A Beginner’s Guide to Long Movies
Lights dimmed and pictures flashing, you’re surrounded by the moviegoing pleasures—yet you can’t help but check your phone or keep your eye on the time. You think, “When will it finally be over?” Maybe it’s just a bad movie, you think, as your eyelids keep getting heavier and heavier. Even as an avid moviegoer, I still get spooked by any runtime exceeding 2.5 hours. I have the time, I mean, what else am I gonna do? But I don’t always have the headspace, especially for the artier and more experimental flicks. Because film and storytelling are things I care so deeply about, I embarked on a journey in high school to overcome this dread and to genuinely start to enjoy the gift of the long film.
First, a few tips that I’ve found useful, then we’ll get into a few of my long :faves.
Make sure it’s a good movie. Or, at least one that you think you’ll enjoy.
Pretty self explanatory, but do not force yourself to watch something just because a friend recommended it or it has good reviews. While it’s good to expand your horizons, you won’t pay as much attention nor learn as much from a film if you do not have a vested interest in it from the start.
No distractions!
This tip has many interpretations. Treat each movie viewing like a super special acid trip, like a family vacation, or like a one-time birthday present. The more sacred, the better. This means clear your mind and focus, because, hey, this could be your favorite movie you haven’t ever seen. If at all possible, try to watch in theaters or in theater-like settings.
If you think it’ll help, try checking the runtime online beforehand.
I’ve learned my lesson and I now like to know what I’m getting into, but some people prefer the surprise––whatever works!
Bring a friend! Or don’t!
What I really mean is just feel out what is best for you. Do you like to have a discussion partner for after the film? Do you benefit from making it a social activity? Do you benefit from having the “me time” experience of solo viewing?
And finally, try not to look at your phone when you’re in the theater. Like, at all.
Refer to tip 2, but seriously try to avoid high stimulation before a movie. This way your mind is ready for the long run, especially if it’s a slow-burn!
Now that you’re an expert in long movie viewing, it’s time to put these tips to good use! Here are a few long movies that I believe are worth the time.
Magnolia (1999)
Whether or not you’re a PTA stan like me, you’ll probably like Magnolia. Arguably the most approachable flick out of these four recommendations, this film would be a great way to kick off your long movie viewing experience. Its wild editing and captivating plot intertwine many distinct personalities into one story of one day in the San Fernando Valley.
Pro Tip: Stream it and bring a friend!
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
2001 is a quintessential film bro recommendation, and if you haven’t seen this film, you’ve definitely seen its poster on the bedroom wall of the most insufferable teenage boy ever. Although it barely counts as a long film (only clocking in at 2 hours and 19 minutes), its slow tempo may require some of the techniques discussed above. Stanley Kubrick aside, this is genuinely one of the most enchanting films ever, gorgeously blending futuristic dystopia with art sci-fi. Known now for how iconic it is, 2001 will enrapture you in poetry and enigma.
Pro Tip: See it in a theater and come well-rested!
A Brighter Summer Day (1991)
I truly believe there is a distinct level of maturity that one achieves after viewing this glorious film. With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and rave reviews across the board, there is no denying the beauty and life that this film holds. Director Edward Yang is a seminal filmmaker of the Taiwanese New Wave, creating portraits of youth, urban societies, and family life. As a fan of many of his works, I was delighted to see A Brighter Summer Day in theaters one Thursday night in high school. I had known the film would be long but after three hours I decided to give in and find out what I had gotten myself into. Yes, this film is four hours long, but it paints a gorgeous portrait of tender first love, political turmoil, and juvenile delinquency.
Pro Tip: Watch it in full when you’re in the mood for foreign films, poetry, and meditation.
Stalker (1979)
Oh, Tarkovsky, you slippery bastard. Having only seen a handful of Andrei Tarkovsky masterpieces, I can still say with 100% certainty that every second of his work is worthwhile. His films are gut wrenching and tender, and they should be mandatory viewing for any Letterboxd user. Stalker (2 hours and 49 minutes) is particularly special not only for its cache among cinephiles but also as a standout Tarkovsky feature. The intensity and realism of this post-apocalyptic wasteland world is entrancing and the story is truly in a masterful league of its own.
Pro Tip: Research the mythos and backstory of this film for some extra film buff cred.
Finally, the most important part of moviegoing is learning and enjoying the experience, so see what you want to see and spread the word. Continue watching, learning about, and breathing everything that film has to offer. I embarked on a journey in high school to overcome my aversion to long movies, and I’m still learning how to today.