We don't go out to the movies all that often any more (WEGA and Netflix, you know), but when we do the three things that frustrate us the most are a) people who yammer through movies - it's amazing; b) the old LA Times ads that used to show before movies; c) the new MPAA antipiracy ads.
I've looked for a good solution - the old story "The Anthem Runners" comes to mind - and the Defamer (my LA version of Gawker) has proposed the 'shout at the screen like a pirate' in response. And now they link to the ad (Quicktime) that we, the audience, want to be seeing.
Ah, yes... the old Pirate Movies... they're all rated "Aaarrrrrrrrrrrrrr..."
And might I point out that National Talk Like a Pirate day is coming right up, on 9/19, a Sunday? See a flick and talk back like a pirate! Spread the meme!
A.L.
It's a shame but the movie industry and the cinemas have taken to advertising for just about any cause. Not only is it in the cinemas it’s on the DVD you buy as well. What’s worse with DVD is they produce them in a manner that you can’t skip past the ads. Added to that is the preception that the advertisements certainly don't seem to be helping in keeping the admission or the snacks at any reasonable price level. I guess they think they are on the same level as theme parks and sports stadiums. You’re a captive audience so you should pay a premium price. The last movie I saw that had a cartoon feature prior to the main event was Roger Rabbit. I’m having a hard time trying to remember the last movie I saw that didn’t have advertisements though and drive-ins are all but a thing of the past although there still are a few around.
Rick Mercer also did a funny parody of those ads about 7 months ago. Unfortunately it doesn't seem to be online anymore.