Leonardo DiCaprio Warns: The Future of Cinemas at Risk Due to Streaming Dominance

American actor Leonardo DiCaprio has raised concerns about the rapid changes threatening the future of cinemas, suggesting that theaters could eventually resemble "jazz bars" with dwindling audiences due to the rise of digital streaming platforms.

In an interview during his visit to London, DiCaprio, 51, noted that the film industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. He pointed out that documentaries have nearly disappeared from screens, and dramatic films are shown for only short durations before transitioning to digital platforms. He remarked:
"I don't know where this path is leading us, and whether people still have the passion to watch films in theaters."

Support for Traditional Filmmakers

DiCaprio expressed hope that there will be opportunities for genuine filmmakers to showcase remarkable works on the big screen, stating that preserving the cinematic experience has become a significant challenge.

Director Paul Thomas Anderson, who participated in the interview alongside DiCaprio, emphasized that the competition between cinemas and streaming platforms is a "fierce battle," with platforms vying to draw audiences away from theaters.
DiCaprio's Views on Artificial Intelligence

DiCaprio is known for advocating traditional cinema and has criticized the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence in art, asserting that it lacks a human dimension. He previously stated: "Any true work of art must come from humans," even though artificial intelligence may appear technically impressive.

Shifts in Viewing Habits Threaten Cinemas

DiCaprio's comments come at a time when the film industry is engaged in a broad debate about its future, facing unprecedented challenges due to changing viewing habits and the growing influence of digital platforms, putting traditional cinema at risk of survival.