Major movie theater companies, including Cinemark, Regal, and AMC are all set to open at the end of July. Aside from reopening dates, theater mask policies have been a hot topic of conversation in recent weeks. AMC, for example, initially announced it wouldn't require theater-goers to wear masks, before changing its mind after backlash.
Reopening dates are hardly set in stone at this point, as they will be largely dependent on coronavirus case numbers this month and whether blockbusters are delayed again. Both Christopher Nolan's Tenet is set to release August 12, while Mulan bows August 21.
According to THR, the National Association of Theatre Owners of New Jersey is suing the state over continued closures, stating it isn't fair to allow "certain places of public assembly to reopen, while requiring movie theatres to remain closed." New Jersey has allowed shopping malls and retail stores to open, as well as churches and other places of worship as part of its Stage 2 plan. However, theaters are currently not allowed to reopen. The suit alleges that places currently permitted to resume business are comparable to movie theaters as far as risk factor, and thus they should be allowed to open as well.
Even though most theaters aren't open yet in other parts of the country, it makes sense theater chains want to ensure they'll be able to open their doors in New Jersey when the time comes. It's tough to know at this point if anything will come of the suit, but Cinemark, AMC, Regal, and others are likely hoping for a timely resolution. However, the suit could very well end up being a moot point; if Tenet and Mulan are delayed again, theater companies will likely push back their openings as well. By that time, the New Jersey government may be fine with theaters reopening like many other businesses and places of worship.
Theaters are currently in a tough spot. At this point, they're desperate for any source of revenue. The longer theaters across the country remain closed, the harder it will be for chains to bounce back.. Theater companies are also dealing with the rise of VOD, which could affect their viability going forward. As of now, theater chains like AMC, Regal, and Cinemark are in the midst of a waiting game.
Source: THR
