AMC reopening most theaters by early September

AMC will reopen more than 100 cinemas across the U.S. starting next Thursday, with most of their theaters open by early September, according to a message the chain sent to customers published by The Verge.

The chain, which operates 661 theaters in the U.S., said “the remaining AMC locations will open after we get further clearance from state and local authorities that it is safe to do so.” The company also said in the message that it will continue increased cleaning services.

The company has already reopened nearly a third of its international cinemas, mostly in Europe and the Middle East.

This summer, AMC pushed back reopening theaters twice as the company is reportedly coming close to bankruptcy after the coronavirus pandemic forced shutdowns.

The company sparked backlash earlier this summer after CEO Adam Aron said it would encourage but not require face masks, suggesting such a mandate would be a political issue. Some local mandates include wearing face masks inside indoor public spaces, such as movie theaters. 

AMC reversed the decision on masks in June following critical pushback, saying it was “absolutely crucial” to listen to the public and theater guests.