Movie theaters are starting to change ticket prices depending on where you are seated on screen.
At least, if you’re an American viewer. Popular American movie chain AMC has just announced a new pricing system where moviegoers will be charged based on where they are seated.
This new ticket pricing initiative, dubbed Sightline, is rolling out in select venues before rolling out across the United States in late 2023, Unilad reports. Movie buffs may already be familiar with the concept, as it’s similar to how concert tickets are priced.
Apparently, the seats closest to the screen will be the cheapest, while viewers who want the supposedly best seats will have to shell out more money to enjoy the experience.
That being said, AMC has announced that it will offer three different pricing options. The first tier is called Standard Sightline, which will cost the same as a normal cinema ticket.
The next step is Value Sightline, which would offer customers front-row seats at a lower cost. This Value Sightline award is in parentheses next to all seats that have been reserved for customers with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Finally, the first option in the ticket slot will be called Preferred Sightline. This price range caters to moviegoers who covet center screen seats, charging them the highest price.
Eliot Hamlisch, Executive Vice President of AMC, said of the new ticketing system, “Sightline on AMC more closely aligns AMC’s seating pricing approach with that of many other entertainment venues, offering pricing based on experience and another way for moviegoers to find value in cinema.
“While all AMC seats provide an incredible cinematic experience, we know that there are viewers who prioritize a specific seat and others who prioritize the value of going to the movies.
“Sightline at AMC embraces both sentiments to help ensure our customers have more control over their experience, so every trip in an AMC is great.”
The plan will roll out to New York, Chicago and Kansas City to begin with, before expanding to all US locations by the end of 2023.