AMC Entertainment reported a surprise second-quarter adjusted profit and record revenue, significantly outpacing Wall Street expectations as a slate of blockbuster films drove ticket sales higher.

The Leawood, Kansas-based theater chain posted results that defied broader industry headwinds, signaling a potential inflection point for the exhibition sector.

Shares of AMC Entertainment (AMC) jumped 16.5% in premarket trading on Monday following the release.

The sharp repricing reflects investor relief that the company’s heavy debt load and operational challenges are being offset by robust consumer demand for theatrical releases.

The move stands in contrast to recent softness in other consumer discretionary names, highlighting the resilience of the live-entertainment segment.

The results underscore the critical importance of the film release calendar for exhibitors.