Golden goodness a.k.a. theatre popcorn

It's the smell. That smoky, buttery smell that permeates the entire place. The calorie-laden, diet-busting, throw-out-all-the-benefits-of-eating-salad-for-five-days-straight treat, which I will describe as golden goodness that can only be found at movie theatres: theatre popcorn.

I know it's not the healthiest snack out there. And while there is no nutritional information available anywhere, it's pretty safe to say that a medium (okay, fine, large) bag of single (or double) buttered bag of popcorn is at least 800 calories - WAY more than I should ever consume in one sitting.  

(In an effort to save a few dollars during my student days, I once brought a bag of microwave popcorn to a theatre. It was NOT the same. While bringing in Kernels Popcorn can be a yummy and healthier substitute - it's still lacking somehow).

There's something so sinfully indulgent about theatre popcorn. Watching a movie without having popcorn is like going to a barbecue and only having a green salad. While it's been done (even by me), it's just not right somehow. Popcorn completes the cinematic experience.

A friend - let's call her J - and I are big fans of theatre popcorn. Actually, the way I go at popcorn is almost unladylike (I won't speak on behalf of J). I don't understand how people can eat popcorn and not get it all over themselves. I don't exactly jump into the bag, but it still manages to get everywhere. Even if I eat it one kernel at a time. (This adds to the cinematic experience).

Okay - I'm the first to admit that it's disgusting and leaves an oily film on your hand that won't go away without a proper shower. But when it's hot, fresh and fully buttered, it's almost irresistible. Almost.

(And for the record, I didn't have any popcorn tonight.)