thats FUD: always compare prices with the poorest people in this world and they can't afford it!
The YOUTH is going to the movies at the first place! singles! maybe a crowed of singles, single income and the like! Always been. Look at the art of films, action, cartoon and the like: target group 12 to under 30!
Well, there ARE familie-movies, mostly at chrismas time. in that time even poorer people spent a bit more money!
here in germany, well - in the last 20 years! smaller cinemas closed, some survive with special programm. the chains and big movie centres are fine.