AMC movie theaters scrap plans to allow texting after social media hullaballoo

By Steve Pak, | April 16, 2016

AMC Theater

AMC Theater

AMC Theaters has decided not to allow movie-goers to text while watching films on the big screen. This was after AMC CEO Adam Aron stated in an interview this week that he would be willing to let guests use their cellphones to send text messages while watching movies, in order to attract more millennials. However, it resulted in unhappy customers who used social media to share their aversion.

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Aron made the statement during an interview with Variety. He explained that telling a 22-year-old to turn off their mobile phone during a movie so other people can enjoy it, is like telling them to cut off their upper arm, according to CNET.

However, many people took to social media to share their anger about the possibility of allowing glowing phone screens in AMC theaters. Some tweeted that he would boycott the company if it allowed texting during films.

AMC Theaters quickly backed away from any support for texting in theaters. It released a statement on April 15, Friday stating that it would allow "NO TEXTING" at its movie theaters.

The company's full statement addressed to AMC guests hares that due to their advice no texting will be allowed in any AMC auditoriums for a long time.  

AMC also included some marketing info in the announcement about various topics. It includes upgrades such as bigger screens, more comfortable seats, and delicious food and drinks. Aron said that the company would spend $1 billion on improving the movie theaters and their systems.

There are already movie screenings for parents with young babies in which it is OK for the tots to cry. Aron seemed to be willing to allow texting in certain situations such as during action movies that are full of loud special effects.

A survey conducted by Pew Research Center shows that 95 percent of Americans believe people should not use smartphones in places that are usually quiet such as movie theaters, according to USA Today. Many people polled also answered that texting should be banned during business meetings, family dinners, and worship services.

In related news, some theaters in China are aiming laser pointers at people who use cellphones during performances and presentations.

Here are texting habits to stop:


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