In brief
Moviegoers are openly laughing at serious scenes in films, with discussions pointing to pandemic-era habits, genre confusion, and the social dynamics of shared viewing experiences, reshaping the expectations of theater etiquette.
In theaters across the country, laughter rings out at moments that many believe should evoke tension or sobriety. This new phenomenon has sparked debates among audiences and filmmakers alike, reminiscent of the past antics at a local multiplex humorously dubbed the “Babysitter 12.” As society transitioned from theaters to livingrooms during the pandemic, some viewers are struggling to recalibrate their entertainment behavior. Marie Solis recently illustrated this “laugh epidemic” in her article for The Times, highlighting how viewers chuckle in response to scenes filled with violence, sexuality, and suspense — from films such as “Anora,” “Babygirl,” and “Nosferatu.” Traditional expectations for serious cinematic moments seem to be faltering as audiences grapple with the ambiguous line between genres, often unsure whether a film is intended to be humorous or serious. Reflecting on a personal experience at the theater last summer, I noted an outburst of laughter during a particularly intense film regarding a tumultuous relationship. The jovial groups surrounding me appeared unable to switch their mindset from a light-hearted evening to the weight of what unfolded onscreen. This brought to mind my own reservations about audience behavior, reminiscent of my time at the “Babysitter 12,” where hecklers and distractors once tainted what could be enjoyable nights out. Conversely, theaters like the Alamo Drafthouse maintain a strict code of conduct, asserting that individuals who disrupt the film will be removed. Yet, perhaps it’s worth reconsidering how we perceive this “misbehavior.” Ultimately, the essence of moviegoing lies in the shared experience — embracing the mix of laughter, tears, and gasps among our fellow audience members, which is unattainable during solitary streaming at home. It’s a reminder that the emotional ebb and flow of cinema is enriched by the collective experience, encouraging us to lean into the chaotic beauty of communal viewing.
