Is a home theater even worth it or doable?

I do streaming with a 5.2 system in an open-concept living room. I was debating the same as well when we had purchased our current residence, especially since I knew I would be putting a two-channel system in another room. We went with on-wall front R, L, and Center speakers with in-ceiling rear speakers - this reduced the footprint quite a bit. Subs are flush with the credenza. I, too, came from a sound bar, which was great for dialogue but not exactly immersive. 

I mirror another member here; more time is spent watching television and movies than listening to music in my 2-channel system - primarily because I’m with the spouse when watching in the living room. My preference will always be 2-channel, but watching television with a 5.2 is the reality 80% of the time.

If you buy new. The closest boutique with good service , is the best . You may need advices and help for the speaker’s callibration setup, speakers placement and choice , etc .

You may buy used . Moreover if you are looking for a Receiver instead if a Processor. There is so much changes in this sector ……

The sound is very important in a movie . It will change the whole experience.
Not that much if you only watch CNN

I’m a big movie buff along with being an audiophile(Two channel music first with HT being a strong second).

One thing that I think is often missed is that a true HT system isn’t always about the deep rumbling bass or the bullets wizzing to the sides or behind your head(although that is cool).   It’s also about the gripping musical scores that are played in the background of these movies.  If you have a great musical HT system the background music just pulls you emotionally in to the movie even more.

Also, if I’m spending big $$$s for the stereo system I might as well be using that equipment for everything.

How can anyone watch a movie through TV speakers.  80% of a movie experience is surround sound.  
 

I would recommend buying an ARCAM surround receiver.  If you can afford their G amplifier technology I would do that.  First 50 watts is pure Class A.  Then buy some decent speakers.  
 

then watch Saving Private Ryan.  You can hear bullets passing by your ears.

you can also hear 2 channel music through your ARCAM.  Very good sound.

Surround is more enjoyable for surround music such as SACDs (some.)

If you don't have them tracks I don't know if it's worth it to you. I rarely fire mine up for video. YRMV.