Moviefone, once a quintessential service for movie lovers in the 1990s, is embarking on a revival under new ownership to celebrate its 35th anniversary. Known for its iconic 777-FILM hotline, the company is set to relaunch its mobile app and introduce a new syndicated TV series, propelling it back into the spotlight.
The redesigned app is slated for a private beta launch this month, with a public release expected in summer. It aims to enrich the user experience by enabling users to quickly access movie showtimes, tickets, and the latest releases. Users will also be able to explore trending films and TV shows while enjoying exclusive original video content, including celebrity interviews and behind-the-scenes material.
Meanwhile, the Moviefone TV initiative signifies a strategic move to enhance its media reach by distributing content across various television stations in the U.S. This marks a notable expansion as the company seeks to cater to a younger, digitally savvy audience—80% of whom are aged 18 to 44—competing in an evolving market.
Having started in 1989 and evolving into a key digital ticketing and movie information resource before the rise of competitors like MovieTickets.com and Fandango.com, Moviefone’s journey has seen multiple ownership changes, including acquisitions by AOL in 1999 and later by Helios and Matheson Analytics, which fell into bankruptcy in 2020. Cleveland O’Neal, a former TV producer known for “Made in Hollywood,” is now at the helm of this revival effort.
The upcoming TV series is anticipated to air this fall, although details regarding its specific broadcast stations remain undisclosed, dependent on market considerations. It may potentially feature on networks affiliated with “Made in Hollywood.” To adapt to the declining viewership of traditional television, Moviefone TV also plans to leverage streaming platforms and free ad-supported streaming TV channels. Featuring social media influencers is another strategy aimed at engaging a younger demographic.
While it remains uncertain whether this revival will successfully re-establish Moviefone’s prominence, the renewed interest in theatrical experiences following the pandemic offers a glimmer of hope. Nostalgic audiences may flock to the relaunched app, marking a defining moment in the company’s ongoing evolution.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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