posted 06-17-2011 11:37 AM                       

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For wide releases, 1000 runs or more on opening, the average number of runs per film has increased significantly over the past five years, going from about 2500 in 2006 to over 2900 in 2010. At the same time, the number of films released over 1000 runs has decreasedfrom the mid 160’s to 129 last year. Clearly this decrease in product eases the crunch in screen space and allows for distribution to engage in broader release patterns. At the same time, this has accelerated play off in the marketplace which in turn can exacerbate the shortening of the ancillary market window.
Does this trend actually harm exhibition? From a macro perspective attendance has definitely declined, reflected in both per capita visits to theatres and actual total visits. At the same time demographic trends also contribute to this slowing. The percentage of population in the most frequent demographic groups has also declined which would naturally put the brakes on per capita visits to the theatres.
It is now evident that 3D has not exactly saved the industry. As was evidenced last holiday season, product aimed at an older demo can certainly be successful, however great stories are a lot harder to come by than great graphics.

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