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The largest movie theater chain in the world is AMC, with a revenue of $4.2 billion and over 11,500 screens.
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As of 2025, the U.S. movie theater industry has a market size of $9.5 billion.
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There are over 215,000 movie theater screens around the globe.
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The global movie theater industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.80% through 2030.
Since their inception, movies have captivated audiences worldwide. While technology and viewing experiences have evolved significantly since the days of Thomas Edison, traditional theaters remain one of the most compelling ways to enjoy films.
The immersive ambiance, expansive screens, powerful sound systems, and the nostalgic scent of popcorn create an unparalleled environment for escaping into cinematic worlds.
However, the landscape of movie theaters has changed dramatically. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu continue to reshape how audiences consume films, offering the convenience of new releases right at home. As we adapt to a post-pandemic world, the movie industry is embracing hybrid viewing experiences, combining traditional screenings with digital releases.
Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, the movie theater sector has shown resilience and adaptability. As audiences seek shared experiences again, theaters are witnessing a resurgence in attendance, marking a new chapter for this beloved industry.
This article explores the ten largest movie theater chains worldwide by the total number of screens, showcasing their resilience and innovation in a dynamic market.
10 Largest Movie Theater Chains Worldwide
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AMC Theatres. Leawood, Kansas, United States.
Total Number of Screens: 11,541
2025 Annual Revenue: $4.2 billionAMC Entertainment Holdings Inc., founded in 1920, continues to lead the industry with over 1,000 theaters across the globe. Known for innovations like the first multiplex and cupholders in armrests, AMC has adapted and is on the path to recovery following the pandemic’s impact on profits.
Currently employing over 40,000 individuals worldwide, AMC remains a dominant force in the film exhibition sector.
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Cinépolis. Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico.
Total Number of Screens: 5,500
2024 Annual Revenue:$ 3.5 billionCinépolis, founded in 1971, operates 335 theaters across several countries, including the U.S. and Spain. Renowned for its luxury cinema experience, it employs over 27,000 workers and is a leader in Latin America.
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Regal Cinemas. Knoxville, Tennessee, United States.
Total Number of Screens: 7,500
2025 Annual Revenue: $3.5 billionRegal Cinemas is the second-largest American chain and operates 549 sites. Acquired by Cineworld, the company continues to innovate with partnerships and enhanced customer experiences.
With approximately 26,000 employees, Regal is committed to adapting to industry changes.
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Wanda Cinemas. Beijing, China.
Total Number of Screens: 1,800
2025 Annual Revenue: $3 billionFounded in 2005, Wanda Cinemas has established a robust presence in China and is a key player in the Asian market, with 187 cinemas nationwide.
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Cinemark. Plano, Texas, United States.
Total Number of Screens: 6,000
2025 Annual Revenue: $2.5 billionCinemark operates 525 theaters across North America, South America, and Taiwan, standing as the largest chain in Brazil. The company has expanded its offerings to include entertainment beyond films, such as arcades and dining experiences.
Employing nearly 20,000 individuals, Cinemark is focused on recovery and growth post-pandemic.
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Cineworld. London, England, United Kingdom.
Total Number of Screens: 9,800
2025 Annual Revenue: $1.6 billionCineworld operates around 790 theaters across ten countries. The company continues to evolve its service offerings, including luxury seating and in-theater dining, in response to consumer demands.
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Cineplex Entertainment. Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Total Number of Screens: 1,700
2024 Annual Revenue: $370 millionCineplex, the largest Canadian chain, has expanded its services to include arcades and dining, striving for a diverse entertainment experience in theaters.
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Vue. London, England, United Kingdom.
Total Number of Screens: 2,000
2025 Annual Revenue: $400 millionVue operates in nine countries and has made strides in providing advanced viewing experiences, including state-of-the-art projection technology and premium seating options.
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CGV. Seoul, South Korea.
Total Number of Screens: 3,600
2025 Annual Revenue: N/ACGV is a leading South Korean chain known for its innovative multiplex theaters. The company has expanded internationally, bringing Asian cinema to global audiences.
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Cinemex. Mexico City, Mexico.
Total Number of Screens: 3,000
2025 Annual Revenue: N/ACinemex, founded in 1993, continues to compete closely with Cinepolis within Mexico, focusing on enhancing customer experience and expanding luxury offerings.
Largest Movie Theater Chains in the World FAQ
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What generation sees the most movies in the U.S.?
Gen Z leads movie attendance, with 45% reporting they’ve seen a film in the past month. This trend reflects a strong desire for social experiences and entertainment outside the home.
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What is the average cost of a movie ticket?
The average movie ticket now costs approximately $12.50. This increase in price reflects the rising costs associated with enhanced viewing experiences and amenities.
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What is the largest movie chain in North America?
AMC Theatres remains the largest in the U.S. and Canada, with 8,000 total screens as of 2025. Regal Entertainment Group and Cinemark follow, with 6,000 and 4,500 screens, respectively.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
