If, like the rest of us, you’re a movie buff, then you’ve spent your fair share of time in the stadium seating of a movie theater. You probably even have a movie theater routine — popcorn and a Coke, or jelly beans and a slushie.
But after years of seeing movies exactly the same way, it’s time that you started to think about switching things up. In the modern world, there’s more to movies than just traditional theaters and the same routine you’ve followed for years.
If you’re ready to take “going to the movies” to the next level, read on for some ideas on how to upgrade your movie experience — without sacrificing the film quality that you live for.
Traditional theaters — with food and beverage
If you can’t quite give up your traditional movie experience, then you can simply take the old favorite to a new level.
Small theaters and big theaters around the world have upped their game by combining the traditional movie theater venue with restaurants and/or bars. At these theaters, you often order a meal or a drink (or both!) when you first arrive, and then take your selections with you into the theater.
It’s the ultimate combination of dinner and a movie for theater fanatics. You can find versions of this concept at small, local theaters and even at big-name theaters. AMC Theatres, for example, has a “dine-in” concept, where moviegoers have their food delivered right to their seats.
Interactive movie experiences
Although dinner and a movie is a time-tested combination, sometimes what you really want is for the movie to come to life. Chances are, there’s a theater near you that does just that, through an interactive movie experience.
At indie and non-conventional cinemas, you can often find movie showing that involve the audience in some way — think Rocky Horror Picture Show, but with other cult classics or new releases.
Some theaters, for instance, have showings of Monty Python & The Holy Grail, where each ticket purchase includes a hollowed-out coconut shell for audience members to participate with. You can find similar experiences at larger theaters as well, although the quirkiest and most interactive are usually found at independent theaters.
Movies with star appearances
If you have a bit more money to spend on your love of film, consider finding special edition screenings paired with star appearances.
These events are sometimes more exclusive, and always more expensive, but they’re often double-features: a movie screening and then a real-life Q&A with the star actor, for example.
You may have to network a bit to search out these special screenings, but the research can score you not only a movie night, but also a meet and greet with your favorite actors. In Pittsburgh, for example, a screening of Spotlight was paired with a Q&A with Michael Keaton and the real-life newspaper editor he played on screen, Walter Robinson.
Finding modern movie experiences near you
The internet is your best friend when you’re looking for these nontraditional movie experiences. You can find them through movie theater websites or special newsletters, or you can search out more specific experiences through websites that specialize in film & TV experiences.
Take a small step out of your comfort zone and revamp your moviegoing experience. You aren’t giving up your love of film — you’re simply learning to express it in a new way.
