In March, much of Hollywood will show up to what is arguably the most important award show of the year. Yes, ever since the first Academy Award ceremony in 1929, the Academy has honored films, actors, actresses, producers, directors, composers and many other things. However, my ramblings here will not be about who I expect to win or who got snubbed. It's not a commentary on Leo finally getting an Oscar or how acceptance speeches should be different. Instead, I have one simple request.
Go see a movie in theaters.
Now, you've probably just scoffed and you have every right to, but hear me out. First, I gain nothing from you seeing a movie. I'm not trying to increase attendance because I'll get money. No, I truly believe that movie theaters are some of the greatest places ever why? Imagine this: You're watching a movie, let's says it's an action movie and it's the penultimate moment. The main character is working to defuse a bomb and the time is quickly running out. Now, if you were watching at home, regardless of how good your surround sound may be, you're missing something. People.
"But what if I watch it with my friends?"
OK, but it's not as good. There is something exhilarating about being in a room of people that you don't know and being part of an experience with them. You can feel the tension and the release as the main character accomplishes the task. You are part of a unique experience that will never happen again. The same movie may play again, but not with exactly the same audience.
"Movies are expensive, I'll just get it online"
Fine, whatever. It's your loss. But hear me out: Eat before you get there. Don't buy popcorn. Heck, sneak your own snacks in. If you're a student, you can get a student discount at most major chains and even at smaller theaters. Tickets aren't horribly expensive. You can even turn it into a night out with friends. You still get the experience of being with strangers, while still being with friends.
"What if I don't like movies?"
Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but movies are beautiful. Sure, some are less than great, but you can escape whatever crappy reality is going on at the time and escape to the world of the film. For two hours you exist in a different world, separate from the outside. You no longer need to focus on work or classes or internships. No worrying about relationships, "fake news" or bills. You worry about the rebels fighting the Imperial forces, whether Emma Stone will get the audition, whether "Mr.Schnebly" can put together a band behind the parents' backs. You focus on Spider-Man's struggle to keep his job as a photographer, not your struggle to find an internship.
Movies are beautiful and maybe I'm biased. But I promise you: go to the movies, especially to a popular film on a popular weekend. Feel the excitement in the theater. I promise you won't be disappointed.
