Going to the movies alone

A few days back when I had told a friend that I go to theater to watch movies by myself, he was surprised. Apparently, he did not know that people do go to the theaters on their own. When you go out with a group, you rarely take notice of anyone outside your circle. People only see what they want to see.

It all started with my friend H a few years back. We were having this conversation one day when she asked me if I am interested in going for a movie. She had not been to a theater for years. I was in for it but tickets were available only for the morning show. Let us just say I don't usually look forward to getting up early on weekends. When I called her to ask if we can do it some other day, she had already booked tickets for herself for two back to back movies in the same mall.

I was shocked, surprised. It was an idea that had never crossed my mind. So far, I had only gone out with families and friends. Never done it alone. I couldn't let her go alone. How would she fit in with a crowd full of people whom she did not know?? I asked her to book a ticket for me as well. And yeah for just the first movie. I was sure I wouldn't be able to watch two movies back to back. 

We were very sure that we could ask someone to exchange seats at the theater. Boy, I was in for a surprise. No one was ready to move and there I sat two rows in front of her watching a movie all by myself. It just felt strange. I did not feel uncomfortable at all. 

After the show, she talked me into coming in for the next movie and we got the tickets at the theater. It was crazy. While she sat in the back, I got one in the front in between two men. Again, I had no reason to worry. No bad experience. Did not trouble me at all.

I had thought it was a one time experience. After a few months, H had gone ahead for a movie on her own. She told me that since it was a weekday, she was sure I wouldn't want to go. 

That is when I asked myself, when she can go, why can't I go. The first time I booked and went on my own, I was nervous. At least H was in that theater the last time sitting a few rows away. This time, I was just on my own. Then I realized, people don't really care about you. They are all in their own world. I also noticed that there were a lot of people - men and women who just come in alone to watch the movies. It was a great experience. Who said you cannot have fun on your own.

Having said that I don't just go to any movie or any show. Nothing against the people, but I only go to watch Hollywood movies. I am comfortable with the crowd there. No generalizations but that is what I feel. I go only to the day shows and book the tickets only in good theaters.

I have had fun in doing this and it has been a good experience until now. H, as usual was my inspiration. That girl is unbelievable!!!!