Happy new year! The IF team are back on deck. Here's what happened while we were away.
Independent cinema operators have renewed their calls for Federal Government support, with the launch of a new campaign designed to secure more funding in the lead up to Christmas.
The movies are back! All cinemas in NSW can now open at 75 per cent capacity for the fully vaccinated. IF speaks to Hoyts Group president and CEO Damian Keogh and Event Cinemas director of entertainment Luke Mackey to understand how they have prepared for reopening, and canvass their opinions on the current theatrical landscape.
The Federal Government has announced $8.7 million in funding for 158 independent cinemas under the Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund, but remains coy on whether assistance will be provided to major exhibitors.
Independent cinema operators are cautiously optimistic about the road ahead as they push forward with their SCREEN Fund applications.
The Federal Government has released the guidelines for the Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund as it opens for applications.
The National Association of Cinema Operators (NACO) is optimistic about securing COVID-19 assistance funding for major exhibitors, days after blasting the government's $20 million commitment to support independent cinemas.