Navigating Cinema Adverts and Trailers: What Time Should You Actually Arrive?
The anticipation of waiting for a movie to start at the cinema can be both exciting and frustrating. You arrive at the cinema, ticket in hand, ready to immerse yourself in the world of the film you’ve been eagerly waiting to see. But as you settle into your seat, you realize that the advertised start time of 7pm doesn’t necessarily mean the movie will begin right away.
According to information gathered from the UK’s major cinema chains, the wait time for adverts and trailers before the main event varies. Cineworld states that ads and trailers typically last between 30-45 minutes before the actual film begins, while Odeon claims a shorter wait of 15-25 minutes. Everyman plays 25 minutes’ worth of adverts and trailers, but this can vary for special events. Showcase and Vue also provide specific windows of around 20-25 minutes for ads and trailers.
Karen Stacey, the chief executive of Digital Cinema Media, revealed that the average wait time for ads and trailers is 24 minutes – 12 minutes for ads and 12 for trailers. This consistent length allows for a more structured viewing experience for audiences and helps cinemas maximize revenue.
While some viewers may find the pre-show ads and trailers entertaining, others like avid cinema-goer Bill Boswell appreciate the role they play in supporting the cinema industry. However, concerns over parking fees and the overall length of the pre-show experience have been raised by consumers like Martin Lewis.
For those looking to avoid the pre-show altogether, independent or community cinemas may offer a more streamlined experience. Draycott Community Cinema, for example, keeps their pre-show brief with just two short trailers and minimal adverts, setting the stage for the main event without unnecessary delays.
In the end, whether you arrive at the cinema at 7pm or a few minutes later, the wait for the movie to start is all part of the cinematic experience. And while the length of ads and trailers may vary, one thing remains consistent – the magic of the big screen awaits once the lights dim and the film begins.
