Are Movie Theaters Worth It Anymore?
NPR's Bob Mondello and Marc Rivers explore the relevance of movie theaters in the streaming era and what still attracts audiences to the big screen.
Personal Theater Experience
Last year, I went to see the film It Ends With Us in a theater.
JUSTIN BALDONI (as Ryle Kincaid): "I want to see you again."
BLAKE LIVELY (as Lily Bloom): "Now you see me."
BALDONI: "You know what I mean."
The film deals with a toxic relationship. While my feelings about the movie were mixed, the viewing experience itself was dreadful. A family of five—two adults and three young children—were noisy throughout the screening. They talked, laughed, cried, yelled, played with toys, ate snacks, left and reentered the theater multiple times. The most disturbing moment was when one of the children shined a flashlight on the screen.
This experience made me decide never to watch a film in a theater again. Watching from home, even on a laptop, is simpler, cheaper, quieter, and far more comfortable.
The Case for Movie Theaters
Despite this, I recognize that the experience of watching a film on a large screen surrounded by an audience is very different from streaming Netflix at home. For this week's discussion, I sought opinions on why and when going to a movie theater still makes sense.
Bob Mondello and Marc Rivers discuss these perspectives, emphasizing the unique appeal of cinemas that streaming cannot replicate.
Summary
Though home viewing offers convenience and comfort, the communal atmosphere and immersive impact of theaters continue to hold a special place for many moviegoers.
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