fbpx

Low Audience Numbers Could Delay Theater’s Post-Pandemic Revival

Photo by Karen Zhao via Unsplash

Low Audience Numbers Could Delay Theater’s Post-Pandemic Revival

By Movieguide® Staff

With the COVID-19 vaccine becoming globally available, theater owners and exhibitors hope that audiences will eagerly return to open theaters.

However, even if audiences are hungry for a cinematic experience outside their homes, expert analysts predict that a transition back to a traditional box office will take time. 

“It’s going to take some time for things to settle out,” David A. Gross, who runs Franchise Entertainment Research, said.

Most recently, Disney released RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON that played in 2,045 theaters across North America and, for an extra $30 to subscribers, on Disney+. However, even with more open theaters and the assurance of safety for viewers, revenue in the United States and Canada totaled $8.6 million, according to Comscore. In comparison, Warner Bros.’ TOM AND JERRY earned $14 million over its opening weekend.  

Read Also: Family-Friendly TOM AND JERRY Surprises with $13.7 Million Opening Weekend

The New York Times reported

‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ was most likely held back for two reasons. Disney simultaneously offered the film to Disney+ subscribers — for a $30 “premium access” upcharge — and Cinemark, the No. 3 theater chain in the United States (behind AMC and Regal), refused to book it. Cinemark and Disney sparred over licensing terms, with Cinemark, citing the simultaneous streaming debut, insisting on a discount, and Disney giving little. 

“We are making near-term booking decisions on a discrete, film-by-film basis, focusing on the long-term benefit of exhibitors, studios and moviegoers,” Cinemark said in a statement.

Disney’s CEO Bob Chapek noted that Disney would deal with the post-pandemic uncertainty by continuing to release movies in creative ways.  

Movieguide® previously reported

Walt Disney Company chief executive Bob Chapek revealed that the entertainment conglomerate would consider a new strategy for movie releases and not return to pre-pandemic theatrical windows.

“I think the consumer is probably more impatient than they’ve ever been before,” Chapek said during a recent Morgan Stanley Technology, Media, and Telecommunications Conference. “Particularly since now they’ve had the luxury of an entire year of getting titles at home pretty much when they want them. So I’m not sure there’s going back, but we certainly don’t want to do anything like cut the legs off a theatrical exhibition run.”

Chapek noted that Disney is still committed to its commitment to theatrical releases, which earned over $13 billion in 2019 across a record-setting 11 movies. While Chapek acknowledged that those movies “will continue to be a big deal” to Disney, he also recognized how COVID-19 could result in “profound” audience changes.

 

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.


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.