyDeleteI no longer go to movie theaters as I am that person coughing. The fragrance that other people are wearing makes me cough.
ReplyDeleteAs a previous theatre teacher, I completely agree! We actually made little PSA skits before each show for audience etiquette. I try to give grace when it's a kids movie, because the only way to learn is by going to the movies, but it's a problem when the parents don't try to correct the behavior and teach the kids how to act in that environment.
ReplyDeleteCo-audience can indeed make or break a theatre experience. I am most disturbed by folks who cannot stop talking :(
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ReplyDeleteA very enjoyable article! It's a great reminder that a little theater etiquette goes a long way in helping everyone enjoy the film
ReplyDeleteHa, I think many of us have experienced at least some of these during cinema visits. I hate it where people are on their phone with full light, it can be so distracting when you're watching a movie especially where you need to pay attention not to miss important info.
ReplyDeleteI'm a firm I-can-wait-until-it's-streaming person now. Movie theatre experiences are just not the same anymore. I'd rather be on my cozy couch and away from the crowds.
ReplyDeleteI can definitely relate to this. One of my biggest pet peeves at the cinema is when people keep checking their phones. The bright screen is so distracting and really takes away from the movie experience. Once the movie starts, I think it's only fair that we all put our phones away and let everyone enjoy the film.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree more! A little courtesy goes a long way at the movies. Everyone is there to enjoy the experience, so keeping noise down and being considerate of others makes it better for everyone.
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