As the film industry emerges from the shadows of recent strikes and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, excitement is brewing for this year’s CinemaCon, being held from March 31 to April 3 at the iconic Colosseum in Caesars Palace. Unlike in previous years, where certain movie studios might have chosen to sit on the sidelines, it appears that every major player is keen to participate in this year’s event. This rejuvenation signals optimism in a sector historically punctuated by unpredictability. The palpable energy surrounding this year’s CinemaCon represents a collective effort by studios to reconnect with audiences and assert the importance of the theatrical experience amidst a landscape increasingly dominated by streaming.
One of the most notable appearances will be from Amazon MGM Studios, marking their debut presentation as a combined entity. Previously, MGM made its presence felt under the leadership of Michael DeLuca and Pam Abdy, while Amazon Studios tended to maintain a lower profile, typically showcasing its content during informal lunches. The merging of these two prolific studios under one banner suggests a strategic commitment to theatrical releases, putting them on a broader stage. This full presentation marks a significant shift in approach, highlighting the importance of engaging with both theater owners and audiences directly.
This year’s CinemaCon will witness the resurgence of several key players in the industry. Notably absent last year, Sony will return with a formidable presence, joining the ranks of Warner Bros., Universal/Focus Features, Paramount, Lionsgate, and more. Each studio is expected to showcase their latest cinematic offerings, with a plethora of stars making appearances. Nonetheless, amidst the excitement, it’s worth noting that Amazon MGM stands out as the only streaming service participating in this prominent forum, as other streamers like Netflix have opted out due to a lack of wide theatrical releases.
NATO President and CEO Michael O’Leary expressed optimism about the growing involvement of studios in CinemaCon, indicating this trend as a clear affirmation of the enduring appeal of theatrical exhibitions. The shared belief among studios is that films originating in cinemas often achieve greater success compared to those that do not. This notion underscores a vital aspect of the industry’s revival: the communal experience of watching films in theaters. O’Leary’s remarks reflect the sentiment that the magic of cinema can only truly be appreciated on the big screen, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between studios and theater owners.
As CinemaCon approaches, excitement is palpable, fueled by the collaborative spirit of the attendees. Mitch Neuhauser, Managing Director of CinemaCon, echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support from studios, filmmakers, and theater owners alike. The forthcoming event promises to be a celebration of storytelling and the resilient spirit of the film industry. As studios prepare to unveil their creative ambitions for the year ahead, the collective hope is that audiences will return to theaters, eager to embrace the magic that only cinematic storytelling can bring. In doing so, the industry will not only reaffirm its cultural significance but also pave the way for robust economic recovery moving forward.