Despite discounts for seniors and students, seeing a film at a movie theater can prove costly. In 2010, the average price for a ticket at the cinema was $7.89, an all-time high. Failure to resist the temptations of popcorn, candy and soft drinks can see that price escalate quickly. DVD rental options can bring about a significant reduction in movie-watching prices. Netflix, for example, requires $8 monthly to watch an unlimited number of films.
Directors and production companies often intend for their films to be viewed in a theater, and for understandable reasons. The large screen and excellent sound system trump what even the most advanced personal computer or television can offer. Yet the qualities of seating and cleanliness can vary substantially between cineplexes. Few movie houses provide arrangements more comfortable than your own home's lodgings. And technology is rapidly improving the caliber of screens, stereo systems and DVDs for home use.
Using a DVD rental system puts a wealth of movie options at your fingertips, from the latest popcorn flick to much more elusive fare. Exclusively relying on the local cinema's selection of films can result in a limited selection; extensive searching and travel may be required to find independent or arthouse titles. However, several theaters offer retrospectives on film legends that feature films difficult to find elsewhere. For instance, the Brooklyn Academy of Music has earned acclaim for its cinema program, including a recent focus on Hal Ashby.
Those who value cinematic detail and the powerful effect of a sizable screen will value seeing a film in a theater. Lovers of 3D or IMAX screens can easily attest to the movie house's supremacy. People who also value feeling at one with a movie, without the distraction of conversation during the screen, will enjoy the traditional cinema. However, home movies have the advantage of granting control to the viewer. Previews can be elided and the film can be paused, augmenting the comfort of the film experience.