Italian cinemas reopen from June 15 with relaxed distancing rules

Italian cinemas will partially reopen from June 15, 2020, after a government decree on June 12 eased previous strict regulations. The new protocols, valid until July 14, allow families and companions to sit together, remove masks while seated, and reopen food and beverage concessions. The ANEC (National Association of Cinema Exhibitors) endorsed the decree as it addressed their requests for alignment with other public venues. However, many cinemas will remain closed initially, and the global film market is still stalled. The UCI Cinemas chain will gradually reopen its circuit, starting with UCI Bicocca in Milan, UCI Orio in Bergamo, UCI Porta di Roma, and UCI Luxe Campi Bisenzio in Florence. Initial screenings include recent hits like "Parasite," "1917," "Joker," and "Pinocchio," with new releases such as "Onward," "Mulan," and "Tenet" expected in July. Ticket prices have been reduced to around €5 to attract audiences. The reopening is seen as a test to gradually bring spectators back to the cinema.