Regal Theaters Charging Unprecedented Prices for 'Dune: Part Three' Tickets

Over eight months from now, the Dune film trilogy, written and directed by Denis Villeneuve, will come to an epic conclusion on Dec. 18. The first two movies, starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya and released in 2021 and 2024, are two of the highest-acclaimed films of the decade. Many sci-fi fans regard the current Dune franchise as among the greatest ever made in the genre. Understandably, there is an extreme amount of anticipation and excitement to see the trilogy’s third installment.

Monday, the first tickets were released for opening weekend IMAX 70mm 7 p.m. showings in select cities. On Tuesday, IMAX 70mm 10:45 p.m. and 11 p.m. showings were added for purchase.

What is 70mm IMAX?

IMAX is a theater format offering a larger aspect ratio, giving you more image than you would typically see on a standard theater screen. IMAX is typically shown in a 1.43:1 or 1.90:1 format, with much larger screens and an enhanced sound system. The 70mm is a version of IMAX that is projected from actual IMAX film reels, versus standard 4K digital projection, providing much higher resolution and a richer film texture.

In an absolute frenzy, tickets sold out extremely fast for these select showings. With no prior warning, fans were given only a 30-minute notice from social media posts.

Scrambling to secure their spot, the price patrons were being asked to pay was simply unbelievable.

Subscribers of Regal’s Unlimited membership found out at the moment of purchase that their “unlimited movie” rights were excluded. This relegates them to paying general admission prices, even though members pay $21.49-$27.99 a month to Regal depending on plan and location. This is unprecedented, as outside of third-party screenings like Fathom, the subscription has never been excluded from new releases.

The general admission cost at Regal theaters for Dune: Part Three in 70mm IMAX for opening night, as of Tuesday, is $50 plus a $5 service fee. For opening weekend, but not opening night, the price is $40 plus a service fee. For opening night, a group of five would pay $275 to see Dune: Part Three. Every day after that would cost $225.

For any other film shown at Regal theaters, specifically in 70mm IMAX, tickets for general admission are $30. Additionally, Regal Unlimited subscribers are granted entry with an $8 upcharge.

AMC, the nation’s largest theater chain, is still charging only $30 for the same IMAX format of Dune: Part Three, even on opening night.