Things I Do Before Watching Any Movie

Watching a movie is more than just pressing play. It's a whole experience that starts long before the opening credits roll. If you're like me, you probably have your own little rituals to ensure you're completely immersed in the film. Let me share with you some of the things I do before watching any movie to make the most of my cinematic experience. I used the cover of the movie 'Friends' to get your attention. I apologize for that.

1. Research the Movie

Before I commit two hours to a film, I like to know what I’m getting into. I don’t just rely on the trailer—because, let’s be honest, trailers can be misleading. I dive into the IMDb page, read a few spoiler-free reviews, and check the ratings. This helps me set my expectations and decide if the movie is worth watching.

2. Choose the Right Time

Timing is everything. Watching a horror movie in broad daylight with the sun streaming through the windows just doesn’t have the same effect as watching it at night. I pick a time that aligns with the genre of the movie. Comedies during the day, thrillers at night—it’s all about creating the perfect atmosphere.

3. Get Comfortable

This might seem trivial, but being comfortable is crucial for enjoying a movie. I make sure my seating is just right, whether I’m on the couch or in bed. I grab my coziest blanket, adjust the lighting, and ensure that my surroundings are conducive to uninterrupted viewing.

4. Prepare Snacks

No movie is complete without snacks. But I’m not just talking about popcorn. Depending on the movie, I like to get creative with my snacks. A feel-good movie might call for some ice cream, while an action-packed blockbuster might pair well with nachos and a cold drink. Having the right snacks on hand elevates the movie-watching experience.

5. Silence All Distractions

To fully immerse myself in the movie, I silence all distractions. This means turning off notifications on my phone, putting it on ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode, and making sure there are no interruptions for the next couple of hours. If I’m watching with friends or family, we all agree to respect the “no talking during the movie” rule.

6. Set the Mood with Lighting and Sound

Proper lighting and sound are key to enhancing the movie experience. I dim the lights or turn them off completely, depending on the genre. For sound, I ensure my speakers or headphones are set to deliver the best quality. If the movie has great soundtracks or intense sound effects, I don’t want to miss a single beat.

7. Check for Subtitles

This might not be necessary for everyone, but I always check if the movie has subtitles available. Sometimes, accents or background noises can make it hard to catch every word, and I don’t want to miss any dialogue. Having subtitles on hand is a lifesaver, especially for foreign films.

8. Decide on a Post-Movie Plan

Once the movie ends, I like to have something to look forward to. Whether it’s discussing the film with a friend, writing a review, or even watching an analysis video on YouTube, having a post-movie plan helps me process and appreciate the movie more.

9. Have a Backup Movie

Let’s face it, sometimes the movie you chose just isn’t what you expected. It’s always good to have a backup movie in case the first one turns out to be a dud. This way, your movie night isn’t wasted, and you still get to enjoy your time.

Final Thoughts

Watching a movie is more than just sitting in front of a screen. It’s about creating an atmosphere, setting the right expectations, and fully immersing yourself in the experience. By following these steps, I ensure that every movie I watch is not just seen, but truly experienced. What are your pre-movie rituals? Let me know in the comments!