By Henry Barsch ‘20

I cannot wait to go to a movie.

During this pandemic, I have been watching a decent amount of television and cinema. Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ are all my best friends during this time. Although these services are all wonderful, there is one thing I miss the most: the movie theaters.

Going to the AMC Theater in Crestwood off Cicero Ave. and Cal Sag Rd. is always a good time for me. I have many fond memories of films seen in that place. From going with friends to family, it always has a good movie in store.

From a young age I have been going to the theater. My first ever movie was Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999). I remember my grandpa taking me multiple times for Marvel movies, going to see movies with my cousins when I was younger, and seeing Joker (2019) with some friends. Not seeing Avengers: Endgame (2019) in theaters (seeing it at home instead) was a huge mistake.

I have seen videos of the opening night theater of Endgame. It is electric how the crowd reacts to some parts. Some have been waiting decades for this mashup and let it all out with a loud cheer. It is comparable with seeing a good home run at the ballpark.

When I first saw Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015), that is how the crowd was. It was my first time at a movie that people had a passionate love for. When the opening notes of the iconic entrance played and the iconic “STAR WARS” emblem was on screen, the theater erupted. I had chills down my spine I will never forget.

I do miss the theater, expensive popcorn and all. When this quarantine is all over with, you’ll be sure to find me watching movies at AMC Theaters all summer. I cannot wait to be back.