When my love of movies was relatively fresh, I used to watch a lot more films than I do now. I’m sure that in addition to simply wanting to be entertained, another reason I’ve seen as many films as I have over the years includes a general curiosity and desire to learn about those who live the kind of lives my growing mind could only imagine.
In all the years of being an avid consumer of great films and TV shows (the ones that called to me – because there’s certainly plenty I’m yet to see), I eventually got to a place where I realised that I’d exposed myself to a plethora of stories about the many aspects of the human experience that I’d been curious about, including many that I had no idea I’d want to know. I did this by being open to seeing easy-to-watch films/programmes that did little more than distract/entertain me and others that had me, laughing, crying and thinking deeply.
At this point, I can honestly say that the stories in all the films and TV shows I’ve seen have helped get me to where I am today, and in ways I could not have foreseen. They’ve contributed to making me the thoughtful, understanding and empathetic person that twelve-year-old me somehow knew I wanted to be. Because at that age, I remember deciding that one of my goals in life would be to try and understand people.
Of course, psychology, meaningful conversation and a commitment to empathy are some of the key ways to get to understanding others. Nevertheless, Little did I know that years later, I would feel as though I understand many aspects of the human condition, thanks in no small part to all the rich stories I’ve seen in the films and TV shows I’ve had the privilege of being exposed to.
I’m not writing this because I’m going to stop watching movies or writing about them. But because these days, even though I remain eternally curious about the human, that curiosity is now predominantly seen in my interactions with people I encounter in real life. And not because I believe that film has taught me all that it has to teach, but rather that at least in this new-ish phase, films/stories that are fun, lighthearted and entertaining are far more appealing than those where the protagonists suffer in hard-to-watch ways.
In case anyone had been wondering why I haven’t yet reviewed/watched Killers of the Flower Moon (2023), Origin (2023), The Zone of Interest (2023) or any other seemingly emotionally taxing films, this is why. I may eventually get to these movies but until then, their trailers are enough. And thank goodness for The Fall Guy, (2024) Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), Beverley Hills Cop – Axel F (2024), and so on.
How have your movie-watching habits evolved over the years? Are there genres you used to love but now can’t get into?
I may change the title of this post later, but for now, I can think of nothing else.
Happy Film Loving,
G
The Movie My Life 
As you’re clearly aware, we all have to evolve. I’m in a phase of fun movies over emotionally demanding ones too right now. But I will make some exceptions, depending on what the subject matter is.
Subject matter and ‘How dark is it, really?’ are two key points. What’s the balance of emotionally taxing versus, some humour/ lightness? Sometimes the issue of how badly I want to see the performances comes into play a little bit. But only a little. the premise is the main thing.
Gia, good read your “origin story” as far as films go. Also perfectly understandable why you might choose to step around films that you know will show the worst in human behavior and suffering.
Let me think about your question and get back to you on it.
Thank you, Msjadeli. 🙏 Sometimes one just needs to look on the bright side; at least for a while.
I look forward to your thoughts on how your viewing habits have changed over time. 🤓🥂
You’re welcome!
Gia, it was so interesting to read this. As the years have gone by my movie-watching habits, whether at the theatre or at home, have in general quietly evolved away from darkness to predominantly lighter fare. For sure, if a “downer” movie does have someone in it I like, I’m skipping it at the theatres automatically but may very well catch it on streaming. I am absolutely picky about my in-the-theatre experiences these days, and can relate to what your thoughts are here. I want to be entertained and elevated, and have a harder time feeling that way about films showcasing difficult circumstances.
I fully hear you about skipping the darker films with actors you like at the cinema, in favour of seeing them on streaming. Often, with the darker films, I have to wait for the mood for whatever the story is to strike before I can see them. It certainly helps to be in the comfort of one’s home when/if that mood comes. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts, Monsieur Chess, 🤓🥂
Words flow like water. Simply beautiful, Gia🎭
I got into movies for the same reasons. Mainly, learning about people. My first job at 16 was movie theater usher. I used to watch so many movies. I relate to your watching less. I would draw these *webs of movie titles with arrow connecting the title bubbles. I would build out the tree with movies applying one parameter – One actor must connect each movie. Like that 6 degrees of separation Kevin Bacon game. I’d build a whole tree each summer. In high school I made a collage of 200 actor’s faces. I. Love. Movies. (Too)✌️😄
Wow! 🤓Thanks so much for sharing that. I thought about working as a movie theatre usher too when I was a student. I remember hearing mentions of people seeing a rodent while working in a cinema and I decided that’s not the kind of stress I need. 😁
I love the movie trees idea! I hope you kept the drawings. What a smile-inducing trip down memory lane that would be, the collage of actors’ faces too. You say ‘collage’ I say vision board! 🥂
If I saw a rat in the theater I would call him Leo😉
My, my! I’d have to leave you and Leo to get acquainted as I get away to take deep breaths to calm myself.
Thank you plenty for the kind words Monsieur E.F. 🤓🥂
I was telling a coworker today that I have only seen 2 movies in a theater in the last 20 years! I love movies, but I’m willing to wait and see them at home! I need to keep it light, funny, educational or extra good drama! 😉
I absolutely cannot blame you, Tiffany. Not every movie needs to be seen at the theatre. Sometimes we need cozy surroundings and home comforts when watching some films, if not all. And thank goodness we get the choice! 🥂I’m now curious about the two films that got the cinema treatment over the last twenty years. 🤔🤓
Sideways, and Her. 😉
Good choices. 👍
I think partly, movie seeing in cinemas depends on genre. I got into it as a weekly habit at uni, as it was a cheap, air conditioned outing for friends.
Now it’s more expensive and I don’t go quite as often as I’d like too, but I still try to force myself close to once a week. But some films don’t need the big screen… mostly sci-fi, action and horror feel better up there.