Why Horror Films Are Saving Movie Theaters

Beginner | July 14, 2025

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Scary Movies Are Popular Again

A Shift in Movie Trends

Movie studios are using horror films to bring people back to cinemas. This trend shows how horror films are saving theaters from declining attendance. This is a new and important trend. A report from Reuters showed that horror movies are now very popular and are earning a lot of money. As interest in big superhero movies and remade stories declines, more people are choosing horror films as their main reason to go to the movies.

Ticket Sales Are Climbing

Horror films made up 17% of all movie tickets sold in North America in 2025. This is a big jump from 11% in 2024 and only 4% ten years ago. New horror movies like “Sinners” (which was the third highest-grossing film in the U.S. and Canada this year) and “Final Destination: Bloodlines” have earned a lot of money.

What’s Coming Next

More horror movies are coming soon, such as “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” and “28 Years Later.” “28 Years Later” sold a lot of tickets even before it was released!

Why People Love Being Scared at the Cinema

Audiences Want Something New

There are several reasons why horror films are so popular now. First, many people are tired of seeing the same superhero movies and sequels. They want something different. Second, movie theater owners know that horror movies reliably bring in audiences and fill seats.

A Safe Way to Face Fear

Also, horror films can help people deal with their worries in a safe way. For example, people can feel less anxious about things like sickness or new technology (like AI) by watching scary movies. These films often cost less to make, which means filmmakers can try new and creative ideas. This has attracted many talented directors to the genre. Watching a horror film in a dark movie theater with other people makes the scary parts even more exciting and fun.

A Hit with Young Viewers

Horror movies are also very popular with teenagers and young adults. Going to a scary movie with friends is a thrilling experience. Some horror films have also received very good reviews, which makes more people want to watch them, even those who don’t usually like horror.

Will Horror Burn Out? (Are Horror Films Saving Theaters Too Much?)

So, horror films are helping cinemas a lot right now. However, some people are worried that there might be too many horror films released in 2025. This could make them less special.

Vocabulary

Revitalize (verb): To bring new life or energy to something.
- Example: “The new cafe hopes to revitalize the old town square.”
Surge (noun): A sudden, strong increase.
- Example: “There was a surge in online shopping during the holidays.”
Decline (noun): A decrease in amount or number.
- Example: “The decline in interest in superhero films is clear.”
Crucial (adjective): Extremely important or necessary.
- Example: “Water is crucial for life.”
Audience (noun): The group of people who watch a play, movie, or concert.
- Example: “The audience clapped loudly after the show.”
Fatigue (noun): A feeling of being very tired.
- Example: “Many people feel screen fatigue from looking at phones too much.”
Cathartic (adjective): Providing emotional release or relief.
- Example: “Crying can be a cathartic experience.”
Modest (adjective): Not large in size or amount.
- Example: “They built a modest house with two bedrooms.”
Immersive (adjective): Seeming to surround the viewer or listener completely.
- Example: “Virtual reality games offer an immersive experience.”
Gravitate (verb): To be naturally attracted to or move toward something.
- Example: “Children often gravitate towards bright toys.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What is the main idea of this article?
How much did horror films grow in ticket sales from 2024 to 2025?
Can you name two successful horror movies mentioned in the article?
What is one reason why horror films are cheaper to make?
What is one concern about the large number of horror films coming out in 2025?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Do you like watching horror movies? Why or why not?
What kind of movies do you usually enjoy watching?
Why do you think people like to be scared by movies?
How often do you go to the cinema, and what makes you decide to go?
What do you think is the best way to bring more people back to movie theaters?

Related Idiom

To steal the show

Meaning: To be the most popular or exciting part of an event or performance.
Example: “The new horror movie really stole the show at the box office this year, making more money than all the big blockbusters.”

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This article was inspired by: Reuters | July 5, 2025