Bow tie cinemas is the main movie theatre in Connecticut, and New England. It has 38 locations in various locations, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Maryland. During the lockdown in March, all of their locations were closed. On December 18th, 2020, they opened Ultimate Royale 6, a popular movie theatre in Norwalk CT. People can go and watch movies in parties of 10-20, and the cost is 99$. They have implanted many procedures because of covid, such as; 100% reserved seating in all auditoriums, auditorium capacity limitations of 50% of available seating, and selling seats in an alternating pattern so that each customer will have an empty seat on either side. You can also buy individual tickets,  but when choosing your seats, every other seat is blocked off. There are a wide variety of movies coming out now. Back in 2020, many movies were streamed directly onto channels, such as Disney+ or Netflix. Now because many movies are being sent to the theatre, this may pose a threat to streaming channels.

According to the Bow Tie Cinemas website, they have managed safety in the theatre by,  “Mandatory wearing of facemask for staff and customers in all parts of the theater unless consuming food and beverages in their seat, installation of plexiglass barriers at box office and concession, frequent cleaning of touch points throughout the day, and limitations on restroom and lobby capacities.”

Another popular theatre chain in CT, is Cinemark. They have also started opening cinemas. You can purchase the whole auditorium for 20 guests, snack on popcorn and see old movies, or new releases. With both Bow Tie cinemas,and cinemark, they are showing old movies, such as The Breakfast Club, Lord of the Rings, and The Original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Many of the newer movies they are showing are Raya and the Last Dragon coming out March 5th, News of the World, and Tenet.

Even though the movie theatres are starting to open, that does not necessarily mean that people will come. Many people are still concerned about covid, and are not even going to stores besides grocery stores, necessities. I interviewed Anna Ji, who was a previous distance learner,  on her emotions regarding the opening.  “I do not think I will go to the theatres mainly because my parents would not let me even if there were many precautions. Also, people could just watch the movies at home. I think some people might be responsible, but others might not be, so I think it’s just safer to not go to the theatres in case someone irresponsible is there.”

Having the ability to watch the newest movies in a comfortable environment will be a welcome change to many BMS students. The smell of freshly buttered popcorn, and the sights and sounds of the huge screen are things many people have been longing for for a long time. The opening is wonderful, but everyone needs to remember to stay safe, and be responsible.