Cineplex Revives $5 Tuesdays for a Limited Time
There’s something special about movie nights—freshly popped popcorn, the immersive sound, and the thrill of watching a blockbuster on the big screen.
“We’ve been very pleased, especially over the past couple of years. People are returning to movie theaters,” said Daniel Seguin, Cineplex’s senior vice president of national operations.
However, Johanne Brunet, a marketing professor at HEC, notes that the film industry has undergone significant changes since the pandemic.
“Streaming has taken such a strong hold in the market that the added value of going to the cinema isn’t as compelling as it once was,” Brunet explained.
Theater companies are adapting to this shift, recognizing that audiences expect more for their money. Seguin shared that Cineplex is responding by offering discounted ticket prices.
Starting January 14, Cineplex will charge only $5 for admission and $5 for popcorn every Tuesday for a month, with the promotion running until February 11.
But will these discounts be enough to lure audiences back? Brunet believes the shift to streaming has transformed consumer habits.
“We’ve changed how we do things—how we consume and entertain ourselves. Streaming has become incredibly strong,” she said.
Streaming platforms provide an extensive catalog of movies at the click of a button, all from the comfort of home. Brunet highlighted how home setups, including big-screen TVs and advanced sound systems, have improved the at-home viewing experience.
“You can watch it when you want, and there’s no one around to talk or disturb you,” she added.
Still, Seguin argues that the cinema experience remains unmatched.
“People enjoy the large screens and the social aspect,” he said. “It’s a completely different experience. You can recline, relax, and enjoy your popcorn and drink.”
He also emphasized that theaters offer activities beyond just movies. For instance, Cineplex’s Royalmount location features an arcade with 90 games and a bowling alley.
One mother shared that her family visits the theater specifically for The Rec Room, as they can’t bring their baby into the cinema itself.
Other moviegoers told CTV News that nothing compares to the theater experience.
“It’s better to go out than to stay home and watch something on the internet,” one moviegoer said. “Watching on a bigger screen gives you a completely different feeling, and the popcorn with theater butter is an experience all its own.”
