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