All posts by Anthony Sousa, Arts and Entertainment Editor

Are movie theaters dying?

The fate of the big screen in the streaming era

As streaming services become more dominant, the age-old ritual of going to the movies faces a new level of uncertainty. Many are questioning whether the days of sitting in a crowded theater are numbered. While some say the magic of the big screen will never die, others believe we’re witnessing the end of an era. I had the chance to ask a student and professor to hear their thoughts. We’ll explore both sides of the debate and ask— is the cinema experience truly dying, or just evolving?

The building of the AMC in Methuen
AMC Methuen 20 with Ghostbuster Ectomobile Photo by Arts and Entertainment Editor Anthony Sousa

In the last decade, streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max have revolutionized how people consume films. With the pandemic intensifying at-home viewing habits, the convenience and affordability of streaming led many viewers to reconsider their need for theaters. NECC Film Studies Professor Alex Bordino says, “Since the pandemic, I don’t really think that the movie industry has rebounded. It rebounded a little bit but not enough and that’s a little disconcerting because I think 2023 was a great year for movies, there were a lot of really great films that came out last year.”

The University of Michigan wrote an article talking about streaming services titled, “The Rise and Fall of Streaming TV?” in which they said, “In 2015, around 50% of U.S. households held subscriptions to streaming services. This number has only seen growth and in 2023, 83% of households owned a subscription to one or more of the major streaming providers,” while theater attendance, despite some rebound in 2023, remains below pre-pandemic levels. Theaters will always have an edge in terms of spectacle, but convenience has changed the game. Why spend $20-50 to watch a movie, (and even for families a normal movie night out is close to $100), when you can wait for the movie to come out and/or find something as good to watch on the services you already pay for?

Theaters are responding to the streaming competition with initiatives to enhance the theater-going experience. Some, like AMC Theatres, have experimented with subscription models, offering up to 3 movies a week for a monthly fee of around $25, which if you even go just twice a month you get your money’s worth. There is still a feeling of magic to be experienced on the big screen, and having a subscription like AMC Stubs is great to be able to afford and be able to still get that experience. Unfortunately, as much as this is an amazing deal for movie lovers, a lot of casual people would never pay another subscription as they already tend to stay away from the theaters unless a blockbuster movie is out.


I don’t think movie theaters invite human interaction like they used to.

-Lucas Bermudez


Independent theaters, meanwhile, often cater to niche audiences, offering special screenings, themed nights, and Q&A events with filmmakers. This personalized approach appeals to movie lovers looking for more than just a standard blockbuster viewing. People really still want the shared experience, and if more theaters could adapt this and make going to see a movie more of a big event, it would not only increase the amount of revenue they rake in but would make even casual movie fans to want to go out of the way to experience the movie a different way.

While it’s undeniable that streaming poses a challenge, the movie theater industry is not giving up without a fight. Rolando Rodriguez, former chairman of the National Association of Theatre Owners said, “Most newly built locations will range between 12 and 16 screens and those with larger, preexisting footprints will look to repurpose some space for supplementary activities for moviegoers, like arcades, bowling alleys or bars,” according to the University of Michigan study.  Movie theater operators are investing in better technology as well as premium concessions, and again the subscription to theaters like AMC make it so that you can enjoy more movie experiences for a better price.

NECC student Lucas Bermudez says, “I don’t think movie theaters invite human interaction like they used to. I remember Showcase Cinemas in Revere used to have the sprawling open space, and even if you weren’t talking to people, you were always around a bunch of people and that was just a good feeling. AMC Assembly Row just now made it so that you have to buy the tickets and everything is kind of open with the snacks and that felt like a dream for me.”

The question of whether theaters are dying might be premature. Instead, the industry may be on the cusp of a reinvention. Theaters aren’t just battling streaming services—they’re adapting to a new world of media consumption. The future of cinema may lie in its ability to blend the best of both worlds, keeping the magic of the big screen alive for generations to come.

Top horror movie recommendations for a haunting Halloween

Drew Barrymore from Scream's opening scene.
Drew Barrymore is seen in Scream’s opening scene. Photo courtesy of Miramax

The spooky season is here at last, and what better way to celebrate Halloween than by gathering friends and family for a night of horror movies? 

Whether you prefer jump-scares that make you scream or eerie, slow-burning thrillers, horror films create the perfect haunted vibe. 

I’ve put together a great collection to kick off a month-long horror movie marathon. From timeless classics to hidden gems you might not have discovered yet, these are must-adds to your watchlist!

To kick off the list, I had to go with Wes Craven’s Scream (1996). 

This is a horror classic and a perfect way to start the marathon. It was a movie that people say saved the horror genre as slasher movies were considered “dead” in the 90s. 

This movie not only brought back the slasher flicks but combined it with a ‘whodunit’ concept, this is as camp as campy movies get. It gets the viewers engaged as the whole movie they are trying to figure out who the killer is and is such a fun movie to watch with a group of friends. 

It’s not the scariest movie in the world but there is something for any movie fan in this as there’s comedy, suspense, and a fun mystery to solve. You will definitely see a ghostface costume at a party this halloween. 

Another classic has to be Sam Raimi’s The Evil Dead (1981) as it’s a must-watch for any horror fan. 

This film is a pioneering example of low-budget horror that showcases creative storytelling and innovative filming techniques. Its unique camera work and practical effects are still influential today. With its blend of horror and dark humor, this movie has gained a dedicated following over the years. 

Its quotable lines and memorable scenes have cemented it as a pop culture staple. 

Watching this is an experience unlike any other. Its relentless pace and shocking twists make it a thrilling ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat. There is a 2013 remake by Fede Álvarez which I think is very good too. 

They are very different movies but the remake is harder to watch as it’s darker than the original but if you are into that definitely give it a try. The only thing is Bruce Campbell’s portrayal of Ash Williams is legendary in the original and that’s something everyone needs to experience. 

The next recommendations are newer movies you may have heard of, but if not they are a must-watch. 

Zach Cregger’s Barbarian (2022) was an experience like no other the first time I watched it in theaters. 

From the very beginning, it keeps you guessing with its unexpected twists and turns. Just when you think you have the story figured out, it takes a sharp left, making it a gripping experience from start to finish. 

Within the first 25 minutes, I was already covering my eyes and my sister had already started crying (she’s a little dramatic) but it really caught us off guard and delivered great scares. 

Beyond the horror, it offers thought-provoking commentary on trust, safety, and human nature. It delves into deeper themes that resonate long after the credits roll.

This last recommendation is genuinely a hit or miss, but it’s something I have to recommend to everyone as it was an unbelievable experience. James Wan’s Malignant (2021) had me laughing, scared and even confused at times in the best way possible. 

I am not even sure the comedy was intentional. me and my friends were laughing at just how insane the movie gets but it really is so entertaining if you let yourself get taken away by it. 

Director James Wan, known for his mastery in the horror genre, offers a fresh and intriguing story that takes unexpected twists. 

It combines supernatural elements with a captivating mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. With a blend of psychological horror and thrilling action, Wan presents a narrative that is both gripping and engaging. This is one movie I’ll rewatch every year for my marathon. 

To wrap it up, this Halloween season, immerse yourself in this lineup of must-see films: Scream (1996) Scream (1996), The Evil Dead (1981), Barbarian (2022) and Malignant (2021). 

 Each offers a unique blend of horror that will thrill and entertain, whether you’re a fan of classic slasher flicks or modern psychological terror. So, invite your friends over, set the mood, and get ready for a night filled with chills, excitement, and unforgettable cinematic experiences.