In a time where the movie industry is desperately seeking fresh content and audiences are becoming more selective, Fathom Events has managed to achieve extraordinary success. For two decades, the collaboration between major theater chains AMC, Regal, and Cinemark has been recognized for bringing alternative content to cinemas, including classic Hollywood films, live broadcasts of theatrical performances and concerts, and special event screenings of television series. Recently, the company has extended its reach into the niche distribution market with releases like “The Blind,” “The Chosen,” “Jesus Thirsts,” “Waitress: the Musical,” and upcoming events such as “The Journey: A Music Special from Andrea Bocelli.”
In 2023, Fathom Events raked in a staggering $100 million in box office revenue, marking a remarkable 116% surge from 2019 figures and establishing the year as its most lucrative period to date. The momentum has not waned in 2024, with a first-quarter revenue of $43 million, an increase of nearly 140% compared to the same period in the previous year. The company’s strong ties with major Hollywood studios and expansive cinematic footprint, thanks to its partnership with the largest theater chains in the industry, have solidified its position as a major player in the box office landscape.
One of Fathom Events’ key value propositions lies in its ability to breathe new life into classic movies and cinemas. By reintroducing anniversary films to the big screen, the company caters to a growing audience segment that is hungry for nostalgia and the theatrical experience. Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst at Comscore, notes that anniversary re-releases of beloved films not only bring joy to movie fans but also generate additional revenue for theaters, even decades after the initial run. This win-win scenario has proven to be a successful formula for Fathom Events.
Following the challenges posed by the pandemic, Fathom Events emerged as a savior for many independent cinema owners by providing much-needed content during periods of production shutdowns. For instance, the fourth season of “The Chosen,” a faith-based TV series, contributed $32 million to Fathom’s first-quarter revenue, accounting for 75% of the total earnings. This collaboration helped smaller theaters like B&B Theatres significantly boost their revenue and attract audiences during challenging times.
Fathom Events’ success can also be attributed to its commitment to celebrating milestone years of iconic films and bringing back fan-favorite titles to theaters. The company’s emphasis on showcasing older movies on the big screen has resonated with audiences, offering them a chance to relive cinematic classics in a new and immersive way. By recognizing the anniversaries of films like “The Wizard of Oz,” “Gone with the Wind,” “Steel Magnolias,” and more, Fathom Events continues to captivate audiences and maintain their interest in cinematic experiences.
In addition to anniversary celebrations, Fathom Events has also curated special film series like Studio Ghibli Fest, featuring the acclaimed works of the renowned Japanese animation studio. By showcasing all 14 films in their original Japanese and English dubbed versions, the company has attracted a diverse audience base and generated substantial box office returns. Titles like “Howl’s Moving Castle,” “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” and “Pom Poko” have resonated with viewers across different generations, underscoring Fathom Events’ ability to create memorable and engaging cinematic events.
Fathom Events’ success story extends beyond its traditional offerings, as evidenced by the impressive box office results of recent releases. The re-release of the original Lord of the Rings trilogy in partnership with Fathom Events garnered $8.2 million in revenue, demonstrating the enduring appeal of classic films and the company’s ability to attract audiences to theaters. Moreover, upcoming events like the 15th-anniversary screening of “Coraline” in 3D have already started selling tickets in advance, indicating strong audience interest and engagement with Fathom’s diverse programming.
Fathom Events has established itself as a trailblazer in the cinema industry, revitalizing the box office with its innovative programming and strategic partnerships. By embracing anniversary films, classic cinema, and special events, the company has successfully catered to diverse audience preferences and cultivated a loyal following. As Fathom Events continues to expand its offerings and engage viewers through unique cinematic experiences, its future in the entertainment landscape looks bright and promising.