Cinema Etiquette Issues Rise in Calgary Theatres
Reports of disruptive behaviour in Calgary cinemas highlight a global decline in cinema etiquette amid the post-pandemic era.
CALGARY — Reports of disruptive behaviour in theatres have surfaced again, this time through a Reddit post lamenting the decline of cinema etiquette. The post, which claims disturbances during a Calgary screening of *Avatar*, highlights a broader issue faced by moviegoers globally.
Unverified Complaints in Calgary
The original complaint, posted on Reddit, describes an incident involving talking and phone use during a movie. However, no specific theatre or date was provided, and there are no official reports or verified incidents matching this complaint in Calgary as of January 2, 2026.
Global Cinema Etiquette Issues
While this specific incident remains unconfirmed, it reflects a common frustration shared by audiences worldwide. Discussions about disruptions in cinemas have intensified, particularly in the post-pandemic era. The rise of streaming habits appears to have altered traditional cinema etiquette, leading to increased instances of talking and phone use during screenings.
Some cinema chains, like the Alamo Drafthouse, have implemented strict policies that include the possibility of refunds or ejection for disruptive behaviour. However, enforcement varies significantly across different venues.
Local Theatre Dynamics
In Calgary, local chains such as Landmark Cinemas offer "Sensory Friendly Films," which allow for quiet talking. Meanwhile, Cineplex locations have faced criticism over maintenance and etiquette issues, but specific enforcement policies for Calgary theatres remain unclear.
The Calgary Community Standards Bylaw addresses disturbing noise, but it primarily applies to outdoor and residential areas, making it unlikely to be enforced within theatres. As such, managing etiquette is largely left to individual venues.
Lack of Political Involvement
No Calgary politicians have addressed theatre etiquette issues, viewing them as matters of private business and social norms. The upcoming ShowCanada 2026 event in Banff, organized by the Movie Theatre Association of Canada, will focus on showmanship and customer service, but etiquette does not appear to be a central topic.
Conclusion
While the Reddit complaint about a Calgary theatre incident remains unverified, it underscores a wider trend of deteriorating cinema etiquette. As theatres continue to navigate these challenges, the onus remains on venues to establish and enforce appropriate standards to ensure an enjoyable experience for all patrons.
