The 10-Minute Rule for Watching Movies with a Partner (2024)

by Jamey Stegmaier

During the 3+ years we’ve been together, Megan and I have watched hundreds of movies. It’s one of our favorite weekend-evening activities.

Typically, if Megan is curious about a movie that I’m not familiar with, I’ll look into it and let her know if it’s something I’d enjoy watching or if she could just watch it on her own.

If I’m curious about a movie, I’ll pitch it to Megan, and sometimes she’ll veto it outright. But sometimes there are films that could go either way, and for them, we have a 10-minute rule: Within the first 10 minutes of a movie, either of us can decide that it just isn’t a good fit for us, and we’ll switch to something else.

We’ve only used the 10-minute rule around a dozen times, but I’ve found it incredibly helpful, as watching a movie with someone who isn’t anywhere close to being as into it as I am can significantly detract from the experience. Plus, I don’t want to drag Megan into anything she doesn’t want to do.

I was thinking about this because we watched a movie recently that Megan probably could have used the 10-minute rule on, as it’s one that I thought was quite moving and beautiful, and she thought it was weird. The movie was Marcel the Shell with Shoes On. It’s a film about a sentient shell, and I found it quirky, funny, and endearing. It’s also deeply about loss (abandonment, breakups, and death). It was absolutely the right movie for me to watch a year after my father’s death, while it probably just wasn’t the right fit for Megan. It was a good reminder to me that the 10-minute rule works best if I pause the movie 10 minutes in to check in with Megan and see if she would prefer to watch something else.

Do you have a rule like this to ensure that you and your partner are on the same page during quality time together?

The 10-Minute Rule for Watching Movies with a Partner (2024)

FAQs

The 10-Minute Rule for Watching Movies with a Partner? ›

But sometimes there are films that could go either way, and for them, we have a 10-minute rule: Within the first 10 minutes of a movie, either of us can decide that it just isn't a good fit for us, and we'll switch to something else.

How long distance couples watch movies together? ›

Hopping on a phone call, jumping on Zoom, texting, or messaging are all great options to connect with your partner about the movie. Without this important part, you're not actually having a date night. You're just watching the same thing at the same time. There's a big difference!

Is watching a movie with a girl a date? ›

The movie theater is generally considered a casual setting for a date.

What to do when watching a movie with a guy? ›

How to act on a movie date
  1. Remember your manners. Just because the date is casual, that doesn't mean you can forget your manners or the fact that both of you are on a date. ...
  2. Get into the comfort zone. ...
  3. Build up the flirty touches. ...
  4. Take the plunge. ...
  5. Go close, really close. ...
  6. Don't end the date abruptly. ...
  7. End with a good impression.

How long can couples last long-distance? ›

It can also last a varying amount of time. Some couples might go long-distance for a month or two, while some can spend years living apart. Having a long-distance partner doesn't mean that the relationship isn't healthy, but they might need more effort from each partner in certain areas.

Can my boyfriend and I do long-distance? ›

Long-distance relationships can last and be just as successful as relationships where couples live close to each other. Success in a long-distance relationship depends on strong communication, trust, and commitment from both partners, so make sure you regularly share your feelings, plans, and experiences.

How do actors act kissing? ›

The stage kiss: In this technique, one actor cups the other's face in a way that appears natural and romantic before drawing them in. Right before they connect, the former places their thumb over the latter's lips so that no direct mouth-to-mouth contact occurs.

Is it OK to watch kissing scenes? ›

If it makes you feel uncomfortable then don't watch it but if you don't have an issue with it then go ahead and watch it. If you feel guilty then talk with your parents like “Hey, is it okay if I watch this movie?”. I'm sure they would be fine with it.

Can you kiss a girl during a movie? ›

Some cinemas may even have couple seats at the back for this reason. Do it quick, don't make noises, don't fuss around if you mess up. Only simple lips to lips kiss, don't try anything advanced like sloppy french kiss or like, mouth to mouth feeding popcorn or whatever you are imagining.

What to do when watching a movie with your girlfriend? ›

If possible, dim or turn off the lights for a better movie watching experience and a more romantic setting. Make your move. Make a romantic move somewhere during the movie if your girlfriend is comfortable with it.

How to cuddle with a girl at the movie theater? ›

Pick a spot where you can get some privacy, like a seat near the back. After the movie has been playing for a while, snuggle up to your date and break the touch barrier by holding their hand or putting your arm around them. Turn toward them and catch their eye, then lean in for a kiss.

When a guy asks you for a movie? ›

If a guy asks to watch a movie together, does that mean he likes you? Speaking for most of us guys, yes. Either he likes you a lot and wants to make a move on you during the movie or you mean a lot to him. The movie is usually the first step to dating, so if a guy wants to date you that usually means he likes you.

How can I be romantic while watching a movie? ›

Make your space extra cozy so you can cuddle up together.

Make sure the blanket is big enough for both of you so you can get close and stay warm. You could even build a fort if you want to make a small romantic spot to watch your movies.

What to do with your boyfriend while watching a movie? ›

Try kissing or touching each other while the movie is playing. If it is your first date or you are just nervous about kissing, rest your head on his shoulder and look at him and he will probably end up kissing you! Relax and don't worry about being nervous or not knowing what to do while you are sitting there.

How do you cuddle someone while watching a movie? ›

Put your head on your partner's shoulder while also holding their hand and then slowly reach over with your other hand and grab theirs too. Adjust positions if necessary or uncomfortable.

How long should long distance couples see each other? ›

“It's important to see each other as much as possible,” said Patel. “I know depending on the distance it can feel hard, but it's important.” She said the goal is to see one another in person at least quarterly. Even better is if you can make it work to see each other monthly.

How can long-distance couple watch Netflix together? ›

Everyone who wants to watch together will all need to log in to their own Netflix accounts in their browsers. Click the Watch Netflix Together Extension. Only the person who wants to start the watch party (the host) needs to complete this step.

How often should long distance couples video call? ›

Try a weekly video call

If you really like video calls, you can do this more often, but make sure the other person is as comfortable as you are and that this isn't the only way you're communicating. Prioritize setting boundaries for yourself, and ask your partner about their boundaries as well.

What percent of couples stay together long-distance? ›

The Chances of Success

Guldner, studies show 60% of relationships will make it past the long-distance phase and back to having an in-proximity relationship. However, the other 40% will not. Surprizely, 32.5% of long-distance relationships of the unsuccessful 40% are college students.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Dr. Pierre Goyette

Last Updated:

Views: 5608

Rating: 5 / 5 (70 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dr. Pierre Goyette

Birthday: 1998-01-29

Address: Apt. 611 3357 Yong Plain, West Audra, IL 70053

Phone: +5819954278378

Job: Construction Director

Hobby: Embroidery, Creative writing, Shopping, Driving, Stand-up comedy, Coffee roasting, Scrapbooking

Introduction: My name is Dr. Pierre Goyette, I am a enchanting, powerful, jolly, rich, graceful, colorful, zany person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.