Opinion: Is the theatre-going audience migrating to OTT? Analysing an average cinegoer
he rise of OTT platforms has transformed how audiences consume entertainment, offering convenience, variety, and affordability at the click of a button. Yet, despite the undeniable pull of streaming services, the prestige of a big-screen experience is something that shall always remain. For the average cinegoer, theatre-going is less about just watching a film and more about the experience. It is somewhat similar to a cultural outing that’s treated like a picnic or a festival. In 2025, as Indian cinema continues to evolve alongside Hollywood releases, the question remains that is the theatre audience truly migrating to OTT, or is the cinema experience too cherished to fade? The theatre-going experience carries a prestige that OTT platforms struggle to replicate. Visiting a cinema involves effort. There’s planning, travel, and often a financial commitment, which elevates its perceived value. Unlike the ease of streaming a film on a phone or TV, the act of dressing up, booking tickets, and immersing oneself in a larger-than-life screen fosters a sense of occasion. This effort elevates the experience, leaving a …









