A night at the movies

As home entertainment gets better, how can cinemas keep attracting new customers?

With pixel-dense 4K televisions and endless film options streaming on the internet, why would anyone want to go to the cinema? While the cinema experience is still a cut above anything that one can reasonably create at home, the fact is that home entertainment is making a night at the movies less attractive.

Some cinemas have fought back with attractive VIP experiences that include gourmet meals, personal service and luxurious (and quiet) accommodation. These cinema experiences aren’t cheap but that hasn’t stopped their popularity from growing.

Perhaps the VIP treatment is just one way that cinemas can win back customers from the likes of Netflix and iTunes. Would you be tempted to see a film in a cinema that blocked mobile phone signal, ensuring a quiet and peaceful viewing experience? Aside from the enduring allure of the silver screen, what else can cinemas do to win our patronage again?