How to Rent a Movie Theater?

The cinematic experience has always been a cherished form of entertainment for people worldwide. But don’t you hate to walk into a movie hall full of people where you must make a lot of effort to reach your seat?

To provide a more personalized experience, some movie theaters offer private movie screenings for common people. Wondering how to rent a movie theater for your family or a close group? Let’s find out. 

While streaming services have become incredibly popular, there’s still something magical about watching a movie on the big screen in a theater while munching on your popcorn. If you’ve ever dreamed of hosting a private screening or organizing a special event, renting a movie theater can turn that dream into reality.

This guide will discuss renting a movie theater and enhancing your experience without facing long ticket queues, crowded theaters, or even worrying about missing a bathroom break.

Why Should I Rent A Movie Theater?

Watching a movie in a packed theater provides a unique experience and brings forth certain challenges. If you plan to visit the cinema with a large group, managing everything can be overwhelming and may even spoil your movie enjoyment.

Here are a few things you might face in a jam-packed movie theater. 

1. Favorite Seats:

It’s always a big challenge to find the desired seats in a jam-packed theater, especially during the initial days of a movie. How many times do we end up with less comfortable seats or had to sit in the front row, leading to neck strain and a less enjoyable experience?

2. Long Queues:

Theaters often have longer queues at the ticket counter, concessions, and restrooms. This can lead to frustration and wasted time before the movie starts.

3. Interruptions:

With a full house, there’s a higher chance of noisy and disruptive audience members. Talking, laughing loudly, using mobile phones, and crying babies can all distract from the movie and disrupt the viewing experience.

Additionally, one of the most annoying things is People arriving late or leaving before the movie, which can be distracting and may block your view while trying to find their seats or exit the theater.

4. Parking Space:

Who can forget the effort that goes into finding a perfect parking place? Finding parking nearby can be difficult when a theater is packed, resulting in a longer walk. Not a good idea when you have 15 people with you. Right?

5. Congestion-related Issues:

The temperature in a packed theater can rise quickly due to the body heat of numerous attendees. This may make the environment uncomfortable and stuffy, especially during warmer months.

Moreover, overcrowded theaters can pose safety risks, especially during emergencies, such as a fire evacuation, as it may take longer to exit the premises safely.

6. Health & Safety:

Shared spaces like movie theaters can breed germs, especially in high-traffic areas like restrooms and concessions counters. Packed theaters might not be easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges, as they may have difficulty navigating tight spaces or crowded aisles.

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Before the COVID-19 pandemic, houseful theaters often had limited social distancing, which could lead to concerns about illness transmission during flu seasons or other outbreaks.

How To Rent A Movie Theater?

Especially in the post-pandemic era, people have become more sensitive to facing huge crowds, and some theaters have responded by continuing to offer private screenings, as they did during the pandemic.

Renting your own private movie theater screening, once seen as an extravagant indulgence reserved only for the elite class, is now a feasible option gaining popularity among families. Surprisingly, it is also quite affordable.

how to rent a movie theater

Different movie theaters, ranging from large chains to smaller venues, offer the opportunity to host private screenings for a variety of events.

Whether you want to celebrate your child’s birthday, throw a promotion party, have a bachelor’s gathering, or enjoy a casual weekend outing with your gang, private screenings allow you to create memorable and unique experiences for any occasion.

Before we discuss specific theaters, let’s first explore the common steps you’ll typically need to follow when renting a theater for a private screening:

1. Search For The Available Theaters For The Occasion:

First, begin your search for a theater that suits the nature of your event. Are you looking to host a private screening for family and friends, celebrate a special occasion, hold a corporate event, or showcase your independent film?

It’s crucial to do thorough research and have a few options. Use online resources/local newspapers to explore different theaters that offer private screenings. Some movie theaters are specialized in accommodating private events and may offer packages tailored to diverse requirements. Later in this article, we will discuss some renowned cinema chains you can consider for your hosting needs.

2. Contact Theater:

Once you’ve shortlisted your options, contact each of them to inquire about their availability, pricing, policies, and any specific requirements they may have. 

During your initial communication with the theater, discuss your budget and the required amenities or services. Although most theaters have a fixed price for screenings, there is always a chance to strike a good deal through proper communication. 

Booking in advance is crucial since movie theaters typically have busy schedules with ongoing film screenings. Most importantly, be transparent about your requirements, as it will ensure you don’t face any last-minute inconvenience. 

3. Select The Movie:

Selecting the right movie for your occasion is essential and can be influenced by various factors – What does most of your group want to watch? Which movies is the theater offering on the event day, etc.? 

Additionally, take into account your audience and the theme of the occasion. For instance, if you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, choosing a classic film from the person’s favorite era would be fitting. Alternatively, a motivational documentary could be a suitable choice for a corporate event. 

If you plan to screen a movie independently, ensure that you have obtained the licenses or permissions to publicly screen the film, as it is vital to adhere to copyright laws.

4. Review The Policies:

Before finalizing the rental agreement, review the theater’s policies and contractual terms carefully. Pay attention to cancellation policies, insurance requirements, and any restrictions on bringing outside food or beverages. 

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Different theatres have rules and regulations regarding content playing, the number of people allowed, entry and exit timings, etc. Understanding these details will help avoid surprises later on.

5. Arrangements:

Lastly, there are numerous arrangements you must make to ensure the event goes as planned. As the date of your event approaches, keep in touch with the theater staff to ensure all arrangements are in place. Confirm the movie selection, the start time, and any other details related to your event.

Additionally, promote your event through various channels to ensure all attendees have the right date and theater. You can also use social media, email lists, and event listing platforms to spread the word.

On the event day, arrive at the theater well in advance to make any last-minute preparations. Coordinate with the theater staff to ensure everything is set up correctly, including audiovisual equipment, seating arrangements, and catering services, if applicable.

What Theatres Can You Rent?

Here is the list of theatres where you can rent them.

1. AMC Private Theatres:

AMC Private theatres rental
  • Number of Guests: 1-60 (Depends on the theater capacity)
  • Cost: $150-$500 
  • Movie Selection: Latest release, Seasonal, New movies, Classics

AMC Theatres, a highly popular movie theater chain in the United States, offers various options for renting theaters for private showings. These options include both weekday nights and weekend matinees.

Whether you prefer a new release or an old classic, AMC provides a wide range of movie options for private theater rentals.

It’s important to note that renting an AMC theater private screening in metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles is likely to be more expensive compared to locations such as Baton Rouge.

To make a booking, you can easily follow the link provided above. However, confirm your booking at least two weeks before the desired date to secure your reservation.

2. Cinemark Private Watch party:

Cinemark Private Watch Party
  • Number of Guests: 1-30
  • Cost: $99-$195 (May vary depending on the movie, location, and showtime)
  • Movie Selection: Custom, Seasonal, Classic ( No R-Rated or Adult) 

During the partial lockdown period, Cinemark introduced private screenings, offering an opportunity to relish a cinematic experience with your nearest and dearest.

These exclusive screenings allow up to 20 individuals to enjoy a private auditorium, bringing their physical copy of any movie (excluding R-rated films) to be showcased on the big screen. It’s a chance to create cherished memories while immersing yourself in the magic of the movies.

3. Marcus Private Cinema:

Marcus Private Cinema
  • Number of Guests: 1-20
  • Cost: $150-250 (May vary depending on the movie, location, and showtime)
  • Movie Selection: New movies, Current releases, Classic cinema

Following the pandemic, this Texas-based company was the first to introduce private theater rental with restricted capacity. In July 2020, they launched the Private Watch Parties program, allowing movie enthusiasts to rent an auditorium for up to 20 guests.

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You can easily check availability and make reservations via the provided link to secure your booking and avoid last-minute inconveniences. Additionally, you can pre-order food and beverages or purchase them at the theater’s concession stand for an extra fee.

4. Goodrich Quality Theaters GQT Private Events:

Parties And Group Events
  • Number of Guests: 1-25; 26-50; 51-100
  • Cost: $250; $400; $600 + surcharge applicable on weekends and holidays
  • Movie Selection: Current releases

After emerging from bankruptcy in July 2020, Goodrich Quality Theaters took the opportunity to offer personalized movie screenings during the partial shutdown across North America. Depending on the film, you can enjoy current releases or request a custom movie, with additional fees ranging from $200 to $300.

They provide three guest capacity options, accommodating up to 25 to 100 attendees, with additional guests at $8 per ticket. For bookings, follow the link provided. Please note that food and beverages are exclusively available at the theater.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does it cost to rent a movie theater?

The cost of renting a cinema hall can differ based on factors such as seating capacity, location, and available facilities. On average, you may find movie theaters available for rental at prices as low as $99.

How to rent a movie theater for gaming?

Malco and Cineworld are renowned for their top-quality private gaming sessions in America. Bring your gaming console, and the attentive staff will handle the setup, projecting your games onto a large screen for an immersive gaming adventure. For booking, visit their websites and check the availability and tariffs.

Which is the best private screening movie theater in America?

AMC and Cineworld Private Screenings are among America’s top private screening theaters. Visit their websites to learn about prices and seating capacities.

How much does renting a movie theater for a birthday party cost?

Renting a movie theater for a birthday party can cost approximately $100-150, accommodating nearly 20 people. It’s important to note that prices may vary based on location, specific customization requests, and additional facilities you may require.

Final Word:

Renting a movie theater can be an incredible experience that brings people together for a shared love of cinema. Whether it’s a private screening, a corporate gathering, or a special celebration, you can easily plan and execute a memorable event in a movie theater.

The thrill of seeing your favorite movie on the big screen surrounded by friends, family, or colleagues is an unforgettable experience that will be cherished for years to come. So, take the leap, rent a movie theater, and throw a party that will leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.

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