In an unprecedented turn of events, AMC Theatres celebrated its most lucrative pre-Thanksgiving weekend in its long 104-year history. The weekend not only marked the highest revenue from ticket sales but also included profits from food, beverages, and merchandise sales. With an exciting lineup featuring the much-anticipated releases of “Wicked” and “Gladiator II,” AMC managed to attract moviegoers in droves, resulting in the highest domestic admissions revenue for the holiday period since before the pandemic in 2019. This impressive influx brought the total estimated domestic weekend earnings to an impressive $205 million.
The surge in popularity wasn’t confined to just U.S. audiences. Internationally, AMC Theatres, in partnership with Odeon Cinemas, welcomed a remarkable 4.6 million attendees from Thursday through Sunday. Such turnout signifies a revitalization in theatrical attendance, showcasing that audiences are eager to experience blockbuster hits on the big screen following the challenges posed by recent years. The palpable excitement around these films underscores a collective yearning for shared cinematic experiences.
Highlighting AMC’s knack for tapping into audience sentiment, the theatre chain reported that its merchandise for “Wicked” rapidly sold out, showcasing the heightened enthusiasm for the film. Unique items like specialized popcorn vessels and the 32-ounce Grippr Cup, designed with the film’s iconic characters, became instant hits, further enhancing the overall moviegoing experience. Compounding the excitement, AMC announced plans to host “Wicked Singalong” showtimes at select locations later in December, inviting fans to immerse themselves even deeper into the whimsical world of Oz.
AMC Entertainment’s CEO, Adam Aron, expressed profound gratitude to the filmmakers, recognizing the hard work behind both “Wicked” and “Gladiator II.” In his statements, he emphasized the expertise and creativity that went into these projects, which not only captivate audiences but also demonstrate that theatrical exhibition can successfully accommodate the release of multiple blockbuster features simultaneously. As the holiday season approaches, Aron’s optimism resonates—there’s an expectation for a continuance of successful film releases, beginning with “Moana 2,” which is set to launch in the U.S. the day before Thanksgiving.
The successful weekend for AMC Theatres serves as a promising indicator of the future of cinema attendance. With a combination of compelling films, innovative merchandise, and a community of engaged moviegoers, theatrical experiences are reclaiming their place in contemporary culture. As more films line up for release during the holiday season, the excitement in the air is palpable, suggesting a flourishing period for cinemas and a renewed interest in the art of storytelling on the big screen. The recent figures substantiate that the moviegoing experience remains a cherished tradition, and the industry appears poised for an exciting and profitable future.