Going to the cinema these days isn’t a cheap affair.
In addition to rising ticket prices to see the film itself, you pay exorbitant amounts of money for snacks, drinks, and even parking in some locations. So, when people do go, they want to enjoy themselves. Sadly, it’s not always possible thanks to rude patrons who ultimately dampen the experience. If you do these things, you might be ruining other people’s night out.
1. Checking your phone during the film
When you check your phone, that bright screen lights up the whole area, drawing everyone’s eyes whether they like it or not. What might feel like a quick peek to you can pull people out of what they’re watching, especially in those dark, intense scenes. Even if you’re just glancing, the glare can ripple through the rows, breaking the focus for everyone around you. You can be separated from your TikTok feed for a few hours.
2. Making noise with food and drinks
Nothing pulls people out of a quiet scene faster than the sound of a crinkling wrapper or a loud sip. What might seem like a small noise can echo through the whole cinema, especially during key moments of dialogue. Timing your snack breaks to louder parts would make things a lot easier for everyone else trying to keep up with the story.
3. Providing ongoing commentary
If you’re whispering predictions or chatting about what just happened, it’s probably a lot louder than you think. Even quiet comments can travel in a cinema, especially when the film has dropped to a hush. What feels like sharing a thought with a friend ends up being a distraction for everyone nearby trying to stay focused.
4. Shifting around in your seat on-stop
Constantly readjusting and fidgeting may seem harmless, but it’s surprisingly noticeable to the people sitting nearby. Shifts and seat movements often affect connected chairs, causing a subtle but persistent disturbance. What feels like a minor movement to you can pull other people’s attention away from the film.
5. Turning up after the film has started
Arriving late forces whole rows to shuffle about and can flood the room with light as the door opens and shuts. Trying to find a seat in the dark only adds to the commotion, pulling people’s attention away from the opening scenes that set up the entire story. For everyone’s sake, aim to get there before the trailers end.
6. Bringing strong smells inside
That takeaway you sneaked in or the heavy perfume might be bearable to you, but in an enclosed cinema, smells linger. Once you’re in, there’s no getting away from it, and those around you are stuck with an aroma they didn’t ask for. It’s best to keep food smells and strong scents out of the cinema if you can.
7. Leaving rubbish behind
Empty cups, spilled popcorn, and sweet wrappers make the cinema a mess for the next people. It’s not just a case of being untidy—scattered rubbish and sticky floors are unpleasant for anyone coming in after. A quick tidy as you leave makes a big difference to everyone’s night.
8. Ignoring personal space
If the cinema’s mostly empty, sitting directly next to someone or spreading your things around can feel a bit invasive. Taking over both armrests, spreading bags, or choosing the seat right next to someone can make them feel boxed in. Give people a bit of space and everyone will enjoy the film more.
9. Bringing young children to adult films
Kids get bored quickly, and adult films aren’t exactly designed to hold their attention. If your child’s restless, asking questions, or getting upset, it pulls everyone around out of the moment. Choosing age-appropriate films keeps things enjoyable for everyone, including your little ones.
10. Poor group coordination
Arriving in shifts or trying to save seats across rows can cause a bit of chaos. Shouting to friends, rearranging seats, and moving around frequently can disturb everyone in the middle of it. A little coordination goes a long way to making sure everyone in your section enjoys the film.
11. Poorly timed bathroom breaks
If you’re getting up during the film’s best scenes, the light from the door and movement in the row pull people’s focus away from the screen. Coming and going repeatedly means those around you have to keep readjusting, which makes it tough to stay in the moment. Try to time breaks for quieter parts if you can.
12. Over-the-top reactions to scenes
We all love a good reaction, but loud responses to every big moment can drown out what’s happening on screen. Laughing, gasping, or even talking through the scene can prevent everyone else from hearing important dialogue. Enthusiasm is great, but volume control goes a long way, especially in serious or quiet parts.
13. Recording bits of the film
Holding up your phone to record not only blocks the view for people behind you, but also lights up the area around you. Plus, it can take a few tries to get the “perfect” shot, which means even more distraction. Instead of filming, just enjoy the moment—you’re there to see it live, after all.
