Theater owners want cell phones blocked

[grundle]

http://upi.com/NewsTrack/view.php?StoryID=20051217-074635-6362r

Theater owners want cell phones blocked

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- The National Association of Theater Owners wants the Federal Communications Commission to allow the blocking of cell phone signals in theaters.

John Fithian, the president of the trade organization, told the Los Angeles Times theater owners "have to block rude behavior" as the industry tries to come up with ways to bring people back to the cinemas.

Fithian said his group would petition the FCC for permission to block cell phone signals within movie theaters.

Some theaters already have no cell phone policies and ask moviegoers to check their phones at the door, Fithian said.

The Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association -- a Washington-based cell phone lobby that is also known as CTIA-the Wireless Association -- said it would fight any move to block cell phone signals.

"We're opposed to the use of any blocking technology, because it interferes with people's ability to use a wireless device in an emergency situation," CTIA spokesman Joseph Farren told the Times.

[Jackskeleton]

I support this. Some asshole had his phone ring about 5 times while watching King Kong and he didn't have the common sense to turn it off.

I also hate those boost mobile phones with the walkie talkie feature bullshit

[Graftenberg]

industry tries to come up with ways to bring people back to the cinemas.

This is a good step in the right direction, now if they could only find a way to block noisey children.

[JimmySRU]

Teens are the worst all I see is lights and people texting while we are trying to watch the movie what the hell

[Nick Danger]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."

I'd rather theaters brought back ushers and expelled rude people. The problem is people's lack of courtesy, not the telephones.

[devilshalo]

I'm against this for the same reason implied by Farren. Emergency situation.

What I'd rather have is a no tolerance act and a theater usher in every screening. If your phone goes off or your kid or whomever starts yapping. You get escorted out of the theater with no refund. None of this asking politely shit. Just poof, you're gone without having to leave your seat to find a theater manager. And theater owners have to have the balls to follow thru.

During my screening of Kong a family started up right at the beginning talking f'n loud. I went to nip that shit in the bud real quick because I ain't putting up with audio commentary from some 5 - 7 year olds while their parents have already tuned them out.

[GrimTangent]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."

This is the only reason I can think of that they shouldn't block cells. I still think it's a good idea.

[JumpCutz]

Screw 'Little Timmy'. He's in the emergency room, I'm sure they're doing all they can.
Check on him after the movie.

[Jackskeleton]

"Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."



"... but then I left a voice message. Glad you got it and responded to it when you got out of the theatre. You couldn't do anything but worry for that time anyways as Timmy's life is in the doctors hands."


What did we ever do before cell phones? The problem is that folks are bringing their home habbits with them. Watching a movie in the background while talking on the phone or just having it be nothing important that they could chat about.

the little flash screens with text messaging annoy me a great deal also.

[Tracer Bullet]

As long as they have it posted, I'd be all for this.

If you're in a situation where you need to have your phone on, don't go to a fucking movie.

[lotsofdvds]

I want seat kickers blocked. I want commericals blocked. I want talkers blocked. Get me all four of those and maybe I'll go back to the movies again.

[kitkat]

Yup. We did just fine before cel phones, and you can always check your messages as soon as you leave the theater, something we couldn't do back then. I don't want to sit in a theater full of people worrying about Little Timmy, each of them checking their phones once or twice during the movie. If you're afraid the sky might fall because you can't be reached for two hours wait for the DVD.

Oh, and I assume you always carry a spare battery and never leave the service area. ;)

[IDrinkMolson]

Emergency situations weren't a problem pre-cell phone days. They can get up goto a payphone and call the sitter.

[slavetotherave]

I agree that cell phones are a nuisance, however I disgree with across the board policies on anything. There's always some situation that breaks the rule.

I DO believe on common courtesy, though. I always turn off my cell phone before I go into a theater, but I understand not everyone will remember and I halfway expect that. It is up to the theater to enforce those rules, but coming from the side of a person that worked as an usher, it's not always 100% possible to enforce everything at all times.

Most theater managers are reluctant to do anything severe to the cell phone people because while a person who is offended by the cell phone talker would harbor bad feelings for the offender, a person who is reprimanded for their cell phone usage would harbor bad feelings towards the theater itself and its employees.

[fumanstan]

Yes, block them.

How would you know when a phone call is an emergency?

[matome]

If you're afraid the sky might fall because you can't be reached for two hours wait for the DVD.


:up:

Blocking cells would be one huge step in the right direction to peel me away from my home theater and back to the multiplex. People are inconsiderate assholes.

[Rival11]

I want seat kickers blocked. I want commericals blocked. I want talkers blocked. Get me all four of those and maybe I'll go back to the movies again.

Seat kickers are one of the main reasons I stopped going to theaters as well. While I always speak up the moment I feel my seat get kicked (somewhat politely) it bothers the shit out of me.

Talkers, commericals, & seat kickers are all reasons why the theater will NEVER be able to get most people to go back.

[scott shelton]

It's funny; I've never had a problem with cell phones. It has always been talkers.

[al_bundy]

every phone accepts and sends text messages

leave your phone on vibrate and tell people to notify you of emergencies via SMS

[Silt]

I'm all for blocking cell phones in theaters and in no way buy into the "oh what if an emergency happens and someone needs to call me?" line. We survived long before cell phones turned millions into mannerless asses...I'm sure people can handle 2 hours in a theater without using one. If not, stay home where you can watch a DVD on your couch while yapping/texting away on your cell.

Personally I'd like to see cell phones blocked in other public places, namely restaurants. Nothing like enjoying the atmosphere of a classy restaurant only to have the ambiance broken by the constant cutesy ringtones of obliviot cell phone owners.

[gotrice487]

It's funny; I've never had a problem with cell phones. It has always been talkers.

Same here also with seat kickers. I do not think they should be blocked as emergencies can happen at any time no matter what anyone says. I would say that the possibility of checking your phone at the door could chase away moviegoers once stories of lost or damaged phones start spreading.

[wildcatlh]

Personally, I want the rude idiot parents who let their kids run screaming up and down the aisles blocked long before I want cell phones blocked.

That being said, provided that a business has it clearly posted that they are using a cell phone blocker, they should be able to use them. (I think that the idiots who walk around with the hand-held blockers should get their asses kicked, but a business should be able to do it if posted).

[rexinnih]

Ban the things!

[Mordred]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."

I'd rather theaters brought back ushers and expelled rude people. The problem is people's lack of courtesy, not the telephones.That's why the Alamo Drafthouse in Austin is the greatest theater in the country. During King Kong Friday night, some noisy teens were kicked out 20 minutes into the movie.

[Ovid]

What did we ever do before cell phones? The problem is that folks are bringing their home habbits with them. Watching a movie in the background while talking on the phone or just having it be nothing important that they could chat about.

the little flash screens with text messaging annoy me a great deal also.

What did we do before movie theatres? We survived then didn't we?

[Coral]

Block 'em.

That would be 1 positive step towards me returning to theatres... which leaves around 8 more things that need changing.

[Draven]

Yup - block them. If you can't be out of touch for two hours, wait for the DVD. And this is coming from a parent with a 2 year old and a 2 day old.

This is really random, but I think it'd be great if there was a "pause" feature for a movie - I realize it's a film so we're talking a digital projection or something here, but I'd love it if ushers could kick out the people causing problems without causing the well-behaved audience members to miss out on something important in the film.

Sort of a "if you don't all shut up and pay attention we're not going to start the movie again." Make the other audience members do some of the chastising too.

Aw fuck it, I'll just watch movies on my home theater.

[ianholm]

Ban 'em :up::up:

[Inverse]

Since people shouldn't be using cell phones in theatre anyway, I say go ahead and block 'em.

If you're really so highly strung that you can't enjoy the movie because you're convinced someone is trying tell you little Timmy has been horribly mangled then you shouldn't be in the theatre in the first place. You should be at home, hiding under the covers.

[ChrisKnudsen]

I said "No" because of emergency use, too. Since the technology is availible, I would fucking burn down the theater if I found out I could have seen my sister or my wife on her hospital bed before they died but missed it because I was watching a bloody 3 hour monster movie, I missed that chance because of cellphone blockers. Usually I scream, "Shut the fuck up!" whenever someone tries to talk on a cellphone.

[Michael Ballack]

Yes they should be allowed to use cell phone blockers. Don't give me that doctor who has to save the world crap. Stay home then and watch dvds.

[Groucho]

It seems that some aren't arguing about the original poll. The poll asks should it be legal for theaters to do this...not whether or not they should.

Yes, it should be legal, but theaters should make it clear that such a device is being used so that people who do need their cell phones know not to patronize them.

[Duder]

I said "No" because of emergency use, too. Since the technology is availible, I would fucking burn down the theater if I found out I could have seen my sister or my wife on her hospital bed before they died but missed it because I was watching a bloody 3 hour monster movie, I missed that chance because of cellphone blockers. Usually I scream, "Shut the fuck up!" whenever someone tries to talk on a cellphone.

In a situation where your sister or wife would go from being perfectly fine to being DEAD in a matter of a couple hours, it's entirely possible that you wouldn't make it to see them in time anyway. If you're that paranoid about family members suddenly dying--and theaters enforce this phone-blocking thing--then you should stick to renting DVDs.

[Jon2]

There is already a way to block cell phones, and it's legal. And it's passive, so that the technology can't interfere with cell phones outside or close to theaters, which would be a concern I would have

When building new theaters, construct them so cell transmissions can't be received. This would not be expensive, nor illegal. A lot of buildings already block cell phones, and not by design. Existing theaters could be retro-fitted.

It would also be best for such theaters to inform patrons they can't receive calls.

As for family emergency scenarios. That's just self-rationalizing. What's the dif between turning off your phone and its reception being blocked? You still wouldn't receive the "bad news" until it was too late.

What did people do before cell phones? If someone's that worried, they should get up every 30 minutes or so, go outside, call whoever they're concerned about to make sure they're safe and sound, then go back inside to enjoy the movie...if it's possible for them to do so.

This is taking on the tone of those discussions about whether it's right or wrong to bring infants/small children to movies. Ridiculous going-around-in-circle arguements with no resolution, while certain parties kept rationalizing one after another what-if scenarios for justifying why parents have every right to engage in social rudeness and interfere with others, and why those others should more "understanding/accomodating."

Sheesh!

[Rival11]

That's why the Alamo Drafthouse in Austin is the greatest theater in the country. During King Kong Friday night, some noisy teens were kicked out 20 minutes into the movie.

That's awesome.

[Jackskeleton]

What did we do before movie theatres? We survived then didn't we?


that's not even addressing the problem at hand.

[Josh H]

I support it 100%. Just put up signs all over the place so people that have to stay in contact know to stay out of the theater.

Hell, I'd even be willing to compromise and just have it in certain showing and just show them on the ads as "cell phone free showings" so there would still be other showings the doctors, parents etc that need to have their phone on in case of an emergency can go to.

[Joe Molotov]

I said "No" because of emergency use, too. Since the technology is availible, I would fucking burn down the theater if I found out I could have seen my sister or my wife on her hospital bed before they died but missed it because I was watching a bloody 3 hour monster movie, I missed that chance because of cellphone blockers. Usually I scream, "Shut the fuck up!" whenever someone tries to talk on a cellphone.

So you don't turn your cell phone off when you're in theaters?

[Elpresidentepez]

It should be legal. Part of the experience they're trying to sell is being hindered by noisy patrons and the industry is suffering (partly) for it. At the point where most theaters have pre-movie notices that ask you to shut off cell phones and they STILL go off...I say block the bitches out. People lived for centuries without cell phones they can live a few hours without them as well.

[digitalfreaknyc]

I would be ALL for this. Ushers don't do shit. You try telling a belligerent assmunch to leave the theater and you're going to create more of a problem than anything else. Especially the 16yo's they have working the theaters.

Again, if you can't spend 2 hours away from your phone, don't go to the fucking movies.

[cultshock]

Again, if you can't spend 2 hours away from your phone, don't go to the fucking movies.

Exactly. I say block the hell out of them. :up:

On a similar note: if you can't refrain from talking to your buddy for 2 hours while watching a film, don't go to the fucking movies

If you can't make your kid behave in public, or have no desire to do so, don't go to the fucking movies.

If you can't sit reasonably still for 2 hours, and have spastic legs that must hit the chair in front of you every 10 minutes, don't go to the fucking movies.

If everyone actually took the above advice, then I actually would go to the fucking movies. :)

[Ovid]

that's not even addressing the problem at hand.

Nope, just illustrating the logical error in your proposition. You presented an argument in favor of blocking them, and it was, logically, a bad example. So I countered with an identically valid statement, but with an obvious absurbd practical purpose. Just logical discourse.

[RayChuang]

I'm sure while theater owners will be all for blocking cellphone calls and pagers with active methods, the FCC might not allow it. One reason: an active jammer could unintentionally interfere with a nearby cellphone antenna array that sends out cellphone and pager signals.

Passive blocking might work, provided that the theater clearly inform all patrons that cellphones and pagers will not work in the screening room itself.

[Josh H]

Passive blocking might work, provided that the theater clearly inform all patrons that cellphones and pagers will not work in the screening room itself.

I think that's the way it would have to be.

And as I said, that would allow them to just have some showings blocked and some not, so as to not screw the doctors, parents that need to be reached if the sitter has an emergency, etc. out of goign to the movies, while still allowing those that want utter silence to enjoy movies at different showings.

[FantasticVSDoom]

I think people in NYC go to the movies for the sole purpose of using their cellphones...Since service in the city is usally pretty shoddy, it seems like once people get into a movie theatres, reception is clear as a fucking bell because they go off constantly.

[slavetotherave]

I would be ALL for this. Ushers don't do shit. You try telling a belligerent assmunch to leave the theater and you're going to create more of a problem than anything else. Especially the 16yo's they have working the theaters.

While I agree with this partially, I don't feel like much of the blame falls with the ushers. A lot of times when someone grabs an usher, they're not even very specific about which person is the offender. And when you go into a dark room full of people, unless you SEE the person in the act, it's hard to make sure you've got the right guy. And most of the time the person that comes to get the usher doesn't even know exactly who is it. "There's a guy in the first row that keeps talking." Oh, THAT guy. The one with the head, and two arms and legs, right?

Besides, employees are supposed to be courteous at all times, even when asking someone to shut up. It's up to the managers when to yank someone out. These days you can't do anything to customers. They even told us in training that if someone fell down or injured themselves in any way inside the theater, even if it was from their own fault or someone else's, you can't -IN ANY WAY- ever say "sorry." Never. Because that implies fault of the theater, and thus it skews the situation. It's ridiculous. So if someone pinches their finger in the arm rest and you can't say "Ooh, sorry, can I get you some ice to put on that?" imagine saying "Excuse me sir, can you shut your face so people can watch the movie?"

Besides, cell phones are probably one of a hundred different ways to piss off other patrons. Aside from talking, and kicking seats, and crying babies, I've had to deal with people throwing popcorn, shooting straws, sticking gummi bears to the screen, running around and hopping seats, some lady let her infant shit all over the place and stank up the back of the theater, some guy was masturbating in the last row..... plus there's unintentional things like spilled drinks, or throwing up, or people walking around looking for their seats, etc etc... unless theaters become private viewing mini theaters, there's always going to be SOMETHING that's annoying.

Perhaps we should go back to the Drive-Ins...

[BigDan]

"... but then I left a voice message. Glad you got it and responded to it when you got out of the theatre. You couldn't do anything but worry for that time anyways as Timmy's life is in the doctors hands."

Except the doctor didn't show up. He was on call, but he went to the movies and his pages were blocked.

And why would this stop with movie theaters if allowed? If active blockers were allowed, don't you think any number of places would install them? Restaurants, for example. Gasoline stations, as well (they could even cite the non-existant-but-still-feared danger cell phones supposedly create, and if you own the pay phones, there's a potential added bonus). Schools. I could even see cities putting up blockers along the roadway to prevent people from talking on them while driving (no sillier than any number of things my city counsel does every session).

If we're going to open the can of worms, we may end up not being all that happy about the end result.

Block 'em, don't block 'em. I don't care one way or another (nobody ever calls me anyway, and I always turn mine off before going to the theater), but even a guarantee of no cell phone interruptions would change my theater-going habits. Cell phones have not been a common-enough problem for me to even think about it prior to choosing to go to the movie when many other factors that NATO and its members apparently support do (the fast-rising price of a ticket and the ever-expanding pre-show advertisements are much bigger factors in my mind. I'd gladly let them discuss cellphones once they address and solve those other issues first. But I don't see them falling all over themselves to come up with a customer-favoring solution for those issues).

[mndtrp]

Except the doctor didn't show up. He was on call, but he went to the movies and his pages were blocked.

And why would this stop with movie theaters if allowed? If active blockers were allowed, don't you think any number of places would install them? Restaurants, for example. Gasoline stations, as well (they could even cite the non-existant-but-still-feared danger cell phones supposedly create, and if you own the pay phones, there's a potential added bonus). Schools. I could even see cities putting up blockers along the roadway to prevent people from talking on them while driving (no sillier than any number of things my city counsel does every session).

If we're going to open the can of worms, we may end up not being all that happy about the end result.

Block 'em, don't block 'em. I don't care one way or another (nobody ever calls me anyway, and I always turn mine off before going to the theater), but even a guarantee of no cell phone interruptions would change my theater-going habits. Cell phones have not been a common-enough problem for me to even think about it prior to choosing to go to the movie when many other factors that NATO and its members apparently support do (the fast-rising price of a ticket and the ever-expanding pre-show advertisements are much bigger factors in my mind. I'd gladly let them discuss cellphones once they address and solve those other issues first. But I don't see them falling all over themselves to come up with a customer-favoring solution for those issues).
Then, ummm . . . maybe he shouldn't go where he can't get the page? If he is on call, he wouldn't be going to a bar and getting drunk. There are sacrifices to make when being on call. If the theater has it plainly posted that cell phones/pagers were blocked, maybe along with another on-screen ad, then he should know not to be there.

I think it should be legal, and I hope it becomes that way. People know in advance they can't smoke in some places, and they smoke somewhere else. I know that I can't have sex in the middle of Space Mountain, so I do it somewhere else as well.

[Digigeek06]

Not only am i annoyed by all the cell phone ringers and talkers in the theatres but its even worse driving to the theater to get a good seat on opening weekend when some itiate in front of you is driving 35 in a 50 on the way to the theatre.

[Drexl]

some guy was masturbating in the last row

What movie was it? You remember, don't you?

[slavetotherave]

What movie was it? You remember, don't you?

Actually I do. New York Minute. I am NOT joking... Conversations about this lasted for at least 3 weeks. So disgusting.

[Linn1]

I've been asking for this for years! Ever since I heard Japan does it in theaters and art galleries, I've said we need that here. And the phones would (if other places are any way to judge) only be blocked in the actual theater, so parents can call their kids in the lobby before going inside. To be honest, I want a personal blocker to block everyone's phone within a thirty foot radus and I'd be a happy man. :)

[CliffStephenson]

I can't believe that there is even a debate! Why are theaters looking to use cell phone blockers? Because for years theaters have been asking people politely to turn off their cell phones and pagers and a group of people have consistantly felt so self important as to ignored them! How do you get someone to stop ignoring you? Don't give them a choice. I have absolutely no problem whatsoever with theaters being able to block cell signals in theaters because I ALWAYS turn off my phone before the film begins. Emergency reasoning is bullshit, because people have had emergencies since the dawn of man and cell phones have only been widespread in the past 10 years. The world kept turning just fine before that. If you're a person against cell blockage in theaters, you're exactly the person that this is aimed at. As I said, I have no problem with this because I always turn my phone off, LIKE YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO!

Cliff

[Kal-El]

Go for it. Shit, this one fucker in the theater when I saw Kong was recording most of the film on his fucking fone. The LCD screen of which is VERY distracting. I couldn't believe nobody around him said anything so I finally yelled out "turn off that cell fone"

[achau9598]

I don't think blocking is the answer. And to the comment that a doctor on call should not go to a bar and get drunk, I think you are missing the point. A doctor who is on call has every right to go to a movie, and absolutely has to be able to be contacted if he is needed.

People say it isn't important, but I'm sure that opinion would change if their cell was blocked and they missed an important call.

Why can't people just put their phone on vibrate. If it buzzes, take a quick look at the incoming number. If it is urgent, step outside of the theater and make your call. If not, put it back into your pocket. Problem solved.

Now, about those annoying people who feel the need to talk throughout the film .. kill em.

[Jackskeleton]

[QUOTE=achau9598I think you are missing the point. A doctor who is on call has every right to go to a movie, and absolutely has to be able to be contacted if he is needed.
[/QUOTE]


And you're missing our point. If there is a sign posted about the potential of being recorded on camera where ever there is a camera in a public place then it would be a safe bet that they would have signs warning folks that their cell phones and means of communication would be blocked in the theatre.

Last I heard, if you are on call you need to be reachable. Doctor should have realized that he would not be reachable in the blocked theatre and thus should not be there if there is the potential of him being needed.

He has every right to go to the movies. It will just be against his better judgement to go at that given time. Much like I have every right to bear arms. I just have to use my judgement as to where I fire at.

[dadaluholla]

I have yet to notice someone on the phone at the movies, and I don't have a cell phone myself... so i don't care either way.

[matome]

^^Take a ride on over to New York City, the mecca of the inconsiderate.

[dadaluholla]

^^Take a ride on over to New York City, the mecca of the inconsiderate.

No thank you.
:)
I'll stay here in Pleasantville.

[Jericho]

Except the doctor didn't show up. He was on call, but he went to the movies and his pages were blocked.

And why would this stop with movie theaters if allowed? If active blockers were allowed, don't you think any number of places would install them? Restaurants, for example. Gasoline stations, as well (they could even cite the non-existant-but-still-feared danger cell phones supposedly create, and if you own the pay phones, there's a potential added bonus). Schools. I could even see cities putting up blockers along the roadway to prevent people from talking on them while driving (no sillier than any number of things my city counsel does every session).

If we're going to open the can of worms, we may end up not being all that happy about the end result.

Block 'em, don't block 'em. I don't care one way or another (nobody ever calls me anyway, and I always turn mine off before going to the theater), but even a guarantee of no cell phone interruptions would change my theater-going habits. Cell phones have not been a common-enough problem for me to even think about it prior to choosing to go to the movie when many other factors that NATO and its members apparently support do (the fast-rising price of a ticket and the ever-expanding pre-show advertisements are much bigger factors in my mind. I'd gladly let them discuss cellphones once they address and solve those other issues first. But I don't see them falling all over themselves to come up with a customer-favoring solution for those issues).


Your slippery slope argument seems a bit dramatic. Movies are supposed to be quiet, hence the need (or request) for blockers. None of the other places you mentioned have such a need. Any blockers in those kinds of places would be for convenience as much as anything. And yes, having no cell phone service in a movie theatehr is convenience too, but its a necessary convenience. Silences is not needed in a resteraunt or a gas station. Schools are different, because you're at a school for an entire day, not a few hours. And you're not there for entertainment purposes. All the examples you gave can be distinguished from a movie theater.

Besides, if someone really needed to be available, they will either not go to the movies (as some poster previously mentioned) OR they could leave their phone with someone before they go in (say the manager of the theater). I'm sure some process could be worked out to allow for absolute emergencies. Otherwise, is there a good reason not to do this?

[Groucho]

When I saw King Kong this weekend, before the movie there was a little spot that showed a guy chatting on his cell phone. Suddenly, a huge ray blasts him into obilivion. Then the tag line appears: "Turn off your cell phones. Don't anger the space aliens." The entire theater burst into applause.

The sad thing about this whole discussion is that we need to force people to exercise common courtesy.

[slavetotherave]

My favorite turn-off-your-cell pre-movie commercial was the one with the Native Americans... it looked like it was going to be some documentary or something, and it was talking about the ritual for this one guy to become a man by going on the great buffallo hunt. And as the two of them crept up on the hill and spotted the buffallo, you hear a cell phone ring, and they look at the audience in surprise and the buffallo stampede away. I've only seen it once, but it was great. I'd like to see the aliens one as well.

[Josh H]

A doctor who is on call has every right to go to a movie, and absolutely has to be able to be contacted if he is needed.


That's why I think my idea of using passive blocking in certain showings, and not using it in others (and advertising which is which) is the perfect compromise.

People on call, with kids with the sitter, etc can go and keep their phone on so they can run out and return calls if there's an emergency. And those that want no distractions can catch the shows with cell phones blocked.

[mdc3000]

Actually I do. New York Minute. I am NOT joking... Conversations about this lasted for at least 3 weeks. So disgusting.

I worked at a theatre and caught a dude whacking during Cruel Intentions...not a pretty sight...he actually was the ONLY one in the theatre but still...not cool...not cool at all..

And my pet peeve at the theatre is FOOT TAPPING... People who don't kick seats but tap their motherfucking foot the whole damn time...I've told people to stop...but usually they start up again moments later....

MATT

[dtcarson]

Legal? Sure, no problem. I think the policy should be very visible, however.

Should they? I don't know. Odds are, some theatres would do it, and others wouldn't, so if you had to keep your device on, you could go to one that doesn't do it. And everyone else who wanted relative quiet would go to the blocking one.

But I agree, the problem isn't the tool, it's the use of the tool. If mine rings in a place where it should be quiet, and I forget to set it on 'vibe' or 'silent', I hit 'reject' which sends it right to voicemail, then I check it later. The bigger problem, as I'm sure I've said before, is this inherent selfishness and egoism and me-first, I'm-who-counts attitude that is so highly prevalent in today's society. I'll admit, I'm selfish and I [and my family] count most to me, but I'm also not an asshole--I don't cut in line, I try to be aware of my surroundings and behave appropriately.

[Damed]

A doctor who is on call has every right to go to a movie, and absolutely has to be able to be contacted if he is needed.


If it's his shift/turn to be on call, and he knows he can't use a cell in a theatre, then he doesn't go to the theatre while on call. He can catch the film when he's not on call.

[dadaluholla]

Did doctors go to the movies before cell phones were popular?

[slavetotherave]

Just playing the devil's advocate for a moment, but if it's selfish for someone to bring their cell phone to the movies because it may or may not be important to be able to be contacted, isn't it just as selfish to consider your movie going experience to be more important than their situation? I mean, it's like driving. If you are driving down the road and some guy speeds up past you and then he cuts you off and jets down the road, we automatically think "frickin jerk!" But that guy could be late to work. He could be on the way to the hospital from work to try and get there before his wife gives birth. He could be going to a friend's house who is about to commit suicide. He could be trying to escape from the police because he just robbed a bank. I mean, in the long run, who is being selfish?

[dtcarson]

Late to work = selfish.
Pregnant woman in the car, child bleeding profusely = not so selfish.
Suicidal friend = call the police
Rob the bank = selfish greedy crook, who's now endangering innocent people after committing a felony--f'im.
Of course, there are those who'd say Call an ambulance, because that's their job, and people [usually] get out of the way of an ambulance running with lights/siren.

If a cell phone rings in a theatre, and it rings once, and the owner gets up and leaves the theater before conversing, I don't have a problem with that in itself. Of course he should plan for that, and sit near an aisle.

I'm sure doctors did go the theatre before cell phones. They probably either paused the film and said "is there a doctor in the house", or sent an actual usher to quietly get the doc.

[Numanoid]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through so I called the theater and had an usher come get you.Fixed, and solved.

Now you're going to say, "How many times have you ever seen an usher come in and announce that someone is needed on the phone?" Exactly my point. To make it possible for a million rude people to hold meaningless calls because there's a remote chance that one guy may need to get contacted because Timmy fell down the well is ridiculous.

I assume all of you presenting arguments against blocking calls never go into large bulidings or basements where you can't get reception, never leave your phone at home or in the car, always carry your phone even into places like the swimming pool or skiiing. If that describes you, I've got news for you. You're way more important in your own mind than you are in real life. And you're neurotic. Take a pill. :D

[AGuyNamedMike]

Nah, don't block'em. Just post ushers in full Sam Fisher mode (night vision gear and silenced pistols) at the front of the house to take out inconsiderate asshats.

[Michael Corvin]

I don't think blocking is the answer. And to the comment that a doctor on call should not go to a bar and get drunk, I think you are missing the point. A doctor who is on call has every right to go to a movie, and absolutely has to be able to be contacted if he is needed.

If it's his shift/turn to be on call, and he knows he can't use a cell in a theatre, then he doesn't go to the theatre while on call. He can catch the film when he's not on call.

Some doctors are on call 24/7 and have very busy schedules on top of that. Do they not have a right to go out and relax for an evening even if they are on call? Same with firefighters. How would you feel if a couple firefighters who are buddies went to check out Kong and your house burned down b/c they couldn't take the page? Sounds pretty selfish on your part.

That's why I think my idea of using passive blocking in certain showings, and not using it in others (and advertising which is which) is the perfect compromise.

Sounds reasonable, but more like an open invitation to the talkers at the non blocked showing.

Just playing the devil's advocate for a moment, but if it's selfish for someone to bring their cell phone to the movies because it may or may not be important to be able to be contacted, isn't it just as selfish to consider your movie going experience to be more important than their situation?

Precisely. I totally agree with you on that one. The "me first" attitude.

If you're a person against cell blockage in theaters, you're exactly the person that this is aimed at. As I said, I have no problem with this because I always turn my phone off, LIKE YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO!


What, do you want a cookie? Gimmie a break, that is such a broad generalization it is absurd. I am a new parent and a cell is a bit of piece of mind that allows me to relax and enjoy the film when I have a 18 month old at home in the hands of a 13 year old. Getting out of the house for a night out with the wife to catch the latest release is a way to unwind. That being said, my wife turns her phone off and I keep mine on vibrate. Pretty simple concept. So it all comes back to this astute observation:


I'd rather theaters brought back ushers and expelled rude people. The problem is people's lack of courtesy, not the telephones.

So those that want to block a signal are basically saying they want a legal way to enforce common courtesy. Makes perfect sense to me. :rolleyes:

[awmurray]

Not only should they block the phones, but anyone caught opening one during the movie (with the LCD display that can be seen 20 aisles back) should be removed from the theater and flogged.

[Star Wars Guy]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."

I'd rather theaters brought back ushers and expelled rude people. The problem is people's lack of courtesy, not the telephones.

Totally agree. Those of us that have kids home with a babysitter can understand. However, there is no excuse not to turn the phone to vibrate before you step foot in the theater.

[Josh H]

Sounds reasonable, but more like an open invitation to the talkers at the non blocked showing.


Nah, they could still show the ads saying not to talk or use the phone in the theater, put phones on vibrate and go to the lobby to return calls etc.

[awmurray]

What did we do before movie theatres? We survived then didn't we?

Yea, but that's completely different. That would be like banning all phones because some people make crank calls.

I wasn't aware that we had a National Situation in movie theaters before cell phones because of the tons of "emergency calls" that were missed.

[Patman]

The people not in favor of cell phone blocking inside theaters just want their cake and eat it too.

[awmurray]

It seems that some aren't arguing about the original poll. The poll asks should it be legal for theaters to do this...not whether or not they should.



You are correct. Let me be perfectly clear, then.

Not only should it be legal to block cell phones in theaters, but we should beat the fuck out those who choose to use cell phones in theaters.

[wendersfan]

This wouldn't affect me much, since I can't get a signal in the movie theater I frequent most often anyway. Probably because it's underground. :)

[Giles]

Emergency situations weren't a problem pre-cell phone days. They can get up goto a payphone and call the sitter.

I agree, if you can't set aside two hours of your time to watch and enjoy a movie, then you shouldn't be there in the first place.

[Giles]

Go for it. Shit, this one fucker in the theater when I saw Kong was recording most of the film on his fucking fone. The LCD screen of which is VERY distracting. I couldn't believe nobody around him said anything so I finally yelled out "turn off that cell fone"

I was at preview of 'Mystic River' and at the screening there was patroling of the theatre with night goggles to see if any was doing this kind of shit. They should have ticket takers not only take tickets but patrol the auditoriums at random and kick these type of video pirates out.

[devilshalo]

Emergency situations weren't a problem pre-cell phone days. They can get up goto a payphone and call the sitter.
And just how would they know to go call the babysitter if an emergency should arise? Are they psychic or something?

So you don't turn your cell phone off when you're in theaters?
No, I don't. I set it to silent. A quick flip to see who it is and I can either let it go to voicemail or I can excuse myself and take the call.

[CliffStephenson]

Gimmie a break, that is such a broad generalization it is absurd.

And yet, apparently right on the money.

I am a new parent

What, do you want a cookie?

and a cell is a bit of piece of mind that allows me to relax and enjoy the film when I have a 18 month old at home in the hands of a 13 year old.

Perhaps, as a parent, its your responsibility to place your new child in the hands of someone who automatically gives you peace of mind. Your parents didn't have a cell phone when they left you and you made it through just fine for the few hours I'm sure they occasionally went out. I shouldn't be made to pay for your parenting decisions simply because you feel you have the right to impose that on me.

Getting out of the house for a night out with the wife to catch the latest release is a way to unwind.

And you have every right to do so, but not at the expense of others in the theater.

That being said, my wife turns her phone off and I keep mine on vibrate. Pretty simple concept.

Yes, I can almost see you now, "Yes everyone, cell phones and pagers off... except for me because I have an 18 month old. I'm much better than you and have every right to ignore this rule." And why turn one of them off? What if there is an emergency and the person on the other end doesn't have your number, only your wife's? This seems like a half-assed attempt to actually observe the rules without actually having to do so.

So it all comes back to this astute observation: The "me first" attitude.

See above... You can say that I'm taking a "me first" attitude by not wanting to be disturbed by phones during a movie, but the difference is that my "me first" doesn't disturb others.

So those that want to block a signal are basically saying they want a legal way to enforce common courtesy. Makes perfect sense to me. :rolleyes:

If people actually observed common courtesy on their own, there would be no need to have it forced on them. While you seem to want to distance yourself from the troublemakers, you're still a member of the club.

It's like making an argument for driving while you're drunk. You're not supposed to do it, but what if you have an emergency? Is it ok then? Is it ok to cut in front of people in line at the bank because you feel you have an emergency? Can you talk out loud during a movie if it's an emergency?

Using a cell anywhere you damn well feel like isn't a right. It a privilege that some feel entitled to burden others with. I very broadly stated that if you were fighting this, you were the target of this and you did nothing but reinforce my point.

Cliff

[awmurray]

No, I don't. I set it to silent. A quick flip to see who it is and I can either let it go to voicemail or I can excuse myself and take the call.

Does it light up like a beacon? That's just as annoying as it ringing to me. I can see those things 20 aisles away. Very annoying. It is possible to do it discretely, I suppose, but I see them all the time.

[Rival11]

What we all really want to know is why there is no ranking under CliffStephenson's
username.

[devilshalo]

Does it light up like a beacon? That's just as annoying as it ringing to me. I can see those things 20 aisles away. Very annoying. It is possible to do it discretely, I suppose, but I see them all the time.
Nope, I place my hand over it and keep it in my lap. I also take it out to look at the time.

[UAIOE]

Just playing the devil's advocate for a moment, but if it's selfish for someone to bring their cell phone to the movies because it may or may not be important to be able to be contacted, isn't it just as selfish to consider your movie going experience to be more important than their situation? I mean, it's like driving. If you are driving down the road and some guy speeds up past you and then he cuts you off and jets down the road, we automatically think "frickin jerk!" But that guy could be late to work. He could be on the way to the hospital from work to try and get there before his wife gives birth. He could be going to a friend's house who is about to commit suicide. He could be trying to escape from the police because he just robbed a bank. I mean, in the long run, who is being selfish?


I think its funny that you mention people wanting cellphones off being "selfish" yet you mention a guy cutting you off because he robbed a bank.

Talk about being selfish. :lol:


Honestly, i dont understand why people have a problem. People managed just fine before the advent of cellphones and i dont see why blocking phones would be such a problem.

If you are going out for the night without the kids, leave the number to where you are going.

If you are a Doctor wanting to see a movie then go on a day when you aren't on call.

With all this talk, it makes it seem like living in the 1940's-1980's was so painful because nobody could be reached instantly. :rolleyes:

[devilshalo]

Yes, I can almost see you now, "Yes everyone, cell phones and pagers off... except for me because I have an 18 month old. I'm much better than you and have every right to ignore this rule." And why turn one of them off? What if there is an emergency and the person on the other end doesn't have your number, only your wife's? This seems like a half-assed attempt to actually observe the rules without actually having to do so.
What? You have super hearing that a phone on vibrate is annoying? Next time you cough or wheeze or clear your throat during a movie or performance, can I have you taken out of the theater for being annoying? How about at a fanboy film like Star Wars? Can I have you removed for that annoying clapping and cheering?

[Michael Corvin]

And yet, apparently right on the money.

Perhaps, as a parent, its your responsibility to place your new child in the hands of someone who automatically gives you peace of mind. ..

yada...yada...yada...more nosensical rambling...

:lol: So you have NEVER worried about leaving your child with someone? No matter how much you trust them? Or do you even have a child? By your response I'm going to have to lean towards the latter. BTW, our 13 year old babysitter is trained in first aid and CPR. That doesn't make a parent worry any less.

That is an awful lot of time spent replying to someone who never said he talks on his phone in the theater. I keep it on vibrate. psst... that means silent, you can't hear it, and head to the lobby if I do get a buzz. Sheesh. Quite a bit of reading between the lines and assumptions on your part. FYI, I hate it as much as you when someone's phone goes off. It happened this past weekend. But along with the phone issue all the kicking of seats, talking, making noise with straw/soda container, crumpling candy wrappers, etc., common courtesy is the problem. Not cell phones.

It read as if you were so quick to formulate an opinion that you weren't paying attention to what you were actually reading. So no, I cannot be "lumped in" with the broad generalizations that people that leave their phones on are all morons. 1.Its on vibrate. 2. I leave the theater. 3. In 6 years I've only had 1 call during a movie. Not everyone with a phone is the devil, a lot DO have common courtesy and are responsible human beings.

BTW, there are a lot of BAD analogies in this thread. :lol: I'll throw another out there. Those that want to block signals because of a few who don't follow the rules are like the people that ban the use of "Christmas Tree" in favor of "Holiday Tree" because of the complaints of a select few people. Bah humbug.

[Jackskeleton]

Holiday means Holy day. So in the same sense, Christmas Tree means the same as Holiday Tree. So in a sense, you're being as anti-religious as those trying to get rid of Christmas. ;) but that's besides the point.

If you can't devote two hours of your time that you can't put off a phone call either known or unknown then you really shouldn't brave the tough task of going to the movies. Sure, things in life can come up, but you have voice mail for a reason.

If you walk into a theatre that has it posted then I don't see why you aren't responsible for the actions you make. If I don't want to have my phone call recorded I don't conduct my business through telephone lines when talking to customer support.

[fumanstan]

Seeing the glow of cell phone screens in the audience from people checking text messages or who's calling can be pretty annoying too.

I highly doubt that the majority of people would have the courtesy of leaving the theater to take a call or check a message. Especially just to make sure that the call isn't about an emergency.

[nodeerforamonth]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."

You could do the same thing you would've done in the years before cel phones!

[CliffStephenson]

:lol: So you have NEVER worried about leaving your child with someone? No matter how much you trust them? Or do you even have a child? By your response I'm going to have to lean towards the latter. BTW, our 13 year old babysitter is trained in first aid and CPR. That doesn't make a parent worry any less.

That point is irrelevant:
If I don't have children - I shouldn't be burdened by the side effects of yours.
and
If I do have children - I shouldn't be burdened by the side effects of yours.


That is an awful lot of time spent replying to someone who never said he talks on his phone in the theater. I keep it on vibrate. psst... that means silent, you can't hear it, and head to the lobby if I do get a buzz. Sheesh.

But the bottom lines still remains... That despite the theater requesting that all cell phones be turned off during the show, you still feel "above the law" enough to think the rules don't apply to you.

FYI, I hate it as much as you when someone's phone goes off. It happened this past weekend.

No, you hate it when someone else's phone goes off. If your's went off, there'd obviously be a good reason.

But along with the phone issue all the kicking of seats, talking, making noise with straw/soda container, crumpling candy wrappers, etc., common courtesy is the problem. Not cell phones.

I agree 100%. People in the last decade have taken to the movies like they're still watching a movie at home without regards to their surroundings. Now they bring their phones, their meals, and their general lack of consideration. I have every right to pay my $14.00 and watch a movie without distractions. But people have no right to disrupt that just because they also bought a ticket.

It read as if you were so quick to formulate an opinion that you weren't paying attention to what you were actually reading. So no, I cannot be "lumped in" with the broad generalizations that people that leave their phones on are all morons.


No, I was able to so quickly formulate an opinion because it was fairly obvious that you feel superior enough to disregard the rules of the theater. A point you haven't been able to refute.

1.Its on vibrate. 2. I leave the theater. 3. In 6 years I've only had 1 call during a movie. Not everyone with a phone is the devil, a lot DO have common courtesy and are responsible human beings.

But there is one simple point that I'm not going to let go of because it was the initial thing that you originally targeted me for...

Why are you so Goddamn special as to be able to disregard the rules of the theater when they ask for cell phones to be shut off? Why are you so much better or more important than me? The reason why this is even a topic is because there are a lot of people who think the same way and now it's gotten out of hand.

So just answer the one question... When the theater says (in language that is pretty direct), "Please turn off your cell phones and pagers," why do you feel you have the right to disregard that?

Cliff

[Giles]

With all this talk, it makes it seem like living in the 1940's-1980's was so painful because nobody could be reached instantly. :rolleyes:

exactly - I could care less if no one could reach me - no big whoop for me.

[Josh H]

So just answer the one question... When the theater says (in language that is pretty direct), "Please turn off your cell phones and pagers," why do you feel you have the right to disregard that?


To be fair, I have no real problem with someone that puts there phone on vibrate, glances at it, and leaves the theater to return the call.

No more distracting than someone getting up to go the the restroom, and less distracting that accepted noise like popcorn and all the other noise snacks they sell in the theaters.

It's the people who's ringer's go off, who actually answer calls in the theater, or who sit and send text messages through the whole movie that annoy the piss out of me.

[Brian Shannon]

No. "Little Timmy is in the emergency room. I tried to call you, but couldn't get through."

I'd rather theaters brought back ushers and expelled rude people. The problem is people's lack of courtesy, not the telephones.

So how did we all survive before cell phones? Silent pagers perhaps? Maybe if people set their phones to silent this would not be a problem but too many people just like to hear their phone ring their silly ringtone.

[Giles]

So how did we all survive before cell phones? Silent pagers perhaps? Maybe if people set their phones to silent this would not be a problem but too many people just like to hear their phone ring their silly ringtone.

it was called the third person connection - "you're mom called over here looking for you - you're in deep shit" ;)

[Michael Corvin]

That point is irrelevant:
If I don't have children - I shouldn't be burdened by the side effects of yours.
and
If I do have children - I shouldn't be burdened by the side effects of yours.



Gotcha. 0 children. People want to apply a blanket statement to all moviegoers I was illustrating why you can't. Every situation is different. Doctors, firefighters, parents, etc. all have busy lives and can't drop everything at the drop of a hat to go see a movie like single people. We have to make due with the time we have in our schedule. With films only lasting a few weeks in theaters we have to go when we can squeeze it in. If that means bringing a silent phone to the theater, so be it. It isn't hurting anyone.


But the bottom lines still remains... That despite the theater requesting that all cell phones be turned off during the show, you still feel "above the law" enough to think the rules don't apply to you.

No, you hate it when someone else's phone goes off. If your's went off, there'd obviously be a good reason.


rotfl So you have never gone over the speed limit? THAT is a law. We are talking about a rule- a rule mind you that is never broken since my phone makes zero noise. What is so hard to understand? My phone is silent. I get up and go to the lobby to check it. For all you know I am getting a drink or dropping a load. What do you care? It is quite obvious you don't know the difference between a ring and vibrate otherwise we wouldn't be having this discussion.


No, I was able to so quickly formulate an opinion because it was fairly obvious that you feel superior enough to disregard the rules of the theater. A point you haven't been able to refute.


Why am I superior? I'm bothering no one at all. I don't slurp my drink. I don't kick the seats. I don't talk. I don't eat candy. I don't throw popcorn. I don't shoot lasers at the screen, and my phone doesn't ring. It doesn't even leave my pocket. I don't get what you are so worked up about. I guess I it makes me superior b/c I have the only working silent/vibrating phone in existence. -ohbfrank-


Why are you so Goddamn special as to be able to disregard the rules of the theater when they ask for cell phones to be shut off? Why are you so much better or more important than me? The reason why this is even a topic is because there are a lot of people who think the same way and now it's gotten out of hand.

So just answer the one question... When the theater says (in language that is pretty direct), "Please turn off your cell phones and pagers," why do you feel you have the right to disregard that?

Because, like you said, I am the most important person in the theater, and I'm definitely better than everyone else in there. :rolleyes:

Let me reiterate... again. Like I stated in both my other posts and this one, MY PHONE IS SILENT. For all you know it is off. If it goes off, I leave and you think I am a patron that can't hold my beverage for very long. So then the question begs, "why are you so Goddamn special as to" ascertain the life history and judge every patron in the theater?

I'm just wondering where you picked up that supersonic hearing aid that can hear my vibrating phone. I don't get what is so hard to grasp here. As long as it doesn't ring & I'm not talking or text messaging or whatever on it, I'm not breaking any rules. Vibrate or off, it doesn't matter as long as I leave the theater, you are none the wiser, that is all I'm saying.

I guess from now on I should just bring my 18 month old baby to the movie with us instead of my silent phone, it seems to be the biggest problem, so there. A solution, and I'm still not breaking any rules.

[slavetotherave]

I think its funny that you mention people wanting cellphones off being "selfish" yet you mention a guy cutting you off because he robbed a bank.

Talk about being selfish. :lol:


Well, judging from the happy face I assume you got it, but in case some people didn't, the bank robber thing was obviously a joke.

[riley_dude]

I see people under, say, 30 using cell phones in theatres more than anyone else. What makes me angry is some of these younger kids (around 16-25) seem to want to talk to their friends on their phones or by text messaging the entire film. That blue glow. They should be ejected from the theatre right then and there.

[CliffStephenson]

You really didn't answer the question, so I'll just copy/paste it again:

Why are you so Goddamn special as to be able to disregard the rules of the theater when they ask for cell phones to be shut off?

Is the answer simply because you're sly enough to get away with it?

Gotcha. 0 children. People want to apply a blanket statement to all moviegoers I was illustrating why you can't. Every situation is different. Doctors, firefighters, parents, etc. all have busy lives and can't drop everything at the drop of a hat to go see a movie like single people.

That's not my problem. I have issues with my job and life, but I don't bring them everywhere with me. Parents, Doctors, and Firefighters all chose those paths and it shouldn't be up to everyone else to move out of their way. I couldn't get to a Q&A a few weeks ago because my job had me working around the clock, but I never expected them to reschedule it for me.

Why, because you have children, does the world have to make exceptions for you? I have things in my life that don't allow for me to be out of contact... I don't choose those times to go to the movies.

We have to make due with the time we have in our schedule. With films only lasting a few weeks in theaters we have to go when we can squeeze it in. If that means bringing a silent phone to the theater, so be it. It isn't hurting anyone.

But it is a problem, which is why this is now an issue. We have lots of rules and laws that were created simply because of the actions of a few.

rotfl So you have never gone over the speed limit? THAT is a law. We are talking about a rule- a rule mind you that is never broken since my phone makes zero noise.

But if I break that law and get caught enough times they don't let me drive anymore.

What is so hard to understand? My phone is silent. I get up and go to the lobby to check it. For all you know I am getting a drink or dropping a load. What do you care? It is quite obvious you don't know the difference between a ring and vibrate otherwise we wouldn't be having this discussion.

Trust me, I appreciate the lengths you go to to be discrete, but you started this by belittling my habit of following the rules in the theater. You go on and on about courtesy, but to disregard the cell phone rule just because you feel you are discrete about it is discourteous. There's no getting around that fact no matter how you'd like to spin it.

Why am I superior? I'm bothering no one at all. I don't slurp my drink. I don't kick the seats. I don't talk. I don't eat candy. I don't throw popcorn. I don't shoot lasers at the screen, and my phone doesn't ring. It doesn't even leave my pocket. I don't get what you are so worked up about. I guess I it makes me superior b/c I have the only working silent/vibrating phone in existence. -ohbfrank-

And I'm not an arsonist/hijacker, yet I can't bring a lighter onto an airplane. I don't try to get around it and smuggle one on simply because I know I'm not one of the "problem" travelers and think the rules don't apply to me.

Because, like you said, I am the most important person in the theater, and I'm definitely better than everyone else in there. :rolleyes:

And you've done nothing to convince me you think otherwise.

Let me reiterate... again. Like I stated in both my other posts and this one, MY PHONE IS SILENT. For all you know it is off. If it goes off, I leave and you think I am a patron that can't hold my beverage for very long. So then the question begs, "why are you so Goddamn special as to" ascertain the life history and judge every patron in the theater?

I'm not, I'm judging you based on things you said. "Even though we're asked to turn our phones off, I don't because I'm different."

I'm just wondering where you picked up that supersonic hearing aid that can hear my vibrating phone. I don't get what is so hard to grasp here. As long as it doesn't ring & I'm not talking or text messaging or whatever on it, I'm not breaking any rules. Vibrate or off, it doesn't matter as long as I leave the theater, you are none the wiser, that is all I'm saying.

I totally agree. But this is targeted at a more widespread and rude group. People just haven't gotten the hint and as a result, everyone has to be targeted. The people who are the real problems don't think they're the problem either. You ever try to hush somebody talking during a film? They react to you like you're bothering them.

[slavetotherave]

I think the point is that no matter how many rules and regulations you post and enforce there's always SOMEONE who will be annoying. But to block cell phone usage all together would just inconvenience those who are more reasonable about it, like the ones who turn on vibrate and take their calls outside.

In a public place you can't get rid of annoying people. There will always be something to piss you off in theaters. Talkers, kids, really tall people that sit right in front of you. Putting up cell phone blockers would probably just make those offensive people talk louder. At my theater our manager told us that our building blocked out most signals... anywhere in there you only got from zero to one bar of reception. That didn't stop people from trying. "HELLO?! I CAN'T HEAR YOU. YOU'RE BREAKING UP... I ONLY HAVE ONE BAR HERE." It just makes things worse. The people we're talking about obviously never cared for common courtesy in the first place.

Usually, those kinds of restrictions only hurt the people it doesn't intend to. You can't satisfy everyone. It's safer to just deal with everything on a case by case basis and not an across the board punishment. And I still stand by the fact that, yes, it's selfish that they put themselves above everyone else around them, but lack of patience is also a selfish mindset. Wiggle room is needed in all aspects of life. Nothing is air tight.

[hmurchison]

Geez this is such a non issue. Sure a phone may go off..deal with it. If it becomes a problem go ask for your money back.

I'm not going ask someone to risk being out of touch potentially in time of an emergency to placate some grouch. Hate the occaisional phone going off....stay home.

[naughty jonny]

No. Primarily for emergency reasons. Remember that those people who DO have an emergency can always leave the movie to take the call. Vibrate/silent mode is pretty easy to acheive.

If someone IS talking during the movie (be it on a phone or just chatting to the person next to them), then just <b>kick them out</b> and don't let them see the end of the film. If a cell phone rings so that everyone can hear, <b>kick them out</b> and don't let them see the end of the film. Pure and simple.

Also, if they're doing blocking inside the theatre, unless it's extremely efficient, won't that also block the lobby? Great way to ensure that people use the expensive payphone in the lobby :)

[Jon2]

This is taking on the tone of those discussions about whether it's right or wrong to bring infants/small children to movies. Ridiculous going-around-in-circle arguements with no resolution, while certain parties kept rationalizing one after another what-if scenarios for justifying why parents have every right to engage in social rudeness and interfere with others, and why those others should more "understanding/accomodating."

Told ya so. :cool:

[Michael Ballack]

Told ya so. :cool:

I think my side won the argument though. Just look at the polls. :p

[slavetotherave]

This is taking on the tone of those discussions about whether it's right or wrong to bring infants/small children to movies. Ridiculous going-around-in-circle arguements with no resolution, while certain parties kept rationalizing one after another what-if scenarios for justifying why parents have every right to engage in social rudeness and interfere with others, and why those others should more "understanding/accomodating."

Yeah, and you could literally say that about just about any arguement. Astute.

I think my side won the argument though. Just look at the polls. :p

Touché. However, this IS a forum made for people so into movies we buy them in bulk and aspire to own massive home theater systems, etc etc... it is a little biased.

[Michael Corvin]

You really didn't answer the question, so I'll just copy/paste it again:

Why are you so Goddamn special as to be able to disregard the rules of the theater when they ask for cell phones to be shut off?

Is the answer simply because you're sly enough to get away with it?

round and round it goes, when this discussion finds a solution no one will no. :shrug:

If a tree falls in the woods, does it make a sound?

If you are in a dark theater and you see me get up and leave, did I break some kind of rule?

The answer would be no, Mr. Grissom. That is ALL the information you would have to go on, plain and simple. That is what it boils down to. You wouldn't have a fucking clue why I was leaving the theater if I hadn't posted here and told you that I kept my phone on silent mode. Does that make me special? No. Does it make me sly? I guess, if you discount the fact that is why the feature is on the phone in the first place. So I guess that is your big answer you have been wanting. I am so sly to use the technology for the benefit of other theater goers. Damn me! Not all PSA's say the same thing, btw, some say Silence all pagers and phones, so again, no I'm not breaking some golden rule you seem to be hung up on.

Look at the poll results. 21% against. That is a good size percentage, especially since the demo on this forum is mid-20s to mid-30s. So 21% (was 25% earlier) have enough of a legitimate reason to be against this, even if only 3 of us are defending our choice.

I totally agree. But this is targeted at a more widespread and rude group.

Of which I am not a part of. So why continue attacking me? For fun? Convenience since those people won't speak up? You turn your phone off. Great for you. I put mine in silent mode for the same effect. Great for me. We both get what we want. Can we move on?

And lastly:
And I'm not an arsonist/hijacker, yet I can't bring a lighter onto an airplane. I don't try to get around it and smuggle one on simply because I know I'm not one of the "problem" travelers and think the rules don't apply to me.

:up: to comparing cell phone users to terrorists. Highlight of the thread so far. Definitely sig worthy material.

[awmurray]

Geez this is such a non issue. Sure a phone may go off..deal with it. If it becomes a problem go ask for your money back.


It's a non issue to you, but read the first post: theater owners want to block cell phones. Not a minority of "grouches".


I'm not going ask someone to risk being out of touch potentially in time of an emergency to placate some grouch. Hate the occaisional phone going off....stay home.

And this is why theater owners want to block cell phones: because people are staying at home.

[awmurray]

Touché. However, this IS a forum made for people so into movies we buy them in bulk and aspire to own massive home theater systems, etc etc... it is a little biased.

Not to interrupt, but the theater owners want to block cell phones. They wouldn't do that unless their market research indicated that a good majority of their customers want it also.

[Jackskeleton]

So wait.. Doctors on call can still bring babies to the theater?

This is great P.R. to get folks going back to the theater when they realize that assholes wont ruin their trip.

[slavetotherave]

Not to interrupt, but the theater owners want to block cell phones. They wouldn't do that unless their market research indicated that a good majority of their customers want it also.

Well, you know, the polls he was referring to were the ones on this board. And if it was such a clear cut majority of the market researchers' findings, wouldn't they have just gone ahead and done it? I think the fact that this is debated at all shows that there is an arguement for both sides, and that neither one can totally invalidate the other's claims.

[Jackskeleton]

Well, you know, the polls he was referring to were the ones on this board. And if it was such a clear cut majority of the market researchers' findings, wouldn't they have just gone ahead and done it? I think the fact that this is debated at all shows that there is an arguement for both sides, and that neither one can totally invalidate the other's claims.


Did you read the first post? They want to do it. So it's not a matter of it being done at the drop of the hat but that they have done some research beyond this thread and feel that it would be a good move to bring back the lackluster theatre turn outs these days.

[Libby]

Cellphone talkers seem rare when I go to the theatre...its just those fucking kids that seem all too common.

[slavetotherave]

Did you read the first post? They want to do it. So it's not a matter of it being done at the drop of the hat but that they have done some research beyond this thread and feel that it would be a good move to bring back the lackluster theatre turn outs these days.

Lackluster theater turn outs, I feel, are more due to lackluster films and more interest in DVDs. The movies are released on the shelves much sooner than 10 years ago, and as a result it's easier to just wait for it. There's so much more than cell phones that cause people to wait it out.

[CliffStephenson]

Of which I am not a part of. So why continue attacking me? For fun?

Actually, it's pretty much a vendetta at this point. You took a swipe at me when I said that I always turned my phone off, as you're supposed to do. To which you responded, "What, do you want a cookie?" So you were busting my balls about being as courteous as possible, while you were openly admitting to rather douchey behavior over an ongoing 6 year period. If you want to slam me for following the rules, be sure your nose is just as clean and someone can't call bullshit on you.

Speaking of which, if your phone has only rung once in the past 6 years... your child is 18 months old and lets add another 9 months for the obvious pins and needles pregnancy that you had to always be on call for, that leaves almost 4 years pre-pregnancy where you still kept your phone on. What was so godawful touch and go those first 4 years? Somehow I just get the feeling that this was your MO all along.

I have nothing further to contribute to this discussion. There just seem to be places where a cell phone is inappropriate, no matter how discrete you are about it (Movies, Plays, Weddings, Funerals, Libraries...). As others have said... If your life is so important you can't be out of contact or you're so worried about something happening while you're away for two hours, don't leave the fucking house!

[matome]

Does it light up like a beacon? That's just as annoying as it ringing to me. I can see those things 20 aisles away. Very annoying. It is possible to do it discretely, I suppose, but I see them all the time.

:up: Looks like lightning bugs infest the theater when we go to a weekend showing.

[Michael Corvin]

Actually, it's pretty much a vendetta at this point. You took a swipe at me when I said that I always turned my phone off, as you're supposed to do. To which you responded, "What, do you want a cookie?" So you were busting my balls about being as courteous as possible, while you were openly admitting to rather douchey behavior over an ongoing 6 year period. If you want to slam me for following the rules, be sure your nose is just as clean and someone can't call bullshit on you.

Speaking of which, if your phone has only rung once in the past 6 years... your child is 18 months old and lets add another 9 months for the obvious pins and needles pregnancy that you had to always be on call for, that leaves almost 4 years pre-pregnancy where you still kept your phone on. What was so godawful touch and go those first 4 years? Somehow I just get the feeling that this was your MO all along.


Fine and dandy I can take all you dish out, & the cookie thing was meant as a joke, but you still fail to point out how exactly I(or any other silent phone user) am/are disturbing other patrons or contributing to the problem with a silent phone. You can say I'm/we are breaking a rule by all you want, but that is a pretty thin arguement if you don't even know if I own a phone, much less have it on.

back to the actual topic:
There are many more issues with theaters that contribute to a non-enjoyable experience that can all be solved with either common courtesy or customer service. The theater owners have zero interest in customer service so they are picking the easiest target in a way they don't have to get their hands dirty. Complaints go in one ear and out the other. "Here is a free pass to come back." Sorry, that isn't an acceptable solution to the problem. It doesn't even address the problem.

The phone issue has actually slowed around here. Much like the laser pointers it has all but disappeared. Too many realize how many hate it and give them shit in the theater and how it isn't cool. I think the problem will work itself out, it just takes time, not drastic measures. It used to be a few people per movie a couple years back, now, at least for me, it is once every other movie or so. It all sounds like an expensive and drastic measure grasping at straws to get more people in the seats for a trend that is dying down.

So is it still a huge problem for everyone else? Or once you think about it, does it seem to be dying a slow death compared to a year ago? Two years? Getting worse?

[Giles]

what I find funny, is that after the 'film' reminder to silence your phones - the phones and their various turn off chimes are varied and whimsical to hear coming from various parts of the auditorium- are there NOT any phones that shut off 'quietly'.

[joeblow69]

This is great P.R. to get folks going back to the theater when they realize that assholes wont ruin their trip.
Even if their cell phones are blocked, assholes will still find a way to be assholes in the movie theatre.

I think a lot of you people are being WAY overly sensitive. Oh no, someone is text messaging, and I see a faint blue light! Oh the horror! Cry me a freakin river...

[awmurray]

Well, you know, the polls he was referring to were the ones on this board. And if it was such a clear cut majority of the market researchers' findings, wouldn't they have just gone ahead and done it? I think the fact that this is debated at all shows that there is an arguement for both sides, and that neither one can totally invalidate the other's claims.

No, they haven't done it because it is against Federal law to actively jam an electronic device (i.e. block cell phone usage). The article is saying that they are petitioning the FCC to allow active blocking of cell phone usage. This is a big step and I think it shows that their market research determined that this would be a popular move.

[awmurray]

:up: Looks like lightning bugs infest the theater when we go to a weekend showing.

When I was at King Kong this weekend, a group of people directly in front of me opened one up. It is very distracting. I think they got a message or something because they passed it around between themselves (4 of them) so they could all see how clever it was. At one point, it looked like they were taking a picuture of the screen as if to say, "Look I'm cool, I'm watching King Kong".

[Mopower]

I leave my cell phone in the car when I go to the theater. Hell I leave it in the car when I go to the grocery store. If someone calls they can leave a message. If it's an emergency I doubt me knowing about it the second it happens is going to save anyones life. Cell phones are the most useful yet annoying things ever invented.

[resinrats]

So an question about Doctors and Firefighters. Are they on call 24/7 that they can't go a few hours unreachable? They probably have times when they are off-duty but have to be able to be reached but I can't see that being all the time. They could never take a trip or travel any distance from their home since they can't be at work in a a short time. If you are not on duty or on call, they should have no issues with not being able to be reached. As for others, tough. As pointed before, there was a time when there were no cell phones and the world kept going fine so it can still go on without cells in a movie.

[Fok]

I say block them, if they need to talk to someone, then they shouldn't be in the movie in the first place.

[Xander]

I say block em. Doctors, firefighters, parents, whatever. If you're at a point in your job (on call, etc.) where you can't be unreachable for 2 or 3 hours, then don't go see a movie. Christ, my parents went to see movies when I was a kid. They didn't have cell phones. I survived, and so did all my siblings.

In a perfect world, everyone would have their cell phone on vibrate or silent and get up and leave the theater to answer it. If everyone did that, then I wouldn't be voting for blocking them. But since so many people in my theaters aren't doing that, fuck them. If you can't be without communication for 2 hours, don't go to a movie.

[Jackskeleton]

Even if their cell phones are blocked, assholes will still find a way to be assholes in the movie theatre.

I think a lot of you people are being WAY overly sensitive. Oh no, someone is text messaging, and I see a faint blue light! Oh the horror! Cry me a freakin river...


And you aren't being sensitive about this topic? Sorry, no river will be cried. The fact is that theater owners see that this move can potentially bring back those who have written off going to the theater for this very reason.

If the theater owners are pushing it then it has to be something they have researched as part of the problem.

It's not a matter of one or two blue lights coming on or even a space ship crashing into the theater. It's the issue that these elements take you out of watching a film when you are already paying a high price. The benefits of going to the movies have been declining with dvds being rushed out and the quality of experience you are getting in theaters. If this is one way to balance out and make it worth it to go to the movies then they want to push it.

[Rival11]

This thread needs a hug

[joeblow69]

Cell phones are not the problem. People are the problem. The public can not be expected to act civilized without constant supervision. There needs to be a security guard in every movie, and right before the show starts, there should be a spotlight put on him, with the announcement "This is your security guard Steve, who will be supervising this presentation. If anyone causes any type of disturbence during the film, Steve will escort you to the lobby."

People who are ejected from movies should have their personal info taken, and if they get ejected more than twice, they should be banned from the theater for a set number of days (or months).

Maybe then people will learn to behave, and leave their cells on vibrate, keep their damn mouths shut, stop kicking seats, keep their kids from running around like little demon spawn, etc...

[Michael Ballack]

Cell phones are not the problem. People are the problem. The public can not be expected to act civilized without constant supervision. There needs to be a security guard in every movie, and right before the show starts, there should be a spotlight put on him, but the announcement "This is your security guard Steve, who will be supervising this presentation. If anyone causes any type of disturbence during the film, Steve will escort you to the lobby."

People who are ejected from movies should have their personal info taken, and if they get ejected more than twice, they should be banned from the theater for a set number of days (or months).

Maybe then people will learn to behave, and leave their cells on vibrate, keep their damn mouths shut, stop kicking seats, keep their kids from running around like little demon spawn, etc...

This would happen on Earth 2. It's sort of sad but true the comment you made about the public can't behave without supervision. It's too bad that parents haven't taught their kids about manners and how you are supposed to act differently in public then when you are at home. Very sad.

[cdollaz]

For all you know I am...dropping a load.

http://www-user.rhrk.uni-kl.de/~jordi/Persoenlich/BeavisButthead1-1.jpg

Uh huh huh huh!

[cdollaz]

As long as people put them on vibrate and leave the theater, then that is fine. It is no different than some fat ass crawling over me to go to the bathroom or back to the concession line. The problem isn't cell phones, it's that there are a certain percentage of people who are selfish assholes and if you take away their phones, they have 10 other ways to annoy people.

If you want to stop annoying everyone, then addition to cell phones, the following should be banned from theaters:

Teenagers
Smelly people (bad breath or body odor)
Fat asses who invade others space
Small bladdered people
Tall people
Hungry people
People who arrive late to the theater
Etc.

[riley_dude]

http://www-user.rhrk.uni-kl.de/~jordi/Persoenlich/BeavisButthead1-1.jpg

Uh huh huh huh!

As long as you dont shoot a load.

[harpo787]

Well, after reading 5 pages of it (got tired about half way thru the 5th, didn't bother with the 6th), I must say that I'm no fan of cell phone usage in the theater. Should cell phone blockers be legal in theaters? Sure. It should also be mandatory that they let you know this several times. At the ticket booth. On the screen with the slideshow ads. People who need to have their phones present (and functional) in theaters will simply stop frequenting that establishment. Theater owners will have to accept that loss for the luxury of having the blockers.

The little "debate" that carried on for a few pages between two folks got kind of redundant.
"Phones must be turned OFF"
"I silence mine."
"That's breaking the rule, it must be OFF"
"It's silent, who do I bother?"
"It's breaking the rule..." repeat infinitely.

It's probably safe to assume that theaters have different displays etc. in regards to cellphones. I know that in the few theaters that I frequent, it always says "SILENCE your phones" and "SILENCE is golden." That doesn't say "turn it off" to me. That is one way to make the phone silent, yes, but there are other ways.

However, there are those who, while their phones are silent/vibrate, when they check the # to see who's calling, they'll often hold their phone up. So there it is, illuminating the whole damn theater.

As it was previously stated, it all comes down to common courtesy.
1. SILENCE your phones. DON'T expose the LCD any longer than is absolutely necessary.
2. Yes, you do have to move your legs from time to time. I understand that. Please be considerate of the person in front of you. When I shift my legs around, I take about 30 seconds to uncross my legs and rearrange myself. Why so long? Because I'm making sure I don't hit the chair in front of me.
3. The food you consume is noisy. Paper and plastic bags make noise. Don't rustle the damn bag, just leave it open and grab your food.
4. When you eat, close your mouth when you begin to chew. This applies EXTRA to popcorn. Don't crunch out loud damn it. If you are unable to put your lips together before you begin to chew, you have TOO MUCH in your mouth.
5. Please try not to talk to the person you're with during the film. If you must, work out hand cues. Learn sign language. To hear your commentary during the film is NOT my idea of a good time.

Why do I still go to the theater? I guess because it's habit. Also, the above listed items don't happen TOO often, but when they do, they seem EXTRA loud.

[Rockmjd23]

Again, if you can't spend 2 hours away from your phone, don't go to the fucking movies.
I agree. Also, if you can't afford to pay for 2 different movies and frequently theater-hop, don't go to the fucking movies. ;)

[RayChuang]

...I think the best solution is NOT the use of active blockers, for the reason I cited in my earlier message.

The use of passive blockers (e.g., metal mesh shielding built into the screening room walls) are vastly preferable, and combined with strong warnings all over the theater about cellphones and pagers not working inside screening rooms should mean the least inconvenience as far as everyone is concerned.

[Duder]

I know that I can't have sex in the middle of Space Mountain, so I do it somewhere else as well.
:lol: :up:

[kenbuzz]

Here's a novel solution.... why not block phones/pagers in specific theatres within a multiplex and allow them in others? If a flick was showing on two or more screens, moviegoers could choose either the "Phone" or "No Phone" screen. All the teens would go to one, I would go to the other.

[awmurray]

Here's a novel solution.... why not block phones/pagers in specific theatres within a multiplex and allow them in others? If a flick was showing on two or more screens, moviegoers could choose either the "Phone" or "No Phone" screen. All the teens would go to one, I would go to the other.

That couldn't really work since it would effectively double the number of required screens currently used.

But I really like the idea of all the teeny boppers going into a separate theater...

[SMB-IL]

I just spent a good portion of my lunch hour reading this thread hoping to find a good reason why people even need to have a cell phone in their possession in the theatre and couldn't. Cell phones are a gift AND a curse. As many have said previously in this thread -- 10-15 years ago there were no to very few cell phones and people were fine. Emergency? You found out about it when you got home. People lived and people died and the world goes 'round.... It's a convenience, NOT a necessity! Two years ago, I dropped my home landline in favor of a cell line only and I still leave my phone in the car when I go into a theatre.

This is a HOT topic for me because it's yet another item on the list of selfish me, me, me, me, me things that ignorant assholes have become used to having that they think they just can't live without! Well, this and talking and crunching and crinkling and whispering and kicking -- Ugh! It takes a 20 mule team to get me to a theatre anymore....

[BravesMG]

Not to throw more gas on the fire, but in all three of my local theaters it does state that cell phones must be turned off. I agree that if that rule can't be followed then I think it is somewhat disrespectful to the other customers in the audience. Even if the phone is silent, I would assume that they would still have to check their phone to see who is calling and determine if it is a true emergency, or just a normal call. But then again, what do I know, I actually do always follow the speed limit and I know I'm pissing off everybody else on the highway.

I still think it's reasonable for one showing a week to be adults only. I would bet based on the response that it would expand, especially on weekends.

[Michael Corvin]

I still think it's reasonable for one showing a week to be adults only. I would bet based on the response that it would expand, especially on weekends.

That is what I was thinking. Maybe test it, block out on Fri-Sat, the prime nights and the other nights, when the kiddies aren't out, Sun-Thurs. - no blockage.

Or maybe block during the first week of a films run, and let it go after that.

[Jackskeleton]

One of the reasons I love arclight. They have a 21+ showings. You can drink in there and with a crowd over 21 you elimate the yapping teens.

[Goldblum]

What did we do before movie theatres? We survived then didn't we?
Not little Timmy. :(

[DRG]

If you want to stop annoying everyone, then addition to cell phones, the following should be banned from theaters:

Teenagers
Smelly people (bad breath or body odor)
Fat asses who invade others space
Small bladdered people
Tall people
Hungry people
People who arrive late to the theater
Etc.

Don't forget inconsiderate parents (with their uncontrolled poorly behaved children, or babies too young to know better)... which have probably annoyed me more than all those other factors combined.

And the "People who arrive late to the theater" annoys me mainly when its some idiot who yells out to his buddies so he can find them. I also want to smack the people who show up 20 minutes late for a big blockbuster on opening night, and then loudly complain they can't find seats together.

One time we actually had people show up 20 minutes late (the actual movie had even started) with the nerve to ask us if we would move from our really good seats (that we showed up a half hour BEFORE showtime to get)... there were three of us, with an extra seat beside us, and there was four of them... to these terrible three seats in the corner of the front row (that nobody sits at because you honestly are looking at the screen at a 45 degree angle). Then they had the gall to call us nasty names when we refused.

Sorry, kinda getting off topic here... :)

[Hokeyboy]

I hate people.

[nodeerforamonth]

If you want to stop annoying everyone, then addition to cell phones, the following should be banned from theaters:

Teenagers
Smelly people (bad breath or body odor)
Fat asses who invade others space
Small bladdered people
Tall people
Hungry people
People who arrive late to the theater
Etc.

I agree 1000%. Once this starts happening, I will start to go to the theaters again!

I got a free ticket to see King Kong and I REFUSE to use it to go to the theater because of the babies screaming, people talking (not whispering, TALKING), & the cell phones going off. I'll wait 3 months for the DVD.

[mikehunt]

turn the theater into http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage

[fumanstan]

I agree 1000%. Once this starts happening, I will start to go to the theaters again!

I got a free ticket to see King Kong and I REFUSE to use it to go to the theater because of the babies screaming, people talking (not whispering, TALKING), & the cell phones going off. I'll wait 3 months for the DVD.

Why don't you just wait a month after the crowds thin out?

[mikehunt]

my best cell phone theater story is from one os fhte Scary Movie movies.
the scene where the chick gets murdered for talking on her cell phone in the theater.
there was some dumb loud bitch on her cell phone during that scene

[Patman]

Why don't you just wait a month after the crowds thin out?

Sometimes the film leaves the theater after 2-3 week run. Also, I'd rather not see a worn out print in the smallest shoebox of the multiplex for "old" films.

[Jon2]

Does anybody remember when cell phones first became widespread, the theater notices used to say "Please turn your cell phone off, or set it to silent mode (or vibrate)." ?

Now, they just say turn it off. And sometimes they don't say "please" anymore.

I think that says something.

[Patman]

Familiarity breeds contempt.

[eXcentris]

Why don't you just wait a month after the crowds thin out?

I don't get this either. People rush to see a film on opening weekend when they are bound to encounter all the unpleasant stuff they whine about afterwards.

[Sunday Morning]

cell phones, loud people, babies, loud children in R rated movies, seat kickers, people who bring outside food like hard candy, seeds, nuts and fried chicken, gum poppers, talkers, whisperers, people with big egos who think they own everything, pituitary cases, people with weak bladders, loud giggling teenage girls (unless they are feeling each other up), obnoxious senior citizens, arm rest hoggers, slobs, people who show up after the film has begun, bunny rabbits, those who talk while the trailers are playing, rats and cell phones once again--especially that stupid distracting light that illuminates from them ... should all stay home.

[illennium]

cell phones, loud people, babies, loud children in R rated movies, seat kickers, people who bring outside food like hard candy, seeds, nuts and fried chicken, gum poppers, talkers, whisperers, people with big egos who think they own everything, pituitary cases, people with weak bladders, loud giggling teenage girls (unless they are feeling each other up), obnoxious senior citizens, arm rest hoggers, slobs, people who show up after the film has begun, bunny rabbits, those who talk while the trailers are playing, rats and cell phones once again--especially that stupid distracting light that illuminates from them ... should all stay home.

No offense, but you've identified enough different groups of people that maybe it would just be easier if you stayed home instead.

[fumanstan]

Sometimes the film leaves the theater after 2-3 week run. Also, I'd rather not see a worn out print in the smallest shoebox of the multiplex for "old" films.

I doubt King Kong would be gone in 3 weeks. And he has a free ticket. I can't imagine the experience would be that bad to sour on a free show.

[Patman]

I was talking in general terms.

[Michael Corvin]

Sometimes the film leaves the theater after 2-3 week run. Also, I'd rather not see a worn out print in the smallest shoebox of the multiplex for "old" films.

I've had the best luck on Mon-Tues. nights after opening weekend. Virtually empty theaters, usually no more than a dozen people so you aren't sitting on top of each other, and you still get a clean print.

[matome]

Does anybody remember when cell phones first became widespread, the theater notices used to say "Please turn your cell phone off, or set it to silent mode (or vibrate)." ?

Now, they just say turn it off. And sometimes they don't say "please" anymore.

I think that says something.

Yeah, the Regal Cinemas theater here has a static slide like that that stays on the screen for about two minutes, with one of those HAL 9000 voices repeatedly saying "Please Turn Off Your Cell Phones." Creepy, but good.

[RayChuang]

turn the theater into http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage

I agree with your solution 100%, provided that the theater management clearly warn people about cellphones and pages not working in the screening room. :up:

I will NOT allow the use of active jammers since an RFI "leak" from the jammer could interfere with a nearby cellphone tower. :down:

[fumanstan]

I was talking in general terms.

Funny thing how that quote button works to address someone's post specifically :)

But in regards to a more general situation, I'm spoiled by having 5+ theaters within 15 minutes of me, so I'm ususally able to find recent movies playing, even though I typically see releases on the first or second week. Either way, watching a movie on the 2nd or 3rd week can't be too much worse then opening. That, or catch a matinee.

[nodeerforamonth]

Why don't you just wait a month after the crowds thin out?

Doesn't matter. When there's less people, people tend to make MORE noise, thinking that they're the only ones in there and they're not going to bother anyone (or bother less people since there's less people in there).

Not worth it.

[mikehunt]

I agree with your solution 100%, provided that the theater management clearly warn people about cellphones and pages not working in the screening room. :up:

I will NOT allow the use of active jammers since an RFI "leak" from the jammer could interfere with a nearby cellphone tower. :down:

totally agree about the use of active jammers being bad
too easy for it to have affect off the property