Industry Changes: Cinemas Can’t Just Rely on Big Movie Releases

Sustainability seems scarce these days, how do circuits remain open without new products?

We spoke with the CEO of Classic Cinemas Chris Johnson, a veteran in running circuit chains and whose family is heavily involved in the cinema sector. They closed their theaters in June, clearly imperceptive that it may remain closed for a while longer. Even with their efforts to adhere to the health department’s safety protocols, staying open was a losing battle. 

Listen in to hear how the pandemic continuously changes the movie viewing experience.

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What to Listen For

• [00:02:00] Tenet's new release date: September 3rd 
• [00:04:15] Movie theaters across the world have reopened but are waiting for new releases from US studios. 
• [00:05:50] Chris Johnson's family involvement and history in the cinema sector.
• [00:08:06] For a big circuit, what challenges did the past months pose for Classic Cinemas?  
• [00:10:52] Reach out to everyone (Health Department, Authorities, etc) before you open to make sure that it fits safety protocols.  
• [00:13:01] Tivoli (in Illinois) negotiated 50% capacity but was only allowed 50 people max with one screen.   
• [00:14:28] You have tenants that rely on the traffic you provide them, without the traffic, nearby businesses close.
• [00:16:19] All experiencial destinations rely on each other. They like to cluster to create a one-stop entertainment area.
• [00:20:05] The future of this industry shouldn't rely on the release of one film. 
• [00:22:52] "I want to avoid opening and closing, opening and closing. I want to be able to sustain." - Chris Johnson
• [00:24:54] It's not about the movie going but about what you saw when you watched the movie. It's about the experience of watching in the cinema.
• [00:27:11] When the virus threat subsides, the industry will be different, but it will be strong.  
• [00:29:] Next week: Interview with Freda Cinema