For me, the thesis would be something like this:

Although the movies shown in theaters have the novelty of being new, watching a movie at home allows a greater control over one’s environment, making the film a much more enjoyable experience.

(I would go on to say that you can pause the movie, choose the people you want to be with, eat/drink what you choose and so on. Budget considerations come into play as well. The pluses on the movie side are the screen size, exceptional audio features and just enjoying being away from home.)

But basically, you have to do this using the points you would use for your own paper. If you had different points in mind, then you should use them.

Also, when writing a compare/contrast paper, many students tend to have only two body paragraphs: one contrast, one compare. I advise striking that and choosing factors to discuss; for example, one paragraph could be comparing and contrasting the environment. Another paragraph could be comparing and contrasting the cost (or whatever you find important.)

I know–this is probably too much information.

As for an introductory argument, I recommend something along the lines of this:

“The incredible incomes acrued by movie theaters on the opening days of popular flicks is a clear indicator in people’s desire to watch their movies in such a setting, however as time goes on, there comes a clear point when it must be released on VHS or DVD. Therefore it appears logical that the theater grants a chance for viewers to have an early look at a film that they otherwise enjoy watching at home, otherwise an inverse of what occurs now would be true, and theaters would not see an impact on the market value of movies, and instead DVDs and VHS cassette tapes would not sell as frequently as they do.”

1. Tell them what you’re going to tell them.

I want to show you why watching a movie at home using my dvd player is superior than going to a dirty, bacteria ridden movie theater – eating stale – greasy popcorn.

2. Tell them

I have found that movie theaters have people who like to enjoy a movie – while talking, text messaging, getting up during the movie, and laughing at their own jokes, makes me not want to pay $12+ for a ticket.

I believe my comfort is far superior at home, where I can stop the movie at any time – for a kitchen or bathroom break etc.

3. Tell them what you told them

In summary, dvd’s with individual control are far superior to a dirty, bacteria infested theater with strangers who don’t care about being quiet or staying in their seats.

Stop the even though – stuff.

Tell me what makes you think you paper is something worth reading.

I need to hear from you – from your heart and then your head can follow with the details.

You must put yourself into your work, otherwise it’s just an assignment.

Now – let’s hear what’s really on your mind. Catch me if you can with a Solid Punchline! – from your heart got that?

GOD bless us always.

MBA-Boston Univ.

CPA-retired

Ideas:

Popcorn at home is better and fresher.

No noise at home compared to theaters.

Cheeeeeper! Save some money for other things.

If you have the equipment, pause: rewind: fast forward: (convenient) versus the theater.

More intimate (like, uh, with, uh Eddie!)

No travel involved.

If the movie stinks at home, turn it off. In theater, after you paid 20 bucks………….

“Even though movie theaters are exciting and entertaining, watching a movie at home is more convenient, quieter and less expensive”

Then go on to explain.

Good luck!