Number of digital cinema screens worldwide 2006-2021

In 2021, there were more than 208 thousand digital cinema screens across the world, up from less than 155.5 thousand screens in 2016. This represents an increase of about 34 percent over half a decade.

The rise of the Asian film market

In 2011, the Asia Pacific accounted for less than 24 percent of digital 3D cinema screens worldwide. A decade later, the region's share stood nearly 67 percent. The expansion of this market followed macroeconomic indicators and an overall increase in demand for entertainment. The segment offers an extra feature – 3D technology – to attract more viewers, especially to action, adventure, and fantasy movies.

The performance of digital 3D movies

The COVID-19 outbreak had a major impact on the cinema sector. The effect was even more acute within the 3D segment. In 2019, before the pandemic, 3D films accounted for more than 15 percent of the global box office revenue. Two years later, their share stood below seven percent. It remains to be seen if this product will regain momentum in a post-COVID-19 scenario.