Gatekeeping is sometimes a good thing and BFI London Film Festival has become too accessible and ‘popular’ to the masses, so that’s why things like this happen. Years back it felt a bit more exclusive and that the people attending were very passionate film critics and fans, who would respect the etiquette of cinema. Nowadays there’s too many newbies and imposters. It’s ruined the vibe of the festival as a whole.
What baffled me the most was those few rude people walking out as soon as they revealed the LFF Surprise film (what happens every single edition by the way). Like why do you even bother buying a ticket for a surprise screen if you are not willing to be surprised unless the film is the one you wanted?
Like, you’re already there, you have already paid for it, you already reserved that time slot to watch a movie! Why not to give the movie a chance? What’s the mindset here? It’s just to play cool and make a scene? You already spent £31 in a non-refundable ticket a month in advance, mate. What are you even doing with your time and finances?
I really don’t understand…