“Sometimes when we weep in the movies, we weep for ourselves or for a life unlived. Or we even go to the movies because we want to resist the emotion that is there in front of us. I think there is always catharsis that I look for and that makes the movie experience worthwhile.”-Edward Zwick
In the time and age of movie streaming apps such as Netflix, Iflix, Hulu and the like, it seems like watching cinematic releases would only be just one the mediums in enjoying our favorite films.
Today, moviegoers are driven primarily by the fact that new movie releases are only ever shown exclusively in cinemas. Admittedly, some of these movie releases would be readily streamed in movie streaming websites within days or weeks from release. Unfortunately, such platforms would compromise the quality–particularly if they were obtained illegally. In this regard, the movie industry can still expect an influx of moviegoers on a particular's film opening day or weekend depending on how much of a projected hit it is. However, if new releases were not exclusively shown in movie theaters and can be subscribed to in streaming websites, the movie industry will see a gradual decline in audience attendance. And why is that? Well, precisely the fact that cinema viewing is predominantly a communal experience and other audience members may detract one from enjoying a movie thoroughly.
Who you are watching the movie with plays a significant factor in the overall experience insomuch that how you enjoy it would be hinged on who you are seated with. Good audiences would not only be respectful, but they share your love and passion for the film. Resultantly, they would simultaneously be energetic in the appropriate scenes. Bad audiences, on the other hand, are rude, disrespectful and have little to no regard for their fellow audiences. Unfortunately, in these modern times with gadgets and smartphones abound, expecting a high level of viewer competency is only ever realistic in film festivals. Indeed, they are a rare breed.
However, you need to assess if you might be just one of the annoying moviegoers you are constantly complaining about. In any case, if you are planning to catch a movie in a Greenbelt cinema anytime soon, here are some of the most infuriating moviegoers you might encounter:
1.) Children who are out of control
We get it. The featured film is rated PG or G, so technically there is no real harm in bringing your children to the movie screening with you. Yes, the film is generally family friendly and is for kids but if you are not entirely sure your kids would like it, better leave them home. There is no excuse for a parent who lets their kids run amok the movie house. At the very least, bring them outside if you see them getting bored and out of control. Unruly kids who are noisy can diminish or even ruin a good experience.
2.) People who keep on muttering spoilers under their breath
If you have seen the movie way before anyone else in the theater, then kudos to you. However, that does not give you any right to ruin the surprise for anyone else. If your sole purpose to watch the movie is to mutter spoilers under your breath, you might want to rethink the way you spend your free time. You might be whispering it under your breath, but believe us the person sitting next to you can very well hear it.
3.) Persons who constantly text messages
While taking calls inside a movie house is absolutely a no-no, there is some debate as to whether or not you can actually send or read text messages while you are in the movie. Admittedly, checking and reading your messages–especially if you suspect there is an emergency is generally okay. However, if you are going to keep your face glued to your phone screen, why did you even want to watch the movie anyhow? Save replying to text messages for later, but if you absolutely need to get back to them then at least adjust the brightness of your phone. No one wants their eyes to be abruptly attacked and their viewing experience interrupted by a flash of great white light coming from your phone screen.
4.) The commentator
Everyone sees the movie simultaneously as you are, so there is no need to repeat what happens on screen to your seatmate. You would only prove to be a noisy distraction. Even worse is when you add your commentary to the movie as it is playing. Sure, you can make snide comments to each other, but do not make it loud enough for everyone to hear. If you wish to make your criticism of the movie, save it until the credits roll.
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