Audiences for 3D films will decline in 2013, it has been predicted.
A report compiled by Fitch Ratings concluded that overall cinema attendance will drop this year due to both a lack of franchise films (compared to 2012) and audiences tiring of paying extra for 3D.
The projected decline would mark the first year 3D box office sales have dropped since the technology rose to prominence in 2009 off the back of Avatar‘s success, according to The Wrap.
“Attendance likely benefited from the initial proliferation of 3D films. However, the initial excitement has dwindled,” the report states.
“Consumers are focused again on the overall quality of the film and are weighing the cost of a premium ticket versus a base 2D ticket.
“Going to the movies remains one of the lower-cost forms of entertainment. However, increased pricing, particularly on 3D films, may erode this perception over time.
“Fitch views the expected film slate [for 2013] as favorable, but believes it will result in slightly weaker attendance compared to the 2012 film slate.”
3D box office takings in the US and Canada have previously remained steady, bringing in around $1.8 billion (£1.2 billion) for the past two years.
This year’s 3D releases include Star Trek Into Darkness, Iron Man 3 and Man of Steel.