Franchises and sequels dominated the 2024 box office. The only movie in the top 15 not based on an existing film was "Wicked," which was based on a Broadway musical.
I think there are enough people interested, but those people probably have to make a choice. Cinema tickets arent cheap, and everything else is becoming more and more expensive. So you choose between taking a risk on something or seeing a sequel to something you already enjoyed.
I know what I would choose... and honestly it is neither these days, I will wait for another way to watch it.
Viewing habits have changed, that's no secret. People go to the theatre more as a social event than just as an avenue to watch a movie. In most places there are ways to go to the theatre relatively cheaply if you make the effort. Don't get drinks and food, go during the weekday instead of weekends, matinées, some theatres have loyalty programs, smaller movies are also typically cheaper, etc.
If you want the big blockbuster premium experience, then you'll pay premium prices, but that's not the only way to see movies in theatres.