With theaters closing down nationwide, AMC locations across the U.S. are renting entire theaters for private screenings. As the COVID-19 pandemic contributes to record breaking losses, especially for theater owners, this is AMC’s attempt at staying open.
Hollywood studios have been pushing back movies’ theater releases and more movie watchers have been turning to streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, and Disney+. If these trends continue, theaters nationwide will be negatively affected. By making rentals more accessible and affordable to those that might be tired of watching movies at home, chains like AMC are hoping to revive the movie theater industry.
For as low as $99, groups of up to 20 people can enjoy a private screening experience for a few hours. According to AMC’s website, rates start at $99 and can increase up to $349 depending on the chosen film, the theater’s location, and any add-ons like food or drinks. Currently, customers can pick from 34 films being offered in the rental packages. Older releases like “Jurassic Park” start at $99 plus tax while newer movies like “Tenant” and “The New Mutants” begin at $149.
AMC isn’t the only theater chain trying out the recovery plan. Cinemark is also offering private rentals with its slate including movies like “Ghostbusters,” “Grease,” and “Coco.” Renting a Cinemark theater pre-COVID could cost from $250 to $500, but like AMC, Cinemark is offering varied rental prices depending on which film you pick and which day you choose to attend, meaning it could cost as low as $99 or $175 to rent the whole theater.
