In recognition of Juneteenth, AMC Theatres will be hosting its first-ever AMC Black Picture Showcase. From Saturday (June 19) through June 24, guests everywhere will be able to watch Black-led films for a $5 admissions fee. The initiative was created by Black associates at AMC, who are reportedly working on a number of projects to amplify Black voices in cinema.
“This is a proud and historic moment for AMC, that could not have happened without the influence of our African American associates who used their voices to underscore the importance of honoring Juneteenth as a bedrock of American history,” AMC Theatres CEO and President Adam Aron said in a news release. “This opportunity is a celebration of the impact and accomplishments of African Americans in cinema. It is nothing less than a privilege for AMC to showcase their extraordinary talent,” Aron added.
The weeklong event will feature seven films across three categories –– Black Changemakers, Black Cinema, and Black Joy. The films include Do The Right Thing, Harriet, for the first category. Black Cinema features Moonlight, Fences, and The Water Man, while Black Joy includes Love & Basketball, and Barbershop: The Next Cut.
The announcement of AMC’s Showcase comes just as the nation formally recognizes Juneteenth as a federal holiday. “We are even more delighted to be announcing this special even on the heels of the recent historical and unanimous US Senate vote to establish June 19 as Juneteenth National Independence Day, a federal holiday.” the company said in a statement.
Showtimes for the showcase will vary nationwide at participating theaters.
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