In a remarkable turn of events, AMC Theatres has announced that it achieved the highest domestic revenue in its 104-year history over the pre-Thanksgiving weekend. This milestone was marked by impressive earnings from ticket sales, food and beverage, and merchandise, signifying a strong rebound in consumer interest and attendance at cinemas. The success is largely attributed to the simultaneous opening of highly anticipated films, “Wicked” and “Gladiator 2,” drawing crowds not only across the United States but also worldwide.
The combination of these blockbuster releases brought about an estimated $205 million in domestic ticket sales for the weekend. This figure is not only a significant increase compared to recent years but also marks the highest domestic admissions revenue recorded for the weekend prior to Thanksgiving since 2019, placing it third overall in AMC’s historical data for that weekend.
AMC’s CEO, Adam Aron, expressed enthusiasm for the successful weekend, highlighting that it sets the stage for what is expected to be a bustling holiday moviegoing season. The positive reception and financial performance of “Wicked” and “Gladiator 2” indicate that audiences are eager to return to theaters, reinforcing the notion that theatrical releases continue to hold a vital place in the entertainment industry.
This resurgence is further evidenced by the turnout in cinemas; nearly 4.6 million global moviegoers visited AMC and its partner, Odeon Cinemas, from Thursday to Sunday. The demand was so high that AMC’s specially marketed merchandise, particularly items themed around “Wicked,” sold out rapidly. These items included uniquely designed popcorn vessels and a notable 32-ounce Grippr Cup, showcasing the creative ways cinemas are enhancing the moviegoing experience.
Looking ahead, AMC has exciting plans to keep the momentum going. Beginning in late December, select AMC locations will introduce “Wicked Singalong” showings, an interactive experience that encourages audience involvement by displaying lyrics on screen. This innovative approach is aimed at creating a sense of community among fans and further enhancing the experience for viewers.
In celebration of their successful partnerships, Aron extended gratitude to the teams behind “Wicked” and “Gladiator 2,” praising the exceptional quality and marketing strategies that contributed to their successes. This positive acknowledgment reflects the collaborative spirit within the film industry and the importance of effective marketing in ensuring a film’s triumph in theaters.
As the holiday season approaches, the potential for further success in the box office remains high, especially with additional releases like “Moana 2” set to debut soon. AMC’s recent accomplishments serve as a testament to the resilience of cinema culture and the enthusiastic response from audiences eager for theatrical experiences. With continued collaboration and innovative marketing strategies, the future looks bright for AMC and the wider film industry as it embraces a resurgence after challenging years.