Voice Actor from ‘The Empire Strikes Again’ Dies at 94

Are film theaters still relevant in today’s entertainment landscape?

This question has become increasingly critical for the beleaguered cinema industry, especially in light of the pandemic’s aftermath and recent industry strikes in 2023. As audiences grapple with new entertainment options, cinemas must adapt to remain appealing.

Despite the highs of blockbuster hits like “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” and the cultural phenomenon dubbed “Barbenheimer,” the industry has also faced significant disappointments, such as “Joker: Folie à Deux” and “Borderlands.” These contrasting results showcase a troubling inconsistency that leaves Hollywood questioning whether moviegoing is a sustainable lifestyle or merely a sporadic activity.

The year 2025 has been designated as the Great Reset for the cinema industry, marking a critical juncture without any excuses for the lack of recovery. However, current box office earnings paint a gloomy picture. According to Comscore, year-to-date revenues are lagging 5% behind 2024 and nearly 38% behind pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Notably, 2024 was the first year since the pandemic when overall returns failed to surpass the previous year’s figures, largely due to delays caused by strikes impacting release schedules.

Despite these challenges, industry experts forecast an upcoming surge in attendance that could ultimately boost box office revenues beyond last year’s figures. Anticipated summer blockbusters such as “Superman,” “Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning,” and “Jurassic World Rebirth,” along with holiday titles like “Zootopia 2,” “Wicked: For Good,” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash” are expected to draw audiences back into theaters.

Regal’s CEO, Eduardo Acuna, states, “Depending on who you talk to, this year could be fantastic, impressive, or just the last transitional year. But nobody will tell you it will be below 2024.” He acknowledges that while the first quarter may be challenging, there are high hopes for the second, third, and fourth quarters of the year.

As Hollywood prepares for CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Variety engaged in discussions with various theater owners about the ongoing struggles within the cinema sector, which seems unable to catch a break despite its critical role in the entertainment industry.

Insights from Regal’s CEO, Eduardo Acuna

Regal’s recovery: What impact did bankruptcy and restructuring have?

Regal emerged from bankruptcy in 2023 with a significantly stronger financial position. Although we had to close 100 locations in the U.S., many of these theaters were not financially sustainable. We were burdened with exorbitant rent costs. During the Chapter 11 process, we successfully renegotiated these contracts, resulting in more manageable rental agreements. Additionally, we secured $250 million in funding to enhance our theaters, including the installation of luxurious recliner seating and the upgrade of our technology.

How does pricing affect cinema attendance?

Tuesday discounts have proven effective; they outperform Mondays and Wednesdays significantly. People appreciate the opportunity to enjoy movies at more affordable prices, indicating that cost is a critical factor in their decision-making process.

What strategies attract audiences to Regal in competitive markets?

While I won’t reveal all our strategies, our focus is on delivering exceptional customer service and providing the best overall experience. Location plays a crucial role, but we also emphasize the quality of our concessions. For example, we ensure that our popcorn is made from the finest ingredients, maintained well, and prepared using the best methods. Cleanliness is also paramount; a dirty restroom can deter customers from returning to our theaters.

How does Regal manage operational costs while maintaining quality?

This is a significant concern for me. For instance, we can offer gourmet hot dogs, but the cost can be high. Alternatively, we could opt for cheaper options, but that would compromise quality and taste, leading to fewer sales. I prefer to sell fewer high-quality items rather than many low-quality ones. We are implementing analytics to optimize staffing. If we schedule too many employees, costs skyrocket, while too few can compromise service quality.

Are studios adequately extending theatrical release windows?

Some release windows are alarmingly short, which presents a significant challenge. We are educating audiences that films will be available for home viewing soon after theatrical release. Ideally, these windows should be at least 45 to 60 days. Research indicates that longer theatrical runs enhance the perceived value of a film, which is a pressing concern for me. This issue often keeps me up at night.

Which film do you predict will be a sleeper hit in 2025?

I believe “Lilo & Stitch” will exceed expectations. Family-oriented films tend to perform better than anticipated, and there is a strong demand for content that appeals to families.

How many trailers are appropriate before a feature film?

Audiences enjoy trailers, but there is a limit. By the time the fifth trailer is shown, people often feel overwhelmed and want the film to begin.

Insights from Plaza and Tara Theatres Owner, Christopher Escobar

What were your key reflections from the 2024 film season?

We faced a challenging summer, particularly following the previous year’s successes with “Barbenheimer,” which set a high bar. The labor strikes impacted our schedule, leaving us with fewer high-profile releases than anticipated.

Which unexpected film performed remarkably well at your theaters?

“Thelma,” an action-comedy featuring June Squibb, turned out to be a surprising success. It resonated well with our predominantly older audience, who often find that films geared towards their age group lack depth or humor. “Thelma” struck a perfect balance, delivering both a strong narrative and humor.

Are there enough films scheduled for release in 2025?

Not all upcoming releases align with our interests. Operating in the art-house space means we don’t typically showcase Marvel films, making our focus more on unique acquisitions. However, the selection has been somewhat limited since Sundance, leaving me uncertain about the future. I am cautiously optimistic but still holding my breath.

What strategies are you employing to balance slower months?

A significant portion of our revenue comes from repertory screenings. Events like “Rocky Horror Picture Show” draw an audience of 5,000 annually. Classic films such as “2001: A Space Odyssey,” “Lawrence of Arabia,” and “The Shining” consistently attract large crowds, proving essential for our financial health.

How can Hollywood improve its approach?

I believe Netflix has not prioritized theatrical releases enough, treating them as secondary revenue streams. There is a pressing need for more originality and risk-taking in storytelling. While audiences claim they desire fewer reboots, the box office often tells a different story. Unique films like “Megalopolis” were spectacles that deserved more attention in theaters.

What aspect of the cinema experience requires an upgrade?

Recliner seating has proven to be a double-edged sword for theaters. While they offer comfort, the economics don’t always make sense. People are willing to pay significant amounts for premium seating at sports events, yet expect a similarly luxurious experience in theaters without a corresponding ticket price. This expectation can lead to cleanliness issues, as these seats can attract spills and become dirty quickly.

Which film do you believe will be the highest-grossing in 2025?

While “Avatar” will always perform well, I suspect that the third installment may not replicate the success of the second. I am particularly excited about “Superman,” as it’s the only superhero film we plan to showcase, thanks to James Gunn’s involvement.

Insights from Cinépolis CEO, Alejandro Ramírez Magaña

What are your expectations for the film slate in 2025?

We are optimistic about the summer lineup. From May to August, we anticipate a major release every week, often two. The success of “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie” last year demonstrated the potential for both blockbusters and a diverse selection of films to thrive. However, it’s essential for the industry to have multiple films performing well rather than relying solely on a few major hits.

Are there any gaps in the release calendar that need attention?

The first quarter saw a lack of diverse content, particularly in March. While “Captain America: Brave New World” performed as expected, it did not achieve blockbuster status. Traditionally, we see strong romantic comedies released