AMC Theatres, renowned as the largest cinema chain globally, has achieved a remarkable feat by recording the highest domestic revenue in its 104-year history during the pre-Thanksgiving weekend. This extraordinary achievement is attributed to the successful launches of two major films, Wicked and Gladiator II, which attracted audiences en masse. For the first time since 2019, AMC experienced a significant spike in domestic admissions revenue during this pivotal weekend, and it stands as the third highest in the chain’s storied history. This trend signifies a resurgence in theatrical attendance, emphasizing the enduring appeal of cinema.
From Thursday to Sunday, a staggering combined total of 4.6 million moviegoers visited AMC Theatres and Odeon Cinemas, showcasing a renewed enthusiasm for the cinematic experience. Domestically, this holiday weekend generated an impressive estimated $205 million in revenue, underscoring the lucrative potential of high-profile film releases. As CEO Adam Aron pointed out, this weekend serves as a promising prelude to what is expected to be a bustling holiday movie season, filled with enticing options for audiences seeking entertainment.
AMC’s innovative merchandising strategy played a vital role in enhancing the viewing experience for Wicked. Limited-edition products, such as themed popcorn vessels and a 32-ounce Grippr Cup, sold out midway through the weekend, indicating the strong connection between audiences and the films they love. Furthermore, AMC announced that select locations will host Wicked Singalong showtimes starting in late December, providing an additional layer of engagement for fans eager to immerse themselves in the film’s music and narrative.
Acknowledging the hard work of filmmakers, Aron expressed gratitude to director Jon M. Chu and Universal Pictures for the success of Wicked and to Sir Ridley Scott and Paramount for Gladiator II. His recognition of both films as expertly crafted and brilliantly marketed highlights the importance of quality content in attracting audiences back to theaters. The successful release of multiple blockbuster titles on the same weekend underscores the capacity of theatrical venues to accommodate diverse movie offerings, further solidifying cinema as a vital entertainment medium.
As the holiday season approaches, anticipation builds for the release of Moana 2, slated to open in U.S. cinemas soon, alongside its release at Odeon Cinemas in the UK. The momentum established by the recent blockbusters will undoubtedly create a ripple effect across the film industry, encouraging studios to invest in compelling stories that captivate audiences worldwide. The single-day revenue records set by Odeon Cinemas for 2024 further reflect this growing trend and set the stage for a thriving cinema landscape.
AMC Theatres is not only celebrating a historic revenue milestone but also reaffirming the vital role of the theatrical experience in moviegoers’ lives. As the industry looks forward to future releases, the excitement and commitment to cinematic storytelling are stronger than ever.