Cinema Re-Opening SOPs; A Detailed Discussion

Post 30 weeks and an estimated loss of ₹ 9,000 crores, there is finally some good news to all the exhibitors across the country as the government brings its relaxation over the movie exhibition fraternity. The closing down of cinemas led to many major studios postponing their respective release of big budget offerings. The cinema halls that have remained closed PAN India ever since the nation went on a Covid19-necessitated lockdown were recently allowed to resume operations as per guidelines issued under Unlock 5.

The re-opening of cinemas has been hailed by many from the industry which seems to reflect a global trend today. 50% occupancy, staggered show timings, social distancing, thermal screening, adequate protection gear for the staff, and compulsorily providing phone numbers for contact tracing are among the much highlighted SOP guidelines issued on reopening cinema halls, theatres and multiplexes nationwide. How is the cinema exhibition industry gearing up to this day? Are there many other prominent changes? Would the life at the movies have a new dimension hereafter? Let’s hear it from the experts first hand.