Reason 136

Movie theater manners. Growing up, I was fortunate enough to have a father who fostered a love of films and a respect for the theater-going experience in his only daughter. We went to the local cineplex almost every other weekend and years later I can still envision specific theaters where we saw Stand By Me, Ferris Bueller's Day Off and Supergirl (which we took our new German neighbor to - what a way to say "Welcome to America!"). There is something very special about seeing a top-notch movie in a theater, enveloped in darkness and surrounded by other people who are laughing along with you, especially at the randomly funny parts; it truly is one of the fastest ways to generate that sense of camaraderie and community among strangers that has become harder and harder to find. Because I value this experience I try not to ruin it for others by texting during the film, talking to my neighbor, leaving my cell phone ringer on, dropping candy or soda on the floor...you get the idea. Unfortunately, I seem to be in the minority when it comes to movie theater etiquette. Tonight my mom and I saw Date Night, which was hilarious and definitely worth paying the hefty non-matinee price. The movie, however, would have been infinitely more enjoyable if the two women behind me hadn't tried to guess the name of every actor that popped up on the screen (Hey, it's Mark Ruffalo!), compared the book club scene to their own literary gang, or squealed "that was funny!" every time Tina Fey made a witty comment. Jason, you will never have to endure running commentary or a poke in the arm followed by a loudly whispered "What's going on?" when we soak up some cinematic screen time together. Be warned though - I also won't hesitate to fetch the usher if you are distracting those around us with your incessant chatter or obnoxious popcorn gnashing. In fact, I may pretend I don't even know you. If I spend a whopping ten bucks on a movie I expect to get my money's worth.