When it comes to enjoying a movie in a
cinema
hall, the choice of seat can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Do you simply pick any available seat, or do you have specific preferences for selecting the perfect spot? As it turns out, there is actually some science behind choosing the ideal seat for a movie-watching experience.
Even acclaimed director Christopher Nolan shared his thoughts on seat selection in a recent conversation with AP.
Nolan revealed, "When I’m in a theater with a cinemascope ratio, I like to be right near the front, in the middle of the third row. When I’m in a stadium-style
IMAX
1.43:1 theater, then I actually prefer to be slightly behind the center line, right in the middle—just a little further back." While Nolan's choices are indeed based on personal preference, experts tend to agree that being a bit further back can lead to a better experience.
Which cinema seats are the best
So, what's the secret behind choosing the best seat in a cinema hall? With the variety of theater sizes and formats available today, from cozy luxury formats to massive IMAX screens, how should you go about selecting your spot?
Joe Muto, head projectionist for Nitehawk Cinemas in New York, shared his insights, stating, "I’ve always felt the obvious best spot to sit in a
movie theater
is in the center of the room, aligned with the screen. This positioning centralizes your field of vision and prevents strain from catching details on the far left or right sides of the screen."
Choosing the second or third row from the back also has its advantages, particularly in terms of sound quality. Muto added, "You have the optimum placement for surround sound, and your ears capture the full impact of all the speakers working in harmony throughout the theater."
Brian Bonnick, chief technical officer for IMAX, echoed this sentiment, mentioning that the IMAX system offers a consistent experience across seats. However, even he follows a specific pattern when selecting a seat in an IMAX theater. He mentioned, "I tend to sit about two-thirds of the way from the screen, centered. It's just a habit that I've developed."
While filmmakers and film tech experts around the world may have varied opinions on the ideal seat, there seems to be a consensus that the second or third row from the back, along with seats in the middle, tend to offer an exceptional viewing experience. In fact, during a screening of "Raazi" at a Delhi theater, filmmaker Meghna Gulzar shared her preference, asserting, "Always the second-to-last row. Never the last."
These prime rows are in such demand that some cinemas in the country withhold them until just an hour before the show. So, if you're aiming for the best seat in the house, remember to target the second or third row from the back and aim for a central position.
Here are some additional tips for selecting the optimal seat:
- Avoid front-row seats, as these may result in uncomfortable vertical viewing angles.
- Steer clear of corner seats, which could lead to an imbalanced audio experience.
- Opting for seats farthest from the screen ensures comfort for your posture, eyes, and neck.
- Experts recommend the seats farthest from the screen, specifically the second or third row from the back and in the middle, for the ultimate cinematic experience.
FAQs
Opting for seats farthest from the screen ensures comfort for your posture, eyes, and neck. Experts recommend the seats farthest from the screen, specifically the second or third row from the back and in the middle, for the ultimate cinematic experience.
What are the best seats to pick in a movie Theatre? ›
The second or third row from the back, along with seats in the middle, are recommended for optimal sound quality and viewing experience. Avoid front-row seats and corner seats for better angles and audio.
What is the best seat position to watch a movie? ›
The best seat in a movie theatre is typically considered to be in the center of the middle row, about two-thirds of the way back. This spot offers the perfect balance of sound and screen size, providing an immersive experience. Plus, you avoid straining your neck or missing any action at the edges of the screen.
Is Last Row good in cinema? ›
The answer is in the sound. According to Steve Martz, a sound engineer at THX, the company responsible for the high-fidelity sound used in most cinemas, the best rows to sit in are two-thirds before the last row, counting from the first row of seats.
Are side seats at movies good? ›
Sitting on the sides (which typically seat 2-4 people) gives you the seclusion you may want from the rest of the noise and commotion of theater goers, but the tradeoff? You're not going to have a great angle to view the movie.
Where is the best seat position in theater? ›
The experts agree the "best seat in the house" is near the halfway point, in the middle of the row. Even the people who design cinemas say you should choose the centre row and the four rows behind it, and always take a seat near the middle.
What is the best seating area in a theatre? ›
Stalls seats are on the ground level of the theatre. Typically, stalls seats can be regarded as some of the best seats in the auditorium, due to their close proximity to the stage. If you're sitting in the first few rows of the stalls seats, you may even be able to touch the stage and see performers blink.
Is it better to sit in the front or back of movie theater? ›
Sit in the center two-thirds back.
In order to get the best sound quality, you should sit where the sound technician sits to calibrate the experience. This is the most common way to get a good seat.
Should I sit on left or right in theater? ›
Although a preference for seats to the right side of the screen, stage, and entrance was found, Weyers et al. (2006) also found a preference for selecting seats on the right side of the page. Thus, for maps with the screen at the bottom of the page, seats to the left of the screen were preferred. ...
Where is the best seat in cinema? ›
Our personal choice for the best seats in a cinema? Right bang smack in the middle. You want to aim for the dead centre of the screen, remember, because your eyes will take it all in. Think of it like viewing a movie or a TV show at home in your own setup.
Where to Sit. For the best visual experience, a 36-degree viewing angle is the best. For video experience, choose the farthest seat from the screen so that you don't strain your eyes while following the picture all over the screen. The farthest seat ensures comfort for the posture, the eyes, and the neck.
Which seat is best in cinema for couples? ›
Corner seat is a private seat. Normally most couples ( husband &wife / lovers / dating couples/ friends with benefits) prefer that seats. Because they can do some intimate activities there. That seats are more darker that other seats.
Which seat is good for watching movies? ›
Opting for seats farthest from the screen ensures comfort for your posture, eyes, and neck. Experts recommend the seats farthest from the screen, specifically the second or third row from the back and in the middle, for the ultimate cinematic experience.
What is the safest seat in a movie theater? ›
An aisle seat in the far rear of the theater might be the absolute best place to be.
What are the front row seats in a theatre called? ›
The first level of seating directly in front of the stage, generally starting below stage level and slowly rising as it reaches the back of the auditorium, is known as the stalls. The rear of the stalls may be overhung by a balcony with further tiered seating commonly known as the dress circle or grand circle.
What are the best seats to make out in a movie theater? ›
How can we make out in a movie theatre? Make sure to sit somewhere far from employees which is pretty much always up and to the sides, wait for a moment where the scene isn't too bright. (Night scene or something like that). Try to go a bit late and book a place away from people (at least 3–4 seats on each side.
Where is the best place to sit in a theatre for a play? ›
Ideally, you'll want to sit between five and 12 rows from the stage closer to the center. This will get you close enough to see subtle facial expressions–something especially good if the show you're seeing has one of your favorite stars in it.
What are the best seats in the theater for musicals? ›
Orchestra Seats:
They provide an excellent view of the stage, allowing you to see the actors' facial expressions and intricate details of the set design. For musicals, orchestra seats are often the preferred choice as they offer an intimate connection with the performers and their voices.
Which seats are best in cinema for couples? ›
Corner seat is a private seat. Normally most couples ( husband &wife / lovers / dating couples/ friends with benefits) prefer that seats. Because they can do some intimate activities there. That seats are more darker that other seats.
