Minot moviegoers were shocked to learn that Carmike Cinema 9 is now owned by AMC Theatres.

“I’ve never heard of AMC Theatres,” an anonymous source said. “I’ve never experienced an AMC show, but if AMC can make this place better, then I’ll be happy.”

In an effort to expand its brand, AMC Theatre reached a $1.1 billion agreement to purchase Carmike Cinemas. As a result, Minot’s Carmike Cinema 9 is under the umbrella of AMC Theatres.

David Passman, president and CEO of Carmike Cinemas, provided a statement assuring a smooth transition and quality customer service.

“We expect this transaction to be largely seamless for our guests,” Passman said. “You can continue to enjoy Carmike Cinemas, earn and use points in our Rewards program, and purchase and use gift cards as you always have.”

As the ownership changes, the faces working behind the counter remain the same.

Brandon Welsh is the directing manager at Carmike Cinema 9.

“Everybody works hard and there is a lot of longevity here,” Welsh said.

Welsh, Alex Nelson, and Alexis Hubsky have each served customers for over four years.

“When I started at Carmikes, I was in high school,” Welsh said. “It’s a great environment, people love what they do, and positive bonds are built here. Ninety-five percent of my friends either work here or used to be employees. In fact, Alex (Nelson) once told me if he won the lottery, he would still work here.”

Perhaps it could be the fluffed popcorn buttered to perfection, or the desire to save gas and travel expenses. Just as Welsh, countless Minot residents make their voyage to Carmike Cinema 9.

“The smell of the popcorn is the first thing that hits my nose,” Elijah Richmond said. “Coming to Carmikes brightens my day, and the popcorn is the best thing ever.”

“We’re the only cinema within 100 miles that shows latest movies,” Welsh said. “It’s rewarding to service the people who come here. People from Minot, Burlington, Surrey and the surrounding area come to Carmikes because there isn’t another cinema like us. What we do is truly rewarding because we’re taking care of this area.”

Taking care of the customers has come with lots of changes and challenges.

“I’ve read our reviews online,” Welsh said. “Some of our reviews aren’t too great, but I’m striving to make improvements, and fix things to make our customers happy. Running a cinema is challenging, and I look forward to meeting the challenge every day.”

On the weekends, one can witness lines starting from the ticket booth and stretching past the nearest corridor.

“I’ve been to this cinema several times,” an anonymous source said. “My experiences were pretty good, but sometimes lines got really long.”

Aside from the lengthy lines formed by excited moviegoers, ticket prices along with concession costs are a common complaint.

“All of our discounts started over a year ago,” Welsh said. “Our senior and college discount is $6, and our military discount is $7.50. People are happier, especially on Saturday nights. Those who qualify for the discounts can save close to $6.”

Change is nothing new to Carmike Cinema 9. Customers as well as employees embrace the possibilities that come with a fresh start.