In the wake of film ticket subscription service MoviePass pulling out of ten of the busiest AMC multiplexes around the United States, the AMC theater chain has blasted MoviePass for lying about AMC’s finances.
Among the most high-profile locations no longer being serviced are AMC Century City 15 in Los Angeles, AMC Mission Valley 20 in San Diego, AMC River East 21 in Chicago, and AMC Loews Boston Common 19 in Boston. The exhibitor has said in a statement:
“AMC has taken no action to block the acceptance of MoviePass at our theatres. We have no further comment about MoviePass’ unilateral actions. We are, however, disappointed that MoviePass continues to make false statements about AMC, including today when MoviePass greatly exaggerated its contributions to AMC’s profitability.”
AMC famously threatened legal action against MoviePass in August. MoviePass pays cinemas the full price for a ticket, effectively subsidizing its users moviegoing and losing money each time they check out a film, which has led to much speculation about how sustainable their business model is.
MoviePass presently has over 1.5 million subscribers, and recently launched MoviePass Ventures which is teaming with The Orchard to distribute Sundance art heist drama American Animals later this year.
What isn’t mentioned is that to retaliate against Moviepass AMC suspended a bunch of their loyal AMC Stubs Premiere program members for using their Moviepass Card to pay for their tickets. Say what you will
AMC, but don’t take it out on your customers. 🙁