The Evolution of Movie Watching Habits: From Daily Cynic to Occasional Films
From my childhood days to the present, the habits and preferences in watching movies have changed dramatically. This journey through time reflects not only a personal transformation but also the evolution of society and technology.
Early Days: Home and Family Influence
As a child, my exposure to movies was limited, primarily through television channels like Doordarshan and some other regional channels. My father would also bring home CDs of classic Malayalam movies, such as Kalyanaraman, Tenkashipatanam, and Big B. The actors like Mammooty, Suresh Gopi, and Dilip were the stars of the time. During vacation periods in Kerala, my family would often go to the movies, and Hindi movies were not a regular part of my childhood viewing.
Moved to Goa, my first theater experience was likely with the 2013 film Chennai Express, a story that resonated due to my best friend's insistence on my birthday. She affectionately calls me "Meenamma" or "Meenu" because I am South Indian.
College and Beyond: Watching for Comfort and Passion
In college, I had a unique habit of watching movies before exams. Usually, it was DC films, Marvel films, or animated movies that would help me relax and focus. My elder brothers had a vast collection, and I would often resort to them for pre-exam entertainment. However, as time passed, my passion for watching movies waned significantly.
Currently, I am not a movie enthusiast, and it is rare for me to watch a movie unless something catches my interest. I prefer to read synopsis summaries on Wikipedia and understand the plot rather than sitting through the entire movie. Nevertheless, documentaries are a passion of mine. I watch numerous documentaries from various countries to understand cultures and societies, particularly during my preparation for competitive exams like the UPSC.
Modern Movie Watching: A Collectivist Approach
The modern approach to watching movies is quite different. Now, I have an extensive list of 20,000 movies to watch as of 2023. However, I often struggle to choose one to start with, causing delays and postponements. My current preference is to watch movies at night, primarily to pass the time. I find DVDs to be the most convenient option, as they are both affordable and easy to use, especially from resale stores where prices are lower.
Conclusion: A Personal Reflection
Summarizing my journey, it is evident that my movie watching habits have evolved greatly. From a daily routine in college to barely conducive to watching now, my preferences have certainly changed. Yet, the enduring appeal of documentaries and the thrill of reading book summaries bode well for any casual movie lover.