Is it okay to talk during movies in UAE?

When we go to the cinema, we are often annoyed by people talking. So, the question is - what is the correct etiquette? Honestly, it's a bit of a grey area. When it comes to comedy movies, a lot of people laugh out loud while, during serious movies, everyone is gripped by the action or drama on screen.

There are a lot of reasons people choose to talk during a movie. For example, in a film like Avengers: Endgame, where some do not understand what's happening, they tend to ask their companions questions to get a better understanding of the plot. While it can be annoying for others, it elevates the events happening on screen for them. That being said, if you are watching a movie like A Quiet Place, where you have to be silent to enjoy the movie, if people are talking, that can be annoying.

On the other hand, when it comes to the human element - that is, watching movies with friends - things are different. That is because friends usually have their own inside jokes. Talking while watching a movie can elevate the experience for friends who are enjoying the movie as well as each other's company.
Talking during a movie also raises the possibility that people will lose track of what's happening, or miss a key moment which is essential to the plot. This can be irksome, especially for a fan of a movie.

Talking during movies tends to annoy and disturb other movie-goers, however, when it comes to a group of friends, the situation changes. While it helps build friendships, I believe it has more negative effects than positive ones.
Pradheepan Raghavan (below, right)
Is a vlogger who reviews movies at www.youtube.com/MegaPradz. You can keep up with him on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram @Pradz101.
 
Since the arrival of digital viewing platforms that allow people to enjoy quality content within the comfort of their home, there has been a discussion on the future of communal viewing. Some people believe cinemas will fade and streaming services will take precedence, but, for me, nothing can replace the sheer joy that a packed theatre can offer movie enthusiasts.

The movie business is all about entertainment and the joy that I experienced when the whole cinema cheered when (spoiler alert!) Captain America picked up Mjolnir in Avengers: Endgame, was incomparable.
But there are some rules that we must follow. I love discussing expectations while entering the hall, sharing glances during the movie, and checking to see if they are enjoying or bored, and even discussing how they felt after the film ends. But talking during the movie - especially about topics other than the movie - is a big no-no. I avoid going to cinema with people who, at every turn, ask "what happened?" because no matter what, some level of concentration is required to fully appreciate and absorb content.

Growing up in Pakistan, we used to have only one television channel that used to air a drama series at 8pm and the whole family would gather in the living room and watch it together. To date, this is one of my best childhood memories. So, socialising over a movie or series is fun but, as an audience, we need to understand how to discuss the content without disturbing each other.

I suggest you pick companions wisely when going for movies and enjoy a great time along with them.
Hamza Shafique (above, left)
Is the movie blogger behind www.dubaidesireviews.blogspot.com. You can keep up with him on Instagram @dubaidesireviews