Movie Lovers Flee Election Madness for Escapism

As voters across the nation head to the polls, many are opting for a different kind of escape this Election Day: the cinema. At AMC Lincoln Square in New York City, 34-year-old Hana Slevin is taking a break from the chaos of politics with a trip to see "A Real Pain," a comedic drama featuring Kieran Culkin and Jesse Eisenberg. "I’m treating myself by staying away from the news,” she shares, acknowledging the emotional toll the political climate has taken on her. “It’s all about distractions today."

Slevin is not alone in her desire to find solace away from the election coverage. Movie theaters have seen a notable uptick in attendance as individuals seek refuge in everything from superhero flicks like “Venom: The Last Dance” to the courtroom thriller “Juror #2.” With the election seen as one of the most heated in U.S. history, audiences appear eager to trade their worries for buttery popcorn and cinematic adventures.

Chris Griggs, a 58-year-old comedian from New York, echoed Slevin's sentiments as he emerged from “Juror #2.” “I wanted to get my mind off the election. Watching a legal thriller felt fitting,” he said, revealing the comforting escape art can provide. However, that respite proved temporary, as the weight of anxiety returned once the credits rolled.

In Los Angeles, Michael Larson decided to catch a matinee after voting, hoping to soak up some distraction before the election night tension escalated. “We need a break before the storm,” Larson remarked. “It’s nice to disconnect from everything that’s been on our minds for years and to escape into a movie.”

The symbolic choice of films like “Juror #2” seems fitting for many, prompting conversations about justice and the electoral process even as they enjoy their cinematic experience. Meanwhile, theaters appeared busier than normal, creating a lively atmosphere despite being far from fully packed.

For 31-year-old Brandon in Manhattan, a trip to the movies with his friend Melissa was the perfect way to engage in their shared hobby while still proudly sporting their “I Voted” stickers. “Going to the movies is our hobby,” Melissa added. “We finally had some time to do something fun."

Meanwhile, 70-year-old John Grant chose to watch “A Real Pain” at AMC at the Grove; he reflected on how he missed out on the theatrical experience during the lockdown of the 2020 election. “I wanted to see a film in a theater rather than watching it at home,” he noted, longing for the immersive escape that cinemas offer.

With audiences hoping to ward off election-day blues, Danny Casillas, 58, from Los Angeles, places his hopes on the action-packed “Venom: The Last Dance.” “As worried as I am for our future, I'm going to disappear for two hours. Then, I’ll check the polls,” he commented, highlighting the need for temporary emotional relief.

As many opt for cinematic escapism to cope with election anxiety, viewers find themselves navigating between the thrills of action and the contemplative depths of drama—a fascinating juxtaposition reflecting the current turmoil. With the political landscape in flux, it seems that for now, everyone is ready to enjoy a few hours of distraction as they wait for the results. What films to do you think can keep our spirits up during turbulent times? Let the debates begin!