| Document and Entity Information Document | Oct. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001377630 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Entity File Number | 001-33296 |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Written Communications | false |
| Trading Symbol | NCMI |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 30, 2020 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-5665602 |
| (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Description | 6300 S. Syracuse Way |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 300 |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | National CineMedia, Inc. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Centennial |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80111 |
| City Area Code | 303 |
| Local Phone Number | 792-3600 |
