The 2025 winter break marked a downturn for the Argentine film industry, which recorded their worst attendance figures since 2009. 

During the winter break, which historically boosts box office sales, ticket sales failed to rebound. The low figures highlight a profound challenge for the country’s movie theaters.

According to data from Argentine film consultancy Ultracine, 4,665,000 tickets were sold over the winter. The decline in attendance comes amid changing entertainment consumption habits and a complex economic situation. 

July is usually the highest-grossing period of the year in theaters. In July 2015, there were 9,615,574 admissions, while the usual figures for recent years have been around 8 million. The drop in 2025 alone compared to last year is at 21%.

The figures do not take into account 2020 or 2021, years in which the Covid-19 pandemic caused theaters to remain closed.

The cost of an adult ticket to a Cinépolis cinema is now at AR$13,000 (US$9.60), while at Cinemark Hoyts is at a slightly higher AR$14,600 (US$10.78). 

Another determining factor for the decline was the limited supply of attractive new releases, the agency said in its latest report. 

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The growing popularity of streaming platforms also played a crucial role in this decline. The ease of access to a vast catalog of films and series from the comfort of home, coupled with the costs of a whole family going to the movies, have changed audience preferences. 

The immediacy and variety offered by these services represent significant competition that the traditional film industry must strategically address.

Additionally, the current economic situation in Argentina directly impacts citizens’ purchasing power, leading them to prioritize essential expenses over entertainment. 

Rising ticket prices, popcorn and drink combos, and associated travel costs make going to the movies a luxury for many families.

This article was originally published on C5N