Congratulations -- you finally did it. You built a home movie theater and are dying to get it finished so you can watch "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" over and over and over again in the comfort of your own digs. Before you hunker down to witness Rey kicking some major Kylo Ren butt, though, you've gotta dress your space for success.
The screen is hung, the projector is purchased, and the movie collection is dusted off, so the big question is, how should you decorate the room? The choice to hang that "Hateful Eight" poster or a "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" commemorative plaque is super hard. So here are some tips and tricks to help you decide how to deck out your cinematic Shangri-la.
Comfortable Couches and Seats
The seating is no doubt one of the most important aspects of any home movie theater. What's the point of building it if you're not going to install the comfiest couches you've ever planted your bum on? Don't you want to be hugged by soft upholstery as you're easing down to enjoy "Deadpool" and its extreme profanity? Of course you do. Naturally if you want to step it up a notch, buy reclining couches to get the ultimate in seating pleasure.
Pick a Decor and Theme
You've got the seating arrangements sorted out, so it's time to pick a theme for your theater from the endless possibilities at your disposal. You could go with a Disney-themed palace, a Quentin Tarantino bloody nightmare, or even a "Batman v Superman" comic book lover's dream. Once you pick a theme, stick to it. Get some movie posters that fit your idea to hang on the walls. Scour vintage shops and flea markets for old movie reels and projectors you can situate for maximum impact. Basically anything that's movie related and has a direct connection to your theme, go for it.
Stars and Planets and Moons ... Oh My!
For an extra-special pinch of ambiance in your theater, why not paint the ceiling to mimic the night sky? A black ceiling is de rigueur, but go one step further and paint it like the stars above. Or you could use stick-on glow-in-the-dark stars and other heavenly objects to create a whimsical version of deep space while adding another sensory layer to movies like "Interstellar" and "The Martian."
Snack Bar and Popcorn Machine
Now that the couches, decor, and ceiling are a wrap, the missing link is a snack bar stacked high with Milk Duds, M&M's, Skittles, and any other sweets and treats you may like sinking your teeth into. Add a whisper-quiet mini fridge loaded with cold drinks. If you want to go all fancy, bring in a popcorn machine and keep it ready for whenever you want to pop in your "Cloverfield" Blu-ray or run a "Harry Potter" marathon.
Make Fake Movie Tickets
Your theater is all set up and stocked with goodies, and you're ready to invite your friends over to watch "Ant-Man" on opening night. To officially christen the newest and coolest part of your house, roll out the red carpet and make some fake movie tickets to collect from people when they arrive. Or do this every time you host movie night -- or not -- it's your life. Either way, it's another playful touch you can add to the home theater experience that goes above and beyond simply showing a movie.
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