At last count in 2023, there are 336 drive-in movies theaters still open in the US.  Callers to Memphis Morning News discussed the demise of the drive-in theater and shared why. Movies aren't made to be shown at drive-in theaters.  4-D, high-def IMAX movies don't look as good through a bug splattered windshield at the drive-in. The movie industry makes movies with effects that are best experienced in a movie theater equipped with surround sound, lighting, seating and often wait staff. Dinner and a movie can now be easily experienced all in one location- the lazy boy equipped movie theater. 

The nostalgia of the drive-in movie has created a different theater industry- tourism.  With some drive-in's on the National Register of Historical Places to theater's with unique twists, the drive-in movie experience has become an experience, not just a night at the movies.