MINDSHARE THEATREWORLD EDITORIAL
The 21st anniversary edition surely does bring great pleasure and we as a team look forward to catering the best of news and knowledge spiralling in the Cinema Exhibition Industry. We thank Mr Sandeep Mittal, Founder, TheatreWorld for bringing out the exceptional “behind the screens” scenes through TheatreWorld and hereby pledge to go beyond the usual journalistic traditions for the many more years to come. There is a mix of apprehension, of innovation transforming the world at a rapid rate. The future is certainly unpredictable but it is rest assured that substantial changes is essential for all sectors; be it the producers, distributors, exhibitors and now the streamers. Towards the States, Cinemark, one of the world’s largest cinema chains opened a 12 screen theatre in New Jersey; offering a top-of-the-line, modernized entertainment destination for the Wayne community. ODEON, the largest cinema group in European continent is out with UK’s largest ODEON Luxe cinema in the city of Birmingham; featuring 1264 luxury handmade reclining seats across its 12 upgraded screens. Coming to the Mediterranean side, VOX cinemas, Arabian region’s most innovative exhibitor is now out with the biggest multiplex in Riyadh with 18 state-of-the-art screens, 1427 seats, GOLD MAX and KIDS experiences making it the largest in the Saudi footprint so far. PVR, India’s largest cinema chain has finally set its step internationally; launching its first 9-screen property in Colombo, Sri Lanka; INOX Megaplex launches the World’s first ever multiplex with the maximum formats: 11 spectacular screens, 5 grand lobbies and 1586 seats and 6 amusing cinema formats; RemPham’Ly Cinema opens the first ever premium theatre in Mizoram and UGM Cinemas’ first property down south in Ettumanoor, Kerala. With the cinema exhibition industry growing rapidly with such astounding innovations, I believe India is nowhere left behind to serve its share of news brewing up to the top-notch. Speaking of which, Google has newly rolled out its Duplex artificial intelligence tool that designs to easily purchase movie tickets online on a global note. On the other side, Amazon India and BookMyShow recently entered into partnership where customers can now book tickets on its website with the aim to simplify the lives of the moviegoers. As TheatreWorld being the official media partner for ECM 2019, I had a great experience networking at the event about the new emerging market. The convention focused on the continents of Africa, Turkey, the host nation, and New Europe (the Balkans and former Soviet states), Central Asia and the GCC. In combination they presented a market opportunity of 1.7 billion people served by only 6,850 active cinema screens! They are at an early stage in terms of growth and development, but in combination they offer a significant opportunity for investors, studios, distributors, exhibitors and the specialist supply chains to the industry. One of the pivotal events amongst the Cinema Exhibition Industry: CineAsia 2019 conference hosted in Hong Kong was scrubbed by the Film Expo Group, citing escalating violence in the city. Though disheartening, we certainly look forward to see you all soon in the upcoming events! Raghavendra T Editor-Publisher DISCLAIMER - TheatreWorld Magazine does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information, product or service represented within our magazine or web site. The information provided is for knowledge or entertainment purposes only. TheatreWorld Magazine does not endorse or recommend any article, product, service or information found within said articles or advertisements. The views and opinions of the authors who have submitted articles to TheatreWorld Magazine belong to them alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of TheatreWorld Magazine or its staff.
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December 2019 - February 2020
Issue # 88 December 2019 - February 2020
Raghavendra T Editor-Publisher +91 9980 208 208 raghav@network208.com
Asha Ranjith Business Development +91 9902 208 208 asha@network208.com
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Jagadeesh M Online & Social Media Contributing Author K M Suryanarayanan Printing Ramya Reprographic, Bengaluru Published by Raghavendra T on behalf of NETWORK208 11/1, 7th Main, Indiranagar 2nd Stage, Bangalore 560 038, India Tel: +91 80 2529 0208 Email: info@network208.com www.network208.com
Sandeep Mittal Founder Editor-Publisher RNI # KARENG02795/10/1/2002-TC TheatreWorld is a quarterly publication, on the motion picture exhibition industry, for private circulation. It reaches out to subscribers, mainly theatre owners and trade professionals around the world. Additional copies are being promoted at major international industry tradeshows. TheatreWorld seeks the healthy promotion of the theatre industry through dissemination of useful information. Some of the information is compiled from industry sources, trade journals, company brochures for the benefit of readers, especially, theatre owners. TheatreWorld acknowledges with thanks the authors and publishers of these printed materials. Views expressed in the articles are those of the authors and not necessarily of TheatreWorld. TheatreWorld is a trademark under registration. The contents of TheatreWorld are under copyright registration. All rights reserved. Reproduction by any means in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Unsolicited printed material is welcome but no responsibility is undertaken for the same and will not be returned. TheatreWorld does not take responsibility for the absolute accuracy of information published.
contents
This issue of TW has two sets of page numbers - International pages TW-1 to TW-56 for TW, and India pages TM-1 to TM-50 for TM. TM is inserted between pages TW-50 and TW-51 of TW.
TW-8
INSTALLS TW-21
PVR Cinemas:
First Multiplex in Sri Lanka World's Biggest FLEXOUND Cinema in Malaysia TW-30
VOX Cinemas:
Biggest Multiplex in Riyadh TW-32 Cinema Theatre Stronger than Home Cinema
TECHNOLOGY TW-35
TW-24
TGV Cinemas:
INSTALLS
TW-26
ODEON Birmingham:
UK's Largest Reclined Seating Luxe Cinema
CHRISTIE:
The Facts of Light
TRADESHOWS
TW-28
TW-37 Review -
INSTALLS
TW-38 Review TW-39 Review TW-43 Review -
Golden Village Funan:
It's More Than Just a Movie
TW-44 Review TW-51
F
U T U R E
R E L E A S E S TM-39
TM-3
World's First Multiplex with Maximum Formats
SPECIAL STORY TM-8
BUSINESS TREND
Theatre vs OTT Storm:
On the Battle that's Just Begun
TM-43
INDIA PLEXING TM-18
Upholding the Legacy
A Humble Beginning Decoded! TM-48 Cinema Design Guide
Miraj Cinemas:
Maxus Cinemas:
A Record in its Own Self TM-33
RemPham'Ly Cinema:
First Premium Cinema in Mizoram TM-35
UGM Cinemas:
First Multiplex in Ettumanoor
TECHNICAL TM-38
Cinépolis:
Helming Forward with Strength
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Bhilai's Ultimate Visual Experience TM-44
Presenting The All New Chef Corner!!! TM-30
Mukta A2 Cinemas:
Aruna Theatre:
December 2019 - February 2020
SPECIAL FEATURE
TM-14
INOX Megaplex:
Recliners India:
TM-20
V-EpiQ Sullurpeta:
South Asia’s Largest Screen
Google's New AI-Powered Tool Helps Buy Movie Tickets
Google is finally rolling out its Duplex artificial intelligence tool on the Web which is designed to let users more easily buy movie tickets online. Currently available on android phones, to use it, users can ask the Google Assistant to look up showtimes for a particular film in their area. Google announced the service at the company's annual I/O developer conference. The search giant will eventually expand the booking system to include car rental reservations, Cnet reported recently. For the tool, Google partnered with 70 movie theatres and ticket companies, including AMC, Fandango and Odeon. The service uses the data users have saved in Google Chrome to pre-fill personal information where it is needed and analyses screens to either deliver its own prompts that are easy to respond to or let you interact with the website itself for a brief section, according to Android Police.
Golden Village Expands Live Concert Broadcast Offerings with BanG Dream! Golden Village (GV) once again built its live broadcast content with its latest introduction - the Roselia x RAISE A SUILEN Rausch und/and Craziness LIVE VIEWING from the
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popular mixed media franchise "BanG Dream!". The highlyanticipated live screening of the concert took place exclusively at GV VivoCity. Roselia and RAISE A SUILEN are bands from the next generation girls band project "BanG Dream!" which is a multimedia franchise that has expanded from a mobile game to anime, manga and even television shows. The two bands came together to hold a joint live concert titled Rausch und/and Craziness, at Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall (Chiba Prefecture). The concert was broadcasted live to movie theatres in Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Thailand.
Cinemark Opens Modern Movie Theatre in Wayne, New Jersey Cinemark Holdings, Inc. one of the world's largest and most innovative movie theatre companies, recently opened a new, 12-screen theatre in Wayne, NJ. Inside the Willowbrook Mall, one of New Jersey's largest malls, the new Cinemark theatre will feature an XD auditorium with the latest technology and sound innovations as well as modern, luxury amenities. "Our new theatre offers a top-of-theline, modernized entertainment destination for the Wayne community," said Mark Zoradi, Cinemark CEO. "We are excited to deliver guests an immersive
moviegoing experience with optimum sight and sound technology, premium amenities, and enhanced food and beverage offerings. "As the holiday season approaches, the Cinemark Willowbrook Mall and XD theatre will be home to the latest releases, including "Frozen 2," "Jumanji: The Next Level," "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" and more. As a part of Cinemark's efforts to meet the evolving demands of the moviegoing experience, guests will also experience cutting-edge technology and customer-preferred amenities including: •
12 ultra-modern auditoriums with wall-to-wall screens and enhanced sound systems; Cinemark Luxury Loungers electric-powered, plush, oversize recliners with footrests, swivel trays, cup holders and heatcontrolled seats;
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A Cinemark XD auditorium - the No. 1 exhibitor Premium Large Format (PLF) in the world, featuring premium sight and sound technology to further immerse audiences in the onscreen action;
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4K digital projection powered by Barco projectors and RealD 3D capability in several auditoriums; Reserved seating with online, kiosk and mobile app ticketing capabilities;
•
A concession stand offering a variety of food and beverage options, including freshly popped popcorn, fountain drinks, Pizza Hut pizza, Hershey's Chocolate Chip Cookies, Edy's Ice Cream and an added selection of hot foods including burgers, chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, fried pickles, quesadillas and more;
•
Special discount pricing for Senior Mondays, Discount
Tuesdays, Students, Active Military and; •
A party room available to rent for birthday parties and additional celebrations.
•
Guests at Cinemark Willowbrook Mall can further enhance their moviegoing experience by signing up for Cinemark Movie Rewards premium tier, Movie Club, the monthly in-theatre membership program for $9.99 per month, plus tax where applicable, which provides exclusive benefits including 20 percent off concessions, rollover and companion tickets, reserved seating and no online fees.
Christie Delivers the Magic of RGB Laser Projection at Magic Cinema The Magic Cinema complex in Mali, Africa is now home to Christie RGB RealLaser technology. Located in the futuristic Five Planets shopping centre, the four-theatre complex has two VIP theatres with 54 seats with the other two housing 78 seats each. All four Magic Cinema auditoriums are equipped with Christie projectors with the VIP theatres boasting Christie CP4325-RGB 4K projectors and the others housing Christie Solaria Series. "From the very beginning, we set a high bar for every element of the experience, from the most modern projection equipment to the atmosphere in every area of the cinema," says Olga Kochkina, Magic Cinema's director. "As far as equipment was concerned, we had a
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plan of action mapped out as far back as KinoExpo in St. Petersburg, where, thanks to Asia Cinema, we were introduced to Christie's latest products."
Cinionic Strikes Deal with Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont
Cinionic, the Barco, CGS, and ALPD cinema joint venture providing a new visual standard with enhanced services and technology solutions reinforces its leadership in the global cinema industry through a strategic relationship with Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont. Cinionic will bring its all laser solutions to the European exhibitor with an agreement for more than 200 Barco Series 4 laser projectors. Cinionic will power Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont's new builds in France and Africa, beginning with its new theatre in Sousse Tunisia, Africa. Currently, Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont operates more than 100 theatres across European and African countries. Together the companies will upgrade new and existing Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont theatres to bring an elevated moviegoing experience for its audiences. "Cinionic is helping solve exhibitor challenges by providing innovative solutions like Barco Series 4 to power theatres and deliver a new visual standard with laser projection," said Serge Plasch, Chief Commercial Officer of Cinionic. "Our strategic relationships with key exhibitors such as Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont allow us to continue raising the bar for audiences around the world, so anyone, anywhere can have the best moviegoing experience."
Cinionic will bring the benefits of laser to Pathé audiences by installing the new Barco Series 4 laser projector. Launched in spring 2019, the Barco series 4 laser projector delivers the highest quality visual experience in cinema for moviegoers today, future proofed for tomorrow; leveraging 4K, RGB-Laser with Barco Active Image Management, as well as being ready for 4K 120fps high frame rate and on-board Barco Colorgenic delivering wide-colour-gamut capabilities. Series 4 leads the industry as the most environmentally friendly and energy-efficient platform using Barco EcoPure design principles. The announcement with Les Cinémas Pathé Gaumont continues Cinionic's international expansion and the upward industry trend for laser projection. Cinionic is trusted by more than 200 exhibitors to help capture audiences at multiple touch points in their cinema journey and keep them coming back for more. Through its best-in-class technology solutions and enhanced services; Cinionic continues to introduce new solutions to meet the demands of the cinema industry worldwide.
Cinionic Revamps Showcase Cinema, Massachusetts Cinionic, the cinema market leader that illuminates more than half of the world's movie theatres, announces a strategic relationship with National Amusements, a global leader in the motion picture
exhibition industry. Cinionic will help transform its flagship multiplex, Showcase Cinema de Lux Legacy Place, into a leading laser-powered entertainment destination. The theatre is the first all Barco laser multiplex in the US for National Amusements. Located in Boston, MA, the theatre elevates the entertainment experience for moviegoers by delivering a new visual standard through Cinionic's complete laser and cinematic technology solutions. "We are honoured to continue our collaboration with National Amusements on this new venture and to be supporting their investment in the next generation of cinema, as we move from Xenon to Laser" said Wim Buyens, CEO, Cinionic, "Today's announcement builds upon our long-standing relationship and furthers our joint commitment to the moviegoer and the future of exhibition as we enter the renewal wave." The transformed Showcase Cinema de Lux Legacy Place will feature the suite of Cinionic Laser solutions with all-new Barco Series 4 laser projection and an XPlus premium screen powered by CGS, creating more choices and setting a new visual standard for moviegoers in the Boston-area. "Our strategic partnership with Cinionic is enabling us to deliver a differentiated moviegoer experience at our flagship, Legacy Place" said Jon Kidder, Director of Cinema technology, National Amusements, "Our promise to the moviegoer is to showcase movies in the best way possible, and that's why we chose Series 4, CGS, and to work with Cinionic on this ambitious project." Opening later this year, Showcase Cinema de Lux Legacy Place will be the North East's first theatre to feature 'Showcase XPlus - CGS Enlightened,' the cinemas' enhanced giant screen offering with immersive sound, crystal clear laser projection and reserved seating. The newly upgraded XPlus location is the first to be powered by CGS for the exhibitor,
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and audiences in the Boston-area. Cinionic will also upgrade all auditoriums in the multiplex with its award-winning Barco Series 4 laser projectors equipped with Alchemy Media Servers. Additionally, to deliver a complete cinematic solution for the next decade, the theatre will receive advanced Cinionic services, making it a leading location for today and tomorrow.
IMAX China Appoints New CEO: Edwin Tan IMAX China Holdingand IMAX recently announced the appointment of Edwin Tan as Chief Executive Officer of IMAX China. In his role, Tan will assume all oversight and executive responsibilities for IMAX China, which continues to drive record box office and strong theatre network growth in 2019. He will report directly to the Board of IMAX China. Tan brings decades of global leadership experience to the role across entertainment, exhibition and event services industries, having most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of the China operations of Messe Muenchen, a top ten exhibition company globally. Jiande Chen, IMAX China's first-ever CEO, who has served in the leadership role since 2011, will step into the new role of Vice Chairman, IMAX China. Chen will continue to provide key strategic guidance for the company, with a focus on government and industry relations. "Across Chinese exhibitors, filmmakers and consumers, demand
for The IMAX Experience has never been stronger and our footprint in China is larger and more diverse than ever," said Richard Gelfond, CEO of IMAX Corporation. "Edwin's proven track record in entertainment, events and scaling complex businesses on the world stage will serve tobe thekey as we build on the strong performance of IMAX China." "We are incredibly grateful for Jiande's efforts in helping grow IMAX into a leading, premium entertainment destination in China," Gelfond continued. "I can unequivocally say that IMAX China would not be where we are today without Jiande's longstanding efforts." Tan joins IMAX China during a significant period of growth, including record-breaking box office performance and a rapidly expanding network that already comprises more than 660 commercial theatres in Greater China. Through the recent National Day holiday period ending October 7, mainland China box office is up 30% in local currency terms year-to-date. Additionally, IMAX recently crossed more than $108 million of box office in 2019 generated by Chinese local language films - a new record for the company. "I am excited to lead the incredible IMAX China team and help capitalize on the Company's significant new opportunities for future growth in the market," said Tan. "From Hollywood to Chinese language films, IMAX is increasingly the place to go for truly powerful and immersive experiences." Most recently, Tan served as Chief Executive Officer of the China operations of Messe Muenchen since 2017, leading the company through a successful acquisition and engaging in strategic planning that significantly increased the company's financial results. Prior to Messe Muenchen, Tan was President at Wanda Studios where he helped develop the model for its movie and content business in its early stages. Previously, Tan held several leadership roles at the exhibition
company Reed Exhibitions, including Chief Operating Officer of Reed China where he developed the overall businesses and managed its transformation into a digital company. Before Reed, he led the successful global expansion of manufacturer SNP Corporation.
Arts Alliance Media and Motion Picture Solutions Join Hands to Provide Global Content E-delivery Arts Alliance Media (AAM) and Motion Picture Solutions (MPS) finally announces on signing a strategic co-operation agreement which will see AAM collaborate with MPS and its invested partner Gofilex on a global content e-delivery solution. Motion Picture Solutions (MPS) has more than 15 years' experience delivering content localisation, mastering, distribution and key generation services to leading distributors, while AAM the global leader in cinema software solutions - has been supporting digital cinema technology and driving innovation in automation and centralisation of theatre operations for the past 16 years. Together, AAM and MPS can leverage their existing relationships with studios and independent distributors, as well as their significant global base of installed sites, to offer exhibitors an efficient, cost-effective, content e-delivery solution powered by Netherlands-based Gofilex. AAM will, with support from MPS and Gofilex, integrate into its world-class Theatre Management System, Screenwriter, Gofilex's secure, reliable e-delivery solution, offering a turn-key solution for receipt of content. Working together, these connected parties will roll out a global solution leveraging AAM's existing estate, expanding their collective global reach to more than 35 countries.
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Screenwriter is the most powerful, flexible, and widely deployed TMS in the world, and helps cinemas manage millions of screenings across more than 45,000 screens in over 2,500 locations worldwide every year. MPS and Gofilex, similarly, have more than 2,500 e-delivery locations across Europe that handle feature, trailer and advertising content. These extensive existing infrastructure systems will form the basis of the initial offering. "Connecting multiple data points along the path of a feature film's release is essential at a time when the distributor/exhibitor relationship needs to be closer than ever," noted Howard Kiedaisch, Head of International at AAM parent company Luxin Rio, "Together, MPS, Gofilex and AAM are uniquely positioned to drive this - as businesses, we can draw on distinct, but wholly complementary expertise and technologies that allow dynamic content delivery of feature films, trailers and advertising for an industry that is seeing rapid change in this area." "Our goal has always been to bring efficiency and value to a logistically diverse sector," commented Matt Aspray, CEO of MPS, "Working in collaboration with incumbent distribution partners in local markets, we have already seen the benefits of utilising the Gofilex e-delivery solution. This agreement will bring clarity and a future-proof service to thousands of customers worldwide. We've enjoyed a close working relationship with AAM for many years, so it was natural that when looking for the best companies to collaborate with on a global scale we should turn to one we trust. Bringing AAM into this 'better connected together' alliance will help deliver the firepower exhibitors need to make truly dynamic content delivery to their screens a reality."AAM, MPS and Gofilex plan to roll out a global electronic distribution network which, over the next 5 years, will extend its reach to more than 10,000 venues globally, and will continue to
work with their distribution and exhibitor customers to devise the solutions that serve their needs.
Roland Emmerich's "Midway" Released In EclairColor in China Distributed by Bona Film Group, the Hollywood blockbuster "Midway�, directed by Roland Emmerich ("The Day After Tomorrow," "Independence Day" and "The Patriot"), is now playing in EclairColor HDR in 30 StarX theatres equipped with HDR technology within China's Bestar cinema circuit. The integrator Great Ocean, an EclairColor-certified partner based in Beijing, was entrusted with the production of the HDR version of the film. "Midway" centers on the Battle of Midway, a clash between the American fleet and the Imperial Japanese Navy which marked a pivotal turning point in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. The film, based on the real-life events of this heroic feat, tells the story of the leaders and soldiers who used their instincts, fortitude and bravery to
overcome the odds. To date, 177 cinemas have been equipped with EclairColor HDR technology, including 16 in China, 8 in the United States, 59 in France, 56 in Germany and 7 in the United Kingdom.
CinemaNext's First ILLUCITYBranded VR Corner at Belgium's Kinepolis Liège Cinema CinemaNext, the European specialist in cinema exhibitor services announced the successful installation of its first ILLUCITY Corner virtual reality (VR) solution for cinema exhibitors at Belgium's Kinepolis Liège cinema. The opening comes one year after the launch of the acclaimed ILLUCITY adventure park in Paris, the first VR Location Based Entertainment (LBE) centre of its kind. The ILLUCITY Corner offer consists of state-of-the-art virtual reality equipment and content designed to provide cinemas with unrivaled immersive experiences in a VR arcade setup to boost their on-site traffic and increase ancillary revenues. Ideal for multiplexes and small cinemas alike, the modular plug-and-play solution is tailored to all surface areas and features a regularly-updated catalogue of premium content for audiences of all
ages. The ILLUCITY Corner package includes installation, staff training, content management, promotional support and onsite & remote maintenance to assist cinemas throughout the life cycle of the product. "We are thrilled to have opened our first ILLUCITY at the Kinepolis Liege, which is an ideal showcase for us," states Georges Garic, Senior Vice President of CinemaNext. "With our experience and network of exhibitor clients across 27 countries, we aim to become a leading provider of turnkey VR experiences for cinemas. ILLUCITY Corner represents an unrivalled opportunity for exhibitors to optimize their space, grow their business and attract new customers with a complementary premium product. It is a natural evolution of what moviegoers seek: shared immersive experiences." "We're always looking for new ways to give our audiences a differentiated experience, so we are excited to be hosting the first ILLUCITY Corner at Kinepolis Liège," adds Stijn Vanspauwen, Country Manager Box Office, Sales and Marketing at Kinepolis Belgium. "We have a close relationship with CinemaNext so are very pleased to be working alongside them again to introduce this new concept, which will delight our visitors." The 80 sq. mt. ILLUCITY Corner located at the entrance to the Kinepolis Liège multiplex features three distinct immersive experiences for visitors of all ages and skill levels:
QSC Announces DCI Compliance for CMS-5000 Cinema Media Server
QSC announces the CMS-5000 has been found to meet all of the requirements of the Digital Cinema System Specification Version 1.2, published by Digital Cinema Initiatives, LLC, (DCI). This certification validates that the nextgeneration cinema media server can reliably play controlled digital cinema content in movie theatres around the world and can reproduce high-quality images and sound as well as secure the content against piracy. The certification testing was conducted by Aegisolve, Inc., an accredited cybersecurity laboratory under the Cryptographic and Security Testing (CST) Laboratory Accreditation Program (LAP) and licensed by DCI for digital cinema equipment compliance testing. DCI is a joint venture of five major Hollywood studios whose primary purpose is to establish and document voluntary specifications for an open architecture for digital cinema that ensures a uniform and high level of technical performance, reliability, and quality control. In late 2007, DCI began publication of its Compliance Test Plan (CTP), which includes validated test procedures for the DCI Specification, including all referenced standards of the Society for Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). "DCI compliance means QSC has taken a significant step towards the secure presentation of digital cinema content," says Barry Ferrell, Vice President, Cinema Product Development and Strategy. "Achieving DCI compliance assures that the CMS-5000 is a trusted part of the digital cinema ecosystem
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worldwide. This certification provides a strong foundation for sale of the CMS-5000, the first QSCbranded cinema server and the only server with native Q-SYS network compatibility. "The DCIcompliant CMS-5000 Cinema Media Server is a next-generation server that delivers ultra-fast data transfer speeds and is designed for compatibility with both current and future sound and picture formats. Best of all, the CMS-5000 can be easily integrated with the Q-SYS Ecosystem for Cinema for complete audio, video, and control (AV&C) capability.
Strong MDI Welcomes Director of Sales and Business Development for EMEA Markets Strong/MDI Screen Systems Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Ballantyne Strong, Inc., and a leading global manufacturer of premium cinema screens ("Strong MDI"), is pleased to announce the appointment of Bernard Collard as Director of Sales and Business Development for Europe, the Middle East and Africa ("EMEA"). Collard will be responsible for supporting our current customer base and expanding Strong MDI's reach to new customers in these markets. He is a longtime veteran in digital cinema, having spent 20 years in the industry, most recently as the Senior Sales Manager at Éclair, a division of Ymagis Group. "Strong MDI is committed to growing our digital cinema and entertainment business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa," commented Strong Cinema President Ray Boegner. "We're excited to welcome Bernard to our Strong MDI team and look forward to bringing even greater quality, value and customer service to our cinema
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operators in these markets." Collard added, "I am thrilled to join Strong MDI and to be a part of their expanding international focus. Strong MDI is well known in the industry for the highest quality screens and service and it is an honour to be part of the team."
4DX Draws Highest Ever October Performance in the Global Box Office CJ 4DPLEX (www.cj4dx.com), the world's leading cinema technology company, announced that the multisensory 4DX format drew $22 million at the global box office in October, up 16% year-over-year, making it the highest ever recorded for the month of October in the history of the company. Breakout performances boosted the 4DX box office leading to increased performances around the globe led by China at 164%, followed by Austria 110%, India 66%, U.S. 27% and Japan 21%. The remarkable results in October were driven not only by Hollywood titles including "Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" and "Gemini Man" but also by several local titles in China, India and Japan. China's box office feat can be attributed to strong performances of two Chinese films released in October in 4DX, "The Captain" and "The Climbers". These films grossed over $4.5 million at the 4DX box office
with "The Captain" ranking as the highest performing 4DX film of October. "War", a high octane action entertainer produced by Yash Raj Films, had a great run at the Indian box office, contributing to the noteworthy growth of up to 66% compared to last year in the same month at the 4DX box office in India. "The audiences enjoyed watching the film in 4DX and the feedback has been encouraging," said Rohan Malhotra, Vice President Distribution, Yash Raj Films. "War" is the first 4DX Bollywood movie of 2019, releasing across Europe and the Middle East in the United Kingdom, France, Norway, Oman, Kuwait and the UAE.In addition, Japanese animation films, "Weathering withyou", "Girls und Panzer das Finale: Part 1-2", "Konosuba-God's Blessing on this Wonderful World! Legend of Crimson" and "Promare", hit 4DX screens in Japan, topping $2.8 million at the box office. Among them, "Weathering with You", which was released in 59 4DX auditoriums in Japan, and 5 4DX auditoriums in Taiwan, marked the highest in gross. Altogether, the success of local films' contributed to the 4DX global box office share in October of up to 43%. In addition to its box office growth, 4DX expanded its footprint in October, altogether opening 10 new auditoriums across the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Denmark, Switzerland, Japan and India, including 1 4DX with ScreenX auditorium in Japan. To date, 4DX is available in 694 auditoriums in 65 countries.
GDC IMB Enables First-ever Showing of 4K 3D @120fps
Ang Lee’s 4K/3D/120fps movie ‘Gemini Man’ was shown at the world premiere in Los Angeles as Lee intended with the CINITY SYSTEM, a new HFR cinema projection system co-developed by GDC and Christie for Huaxia Film Distribution. The CINITY SYSTEM integrates GDC’s SR-6400C, the world’s first ultra-reliable IMB with FAST that is capable of playing content up to 4K@120fps; 4K@240fps in 3D mode.
In addition to the SR-6400C, GDC introduced another HFR 4K 3D IMB with FAST, the SR-5400 that is capable of playback up 4K@60fps. The SR-5400 IMB is compatible with the latest generation of projectors from Barco, Christie and NEC. Both SR-6400C & SR-5400 are designed for 100,000 hours MTBF and offers CineCache (built-in cache memory) that content playback can be performed without the need of local HDD storage.
AMC Theatres Goes to the Home With the Launch of AMC Theatres on Demand AMC Theatres, the largest theatrical exhibitor in the United States and the world, announced that the Company is extending its business into the home. AMC Stubs members in the United States can rent or buy approximately 2,000 of the most popular digital movies from the top Hollywood studios at (AMCTheatres.com) as well as on the AMC Theatres mobile, connected devices and SmartTV applications. To celebrate the launch, AMC Stubs members who use their first transaction to buy or rent a movie distributed by Lionsgate or Paramount Pictures can choose an additional three movies from a selection of that studio’s films.
GoGoCinema Looks to Ubernise the Cinemas “The addition of AMC Theatres On Demand, which extends our movie offerings for AMC Stubs members into their homes, makes perfect sense for AMC Theatres, for our studio partners and for our millions of movie-loving guests,” said Adam Aron, CEO and President, AMC Theatres. “With more than 20 million AMC Stubs households, and with our web site and smartphone apps already being visited hundreds of millions of times annually by movie fans, AMC Theatres is in a unique position to promote specific movies with greater personalization than has ever been possible before. Through the launch of AMC Theatres On Demand, we can reach movie lovers directly and make it easy for them to access films digitally.”
“This is a great opportunity for us to both make our film titles available to movie customers and also increase awareness of our growing streaming services, which are all focused on specific genres and content categories fans are passionate about,” said Ed Carroll, Chief Operating Officer of AMC Networks. “If you are a fan of horror, or British drama, that interest translates to the television screen, the movie theatre, the phone or anywhere anyone can consume content today. We look forward to working with AMC Theatres to make their new in-home movie service even more appealing to fans through access to our film libraries and also raise awareness of our hyper-focused streaming services among their millions of customers.”
AMC has agreements with every major Hollywood studio to make selections of their movies available for digital rental and purchase, including both new release and popular catalogue movies. New releases will become available on AMC Theatres On Demand the same time they are available digitally nationwide, following the traditional theatrical window set by each studio for each movie.
Movies can be purchased or rented through (AMCTheatres.com), the AMC Theatres mobile app, Roku and SmartTVs with more services and devices to be added in the near future.
As part of a first-ever cross-platform marketing partnership between AMC Theatres and AMC Networks, AMC Stubs members will also be able to find movies from AMC Networks’ IFC Films and RLJE Films catalogues on the AMC Theatres On Demand platform beginning in late 2019. Through the partnership, AMC Theatres will also promote AMC Networks’ targeted streaming services Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now and UMC directly to moviegoers, including more than 20 million AMC Stubs households.
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GoGoCinema is the first On-Demand platform in the cinema industry to bring audience, exhibitors and content distributors together. It is powered by GDC’s Cinema Automation CA2.0 solution. For the cinema audience, the GoGoCinema platform brings convenience and choice of what to watch, when to watch and where to watch but on the big screen as the filmmaker intended. Moviegoers can now easily organize private and crowdsourced screenings from a large variety of movie titles. For cinema exhibitors, GoGoCinema is designed to increase occupancy. Integration of GoGoCinema with existing cinema systems is very easy and has minimal intervention in the cinema operations. GoGoCinema operates similarly to Uber Eats for restaurants where the selection of movies, showtimes and venue are completely automated. It works seamlessly for all titles including the new releases as well as library titles.
• INSTALLS •
PVR Cinemas:
First Multiplex in Sri Lanka
It's finally here!!! The title that we’ve all have been anticipating since a long time now. PVR is now international! The super brand has been lately rejoicing its entry into the international market with its opening in Colombo, Sri Lanka at the One Galle Face Mall. The PVR Lanka hosts premium formats like PVR LUXE, a luxury cinema format and PVR PlayHouse that is designed keeping a contemporary flair blended with local influences and enabled with technological excellence, PVR aims to introduce the epitome of modern cinema in Sri Lanka. PVR Cinemas, the largest and most premium film exhibition company in India announced its entry into the Sri Lankan market with the opening of PVR Lanka at One Galle Face Mall, Colombo. PVR in collaboration with the Shangri La Group introduces Colombo's biggest entertainment destination with the launch of the new 9-screen property. Redefining movie viewing experience, PVR Lanka hosts premium formats like PVR LUXE, a luxury cinema format and PVR PlayHouse, a dedicated auditorium for the young ones and their family. Designed with contemporary flair blended with local influences and enabled with
technological excellence, PVR aims to introduce the epitome of modern cinema in Sri Lanka. Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing Director, PVR Ltd. said "Entering
Sri Lanka was part of our business strategy for FY 19-20 and I am happy we have been able to make it happen. The socio-cultural similarity between the two nations makes the
December 2019 - February 2020
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• INSTALLS •
(Left to Right)
Renaud Palliere, CEO, International Development, PVR Ltd. Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing Director, PVR Ltd. H.E. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, High Commissioner of India, Sri Lanka Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Joint Managing Director, PVR Ltd. scope for business growth opulently clear. The vision has been to introduce new concepts and make regional content more accessible for the audience in Sri Lanka. The Indian film industry has grown exponentially in last few years and has a global fan base that we aim to cater to through innovation and expansion." The property spreads across two levels with an area of 38,454 sq. ft. and a seating accommodation of 1,139 audiences. It is integrated with modern technological solutions for superior cinematic experience and digital solutions for an enhanced customer experience. Speaking on the launch, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Joint Managing Director, PVR Ltd. said, "We feel very happy to be able to bring PVR's
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• INSTALLS •
offerings to Sri Lanka. The market dynamics in Sri Lanka are very similar to that of India which helped us design our product with much more ease. The love for Indian content is huge here and we are aiming to offer a rich and diverse experience to the cine buffs." Accompanied with gastronomic extravaganza and best-in-class hospitality services in plush and
luxurious seating arrangements, PVR Lanka presents itself as a one stop entertainment destination to the cinema goers. The integration of modern décor with intricate design adds to the grandeur of the new multiplex. An exquisitely designed, bespoke lounge is created for our LUXE audience. He further added, "Our endeavour was to introduce eagerly awaited, world
class cinema formats to offer holistic entertainment to the market. We are very confident that we will be successful in offering unique experiences to the people of Sri Lanka." PVR is the largest film exhibition company in India and has a total screen count of 809 screens at 171 properties in 70 cities. (India and Sri Lanka).
• INSTALLS •
ODEON Birmingham:
UK's Largest Reclined Seating Luxe Cinema ODEON Birmingham Broadway Plaza is Midlands' first and UK's largest - fully-reclining ODEON Luxe cinema. The moviegoers will be able to enjoy the country's biggest ODEON Luxe cinema, now complete with 1,264 brand-new, handmade, luxury recliner seats across 12 screens. Movie fans can also experience a fully-reclining, state-of-the-art iSense screen with 4K projection and Dolby ATMOS sound, as well as a range of new food & drink options - to see the latest entertainment in ultimate comfort and style. ODEON - Europe's largest cinema group - has today announced it will be launching the UK's largest ODEON Luxe cinema in the city of Birmingham, with ODEON Birmingham Broadway Plaza re-opening as a fully-reclining ODEON Luxe site. The cinema will feature 1,264 luxury handmade reclining seats across its 12 upgraded screens, offering film fans triple the legroom and increased personal
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space and comfort, as well as individual retractable tables to ensure the ultimate in-cinema comfort. Film fans visiting the new ODEON Luxe Birmingham Broadway Plaza will also enjoy a complete overhaul of the technology, including a new fully-reclining, state-of-the-art, 204-seat iSense screen, delivering a truly immersive, ultra-high-definition
cinema experience, with 4K projection and Dolby ATMOS sound. Cinemagoers will also experience breath-taking sound delivered by 190 brand new speakers across all auditoriums, with all standard screens packing Dolby 7.1 surround sound and improved picture quality. A new in-screen lighting system will also help minimise distractions between guests, and any guests who are hard of hearing can take advantage of a new Dolby Fidelio Audio Description system and an upgraded hearing-impaired system across all screens.The cinema's foyer and retail area have also undergone a complete refurbishment, with guests able to choose from an extensive range of new food and drink options, including Lattice Fries, Chunky Chips, Chicken Strips, Sweet and Salted Popcorn, Hot Dogs,
• INSTALLS • Nachos, Tango Ice Blast and a Coca Cola Freestyle machine with over 100 different flavours to enjoy. The cinema will also boast an all-new Oscar's Bar serving a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, along with freshly brewed coffee served in the newly renovated on-site Costa Coffee. In addition to the range of retail options, guests can also enjoy a range of promotions and discounted screenings including ODEON Kids, ODEON Newbies & ODEON Screen Unseen - as well as being able to take advantage of ODEON's Limitless card and ODEON Première Club loyalty scheme. "We're extremely proud that Birmingham will be home to the Midlands' first ODEON Luxe cinema, "said Susan Harrison, General Manager at ODEON Luxe Birmingham Broadway Plaza. "With ODEON having such a strong connection to the city - including its first ever cinema being built here in the 1930s - it really has been fantastic
to see the journey the cinema has undertaken over the past months, transforming into the ultimate luxury venue for film fans to enjoy for many more years to come."
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New in-screen lighting systems to minimise distractions and optimise viewing angles with better light uniformity on all screens.
Key features of the new ODEON Luxe Birmingham Broadway Plaza will include:
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New Dolby Fidelio Audio Description system and HearingImpaired system across all screens for guests who are hard of hearing.
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New food & drink offering, including lattice fries, chunky chips, chicken strips, sweet and salted popcorn, hot dogs, nachos, Tango Ice Blast and a Coca Cola Freestyle machine with over 100 different flavours to enjoy.
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All-new Oscar's Bar serving a range of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, along with freshly brewed coffee served in the newly renovated on-site Costa Coffee.
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ODEON's sub-brands including ODEON Kids, ODEON Newbies and ODEON Screen Unseen.
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•
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1,264 handmade fully-reclining seats across 12 refurbished screens, with increased leg-room, improved comfort and individual retractable tables. A cutting-edge 204-seat iSense screen, delivering a truly immersive, ultra-high-definition cinema experience, with 4K projection and Dolby Atmos sound. 190 brand new speakers across all auditoriums, with all standard screens also upgrading to Dolby Digital 7.1 Surround sound and 30 new multi-channel amplifiers.
December 2019 - February 2020
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TGV Cinemas:
World's Biggest FLEXOUND Cinema in Malaysia Malaysian moviegoers can now enjoy immersion previously unheard and unfelt as TGV Cinemas opened a 140-seats cinema boosted by FLEXOUND Augmented Audio. The technology imbibed allows the audience to enjoy the movies even with the sensation of touch beyond just using vision and hearing. TGV Cinemas celebrated the opening of an awe-inspiring cinema site in the brand new Toppen Mall in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The number one auditorium - The FLEXOUND auditorium - of the 9-screen multiplex is equipped with FLEXOUND Augmented Audio. The theatre has 140 premium Milano-seats manufactured by Ferco Seating. It is now the largest cinema in the world with the FLEXOUND Augmented Audio enhancement in every seat. TGV Cinemas is a fast growing entertainment company operating the second largest multiplex cinema
chain in Malaysia. TGV Cinemas is strongly developing its offering to be able to provide its customers the best movie-going experiences in the region. TGV decided to invest in the new FLEXOUND Augmented Audio technology to be the first Southeast Asian cinema company to incorporate it. "Immersive technologies are a rising trend in the cinema industry, and with
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FLEXOUND, we can provide something totally new and exciting for our moviegoers. When you both hear and feel the sounds of the movie while watching it, it enhances the emotions created by the film and it feels like you are in the story yourself. It's a very natural and engaging experience. When the film ends, you feel like you want more," says Yeoh Oon Lai, CEO of the TGV Cinemas.
• INSTALLS • "Sound is actually vibration which we can hear with our ears but can also sense with our skin and body. For some reason we've only utilised the human hearing to enjoy sounds and music so far. Synchronised sound came to cinema in the 1920s, so it's now high time to add the sensation of touch to the movie experience and this is possible with our patented augmented audio solution, in an elegant and sophisticated way. The seats do not move, but your emotions will", explains Mervi Heinaro, FLEXOUND CEO. FLEXOUND Augmented Audio complements all current cinema sound systems. The technology offers equal sound quality in every seat independent of seat location. It improves the clarity of dialogue and lower-pitched tones and requires no wearable accessories. "No recode or remixing of the sound is needed, so the cinema operators can exhibit any content from blockbusters to local content to e-sports. We give cinema operators a high-value competitive advantage over in-homeentertainment.", says FLEXOUND Chief of Cinema, Mika Oesch. The first commercial cinema with FLEXOUND Augmented Audio has been immersing audiences since February 2019 in Finland. The technology was first introduced to the cinema industry in June 2018 at the
Better Sound Award in the 2019 ISA Awards.
CineEurope in Barcelona, Spain and it has ever since created enthusiasm among the cinema professionals and audiences alike with its natural immersive feel and sound. FLEXOUND Augmented Audio is designed and engineered in Finland. The multinational team started the work in 2015 to help autistic children by adding the sensation of touch to music. Now the versatile, globally unique, and patented technology can be embedded into cinema, airplane or car seats, gaming chairs, cushions, furniture and more. FLEXOUND is a member of the International Cinema Technology Association and a winner of the
TGV Cinemas is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tanjong Public Limited Company established in 1995. TGV is a pioneer in cinema innovation and one of the leading multiplex cinema operators in Malaysia. At TGV, it's not just about movies but a total entertainment experience - for all! TGV takes pride in providing holistic family entertainment experiences. To date, TGV has helped create countless memories across all locations nationwide. TGV has developed a broad palette of entertainment offers to cover all occasions. Whether you need family fun, a great night out, a luxurious experience or an immersive cinematic adventure - you can have it all at TGV Cinemas. Ferco Seating, established in 1983, has evolved throughout the years into one of the world's largest manufacturers of public seating. Headquartered in the UK and manufacturing in Malaysia, with well-connected international footprints around the globe, Ferco has a wide range of experience when it comes to understanding the challenges faced in the cinema industry. Ferco has gained FLEXOUND certification for four of their premium models: Verona, Milano, Tuscany and the Opus seats.
December 2019 - February 2020
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• INSTALLS •
Golden Village Funan:
It's More Than Just a Movie
With innovations like virtual reality (VR) pods, In-app food ordering and enhanced In-cinema comfort and privacy; the new multiplex sees the introduction of two new seating concepts in the 431-seat, seven-theatre complex, as the brand places a focus on delivering a premium yet affordable cinematic experience for all. Singapore's leading cinema operator, Golden Village Multiplex (GV), is once again pushing the boundaries of conventional cinema with the opening of its latest multiplex at the revamped Funan Mall, located in the heart of Singapore's bustling city centre. With its 14th multiplex, GV is enhancing the moviegoing experience to attract home viewers back to the cinema by providing increased levels of comfort and privacy to improve one's moviegoing experience. Highlighting GV's unwavering commitment to delivering the finest cinematic experience, patrons can look forward to razor-sharp laser projection combined with immaculate audio when catching a film at GV Funan, as all seven halls are equipped with Barco Smart Laser Projection. The new multiplex sees
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the introduction of two new seating concepts in the 431-seat, seventheatre complex, as Golden Village places a focus on delivering a premium yet affordable cinematic experience for all.
In a bold move away from conventional row-seating, the new Deluxe Plus halls feature spacious leatherette seats, uniquely designed with lumbar cushioning for increased support, together with a recline
• INSTALLS • feature. Each ultra-modern seat includes a handy USB charging port, enabling patrons to make the most of lengthy movie times to juice up their mobile devices.
continues to evolve, GV has always sought to be at the forefront of that evolution, providing customers with both choice and innovation. The new Deluxe Plus and Gold Class Express theatres at GV Funan recognise the demand for a premium yet affordable cinema experience, while offering more comfort and enhanced intimacy.
The new Gold Class Express hall, with its 32 plush leatherette electronic recliner seats, is the gateway to a luxurious cinematic experience akin to GV's iconic Gold Class cinemas. For its enticing price, Gold Class's signature butler service is replaced with a F&B ordering feature on the revamped iGV mobile app which allows moviegoers to pre-order food and drinks prior to the film. GV Funan will also feature two GEMINI halls. The ever-popular seating option for couples, with their unique spacious design, offers additional legroom and retractable armrests - ideal for date nights at the movies! And testament to GV's 'more than a movie' brand promise, the multiplex has also expanded its entertainment offerings by introducing four Virtual Reality pods in the GV Funan foyer. In a nod to Funan Mall's high-tech legacy,
patrons will be able to enjoy immersive virtual reality gaming and cinematic content - a further example of how GV is seeking to redefine the moviegoing experience. Speaking about its most technologically-advanced multiplex to date, Clara Cheo, Chief Executive Officer, Golden Village Multiplex, said: "As the cinema landscape
"Beyond the in-theatre features, delivering on our brand promise we are providing our customers with more than just a movie. The VR pods alongside our signature grab and Gold cafĂŠ live up to that promise, providing customers with a more holistic cinematic experience. 'While we realise people can now watch a film almost anywhere and at any time, we remain absolutely committed to the belief that nothing should beat the fun, excitement, comfort and affordability of watching a movie at a GV cinema. With numerous new and exciting features at GV Funan, we're looking forward to the reception from Singapore's movie-loving public."
December 2019 - February 2020
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• INSTALLS •
VOX Cinemas:
Biggest Multiplex in Riyadh
As the region's most innovative exhibitor, VOX Cinemas continues to develop new home-grown brands within its extensive portfolio. The brand's presence in Saudi Arabia now includes seven multiplexes in three major cities; bringing the exhibitor's total number of screens in the Kingdom to 71 across seven multiplexes in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. This Multiplex is the largest in its Saudi footprint with 18 state-ofthe-art screens,and GOLD, MAX and KIDS experiences. Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia celebrated the opening of its newest multiplex in Riyadh recently. The grand opening
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event for the impressive new entertainment complex was attended by H.E Turki Abdullah Al-Shabanah,
Saudi Minister of Media,General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) representatives, Quality of Life Programme representatives, Majid Al Futtaim Group CEO Alain Bejjani and Majid Al Futtaim Properties CEO Ahmed Ismail. VOX Cinemas Riyadh Front features 18 screens and 1,427 seats, bringing the exhibitor's total number of screens in the Kingdom to 71 across seven multiplexes in Riyadh, Jeddah
• INSTALLS • and Dammam. VOX Cinemas is the fastest growing exhibitor in the Middle East. In Saudi Arabia specifically, the award-winning cinema chain has opened six multiplexes across three cities in just 10 months. VOX Cinemas continues to deliver on its aggressive expansion plan to remain the exhibitor with the highest market share in every city it operates in. Majid Al Futtaim Ventures Country Head, KSA, Mohamed Al Hashemi commented: "Opening this new cinema in the presence of H.E Turki Abdullah Al-Shabanah, Saudi Minister of Media, demonstrates our commitment to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 Quality of Life Programme and GCAM's goals for the development of a vibrant cinema industry. We strive to be a champion of local content and the Saudi talents who are working to develop it. Going beyond our presence as an exhibitor, as both a distributor and producer of content we have a great focus on homegrown Saudi films and filmmakers." "Our 2019 openings don't just stop here as we aim to launch additional cinema complexes until year-end and our target for 2020 is to operate 200 screens across 22 locations. These ambitious targets propel us towards our longer-term commitment to open 600 screens across the Kingdom by 2023," Al Hashemi continued. Driven by a singular vision to create great moments for everyone, everyday, VOX Cinemas keeps the
customer at the heart of all its developments and focuses on creating experiences that cater to all kinds of Saudi movie fans. The Riyadh Front multiplex features GOLD - the gourmet dining and premium moviewatching experience with exclusive lounge and in-cinema service, MAX for mega screen blockbuster viewing and KIDS which is designed especially for young movie fans. As the region's most innovative exhibitor, VOX
Cinemas continues to develop new homegrown brands within its extensive food and beverage portfolio. The food and beverage concepts are designed to enhance the customer experience and provide guests with an inclusive entertainment experience where they can find top quality food and the latest movies in one family-friendly destination. At Riyadh Front, VOX Cinemas will launch Top Bun which serves flavour-packed sliders, wings and a variety of loaded fries. The food and beverage selection at Riyadh Front also includes Pizza Al Taglio, Roman-style pizza served by the square slice, and Kitchen 35, a specialty coffee and artisanal food café. A Magic Planet family entertainment centre is also integrated into the Riyadh Front location and features fun rides for all ages, a trampoline park and soft play area. VOX Cinemas is a key attraction of the Riyadh Front development which is located on King Khaled Airport Road and is designed to be a luxury oasis of indoor and outdoor shopping, entertainment and offices.
December 2019 - February 2020
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• INSTALLS •
Cinema Theatre Stronger than Home Cinema 90% of the theatre audience rated movie experience as excellent or very good vs 55% of those who experience movies in cosy hometheatre audience. Viewers in a movie theatre are more likely to have a better overall experience than those in a home setting, according to the 2019 Showcase Cinemas Theatre vs Home Biometrics Study. This first-of-its-kind biometrics study examines not only how excited moviegoers felt while watching a movie in a movie theatre vs a home setting but also how much more satisfied study participants were with key aspects of watching a movie in-cinema vs a home environment. This includes satisfaction differences in picture clarity (98% theatre/53% home), sound quality (93% theatre/ 33% home), screen size (95% theatre/ 25% home), seating comfort (88% theatre/10% home) and atmosphere (85% theatre/28% home). "Those of us in the film exhibition industry have always said that the experience of viewing a movie in a theatre was elevated and better than other forms of movie viewing - now we finally have the scientific proof," says, Mark Malinowski, Vice President of Global Marketing for Showcase Cinemas. "Just as important, in this age of multiple-platform content consumption, the study proves that viewers of a movie in a theatre experience a significantly higher level of excitement than those who view a movie in a home setting." Biometrics testing was conducted at Showcase Cinemas XPlus theatre in Revere, Massachusetts on August 26, 2019 and at Schlesinger Associates in Boston, Massachusetts on August 27, 2019. The Showcase Cinemas XPlus screening included 40 study participants along with an additional audience of approximately 145 people to represent a full-
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capacity film screening. The home simulation setting included 40 people who, in groups, watched the same film in a simulated home environment. The home setting was created utilizing couches and a television at a research facility. Screen size, lighting, seating position, and volume were controlled to closely parallel a home viewing experience. Study participants in both groups screened "Jumanji: Welcome to the
Jungle" and had not seen the study film previously. At each location, 40 study participants responded to the following: •
Neuro-physiological sensors were placed on their hand, wrist and collarbone. Baseline measures were recorded prior to the movie exposure. The following measures were collected: Heart rate (attention measure) and skin conductance (neuro-physiological excitement measure)
• INSTALLS • Innovation at HCD Research, who was tapped as a third-party consultancy to conduct the biometric tests. "In-theatre viewing has shown to be more emotionally and neurophysiologically engaging for moviegoers, and there's a lot of technology and creature comforts that theatre companies like Showcase Cinemas have built around the experience to elicit a strong physiological and neurological response. This research shows how impactful that can be on the movie viewer experience."
In-theatre Movie Viewing Ignites Higher Physical Responses For study subjects viewing the film in-theatre, levels of neurological excitement proved to increase versus those in the home setting. This is reflected in the number of significantly higher moments of excitement between theatre and home across the film - theatre participants had 252 times the amount of significant seconds than home. In-theatre study subjects achieved significantly higher moments of excitement in the theatre setting. Biometric arousal results demonstrated that theatre viewers were significantly more excited for the beginning and closing of the film (leaving them on a high).
Why Viewing a Movie In a Cinema Is More Satisfying
•
•
The movie, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, was chosen, as it could play well whether at home or in theatre and would not favor one setting or the other. Following the movie, participants completed an online survey that included questions regarding satisfaction of the movie-viewing experience, viewing preferences,
movie evaluation and movie talkability (i.e. likelihood to talk to others about the movie.") "'The Showcase Cinemas Theatre vs Home Biometric Study' provides a unique lens on how the immersive, large format theatre experience can be much more engaging and rewarding to moviegoers," says Michelle Niedziela, VP of Research &
When asked of both movie-theatre and home viewing study participants, a much larger percentage of respondents were satisfied by seeing a movie in a theatre when it came to picture clarity, screen size, sound quality, atmosphere and even seat comfort. Additionally, theatre attendees had a significantly better movie-watching experience than those in a home setting with 90% of the theatre respondents rating the experience "excellent or very good" vs 55% of the home setting subjects.
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• INSTALLS • Movies are Better Received when Viewed in a Theatre The study also proved that the environment in which a film is screened attributes greatly to what a viewer feels about the actual movie itself. This is supported by the fact that movie theatre viewers thought "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" was actually a better movie than those who viewed the same film in a home setting. Even more, those in the theatre setting more commonly thought the movie was dramatic, intense and high quality, showing they had a more intense experience, leaving a stronger impression. Overall, the majority of all respondents (average of 81% of theatre and home viewers) felt that it would be a better experience to watch the movie in a theatre setting as opposed to at home. A greater percentage of study participants who viewed a movie in-theatre felt that it held their attention (73%) compared to those who viewed the same film in a home setting (50%).
Viewing a Movie in Theatre Spreads Word-of-Mouth Movie word-of-mouth is crucial to a film's box office success. To that point, it is important to note that study respondents who viewed
"Jumanji: Wecome to the Jungle" in a theatre were much more likely to talk about the movie post the
screening versus those study participants who viewed the same movie in a home setting.
About the Research The 2019 Showcase Cinemas Theatre vs Home Biometrics Study is a multi-methodology study that presents the findings of an online survey and biometrics research, conducted by HCD Research from August 26-27, 2019 from two groups of 40 participants, age 18-44, comprising 39 males and 41 males. Biometric sensors were placed on participants' hand, wrist and collarbone. Baseline measures were recorded prior to the movie exposure and "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" was played for each group in both the theatre and home-viewing settings. In both settings, research participants were asked not to eat, use their phones, go to the bathroom, etc., in order to minimize distractions and optimize data collection. Also, the trailer for "Jumanji: The Next Level" was shown before the movie in each setting.
About Showcase Cinemas Showcase Cinemas is a world leader in the motion picture exhibition industry, operating more than 918 movie screens in the US, UK, Argentina and Brazil under the Showcase, Cinema de Lux, SuperLux and UCI brands. With 27 theatre locations in the United States, Showcase Cinemas delivers the finest entertainment experience, offering the best in viewing, comfort and dining.
Source: Showcase Cinemas
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• TECHNOLOGY •
CHRISTIE:
The Facts of Light FACT 01: THE BRIGHTNESS AND COLOUR TRADEOFF Achieving and maintaining DCI-specified on-screen brightness and colour is integral for the quality of the movie presentation and enjoyment of the audience. The native colour gamut of Xenon lamps is very close to the DCI-P3 specification and does not require much image processing and light filtering. This means content shown using a Xenon projector is bright, colourful and true-to-life. Additionally, once a Xenon lamp falls below presentation quality, a simple lamp change will restore the projector to original brightness. Laser phosphor cinema projectors produce a native colour gamut lacking in red and green due to its reliance on only blue laser light. For laser phosphor projectors to achieve DCI-P3 color, a substantial amount of processing and light filtering is required which reduces overall brightness, severely affecting light output and colour performance. We explore this more in Fact 5. RGB pure laser reaches 95% of the Rec. 2020 colour gamut. With precise, individual red, green, and blue lasers, these projector illumination sources can dial into specific colour patterns for visuals that nearly match the perceivable colour spectrum of the human eye without sacrificing brightness or adding moving parts, such as a phosphor wheel.
easily replaced to bring the system into acceptable range once again. While laser phosphor components can also be replaced to retain DCI colour standards, it requires more time and resources to do so.
Color Gamut Comparison Bright, bold and vibrant colours can bring a movie to life! One of the major benefits of RGB pure laser is its ability to produce a wide colour gamut, replicating Rec. 2020, which exceeds the DCI spec. Take a look at the charts to see how each illumination platform compares when it comes to producing colours. Illumination type
Colour gamut Notes
RGB pure laser Rec. 709, The only DCI P3 and up projection to Rec. 2020 technology to approach full Rec. 2020 Xenon lamps
DCI P3
Xenon offers a natural illumination that achieves DCI-P3 colour standards.
Laser phosphor
DCI P3, Rec. 709
Achieved with a Yellow Notch Filter (YNF) Laser phosphor requires more aggressive filtering and colour correction
Brightness over 30,000 hours The graph below compares brightness drop-off of the different illumination platforms over 30,000 hours (around 8 years for a typical cinema projector). After little over a year, laser phosphor drops below the DCI specification for brightness. RGB pure laser has a much slower drop-off, maintaining 80% brightness after 30,000 hours. Xenon is the illumination source to lose it's DCI-P3 rating the quickest; however, the bulbs inside the projector can be
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• TECHNOLOGY • Spectrum Comparison: Xenon Light and Day Light What makes Xenon so well-suited for cinema? The native light spectrum of a Xenon lamp closely replicates the day light spectrum. Because of this, it can accurately reproduce the natural colours audiences are used to seeing for a realistic and true-to-life experience.
Spectral Response Curves This series of graphs shows each illumination platform's efficiency in producing the DCI specified white balance. The easier a projector can achieve DCI white without filtering, the more optically efficient the system is.
FACT 02: COST OF OPERATION COMPARISON It's important to understand how much your cinema projector will cost you over the course of its lifetime. By combining the purchase price with the costs associated with changing the light source, this chart gives you an idea of what each illumination platform will cost you over 30,000 hours.
Operating Parameters:
projector. Even when you factor in the higher interval and cost of lamp changes for a Xenon projector compared to the light module swap-outs of a laser phosphor projector, the total cost of Xenon is considerably lower.
Xenon vs Laser Phosphor Comparing the costs of 20K lumen cinema projectors over 30,000 hours:
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52 weeks / year
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7 days / week
Illumination
Xenon
Laser phosphor
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10 hours / day
Projector cost*
$45,000
$65,000
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30,000 hours of runtime
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20,000 lumens brightness
Illumination cost* $7,700 $10,400 (11 lamp (2 illumination replacements) system replacements)
Over the course of its lifetime, a Xenon projector offers exhibitors approximately 20% lower total-cost-ofownership compared to a similarly bright laser phosphor
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Total cost*
$52,700
$75,400
REVIEW
14-17 October 2019 Miami, Florida
Yet another power-packed convention that brought executives together from across the country to create the best movie experience possible! ShowEast, one of the movie industry's biggest networking events, is a special expo and convention that brings people from the industry together to celebrate cinema. With immense networking opportunities, dedicated social areas, fun-filled events, including the opening night reception, lunch and breakfast on the floor, ShowEast was more than a tradeshow. The convention featured a range of exclusive product presentations and screenings from both independent and major Hollywood studios to help you make important programming decisions. Powerhouse seminars and presentations offered valuable insight from top executives on the latest industry trends and concerns; while the EXPO experience offered delegates a glance at the latest
AWARD PRESENTATIONS
and newest technologies, entertainment, services, comforts, and conveniences to make their theatres must-attend destinations.
HIGHLIGHTS •
Company presentations
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Panel discussions
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Marketing Trends
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Screening and Expo
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Salah M. Hassanein Humanitarian Award - Scott Forman, Warner Bros. Pictures.
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Al Shapiro Distinguished Service Award - Joe Masher, Bow Tie Cinemas
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Dan Fellman Show "E" Award - Mark Walukevich, National Amusements; Bill Le Clair, National Amusements; Duncan Short, National Amusements
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Bingham Ray Spirit Award David Linde, Participant Media
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ShowEast Legacy Award Presented by the National Association of Concessionaires (NAC); Michael Rosenberg, Promotion in Motion
December 2019 - February 2020
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REVIEW
20-23 October 2019 Gold Coast, Australia
Yet again Australian International Movie Convention proved that it is the biggest event in Latin America focused on the film industry exhibition, distribution and suppliers of technologies, services and products to that industry. A record-breaking delegation converged for the five-night/ four-day convention, where film distributors screened films, trailers and top-secret teasers from their upcoming slates; box office and achievement awards were presented and industry panels covered issues from piracy to trends in cinemas to social media marketing and more. "I have had the pleasure of attending over 20 conventions and the event is one of the highlights of the year for me. It's great to see all the upcoming movies and attend the trade show.
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December 2019 - February 2020
It's a wonderful opportunity to network and renew friendships. I find the seminars interesting and always learn something from them." Bob Mason, Lake Cinema, Boolaroo
Highlights •
Preview of major studio and independent feature films slated for release
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Exciting and entertaining local and international product reels of upcoming releases
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Australia's hottest stars, filmmakers and industry leaders at gala dinners and functions
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AIMC trade show
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Update on current issues facing industry at the many seminars and forums
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Networking with top industry executives at the many events
Important Events •
Welcome function and Golf Day
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Product presentations and movie previews from major and independent film distributors
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Speakers and panels covering topical industry issues
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Expanded trade show featuring our regular exhibitors as well as many new exhibitors
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Industry achievement award presentations
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Gala dinners and functions to provide the opportunity for delegates to network with colleagues and peers
REVIEW
19-21 October 2019 Istanbul, Turkey DCS Events proudly announced the return of ECM 2019 conference to Istanbul this November. Building on the huge success of last year's inaugural event, they are pleased to confirm that this conference featured a mix of keynote speakers and presentations from industry experts in the cinema, leisure and property sectors. ECM 2019 focused on the continent of Africa, Turkey, our host nation, and New Europe (the Balkans and former Soviet states), Central Asia and the GCC. In combination they present a market opportunity of 1.7 billion people served by only 6,850 active cinema screens! These are at an early stage in their growth and development, but in combination they offer a significant opportunity for investors, studios, distributors, exhibitors and the specialist supply chains to the industry. With the rapid development of the industry in Latin America, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region, the cinema operators involved recognise the extent to which the business opportunities and policy challenges they face- such as film theft, technology standards, theatrical release practices, international trade
practices and the highly valued relationship with partners in film distribution- are shared by counterparts across territories.
Raghav, Editor-Publisher, at the TheatreWorld booth and (below) Presenting on Indian Cinema at ECM 2019
The Emerging Markets in Africa, New Europe, Central Asia, and the GCC are at an early stage in the growth and development of their cinema markets, but in combination they offer a significant opportunity for investors, studios, distributors, exhibitors and the specialist supply chains to the industry. Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent. It covers 6% of Earth's total surface area and 20% of its land area. With over 1.2 billion people and a median age of 19.7 years as of 2016, it accounts for around 16% of the world's human population, but a nominal amount of the global box office, principally as a result of limited access to cinema screens. 70% of worldwide economic growth is forecast in Emerging Markets. ECM 2019 explored opportunities in the regions, the challenges (including technical and political) and how cinema suppliers, operators and producers can grow their business. ECM 2019 had an outstanding line up of international keynote speakers for a wide variety of areas, sharing in depth knowledge December 2019 - February 2020
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and experience of operating within the emerging markets.
Erkin Yilmaz - Director General Cinema - Republic of Turkey
PROGRAMME:
Charlotte Jones - Associate Director - Cinema, IHS Markit Technology (Informa Tech)
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Introduction from the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce and Christopher Gaunt, Chairman, British Chamber of CommerceTurkey with Guests
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Keynote speeches on Emerging Cinema Panel guests: Patrick von Sychowski, Editor, Celluloid Junkie; Arturo Guillen, SVP &
Global Managing Director, Comscore Movies; Debbie Stanford-Kristiansen, Chief Executive Officer, Novo Cinemas (Middle East Female CEO of the Year 2018); Cameron Saunders EVP EMEA - Paramount Pictures •
Focus On Turkey: Introduction by Avi Alkas, Country Chairman of Jones Lang La Salle Turkey
Women in Exhibition (WIE) on the Official Program at ECM 2019 Women in Exhibition (WIE) continue to make a noteworthy impact, as the budding non-profit foundation maintains their presence by participating
in Bahrain, Qatar and United Arab Emirates (UAE) and who spoke at ECM18's inaugural event, once again shared her insights on developing strategic partnerships, the purpose
at the second annual Emerging Cinema Markets Conference (ECM19). Organised by Digital Cinema Solutions Events (DCS Events) in association with The Big Picture, the event took place at the Grand Tarabya Hotel in Istanbul from the 19th through 21st of November.
of creating alternative content opportunities and how advanced technologies are changing the trajectory of traditional moviegoing.
Examining the most emergent continental markets, the threeday forum focused on its host nation, Turkey, Africa with special highlights on Nigeria, Central Asia, the Middle East and New Europe (former Soviet states and Balkans). These combined territories account for more than 1.7 billion people and currently operate approximately 6,850 screens. Attended by major international movie distributors, cinema exhibitors, expert supply chains, and supported by valued sponsors, the teams at DCS Events have assembled an impressive line-up of speakers. Recognising the contributions of exceptional women leaders in exhibition, two of WIE's executive committee and founding members are on ECM19's official program. Debbie Standford-Kristiansen, CEO of Novo Cinemas, with a prominent network of theatres
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December 2019 - February 2020
Also contributing to the innovative discussions, is Mariam El Bacha, CEO of Cinepax in Pakistan, who helped to create one of the most formidable brands and the first national multiplex chains in the region. With a presence in nine cities and 13 cinema locations for a total of 45 screens across Pakistan, Mariam and her team have been dedicated to providing the best guest experience by becoming a favourite family entertainment cinema venue. "Women in Exhibition was founded to fulfil the need for an important platform where women can connect,
interact and support the development of an industry in need of re-evaluating the many paradigms in a growing exhibition world," says Mariam El Bacha. Further elaborating, "Our aim is to reach a global network of women and, with that, to influence those ladies who in the past shy away from the cinema industry - the goal is for everyone to share the game board and to make our industry a thriving all-inclusive force." WIE's fundamental mission is to become a worthwhile resource for every woman in exhibition by offering positive mentoring programs, educational and support activities and to assist with both existing and transitional career opportunities. WIE amplified their membership recruitment with the launch of their website by New Year's 2020.
EVENT CALENDER The host country for the Emerging Cinema Markets Conference has a very active local production, distribution and exhibition industry. World class cinemas, more than 60% of the market is generated by local productions and it is the 19th largest international market. Panel guests: Patrick Von Sychowski Editor - Celluloid Junkie; Tolga Akinci, Founder, Box Office, Turkiye; Adnan Akdemir - President, Sifisian Investments, Turkey; Firuzan Kocak, Content Sourcing & Acquisition Manager, CGV Mars Entertainment; Erkin Yilmaz, Director General Cinema, Republic of Turkey; Burhan Gun, General Secretary, Television and Cinema Film Producers Professional Association of Turkey (TESIYAP) •
WIE - Women In Exhibition Introduction by Debbie StanfordKristiansen, Chief Executive Officer, Novo Cinemas and Mariam el Bacha, Chief Executive Officer, Cinepax, Pakistan; Heather Blair, President & Founder WIE
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The Valueplex: How to create the "WOW FACTOR" in Emerging Markets Panel guests: Introduced by Raghav T, Editor-Publisher, TheatreWorld Chair - Patrick von Sychowski, Editor, Celluloid Junkie; Harish Anand Thilakan, Founder & CEO,
Influx Worldwide; Mariam el Bacha - Chief Executive Officer, Cinepax, Pakistan; Bakytzhan Mussatayev, Chief Executive Officer, Chaplin Cinemas •
ICTA Session - Diversification of the Cinema Experience through Technology The venue should no longer consider itself just to be a cinema - it is an entertainment and multiarts venue with an everbroadening offer, driven by the developments in technology, flexible distribution, new types of content and local demand.
Moderator: Oliver Pasch - Sales Director, Sony Digital Cinema Europe Panel guests: Till Cussmann - SVP Sales & GM Europe, Vista; Alessandra Pavan Bernacchi, Sr Manager, Theatre Development, Europe and Africa, IMAX Corporation; Tim Potter - Vice President Sales, Cinema Next; HakanAskar - Director, Digital Cinema Systems, CGV Mars; Serge Plasch, Chief Commercial Officer, Cinionic •
Rob Arthur - The Big Picture DCS Events With only 1 screen per 1 million people Africa represents a significant opportunity, but at what risk? How do we look in detail at the various nations which make up the African continent - language, culture, cinema requirements? Who are
2020 30 MARCH - 2 APRIL CINEMACON LAS VEGAS, USA www.cinemacon.com
MAY CHINA THEATER & CINEMA GUANGZHOU, CHINA www.gtcff.com
22-25 JUNE CINEEUROPE BARCELONA, SPAIN www.cineeurope.net
8-9 SEPTEMBER BIG CINE EXPO CHENNAI, INDIA www.bigcineexpo.com
23-25 SEPTEMBER KINO EXPO ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA www.kinoexpo.ru
29 SEPTEMBER - 2 OCTOBER EXPOCINE SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL www.expocine.com.br
19-22 OCTOBER SHOWEAST FLORIDA, USA www.showeast.com
OCTOBER AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL MOVIE CONVENTION GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA www.movieconvention.com.au
27-29 OCTOBER MENA CINEMA FORUM DUBAI, UAE www.menacinema.com
NOVEMBER EMERGING CINEMA MARKETS ISTANBUL, TURKEY www.dcs.events
DECEMBER CINEASIA HONG KONG www.cineasia.com
December 2019 - February 2020
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Raghav with Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa, Minister of Information, Publicity and Boradcasting, Zimbabwe
the developers and funders interested in supporting the development of cinema? Will there be studio or national film distributor support for cinema development? •
Focus On Africa Africa is the world's second largest and second mostpopulous continent. It covers 6% of Earth's total surface area and 20% of its land area. With 1.2 billion people and a median age of 19.7 years as of 2016, it accounts for around 16% of the world's human population, but a nominal amount of the global box office. Chair: Lucy Jones, Executive Director, Comsocore Inc; Panelists:
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Paul Higginson, Consultant; Kene Mkparu, Group President/ Chief Executive Officer, Komworld; Sarah Lewthwaite, Managing Director & Senior Vice President, EMEA, MOVIO
December 2019 - February 2020
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Spotlight on Growth Markets In Africa Chair : Patrick Von Sychowski, Editor, Celluloid Junkie; Panelists: Hon. (Sen) Monica Mutsvangwa, Minister of Zimbabwe; Luis Roberedo Mota, Director, NOS Lusomundo Cinemas, Moçambique Angola and Portugal; Alessandra Pavan Bernacchi, Senior Manager, Theatre Development Europe and Africa, IMAX Corporation
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The Big Picture: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia one year on... Germany or Singapore? Developing cinema and leisure in emerging and mature markets Chair / Moderator: Patrick von Sychowski, Editor, Celluloid Junkie; Debbie StanfordKristiansen, Chief Executive Officer, Novo Cinemas; Mike Thomson, Director, The Big Picture; Domenico Del Priore Co-Founder, Deca Design; Serge Plasch, Chief Commercial Officer at Cinionic; Mark Waldman, Director, Sales and Marketing, POSitive Cinema; Moses Musa Comertpay, Managing Director Blackwood Global Brands
REVIEW
1 - 4 October 2019 Sao Paulo, Brazil
In its 6th edition, EXPOCINE consolidates itself as 'Latin America's Biggest Event’ in number of participants, and the ONLY PLANET to bring together all areas of industry in one event. The convention brought together the main players in the Exhibition and Distribution market and, unprecedentedly, also the AudioVisual Production segment, as well as suppliers of products, services and technologies for these segments. The EXPOCINE19 was held on 1-4 October 2019 and featured exclusive presentations of the upcoming releases of distributors, panels and lectures, trade fair and project pitching. Companies and renowned professionals from all over Latin America were present to check the market news and networking. In 2019, the convention had more than 2,700 accredited, 19 sponsors, 19 supporters, 52 booths and more than 100 brands exhibited at the trade fair. In addition, it received visitors
from 18 countries, showing its constant growth and consolidating the event on the international market agenda.
Market X-ray The Latin American film market is one of the fastest growing in the world. In Brazil alone, the country has jumped from 1,500 movie theatres to over 3,000 in just 10 years. Territories such as Argentina, the Caribbean, Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico and Peru have grown not only in the number of rooms, but also in the number of tickets sold. According to the Brazilian Cinema and Audio-Visual Observatory, the audience in theatres in Brazil was 161 million people, with more than 20 million tickets sold to Brazilian productions. EXPOCINE has already established itself as the largest meeting of film industry executives in Latin America and has become the second largest meeting in the world.
EXPOCINE and catch up on the latest news of the year and discuss the present and future issues of cinema operation. EXPOCINE is a realization of TONKS; a Brazilian company specialized in technology and content for the entertainment market. With determination, a lot of knowledge and a hint of boldness, TONKS CEO Marcelo JL Lima has developed several innovative projects for the market and six years ago created this which is today one of the most important industry conventions in the world. •
Latest American Event
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Second Largest Business Event forGlobo Display
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World's Biggest Event inthe Second Half
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Weight Presence of Latin America Display
Owners and executives of all of the region's cinema operators are already organizing each year to visit
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PANEL DISCUSSION
Dual Screen Disruption: Can the Two Co-Exist?
Panelists: Amit Praveen Sharma - Managing Director, Miraj Entertainment Bhumika Tewari - Head of India Film Distribution, Zee Studios John Schreiner - Sr. Vice President, IMAX Corporation Kamal Gianchandani - CEO, PVR Pictures Kushal L C - CEO, Veeresh Cinemas, Bangalore Moderator: Karan Taurani - Vice President - Research (Media), Elara Capital Overview: Post Jio scaling up massively in the mobile penetration sector, this could be the apt topic to talk about. Giving you a perspective in terms of some numbers in the market today, there are 370 million video viewers in India today which are growing at almost
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December 2019 - February 2020
30% every year. Almost one-third of these video viewers you know consume entertainment genre content. Karan Taurani kick-starts this conversation with what's been the current scenario stating on how people are consuming content on
the go with the mobile launching being present for almost over two overs now.
Sprucing Up: Talking about the growth strata of the youth coming into the cinemas, Kamal Gianchandani says "Mobile is growing tremendously which in return amplifies the consumption of the content and with the presence of Netflix, Amazon, Zee5 and so many other OTT streaming platforms which are in tremendous and aggressive mode, an enormous amount of content out there and in this backdrop, the fact is that PVR and other chains have done the best ever numbers in our lifetime history in the last financial year 2019. We as a
chain, finished with the highest admissions, highest occupancy rate, highest ticket price and all of this is growing. Therefore, looking at a very high bar that got set the previous year and of course a lot of credit really goes to the kind of content that came out. With that high bar, this current financial year is also moving in a very aggressive fashion; both in terms of admission and the average ticket price. In Addition to content, I think, there are a lot of capital resources, effort, time that is being spent by PVR and our other colleagues in the business to spruce up our cinemas to invest in the cinema infrastructure, to expand our FNB offerings." John Schreiner comments,"Well I think if you look at the countries such as the United States, which was actually where Netflix started taking hold, the cinema business has really developed quite nicely. Alike last year, reckoning to what Kamal was saying, they had one of the best years ever. The cinemas are re-investing and making great experiences more comfortable; they are receding; they are doing a lot of things to drive consumers out of their homes and into cinemas, as one way to combat the streaming or the desire to watch content on the telephone or on your tablets. Recently, the NATO: National Association of Theatre Owners did a study with Ernst and Young which looked at the streaming and itsimpact and what they discovered through this study is that the people who like to stream content and watch a lot of movies online are the same people who would like to go to movie theatres too. So if you're an avid moviegoer, you go nine times a year or something like that; you're going to be the avid streamer as well."
regards to its failure or success, John further adds, "As far as what I'm aware, there was never any major production which released streaming and in the theatres as well. Now from an IMAX perspective, we've tested a few things where we did a thing recently with Netflix where we premiered in IMAX theatres a 15 minute of music video with a gentleman named Tom York and it was called 'anima'. It was back in June and again and it was only like a test to see how the technology would work how people would react and also a bit of the marketing ploy for the content itself to say it had an exclusive release and an early release one day on IMAX but that's again its testing sort of the IMAX network. It's not a regular feature film because that's something that I think we pride ourselves on providing great moviegoing experiences."
you a global citizen. And you are now living the global stories as well. So definitely consumption has grown up and is yet to grow 10x from here. As far as concerned to the mind-set of the smaller city audience, they are all looking for an experience which a cinema provides and that's what we are trying to do. We are trying to take cinemas to the smaller cities and non-metro cities without compromising on the experience of cinema. In metro cities we probably struggle to get a 35% kind of occupancy in some of the best places. But in some of the smaller cities non metro cities, the occupancy percentage is as high as 45-46 percentages as well. Hence, it is a guaranteed that people would surely want to come spend some quality time and money if provided with good cinemas in their respective localities."
Briefing on the non-metro cities and if there has been any impact on the footfalls, Amit Sharma affirmatively comments,"So when it comes to consumption pattern for videos, India is very rich in terms of consuming videos. When you look at today, it's the smart age people residing all over the country and they are all looking for a meaningful entertainment which is provided by the cinema. There is a different consumption pattern in different part of the country. We have always consumed the home grown videos. What OTT is doing right now, they are providing you the global content apart from the home grown regional content. So they are basically making
Speaking of aspects like the impact on cinema ITP and the F&B promotions with the OTT platforms being a rising competition, Kushal says, "When we look at today's condition, we certainly must bring back the habit of watching movies in the cinemas amongst the people. Therefore certain strategic plans have to be made with concerns to the pricing and the services what we provide. Talking about single screens, they lack a lot of scope for having better and adequate services to their consumers. So even we would have to invest a lot on the latest technology with better comfort and F&B options catered in the menu. So hence when we try to deliver
OTT Mania: On having asked if there has been any first day first show kind of movies on any OTT platforms with
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appropriate and better services to our consumers, then surely people will do come back our cinemas." Talking about the kind of investments which are made in 3D and 4D technology, Karan says, "if you're going to a cinema, you really need to have that luxury and the wholesome experience that you would not have sitting at home and watching a movie on a tablet or a smart TV. Taking this topic forward John says, "It's quite interesting because I think a lot of 3D wave and in a global basis is kind of waning a little bit. People are more focused on the big screen experiences, great 2D experiences, VIP lounges and nice comfortable seating. I think the investments that I'm seeing in other markets around the world are less. So some markets for instance like Indonesia, the consumers just don't want to do 3D whereas places like in China and Russia; it's still very movie like and its performance is still very 3D driven and when we do 3D releases here in India, our box offices are really quite dramatic but I don't necessarily think people are using too much technology to kind of combat the OTT. So I think what people are doing around the world is investing in better experiences within the movie theatre as a whole. Just thinking about some of the best movie theatres I've been to around the world, they all happen to be here in India because INOX and PVR do an amazing job and brands like SPI Cinemas down south have really kind of created some amazing palaces to drive people into movie theatres.
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December 2019 - February 2020
You know there are places in Thailand as well which are really fantastic and yet again they spend more in creating their multiplexes, but at the end of the day they have stronger staying
And the Jeddah IMAX theatre is the second most popular IMAX theatre in the world because it just there's the demand for people to go out, to socialise, to go and experience movies
power. One sort of a comment I wanted to make that was just previously discussed on providing cinemas and smaller markets and streaming and how streaming in smaller territories is higher. One of the international sort of elements to this is Saudi Arabia which is a market that I cover for IMAX and Saudi Arabia didn't have cinemas for 35 years and recently opened the doors to opening up the first movie theatres and prior to that time, Saudi Arabia had the highest per-capita usage of YouTube for streaming various content and lot of it was home grown in the world, so people were digesting content any way they could get it and there's since been movie theatres open. We've got two IMAXs operating there right now; commercial IMAX theatres. We've got one in Jeddah and one in Riyadh.
together as a family which they never had before. And I think that's one of the driving things for the movie business not only in India as they brace with the new environmental streaming and OTT but just as a whole is that moviegoing is such a communal experience; it's something that you know for certain movies for certain films, you want to go with your friends.
The Legendary Broadcasting: Karan talks about another very interesting data point stating 85 percent of the particular film revenue came from the theatres around 10 years back. And that has come down to about 57 odd percent roughly and digital and satellite have been the biggest contributors in terms of heating up that market share. Kamal further adds, "Currently it's about the 57- 58 percent and when you include the overseas theatrical, it probably goes up to about 75%. It's a very sizable number and from producers point of view, the highest yield or eyeball, you know the number of people who watch it in theatres and what they end up paying and what travels back to the producer is the highest in theatrical visibly television, visibly OTT or any other distribution
platform for that matter of fact and the reason for that is that on OTT and broadcasting platforms, you have a lot of people watching it but the per patron - per person or per audience that one is paying whether it's by way of subscription or pay per view is fairly small as a number. OTT players like Netflix have been investing in original content including movies and some of the big films; Will Smith's 'Bright' went straight to Netflix. Amazon has a studio and fortunately they've been following the theatrical platform but Netflix has been regularly producing films which go straight to Netflix as a platform. They've done that also in India. Cinemas have dealt with these multiple distribution platforms for ages. I mean before OTT it was pay television. Previously it was VCDs and DVDs. DVDs never came to India
properly but we had VCDs; speaking of which we've had to deal with piracy throughout and I think John really summed it up well in terms of you know people are being pulled back to the cinemagoing experience and one big reason is of course compelling content but the other big reason is the pre memorization of the whole experience you know regardless it being the recliners or the way the software elements in a cinema makes you feel. The kind of training we impart, the more educated, the more informed, more trained people that we have in cinemas today, the better is the throughput or output in terms of service standards and all of that is becoming a compelling reason for people to come out. Meanwhile, when OTT can definitely pay and acquire films for their own platform
and in some cases producers would find it relevant and attractive enough. But in the long run, I think there is a positive cycle at play. With OTT coming into picture from producer's perspective because one way or the other, OTT releases directly from a producer or they follow the traditional theatrical window and then releases it after a gap. In both cases producers now have another distribution platform another way to slice and dice their content and make more money out of it now which hopefully will go back in doing bigger and better films which is rather great for cinemas because ultimately cinemas want good quality; big scale, larger than life films so that the experience that you get in cinemas is something that you can't replicate. So that's the way we look at it."
Demystifying the Technology Innovation
Panelists: Barry Ferrell - Senior VP & Chief Strategy Officer, QSC Audio Products Dr. Don Shaw - Sr. Director Cinema Sales, Christie Digital Puneet Sethi - VP, Consumer Electronics Enterprise Business, Samsung India Sachin R Shetty - Country Head, GDC Technology India Senthil Kumar - Co-founder, Qube Cinema Moderator: Akshaye Rathi - Director, Saroj Screens
Overview: Technology is moving at an incredible pace. We live in an amazing era where everything like autonomous cars, personalised medicine and quantum computing are becoming real as we speak and technology innovation is driving and delivering news changes to the audience and creators alike. Now the years to come will bring impressive technological breakthroughs with a
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massive impact on our lives, markets and societies in all connected world with the unprecedented in level of information knowledge and ideas exchange innovation is happening continuously at a scale and in several forms. The Indian media and entertainment segment is well positioned and is at the cusp to lead this transition because players from the industry are forging new collaborations to ensure that innovation delivers an improved workflow and to Akshaye Rathi opens remarks with Barry who further illustrates QSC as an end to end solution provider for the cinema industry in terms of technology all the way from the server through the processors power amplifiers and then also the loudspeakers and assisted listening devices. It gives us a broad perspective because we are involved in so many different technologies. we also benefit from QSC being a provider to the larger AV integration space and we get sort of an early warning of what the trends are going to be in cinema from the leading edge of AV integration. I think the technology trend that I find most intriguing right now is this AV-IT conversions, we are seeing more and more technology being developed that works on standard IT protocols whether its a LINUX paced Intel servers or standard Ethernet protocols we are seeing
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a lot of work that used to be done in hardware can now be done in software. So QSC is very focused on developing its platform for not only audio processing but integrating that larger element of control. We do see that a larger market of AV does allow us to develop technology and bring it to the cinema where it might not be cost effective if we were only selling to just the cinema segment so we see a benefit where cinema can benefit from that larger an integration space.
Planning Greater Heights Breifing about Qube's growth plans, Senthil says, "I think the real advantage that we as a company have is the fact that we're in many parts of the ecosystem from content mastering to delivery to playing it out in the theatre and also embedded in the business model in multiple ways with both advertising and the VPF that gives a much more wholesome picture and even more important is the fact that a few times before this we brought about a change from one technology to another. Of course when we talk about changes, the number of exciting things ahead for us is enormous right from LED screens to a vastly better and faster methods of delivering content to theatre so that it can be pretty much real time when
you want the movie. You can have it in your theatre to much better ways of monetising your content with the specific audience. The future really seems limitless but from our company pointof view the most exciting thing is this new premium large format called ‘EpiQ’ that we previewed actually at the same show 2 years ago in Chennai and we hope will be a tremendous hit and promoted from a 100 foot wide screen with is amazing experience to watch movies in and today when everybody in the movie industries is worried about is viewership at home going to take away from what we have in the theatre just one experience in a theatre like that can change the thinking completely from"I want to watch movies this way" to"I always want to watch movies this way."
OTT Gigantic Than Giants?? This whole advent of the thread from OTT and what a telecom company recently announced is something I want to come back to and discuss because that is something that is a potential threat to all of us across verticals but having said what GDC again does is automatising the way cinemas function extremely fascinating but then as a lot of people foresee it the growth for the sector now is the Tier 2 & Tier 3 towns because the metros are fairly well served. Sachin further comments, "I think the impact that can be created in Tier 2 & 3 cities is in terms of automating the general operations as well as upgrading themselves and terms of what the laser projection has to offer or even with newer technology as far as some of the server that we have developed wherein you can look at creating automation where content can playback from a central server as much as most of the work has happened in the national chains. We still feel that at some level, the chains in Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities also need this technology where in they're able to automate operations
at lower cost of ownership for their equipment. I think we are pretty much there at international level some of the screens we have in our country are so beautiful. I think it now needs to take the next leap of faith as far as technology in terms of automation is concerned wherein from central location they are able to play content predominantly.
India - A Flourishing Market India as a market is still growing when it comes to the advent of laser projectors and while India is being tapped as a market for laser projection and more advanced projection technology there is stock of movies being shown on LED screen like Samsung does. Talking about laser technology having enough time to grow and boom and flourish before technology again as an option comes into play, Don further adds, "First of all Christie is very pleased be back here once again as the official projection partner for the show, this is the first year that we have been able to show all the content of the presentation on ourpure RGB laser projector. Therefore I think its great everyone would get to see this projector in action this year. I was impressed with Galalite's screen and its image quality in terms of laser versus Xenon lamps versus mercury lamps versus new LED screens that are coming along. I think that the companies that have been bombarding you with these choices for quite some time now we can hear about laser projectors for the last 10 years but where we are now is the laser projectors are ready to take over the market not just in other countries but in every country we're selling laser projectors all over the world now there's literally thousands of them out there, the time for RGB lasers is now! The time for LED displays I think we want to hear from our colleagues at Samsung but in terms of what you can put on screen now in a cost effective manner you
should be looking at RGB laser projectors. Puneet briefing on what is new and the future plans of Samsung says, "Samsung has always been working on getting new products and technologies and innovating and we have been in the forefront in all our business regardless it being mobile or consumer electronics. We have a lot of products which we service till now on a signage part it comes to signage so earlier it was LCD signages and video walls. Now we have LED so we have been with cinemas for a long time and not only here, globally even in India we work with all the cinema chains.We all have grown up watching movies on projectors but yes this is a revolution and I'm sure in time to come we are very certain that this is going to take the cinema business by storm." He further adds, "There's a difference and specifically on the contrast ratio there's a big difference so the blacks are real black the whites are real white because it's a hard body and hence the colours pop out on black much better and of course powered by HDR Samsung where the brightness level can be peaked and we can adjust any kind of content apart from that since its LED so its unaffected by ambient light. Therefore, you can have the auditorium used for many other purposes rather than only cinema so like that there is a host of advantage on the LED. Coming back to the advancement of technology and the context of sound wave, Barry says "Well I think that the immersive format we have today have pretty much given us many channels that we are going to need an auditorium for. I would say from the sound perspective that we should be looking for all the new streaming services and all the competition that we are to face. We unfortunately see people make short sighted decisions sometimes to cut some corners on the sound system and maybe 90% of
December 2019 - February 2020
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the time it's good enough but when you get that big action movie playing in the theatre and its full and you want to turn up for Saturday night, then maybe you get some noise distortion because you know it's not crisp and clean and maybe that turns people off and wouldn't just come back to your theatre. I would say that we have the technology we have the tools to make amazing presentation both picture & sound but let's be sure that we look at the big picture and not be short sighted when we make decisions on designing and implementing a theatre.
Advancing Innovations and Content Concerning artificial intelligence and big data Sachin says, "I think this kind of development is in its nascent stage right now in the country there have been companies who have tried doing that part with very little success possibly it was too early that they launched in the market and now when you're looking at actually having content playing in the cinema where you know we right now have a small demo in a booth where we actually have a 10 screen plex actually running in operations where you can you know put in as much as about 2000 odd films and from that one central storage it can playback in all respective screen so as far as analysing what kind of what's your clientele to like I think its nascent stage we need to right now address the content management issue which is a big challenge inside most of these booths which we really to change I think that changed will help immensely then go to the next level of where you can look at identifying what kind of films you need to play in the cinema or what kind of clientele you need to attract to ensure better collections." Augmented reality and Virtual reality is again a thing that is seeing a boom in India and there are cinema chains having virtual reality sections. Senthil
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December 2019 - February 2020
comments, "I think when we go to the cinema we have been told stories by somebody who's taken a lot of trouble to tell it to you exactly the way that they want you to enjoy and experience it and if you're given the freedom to do things the way that you want with virtual reality system maybe you'll miss a key part of the story and then it becomes a boring experience. Don further adds, "I couldn't agree more. I think cinema is about the shared experience and going to see a story told among other folks, I think virtual reality in a cinema environment that you can monetise in a lobby as someone passes by like a video gamer, an archetype game you can get a few extra rupees or dollars out of your audience members because they're on your side already. Puneet says,"I believe is one must always enjoy a movie on a large screen so like Samsung is doing getting into an LED and Onyx and I'm sure if we have more innovation for cinema the sector getting into more newer products and technology, people will still love watching movies on large screen and coming back to cinemas even if the content is made available the 1st or 2nd day. Sachin adds, "I think there are 2 points here, India is still a very under-screen country andI still think there is tremendous potential to add many more screens in the country.
We underestimate the power of our patrons of Tier 2 and Tier 3 city and at the end of the day they are used to seeing good quality phones or purchasing themin Tier 2 cities and 2nd is there is socontent that is being been made in India I think the OTT platforms have opened that window almost every new producer and director or a storyteller has got an opportunity to actually present it and I fully agree with Senthil, I think if were to run our own business then why not play the films across mediums and optimise and capitalise and get the maximum possible revenue. Discussing on the grade of content, Puneet says, "Content has always been the driving force but in terms of applying intelligence and so called big data and trying to decipher that code as to how clients actually want to consume that, I think is in its nascent state so unless there are companies who have found finite answer because the diverse operations that we have in our country where that different languages spoken and different content made in different languages that helps us immensely also we are the largest producer of films in the world so that speaks for itself that you know at some stage there would be a possible answer. On the lighter side at Samsung we have been addressing needs of different people so we will be more than glad and happy since we are into business of mobile phones and TV and the screen also about Samsung virtual reality kit.
F U T U R E
R E L E A S E S
A glimpse of movies coming soon… Hala
Jumanji: The Next Level Production Apple
Production Sony Pictures
Director Minhal Baig
Director Jake Kasdan
Starring Geraldine Viswanathan
Starring Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart
Genre Drama
Genre Comedy, Action
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
The Silence Production Netflix
Production Walt Disney
Director John Leonetti
Director J.J. Abrams
Starring Stanley Tucci, Miranda Otto
Starring Daisy Ridley, Keri Russell
Genre Thriller, Horror
Genre Action, Sci-Fi
Black Christmas
Cats
Production Universal Pictures
Production Universal Pictures
Director Sophia Takal
Director Tom Hooper
Starring Imogen Poots, Aleyse Shannon
Starring Taylor Swift, Jennifer Hudson
Genre Horror
Genre Musical
December 2019 - February 2020
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F U T U R E 1917
Like A Boss Production Universal Pictures
Production Paramount
Director Sam Mendes
Director Miguel Arteta
Starring Benedict Cumberbatch
Starring Tiffany Haddish, Rose Byrne
Genre War
Genre Comedy
Little Women
Bad Boys for Life Production Sony Pictures
Production Columbia Pictures
Director Greta Gerwig
Director Adil El Arbi
Starring Saoirse Ronan, TimothĂŠe Chalamet
Starring Will Smith, Martin Lawrence
Genre Drama
Genre Action, Adventure
Noelle
Dolittle Production Walt Disney Pictures
Production Universal Pictures
Director Marc Lawrence
Director Stephen Gaghan
Starring Anna Kendrick, Shirley Mac Laine
Starring Robert Downey Jr., Antonio Banderas
Genre Fantasy
Genre Adventure
Underwater
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December 2019 - February 2020
R E L E A S E S
The Gentlemen Production 20th Century Fox
Production STX Films
Director William Eubank
Director Guy Ritchie
Starring Kristen Stewart, Jessica Henwick
Starring Matthew Mc Conaughey
Genre Thriller, Action
Genre Comedy, Action
F U T U R E The Rhythm Section
R E L E A S E S The King's Man
Production Paramount Pictures
Production 20th Century Fox
Director Reed Morano
Director Matthew Vaughn
Starring Blake Lively, Sterling K. Brown
Starring Harris Dickinson, Liam Neeson
Genre Thriller
Genre Action
Gretel & Hansel
Fantasy Island
Production Orion Pictures
Production Blumhouse, Sony
Director Osgood Perkins
Director Jeff Wadlow
Starring Sophia Lillis
Starring Michael Pena, Jimmy O
Genre Horror
The Lodge
Genre Fantasy, Adventure
The Call of the Wild Production NEON
Production 20th Century Fox
Director Veronika Franz
Director Chris Sanders
Starring Richard Armitage, Lia Mc Hugh
Starring Harrison Ford, Dan Stevens
Genre Thriller, Suspense
Genre Animation, Family
Sonic the Hedgehog
The Photograph
Production Paramount Pictures
Production Universal Pictures
Director Jeff Fowler
Director Stella Meghie
Starring James Marsden, Tika Sumpter
Starring Issa Rae, Lakeith Stanfield
Genre Animation, Family
Genre Drama, Romance
December 2019 - February 2020
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F U T U R E Bloodshot
Dabangg 3 Production Sony Pictures
Production Arbaaz Khan Prod.
Director Dave Wilson
Director Prabhu Dheva
Starring Vin Diesel, Eiza Gonzalez
Starring Salman Khan, Sonakshi Sinha
Genre Action, Sci-Fi, Adventure
Genre Action
The Invisible Man
Production Lyca Productions
Director Leigh Whannell
Director A. R. Murugadoss
Starring Aldis Hodge, Harriet Dyer
Starring Rajinikanth, Nayanthara
Genre Drama, Horror
Genre Action
Tanhaji – The Unsung Warrior Production Ashutosh Gowariker
Production T-Series
Director Ashutosh Gowariker
Director Om Raut
Starring Arjun Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt
Starring Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan
Genre Action, Historical
Genre Action, Drama
Mamangam
December 2019 - February 2020
Darbar
Production Universal Pictures
Panipat
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R E L E A S E S
Avane Srimannarayana Production Kavya Film
Production Shree Devi Entert.
Director M Padma Kumar
Director Sachin
Starring Mammootty, Sudev Nair
Starring Rakshit Shetty, Shanvi Srivastava
Genre Action, Drama
Genre Action, Comedy