The experience of going to the movies has been cherished for years. With its ability to spark a romance as an ideal spot for a date or an exciting weekend excursion, the movies have always been consistent in their ability to create a fun atmosphere. In recent years, however, their popularity has dwindled, greatly due to Covid-19 and the rising prices of movie tickets. Who knew it would take one person to change all this? “Ready For It?”
That’s right, Taylor Swift. The pop phenomenon that is singer/songwriter Taylor Swift has reached audiences around the world, garnering lots of attention. And as many of us know “All Too Well,” prices for these tickets have reached unfathomable levels.
But I am not here to drone on about conniving resellers (or am I?). Seriously though, what if I told you there was a way to see Taylor in concert for about fifteen dollars on average?
Yup, that’s right, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie. To say Swift is truly not a genius would be heinous at this point. But, I do have a confession to make. Up until about a week ago, I was a Taylor Swift hater. I know, it’s terrible. I didn’t necessarily hate her in the sense that I thought she was a terrible person or wanted her wiped from the face of the Earth, but I just couldn’t see the appeal to her music and thought people’s infatuation with her was obnoxious.
I know that’s harsh, but my opinion was truly changed by the Era’s Tour film, which is sure to convert any Swift hater into a lover, pun intended. So before all the Swifties start another “great war” against me, here is my official opinion about Swift’s Eras Tour movie.
It was otherworldly. I was transported to every album of Swift’s career. I had never processed it before, but I began to understand why she referred to her albums as “Eras.” Not only do they represent a period of her life, but they also transport audiences into a certain time in their lives. I finally began to see the obsession and honest love people have for Swift; individuals harbor this love for her because her songs hold nostalgia for them, in the same way an old perfume brings back a flood of memories. Yet this nostalgia is stronger because they have this “Invisible String” tying them to Swift through the nostalgia the revisiting of her albums brings Swift herself, especially since she is re-recording her albums and taking rightful ownership of them.
Besides this, Swift’s creativity really shined through. As a theater kid, I began to pick up her reasoning behind the songs she had chosen for the tour based on both performability, popularity, and recognition. I quickly turned to my friend that had offered me the extra movie ticket, stating that this was not a “concert” it was a “show.” Of course, it’s a concert, but to simply say that is downgrading Swift’s ingenious storytelling; imagine going to a Broadway musical and calling that a concert, it just is not suitable.
Ultimately, give Taylor Swift a chance. I certainly did. I even dressed up for the movie before I was converted into a Swiftie. That’s right, I am a Swiftie and am not ashamed to admit that. But even if you will never hop onto the Taylor Swift bandwagon, go for the immersive experience. When else have you ever been able to sing your heart out in a movie theater for three hours without being yelled at? Give it a chance for the opportunity to see a historic concert, a historic moment in cinematography, and a beautiful display of community and friendship. You may be surprised by the end results.