Cowboy Cinema
User Experience / Product Design / Interaction Design
This case study explores how movie theaters could evolve with modern digital engagement and user-centered design.
The project addresses current, real-world pain points and the innovative design solutions that would combat them.
Cowboy Cinema incorporates personalized avatars, social features, and reward systems to create an engaging, community-driven experience connecting moviegoers to both theaters and each other.
Pain Points
Solutions
High Cost/ Accessibility
Budget-conscious audiences are discouraged by high outing prices.
A reward system: users earn stars for attending movies and leaving reviews - redeemable for tickets, snacks, and exclusive merch.
Lack of Variety
Theaters are oversaturated with big-budget blockbusters, sequels, and remakes — which limits variety.
Spotlight indie films and underrepresented genres; let users vote on upcoming screenings.
Lack of Awareness
Moviegoers are unaware of new releases, even those that would align with their personal preferences.
Personalized alerts and weekly digests tailored to user preferences keep audiences better informed
Loss of Cultural Value
Streaming services offer audiences more comfort and convenience from their own homes.
Focus on building community - group invites, social features reinstate a shared experience.
User Flow
Understanding how users move through the app is essential to designing an experience that is streamlined and engaging.
The Personas
User personas help understand the diverse needs of moviegoers. These personas guide design decisions and ensure the app delivers an experience tailored to different lifestyles and interests.
Jeremiah Hall
Age: 20 / Location: Los Angeles, CA / Tech Literacy: High
Jeremiah is a USC film student and aspiring screenwriter who frequents the theater, both with friends and solo.
He wants a movie app that tracks his past visits and reviews, while also keeping him updated on what his friends are watching and reviewing.
Sal Jovi
Age: 45 / Location: Minneapolis, MN / Tech Literacy: Low
Sal is a single mother with three children, and the movie theater has recently become their favorite outing.
She wants a movie app that is easy to navigate and offers discounts — keeping her family movie nights easy and affordable.
Onboarding/ Personalization
Users complete a quick onboarding questionnaire — selecting their favorite genres, actors, and movie preferences.
This personalizes recommendations and keeps users updated on movies and events tailored to them.
