Hi Stoetzels--

Not only do I have a variation of this, but I am a huge movie buff and have found some ways to tackle it over the years. I don't know if it will help you, but here we go:

1) The size of the crowds effects my comfort level in a movie theatre (sometime we can get into concerts, sporting events...ha ha) so I do not attend opening night, or Fri/Sat evenings.
2) I arrive early (which I know is in some people's nature and not others. No judgement) so I can place myself in the seats that I am most comfortable in: in the back, on an aisle.
3) I've tried IMAX films and the sound and visuals are too much overload so I just don't go to IMAX now. For the occasional 3D movie I bring ear plugs to counteract the increased sound (ok, 2 sets: 1 for my daughter, too.)
4) And...okay, now it seems a little extensive, but it's a practice years in the making so I can do something I enjoy with the least amount of anxiety: I park in the same part of the lot each time so I don't have to think about where my car is after the movie.

Last but not least: 5) I have a few loved ones who understand and are willing to accommodate me, and many others (over the years) who think it's too much to deal with. I attend the movies with the ones who understand, or by myself. (And if we have an empty movie theatre? I've learned how to sit in a more prime location with a larger group of friends. Took me a while though.)

Do you find other places too loud?

bookmadness