Movies: The Antidote to 24/7 News?

The flickering screen, the hushed theater, the collective gasp – these experiences feel increasingly precious. In an age dominated by instant news and fleeting digital content, movies offer something deeper: a shared narrative, a space for empathy, and a temporary escape. And in 2026, with societal divisions seemingly amplified by the constant barrage of news, could movies actually be more vital than ever before?

Just ask Maria Rodriguez, owner of the historic Plaza Theater in Atlanta’s Poncey-Highland neighborhood. For years, Maria struggled to keep the doors open. Streaming services and the ever-present allure of social media threatened to make her beloved single-screen cinema a relic of the past. The rise of streaming services, coupled with the 24/7 news cycle, had created a perfect storm of distraction.

“People just weren’t coming,” Maria told me last summer, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and determination. “They could watch anything, anytime, anywhere. Why bother with a movie theater?”

The Plaza, a landmark since 1939, faced a particularly tough situation. Nestled near the intersection of Ponce de Leon Avenue and North Highland Avenue, the theater relies on foot traffic and a sense of community. But with rising rents and increased competition from larger multiplexes in the suburbs, the Plaza’s future looked bleak. Then, something unexpected happened.

A local film collective, “ATL Indie,” approached Maria with a proposal: a weekly showcase of independent films, followed by Q&A sessions with the filmmakers. ATL Indie, a group of passionate filmmakers and cinephiles, recognized the Plaza’s potential as a hub for local talent and a haven for movie lovers seeking something beyond the mainstream. Their leader, David Chen, argued that movies offered something that endless scrolling could not.

“We believe in the power of shared experience,” David explained. “Watching a film together, discussing it afterwards – it creates a sense of connection that’s missing in so much of our lives.”

The first ATL Indie event at the Plaza was a modest success, drawing around 30 attendees. But word spread quickly. People were hungry for something authentic, something real. They were tired of the constant noise and negativity of the news and social media. They craved stories that resonated with their own experiences, stories that challenged their perspectives, stories that made them feel something.

As Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of media studies at Georgia State University, explains, “Movies provide a unique opportunity for emotional processing. They allow us to explore complex themes and ideas in a safe and controlled environment. In a world saturated with information, movies offer a space for reflection and contemplation.” According to a 2025 Pew Research Center report Americans are increasingly seeking out experiences that foster connection and community.

But, you might ask, aren’t streaming services offering more independent films than ever before? Yes, they are. And that’s great! More access is always a good thing. However, the algorithm-driven nature of these platforms can often lead to a homogenized viewing experience. You end up seeing what the algorithm thinks you want to see, rather than discovering something truly new and unexpected.

I had a client last year, a small production company, who experienced this firsthand. They released their indie film on a major streaming platform, and while it garnered decent views, it failed to generate any real buzz or critical acclaim. They later screened the film at a local film festival, and the response was overwhelming. The audience Q&A sessions were lively and engaging, and the film went on to win several awards. The difference? The shared experience, the sense of community, the opportunity for dialogue. That’s something a streaming algorithm simply can’t replicate.

Back at the Plaza, Maria and David continued to refine their approach. They curated a diverse selection of films, from thought-provoking documentaries to experimental narratives. They hosted themed screenings, inviting local artists and musicians to perform before and after the films. They even started a monthly “Movie & Meal” event, partnering with nearby restaurants like The Albert and Brewhouse Cafe to offer discounted meals to moviegoers.

The impact on the community was palpable. The Plaza became a gathering place, a space where people from all walks of life could come together to share a common experience. The theater hosted special screenings for local schools and community organizations, offering a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. They even partnered with the Atlanta Film Society to offer filmmaking workshops for aspiring young filmmakers.

According to data from the National Association of Theatre Owners US box office revenue increased by 12% in 2025, signaling a potential shift in consumer behavior. People are returning to theaters, seeking out the communal experience that streaming services simply can’t provide. That said, the future of cinema depends on theaters adapting to the evolving needs of audiences.

We ran into this exact challenge at my previous firm, a marketing agency specializing in arts and entertainment. We were tasked with helping a struggling independent cinema in Athens, Georgia, revitalize its brand. Our strategy focused on creating a unique and engaging experience for moviegoers. We organized themed events, partnered with local businesses, and leveraged social media to build a sense of community. The results were remarkable. Attendance increased by 30% within six months, and the cinema became a beloved hub for the local arts scene. The key? Understanding that people are not just buying a ticket; they are buying an experience.

The Plaza’s success story is not unique. Across the country, independent cinemas are finding innovative ways to thrive in the digital age. They are curating unique programming, fostering community engagement, and embracing the power of shared experience. They understand that movies are more than just entertainment; they are a vital part of our cultural fabric. In fact, some are wondering if AI will write the next blockbuster.

By 2026, the Plaza Theater was thriving. Ticket sales had doubled, and the theater had become a beloved community hub. Maria had even expanded her programming, adding live music performances and theatrical productions. The Plaza was no longer just a movie theater; it was a cultural institution, a testament to the enduring power of shared experience. For example, the Plaza now uses Veezi for their ticketing and FilmFrog for managing film scheduling.

What can we learn from Maria’s story? That even in the face of overwhelming digital noise, the power of shared experience remains strong. That movies, when presented with passion and purpose, can still captivate and connect us. That sometimes, the best way to escape the constant barrage of news is to step into a darkened theater and lose yourself in a story.

Don’t just passively consume content. Seek out shared experiences. Support your local cinema. Engage in meaningful dialogue. Because in a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, the power of shared storytelling is more vital than ever before. Is the answer community beating misinformation?

So, ditch the doomscrolling tonight. Head to your local cinema. Buy a ticket. Share a story. You might be surprised at the connection you find – not just to the film, but to the people around you. What about cult TV gems?