How to Have a Successful First Date at the Movies (Guys)
Going to the movies is a great idea for a first date, and you can ensure you both have fun by planning ahead. Before heading out to the theater, talk to your date and find a movie you'll both enjoy. Ask them about the kind of films they like and think about where your tastes overlap. In addition to picking a good movie, dress for the occasion by wearing something dressy yet casual. For example, a button-down shirt with jeans looks impressive while still being comfortable. To avoid being tardy, try to leave for the theater early enough that you'll have 15 to 20 minutes before the movie starts. That way, you can get your tickets and some snacks while still having some time to chat before showtime.
Ask someone out. People appreciate it when you're clear and concise about asking them out. You can send a text that says something like, "Could I take you to a movie sometime?" You can also call and say something like, "I was wondering if you wanted to see a movie with me." Make a clear plan as well. Suggest a specific day of the week, time, and place to meet up. For example, you could agree to meet around six o'clock at a specific theater downtown on Friday. Pick a good outfit. A movie date is more on the casual side, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't dress well. Opt for something dressy while still being casual. For example, a button-down shirt with jeans works well instead of pairing jeans with a t-shirt. Don't place too much focus on dressing to please your date. If you feel comfortable in your clothes, you're more likely to exude confidence on a first date. Get some cash. The matter of who pays for what on a date can get complicated. Sometimes, people may prefer to split checks on a first date. Therefore, it's a good idea to bring some cash in case a place can't split a check with cards. Get a variety of bills. If you show up only with twenties, splitting checks can get a little tricky. Make sure to have some fives, ones, and tens as well. Decide on the movie together. While you may be inclined to cater to your date's taste, your date may get uncomfortable if they feel they're dragging you to a movie you don't want to see. Figure out a movie you both want to see together. Ask your date about the kind of films they like and pick something that appeals to your taste as well. For example, maybe you both share a similar sense of humor. Consider going to see a comedy. Do something together before the movie. Going straight into a movie on a first date can be awkward. You want some time to talk and get comfortable with one another before sitting in a theater in silence. Plan to grab a quick cup of coffee or a drink before the film. Look for a place near the theater so you don't risk being late for a movie. Arrive to the theater on time. Some people really dislike being late for movies. To avoid irking your date with tardiness, keep track of time. Make sure you and your date head to the theater so you'll have plenty of time to grab tickets, snacks, and get a good seat. Aim to be at the theater around 15-20 minutes before the film starts. You can also try buying tickets online to avoid lines at the theater. Some people enjoy getting seated as early as possible so they don't miss trailers. Offer to pay for the ticket. If you initiated the date, offering to pay is a nice gesture. However, some people are uncomfortable having their date pay for them. While you can offer to pay for the tickets, don't push it if your date would prefer to pay for their own seat. For example, say something like, "I can get your ticket if you want." Buy snacks. Popcorn is a good option, as you can share the bowl and initiate contact by your fingers brushing together. You also want to avoid food that gives you bad breath. Minty flavored chocolates are generally a good choice for a movie night. Kernels can sometimes get stuck in your teeth, making kissing awkward. Bring some floss with you and run to the bathroom to use it if you get kernels stuck in your teeth. Try hand holding. Pay attention to your date's body language. If they seem to be leaning towards you and placing their hand on the shared arm rest, this could be an indicator they would be open to holding hands during the film. If they move their hand away, don't chase it. Decide whether to talk during the film. Some people enjoy casually whispering during a film while others prefer to stay silent. To gauge your date's preferences, let them take the lead when it comes to talking. If they start whispering, feel free to participate. Make sure to keep your voice down. You don't want to make things awkward by annoying other movie guests. Avoid texting, however, as this is generally considered rude. Hang out after the movie. It's a good idea to plan to hang out a little after the movie to have a chance to chat. You can go get a cup of coffee or a drink at a nearby establishment. The great thing about a movie date is that you'll already have something to talk about after the date. Pay attention to your date, however. If your date seems to be drawing away from you physically, and mentions needing to get home, do not pressure them to go out afterwards. Walk your date home. It can be a nice gesture to offer to walk your date home or at least accompany them to their car. If they're taking a cab, offer to wait until their ride picks them up. Decide whether or not to kiss goodnight. Watch your date's body language. If your date seems to be leaning towards you at the end of the night, or if they offer a warm hug goodbye, you can ask to kiss them on the lips or cheek before they leave. If you don't feel ready to kiss, however, don't feel obligated. You can end the date with a hug. Say goodbye. If you had a great time, let your date know. Think about whether you enjoyed the conversations you had before and after the film and whether you're attracted to the person. If you are, give them an enthusiastic goodbye and let them know you'd like to see them again. Say something like, "I had a great time, Jamie. It's a lot of fun hanging out with you." If your date responds with enthusiasm, let them know you'd be open to seeing them again. Say something like, "I'd really like to see you again soon. Let me know when you're free." Follow up with a text. In a few days, follow up with a text that says something like, "I had a really great time hanging out with you. Let me know if you want to get together again." This lets your date know you were sincere about wanting to hang out again. 
Ask someone out. Pick a good outfit. Get some cash. Decide on the movie together. Do something together before the movie. Arrive to the theater on time. Offer to pay for the ticket. Buy snacks. Try hand holding. Decide whether to talk during the film. Hang out after the movie. Walk your date home. Decide whether or not to kiss goodnight. Say goodbye. Follow up with a text. 