“MOVIE NIGHT WITH FRIENDS ”

Planning a movie night is a great way to kick back, relax, spend time with friends and have some fun. You can rent a movie to watch at home or go out to the theater in your neighborhood. Here are some practical suggestions for anyone who enjoys movies, and catching up with their closest buddies.

Once you have decided which friend or friends you would like to invite, you should call them about a week or two prior to make plans. Ask your friend, or group of friends, if they would like to stay at home or go to the local movie theater.

If you and your friends decide to go out to the movies: Be sure to buy a newspaper to check movie listings, times, ratings and descriptions. Next, budget for a night at the movies. This can cost you around $20. General admission in the evening averages about $9, and popcorn and other snacks are extra.

Last, be sure your mode of transportation gets you to the theater about a half hour before show time. This guarantees that you will have enough time to buy a ticket, pick out some snacks at the refreshment counter and get a good seat. Remember, more time also gives you more time to chat with your friends before the movie begins.

Next, budget for your rental and movie snacks. Renting a VHS videotape or DVD can cost about $5 each. Chips and other snacks at the rental store are extra, but you can always microwave popcorn you bought at the grocery store.

Plan to invite your friends over for a few hours. This way you can talk before you play the movie, and have some discussion after the conclusion of the film.

While there are plenty of lessons to be learned with this activity, there are two important things to remember: Enjoy the show and the pleasure of your friend’s company. There’s nothing better than sharing a favorite pastime with good friends.