We called it! Gen Z is transforming movie-going. YPulse predicted that in 2026, Gen Z and their fandom obsessions would save the movie theater. Now data for 2025 shows Gen Z represents a bigger share of moviegoers than any other gen. For them, it’s a social experience: in 2025, 31% of 13-28-year-olds went to the movies with an adult family member and 21% went with a few friends, more than those who went with a date. So, Gen Z’s habits are naturally changing studios’ approach to movies. While Millennial teens weren’t always going in-person for new animation, Gen Z is making PG movies like the nostalgic live action Lilo & Stitch and long-awaited Zootopia 2 some of last year’s biggest hits. But they’re showing out for the mature films, too—ones they can’t wait to log on their Letterboxd, which is actually becoming a point of reference to producers for what is and isn’t working. (The Hollywood Reporter)
🔮 YPulse predicted: Fandoms will save the movie theater—or change it for good
