AMC posts surprise profit and record revenue on hit films
AMC Entertainment posted a surprise second-quarter adjusted profit and record revenue of $1.60 billion that beat Wall Street forecasts, lifted by blockbuster films that drove higher ticket sales. Shares jumped in premarket trading after the results showed renewed demand for going to the movies.
Key Takeaways
- AMC reported record Q2 revenue of $1.60 billion, above the $1.47 billion analysts expected.
- Adjusted earnings were 14 cents per share versus a 6-cent loss forecast.
- Hits including "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" and "Obsession" helped lift attendance.
- AMC shares jumped 16.5% in premarket trading after the release.
The Leawood, Kansas-based theater chain said the quarter ended June 30 marked its highest-ever revenue, according to Reuters. The beat lands as investors watch whether theatrical releases can keep filling seats after years of pandemic and strike disruption.
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Why did AMC beat Wall Street expectations?
AMC's adjusted profit and record sales topped consensus estimates compiled by LSEG. Revenue reached $1.60 billion against an average forecast of $1.47 billion.
Adjusted earnings per share came in at 14 cents. Analysts had expected a 6-cent loss, making the swing to profit the main surprise for the quarter.
Which films helped drive AMC ticket sales?
Reuters reported that blockbuster titles such as "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" and "Obsession" boosted ticket sales. AMC also said six different films delivered domestic opening weekend grosses above $75 million during the quarter.
That depth of wide releases mattered. The cinema industry entered 2026 with a broader theatrical slate after years of disruption from the pandemic and Hollywood strikes.
How strong was AMC attendance in the quarter?
Attendance rose in both of AMC's major markets. U.S. attendance was up 12%, while international attendance rose about 18% in the quarter ended June 30.
Major studios, including Disney and Universal, have committed to supporting exclusive theatrical release windows for many major films. Theater operators say that trend helps drive cinema attendance.
What did AMC's CEO say about movie theaters?
On CNBC's Squawk Box, AMC Entertainment CEO Adam Aron discussed the record Q2 results and argued that people still love going to movie theaters. The comments echoed the company's message that strong titles can refill auditoriums.
Shares of AMC jumped 16.5% in premarket trading on Monday after the results were released, reflecting investor relief at the surprise adjusted profit and record top line.
The numbers suggest theatrical demand can rebound when studios deliver a deep slate of event films. Whether that momentum holds will depend on upcoming releases and how long exclusive theatrical windows remain industry practice.