How to Make the Best of Online Movie Releases
It is no surprise at this point in the Coronavirus pandemic that movie theaters across the country have shut down in response to the crisis. Even at times like these there are silver linings and thankfully, movies will not go unwatched. Instead of screening and – in the case of Trolls World Tour – premiering in movie theaters, many new releases will be available on streaming platforms much earlier than expected. Such is the case with Onward, Frozen II, Emma, The Invisible Man, Bloodshot, and more. Although living rooms are nothing like movie theaters, there are several ways to sit back, relax, and enjoy these early releases from home. If you wish to take this at-home experience a step further, here are a few ways to simulate a classic movie theater while social distancing and flattening the curve.
- Choose the Movie
This is often the first obstacle. If you are in the mood for a movie but have been scrolling through Netflix or Hulu for hours, there are a few options to help you choose. What Movie Should I Watch Tonight is a website that categorizes movies by genre, year, and availability on Netflix or Amazon Prime. If you find a title that catches your eye, WMSIWT offers you the trailer, a one-sentence synopsis, its IMBD and Rotten Tomato score, and even a Watch Now button that refers you to a streaming site. WMSIWT is also on social media and recommends movies regularly through there too.
If you’re feeling more spontaneous, you can go on the Reel Good Movie Roulette and spin the wheel for a random recommendation that’s available on Netflix. If you like the recommendation, the site offers a paragraph-long synopsis, reviews, the list of streaming platforms that offer it, running time, and more.
- Get Comfortable
When you enter a movie theater, you likely silence your phone or put it on vibrate. This is both a way to respect other movie-goers and a way to enjoy the movie without distractions from the outside world. Consider completing any outstanding tasks before you sit down to watch the movie. Fold your laundry, finish that upcoming Canvas assignment, etc. Doing so will likely make you feel productive and ready to enjoy the movie without any distractions.
Get in comfortable clothes, pull out those overly fluffy socks that don’t fit into any shoes, bring out your favorite blanket. Conversely, turn on a fan. Take a few minutes to assess what you need and make it happen.
- SNACKS
Popcorn is a marvelous thing. Include some popcorn in your grocery list, and maybe some Buncha Crunch or M&M’s, too. If you’re feeling healthier, get some of your favorite fruit or any kind of healthy snack you like. Consider making some hot chocolate too for another salty and sweet combo. If you’re a fan of pizza rolls, Totino’s is giving away free one-night Redbox rentals with the purchase of specially marked Totino’s bags at Walmart.
For our FSU readers, imitate the ASLC’s Treat yo’ Self combo with Dippin’ Dots, popcorn, and your favorite soda. Replace the Dippin’ Dots with regular ice cream if you can’t find any. The outcome is just as sweet.
- Final Touches
If it still does not feel quite like a movie theater and you’re willing to go that extra mile, there are popcorn scented candles available for purchase online. Yankee Candle used to make a Movie Night scented candle, but since it got discontinued it sells for a higher price through second-hand online stores.
If it’s the company you seek, consider screen sharing with your friends. There are a few applications that facilitate this, like Team Viewer. There is also a Google Chrome extension called Netflix Party that allows you and your friends to stream from Netflix at the same time. Conversely, you can always call and manually press play at the same time, though that might be difficult. Despite these lonely times, we have the technology to share almost anything with friends and family. We have that to be thankful for.
Written by: Isabella Massardi | Instagram
