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🇧🇪 Belgium /Culture & Society

Kinepolis Lowers Volume for 'The Odyssey' After Dozens of Complaints

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Kinepolis cinemas are lowering the volume for the film 'The Odyssey' following numerous complaints.
  • The cinema chain stated the film experience will remain the same despite the sound adjustment.
  • This decision comes after dozens of moviegoers reported the music and sound effects were too loud, though no physical pain was reported.

Kinepolis cinemas are reducing the sound levels for screenings of 'The Odyssey' after receiving dozens of complaints from moviegoers. The cinema chain assured that the adjustment will not compromise the film experience for audiences.

We have lowered the volume in all our halls, without compromising the film experience.

— Stijn VanspauwenKinepolis spokesperson explaining the decision to reduce sound levels.

Patrons reported that the music and sound effects during the film were excessively loud. While Kinepolis acknowledged these complaints, they noted that no physical pain was associated with the high volume. The issue affected not only IMAX screenings but also regular cinema halls.

Viewers indicated after the film screenings that the sound during the film was too loud.

— Stijn VanspauwenKinepolis spokesperson detailing the nature of the audience complaints.

To address the concerns, Kinepolis has lowered the amplifier level from 5 to 4.3 in all its halls, a change they believe will enhance the viewing experience. The company emphasized that dialogues remain clear and action scenes are still intense. They also noted that director Christopher Nolan's films, with their dense soundscapes, can be perceived as particularly intense, citing similar feedback received for 'Dunkirk'.

The sound level was indeed within the norms we must respect, and we measure that before and during the screenings.

— Stijn VanspauwenKinepolis spokesperson addressing compliance with sound regulations.

Pathé cinemas in the Netherlands have also implemented lower sound levels for the film and offer free earplugs. Kinepolis, however, does not plan to offer earplugs, suggesting patrons bring their own if they wish.

It remains true that director Christopher Nolan's films, with the succession of background sounds, can be experienced quite intensely.

— Stijn VanspauwenKinepolis spokesperson commenting on the nature of Nolan's film sound design.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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