How to Decide Whether to See a Movie in a Theater or Wait for the Video

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Some movies must be seen in a theater, on the silver screen. Or they have created such a splash that you'll feel foolish if you wait for them to reach the video rental stores. Other titles look fine on a television screen and don't demand to be seen right away. Learning to distinguish between the two types will save you money and aggravation.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

VCRs
Big-screen TV Sets
Newspaper Subscriptions
Internet Access
Movie Tickets
Computers
Movie Videos

Step 1

Read reviews and articles about films currently in your local theaters.
Step 2

Get input from friends who have seen the movies you are considering.
Step 3

Search for information about the current releases on the Web.
Step 4

Talk with your moviegoing partner to find out what he or she wants to see.
Step 5

Keep a list of films that interest you. Update it every month or two.
Step 6

Divide the list into three categories: "must see on a big screen" (due to special effects, cinematography or soundtrack), "can't wait" (because of raging popularity or controversy), and "there's no rush" (interesting fare for a quiet Friday night at home).
Step 7

Stick to your list. Make an effort to watch the movies in categories one and two in theaters, but wait to rent the "no rush" titles on DVD or videotape.

Tips & Warnings

Avoid limiting your "must see" list to blockbusters or special effects extravaganzas. A film like "A River Runs Through It" tells a low-key story at a leisurely pace, but the remarkable cinematography and stunning location shots cry out for viewing on a big screen with a state-of-the-art projection system.
If you and your moviegoing companions feel like seeing a terrific film on the big screen, stay open to foreign or art-house films. Many people were delightfully surprised by such films as "Life Is Beautiful," "Shakespeare in Love" and "Il Postino."
Some movies may seem like natural choices for viewing in theaters because of their high-tech effects and showy computer graphics, but if they have drab stories or poor acting, save your money.
For a blockbuster film like "Titanic," wait for the initial wave of popularity to pass by, or take in the movie on a weeknight. Otherwise you'll be fighting crowds and long lines, and you may end up with a lousy seat.
On the other hand, do not miss a movie such as the latest episode of "Star Wars" simply to avoid the crowded theaters. Be patient and catch the film before it goes into the video rental phase.

Comments

SkinExpert said

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on 2/12/2009 SOOOO AGREE WITH YOU! With Netflix, Blockbuster and Redbox there is no need to go to first run films. And let's face it, have there been that many FILMS released in the last 50 years? In my opinion, no. Most of what is churned out today is cheap middleclass, brainless and degrading. It isn't worth the price of admission, much less a rental. To endure the theatre experience, a movie must lure me with either great writing, a suberb plot, unforgettable acting, creative soundtrack or breathtaking cinematography. To expect all in one movie today happens infrequently. However, I highly recommend SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE as a theatre experience.

ambercook32 said

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on 1/9/2009 I have done this and majority of the time I end up just waiting until they come out on video. Now days theaters cost up to $8 or more , plus popcorn and a drink if you want. I don't think so. Lol. So yes, wonderful tips in here.

sharishops said

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on 11/19/2008 Great ideas to sort thru the list because it's soooo expensive to go to the movies anymore, especially if you're taking the whole family. I think I've been to the theatre about twice in the last five years and I don't think I've missed much. *****

Mikemur said

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on 11/11/2008 Great article, but I ususlly watch couple of parts online and then go to theatres to see the full movie if it's good.
Now there are a lot of sites that have either previews or full movies online for free. The only problem is the quality.
Here is a directory of most free sites.
http://www.freeonline-movies.com