Feb. 14, 2025
By Debra Ogunbowale
Webmaster
Have you ever been so excited to watch a movie at the theater only to find out it has been sold out? Spent an exorbitant amount of money on just one ticket? Endured crowded theaters with distracting noises and interruptions? By streaming, viewers can avoid these problems.
Nowadays, entertainment is just a tap away. Whether for binge-watching favorite shows or catching the latest movie releases, streaming has become one of the most popular ways to view content. These streaming services provide viewers with seemingly endless options, whereas theaters have a limited number of movies playing at once.
As of 2023, the streaming service industry was valued at $554.33 billion, with 83% of households in the United States subscribing to at least one major streaming service, according to the Michigan Journal of Economics.
On streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, Max and Netflix, viewers can watch and rewatch films and shows as often as they wish. They can pause whenever they want to grab more snacks or take a bathroom break without missing a thing. They can also rewatch specific scenes and talk to those around them because of the flexibility streaming brings.
Furthermore, watching from home creates an intimate atmosphere. Viewers can snuggle under a blanket and relax in the comfort of their own space.
Particularly when watching content with family or friends, streaming winds up being the much more affordable option.
Take the musical fantasy, “Wicked,” which was released on Nov. 22, 2024, for example. A ticket to see the film at AMC Clifton Commons 16 cost $24.19 for anyone between the ages of 13-59, while at Regal Secaucus ShowPlace, it cost $18.55.
Whether for binge-watching favorite shows or catching the latest movie releases, streaming has become one of the most popular ways to view content.
Compared to popular streaming services like Hulu, which charges $18.99 per month, and Netflix, which charges $15.59 per month, going to the theater is not worth the expense.
The steep ticket price does not even include drinks or snacks. At AMC Clifton Commons 16, a combo consisting of a large popcorn, large drink and candy costs $23.97. At a grocery store, customers can purchase a variety of treats without breaking the bank.
Lastly, most theaters do not provide dubbed movies, meaning they only show movies in their original language. This can be detrimental to some viewers’ ability to understand what is happening on the screen. Streaming services, however, generally provide dubbing in multiple languages, making viewing accessible and enjoyable.
While going to the movies is fun, streaming provides various advantages that a theater does not. So next time you are in the mood for some good entertainment, consider skipping those lines and saving some money by watching a movie or show from the comfort of your own couch.
