By Douglas A. McIntyre
The digital age was supposed to destroy the movie theater business. Why drive to a multiplex and stand in line to buy four $9 tickets when it’s easier, and perhaps cheaper, to buy a $29 DVD and watch it at home. The DVD is the gift that keeps on giving because it can be watched endlessly if a consumer is so inclined.
But for the first time since 2002, movie ticket sales have surpassed DVD revenue. According to data from Adams Media Research reported in The Wall Street Journal, “Americans spent $9.87 billion at the box office in 2009, 10% more than in 2008.” Meanwhile, DVD sales fell 13% to $8.73 billion.
