Cineworld confirms plans for May reopening and strikes deal for exclusive films

This means that doors will reopen at the Sheffield branch at Valley Centertainment from that date.

In addition, a deal has been struck with Warner Bros that gives the cinema chain, which also owns the Picturehouse franchise, exclusive rights to show films over streaming services.

Chief executive Mooky Greidinger said: “We have long-awaited this moment when we can welcome audiences back and restore our essential role within the communities we serve.

“We will be monitoring developments closely in the UK and across Europe as we set to gradually reopen across the world in line with local government guidance.”

The boss also revealed that Cineworld has reached an agreement with Warner Bros to show the studio’s films exclusively in its cinemas 31 days prior to them being made available on premium video on demand (PVOD) platforms for streaming at home.

Heartbroken partner of Sheffield murder victim vows to fight for killer to spend life behind bars

An extended window of 45 days for films that open to an agreed-upon box office threshold has also been reached, it added.

Cinema chains have been fearful that, with the pandemic seeing studios turn to online platforms, it could set a longer term trend on new releases going straight into homes via PVOD services.

But Mr Greidinger said: “This agreement shows the studio’s commitment to the theatrical business and we see this agreement as an important milestone in our 100-year relationship with Warner Bros.”

Other cinemas in Sheffield will also be allowed to reopen in May.