GUEST EDITORIAL: 7 Ways To Spice Up Movie Night

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/P2wLo_PzHjU

Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/P2wLo_PzHjU

7 Ways To Spice Up Movie Night

by Kevin Gardner

One of the things that society enjoys doing is watching movies. It's easy to see why: everyone enjoys seeing a good movie now and then. It's a technique for you to keep your brain occupied as you eat excellent cuisine. Instead of always being alone, going to a random movie theater, keeping a poker face, and doing little reactions the entire time, why not spice things up a little by adding some fun? Here are some options for adding a little extra flair to your personal or family movie night.

1. Design the Perfect Space

Movie night could take place in your bedroom or living area, as is customary. However, it is possible to make viewers feel as though they are in the cinemas themselves by constructing a room dedicated to watching movies. Find a room in the house, such as the basement, to utilize as your home theater to create a space. Switch off the lights, turn on the air conditioner, bring some cozy chairs, place some blankets, and enjoy watching movies on a big screen, just like in the movies. You may also use a quality portable projector for this.

2. Watch It Outside

Speaking of projectors, why not set up a projector and screen outside if the weather is favorable, then ask the entire neighborhood to attend and enjoy an outdoor movie night! Create a DIY Drive-In with the kids in the neighborhood and have them make “cars” out of cardboard boxes. Don't forget the popcorn. You can even combine it with a barbeque for the classic concession stand experience. 

3. Have a Snack Bar

Set up a long table with bowls, utensils, and everything else you'll need, then choose your favorite food and create your own treat bar! Load up on snacks before sitting down in front of your favorite movie, whether it's popcorn with candies to mix in, ice cream with toppings, or even cereal. It's a good idea to go back for seconds!

4. Create a Theme

Are you planning to see a fantasy film series? Perhaps a more typical love story? Whatever you choose to watch, make your entire night about the genre or even the world you'll be viewing on-screen—decorate your room to look like a scene from The Chronicles of Narnia, or attempt to mimic the romantic timeless vibes of La La Land. Before you even press play, you'll feel like you've stepped into the movie! Is there anyone in your family who enjoys cooking? Take your theme to the next level and incorporate food. If you're watching The Jungle Book, make banana splits, or enlist the help of the youngsters to prepare a handmade vegetable stew in celebration of Ratatouille. Coming up with new dishes is endless, and cooking with the kids can be a lot of fun.

5. Wear Your PJs

This one is great whether you have kids or if you're an adult who misses having sleepover parties! Put on your most comfortable PJs and slippers and snuggle in for a good movie. Just make sure you don't fall asleep before it's over!

6. Create a Competition

Pick a few movements or catchphrases from the film you're watching, whether it's Cinderella or Indiana Jones, and make a game out of them. When Cinderella has a new chore, the first person to cry out is permitted to make a rule for the rest of the family — for example, 10 jumping jacks!

7. Get Creative with Seating

Clear out your living room by moving the couches, tables, and chairs out of the way to make more room. Then let your imagination run wild! Bring all of the mattresses down to the ground, or gather all of the blankets in the house to make a fort. Make your living room the perfect place to cuddle up for 2 hours and watch the show, no matter how you remodel it.

Movie night is always an anticipated event, and adding a few extra touches can really take it to the next level.