Are movie theaters worth it anymore?

Are Movie Theaters Worth It Anymore?

NPR's Bob Mondello and Marc Rivers discuss the relevance of movie theaters in today's streaming era and what continues to attract audiences to the big screen.

A Difficult Theater Experience

Last year, I went to see the film It Ends With Us in a theater.

JUSTIN BALDONI (as Ryle Kincaid): I want to see you again.

BLAKE LIVELY (as Lily Bloom): Now you see me.

BALDONI: You know what I mean.

The movie explores a toxic relationship. While I had mixed feelings about the film itself, the theater experience was frustrating. A family of five, including three small children, was disruptive throughout the entire show. They talked, laughed, cried, yelled, played with toys, ate food, left and returned multiple times. The most shocking moment was when one child shone a flashlight at the screen.

This led me to decide I would no longer watch films in theaters. Viewing movies on my couch—whether on a laptop or TV—is easier, cheaper, quieter, and far more convenient.

The Unique Value of Theaters

Despite this, I acknowledge that watching a movie on a big screen with an audience offers an experience that is distinct from streaming at home. For that reason, I sought opinions from others on why and when going to the theater is still worthwhile.

Summary

While home streaming offers comfort and convenience, the communal experience of a big screen viewing remains a compelling reason to visit movie theaters.

NPR — 2025-11-03