Friday, May 25, 2007

A different movie experience

Last night, or rather this morning, I went to a midnight showing of Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End with a close friend and college roommate Jenny Kay. At 11:30, after standing in line for about 45 min. - 1 hr., we filed into the theater. As there we only two of us in our party, we were able to get decent seats. While we were waiting for the film to commence, Jenny Kay made on interesting comment. "There is a difference in going to a midnight show. You actually communicate with those around you. It is as if there is a camaraderie among the crowd."

She is right. The norms of going out to the cinema are thrown out the window. First, it isn't required to speak in hushed or whispered voices while either in line or in the theater while you are waiting for the start time. No one bats on eye if you begin shouting. Second, people strike up conversations with complete strangers. Clique-mentality disappears. Jenny Kay and I were fortunate to stand in line in front of this neat couple who are in a wedding later today and sit next to a group who were playing hooky today from work. We chatted as if we were old friends. Third, the whole crowd is drawn into the film and previews. Everyone cheered loudly after the Transformers preview and a standing ovation occurred after the film ended.

In short, we had a blast at this showing. A midnight showing is not just for the die hard crazies; they are for anyone who wants to have an awesome movie experience. If you have never been to an opening day midnight showing, I suggest you heed the call and go. Your movie experience will increase 10-fold.

1 comment:

Consecutive Odds said...

You mean it's not appropriate to talk to people you're in line around before Mid-Night... Ooops.