Yep.
However, I do have an idea for bringing “old” Hollywood back, along with stars who really want to be stars.
It would require at least 3-5 years of losses, so it’s an investment. It requires changing culture, which absolutely can be done.
1) Studios should, in agreement with certain actors and directors, make 2-3 movies PER YEAR that are solely “in theater” movies. IMAX if possible, but wherever.
2) These films would be the blockbusters, the “Maverick” the “Avengers” (old series). Really, really big movies. Must-see movies.
3) Here is the challenging part: these movies can never see the light of day outside the theatrical release, no streaming, no DVDs, and then as Disney used to do, bring them back in a couple of years.
4) Select actors/directors agree to do NO television shows, streamers, or anything other than movie parts. If I had my way, I’d give them a bonus to stay off all social media.
5) Once people understand that they cannot see “Dr. Doom” EXCEPT in a theater, the culture will slowly change. Moreover, the more scarce the stars make themselves, the bigger they will become.
6) Here is the real culture change: movie theaters, for these shows, need to make it special. Searchlights, red carpets if possible, but DRESSY. No cutoffs, flip-flops. Absolutely no food or drink in the theater.
TREAT THIS LIKE AN OPERA.
I know you’re laughing, but I think it would work. People do get dressed up and act right for all sorts of things. (When was the last time you heard of a shooting or stabbing at Carnegie Hall or an opera?
In othe words, re-invest the FILMS with a special “need to see” and the VENUE with a sense of something special is happening.
Theaters? No way. People have completely failed to know how to behave in a theater. I hate seeing everyone on their phones, and, worse, talking throughout the movie. Kids running up and down the theater throughout the movie. The prices are silly. At least $50 for two. DVD: $20, at home, in a nice environment.
Theaters are dead tech, mainly due to a dead society.