Unlike cinemas in New York, New Jersey theaters have been given the green light to reopen this Friday, September 4, Governor Phil Murphy announced on Monday. This much-anticipated news comes after California set guidelines for Friday reopenings in San Francisco and other area locales.
Unfortunately, Governor Andrew Cuomo has yet to confirm similar plans for New York, which is still recovering from shutdown orders for a variety of businesses like concert venues, sporting arenas, theater houses, museums, restaurants, tourist attractions, and more.
Per Governor Murphy's announcement during a regular COVID-19 briefing, attendance per-theater would be capped at either 25% of capacity or an audience of 150. While this number is not ideal, it certainly is a far cry from having theaters closed to the public. Murphy also stated that groups who purchase tickets together may sit together but all others must remain six feet apart. Furthermore, masks will be a mandatory part of the experience, “unless you’re pulling it aside to put down a handful of popcorn.” Mmm. It's that last part that really gets me, as it's one of the chief reasons why I won't be going to a theater anytime this year. Not even for WONDER WOMAN 1984. Sorry Diana, I still love you.
At this rate, any business would be good business for those behind the curve, provided that COVID-19 prevention techniques are followed to the letter.
New Jersey's plan to reopen movie theaters comes just in time for the North American release of TENET, otherwise known as Christopher Nolan's tentpole savior of the Summer box office. The film launched with an estimated $53 million overseas in 41 markets, including most of Europe, South Korea, and Canada. Naturally, TENET will need a strong North American box office boost if it hopes to recoup the film's $200-225 million dollar budget, so be sure to keep your fingers and toes crossed, my friends.
