Cineplex cinemas set to reopen Friday, here's what moviegoers can expect

North Bay -

Guests can expect to physically distance, wear a mask and sit two metres apart from others when enjoying a movie on the big screen starting Friday.

"We’ve had a lot of time to prepare on this one which has really given us the opportunity to really focus on the customer experience," said Kevin Matthews, executive director for the Manitoba and northern Ontario operations. "We’ve improved our seating so now there’s an algorithm that automatically separates people, so anyone can really choose any seat then they won’t be able to choose a seat within six feet of the other person."

Matthews told CTV News all movie showing will be first-run films, as many brand new movies are ready to hit the big screen.

Capacity is limited to 50 per cent or up to 1,000 guests are allowed in each theatre at once and Matthews said showtimes are spread out to keep physical distancing measures in place.

"With social distancing, there’s the seats diagonally, behind and below you, so we are somewhere between 20 and 33 per cent. While we will have all auditoriums running, our seating is significantly reduced."

Currently, there are no rules on moviegoers needing to show proof of vaccination, but according to Matthews, rules could be enforced in the future.

"Right now anybody is allowed in, there’s masks that need to be worn and social distancing needs to be put in place. We follow the health protocols that are put in place and generally we go above and beyond that," he said.

Matthews said his staff is fully prepared to be back to work and that Cineplex Cinemas across the country are yet to record any transmissions of COVID-19.