Theatre or Cinema- Which Is Better?

This debate whether cinema or theatre is better, is an old one, yet never resolved. Here are a few criteria parameters based on which debates have spurred. However, one may dare to conclude after the emergence of live streaming across the web in the new -age narrative form of web series the resolution may have taken place by merging the merits of cinema and theatre and offsetting the limitations of each as well. The resolution has taken place in a third form. LEVEL OF IMMERSION- Theatre or Cinema- Which Is Better? This debate whether cinema or theatre is better, is an old one, yet never resolved. Here are a few criteria parameters based on which debates have spurred. However, one may dare to conclude after the emergence of live streaming across the web in the new -age narrative form of web series the resolution may have taken place by merging the merits of cinema and theatre and offsetting the limitations of each as well. The resolution has taken place in a third form. LEVEL OF IMMERSION- Theatre generally requires from the actor more immersion, than cinema. Cinema despite having produced competent actors, are also posed, where the actor is signified, probably even advertised. In all the blockbuster films, with stars like Leornardo Di Caprio as the lead or Kate Winslet, the movies attract instant attention. The viewer knows that they will see them on screen. However, in the case of theatre, the actors have to completely blend into the role , making it more exciting, as they live through their characters through the length of the performance. USAGE OF SPACE- Cinema entails wide usage of space, and different locations, which could be exciting for the viewer. In the case of theatre, the usage of limited space may be a hindrance.The use of physical space on stage becomes a creative challenge. The choice between realistic space in cinema and this innovation of space in plays,  is another criterion which determines, which one people find more enjoyable. ACCESSIBILITY- Accessibility is a limitation in terms of theatre. Earlier before the pandemic, one had to buy tickets and go to specific auditoriums or areas where the performance is taking place. Nowadays, although they are streamed online, many times they require tickets, and are not found easily. Cinema is much more widely available thanks to OTT platforms on the web, which many people generally access nowadays at their convenience indoors. Free Streaming sites, and YouTube are widely used for this purpose. WHERE THEY COME TOGETHER- So, the question comes down to the affectiveand the immersive nature of theatre, which makes it exciting versus the cinema which entails a certain amount of realism andgives out a certain comfort vibe. Which one to choose? Is there a mid-way? In recent popular shows, on OTTs, such as Squid Game, Sex Education, Mare of East Town, Shetland, The Wire, and many others we find that the dramatic effects from theatre which add to the character intensity and also espouse suspense and thrills are neatly meshed into a cinematic form.  Many actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch work in both theatre and films, and now on OTTs, bringing the best of both worlds with such ease.