On the last day of a generally upbeat and optimistic CinemaCon, a divergence of perspectives among exhibitors spilled out into public view when AMC CEO Adam Aron announced his open support for Paramount’s pending acquisition of Warner Bros.. Aron’s endorsement stands in stark contrast to the position of the CEOs of Regal and Cinemark and the Cinema United association of exhibitors. Puck journalist Matthew Belloni was first to report on the reaction to Aron’s endorsement. Belloni was preparing to lead a panel discussion at the conference when news of Aron’s endorsement broke. He described a “palpable tension” in the greenroom from leaders of Cinema United and other exhibitors, with many wondering why Aron chose to take such a stance at this moment.
Aron first made his support for the merger known with social media post on X, stating that he has a “favorable view” of the deal because of his belief that Ellison fully appreciates the value of theatrical releasing. Shortly thereafter, Aron elaborated in an interview with The Wrap by commending Ellison for committing to 30 theatrical releases each year, and believes that he can be successful in running both Paramount and Warner Bros. studios. He was also encouraged Paramount’s commitment to a 45-day theatrical exclusive window and 90-day pause before movies would be made available to stream on Video on Demand platforms. The episode was somewhat awkward for Cinema United, which appeared to be on a different page from its largest member.
