Audiences today just want just want bubblegum SF: Star Wars, Abrams Trek, and superhero flicks. I think it is is a travesty that such an amazing grown-up classic-style SF film like Blade Runner 2049 is bombing so badly at the box office despite having the 88% RT rating (which I think it deserves). Note that the audience RT rating from those who have actually seen it is also quite high (82%).
Part of the problem, I think, is that today’s average Hollywood film goer will not sit still to watch a slow-paced 2 hour 45 minute SF film that requires you to think about what you are seeing. “Who needs a plot, dude? We want moar explosions!”
If nothing else go see BR2049 for the visuals (which are stunning) in IMAX before it disappears from theaters.
I think the kind of audience who likes Blade Runner 2049, doesn’t enjoy going to theaters, they would rather wait until they can watch it at home.
I suspect soon, they will begin offering the option to watch first-run movies at home at a premium price, at the same time they come out in theaters.