AMC Theatres has announced a breathtaking achievement: over the recent Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a staggering 8.8 million movie enthusiasts flocked to its locations worldwide. This surge in attendance can be attributed to the highly anticipated releases of films such as Disney’s “Moana 2,” Universal’s “Wicked,” and Paramount’s “Gladiator II.” The box office frenzy not only shattered previous attendance records but also led to impressive increases in both admissions and concession revenues. In fact, the circuit has claimed that this weekend surpassed the previous Thanksgiving records set in 2018, marking a significant turning point for the industry during a period traditionally known for family gatherings and festive meals.
According to Comscore, the U.S. and Canadian box offices generated an unprecedented $420 million in revenue during the Thanksgiving holiday timeframe—a remarkable leap from the $315.6 million recorded in 2018. Notably, November 29, which coincided with Black Friday, turned out to be AMC’s second highest total revenue day in the company’s history. The day welcomed unprecedented foot traffic and engagement, while Friday also became the most lucrative Black Friday in the company’s annals. The line-up of blockbuster films evidently lured impressive crowds, with moviegoers eager to indulge in cinematic experiences paired with traditional holiday favorites, including AMC’s popcorn and Coca-Cola.
Thanksgiving Day 2024 was marked by the highest attendance figures AMC has ever reported for the holiday, showcasing a clear inclination for audiences to enjoy cinematic delights as part of their festive celebrations. AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aron expressed elation over the company’s performance, stating, “This 5-day Thanksgiving period was one for the ages.” His comments underscore how pivotal this holiday weekend was not only for AMC but also as a revitalization gesture for the cinema industry at large, which has faced challenges post-pandemic.
Acknowledging Collaborations and Successes
In his remarks, Aron extended his congratulations to Disney for the success of “Moana 2” and acknowledged the contributions of Universal and Paramount for their respective hits, “Wicked” and “Gladiator II.” He expressed gratitude for the cooperative spirit among studios that showcased a diverse range of films, ensuring that audiences had multiple appealing options this Thanksgiving season. The availability of a broad spectrum of genres not only appealed to a wider demographic but also revitalized interest in cinema outings as enjoyable communal experiences.
Challenges and Solutions
Interestingly, this surge in ticket sales brought its own challenges, including long wait times on the AMC website, which reached 13 minutes due to unprecedented demand. However, AMC was quick to resolve the backlog, ensuring that moviegoers could secure their tickets without prolonged delays. This efficient response not only bolstered customer satisfaction but also highlighted AMC’s commitment to seamless service, even during peak times.
As the holiday season continues, AMC’s remarkable performance is a testament to the enduring allure of cinematic experiences and underscores a blending of tradition and modern entertainment. The company’s success serves as a beacon of hope, signaling a vigorous revival for theatres everywhere.