In a time where the film industry is facing a content shortage and audiences are becoming more selective, Fathom Events is making waves with its record-breaking revenue and innovative content offerings. For over two decades, this joint venture between AMC, Regal, and Cinemark has been a pioneer in bringing alternative content to the big screen, ranging from classic Hollywood movies to live theater broadcasts, concerts, and even television series. The recent foray into specialty distribution, with titles like “The Blind,” “The Chosen,” “Jesus Thirsts,” and “Waitress: the Musical,” has further solidified Fathom’s position in the industry. The upcoming release of “Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration” promises to continue this trend of success.
With a staggering $100 million in box office revenue in 2023, representing a 116% increase from 2019, Fathom Events has proven its strength in the market. The momentum has only accelerated in 2024, with a first-quarter revenue of $43 million, a significant 140% jump from the previous year. Fathom’s strategic partnerships with major Hollywood studios and its wide-reaching presence, as a collaboration of the three largest theater chains in the industry, have positioned it as a dominant player in the box office landscape. The company’s unique value proposition lies in revitalizing older films and rejuvenating theaters, bringing new life to classic movies and providing additional revenue streams for cinemas.
Amidst the challenges faced by the cinema industry due to the pandemic and production disruptions, Fathom Events has emerged as a support system for smaller theater operators. By providing diverse content offerings for the big screen, Fathom has bridged the gap during times of low production output. The success of “The Chosen,” a faith-based television series about the life of Jesus, which generated $32 million in box office revenue, exemplifies Fathom’s impact on the industry. The president of B&B Theatres, Brock Bagby, acknowledged the significant contribution of Fathom’s content in boosting revenue during critical periods.
One of Fathom Events’ key strengths lies in its celebration of milestone anniversaries of iconic films, drawing audiences back to theaters for unique cinematic experiences. The 85th anniversaries of “The Wizard of Oz” and “Gone with the Wind,” as well as the 35th anniversary of “Steel Magnolias,” have been notable highlights this year. The company’s film series, Studio Ghibli Fest, featuring the studio’s renowned titles in both Japanese and English versions, has attracted a dedicated fan base. The ongoing success of classics like “Lord of the Rings,” which brought in $8.2 million during a three-weekend run, underscores the enduring appeal of timeless stories on the big screen.
Looking ahead, Fathom Events continues to innovate and expand its offerings to cater to evolving audience preferences. The upcoming screenings of “Coraline” in 3D, marking the film’s 15th anniversary, are already generating significant pre-sales. Fathom’s ability to reintroduce classic films to new audiences, as demonstrated by the success of “Coraline,” showcases its marketing prowess and nationwide reach. By leveraging its extensive network and industry partnerships, Fathom Events has positioned itself as a key player in revitalizing the box office and redefining the cinema experience for audiences of all ages.