‘We couldn’t keep our mouths shut when we were kids,’ but Martin Scorsese draws the line at today’s noisy moviegoers

Renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese has revealed why he no longer watches films in movie theaters, citing disruptive audience behavior as the primary reason for his retreat to private screenings. The legendary director, known for classics like Taxi Driver and Goodfellas, has expressed his concerns about the current state of theatrical movie-watching experiences.

According to Hindustan Times, the revelation came during a recent conversation with veteran film critic Peter Travers, where Scorsese discussed his growing discomfort with modern theater audiences. The director’s main grievances include people talking on phones during movies, frequent trips for snacks and beverages, and general noise levels that interfere with the dialogue on screen.

When confronted about his own childhood movie-watching habits, Scorsese acknowledged that he and his friends weren’t completely quiet either. “Yeah, maybe,” he conceded to Travers, “but when we talked, it was always about the movie and the fun we had chewing over the details.” This distinction between engaged discussion about the film and today’s disconnected chatter appears to be a crucial point for the filmmaker.

How Scorsese created his own private cinema experience

In response to these challenges, the acclaimed director has established his own private screening space at home. This personal cinema sanctuary features top-quality projection equipment and has become what Scorsese describes as “a vital part of his life.” The space is adorned with vintage movie posters and various pieces of film memorabilia, creating an environment dedicated purely to the appreciation of cinema.

The director’s decision to avoid public theaters reflects a broader crisis in the film industry. Movie theaters are experiencing declining attendance due to multiple factors, including the rise of streaming platforms, increasing ticket prices, and a perceived decline in original storytelling.

This shift in viewing habits by one of cinema’s most influential figures highlights the changing nature of movie-watching culture. Scorsese’s preference for private screenings allows him to engage with films without the modern distractions that he feels detract from the viewing experience.

The filmmaker’s stance represents a poignant commentary on the evolution of movie-watching culture. Rather than expressing disdain for cinema itself, Scorsese’s retreat to private screenings appears to stem from his deep respect for the art form and a desire to preserve the pure experience of film viewing that he remembers from earlier decades.