Before the movie or trailers begin, it’s ok to talk. Try not to be too loud and stay in your seat (unless mother nature calls, or you need a snack). This is your time to get situated and comfortable. If there is a group of people being loud and obnoxious, turn around and look at them. Just glance at them as an acknowledgment. If they continue to be loud when the trailers start, turn around and say “shhhh”. If they choose to ignore you and continue being loud once the movie begins, get up and go find a manager. Don’t yell at them, because this creates more of a distraction. You also don’t want to piss off the wrong person and start a fight. Some theaters are really good about customer service and will address the situation for you.

Cell phones are a big no no in the theatre. Put your phone on silent or turn it off. There is even a commercial before the feature reminding you to do this (Silence is golden). If you forget and your phone starts ringing, turn it off. Do not answer the call and start talking during the movie. Try not to check your text messages either, because the light from your phone can be distracting.

Talking or commenting on the movie is one of my pet peeves. I understand if it’s a scary movie and you scream or get startled, but otherwise keep your comments to yourself. People who ask a lot of questions are extremely distracting. There is no need to ask “Why did he do that?” or “What’s that mean?” throughout the movie. Pay attention and watch the movie. Please spare us your lack of critical thinking and comprehension skills.

If you have a baby or small child, PLEASE do not bring them to the movies. Get a babysitter and leave them at home. Especially if its an R rated film and something highly inappropriate. A crying baby is the last thing I want to hear while watching a good movie. For example, I recently went to see horror film and there was a couple behind me with a baby. The baby was whimpering and crying during the first 15 minutes. Luckily, these people were smart enough to get up and leave. This is a perfect example of good movie etiquette.

Eating snacks at the movies is inevitable. The smell of the popcorn is sometimes so overpowering you can’t help but buy some. But loud eating and chewing is gross. Yes, the candy and popcorn is good but please try to keep your mouth closed while chewing. Movie goers don’t want to hear you eating like a ravenous dog. Opening candy packages can also be loud. I hate it when your just getting into a movie and someone is trying to wrestle open a bag of Skittles. Please try to open the candy before hand.

If you are feeling tired and can’t sit through a movie, then don’t go! There is nothing worse then watching an emotionally charged film and hearing someone snoring. If you hear someone snoring, and it continues, then go to a manager or employee. Don’t try to wake the person up on your own (unless you know them).

This next step applies mostly teenagers (and some adults). If someone is sitting in the seat directly in front of you don’t put your feet on the back of their seat. People don’t wanna be kicked in the head or back at the movies. Also, if you need to get up in the middle of the movie for the restroom, don’t make a scene. Quietly get out of your seat and say “excuse me” if you have to walk passed people. I know it’s dark and sometimes hard to see, but try not to step on their feet on the way out.