Austin, Texas – Sony Pictures Entertainment has made a strategic move by acquiring Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, a beloved chain known for its unique movie-going experience. The acquisition marks Sony’s reentry into the exhibition business and signals its intention to expand its presence in the entertainment industry.
Alamo Drafthouse was founded in 1997 in Austin, Texas, by Tim and Karrie League as a single-screen repertory theater. Since then, it has grown to become North America’s 7th largest theater chain, attracting over 10 million guests annually. Known for its cult movie screenings, diverse menu offerings, and vibrant community, Alamo Drafthouse has carved out a niche for itself in the cinema world.
Sony Pictures Entertainment will now oversee Alamo Drafthouse under a new division called Sony Pictures Experiences. This acquisition is a testament to Sony’s commitment to engaging entertainment fans in innovative ways outside the home. By aligning with Alamo Drafthouse’s dedicated audience and unique brand, Sony aims to build upon the cinema chain’s successful legacy and enhance the overall movie-watching experience for patrons.
The deal includes Alamo Drafthouse’s 35 cinemas across 25 metro areas, as well as its popular genre festival, Fantastic Fest. These locations will continue to operate under the Alamo Drafthouse brand, maintaining their commitment to providing quality entertainment and fostering a sense of community among movie enthusiasts.
Tim League, the founder of Alamo Drafthouse, expressed excitement about the partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, highlighting their shared values and vision for the future. Both companies place a high value on the craft of filmmaking and recognize the enduring cultural impact of cinema, making them ideal partners in advancing the theatrical experience for audiences worldwide.
As part of the acquisition, Michael Kustermann will continue to serve as CEO of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, reporting to Ravi Ahuja, President and COO of Sony Pictures Entertainment. The collaboration between these two industry giants is expected to bring new opportunities for growth and innovation, benefiting both employees and moviegoers alike.
In light of the recent merger talks between Skydance and Paramount Global falling through, Sony’s bid for Paramount Global remains uncertain. However, with its acquisition of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Sony has demonstrated its dedication to preserving the theatrical experience and upholding the legacy of film for generations to come. This partnership represents a significant moment in the history of cinema and signals a new chapter in the evolution of the entertainment industry.