Quality Content is the ‘Fine Wine’ of Private Cinema

In 1992 Bruce Springsteen released a song titled 57 Channels (And Nothin’ On).  Who knew just how foretelling that would be?  Now, when we could all use some compelling and fulfilling diversion, we find ourselves in front of on-screen menus offering many times 57 choices and, arguably, still nothin’ on!  Not only that, there is nowhere to go.  That is, if we want to have a true cinematic experience.  Sure, some of those onscreen choices offer movies.  Some are even new releases.  But, if we want to enjoy the singular experience of being transported to another time, place and actuality, that was once recognized as going to the movies, it is currently mostly available in a markedly watered down form. 

In this article, I had the opportunity to interview a number of colleagues who share a belief that we don’t have to settle for a diluted form of the cinematic experience.  That in fact, getting the good stuff is worth extra effort and, yes, investment.  That settling for compressed formats on small screens (anyone see the iPhone ad that touts movie downloads?  “How is that possible?” she says.  “Why is it possible?” we should all ask!) and tiny speakers is like hearing Mozart in an elevator, drinking a Château Lafite Rothschild wine-cooler in a paper cup and viewing the Sistine Chapel on your phone.  

We stand at a crossroads.  One path leads to an industry that delivers excellence and an audience that desires quality, the other road is to a place where neither is recognized.