The movie theater experience has changed over the decades. From being a fun get-together with friends and family, to now being an occasional experience that some would even pay massive expenses to eat full-course meals while watching their favorite films. The invention of streaming has expanded the catalogue of movies audiences can watch in the comfort of their own home, rendering theaters as a place for either dedicated fans to go to, or specific films that a group of people are willing to spend the extra buck to see.
Movie theaters are no longer a casual place for the average consumer to spend their time by themselves, and much is lost if theaters continue to stay this way. Watching films with friends and family isn’t inherently a bad concept; it’s an easy way to spend time with loved ones and bond over favorite topics. Often, watching movies in groups can detract from the necessary engagement and appreciation for filmmaking compared to watching them solo.
There has been an unfortunate social stigma surrounding the enjoyment of public pastimes alone. This isn’t just movie theaters, but also establishments like restaurants. With the growing number of younger generations becoming lonelier than ever before, regulating public pastimes to only groups can lead to more people staying home. Encouraging people to go to movie theaters alone will help them try to enjoy their time by themselves.
Solo viewing movies in theaters away from the many distractions that come from watching at home will all but force audiences to engage in the film’s story. Additionally, it lessens the hassle of trying to match schedules with friends and family and lessens ticket and concession costs.
