Two major cinema operators are closing their theatres for two weeks to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
SF plans to close 22 branches in Greater Bangkok, while Major will close all branches nationwide during the two-week period.
"Since the Covid-19 outbreak began, moviegoers at SF cinemas declined by 40-50%, or about 1 million admissions. It is not only because of the coronavirus, but also many big blockbusters have postponed their release date for an indefinite period," said Suwat Thongrompo, chief executive of SF Cinema City Co.
Eight international films have indefinitely postponed their release, including The Fast & Furious 10, Antlers, A Quiet Place II and Mulan, as well as three Thai films including Phu Bao Thai Baan 4 and Mother Gamer.
Both SF and Major Cineplex have re-arranged showtimes across the country, with some screens showing two or three movies on the same day, compared with only one movie to emphasise cost efficiency.
Morning screenings at both cinema chains were cancelled, with services starting in the afternoon daily. Both also provide more space between seats, leaving two seats vacant between seats to help prevent the virus spread. Temperature scans and hand sanitiser are also being used.
