Students Should Go Back to Movie Theaters

With big movie releases like “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” “Marty Supreme” and “Zootopia 2,” it seems like movie theaters should be busier now more than ever.  However, a look inside Cinemark shows how, surprisingly, the theaters are emptier than ever before.

“I just went to the movies to see “Song Sung Blue”, and there wasn’t really anyone my age there,” freshman John Bede said.

With the lingering effects of the pandemic and the explosion of streaming platforms like Netflix, it’s no surprise that people aren’t willing to leave their couch to watch something new.  However, since it’s the new year, the students of Bellevue should focus on one resolution: getting back into the movie theaters.

“I feel like it’s just a different experience when you’re in a theater.  You’re surrounded by sound everywhere, and it’s just a lot more immersive.  There’s something electric about coming together to watch a big new release,” senior Helena Hanson said.

In a theater, fans of big franchises like “Dune” or “Star Wars” are brought together in the same place at the same time.  The energy will be more positive than when you’re sitting at home, where squabbles and arguments over what to watch occur.  Students are more likely to end up liking the movie when they’re surrounded by people who genuinely are excited to watch it, (rather than grumpy siblings).

“Theaters build community for me.  It’s fun to watch and hear the people around you laugh and react to the screen.  There’s something about not being able to pause while you watch, it makes it so that you must be fully locked in on what is happening,” senior Mara Sabes said.

Movie theaters also provide a welcome break from background noise.  At home, you might get distracted by your homework assignments or the notifications from your phone.  At a movie theater, everyone silences their devices.  The lights are dim and for a moment, people can relax and focus on appreciating the art of cinema.

“One of my favorite parts of the theaters is the popcorn.  It’s expensive, but it’s so buttery that it’s absolutely worth it,” said senior Eli Penner.

Of course, you could microwave popcorn or buy a slushy from a convenience store.  However, nothing compares to walking on the carpeted floors of Cinemark, smelling the butter wafting through the air like you once did as a child.  Theaters are special because they evoke a feeling of nostalgia.  Even at home, you can’t replicate that feeling.