These days theater owners are doing everything they can to lure movie fans away from their Netflix subscriptions, their home theaters, and the comfort of their living rooms with an ever-growing array of in-theater perks. As we recently learned at Cinemacon this past week, exhibitor chains across the nation are coming up with new experiences that can only be experienced by getting out to the movies.
The trend is not a new one. When movie houses first had to fight for attention during the boom of television, in the 50’s, new gimmicks like Cinerama and 3-D movies worked to get people away from the boob tube. Today we have premium experiences like in-theater dining, draft beers, cocktails and personal waiters. For the younger set we have immersive offerings like 4DX who’s premium experience rumble seats move and sway to the action of the film while spraying guests with mists and scents all in an attempt to pull viewers into the film’s world of fantasy. While all of these perks are amazing, the fact is that the film can’t compete with the urge to go when nature calls. That is, until now.
A small theater chain in Stillwater, Minnesota is testing the concept of in-seat toilets in an attempt to keep audiences in their seats. Movies today are far longer than they were at the inception of cinema and the problem of having to leave to use the restroom has been the culprit behind many a cinema fan missing the last five minutes of a 2 and a half hour movie.
Willie Makeit, president of Cinemavations Inc. said, “We are always looking for ways to enhance the experience of going the see a movie. While bringing guests food and drink is a great plus, and one that we are very proud to have helped cultivate, that is only part of the problem. Eventually those guests will need to leave and go to the restroom. That’s where we come in.”
Imagine watching a horror movie and being able to literally get the crap scared out of you. While only being tested in two of the nations movie theaters there are high hopes for the perk. For an additional $10 per ticket, visitors can purchase a spot on the in theater latrines. Guests will enter the theater before other patrons, drop trow, and position themselves on the toilet seats before placing a courtesy blanket over their laps for discretion.
Makeit said, “Now guests can load up on sodas, popcorn, candy and nachos, even order them from their seats, and never miss a second of their favorite film.” He continued to explain that this is the perfect way to enjoy films with family, friends and even dates. “Imagine watching a horror movie and being able to literally get the crap scared out of you. Think of how nice it will be to not have to leave the theater and take your child potty when you have already paid $40 to watch the latest Disney Animated feature!” said Makeit.
The new systems will be installed first in Minnesota by April 1st 2018, then, if all goes well, more theaters will see this innovation. “We are taking things slow, we don’t want to push it.” said Spokesperson for Cinemavations Inc., Ivana Tinkle. She continues, “It is our aim to keep the moviegoers going.”
Keep your eyes peeled and your noses plugged for this new perk. Happy 1st of April
