[A CA Guy]

Yeah I think Cruise is a flake, but I have found some of his stuff entertaining and he isn't a bad actor.

I think it isn't so much a Tom Cruise issue as it is a current trend like the ones that hit newspapers.

#1 Quality has been crap.
#2 Politics has been on the rise and more stay home.
#3 Prices have gotten steep to go to films, and they release the DVDs real soon to avoid piracy getting the first fruits of their work.

I as an example have no problem not going to a movie and then renting the DVD later.

I only am interested in seeing films that would be best viewed on a big theater which could be as few as a couple a year.

I do have a home theater with a 13 foot wide HD screen, so if I rent a DVD, I have a better time at home. :)_

[Blueflag]

Like you, I no longer enjoy the paid theatre experience like I used to.

$7+ for tickets + $10 for snacks

add rude patrons who won't shut up
add rude patrons who talk to the movie
add rude patrons whose cel-phone lights pop on and off as they text message
add way too many 'commercials' that I didn't pay to see

PLUS

Like you, we have a 9' cinema room in the finished basement, right around the corner from kitchen, popcorn maker, 'free' cokes, etc. Plus, I can pause the movie to use the loo, answer the phone (if I must) - control the experience on my terms. If we missed some dialog, we can rewind.

I vote for DVD. Home. My terms.