Still Streaming: My Evolving Thoughts on the Movie Theater Experience

I used to go to the movies a lot. When I worked in Jacksonville back in the 1980s, I would make the short drive south to Orange Park at least once a week. Unlike the theaters in Jacksonville, Orange Park boasted three different cinema locations within a couple of blocks, showcasing around 15 different movies. This meant I could almost always find something that caught my eye on the big screen.

Over the years, however, my moviegoing habits have changed significantly, and now I rarely venture out to the theater. The last few years have only solidified this shift, as the experience of watching a movie at home has become increasingly appealing. There's the undeniable comfort of my own living room, the convenience of pausing for a bathroom break without missing a single frame, and the overall control I have over my viewing environment. The vast world of streaming services offers an incredible library of content right at my fingertips, making it easy to find something to watch without even leaving the couch.

Locally, I'm fortunate that there's a theater offering a genuinely enjoyable experience, with comfortable seating and a pleasant atmosphere. Movie theaters here have been open and accessible for quite some time now. Despite this local option and its appealing environment, I haven't been inclined to go simply because the films being shown haven't sparked my interest. It's a bit disappointing when the local venue offers a much better setting than the theaters of my past, yet the content on the screen doesn't draw me in.

Fandango's recent survey for the summer of 2025 highlights significant anticipation for titles like Jurassic World Rebirth, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and the latest Mission: Impossible installment, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. While the survey indicates strong interest in these and other blockbusters, it's interesting to note that the demographic primarily represented in the findings was individuals between 18 and 54, with Millennials making up a large portion. As someone outside that core demographic, and with personal preferences that lean away from the current trends of Disney live-action remakes, superhero narratives, and action franchises that lost me a long time ago, none of these most anticipated films pique my interest. I'm glad that many will have the opportunity to enjoy these movies in the theater, and the survey clearly shows that enthusiasm is high. However, for me, the current theatrical offerings only reinforce the comfort and tailored entertainment experience I find in my Streaming Life at home.

The shift towards home viewing has been accelerated in recent years. While movie theater attendance is undoubtedly recovering, the convenience and extensive libraries offered by streaming services continue to make them a compelling choice for many. The ability to discover and watch a wide variety of content from the comfort of one's own home remains a significant draw.

Ultimately, I'm not entirely opposed to returning to the cinema. If a movie comes along that genuinely captures my interest, I'll certainly consider heading out to experience it on the big screen. But until then, I'll continue to enjoy the vast array of entertainment available through my streaming subscriptions, right here in the comfort of my own home. My Streaming Life continues to be a satisfying and cost-effective way to enjoy the world of film and television.