The Hollywood Reporter published results from a Dec. 20th YouGov survey of 1000 Americans ages 18-64 measuring their attitudes towards moviegoing amidst the recent Omicron surge. The survey bears out prior reports that younger adults are most active in visiting theatres, while older audiences remain hesitant.
Respondents were asked whether reports of increasing infections due to the COVID Omicron variant would influence their decision whether to go to the movies. Respondents were separated into three age groups: 18-29, 30-44, and 45-64. Of the younger group, 53% said that they were neither more nor less likely to go to the movies, whereas 20% said they were less likely and 3% said they were more likely.
For the 30-44-year-old group, 34% were neither more nor less likely, with 27% less likely and 23% more likely. And the 45-64 age group, 39% reported being less likely, and 37% were neither more nor less likely.
These attitudes offer a possible explanation for disappointing box office results from the recent releases of WEST SIDE STORY and NIGHTMARE ALLEY, both remakes of classic originals. While these concerns may hold down box office results for current releases, it is likely that older audiences will return to theatres once the current news cycle passes and pandemic concerns ease.
See Also: Canada Tightens Movie Theater Restrictions Amid Omicron Surge (Hollywood Reporter)