(NOTE: This is one of our more philosophical ROADTRIPPIN' podcasts ... and if you're not into discussing "existential" issues, we apologize. But as we've said before, we have no idea where or how these conversations will go when we start them and I make minimal edits to the recordings to preserve the conceit of a live phone call with Rob while he's on the road.)

This conversation started off innocently enough. All I did was ask about reports in the trades today that the summer looked good for movie theaters.

But, of course, Rob wasn't so sure.

He's got a point. There need to be more movies made and distributed in order for theaters to actually get (and keep) their heads above water. The exhibition business cannot survive if it has to pin its future on the hopes that there will be enough "tentpole" films to carry it over the down periods.

But how can that be accomplished? There are a few filmmakers who are managing to make interesting films, get them into theaters and generate positive buzz - but it's tough. Especially given the cost of tickets, the requirements set by studios for exhibition periods, guarantees, etc.

As Rob is wont to do, however, he pointed out a much larger issue that almost no one in the industry is talking about. Audiences have changed and they've become less inclined to invest time (and money) into seeing films they aren't certain will entertain them.

People just aren't curious anymore. They're too busy being outraged. Or bored.

And that's a big problem.

I'll be writing more about all this on the ROADTRIPPIN' blog later today (and will probably post it this evening). You can check it out on our website: https://postgeeksingularity.com/roadtrippin-with-rmb/

And remember, you can always send us a letter. Just click on the "Contact Us" button in the main navigation of our website at postgeeksingularity.com and you'll be able to send us a message to let us know how we're doing and what's on your mind.

We look forward to hearing from you.

I invite you to listen in on my weekday conversations with my friend and business partner, Robert Meyer Burnett, as we talk about the things we love: great movies, inspiring television programming, nostalgic genre entertainment, and pop culture.

This episode streamed on May 10, 2022.