Would You Enjoy Going To An ADHD Theater?

What if going to the movies didn’t mean sitting still in the dark for two hours, silently balancing popcorn on your lap? In the Netherlands, theaters have been experimenting with something called “ADHD Cinema,” and it’s an idea that would be a big hit in America.

Picture this: instead of cramped rows, you walk into a movie theater outfitted with desks and small lamps. People are crocheting, knitting, journaling, or sketching while the film rolls on the big screen. The vibe is cozy, communal, and guilt-free, designed for anyone whose brain simply doesn’t work well under “sit still and be quiet” rules.

For Americans, this could be revolutionary. Imagine parents are finally able to take their restless kids to see a movie, knowing they can keep busy with a coloring book without anyone glaring at them. Or adults who love the cinema but also feel the urge to multitask, they could work on a puzzle, write in a notebook, or knit a scarf while still enjoying the story unfolding on screen.

Streaming made us comfortable multitasking at home, but theaters have lagged. ADHD Cinema bridges that gap, creating an environment that’s not only inclusive for neurodivergent folks but also welcoming for anyone who prefers a less rigid moviegoing experience.

In a culture constantly searching for ways to get people back into theaters, this could be the answer. Give us the desks, the lamps, and the freedom to move, and watch Americans fall back in love with the magic of the movies.

Doug O’Brien