[namanyayg]

> When all the children were screaming in the theatre to the good guy "the bad guy is at your back!", I could not understand why the other children were screaming at the actor.

I used to do that too, but now I find it much more fun to let go and completely engage in the plot, including feeling what protagonist feels, verbal reactions, etc. This makes good drama much better, as the director is anyway trying their best to make you feel like the actor on screen -- so why not listen? :) Watching TV with friends becomes more enjoyable too!

[TeMPOraL]

I always thought this was the default way of watching TV shows, which is why I was surprised as an adult by many people seeming detached from what they're watching and unable to immerse themselves in the plot.

> Watching TV with friends becomes more enjoyable too!

My experience is the opposite. Unless those friends are also going all-in like me, watching anything that has even a smudge of a plot becomes irritating very quickly, as people around me keep breaking the immersion. For many of the TV shows and movies I watch, I try to at least get the first watch alone, so that I can enjoy the full experience.

[namanyayg]

You're right on with the latter, I guess this behavior is only with my close friends (when we all go over-the-top all in) or with my SO (where our reactions add to each other's fun?).

Given the immense hours most people consume TV, they would only be reducing my own enjoyment if they detach.