Pre-COVID, we used to go to the movies fairly often. We were members of AMC’s A-List and could see up to three movies a week, not that we went that often, but it was a great cost-effective date night. It was especially great in the winter when we had far fewer options.
Once quarantine started, I found myself really missing these nights, and then I remembered movie nights at home as a kid. My mom worked full time when I was growing up and still found time to do fun things and one of my favorite memories is a themed movie night. Our family's favorite is Captain Ron, a Martin Short cult classic. We wore Hawaiian shirts (leftover from our Florida family Christmas photo, naturally) had virgin margaritas, and watched the movie together.
While I haven’t committed to a full theme night, we have created a little movie theatre experience at home. I think the biggest key to making these nights the most they can be is making sure that you keep them special by getting out of the norm. We set up a movie screen (aka white table cloth) in front of our spare bed so that we aren't just watching a movie in the same place we watch shows in the evening. So aside from a way to get out of your normal routine, what else do you need for a movie night at home?
Way to watch the movie - this is obvious of course, but consider investing in an inexpensive compact projector. We use this one with that white table cloth pinned to the ceiling. But you can also just watch on a laptop or tv.
Great movie - We usually watch comedies on these nights, because that’s how we relax. But if there is a movie coming out that we really want to watch, I will schedule a movie night around its debut (Like we are for Enola Holmes this month).
Blankets and pillows - Make it cozy! One of the benefits of watching a movie at home is that you can make a nice big pile of pillows and blankets and cozy up to your favorite humans (and pets!).
Popcorn - 90% of the enjoyment of movie night for me is probably the snacks. I pop this great popcorn (it doesn’t have icky chemicals and tastes great). When I had an easily accessible stove, I popped my own, and that is definitely a simple thing to do (you can learn how here) but please, please don’t use a chemical-filled typical microwave brand. The real thing tastes better and is better for you.
Candy - I go to the dollar store or FiveBelow and stock up on movie theatre candy. I get all our favorites and usually something new to try. I keep whatever candy we don’t eat in gallon-sized ziplock bags (one for the chocolate, one for the fruity/sour) and tuck it away in a secret hiding spot. This way, it’s only used for movie night and it helps keep things special.
Something to drink - Usually, I pick up a slush at Sonic - a vanilla slush to be exact; sounds weird, tastes amazing - or if it has been a long week, a glass of red wine is what I need.
Tray - I put all the snacks on one of our breakfast trays and bring it over to our cozy fort.
Don’t be afraid to have fun with it! Make your own themed movie night. Here are some ones we have done or plan to do:
Ratatouille - The movie and the dish. 10/10 recommend.
Mafia Night - Goodfellas and pasta with a tomato sauce made with garlic sliced really thin. Frank Sinatra soundtrack during dinner optional.
Midnight in Paris - Feelings about Owen Wilson as an intellectual writer aside, I love this movie. Watch with mini pain au chocolat, kir royales, and herbs de Provence topped popcorn.
Chocolat(e) - Perfect for a rainy Fall evening, watch Chocolat with big mugs of Vianne’s hot chocolate and brown sugar and chili-spiced popcorn and maybe some chocolate truffles.
50 First Dates - Spend time with a great duo while eating breakfast for dinner with waffle constructions and fresh pineapple. Or you could always make Spam and eggs with the Reese’s cups.
What other themes can you come up with?