Going Back to Theatres

After more than six months, movie theatres are back open. If you know me, you know that I love movies. Action, Adventure, Thriller, Horror, Crime, it’s all good! There really is no bad way to watch a movie, but for the best possible experience there can only be one choice: movie theatres! Movie theatres seamlessly combine an energetic and exciting atmosphere with a great screen, loud speakers, and a variety of snacks. I look forward to heading to the theatre to see every big movie as soon as it’s released. 2020 was going to be a big year for big movies, with titles like Top Gun: Maverick, No Time to Die, and A Quiet Place Part II all scheduled to be released at different times during the year. Unfortunately, after the COVID-19 pandemic shut down theatres, we were robbed of these movies for an entire year. But with theatres opening back up, and new release dates being scheduled, we can get excited about finally being able to see what we’ve been waiting for on the big screen. But will going back to the theatres be the same as what we remember?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. I was able to see a movie in theatres over the weekend, and I learned a lot about how theatres are going to operate for the foreseeable future. Let’s start with everybody’s favorite part of the movie-going experience, movie theatre popcorn. That salty, crunchy, buttery snack that makes the perfect accompaniment for any flick… I’m sure you can all taste it now. Well I’ll tell you where you can’t taste it: at the movie theatre! You see, in accordance with social distancing guidelines, food cannot be consumed within the theatres, so you can all say goodbye to popcorn. While this alone may not be enough to deter people from seeing movies, consider the overall experience. No longer do you feel the energy that comes from a packed theatre. Instead, it’s a cold silence that is awkward and a bit sad. While the big screen and great speakers still remain, that’s about all that is left. It definitely isn’t the same experience it once was. When the pandemic subsides and restrictions are lifted, we can all begin to enjoy a nice outing to the theatre. But, until then, you’re better off just watching movies at home, where at least you know you’re allowed to eat popcorn.