The global film industry faced an unprecedented challenge in early 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic forced cinemas to close their doors. Within weeks, box office revenues plummeted from a robust $100 million weekend to a mere $4,160. As theaters gradually reopened with strict health protocols, moviegoers found themselves navigating a new reality of masked screenings and limited capacity. Studios adapted by releasing films directly to streaming platforms or video on demand, while filmmakers innovated with socially distanced production methods. Despite these efforts, the industry continues to struggle to regain its pre-pandemic momentum.

From Blockbuster Weekends to Near-Closure

In early 2020, Hollywood was thriving with blockbuster releases like Pixar’s Onward and Sonic the Hedgehog drawing large crowds. However, the rapid spread of COVID-19 led to widespread theater closures within a matter of weeks. The once bustling cinema scene transformed into near-empty venues, with only drive-in theaters remaining operational. This abrupt shift marked the beginning of a challenging period for the film industry, as major studios postponed high-profile releases such as No Time to Die and Black Widow.

As the pandemic took hold, the film industry had to adapt quickly. Studios began exploring alternative distribution methods, including direct-to-streaming releases. Filmmakers also adjusted their creative processes to adhere to safety guidelines, producing movies with smaller casts and outdoor settings. For instance, Language Lessons utilized remote filming techniques, while How It Ends capitalized on deserted urban landscapes. These innovations allowed the industry to continue producing content, albeit under unprecedented conditions.

Reopening Challenges and Audience Trauma

When theaters finally reopened, they introduced stringent safety measures, including mask mandates, temperature checks, and contactless ticketing. Critics' screenings became sparse affairs, with attendees seated far apart in large auditoriums. Christopher Nolan's Tenet, one of the first major films to hit theaters post-reopening, struggled to attract audiences despite generating the highest box office numbers in five months. The film's $20 million Labor Day weekend haul was insufficient to cover its massive production and marketing costs.

Beyond financial concerns, early pandemic-era films had to address audience trauma. Movies like Little Fish, which depicted a global memory-loss plague, resonated deeply with viewers due to its accurate portrayal of pandemic life. Similarly, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, released on Netflix, reflected societal changes through its characters' pandemic behaviors. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise's infamous rant on the set of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning highlighted the industry's internal struggles, emphasizing the critical need for adherence to safety protocols. Even now, five years later, the film industry is still working to recover from the pandemic's devastating impact.