'Sony Pictures Acquires Alamo Drafthouse, Expanding Presence in Film Exhibition Industry'
Entertainment | June 12, 2024, 6:53 p.m.
Sony Pictures Entertainment has acquired Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, the beloved dine-in movie theater chain, known for its unique movie-dining experience and strict no-texting policy. Alamo Drafthouse will now be part of Sony's newly established Sony Pictures Experiences division, with Michael Kustermann remaining as the chief executive. The Austin-based chain has 35 locations across major U.S. cities, offering food, craft beer, and special screenings for film buffs. Sony's acquisition of Alamo Drafthouse has sparked discussions about the changing landscape of movie exhibition and increased vertical integration in the industry. This move comes as movie theaters continue to face challenges in recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alamo Drafthouse struggled during the pandemic and filed for bankruptcy, but has now found a new home with Sony, a studio dedicated to preserving the theatrical experience.