Streaming Surpasses Theaters as Preferred Choice for Movie Watchers – Poll Findings
Americans are increasingly choosing to watch newly released movies from the comfort of their homes rather than heading out to a movie theater, a recent poll has found.
In the past year, about three-quarters of U.S. adults surveyed reported watching a new movie on streaming platforms instead of in theaters, with nearly 30% of them streaming new movies at least once a month.
On the other hand, around two-thirds of Americans said they had watched a recently released movie in a theater in the past year, but only 16% went at least once a month.
It’s become clear that American moviegoers are more inclined to stream films than visit theaters, a trend that seems to have been accelerated during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors such as convenience and cost play a significant role for many individuals who either can’t find the time to go to a theater or can’t afford the rising ticket prices.
Sherry Jenkins from New Jersey, 69, shared that streaming is her go-to choice for movie viewing. She finds it much more convenient, especially since movies tend to become available for streaming only a short while after their release.
In the current landscape, films are heading to streaming services quicker than before. The earlier standard of a 90-day exclusive theatrical window has shrunk to only 45 days in some cases as theaters adapt to changing preferences. This shift has created a scenario where the release strategy for each movie varies.
Some industry insiders still argue that films starting in theaters have more cultural significance, but many viewers like Jenkins don’t necessarily agree. For her, the close connection between studios and streaming services has made the choice between theaters and streaming somewhat obsolete.
Jenkins, a retired individual who keeps up with technology, shared that she hasn’t been a regular theatergoer in about two decades. With streaming becoming an increasingly popular option, she finds it hard to justify the trek to a movie theater when she can enjoy movies from the comfort of her home.
