with Steve Pratt, Author of the hit book Earn It

CASE STUDY

Cineplex

Reigniting Big-Screen Magic Through Strategic Audio Storytelling
Audience Engagement Strategy Format Development Host Sourcing Podcast Production Social Media Integration
As one of Canada’s most recognizable entertainment brands, Cineplex has long been synonymous with the moviegoing experience. With a focus on delivering premium entertainment to audiences nationwide, the brand launched Hello Movies—a podcast designed to celebrate cinema and reignite the public’s passion for the big screen.
Industry
Entertainment

Company size

10K+

Website

cineplex.com

Overview

JAR stepped in to revitalize Hello Movies with a single goal: increase reach, boost engagement, and remind audiences why nothing beats a trip to the theatre—even in a streaming-first world.

Business Objective

JAR took over the production of Hello Movies facing a hefty challenge — to reach the masses with a quality podcast that, even in the age of at-home streaming, would remind us of the magic of the big screen.

With this mandate, the team focused on elevating production quality, onboarding a dynamic new host, and laying the groundwork for long-term audience growth.

The Solution

The first step was a strategic deep dive into the podcast’s structure and content. From this, we crafted a revised format anchored in sharper thematic focus and clearer narrative flow—making each episode more organized and compelling.

To build in greater depth and credibility, JAR collaborated with Cineplex’s in-house editorial team and tapped into its extended network of film industry insiders. This gave each episode a richness of insight and access to authentic, behind-the-scenes storytelling.

Recurring content features — such as a listener quiz and a “moment of truth” segment — were reimagined to heighten relatability and listener value. These refinements helped keep audiences engaged while reinforcing Cineplex’s brand as a cultural curator of the moviegoing experience.

Host Natasha Gargiulo brought both warmth and expertise to the mic, supported by a coordinated social media strategy that aligned episode launches with timely online engagement.

The Impact

Hello Movies achieved a 100% increase in downloads and a 15% increase in listen-through rate, from 80 to 95%.

These gains reflect not only improved content, but stronger audience connection and sustained interest in the podcast’s message: that cinema is best experienced together, on the big screen.

By sharpening the show’s storytelling and introducing a host with both credibility and charisma, Hello Movies became more than just branded content—it became appointment listening for film lovers across the country. The revamped format created a richer, more entertaining listener experience, leading to stronger word-of-mouth, repeat engagement, and growing anticipation for each new episode.

Most importantly, the podcast helped Cineplex stay top of mind at a critical moment for the industry. While competitors focused on short-term streaming wins, Cineplex used Hello Movies to reinforce its role as a trusted guide to the in-theatre experience—reminding audiences not just what to watch, but why it matters to show up in person.

 

  • 100% Increase in Downloads
  • Increased listen-through rate from 80% to 95%

“We’re happy to report that, after working with JAR, the downloads of Hello Movies doubled. The series also showed a big improvement in content and audio quality.”

– Cineplex

15% increase
Listen-through rate increased from 80% to 95%
2x increase
Since working with JAR, Hello Movies doubled its listenership