This is normal in many countries outside the US. I've used it and had positive experiences in India, for instance. It at least favors those who plan ahead and buy tickets sooner, along with limiting necessary waiting time at the theater to get good seats. Imagine the chaos if airplanes had open seating...<p>The main benefits as the Slate article points out are for theater owners (concession sales and pre-film advertising). I'd at least like to see the choice of local theaters with reserved seating.<p><a href="http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/culturebox/2013/08/movie_theater_seating_why_don_t_american_theaters_have_reserved_seating.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/culturebox/2013/08/movie_...</a>
This is cool, but might actually decrease attendance. I've been in some IMAX seats I definitely would not have bought if I'd known how acute the screen angle would be.<p>I wonder if theaters will be interested.