This past Thanksgiving season proved monumental for AMC Theatres, as it achieved an exceptional attendance record of 8.8 million moviegoers over the five-day holiday weekend. The surge in attendance can be largely attributed to the successes of major film releases. Disney’s highly anticipated “Moana 2” topped the box office, while Universal’s “Wicked” and Paramount’s “Gladiator II” also pulled in substantial crowds. This year’s Thanksgiving weekend attendance not only surpassed the previous record of 8.1 million set in 2018, but it marked a significant moment in theatre history, showcasing the resilience and popularity of the cinema experience.
The revelation of these figures marks a profound shift in viewer sentiment rarely seen in the past few years, possibly aided by the gradual easing of pandemic-related restrictions and an increasing desire for shared experiences. The return of these monumental numbers illustrates a crucial revitalization in the moviegoing culture, indicating that patrons have returned to theatres in droves seeking community, entertainment, and the comforts of a shared cinematic journey.
In conjunction with the record-breaking attendance, AMC reported a dramatic increase in both admissions and concessions revenue during this holiday week. This could be viewed as a testament to the appetite for cinematic experiences, as moviegoers flocked not only to watch films but also to indulge in the quintessential theatre experience of popcorn, candy, and beverages that enhance the enjoyment of films on the silver screen. The success of these two revenue streams demonstrates AMC’s strategic positioning and its ability to capitalize on the holiday festivities.
The figures tell an impressive story; Comscore has outlined how U.S. and Canadian box offices generated a staggering $420 million this Thanksgiving, eclipsing the $315.6 million recorded in 2018. Disney led this pack with an astronomical $225.2 million from “Moana 2,” while Universal and Paramount followed with impressive earnings as well. The total revenue amassed during the five-day period demonstrates the flourishing state of cinema as an entertainment option, serving as a beacon of hope for both theatre operators and film studios alike.
Particularly noteworthy was Black Friday, which became AMC’s second-highest revenue-generating day in its history, narrowly trailing behind the “Avengers: Endgame” opening weekend. The phenomena of moviegoing on Black Friday speaks volumes about shifting consumer behaviors and preferences. Traditionally viewed as a day for holiday shopping, it appears that many patrons chose the allure of a cinematic experience over the hustle and bustle of retail.
The anticipation and demand for tickets led to a brief 13-minute wait on AMC’s website, which, while inconvenient for some, underlines the overwhelming interest in attending theatres during these busy holiday days. Given the high engagement on such a pivotal shopping day, it’s clear that more consumers are embracing the value of live entertainment as a means to enhance their holiday celebrations.
AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aron expressed his excitement about the record-setting achievement, crediting a mix of compelling film offerings and a renewed passion for the cinema experience. The impressive turnout at theatres highlights not only the success of specific films but also a broader revival of interest in moviegoing, aligning with 2024’s positioning as a pivotal year for studios and theatre chains alike.
Aron’s acknowledgment of the contributions from major studios emphasizes the collaborative ecosystem between theatres and filmmakers that is essential for ongoing success. The recognition of both large and small films showcasing in theatres hints at a healthy future for the industry, one where diverse offerings can draw in varied audiences.
As AMC reflects on this promising holiday period, the optimism lingers that such records could pave the way for sustained growth in the film exhibition sector, suggesting that perhaps the cinematic experience, combined with festive joy, is indeed something that audiences will continue to prioritize in years to come.