Why I don't go to theaters as much as I used to.

http://hollywoodinsider.ew.com/2009/01/2008-box-office.html

I was reading this article and it made me realize why I don't go to the theater as much as I used to. It's not the fact I have Blu-Ray and HD at home. Seriously... I simply don't enjoy it like I did when I was a teenager or in my early 20's. It was exciting to see a movie and was inspired. So much so I told myself I must go work at ILM. I did at the age of 22. I think it's part of aging where it's more and more difficult to be impressed or inspired. Simply because you feel like you've seen it all or you've seen the same plot lines told over and over.

Or... is it the filmmakers selling out and theater's fault?

Popcorn? Rip off and is annoying when the schmuck(s) behind you are smacking away ruining the first 20 minutes of a movie. Give me a theater where popcorn is not allowed. Gum? Gummy Bears? Forbid. I wish I lived in Singapore for that reason. I know, careful what I ask for. Bluetooth headseats in theaters (or anywhere for that matter)? Why do I need to see that super bright blue blinking light when the guy (or gal) wearing it can't? Soda? Watch King Corn. You'll never drink soda again. Hot dogs and people sneaking in food? Stinky! Having to park and walk through a cheesy mall to get to your theater. Gross carpet and sticky floors. Bad commercials. Cell phones are the least of the problems in movie theaters...

This is why I only watch movies at Visual Effects Society screenings, DreamWorks, with friends, or at home now. I can't deal with the general public in a theater. Give me a theater where there is no food and a 'Manners Marshall', but drinking allowed, such as a Comedy club, and I'll go more often. And pay a premium to do so!

Related, but way off beat, do you ever walk into a Best Buy and think when you hear the super loud bass playing rap in the corner of the store, "When do you start annoying yourself?"

-Louis Katz
www.louiskatz.com