Press Release Archives | Cinema United

April 16, 2025

For the First Time Ever, The Cinema Foundation presents Sneak Peek Showcase

The Program Will Feature Previews from Major Studios for their Upcoming 2025 Slate, Along with Never-Before-Seen Clips and Behind-the-Scenes Pieces from Highly Anticipated Films

Launches Exclusively in Theatres Across North America on April 22 & 24

All Proceeds from Tickets, Priced at $3, Will Benefit Variety–The Children’s Charity, Will Rogers Foundation, Canadian Picture Pioneers and The Cinema Foundation

LOS ANGELES – April 16, 2025 – Next week The Cinema Foundation, the non-profit arm of Cinema United, will host for the first time ever a nearly 70-minute program entitled Sneak Peek Showcase at thousands of screens across North America. The evening program will offer movie lovers an exciting preview of big-screen studio movies, including some favorites from the industry-insider event, CinemaCon 2025, held earlier this month by Cinema United.

On Tuesday, April 22, and Thursday, April 24, Hollywood’s biggest studios will highlight their upcoming summer and fall 2025 slates, with a fun look at this year’s trailers, some never-before-seen footage and behind-the-scenes clips, as part of a curated experience designed exclusively for moviegoing audiences. The showcase will feature a wide variety of films that are rated PG, PG-13 and R.

Proceeds from Sneak Peek Showcase will go to charities, including Variety – The Children’s Charity, Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation and The Cinema Foundation. Participating cinemas across Canada will also be exhibiting the Sneak Peek Showcase, and a portion of those proceeds will go to the Canadian Picture Pioneers, a charitable organization that provides various financial assistance and educational programs for those in need within the Canadian film industry.

The nearly 70-minute program will debut on April 22 with an encore performance on April 24, with both performances taking place at 6 p.m. local time. Tickets are on sale now for $3.00 at participating theatres’ website or app, as well as atthemovies.co and on Fandango.

Sneak Peek Showcase is part of The Cinema Foundation’s year-round @The Movies campaign and is presented by Fandango with additional support from The Coca-Cola Company. As part of the programming, the Sneak Peek Showcase will also include the big screen debut of the Grand Prize-winning spot from the 2025 Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program. The Coca-Cola Refreshing Films program is an opportunity for up-and-coming filmmakers from partnered schools to create content for the big screen.

“Sneak Peek Showcase helps bring a little taste of the famed industry-insider event CinemaCon to movie lovers with a fun look at the upcoming theatrical slate,” says Bryan Braunlich, Executive Director of The Cinema Foundation. “For the first time, cinemagoers will get a glimpse of the most anticipated movies coming soon to their neighborhood theatres all in one program. We are proud to have proceeds benefit industry charitable organizations, and we are grateful for the support of our sponsors, Fandango and The Coca-Cola Company.”

The Cinema Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2022 by Cinema United (formerly National Association of Theatre Owners), dedicated to promoting and expanding the movie theatre industry and to advancing the moviegoing experience. Sneak Peek Showcase is part of the Foundation’s quarterly “@The Movies” events that began with National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19, where thousands of theatres nationwide offered discounts like unlimited popcorn refills. Other upcoming events include Date Night @ The Movies on Aug. 15, 2025, and Family Day @ The Movies on Nov. 9, 2025.

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.

April 4, 2025

Sneak Peek Showcase To Deliver A Unique Big-Screen Experience for Film Fans With Exclusive Content, Trailers and Special Features

Tickets $3 with all proceeds benefiting Variety–The Children’s Charity, Will Rogers Foundation and The Cinema Foundation

LAS VEGAS – Friday, April 4, 2025 – On the heels of CinemaCon, hosted by Cinema United, thousands of screens across the country will debut a new 70-minute program entitled Sneak Peek Showcase on April 22 and 24, bringing an exciting preview of big-screen studio content to movie lovers, with a fun look at trailers, never-seen-before footage, and behind-the-scenes content from this year’s most anticipated movies exclusively in cinemas nationwide. Hollywood’s biggest studios will highlight their upcoming summer and fall 2025 slates, with some unveiling special surprises – ranging from exclusive scenes to brand-new trailers – created just for moviegoing audiences.

Participating studios will include:

Sony Pictures Entertainment Lionsgate Warner Bros. PicturesUniversal Pictures/Focus FeaturesAmazon MGM StudiosParamount Pictures The Walt Disney Studios

Thousands of screens will participate in the event, with the proceeds going to charities, including Variety – The Children’s Charity, Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation and The Cinema Foundation. The 70-minute program will debut on April 22 with an encore performance on April 24. Both performances take place at 6 pm local time. Tickets are on sale now for $3.00 at your favorite theatre’s website or app, as well as atthemovies.co and on Fandango.

“Sneak Peek Showcase is an exciting new way to bring moviegoers an exclusive preview of this year’s amazing films coming soon to a theatre near you,” says Bryan Braunlich, Executive Director of The Cinema Foundation. “For the first time, we’re curating a theatrical experience for film fans featuring exclusive content usually reserved for industry insiders. It’s a fresh approach to movie marketing – dynamic, engaging and only in theatres – and we’re proud that proceeds will benefit industry charitable organizations. We are especially grateful to our presenting sponsor Fandango and our supporting partner Coca-Cola for helping make this innovative program a reality.”

The Cinema Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2022 by Cinema United, dedicated to promoting and expanding the movie theatre industry and to advancing the moviegoing experience. Sneak Peek Showcase is part of the Foundation’s quarterly “@The Movies” events that began with National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19, where thousands of theatres nationwide offered discounts like unlimited popcorn refills. Other upcoming events include Date Night @ The Movies on Aug. 19, 2025, and Family Day @ The Movies on Nov. 9, 2025.

April 1, 2025

Movie Snacks Unite: CinemaCon 2025 Official Poster Art Contest Announces Winners During Opening Night Presentation

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 1, 2025) – CinemaCon and Cinema United are proud to recognize three winners for 2025’s Official Poster Art Contest, which were announced onstage Monday night in the Colosseum by Mitch Neuhauser, Managing Director of CinemaCon.

Anthony Battaglia, Senior Manager of Cypress Cinemark 12 & XD in Cypress, Texas, won first place for his poster titled, Concession Pals. Battaglia describes the piece as “a showcase for the fun and awe of experiencing the cinema.” The poster utilizes iconic theatre snacks as a group of friends who are engaged and entertained while at the movies. As the winning artist, Battaglia received a complimentary trip to this year’s CinemaCon, and his winning artwork will be prominently featured throughout the convention and showcased on t-shirts provided to all attendees.

Jo-Ellen Ellis, Sr. Graphic Designer from Cineplex in London, Ontario, Canada, came in second place with her poster titled, Concession Crew. The poster showcases the iconic crew of concession stand snacks—popcorn, candy, soda, and hot dogs—as a group of friends creating the perfect movie meal. Ellis received complimentary registration to CinemaCon, and her work will be included in a gallery display at the convention.

Johanna Greif, a graphic designer from the North Bend Theatre in North Bend, Washington, won third place for her poster titled, The Gilded Screen of Caesars. The design blends the iconic architecture of Caesars Palace with the nostalgic glow of a classic movie theatre marquee. Greif also received a complimentary registration to the show, as well having her work be displayed within the full art gallery display at the convention.

Sponsored by Mobile Moviegoing, the CinemaCon 2025 Art Contest was open to all theatre employees of Cinema United member companies. Artists were tasked with designing a poster from one of the following three prompts: Friends’ Night Out, Architectural Wonders, and Theatre Snacks. Each winner’s artwork was judged based on their marketability, creativity, design attractiveness, adherence to the artist’s selected theme, and overall impact.

All artists will receive a printed poster of their work that will be sent to them directly courtesy of CinemaCon and Cinema United.

Approved press images of all three winning posters can be downloaded here.

April 1, 2025

Mark Hamill To Receive Cinema Icon Honor As Part Of Big Screen Achievement Awards

LAS VEGAS (April 1, 2025) – Mark Hamill will receive this year’s Cinema Icon Award, it was announced today by CinemaCon, the official convention of Cinema United and the world’s largest gathering of exhibitors, being held this week at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Hamill will be presented with this special honor later tonight at the Big Screen Achievement Awards ceremony at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, hosted by official presenting sponsor, The Coca-Cola Company.

“Mark Hamill’s career is proof that great characters don’t just live on the screen—they live within us, galvanizing generations of audiences worldwide,” noted Mitch Neuhauser, Managing Director, CinemaCon. “This Cinema Icon Award honors not just an actor, but a legacy of incredible work that extends beyond the screen and continues to inspire us all.”

Mark Hamill will have three films in theaters in 2025. He will soon appear on screen in the highly anticipated adaptation of The Long Walk, the first-written novel by master storyteller Stephen King. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the visionary director of The Hunger Games franchise films (Catching Fire, Mockingjay – Pts. 1 & 2, and The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes), this intense, chilling and emotional thriller challenges audiences to confront a haunting question: how far could you go? He is garnering early awards buzz for his role opposite Tom Hiddleston in Neon’s The Life of Chuck which won the 2024 TIFF Audience Award and will also be seen in Paramount’s The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants as The Flying Dutchman.

Hamill is best known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars movies and reprised his role in both the sequels as well as the second season of The Mandalorian and season one of The Book of Boba Fett. He has also appeared in the films Kingsman: The Secret Service, Sony’s The Machine and Brigsby Bear. Hamill’s extensive voice acting work includes his role as the Thorn, the grizzly bear in DreamWorks Animation’s recently Oscar-nominated animated feature, The Wild Robot; Granduncle in the Oscar-winning The Boy and the Heron; and a long-standing role as the Joker, commencing with “Batman: The Animated Series” and the video game “Arkham City,” for which he received a BAFTA award.

Approved press image can be downloaded here.

April 1, 2025

Cinema United Hosts Trade Show Tour at CinemaCon 2025

Cinema United President and CEO Michael O’Leary led a guided tour of the CinemaCon Trade Show floor showcasing leading companies in the cinema industry who were unveiling new products, services, and experiences that contribute to creating an exceptional theatrical experience. This year, the focus of the tour was to highlight a broad cross-section of companies headquartered in states throughout the country, demonstrating the breadth of the industry and its impact on Main Street America.

Participating companies listed below:

BARTESIAN (CHICAGO, IL): Revolutionizing cinema cocktails, Bartesian will demonstrate its premium single-serve cocktail machine, with new and exclusive limited-time-offer flavors.

C. CRETORS AND CO. (WOOD DALE, IL): Inventors of the original popcorn machine, C. Cretors and Company will present its latest innovations, including induction-heated popcorn machines and self-serve poppers.

DIPPIN’ DOTS (PADUCAH, KY): The original beaded ice cream brand will debut its new Cookie Monster ice cream, featuring blue sugar cookie-flavored ice cream dots.

THE ICEE COMPANY (LA VERGNE, TN): A staple in cinemas, Icee will co-exhibit with J&J Snack Foods and Dippin’ Dots, showcasing new limited-time flavors, innovative video merchandising, and fresh ways to enjoy frozen treats.

J&J SNACK FOODS (MOUNT LAUREL, NJ): This leader in snack foods will showcase new products and flavors across its baked goods, frozen beverage, and frozen novelties categories.

REDEMPTION PLUS (OVERLAND PARK, KS): A trusted partner for entertainment centers, Redemption Plus will showcase its custom design services, trending product selections, and expert merchandising solutions.

SYSCO CORPORATION (HOUSTON, TX): A new player in the cinema space, Sysco will showcase its newly stocked assortments of cinema candy, popcorn, and sodas.

TK ARCHITECTS (KANSAS CITY, MO): Known for its innovative, customized solutions, TK Architects will show off their latest designs tailored for cinema clients.

March 31, 2025

Cinema United Spotlights Exhibition Industry Leaders In “Behind the Screens” Video Series

Popular Series Returns at CinemaCon, Featuring an All-New Class of Exhibitors

LAS VEGAS – March 31, 2025 – Cinema United announced today that they will debut the second season of its popular video series, Behind the Screens: The Faces of Exhibition, this week at CinemaCon, the world’s largest exhibition convention. This innovative series tells the unique and compelling stories of people from across the global cinema industry from the world’s largest chains to single-screen independent cinema owners.

The series, featuring two-minute-long shorts, first premiered at CinemaCon 2024 to rave reactions from across the industry. Behind the Screens was created and produced by Cinema United in association with FilmFrog.

“This series shines a long overdue light on people who embody what is really special about theatrical exhibition,” says Michael O’Leary, President & CEO of Cinema United. “Behind the Screens puts a human face on why going to the theatre is an incredible experience. Their passion and commitment to movie fans shines through in every video. It is no wonder that people from across the entertainment industry have reacted so positively to their stories.”

The exhibition leaders featured in this year’s series are:

Becky & Gary Dupuis, Polson Theatres: Polson, Montana
Gurbani Marwah, Cineplex: Toronto, Ontario
Ryan Oestreich, Music Box Theatre: Chicago, Illinois
Doreen Sayegh, Cranford Theater: Cranford, New Jersey
Nikki Shellenberger, Regal Edwards Mira Mesa: San Diego, California

“The authenticity of the people featured in Behind the Screens is the reason they resonate with so many people,” said Amanda Martin, Cinema United Chief of Staff, who manages the project. “Initially, people are a bit nervous and cautious, but when the cameras roll, and the exhibitors start talking about what they do to make going to the cinema memorable, you can feel their energy and dedication. That is what comes across in these videos and what makes them so special.”

The inaugural Behind the Screens episodes can be found at cinemaunited.org, with the new episodes available by the end of the week.

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

###

Media Contacts:

Andrew Stewart

424-299-2065

andrew@cinemaunited.org

Harry Medved

310-200-1201

harry@cinemaunited.org

Phil Contrino

610-844-2459

phil@cinemaunited.org

March 27, 2025

Cinema United Highlights Innovation in Exhibition With “The Next Great Era of Cinema” Special Report

Summary Features More Than 20 Exhibitors of All Sizes from Communities Worldwide

WASHINGTON, D.C. & LOS ANGELES (March 27, 2025) – In the lead-up to CinemaCon, Cinema United is releasing today a special report titled, “The Next Great Era of Cinema.”The report highlights exhibitors who arereinvesting in their communities, bringing technological innovation to consumers, and making sure the fun and excitement of going to the theatre doesn’t end when the movie does.

“Everyone in our industry is united by a common goal: ensuring, through continued innovation, that the experience of watching a movie on a large screen with amazing sound in a communal setting is here to stay,” said Michael O’Leary, President & CEO of Cinema United. “Consumers today are more discerning than ever, and the entire theatrical exhibition community continues to reinvest in itself by providing the best entertainment experiences possible for movie fans around the world.”

The report, which is broken down into three separate areas, Reinvesting in Our Communities, Technological Innovation and More than a Movie, focuses on the exhibition industry’s place as a quintessential Main Street industry. In it, the report highlights how movie theatres are the cornerstones of small towns, rural communities, and major cities worldwide.

Those cinemas and theatre chains featured in the report (listed here alphabetically) represent a diverse range of Cinema United members, from major chains to independent arthouses: ACX Cinemas; Alamo Drafthouse; AMC Theatres; B&B Theatres; Belcourt Theatre (Nashville, TN); Cinépolis; Cinergy; CMX; Emagine; Event Cinemas; Harkins Theatres; The Lot; Marcus Theatres; The Music Box (Chicago, IL); PVR INOX; Regal; Santikos; Silver Moon Drive-In (Lakeland, FL); Southampton Playhouse (Southampton, NY); Spotlight Theatres (Warsaw, NY); The State Theatre (Washington, IA).

Added O’Leary: “Despite the existential challenges facing our industry over the past five years, our critics failed to understand the strength and fight of the men and women who operate cinemas. Cinemas did not perish as some suggested they would; and now, despite these challenges, the industry is in a position of strength, poised for the next great era of cinema.”

Cinema United, formerly the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), recently rebranded itself with a new name and identity that points to the unique and unmatched communal experience of seeing a movie in the cinema, as well as the industry’s commitment to innovation and the future of theatrical exhibition.

Click HERE to download the full report.

March 20, 2025

CinemaCon Announces Its 2025 Big Screen Achievement Awards Honorees

Star-Studded Event Caps Week-Long Celebration of Theatrical Exhibition on Thursday, April 3

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 20, 2025) – Today, CinemaCon^®, the world’s largest theatrical convention held by Cinema United, announced honorees for the 2025 Big Screen Achievement Awards, taking place on April 3 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. This year’s honorees, Channing Tatum (Distinguished Decade of Achievement in Film), Ana de Armas (Action Star of the Year), Lindsay Lohan (Vanguard Award), Cheech & Chong (Career Achievement in Comedy), David Jonsson (Next Generation Award), Madeleine McGraw (Rising Star of 2025), and Ben Wang (Star of Tomorrow), join previously announced honoree, Glen Powell (Star of the Year).

Designed to recognize the remarkable achievements of the extraordinary talent behind the movies, the Big Screen Awards afford an opportunity for the global theatrical exhibition industry to show their gratitude to the performers and filmmakers who bring the magic of movies to their screens.

“The Big Screen Achievement Awards are exhibition’s way of saying thank you to the talented and creative people that make magic on movie screens all across the globe. They are essential to the wonder that is the moviegoing experience,” noted Mitch Neuhauser, Managing Director of CinemaCon. “This year’s honorees have entertained audiences the world over and we are excited to celebrate their accomplishments at this year’s Big Screen Achievement Awards.’”

The Big Screen Achievement Awards, hosted by CinemaCon’s official presenting sponsor The Coca-Cola Company, take place at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, and represent the finale to the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition, CinemaCon. Returning to host the awards this year will be Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Frazier.

Channing Tatum stars opposite Kirsten Dunst and Peter Dinklage in Derek Cianfrance’s upcoming film Roofman, opening exclusively in theatres on October 3 via Paramount Pictures. With a career spanning acting, producing and directing, Tatum is known for his iconic roles in such films as Magic Mike, The Lost City, 21 Jump Street, The Vow, and Deadpool & Wolverine, consistently demonstrating his range in both comedy and drama. He co-directed and produced Dog, and earned critical acclaim for his performances in Foxcatcher and The Hateful Eight. As a producer, Tatum has made a significant impact through his company, Free Association, which has produced hit films including Blink Twice, Fatherhood and the Magic Mike franchise.

Ana de Armas stars as Eve Macarro in Lionsgate’s Ballerina, coming to theatres on June 6. Taking place during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3—Parabellum, Ballerina follows Eve as she begins her training in the assassin traditions of Ruska Roma. With a career spanning over a decade in both Spanish and Hollywood films de Armas gained recognition for her performances in Blade Runner 2049, Knives Out, and No Time to Die. She received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in Blonde, for which she earned an Oscar, SAG, Golden Globe and BAFTA Award nominations. Additional credits include Ghosted, The Gray Man, Sergio, Hands of Stone, and War Dogs.

Lindsay Lohan will return to the big screen this summer in Walt Disney Studios’ Freakier Friday, opening in theatres nationwide on August 8. Freakier Friday will see Lohan, who also serves as an executive producer on the film, and Jamie Lee Curtis reprise their iconic roles of the much beloved 2003 film Freaky Friday. The highly anticipated comedy picks up many years later as Anna (Lohan) and Tess (Curtis) navigate life with new family dynamics, proving that lightning can strike twice. Lohan first captured audiences’ hearts with her breakout roles in The Parent Trap and Freaky Friday. She continued to solidify her place in Hollywood with iconic performances in movies such as Mean Girls, A Prairie Home Companion, Bobby, and Georgia Rule showcasing her versatile talent and making a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Cheech Marin & Tommy Chong are set to return to the big screen with their upcoming release Cheech & Chong’s Last Movie, hitting theatres nationwide on April 25, with special limited engagements on April 20th. The film will explore their friendship, fame, rebellion and redemption through a unique mix of real-life moments and creative storytelling. A defining force in comedy, the critically acclaimed duo struck comedy gold and made a fluid transition from live shows and records to films starring in eight features together. Their first, Up In Smoke, was the highest grossing comedy of 1978. With over five decades in the industry, their unique blend of comedy continues to resonate in both film and pop culture today.

David Jonsson can be seen on screen soon in the highly anticipated adaptation of Stephen King’s first-written novel, and the visionary direction of filmmaker Francis Lawrence, Lionsgate’s The Long Walk, a gripping dystopian thriller that challenges audiences to confront a haunting question: how far can you go? BAFTA award winner Jonsson most recently starred in and earned rave reviews for his performance in Ridley Scott’s Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Alvarez. He recently starred in Rye Lane, and his upcoming projects include Wasteman, Colman Domingo’s Scandalous and an untitled film by Frank Ocean. His television credits include the BBC/HBO series Industry, and his theater work includes acclaimed performances in And Breathe, Mary Stuart and Don Juan in Soho.

Madeleine McGraw will reprise her role as Gwen in Universal Pictures’ Black Phone 2, set to release in theatres nationwide on October 17. Following the massive success of Blumhouse’s 2022 horror phenomenon The Black Phone, McGraw returns alongside Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, Jeremy Davies and Miguel Mora for the sequel of this sinister new franchise. McGraw’s acting career began at the age of 4, quickly catching the industry’s attention with her film debut in American Sniper starring as Bradley Cooper’s daughter. She has since appeared in and voiced roles in such major films as Cars 3, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Pacific Rim: Uprising and Toy Story 4.

Ben Wang stars in Sony Pictures’ Karate Kid: Legends, which unites the iconic martial arts masters of one of the most beloved film franchises of all time to tell a completely new story full of action and heart, releasing in theatres on May 30. When kung fu prodigy Li Fong (Ben Wang) relocates to New York City with his mother to attend a prestigious new school, he finds solace in a new friendship with a classmate and her father. But his newfound peace is short-lived after he attracts unwanted attention from a formidable local karate champion. Driven by a desire to defend himself, Li embarks on a journey to enter the ultimate karate competition. Guided by the wisdom of his kung fu teacher, Mr. Han (Jackie Chan), and the legendary Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio), Li merges their unique styles to prepare for an epic martial arts showdown. Known for his starring roles in the Disney+ series American Born Chinese and 2024’s Mean Girls Wang recently wrapped production on Lionsgate’s The Long Walk and the coming-of-age indie film Brian. He can next be seen starring in the comedy feature I’ll Take The Hamm. His previous credits include Chang Can Dunk, Sex Appeal, Search Party and The Last O.G.

Approved press images for award honorees can be downloaded here.

March 18, 2025

National Association of Theatre Owners Proudly Enters New Era of Moviegoing as Newly Rebranded Cinema United

Main Street Industry Trade Association Doubles Down on Mission of Moviegoing

New Name Reflects Commitment to a Bright Future of Movies on the Big Screen

WASHINGTON, D.C. & LOS ANGELES – March 18, 2025 – Today, the world’s largest exhibition trade association, the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), announced that it will be re-named Cinema United. Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of the Washington, D.C.-based organization made the announcement, reporting that the change will take effect immediately.

“Cinema United is a celebration of who we are as an industry, but more importantly, where we’re headed,” O’Leary said. “The people we represent are constantly innovating and creating unparalleled experiences for fans who love movies on the big screen. Their passion, energy and commitment are the real power behind the Cinema United brand.”

The new name, which comes just in time for CinemaCon, the organization’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition held March 31-April 3 in Las Vegas, points to the unique and unmatched communal experience of seeing a movie in the cinema, as well as the industry’s commitment to innovation and the future of theatrical exhibition. The organization’s new mantra— “Moviegoing is Our Mission”—speaks directly to this mandate and acts as a celebration of moviegoing as a cultural touchstone for countless people worldwide.

“Cinema United will remind people of the magic of seeing a movie on the big screen,” said Cinema United Executive Board Chairman Bob Bagby. “Our industry is fully dedicated to ensuring that the theatrical experience remains the premier entertainment option for millions of fans around the world.”

The decision to re-name the 77-year-old organization came from its Executive Board, for which Bagby also served as the Chair of its Name Change Committee, and will act as a unifying front for both CinemaCon, as well as the Cinema Foundation, the organization’s charitable non-profit arm dedicated to promoting moviegoing. Both entities will operate under Cinema United.

O’Leary added: “I want to thank our board for their incredible partnership and leadership throughout this process. We are all extremely excited for this next chapter in bringing focus back to the people who have made this industry the success it is and will continue to do so for generations to come.”

ABOUT CINEMA UNITED

###

Media Contact:

Andrew Stewart

424-299-2065

andrew@cinemaunited.org

March 12, 2025

Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo and Filmmaker Edgar Wright Headline Powerhouse Conversation at CinemaCon

POWELL ALSO TO BE HONORED AS CINEMACON’S STAR OF THE YEAR

The Director/Co-Writer and Cast of Paramount Pictures’ Highly Anticipated Film, The Running Man, Come Together for Annual Creative Community Luncheon Panel, Moderated by Jacqueline Coley

Luncheon to be Held in the Afternoon on Thursday, April 3, in Caesars Palace’s Octavius Ballroom

That Evening, the 2025 Big Screen Achievement Awards Will Cap Weeklong Celebration of Theatrical Exhibition

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 12, 2025) – Award-winning filmmaker Edgar Wright and the cast of his upcoming Paramount Pictures action-thriller The Running Man, Golden Globe® nominee Glen Powell, Academy Award® nominee Josh Brolin and two-timeAcademy Award® nominee Colman Domingo will headline CinemaCon’s annual Creative Community Luncheon to be held in the afternoon on Thursday, April 3, in Las Vegas. Later that evening, Powell will be honored as Star of the Year at the Big Screen Achievement Awards Celebration.

The annual luncheon, which is traditionally held on the final day of CinemaCon and will be moderated by Rotten Tomatoes Editor Jacqueline Coley, is an exciting and entertaining opportunity for the global exhibition industry to hear directly from the extraordinary and innovative creators and actors behind some of the biggest movies made for the big screen, the world’s premier entertainment option. Past participants at the annual CinemaCon luncheon have included Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, Elizabeth Banks, Jerry Bruckheimer, Patty Jenkins and Jon M. Chu.

“The excitement for The Running Man among the exhibition community is extremely high, and the luncheon presents an opportunity to hear thoughts and insights about the film and our industry from this incredible group of talented individuals,” said Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners. “I want to thank the good folks at Paramount Pictures and, of course, The Running Man team, with a special shout-out to Glen on his much deserved award. Everyone’s generosity and collaboration is sure to make this luncheon a must-see event.”

Paramount Pictures’ action-thriller The Running Man opens exclusively in theatres, Dolby Cinema, and IMAX on November 7.

Glen Powell leads the cast of The Running Man after recently starring in, co-writing and producing the Netflix comedy Hit Man, which garnered him a Golden Globe® nomination for “Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy” and a Critics Choice Awards nomination for “Best Comedy.” He will next be seen in Hulu’s highly anticipated comedy series Chad Powers, that Powell co-created, co-produced and will star in. Powell’s recent releases include the box office hits Twisters, the romantic comedy Anyone But You and the Oscar®-nominated blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick. He also recently wrapped production on the A24 and Studio Canal film Huntington. His previous credits include Hidden Figures, Devotion, and Apollo 10 ½.

Academy Award® nominee Josh Brolin will next be seen starring in Edgar Wright’s The Running Man, and Rian Johnson’s next Knives Out installment, Wake Up Dead Man. Most recently he reprised his role as Gurney Halleck in Dune: Part 2 and as Thanos in Avengers: Endgame, and in 2024 released his memoir “From Under the Truck”. Brolin is best known for The Goonies, W., No Country for Old Men and his Academy Award® nominated performance in Milk.

Colman Domingo is an award-winning actor, producer, and playwright whose work spans film, television, and theater. He recently starred in and produced the Academy Award® nominated Sing Sing, earning Domingo nominations for the Academy Award®, BAFTA, Screen Actors Guild, AACTA, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice, as well as the Gotham Award for Best Performance for his role as John Divine G. Whitfield. His other notable film roles include Rustin, If Beale Street Could Talk, Lincoln, The Butler, Selma, Candyman, and Zola. On television, Domingo won a Primetime Emmy for his role in “Euphoria” and will star in the upcoming Netflix series “The Four Seasons.” In addition to The Running Man, next, he will appear in Michael (2025) as Joe Jackson and an untitled Steven Spielberg film set for 2026.

Award winning filmmaker Edgar Wright is the director and co-writer behind cinematic trifecta Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World’s End (aka The Cornetto Trilogy) starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. His box office and Academy Award® nominated/BAFTA winning hit Baby Driver, critic/fan favorite Scott Pilgrim vs The World, BAFTA Award nominated psychological thriller Last Night in Soho, and groundbreaking documentary The Sparks Brothers has cemented him as a true visionary behind the lens with the theatrical experience in mind.

CinemaCon^® is the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition, hosted by the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) and held from March 31-April 3 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. The annual “Industry Insights from the Creative Community” luncheon is sponsored by Fathom Entertainment, Mobile Moviegoing and BeforeTheMovie.

The Big Screen Achievement Awards, hosted by official presenting sponsor The Coca-Cola Company, take place at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, and are the finale to the world’s premiere showcase of theatrical exhibition, CinemaCon. Returning to host the awards this year will be Entertainment Tonight’s Kevin Frazier.

About CinemaCon

CinemaCon attracts upwards of six thousand motion picture professionals from all facets of the industry – from exhibition and distribution to the equipment and concession areas – all on hand to celebrate the moviegoing experience and the cinema industry. CinemaCon works with the International Cinema Technology Association (ICTA) and National Association of Concessionaires (NAC) as its trade show partners. The Coca-Cola Company – one of the industry’s most highly regarded and respected partners in the world of movies – is the official presenting sponsor of CinemaCon.

About NATO

The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) 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. NATO’s membership includes the largest cinema chains in the world as well as hundreds of independent theatre owners. Additional information about CinemaCon can be found at www.cinemacon.com.