Cineplex CEO Ellis Jacob says Generation Z audiences are fuelling a rebound at the cinema chain, ditching their phones for social outings at the multiplex rather than staying home with small screens. The comments came as the Canadian exhibitor reported strong second-quarter results, reflecting a wider recovery across the film exhibition industry driven by a steady supply of Hollywood blockbusters alongside surprise horror hits.

Cineplex posted record second-quarter revenue of $383.7 million, up nearly 10%, as attendance rose 9.3% to 12.7 million patrons, while the company swung to a net income of $7.8 million from a $2.2 million loss a year earlier. Box office revenue climbed 11% to $176.2 million, its best second quarter since 2019, boosted by films including The Odyssey, Michael and horror titles Obsession and Backrooms, alongside record spending per patron on tickets and concessions. Jacob credited a broad, diverse slate of films rather than any single blockbuster, and expects full-year 2026 box office to exceed 2025 and possibly set a new record.