5 Benefits of Having a Home Theater System

by Kevin Gardner

If you're a movie lover or a cinema snob of any kind, you know how amazing movie theaters can be. As Nicole Kidman would say, something about the huge screen in a pitch-black room is absolutely magical. Fortunately, while nothing can replace a real movie theater, there is a way to bring this magic home. Here are five benefits of having a home theater system. 

1. Lowered Costs

Ticket costs are, unfortunately, a huge downside to attending the movies. Lately, many theaters charge nearly twenty dollars for one regular adult ticket. This can get expensive for frequent moviegoers. If you get a home theater, you can avoid these expenditures. 

Sure, installing a home theater is a large investment. However, if you go to the movies regularly, it's sure to pay off in the long run. Since you won't be seeing movies in public, you may also want to invest in personal liability coverage. 

2. More New Release Options

Hometown movie theaters have charm and nostalgia to offer. However, many don't offer a wide selection of films. In fact, several theaters only show blockbuster films and predetermined Oscar contenders. Because of this, you may have missed amazing movies like Triangle of Sadness and To Leslie.

If you have a home theater system, you can watch whatever you like. To be sure, you won't have access to some of the newest movies (although streaming platforms have begun offering new releases online). Despite this, you'll be able to watch any relatively new movie you like, despite its popularity. 

If you do install this system, be sure to do your research on upcoming indie films. A great way to do this is by following film festivals like Cannes. Oftentimes, the major players at these festivals aren't necessarily well-backed.

3. Less Effort

Going to a movie theater may be a lot of fun, but it can also be taxing, especially if you're a frequent patron. You have to find an ideal time, buy tickets, get dressed, travel to the theater and potentially debate concession options. While doing this a couple of times is no big deal, it can become wasteful of your time and energy.

With a home theater system, most of this hassle can be eliminated. While you'll still need to choose a time everyone agrees on, you no longer have to deal with travel issues, getting tickets or discussing popcorn prices. In fact, you can just stay in your pajamas! Once the movie is over, all you need to do is turn the screen off and go to bed. Therefore, if you're someone that sees movies on a weekly basis, this option could literally save hours of your life.

4. Great Parties

Home theaters don't have to be enjoyed by one or two people at a time. In fact, miniature theaters are perfect for parties! For one thing, it allows for Mystery Science Theater-style viewings. Instead of watching a movie in total silence, you and your friends can shout at the screen to your heart's content. Cult classics like The Room and The Rocky Horror Picture Show are particularly ripe for commentary. 

Home theaters are also great at providing party ambiance. If you're hosting a Halloween party, you can put horror movies on in the background. Simply turn the volume down and keep the can lights on. 

5. Having a Big Screen

Watching movies on a computer certainly has its merits. However, seeing movies on the big screen is unforgettable. With a home theater, you can see literally everything you watch on a huge screen. 

This possibility is particularly enticing when it comes to detail-packed films. You could find easter eggs, subtle performances and artistic choices you may have missed before. For instance, it's nearly impossible to catch every nuance in Mulholland Drive (or any David Lynch film) without seeing it in theaters. While you may not fully understand these movies, you can at least get a richer understanding of what the director is trying to say.

Going to see the movies, whether it's blocks away or in your basement, is a magical experience. Nurture your love of cinema and enjoy seeing stories come to life.