Should I work in a video store (like Blockbuster) or in a movie theater?

Question

I'm a recent film school grad & love movies & the entertainment industry. I'd prefer opinions from people who have worked in either a video store or movie theater or if you've worked in both even better! Replies from people in Toronto would be most helpful but anyone who's got something to add is always appreciated. I'd like to know what the pay is like & what the all around experience is like, good & bad. I don't need to work but I actually want to work, yes it's true, there are spoiled rich kids like me who actually want to work. I've been an actor/model/dancer for a few years now, I've worked & trained here & abroad & I want to take any & every chance to work in the entertainment industry because I am that committed. Hopefully none of you make fun of me for this & if you do, at least make it funny =P Thanks all!!

Answer 1

Well, first of all congratulations on your achievement. I have worked in alot of fields, but never in a video store or movie theater, but I have a suggestion. You say you are serious about learning the entertainment business, then you should look for a job where you would have more access to entertainers and behind the scenes work. For instance, in Toronto, you could try to work at one of the many live action theaters. Apply for anything and work your way up, you could learn all sorts of behind the scenes stuff. If you love film, you could look for a job as an assistant to a photographer or director. You could once again start small. I was a pro photographer and I often hired inexperienced grips, because they were cheap. I never minded answering questions or giving referrals. Any way, good luck.

Answer 2

Both are only peripherally involved in the entertainment industry. A movie theater requires you to clean up messy popcorn and soda, clean bathrooms, as well as any biological messes (ie baby leavings or vomit). Video stores rarely have any of that. Pay would be about the same at both. Neither is a highly skilled job.

What aspect of the entertainment industry do you wish to get into? I think there's a lot of American television being shot in Canada, perhaps you could apply as an intern for a production company or local television station? If you're interested in live theater, volunteer for a community theater or intern at a professional company.

Sounds like you're in a great position to explore many options. Best of luck.

Answer 3

Hi! I have not worked in either of those environments, and I don't live in Toronto, but I think I have some feedback for you. I have always heard that working in a video store is alright and that working in a movie theater is horrible. In a video store, you get free rentals. In a movie theater, there are A LOT more people to deal with, a lot more short tempers, and a lot more messes to clean up. Plus in a movie theater, you will need to be more aware of loss prevention issues, which can just be a major pain to look out for. That is less likely to occur in a video store, since it is near impossible to get out the door with a DVD without paying in most stores. Believe it or not, if someone steals in front of you and you don't stop them (even if you don't notice it), you can get fired very easily. It happened to me... Overall, just from what I've heard from friends, don't work at a movie theater; they all hate it. Whatever your choice may be though, I commend you on wanting to work even though it seems that you are already financially stable. I hope you continue to be a good person.

Answer 4

Video store is way better. You get to watch movies, **** with assholes, and (if he/she works there) hang out with your best friend all day. Can you think of a better way to make a living? Sure it's now what everyone wants, but it's pretty ******* good.

Answer 5

well, movie theaters get more action, and you see a hellofa lot more people AND there's popcorn and whatnot, but you have to clean. Personally, I'd choose the movie theater.♥

Answer 6

either one would be fine