Many viewers of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour movie, released on October 13th, are conflicted over how they should behave while viewing the film in movie theaters. How can you make sure to remember the experience all too well, while still respecting others around you? Is it ok to sing along, dance, or clap?
The movie is begging new questions since it is the highest grossing concert film worldwide. Theater etiquette does not condone the fearless behaviors that have been seen in Era’s theaters, such as, making noise by clapping, singing, and standing up throughout the film. However, this concert film is different with both AMC theaters and Taylor Swift herself encouraging viewers to enjoy the movie as if they were at the actual tour, as long as they are being respectful to those around them.
Viewers have mixed opinions on standing during the film. Many of Swift’s songs and lyrics hits different when standing, dancing, and getting into the song. Addison Weaver (9) thinks that the Reputation and 1989 eras were the best for enjoying Swift’s music in this manner since, “those were the two that everyone were really dancing around for” in her theater. You probably won’t create any bad blood if you stand during the film if it is off to the side and not bothering anyone.
Many viewers find clapping during the film especially odd. Mrs. Irvin, a special education teacher at Hidden Valley High School, points out, “she is not there so no one really cares if you clap or don’t clap.” Most people, including Irvin, just tolerate it and clap as well. In this situation, it is ok to stay invisible and not clap or to join in with the theater and clap.
It is important to consider others who would rather sit and watch the movie while enjoying the film. Irvin says it is important to, “read the room,” when deciding how to behave at the film. In general, now that the film has been released for a couple of weeks, viewings that begin before 6:00 pm are where you need to calm down. If someone asks you to stop just shake it off and enjoy the film in a movie like manner.
How you choose to enjoy the film should be a combination of personal preference and making sure others can remember the experience in an enchanted way. It is possible that the Eras movie will set a precedent for films for evermore. Remember to be the 1 who enjoys the film and makes memories.
