2 Apr– The first blockbuster movie to release post the Goods and Service Tax (GST) implementation, "Fast and Furious 7", opened up to fast-selling tickets during its sneak preview run last night at local cinemas. On 1st April, Cinema Online caught up with cinemagoers at various cineplexes around the Klang Valley on the first day of the GST introduction to observe if the tax had affected movie going habits. Sneak preview screenings of "Fast and Furious 7" starting from 6.30pm onwards, a day before its official release on 2 April 2015, were almost at full capacity with a number of showtimes offering only limited tickets by 8pm. Cinema staff mentioned that there were no drastic changes noticed in audience attendance and it was the usual crowd expected on weekdays. Cinemagoers were mostly made up of the after-work crowd who also shared their thoughts on purchasing cinema tickets with GST. "I will need getting used to seeing GST charges printed on the ticket, but it is expected. I don't see much different in pricing." said Kamalini a 28-year-old consultant who came with her colleagues to watch the movie. Cinemagoer Eddie, 30 said, "I've been waiting to watch "Fast and Furious", so I didn't mind spending a few extra cents on tax once in a while for a big movie like this." Among the cinemas visited were TGV Cinemas Suria KLCC and GSC Pavilion KL which carried ticket pricings of RM19 and RM17, respectively. Prices include the 6% GST along with the existing 25% Entertainments Duty.
Some cinemagoers also attributed the fast-selling tickets to the franchise's most anticipated movie since it marks actor Paul Walker's final appearance as Brian O'Conner who had starred in the series since 2001. The actor passed away in 2013 due to a tragic car crash. Distributed locally by United International Pictures, "Fast and Furious 7" is directed by James Wan ("The Conjuring") and stars Paul Walker, Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Lucas Black and Jason Statham.