BookMyShow launched a report titled ‘The CineFiles’, decoding India’s entertainment choice – ‘Movies on the Big Screen’. Capturing the pulse on India’s cinema-watching habits ahead of the National Cinema Day, age and geographies no bar, the report revealed that approximately 98% Indians believe cinemas can only be brought alive on the big screen with a third of them attributing it to certain directors, themes, VFX amongst others. Additionally, 90% of respondents’ usual go-to option for out-of-home experiences is catching the movie release in the theatre amongst other leisure activities such as shopping, live gigs, adventure outings and more, reiterating that the big screen theatre experience continues to be a mainstay in the cultural fabric of India. 63% of Gen Z and Millenials have movies on their mind at least once every fortnight.
The survey respondents comprised a mix of 41% GenZ along with 59% Millennial and GenX audiences.
“First day, first shows continue as a sacred tradition for many fans, inspiring cheers, whistles and endless applause at the sight of beloved stars on the big screen. The resounding response to ‘The CineFiles’ survey at BookMyShow reaffirms the enduring allure of the big-screen movie experience in India. The film industry’s tenacity and adaptability shine through its continual evolution. As an enabler to this world of movies on the big screen, it brings us immense joy to engage with and cater to both a burgeoning younger audience and devoted fans across generations, united in their love for this timeless form of entertainment,” Ashish Saksena, COO – cinemas, BookMyShow, said.
As per the report, 74% keep an eye out for movies that resonate with them and plan ahead, atleast three days in advance, while 26% still prefer a spontaneous dash to the latest flick. In fact, 74% Indian cinephiles are particular about getting a seat of their choice when watching a movie in the theatre and therefore plan ahead while booking tickets.
The key determinants for choosing to step out for a movie experience on the big screen for these consumers remain the storyline, the cast and director, reviews and ratings and the trailer’s impact on them. 43% Mumbaikars choose storyline as a critical trigger for them to catch a movie in a theatre, higher than other cities. 38% Delhi-ites rank reviews and ratings highest to determine and decide the film to watch on the big screen. For 32% Bengaluru-eans, the director helming the movie is an important factor in their decision to watch a movie on the silver screen rather than the movie being a blockbuster release or its trailer previews which are of significantly lower importance.
35% GenZs prefer the first day, first show whereas 36% Gen Z and Millennial audiences each opt to watch a movie on the big screen to find an escape from stress and responsibilities, disconnect from reality and engage in the immersive experience.
The incorporation of technologies and immersive cinematic experiences has increased the allure of the big screen. Advanced sound systems, visual effects and large screens continue to transport audiences has further translated into the survey, with 74% of respondents opting to watch a movie in the theatre for the immersive larger screen and high audio quality experience. 40% of respondents mostly chose premium screens like IMAX, 4DX, Director’s Cut, Insignia and so on. Moreover, 92% of respondents who have experienced an immersive format in premium theatre experiences make that choice based on certain factors such as blockbuster movies, big-budget films with visuals and effects, action movies, sci-fi and fantasy movies or movies in 3D, 4D formats. 35% believe language and genre are no bar for the cinematic experience.