Common Courtesy

Hey kiddies, Tombstone checking in with you. Today I am going to talk about a pet peeve of mine. Movie theater courtesy. Honestly, it's not that hard, yet sometimes I think movie goers are becoming more and more rude. (It could be a figment of my imagination, but a little refresher course on common courtesy can go a long way for everyone...myself included.)

So...Let's start with some basics. When the trailers or movie starts, please zip your lips. This should be an easy one. I'm assuming you paid your 6-10 buck ticket price in the attempt to pay attention to the movie and not those around you. However, there are those who seem to think it's okay to talk to their friends and family at regular talking voices throughout the motion picture. Remember that the other people in the theater didn't pay to listen to your friendly banter. They paid to listen to the film. Also, now is a good time to remind people that unlike watching a movie at home, the movie goer has no way to rewind the film and listen to what he or she missed because others are talking. While the movies are meant to be fun, please remember there are other people at the theaters besides  you and yours.

Let's move on to the next basic. Texting during the film. What many people who text during a film don't realize is that the person sitting next to them can't see...literally. I've had people sitting next to me text during a film. I didn't see one bit while they texted. The light from their phones shone so bright into my eyes, I was blinded. Needless to say I asked the gentleman sitting next to me to not text. Of course, I tried to be as polite and tactful as possible. He doesn't need me ruining his evening for the 6-10 buck ticket charge as well. The unfortunate thing about texting is is that it bothers most of the audience, not just the people sitting next to the texters.

Phones--As so many of the pre-movie advertisements state...please turn them off. This is just a good rule of thumb while visiting the theater. Hearing the custom ringtones of others isn't worth the ticket price. Nevermind the conversation of that guy who actually answers the phone. "What? I can't hear you--I'm at the theater. What was that? Oh! Wait, I'll call you back later."

Babies. Please try not to bring your baby to the 7, 8, 9, or 10 pm showing of an adult film. If you can't find or afford a sitter, and you do bring your babies, please take them outside if they begin to scream. You aren't paying me, or the other audience members, or the theater to babysit your kid.

Now, am I saying that you should be silent at all times throughout the film? No, it's okay to make a comment to your friend, date, or spouse. Just remember to be mindful of the others who are attending as well. Does this mean don't text during the trailer to tell someone where you are sitting? Absolutely not...just try and be courteous.

I think today's world can be volatile at times. The economy at the moment isn't the greatest, and people are having some hard times. Movies are often a good source of relaxation for many. However, I think that a little bit of common courtesy will go a long ways in our lives and the lives of others. Say "please," "thank-you," and "your welcome" to others at the concessions or anywhere else you might be. Hold a door open for someone you don't know. Be cool to others at the movie theater and everywhere else you go and the world will change for the better. I promise. You can quote Tombie on that.

In the meantime rush out and see the latest movie at your local theater. For me this means Get Him to the Greek sometime this weekend. And til I see you again...God Bless you and yours.