How to Deal With a Loud Person in a Movie Theater

Nothing ruins your movie night faster than a loud person in the theater. Your first thought might be to dump your hot-buttered popcorn over their head. But wait; have you seen what movie popcorn prices are lately? Learn how to deal with a loud person in a theater and keep hold of your popcorn.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Politely give a “shush” and hope the person gets the hint.

2. Confront the person in a civilized manner. Tell the person that they are disturbing the film for everyone in the theater and politely ask that they be quiet. Be courteous, but be sure they understand your request.

3. For people that continue to be loud, confront them again, this time presenting a solution that you consider reasonable. Such as, stepping outside to answer the phone or disciplining their raucous child in the lobby.

4. Tell the usher about the problem. Chances are other patrons have complained or want to complain. Wait for the problem to be settled.

5. For theaters without ushers, visit the ticket desk and inform them of the problem. A manager will handle it promptly.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay calm. People feed off of emotions during a confrontation. Getting upset gives the loudmouth fuel to use against you.
• Don’t crowd into the loud person’s personal space.
• Don’t overreact.
• Seriously, don’t crowd into their personal space. If you accidentally touch them you might get charged with assault. It’s happened before, no kidding.
• Persons under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol generally don’t react well to calm and reasoned discourse. Stay alert.