We all love a good movie, but sometimes it feels like we’ve seen everything out there or our favorite films are just collecting dust on our shelves. Well, it’s time to get your movie-watching game up! There are all sorts of ways to do it, whether you want to watch films in a whole new way, or just rediscover some classics. Here are 12 ways to up your movie-watching game:
1. Watch a movie from a different era
Is there a classic film you’ve always meant to watch but never got around to it? Or perhaps you’ve only ever watched newer films and are curious about cinema from earlier decades? Whatever the case may be, picking a movie from a different era is a great way to change up your film-watching habits. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy a black-and-white film from the 1940s or an epic Western from the 1960s.
2. Make it a marathon
One fun way to watch films is to have a movie marathon with friends or family. Choose a theme, like all the films nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars, or all the films in a certain genre, like horror or romance. You can also do a themed marathon where you watch films that all take place in the same location, like all the films set in New York City, or films from a certain director or actor.
3. Watch with commentary
If you want to learn more about movies, watch them with commentary from experts. There are commentaries on many DVDs and Blu-rays, but you can also find them online. Commentary can provide interesting insights into the filmmaking process, the actors’ performances, and the film’s place in history.
4. Go to a film festival
Film festivals are a great way to watch movies and meet other film lovers. You can find festivals devoted to all sorts of films, from independent features to documentaries. Many festivals also have panel discussions and other events where you can learn more about the movies you’re watching.
5. See a movie in a theater
There’s nothing like seeing a film on the big screen, and there are all sorts of ways to do it. You can go to a traditional movie theater, or venture out to watch films in outdoor screenings, drive-in theaters, or even in your own home theater.
6. Create your own film festival
You don’t need to wait for a film festival to come to your town—you can create your own! Gather up some friends and pick a theme, like all the worst films you can find, or films that were ahead of their time. You can even project your films onto a big screen or invite people to dress up in costumes inspired by their favorite films.
7. Be a critic
One way to become more engaged with movies is to start writing your own reviews. You can share your thoughts on a blog, social media, or even in a more traditional format like a letter to the editor. You don’t need to be a professional critic to have an opinion on films, so don’t be afraid to share your thoughts!
8. Make a movie
If you’ve ever wanted to make your own film, there’s no better time than now. With the proliferation of affordable video cameras and editing software, anyone can make a movie. You don’t need a big budget or a Hollywood production team—just some creativity and a willingness to experiment.
9. Teach a class
If you’re passionate about movies, why not share your knowledge with others? You can teach a class on film history, film analysis, or even film appreciation. This is a great way to engage with films on a deeper level and help others do the same.
10. Organize a screening
One fun way to watch films is to organize your own screening event. You can screen films in a public space like a park or community center, or even in your own backyard. Make it a themed event by choosing films that all relate to a certain topic, or that represent a diverse array of voices and perspectives.
11. Collect films
If you’re a serious film fan, you might want to start collecting films. You can build a collection of your favorite films on DVD or Blu-ray, or even venture into collecting more rare and obscure titles. This is a great way to extend your movie-watching beyond just sitting in front of the TV—you can also learn about film history and appreciate the art of filmmaking.
12. Write about films
If you want to explore your love of movies even further, why not start writing about them? You can share your thoughts on a blog, social media, or even in a more traditional format like a letter to the editor. You don’t need to be a professional critic to have an opinion on films, so don’t be afraid to share your thoughts!
No matter how you choose to watch films, the important thing is that you’re enjoying yourself. So put on your favorite movie, make some popcorn, and settle in for a good time.
