Wicked brought phones to theatres. They’re probably here to stay
Last weekend, Wicked made a triumphant return to the world of Oz, reintroducing millions to its magic and wonder while raking in millions at the box office. However, amidst all the excitement, audiences and culture critics alike have started to notice a troubling trend: a decline in theatre etiquette.
Culture writer Amil Niazi expressed her concerns in an interview with CBC News, highlighting behaviors such as talking during the movie, loudly singing along with the music, and most notably, using cellphones during screenings. Photos and footage of the movie’s opening title card have been circulating on social media platforms, captured by fans and influencers at the expense of other audience members.
Responses to criticisms of theatre phone use have been dismissive, with comments like “Chill lmao it’s not that deep” and “I’ll do what I want thanks” reflecting a lack of consideration for fellow movie-goers. Niazi emphasized the need for a correction in this behavior, as it detracts from the overall movie-watching experience.
Robert Cousins, Cineplex’s senior vice-president of film, offered a different perspective, attributing the shift in behavior to changing social norms influenced by social media use. He acknowledged that disruptive behavior tends to peak during the opening weekend of popular films but expressed reluctance to implement strict measures like confiscating phones or reintroducing ushers to police audience members.
While some smaller chains have taken a firm stance against cellphone use in theatres, Cineplex has opted to remind patrons through ads to be mindful of others without intervening directly. Cousins emphasized that the company aims to preserve the joy of the movie-going experience while acknowledging the influence of evolving cultural expectations.
Mathematician and author Cathy O’Neil weighed in on the role of shame in shaping behavior, noting that societal norms have become fragmented, leading to a lack of shared beliefs on what constitutes shame-worthy conduct. She highlighted the influence of social media platforms in incentivizing attention-seeking behavior, shifting priorities for many young people away from traditional etiquette.
O’Neil emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of disruptive behavior, pointing to social media companies as the entities that should be held accountable for fostering a culture of constant connectivity and validation-seeking. She underscored the challenge of reversing entrenched norms in a society where the majority may prioritize self-expression over communal consideration.
In conclusion, the debate over theatre etiquette in the age of social media highlights the need for a nuanced approach that balances individual freedoms with respect for shared spaces. As audiences adapt to changing norms, it remains essential to uphold a sense of communal responsibility and consideration for others in the pursuit of a positive movie-watching experience.
