The days of popcorn, soda and face masks are over — for fully vaccinated people, at least — as AMC, Regal and Cinemark will no longer require face coverings for fully vaccinated people.
- These new guidelines are in line with what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has called for with its new guidance, saying people fully vaccinated for COVID-19 do not need to worry about wearing masks indoors.
AMC face mask policy:
AMC said in a statement: “Consistent with the latest CDC guidance and following consultation with public health experts, AMC Theatres guests who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to wear face coverings at AMC locations, unless it is mandated by state or local ordinances. Guests who are not fully vaccinated are asked to continue wearing masks. All other aspects of the AMC Safe & Clean policies and procedures, including seat blocking, remain in place at this time.”
- The AMC website reads: “In accordance with CDC guidelines, masks are not required for guests who are fully vaccinated. If you are not fully vaccinated, we ask that you continue to wear a mask throughout the theatre unless actively enjoying food or drinks. If needed masks are available to purchase for $1. AMC continues to follow state and local mandates.”
Regal face mask policy:
Regal’s website said: “Vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks or socially distance, the movie theatre industry will continue to meet or exceed state and local public health guidelines.”
- “Masks will not be required unless mandated by state and local guidelines. Where masks are mandated, they can be removed only while eating and drinking while seated in an auditorium,” the statement said. “Employees monitor auditoriums throughout each performance as a standard practice.”
Cinemark face mask policy:
Cinemark’s current policy reads: “Face masks are optional for fully vaccinated guests (except where required by local mandates). Masks are strongly encouraged for all other guests, in accordance with CDC guidelines. Masks may be removed when eating and drinking inside the auditorium.”
Face masks and movie theaters:
Face masks became a huge source of contention for movie theaters when they reopened in summer 2020 as theater chains planned to reopen without a mask requirement, according to Variety. Multiple theater chains later changed their mind and required face masks.