What is the first step in opening a movie theater?

Question

I know that I have to have money or investments. I guess I am wanting more to know if I need to do market research to write a plan, how do I do that, how do I write a plan, what steps do I need to take today to start writing a plan tomorrow?

Answer 1

One thing that you need to understand is that movie theater business is controlled by chains -- and big Hollywood studios will give their movies for distribution to these chains, not to independent movie theaters. You will have a very hard time getting the latest blockbusters in your movie theater.

The steps for me are:

1. To research how this business works and what are the chances of an independent theater owner showing some decent films
2. Check if it is feasible for a single theater operator to make it in this business, much less survive
3. Determine the amount of capital you need to have including cost of land, or lease from a mall -- and whether you can realistically put up the money

Your first step should be to understand the business first -- how you can get movies, how to operate concessions, what is the process for ticketing, etc. Once you've understood the business, then and only then can you start thinking of preparing your business plan or seek investment

Answer 2

This most important thing you can do for any new business is;
Write a business plan.

I guarantee it's the most important thing you can do. Read any good book on starting a business.

Answer 3

getting the money to fund it