The world of movies has been turned upside down by the advent of Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney Plus etc. etc.  People were able to see new and important movies on their new big flat screens.  And, then the  Covid pandemic took the theater film business to its knees.

I am a dedicated big screen fan.  Seeing a movie big makes you feel that you are in for a special experience and in a unique world.  Big people, bigger buildings, gorgeous scenery all created to look spectacular by great filmmakers.

But, I was put on the sidelines for 15 months.  I enjoyed  a variety of movies at home: from the excitement of Hamilton done as a filmed performance to watching the latest “art” films via the Museum of Modern Art Screening Site.  I saw Nomadland, Father, and Minari at home.  I loved all three Oscar nominated films, but felt that I was cheated by not seeing them on the big screen.

Over the last few weeks, I finally took the plunge back to theaters.

I found matinees were perfect for social distancing and I saw Black Widow in 3D (great first 15 mins then so so), Summer of Soul (recommend it highly on the big screen), Roadrunner-Anthony Bourdain documentary (my high expectations were not met) and a Quiet Place II (OK for a shot of horror).

Deciding to see movies with a small crowd is being Covid careful.

It certainly takes away some of the joy of sharing the screams and shocks of Black Widow and Quiet Place. And, Summer of Soul’s fabulous musical performances worked well but grooving with a crowd to Stevie Wonder or Sly and Family the Stone would have been better.

A thoughtful documentary like Roadrunner is fine with a sparse crowd.

My favorite in a crowd movies were Wait Until Dark, Carrie, Deer Hunter and Do the Right Thing.

Your thoughts about big screen versus at home viewing are welcomed and feel free to mention your favorite in theater movies.