While most theaters are struggling during COVID-19, the Alamo Drafthouse is running a highly successful campaign where they allow patrons to pay $150 to have the theater to themselves. This lets families attend without worry. And if you have a large family that's a big win. Alamo says the rentals usually house around 10 people, an entire "pod" for family members or friends who want a night out. 

The move expands on the test run of the program that's now expanding to 12 states.


"After a massively successful rollout in select cities we’re excited to be able to offer this at Alamo Drafthouse theaters nationwide that are currently open," says Shelli Taylor, the Alamo Drafthouse CEO. "Our guests have been asking how their friends, family, and fellow podmates can book their own safe and relaxing screening, and we’re proud to be able to deliver this to them at such an affordable rate."

So what are people watching? 

They get to choose from new releases such as Tenet and Kajillionaire or classics like Jurassic ParkThe MatrixKung Fu PandaThe Goonies, and Trolls.

These titles change with the season. I could see a bunch of Christmas movies added later this year. 

“When we began rolling out Your Own Private Alamo at our Austin location in August, we had no idea what the response would be,” says Kristen Wheaton, Alamo Drafthouse Senior Director of Venue Experience. “It was big. Really big. In just the first few weeks we booked over 700 groups of families and coworkers at just a handful of theaters. We’re so excited to expand this program to more locations across the country.”

This is a great idea that's sure to catch on, but I wonder how the pricing plays outlike how many times can you rent a theater each day with cleaning, etc? And how many screens do you need to rent to make this an affordable model? 

What do you think of the practice? 

Have you done one of these exhibitions? 

Let us know in the comments.