Global cinema usage will be more stable in 2026 than many expected - driven in particular by younger target groups. This is the conclusion of the current Global Moviegoer Survey 2026 the Global Cinema Federation is the result. The organisation's third global audience survey paints a differentiated but overall positive picture for the cinema industry.

Young target groups as growth drivers

The positive trend is particularly evident among the under 25s. 78% of this group stated that they had seen as many or even more films at the cinema in the last six months than before. This confirms that cinema remains a relevant leisure medium even in a generation that has grown up with streaming services.

Emotional loyalty also remains high: 59 per cent of young cinema-goers would actively recommend the cinema experience to others - an important indicator of the cultural relevance of the medium.

Cinema remains a highly engaging experience

Across all age groups, the study shows that cinema continues to have a strong emotional connection. 73 per cent of respondents state that going to the cinema has a positive impact on their well-being. Among frequent cinema-goers - defined as people who go to the cinema more than twelve times a year - this figure even rises to 92 per cent.

The cinema is thus clearly asserting itself as a social and emotional experience that goes beyond pure film reception.

Demand remains stable - despite streaming competition

General expectations towards the cinema also remain positive: 70% of cinema-goers surveyed said they were looking forward to going to the cinema in 2026. This represents a slight increase compared to the previous year.

At the same time, however, the study also shows a small but growing shift: seven per cent of respondents generally prefer to watch films at home - a minimal but slight increase for the first time compared to the previous survey.

Cinema windows have a significant impact on visitor behaviour

A key finding of the study concerns the so-called window policy between cinema exploitation and streaming. The data shows a clear correlation: the shorter the expected cinema window, the less often people go to the cinema.

• With a maximum window of one month, an average of 3.1 fewer cinema visits are reported
• For one to two months it is 2.5 less
• For three to five months 2.1 less
• Even with six months or more, the decline is still 1.6 films

The results indicate that the perception of exclusivity in the cinema plays a decisive role in the frequency of visits.

Stability with structural areas of tension

Overall, the Global Cinema Federation study paints a stable picture of global cinema use. Young target groups in particular are contributing to the positive development and continue to see cinema as a relevant cultural venue.

At the same time, there are structural challenges: The perception of shortened screening windows and increasing competition from home cinema offerings are having a measurable impact on viewing behaviour.

For the cinema industry, one thing remains clear: the demand is there - but the decisive factor is the framework conditions under which cinema continues to be positioned as an exclusive experience.