Reward yourself: If you think of your movie going experience as a reward, your choice of movies will change drastically, they will become more rewarding and fulfilling. Your reward can be anything, from a long work week, completing an overdue project, meeting someone new, treating a family member or friend to a special occasion. So with all these technical issues to consider, how do you choose the right movie for the right occasion? Easier said than done; but really, it is very easy. Here’s how:
It always helps to do a little research about any movie before going to see it; that way, you won’t be disappointed for shelling out a few bucks. Decide on the location first because that could mean driving for forty minutes to an hour, or just enjoying the luxury of in home entertainment. You may want to look up where the movie is playing, then call the theater to confirm and even book your ticket over the phone or internet, hassle free. For those movies not in theaters, you may choose to rent a DVD or borrow one from a friend.
If you decide to go the extra mile, the mall or distant theater, make it worth your while. When making your movie decision, never choose a movie that is liked by everyone, try something new unless you are convinced this is the one. Avoid the in-crowd opinion; the everybody-loves-it mentality. Look for a movie that stimulates you intellectually, solves a problem or one that meets a need, whether emotional, psychological, adventure, escapism, triumph or just for added knowledge and self improvement. You should always learn something at the end of your movie.
Here is an example: After watching The Cinderella Man, I learned that men are by design, made to be the strength of their family; and that courage is more than just word of mouth, it takes sacrificial actions and willingness to risk everything. In “Glory” with Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington, I also learned that one man can make a difference in the lives of others, and that doing the not-so-popular things and going against the grain can be more rewarding than never challenging the powers that be. Therefore, if we all just stay in our little corners, a change will never come. There are risks in the establishment of greatness, and an even greater reward in ceasing each given moment.
Also, I remembered how I felt after seeing “A Beautiful Mind” with Russell Crowe, and “Field of Dreams” with Kevin Costner” or “Life” with Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence, King of the Kick Boxers, with Billy Blanks, and “Everyone’s Fine” with Robert De Niro…just to name a few examples of great moments I have come to cherish over time. Some were filled with laughter, tears, triumph, courage, hopes and dreams; nevertheless, they were time well spent.
There are big benefits in choosing the right movie versus going the popularity route. And after watching this year’s Academy, you too will also realize that Hurt Locker was not the most talked about movie, but it sure took the spotlight over Avatar when all was said and done.
Some people choose movies based on their favorite actor/actress, but however you decide, a great movie makes for an even greater conversation with people you meet. Some movies will help to bridge the gap between people of varying nations, solve misunderstandings, and makes for great ice-breakers in uncomfortable settings.
I could go on and on, but here’s what I really want you to get from reading this article, your movie going should be a great experience that lifts your spirits, encourage you, make you cry at times and move you emotionally, open your eyes to new ideas, hidden truths and wildly adventures, bring people together, tear down barriers and build up new walls of hope and trust, and inspire people to dream, if only for a moment.
I love movies because they are in many ways, the untold stories of every human that ever walked planet earth and are a real world phenomenon of memories gone by. There is a hidden reality and realism in every movie or stories ever told via motion pictures. However, while not all are good for the soul, movie going is a experience that can be enjoyed even from the comforts of your bed room. But whatever your choice of location, let it be a memorable one. Here’s to your next experience! Lights…Camera…Action…Life!