I think another big reason for the drop is computer games. Halo2 raked in huge amounts of cash. Kids are playing incredible games! The graphics are stunning, The game play excellent and the replay value is high. Why go to a movie for gods sake? You get so much more action and so much more story from a game at home.
I'm glad to indulge in some shadenfraude at hollywoods expense but I suspect other causes rather than Red State anger.
Having said that, I have not been to a theater since RoTK. The movies lately have been crap thrown out so that they can write off the loses. I plan to see the Incredibles this holiday weekend. The only movie I would like to see besides National Treasure is Ray. I am surpised how much excitement Ray did Not generate though.