Aug 2 (Reuters) - AMC Entertainment Holdings ( AMC )

posted a loss for the second quarter compared to a profit in the

same period last year hurt by the lingering impact of last

year's dual Hollywood strikes, which led to a limited number of

major theatrical releases.

The U.S. film industry faced significant disruption in

2023 due to parallel writers' and actors' strikes, bringing the

writing and production of new content to a standstill and

delaying major releases such as the "Dune" sequel.

The widespread disruption forced movie theater owners like

AMC to diversify and rely on alternative content such as sports

and concerts.

The world's largest theater chain reported a net loss of

$32.8 million, or 10 cents per share, for the quarter ended June

30, compared to a profit of $8.6 million, or 6 cents per share,

a year earlier.

The company reported total revenue for the quarter down

about 24% to $1.03 billion in line with analysts' estimates,

according to LSEG data.

AMC, along with other cinema chains like Cineworld

and Cinemark, are however expected to get some relief in

the current quarter from the runaway success of Marvel's

action-packed "Deadpool & Wolverine," which stormed the box

office over the weekend.

The Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman R-rated vehicle raked

in $205 million in U.S. and Canadian ticket sales, solidifying

its position as the biggest domestic opening of the year.

AMC last month announced an agreement with creditors,

successfully extending the maturity of up to $2.45 billion of

its debt, boosting investor confidence.

As part of the strategic transaction, AMC will transfer

ownership of 175 theaters, including leases, property, and

associated assets and rights, to a newly established subsidiary

named Muvico.