(Newser)
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News that movie theaters had lackluster revenue in 2011 didn’t surprise Roger Ebert. He ticks off a list of the reasons why at his blog, including the lack of an Avatar-like blockbuster and usual suspects like too-high prices for tickets and refreshments. But also:
- Distractions: Loud talkers and people using their cell phones (with their bright screens) to text are getting out of hand.
- Few choices: It’s a myth that Americans don’t like “art movies,” but most people outside big cities get to see only the same, lame big-budget movies.
“The message I get is that Americans love the movies as much as ever,” writes Ebert. “It's the theaters that are losing their charm." Smart ones that cater to movie lovers thrive. "The rest of the industry can't depend forever on blockbusters to bail it out.”
Click for the full column.
