In David Sedaris's "Me Talk Pretty One Day," he observes the tendency of some people to choose cultural experiences over watching films, even when numerous good movies are available. They prioritize activities such as visiting the Picasso museum or exploring the cathedral, believing that spending time indoors watching a movie is unworthy of their trip to Paris. Their rationale suggests that they view movie-watching as a lackluster experience compared to the city's vibrant cultural offerings.

However, Sedaris humorously counters their perspective by pointing out that the darkness in French cinemas is distinct from what one might experience at home—it carries a deeper, more significant quality. This reflection not only contrasts the cultural richness of Paris with the act of sitting in a theater but also subtly critiques the dismissive attitude some have toward enjoying a film while abroad, emphasizing that even simple pleasures can hold unique charm in a foreign context.