What did Tom Rothman ask theater owners to do at CinemaCon?

Tom Rothman urged theater owners to enforce exclusive theatrical windows, reduce preshow commercials, and make ticket prices more affordable to improve the customer experience.

When is Tom Rothman predicting a strong box office year?

Tom Rothman is predicting that 2026 will be a strong year for the box office.

What is the stance of Sony Pictures chairman on theatrical windows?

Sony Pictures chairman Tom Rothman is advocating for the enforcement of exclusive theatrical windows as part of improving the customer experience.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / CinemaCon Shock: Theater Owners Urged to Fix Customer Experience

CinemaCon Shock: Theater Owners Urged to Fix Customer Experience

14 Apr

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Summary

Sony Pictures chairman urged theater owners to enforce windows and reduce preshow ads.
He also highlighted concerns about rising ticket prices and the customer experience.
Rothman predicts 2026 will be a strong year for the box office.

CinemaCon Shock: Theater Owners Urged to Fix Customer Experience

Sony Pictures chairman Tom Rothman delivered a surprising address at CinemaCon on April 13, 2026, urging cinema operators to prioritize the long-term health of their businesses by improving the customer experience. Instead of targeting home viewing platforms, Rothman called on exhibitors to enforce exclusive theatrical windows, drastically reduce the lengthy preshow commercials, and address concerns over rising ticket prices, noting affordability as a primary economic issue for most Americans.