The Changing Landscape of Cinema

Are the under-20s Still Going to the Movies?

In an era defined by on-demand content, streaming platforms, and social media-driven entertainment, the way young people engage with film is rapidly evolving. Once a staple social activity for teens, going to the cinema seems to be losing its pull among the under-20 generation. But is the cinema experience truly fading from their lives, or is it simply transforming?

The Shift in Viewing Habits

For Generation Z and the emerging Generation Alpha, digital convenience has shaped their media consumption from day one. Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and TikTok deliver content instantly and often for free—or at least as part of a shared subscription. This immediacy makes the traditional cinema experience, with its fixed showtimes and higher costs, seem less attractive in comparison.

Moreover, young audiences are increasingly drawn to shorter content formats. TikTok’s bite-sized videos and YouTube’s quick entertainment hits have trained attention spans and preferences toward fast, digestible media. Sitting through a two-hour film in a dark theatre without being able to pause or scroll can feel like a chore rather than a treat.

Cost and Accessibility

Ticket prices, snacks, and transportation all add up, making a night at the movies a relatively expensive outing. For teenagers without a steady income, this can be a significant barrier. Many under-20s also report that cinema offerings often don’t cater to their tastes or interests, with fewer films marketed directly to them outside of major superhero blockbusters or animated franchises.

However, when a movie does resonate—think Marvel releases, horror films like Five Nights at Freddy’s, or cultural events like Barbie—cinemas can still become hotspots for youth. These moments show that young people are still interested in the communal, big-screen experience; it just has to be worth the effort.

The Social Side of Cinema

Despite changing habits, cinema retains a unique social appeal. For teens, it can be a rite of passage—going to see a midnight premiere, meeting friends for a Friday night movie, or even going on a first date. When the right movie hits, the big screen can still create a sense of occasion that home streaming can’t match.

Cinemas are also beginning to adapt. More theatres are introducing lower-priced youth tickets, themed events, and screenings tailored to younger audiences. Social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and interactive promotions are being used to draw Gen Z back into theatres.

Looking Ahead

The cinema experience isn’t disappearing—it’s diversifying. While many under-20s may not frequent the cinema as often as previous generations, their engagement with film is still strong, just in different formats and contexts. For the cinema industry to thrive, it must continue evolving to meet young people where they are: digitally savvy, socially connected, and always looking for value.

Whether through blockbusters that double as cultural phenomena or more accessible and inclusive offerings, the opportunity to captivate young moviegoers still exists. The challenge—and opportunity—lies in bridging the gap between tradition and transformation.