Clapping at the end of a movie..new trend or not? (films, movie theater)

[LVKim8]

I have been to several movies where the audience has clapped at the end. Is this a new trend or does anyone remember this happening in years past?

It seems a little weird to have applause for performers who can't see it. Otoh, it does make me feel as though I shared a great experience with a group of people, which is kind of nice. I am curious what others think of this.

[Blinx]

Hmmm. Last movie I saw in the theater was Les Mis, and I can't remember if there was clapping. It's usually rare, and only done when the audience, as a group, feels especially satisfied with the conclusion -- and very happy for the hero/heroine. But nothing comes to mind.

I remember clapping during a movie once -- I was watching Signs in theater in Bucks County, PA. And during the film, to set the scene, a title card appeared with just that -- "Bucks County, PA", and a cheer erupted from the audience. It was a nice little moment.

[BioMechanical]

It happens. But not as often as it should because sadly most movies aren't worth clapping for.

[D. Scott]

It happens once in a while esp on a weekend when the theater is crowded, Which is the worst time to go because too many people are texting, talking and kicking the seats in front of them. Then clapping and celebrating might be due to finally getting out of the theater away from the knuckleheads!

[harry chickpea]

It has happened on and off for years. It is slightly more prevalent in audiences that don't commonly go to the movies, and with movies that have a strong viewpoint. I remember that "Walking Tall" had clapping when it was first released. There was a similar audience reaction to some films in the drive-ins, where the horns would suddenly erupt in a cacophony of sound.

The clapping or horn blowing is generally more to express the idea "I believe in the viewpoint of this film" than it is to applaud actors. Think of it as a type of social bonding.

[Sehsun]

I have noticed this trend as well! More so in the recent years.

[OwlKaMyst]

I used to go to a lot of movies in the 70's and 80's. There was more clapping back then IMO...probably because the movies where better.

Curious- what movies are people clapping at today?
I don't go to the movie theater anymore. I have troubles staying awake when the lights to out and a trip to the movies just becomes an expensive nap.

[EnricoV]

In my experience, it's the blockbuster type of movies that people clap at. Ones where there's a big buzz before going into the theater.

I too, I haven't been to an actual theater in years. Too many easier alternatives for half (or less) the cost.

[Cape Cod Todd]

I remember when people used to clap alot often than they do now. I think if the movie is seen as an event like a high expectation sequel or perhaps a star wars or star trek movie.. pretty much if there are people who are wearing capes in the audience and the movie is good you will hear claps.
The last time I really heard people go nuts was for the batman movie the one with Heath Ledger as joker. We were at the drive in to see it and when the credits rolled I turned to my wife and said what he heck was that pile of mess we just subjected too??? Meanwhile horns are honking, lights flashing and people cheering. That was the night I realised the American movie going audience had just and since then has lowered their expectations. No offense to those who marvelled at the genius behind it but I didn't get it. LOL
Clapping is a positive social mob movement and it is nice to be part of it.... when warranted

[Lamplight]

I haven't been to a theater in about 10-11 years, but before that I remember clapping more often than not at the end of movies. I always thought it was strange.