Talking Pictures

Tony’s Movie Rant

O.K. This where I get to rant a bit about what’s bugging me. And what’s bugging me lately are the 4 or 5 production company logos that precede virtually every film now.

Start the film.

First there’s the Paramount logo, then Mandalay Bay has their tiger, then Spyglass has their guy looking through a telescope, then some other company has their pre-show credit. Enough. And if that weren’t enough, the same production companies are listed AGAIN in the opening credits.

Start the film.

And also let’s stop the nonsensical advertising in theaters. I know where the exits are I can see their green light glowing throughout the film. I don’t need some real estate jackass to tell me I need to locate the exit sign, after trying to sell me on a cardboard crackerjack box home.

Start the film.

And while we’re at it. Does anyone see the need for advertising before a movie starts? I mean OTHER than the coming attractions?

Is there a real need for me to see another freakin’ commercial? I thought I was going to a movie to get away from these. But, ah no, the spots are looped every 10 minutes for complete saturation. And a small nugget of advice to theater managers or whoever is in charge, how about changing the pre-show content once every year or so?

Start the film.

And here’s a little update Mr. Advertiser, unlike what your well-paid advertising exec just told you, you are NOT getting good exposure. You are installing a NEGATIVE reflex. To the point that if anyone in the theater audience actually remembers your company, it’s as a reminder NOT to buy from you.

Start the film.

Here’s an idea – tack on a buck to every ticket, which I’d gladly pay for me NOT to see this crap. I’d pay an extra tax not to see Dan the Laptop Man again – ever.

But it’s not just the advertising. Audience members need to remember that even though a movie is a “shared experience,” please put your damned cell phone away and leave it alone for the hour and a half you’re in the theater. You don’t need to Facebook every line of the film or Twitter every time you crack a smile.

Start the film.

Now the cats at the Archlight Theater in LA do it right. No pre-show, no advertising and no cell phones allowed at any screening – unless you’re a doctor. And yes they charge a little more for their ticket, but it is a better experience and movie goers in LA don’t mind paying for something better.

’nuff said.