The movie theater industry in Colorado, like much of the country, has faced challenges in recent years, with streaming services changing the way people experience films. Despite this shift, moviegoers still enjoy the unique experience of watching films on the big screen. However, even dedicated fans admit they don’t always make it to theaters as often as they should.
Recently, AMC Theatres in Colorado has been airing a message before showings of the highly anticipated movie Wicked, which has sparked mixed reactions from audiences. The film, featuring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, is an adaptation of the beloved musical and is one of the year’s biggest releases. Before each screening, AMC theaters play a message that has left some moviegoers pleased while others feel disappointed.
The message, which appears before every Wicked showing, asks moviegoers to refrain from singing along during the film. The statement is clear: “At AMC Theatres, silence is golden. No talking. No texting. No singing. No wailing. No flirting. And absolutely no name-calling. Enjoy the magic of movies.”
This directive was intended to maintain a more immersive movie-watching experience for everyone in the theater. However, it’s been met with mixed reactions in Colorado, where many patrons believe it discourages the tradition of singing along to the popular musical numbers in Wicked. The message has been seen as a direct request to allow the film’s stars to carry the musical performance, rather than audience members belting out tunes during the movie.
Colorado is home to ten AMC locations, and all of them have shown this pre-movie message during Wicked screenings. While some moviegoers may feel the restriction dampens the fun, others appreciate the effort to preserve the movie’s intended experience. As the movie continues its run, it’s expected that sing-along versions will likely be made available for fans eager to belt out their favorite songs.
For some, the message is a welcome reminder of the importance of respecting the shared moviegoing experience. After all, many patrons are paying to see the actors perform, and most don’t want to be disrupted by off-key singing throughout the entire film.