Cinemark CEO Forecasts Blockbuster Finish to 2025 as Film Slate Rebounds

According to Cinemark CEO Sean Gamble, the box office is poised for a strong finish to 2025 after a challenging third quarter. Gamble noted that the "scale of some of the movies" released in Q3 2024, including hits like Twisters and Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, resulted in tough year-over-year comparisons. Additionally, the lack of a major animated release in Q3 2025 was a factor in the company's performance.

However, Gamble is upbeat about the release cadence for the remainder of 2025, stating that the final two months of the year will see a "loaded slate of movies" that "should far exceed last year." Upcoming titles include Predator: Badlands, The Running Man, and the sequels Zootopia 2 and Avatar: Fire and Ash.

Separately, Paramount has inked a new streaming deal for the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) league, expanding its existing TKO partnership. This move aligns with the company's broader strategy to diversify its content offerings and capitalize on the growing popularity of alternative programming.

Overall, Gamble remains encouraged by the industry's recovery, with wide releases expected to reach around 120 films by the end of 2025, nearing pre-pandemic levels of 130. While the ongoing debate around theatrical windows continues, Gamble believes that a "significant enough of a window is necessary" to ensure the long-term success of films.