From Marianne: 🎬 The Movie Theater Problem

Bob and I went to see Michael a few days ago. It’s a huge hit and the theater was packed, which, honestly, I’m not used to.

We go to movies all the time and usually walk out wondering how theaters are even still in business. It’s just us and maybe two other people scattered around. But that night it was a full house and I noticed something new.

Everyone walks in late. I mean late. And instead of quietly slipping into their seats like civilized humans, they turn on their phone flashlights. Full beam. The movie has already started. It’s dark, it’s emotional and suddenly… headlights in your eyes. I asked the woman behind me to turn hers off.
She goes, “I’m trying to find my seat!” Yes. I could obviously see that. Plus the entire row.

And that wasn’t the only thing. People won’t shut up. They’re talking out loud, having full conversations. Like we’re all hanging out in someone’s living room. So now I’m wondering, am I the problem?

Have I been spoiled by years of empty theaters where I could sit wherever I want, hear every line, and not get blinded by someone’s iPhone flashlight?

ere’s the thing, I want people to go to the movies. I do it just about every weekend and I absolutely love the idea of it. Getting dressed, going out, popcorn, the whole thing. Mostly I don’t want theaters to disappear. I just don’t want… this version of it.

Turns out, the only thing worse than empty theaters might be the full ones.