England: Emmalyn Bergman (My “I’m not in the US anymore” Moment)

My “I’m not in the US anymore” Moment 

My “I’m not in the US moment” came at a very different time than I expected heading into the semester.

There are two things I love in life: Taylor Swift and popcorn. There hasn’t been a day in years that I haven’t listened to at least a few Taylor Swift songs, and popcorn is a staple in my diet. I was overjoyed when both of these loves collided in the announcement of The Eras Tour film. My fellow Swiftie Lilly Marto and I immediately acquired tickets. We found a British movie theater a few tube stops away, and the day of the event, we journeyed over for our 7pm showing.

Most of the differences aligned with what I have come to expect from the distinctions between US and UK cultures. The theaters themselves were much smaller, and there wasn’t a single Dreamlounger to be found, but as disappointing as that was, it was again, expected. The building constraints alone of a theater in London explain it, as it’s a packed city with nowhere to build but up.

As prepared as I was for smaller screens and stadium style seating, I was shocked by the snacks. For me, overpriced snacks are a key part of the moviegoing experience, especially popcorn. When I went to purchase my popcorn, I was asked if I wanted it sweet or salty. Befuddled, I said salty, and was handed a “large” bag of salty popcorn (that seemed more on par with an American small). I then asked for butter, and what I was told next made it clear that I was no longer in the United States of America.

Butter wasn’t an option. I couldn’t get butter on it. I had popcorn topped with salt and nothing else. I was astounded. I thought buttered popcorn was universal. But alas, I was wrong.

I still enjoyed my movie, and have gone back to the theater twice now. But every time I get my popcorn, part of me wishes that it was from my hometown American theater.

Emmalyn Bergman

Major: Political Science and International Studies

Hometown: Oconomowoc, WI