I’m amazed that movie theaters are still a viable business these days.
Went to the movies today (me, the wife and kid) for a 2pm showing, two of their smallest drinks, and two of the smallest popcorns. Over $100.
I always liked going to the movies but we don’t go very often anymore and this will likely be the last time. It’s just so much money and, frankly, it’s a better experience from my own living room. I thought that the Dolby experience would be better, but it wasn’t. The picture was blurry and a mess at times. Ironically, the 5 minute commercial promoting Dolby during the trailers was good, but not the actual movie. Basically, aside from being able to see the movie a little earlier, I gained nothing from going to the theater. And the 5 year old kid a couple of seats down from me never stopped talking and was running all over the row.
What say you? Any theater-lovers still out there?
The whole screen wasn’t blurry - just some of the of areas on the screen during the movie. Basically, just try to say that I get a way better picture on my 12 year old plasma TV. And the theater I went to was a fairly new, modernized AMC multiplex.
..... as long as the movie is good.
The movies.....must get better....for us to continue.
Better stories, better acting....they most make it worth!
Like the OP said...home TV experience is very good
We split movies into TV movies....vs Movie theater movies....Far more TV movies are being made these days.
Dune, for instance, which I first saw in imax. Even a nice home projector with great sound (which I also saw it in-in 3D no less-which was great too) can’t quite match up.
The Northman was also a recent film that I felt really lent itself to the big screen experience best. Top Gun: Maverick was also very fun in the theater.
But it’s also true that for many films, a decent home setup these days can be more comfortable AND cost effective without giving up much quality. I’ll usually wait to watch films of smaller scope this way.
Not all movie theaters are created or maintained equally, and it’s worth knowing which theaters are best. They’re too expensive to not have a good experience in.
There is something to be said about the experience of seeing a film in room full of people, particularly comedies. I recently saw the premiere of ‘Fourth of July’ at the Beacon Theater in nyc, and it was great to be surrounded by laughing people. That is something that can still only happen in a movie theater.
I guess I’d say if there’s a film that seems like having “the theater experience” is the best way to see it (again, Dune comes to mind), it’s worth it to find the best theater available and shell out the $ for it. It’s still kind of its own phenomenon, like seeing a live band or going to see the Giants play live.
I can’t help but think the movie theater business is definitely in decline/slowly dying, and that’s sad to me. If it goes completely away, that would be a big loss.
Here's one that blew my mind: was looking for something to do with my daughter yesterday and looked at a Bowlero since there's one nearby. It was $120 to rent a lane for 2 hours. Seemed insane to me. For any bowlers here, is that standard nowadays?
Here's one that blew my mind: was looking for something to do with my daughter yesterday and looked at a Bowlero since there's one nearby. It was $120 to rent a lane for 2 hours. Seemed insane to me. For any bowlers here, is that standard nowadays?
Why can't people sit through a two hour movie without eating something? Same thing with a sporting event. They complain about the price of food and drinks, but pony up because, I don't know, it's like they think it's a requirement.
As for bowling a local bowling alley here charges $12 an hour per person to bowl. So, you go with a couple of buddies and you each get your own lane. You can fit in about 5 games in an hour.
You need to find a theatre with some standards and support it.
The entire industry has been sucking for a long time now...
IMO the industry hasn’t changed all that much, we have. We have no patience anymore, don’t like being around other people don’t like lines and already know everything ahead of time. People in general just can’t sit still for 2 hours - blame tech for that. Tons of great stuff being made, much better than what I grew up on. But time has moved on, and we all have many other things to choose from do the impact isn’t as great.
it's not the money, it's just not my preferred choice of entertainment. I don't value the theater experience (which is awesome if you're into it) enough to spend my few precious recreational hours going to movies.
But my kids go, and my point in posting is there are always deals for movies - whether you go to BJ's or Costco and buy the fandango or regal gift cards for 10% off the total amount or find other ways (lost of discounted gift cards and coupons online).
Plus, according to my kids (and my wife who goes occasionally with her friends) the theater employees don't (in our theaters) enforce rules about bringing in outside food and drink. so, if you are compelled to eat or drink during the movie you can easily swing it if you want without buying the overpriced concessions.
Lines, that's funny. Imagine the only line you will see at a movie theater these days is if the Superhero Comic Book Convention is in town...
But I do agree, the prices are laughable.
Lines, that's funny. Imagine the only line you will see at a movie theater these days is if the Superhero Comic Book Convention is in town...
This comment just reads like the response should just be "Ok boomer"
Back in the day you had to wait online to buy tickets, now everything is done digitally, with you selecting your exact seat, so the lines have cut down dramatically. There are still lines for the concessions if you go at a popular time
Spend $10-15 per ticket, plus some snacks (and wine for me). Its a good night out
Bought Top Gun tickets on-line during it's opening weekend about 8 hours before going that evening. Same with Elvis.
With less decent movies, theaters show anything of interest in several rooms in the theater, and with numerous movie times. There are no issues...
Spend $10-15 per ticket, plus some snacks (and wine for me). Its a good night out
Ohh come on, you enjoy movies? Fuck outta here!
I disagree with their being no distractions. Of course there are going to be distractions. You are in a room with 100 other people lol. Case in point, the 5 year old kid next to me yesterday that had no business being there. Or people talking, or giggling middle school kids, or cell phones…I could go on. And the viewing experience at home on your own large flat screen is just plain better.
Like I said, I do enjoy going to movies most of the time. I’m just getting priced out. $60 for 3 matinee tickets alone is just too much. I wish we could get the prices like some of you, but that’s just not the case with any of the multiple theaters in my area.
IMO the industry hasn’t changed all that much, we have. We have no patience anymore, don’t like being around other people don’t like lines and already know everything ahead of time. People in general just can’t sit still for 2 hours - blame tech for that. Tons of great stuff being made, much better than what I grew up on. But time has moved on, and we all have many other things to choose from do the impact isn’t as great.
Exactly. I've been hearing for 30+ years how theaters are dying, overpriced, have poor films, blah blah blah. People just like to complain about anything and everything. I have never spent more than $25 for an advance ticket, popcorn and drink... and that would be a non-matinee price. Usually I'm spending less than $20 because of all the free popcorn they throw at you.
Re: business viability...its like failed big box stores. who else is going to lease out that space? Especially one with a movie theater layout that might be embedded inside another big commercial center. It's either a costly renovation or find a new equilibrium with movie theater operators I imagine.
I've noticed hey have cut back on staff as much as they can.
The other direction they could go is more luxury to justify the cost: check out some of the premium theater experiences they have in Bangkok and other major cities in the world: Sofa beds, cocktails, food service.
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more in the winter when I’m less busy. Nothing beats the theater - big screen, big sound, no distractions. I don’t really want to eat when watching anyway so good prices don’t matter to me. The at home experience is definitely much improved but doesn’t replace what I described above. It’s also just nice getting out of the house.
IMO the industry hasn’t changed all that much, we have. We have no patience anymore, don’t like being around other people don’t like lines and already know everything ahead of time. People in general just can’t sit still for 2 hours - blame tech for that. Tons of great stuff being made, much better than what I grew up on. But time has moved on, and we all have many other things to choose from do the impact isn’t as great.
Exactly. I've been hearing for 30+ years how theaters are dying, overpriced, have poor films, blah blah blah. People just like to complain about anything and everything. I have never spent more than $25 for an advance ticket, popcorn and drink... and that would be a non-matinee price. Usually I'm spending less than $20 because of all the free popcorn they throw at you.
Lol, you sound fun.
Yeah, I probably would have much to complain about if I was able to pay your prices. But thanks for your blah blah blah irrelevant response. People will complain about anything and everything.
Gotcha, UConn. I misunderstood.
My second run theater has a BIG screen, great sound, and fine seats for only $6 for seniors. A lot of second run theaters are in historic old movie houses, which make for a great experience. If you have one near you, check them out!
Regardless, we rarely go anymore between the pandemic and the pricing. We have 3 kids, for 5 of us, a movie is costing us well over $100 if we buy any snacks. That's why we are going to a theater with free refills on popcorn. We also have started going to theater that have theater dining. The Alamo theater near us has decent food and not really overpriced, so we make that dinner and the movie.
For just me and my wife, we haven't felt compelled enough to make a date night for a movie in several years. For the cost, we'd rather spend the money elsewhere and/or just have dinner than add on the movie.
Your best post ... ever
13 separate screens, but for each one there are only 42 seats. However, the seats are big, soft, pleather recliners, and each one has its own little swivel table and drink holder, because you can order food and beverages before you sit down, and the wait staff will bring it to your seat. It's not just popcorn and soda, either. I'll put a link below so you can see what I'm talking about. My first experience was a mind-blower. It isn't cheap, but it's nice to splurge every once in a while.
Cineopolis.com - ( New Window )
Peaks and valleys for me. I think at the start of this year, I went to about 5 movies and then haven't been back since.
I always go to get out of the house and away from my lady ;-)
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Last time I went to the movies was pre COVID when I saw 'The Joker'.
Peaks and valleys for me. I think at the start of this year, I went to about 5 movies and then haven't been back since.
I always go to get out of the house and away from my lady ;-)
Naah. Too easy.
I go to the one in Toms River.
AMC Discounts - ( New Window )
Will never go back to public showings of movies.
There is also a drive in that we try to go to a couple times a summer.
The proliferation of quality streaming series combined with the improvement of in home systems will hit the theatre experience, but hopefully we will see great theatrical blockbusters for years to come.
Will never go back to public showings of movies.
There is also a drive in that we try to go to a couple times a summer.
Both are real expensive the Palisades they have seats as nice as your easy chair, recline and everything however they're sold out alot and it's reserved seating so the pickings can be slim. Don't usually go to either. My town New City has a smaller one. That's where we saw both. Smaller screens but $9 a ticket on a Saturday night. Can't beat it.
Now? It's a night out. Sometimes it's nice to just get out and do something. Yeah, it costs money, but it can be a fun experience, especially if you go with other couples. But it's something to do.
Haven't bothered to think of that shit in a long time. I did do my part to protect the Brotherhood of steel, though.
Stories of resilience!
I don't think this is far from the truth in NYC. Usually, a movie ticket is about $17-$20 depending on the theater. Even one big popcorn to share (although my kids always fight when they share so I am forced to buy separate ones) and three drinks is going to be about 25 bucks-that is ~ $85.
I love going to the movies and often do, but there is going to be some tension in the future between delivering these movies to your home for $19.99 and going to the movies for $100 bucks.
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for 3 people and some soda and popcorn is $100? I live in a fairly expensive area and that would be half that cost. Sounds like your theater sucks, I’ve never experienced a blurry screen.
I don't think this is far from the truth in NYC. Usually, a movie ticket is about $17-$20 depending on the theater. Even one big popcorn to share (although my kids always fight when they share so I am forced to buy separate ones) and three drinks is going to be about 25 bucks-that is ~ $85.
I love going to the movies and often do, but there is going to be some tension in the future between delivering these movies to your home for $19.99 and going to the movies for $100 bucks.
Yeah, NYC, Long Island (in his case) and all the more expensive cities this makes sense. Easiest solution is to just not buy food or have kids split popcorn.
I'm not sure first release in home will be a thing. They tried during COVID as a last resort to recoup their investments but it pales in comparison to what they make at the box office. People that watch movies at home typically don't care about seeing movies opening week, so paying that $20 will be something that most will skip. Plus this would have to be arranged between the studios / theaters since revenue sharing becomes jeopardized (see the Black Widow lawsuit with Scarlett Johansson). Its certainly possible we eventually get there, but I don't see it any time soon, too much money to be lost going this route.
If you want your small local theater to survive you'll pay for the overpriced popcorn and soda. Theaters make very little off the ticket, especially the 1st week a movie is released.
If you want your small local theater to survive you'll pay for the overpriced popcorn and soda. Theaters make very little off the ticket, especially the 1st week a movie is released.
One of the things that I liked about Maverick was the little video clip of Tom Cruise thanking the audience for coming to see it in the theater--I even think he said something like "where it was meant to be seen"
I thought that was really cool of him.
IMax movies for me the rest of the year are "Nope", potentially the re-release of Jaws if I can get to it on/around Labor Day, the re-release of Avatar, and then Avatar 2. They are also doing E.T. but it was never my thing so i'll be skipping that.
I would imagine it was like that back in the day as well. Most of the movies coming out were 'meh', with a few blockbusters thrown in
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Its true, must of the post-COVID movies have been crap.
I would imagine it was like that back in the day as well. Most of the movies coming out were 'meh', with a few blockbusters thrown in
100%, lots of bad movies in every era we just didn't have the internet back then (or social media) to critique everything to death.
COVID definitely messed with the industry as a whole though, but its slowly starting to creep out of that financial hole. Peak boxoffice was 2018 where 35 movies made over $100m - so far in 2022 there have been 12 and I think we will see that rise to 20-25 by years end with a bunch of big releases set between now and the holidays. Latest projections seem to be upwards of $8b as a whole which is about 25/30% of peak (2018) - that's a good sign heading into 2023.
I think the last time I was actually excited about a movie coming out (based off of the trailer) was maybe ... The Hangover? That was 2009 or so.
But my wife and I will go maybe once every few months, I like it more than her probably, but shes always in for the snacks!
It starts and ends with the cash they make. Producing a movie is high risk so new IP is hard to come by. As a result you get comic book movies because that demo will pay to see them repeatedly. And I don't even understand the issue people have with them - I no longer watch them but they are infinitely better than the crap that was made 20 years ago. We just grew up and don't care anymore.
We can all argue how much better or worse movies are now , but there were over 800 movies made in 2018 and 99% of them weren't comic book movies. There's been a boom in indie movies that dominate the drama genre and they simply don't get the theater time because wide release is super expensive.
If it has become too risky to do so and comic book heros are an easy payday so that's where the industry wants to put its efforts, then so be it.
Same conclusion - the industry has been in a big decline...
I guess the latter fell a little short of an expected Best Picture nomination by the Academy :-)
Not to hijack the thread but talking about a large screen anyone else old enough to remember going to the movies at Radio City? Especially around the holidays, you would get the entire Christmas show with the Rockettes plus a movie.
Not to hijack the thread but talking about a large screen anyone else old enough to remember going to the movies at Radio City? Especially around the holidays, you would get the entire Christmas show with the Rockettes plus a movie.
Sure, Mary Poppins and Sound of Music, to name two, when I was very young and we still lived in the city.
Some years later, Fiddler on the Roof, on a school field trip from upstate.
The RCMH theater had 6,000 seats!
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Not to hijack the thread but talking about a large screen anyone else old enough to remember going to the movies at Radio City? Especially around the holidays, you would get the entire Christmas show with the Rockettes plus a movie.
Sure, Mary Poppins and Sound of Music, to name two, when I was very young and we still lived in the city.
Some years later, Fiddler on the Roof, on a school field trip from upstate.
The RCMH theater had 6,000 seats!
Where upstate did you move to?
look at all the old people, what movie was that, Cocoon?
Where upstate did you move to?
Southern Dutchess, Hopewell Jct.
We used to in elementary school, great field trips. They just tore it down though, part of a big railroad and bridge project along the water.
In any event we usually bring in our own candy and water. Theaters have priced themselves out of providing snacks.