Press Archives | Cinema United

December 17, 2025

Cinema United Releases “Strength of Theatrical Exhibition” 2025 Update Spotlighting Important Movie Theatre Industry Metrics

Movie Fan Engagement Remains High with Gen Z Moviegoers Leading the Charge to the Local Theatre

LOS ANGELES, CA – (Dec. 17, 2025) – Cinema United, the world’s largest exhibition trade association, today released the 2025 update to its “Strength of Theatrical Exhibition” report, an annual analysis of key industry metrics beyond traditional box-office performance. This year’s update highlights how theatres are building loyalty through innovation, high-quality experiences, and a diverse slate of films—trends that continue to drive strong audience engagement. The report includes a special spotlight on Gen Z moviegoers, whose frequency of attendance grew by 25% over the last 12 months*, the largest increase of any age group.

“Weekend box office is important, but a more accurate measure is looking at the industry on an annual basis and considering myriad other factors in the marketplace to get a more complete picture of the strength of the industry,” said Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United. “2025 is a perfect example of a year where an inconsistent box office threatens to overshadow other variables that point to a bright future for movies on the big screen.”

Key findings in the 2025 update include:

The number of habitual moviegoers (those who see at least six movies annually) grew by 8% *.
77% of Americans aged 12-74 saw at least one movie, representing a total of more than 200 million Americans*.
Cinema loyalty programs in North America saw a 15% jump in new subscriptions from 2024 to 2025**.
Among all age groups, Gen Z went to the movies more frequently, averaging 6.1 visits, up from 4.9.*
41% of Gen Z audiences went to the movies six times or more, up from 31% in 2022*.

In addition, the Cinema United “Strength of Theatrical Exhibition” 2025 update features unreleased Gen Z-focused data from global management consulting firm McKinsey & Company’s Attention Equation report, revealing new insights into what Gen Z seeks out most in going to the movies, namely, immersive moviegoing experiences and unique concessions as the two highest-rated priorities.

“Movie fans, led by Gen Z, in particular, love coming to the movies and theatre owners are responding by spending over $1.5 billion upgrading their theatres over the past year in North America alone,” O’Leary continued. “The number of people who saw six or more movies grew a staggering 8% last year, and with the amazing slate of 2026 movies on the horizon, that trend has a chance to continue. Time and time again, consumers show that when investment and innovation combine with a great movie to create a special experience, the theatrical business thrives. That time-tested foundation of our industry remains strong, and we are excited to build upon it toward greater success in the coming year.”

*Source: NRG’s Future of Film report, August 2024-August 2025
**Source: Cinema United

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE 2025 UPDATE

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing 31,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 80 countries. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

December 5, 2025

Cinema United Opposes Proposed Acquisition Of Legendary Hollywood Studio Warner Bros.

Fewer Movies and Lack of Meaningful Commitment to Theatrical Exhibition will Hurt Consumers, Theatre Owners, and the Entertainment Industry around the Globe

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Dec. 5, 2025 – Cinema United, the world’s largest exhibition trade association which represents over 30,000 movie screens in all 50 states, with an additional 26,000 screens internationally, announced today their opposition to the proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Netflix.

“The proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix poses an unprecedented threat to the global exhibition business. The negative impact of this acquisition will impact theatres from the biggest circuits to one-screen independents in small towns in the United States and around the world,” said Cinema United President and CEO Michael O’Leary. “Cinema United stands ready to support industry changes that lead to increased movie production and give consumers more opportunities to enjoy a day at the local theatre. But Netflix’s stated business model does not support theatrical exhibition. In fact, it is the opposite. Regulators must look closely at the specifics of this proposed transaction and understand the negative impact it will have on consumers, exhibition and the entertainment industry.”

This mega-deal between Netflix and Warner Bros. would risk removing 25% of the annual domestic box office if films that are traditionally given a robust theatrical release by Warner Bros. disappear from theatres. Netflix currently grants only a handful of their films a token theatrical release and the overwhelming majority of Netflix titles go straight to their platform.

“Netflix success is television, not movies on the big screen. A true commitment to theatrical means a robust slate of movies with a meaningful period of theatrical exclusivity supported by marketing. Sporadic and truncated theatrical releases to meet awards criteria in a handful of theatres is not a commitment to exhibition.” O’Leary added. “Movie theatres are cultural and economic anchors of communities of all sizes – we are a Main Street industry. Research shows that for each dollar spent in a local movie theatre, an additional $1.50 is spent in surrounding businesses in the community—restaurants, bars, shopping centers, transportation. That is what is at risk here if we sanction fewer movies in the marketplace. Theatres will close, communities will suffer, jobs will be lost.”

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 31,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 80 countries. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

October 23, 2025

Cinema United Hires Theo George As Director of Marketing

WASHINGTON, D.C. AND LOS ANGELES – October 23, 2025 – Cinema United, the world’s largest exhibition trade association, announced today that it has tapped Theo George as Director of Marketing. This is a new position that will serve multiple marketing and communications functions for the organization, including social media, brand marketing, campaign and project management and creative leadership. Based in Los Angeles, George will be an integral member of the broader Cinema United team as it expands its impact among consumers and industry partners, advocating on behalf of theatrical exhibition as cultural and financial hubs for communities of all sizes across the country and around the world. George will report to Andrew Stewart, Cinema United’s Chief Communications Officer.

“From our first meeting with Theo, we were instantly impressed with his overall marketing experience in both exhibition and advocacy. His creative acumen and strategic insight, not to mention his passion and love of the movies, were obvious and we are thrilled to see him apply those skills to advance this amazing industry forward,” Stewart said.

George commented, saying: “I’ve spent a good portion of my career getting audiences excited about going to the movies because I believe deeply in the power of the shared theatrical experience. Cinema United’s mission to unite and promote the industry couldn’t be more urgent or inspiring. I’m thrilled to champion the theatre owners who create those magical moments for millions of moviegoers and ensure that the irreplaceable experience of going to the movies remains a cultural cornerstone.”

In this new role, George will be in charge of developing and executing a comprehensive social media strategy for Cinema United, as well as CinemaCon, the world’s premier annual showcase of theatrical exhibition hosted by Cinema United. He will also oversee the strategic growth of general consumer interactions for Cinema United and CinemaCon through creative year-round marketing activations and targeted brand and media partnerships.

Prior to joining Cinema United, George most recently served as Cinema Marketing Manager for BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music), where he drove audience engagement and exceeded revenue targets through innovative, data-driven campaigns. He previously served as Marketing Director for the Maryland Film Festival and worked as a Digital Strategist for the National Center for Transgender Equality, where he led groundbreaking advocacy campaigns. Theo holds a Master’s in Arts Management from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor’s in Africana Studies from UMBC.

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 33,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 80 countries internationally. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

October 14, 2025

Cinema United Extends Contract of CEO and President

Multi-year agreement keeps Michael O’Leary at Cinema United through 2030

WASHINGTON, D.C. AND LOS ANGELES – October 14, 2025 – Cinema United, the world’s largest exhibition trade association, announced today that it has extended the contract of CEO and President Michael O’Leary for an additional five years. O’Leary, who joined the organization in 2023, will continue to lead Cinema United under an agreement that was approved unanimously by the Cinema United Executive Board at their meeting in Los Angeles last week.

“Michael has proven to be a tireless and passionate advocate for the exhibition industry,” said Mike Bowers, Cinema United Board Chair and CEO of Harkins Theatres. “Leveraging his broad experience in the motion picture industry as well as on Capitol Hill, Michael’s focus on unity, strategy and continuous improvement has earned the confidence and respect of members of all sizes, as well as our studio partners. The next five years present unique and exciting opportunities for our industry. We are thrilled to have the long-term stability and steady hand of Michael and the talented Cinema United team representing us during this time.”

Since joining the organization in May 2023, O’Leary has focused on promoting and amplifying the positive economic and cultural impact of movie theatres in cities and towns around the world. Cinema United recently released its report highlighting that the domestic industry alone spent over $1.5 billion on theatre re-investment in just the past twelve months. Exhibition’s commitment to creating the Next Great Era of Cinema will be on display next spring at their annual global convention CinemaCon where “Innovation and Experiences” will be the primary theme. Also this year, O’Leary, who believes that the strength of theatrical exhibition is its people, oversaw the successful adoption of the Cinema United brand in support of his effort to unify and strengthen an industry that spans the globe and comprises businesses from single-screen theatres to the world’s largest international theatre circuits.

“Representing the great people who own and operate theatres across the United States and around the world has been one of the great honors of my professional career, and I am energized by the opportunities that lie ahead for this iconic industry,” said O’Leary. “I want to thank Chairman Mike Bowers, outgoing Chair Bob Bagby and the entire Cinema United Executive Board for this opportunity. I also want to thank my dedicated colleagues at Cinema United. Our success is a direct result of their hard work and creativity, and I am excited to continue our work supporting and advocating on behalf of this industry.”

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 33,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 81 countries internationally. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

October 8, 2025

Harkins Theatres President and CEO Mike Bowers Elected Chair of Cinema United Executive Board

Cinemark’s Wanda Gierhart Fearing, Colleen Barstow of Main Street Theatres, and Georgia Theatre Company’s Bo Chambliss Round Out Leadership Team

Recent Changes to Cinema United By-Laws Result in Most Votes Ever Cast in Executive Board Election

BEVERLY HILLS – October 8, 2025 – The Cinema United Executive Board of Directors has elected Harkins Theatres President & CEO Mike Bowers as the new Chair of its Executive Board. Bowers assumes the position from the previous Board Chair, Bob Bagby, CEO of B&B Theatres, who finishes his two-year term this week. Bagby will remain on the Executive Board representing B&B Theatres. Bowers has been in the exhibition industry for nearly 40 years and has been President and CEO of the Arizona-based Harkins Theatres since 2006.

Joining Bowers among the Executive Board leadership will be Cinemark’s Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Content Officer, Wanda Gierhart Fearing, who will serve as Vice-Chair. Additionally, Colleen Barstow of Nebraska-based Main Street Theatres will become Treasurer, and Bo Chambliss of Georgia Theatre Company will continue as Board Secretary.

[Left to Right: Mike Bowers, Wanda Gierhart Fearing, Colleen Barstow, Bo Chambliss]

“I am extremely excited to work with Mike and the leadership team to continue to support and promote this great industry. Mike brings years of experience building a successful circuit, and he will work tirelessly to support all of exhibition. The entire leadership team will bring energy and insight as we continue to drive toward the next great era in cinema,” says Cinema United President & CEO Michael O’Leary. “I also want to acknowledge and thank Bob for successfully leading Cinema United these past two years. He will remain on the Board and continue to be a leader for years to come.”

“Delivering an amazing cinematic experience has been my life’s work,” says incoming Chair Mike Bowers. “It’s a true honor to serve the passionate people who bring the magic of moviegoing to communities across America and around the globe.”

Also elected to the Board were representatives from circuits of all sizes from across the United States. Those elected to join or re-join the Cinema United Executive Board of Directors are: (independent seats) Becky Dupuis of Montana’s Polson Theatres, Inc., Paul Gunsky of CineLux Theatres in California (incumbent), Lauren McChesney of Pennsylvania’s Shankweiler’s Drive-In Theatre; (mid-sized circuit seats) Bo Chambliss of Georgia Theatre Company (incumbent), Paul Glantz of Michigan-based Emagine Entertainment, Inc. (incumbent); and (regional leaders seat) Todd Vradenburg of NATO of California/Nevada.

“Congratulations to the new members elected to the Board and those leaders who were re-elected,” O’Leary added. “We have much to do, and I look forward to working with the entire Board in the months ahead. Also, special recognition and appreciation goes out to departing Board members Chris Johnson, Joe Masher and Randy Hester, all of whom played vital roles during their time on the Executive Board and will continue to be essential voices in our community.”

The 2025 election marked the first time that all dues-paying members of Cinema United were eligible to vote for its Executive Board of Directors. As a result, more votes were cast in this election that at any time during the organization’s 77-year history. The Executive Board of Directors is the governing body of Cinema United, comprised of 20 leaders in the domestic exhibition industry. The four volunteer officers of the association are elected from and by the members of the Executive Board.

Cinema United’s structure is designed to encourage member participation in the activities, benefits and deliberations of the association. An Advisory Board, comprised of more than 100 representatives of the domestic and international exhibition community, deliberates on exhibition issues, and makes policy recommendations to the Executive Board of Directors.

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED
Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 33,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 81 countries internationally. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

September 16, 2025

Cinema Owners In North America Have Invested $1.5 Billion In Their Theatres Throughout The Past Year

New Cinema Investment Report from Cinema United Highlights Exhibition’s Commitment to Reinvesting in the Consumer Experience

Eight Largest Circuits Surpass $900 Million Mark in Twelve Months

WASHINGTON, D.C. and LOS ANGELES, CA – September 16, 2025 – A new report issued today by Cinema United highlights that the North American exhibition industry re-invested more than $1.5 billion in their theatres in the past year, demonstrating a clear financial commitment to creating the premium entertainment experiences that fans of movies on the big screen crave. This industry total includes re-investment of $920 million from the eight largest circuits in the United States and Canada. A year ago, those same eight circuits alone pledged their commitment to invest more than $2.2 billion to modernize and upgrade theatres of all sizes over a three-year period.

From Cinema United, the trade association representing nearly 64,000 screens worldwide, the Cinema Investment Report highlights the overall depth and breadth of these investments across the industry and the impact they have on communities of all sizes. From upgrading projectors, sound equipment and screens (there are nearly 6,000 premium large-format screens worldwide) to adding dynamic food & beverage options (dine-in cinemas represent 10% of the North American box office), cinemas today sit at the forefront of the experiential economy, driving local business and providing positive financial growth for a myriad of industry partners, including construction, architecture, marketing and advertising, retail and dining. More than 100,000 jobs around the world are directly related to the innovation and investments highlighted in this report.

“Exhibition is a Main Street industry,” says Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United. “Theatre owners aren’t just re-investing in their facilities; they are investing in cities and towns of all sizes across the United States and Canada. The beneficiaries of this commitment will, of course, be movie fans of all ages but also local businesses and the talented contractors and craftspeople who help bring these renovations to life.”

In addition to showcasing the capital investments being made in theatres, the report also highlights the local vendors who led construction and renovation efforts that movies fans everywhere will enjoy.

“Movie theatres provide an unmatched entertainment experience for people around the world, but they are also important cornerstones in their communities. The re-investment and innovation underway at theatres of all sizes will bolster local economies by driving revenue and creating jobs,” says Bob Bagby, CEO of B&B Theatres and Chair of Cinema United. “Every day, movie theatres create jobs, partner with local vendors and attract movie fans who also support surrounding businesses.”

Cinema United members featured in this report include AMC, B&B Theatres, Cinemark, Cineplex, Cinépolis, Golden Ticket Cinemas, Harkins, Marcus, Ojai Playhouse, Penn Cinema, Phoenix Theatres (headquartered in Detroit), Regal and Santikos.

Partners mentioned also include Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce (Clarksville, Tenn.), GastingerWalker (architecture firm in Kansas City, Mo.), Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (Joplin, Mo.), Kinectiv (advertising/marketing firm in Lancaster, Pa.), KEPH Construction (Dadeville, Ala.), Kupiec Architects (Santa Barbara, Calif.), Prosser Wilbert (construction company in Kansas City, Mo.) and Speedwell Construction (Manheim, Pa.).

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 33,000 movie screens in all 50 U.S. states and Canada, with an additional more than 30,000 screens in 81 countries internationally. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

July 29, 2025

Date Night @ the Movies Offers Two-for-One Treats and Special Discounts On Movies Concessions At Cinemas Across the Country Friday, August 22

LOS ANGELES, CA – July 29, 2025 – Cinema United and The Cinema Foundation are introducing Date Night @ the Movies, a new national moviegoing event on Friday, August 22. The evening is a celebration of America’s favorite entertainment pastime featuring two-for-one treats – with discounts ranging from popcorn, drinks and other concessions to surprise movie theatre promotions – at thousands of participating locations across the country.

It’s the latest event in the year-long @ the Movies campaign. Previous events included National Popcorn Day (January 19) and Sneak Peek Showcase (April 22). Fandango, the nation’s leading online movie ticketing service, returns to the @ the Movies program as the presenting sponsor.

“Movies are better experienced together,” says Mike Bowers, Chair of The Cinema Foundation. “Date Night @ the Movies is a celebration of the long-lasting memories we create and share at the cinema. This one-night only event is all about enjoying the big screen with someone special, whether it’s your partner, best friend, new friend, family member or movie-loving plus one.”

“We are excited to join Cinema United and The Cinema Foundation in launching Date Night @ the Movies in theatres nationwide on August 22,” said Jerramy Hainline, EVP of Fandango. “Fandango is all about creating a memorable moviegoing experience. We hope we can help fans enjoy movie magic on the big screen while ordering their favorite theatre treats at discounted prices for a great night out at the movies.”

To find theatres and their individual offerings at your local movie theatre, visit AtTheMovies.co (website/app) or Fandango, and check out #TogetherAtTheMovies on social platforms.

ABOUT THE CINEMA FOUNDATION

The Cinema Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit dedicated to strengthening the cinema industry and engaging moviegoing audiences around the country. The Foundation promotes and enhances the exhibition industry through programming, events and activities, while spearheading the development of vital industry data, research and consumer insights, education and community involvement to advance the moviegoing experience. For additional info, please visit thecinemafoundation.org.

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

Founded in 1948, Cinema United is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 31,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 30,000 screens in 80 countries worldwide. Its membership includes theatres of all sizes, from the largest cinema chains to one-screen theatres in cities and towns around the world. For additional information, please visit cinemaunited.org.

ABOUT FANDANGO

Fandango digital network provides unrivaled, instant access to all things movies and TV, enhancing fan enjoyment across the entire entertainment journey. The portfolio serves more than 50 million unique visitors per month and includes leading online movie ticketer, Fandango, which tickets for 31,000 U.S. movie screens; world-renowned entertainment review site, Rotten Tomatoes; and Fandango at Home (previously Vudu), the on-demand streaming service offering the industry’s best selection of 4K UHD titles and more than 250,000 new release and catalogue movies and next day TV shows.

July 12, 2025

Cinema United Member Shankweiler’s Drive-In Featured on GMA

GMA stopped in Pennsylvania to visit Shankweiler’s Drive-In—the world’s oldest operating drive-in movie theatre—as part of their 50 States in 50 Weeks series.

Each week, a GMA anchor or correspondent will visit a new state, following the order in which they joined the United States.

Along the way, GMA will spotlight the beauty of the people who make up America, inviting viewers to share the people in their neighborhood and state who make it the best place to live.

Shankweiler’s Drive-In was established in 1934. For over 90 years, it has delighted audiences with double features on its large outdoor screen. Located in the Lehigh Valley, Orefield, Pennsylvania, just off Route 309.

June 23, 2025

Cinema United Attends CineEurope As Global Exhibition Industry Surges

[Left to Right: Cinema United’s Erin Von Hoetzendorff, CinemaCon’s Matt Pollock, and Cinema United’s Andrew Stewart]

Exhibitors and vendors from across the world gathered in Barcelona for the annual CineEurope convention from June 16-19 to celebrate a surging box office and discuss the bright future of the exhibition industry.

According to Gower Street, the global box office cume at the end of May hit $13.4 billion, which is 13% ahead of 2024 and on par with 2023. The data firm recently bumped their projection for 2025’s total global haul to $34.1 billion, up $1.1 billion from their initial projection in early 2025.

The International Union of Cinemas’ President Phil Clapp and CEO Laura Houlgatte touted the strong state of European cinema in their keynote address at the event.

“In 2024, cinemas across Europe recorded over 934 million admissions and box office revenues close 7.1 billion euros. No small spart in that success was played by the continued investment by operators of all sizes, who continue to provide audiences with an incredibly diverse and appealing offer of both film content and big screen experience. Striving to innovate, driving local economies while a remaining a cherished community and cultural resource.”

While at CineEurope, Cinema United’s Chief Communication Officer Andrew Stewart, Cinema United’s Director of Membership and Global Affairs Erin Von Hoetzendorff, and CinemaCon’s Associate Managing Director Matt Pollock met with exhibitors from around the world—Svenska Bio, Cineworld, Pathe, Omniplex, Kinepolis, Nordisk Film, Cinemark, Cineplexx, Cinépolis, and Odeon—to discuss the current state of the industry and topics that unite all exhibitors such as continued innovation both in programming and cinema renovations.

June 13, 2025

Cinema United’s Amanda Martin and Erin Von Hoetzendorff Named To Celluloid Junkie’s 2025 Top Women in Global Cinema List

Amanda Martin, Cinema United’s Chief of Staff, and Erin Von Hoetzendorff, Cinema United’s Director of Membership and Global Affairs, were named to Celluloid Junkie’s 2025 Top Women in Global Cinema List. CJ wrote the following:

Amanda Martin

As Chief of Staff at Cinema United (formerly the National Association of Theatre Owners), Amanda Martin plays a central role in guiding the strategic and operational direction of the global trade body for the movie theatre industry. A trusted advisor to the executive leadership team, Martin leads both federal government affairs and state-level advocacy efforts across the Western United States.

In 2024, Martin expanded her portfolio to include creative and storytelling initiatives. She serves as executive producer of Behind the Screens: The Faces of Exhibition, a nationally recognized series that debuted at CinemaCon and has since profiled more than a dozen cinema owners and operators. The project brings to life the voices of frontline exhibition professionals, spotlighting their innovation, perseverance, and impact on local communities.

Before joining Cinema United, Martin was a state government affairs specialist at the Entertainment Software Association, where she advocated on behalf of the video game industry. She began her public policy career in the California district office of Congressman Eric Swalwell, assisting constituents and advancing community engagement.

Erin Von Hoetzendorff

Erin Von Hoetzendorff is Director of Membership and Global Affairs at Cinema United (formerly the National Association of Theatre Owners). Since joining the organization in 2018, she has led efforts to foster inclusive engagement across the industry – spearheading initiatives like the Ambassador Program and overseeing several key member communities, including Young Members, Membership, International, and Technology.

She also serves as staff liaison to the Global Cinema Federation, helping coordinate international policy and advocacy efforts across borders. Outside her core role, she contributes meaningfully to broader industry collaboration as Secretary of Film Row and formerly as administrator of Inter-Society. Based in Los Angeles, Von Hoetzendorff is widely respected as a passionate connector and coalition-builder who has been instrumental in expanding Cinema United’s reach and relevance.

Read the full list here.