US movie theater chain AMC Theaters reverses optional mask-wearing decision

Xinhua

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U.S. movie theater chain AMC Theaters will require all guests nationwide to wear masks after reopening theaters on July 15, the company confirmed in a statement on Friday.

It thus reversed a previous decision on optional mask-wearing, which prompted an intense and immediate outcry from customers.

At AMC Theatres, we think it is absolutely crucial that we listen to our guests. Accordingly, and with the full support of our scientific advisors, we are reversing course and are changing our guest mask policy, the statement said, adding that the speed with which AMC moved to revise its mask policies is a reflection of its commitment to the safety and health of guests.

AMC Theaters CEO Adam Aron said one day earlier in an interview that theaters would not require guests to wear masks while reopening, noting that it might be counterproductive if we forced mask-wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary.

The company plans to resume operations at about 450 U.S. locations on July 15 after the pandemic forced it to close its more than 600 theaters in the country for nearly four months. It also expects to be almost fully operational by the time that Disney's Mulan, a movie about a Chinese legendary female warrior, debuts on July 24 and Warner Brothers' Tenet on July 31.