Navigating Cinema Advertisements: What Time Should You Really Arrive?

Lights, Camera, Action: Navigating the Pre-Show at the Cinema

Are you tired of arriving at the cinema on time, only to be met with a barrage of adverts and trailers before the main event begins? You’re not alone. Many moviegoers find themselves in this predicament, wondering just how early they need to arrive to avoid missing the start of the film.

We’ve done the research for you, gathering information from the UK’s major cinema chains and speaking to experts to give you a better idea of what to expect when you head to the movies.

Cineworld, Odeon, Everyman, Showcase, and Vue all have varying lengths of pre-show content, ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. According to Karen Stacey, the chief executive of Digital Cinema Media, the average wait time is around 24 minutes – 12 minutes for ads and 12 for trailers. This consistent length allows for a more organized entry for the audience and helps cinemas maximize revenue.

But what about the viewers? Surprisingly, research shows that advertising in cinemas is more effective than in any other media. Viewers are more likely to watch and trust ads shown in cinemas compared to TV or social media. Avid cinema-goers like Bill Boswell appreciate the pre-show content, understanding that it helps support the cinema and enhance the overall movie-watching experience.

However, not everyone is a fan of the lengthy pre-show. Consumer expert Martin Lewis has raised concerns about the impact on parking costs and babysitting fees for those waiting for the film to start. He suggests that greater clarity from cinemas could help customers plan better and avoid unnecessary expenses.

If you’re looking to skip the pre-show altogether, independent or community cinemas might be the way to go. These smaller venues often have shorter pre-shows and a more intimate atmosphere, making for a unique movie-watching experience.

In the end, whether you love or loathe the pre-show, one thing is clear – it’s an integral part of the cinema-going experience. So next time you head to the movies, plan accordingly and make the most of your visit. After all, the show must go on!