Movie Theatre Etiquette: How Not to Annoy People in the Dark

Movie theatres, while an expensive endeavor, can be a great night out to see the flick you've wanted to see since you saw the first previews on television. You may even go to the movie in a group with friends or family members.

However, people come to relax and watch a movie; not to hear your personal conversations or have you step in their path every five minutes. Here's how everyone should be behaving at the movies:

Buying tickets, concessions, and digging for money. Try to at least have your wallet out when you are in the ticket and snack bar line. We don't feel like waiting while you order snacks for five or six people who can't do it themselves, much less while you take forever to dig for just five more cents so you don't get more coins back. Have out the minimum amount of money needed, pay, and move out of the way to make room for the next person.

Turn off your cell phone before the previews even start. It is rude to take a call while sitting in the theatre and no one wants to hear your obnoxious ring tone. If you MUST leave your phone on, put it on silent or vibrate and step outside if you get a call. Don't sit there and talk to your significant other on your phone. No one else is interested in your personal life.

Once the movie starts, don't talk. I'm sure some people will tell you to not talk even while the previews are going. I can't preach this though because I'm guilty of it. Some people don't like to sit through trailers so talking quietly should be acceptable. However, once the main presentation starts, sit back and keep quiet.

Show up on time. If you are going to be late for the show, it's probably best to either show up for the next time or don't come at all. By showing up late, you distract already settled moviegoers by shuffling around trying to find the best seat. Even if there are several open seats, we are not interested in watching you walk up and down several aisles before you settle yourself. Walk in, find the best open seat, and sit in it. It's not that difficult.

Also, while showing up late, do not talk.

If there are other people in your row, don't get up several times during the show and distract them. You may have to get up once to go to the bathroom or decide to go to concessions after getting your seat, but otherwise, stay put unless you absolutely have to leave. It is not polite to walk over people's legs while you attend to needs that don't include watching the movie.

Other people may not be able to see you at a movie theatre, but that doesn't give you an excuse to display bad manners. Going to the movies is a great way to be entertained so make sure you don't ruin the experience for those seated around you.