Todd Phillips Advocates for a Commercial-Free Movie Experience

Todd Phillips urges theaters to stop showing commercials before movies, arguing they dampen audience excitement. Joining other filmmakers, he emphasizes the lasting importance of movie theaters as community spaces. This conversation coincides with the release of his latest film, “Joker: Folie à Deux,” which, while successful, seeks to live up to its billion-dollar predecessor.

Todd Phillips, the acclaimed director behind “Joker” and “The Hangover,” recently voiced his concerns about the cinematic experience in a poll for Empire magazine. Phillips, alongside fellow filmmakers like George Miller and Sean Baker, believes that while theaters won’t disappear, they could greatly enhance the viewer experience by eliminating commercials before films. He succinctly stated, “Stop showing commercials before the movies. We’ve paid for our tickets. We’re excited to be there. The commercials tend to take the air out of the room.” Miller, echoing Phillips’ sentiments, emphasized the innate human urge to gather and share stories, stating that cinemas are primarily doing their best to adapt. He believes this collective experience is why movie theaters will endure despite the allure of home streaming. Meanwhile, Daniel Scheinert, co-director of “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” highlighted the important community aspect of theaters, comparing them to social spaces that foster connection over simply being a place to watch films. The ongoing conversation about the theatrical experience is particularly poignant as Phillips’ own movie, “Joker: Folie à Deux,” has just hit theaters. Despite its impressive opening, it faces challenges in matching the original’s billion-dollar success. As of now, the sequel has garnered approximately $201 million globally since its release on October 4, and it’s already available for home viewing on PVOD platforms.

The discussion around the cinematic experience is increasingly relevant in an age where home streaming options dominate the entertainment landscape. Directors like Todd Phillips are advocating for a revitalized theater experience to keep audiences engaged and excited about attending films. Such updates may include eliminating commercials that disrupt the anticipation and enjoyment of the film, enhancing the overall atmosphere of shared storytelling that movie theaters uniquely provide.

Phillips and his contemporaries are passionate about preserving the theatrical experience by pushing for improvements like the removal of commercials before films. Their belief in the unyielding allure of cinema, paired with the need for community engagement, paints a hopeful picture of the future of moviegoing—one where the excitement of the big screen continues to thrive despite modern challenges.

Original Source: variety.com