philip lelyveld The world of entertainment technology

15Jul/12Off

Box Office Mid-Year Report: What’s Worrying Hollywood

When Avatar opened in December 2009, the promise of 3D seemed boundless. A staggering 83 percent of its domestic gross came from 3D. Six months later, more than 56 percent of Toy Story 3's North American earnings came from 3D as families lined up in force to pay an extra $3 to $4 a ticket.

Fast-forward to summer 2012, and the slide in 3D attendance that began last year has gotten much worse. On Brave's opening weekend, 32 percent of the booty came from 3D, a record low. It wasn't much better for June's other animated tentpole,Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted (38 percent). Across Hollywood, studio executives say the dips point to a sea change in habits that have left the first half of the year littered with heartbreak: Cash-conscious consumers are becoming more discerning about what movies they see, 3D or otherwise. "Prices are too high," says a studio distributor. "We've turned our business into appointment moviegoing, at least domestically. There's no more generic moviegoing."

... Theater owners don't buy the argument that ticket prices are to blame for the box-office blues, invoking the common refrain, "It's the movies, stupid."   ...

Read the full article here: http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-amazing-spider-man-avengers-347202

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