NATO Chief Michael O’Leary hosted in Los Angeles a special breakfast event on Thursday, Dec. 12, in celebration of CinemaCon 2025 Marquee Award honoree, Cinemark President and CEO Sean Gamble, where the two met with a room of journalists to talk about the strength of the industry, their vision for the future and the importance of maintaining a healthy pro-business, pro-consumer perspective that supports movie-going everywhere.
The event took place just prior to Variety’s 21st Annual Heart of Show Business Luncheon, where Cinemark’s Wanda Gierhart Fearing was honored, and where Cinemark and NATO staff joined industry colleagues to help celebrate the occasion.
In advance of next year’s CinemaCon, the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition hosted by the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), the trade show has partnered with Grupo Consciência, a prominent Brazilian technology company, on a new ambassadorship program aimed at enhancing its reach within the Brazilian market for CinemaCon 2025. This initiative underscores CinemaCon and NATO’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections with the international exhibition community, encouraging participation and driving growth among small to mid-sized theater owners in Brazil and beyond, many of whom have yet to attend the conference.
The partnership with Grupo Consciência will make it easier for this important segment of the exhibition community to engage with and benefit from the leading global trends and innovations showcased at CinemaCon, with discounted rates for participants of the program. The program reflects NATO’s shared ambition to advance not only the Brazilian film exhibition sector, but elsewhere internationally. CinemaCon offers unmatched opportunities to collaborate, innovate and drive cinema forward, with support from partners all over the world. CinemaCon runs from March 31-April 3 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.
Amazon MGM Studios Joins CinemaCon Main Stage Studio Presentations for the First Time; Sony Pictures Returns to the Colosseum
(LOS ANGELES – December 12, 2024) CinemaCon®, the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition hosted by the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), today announced that all of the major Hollywood studios will be on hand to showcase their upcoming theatrical slates when cinema owners gather next year at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas from March 31– April 3. Lionsgate, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Pictures/Focus Features, The Walt Disney Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures will all preview their upcoming theatrical releases, while for the first time, Amazon MGM Studios will join the CinemaCon main stage studio presentations at The Colosseum of Caesars Palace, with additional programming to be announced.
“We are thrilled and honored to welcome back all of our studio partners, with the addition of Amazon MGM Studios to this coming year’s CinemaCon line-up as a clear sign of support of the theatrical moviegoing business,” said NATO President and CEO Michael O’Leary. “This powerhouse line-up of the world’s greatest film-making studios speaks directly to the cultural and economic power of the cinema. Our friends in the studios know that movie fans want to see the magic they make on the big screen, and they also know that movies that start their journey in the theatre are more successful than those that do not. We applaud their commitment to theatrical exhibition and look forward to an amazing week seeing all the great stories they are bringing to movie fans in the year ahead.”
“We are grateful for the continued support from the studios, filmmakers and stars, vendors and of course our NATO members, the theatre owners,” says CinemaCon Managing Director Mitch Neuhauser. “We’ve got some exciting surprises and changes in store for next year’s CinemaCon and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Las Vegas.”
CinemaCon attracts upwards of six thousand motion picture professionals from all facets of the industry – from exhibition and distribution to the equipment and concession areas – all on hand to celebrate the moviegoing experience and the cinema industry. CinemaCon works with the International Cinema Technology Association (ICTA) and National Association of Concessionaires (NAC) as its trade show partners. The Coca-Cola Company – one of the industry’s most highly regarded and respected partners in the world of movies – is the official presenting sponsor of CinemaCon.
About NATO
The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 32,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 30,000 screens in 88 countries worldwide. NATO’s membership includes the largest cinema chains in the world as well as hundreds of independent theatre owners. Additional information about CinemaCon can be found at www.cinemacon.com.
Year-Round Events and Quarterly Activations to Promote Moviegoing in 2025
LOS ANGELES – December 10, 2024 – On the heels of a record-breaking Thanksgiving at the box office, The Cinema Foundation, the non-profit organization from the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), today announced an exciting series of year-round events to promote the moviegoing experience through 2025. Titled “@ The Movies,” the campaign is designed to resonate with a wide range of moviegoers and will commence with National Popcorn Day on January 19, 2025. Movie theatres across the country will offer unique promotions for each event.
As part of the campaign, which is presented by Fandango, The Cinema Foundation will work with theatres across the country to come up with a dynamic and engaging program of activities and events tied to the year-round series. Building on the success of previous events like National Cinema Day, these expanded events will include quarterly targeted campaigns, including a “Sneak Peek Saturday,” timed to CinemaCon, the world’s premier showcase of theatrical exhibition hosted by NATO.
“The Cinema Foundation is committed to this year-long campaign by offering exhibitors opportunities to engage with their communities in fun and exciting ways,” says Bryan Braunlich, Executive Director of The Cinema Foundation. “This is the result of months of hard work and collaboration among our industry partners, and we cannot wait to invite moviegoers across the country to participate in what will be continued enjoyment at the movies.”
The Cinema Foundation’s four events, starting in 2025, are as follows:
Q1 2025: National Popcorn Day (January 19)
Q2 2025: Sneak Peek Saturday–an exclusive look at upcoming summer and holiday films with behind-the-scenes cinematic content and sneak peeks following CinemaCon 2025, shown in theaters nationwide for the first time. (April 19)
Q3 2025: Date Night @ The Movies (August 15)
Q4 2025: Family Day @ The Movies (November 9)
“Cinemas are an indispensable part of our culture. These celebrations emphasize the power of moviegoing to bring us all together to share and create long-lasting memories with our friends, families, and community,” says Mike Bowers, Chair of The Cinema Foundation.
ABOUT THE CINEMA FOUNDATION
The Cinema Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit dedicated to strengthening the cinema industry and engaging moviegoing audiences around the country. The Foundation promotes and enhances the exhibition industry through programming, events and activities, while spearheading the development of vital industry data, research and consumer insights, education and community involvement to advance the moviegoing experience.
Since March 2022, the Cinema Foundation’s mission has been dedicated to supporting and impacting the health of the cinema sector both in the short term and for years to come, while continuously expanding its contributions to the magic of moviegoing. The Cinema Foundation builds on NATO/National Association of Theatre Owners’ mission and relationships and expands NATO’s impact in ways that help individual employees, companies and the industry as a whole. For more info, visitwww.thecinemafoundation.org.
ABOUT NATO
The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 32,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 30,000 screens in 88 countries worldwide. NATO’s membership includes the largest cinema chains in the world as well as hundreds of independent theatre owners. Additional information about CinemaCon can be found at www.cinemacon.com
LOS ANGELES, CA – October 21, 2024 – The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) announced today it has named seasoned communications professional, strategist and former award-winning journalist Andrew Stewart as Chief Communications Officer. In this role, Stewart will lead all efforts for the association’s communications and media relations strategy, continuing to unite and promote the cinema industry as the leading out-of-home experience for current and future generations.
As a key member of NATO’s leadership team, based in Los Angeles and reporting directly to President & CEO Michael O’Leary, Stewart will lead a comprehensive and aggressive communications strategy to raise awareness of exhibition’s critical role in the entertainment industry’s success and help map its innovative future, such as promoting the results of exhibition’s recent $2.2 billion commitment to modernize and upgrade theatres of all sizes over the next three years. An immediate priority for Stewart will involve CinemaCon, NATO’s cornerstone annual event and the world’s premier exhibition convention held at Caesars Palace each spring, to amplify its impact and increase visibility with members, key stakeholders from across the industry, the media, and the general public. He will also work in close partnership with the Cinema Foundation on efforts to promote moviegoing.
“We were so impressed with Andrew’s drive and strategic know-how in navigating today’s ever-evolving media landscape,” O’Leary said. “Andrew will be invaluable to ensuring that exhibition is a part of the on-going conversation about the future of filmed entertainment. Not to mention, it’s clear he has a deep passion for going to the theatre, with a desire to see the business of moviegoing not only succeed, but innovate and grow.”
“For me, storytelling is at the heart of communications, so the opportunity to join a venerable organization such as NATO, to tell their story on behalf of the exhibition community, is nothing short of perfect,” Stewart said. “I couldn’t be more excited to roll up my sleeves and roll back the curtain in telling this next chapter in the theatrical exhibition story.”
Most recently, Stewart served as Vice President at 42West, one of the leading entertainment PR agencies, where he led the Los Angeles-based team for the company’s Strategic Communications Division, working on a wide range of clientele across industries, including entertainment, gaming, technology, social impact, as well as crisis communications and issues management. Prior to that, he served in various communications roles for Participant and IMAX Corporation. During his time at Participant, he worked on campaigns for such box office hits as “Wonder,” “The Post,” “RBG” and “Green Book,” while at IMAX, he was part of the team for such record-setting IMAX releases as “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” “Jurassic World,” the “Fast and Furious” franchise, among others. Stewart began his career as an entertainment journalist for Variety, where he reported on box office, film distribution, digital and on-demand platforms, as well as independent film and theatrical exhibition. As a journalist, he has been honored multiple times by the Southern California Journalism Awards. Prior to being a Variety film reporter, Stewart worked as an online editor for the LA-based trade publication. Stewart comes from the Midwest, where he received bachelor degrees in both journalism (news-editorial) and film studies from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.
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ABOUT NATO
The National Association of Theatre Owners is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 32,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 34,000 additional screens in 89 countries worldwide. For more info, visit www.theatreowners.org.
LOS ANGELES (September 24, 2024) — On Monday night, director and Village Theater co-owner Jason Reitman was named the newest member of NATO/National Association of Theatre Owners during the opening night festivities of the trade organization’s Fall Summit. The members-only event brought together more than 325 cinema leaders from around the world, representing hundreds of exhibitors from the largest theater chains to independent theaters, arthouses and drive-ins.
At the Sony Studios opening night presentation on the lot, cinema owners were treated to an exclusive screening of Reitman’s upcoming Sony Pictures release, “Saturday Night”, introduced by Sony Pictures Releasing President Adrian Smith, NATO President & CEO Michael O’Leary and NATO Chair Bob Bagby. Before the screening, Reitman was named the latest member of NATO and NATO’s ITOC/Independent Theater Owners Coalition.
“One of the great things about the theatrical industry is that this is a passionate industry full of passionate people,” said O’Leary in presenting Reitman with his membership. “In a lot of places, the theater is the heartbeat of communities across the United States, in Canada and around the world. And nowhere is that more evident than in independent cinema. As the owner of a one-screen theater, you are newest member of our Independent Theatre Owners Coalition (ITOC) and you will be a great addition to both NATO and to ITOC.”
“It’s a genuine honor to be part of this organization,” said Reitman. “My father [director Ivan Reitman] loved movie theaters, and cinema was our church. When I was a kid, my father came home one day with a trophy that said NATO on it. Many decades later we would make a GHOSTBUSTERS movie together, and we watched that movie together for the first time with an audience at [NATO’s convention] CinemaCon. And we went up to Vegas, sat down with so many people and the movie killed. You gave my father and I an extraordinary moment together that evening. I’m sure he’s watching this moment right now, and he’s really proud.”
“I applaud the money you are re-investing into your movie theaters,” continued Reitman. “It’s fantastic. As you think about what you are doing with your theaters, think not only about the picture, think not only about the sound. Think also about the cultural hub that you are. That’s what we’re doing with the Village. It’s not just a place to go see a movie. We want to build a community hub. I’m so proud to be a member of this organization and thank you for having me.”
Jason Reitman is the latest member of the creative community to become a theater owner. Actor Patrick Wilson co-owns The Playhouse in New Canaan, CT and director Richard Linklater is the longtime co-founder of the Austin Film Society Cinema, and both are NATO members. Other directors who own hometown movie theatres include Kevin Smith (SModCastle Cinemas, Atlantic Highlands, NJ), and Quentin Tarantino (New Beverly, Vista Theatre, Los Angeles).
The National Association of Theatre Owners is the largest exhibition trade organization in the world, representing more than 32,000 movie screens in all 50 states, and more than 34,000 additional screens in 89 countries worldwide.
As the box office surges, the exhibition industry confidently invests in the future
LOS ANGELES, CA – September 19, 2024 – Theatre owners across the United States and Canada today reaffirmed their commitment to providing moviegoers with the memorable entertainment experiences they expect and deserve. The National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), which represents theatre owners around the world, announced that the eight largest theatre chains in the United States and Canada, representing over 21,000 screens and 67% of the box office, will invest more than $2.2 billion to modernize and upgrade theatres of all sizes over the next three years. Since the inception of exhibition over a century ago, reinvesting in theatres has been a hallmark of the industry. Today’s announcement signals a continuation of that legacy that will benefit moviegoers in communities everywhere.
“There is no question that movie fans of all ages love heading to the local theatre to see great movies on the big screen. But the competition for consumers’ hard-earned dollars is fiercer than ever,” said NATO President & CEO Michael O’Leary. “Going to the theatre is an unparalleled entertainment experience, and exhibitors are dedicated to making every visit to their theatres memorable. This investment reflects that commitment in a tangible way that every moviegoer will see and enjoy.”
NATO projects that the funds will be used on an array of projects to modernize and improve theatres of all sizes. These updates include adding the latest laser projection technology and immersive sound systems, installing more comfortable seating, enhancing food and beverage offerings, creating family entertainment options such as arcades and bowling, and investing in core site elements like state-of-the-art air conditioning, lighting, signage and carpeting.
“Today’s consumers rightly demand the best possible experience when they visit our theatres. Operating a theatre today is a capital-intensive operation,” said NATO Executive Board Chair and CEO of B&B Theatres, Bob Bagby. “This investment of resources is the next step in our industry’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that going to the theatre remains a unique and special experience for generations to come.”
The investment projections above came from a range of NATO members that included national and regional chains. Movie theatres are cornerstones in their local communities, providing first jobs, hosting first dates, offering affordable and accessible entertainment, and attracting consumers to retail and entertainment centers. The eight companies that reported to NATO represent over 1,600 site locations and cover all 50 states and Canada: AMC Entertainment Inc., Regal Cinemas, Cinemark USA, Inc., Cineplex, Marcus Theatres Corp., B&B Theatres, Harkins Theatres, and Santikos Entertainment.
“We are thrilled to see Deadpool & Wolverine bringing people to theaters for the biggest opening weekend ever for an R-rated movie,” said Michael O’Leary, NATO’s President & CEO. “This is the kind of movie you want to experience on the big screen and the historic level of enthusiasm this weekend reminds us yet again that audiences know there is no experience like theatrical. We also know that when people go to the movies, they want to come back — so we are excited to capitalize on this weekend’s energy with a robust theatrical slate in months to come.”
The National Association of Theatre Owners/NATO has announced that Mike Bowers, President & CEO of Harkins Theatres, has been appointed as the new chair of its non-profit organization, The Cinema Foundation. Bowers takes over from Tim Handren, who recently retired as CEO of Santikos Theatres. Tori A. Baker, the CEO and President of the Salt Lake Film Society, will continue to lead as the Vice Chair of The Cinema Foundation.
With nearly 40 years in the theatre industry, Bowers has introduced groundbreaking innovations to the moviegoing experience and has led Harkins Theatres through significant growth and expansion from a local operator with six locations to the 5th highest grossing exhibitor in the United States and the highest performing company per location. In addition to his new role as the chair of The Cinema Foundation, Bowers is the Vice Chair of the NATO Executive Board, a member of The Greater Phoenix Leadership Council, on the committee for CEO’s Against Cancer for the American Cancer Society, a frequent consultant for the theatrical entertainment industry and a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers.
“I’m thrilled to join the team behind The Cinema Foundation led by Bryan Braunlich with the goal of strengthening the cinema industry and engaging moviegoing audiences around the country,” says Bowers. “It’s a true honor to serve as the chair of this foundation for a great industry.”
“Mike is one of our most strategic, dedicated and passionate ambassadors for the cinema industry and for the importance of movie theatres as cornerstones serving our communities” says Bryan Braunlich, Executive Director of The Cinema Foundation. “We’re fortunate to have him as our chair.”
Since its inception, the Foundation has collaborated with NATO members, studios, vendors, partners and creatives to organize industry promotional events like National Cinema Day, National Popcorn Day and other programs bringing millions of film fans to theaters in overwhelming numbers.
Celluloid Junkie has released their annual Top Women in Global Cinema list, and NATO’s Erin Von Hoetzendorff made the list this year.
From Celluloid Junkie: Erin Von Hoetzendorff currently serves as the Director of Membership and Global Affairs at the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO). Over her six plus years at NATO, she has excelled in establishing and nurturing relationships with members of varying sizes, spearheading key initiatives such as NATO’s Ambassador Program, and managing member interactions. She oversees multiple committees and communities within NATO, including Young Members, Membership, International, and Technology. She also works as a staff liaison to the Global Cinema Federation. Von Hoetzendorff is active in the industry, currently serving as Secretary of Film Row, and formerly serving as administrator of Inter-Society, underscoring her commitment to advancing the global cinema sector.
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