thesis question

I'm not sure my thesis can address this, but while reading about film history, I have been thinking about what it means in this era to feel like one is a part of the film. How is it different from watching films in the 20's, 30's, 40's, etc? It seems as though previously, being a part of the collective experience of going to the movie and being a spectator was satisfying enough connection to the film. Now, merely watching a film is not enough. Being a part of a film, whether through acting, directing, producing, etc. is now the goal. We see this through the millions of videos on You Tube, all easily made and uploaded by the powerful technology that everyone posseses on their computers, cell phones, and digital cameras. But I also don't just think its about technology. The exhibition of a movie has always been seen as a commercial endeavor. This is increasingly the case. We cannot help but hear about box-office gross or view commercials before a screening. And we pay way too much for popcorn. This is all a turn-off. Film production, distinct from film exhibition, is still considered art. It still manages to feel disconnected from the commodifications of movies. In general I'm interested in any ideas people may have on what distinguishes participating in the movies now from participating in them in previous eras.