And no, it's not because it's too scary.
One of the key issues with cinema chains is the period of time which a film cannot be seen AFTER it's been in the cinema. This is sometimes known as the 'cinema-to-digital window' and typically means that a film cannot be sold to watch at home until 90 days after the film has been in the cinema.
However, Paramount, the distribution company in charge of the latest Paranormal Activity film, 'The Ghost Dimension' have struck a deal so that the film can be rented/purchased as soon as 17 days after the film opens in cinemas.
This has annoyed cinema chains to the extent that many are now refusing to show the film and it will open in 1,400 North American locations when it opens 23 October, compared to 2,883 for the last film. This will massively impact the film's box office performance, but could open up the chance of a strong home viewing performance.
This is a really interesting and contemporary issue which allows you to consider why Paramount has opted to do this, what it says about cinematic releases, the home market, 3D as a format and the evolution of the Paranormal Activity franchise.
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