In a recent Hollywood poll conducted by Empire magazine, renowned directors like Todd Phillips, George Miller, Sean Baker, and Daniel Scheinert shared their insights on the future of moviegoing. While they expressed confidence in the enduring appeal of movie theaters, they also highlighted the need for certain updates to enhance the overall experience for audiences.

Elevating the Cinematic Journey: Filmmakers' Vision for the Future

Eliminating Disruptive Commercials

Todd Phillips, the director behind acclaimed films like "Joker" and "The Hangover," has a clear message for movie theaters: "Stop showing commercials before the movies." He argues that audiences have already paid for their tickets and are eager to immerse themselves in the cinematic experience, and the intrusion of commercials can dampen the excitement and anticipation.Echoing Phillips' sentiment, Daniel Scheinert, the Oscar-winning co-director of "Everything Everywhere All At Once," emphasizes the importance of creating social spaces that go beyond simply "shuffling you in and out and charging lots for popcorn." He believes that theaters should strive to foster a sense of community and shared experience, where audiences can engage with the film and with one another.

Embracing the Communal Aspect of Moviegoing

George Miller, the acclaimed director behind the "Mad Max" franchise, believes that the inherent human desire to gather and share stories will ensure the continued relevance of movie theaters. He asserts that cinemas are "doing everything they can" to cater to this fundamental need, but there may be room for further enhancements.Scheinert expands on this idea, highlighting the unique moments that can arise in a theater setting. He fondly recalls instances where audiences have dressed up for screenings of "Barbie," danced during showings of "RRR," or engaged in lively discussions over a beer after watching thought-provoking films like "It Ends With Us." These shared experiences, he argues, are what audiences crave and what sets the theatrical experience apart.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Moviegoing

While the directors express confidence in the enduring appeal of movie theaters, they also acknowledge the challenges posed by the rise of streaming platforms. Phillips' own "Joker" sequel, "Joker: Folie à Deux," has struggled to match the box office success of the original 2019 film, with the sequel currently available for home viewing on PVOD platforms.This shift in viewing habits underscores the need for theaters to adapt and offer a truly compelling experience that cannot be replicated at home. Filmmakers like Scheinert believe that by fostering a sense of community and creating unique, immersive moments, theaters can continue to thrive in the face of evolving consumer preferences.

Embracing the Diversity of Moviegoing Experiences

The directors' insights also highlight the diverse range of experiences that audiences seek in a theater setting. From the shared excitement of dressing up for a "Barbie" screening to the cathartic release of screaming during a heartbreak-filled film, the theater can serve as a platform for a wide array of emotional and social connections.By recognizing and catering to this diversity, movie theaters can position themselves as essential hubs for cultural and artistic expression, where audiences can come together to collectively engage with the stories that captivate and inspire them.

Embracing Innovation and Adapting to Change

As the industry navigates the evolving landscape of moviegoing, the directors' perspectives offer a glimpse into the future of the cinematic experience. By addressing the need to eliminate disruptive commercials, fostering a sense of community, and embracing the diverse range of audience preferences, movie theaters can position themselves as dynamic and adaptable spaces that continue to captivate and enthrall audiences for generations to come.