According to Research… the popularity of the cinema is dwindling
For anyone that knows me, it’s pretty obvious that I would write about the cinema. A self-confessed film lover from the age of 6, I have always loved going to the cinema but with the price ever increasing, it is becoming less and less tempting.
It is undeniable that the percentage of moviegoers is dropping rapidly. There are a few reasons for this, firstly and perhaps most importantly, the price of cinema tickets have increased dramatically resulting in less and less people wanting to fork out the money to view a film.
It is now extortionate to go to the cinema, causing the majority of people to either watch the film online or wait for its release on DVD. Even though this saves money and allows you to watch the film in the comfort of your own home, the feeling of watching it on the big screen and the atmosphere of the cinema is lost as a result.
Another reason according to research as to why less and less people are going to the cinema is due to the enormous growth in the quality of television. With big budget cinematic-style programs being created, people are less interested in the world of cinema. Examples of this are Game of Thrones and Westworld, with a star-studded cast and high production value; each show is almost like a film in itself.
Films are also becoming far too repetitive with their reliance on remakes and sequels. There is only a certain amount Robin Hood remakes (which has comically been remade 12 times since the first in 1912), that an audience will be interested in. In contradiction to this, television is undeniably creating new and innovative stories.
On the other hand, vintage style cinemas have started to grow in popularity offering the audience a more luxurious experience with the added comfort of an internal bar and large sofas and armchairs. Cinemas such as the Curzon offer a far more upmarket affair and are far more personalized than that of the larger powerhouse cinemas. Despite the price being similar to that of the Vue or Odeon, due to the homely aspect and relaxed atmosphere, a trip to the cinema popularity is starting to return. The vintage style cinemas also house staff who seem far more relaxed and friendly unlike some of the staff at the larger brands who feel as if they do not particularly want to be there.
It’s a real shame that the cinema is dwindling in popularity. I have many fond memories of visiting the cinema each week with my family to see the latest film and I hope that the popularity returns to what it used to be. The only way this will happen is, of course, if the prices became more affordable for everyone and if Hollywood returned to creating unique productions.
With Thanks to Ellen Hudson.
