Sony purchases Alamo Drafthouse

Sony Pictures Acquires Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Sony Press release:

Sony Pictures Entertainment has acquired Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, the Austin-based theater chain known for its experiential-driven food and movie service. Alamo Drafthouse will be managed within Sony by a newly established division, Sony Pictures Experiences, further reinforcing Sony’s long-held commitment to theatrical exhibition.

Alamo Drafthouse CEO Michael Kustermann will remain in place leading the chain, as well as heading up Sony Pictures Experiences. Alamo Drafthouse will continue to operate all 35 of its cinemas under its brand, including Fantastic Fest, with headquarters remaining in Austin.

“We believe strongly in engaging entertainment fans outside the home in fun and distinctive ways... Alamo Drafthouse’s differentiated movie-going experience, admired brand and devoted community fit well with this vision. Our Crunchyroll business also aligns well with their audience’s interests,” said Ravi Ahuja, Sony Pictures Entertainment's president, and chief operating officer.

"We look forward to building upon Alamo Drafthouse's innovations and will continue to welcome content from all studios and distributors.”

Alamo Drafthouse, founded in 1997 by Tim and Karrie League, has grown from a single-screen repertory theater into North America’s seventh-largest chain, releasing more movies per year than any other, and welcoming over 10 million guests annually.

Tim League, Alamo Drafthouse founder:

“We are beyond thrilled to join forces with Sony Pictures Entertainment...They have a deep respect and understanding of cinema’s ability to drive growth and create lasting cultural impact.”

Tom Rothman, Sony Pictures Entertainment Motion Picture Group chairman and CEO:

"Alamo Drafthouse has always held the craft of filmmaking and the theatrical experience in high esteem, which are fundamental shared values between our companies."

Michael Kustermann, Alamo Drafthouse CEO:

"We know how important this is to Sony, and it serves as further evidence of their commitment to the theatrical experience. Together we will continue to innovate and bring exciting new opportunities for our teammates and moviegoers alike.”

[URL(s) Mentioned in the article:]

• Sony Pictures: https://www.sonypictures.com/
• Alamo Drafthouse: https://drafthouse.com/
• Crunchyroll: https://www.crunchyroll.com/