Is the recent influx of concert films signaling the dawn of a new era in theaters?
According to Travis Knox, associate professor at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, the recent triumphs of concert films like “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” and the documentary “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” which grossed $21 million in its opening weekend, unequivocally mark the initiation of a new phase.
Knox emphasized the cost-effectiveness and guaranteed publicity associated with producing and marketing concert films featuring artists like Swift and Beyoncé. Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events, noted that success in the industry tends to inspire emulation, stating, “Hollywood is a copycat industry. When people see that there’s a good thing going, they’re going to try to replicate it.”
Swift’s “The Eras Tour” concert film set records, earning $92.8 million in the U.S. during its opening weekend and a global gross of over $249 million. Beyoncé’s “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé” also performed exceptionally well, grossing $21.8 million in North America in its first three days.
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While concert movies are not new, the recent successes of artists like BTS, Coldplay, and Metallica have expanded their reach, offering a cinematic experience for fans who may face geographical constraints or high concert ticket prices. The affordability of concert movie tickets, compared to live concert tickets, has also contributed to their popularity.
Travis Knox highlighted the appeal of concert films for fans who couldn’t afford the live experience, as well as those who attended the live shows and want to relive the experience with additional backstage footage. The communal aspect of enjoying a highly produced concert film in a theater setting adds to the allure for audiences seeking a different and interactive experience.
Looking ahead, both Nutt and Knox foresee the potential for concert films to catch on further, with artists like Harry Styles and Bad Bunny having the capacity to draw crowds. However, they also acknowledge the cyclical nature of Hollywood and anticipate a market retreat if concert films begin to underperform due to oversaturation.
