That's a generalization. I think the average AGE of moviegoers has decreased, and Hollywood is more inclined now to simplify plots to appeal to more people. Movies cost more now, so whatever steps need to be taken to minimize financial risk, that's what Hollywood will do. Plus, with the globalization of the film industry, simple plots with plenty of action will play much better and make more money in countries outside the film's native tongue.

If you want to see a GOOD movie, see a low-budget one that has little to lose financially and is thereby more inclined to tackle more complicated or mature issues.

But I understand what you're trying to say. Just compare remakes today with the original. The Day of the Jackal from the 1970s is a mature suspense thriller as opposed to the lousy action film remake of the 1990s. The Haunting 1960s vs The Haunting 2000 version. And so on...

it's all about spectacle and marketing it globally to people who may not even speak the language...

@mram16 said:

...but considering how much money they make, perhaps I'm overestimating the intelligence of the average moviegoer.

Or perhaps sometimes people like to turn their brains off for some escapism. Its not insulting anyone's intelligence if it markets itself as exactly what it is: big dumb fun.

Then people love to line up and pay big $$$'s to be insulted. I've never watched one, but it's just pure escapism. People know what they want to see and the Fast movies deliver.

If you drive up to a McDonald's and buy a burger, you already know in advance what it's going to taste like. You also know it's crap food and not good for you. But you know what sounds good to you at the time, it's not that expensive, and you can edify yourself with something more nutritious later.

I suspect that there are plenty of people who can both read Proust and enjoy a Fast movie now and then.

Cars go fast, me pay money.

I'm trying to go for an engaging, funny youtube channel so, if you have the time, take a look. Hope you enjoy what you see. Thanks in advance. https://youtu.be/4xfnsgokSQk

I'd say you're watching them for the wrong reason then.

You should learn to spell intelligence before you accuse someone of lacking it.