With movies, it often turns out that we’re not just watching a story. Movies become giant mirrors in which we see the reflections of a society’s collective sentiments. The most riveting ones can make the audience feel like their dreams, hopes, and fears are magnified on the screen.
Hundreds of movies are released every year. The US and Canada together produced nearly 569 new movies in 2024 alone. Some top the charts, whereas others don’t perform well at the box office.
No matter the outcome, theaters are still all the rage in 2025. Even so, they must evolve to accommodate the modern audience’s needs. This article will discuss three areas of evolution that are a timely necessity.
Safety and Security
Safety is one area that movie theaters cannot afford to slack in. Protecting the audience and staff members against potential harm, including theft, overcrowding, and accidents, is crucial.
Such unfortunate events generally occur in high-traffic areas like concession stands, lobbies, and around the entry/exit points. Perpetrators simply need opportunities for distractions to quickly grab personal possessions. Children are the most vulnerable, and overcrowding only aggravates the risks.
Digital security is also a must as most venues rely heavily on technology for different operations: customer service, content protection, etc. Any nonchalance in physical or digital safety can lead to minor inconveniences or potentially life-threatening situations. Here are a few effective ways movie theaters can tackle safety and security concerns –
- Venues must be inspected and maintained properly, as unlit hallways and slippery floors can cause injuries.
- Proper digital signage is needed to direct crowds and prevent overcrowding issues.
- All flammable materials must be stored properly, and adequate safety exit points should be present.
- Card theft or fraud can be prevented through digital point-of-sale systems.
- Theaters must comply with all data protection laws, including GDPR and CCPA.
- The architectural design may be restructured to include panic exits, surveillance cameras, and security checkpoints.
- Routine patrols, preferably by officers in civilian clothes, may provide discreet but effective protection.
- All staff should be trained for emergencies in case there’s a need to evacuate.
With such security measures, it’s equally important to coordinate with law enforcement. Regular risk assessments will expose vulnerabilities so that response plans can be updated accordingly.
Health and Sustainability
If there was one event that roused the world to the health dangers lurking inside a movie theater, it was the pandemic. People began worrying about the repercussions of shared surfaces and proximity to others.
Thankfully, that seems to be behind us. CNET is correct in putting it this way: movie theaters haven’t died, but they’ll never be the same again. On one hand, this is good news because people are more eager than ever to laugh and cry together.
The other side of the need for collective human engagement is a muted fear regarding health and sustainability. There is more than one facet to this fear. For instance, high volumes of sound can damage hearing or trigger migraines in certain individuals. Similarly, poor ventilation increases the risk of airborne disease transmission.
A third concern that centers on not only health but also sustainability is that of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). TorHoerman Law shares that these chemicals have been designated as hazardous due to health risks and bioaccumulation. Their use in manufacturing Aqueous Film Forming Foam or AFFF injured firefighters with different cancers.
Litigation against PFAS manufacturers became necessary not only from the viewpoint of justice but also for social change. Each AFFF lawsuit update only made it clearer that PFAS are dangerous, ubiquitous, and must be eliminated.
In movie theaters, they may be found in greasy food packages, stain-resistant seat covers, and some industrial cleaners. Since these chemicals are banned starting in 2026, it’s high time that theaters take steps to remove them. Let’s look at all the ways health and sustainability initiatives are needed in movie theaters –
- Noise levels must be reduced using soundproof walls and ceilings, floating floors, and acoustic panels.
- Chemical sources, including PFAS, should be identified and replaced with non-toxic alternatives.
- Advanced air filtration systems are needed to remove airborne contaminants.
- Digital tickets can be used to eliminate paper waste.
- Low-flow faucets and urinals can help conserve water.
- Single-use plastics can be replaced with reusable materials.
- LED lights and efficient HVAC systems can help reduce energy consumption.
Movie theaters can also organize green movie nights that focus on environmental issues. They can help engage the community to meet local sustainability goals faster.
Experience and Accessibility
Ever since the rise of OTT platforms and home theaters, traditional cinemas have been facing immense pressure. Customers are now looking for unique, high-value theater experiences that cannot be recreated at home.
Unless the audience feels immersed in their viewing experience, they’re unlikely to attend the cinemas. The figures have already plummeted in the past year. For example, Statista shares that AMC’s theater attendance declined from 169 million in 2023 to 157 million in 2024.
If theaters do not focus on enhancing the viewing experience and accessibility, they risk a further decline in ticket sales. Let’s look at some ways in which this concern can be addressed –
- Superior audio-visual technology – Many theaters are installing larger, high-resolution screens like Dolby Vision or IMAX to achieve visuals beyond what home setups are capable of. Advanced sound systems like Dolby Atmos are helping heighten the sensory experience.
- Better seating and comfort – Recliner seats have always been standard options for more legroom. Today, theaters are introducing private pods or suites for smaller groups to enjoy their movie with privacy and luxury.
- Personalized and interactive experiences – Theaters are going a step beyond by interacting with their audience using loyalty programs, exclusive deals, and interactive pre-show games and trivia.
- Unique content and events – Much like OTT variations, movie theaters are also offering access to old classics (special screenings), live broadcasts, and exclusive behind-the-scenes.
- Food and beverage upgrades – The standard popcorn and Coke have turned into a full-blown dining experience with curated menus and gourmet options.
Some theaters have gone as far as engaging their local community. They have started hosting kid-friendly screenings with shorter, more interactive breaks. Others are showcasing films by local filmmakers and Q&A events.
Movie theaters are nowhere near a complete shutdown. However, we are in an exciting era where a major transition in movie-watching is taking place. The future of movie theaters is expected to be a blend of technological innovation, strategic adaptation, and experiential entertainment.
There are challenges to overcome, like economic pressures and tough competition. Perhaps theaters cannot embrace the changes this article discusses in one go. Gradual steps are non-negotiable, without which they risk being endangered soon. After all, who knows what other tech advancements in movie streaming are in store for us beyond 2025, right?
