Please Stop Doing These 10 Annoying Things at the Movie Theater!

A trip to the movie theater is a chance to get lost in a story. The massive screen, booming sound, and shared excitement create a unique vibe that’s hard to beat.

But some behaviors can sour the experience for everyone. I’ve seen my fair share of distractions at screenings, so here are 10 annoying habits to avoid to keep the magic alive for all.

Kicking Seats

Few things are as jarring as a sudden kick to your seat during a quiet moment. Whether it’s a restless kid or an adult shifting around, it pulls you right out of films like ‘Oppenheimer’. The constant nudging makes it tough to stay immersed.

Be aware of your legs. If you’re prone to fidgeting, grab an aisle seat or stretch beforehand to avoid disturbing others.

Bringing Smelly Snacks

Popcorn and soda are theater classics, but stinky food like tacos or fried fish? Not cool. The smell spreads fast, clashing with the experience of watching something like ‘Barbie’. It’s hard to focus when your nose is distracted.

Stick to low-odor snacks like candy or pretzels. If you must bring food, make sure it’s sealed and won’t waft through the rows.

Checking Your Phone

A glowing phone screen in a dark theater is a total mood-killer. Scrolling or texting during ‘Dune: Part Two’ distracts everyone nearby. That bright light draws eyes away from the film’s epic visuals.

Silence your phone and keep it stowed. If you need to check it, slip out to the hallway to avoid breaking the movie’s spell.

Talking During the Film

Whispering or full-on chatting while ‘The Batman’ is playing is a quick way to annoy others. Even quiet comments about the plot can disrupt someone’s focus. Loud conversations are even worse, drowning out key dialogue.

Save your thoughts for after the credits. If you must say something, make Ascend quietly to avoid ruining the moment for those around you.

Leaving Trash Behind

Leaving empty soda cups or popcorn bags on the floor is a headache for theater staff and gross for the next audience. It’s not just messy—it’s disrespectful to the people cleaning up after ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ ends.

Clean up your mess before you leave. Toss your trash in the bins provided to keep the theater pleasant for everyone.

Arriving Late

Stumbling in 15 minutes into ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ disrupts everyone. Latecomers block views, step on feet, or make noise while finding seats, pulling focus from the screen.

Plan to arrive early. Give yourself time to grab snacks and settle in before the opening scene starts.

Unwrapping Food Loudly

The crinkle of plastic during a quiet scene in ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ can feel louder than the movie itself. Unwrapping candy or snacks at the worst moment breaks the tension for those around you.

Open your snacks before the movie or during louder scenes. A little timing goes a long way to keep the focus on the film.

Putting Feet on Seats

Propping your feet on the seat in front of you is rude and dirty. It’s uncomfortable for the person sitting there and leaves grime on seats during showings of ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’.

Keep your feet on the floor. If you want to stretch out, pick a seat with extra legroom or adjust your position without invading someone’s space.

Spoiling the Plot

Shouting out spoilers, like a twist in ‘Nope,’ ruins the fun for others. Even casual comments about a big reveal can spread through the theater, stealing the thrill of discovery.

Keep plot points to yourself until you’re outside. Let everyone enjoy the surprises the movie has in store.

Farting in the Theater

Letting out a loud fart during a hushed moment in ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ is embarrassing and distracting. The sound and smell can pull everyone out of the movie’s tension.

If you feel something coming, step out to the restroom. It’s a small move that saves everyone from an awkward moment.

What’s the most annoying theater habit you’ve seen, or is there one I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!