AMC CEO Adam Aron has dismissed rumors AMC theaters have been purposely sabotaging screenings of the film "Sound of Freedom" because of unfounded allegations of its ties with the QAnon movement.
A number of posts on social media show moviegoers approaching theater staff about faulty air conditioning, which some users indicated as evidence of sabotage. Other social media posts also accused the theater chain of suppressing attendance and censoring the film due to alleged QAnon connections.
In a tweet Wednesday (July 12), Aron called the allegations "garbage information" and lamented the apparent prevalence of conspiracy theorists in the US.
"More than ONE MILLION people have watched 'Sound of Freedom' at AMC Theatres," he wrote. "More than at any other theater chain on the planet. Yet people falsely claim otherwise. It is so bizarre."
Despite the controversy, the movie has already grossed north of $53 million domestically, becoming a surprise box office hit.
Earlier, Angel Studios dispelled rumors its film was being sabotaged, with its head of theatrical distribution Brandon Purdie saying AMC has been "an outstanding partner for Angel Studios" and both companies have agreed to add additional showings over the coming weekend.
Sadly, conspiracy theorists are so prevalent in America. So much garbage information is spread. More than ONE MILLION people have watched Sound of Freedom at AMC Theatres. More than at any other theatre chain on the planet. Yet people falsely claim otherwise. It is so bizarre.
— Adam Aron (@CEOAdam) July 12, 2023
Jim Caviezel Doubles Down on Film Critics
Written and directed by Alejandro Monteverde, "Sound of Freedom" follows the true story of Operation Underground Railroad founder Tim Ballard, a US Homeland Security agent who rescued two young children from human traffickers in South America.
"The Passion of the Christ" star Jim Caviezel, who starred in the film as Ballard, recently pushed back on media criticism of the film after its ratings and viewership surpassed big-budget blockbusters like "Indiana Jones" and "Barbie."
"They're scared. Quaking in their boots. And it's because the public is listening to their hearts, which is what this film tells you to do," he said.
Related Article: Quaking in Their Boots: 'Sound of Freedom' Actor Jim Caviezel Doubles Down on Critics
