Movie-Goers Had No Love For 2011

With 2011 behind us and the promise of 2012 lurking about, it has been a rather disappointing year in movies in terms of audience attendance. If fact, 2011 had brought in the lowest box office receipts in recent years. As reported, Hollywood revenues were down a considerable 3.5 percent from 2010, despite the allure of 3D and IMAX movies. This drop off represents the highest downfall since 1995 when audience attendance were down a whopping 4.4 percent.

The big question is, why were audiences so reluctant to go to the movie theater in 2011? Was it the failing economy that has undercut revenue and tightened wallets across the board? Was it the numerous options for entertainment value, fragmenting audiences into smaller groups? Or maybe it was the simply quality of movies in 2011 that kept audiences at home?

Ticket prices being what they are these days, in New York City the price of admission to a matinee screening at an AMC theater is $13, it is easy to see why it is increasingly harder to bring people to the movie theater. Considering if you have a family of 4, you’ll be spending at least $50 before spending more money on popcorn, soda and candy for the kids. The promise of 3D and IMAX screenings add value to the film itself but families are unwilling to spend the extra $4 to $6 for these upgrades when they can simple stay at home and watch quality movies on their TVs.

Internet TV has given the opportunity to many to simply stay at home, find a movie or TV show easily and watch at their own pace, free from the distractions and annoyances of crowds. Internet services like Netflix, Hulu and iTunes have become the standard in home entertainment, along with Internet ready TVs with 3D that replicate the theater experience at home. Considering the top 10 grossing movies of 2011 were either sequels, remakes or comic book adaptations, the lack of originality from Hollywood is probably the biggest factor the low box office attendance. So pick up the pace Hollywood!