Box Office Figures Question

Box Office Figures are falling-why do you think that is?

One of the reasons for box office figures falling is that the appeal of stars has declined in recent times; this is mainly due to franchises. People used to be inclined to go and see a film at the cinema as one of their favourite stars was featured; this isn’t exactly the case anymore.

Increased ticket prices have also deterred some people from going to the cinema, why watch a film for £10 when you can stay and home and watch a similar film at home? This is the question raised by many people including myself when I think about the cinema.

Hollywood relies on franchises and re-imaginings in order to try and make money. This has become apparent to some people and some might be inclined to not visiting the cinema to see one of the two. The main reason for this is that they’ve probably seen something like it before, and wouldn’t want to pay to see it again. However, I think this isn’t one of the reasons box office figures are falling as most franchises and re-imaginings are successful as people’s expectations are met but new experiences are still brought to the table.

Studios use high concept films to give the audience a new cinematic experience through their use of special effects, surround sound and a huge screen. Before the new technological revolution, the cinema was the only place where a new cinematic experience could be found. This now isn’t the case. With new technologies, we can replicate that experience at home.

Avatar brought a new cinematic experience upon release as it was set in 3D, an option that couldn’t be found in our homes. Now in 2013, we can replicate almost all of these experiences at home.  These technologies are very expensive but are a one off payment, where as going to the cinema isn’t. The development of these new technologies has made home cinema more appealing to many people.

New technologies aren’t a new threat to Hollywood. Somehow, Studios have also managed to draw audiences back. In the 50’s, TV’s were brought out and studios branched into TV production. In the ‘80’s, studios started to horizontally integrate their business models. Also in recent times, studios have offered new experiences to audiences that couldn’t be found anywhere else.

Piracy is an issue mentioned by some that could be the reason for falling box office figures. The film industry does lose money from piracy, but it’s hard to say how much. Piracy isn’t all bad as people can download films for free but could buy the DVD/Blu-ray if they like it. So money is lost in parts but can also be gained elsewhere.

 Studios don’t solely rely on their box office revenue in order to survive. Other incomes also come into the equation.  Studios are now part of a larger machine. Studios now use their horizontally integrate business model to create franchises, sell merchandise and develop other revenue streams for their film titles.