As Movie Theater Ticket Prices Finally Hit $20, Studios Consider More On Demand Options For Consumers

There is nothing more amazing to me than going out, walking into a movie theater, grabbing some food, and sitting down to watch the latest (and hopefully greatest) in the world of cinema. From the smell of popcorn filling the lobby air, to the amazing experience of watching a film with a full crowd, there really is nothing better.

However, in this world of on demand and online streaming, it’s appearing more and more likely that it’s really just a matter of time before big budget films will make their way to homes across the country. Actually, according to the Wall Street Journal, that day may be sooner, rather than later.

The outlet is reporting that major Hollywood studios are currently in talks with Time Warner Cable to offer ‘home theater on demand,’ which would bring recently released films in HD to TV’s for $20 or $30, just 30 days after the film’s theatrical release.

Personally, while I think, with the likes of IFC and Magnolia doing on demand releases of their theatrical releases nearly on the same day, it’s a matter of time, I still just really don’t think this does anything to further the world of film. Maybe I’m just a cinephile with a thing for going to theaters, but I just don’t think you can ever get an experience quite like it.

That said, the price is definitely not the issue, as it may very well be the same as a theater ticket in some areas.

The Wall Street Journal again reports that there are multiple theaters in New York City that is charging $20 a ticket to see Shrek Forever After in 3D IMAX. That is, for a family of four, $80 to see Shrek in all his 3D glory. In contrast, 2D showings of the same film at the theater that I currently work at run you $5 for a matinee, bringing the same family a total of $20 to see the film. This very idea could bring the advent of on demand theatrical releases to us quicker than once expected. It may be the time where the experience of theater going has finally become too expensive, and truly out of date.

Source Wall Street Journal