Timed essay question

''The spread of new technology is damaging the film industry''. To what extent do you agree with this statement?

There is no doubt that the introduction of new technology is having an immediate impact on the film industry. This can be seen through, cinema attendance rates, increasing demands for the top mobiles that supply catch up apps. Furthermore online websites and DVDs increase the likelihood of people watching films in the comfort of their own homes.

Over the years, as cinema tickets have gradually become more expensive, attendance rates have decreased as their are various alternatives of going to big cinema complexes. Not only is the ticket itself expensive, but the snacks on offer are disgustingly overpriced, causing an outing to the cinema ending up at an average of around £10 per person.

The instant releases of new smartphones is another factor damaging the film industry. These phones not only have good sized screens that are of excellent quality, they also provide access to apps in which people can watch films on. Moreover, there are on demand apps such as 4OD and ITV Player, where films and or programmes that have been aired on that channel can be watched again and again. In relation to One Mile Away, this would probably benefit it as if people missed it on channel 4, they will be able to catch it on demand which increases the likelihood of people seeing it. Additionally, this is cheap as these apps are free and is easily accessible as everyone now has a phone with these capabilities.

Online websites and film channels are slightly controversial. Whilst some are legit and require a payment scheme in order to watch the films, such as Netflix and LoveFilm. LoveFilmn is a UK based provider of home video rental. In January 2012, LoveFilm announced that it had 2million subscribers and claims over 70,000 titles and over 4million DVDs and Blue Ray rentals across 5 countries. Others are viewed on illegal websites where the films can be downloaded or simply watched online. This is often a popular choice as more recently, people do not want to pay the extortionate ticket prices at the cinema. Finally, they get to watch it when it is convenient for them, with snacks that were not overpriced and in the comfort of their own home. Whilst this is illegal and should not be condoned, people will always chose it whilst they still can. This causes problems for the film industry as the box offices are not making as much money as they should, and the film could essentially cause a loss if people are watching it in alternative ways rather then visiting the cinema. In the case of Skyfall, most of their funding came from advertising as they put themselves out everywhere. They had the stint at the London 2012 Olympics with the Queen and the theme song sung by superstar Adele to name but a few. DVDs also contribute to damaging the film industry as people often wait for the film to be released onto DVD so they can make a one off payment which is probably a fraction of the ticket price, and watch it over and over at their convenience.