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Sorry, California Movie Theaters Are Probably Staying Closed

California theaters can open, but don't expect to head out to the movies this weekend.

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While the state of California has given the green light for movie theaters to begin reopening this week, it's looking like many will stay shuttered amid the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic. The California Department of Public Health had previously said movie theaters in the state could open their doors for the first time since closing in March on Friday, June 12.

According to a report from Deadline, most major theater chains in the state will not be observing that date. It's believed that AMC, Regal, Cinemark, Alamo Drafthouse, Arclight Cinemas, Laemmle, Cinepolis, and Landmark are among the companies that will remain closed. Cinemark previously announced a planned three-phase reopening that will begin on June 19.

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That said, it's possible independently-owned theater would reopen on Friday under the guidelines set forth by the state. Those guidelines include limiting attendance to 100 people or 25% theater capacity, whichever is less. The state also wants stagger entrance to theaters for groups when possible, with possible designated arrival times. Additionally, seats are expected to be blocked off to allow social distancing between theatergoers. Patrons will also have to wear masks when not eating or drinking.

While major theater chains may not be planning to open just yet, this step forward is an important one. It's possible restrictions will be further relaxed by the time Christopher Nolan's upcoming film Tenet is scheduled to hit theaters. The movie, which stars John David Washington, Robert Pattinson, Michael Caine, Kenneth Branagh, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, is currently scheduled to hit theaters on July 17.

Image credit: Getty/Valerie Macon

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