Boxoffice Podcast

Black Widow Forecast, Cannes Preview, and a Conversation with mK2’s Nathanael and Elisha Karmitz

Episode 68

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins talk about their predictions for Black Widow’s debut, Quentin Tarantino’s purchase of Los Angeles’ historic Vista Theatre, and movies to look forward to from the 2021 Cannes Film Festival. 

In the main segment, mK2 Cinemas co-owners Nathanael and Elisha Karmitz discuss the success of the recently concluded Cinéma Paradiso Louvre festival and the concept behind their hotel/cinema Hotel Paradiso, as well are sharing their opinions on the premiumization of cinema and cultural differences between French and American moviegoers.

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F9 Breaks Pandemic Records with $70M Domestic Debut

Episode 67

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins talk about the box office success of F9 on its domestic debut as well as predictions on two more Universal titles to debut next weekend—one getting theatrical exclusivity one going day-and-date.

This episode is sponsored by Dolby.

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UKCA’s Phil Clapp on the Second Return of UK Movie Theaters

Episode 66

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, and Rebecca Pahle talk about the top five box office titles of this past weekend, with The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard topping the charts in its first weekend of release. Updates on Arclight/Pacific’s closure is followed by the episode’s main feature: a conversation between Loria and UNIC and UKCA’s Phil Clapp on the status of U.K. cinemas as they emerge from their second round of closures.

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What Went Wrong with In the Heights?

Episode 65

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins talk about the disappointing opening weekend for In the Heights, Peter Rabbit 2 not pulling in as many family moviegoers as expected, and lessons learned from the first half of 2021.

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INDIE FOCUS with Gateway Film Center’s Chris Hamel, Presented by Spotlight Cinema Networks

Episode 64

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria and Rebecca Pahle discuss this week’s box office numbers with The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It taking the top spot as A Quiet Place Part II dropped to second place. A trio of family titles round out the top five movies in the domestic market, potentially setting the stage for a strong debut for Sony’s Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway.

Chris Hamel, president of the Gateway Film Center in Columbus, Ohio joins the podcast in the debut edition of our new monthly segment, Indie Focus, presented by Spotlight Cinema Networks. Chris discusses the internal and external challenges of operating an independent theater during the pandemic and shares his optimism on an eventual recovery for the movie theater industry. 

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This week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast is brought to you by Spotlight Cinema Networks.

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With A Quiet Place Part II and Cruella, Memorial Day Marks a Turning Point for An Industry Recovering from Covid

Episode 63

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins discuss how Memorial Day box office marks a turning point for domestic exhibition, the implications of Amazon purchasing MGM, and the steep second week drop of F9 in China.

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F9 Opens Big Overseas & A Conversation with Distribution Veteran Bob Berney

Episode 62

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria and Rebecca Pahle discuss promising signs at the overseas box office—including a great reopening weekend in the UK and the first $100 million-plus of the pandemic with F9’s debut in China.

In the feature segment, distribution veteran Bob Berney, CEO of Picturehouse and the former head of marketing and distribution at Amazon Studios, joins Daniel to talk about the current state of theatrical distribution. Berney shares his insights on the current volatility in the market as streaming companies make a play for big movies and major franchises at the multiplex, while specialty players learn to adapt to a market without the influence of the film festival circuit.  

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Mega Media Mergers Abound as Movie Theaters Welcome Back Audiences

Episode 61

In this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins talk about potential mega mergers among media conglomerates—and why it’s too early to discern their potential impact on the entertainment industry. The hosts also delve into the box office potential of Disney’s Jungle Cruise and Paramount’s A Quiet Place Part II as the long-term future of the theatrical exclusivity window comes into focus.

In the feature segment, we share highlights from the Boxoffice Live Sessions webinar with the organizers of Cinema Week, a campaign designed to engage audiences with the moviegoing experience running from June 22-27.

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Netflix Arrives at the Multiplex and an Inside Look at Demon Slayer’s Success

Episode 60

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria and Rebecca Pahle discuss a few key points from AMC’s recent earnings call, Zack Synder’s Army of the Dead landing a week-long exclusive theatrical run before it’s Netflix debut, and Cinemark signing an agreement with major studios. 

In the main segment, Mitchel Berger, Senior Vice President, Global Commerce at Funimation talks about the rise of anime popularity not just in North America but across other territories and how this new wave of culture has helped in the theatrical recovery efforts.  

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Marvel Ramps Up Its Marketing and the Future of Private Cinema Rentals

Episode 59

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, and Rebecca Pahle talk about the latest updates on Demon Slayer’s second week and title changes on some big films. In the main segment, the group shares some of the very interesting insights from exhibition representatives during the Boxoffice Barometer live session.

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This week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast is brought to you by GDC Technology.

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Oscars Recap, Mortal Kombat and Demon Slayer Open Big, and the Future of Anime at the Box Office

Episode 58

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins share their impressions of this year’s Academy Awards: a great shout-out in the pre-show but were movie theaters snubbed during the main broadcast? The panel also also looks at a record weekend at the pandemic box office with the debuts of Mortal Kombat and Demon Slayer. Mortal Kombat delivered the highest opening weekend for an R-rated movie during the pandemic and Demon Slayer emerged as a surprise crossover hit at the box office. What does Demon Slayer’s success tell us about the future potential of anime titles at the box office?

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How Nigerian Movie Theaters Are Surviving the Pandemic

Episode 57

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer and Rebecca Pahle talk about recent box office updates on Godzilla vs. Kong and the early release of F9 in China. In the feature segment, Daniel Loria and Rebecca Pahle chat with Moses Babatope, the Group Executive Director at Filmhouse Cinemas and Co-Founder and Managing Director of FilmOne Entertainment—an independent entertainment company focused on the distribution and production of film within and outside the Nigerian territory. They discuss the evolution of the local exhibition landscape both before and during the pandemic, with an emphasis on how local content and robust social media marketing has helped keep theaters afloat.

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Pacific and Arclight Close Permanently and Another Round of Release Delays

Episode 56

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins talk about Godzilla vs. Kong staying afloat in its second week at the box office. The group also discuss new release dates for several films on the 2021 slate, including several Tom Cruise titles. Closing the episode, the hosts discuss the dissolution of Pacific Theaters and Arclight Cinemas – the iconic California theater chain that was forced to permanently close its doors due to the pandemic.    

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Godzilla vs. Kong Ushers in the Return of Moviegoing in the US

Episode 55

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, and Shawn Robbins discuss Godzilla vs. Kong’s big opening weekend at the domestic box office, exceeding expectations and lifting hopes for cinemas as audiences begin to return to the movies. The hosts also look at the film’s overseas results, and why the overseas box office still paints an incomplete picture for movies scheduled in the coming weeks. 

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BFI’s Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit for Cinemas with Sadia Pineda Hameed

Episode 54

In this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins talk about Godzilla vs. Kong’s successful international opening weekend and the schedule changes that have occurred over the last week. In the feature segment, Rebecca and Daniel chat with artist and consultant Sadia Pineda Hameed on her Diversity and Inclusion Toolkit—a thorough guide to creating a more welcoming space for all types of cinema audiences. 

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Regal Announces Reopening and Inks Deal with Warner Bros. as Disney Pushes Black Widow Day-and-Date

Episode 53

The Boxoffice Podcast enters its second year with a full house, as co-hosts Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins break down some major news: the reopening of Regal locations in the U.S., Cineworld/Regal’s agreement with Warner Bros. on a reduced theatrical exclusivity window, and Disney pushing Black Widow and Cruella day-and-date and removing Pixar’s Luca from the domestic theatrical release calendar entirely. In the feature segment, co-hosts Rebecca and Daniel discuss the highlights and key takeaways of Boxoffice PRO’s Giants of Exhibition LIVE session, which welcomed executives from four major circuits to share their thoughts on the exhibition industry.

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LA and NYC Movie Theaters Re-Open, How the Pandemic is Revolutionizing the Specialty Film Business

Episode 52

This week on The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Shawn Robbins and Rebecca Pahle talk about the weekend’s box office numbers and Avatar returning to the number one spot at the global box office. In the feature segment, co-hosts Rebecca and Daniel Loria discuss an interview with Landmark Theatres’ President and COO Paul Serwitz on the realities of specialty cinemas opening at limited capacity. 

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Big Movies Coming to Theaters Earlier Than Expected, Lume Cinema Plans Re-Opening in the U.K.

Episode 51

This week on The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer, Rebecca Pahle, and Jesse Rifkin discuss the latest changes to the release calendar and why big movies may come to theaters earlier than expected. In the feature segment, Rebecca and Russ interview the Lume Cinema’s James Anderson Brown and Anthony Hughes to talk about the theater’s tiered re-opening process in the U.K.

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New York City Reopens, Paramount Shortens Its Window, and Tom and Jerry Exceeds Expectations

Episode 50

This week on The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Shawn Robbins bring some positive news: New York City theaters are reopening at limited capacity, and Tom and Jerry exceeded industry expectations on its opening weekend. Further, they break down last week’s Paramount Investor Day presentation and what it means for a shortened theatrical window.

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NYC and UK Cinemas Announce Re-Opening Dates and the Challenges of Bringing a Movie Palace Back to Life

Episode 49

This week on The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria and Rebecca Pahle break down some exciting news: New reopening dates for theaters in New York City, the U.K., and Quebec. In the podcast’s main feature, they speak to Allison Weiland and Steven Dahlmeier of Sioux Falls, South Dakota’s State Theatre, a nearly century-old movie palace, closed in the 1990s, that’s been given a new life mid-pandemic.

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Sundance at the Art House with The Texas Theatre

Episode 48

This week on The Boxoffice Podcast, co-hosts Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria speak to The Texas Theatre’s Barak Epstein on the legendary cinema’s return from Covid closures and its recent participation in the Sundance Film Festival’s satellite screens program.

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Can Community Cinemas Bounce Back from the Pandemic?

Episode 47

This week, Daniel and Rebecca talk to guests Brandon Jones and Luke Parker Bowles about their efforts to revive The Bradley Cinema through their ownership group, Cinema Lab. Originally a single-screen theater in Bradley Beach, New Jersey dating back to the earliest days of commercial exhibition, The Bradley is being converted to a three-screen cinema with a live performance space slated to re-open in Summer 2021.

Brandon and Luke discuss The Bradley’s history, its recent transformation, and the important role independent cinemas play in their communities. 

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Charlotte Film Society on Bringing an Art House Theater to North Carolina’s Largest City

Episode 46

This week, Russ and Rebecca talk with two executives from Charlotte Film Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing a dedicated art house space to the Charlotte, North Carolina, left without one after the closure of the decades-old Manor Theatre in spring 2020. 

President Brad Ritter and Program Director Jay Morong of the Charlotte Film Society talk about the rich history of the Manor Theatre as well as building a new art house space from the ground up—including their planned changes to the traditional programming model.

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The 2021 Movie Calendar Shakeup

Episode 45

This week, Russ, Daniel, and Shawn discuss sweeping release date changes for big movies from major studios, beginning with the James Bond tentpole No Time to Die. They offer predictions on titles that will remain theatrical versus moving to PVOD or day-and-date release, and discuss the degree to which studios are banking on mass vaccination.   

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CMX Cinemas CFO Luis Castelazo on His Call for Lower Film Rentals

Episode 44

This week, Daniel and Rebecca talk to Luis Castelazo, the Chief Financial Officer at CMX Cinemas. The North American division of Mexican operator Cinemex, CMX Cinemas became one of the ten largest theater chains in the U.S. shortly after opening in 2017. More recently, in April of this year it became the first top-ten chain to file for Chapter 11 following the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic; they emerged from bankruptcy in December.

In an open letter published in December, Castelazo advocated for lower film rentals in response to the trend towards shortened theatrical exclusivity windows, which he argues could have a serious effect on theater attendance. In this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, he discusses the evolution of CMX Cinemas and the need for a hard look at the film rental status quo.

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Vidiots Foundation Evolves From Video Store to Movie Theatre

Episode 43

This week, Russ and Rebecca talk to Maggie Mackay, the Board Chair of the Vidiots Foundation, a non-profit community video store and movie theater. Vidiots is dedicated to inspiring interaction through film by providing access to a diverse collection of more than 50,000 DVD and Blu-ray discs and rare VHS tapes.

They talk about the history of Vidiots as a video store and the planned opening of a movie theatre space in Eagle Rock on the east side of Los Angeles, the status of Los Angeles art house theaters, and keeping the moviegoing community together despite the lure of streaming.

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2021: Have You Watched Wonder Woman 1984?

Episode 42

In this week’s episode, Daniel, Rebecca, and Shawn relayed a quick rundown on Wonder Woman 1984 box office release and the impact of its HBO Max stream, how Warner Bros. is not releasing enough box office information, and the possible major film releases this spring. 

Happy New Year!

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What Do You Want to See in Theaters in 2021?

Episode 41

In this week’s episode, Russ, Daniel, Rebecca, and Shawn step away from news to discuss their few theatrical experiences in 2020, the culture of theater-going versus streaming at home, a slate of excellent films to watch wherever you can, and what to look forward to in 2021.   

Happy New Year!

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Warner Bros. to Stream All 17 Movies in 2021, Disney’s Investor Day Presentation

Episode 40

In this week’s episode, Russ, Daniel, Rebecca, and Shawn discuss Warner Bros.’ announcement to stream the entire 2021 film slate on HBO Max, what was covered in Disney’s Investor Day presentation, and the responses from different circuits on the recently announced streaming plans of the major studios.  

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NATO’s John Fithian on COVID Relief Bill, Theatrical Exclusivity Window, and Timeframe for Recovery

Episode 39

In this week’s episode, Russ, Daniel, and Rebecca talk to John Fithian, CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO). They discuss the recent updates in the passing of the next stimulus package, shifts to the theatrical exclusivity window, and the communication strategy in promoting a safe return to cinemas.

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Wonder Woman 1984 Debuts Domestically in December

Episode 38

In this week’s episode, Russ, Rebecca, and Shawn talk about the box office numbers of The Croods: A New Age on Thanksgiving weekend, updates on the release schedule of some upcoming movies, the possible outcome of Wonder Woman 1984 domestic theater release, and the upcoming Boxoffice Podcast anniversary.

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Studios Press for a Shorter Theatrical Window

Episode 37

In this week’s episode, Russ, Daniel, and Rebecca talk about Cinemark’s shortened theatrical window deal with Universal, and break down recent statements from leading distribution executives on PVOD, theatrical exclusivity windows, co-existing with streaming, and reaching out to non-regular moviegoers.

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Maryland’s Warehouse Cinemas Opens Mid-Pandemic; Cinemark Earnings Call

Episode 36

In this week’s episode, Russ and Rebecca talk about Cinemark’s Q3 earnings call, the future of title by title negotiations, and updates on Disney’s release schedule.

Rich Daughtridge, President and CEO of Warehouse Cinemas, joins Daniel and Rebecca to discuss opening in the theater in the midst of a global pandemic; how their SkyVUE concept changes the moviegoing experience; the theater’s visuals, designs, and restaurant-like food selection; and reaching out to audiences through social media marketing. 

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Q3 Recap and a Second Wave of Closures (Feat. UNIC CEO Laura Houlgatte Abbott)

Episode 35

In this week’s episode, Daniel and Rebecca discuss the latest updates from Q3 earnings calls, including AMC Theatres, Marcus Theatres, IMAX, and Kinepolis.

Laura Houlgatte Abbott, CEO of UNIC, Europe’s cinema trade association, joins the podcast to talk about the second round of closures across the continent.

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Film Festival Alliance: Closures and Restrictions in European Cinemas

Episode 34

In this week’s episode, Rebecca, Russ, and Shawn touch on Studio Movie Grill’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy announcement, new restrictions—including, in some cases, closures—among European cinemas and what the slate holds for Q4 2020.

Rebecca and Russ talk to Lela Meadow-Conner, the Executive Director of the Film Festival Alliance (FFA) — a collaborative global community for mission-driven film festivals, about the effect of the shutdown on the fall festival scene, virtual programmings of local festivals, and how festivals can work together with their exhibitor partners.

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NATO Treasurer and Bow Tie Cinemas COO Joe Masher on New York City Theaters Remaining Closed

Episode 33

In this week’s episode, Daniel, Rebecca, and Jesse Rifkin, Boxoffice Pro analyst, discuss the top 5 films in this week’s box office, Two Hearts’ massive YouTube trailer views, and New York state’s new reopening guidelines.

Rebecca and Daniel talk to Joe Masher, the current National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) Treasurer and COO of Bow Tie Cinemas — the oldest theater circuit in North America, about the political conflict hindering the reopening of theaters in New York city and the guidelines set for some theaters to open in New York state.  

Join us to find out more about the developing NATO appeal for cinemas to finally re-open.

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The Future of Theatrical Exclusivity, NATO Chairman & Marcus Theatres CEO Rolando Rodriguez on the Importance of Embracing Diversity

Inclusivity Initiatives Hispanic Heritage Month, Disney on New Streaming Ecosystem

Episode 32

In this week’s episode, Russ and Daniel analyze a dramatic week in the cinema industry, going over the role major studios and exhibition circuits are playing amidst a major shift in the theatrical distribution model. 

Daniel talks to Rolando Rodriguez, CEO of Marcus Theatres––the fourth-largest cinema chain in the United States––and the new Chairman of the National Association of Theatre Owners, about the importance of embracing diverse audiences on the occasion of Hispanic Heritage month. 

Join us to find out about the latest developments affecting the movie theater industry, and how cinemas are navigating the financial fall-out from the Covid-19 pandemic. 

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Karo Film Group: Pushing Modern Cinema Experience, Russian Market Reopens

Episode 31:

The Karo Film Group is a leading motion picture exhibition company owning and operating 31 modern movie theatres comprising of 197 screens in Moscow, the Moscow region, St. Petersburg, Nizhniy Novgorod, Samara, Kazan, Kaliningrad and Surgut and serves nearly 12 million visitors per year.

In today’s episode, Rebecca and Daniel sit down with Olga Zinyakova, President of Karo Films and Paul Heth, Karo’s Executive Chairman & CEO. They talk about the introduction of modern style cinemas in Russia, smart programming films to drive viewership, Karo’s plans for 2021, and Cineworld’s temporary closure.   

Listen to how the film industry is booming in Russia!

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We Are Parable: Changing the Face of Film Exhibition, Disney’s Latest Release Dates

Episode 30:

We Are Parable started out as an intention to screen their favorite film in their local cinema. Seven years later, the husband and wife tandem created an avenue of cinematic events focused on creating unique film viewing experiences for Black audiences in the UK.

In today’s episode, Rebecca, Russ, and Shawn talk to Anthony Andrews, the Co-Founder of We Are Parable. They uncover how the company started out, award-winning director Spike Lee’s involvement with them forming key relationships within the industry, attracting vulnerable and targeted audiences to visit cinemas again, and a little bit on Disney’s update of new movie releases. 

Listen to how independent cinemas are performing in the UK!

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Art Houses Fight On: Salt Lake Film Society Launches @homeArts

Episode 29:

In today’s episode, Rebecca, Daniel, and Shawn talk to Tori Baker, Salt Lake Film Society (SLFS) President and CEO. They discuss the @homeArts initiative, maintaining audience loyalty to local art houses, the importance of reinforcing theatrical behavior, and what state virtual screening is currently at.  

Tune in and listen to the long-term potential of virtual screening!

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Tenet Dropped to $6 Million in its 2nd Weekend, More Uncertainty in the Fourth Quarter

Episode 28:

In today’s episode, Russ, Shawn, and Rebecca discuss Tenet’s gross on its second weekend, list of major films to open in November and December, and counterprogramming that can potentially reel in more people into theaters.  

Listen in for updates on what film to watch in theaters nearest you!

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Tenet’s Domestic Debut

Episode 27:

In today’s episode, Russ, Daniel, and Shawn discuss Tenet’s opening week in local theaters, controversy surrounding Disney’s Mulan, and why new wide releases are important to the industry’s recovery efforts.

Tune in to see how Tenet’s release is impacting the industry!

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As Tenet Opens in Cinemas, More Majors Films are Being Shelved

Episode 26:

In today’s episode, Russ, Daniel, Rebecca, and Shawn discuss California’s safer economy blueprint at 25% capacity in select counties, successful films pre-COVID, international film festivals, and Paramount and Disney’s list of releases pushed back in 2021.

Listen in to find out how Tenet is driving the recovery efforts of exhibitors.  

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Third Weekend of Reopening: In-Theater Mask Wearing Enforcement

Episode 25:

In today’s episode, Russ, Daniel, and Rebecca discuss reopening progress in China and UK, guidelines and safety protocols being implemented, and stringent mask-wearing in auditoriums.    

Tune in for more local and global reopening updates.  

** The Boxoffice Podcast is moving to Thursdays starting September 1st, 2020 **

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The Return to Cinema: Movie Theaters Are Finally Reopening

Episode 24:

In today’s episode, Russ, Daniel, and Rebecca discuss local and international cinema reopening statistics, successful re-release of older films in some international markets, and the overwhelming support of movie-goers for art houses.    

Tune in for more positive news and theater reopening updates.  

** The Boxoffice Podcast is moving to Thursdays starting September 1st, 2020 **

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Earnings call: Big Losses and COVID Innovations

Episode 23:

In today’s episode, Daniel, Rebecca, and Shawn discuss the multi-million dollar losses of theater chains, Q2 investor meetings, how international exhibitors are bouncing back, the PVOD shortened window deal, and new film releases.

Tune in to hear how cinemas are dealing with theatrical limitations.

**The Boxoffice Podcast is moving to Thursdays starting September 1st, 2020**

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New Normal: Can Art House Theaters Survive the Covid Shutdown?

Episode 22:

In today’s episode, we speak with Logan Crow, an avid and lifelong enthusiast of art house cinemas and founder of the Frida Cinema. Film streaming has gained a new height, theater Drive-Ins are now more family-oriented, and non-profit movie houses are more likely to survive than for-profit cinemas.  

Tune in and learn what has been keeping art houses open! 

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Industry Changes: Cinemas Can’t Just Rely on Big Movie Releases

Episode 21:

Sustainability seems scarce these days, how do circuits remain open without new products?

We spoke with Chris Johnson, a veteran in running circuit chains and whose family is heavily involved in the cinema sector. They closed their theaters in June, clearly imperceptive that it may remain closed for a while longer. Even with their efforts to adhere to the health department’s safety protocols, staying open was a losing battle. 

Listen in to hear how the pandemic continuously changes the movie viewing experience.

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Corporate Politics: Independent Cinemas Struggle While Tenet Pushes Release Date Again

Episode 20:

Theaters closing again will hurt consumer confidence, so what are they doing to weather the storm?

We spoke with Byron Berkley, the president & treasurer of the Independent Cinema Alliance (ICA) and an independent exhibitor himself. The expectation was for small exhibitors to run on repertory content until big studios put down new releases, but the coronavirus has turned weeks of anticipation to months of struggle. 

Listen to hear how corporate decisions are affecting independent exhibitors!

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Risky Business: How This Historic Theater Turned Drive-In Found Success in Uncertainty

Episode 19:

Is shifting to a drive-in model the best thing theaters can do right now?

Today we’re talking to Doreen Sayegh, she’s been in the business for over 30 years, but the COVID crisis forced her to close the doors of her family operated Cranford Theater. Despite recent lawsuits between major theaters and New Jersey, she’s made a very successful pivot into starting (and selling out tickets) for her new theater, the Cranford Theater Drive-In.

Hear how she’s dealing with the changing movie-going market!

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6 Months in Review: What’s Next for Cinemas in the Rest of 2020?

Episode 18:

What will the rest of the year look like for cinemas?

Today on the Boxoffice Podcast: Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, and Rebecca Pahle review the last six months of 2020, the realistic possibilities of contactless theaters, and the transition to paid VOD for major films.

Listen in to hear the adaptive marketing initiatives of leading film exhibitors!  

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Closures & Unlucky Timing: How Art House Cinemas are Holding Up

Episode 17:

How are independent exhibitors holding up?

Today, on the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, and Rebecca Pahle, with guest Anthony Fykes; discuss the history of Next Act Cinema, how the sense of community helped build the theater’s brand, and the programming that captivated movie-goers.

Listen in to hear how local art house cinemas are doing right now!  

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Release Dates & Reopenings: A Staggered Reality for Cinemas Everywhere

Episode 16:

Round & round the release carousel goes, but what are the effects of the ever-changing dates?

Today on the Boxoffice Podcast: Spongebob goes PVOD, release dates across the board continue to shift, and most importantly despite substantial losses in the first quarter of 2020 box office results are now trending upwards.

Listen in for the latest cinema news & numbers!

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Tentatively Tenet: Release Dates, Re-Openings, and CineEurope News

Episode 15:

If cinemas open as planned, would you feel comfortable enough to go?

On this week’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast: Insights and implications of Tenet’s new release date, Cineworld dropped it’s planned acquisition of Cineplex, Little Women’s box office report, along with continued concerns around what the movie going experience will look like in the coming months.

And on a lighter note, the movies we couldn’t bear finishing and a few we walked out on.

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Event Cinema: How Reopened Theaters Are Dealing with Delays

Episode 14:

Theaters are reopening, what’s next?

Today on the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer, Daniel Loria, and Rebecca Pahle give us an update on recent news of theaters opening around the country, the strategies behind event cinemas in a world of social distancing, along with sound bytes from Bernadette McCabe (CineLife), Letha Steffey (EVP, Fathom Events), and Marc Allenby (CEO, Trafalgar Releasing)

Listen in to hear how event cinema is dealing with current challenges!

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Now In Theaters: Reopening Procedures

Episode 13:

Are you curious about the progression of movie theaters reopening?

On this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with guests Rebecca Pahle discuss the current scope of reopenings, with statements from guests of Boxoffice Pro Live Sessions, Darek Heat, Marianne Abiaad, Rob Lehman, and Jason Ostrow.

Tune in to hear the details on current cinema reopening procedures.

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Post-COVID Concessions: New Guidelines, New Trends

Episode 12:

Ready to head back to theaters, but concerned about the sanitary procedures at the concessions?

On this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with guests Rebecca Pahle and Senior Vice President of Malco Theatres, Larry Etter, discuss new food and beverage trends, pricing, and guidelines. 

Listen in to hear how concessions will change post-COVID.

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Hollywood Shutdown: How Covid-19 is Impacting Production Schedules

Episode 11:

How will cinema productions shutdown affect the movie business for the foreseeable future?

On this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with guest Anousha Sakoui of the LA Times, will discuss how Covid-19 has altered the Hollywood production pipeline, anticipated protocols on film sets, and an analysis of release schedule logistics.

Tune in to learn about guidelines for productions during the pandemic!

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Drive-In Movie Theaters: How the Pandemic is Making an Old-Time Tradition New Again

Episode 10:

Did you know that drive-in theaters are finally making a comeback?

In this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with guest Chris Eggertsen, discuss the resurgence of drive-in movie theaters, their history, and modernizing the drive-in experience.

Listen in and head to the drive-in with us!

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The Return to Cinema: Social Distancing and Restrictions

Episode 9:

After weeks of closures how will social distancing affect our return to the cinemas?

In this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with guest Shawn Robbins, discuss some world-wide theaters reopening dates, social distancing procedures that will be applied to movie-going, and the upcoming movie release schedule.

Tune in to be prepared to get back to the cinema experience!

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The Show Must Go On: Lionsgate Live

Episode 8:

Will streaming from home replace the movie going experience?

On this episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with Shawn Robbins and special guest Damon Wolf, CMO and Head of Global Distribution of Lionsgate, discuss a few theater’s plans to reopen, the genesis of Lionsgate Live, and how the industry has endured as an important facet of the human experience.

Listen in as we all anticipate the return to theaters!

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A Grand Reopening

Episode 7:

What will it take for movie theaters to be able to return to normal once they reopen?

Today on the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria go over White House guidelines and prospective processes, potential worldwide reopening dates, and what movies might be available at those times.

Tune in to stay in the know of the procedures for cinema reopenings.

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How Are European Theaters Handling the Pandemic?

Episode 6:

How are European theaters handling the pandemic?

On today’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria with Rebecca Pahle, expand upon key topics from the Boxoffice Live Sessions webinar with the International Union of Cinemas – such as what the UNIC is, the European stimulus package for cinemas, and promotional campaigns to help moviegoers return to cinemas.

Listen in for more information on Europe’s plans to reopen their cinemas!

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The Pivot to a New Normal: Atom Tickets and Cinemark Theatres

Episode 5:

What is the “new normal” of the cinema industry?

On today’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loría, along with statements by Matthew Bakal from Atom Tickets and Jeff Rosenfeld from Cinemark, discuss theaters’ newest strategies to generate income, if these strategies will stick around, and what companies are focusing on for the future.

Listen in to learn how to support the recovery of the movie business!

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Bonus Episode: Boxoffice Pro LIVE Sessions with NATO’s John Fithian

Episode 4:

What do the coming months have in store for the movie business?

On today’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria, with Rebecca Pahle discuss the LIVE Sessions webinar.

In the webinar, John Fithian and Patrick Corcoran answer important topics and questions on NATO actions, long-term impact, and what recovery will look like. Tune in to stay informed on what’s next for the cinema industry!

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Virtual Theatrical: How Streaming and Theatrical Can Work Together

Episode 3:

Can virtual solutions enable theaters to stay open at this time?On this week’s episode of The Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria look at Kino Marquee, the virtual theatrical initiative from Kino Lorber that can help cinemas bring revenue during the COVID-19 crisis. Can virtual solutions enable theaters to stay open at this time?

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The Billion Dollar Stimulus Package For Cinemas

Episode 2:

How can movie theaters stay in touch with their customers during this time?

On today’s episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria along with Rebecca Pahle, discuss the NATO stimulus package, how cinemas are staying in touch with moviegoers, and how theaters can continue to bring in revenue in this uncertain time.

Listen in to learn some tactics for cinemas and consumers to help each other weather the storm!

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The Future of the Cinema Industry in the Midst of Pandemic

Episode 1:

Worried about the future of the cinema industry?

On this premiere episode of the Boxoffice Podcast, Russ Fischer and Daniel Loria go over their thoughts on current events affecting the industry, potential future implications, and what some in the community have done to help the cinema industry.

Tune in to hear how we can support the cinema community in these uncertain times.

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Welcome to the Boxoffice Podcast!

The Boxoffice podcast will be your digestible, go-to resource for the cinema industry.

The Boxoffice Podcast is your #1 resource for news and analysis about movies and the movie business. We’ll be your guide through these evolving and sometimes disruptive times. While breaking down film headlines, exploring box office results, and chatting with studio & cinema executives, we’ll discuss all aspects of movies and entertainment.

By movie lovers for movie lovers!

Available on Spotify, Apple, and wherever you get your podcasts.