The movie industry is in a state of flux, grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic and shifting audience preferences. Uncertainty looms over the theatrical box office, with changes in movie-going habits and studio strategies. This year’s CinemaCon trade convention in Las Vegas was a platform for Hollywood studios to showcase their confidence in their upcoming lineups for 2025 and beyond.
The convention was a grand affair, with studio executives taking the stage at the Caesars Palace Colosseum to reaffirm their commitment to theatrical releases. Amidst a backdrop of anxiety surrounding studio leadership changes, Warner Bros., Paramount Global, and Skydance merger, and the recent Amazon MGM Studios shakeup, the industry aimed to project optimism and enthusiasm for the future.
Each studio spared no expense in presenting their upcoming projects, bringing out A-list stars and directors to bolster their narratives. Sony introduced the actors set to portray the Beatles in a four-part film series slated for 2028. Lionsgate featured a performance by The Weeknd to promote his film, “Hurry Up Tomorrow.” Warner Bros. had none other than Leonardo DiCaprio grace the stage, while Walt Disney Co. distributed 3D glasses for the preview of the upcoming Pixar film “Elio” and “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” Universal even had a live orchestra to accompany their presentation, underscoring the grandeur of their cinematic offerings.
Sequels and reboots took center stage during the convention, alongside action and horror films that promised to captivate audiences. Notably, producer Jason Blum made a memorable entrance in a bear costume to promote the sequel to “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” adding a touch of whimsy to the proceedings.
As attendees traversed the trade show floor, they were met with a myriad of vendors selling everything from the latest popcorn toppings to reclining theater seats. The atmosphere resembled an extended movie theater lobby, with illuminated posters and standees teasing upcoming releases. A cardboard cutout standoff featuring Stitch, Tom Cruise, and Toothless the dragon added a playful element to the ambiance, showcasing the diverse array of films awaiting audiences.
### Amazon MGM Studios Bets on Theatrical Releases
In a notable debut appearance at CinemaCon, Amazon MGM Studios made a strong statement regarding its commitment to theatrical distribution. Executives emphasized that theatrical releases were key to their business strategy, with plans to release 15 blockbuster films annually in theaters by 2027. Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, unveiled a lineup of 14 titles set for 2026, underscoring the studio’s dedication to the big screen experience.
The presentation kicked off with a trailer for the 2026 film adaptation of Andy Weir’s sci-fi novel, “Project Hail Mary,” starring Ryan Gosling in the lead role. The studio’s focus on global, high-quality content was evident throughout the showcase, with an emphasis on long-term commitment to the theatrical experience. The evening concluded with an extended trailer for the eagerly anticipated “The Accountant 2,” featuring Ben Affleck in the lead role.
Amazon MGM Studios pulled out all the stops, bringing out a star-studded lineup that included Ben Affleck, Chris Hemsworth, Halle Berry, Andrew Garfield, Ayo Edebiri, and Vivica A. Fox. The collective gathering of actors and directors on stage for a selfie captured the spirit of unity and collaboration that defined the studio’s presentation.
### Paramount Calls for Elevating the Moviegoing Experience
Paramount distribution executive Chris Aronson took the stage to advocate for an enhanced moviegoing experience, urging exhibitors to prioritize customer satisfaction. He highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the in-theater experience, such as limited trailers, daily deals, and extended matinee pricing. Aronson’s call for theaters to elevate their offerings resonated with the audience, drawing attention to the importance of creating a welcoming and engaging environment for movie enthusiasts.
As the presentation unfolded, Paramount co-Chief Executive Brian Robbins addressed the impending Paramount-Skydance merger, expressing pride in the studio’s accomplishments amidst industry upheavals. The emotional moment came when Tom Cruise paid tribute to his late “Top Gun” co-star Val Kilmer, underscoring the camaraderie and respect that define Hollywood’s creative community.
The convention also saw a plea from top movie theater lobbyist Michael O’Leary, who advocated for a minimum theatrical window of 45 days to sustain the movie business. O’Leary’s proposal aimed to reaffirm the industry’s commitment to theatrical exclusivity, providing clarity and consistency for movie fans.
As the movie industry navigates a landscape rife with challenges and opportunities, CinemaCon served as a platform for studios to reaffirm their dedication to the art of cinema. From star-studded presentations to heartfelt tributes, the convention encapsulated the resilience and creativity that define Hollywood’s enduring spirit.
