Dear Dr. Film, Why are movie tickets so expensive? A night at the movies can be costly (especially if it includes babysitting). It is easy to see why we often wait for the DVD. Yet, Hollywood pays most attention to the opening weekend boxoffice. If we want to see more of a particular kind of movie, we need to support those films as soon as possible. Like any business, the entertainment industry responds to audience interest and ticket sales. I recall my shock when the price of a movie ticket in Southern California crossed over $10. Now, of course, with gas prices flirting with $4 a gallon, movies seem almost cheap. Actually, a recent study in the Los Angeles Times (http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-cover27apr27,1,4788665.story) found that movies prices have risen substantially less than other types of entertainment like concerts or sporting events. Those matinees are actually still bargains. Dr. Film is a one of the few doctors licensed to marry, bury, baptize or direct a feature film. He understands media and ministry. His perspective from inside the Hollywood system will help you understand what your congregation is watching and why. Whether you're looking for a solid sermon illustration or an answer to a trivia question, ask Dr. Film at newsletter@gracehillmedia.com.