Sony Pictures Buys Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Sony Pictures has acquired Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, one of the best movie theater chains that exists. I love watching movies at Alamo Drafthouse because it always delivers the best movie-going experience.
Alamo Drafthouse has been struggling as it recently filed for bankruptcy and shut down some of its theaters. But, Sony stepped in and bought them to keep them going.
Alamo Drafhouse will now be managed under a newly established division, Sony Pictures Experiences. In a press release, the company said it “reinforces [Sony Pictures Entertainment’s] long-held commitment to theatrical exhibition and continued initiatives in experiential entertainment.”
Alamo Drafthouse’s Michael Kustermann will remain CEO of Alamo Drafthouse and also head Sony Pictures Experiences, reporting to Ravi Ahuja, president and COO of Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Ahuja said in a statement. “We believe strongly in engaging entertainment fans outside the home in fun and distinctive ways. Alamo Drafthouse’s differentiated movie-going experience, admired brand and devoted community fit well with this vision.”
Alamo Drafthouse founder Tim League said: “We are beyond thrilled to join forces with Sony Pictures Entertainment to expand our company vision to be the best damn cinema that has ever, or will ever, exist now in ways we could only ever dream of.
“They have a deep respect and understanding of cinema’s ability to both drive growth and create lasting cultural impact which aligns perfectly with everything Alamo Drafthouse stands for.”
Sony Pictures Chairman and CEO Tom Rothman added: “Alamo Drafthouse has always held the craft of filmmaking and the theatrical experience in high esteem, which are fundamental shared values between our companies. I’m jazzed that our company is doing this.”
Kustermann said in a statement: “We were created by film lovers for film lovers. We know how important this is to Sony, and it serves as further evidence of their commitment to the theatrical experience. Together we will continue to innovate and bring exciting new opportunities for our teammates and moviegoers alike.”
There are 35 theaters and all of them will remain open and continue to operate under the Alamo Drafthouse brand. The company’s headquarters will remain in Austin, Texas.
I was actually worried there for a minute that Alamo Drafthouse might shut down, but that’s something movie fans don’t have to worry about anymore.