Something I have been thinking about lately and wanting to experience is simply going to a movie at the theater all by myself. I have always gone to the movie with someone – there has just always been someone to go with, and going alone has always seemed taboo. Being the person I am, I wanted to break that social norm or that fear of appearing alone at a place that is seen as a social event.
Since I finished reading Life of Pi a couple weeks ago, I have been eager to see the movie Life of Pi. The previews looked so epic! So today, I got off work barely in time to make it to a 4:00 pm showing. I walked into the theater – it was empty. I grinned aloud thinking I might literally be watching this movie completely by myself. With an entire theater of seats to choose from I made my way up to the second to last row (my favorite spot) where I took a seat right in the middle. What a romantic thing… to watch a movie in a theater all to yourself.
During the previews, two middle-aged woman walked in together and sat at least 10 rows in front of me. I must admit, I was a little crushed I was no longer the only one in the theater. Then, right as the movie was starting a young guy about my age (early 20′s) came in all by himself, too. *People really do go to the movies by themselves…
The movie was absolutely incredible! It was a perfect film for watching by yourself. The movie made me appreciate the book even more. It was a stunning film – beautifully made! Such a good story. It really makes you think about things differently than they seem but ultimately as they are. During the end credits while a pretty song from the movie was playing, the four of us that filled up the theater stayed content in our seats watching every last director and makeup artist name scroll up the screen. Maybe I was just imagining it, but I could sense that we all wanted to let our thoughts about the ending sink in, and besides – what’s the rush to get out of there?
First, the two ladies left. Once the screen went black the guy and I both stood up at the same time. We both exchanged smiles, then quietly and separately we both slipped out of the theater.
Going to the movies alone; I think I’ll do it again sometime.
Next step: Go to a restaurant by yourself, sit down order and people watch! It’s exhilarating.