When I first noticed the shift, it was in the quiet pause between the last episode of a binge‑watch and the next day’s coffee. The traditional model—going out to a theater, buying a ticket, waiting in line—was giving way to a new rhythm.
Last month, Sarah, a 28‑year‑old graphic designer, decided to binge the new season of her favorite series. She set a budget of £30 for the month’s entertainment, but by the end of the week she’d spent £42 on streaming subscriptions, a couple of late‑night snack deliveries, and a pop‑up “exclusive”...