see vs watch a movie at a theatre

[tamguatlay]

1. I'm going to see a movie.(at a theatre)

2. I'm going to watch a movie. (at a theatre)

Which is the correct sentence with regard to 'see' and 'watch'?

Thanks.

[TheStephen]

Both are correct and widely in use.

[Josef]

In general I'd agree with TheStephen. The only thing I'd add is that "watch" is rather more active than "see". When you watch something you make a conscious effort to see it. (Like the difference between "listen" and "hear".)

In general, we see a performance in public and watch a performance on TV. So for example:
- We're going to see a movie at the cinema tonight.
- We're going to watch a movie on TV tonight.

Here is a page about Watch versus See versus Look.

[tamguatlay]

Thanks, Josef and Stephen.