Best Viewing of a Film - the First Time or the Repeat?

I think I've mentioned this before, but my husband isn't a big fan of re-watching films, whereas I love it. I sometimes enjoy a film more the second time around because I notice things I didn't appreciate the first time around. Yes, when I re-watch a film I know what's going to happen, but that doesn't stop me cringing at the awkward parts, or laughing at the jokes.

If there's a twist in the plot, it will seem so obvious during the second viewing - how did I not realise when I watched it the first time? I am in awe of film makers that leave several clues along the way, yet are confident that the plot twist is well hidden until they are ready to reveal it - how do they do that? Think of Frozen, or The Sixth Sense, and the subtleties throughout the film.

I appreciate more the level of detail that the film makers have gone to. The set designs in Team America: World Police, made of milk bottle tops and dollar bills amongst many other things I've read about, but which don't appear long enough in the film to even be in focus, never mind noticed by the audience. The many, many hidden gems in Flushed Away - I've seen that film a lot and there are probably still Easter eggs that I've missed. I think my favourite may be the sandwich board made with real (toasted) bread.

A kind internet person has provided this still. My Big Fat Greek Bottom anyone?

Sometimes I appreciate a film more the second time around - perhaps I wasn't in the right frame of mind when I saw it first, or perhaps I the story means more the second time. I remember seeing Brave in the cinema and feeling a little let down by Pixar - now it's a film I love. My sister was adamant that Inside Out was over-rated until she watched it a second time - 'I was wrong. It is lovely', she messaged.

Sometimes there is a comfort in knowing what will happen - it's a cosy blanket, maybe if I've had a bad day, or I'm home alone one evening. I know how I will feel when I watch that film. Sometimes there is a great joy in introducing a friend to a favourite film and seeing their 'first time' reaction, while trying desperately not to laugh ahead of the jokes or give the game away. 

And even though I know that character is going to make the wrong decision, I almost hold my breath and wait for them to do it right this time. Almost. 

Still, there is something magical about watching a really good film unfold in front of you for the very first time. It's not quite the same the second time round. Although 'not quite the same' doesn't mean 'worse', does it? It just means different.