Film buffs know their history. Knowing the history of film and knowing specific details of some of the more important or popular movies of the past adds another level to films made today, like a special set of subtitles that only we can see. Being a film buff also means that you study the movie and you notice little touches the film maker has thrown in, both technical and dramatically symbolic. For the film buff, extra little touches like these and others show us that the people behind the scenes really put some effort into what they're presenting for our approval. When we notice things that other less observant film goers miss, get jokes that others do not, recognize that yes, indeed, that's what the director was trying to convey, we feel like we're really getting our money's worth.
Film buffs recognize bad cinema, as well.
I'm talking about overly used plot devices, ham-handed script gaffes, and technical glitches that are so blatant they make you groan out loud. Fortunately for everybody else it was only me and my brother watching it in the living room, not in a crowded theater. Come on, raise those hands. Unlike more traditional commandments, you will find these add to your enjoyment. Being a film buff is not something that comes easily, or overnight.