I’ve never understood why people assume that going to the movies is a social event.
Cinema-going is not a task that can be done effectively with others. Far from it. Going to watch a film (especially a good one) is an activity best pursued alone and independently.
Call me a film snob if you must, but watching a movie at the cinema does not involve what most people would call social activities. Cinéastes usually frown upon loud discussion and boisterous movement during the film, limiting most types of social interaction.
Conversation and discussion is of course necessary, but usually best-placed after watching the movie and not during the film itself. The initial appraisal of the film is a solitary effort — the extended appreciation of it comes from post-film exchange.
Going to the movies is neither “totally awesome and confidently badass” nor “sad and pathetic.” It is, in essence, the best way to appreciate the craft on the screen.
Film viewing may not require company, but nothing beats a heated conversation over coffee and/or booze after a flick. I remember getting into a shouting match with a roommate after seeing Magnolia and that experience was at least as memorable as the movie.
Completely agree with you on that one Greg. After a movie, I enjoy nothing more than discussing it. (Then again, I enjoy talking about film at any time.)
My argument is against the notion that film-watching (the act of going to the theater) alone is somehow a statement — whether that be a statement on how badass you are or how sad you are.
Watching a film at the cinema is simply an activity like reading a book or going to an art gallery. The first bout of thought comes from you. The next comes from your friends that you argue with afterwards. =)
I totally agree with you. Going to a movie alone is just as natural and normal as reading a book alone. When I go to the movies, I want to totally immerse myself in the experience and live the movie. Having someone talk to me during that process (which, for me, starts even during the previews!) is highly disturbing. Glad I’m not the only solo movie lover!
Ah, good to know I’m not the only one that loves previews! I’m always cheesed when people don’t realize that previews (and post-film credits) are part of the film-going experience for me.
I enjoy going to the movies alone, and think it’s unfortunate that many people see it as a sign of loserdom.
I LOVE previews also! they are the best part of going to the cinema!
however, going to the cinema alone is not something i would want to do. personally, i love talking about movies as soon as it ends. who am i gonna talk with if i go alone?!
How about talking to a stranger? Making a new friend?
Hahaha…I often like a few minutes to ponder and contemplate before I jump into film-related discussion, so I’m always glad when there isn’t a friend nagging me for my opinion through the credits.
ok Vasta. You win. LOL! I’m going to a movie by myself and make a new friend. I’ll shoot you a msg after the experiment is done.
Looking forward to hearing how it goes!
I mostly go to movies out of choice. I love being self-employed, and going to a matinee where there’s me and three other random dudes in the movie theatre.
I’ve done a lot of thinking about going to the movies. Heck, I even made a chart:
http://www.darrenbarefoot.com/archives/2004/03/my-ideal-seat.html
That is an awesome chart Darren! Glad to know that I’m not the only person that loves the empty matinee screenings!