With all theater chains closed all over the United States, more than 500 cinema screens have reopened in China, where the coronavirus outbreak seems to be receding. Despite theater openings, the box office returns remain minimal as the public is mostly staying away from theaters.
State media CGTN reported that 486 theaters were open for business on Friday. On Monday, financial publication Caixin said the number had risen to 507, representing less than 5% of all cinemas in commercial operation prior to the virus outbreak.
As of Monday, China continues to report no new local cases of the virus but confirmed 39 infections brought in from other countries. Despite the opening of theaters, most of the films currently available are re-runs of recent and popular Chinese movies, a move that is intended to minimize risk.
