Empire State Review Team 
AMC Expands Dolby Cinema Theaters to Elevate Moviegoing Experience
LOS ANGELES – In a strategic move to enhance cinematic experiences, AMC Entertainment has announced plans to add numerous Dolby Cinema theaters across the United States over the next few years. This initiative reflects a commitment to providing moviegoers with high-quality, immersive viewing options in the face of growing competition from streaming services.
Expansion Details
During CinemaCon held in Las Vegas, AMC confirmed its partnership with Dolby would see an addition of 40 new Dolby Cinema auditoriums by the end of 2027. This development will increase the total number of AMC locations featuring Dolby technology to 200—a 25% rise in the overall count.
Innovation in Viewing Experience
Dolby Cinema offers an impressive combination of Dolby Atmos surround sound technology and stunning visual quality, ensuring that audiences receive a premium film-watching experience. This initiative aligns with AMC’s broader strategy of introducing other premium formats like 4DX and ScreenX into its theater portfolio.
Market Trends Favoring Premium Cinematic Experiences
Despite the rise of streaming services altering how audiences consume films, there is a marked interest in premium cinema formats that promise a more captivating experience. The resurgence of blockbuster films has demonstrated that audiences are still eager to attend the theater for major releases, particularly those that can deliver exceptional audio and visual presentations.
Industry Performance
Notably, cinema formats such as Imax and Dolby Cinema have witnessed considerable growth and success. For instance, Imax reported a record-breaking year in 2024, while Dolby Cinema achieved its highest performance figures to date, highlighting the audience’s willingness to pay a premium for extraordinary experiences.
“For a decade, AMC and Dolby have provided moviegoers with incredible premium experiences,” stated Adam Aron, Chairman and CEO of AMC Entertainment. “We look forward to continuing this legacy.” Furthermore, Kevin Yeaman, President and CEO of Dolby Laboratories, expressed enthusiasm about the new agreement: “In expanding our longstanding partnership with AMC, we look forward to providing even more audiences with access to the most immersive film experiences.”
The Relevance of Theaters in a Streaming World
While streaming platforms have drastically shifted the landscape of film consumption, the communal and emotional value of attending the theater remains significant. Large release events evoke nostalgia, particularly for those accustomed to the excitement of cinematic premieres. According to a report by Box Office Mojo by IMDbPro, upcoming films, including “Deadpool & Wolverine,” are projected to generate substantial box office returns, further proving that theaters still hold substantial market relevance.
Critics and filmmakers alike have weighed in on the importance of theatrical experiences. Oscar-winning director Sean Baker emphasized, “Where did we fall in love with movies? At the movie theater.” This sentiment echoes the idea that while home viewing offers convenience, the unique experience of being in a theater cannot be replicated.
The Future of Moviegoing
AMC’s strategic expansion into high-quality, immersive cinematic experiences hints at a strong belief in the continued consumer demand for theaters. The push for specialized formats such as Dolby Cinema differentiates their offering, especially as studios aim to restore normative release schedules amidst a highly competitive market.
As ticket prices hover around an average of $11.31 in 2025, the value proposition of theater attendance, particularly with offerings like Dolby Cinema, could position theaters as a more attractive option compared to home viewing alternatives that often come with higher rental fees.
The Source: This report is based on announcements from AMC Entertainment and Dolby Laboratories at CinemaCon and insights from FOX Digital’s Heather Miller regarding the current state of theaters in an evolving media landscape.
