Why Movies Are Terrible For A First Date - And Better First Date Ideas

Going to the movies on a first date is a trope almost as old as theatre itself, and is perhaps the next most obvious first date idea after meeting for a cup of coffee. Seeing the latest blockbuster can be exciting, but it isn't ideal for a first date.

First dates should be a time to get to know your partner; having conversations about their likes and dislikes, hobbies and passions, goals in life, and seeing if you two are a match.

It's Not Like In The Movies - Respect Personal Boundaries 

We've all seen this scene: a couple goes into a theatre, and partway through the movie someone yawns, stretches their arms, then rests it around the other person. While this trope has been done to death, and maybe it occasionally worked in the past, it isn't the proper thing to do today. If you try this, you may end up with your $22 bag of popcorn dumped on your head.

You should always respect personal boundaries and space, even on dates. Entering someone's personal space unexpectedly may make them feel uncomfortable or vulnerable. Some people may have a large personal bubble and some may not. It's better to play it safe and not invade until you both feel comfortable.

Personal boundaries include:

• Physical Boundaries – May not like being touched or being too physically close to someone.

• Emotional Boundaries – May not like playing mind games or beating around the bush, or may be fragile with certain emotions or triggers.

• Thought Boundaries – May hold strong beliefs, values, or ideals that they may become defensive about if challenged.

• Energetic Boundaries – May become socially or emotionally drained sooner than others. This is noticeable if the other person becomes quiet and disconnected.

You Can't Talk To Your Date During A Movie

We all know that talking during movies is disruptive. Repeat offenders may get harshly shushed or kicked out. This lack of conversation can really dampen the opportunity to get to know your date, especially if you don't plan on doing anything together before and/or after the movie.

Better First Date Ideas Than Going To The Movies:

Decide on a different activity that the two of you can both enjoy. Talk to your potential love interest a bit before the first date to find out what they like and dislike. This will save you the embarrassment of taking them to a steakhouse if they're vegetarian or to a theme park if they dislike heights or being upside down.

If your date is artistic, consider visiting an art gallery, museum, or local market collective. There, you can see what kinds of art piques their interests and share ideas about paintings, sculptures, or other artistic media. A gallery or museum visit also lets your date see your creative side. 

If you aren't artistic, ask your date to share their opinions and views so you can learn a bit about what they enjoy. This also creates different avenues for you to explore on your own in order to become a more well rounded gentleman with a variety of interests.

If your date is a foodie, discover new restaurants together or create dishes. Ask them what culinary dishes make their mouth water. (Make a mental note about what they like. This will be advantageous to you and your date, and will be explained in the next paragraph.) Be aware of their allergies and dietary preferences as well.

Dates don't have to be expensive. Here are 15 Cheap First Date Ideas that will create lasting impressions and won't break the bank!

Dinner Date Dos And Don'ts

If you are planning on going to a restaurant for a first date, don't ask them for a name of a restaurant. Asking your date where they'd like to go can put a lot of pressure on them. Remember, they're just as nervous as you are, maybe even more. 

Using the mental note from earlier, research the foods your date enjoys and find a restaurant that fits your budget. They'll be much more surprised when you say "Hey, I reserved us a table at that new sushi restaurant that just opened last week" than "Let's go to your favorite place you visit all the time because you know the menu".

A new restaurant is much more memorable and exciting rather than going to the same place they visit on Fridays after work with friends.

A List Of More First Date Ideas

Some more unique first date ideas include:

• Escape rooms

• Paint nights

• Taking a class together: culinary, pottery, dancing, to name a few

• Batting cages or driving ranges

• Arcades (adult arcades, if you're 18+, of course)

• Volunteering at an animal shelter

• Interactive theatre like murder mysteries or improv

• Pick-your-own farms or pumpkin carving

• Market collectives, farmers' markets, thrift or antique stores

• Picnics at a scenic outlook (each person can take a dish or two to share)

Choose activities that allow you to focus on your date and create a connection. A first date should be something both people will remember for a long time. Remind yourself that you want the other person to go home afterward with a big smile on their face and enjoy the time spent together.

Who Pays On A First Date? And How To Avoid That Awkward Conversation 

No matter how well the date goes, someone most likely has to pay for it. Don't worry, we got you covered in our extensive article Who Pays On The First Date? We also describe the different scenarios you may find yourself in when it comes to paying the bill.

First Dates Should Be Memorable

This is your chance to make a lasting impression and show the other person who you are, learn about them, and see if you're compatible for a relationship. Even if you two don't gel, it will still be an unforgettable date that both people will remember for a long time.

Should You Kiss On A First Date? 

When the date has come to an end, there's always the question of if you should kiss your date or not. This is covered more extensively in our article Does A Gentleman Kiss On The First Date?

The simplest answer is to follow your heart and read the room. If the date has gone well, then you'll have a higher chance of getting that kiss. But don't be forlorn if it doesn't work out. In the words of Sinatra: Nice and easy does it every time.

How Should You Dress For A First Date?

Choosing what to wear on a first date can be nerve-racking. We have compiled all the need-to-know advice for you in one article, How Does A Gentleman Dress On A First Date? It will answer all your questions and concerns when it comes to looking extra dapper to impress that special someone.

Summary

Movie dates should be saved for later in a relationship. The first few dates should be focused on learning as much as you can about the other person and seeing if you two are compatible. Picking activities that involve communication and sharing a few laughs will always be better than sitting in a theatre for a few hours.

But what about a second date? We've got you covered. Our article titled How Soon Should You Follow Up After A First Date? has helpful tips for you!

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