In the world of cinema, there are enthusiasts, and then there’s Zach Swope. Hailing from the United States, Zach Swope’s love for films has not only broken but shattered the world record for the most films watched in a cinema within a single year. His astonishing achievement of attending 777 screenings between July 2022 and July 2023 has captivated the attention of cinephiles and record enthusiasts alike winning him the Guinness World Record. In this article, we delve into the incredible journey of this film-loving maverick.
Surpassing the Previous Record
The previous record of 715 cinema screenings was held by Vincent Krohn of France back in 2018. Zach Swope’s relentless passion for movies propelled him to go beyond this milestone, setting a new bar for cinephiles worldwide.
A Passion for Film
Zach Swope, at the age of 32, proudly declares himself a “huge lover of film.” His love for the silver screen isn’t confined to this record-breaking endeavour; he routinely watches an average of 100 to 150 films at the cinema each year. For him, movies are not just a form of entertainment but a way of life. For the world record he completed watching 777 films screenings.
The Rigorous Rules
To accomplish this record, Zach adhered to strict rules. Each film had to be watched from start to finish, without any interruptions. This meant no naps, no phone use, and no snacks or drinks during the screenings. Vigilant cinema employees ensured that he followed these rules to the letter.
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Theatre Choices
Most of Zach’s movie viewings took place at Regal Cinemas. He leveraged his Regal Unlimited Membership, allowing him unlimited access to films for a mere $22 (£17) per month. This membership became his ticket to the record books.
Balancing Act: Work and Cinema
What makes Zach’s achievement even more remarkable is that he managed to break the world record while working a full-time job. His workdays typically ran from 6:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Yet, this did not deter him. After work, he would head straight to the cinema, often watching up to three films. On weekends, he dialled it up even further. Zach strategically chose films with shorter runtimes to maximise his daily count. Though he didn’t set a daily target, he aimed to average 16-17 films each week.
The Lucky Number Sevens
Initially aspiring to see 800 films within the year, Zach ultimately decided to conclude his remarkable journey on the lucky number seven. By watching 777 films in a year, it was a fitting choice for a record-breaking endeavour that had taken him well beyond anyone’s expectations.
Favourites and Not-So-Favourites
Throughout his epic cinematic journey, there were favourites and not-so-favourite films. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish secured the top spot as the film he watched the most, with a staggering 47 viewings. Other frequently watched films included The Super Mario Bros. Movie, seen 35 times, and Thor: Love and Thunder, with 33 viewings. On the flip side, The Devil Conspiracy earned the dubious honour of being his least favourite, with just one viewing. Zach openly expressed his desire to erase this particular film from his memory.
A Noble Cause
But Zach’s journey was about more than just personal records. As someone with Asperger’s syndrome, he embarked on this remarkable endeavour to raise awareness about autism. He used his attempt not only to challenge the limits of human dedication but also to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, a cause close to his heart. Having experienced the profound impact of suicide personally, he was determined to make a difference.
Zach Swope’s record-breaking 777 films cinematic odyssey is a testament to the boundless passion that drives individuals to go above and beyond. His journey from the first screening of Minions: Rise of Gru to the final frame of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and serves as an inspiring example of dedication and perseverance. As Zach contemplates the future, he leaves us with a tantalising thought: “Who knows, maybe I’ll go back and try to break my own record?” Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain—Zach Swope’s passion is a true film buff extraordinaire, and his name will be forever etched in cinematic history.
