In my experience, while the stereo listening "sweet spot" may be somewhat localized, the reasonable listening area for movie watching is larger. Movies are about the entire experience, not solely the sourround channel effects. Dialog in particular is anchored to the screen by the center channel, and the always-popular low frequency rumble of the sub is omni-directional. I think groups can enjoy a movie in a home theater system. The sweet spot may rate as the optimal place to listen from, but I think even the other seating areas in the space (except perhaps ones located directly against a speaker or in an alcove off to the side of the room) are still getting significant benefit from the sound system.

Jeff - that's a pretty cool idea for introducing folks to a home theater system.

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