A friend of mine was interested in watching a newly released movie in theaters. The movie had positive reviews. He booked the ticket online for that day’s evening show and was relaxed. As the movie was doing well, he didn’t want to take a chance, so he ensured that he got the ticket by doing advance booking.
Reaching the multiplex a few minutes early, he strode towards the gates, and pesented his digital ticket at the entrance to be scanned.
Wrong Day Of The Movie
The machine indicated an error; the security person tried again, then said, “ Sir the ticket is for tomorrow!”. He didn’t believe what he heard and asked in dismay, ”What?”
The security person repeated, “ Sir, it is tomorrow’s date on the ticket”.
Astonished, he wondered how this glitch could have happened. However, that was the reality and he couldn’t do much about it. He immediately rushed to the ticket counter to see if he could get another ticket, but the show was fully sold out.
Acting quickly and on the spur of the moment, he checked on his phone for other nearest theatres where the movie was being screened. Luckily, he found one, booked the tickets for the show starting in an hour and finally watched the movie.
Now, for the unutilized ticket, it could not be refunded. PVR tickets are costly, especially on weekends and he had booked the premium sofa seats. He asked me if I could go. For me, it was obviously a free movie offer. But I was held back by random thoughts — I have never gone to a movie alone, moreso wasn’t sure whether I would enjoy the solo experience.
Someone’s Loss Is Another’s Gain
Ultimately, I agreed and was ready to embrace the spontaneity of the situation. Despite my skepticism, and doubt about whether I would be comfortable doing this all alone, I convinced myself and took the chance. What would happen in the worst scenario — I would return!!
Surprisingly, the solo experience turned out to be a pleasant change….. the movie was engaging, and kept me on the edge.
Thankfully it was a wholesome entertainer, with plenty of emotions, comedy, suspense, romance, and the icing on the cake—excellent acting. The best company that day were perhaps the characters on the screen.
Except for the rare feeling of awkwardness creeping in when you see a group of people sitting next to you enjoying together, laughing, talking. You get a bit conscious, as if everybody is looking at you only.
Or the nosy gatekeeper enquiring at the entrance, “Only one ticket?”.
Lately, there’s a dearth of friends to chill out with! With this experience, I have found a solution for my lack of company and it’s doable. It can be any other solo experience, why restrict it to movies?
I’ve discovered a newfound freedom, an escape from the monotony of life.
So, if you are in a similar situation don’t hesitate to explore on your own. Believe me, you’ll find it a joyful endeavor. I am learning to be more free-spirited and open to embrace whatever comes! How about you?
