This topic has come up several times on Fluther, and it is always interesting to see the reponses. Movie theaters make the bulk of their revenue off of concession sales. Ticket sales barely cover the cost of what a theater pays back to the companies that supply the fims and certainly not their fixed costs.
For that reason, should I go to a movie and want something to drink or eat, I buy it at the concession stand. It helps cover their costs for providing the treat of a big screen, excellent sound, HVAC, and that lovely theater popcorn.. Otherwise, I stay home and wait for it to come out on television.
“Sneaking” in something to consume? I personally don’t do it. Should others though, I hold no judgement, unless it is something that can be smelled by those in the immediate area. Why just not eat it beforehand? What bothers me are those that are on their cell phone during the movie, are constantly chatting to the person next to them, or have a baby in their charge that cries throughout the movie.