Director Joseph Kahn Teases "Revelation" on Theatrical Film Struggles Amidst Industry Downturn

Filmmaker and music video director Joseph Kahn has announced he possesses a unique insight into the current challenges facing theatrical movie releases, a perspective he claims has not yet been publicly discussed. Kahn, known for his outspoken commentary on the entertainment industry, shared his impending "revelation" via social media, stating, "> I have a thought revelation about the state of why movies don't work theatrically right now. I haven't seen anyone mention it. I'll write about it later."

Kahn, whose latest horror-comedy "Ick" saw a limited theatrical release in July 2025, has previously voiced strong opinions on film culture and box office performance, notably regarding the Avatar franchise. His recent experiences with "Ick," which he self-financed and navigated through a changing industry landscape post-COVID-19, likely inform his observations. He has frequently highlighted the difficulties indie films face in securing theatrical success without major studio backing.

The film industry continues to grapple with significant shifts in audience behavior and distribution models. Domestic box office revenues in 2025 have lagged behind previous years, with a notable 11% decrease compared to the same period last year, and a substantial drop from pre-pandemic levels. Studies indicate that a significant portion of moviegoers are now conditioned to wait for home viewing options, with 72% preferring to stay home if a film is soon available on Premium VOD.

Key issues contributing to this decline include shortened theatrical windows, inconsistent release schedules, and a perceived lack of originality in major studio offerings. While franchise films still draw audiences, mid-budget and original productions struggle to find a foothold. Many industry experts argue that the theatrical experience itself needs to evolve, and ticket prices are often seen as too high compared to streaming subscriptions.

Kahn's forthcoming analysis is anticipated to delve deeper into these complex dynamics, potentially offering a fresh perspective on why traditional theatrical models are faltering. His promise to elaborate on his theory later, following a shabu shabu meal, has generated curiosity within the film community.