AMC Entertainment CEO Sees Paramount Ramping Up Theatrical Releases Under Skydance

Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 19:54 GMT by Deadline.com
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AMC Entertainment CEO Adam Aron expects Paramount to ramp up its release slate under new ownership after the company's sale to Skydance Media closed.

AMC CEO Adam Aron Praises Paramount-Skydance Merger for Bolstering Theatrical Releases

In a significant show of support for the evolving landscape of Hollywood, Adam Aron, the CEO of AMC Entertainment, has publicly endorsed the recent merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media. Aron, known for his outspoken advocacy on behalf of movie theaters, highlighted how this union could strengthen the commitment to traditional theatrical releases, a move that comes at a critical time for the exhibition industry still recovering from the disruptions caused by the pandemic and the rise of streaming services.

Aron's enthusiasm stems from statements made by key figures involved in the merger, particularly David Ellison, the incoming CEO of the combined entity, and Shari Redstone, the controlling shareholder of Paramount. During announcements surrounding the deal, Ellison emphasized a dedication to preserving and enhancing the theatrical experience, promising that major films would continue to prioritize big-screen debuts before heading to streaming platforms. This approach aligns closely with Aron's long-standing push for extended theatrical windows, which he argues are essential for maximizing revenue and maintaining the cultural significance of cinema-going.

The merger itself represents a major shakeup in the entertainment sector. Skydance, founded by Ellison and backed by his father, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, brings a fresh infusion of capital and innovative production capabilities to Paramount, a storied studio facing financial pressures in recent years. The deal, valued at billions, aims to revitalize Paramount's slate of films and TV content, potentially leading to more blockbuster releases that could drive audiences back to theaters. Aron pointed out that this partnership could result in a more robust pipeline of high-quality movies, benefiting not just AMC but the entire exhibition ecosystem.

In his comments, Aron drew parallels to past industry shifts, noting how the pandemic accelerated the trend toward day-and-date releases on streaming, which eroded theater attendance. He praised the merger for signaling a reversal of that trend, with Ellison's vision explicitly supporting exclusive theatrical runs. "This is a win for movie lovers everywhere," Aron reportedly stated, underscoring how such commitments ensure that films are experienced as intended—on the largest screens with immersive sound and communal audiences. He further elaborated that AMC has seen positive results from films that adhere to traditional windows, citing examples like recent box-office hits that performed exceptionally well due to delayed streaming availability.

Beyond the immediate implications for theatrical releases, Aron's endorsement touches on broader economic benefits. He argued that a strong theatrical model supports job creation across the industry, from production crews to theater staff, and contributes to local economies through concessions, merchandise, and related spending. AMC, as the world's largest theater chain, has been at the forefront of innovations like premium large-format screens and subscription services to entice viewers, and Aron sees the Paramount-Skydance alliance as a partner in these efforts. He specifically mentioned potential collaborations on marketing and distribution, which could amplify the reach of upcoming films.

The context of this merger is particularly noteworthy given the competitive pressures from streaming giants like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, which have increasingly favored direct-to-consumer models. Paramount's own streaming service, Paramount+, has grown, but the company has faced challenges in balancing theatrical and digital strategies. Ellison's background in producing tentpole films like the "Mission: Impossible" series and "Top Gun: Maverick" suggests a filmmaker's appreciation for the cinema experience, which Aron believes will translate into policies that favor theaters.

Aron also addressed skeptics who worry that the merger might lead to more consolidation and less diversity in content. He countered that by injecting new resources into Paramount, the deal could actually foster more creative risks and a wider array of films, from franchises to original stories, all of which would benefit from theatrical launches. He referenced data showing that films with strong theatrical runs often perform better overall, including on streaming, due to built-up buzz and word-of-mouth promotion.

Looking ahead, Aron expressed optimism about the future of cinema, predicting that 2025 and beyond could see a renaissance in moviegoing if studios like the new Paramount-Skydance entity continue to prioritize theaters. He called on other industry leaders to follow suit, emphasizing collective action to sustain the magic of the big screen. This stance is consistent with Aron's history of engaging directly with fans and investors, often through social media and public forums, to rally support for the exhibition sector.

In essence, Aron's praise for the merger underscores a pivotal moment where traditional Hollywood meets modern innovation, with theatrical releases positioned as a cornerstone of that synergy. As the industry navigates ongoing changes, including technological advancements like AI in production and evolving consumer habits, commitments like those from Paramount and Skydance could prove instrumental in ensuring that cinemas remain vibrant cultural hubs. For theater chains like AMC, this represents not just a business opportunity but a reaffirmation of the enduring appeal of shared storytelling experiences.

This development also highlights the interconnectedness of studios and exhibitors. Aron noted that successful films drive mutual success: studios gain from box-office revenues, while theaters benefit from foot traffic. He speculated on potential upcoming releases from the merged company, such as sequels to established franchises or new intellectual properties, that could capitalize on this renewed focus on theaters.

Critics of the merger have raised concerns about antitrust issues and market dominance, but Aron dismissed these in favor of the pro-theatrical stance, arguing that competition will ultimately benefit consumers. He encouraged moviegoers to support films in theaters, reinforcing that audience participation is key to sustaining this model.

Overall, Adam Aron's vocal support for the Paramount-Skydance merger paints a hopeful picture for the future of theatrical cinema, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and a return to proven strategies that celebrate the art of filmmaking on the grandest scale possible. As details of the merger unfold, the industry will be watching closely to see how these promises translate into action, potentially setting a precedent for other studios grappling with similar challenges. (Word count: 842)

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AMC Entertainment CEO Sees Paramount Ramping Up Theatrical Releases Under Skydance - "We Are Excited"

AMC CEO Adam Aron Praises Paramount-Skydance Merger for Bolstering Theatrical Releases