Movie chains AMC, Regal in antitrust probe

Movie theater chains AMC Entertainment and Regal Entertainment said they are the subject of two government probes into possible anti-competitive tactics, including deals that block competing theaters from selling tickets to the hottest new releases.

On Monday, the two theater chains said they have received civil Investigative demands from the antitrust division of the Justice Department amid questions over whether they have pushed for exclusivity deals with Hollywood studios in order to force customers to their theaters — and away from often small, independent theaters.

AMC boasts interests in 347 theaters with 4,972 screens across the country, while Regal boasts of 7,324 screens in 569 theaters in 42 states.

Both chains also received civil investigation demands from the antitrust section of the Office of Attorney General of the State of Ohio, they said in regulatory filings.

The government agencies requested documents and answers concerning "film clearances and participation in certain joint ventures," AMC's filing said. Film clearances are when theaters are given exclusive rights to show a film within a certain radius around their theaters.

Both chains said they do not believe they has violated federal or state antitrust laws and that they are cooperating with the authorities.

Shares of AMC opened lower on Tuesday, down 0.4% to $27.87 a share.

Regal shares also opened lower, down 0.8% to $20.72 a share.