Are movie theaters worth it anymore?

Are Movie Theaters Worth It Anymore?

NPR's Bob Mondello and Marc Rivers explore why movie theaters remain relevant in the streaming era and what still attracts audiences to the big screen.

Personal Theater Experience

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

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."

Pfeiffer, who commented on the movie, said it is about a toxic relationship. While she had mixed feelings about the film itself, the theater experience was very disappointing. A family of five, including three small children, was noisy throughout, talking, laughing, crying, yelling, playing with toys, eating, leaving and returning multiple times. Most disturbingly, one child shone a flashlight on the screen during the showing.

Impact on Viewing Preferences

That experience led Pfeiffer to vow never to see a movie in a theater again. She finds watching movies on her couch, even on a laptop, is easier, cheaper, quieter, and more pleasant with unmatched convenience.

The Unique Appeal of Theaters

Despite this, she acknowledges that watching a movie on a big screen surrounded by an audience offers a different experience than streaming on Netflix at home.

Discussion Prompt

For this week's conversation, I wanted to hear arguments from others on why and when it makes sense to go to actual movie theaters.

Author's Note: While convenience tempts many to stay home, shared theater experiences provide a unique, immersive way to enjoy films that streaming alone cannot replicate.

NPR — 2025-11-03