Cineworld to reopen UK, US cinemas on 10 July

Cineworld said on Tuesday that it plans to open its cinemas in the UK and US on 10 July, with social distancing measures in place.

In other territories such as Czech Republic and Slovakia, theatres will open at the end of June.

Cineworld, which announced on Monday that it was dropping its $1.7bn Cineplex deal, said it has made several operational changes and invested in new technology "to ensure a safe but enjoyable cinematic experience", having been closed since the coronavirus lockdown kicked in on 23 March.

It has updated its booking system to ensure social distancing within and throughout its auditoriums; adapted its daily movie schedules to manage queues and avoid crowds in lobbies; and enhanced its cleanliness and sanitation procedures.

Chief executive officer Mooky Greidinger said: "We are thrilled to be back and encouraged by recent surveys that show that many people have missed going to the movie theatre.

"With a strong slate confirmed for the coming weeks, including among others Tenet, Mulan, A Quiet Place Part II, Wonder Women 1984, Black Widow, Bond, Soul, Top Gun Maverick and many more, the entire Cineworld team remains committed to being 'the best place to watch a movie'."

Cinemas in Czech Republic and Slovakia will open on 26 June, while Poland and Bulgaria will reopen on 3 July. Theatres in Israel will open on 9 July and reopening in Hungary and Romania is expected but not confirmed for the week of July 3.

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