For movie fans of the 1990s, Moviefone’s iconic 777-FILM number was a vital lifeline, offering quick and easy access to movie showtimes. Now, decades later and under new management, the once-beloved movie information brand is attempting an ambitious comeback.
Celebrating its 35th anniversary, Moviefone has announced the debut of its revamped mobile application along with a new nationally syndicated television series. The new Moviefone app, scheduled for private beta testing later this month before its summer public launch, aims to enhance the existing web offering by providing users with convenient mobile access to current movie showtimes, digital ticketing, and recommendations for trending movies and TV programs. It also plans to serve a variety of original video content, including star-studded interviews, behind-the-scenes exclusives, and film reviews.
Simultaneously, the company is expanding its presence to broadcast television through Moviefone TV, a weekly series scheduled for release this fall. The new show aims to bring Moviefone’s original media content, prominently featuring celebrity insights and film-related segments, to television audiences across the United States. Network partnerships remain undisclosed; however, market-dependent broadcasts and a potential synergy with existing networks, notably those already airing “Made in Hollywood”, may factor into the eventual distribution.
Moviefone’s revival arrives following multiple transformations since its initial launch in 1989. Before competitors like Fandango or MovieTickets.com emerged, Moviefone thrived as a popular movie information service and an early online ticket seller. The brand experienced a series of corporate acquisitions—including a substantial purchase by AOL in 1999 and later ownership by Helios and Matheson Analytics, which declared bankruptcy in 2020.
Leading this new era is television producer Cleveland O’Neal, known as the creator behind the daytime entertainment program “Made in Hollywood”. Under O’Neal’s stewardship, Moviefone aims to adapt its legacy for a digitally native audience, noting that nearly 80% of its current viewership falls between the ages of 18 and 44. This younger demographic has spurred the development of a mobile-focused product approach alongside traditional broadcast ventures.
Acknowledging the broader industry shift away from conventional television viewership, Moviefone TV will not limit itself to standard broadcast networks. Instead, Moviefone plans to stream its new show on popular digital platforms and free, ad-supported streaming services. Additionally, Moviefone hopes to appeal to younger consumers by integrating social media influencers into its programming strategy.
Whether this revival marks a full resurgence of the brand remains to be seen, but Moviefone is clearly positioning itself to capitalize on growing theater audiences and nostalgic appeal. With movie-going on the upswing post-pandemic, the company may find itself well-positioned for a successful—and nostalgic—return.
