Ryan Wood
Member Profile
How has Cinema United membership been impactful to you and/or your business?They are truly a remarkable organization that brings all of us together, whether we have 500 theatres or just one. Despite the differences in our operations, we are all united by a common goal: entertaining our guests and creating memorable experiences for them.
The team at Cinema United does an exceptional job of keeping us grounded and connected. Through their mentorship programs, various committees, and the organization of industry events, they continuously share valuable experiences and innovative ideas that help our business progress and thrive. Their efforts not only keep us energized but also inspire us to push the boundaries of what we can achieve in the entertainment industry.
It all began in 1994 when I started my career with Cinemark during the opening of Lion King. I took on various roles, including usher, concessionist, and projectionist, eventually working my way up to the manager ranks. After a brief break and graduating from Old Dominion University, I joined the AMC Management team at Patrick Henry 7 in Virginia.
My career path led me to Chicago, a city I always wanted to be a part of, where I became a General Manager. The opportunity to join the Film Department at the AMC Corporate office came up, and 28 years later, I am proud to continue contributing to our business as the Head Film Buyer.
What truly makes this job enjoyable for me—the people. The diverse personalities we encounter, whether through texting, calling, or writing, consistently keep me on my toes and add a dynamic element to our daily routines.
I am fortunate to have several contacts, whether it’s the studios, our corporate office, or the theatre teams. Each interaction brings its own unique flavor, making our workdays anything but mundane. There are moments when I need to remind myself to remain grounded, especially after a heated discussion with a partner. It’s essential to remember that despite occasional disagreements, we are all part of the same industry, one that revolves around the joy of entertaining people. This shared mission is what makes our work not only challenging but also incredibly rewarding.
As I reflect on my 28 years with AMC and 31 years in the business, I am filled with so many rewarding memories. One of my favorite experiences was serving as the General Manager at River East 21 in Chicago. This was my second theatre as a GM, and I had the privilege of following in the footsteps of one of my mentors, Eric Johnson. Taking over the #1 theatre in the city and navigating public transportation to get there was an exhilarating experience. The theatre was always bustling, showcasing diverse content and hosting several high-profile screenings.
Another cherished memory was partnering with Rich Boynton at the corporate office. Rich was a legend in our business, and I was fortunate enough to serve as his assistant head buyer for a few years. He taught me the true meaning of “sugar and spice” – he could yell at someone one minute and then inquire about their family the next. His unique approach and mentorship helped me become a better person and leader.
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One of the most enjoyable experiences for me is seeing my son enjoy movies. We never forced it on him, even though it’s what supported our family, but he has developed a genuine love for films and will go see nearly anything. He even sends me notes on which trailers he saw and eagerly asks about the next movie coming out. His enthusiasm is contagious! Speaking of enthusiasm, he’s a big F1 fan, and thanks to Warner Bros, we made a movie-going experience together by attending the premiere in New York. I really enjoyed sharing that moment with him.
Another recent enjoyable experience took place during a visit to New York. We were at the AMC Empire 25 and had the chance to catch the trailer launch of the upcoming Wicked: For Good. The crowd’s cheers and applause for the trailer gave me chills and reminded me just how fun and exciting this business can be.
While I foresee a bright and promising horizon, I also recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Despite the growing array of entertainment options available to consumers, the unique experience of escaping into a story and sharing that moment with others remains irreplaceable.
It is essential that we continue to deliver excellent customer service, as our studio partners work tirelessly to provide a quality and diverse slate of films. The pressure is on all of us to deliver every time, as our guests count on us to create unforgettable experiences.
After the past few years of rebuilding our business, it fills me with excitement to witness record-breaking openings from a wide range of diverse content, regardless of the period. This success is a testament to our collective efforts and dedication to the craft.
