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The End of the Film and the Roll of Credits

2024-11-25

When a film concludes, the names of the numerous individuals who contributed to its creation start scrolling across the screen. This prompts a common dilemma - do we stay put or make a hasty exit? Let's delve into this fascinating aspect of cinema and explore the two schools of thought surrounding it.

Unraveling the Debate of Staying for Credits

The Stayers' Perspective

In the past, when my partner and I used to watch movies together and I was often writing about them while he worked in film production, we had strong reasons to remain seated until the end of the credits. It was a way to honor and celebrate the collective efforts of all those who played a part in bringing a movie to life. Filmmaking is a highly collaborative art form, and even the office assistants at the end of the credits sequence deserve recognition for their challenging and often overlooked work. Moreover, it was enjoyable to spot our friends' names among the credits. It added an extra layer of connection and excitement to the movie-watching experience.However, as time went by, practical considerations led me to become more of a "leaver." With a busy schedule of seeing several movies in a day and the need to rush across town for the next one, time became a precious commodity. There were also those inevitable moments when nature called, and waiting for the credits to finish became an inconvenience. Additionally, in this era of ultra-budget productions and mega-effects-driven movies, the credits can stretch on for an eternity, sometimes reaching 10 or 15 minutes, especially when post-credits scenes are included. This has made it difficult to justify spending that extra time.

The Leavers' Perspective

In today's fast-paced world, where every minute counts, the length of movie credits can be a significant deterrent. With the increasing complexity and scale of modern films, the number of people involved in the production has skyrocketed. From the monkey wranglers to the location scouts, drivers, and production interns, all these individuals deserve credit, but it often leads to lengthy credit sequences that can test the patience of even the most dedicated moviegoers. Moreover, in a world where entertainment options are abundant, we can't afford to waste precious time sitting through credits when there are other movies waiting to be watched.But it's not just about time. The nature of modern cinema has changed, and the focus has shifted towards delivering blockbuster experiences with explosive effects and action. This has led to a dilution of the traditional credit sequence, as more and more attention is given to the actual movie rather than the behind-the-scenes crew. As a result, the significance of staying for credits has diminished for many.In conclusion, the debate of whether to stay for credits or leave during the end of a film is a complex one. It depends on various factors such as personal schedule, the nature of the movie, and one's appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the filmmaking team. While staying for credits can be a rewarding experience, leaving in a timely manner also has its merits. It's a matter of finding the right balance and making a decision that suits one's individual circumstances.