Viddy Well Predicts: The Future Of Movie Theaters
Article by Anthony Cleveland
Our prediction is that the multiplexes will die by 2027.
There will still be theaters, of course, but they will be niche theaters that serve food and drinks alongside select new release films that are also available for streaming, either through a subscription service or On Demand pay rentals. Most new releases will be available here, except for the studio owned franchise films, like the Marvel or Star Wars films.
Multiplexes will begin to close shortly after 2025. Some will stay afloat with in-house subscription services, but at least one big chain will put itself on the market...and then Mickey Mouse will probably snatch it up.
Disney will own select theaters and rebrand it to match its franchise driven image. The theaters will only show Disney owned properties, and though Disney will allow other theaters to screen their films, they'll charge those theaters a high rental price.
To separate these Disney theaters from the other multiplex chains still clinging on to existence, Disney will offer in-house only specialties or gimmicks, such as: free 3D, IMAX only, or D-Box seats. Mouse ears with your embroidered name will be available in the gift shop in select theaters...
Is this a stark vision of cinema? Meh, not really to me. I don’t believe good films will die, I just believe these large theater chains will be absolved by larger studios to screen their tentpole films.
If you look to ticket and concession stand costs, the price of taking a family of four is ridiculous. This next generation probably won’t see as many films in theaters because of the high prices and the many other options available for entertainment — most of which are in the palm of their hand!
Cinema will never die. But, the multiplexes will.
What do you think? Do multiplexes have a sustainable and finite future? Will they all go extinct? What would you like to see happen? We want to know. Share your thoughts and feelings in the comments section below, and as always, remember to viddy well!
