Nope, the prices are going up because the studios are charging the theaters more. Our theater was even taking a small loss for each ticket for a while in order

Nope, the prices are going up because the studios are charging the theaters more. Our theater was even taking a small loss for each ticket for a while in order to keep people happy. All of theater profits come from sales at the concession stands. That's why most places are so strict about bringing in outside food and drinks. Though I've never seen anywhere that would ask to search your bags, that's ridiculous and sounds like a good way to loose customers. Source: projectionist at a theater all through college.