The scenario highlighted in the letter
to the editor concerning ugly patrons at the Malaysian cinemas is
not surprising as many could relate to the incident. First of all, he
mentioned the late comers disturbing others especially if they have
the seats in the middle. This would definitely put a damper on those
who made the effort to be punctual and were disturbed while trying to
watch the movie.
This habit is not only seen in cinemas
but when ever we attend other functions too. The infamous Malaysian
rubber time continues to be the norm as we think others will also be
late. We always estimate that we can have the luxury of being late
for at least ten minutes in order to arrive at the same time as the
majority. We do not want to be the early birds and stick out like
sore thumbs in an empty hall.
That should not be the case when we go
to the cinema or a function that states clearly the starting time of
the event. As it is a habit learnt from watching others, we tend to
take it for granted that it is acceptable behaviour. Haven't we been
taught that time is precious and not to waste time. In this case we
have imposed our slovenliness on others. Most probably we have
managed to get away with this habit for such a long time that it has
become second nature.
The letter also mentioned that patrons
seated behind were happily kicking the back of his seat at every
exciting moment. Sometimes we feel the kick from behind even at
unexciting moments during the screening. I guess these patrons felt
they are entitled to do as they please since they have paid the price
of the ticket. That ticket gave them the right to enter the cinema
hall and watch the movie but not to kick seats in front of them..
These patrons should watch the movie at home if they want to kick or
do anything else to their furniture or some other objects.
The third incident when the phone
belonging to a woman on his right was ringing non-stop throughout the
movie is the most common irritant when going to Malaysian cinemas.
The phone was not switched to silent mode and I'm quite certain the
owner was not even perturbed or felt any remorse that the noise
disturbed the other patrons. I've always imagined and hoped that
future seats in cinemas would be sensitive to ringing phones and
automatically eject those sitting there. At least they will get a
jolt and know how it feels to be upset suddenly when trying to enjoy
what is on the screen.
These patrons who annoy others will
always be in our midst as most of us do not want to make a hassle or
a scene over the incident. We might ask politely for the kick to stop
or phone to be silenced but prefer the management to take the
initiative. We have always looked up to those in authority and in
this case the cinema hall ushers should be bold and firm reprimanding
those who flout the rules.
Many who go to the cinema look forward
to the whole experience of being in a theatre with the latest sound
and visual systems. How many of us can afford to have similar
facilities at home. It is our escape from the tiny cubicles that we
call home but others spoil the experience. It is not a fair world at
all.
Image from wikipedia
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