The Fall of the Movie Theater Experience? Say It Ain't So!

On my way to work this morning I heard this story on NPR about how the decline of DVD sales and our demand for all things technologically convenient has sparked Hollywood's consideration of direct-to-home movie releases. That concept is rightfully a concern for the livelihood of the world's movie theaters. To that I say, WHAT???

I can live with managing much of my life online. It does in fact seem much more efficient. I'm clearly okay with keeping up with friends and family via social media. My DVR is liberating! I enjoy the convenience of drive-thru services. But take away my movie theater experience? No way! That...and any sort of robot-type item (like those vaccums that move around the house on their own. Come on! Haven't you seen Terminator).

The whole experience of the theater is irreplaceable. A big tub of buttery popcorn with just the right amount of staleness; the people watching; the huge screen and surround sound (plus that cute little Dolby promo before the movie starts); the crowd reactions. I love a good movie at home myself. But you can't experience a movie amongst strangers there--which is half the fun.

Theater going is timeless, too. I can remember Granddaddy telling me stories about being an usher, when it cost 10 cents to see a "picture". Where else would young adolescents get their first "arm around the girl's back" or makeout session? Date night wouldn't be the same. Just think of all the memories you have attached somehow to a movie theater.

Sure, movie-going gets expensive. But it could be even more costly if people don't line up for the box offices to help fund these huge budget special-effects movies we demand. My point? I believe some things were just meant to stay "old school". Here's to hoping Hollywood and we technology indulging folk can come to an arrangement that means movie theaters stay!