10 Mar Movie Theaters Then and Now: Sean Baker’s Advocacy for Movie Theaters at the 2025 Oscars

At the 97th Academy Awards held on March 2, 2025, director Sean Baker delivered a passionate acceptance speech upon winning Best Director for his film “Anora.” In his address, Baker emphasized the irreplaceable communal experience that movie theaters offer, stating, “Watching a film in the theater with an audience is an experience. We can laugh together, cry together, scream and fright together, perhaps sit in devastated silence together.” He highlighted that in a time when the world feels divided, such shared experiences are more important than ever.

Baker also expressed concern over the decline of theaters, particularly independent ones, noting that during the pandemic, nearly 1,000 screens were lost in the U.S., with closures continuing regularly. He urged filmmakers to continue creating movies for the big screen, distributors to prioritize theatrical releases, and parents to introduce their children to the theater-going experience to cultivate future generations of movie lovers.

His speech served as a rallying cry to preserve the cultural significance of movie theaters, advocating for collective efforts to support and sustain them.
The landscape of independent movie theaters in the United States has undergone significant changes over the past two decades, influenced by technological advancements, shifts in consumer behavior, and external challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Movie Theaters 2005: Pre-Digital Era

In 2005, the U.S. boasted approximately 5,629 cinema sites. During this period, the industry was predominantly analog, with films distributed on 35mm prints. Independent theaters played a crucial role in showcasing diverse and niche films, often serving as cultural hubs in their communities. However, they faced challenges such as competition from multiplexes and the rising popularity of home entertainment systems.

Movie Theaters 2015: Digital Transition and Streaming Emergence

By 2015, the number of cinema sites remained consistent at about 5,773. A significant transformation during this period was the industry’s shift from 35mm film to digital projection, a transition that posed financial challenges for many independent theaters due to the high costs of new equipment. Concurrently, streaming services began gaining traction; in 2015, 52% of U.S. consumers subscribed to at least one streaming service, introducing new competition for traditional theaters.

Movie Theaters 2025: Post-Pandemic Recovery and Industry Consolidation

As of 2025, the number of movie theaters in the U.S. stands at approximately 1,972 businesses, reflecting a marked decline over the past decade. The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the industry, leading to temporary closures and accelerated adoption of streaming platforms. Despite these challenges, there has been a resurgence in theater attendance, with projections indicating that 110 movies will be produced and released at over 2,000 locations nationwide this year.

Independent theaters continue to adapt by offering unique experiences, such as special events and community-focused programming, to differentiate themselves from larger chains and streaming options.

In summary, from 2005 to 2025, independent movie theaters have navigated technological shifts, increased competition from streaming services, and the repercussions of a global pandemic. Their resilience and adaptability have been crucial in maintaining their presence and relevance in the evolving cinematic landscape