Paresh Rawal Slams Recliner Seats in Theatres: "It's Cinema, Not a Spa!
By : Krishna Mishra
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has sparked a debate with his strong opinions about modern movie-watching experiences, particularly the growing popularity of recliner seats in cinemas. In a recent interview, Rawal criticized these luxury additions, saying, “You haven’t come to a spa, you’ve come to watch a film.”
The acclaimed actor expressed concern that such comforts are turning cinema halls into places of relaxation rather than spaces for immersive storytelling. “People are reclining with blankets, ordering food, sipping coffee. It’s like they’ve come to a wellness retreat, not a movie theatre,” he quipped.
Rawal, known for his no-nonsense attitude and critically acclaimed roles in films like Hera Pheri and Sardar, said that such indulgent setups distract viewers from the core purpose of cinema – engaging with the art form. He emphasized the need to respect the film, the filmmaker, and the theatre culture, which has been reduced, in some cases, to mere comfort-seeking outings.
While many urban multiplexes have adopted recliner seating to draw in audiences with a "premium experience," Rawal’s remarks have prompted both support and backlash online. Some viewers agree, saying these luxuries dilute the cinematic vibe, while others argue that such upgrades enhance the viewing experience, especially for long films.
Rawal concluded by urging cinema owners to strike a balance between comfort and focus, warning that too much pampering may “turn movies into background noise.”
His comments have reignited conversations about the evolving nature of cinema consumption in the streaming era and the future of theatrical experiences.