Loews Cineplex exec Phil Groves has written to several major film distributors asking that they reimburse the theater chain for free passes given to members of industry groups that present awards each year, the online entertainment magazine Inside reported today (Tuesday). Other distributors, the publication indicated, are equally concerned about the burgeoning number of guilds, professional societies and critics groups whose members demand free admissions during the awards season. Alan Davy of Edwards Cinemas told Inside: "It's gotten out of control. ... It seems like every year there is another group that no one has ever heard of."

Source: Studio Briefing