The highly-anticipated Wicked movie sparks debate over movie theater etiquette as fans share images and recordings from inside their screenings. Fans take to social media to share their favorite moments from the film causing mixed reactions and questions over phone usage in movie theaters.

Content includes recordings of musical numbers, easter eggs within specific scenes, and images of Cynthia Ervio’s Elphaba and Ariana Grande’s Galinda. 

Due to the hype surrounding Wicked and its star-studded cast, the film has already been marketed as a cinematic event. This has no doubt influenced these fans’ actions as they post their live reactions and favorite moments from the film. In many ways, fans share content from their screenings as if it were a concert, citing they want to relive certain moments later. 

Not everyone agrees with this sentiment, instead calling out the disrespectful– and illegal– recording of scenes. Individuals point out that the brightness of phones in a dark theater may cause a distraction to other viewers. While there is no shame in being excited about the movie and wanting to share that excitement with others, critics emphasize that it is important to be mindful of others’ cinematic experience. Additionally, some fans mention concerns about spoiling the film for others by sharing clips online.

Others question the value of capturing moments from the film instead of waiting for its digital release. They point out that official stills from the movie are available online that users can share instead of taking a photo of their screen. Many fans who have not shared content from inside the theaters struggle to understand why one would interrupt their viewing experience to record. 

Some users point out a larger issue, which is society’s relationship to social media and devices. They point out that social media has influenced us to focus more on how we are going to share our experiences rather than simply experiencing them. Instead of consuming art or valuing an experience, we prioritize others perceiving us as doing so. 

When confronted about their actions, many believe it not to be that serious of a problem– telling others to simply scroll past the content if it upsets them. 

No matter what side you take on this debate, one thing is certain. Wicked’s theaters will be packed full as it soars to the top of box office charts. Who knows, maybe you’ll even be sat next to someone you argued with online. That’s truly the magic of the movies.

Update Courtesy of Kamryn Ryan

Feature Image Credit to Universal Pictures via NBC