Category: Press

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.

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.

AP: Movie theater trade group unveils new name, Cinema United, and renewed mission to promote moviegoing

From the Associated Press:

In hindsight, NATO was an unnecessarily confusing acronym for a trade organization representing movie theater owners. For 60 years, the National Association of Theatre Owners has promoted interests of movie theaters, from the biggest chains to the one screen mom and pop shops. They’ve also regularly gotten mail and phone calls intended for the other NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

But the theater owner’s organization is looking to the future, with a new name and a refocused mission. The group will now be known as Cinema United, president and CEO Michael O’Leary told The Associated Press Tuesday.

“It can be a little complicated having the same name as a multinational military alliance,” O’Leary said. “We felt that it was time to look at our name and do a rebrand.”

They wanted the new name to reflect the “passion and energy of the people that run theaters,” O’Leary said, and to put the focus back on the exhibitors and movie theaters. Cinema United represents more than 32,000 movie screens in the U.S. and more than 30,000 screens in 88 countries. Their job, O’Leary explained, is to promote and support theatrical exhibition. Moviegoing, the new tagline reads, is their mission.

“We’ve had a challenging four or five years. But with each passing day, we put those challenges in the rearview mirror a little bit more. Our focus right now is on the future,” O’Leary said. “I think that we stand on the precipice of the next great era of cinema.”

READ FULL ARTICLE

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

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.

###

Media Contact:

Andrew Stewart

424-299-2065

andrew@cinemaunited.org

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.

The Cinema Foundation Hosts “How Theatres are Eventizing the Moviegoing Experience” Panel at SXSW

Photo (left to right): Bryan Braunlich, The Cinema Foundation; Traci Hanlon, Cinergy Entertainment; Valarie Rico, Santikos Entertainment; Andrew Thomas, Moonstruck Drive-In.

The Cinema Foundation’s own Executive Director Bryan Braunlich moderated a standing-room only kickoff session at South by Southwest on “How Theatres are Eventizing the Moviegoing Experience” with Cinergy Entertainment’s Traci Hanlon, Santikos Entertainment’s Valarie Rico and Moonstruck Drive-In’s Andrew Thomas at the Austin Convention Center on Friday, March 7. The lively SXSW panel discussed how movie theatres of all sizes bring people together, anchor communities, and make each moviegoing experience an event. The exhibition experts talked how community involvement, local partnerships, creative loyalty programs, elevated concessions, social engagement, and in-theatre activations all contribute to the magic of the big screen and keep moviegoers coming back for more.

Cinema United Congratulates The Team Behind “Anora” For Making Oscar History

“Over the years, Sean Baker has been an unwavering champion for the theatrical experience, and we congratulate him and his team, as well as our friends at NEON on their well-deserved Oscar wins tonight.” said Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of the Cinema United. “Sean’s passion for movies on the big screen resonates with moviegoers around the world.  We cannot wait to see what he dreams up next, and when he does, everyone in theatrical exhibition will be standing at the ready to help movie fans see it as intended – on a big screen.”

Per Variety, Baker set a new Oscar record:

“Anora” director Sean Baker has become the first person to win four Oscars in the same year for the same film.

During Sunday’s ceremony, Baker and “Anora” won Oscars for original screenplay, film editing, directing and best picture. With the wins, Baker ties another famous filmmaker: Walt Disney. But while Disney won four Oscars in the same night in 1953, it was for four different films (“The Living Desert,” “The Alaskan Eskimo,” “Bear Country” and “Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom”). Disney was also nominated that year for “Ben and Me” and “Rugged Bear.”

Universal Pictures Announces The Epic Live-Action Reimagining Of “How To Train Your Dragon” Will Make Its Worldwide Debut At CinemaCon 2025

GLOBAL EXHIBITION COMMUNITY WILL BE THE FIRST TO EXPERIENCE THREE-TIME OSCAR® NOMINEE DEAN DeBLOIS’ STUNNING TRANSFORMATION OF HIS BELOVED ANIMATED CLASSIC INTO A BREATHTAKING LIVE-ACTION SPECTACLE MORE THAN TWO MONTHS AHEAD OF ITS THEATRICAL RELEASE

THE SPECIAL SCREENING WILL TAKE PLACE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, AT THE COLOSSEUM AT CAESARS PALACE DURING NATO’S ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF MOVIEGOING

UNIVERSAL PICTURES AND DREAMWORKS’ LIVE-ACTION HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGONOPENS IN THEATERS NATIONWIDE ON JUNE 13, 2025

LOS ANGELES – March 3, 2025 – Universal Pictures, in collaboration with the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), announced today that CinemaCon 2025 will host the worldwide debut of How to Train Your Dragon, the epic live-action reimagining of the beloved DreamWorks Animation film, written and directed by three-time Oscar® nominee and franchise creator Dean DeBlois. The global exhibition community will be the first to experience this new, action-packed summer event film on Wednesday, April 2, at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, more than two months before it opens in theaters on June 13.

“How to Train Your Dragon delivers the perfect blend of blockbuster action, breathtaking visuals and emotional storytelling that defines the ultimate theatrical experience,” said Jim Orr, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution at Universal Pictures. “Dean DeBlois has created a stunning live-action reimagining of his film, which honors his beloved animated classic while soaring to spectacular new heights. We’re thrilled to share this film with our exhibition partners first, as they will be instrumental in bringing this extraordinary adventure to audiences worldwide this summer.”

“We are thrilled that Universal Pictures has chosen to showcase this summer blockbuster for the global exhibition community,” said CinemaCon Managing Director, Mitch Neuhauser. “This movie promises to be a hit with movie fans of all ages all around the world. Seeing it in your local theatre will be an amazing experience, and the global exhibition community is excited to help promote it in the days ahead.”

Hosted by the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), CinemaCon is the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition and will take place March 31–April 3 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

About Universal Pictures’ Live-Action How to Train Your Dragon:

From three-time Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe winner Dean DeBlois, the creative visionary behind DreamWorks Animation’s acclaimed How to Train Your Dragon trilogy, comes a stunning live-action reimagining of the film that launched the beloved franchise.

On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.

With the fierce and ambitious Astrid (BAFTA nominee Nico Parker; Dumbo, The Last of Us) and the village’s quirky blacksmith Gobber (Nick Frost; Snow White and the Huntsman, Shaun of the Dead) by his side, Hiccup confronts a world torn by fear and misunderstanding.

As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both Vikings and dragons, Hiccup’s friendship with Toothless becomes the key to forging a new future. Together, they must navigate the delicate path toward peace, soaring beyond the boundaries of their worlds and redefining what it means to be a hero and a leader.

The film also stars Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2), Gabriel Howell (Bodies), Bronwyn James (Wicked), Harry Trevaldwyn (Smothered), Ruth Codd (The Midnight Club), BAFTA nominee Peter Serafinowicz (Guardians of the Galaxy) and Murray McArthur (Game of Thrones).

How to Train Your Dragon is written, produced and directed by DeBlois. It is also produced by four-time Oscar® nominee Marc Platt (Wicked, La La Land) and Emmy winner Adam Siegel (Drive, 2 Guns).

Inspired by Cressida Cowell’s New York Times bestselling book series, DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon franchise has captivated global audiences, earning four Academy Award® nominations and grossing more than $1.6 billion at the global box-office. Now, through cutting-edge visual effects, DeBlois transforms his beloved animated saga into a breathtaking live-action spectacle, bringing the epic adventures of Hiccup and Toothless to life with jaw-dropping realism as they discover the true meaning of friendship, courage and destiny.

About NATO

The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 34,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and a worldwide total of over 46,000 screens across 82 countries. NATO’s membership includes the largest cinema chains in the world as well as hundreds of independent theatre owners.

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.

Yahoo!: Four couples share how they have revitalized their neighborhood silver screens and given locals a place to connect

While many couples across the country will be hitting movie theaters for date night on Valentine’s Day, other couples, like Colleen and Bill Barstow in Elkhorn, Neb., [pictured above] or Andrew and Juanita Thomas in Houston, will be making sure the projectors are running smoothly and the popcorn is fresh — just as they do every night.

They’re not the only ones. Yahoo Entertainment talked to several couples across the country who have become theater owners in their respective communities, revitalizing silver screens and giving locals a place to connect.

For many of them, getting into the movie business was a decision they never planned.

“Some people come into this industry where they love the gears of a projector or they have the love affair with movies. And while [Colleen and I] certainly had that,” Bill told Yahoo Entertainment, “nothing in our background would prepare us for this.”

That said, none of the couples could imagine it any other way, and they have relished the vital roles they’ve played in their communities.

Meet the four couples who shifted their careers to become local theater owners.

READ FULL ARTICLE

VUE CEO Tim Richards To Receive 2025 CinemaCon Award for Global Achievement in Exhibition

LAS VEGAS – (February 12, 2025) – CinemaCon announced today it will honor Tim Richards CBE, Founder and CEO of Vue, Europe’s largest privately owned cinema chain, with the Global Achievement in Exhibition Award during this year’s CinemaCon, the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition hosted by the National Association of Theatre Owners (Cinema United). Richards will be presented with this honor at the International Day Breakfast taking place on Monday, March 31, 2025. CinemaCon will be held March 31-April 3, 2025, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

“Tim Richards and Vue are synonymous with excellence in the motion picture exhibition industry,” notes Mitch Neuhauser, Managing Director, CinemaCon. “When it comes to passion, dedication or commitment in moving our industry forward, Tim really has no equal, actively championing both Vue and the industry.  As pioneers in ultra luxury seating and theater technology, Vue is continually innovating and investing in the ultimate big screen experience. We are honored to present our 2025 Award for Global Achievement in Exhibition to Tim Richards and Vue.”

Under Richards’ leadership, Vue, the number one cinema operator in the UK, as measured by box office and attendance, has also become one of the world’s leading cinema operators and the largest privately held cinema operator in Europe. The company has expanded through strategic acquisitions and organic growth, including the 2003 purchase of Warner Village Theatres in the UK.

With over 35 years of experience in cinema exhibition and extensive international development and operational experience in markets across Europe, South America, and Asia Pacific, Richards has been a respected industry commentator advocating for British and independent film throughout his career. Prior to entering the entertainment industry, Richards worked as a lawyer on Wall Street. He then joined Paramount and Universal’s joint ventures, UCI and CIC, before becoming Senior Vice President of Business Development at Warner Bros. In 1999 he founded Vue, with support from Boston Ventures, opening the company’s first cinema in Livingston, Scotland, in 2000.

In recognition of his contributions to the industry, Tim was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by His Majesty King Charles III in December 2024. Tim was previously appointed Chair of the British Film Institute (“BFI”) by the British Prime Minister in 2021, following seven years as governor on the BFI board. His leadership extends to multiple board positions across UK and European industry organizations, including BAFTA, the BFI, and the UK Cinema Association.

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 Cinema United

The National Association of Theatre Owners (Cinema United) is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 32,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 30,000 screens in 88 countries worldwide. Cinema United’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.