Recent research reveals that Gen Alpha, encompassing children born between 2013 and 2025, has a noteworthy inclination towards watching films in movie theaters, potentially reshaping entertainment norms. A significant 59% of Gen Alpha respondents indicated a preference for the cinematic experience over home viewing. This contrasts sharply with 48% of Gen Z and 45% of Millennials and Gen X who enjoy the cinematic experience.
The study, encompassing surveys of around 6,100 U.S. participants aged 6 to 60, suggests moviegoing is seen as a social event by Gen Alpha. A majority, 55%, prefer to watch movies in theaters with friends, far surpassing the 31% of Millennials and 40% of Gen Z. Surprisingly, fewer than 10% of children under 13 use their phones regularly during theater visits, a stark contrast to the prevalent smartphone usage among older viewers.
Franchises and New Interests
NRG’s findings shed light on the entertainment preferences of Gen Alpha. Among the franchises resonating most with them, 'Roblox' stands out, followed by 'Minecraft', 'Fortnite', 'Grand Theft Auto', and 'Pokemon'. The top 20 list also features well-known names like The Avengers, Super Mario Bros., Spider-Man, Lego, and Madden NFL. Additional beloved franchises include Wicked, Spider-Verse, Wednesday, Stranger Things, and Batman. These franchises’ significant presence in cinematic and televised adaptations underscores their influence on this generation’s entertainment choices.
Embracing the Experience
Another intriguing revelation from the study is Gen Alpha's enthusiasm for special theatrical events. About 29% express interest in singalong screenings, reflecting a fondness for participatory experiences. Meanwhile, 65% of the respondents showed a preference for premium large formats like IMAX, and 54% expressed a desire for more 3D or virtual reality experiences. Such preferences indicate that this generation is paving the way for more immersive and interactive cinema-going experiences.
This shift to a more dynamic theater experience and the inclination for premium formats not only caters to Gen Alpha's needs but also signals possible trends in the future of movie experiences. As this cohort grows, the entertainment industry may need to adapt, focusing on enhancing theatrical visits to cater to a generation that values both nostalgia and cutting-edge formats.
