Last night I went to see 500 Days of Summer at the Algonquin Arts Theater in Manasquan. I've been to the Algonquin a couple of times before for surf movies in the summertime, but had never experienced a mainstream film there.
The two experiences varied wildly, but I found both to be quite enjoyable.
In the summer, for example, when they're featuring a new surf flick, the place is packed. Surfing enthusiasts of all ages virtually spill out of the courtyard in front of the theater and onto Main Street. There's usually live entertainment and information tents manned by reps from the local surf schools, as well as the mandatory presence of the folks from Surfrider.
The atmosphere is electric and, when the movie comes on, there's not an open seat in the house. The great part about watching surf movies, for those of you who have yet to have this rich experience, is audience participation. The hoots and hollers and varied audience remarks as the world's best surfers strut their stuff on the big screen makes going to the movies a community event.
On the other hand, last night's experience was the complete opposite - and I loved it just the same. There were about 10 of us in the theater, including the two people working there. Before the film began, one of them walked to the front of the theater and gave us a warm welcome, an introduction to the movie and a nudge toward the concession stand - With $6 tickets, they've got to pay their salaries somehow.
As I watched the opening credits, I didn't even notice that no previews were played, nor did I see a single Coke commercial or other advertisement. The film was good. A bit slow developing, but I enjoyed it the way you enjoy a fine meal...slowly savoring every flavor and texture.
While the seats were a bit narrow and their cushions are well past their prime, I found the experience to personal and, well, charming.
If you haven't experienced a movie at the Algonquin, be sure to check it out. It's an experience you'll never find in a packed megaplex selling $6 bags of popcorn.
