I worked at a movie theater throughout college. I'm sure anyone who has done this has countless stories... a movie theater is ripe for these sort of things. But one rainy Saturday afternoon will always stand out to me, because I watched a crowd "make" the movie.
I was to work that night, but decided to slip in early and catch a film. It didn't really matter which, just something to pass the time. I happened into Pacific Heights - but honestly, the film quickly became a secondary attraction. I was fortunate to sit with one of the best movie crowds ever. The theater was filled with excitement and energy, jumping at the right scenes - laughing with relief... All the cues. All the reactions. It was perfect.
When the credits rolled, there was a collective thrill that everyone felt. Not because of any technical or creative aspect of the film, but the shared experience was memorable. Sometimes a great crowd is all it takes.