Elijah Wood opposes the new QR code ordering system at the Alamo Drafthouse movie theater.
According to the cinema chain's website, they replaced their previous pen-and-paper ordering system with a QR code in January.
Star «The Lord of the Rings» expressed his dissatisfaction with these changes on social media.
«"Yesterday I tried @alamodrafthouse's new QR code ordering system for the first time and I can tell you it's terrible," he wrote.
Under the updated procedure, visitors are required to use their phones while watching a film.
Wood continued, "Instead of making ordering food and drinks more efficient, this actually adds steps to the process. And if you want to order additional items while watching a movie, you HAVE to open your phone. No, your cute reference to this irony in your 'Getting to the Alamo' video doesn't change how ridiculous this is. Please don't skimp on staff and go back to paper menus and order cards.".
He's not the only one unhappy with the new way of ordering food at the cinema.
Earlier this year, unionized workers at the Alamo Drafthouse movie theater in Sloans Lake, Colorado, went on strike over the new system.
«The QR code system is not optional, it is imposed on every guest,» she said. TheWrap Katie Hansen from the Sloans Lake union committee. "It's degrading customer service and making our jobs harder, not easier. I have customers I've served for 12 years who say they'll never come back.".
The cinema claims the change is an improvement.
Their website states: "This will reduce distractions (goodbye, check at the climax) and improve service in the long run. Putting control of the order directly in the hands of our guests allows us to work faster and more efficiently, creating a smoother and more efficient process without additional distractions.".
This article was originally published by Parade on June 4, 2026, in the News section. Add Parade to your list of recommended sources by clicking here.