The Movies by Kat Magendie

When I lived in the Big City, I went to the movies when there was some anticipated blockbuster, or summer sleeper, I was anxious to see on the Big Screen. For, after all, there are some movies that simply must be seen and heard in a movie theater experience. The bigger than life size, the speakers set on ear-drum shatter, the smell of popcorn, the rustling of bootlegged treats taken from purses or pockets, the excited chatter that is stilled once the previews begin. I was spoiled by the city movie theaters, with their plush stadium seating. But here in my little town, I pass the tiny theater and feel a little uninspired. I promise myself to actually go in one day, maybe I’ll be surprised.

There was a time I worried the theaters would price people right on out, especially as quickly as movies are sent to DVD and available for viewing in one’s own home, and the over-inflated egos of Hollywood “stars” demanding outrageous salaries that are obscene. I know it puts me off, going to a movie and paying far too much, just so some actor can add to their already bulging wallets, and egos (which is why I love the sleepers with little known actors). But, there is the child part of me who still feels the magic…with some movies, some of the time, and with some actors who still charm, touch, make me laugh, or take me somewhere I didn't know I wanted to go.

While recently visiting my sister in law in Houston, she and I went to the opening weekend of the new Indiana Jones movie—one of the aforementioned Blockbusters one must watch on the big screen. I stared with a country come to town grin. The theater was Huge, with sparklings and people and noise and color and light and sound, and as if that wasn’t enough, there was a Starbucks, and small eateries, and was that a gift shop? And I’m sure I missed seeing everything, as we were hurrying to get to our seats. Oh, and those seats! Plush and comfy as my own living room. We settled in, and the magic began. I won’t tell you what I thought about the movie itself, I’ll leave that to your own opinion, but I will say that Indiana Jones is just as handsome as he ever was, damn him for being a man and being allowed to age! Karen Allen was beautiful, but completely wasted in her role, dang it all. That’s all I have to say about that. Ah, here’s to the movies. Escape.