Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic showing signs of a “second wave” beginning in the United States, movie theaters across the country are pushing towards reopening soon. AMC theaters will reopen starting in July, according to the company’s latest plan. Initally, AMC wasn’t going to even require masks, but it has now reversed course and will require them.
AMC revealed its plans to reopen on Thursday, announcing that 450 of the chain’s 600 locations will be reopening on July 15. Currently, the next scheduled major theater release is Mulan on July 24 followed by Tenet on July 31.
Regarding AMC Theaters’ initial decision to forgo requiring facemasks, CEO Adam Aron made some controversial comments on the topic. “We did not want to be drawn into a political controversy,” is Aron’s justification for not requiring the masks. “We thought it might be counterproductive if we forced mask-wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary.” Aron has not provided a comment regarding the change in plans, though clearly pressure from moviegoers and the media played a part.
In addition to requiring facemasks, AMC is also dedicating itself to is a new “Safe & Clean” policy. The policy has four core actions that will be taken as theaters open. First, theaters will have reduced capacity. Second, there will be enhanced cleaning procedures. Third, social distancing standards will be encouraged. Finally, the theater will have a simplified menu to reduce lines and interactions between staff and attendees.
AMC theaters will be reopening on July 15.
Source: Variety
