National Cinema Day is returning this summer, offering moviegoers across the United States the opportunity to enjoy discounted ticket prices. On August 27th, thousands of theaters will be participating in the event, slashing movie ticket prices to just $4 for any title in any format.
This year’s National Cinema Day follows the success of a similar offering over Labor Day weekend in 2021, when tickets were priced at just $3. The initiative is the brainchild of the Cinema Foundation, a non-profit organization affiliated with the National Association of Theatre Owners. The foundation aims to celebrate the theatrical experience and promote the joy of watching movies on the big screen.
More than 3,000 movie theaters with over 30,000 screens will be participating in this one-day event. Moviegoers will have a wide selection of movies to choose from, including new releases such as “Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story,” “Golda,” and “Retribution.” Summer hits like “Barbie,” “Oppenheimer,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” and “Sound of Freedom” will also be available. Additionally, movie lovers can look forward to the upcoming releases of “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” and “The Little Mermaid Sing-Along.” Classic films getting a re-release, such as “Jurassic Park (3D),” “American Graffiti,” “Lady Bird,” and “Oldboy,” will also be featured during National Cinema Day.
“We look forward to gathering at the movies and celebrating an exciting slate of new releases and classics, from beloved family favorites and outrageous comedies to thought-provoking dramas and thrilling adventures,” said Cinema Foundation President, Jackie Brenneman.
The average movie ticket price is currently $10.53, which is a 15 percent increase from 2019, according to the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO). However, ticket prices can be significantly higher in major cities like New York and Los Angeles, especially when considering the additional cost for premium screens. For example, IMAX tickets can cost $25 or more. Therefore, National Cinema Day offers a cost-effective opportunity for moviegoers to enjoy the big screen experience.
Reducing ticket prices so drastically, especially on a weekend, is typically not a common practice for Hollywood studios and cinema operators. However, last year’s National Cinema Day in 2021 was a tremendous success, with moviegoing reaching record levels. The total revenue for September 3, 2021, was $23.6 million, a remarkable 101 percent increase compared to the Friday before the event and surpassing previous Labor Day Saturdays.
As the second annual National Cinema Day approaches, movie lovers are eagerly anticipating the chance to enjoy their favorite films at a fraction of the usual ticket price. This event not only provides an affordable outing for families and friends but also serves as a reminder of the magic and communal experience that can only be found in a movie theater. So mark your calendars for August 27th and get ready to celebrate National Cinema Day by catching a movie on the big screen!