Tom Rothman from Sony Encourages Theaters to Extend Showtimes, Reduce Ads, and Lower Ticket Prices for a Sustainable Future in Cinema – CinemaCon
Tom Rothman Calls for Strategic Changes in Cinema Industry
Tom Rothman, chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, made headlines as the first studio chief to address the CinemaCon audience. During his keynote speech on Monday at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Rothman outlined three significant changes he believes cinema exhibitors must implement to revitalize the industry.
“Admissions are clearly down from pre-Covid, and we all have urgent work to do,” Rothman stated, acknowledging an improvement in the industry while emphasizing the challenges that remain. He stressed that studios have a responsibility to present a diverse array of films to attract various audiences.
Rothman urged exhibitors to take decisive action: “Enforce longer windows even if that means you cannot play every film.” This recommendation highlights a shift in how releases are managed, suggesting a strategic approach to film availability.
He also addressed the issue of advertising, stating, “Get rid of the endless advertising and substantially shorten the long preshows that some — not all of you have.” Rothman called for a reevaluation of how much time is dedicated to promotions before films begin, advocating for a more streamlined experience for viewers.
Affordability emerged as a crucial point in Rothman’s address, underscoring the need for movie-going to become financially accessible once again. “Easy it’s not. It’s hard. And business I know has been tough. I am rooting for you because you have been wonderful,” he said, recognizing the difficult landscape many exhibitors face.
Rothman’s remarks serve as a clarion call for change within the cinema industry, urging collaboration and innovation to address the pressing challenges of today’s market.
