New York City movie theaters are officially open again. The theaters had been closed for nearly a year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Andrew Cuomo reopened them with a proclamation on February 22.
AMC Theaters said they would re-open today and they are delivering. For example, near Times Square, the AMC Empire 25 on West 42nd Street has a full line-up of films today. Both showings of Wonder Woman 1984 sold out today. Tom & Jerry, Chaos Walking, Boogie, Judas And The Black Messiah, The Little Things, Promising Young Woman and Tenet all have various showings already sold out as of 2pm East Coast time today.
Liam Neeson’s The Marksman’s 8:15pm showing is sold out as well. Neeson told The Hollywood Reporter that he will be at a “prominent Upper Westside multiplex” tonight to personally welcome moviegoers back. City Mayoral candidate Andrew Yang is expected to see a movie at the AMC Empire 25 tonight.
In addition to Chaos Walking, this weekend’s big release is Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon. The AMC Empire 25 has multiple showings tonight. Both films have slots in the theater’s IMAX with Laser auditorium.
Auditoriums will sell out sooner than usual since they are operating at 40% capacity or less to allow for social distancing. Masks will be required before, during and after the movie unless you are enjoying AMC’s food and drinks.
AMC has implemented their “Safe & Clean” policies and procedures. These were developed with their official cleaning advisor, Clorox. Employees have daily health screenings and hand sanitizers or disinfecting wipes will be available. Furthermore, condiments and drink refills are available by request.
We will be tracking New York City movie theater foot traffic and box office stats through the weekend.
