I internally debated whether or not to pen this specific post I'm bringing to you now. But after careful consideration, more than one reason presented itself that convinced me to follow through with it. As the title of this article suggests, for the first time in the many years I've gone to movie theaters, I've officially walked out on a film before the end credits rolled. However, it's not for the reason that you might initially think.
The funny thing about this predicament is that the movie in question is not that bad. In fact, I'll have a review of this film for you coming up after this article. It's just a series of unfortunate circumstances on my end. However, this narrative I'm about to deliver does further illustrate why movie theaters are struggling so far this decade. This holds especially true when compared to the many streaming platforms that are on the market right now.
First of all, it should be noted that when I see a film in theaters nowadays, my go-to place is a local theater called OurTown Cinemas. Even with smaller screens in comparison to chains such as AMC or Regal, OurTown Cinemas is a great place to go and see the latest films in theaters. The prices are much more reasonable on both tickets and food/drinks from the concession stands. Plus, you have a stunning amount of freedom with seating in the theaters themselves.
Not only can you choose where to sit without booking it in advance, but you can adjust where the seats are located to suit your needs. If anyone asks me what the future of filmgoing should be like, OurTown Cinemas has got it nailed down. And no, this is not a paid advertisement in case you're asking. However, if the higher-ups in charge of OurTown Cinemas are looking for a boost in that arena, I'd be more than happy to oblige.
The film I was trying to see wasn't available at this particular theater, and was instead playing at a nearby AMC theater. So I made plans to see the film at this aforementioned AMC before an appointment I had around 3:40 pm at a nearby area. I was already taking a risk in doing so considering the film was more than 2 1/2 hrs long. But since it was a showing at 12:35 pm, I figured I'd give it a try. Then the trailers played. So many trailers proceeded and kept on coming to the point of being overkill.
Don't get me wrong. I understand why trailers play before a film in a theater. It's basically to generate interest in films to play at the theaters and keep the business going. But if you're going to do it, the least you can consider doing in this day and age is one of two things. Either do less ads or give us a better estimate on when the film will really start. Not having either causes bigger problems that don't need to exist, namely running late for an appointment like I did.
With OurTown Cinemas, when ordering tickets online, they are courteous enough to provide the time when the feature will end. That includes the previews which run around 10 to 15 minutes in my experience with OurTown. AMC conversely was easily flirting around 20 minutes or more before a nearly 3 hour flick began, which is inexcusable and excessive.
This lack of consideration alongside the abundant overpricing at the concession stands and the weak selection of new releases result in a grim realization. These problems all contribute to remind me why I haven't been that eager to go to movie theaters for awhile. Even if a good bulk of new content is no good, at least you don't have to spend too much money on it every week if you're streaming all the time. Plus, you can watch said content from the comfort of your own home.
With the exception of OurTown Cinemas, you don't receive that flexibility when going to theaters. If anything, you're being restricted for all the wrong reasons. I usually turn off my phone before a film starts. I had to turn it on this time since I had the appointment afterwards, and I could tell I'd be too late if I stuck around any further and finished the film. I felt bad about doing it, but I wouldn't do it unless I had to. The good news to come from this is that I highly doubt I missed much.
The overall takeaway from this article is that if movie theaters are going to have a future with consumers, it's high time they consider being more flexible with the needs of their customers. Otherwise, this won't be the only time that I have to walk out on a film to fulfill other obligations and responsibilities. It may be a regular thing to the point that it's no use posting an article like this every time it happens. AMC, Regal, let's make sure this is just a one time issue.
Call it common sense or a hunch. But I have a feeling I'm not the only filmgoer who's experienced a situation like the one I've centered this article around. If you've had to walk out on a film due to a pressing issue, tell me about it in the comments. No one should feel bad about sharing such stories. If this article is proof enough, you won't receive any judgment from me.
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