How to See a Late Movie

Last night, I did something shocking. Something I had not done since I was in my mid-twenties.

I went to see a 9:45 pm movie.

Going to the movies was an activity that I quit almost entirely once I had my first child. When my first baby was two, I left her with my mother so my husband and I could see the latest James Bond movie. But then two more children arrived, and four years passed before I made it to the next movie I saw in the theater. And then I think the following year, I went with my husband to see one more, rather forgettable, movie.

Even so, those few movies I saw in the theater since I've become a mother? They were all matinees -- times that worked around someone else's nursing and nap and feeding schedules.

During my "matinee years," when I'd arrive at the theater and gaze at the start times to choose from (2:00, 3:30, 5:05) my eyes would wander over to the bolded, more expensive shows (8:30, 9:15, even 11:05). I'd think-- "WOW, people actually see movies that start after 8 pm? I could hardly remember staying out that late! If I thought long and hard, I might recall a brief memory of me in overall jeans and oversized flannels, slouched into a seat with a packet of Sweet Tarts next to my best friends from high school. But since becoming a mother, my only association with movie theaters has been daylight.

Saturday night, I got home from the 9:45 show around midnight. I had a great time, and even stayed awake for the whole show.

For those of you who have not seen a late show in a while, I've gathered a few tips to make your transition from matinees to late shows a little easier.

1.) Get to the show a little early. Because, believe it or not, late shows on weekend nights can be packed houses. Particularly during holidays.

2.) Try not to yawn while during the previews. Everyone will know that you are new to this form of nightlife.

3.) Get something to munch on. It's helps you stay awake.

4.) Try not to look like someone that doesn't usually go to the movies late. For example, don't walk around the lobby with your mouth wide open at the shock of seeing so many people out so late -- particularly kids that are almost young enough to be your children.

5.) Don't go asking the people sitting in front and behind you whether they're as tired as you are.

6.) Don't tell the usher, "Hey, my kids have been asleep for 2 hours and I'm out to see a MOVIE in a theater!"

Have a great time. And welcome back to life after the sun goes down!