Having been in a few relationships, and coincidentally in one now, I've noticed that pretty much as soon as you begin to date someone, the amount of movie stubs lining your pockets or filling up your purse increases dramatically, and they are all most likely in the genre of romantic comedies.
Now, don't get me wrong, there's a reason why going to the movies is so popular for couples. 1) It's Dark, so can get close without others noticing you 2) You aren't facing each other, so can casually reach for the hand or perform the classic 'yawn and stretch-oh! That's your shoulder! Too tired to move it' move without having to make eye contact, so it's not as terrifying 3) It's entertaining. Well, most of the time for the girls, but there is normally some sort of 'kicked in the balls' joke for the guys 4) You don't have to talk. Let's face it, the guy is probably not your soulmate, so even though you might enjoy being with him, it doesn't mean you want to spend every waking moment staring and talking to each other. Unless your Edward and Bella. It's just a good way to spend the time with someone you like. 5) It also provides something to talk about afterwards. Oh! And don't forget about popcorn. That's always an incentive.
I've mentioned the classic date, but there is also just the 'watch a movie at home' style, which is a more boyfriend/girlfriend type of thing, since you can get close and not actually pay attention to the movie. In addition, it's free!
However, i think there is a downside to this as well. I mean, is the only thing you can do together as a couple is see a movie? It's as if when you official become involved, hanging out just doesn't cut it. You want to be close, to do something together, and the only answer to the problem seems to be watch a movie. I'm sure in the old days, when you had to court people, the sexiest thing you could do together was letting the guy take your queen or something in chess. That's nice symbolism and everything, but could you picture you and your date meeting up to play board games? Not likely. Personally, it shouldn't matter, as long as you are enjoying each other's company. But the way society is now, that just isn't acceptable, and that's why couples visit the theatres so often, since romantic comedies provide all the flirting and alluring looks needed in a date, replacing the forgotten sexiness of chess. <<<Not something you normally read....
