Why Are Moviegoers Staying Away from Cinemas?
Ask anyone why people avoid movie theaters today. You will likely hear a quick answer. Ticket prices are too high. Moviegoers and film industry insiders agree on this point. Streaming platforms make films easily available at home. This adds to the challenge for theaters.
Directors notice a troubling trend. The average moviegoer feels priced out. They are left behind as costs rise. But expensive tickets are not the only problem. A deeper issue affects audience turnout.
Audience Desire Meets Quality Concerns
The Multiplex Association of India (MAI) released a detailed report. Titled The Story of Film Exhibition in India, it was prepared by Ernst & Young. This report highlights the economic role and policy needs of India's film exhibition sector.
It examines moviegoing patterns from 2019 to 2024. Over 80% of moviegoers still want to watch films in theaters. However, more than 50% cite a major concern. They point to the quality of movies being produced.
Industry insiders echo this finding. The problem is not a shortage of films. Instead, moviegoing as a habit is eroding steadily. Audiences are losing faith in what appears on the big screen.
The Shifting Landscape of Cinema Screens
What is the current state of cinema screens in India? The numbers tell a story of modest growth and significant challenges.
- The total count of cinema screens increased slightly. It went from 9,527 screens in 2019 to 9,927 screens in 2024.
- Screens per million people dropped. The figure fell from 7.6 in 2018 to 6.8 in 2024.
- Single screens suffered the most. They reduced by approximately 1,000 between 2018 and 2024.
- Large chains cut their investments. From 2019 to 2024, they reduced spending by 12%.
Declining Revenues in Filmed Entertainment
India's filmed entertainment revenues have fallen. They decreased by 2% from their 2019 peak. In 2019, revenues stood at ₹19,100 crore. By 2024, they dropped to ₹18,746 crore.
Revenue per screen also declined. It fell by 5% during this period. In 2019, it was ₹1.21 crore per screen. In 2024, it reduced to ₹1.15 crore per screen.
The cinema industry faces a dual challenge. High ticket prices deter many potential viewers. At the same time, audiences question the quality of films offered. These factors combine to weaken the traditional theater experience.
