A new trend in movie theaters has emerged in Southern California, where family-friendly chains are introducing in-theater jungle gyms. Because what could possibly be more relaxing than trying to enjoy a film while your kids scramble around a playground in the dark? Imagine the joy of wondering if your little ones are still breathing while you forked over $60 for a family ticket to see the latest blockbuster.
Two new theaters are set to open next week, featuring this innovative jungle gym concept. Cinepolis, the chain behind this idea, is hoping to draw families back to the cinema. “Our goal is to create an inviting environment for kids,” said Cinepolis USA CEO, Mark Thompson, in an interview with the LA Times. “We want to make it easier for parents to enjoy movies while their children have a blast.”
Box office analyst Jake Reynolds chimed in, noting that “kids can get restless even in the best films. This might encourage more parents to bring their kids out for a movie.” According to the LA Times, these theaters will open early, allowing kids to explore the play area filled with plastic hippos and alligators, along with slides and obstacle courses right in the aisle.
While we’re all on the lookout for fresh family outings, the relaxed vibe of this theater could be a hit for those little ones who struggle to sit still for more than an hour. But does the idea of a dimly lit room with a jungle gym and a gaggle of kids running rampant make anyone else a tad anxious? No? Just me? Alright then.
Is that our popcorn, or is it being shared by the kid with a runny nose? Where did our seats go? Great, Sally is stuck in the bubble at the end of the slide. Excuse me while I navigate past a dozen people to rescue her. Why did we even choose this place, again? Huh? I can’t hear you over the chaos!
We already have a perfectly good dark space at home where the kids climb on everything and ignore the movie we put on—it’s called the living room, and it’s way cheaper than this theater.
You know what parents would really pay extra for at a movie theater? Childcare services! Imagine enjoying an adult film for once without worrying about the kids. I haven’t seen an award-winning film in a theater like a normal person in six years. Just think of it as a staffed playroom, but at the movies instead. You’re welcome to whoever might capitalize on that idea.
In summary, while the concept of a movie theater with a jungle gym may seem innovative, the reality could lead to more chaos than comfort for parents. If we’re looking for a fun outing, perhaps we should stick to our living rooms—much cheaper and far less headache-inducing.
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