One Reels, Talkies, Picture shows, flicks, and movies have existed since 1895. And since then, there has been etiquette on how to behave at the theater. Some time ago, I polled a few people on what they thought was the worst etiquette while at a theater. Can you guess what the result was?
1. It was Talking and making noise throughout the film.
It’s important to remember that most people come to the cinema to watch the movie. Thus, maintaining a peaceful and pleasant cinema experience is key, even when we think we are quiet; side comments and noises can be extremely disruptive. Avoid making loud sounds with candy wrappers, crunching ice, and other noises. By respecting the silence, we can make the cinema more enjoyable for ourselves and everyone around us.
2. Turn off electronic devices.
Regardless of on-screen announcements made to remind audiences to turn off all electronic devices, why do items still sound? It’s because you are not being mindful of “always, always,” making sure your devices are turned off while enjoying the movie.
3. Being on time!
The starting times for all films are always posted in publications, online, and at the theater. There’s no excuse for entering the theater and disrupting those courteous enough to arrive on time.
4. Be patient in line.
No one likes an impatient person who rushes and complains in a line. Remember that shoving won’t make it go faster.
5. Choose your seat with care.
Nowadays, several theaters provide the option of selecting a seat before entering the theater. However, if you wish to change your seat, you must visit the desk to have it changed. You are not allowed to do it on your own. If you attempt to take someone else’s seat, the rightful owner will be disrupted when they arrive.
When entering a screening room where you will choose your seat, be considerate of others. Take a moment to look around and ensure you’re not obstructing anyone’s view with items like bags or hats. If you’re tall or notice someone shorter sitting behind you, please choose your seat with sensitivity
6. Once seated, remain seated.
Sitting beside or behind someone who frequently gets up and leaves their seat before or during a movie is not pleasant. To avoid this, it’s best to plan ahead. Make a trip to the restroom before getting seated, purchase all the snacks and drinks you may want, and make any necessary calls before the film starts. If you anticipate needing to leave during the movie, try choosing a seat near the aisle, preferably toward the back of the theater.
7. Always face the back of the theater when entering and exiting a row of seats.
Never face forward when entering or exiting a row of seats because your buttocks will be right in front of the person’s face you are passing… not a pretty sight. Rather, face the rear of the theater, which will have your buttocks facing the front of the theater and be above the seats in the row in front of you.
8. Stay until the end of the film.
Some people, such as my husband, enjoy watching all the credits at the end of a movie. At times, if you leave too early, you might miss out on some fun extra footage like bloopers or other specially designed images that are specifically added for your viewing pleasure. If you’re not a fan of watching the credits, try to sit in an aisle seat or on the side so you can exit with minimal disturbance.
9. Confirm the movie rating.
Only bring children to movies that are content-appropriate. Until they are around 6 years old, enjoy videos at home or hire a sitter when you want to enjoy a first-run feature. A noisy baby or a bored child who becomes disruptive bothers everyone in the theater.
10. Showing “too much” affection in public.
A darkened movie theater may make you feel like you are in your own world, but you’re not. Avoid showing excessive affection; save such displays for more private settings.
Happy Movie Going and Practicing!