Insight of the Day: More than 96,000 Respond to the First Global Cinema Federation Movie-goer Survey

Detailed Findings

1. Survey Highlights:

   • Over 96,000 respondents from 14 countries participated.

   • 95% prefer cinemas for new releases; only 5% prefer streaming.

   • Genre Preferences:

     • Action/Adventure (59%) and Comedy (53%) are most desired.

     • Female respondents seek more Romance (39%) and Drama (41%).

   • Film appeal remains a key barrier to increased cinema visits.

2. Industry Context:

   • Post-COVID recovery and strikes caused a film supply shortage, though 2024 saw positive recovery signs.

   • Blockbusters like Inside Out 2 (highest-grossing animated film) and Deadpool & Wolverine (highest-grossing R-rated film) broke records.

   • Recent releases like Moana 2, Wicked, and Gladiator II are revitalizing interest with diverse audience appeal.

3. Piracy Concerns:

   • Piracy spikes when high-quality versions are available post-theatrical release.

   • Shorter theatrical windows globally exacerbate piracy and hurt revenue.

   • GCF partnered with MUSO to analyze piracy impacts and refine anti-piracy strategies.

4. Cinema Innovations:

   • Enhanced experiences include premium seating, boutique food options, and family-focused theaters.

   • Introducing a mix of budget-friendly and premium options in the same auditorium has proven successful.

Reasons for Success

1. Strong Audience Demand:

   • Consumers value the immersive, social nature of cinema and prefer it over streaming.

2. Genre Diversity:

   • Films like Wicked and Moana 2 appeal across demographics, boosting attendance.

3. Innovative Experiences:

   • Enhanced offerings such as premium screens and diverse seating options elevate the value proposition.

Trend Reflected in the Article

• Resurgence of Theatrical Cinema:

  • Despite the rise of streaming, consumers show a strong preference for the cinematic experience.

  • Innovative offerings and a recovery in supply are driving box office growth.

Consumer Motivation

1. Immersive Experience:

   • Audiences appreciate the communal and sensory appeal of theaters.

2. Content-Driven Choices:

   • The availability of preferred genres and blockbuster events motivates visits.

3. Enhanced Amenities:

   • Comfortable seating, food options, and premium screens improve value for money.

Big Social Drive Reflected by Trend

• Community and Event Cinema:

  • Theaters serve as social spaces, offering experiences that go beyond simply watching a movie.

Big Social Trend

• Hybrid Entertainment Preferences:

  • While streaming remains popular for convenience, audiences cherish the distinctiveness of theatrical cinema for major releases.

Strategy to Follow by Brands

1. Emphasize Premium Experiences:

   • Market enhanced screens, amenities, and exclusive showings to highlight the superior value of theaters.

2. Target Genre Demand:

   • Promote films in high-demand genres (action, comedy, romance) to draw specific audience segments.

3. Leverage Blockbusters:

   • Align campaigns with tentpole releases that drive significant foot traffic.

Strategy to Follow by Producers

1. Prioritize Theatrical Releases:

   • Extend theatrical windows to maximize box office and minimize piracy.

2. Broaden Genre Supply:

   • Invest in underrepresented genres like comedy, romance, and drama to cater to unmet demand.

3. Collaborate on Anti-Piracy:

   • Work with initiatives like GCF and MUSO to understand piracy impacts and refine distribution strategies.

Source: https://celluloidjunkie.com/wire/more-than-96000-respond-to-the-first-global-cinema-federation-movie-goer-survey/