While some small hubs are returning to operation this week, albeit under strict social distancing guidelines and at reduced capacity, exhibitors in major European markets are reportedly eyeing potential re-openings of cinemas at the end of June and through mid-July.
Over 98% of the 42,000+ screens in 38 European markets have been shut for months due to COVID-19 and none of the major countries have set formal re-opening dates as yet. However discussion with governments have been underway about safeguards to be put into place to protect audiences and staff. Those safeguards are expected to be in place in time for an end of June ‘soft’ re-opening.
Some are going earlier – Norway, Czech Republic and Slovakia recently announced dates and some Icelandic locales came online this week, while Finland, Portugal and Switzerland have set early June dates. U.K. exhibitors are reportedly presenting evidence shortly to the government that would allow them to safely reopen doors by the end of June.
Meanwhile French producer Jerome Seydoux says that while a July re-opening appears possible, it won’t really work unless “the Americans also have to open their cinemas.” He adds that “Tenet” and “Mulan” are the key to opening in July.
Source: Deadline
