Now Streaming: The Moviegoer – Chicago Entertainment

If you’re a movie lover like me, you’ll know the struggle. With streaming services offering a plethora of films at our fingertips, it’s easy to get lost in the world of cinema without ever leaving your living room. But let me take you back to a time when access to a wide range of movies wasn’t as simple. Growing up, my small town only had a couple of video stores, limiting my exposure to different directors, countries, and genres. It wasn’t until I discovered classic Hollywood films that I realized there was a whole cinematic universe beyond what I saw at the local theater.

Fast forward to today, and the movie-watching landscape has shifted dramatically. Take, for example, Jaume Collet-Serra’s latest film, “Carry-On,” which went straight to Netflix without a theatrical run. While in the past, I might have caught such a movie at a local theater, now I can enjoy it from the comfort of my own home. The film, set in an airport, follows a TSA agent trying to foil a bio-logical threat, and it’s a thrilling ride.

On the other end of the spectrum, there are films like Mati Diop’s “Dahomey,” which had a limited arthouse release. This experimental documentary follows the repatriation of Beninese artifacts, offering a unique perspective on cultural heritage. These types of films often benefit from the streaming environment, allowing viewers like us to explore diverse stories that might not get widespread theatrical releases.

But as much as I appreciate the convenience of streaming, there’s something special about watching a movie in a room full of people. Recently, I attended a screening of Bill Morrison’s “Incident” at the Film Center, followed by a discussion with the filmmaker and other experts. The experience of sharing a powerful film with a live audience is something that streaming can’t quite replicate. It’s a reminder that while technology brings art to our fingertips, there’s no substitute for the energy of communal engagement.

So whether you’re binge-watching action thrillers or seeking out thought-provoking documentaries, remember that there’s a whole world of cinema out there waiting to be explored. And who knows, your next favorite film could be just a click away.