Why do we need to get people into theatres? I think half the reason they still exist in any great number is because they get time limited exclusivity. Now that a lot more people have huge TV's and decent sound systems theatres are even less compelling.
I'd much rather much just about any movie from the comfort of my couch, sitting in my undies (depending on company), with popcorn I made for 20c and the sound not drilling into my skull.
Theaters used to be the only way to watch movies, then they became just the best way, and now they're just an experience separate from home viewing.
Theaters exist because they're the biggest consumers of movies and, because they're the biggest consumers, studios give them limited time exclusivity exists to benefit their continued existence. It's a bit of a catch 22 and change is slow.
I watched Rogue one in a regular non-3D theater and the projection was not great. The black levels were horrible. The actual 24fps (x2) frame rate bothered me. I expect to watch it again at home, streamed from Netflix, and have better viewing experience.
> Theaters used to be the only way to watch movies, then they became just the best way, and now they're just an experience separate from home viewing.
When I can choose between going to a theater and paying +$10 just for the ticket and extremely marked up prices for popcorn and a soda (close to another $20) for a single individual, or I can wait 3-6 months, watch it in the privacy of my home without people bringing crying babies to an R-rated movie, talking during the movie, texting or otherwise using their phones during a movie, yeah, I'm going to wait until I can get it at home. The reasons movie theaters suck basically boils down to: 1. it's expensive, and 2. other people suck, are assholes, are completely self-centered and common courtesy no longer exists.
Go to a matinee. I see most movies at 10 or 11 AM on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The theaters are usually no more than half-full. The ticket prices are about half-off, so I have over-priced popcorn for breakfast.
I'd much rather much just about any movie from the comfort of my couch, sitting in my undies (depending on company), with popcorn I made for 20c and the sound not drilling into my skull.