Going to the movies is not the same anymore but that doesn’t mean it’s not fun. For most of the people choosing not to go now it comes down to either price or comfort. Many people cited in survey responses that concessions, ticket prices, technology (both good and bad) and irritable moviegoers were the main reasons they would rather wait to see a movie in the comfort of their own home.
Of course on the other hand many moviegoers still love to go see the big screen for its visual awe. Others still enjoy the time to spend with a significant other or just be in a social atmosphere. Lina Broydo, 57, a hotel public relations official from Los Altos, CA one of many people who still enjoy what the theatre can bring them, as she explains how she and her husband stay connected.
"It is a weekly outing we both treasure for the duration of these few hours we spend together away from the hectic world of stress, rush, cell phones and traffic gridlock. He puts his arm around my shoulder, squeezes my hand, and these two hours are spent in the tranquility and the fantasy of the world on the big screen, as well as our little time for affection. How can you compare it with a snoring husband in front of the DVD, lounging in his PJs with a bag of potato chips all over the couch?"
Still some folks are not comfortable attending movies with a large group of people so close to them which leads to one other option Drive-In theatres. The only problem is they are almost extinct. For those who still have one nearby they can be just the right way to go.
"The drive-in theater offers a wonderful social atmosphere where you can choose to either sit outside in a folding chair and watch movies under the stars or enjoy the confines of your car," says Mark Bialek, 44, of Baltimore, president of the Drive-In Theater fan club. "The cost of admission (usually $7 or $8 for adults and children under 12 free) makes attending them much more appealing; plus, you get to watch two to three movies for that same price."
Though there are many long term issues facing the future of the big screen, one bright spot might just be that movie lovers appear to love more then just the films themselves. Getting out of the house with friends or family laughing and/or crying at a film together is still the way we like it.