Top Filmmakers Warn Congress That Movie Theaters Face Extinction - Hollywood Reporter

Dozens of influential filmmakers on Wednesday joined the National Association of Theatre Owners, the Directors Guild of America and the Motion Picture Association in urging Congress to provide assistance to struggling theater owners impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

While more than half of theaters are now reopened, Hollywood continues to delay its major fall releases out of concern that many moviegoers aren't yet ready to return.

If this trend continues, NATO is warning that 69 percent of small- and mid-sized movie theaters will be forced to file for bankruptcy or close permanently, while 66 percent of theater jobs will be lost.

"I am extraordinarily grateful for the unprecedented support from our industry partners and the talented and concerned members of the movie industry creative community," NATO president-CEO John Fithian said in a statement.

"The value of their recognition of the unique importance of movie theaters to our communities, culture, and economy, and their support before Congress of the unique needs of movie theaters in this pandemic cannot be underestimated.".

"Cinemas are an essential industry that represent the best that American talent and creativity have to offer.

"Our country cannot afford to lose the social, economic, and cultural value that theaters provide.

Theaters are great unifiers where our nation’s most talented storytellers showcase their cinematic accomplishments."M

Continuing, the letter notes that theaters "supports millions of jobs in movie production and distribution, and countless others in surrounding restaurants and retailers that rely on theaters for foot traffic.

Movie theaters are also leaders in employing underrepresented groups, including people with disabilities, senior citizens, and first-time job holders.".