CJ 4DPLEX has reported impressive growth for its premium cinema formats in 2025, outperforming the broader theatrical market significantly. The company's 4DX and SCREENX formats combined generated $497 million globally, marking a remarkable 32% increase compared to last year. This stands in stark contrast to the overall market, which is expected to rise by only 9.1% during the same period. This surge was driven by a slate of blockbuster films, including titles like "Avatar: Fire and Ash," "Jurassic World Rebirth," and "How to Train Your Dragon," all of which captivated audiences and enhanced ticket sales.
Blockbuster Titles Fueling Growth
2025 was characterized by a lineup of major releases that played a pivotal role in CJ 4DPLEX's success. The immersive experiences offered by 4DX and SCREENX formats attracted moviegoers seeking something beyond the traditional cinema experience. "Avatar: Fire and Ash," the much-anticipated sequel in the Avatar franchise, showcased the stunning capabilities of SCREENX, which enhances cinematic storytelling through panoramic visuals. Similarly, "Jurassic World Rebirth" captivated fans with its engaging narrative and stunning effects, while "How to Train Your Dragon" resonated particularly well with families, further boosting attendance in theaters equipped with CJ 4DPLEX's premium offerings.
With these titles leading the charge, 4DX and SCREENX experienced a surge in attendance, showcasing the power of immersive film formats. The company's ability to deliver such an experience has positioned it as a leader in the evolving landscape of cinema.
Expanding Global Footprint
The growth of CJ 4DPLEX isn't just limited to revenue; the company has also made significant strides in expanding its global presence. In 2025, CJ 4DPLEX signed contracts with 198 new locations across various prominent exhibitors, including AMC, Cinepolis, Cinemark, and Showtime Cinemas. This expansion has increased the total number of 4DX and SCREENX screens worldwide to 1,245, illustrating the rising demand for enhanced cinematic experiences.
Jun Bang, CEO of CJ 4DPLEX, highlighted the achievements of the company in a recent statement, noting that 2025 was a defining year. He emphasized how the substantial growth in revenue and global footprint demonstrates the strength of premium cinema experiences. The increasing value they offer not only to audiences but also to exhibitor partners is becoming increasingly apparent.
4DX and SCREENX: Key Contributors to Revenue
Breaking down the performance of each format reveals significant contributions to the overall success. 4DX generated a remarkable $370 million worldwide, with $81 million coming from the U.S. alone, all from just 67 screens. This represents a 31% year-over-year growth, driven by the unique features of 4DX that include motion seating and environmental effects, which have appealed primarily to younger audiences and those looking for event-driven experiences.
Meanwhile, SCREENX also demonstrated impressive momentum, generating $35 million in U.S. box office and $92 million globally, which translates to a 37% increase from the previous year. The format's panoramic, multi-screen setup has made it an attractive option for exhibitors seeking to differentiate their offerings and enhance the performance of major studio releases.
Strategic Investments in Technology and Content
To ensure sustained growth, CJ 4DPLEX has made strategic investments in technology and content. A key focus for the company has been its Seoul-based VFX business, which aims to bolster the production of SCREENX titles. By increasing the number of titles produced annually and expanding the duration of films utilizing the full 270-degree format, CJ 4DPLEX is setting the stage for accelerated growth.
This comprehensive redesign of SCREENX technology is anticipated to further enhance the cinematic experience, providing audiences with more engaging content. As the company continues to innovate and adapt to changing audience preferences, it is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for premium cinema experiences.
Looking ahead, CJ 4DPLEX seems poised to maintain its trajectory of growth, propelled by both blockbuster film releases and its commitment to enhancing cinema technology. The ongoing embrace of immersive experiences suggests a bright future for premium formats as they continue to redefine the landscape of theatrical entertainment.