Movie lover's FAQ

These are the questions movie fans ask most. Each answer is short, with a link to the full guide.

In the cinema

Is IMAX always worth it? It depends on the film and the venue. Big spectacle films, especially those shot with IMAX cameras, gain the most. A large purpose-built IMAX screen is very different from a smaller converted one. See IMAX and seats and formats.

Where is the best seat? For most screens, the center of a row about two-thirds of the way back gives balanced picture and sound. Premium formats vary; our seats guide has a table.

Why are there so many trailers and ads before the film? Advertising and trailers are an income source for cinemas and a key marketing tool for studios. Many cinemas list a "feature start time" or note that the advertised time includes trailers.

Why is popcorn so expensive? Cinemas keep only part of the ticket price, but nearly all concession revenue, so food and drink are a large part of their profit. See how the box office works.

Should I stay for the credits? Many films include extra scenes during or after the credits. Staying is also a way to appreciate the hundreds of people who made the film.

How films work

Why are movies 24 frames per second? The standard was set when synchronized sound arrived in the late 1920s and needed a constant speed. It became the cinematic norm. See frame rates.

Why do some films have black bars on my TV? The film's shape (aspect ratio) is wider or narrower than your TV. The bars preserve the full composition. See aspect ratios.

What is the difference between a director and a producer? The director leads the creative vision on set and in the edit. Producers develop, finance, organize and oversee the project from beginning to end. See crew roles.

How long does it take to make a film? It varies widely. A feature often takes a year or more from development through post-production; large effects films can take several years. See development.

What does "based on a true story" mean? It means the story was inspired by real events, but filmmakers usually change details, combine characters and invent dialogue for drama. "Inspired by" often means even looser.

Ratings and choosing what to watch

Who decides a film's age rating? Each country has its own system and body. In the United States, ratings such as G, PG, PG-13, R and NC-17 are given by the Motion Picture Association's rating board. Other countries use their own classification boards and labels. Always check local ratings and content advice.

How do I start exploring older or foreign films? Begin with a curated list such as our cinephile starter checklist, and use the genre guides to follow what you enjoy.

Subtitles or dubbing? Both are valid. Subtitles keep the original performances and voices; dubbing lets you watch the images without reading. Many film fans prefer subtitles, but the best choice is the one that helps you enjoy the film.

Awards and festivals

What is the difference between a festival and an awards show? Festivals, such as Cannes, Venice and Berlin, premiere new films and award prizes chosen by juries. Awards such as the Oscars honor films already released, voted on by members of an academy. See the Oscars and Cannes.