by Kristina Brandt

Created on: February 08, 2011

There are a number of reasons why prices for movie tickets keep going up, but it shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. As time goes by, prices for everything go up. It's called inflation. Ask anyone who has worked at a movie theater and they will tell you the question, "Why are tickets so expensive?" comes up often. Strictly from the movie theater perspective, this is why.

1. Decrease in box office sales: Let's face it. Movies just aren't what they used to be. Once in a while something original will come along that will provide just what the entertainment-starved public is craving. Even then, theaters don't sell out as often. A decrease in attendance means that prices for tickets have to go up to help make up for the loss in profits. Mind you, the theater only gets a small percentage of money brought in at the box office, but it does have an impact.

2. Prices are controlled by corporations: The independently-owned theaters probably don't have this problem, but every other theater has the same issue. The staff and managers at each  theater have no control over the prices. Unfortunately, since they're the ones who interact with the public on a daily basis, they get most of the complaints and the blame. Prices for the larger theater chains are determined by those who run the companies on a national scale. When they say prices will go up, management for each theater has no choice but to comply and enforce the changes. They are also the ones who decide what discounts are given out. Again, management has no control over that.

3. 3D movies are simply more expensive: If you haven't been to a 3D movie yet, you may not be aware that you will have to pay extra. It varies with each company, but you will have to pay a few dollars more per ticket for a 3D film. A large percentage of movie-goers believe they are paying extra because they are buying the 3D glasses. Not true. The glasses are free and are being loaned to you so you can watch the movie properly. Most theaters have a return bin where you can place your glasses after the movie is over. You can keep the glasses and bring them back on your next visit to see a 3D movie, but you will still have to pay the extra fee. Why? Production costs are higher, new digital projectors needed to be installed to accommodate this feature, and it's a difference experience. The picture is clearer and the effects enhance how you watch the film.

If you'd like to pay less for your movies, check with your local theater and see when they offer less expensive prices. Usually the earlier shows cost less or there are ways to get passes or coupons. At some point, we all need to make peace with the fact that prices will go up over time. However, when you compare the price of a ticket to a concert, play, or sporting event, it's really not that much money. Something to think about.

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