The Phenomenal Box Office Success of Wicked and the Etiquette Debate

Nov 26, 2024 at 11:10 PM
The film adaptation of Wicked has been making waves at the box office, emerging as a potential blockbuster during the Thanksgiving season. However, it has also sparked a heated debate about theater etiquette that has been simmering for several years. More and more people are now using their phones to take photos and videos during movies, or even start singing, disrupting the viewing experience for others. It's time to put an end to this behavior.

Preserve the Magic of Theater - Leave Your Phone in Your Pocket

Annoying Photo-Taking Habits

We often hear arguments from those who take photos during movies, such as "I had my screen dimmed and only took one or two pictures!" or "I paid for the ticket, so I should be able to use my phone!". These excuses hold no weight. Even with a dimmed screen, the act of taking a photo is still annoying. And those who are willing to raise their cameras in a packed theater, potentially blocking others' views, are likely the same ones who might start singing or talking loudly, ruining the experience for everyone.

A ticket purchase does not give you the right to be more important than others or exempt you from following the basic rules of moviegoing. How many ads and reminders do we need to see before the movie starts, asking us to turn off our phones and be quiet? It's a simple courtesy that should be adhered to.

The Importance of Disconnecting

Seeing a movie in a theater offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and immerse ourselves in the magic of the big screen. It's a rare moment when society agrees to be quiet and focused. However, when some people start using their phones, it breaks this tranquility.

Take my experience, for example. Once during a movie, I received a call from my father. I had my phone set to vibrate, and when I saw the call, I got up and texted him from the hallway. It was a simple gesture that showed respect for the other moviegoers. We should all be able to do the same.

Respecting the Movie Experience

For many, paying to see a movie in a dark theater is a special experience. It's not just about watching a film; it's about sharing that moment with others. Taking photos or videos of the screen for social media platforms like TikTok undermines this experience.

We should cherish the opportunity to enjoy a movie without distractions. Whether it's eating popcorn, being captivated by the story, or simply losing ourselves in the moment, a movie theater provides a unique environment. Let's not let our phones ruin it.

If you can't control your phone usage or stop talking, then it's better to watch a movie at home. Leave the theaters for those who can keep their phones in their pockets and enjoy the movie in peace. It's a small gesture that can make a big difference.