The Independent Cinema Alliance (ICA) today announced its support for Warner Bros. and its theatrical release plan for “Wonder Woman 1984” (“WW84”). The film’s “pandemic model” — which does not reflect a long-term, formal shift in the studio’s distribution strategies—will ensure that moviegoers across North America will see “WW84” in theaters and help save the day for our cinemas this Christmas.

“We are extremely grateful for the extraordinary and unrivaled support and leadership from our valued industry partner Warner Bros.,” said Byron Berkley, ICA President. “After boldly launching the Labor Day reopening of movie theaters across the country with their release of Christopher Nolan’s Tenet, Warner Bros. has again shown their unwavering commitment to theatrical exhibition by virtually saving Christmas for our industry, keeping “Wonder Woman 1984” on December 25th.”

“WW84” director Patty Jenkins has emphasized that movie theaters are at an inflection point, making the release of content and the return of moviegoers’ paramount. “We could lose movie theater-going forever,” warned Jenkins in an interview with Reuters.

“ICA intends to take this crisis as an opportunity to project a bright future for our industry,” added Brian Schultz, Chairman of Studio Movie Grill. We know the critical importance of storytelling in this very challenging time. Together we will set an example of flexibility, innovation and partnership for the greater good, bringing incredible films to our guests, the way they should be seen on the big screen as a shared experience.”

Movie theaters owners across North America look forward to playing “WW84” while following CinemaSafe protocols and guidelines developed and supported by leading epidemiologists. This program puts the health and safety of our guests and employees at the center of movie theater operations across the country. A historic alliance of more than 400 companies representing over 3,100 locations and 33,000 screens nationwide have joined together in their commitment implementing these expert-backed, industry-specific health and safety protocols.

About ICA
The ICA is a trade association dedicated to the empowerment of independent movie theater owners and operators in North America. Established by independents for independents, ICA is leading the charge to champion the importance of independent cinemas to a dynamic and vibrant motion picture industry.