A growing movie watching epidemic...

[Great Rumbler]

Originally posted by Dark Jaguar
I'm guessing Luke has done the incredibly stupid thing of clapping at a theater. Guess what? They can't hear you, it's just an image! Clapping henceforth shall be what it's supposed to be, aimed at whoever you are appreciating! Change meaning?! NO! Not do that! Keep meaning same must! NO NO NO!

I imagine people clap during movies for the same reason that people clap/cheer while watching a sports game on tv or laugh while watching something that is funny. Clapping/cheering/laughing isn't used exclusively for showing someone you appreciate them or their work, it is also used to express one's excitement or mirth.