The sixth-largest owner of movie theaters across the US is controlled by Denver billionaire Philip Anschutz, who brought it out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy after buying the company last year.

Despite a 9.5% decline in the average screens operated, UATC's consolidated revenue for the third quarter increased 6.2% over the same period in 2000 to $158.6 million. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, increased 23.3%, to $23.3 million, from the third quarter of 2000. UATC's net earnings, exclusive of extraordinary items related to its reorganization under Chapter 11, were $6.2 million, compared to a $30-million loss in 2000.

During the first nine months of the year, its revenues have increased 0.6% to $415.6 million over last year despite a 10.45% drop in the number of screens it operates. It earned $6.5 million in the first nine months, compared to a $70.7 million loss last year.