While economists argue over whether or not we are on a recession, we are all feeling it to some degree, rendering the argument somewhat meaningless or academic.

It has long been the common wisdom that hollywood, and comedies in particular, do better in a recession. I did some “research” this weekend by going to see Adam Sandler’s new comedy You Don’t Mess with Zohan. It was a guilty pleasure– totally stupid but mostly funny and often hysterical. The audience was packed and, in my view, laughing particularly hard. A wonderful respite from the 95 degree heat, $4.50 gas prices, wars, falling housing prices, etc.

In addition to comedies, the slate of movies built off comic book and graphic novel heroes has never been stronger. The traffic to Imaginova’s genre enternatinment website Newsarama is setting records every month. This is another reflection of consumer escapism.

On the Commerce side of Imaginova’s business we are experiencing record sales of our Orion Telescopes and accessories business. In our marketing we are pointing out the benefits of such a rewarding and inexpensive hobby. You don’t need to use any gas to carry a telescope into your backyard or on to a field, drop down a blanket, gather with friends and enjoy your favorite, age-appropriate beverages.

These are just a few data points, but as the period of economic challenges extends, we will continue to witness distinct changes in consumer choices of leisure activities and expenditures.