Fandango, a leader in online movie ticketing, recently shared insights from its 2024 Moviegoing Trends & Insights Study, just in time for CinemaCon in Las Vegas. This comprehensive survey, which included responses from over 6,000 moviegoers, shines a spotlight on what fans are eagerly anticipating as they plan their cinema outings in the coming months.
As we edge closer to the summer season, it’s clear that moviegoers are gearing up for a return to the cinema, with many planning to catch four or more movies on the big screen. The excitement is palpable, with “Deadpool 3,” “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” and “Despicable Me 4” topping the list of the most anticipated summer movies. These titles promise a blend of action, humor, and family-friendly entertainment that audiences across the board can look forward to.
Beyond traditional film screenings, the study reveals a growing interest in diverse cinematic experiences. Comedy tours, concert films, TV show premieres and finales, and even sporting events are drawing audiences into theaters, indicating a broader appetite for communal viewing experiences beyond just movies.
The phenomenon of watching multiple movies back-to-back, rekindled by last year’s “Barbenheimer” double feature, has also caught on, with a significant number of moviegoers expressing interest in such offerings, especially if they come with special discounts or ticket bundles. This trend suggests a potential area of growth for theaters, offering an enhanced moviegoing experience that goes beyond the norm.
Concert films, in particular, have seen a surge in interest, with genres like rock, pop, and hip-hop/rap leading the demand. The idea of watching major events, such as the Super Bowl or the Olympics, on the big screen also has strong support, especially among parents, showcasing a desire for theaters to diversify their content offerings.
The study also underscores the importance of the cinematic experience, from premium formats that make viewing more enjoyable to the timeless tradition of indulging in theater concessions. The convenience of pre-ordering tickets and snacks has enhanced this experience, with a high level of satisfaction among those who have tried these services.
Loyalty programs continue to play a crucial role in encouraging moviegoers to return to theaters, with a vast majority of respondents enrolled in free movie-related loyalty programs. These programs, especially when coupled with discounts and special offers on concessions, are key drivers of theater attendance.
As Fandango’s study illustrates, the future of moviegoing is not just about the films themselves but about creating a diverse, convenient, and enjoyable experience that appeals to a wide range of audiences.
With the summer movie season on the horizon, theaters have a fantastic opportunity to welcome moviegoers back for an unforgettable cinematic journey.