How to Skip the Previews and Ads at the Movies

There's nothing worse than rushing to get into a movie only to then sit there and have to deal with endless ads and previews. And have you noticed the preview times have grown longer?

Almost every major theater chain in the U.S. uses the same basic formula for when the main feature starts (note: independent movie houses don't), so calculate to be in the theater fifteen minutes after the "official" movie start time. Avoid going into a movie more than 16 minutes after the start time (it has probably already started) or less than 14 minutes after start time (you're still in preview hell). Most theaters have between 14-16 minutes of previews and ads prior to the main show. And even if the movie has begun, there are always the opening credits where every film has to show the studio name, the production company name, the releasing and distributor's name, so you're still good if you are a minute or two late.

Keep in mind that it is important to know ahead of time how full the theater will be because you will need to account for the time needed to find seats in the dark.