Cinemas are currently navigating a unique phenomenon as audiences enthusiastically celebrate the appearance of a character in the newly released A Minecraft Movie, based on the immensely popular video game. This trend has led to fans energetically shouting and tossing popcorn when the character Chicken Jockey makes an entrance on screen.
Mixed Reactions from Cinemas
While some cinema operators have expressed concerns about this behavior, others have chosen to embrace the excitement. Gareth Boggis, the general manager of Abbeygate Cinema in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, noted the film’s ability to attract a diverse audience. “We’ve seen lots of excitement and audiences that are really engaging with it, so joining in at times, clapping and shouting, stuff like that,” he shared. He added that while there have been instances of popcorn being thrown, such antics are not entirely out of character for family films.
The trend, which has gained traction on TikTok, coincides with the film’s impressive box office performance, grossing an estimated 0 million (£233 million) globally during its opening weekend. Featuring stars like Jason Momoa, Jack Black, and Jennifer Coolidge, the film has sparked a wave of enthusiasm among viewers.
Mr. Boggis acknowledged the fun aspect of these trends, mentioning that some audience members have even come dressed as their favorite characters. However, he expressed hope that the excitement does not escalate into disruptive behavior, stating, “It’s just when they become a bit silly and anti-social that you hope that they don’t get copied completely.” To mitigate potential disturbances, he confirmed that the cinema would not hold special screenings that might encourage overly exuberant behavior.
Special Events and Guidelines
In contrast, Cineworld has taken a more proactive approach by inviting fans to participate in a special one-day event on April 13. Moviegoers are encouraged to “whoop, yelp, clap, shout ‘Chicken Jockey’, and dress up” as their favorite Minecraft characters at various locations, including its Ipswich branch. However, the cinema has set clear guidelines, emphasizing that there will be “no throwing, no mess, and no filming the screen.”
On the other hand, the Riverside cinema in Woodbridge has labeled the trend as a “plague” affecting cinemas nationwide. In a social media post, they firmly stated, “Any disturbances during the film e.g. clapping or shouting will not be tolerated,” and reiterated that filming within the auditorium is strictly prohibited. Their message underscores a commitment to ensuring that all patrons can enjoy the film-going experience without disruption.
