The Truth About Cinema Adverts and Trailers: What Time Should You Really Arrive?

The Time You Really Need to Arrive at the Cinema

By Narbeh Minassian, news reporter

Are you tired of waiting for the movie to start after the advertised time on your ticket? Well, you’re not alone. Many cinema-goers have experienced the frustration of sitting through endless adverts and trailers before the main event begins.

But how long do you really need to wait before the movie starts? We’ve gathered information from the UK’s major cinema chains to give you a better idea of when you should arrive.

Cineworld states that ads and trailers typically last between 30-45 minutes before the actual film begins. They recommend collecting tickets at least 20 minutes before the listed time to make the most of your visit.

Odeon, on the other hand, claims that advert and trailer length is typically 15-25 minutes, but this can vary. They advise arriving with enough time to enter the screen at the scheduled performance start time.

Everyman plays 25 minutes’ worth of adverts and trailers, but this can vary for special events. Showcase and Vue both offer a window of around 20-25 minutes for ads and trailers before the feature starts.

According to Karen Stacey, the chief executive of Digital Cinema Media, the typical wait time is 24 minutes – 12 minutes for ads and 12 for trailers. This consistent length allows for a more staggered entry for the audience and helps cinemas maximize revenue.

While there are no set rules governing cinema advertising length, cinema policy is the key decider. Research has shown that audiences find advertising in cinemas to be part of the entertainment experience.

If you’re looking to avoid the pre-show altogether, independent or community cinemas might be your best bet. These cinemas often have shorter pre-shows and offer a more intimate viewing experience.

So, next time you head to the cinema, make sure to arrive a bit early to avoid missing the start of your film. And remember, those ads and trailers are helping to keep the cinema running, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!