Asia-Pacific Cinemas Lessen Capacity Restrictions as U.S. Theaters Continue to Struggle
By Cooper Dowd, Staff Writer
As the U.S. box office struggles to gain traction, Asia-Pacific markets such as Singapore, Australia’s New South Wales and India’s West Bengal are increasing theater capacity numbers.
Theaters opened in mid-July for many global markets at limited capacities and with heavy safety and hygiene regulations. In Singapore, all cinemas observed a 50 ticket limit. However, as restrictions lessen, exhibitors of larger chains will be allowed to fill their theaters at 50% capacity following a general decrease in COVID-19 cases.
Movieguide® previously reported on international theaters reopening, but the process of easing restrictions in Asian and European markets seemed far off at the time:
Europe is not the only movie market forced to adapt to the lack of U.S. releases, as Asian box offices are beginning to open up under strict precautions.
The China Film Administration made a statement that included precautions for the 30% capacity reopening of theaters including, only conducting reopening in “low-risk” areas, mandatory temperature checks and masks, and the restriction of eating and drinking in the theaters.
The recent release of Yeon Sang-ho’s PENINSULA provided the international box office with another bright spot as the sequel to the 2016 Korean hit, TRAIN TO BUSAN, successfully opened in Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore.
The closures and heavy restrictions affected some of the bigger Asia-Pacific chains like Singapore’s Golden Village. Variety reported that admissions fell from “4.1 million in the first half of 2019 to just 1 million between January and June 2020.”
However, as theaters reopen, exhibitors are hopeful for the future of box-office revenue. The continued capacity increase is also a bright spot for many countries as it will provide job openings in various positions.
“For workers across the full spectrum of the performing arts—from box office staff to ushers, from technicians and roadies to the artists – this change means more jobs,” NSW Arts Minister Don Harwin said. Audiences can now “enjoy experiences we have all missed so much during the pandemic.”
According to Variety, Australia’s New South Wales experienced no new transmissions of the virus. They will be allowed to fill concert halls and theaters at a 50% capacity with a 1,000 person max.
The revitalization of foreign markets and the possible economic outcome could motivate domestic markets to begin the reopening process. Movieguide® reported on the various studio strategies for movie releases.
On the other hand, with regulations still prohibiting some cinemas to open and other exhibitors wary of public health and safety, the U.S. may still experience cinema closure.
Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
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Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
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