Since announcing the news that NBC Sports has teamed with Fathom Events to bring select Premier League matches to movie theaters across the United States, we’ve been inundated with questions from you, the readers, about the who, what, when and where.
The very first Premier League match that will be shown in US movie theaters happens this weekend, when Tottenham Hotspur visits West Ham United at 10am ET/7am PT. Under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, it’ll be a chance to see how the Lilywhites perform in a London derby against a new-look Hammers. Don’t forget that Sam Allardyce’s team defeated Spurs three times last season, so expect this one to be a fiery match!
But how will the Premier League experience extend to the “silver screen”? Here’s our FAQ, which will answer all of the questions you have!
Q: What are the benefits of watching a Premier League game in a movie theater?
A: For soccer fans, it’s a unique experience in a friendly-family environment. Plus, you can watch your favorite sport on a giant 40-foot screen from the comfort of your seat. On top of that, it’s a great opportunity to meet fellow soccer fans, and to cheer on your team in a one-of-a-kind way.
Q: How many theaters will be showing the games nationwide?
A: To begin, 33 movie theaters across the United States will show the games. If successful, there’s an opportunity that it could expand into other markets. So get your mates and relatives to watch a game at your local movie house.
Q: Where can I find out the nearest movie theater showing the games, as well as where to buy tickets?
A: The Fathom Events website has the information you need, as well as a theater locator where you can type in your zip code to find the nearest location. Visit Fathom’s Barclays Premier League page for details.
Q: How are the games shown on the movie screen?
A: Each week, the live Premier League game will be beamed by satellite to audiences via the theater’s Digital Broadcast Network (DBN). The quality of the signal will be first-class. Plus, your theater will feature an excellent sound system so you can immerse yourself in the matchday experience.
Q: Do any of the theaters have any fun activities planned in addition to the Premier League games?
A: Select theaters nationwide will be offering English-style breakfasts. So in addition to two hours of quality English football, you can partake in the English tradition of a hearty breakfast!
The theaters offering the English-style breakfast are:
• Cinemark Egyptian 24 with XD, 7000 Arundel Mills Cir, Hanover MD
• Cinemark Towson Mall, 111 E Joppa Rd, Towson, MD
• Evanston 18 with XD, 1715 Maple Ave, Evanston, IL
• Cinemark 24 (The Legacy) with XD, 7201 N Central Expy Ste 100, Plano, TX
• Cinemark 18 Webster with XD, 20915 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX
• Cinemark 18 with XD, 6081 Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA
• Cinemark Paradise 24 with XD, 15601 Sheridan St, Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Century 9 San Francisco Centre with XD, 835 Market St, San Francisco, CA
• Century Theatres Federal Way 16, 2001 S Commons, Federal Way, WA
Q: What can we expect from the match coverage?
A: The coverage will be the Premier League’s world feed and will include specially produced half-time breaks showcasing the BPL’s greatest players, interviews, analysis and “theater-only” insights live from England.
Q: What time does the theater open for the 10am ET/7am PT game?
A: Theaters will open approximately 30 minutes before kick-off.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Ticket prices differ per theater, but range from $8.50 to $12.50. Check the Fathom website for more details.
Q: Is this a one time special event or will it be happening throughout the season?
A: Fathom Events and NBC Sports will be bringing you the games this Fall. Every Tuesday, the Fathom website will reveal the 10am ET/7am PT game it will be showing on the big screen.
Q: Do all of the movie theaters provide WiFi?
A: Many do, but it’s on a theater-by-theater basis. Check with your local theater for details.
Q: Is alcohol served during the game at the theater?
A: In addition to selling your favorite popcorn, snacks and soft drinks, some theaters will sell alcohol, but it varies state-by-state and theater-by-theater. Check with your local theater.
Q: There’s no theater near me that’s showing the game. What can I do?
A: Encourage your soccer friends in the regions where there are games to go out and watch the Premier League matches at the movie theaters. The more people who show up to the games at 10am ET/7am PT on Saturday mornings, the greater the likelihood that the games will expand to other theaters nationwide.
