Increased Gaming (And Bad Movies) Reduces Movie Attendance

To be released this week, A study by LA-based research firm OTX found among young men 13-25, 24 percent saw fewer movies than they did in 2003 and have shifted that leisure time to IMing and playing video games. Of course, unsurprisingly, it's also due to only 35 percent saying there's an "excellent selection" of movies as opposed to 60 percent two years ago. Cost was also cited as a factor as well with 68 percent claiming movies have become too expensive. Many prefer to wait for the DVD and view movies in the comfort of their own home, away from popcorn-chomping, incessantly-chattering idiots. Not to mention those families who, for some mind-boggling reason, feel it's acceptable to bring a screaming baby and roaming toddlers into the theater. The National Amusements theater in Lowell we attend allows this and pisses off movie-goers who audibly groan when these families stroll in.

The fact is, there's dramatically increased choice when it comes to entertainment. Most people would rather play a game online, have a friend over to play on the console or have a few more friends over to watch a DVD in the comfort of their own home. When given these increased options, it's no surprise movie theater attendance is plummeting.