Boxoffice-November.06.1954

. . 

NOVEMBER 6, 1954 

Inc mCU &^ W^^ m&to&TL rictuM 

Theatre Owners of America elected a new set of officers at its Chicago convention. E. D. Martin is 

the new president, succeeding Walter Reade jr., who becomes board chairman. Seated (I. to r.): R. R. 

Livingston, secretary; George Kerasotes, vice-president; Martin; Reode; Alfred Starr, chairman, executive 

committee; Pot McGee, vice-president. Standing (I. to r.): Herman Levy, general counsel; John Rowley, 

vice-president; Joseph Rosenfield, vice-president; Samuel Pinonski, honorary board chairman; Mitchell 

Wolfson, chairman, finance committee; Albert Pickus, vice-president. Re-elected, but not in photo, are 

S. H. Fabian, treosurer; A. Julian Brylawski, Roy Cooper and Myron Blank, all vice-presidents . 

Convention reports begin on Page 8. 

IN THIS ISSUE 

Dt leciiod (lij\s nirjtti^f ut the ('oil Ciffite of Kuiisms 

,, . , , . 

Bfu. 

Edfl : 

(ATIONAL EXECUTIVE EDITION 

Kludin) IKi Stctlonil Niwi Pt(«i at All Editloni 

©MEiM 

TilATEi 

SECTION

Leo's right in step 

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NOVEMBER 

Vol. 66 

6, 19 5 4 

No. 2 

Harmony Through Understanding 

D.HE THEATRE Owners of America, 

meeting in Chicago, were up in arms over film 

policies and sales practices and the air was 

charged with declarations for "drastic action,"" 

some of which jiarallcled National Allied's plan 

to seek governmental regulation of the industry. 

There was heated debate, not only between a 

distribution executive and TOA delegates and 

officers, but between exhibitors themselves as to 

what were the underlying causes of the conditions 

over which there has been much exhibitor 

complaint for the past year. 

Viewed as a dramatic move was the advocacy 

by Alfred Starr, TOA board chairman, of requesting 

the Department of Justice to revise the 

consent decrees to the extent of permitting 

former theatre affiliates of distribution companies, 

now divorced, to enter or to sponsor production 

in order to supply the exhibitors' needs 

for more product. This followed an earlier action 

in which the assemblage passed a resolution to 

set up a plan for the financing of independent 

and other producers, with pledges signed by 

exJiibitors to invest a full week's film rental 

for each of their theatres for such a purpose. 

Industry veterans will recall similar actions taken 

in the past, one of which resulted in the formation 

of First National Pictures, as a producing 

and distributing entity. 

There was much corridor comment on the 

militancy that was evidenced by the forthright 

approach to all questions of trade practices. 

The body was determined to reverse the trend 

of higher and higher film terms and accompanying 

operations that they declared are threatening 

their existence and some advocated the strongest 

measures possible to achieve this objective. 

There were, of course, those who favored other 

than extreme measures. 

The calm, yet forceful, approach to the situation 

made by Pat McGee in his keynote address 

made a strong impression. He pulled no punches 

in citing the evils that existed, their causes and 

dangers, not only to exhibition, but to production 

and distribution, as well. And he came forth 

with specific suggestions for remedial steps that 

might be taken. 

It was clear, not only from what Mr. McGee 

said with reference to the need for a merging of 

exhibitor organizations into one strong national 

unit, but from the views thereon expressed from 

the floor and by other TOA leaders, that such 

a possibility seemed closer than ever before. 

From the tenor of the meetings, Mr. McGees remark 

that "the areas of agreement (with other 

organizations) are large and we should take 

steps to bring this about quickly" was an understatement. 

The similarity of thought, expression 

and action was so much like that evinced at 

.•Mlied meetings that, indeed, if there were any 

difference between the two organizations, it was 

merely in name and, perhaps, in approach to 

dealing with the problems common to both. 

Speaking of corridor conversations, this observer 

was told by a number of exhibitors that 

considerable alleviation of the problems complained 

of could result from better working relations 

among e-\hibitors themselves, especially 

in competitive situations. Some decried the bidding 

position they were placed in by greedy 

competitors who wanted all of the better pictures 

and who offered ridiculous terms, leading to the 

so-called "unconscionable' demands of distributors. 

The print shortage and the product dissipation 

practices were said to stem, to considerable 

degree, from this condition. We were informed 

of specific cases, some of which seemed 

ahnost unbelievable. But we know they exist. Of 

course, some of these conditions may be the result 

of distributor policies, albeit distributors 

have put the blame on exhibitors for multipleruns, 

extended runs and the upsetting of orderly 

clearance. 

Regardless of who is to blame, a condition 

exists that urgently needs to be eradicated and 

it is to the industry's best interests that a way 

be found—by the industry—to adjust these matters 

quickly and as amicably as possible. If, as 

Al Lichtman said, his company, for one, is willing 

to sell exhibitors on any basis that will provide 

a fair and equitable contract, it would seem 

that only the proof of unfairness of deals complained 

of is necessary. Whether or not the 

fault lies with competitive exhibition situations, 

the distributor, whose product is involved, is a 

factor therein and his sincere effort to resolve 

these matters should be helpful, to 

say the least. 

Mr. Lichtman also made the statement that 

the distributors know the grossing potential of 

every theatre in the United States. They should, 

therefore, know what is a fair proportion of 

ticket receipts each theatre can pay and, if they 

apply this ratio of film cost to income—allowing 

for some exceptions in the instance of extremely 

high-powered or high-cost films—the area of 

disagreement would, at least, be reduced. Distributors, 

then, along with exhibitors, would be 

able to devote more time to the promotion and 

merchandising of films and the consequent upbuilding 

of patronage which would help just that 

much more to improve the earning possibilities, 

both for buyer and seller. 

There is right and wrong on both sides of the 

fence. But, with a statesmanlike approach at a 

roundtable discussion between producers, distributors 

and exhibitors—as Mr. Lichtman suggested—a 

sound solution, with some degree of 

permanence, might be found. 

Exhibitors are now paying dearly for the 

"outside" interference that was brought into previous 

efforts to settle inlra-industry problems. 

Before the industry pulls itself completely apart, 

the bickering and threatening and pressures had 

best be stopped. 

\Jiv^ yMJL^^yf^

TOA CONVENTION REPORT 

TOA VOTES PLAN TO FINANCE 

INDEPENDENT FILM PRODUCERS 

Association Hopes to Force 

Down Price of Films and 

Create Buyers' Market 

By NATHAN COHEN 

CHICAGO—Theatre Owners of America 

pulled up all of its big guns in the fight 

between exhibitors and distributors on 

product shortage and film prices. 

Pi'om all indications, the two basic segments 

of the motion picture business are 

poised for a showdown of strength. There 

was no mincing of words at the annual 

convention of TOA, and the exhibitors 

stripped down for action by endorsing some 

ventures which possess potential potent 

wallops. 

The exhibitor organization unanimously 

approved a step which will establish a giant 

financing organization to help independents 

produce important pictures. Through it TOA 

will become the bankroller, the "angel," the 

encouraging force behind the making of independent 

pictures in a move to force down 

the price of films and to create a buyers' 

market in the industry. 

Not only did the convention take this tremendous 

step, but Alfred Starr, chairman of 

the executive committee, in a rousing, 

straight-forward talk about the seriousness 

with which exhibitors consider their forthcoming 

battle with distribution, intimated 

that the organization is ready to step ahead 

on other fronts. Mincing no words, he delivered 

the warning directly to Al Lichtman, 

director of sales for 20th Century-Pox, after 

Lichtman had personally gone before the 

convention in an appeal to exhibitors to sit 

down with company heads to talk over differences. 

Although it was not so announced, it 

was interpreted by TOA executives that the 

20th-Pox sales chief was presenting the views 

of all major distributors, despite Lichtman's 

having stated he was speaking only for his 

company. 

This is what Starr said: 

1. "It is high time we ask the Department 

of Justice to review the results of the consent 

Record Attendance Mark 

Of 1,053 at TOA Meet 

Chicago — The Theatre Owners of 

America convention drew 1,053 officially 

registered guests, the largest ever to attend 

an exhibitor association convention. 

The exhibitors and others in various 

branches of the industry represented 39 

states, Canada, Alaslia and the District 

of Columbia. 

This expanded growth of TOA is a 

tribute to the organizational worls which 

was carried on in 1954. There were more 

than 100 theatremen from the west coast 

area, where four new units were established 

during the year. 

Pat McGee Favors Early 

Merger of TOA-AHled 

CHICAGO—Merger of Theatre Owners of 

America and Allied was suggested by Pat 

McGee in his keynote address before the 

TOA convention at the Conrad Hilton Hotel 

Monday (1). 

"Since the reasons for the separation between 

Allied and TOA have long since disappeared," 

he said, "these and other exhibitor 

organizations should unite. A single theatre 

group, in which no one will lose his identity, 

would pool our manpower and resources to 

further our mutual interests. There are no 

stumbling blocks that I can see. Indeed, the 

areas of agreement are large and we should 

take steps to bring this about quickly. 

"We should then appoint an action committee, 

headed by a single executive of experience 

who would be empowered to explore 

the methods of financing those producers who 

need it, methods of assuring more efficient 

distribution and methods of increasing production 

in general. The time for conversation 

has past. When the machinery is ready, we 

must then back it with playdates and with 

money. Once having set forth on these objectives 

we must pursue them relentlessly." 

McGee outlined these objectives under four 

points: 

"(1) Encourage present producers to make 

additional pictures as good as they know how. 

"(2) Encourage foreign producers to analyze 

our needs in the United States and 

make pictures that will interest American 

audiences. This can be done by using American 

stars in foreign productions coupled with 

foreign personalities. The roster is loaded 

decrees and to see whether we got any of 

the benefits of those decrees. 

2. "We will ask for modification of the decrees 

to permit former theatre affiliates of 

the distributors to produce and distribute 

pictures to relieve an artificially contrived 

sellers' 

mai'ket." 

Such a step, said Starr, would allow such 

former affiliated circuits as Stanley Warner, 

Paramount Theatres, and National Theatres 

to start making pictui'es, not only for their 

own theatres but for independent theatres. 

The board later voted to make an official 

proposal to the Department of Justice that 

former theatre affiliates of the majors be 

permitted to produce and distribute motion 

pictures with the explicit understanding "that 

all existing safeguards against monopolistic 

control continue to be rigidly enforced." 

"God help you. if the government ever 

regulates our business," Lichtman warned the 

convention. "The decrees helped no one. 

One of the reasons for the shortage of pictures 

was the abolishment of block booking. 

Another was divorcement, which made the 

making of the smaller pictures unprofitable. 

BULLETIN 

Chicago—The proposal of Ben Marcus, 

president of Allied States Ass'n, that 

Allied and TOA start "going together" 

as a means of discussing mutual problems 

has been accepted by the Theatre 

Owners of America. Walter Reade jr., 

retiring president of TOA, to whom Marcus 

addressed his letter, was authorized 

by the board to write to the Allied chief 

and suggest that committees representing 

the two organizations meet at their earliest 

convenience to discuss the thoughts 

contained in the Marcus letter." 

with names of current stars Vv'ho came from 

foreign countries and found a home in the 

hearts of American theatregoers. Put Gina 

Ijollobrigida in one good American-style movie 

and you will have another star. Mr. Rank 

wants a larger share of the American market. 

Our screens are open to him, but he must 

find a way of appealing to the American 

theatregoer who so far has shown no interest 

in most Briti-sh pictures. 

"(3) We must have a distribution channel 

more sympathetic to our needs for product 

during April and May, November and December, 

when we really must tighten our belts 

for lack of film. 

"(4) There are many encouraging developments, 

such as Freddie Schwartz's Distributor 

Corp. of America. Bill Goldman's new 

production company, Filmakers, Makelim, and 

others who must be encouraged, especially 

at their inception, to get them off to a good 

start." 

With this market cut off, producers were no 

longer able to maintain stock companies of 

players." 

But the convention was in no mood to discount 

the advantages of some government aid 

in some form. 

Starr said he could sympathize with the 

Allied threat of seeking enactment of a bill 

to establish government regulation of film 

prices. 

"Desperate men seek desperate measures," 

he told Lichtman. 

If the Allied convention in Milwaukee three 

weeks ago was militant in tone, TOA's approach 

to the same subject was equally warlike, 

and surprisingly so. as it was not anticipated 

that the association would go so 

far in stating its position on the trade policies 

of the distributors. 

The TOA financing organization will not 

be limited to members of the association. 

Any theatre, legally able to join a pictureproducing 

organization, will be welcomed as 

a supporter of the company. Former distribu- 

(Continued on page 10) 

BOXOFFICE November 6. 1954

TOA CONVENTION REPORT . 

Cont'd 

NEED MORE GOOD FILMS TO SAVE 

EXHIBITION. McGEE TELLS TOA 

Declares 8,000 Theatres 

In Danger While Large 

City Spots Prosper 

CHICAGO—Pat McGee hit straight from 

the shoulder in his keynote address Monday 

1 1 ) for the opening of the Theatre 

Owners of America convention by asserting 

that unless the industry turns out more 

good pictures it cannot survive. 

"We have a tremendous selling job to get 

more people into the theatres and this job 

will not be done by relying on a few big 

pictures at increased admission prices," he 

declared. 

CRITICIZES EXTENDED RUNS 

Other highlights of his address were: 

Eighty per cent of theatres are grossing 

seven per cent less than last year, despite 

the $123,000,000 tax saving. 

Extended playing time at increased rentals 

and a reduced number of pictures are forcing 

some theatres to hold features until 

they pass the break-even point. 

Unless more pictures are provided, 8.000 

theatres may be forced to close. 

There is danger of pricing theatres out of 

the market through increased admissions. 

Forty and 50 per cent rentals have reduced 

profits to a point that makes proper 

maintenance impossible. 

McGee's comments were not all critical. 

He praised Spyros P. Skouras for introducing 

Cinemascope and stimulating business 

and said he thought 20th Century-Fox was 

entitled to profit from its gamble, even 

though exhibitors disapproved some of the 

early methods. 

Explaining that his purpose was not to indulge 

in any name-calling, McGee said, "We 

should, and no doubt will, encourage the 

makers of pictures to continue doing their 

level-best to provide as many fine films as 

normal limitations permit." 

HOPES FOR IMPROVEMENT 

McGee then expressed the hope that "our 

friends in production and distribution will 

try to listen and to join with us iji curing 

conditions which should not exist." He asserted 

that it was in the interests of production 

and distribution "when we point out 

things which are damaging—in the hope that 

through reasonable and friendly discussion we 

can improve what is bad, while retaining 

what is good." 

McGee next pointed to the steady decline 

in attendance since 1946 which has not as yet 

been checked. 

"In om' own circuit (Cooper Foundation 

Theatres), attendance is seven and one-half 

per cent below a year ago, while our dollar 

volume has increased six per cent, which 

should have been a 12':; per cent increase, 

based on the fact that we have a net savings 

of 12'^ per cent on the excise tax. With increased 

film rentals of five to 10 per cent, 

you can see what happens to the profits. 

"Even in the days when we boasted of 

selling 80 to 90 million tickets a week, we 

never had that many individual theatre- 

E. D. Martin Succeeds 

Reade As TOA Head 

CHICAGO—Edwin D. Martin, a second 

generation exhibitor whose family was in 

the motion picture business before he was 

born, is the new president of Theatre Owners 

of America. He succeeds Walter Reade 

jr.. who, like him, also is the son of an early 

exhibitor. Reade becomes chairman of the 

board of directors. 

Martin, who is president of the extensive 

chain which bears the family name, lives in 

Columbus, Ga. He has been in theatre work 

for almost as long as he can remember, although 

his active participation in the Martin 

circuit did not began until his graduation 

from the University of Georgia. His father, 

the late Roy Martin, developed a chain of 

theatres which extends throughout the southeast 

and now comprises approximately 139 

indoor and outdoor theatres. 

Alfred Starr, Nashville, was elected chairman 

of the executive committee. Until the 

convention, he had been chairman of both 

the board of directors and the executive 

committee, but the convention decision was 

to separate the two offices. Stan- is a former 

TOA president. Samuel Pinanski of 

Boston was elected honorary chairman of 

the board, a post previously held by the late 

Charles P. Skouras. Eight vice-presidents 

were elected, six being renamed and two 

added. Elected for the first time were George 

Kerasotes, Springfield, 111., and J. J. Rosenfield. 

Spokane, Wash. Renamed were A. Julian 

Brylawski, Washington, D. C; Roy Cooper. 

San Francisco; Pat McGee, Denver; Myron 

goers. We had about 45 million frequent attenders. 

People did go two and three times 

weekly, but with the declining number of 

pictures there is also a proportionate decline 

in the opportunity to attend, which is one 

explanation for lowered attendance in total. 

"As an industry, we have a tremendous 

selling job to get more people into the theatres, 

and this job will not be done by relying 

on a few pictures at increased admission 

prices. MGM's Ticket Selling Workshop 

is a step in the right direction on this matter. 

No question but that exliibitors must 

work just as hard as producers and distributors 

to sell more tickets." 

Admitting that some advanced-price shows 

have helped to increase gj-osses in a few big 

cities, he said that such results would not 

hit 80 per cent of the theatres. In this respect, 

he hit at the idea that fewer, but better, 

pictures are the answer to the industry when 

he said, "Such a policy will eventually kill us. 

We say, always try for better pictures, 

but more of them, to keep up the interest 

in the thousands of theatres in smaller communities 

of the country which cannot live 

in a market of short supply. 

Blank, Des Moines; John Rowley, Dallas, and 

Albert Pickus. Stratford, Conn. 

Robert Livingston of Omaha was again 

named secretary and S. H. Fabian of New 

York was re-elected treasurer. In a shift in 

the manner in which the important finance 

committee is organized, the board of directors 

elected Mitchell Wolfson chahman and 

authorized him to name a committee of not 

less than three and not more than five, to be 

selected on a geographical basis. Previously, 

the finance committee had two co-chairmen 

who carried on the total program. Herman 

Levy of New Haven was again chosen as 

TOA's general counsel, a post he has held 

since the organization's inception. 

A 23-man executive committee was elected, 

with special emphasis paid to picking a body 

which represented a wide geographical area. 

Elected were; 

Carl E. Anderson, Kalispell, Monf.; Art Adamson, 

Portland, Ore.; Tom Bloomer, Belleville, III.; Jock 

Braunagel, Kansas City, Mo.; James Carbery, Little 

Rock, Ark.; C. E. Cook, Moryville, Mo.; Horace Denning, 

Jacksonville, Flo.; Edward L. Fabian, New York; 

Nathan Greer, Santa Fe, N. M.; Mack Jackson, Alexander 

City, Ala.; M. A. Lightman jr., Memphis, Tenn.; 

R. M. Kennedy, Birmingham, Ala.; Arthur Lockwood, 

Boston, Moss.; Morris Loewenstein, Oklahoma City; 

Roy Martin jr., Columbus, Ga.; Martin J. Mullin, 

Boston; J. J. O'Leary, Scranton; A. Fuller Sams jr., 

Sfafesville, S. C; Jay Solomon, Chattanooga; Morton 

Thalhimer, Richmond, Va.; David Wallerstein, Chicago; 

Robert B. Wilby, Atlanta; Nat Williams, Thomasville. 

Go. 

Samuel Pinanski was chairman of the 

nominating committee, which included L. S. 

Hamm, Carl Anderson, James Carbery, David 

Wallerstein, R. M. Kennedy, Mitchell Wolfson. 

"As the number of pictures available to 

us decreases, those theatres in key cities find 

their film terms and length of runs increasing. 

The too-high film rental reduces or 

eliminates your profit to start with. The 

too-long rim causes you to reach the point 

where the declining gross brings you to the 

break-even point and the lack of a picture 

to follow compels even further extending the 

run, and this throws you into a loss. 

"Theatres which changed three and four 

times a week now change twice a week. If 

they change oftener, they are picking up 

old pictures which have played many times 

already, merely to fill out the playing time 

and with no hope of profit. These problems 

could be cured quickly with a larger supply 

of good pictures." 

He further said that under the policy of 

fewer pictures, key cities find rentals and 

length of runs extended, which results in a 

reduced or eliminated profit. 

"Fi'iends of mine in distribution have actually 

said they are reconciled to the loss 

of 5,000 additional theatres. This is a heart- 

(Continued on page 10) 

BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954

PuUeSe^HU 

Elmer C. Rhoden Named Head 

Of National Theatres Corp. 

As successor to Charles P. Skouras he will 

retain headquarters on the coast, however 

will not relinquish residence in Kansas City 

where, he says, his roots are too deep. At 

testimonial dinner given him by the industry 

in Kansas City on Oct. 24, 1945, Skouras had 

openly expressed wish that, when he retired, 

Rhoden would become the circuit's president. 

Attending the board meeting in Los Angeles 

Thursday (4) were Rhoden, Gregson 

Bautzer, John B. Bertero, Peter Colefax, Maj. 

Gen. Ben F. Giles, Earle G. Hines, Willard 

Keith, Richard W. Millar, F. H. Ricketson jr., 

and Graham L. 

Sterling. 

* 

Ask Senate Group to Probe 

Policies of Distributors 

Southern California Theatre Owners Ass'n 

dispatches another communique to small business 

committee, charging that exhibitors are 

now operating on a "day-to-day" bafis and 

need relief. 

• 

Paramount Reports Increase 

In Nine Months' Earnings 

Consolidated profit of company for period 

estimated after taxes at $6,390,000, compared 

with $4,996,000 for the same 1953 period, a 

gain of $1,394,000; represents $2.89 a share. 

• 

Republic 39-Week Profit 

Drops Below Last Year 

Report net of $776,971 after federal tax 

provision and estimated federal normal and 

surtaxes, for period ending July 31, compared 

with $823,155 for the same 1953 period. 

* 

Industry Studying Effect 

Of National Elections 

Democratic control of the House will mean 

new personalities to deal with in Washington; 

antitrust reaction will be watched; New York 

exhibitors mildly hopeful new state administration 

will end city ticket tax. 

Ik- 

Eric Johnston Plans Leaving 

For Australia November 9 

MPAA pre.sident will fly to Australia, where 

he will stay for ten days, then go to the 

Philippines and Japan; will be away four 

weeks; trip to Hong Kong and Formosa 

called off. 

• 

MPEA Favors Recommendation 

For Single Film Festival 

Welcome proposal of International Federation 

of Film Producers Ass'n meeting in 

Madrid that only one such event be held annually 

beginning in 1956, with no country to 

sponsor two successive years. 

• 

Jack Clink Is Head Engineer 

Of Perspecta. Fine Sound 

Appointed to post by Elmer O. Wilschke, 

operations vice-president of the two companies; 

also will be recording supervisor; has 

had 20 years experience in the industry. 

TOA CONVENTION REPORT . 

Financing Plan 

(Continued from page 8) 

tor affiliates may, temporarily, be ineligible 

to participate in such a venture. 

The association will start working on the 

mechanics of the organization immediately. 

The plan itself was presented to TOA by its 

west coast units in California, Oregon, Washington, 

Montana and Alaska, through L. S. 

Hamm of San Francisco, an attorney and exhibitor 

who has been prominent in exhibitor 

association affairs for many years. He 

called the plan "the roar of the Pacific." 

Under the TOA proposal, exhibitors will 

be asked to pledge a minimum of one week's 

total film rental into the financing pool. This 

proposal had an immediate acceptance. 

Mimeographed pledge forms were distributed 

to convention delegates a few minutes after 

the decision to get into production was 

made, and hundreds of theatres were reported 

to have signed up. Immediate figures 

were not revealed, but Starr said the response 

was "fantastically" successful. 

AGREE TO PLAYING TIME 

In signing the pledge, exhibitors not only 

agreed to advance or contribute "in whatever 

manner shall be determined to be lawful" 

the one week's film rental, but agreed 

to offer playing time to all pictures produced 

and released through the plan. 

The TOA board is to name a committee 

of not more than five trustees for the purpose 

of receiving subscription funds for the 

formation of the finance company, with at 

least one not to be a member of TOA. This 

group will serve until such time as the 

financing organization is legally prepared to 

receive funds. It also will be the function 

of the trustees to proceed with the mechanics 

of creating the company. 

A $5,000 loan was extended to the trustees 

to meet organizational expenses. It was 

pointed out that the company will not be 

a TOA organization, but is merely being created 

with the help of the exhibitor group to 

bring more product into the market. 

TO SUPPORT MAKELIM PLAN 

The TOA plan is in no way to be considered 

a "brushoff" to the Makelim plan 

which Allied States Ass'n is backing. 

"We urge support of that plan," said Herman 

Levy, general counsel. "We are simply 

taking another approach to reach the same 

end of supplying the market with adequate 

product." 

When the convention was on the topic of 

film rentals, product shortages and trade 

practices, the mood was a militant one. The 

exhibitors appeared to be dead serious about 

taking drastic action to halt the trend toward 

the 70-30-10 type of picture and the frequency 

of the 50 per cent features, and ending the 

product shortage. This was evident at a special 

session held by small-town exhibitors on 

the opening day of the convention, at an offthe-record 

get-it-off-your-chest gabfest, and 

at the explosive meeting addressed by Lichtman. 

The Lichtman session started out calmly 

enough, with the 20th-Fox sales executive delivering 

his talk, and getting a big hand. The 

question and answer period which followed 

was on a friendly, let's-try-and-get-along 

ba.sis until Morton Thalhimer, president of 

Neighborhood Theatres, Inc.. a circuit operating 

in the Virginia territory, rose to say 

that he wasn't at all satisfied with what 

. . Cont'd 

had been said at the convention. 

"What exhibitors can't understand," he declared, 

"is why they are having such a tough 

time getting along when distributors axe 

doing so well. The exhibitors can't understand 

why they have to tell their 52-weeks-ayear 

customers that the price of a picture 

has gone up to $1 or $1.25. They can't understand 

why it is impossible for 20th-Fox to 

make more pictures. 

"Kind remarks won't keep theatres open," 

he warned. "Pictures are getting so scarce 

that we grab at even the big-price pictures, 

and we'd be hypocrites if we sat here and 

offered no protest to the situation." 

Lichtman said he was aware of the shortage 

of product, but he said that in these 

days when only the top pictures make money, 

studios couldn't afford to turn out ordinary 

features just to keep pictures rolling off 

the production line. 

Actually, he declared, the studios are not 

equipped with enough creative talent to turn 

out more than 16 to 20 pictures a year. 

Weecf Goocf f/7ms 

(Continued from page 9) 

breaking thing to those exhibitors numbered 

among the 5,000. The disparagement of the 

small-town theatre and the neighborhood 

theatre shocks me, perhaps, most of all. The 

dollars and cents value of these theatres 

may not be great. The social value ol these 

theatres and their value as developers of 

'feeder business' is beyond estimate. 

"Wise sales analysts have demonstrated 

that while a smash picture can recover its 

investment in the larger situations, that the 

widest possible playing time is needed to 

rescue the run-of-the-mill picture and the 

nervous 'A' picture from the loss columns. 

"Distributors have watched the key center 

grosses and have assumed that they can 

get 40 per cent and 50 per cent film rentals 

without question, when we know that 80 per 

cent of the theatres, by paying such terms, 

have reduced their profit margins to the 

point where they cannot maintain their properties. 

"It is not healthy for exhibitors that a 

market of short supply exists. Nor is it healthy 

for the producer. Exhibitors going out of 

business naturally look for relief—even to 

the government. This, we of TOA do not believe 

to be a good answer. 

"When the field representatives bring a 

new picture to an exhibitor on a 'must' 50 

per cent basis, with a take-it-or-leave-it attitude, 

relations between us must deteriorate. 

When distributors, bound by court decree to 

establish reasonable clearance between theatres, 

use film terms as the deciding factor, 

goodwill is not created. I know that in many 

centers, a distributor, with, say, six prints 

available for a second run, sets an arbitrary 

50 per cent or 40 per cent film rental and 

sells the pictures to those suckers who agree 

to the terms, only to play these top pictures 

at a loss. 

"Other distributors, without exhibitor requests, 

are demanding bids from sub-runs on 

limited prints, with no indication of what 

terms will be acceptable. This produces overbidding, 

and losses without adjustment. While 

it may be legal, it is clearly a sharp business 

practice. 

"It is not right to set an arbitrary sales 

policy and try to apply it to all communities. 

It is bearable in some places and unbearable 

in 

others." 

10 BOXOFFICE : 

: November 6, 1954

TOA CONVENTION REPORT . . . Cont'd 

Predict Vast Income 

For TV in Theatres 

assault," the committeemen stated, 

CHICAGO—Theatre television will enable 

exhibitors to offer "the biggest attractions 

especially if they are in color, and attract 

vast audiences from coast to coast," S. H. 

Fabian and Mitchell Wolfson, co-chairmen of 

the Theatre Television Committee, reported 

to the Theatre Owners of America. 

"We are on the eve of developments that 

forecast a different theatre business than we 

have known," the report concluded. "The 

far-seeing exhibitor will face this future with 

confidence and boldness and be ready to ride 

with the tide." 

The tone of the report throughout was 

optimistic. 

"Unable to overwhelm us with the powerful 

initial 

"TV is raiding our vaults for star product of 

yesteryear and organizing a deep flanking 

movement to disrupt our source of picture 

supply and immobilize our patrons in their 

homes through metered TV. 

"We have the weapon for a powerful 

counter-attack, but are exceedingly slow in 

developing its mighty potential. For additional 

revenue and for recouping patronage 

taken from us by the lure of 'free' entertainment, 

closed-circuit TV is a reinforcement 

which can advance us to a new era in the 

history of theatres." 

The four existing systems for pay-as-yousee 

TV were reviewed. It was pointed out 

that, if the Federal Communications Commission 

should approve these systems, it 

would "eliminate the middleman (every exhibitor 

in the United States) and encourage 

direct producer-to-consumer buying of motion 

picture entertainment on a vast scale." 

Sports "could be a major magnet" for patrons, 

the committeemen said. Sports promoters 

would "inevitably gravitate" toward 

theatres, if more seats were available, the 

committee predicted, and bottlenecks on long 

lines and local loops would disappear. 

TOA Accepts NBC Offer 

For Free 'Spectaculars' 

CHICAGO — The most definite 

marriage 

proposal motion pictures has received from 

commercial TV has been accepted by Theatre 

Owners of America. The offer came from 

the National Broadcasting Co., and the network 

is ready to turn one of its 90-minute 

"spectaculars" over to the motion picture industry 

free. 

R. J. O'Donnell of the Interstate circuit 

revealed to the TOA convention that Frederick 

Wile, vice-president in charge of the 

NBC operation in Hollywood, had offered 

to turn one of the "spectaculars" over to the 

film industry early in 1955, and that if the 

program is successful, the TV network would 

consider three or four such programs a year. 

All the industry would be asked to provide 

would be clips from upcoming pictures and 

some personal appearances by stars. NBC 

would pay the lines charges, and put about 

$50,000 into the program's production costs. 

Wile placed the continuance of the programs 

on the basis of whether the industry considered 

them "beneficial." 

O'Donnell received the endorsement of 

TOA. and with this backing he is to go to 

Hollywood with several other exhibitor leaders 

in an effort to interest the studios in providing 

the necessary clips and star appearances. 

Walter Reade jr., calling the board of directors of TOA into 1954 session, tells 

them that attendance was the best in the history of the organization. More than 60 

exhibitors who serve on the national board attended. 

Govt Controls 

Not Regulate, 

Ask for Availability 

On Automatic Basis 

CHICAGO — Exhibitors in Washington, 

D. C, are calling for automatic 21-day availability 

for subsequent run theatres, whether 

the "break" comes on preferred weekend dates 

or not. 

Through the Motion Picture Theatre Owners 

of Metropolitan D. C, theatremen charged 

that, under the present 21-day availability 

plan, pictures frequently break considerably 

later than the 21-day period. They also contend 

that all so-called top pictures now are 

set to break on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. 

In other words, if the 21st day comes midweek, 

the companies will not permit a theatre 

to book the film until the weekend, the 

association charges. 

By making the availabilities automatic, the 

companies would eliminate a situation which 

has practically all 21-day theatres playing 

the same picture day and date, "a condition 

which has caused much complaint from theatregoers 

and has hurt the income of the 

theatres in this availability classification." 

The association also made these complaints 

in a resolution presented to the TOA convention 

here: il) That due to so-called print 

shortage a sub-run exhibitor must frequently 

rearrange his bookings to his detriment; (2) 

that on certain pictures distributors have 

disregarded the established scales and have 

insisted on fixed, top percentage terms, which 

do not make allowance for boxoffice fluctuation. 

Pioneers Dinner Attracts 

Coast-to-Coast Attention 

NEW YORK—Reservations coming in from 

the coast, south and middle west have given 

national significance to the 16th annual 

showmanship dinner of the Motion Picture 

Pioneers to be held November 17 at the 

Sheraton Astor Hotel. It will honor S. H. 

Fabian as "pioneer of the year." 

Would Regiment, 

Says Wolfson 

MIAMI—Mitchell Wolfson, a partner in 

Wometco Theatres of Miami, Fla., who is 

chairman of the finance committee and a 

former president of TOA, is strongly opposed 

to federal controls of film distribution. As his 

personal reaction to this advocacy, he issued 

the following statement: 

"We are very much opposed to Allied States' 

plan to seek federal control of film distribution. 

"Their plan speaks of regulation, but invites 

regimentation. I have read Mr. Myers' 

bill and it gives me the shivers. I continue to 

believe in the people of America and their 

common sense which will regulate business 

so that it shall provide continued safeguards 

and opportunities for our children and their 

children; but I am strongly opposed to the 

loss of the American concept of a free market 

which this bill proposes by substituting control 

by the federal government. 

"The making of more pictures must be encouraged 

by exhibitors. For this reason, there 

must remain hope of gain, if we are to hope 

that there will remain those willing to risk 

making pictures of unusual boxoffice value. 

Limit the hope and you limit the hazard men 

are willing to face; predetermine his potential 

and you will preempt his performance. 

"As exhibitors, we should continue a united 

fight for fair prices and policies, but we 

should not seek the help of professional 

politicians who owe no allegiance of heart 

and may well become guests who will eat more 

than we can place on the table. 

"We want more pictm-es—not more policies. 

We should work to that end in unity and not 

force prices up by trying to out-bid each 

other. 

"Those who grow fat on government by 

bureaucracy would welcome another teat to 

milk. I'd prefer we keep that nourishment 

for those who own the cow." 

New Universal Dividend 

NEW YORK—The board of Universal Pictures 

Wednesday (3) declared a quarterly 

dividend of $1.0625 a share on the i^t per 

cent cumulative preferred stock of the company. 

It will be payable December 1 to stockholders 

of record November 15. 

BOXOFFICE :: November 6, 1954 11

— 

TOA Convention 

flRBITBATION was not a convention floor 

topic, but the board of directors reaffirmed 

its stand for a forceful arbitration 

system for the film industry. Herman Levy, 

TOA general counsel who is drafting the text 

of a proposed arbitration plan with Adolph 

Schimel, representing the distributors, said 

he will resume his conferences when he returns 

to New York later in the month. He 

has a number of regional TOA conventions 

to attend before getting down to the job of 

finalizing the arbitration plan. 

* * * 

The convention was not without its moments 

of pleasantries. Equipment and supply 

manufacturers, and dealers seemed to vie 

with each other for the opportunity to entertain 

the exhibitors. At luncheon Tuesday, 

United Film Service, Inc., and Motion Picture 

Advertising Co., Inc., were hosts; Monday 

night, TESMA and TEDA were hosts at 

an open house party; Tuesday evening, the 

Coca-Cola Co. entertained with a cocktail 

party at the Blackstone Hotel; Wednesday 

noon, the luncheon was on Motiograph, Inc., 

the Nestle Co., Radio Corp. of America, National 

Theatre Supply Co., Charles E. Hires 

Co. and Radiant Manufacturing Corp. 

Wednesday night the guests went by bus to 

the Tam-O-Shanter Country Club for a 

Pepsi-Cola supper and square dance and, 

preceding the TOA banquet, the delegates 

were guests of National Carbon Co. for cocktails. 

* * « 

Bruce Balaban, son of A. J. Balaban, 

screened a 30-minute television film which 

plugs upcoming pictures, and which is being 

sold to local sponsors as a package deal across 

the country. The film is exclusively for TV 

distribution. Balaban said distributors are 

cooperating with him in providing clips. He 

asked TOA to support the project. The film 

does not involve exhibitors as sponsors. 

* * 

Harold Eskin of Philadelphia told the convention 

something ought to be done about 

exorbitant bidding. The companies ought 

to reject unreasonable bids, he said. When 

a theatre with a maximum grossing possibility 

of $4,000 a week bids S3,500 for a picture, 

something ought to be done to save that exhibitor 

from ruining himself, he said. 

At the drive-in theatre forum, Eddie Clark, 

who operates an indoor-outdoor theatre at 

Metropolis, III., reported his winter business 

was equal to 80 per cent of his summer gross. 

The executive contingent from the 

Schine circuit, Gloversville, N. Y., gets together. 

Left to right: Louis W. Schine, 

George Lynch, Donald G. Schine, son of 

Louis, and Seymour Morris, director of 

advertising and publicity for the circuit. 

Sidelights 

while his concession business was 110 per 

cent of his summer take. Clark recommended 

that drive-in operators add an indoor auditorium 

to their outdoor operation. He has 

a 523-seat house in a 420-car drive-in. In 

November, on a 60-degree night, 40 per cent 

of his patrons will go into the indoor auditorium. 

But on any winter night, no matter 

how bitter the cold or biting the wind, you 

can count on a substantial number of hardy 

patrons who will wrap up in blankets and 

stick it out in the car, he said. 

* * * 

Hy Fine of Boston, presiding at Wednesday's 

luncheon, told about the Arkansas exhibitor, 

short on product, who went to one of the 

Memphis exchanges looking for a reissue that 

might do him some good. He thumbed 

through the releases of the past six or seven 

years, came across a likely title, said he'd take 

it. The booker said okay, the terms would 

be 50 per cent. The exhibitor looked increduously 

at the booker, "You're crazy," he protested. 

"This picture won't gross 50 per cent." 

A group of Missourians meet. Left to 

right: Louis Ansell, veteran St. Louis 

theatreman; Edward B. Arthur, St. Louis 

Amusement Co. general manager; L. J. 

Williams, Union, Mo.; Frank Plumlee, 

Farmington, Mo., and Joseph Ansell of 

St. Louis. 

After Al Reynolds, general manager of the 

Ezell Drive-In circuit, reported to the drive-in 

forum that his circuit had installed Piberglas 

screens in 21 theatres in ten Texas cities 

at a cost of $12,000 each, Joe Marshall, who 

runs the Starlite Drive-In in Danville, Ky., 

got up and said he got a "glass" screen for 

$175. He was watching a state crew paint the 

white stripe down the center of the highway 

alongside his theatre, and thought the highly 

reflective stuff might work on his screen. So 

he got himself ten gallons at $4.50 a gallon, 

had a crew brush it on, and now, he vows, he 

has the best screen in his part of the country. 

It is a Sherwin-Williams product with some 

kind of a "glass" ingredient. 

* * * 

The troublesome problem bothering exhibitors 

in situations adjacent to military installations—the 

showing of first run pictures at 

low prices to which civilians are admitted 

may be solved soon. Walter Reade jr., retiring 

TOA president, said that talks with military 

personnel have been going on for about 

six months in an effort to eliminate this 

unfair trade practice. 

• • * 

The grass roots exhibitors are to have "an 

even larger and more forceful representation" 

in the TOA organization, as a result of the 

personnel complexion of the new executive 

committee. Selections were made on a geo- 

E. D. Martin (center), newly elected 

president of TOA discusses some industry 

problems with Ben Shiyen (right), publisher 

of BOXOFFICE, and Gaston Bureau 

jr., executive of Paramount Gulf 

Theatres, New Orleans. 

graphical basis, and the plan is to give increased 

responsibilities to the small-town 

theatreman. When it was learned, for example, 

that about 100 exhibitors in towns of 

less than 5,000 population, were registered at 

the convention, a special meeting was set up 

for them immediately, so that their problems 

could be discussed, both in private and on 

the convention floor. 

* * • 

"I'll let you in on a secret," confided Alfred 

Starr, chairman of the executive committee, 

to the tradepress. "Ed Martin, who is TOA's 

new president, and I are both members of 

Allied, and have been for years and, I believe, 

Martin is an officer of one of the regional 

Allied units." This "confession" came after 

Starr had discussed at a press conference 

the invitation extended by Ben Marcus 

of Allied to start going together with the 

view of an eventual "marriage" of the two 

national exhibitor organizations. 

* * * 

The board adopted a resolution placing 

TOA on record as a participant in the industry 

fight against subscription television. 

The association was authorized to combat 

pay-as-you-see TV "in every legal way available 

to it" and to participate in the activities 

of the national exhibitor committee established 

to pace the fight. 

* * * 

The board adjourned "in solemn memory" 

of Charles P. Skouras, who was honorary 

member of the board at the time of his 

death. The board voted to furnish a room in 

the Sunday school of the St. Sophia Cathedral, 

Los Angeles as a memorial to the former 

exhibitor leader. It was Skouras who 

spurred the building of this Greek Orthodox 

Cathedral. A committee consisting of L. S. 

Hamm, San Francisco; E. C. Rhoden, Kansas 

City, and Herman Levy decided on the memorial 

plan. 

Participating in convention discussions 

were, left to right, this Tennessee delegation: 

Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Force, of the 

Lakemont Drive-In Theatre, Alcoa, Tenn.; 

Walter Morris, Knoxville. and Morton 

Tune, Princess Theatre, Shelbyville. 

12 BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954

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OTTO PREMINGER presents 

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TOA CONVENTION REPORT . . . Cont'd 

TOA Resolution Text 

To Back Production 

CHICAGO—The text of the TOA resolution 

establishing a bankroll organization to 

finance the production of motion pictures 

follows: 

"Whereas, the existing policies and practices of 

the 'so colled' major producers and distributors of 

pictures in the curtailing of production, and in demanding 

unreasonably extended playing time, and 

other oppressive methods, have resulted in a condition 

detrimental to the interests of the theatre 

going public, and are seriously threatening the existence 

of exhibitors; and, 

"WHEREAS, it is the conviction of this convention 

that the present deplorable conditions can be relieved 

only through the increased production of more 

better pictures, so that each exhibitor shall have 

available to him a steady flow of good product at 

fair rental; and that such relief should be implemented 

through prompt and decisive action on the 

port of Theatre Owners of America, Inc.; 

"NOW, THEREFORE, be it and it is hereby 

RESOLVED: That before the closing of this convention 

the board of directors of this organization, by 

suitable resolution, authorize, empower, and direct 

its officers to take necessary lawful action, either in 

the formation of a production finance company or 

otherwise, to the end that there shall be a substantial 

increase in the number of motion pictures produced 

and distributed, whether it be brought about 

by the financing of existing producers or production, 

or by assisting in the organization of new production 

companies, or otherwise; And, 

"RESOLVED FURTHER, that for the purposes aforesaid 

this organization acquire and make available 

sums of money in such extensive amounts as shall 

be found to be adequate in the development of the 

activity; and, 

"RESOLVED FURTHER that to supply the funds initially 

required, each of us voting in favor of this 

resolution, pledges himself to advance or to contribute 

in whatever manner shall be determined to 

be lawful an amount, equivalent at least to his 

current average film bills for one week's operation 

in each of his respective theatres; and that we pledge 

that we shall offer playing time to all pictures 

produced and released under the plans contemplated 

by this resolution. 

"RESOLVED FURTHER, that the board of directors 

in the formation of the plan, be authorized to invite 

participation on the part of all exhibitors to 

the end that the plan shall not be restricted to members 

of Theotre Owners of America, Inc., only." 

COMPO's Group Insurance 

Accepted in 650 Replies 

CHICAGO—The Council of Motion Picture 

Organizations has received 1,100 replies to the 

letters it sent out several weeks ago to 6,300 

exhibitors, asking them if they would be 

interested in joining a group insurance plan 

for their employes. Of these, 650, or more 

than half, indicated they would be interested. 

This information was contained in a report 

on COMPO given to the Theatre Owners of 

America convention by Sam Knanski, member 

of the three-man governing board of 

COMPO. This is more than sufficient for 

the underwriters to 

Allied has taken the stand that such a 

plan is not among the proper functions of 

COMPO. Whether or not this will halt 

further action is not known at present. 

GBD Int'l Is Handling 

'Mr. Hulot's Holiday' 

NEW YORK—GBD International 

put the plan into operation, 

as more than 6.000 employes are involved. 

Releasing 

Corp., of 130 East 58th St.. is handling 

the distribution of "Mr. Hulot's Holiday." 

starring Jacques Tati. in the western hemisphere, 

according to Don Getz, vice-president 

and general sales manager. 

The picture was reviewed in BOXOFFICE 

Oct. 30, 1954, after Atlantic Pictures had erroneously 

claimed that it was handling the 

U. S. distribution. 

Only Big Pictures Show 

Profit, Says Lichtman 

Lichtman Sees Agreement 

Near on Arbitration 

CHICAGO—That there is 

a probability 

of agreeing on the "one point" that has 

been delaying arbitration was indicated 

by Al Lichtman, director of distribution 

for 20th Century-Fox, at the Theatre 

Owners of America convention. 

The "one point" has been the distributors' 

refusal to arbitrate film rentals. 

"I am sure that as soon as we are able 

to meet again," he said, "which we plan 

be 

to do in the very near future, we will 

able to resolve that one point, too." 

Following his talk, Lichtman was asked 

whether his company would arbitrate differences 

during the period in which the 

industry carries on its negotiations for 

such a system. He said he would. This 

was in answer to a question put by Arthur 

Lockwood, Boston, a former TOA president. 

Another former president. Mitchell 

Wolfson of Miami, asked whether 20th- 

Fox would participate in conciliation, in 

order to simplify procedures when differences 

arise, and Lichtman replied his 

company w'ould, and that conciliation 

would be on film rentals as well as other 

subjects. 

RKO-TOA Production 

Meeting Suggested 

CHICAGO—A suggestion for a meeting on 

stimulating independent production has been 

wired by J. R. Grainger, RKO president, to 

E. D. Martin, new president of Theatre 

Owners of America. He would have RKO 

executives and TOA officials get together on 

the matter. He based his wire on convention 

statements by Walter Reade jr., outgoing 

TOA president, and Pat McGee. keynote 

speaker, that TOA was interested in 

stimulating independent production. 

"We at RKO," he wired, "would be interested 

in learning to what extent TOA was 

contemplating becoming financially interested 

in participating in independent production, 

as we at RKO have been participating in 

financing independent producers of quality 

pictures the past 18 months, and C. J. Tevlin. 

vice-president in charge of our studios in 

Los Angeles, and myself will be interested 

in meeting with you or your committee at 

Los Angeles at your convenience ... I 

might suggest a meeting after January 1." 

Lind 20 Years With AA 

NEW YORK—Lloyd Lind began Monday 

1 1 ) the 20th year of his association with Allied 

Artists. He is vice-president and general 

sales manager of Interstate Television Corp., 

AA subsidiary. He joined AA in 1934 in the 

contract department. Various executive positions 

followed, including supervisor of exchanges. 

CHICAGO—Big pictures are the only kind 

that make money these days, Al Lichtman, 

director of distribution for 20th Century-Fox, 

told the Theatre Owners of America convention 

on Tuesday (2). 

This has cut down the number of features 

available, he admitted, but these expensive 

specials are necessary to meet television 

competition. Ordinary pictures won't earn 

big grosses, he said. 

"We did not realize until it was almost 

too late that the public would not continue 

to patronize our theatres unless we gave them 

superior entertainment. That is the reason 

there are fewer pictures being made today, 

because major producers cannot afford to 

make a picture just for the sake of making 

numbers," Lichtman continued. 

His views were directly opposed to those 

expressed by Pat McGee in his keynote address 

the day before. 

Lichtman urged exhibitors to install the 

best equipment, including stereophonic sound, 

and to welcome further changes which, he 

said, are coming. He expressed the opinion 

that the big new pictures had met the threat 

of television and then said the way to beat 

television was to present "superior entertainment." 

Lichtman said a new prototype capable of 

showing Eidophor television on wide theatre 

screens would be shown some time this 

month, and that a producing organization 

would be formed to present a regular program 

of events in this medium. 

"This is the sure way to combat any kind 

of television in the home, whether it is free 

or toll, because there is no comparison between 

seeing any show, particularly big shows, 

on a 19-inch screen as against large screens 

in your theatres." 

Columbia Sets $10 Million 

For Independenf Films 

HOLLYWOOD—To stimulate independent 

production both here and abroad, 

avowedly to assist in overcoming the present 

shortage of celluloid, Harry Cohn, 

president of Columbia, announced 

Wednesday (3) that the company is 

allocating $10,000,000 to be devoted exclusively 

to the financing of such product 

for Columbia release. The disclosure was 

made during a series of top-level management 

huddles here, attended by studio 

and homeoffice executives. 

Cohn said that in addition to the increase 

in independent fare to be added 

to the Columbia slate for 1955. the company 

itself will deliver "a full program" 

of features, "an even greater number than 

in the past." 

Columbia Pictures Corp. has entered 

into a new five-year contract with Harry 

Cohn. its president, and the new pact 

will be submitted at the annual meeting 

in December for ratification by the Columbia 

stockholders. 

BOXOFFICE November 6. 1954 15

LL BE "MARTIN AND LEWIS 

tt 

Step Up And Read All About 

THE MOST STUPENJOUS, TREMENJOUS, 

COLOSSAL HOLIDAY ATTRACTION OF THEM ALL! 

o^^^^ll!^;.^^^ 

•tones 1* ^go P' 

ciircusst^ 

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since 

rtiost ,, e*\* extravagant ° ^^^^ 

' r.reatest ^- Onâr 

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But 'T^^^'^ôarisoit* 'l.«."^fil'"^** 

._- con*P'-^n^ccess. 

^^^''^^-^siboxofftce 

standi«»» " 

" "JOYING THE FULL BENEFIT OF VISTlVlSION fHexpensively 

„u„,.^ Hal WalHs'ênt^^ 

should ring up returns for all concerned 

^ 

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PunehineUo- f„. „„e of hiwighu. " 

'"• 

— Daily Variety 

• 

WILL ESTABLISH A RECORD OF PRAISE. PATRONAGE AND PROFIT.A multitude 

of laughs, tear-jerking pathos and a long cavalcade 

of gags. The feature is in VistaVision, that -"t^^^^^^^^^^f^^; 

hooed, new-look process." 

.MT 

C^HT NUSS^ 

far 

about 

.Bestiaeaar^b^^^ê^jsW^what 

kind f«^„ inspiration, n ^^ room- V»« el- 

HalWalUs-a of ,^^ lenty ^^^^^ ore ,„ 

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multi-colored ^^ -^ 

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"^ DEFINITE SMASU «Tr- 

"^ 

Martin and r 

^^^"'C^'ON- on*. * 

HURRY, 

HURRY, 

HURRY! 

in^ r^"""*^' "'"> joy 

^k"'^'" "" young. 

Call 

Paramount! 

Make Your Holiday Flans Nowk

;inaa HfiH itaa dauw 

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• I • 

-M. P. Daily 

^^ 

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m 

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.i| 

PliESEMED THRULGH 

yiSTAVISIOH 

1^5^ 

MOTION PICTURE 

... HIGH FIDELITY 

Ca Stiiiint 

Directed by 

JOSEPH 

PEVNEY 

Story and Screenplay by 

'I'^rm 

with 

Wallace Ford -ElsaLanchester- COLOR BY TECHNICOLOR


Cont'd 

Over 4,000 Registered 

At Equipment Show 

By I. 

L. THATCHER 

CHICAGO—In keeping with the brightest 

year in motion picture development, the combined 

TESMA, TEDA and IPA convention 

and show broke all former records in attendance 

and size. 

According to Ray Colvin, executive director 

of TEDA, the combined registration of 

the three organizations was well over 4,000. 

At the TEDA meeting only two members were 

absent. 

F. C. Matthews, president of TESMA, said 

that the big show with 195 booths was by far 

the largest ever held. Exhibitor interest in 

the displays of the manufacturers and suppliers 

of theatre equipment and concessions 

equipment and supplies was high, and booths 

were well filled at all times with inquiring 

theatremen. 

TESMA, TEDA ELECT BOARD 

All elections had not been completed at 

time of this writing but the following directors 

were re-elected to TESMA board: John 

Nolan, Jack O'Brien and Erwiii Wagner. 

New members of the board are Fred J. 

Wenzel and M. H. Stevens. 

TEDA board of du-ectors met Monday (1) 

to elect new board members, who were later 

ratified by the entire assembly. Henry 

Sorenson, Modern Theatre Supply Equipment 

Co., Dallas, Tex., and Kenneth B. Douglas 

jr., Capitol Theatre Supply Co., Boston, Mass., 

were elected to replace Homer Tegtmeier of 

San Francisco and S. F. Burns, Seattle, Wash. 

They will serve three-year terms. 

At the Monday (1) board meeting, TEDA 

executives and members expressed a desire to 

extend efforts of the organization to help 

exhibitors bring back lost audiences to theatres. 

Ray Colvin, executive director, had made 

12 talks a year in recent years before civic 

groups to stimulate interest in motion picture 

attendance. -Tliese talks had proved so successful, 

that the board urged him to increase 

the number of talks to 45 or 50 during the 

coming year. This Colvin agreed to do, and 

also agreed to use his efforts to interest each 

film center in providing additional speakers 

to carry on the missionary work. TEDA will 

provide the basic material from which talks 

can be prepared. 

"We think it will be a great thing for exhibitors 

in whose locality such talks are 

made," said Colvin. "We believe that by talks 

before civic groups we will be able to reach 

the non-theatregoer better than in any other 

way." 

BERT NATHAN HEADS IPA 

Bert Nathan, Theatre Popcorn Vending 

Corp., Brooklyn, N. Y., was unanimously 

elected president of International Popcorn 

Ass'n at the IPA annual membership meeting 

Wednesday (3). Nathan, who served as first 

vice-president during the past year, succeeds 

J. J. Pitzgibbons jr.. Theatre Confections, 

Ltd., Canada. Fitzgibbons becomes 

chairman of the board. 

The newly elected junior segment directors 

of the IPA were officially inaugurated. The 

new segment directors are: Popcorn Processor: 

Robert Pelton, Pelton Popcorn Co., 

Bloomdale, Ohio; Manufacturer-Wholesaler: 

Allan Adams, Adams Corp., Beloit, Wis.; 

Theatre-Concession: Nat Buchman, Theatre 

Merchandisers, Boston, Mass.; Retail Shop: 

H. H. Miller, Caramel Crisp Shop, Madison, 

Wis.; Jobber-Distributor: Dave C. Evans, 

Gold Medal Products Co., Cincinnati, Ohio; 

Broker: A. J. Villiesse, Villiesse Sales Co., Wilmette. 

111.; Equipment Manufacturer: Rex 

Yocum, Seedburo Equipment Co., Chicago, 

III. The directors were elected by written 

ballot. 

It was decided to award a golden ear of 

popcorn at the 1955 meeting to the outstanding 

popcorn man of the year based on a year's 

activities. The rules of eligibility were 

adopted and will soon be made known. 

The theatre-concession segment of IPA 

held morning and afternoon sessions each 

day, with outstanding speakers in the field. 

New items for sale, new methods of merchandising, 

price structure and food handling 

were some of the topics under discussion. So 

important is the growing drive-in theatre 

concession business that a full day and a half 

were given over to that phase. 

Thursday (4) IPA and TOA joined in a 

combined concessions forum in which the 

findings of the previous three days were presented. 

Driwe-lns, Equipment and Confections 

Discussed at Three TOA Forums 

CHICAGO—In addition to the business 

sessions, the TOA convention was highlighted 

by three special forums—a drive-in theatre 

session Wednesday morning, a new equipment 

and processes meeting that afternoon 

and a confections merchandising forum 

Thursday morning. The equipment forum was 

held jointly with TESMA and TEDA, while 

the confections session was in cooperation 

with the International Popcorn Ass'n. 

Jack Braunagel and William Powell presided 

at the drive-in session, as co-chairmen 

of TOA's drive-in theatre committee. The big 

interest of outdoor operators currently is the 

wide screen—what size to build them and 

what materials to use so that maximum reflectivity 

may be achieved. In addition to 

the screens, there is interest in the outdoorindoor 

type of operation, which enables the 

exhibitor to keep his theatre open 12 months 

a year. Braunagel also reported that censorship 

has been a problem in some areas, and 

he warned drive-in exhibitors to guard 

against all-night shows, playing sex pictures 

and promoting other questionable activities 

which can lead to public protest and eventual 

censorship by local authorities. Braunagel 

said the problem is not so much "what we 

play as how we advertise it." 

A number of manufacturers of screens and 

screen covering materials discussed their 

product. Appearing were Ben Poblocki of the 

Poblocki Co.; J. B. Schuyler of MancoVision; 

J. C. Marsh of Cinemaplastic; Francis Keilhack 

of Drive-In Theatre Manufacturing Co., 

and Dave Siegel of Signs, Inc. In addition. 

Dr. F. M. Triller of Lamarr College of 

Lamarr, Tex., who is directing several theatre 

research projects for the Jefferson Amusement 

Co., discussed some proposed changes 

in the placement of ramps and projection 

equipment in outdoor theatres. 

A distinguished group of speakers and 

panel members participated in the new equipment 

and processes forum, and exhibitors in 

the audience asked many questions. 

Of particular interest was the announcement 

by Loren Ryder that Paramount is 

working on a device which oscillates the projection 

lens and keeps it in step on film as 

it is buckling. Since film buckling is one of 

the most persistent troubles, such a device 

will go far to solve the problems that exist 

in new process projection. Ryder said that 

Paramount has no thought of going into 

manufacturing and, if any other companies 

could make progress on a similar development, 

they were welcome to the idea for the 

good of the industry. 

Another development in process was made 

known by Earle Sponable of 20th Century- 

Fox. This would extend the useful life of 

magnetic reproducing soundheads. They have 

been working in cooperation with the United 

States Navy to obtain a better material than 

Permaloy. The new metal, Alfela, is 16 per 

cent aluminum and 84 per cent iron, with a 

head wear resistance three to five times that 

of Permaloy. He predicted that during the 

coming year problems of head wear will be 

solved. 

He also announced the publication of a new 

booklet, "Information for Theatres" which 

will bring exhibitors up to date on Cinema- 

Scope and magnetic sound. It will be distributed 

within a very short time. 

A. E. Neumer, Bausch & Lomb Optical Co., 

advised exhibitors to be very careful in buying 

lenses, commenting that a "good lens cannot 

be made overnight." He said further that 

depth of focus in projection lens is not dependent 

upon focal length, but upon sp>eed 

and magnification. Faster lenses and bigger 

screens contribute to less depth of focus. 

A word for better theatres, in appearance 

and comfort, to back up the "good, good 

pictures" and the fine equipment now available 

was voiced by J. F. O'Brien of Radio 

Corp. of America. 

A report on projection lamps, screen brightness 

and other illumination needs was made 

by Arthur J. Hatch, Strong Electric Co. He 

gave recommendations for screens of various 

sizes and said that four-foot lamberts provide 

the most pleasing picture for the outdoor 

screen. 

"More and more light is the cry," said 

Leonard Satz, president of Raytone Screen 

Corp., in discussing screens for both indoor 

and outdoor theatres. This can be solved, 

he said, by increasing output at light source, 

increasing brightness of screen or a combination 

of both. 

Panel members ot the forum were F. C. Matthews 

(TESMA), Motiograph, Inc.; Nosh Weil (TEDA), General 

Equipment and Mointenance; A. E. Meyer, International 

Projector Corp.; U. E. Pope, Fox Midwest 

Amusement Corp.; Edwin Gage, Walter Reode Theotres; 

Joseph Zero, Bijou Amusement Co.; E. J. Nelson, 

Bollontyne Co.; John R. Miles, Projection Optics, Inc.; 

F. C. Dickely, Altec Service Corp.; W. A, Gedris, Ideal 

Seoting Co., and Robert Gottschalk, Ponavision, Inc. 

18 


« .S 

CO 

a 

Z u u Z Z 

H Jy S H Ul


Cont'd 

Drive-Ins in Disagreement 

On Width of Screens 

CHICAGO—Drive-in operators are not 

agreed on the value of increased sizes for 

their screens or stereophonic sound, according 

to the report of the Drive-In Theatre 

Committee to the Theatre Owners of 

America convention. The committee was 

headed by Jack Braunagel and William T. 

Powell. 

Information for the report was gathered 

by sending out questionnaires to operators 

in all sections of the country. 

Mid-Central operators agreed that Cinema- 

Scope installations cut into the business of 

drive-ins not equipped, as did South Central 

owners who said they enjoyed a superior 

product position. The Southwest thought its 

gain was due to shortage of production, but 

the Northwest reported no benefits. 

CONSIDERS SEASONAL DRIVE-INS 

"Seasonal drive-ins in the north may be 

able to get by a while longer without new 

screens due to backlog of winter product, but 

even this is questionable," the report stated. 

On the subject of clear focus for enlarged 

screens, the report said the pictures were 

"acceptable to the public," but there had 

been complaints on the anamorphic lenses. 

There was considerable disagreement on desirable 

screen sizes. Mid-Central favored 

100x48 screens; Southeast, 80x40: Southwest, 

the same; Northwest, 92x64; South Central, 

70 feet wide for drive-ins up to 10 ramps; 

90 feet up to 10 to 15 ramps. Larger screens 

were not recommended due to the amount 

of light required and the expense of enlarging 

the screen. Midwest favored screens not 

less than 60 feet wide, but recommended 

greater width for drive-ins over 500 cars. 

New installations must depend on the competitive 

situation and the product required, 

the report stated. 

All sections reported an upward, trend in 

concession income, except the Southwest, 

which reported a 10 per cent decline. Elsewhere 

business was up from 25 to 30 per 

cent. Where single bills were used, occasionally 

concession income fell off. 

Film rentals have gone up from 10 to 30 

per cent in the first nine months of 1954. 

POINT OUT MASKING PROBLEM 

"Among the questions drive-in members of 

TOA would like to have answered is whether 

Cinemascope pictures will be released at 

any time in regular 2-D or wide-screen 

prints," the committee stated. "This would 

make up the minds of many of us as to 

whether to enlarge screens or not. It is impossible 

for drive-in theatres to have a 

sharp-edged border picture on their screen 

when they are using two sizes—Cinemascope 

and wide screen. If the ma.sking fits one, it 

won't fit the other—so in one case they must 

put on a picture that is not properly presented. 

Moonlight particularly will bring out 

the fact that the screen is not properly filled 

or bordered. 

"It seems all the distributors should follow 

the lead of Warner Bros, and Universal and 

give the exhibitor the choice of selecting the 

process with which he feels he can best present 

a picture to his audiences in his particular 

theatre." 

COMPO Audience Poll 

Set for January 1-15 

Chicago—A goal of 5,000 participating 

theatres has been set for the national 

audience poll proposed by Council of Motion 

Picture Organizations, with the 

balloting set between January 1 and 15 

on all pictures released during 1954. 

This was disclosed by Sam Pinanski in 

a report on COMPO submitted to the 

Theatre Owners of America convention. 

The idea is to have audiences express 

preferences on the best picture of 1954, best 

performances by an actor or an actress, 

and the new young male and female 

screen personalities giving the greatest 

promise. The cost to individual theatres 

would be nominal, consisting largely of 

expenditures for minor accessories and 

printed ballots. 

As tentatively approved by the COMPO 

triumvirate, the plan would call for national 

television coverage of the presentation 

of awards. It is recommended 

that sponsorship should come from within 

the industry, rather than an outside organization. 

The committee feels that this 

would be a "powerful stimulus" to business. 

TOA Pledges to Support 

Rogers Hospital Drive 

CHICAGO—Exhibitors at the TOA convention 

pledged to hold a one-day audience 

collection for the Will Rogers Memorial Hospital, 

after A. Montague, sales manager for 

Columbia Pictures Co. and an indefatigable 

worker for the hospital association, told the 

convention of the work the hospital is doing 

and of its need for financial support. S. H. 

Fabian, head of the Stanley Warner circuit, 

presented the resolution to the convention. 

Montague reported to the exhibitors as 

stockholders" in the hospital association. He 

said that 1,200 persons have passed through 

the hospital and returned home and to the 

entertainment industry since the Will Rogers 

hospital group was established. In 1953, 69 

new patients were received and 48 were discharged 

as healthy individuals. The cost to 

care for patients is $70 a week. 

He urged support of the Christmas Salute, 

through which the motion picture industry 

helps raise the $250,000 necessary to run the 

institution each year. While many exhibitors 

participate in the Salute, it is surprising, 

Montague said, how many theatres don't even 

submit a return report. The national committe 

likes to broaden the base of givers, in 

order that more individuals in the industry 

will be aware of the existence of the hospital. 

As a result, 11,700 persons contributed 

the $150,000 "Salute" last year. 

Spingold Sells Columbia Stock 

NEW YORK—Nathan B. Spingold, Columbia 

vice-president, in September sold 10,000 

shares of the common stock, decreasing holding 

company interest to 8,596 shares, according 

to a report to stock exchanges. 

Reports Exhibitors 

Want to Set Ratios 

CHICAGO—Exhibitors want the privilege 

of deciding their own screen ratios to fit 

their individual theatres, reported Myron H. 

Blank, chairman of the research committee 

and president of Central States Theatre 

Corp. of Des Moines, to the Theatre Owners 

of America convention here. 

"Considerable pressure is still being brought 

on the film companies to release Cinema- 

Scope pictures in the standard ratio so that 

investment is not necessary for anamorphic 

lenses," Blank reported. He added; "It is our 

belief that it is not economically practical 

for an exchange to have prints on a picture 

with full magnetic Cinemascope, single-track 

and optical Cinemascope, as well as standard 

prints, which means an exchange would 

have to carry four different types of prints 

for such an attraction. 

"Many exhibitors have been experimenting 

with optical Cinemascope prints to find out 

if they can change the ratio of 2.35 to 1 in 

order to better fit the size screen they might 

have in their auditorium, or drive-in. We 

believe nearly every theatre that does have a 

problem of screen size and is desirous of a 

2 to 1 picture, or less, can properly accomplish 

this by changing aperture plates. 

Aperture plates of .715x.715 will give you a 

2 to 1 picture and actually have a larger light 

area than the standard aperture now used. 

This can produce a better light on the screen 

than you would have with even a smaller picture." 

Blank advised members to consult the TOA 

home office in order to secure answers to 

varied problems. 

The report said the industry "continued to 

be enthused with the new developments that 

have the attention of all the production companies 

in Hollywood." Eastman Color film 

was given warm praise. It added that Vista- 

Vision "is an improvement that all will recognize." 

The report concluded: "I am sure that 

the future in the motion picture industry 

will be bright for all of us, because the 

studios now realize that technical changes and 

improvements have to be made so that our 

industry will survive." 

Says Exhibitors Are Vital 

In Every Community 

CHICAGO—"An exhibitor in a community 

is a fellow merchant in the business life of 

his town. Whether owner or manager, he is a 

civic identity among the people who are his 

patrons. Multiply him by all the towns and 

cities and you have the public's consciousness 

of the business end of our industry." 

This was the essence of an address given 

by Claude F. Lee of Motion Picture Advertising 

Service Co., Inc. at Tuesday's luncheon 

session of the TOA convention. That firm, together 

with United Film Service Co., Inc., 

was host. 

It is through the exhibitor that most appraisal 

of industry responsibility is reflected, 

Lee said. "And real legislative influence, 

local, state or national, must stem from his 

basic place in a constituency. Most intra-civic 

relations with other factions of the American 

society upon which we exist as a business are 

largely dependent upon him and his grass 

roots position among people," he declared. 

20 


\ tllêw nor 

"Hansel and GreteV h-î, 

" 

B-adway Theatre, NYVr' "T'"""'' "^^^^^ ^ *^- 

.-_______J^-^' ^'^**"'"9 ^40,287 in six days! 

• ••and Xmas will 

come early (and stay late) when you play 

^^Hansel and GreteK', this year's great holiday show! 

"Hansel and Gretel" is the miracle that happens only once to the very young... at heart. 

And all the New York critics and the long lines at the box office must be young at 

heart, because they agree that "Hansel and Gretel" is great entertainment for everybody. 

"A fine film for children . . . should delight fanciful 

grown-ups, tool Mr. Myerberg's daring has admirably 

paid off ... a charming entertainment in both the 

musical and the novelty line. This picture has the quality 

of a truly visualized fairy tale." 

— Bos/ey Crowfher, New York Times 

"It calls for cheers. The Kinemins walk, talk, sing and 

dance as though they were really alive. Displays an 

imaginative eye for the picturesque." 

—Kate Cameron, Daily News 

"Hansel and Gretel" certainly solves 

the problem of where to take the 

young ones on a holiday or birthday 

outing. The elusive spirit of fantasy 

has been caught with sprightly delicacy 

that is likely to spread its enchantment over Broadway 

for many a month." 

—Alton Cook, New York World-Telegram 

"The picture can be summed up as a very remarkable 

achievement." 

—Archer Wimten, New York Post 

"A charming musical fantasy." 

—Rose Pe/swick, New York Journal-American 

"Rises into great and exalted beauty . . . literally sings 

its way into your heart." -^Jesse Zunser, Cue Magazine 

"Amazingly Real. Myerberg has created a wonderful 

fairy tale that will be loved by all children and many 

adults. 'Hansel and Gretel' 

is a masterpiece of 

mechanical creation that 

evolves with delightful 

charm and whimsy." 

— Frank Quinn, Daily Mirror 

MICHAEL MYERBERG presents 

cxnrujb 

Distributed by 

R K O 

RADIO 

in 

Full 

Length Feature Musical Fantasy 

FAIRYLAND COLOR by TECHNICOLOR

Recommends New Plan S'^SJ^^^^J^J^tT' 

To Reach Lost Patrons 

CHICAGO—Alfred Starr, executive committee 

chairman of Theatre Owners of America, 

believes that the film industry needs a 

new formula for 

reaching the moviego 

i n g public. The 

channels of communication 

have broken 

Sown and thousands of 

prospective moviegoers 

are being lost 

simply because of the 

inadequacy of the 

techniques used by 

theatremen to sell 

their product. So he 

_ declared in an infor- 

Alfred Starr mal gabfest with 

tradepre-ss representatives at the TOA convention 

here. 

Starr believes, for example, that almost all 

exhibitors are underestimating the intelligence 

of their audience potential when it comes 

to foreign pictures, and the special-interest 

features turned out in Hollywood. When the 

cry of product shortage is raised, he says, 

theatremen who are willing to do selling of a 

type different than the stereotyped techniques 

of past years, should turn to the pictures 

turned out in foreign studios. 

NEED INTELLIGENT APPROACH 

"Take almost any town of less than 250,000 

population and you will find anywhere from 

10,000 to 30,000 people who subscribe to concert 

series, who read good books, who get 

to New York or Chicago for stage plays, who 

enjoy cultural programs," he says. "This is 

the segment of the population which would 

go to class movies, if they were properly told 

about them. Instead they stay at home. An 

intelligent merchandising approach would 

get them out of the comfortable living room 

and into the film theatre." But the advertising 

these days, declares Starr, does nothing 

to jolt them, out of their disinterest in motion 

pictures. They look over the amusement 

pages, and see two or three ads with a western 

theme. They look alike. Yet one of 

the pictures is a "Shane." But the exhibitor 

has failed to tell what kind of a picture it is, 

and why it is an important piece of entertainment, 

remarked Starr. So the decision 

is not to go to a show. 

That is why so many people never go to 

movies, he added. The theatre people simply 

don't tell them enough about the pictures, 

nor search for the proper avenues by which 

they can be approached. 

He named a number of foreign-made pictures 

which have been successful in this 

country. "Bitter Rice" is one picture, he 

said, which is an example of what American 

audiences will buy if properly sold. Unfortunately, 

the U. S. exhibitor groups all 

pictures made outside this country as the 

"art-type" film, he said, no matter what its 

subject matter or general interest. 

Too many theatremen, also, are making 

up their minds about foreign pictures without 

taking the trouble to investigate them. 

And, tell me, asks the TOA executive, what 

exhibitor is equipped to say "This picture is 

lousy" without ever having screened it, or 

even having read reviews of it. Yet, he adds, 

this is the approach of almost every theatreman 

when a foreign picture is mentioned as 

a booking possibility. 

Starr feels keenly about this because, having 

traveled extensively, talked over many 

problems with theatremen in other countries, 

and having become the chief advocate of 

some unified exhibitor association in this 

country and abroad, he thinks that by ignoring 

the foreign film, the U. S. exhibitor is 

hurting the American industry. 

ON COMMON GROUND GLOBALLY 

"There are 100,000 theatres in the world, 

80,000 of them outside the United States. 

These foreign theatres devote 87 per cent 

of their playing time to Hollywood-made 

films, and American production and distribution 

is now getting 50 per cent of its total 

revenue from these markets. That brings 

us together on a common ground." 

Starr's discourse on common problems of 

film people in all sections of the globe led 

him to suggest a two-pronged approach to 

help the situation: (11 to develop contact 

with exhibitors overseas, and (2) to encourage 

foreign product by giving it more playing 

time on U. S. screens. 

If theatremen in this country book more 

of the imports, go about their merchandising 

on an intelligent basis, they not only will 

be bringing a new audience into the movie 

theatre but they will be developing an important 

new source of product—something 

which is an essential for the future of exhibitors 

in this country. If foreign producers 

are encouraged, it is more than likely 

that they will aim their pictures at the 

American market in greater numbers than 

ever before, Starr said. 

AGAINST EXCLUSIVE BASIS 

Starr doesn't think the foreign picture 

should be channeled through the so-called 

art theatres on such an exclusive basis as 

they now are. He would like to see them play 

the average theatre. He thinks that theatremen 

can make money with many of them. 

Of course, he adds, the foreign picture isn't 

going to draw for the theatreman who goes 

about selling it like he would a western or any 

of the run-of-mill U. S. pictures. He is going 

to have to aim at a particular segment of 

the movie-going population, and at that group 

of Americans who just don't go to movies. 

He says there are more than 25,000,000 of 

them. 

How would he go about it personally? He 

would prepare short, exciting summaries of 

the pictures in bulletins, and provide other 

pertinent information which would appeal to 

the individual with finer tastes, and find 

some system of getting the material to that 

individual. Once that person comes to the 

theatre, the chances of getting him to return 

are good, Starr believes. The approaches will 

have to continue on a high plane. Old techniques 

won't intrigue him. Flambouyant promotions 

and fabulous claims won't budge that 

individual from his home. But he'll go for 

good, hard selling that appears to be an 

honest appraisal of what the picture has to 

offer, Starr contends. 

Up Sharply in 1954 

NEW YORK—RKO Theatres' consolidated 

net income after deduction for special items 

for the nine months of 1954 exceeded that 

for the same 1953 period by $836,678.49. The 

1954 figure was $1,625,009.64, compared with 

$788,331.15 in 1953. Before deduction for special 

items the net income for the 1954 period 

exceeded that for the 1953 period by $970,- 

868.70. The 1954 figure was $1,710,150.85, compared 

with $739,282.15 for 1953. 

The special items in the 1954 period included 

losses from the disposal of theatre 

properties amounting to $127,141.21, resulting 

in the reduction of federal income taxes of 

$42,000 which otherwise would have been payable 

on net income. Special items in the 

1953 included a profit of $10,949 from the 

disposal of theatre properties which, however, 

resulted in a reduction of $38,100 in 

income taxes for that period. 

The net income after deductions for the 

third 1954 quarter was $720,984.84, compared 

with $370,728.83 in 1953. Before deductions 

it was $755,033.06, compared with $370,728.83 

in 1953. The special items in the 1954 period 

included a $41,048.22 loss from the disposal 

of a theatre property, resulting in an income 

tax reduction of $7,000. There were no special 

items in the 1953 period. 

Shares of common stock outstanding 

October 2, excluding 676.977 shares held by the 

corporation, totaled 3,237,936, compared with 

3,764,913 at the end of the 1953 period, excluding 

150,000 shares held by the corporation. 

This showed a decrease of 526,977 shares 

in the number of shares held outside the corportion, 

and an increase of 526,977 in the 

number held by the corporation. 

MGM Reports the Winner 

In Songwriting Contest 

NEW YORK—The MGM songwriting contest 

to discover lyrics for a melody titled 

"Athena" after the musical of that name 

has been won by Bert Pollock of Chicago, 

Howard Dietz, MGM vice-president, reported 

Wednesday (3). He will receive a $500 advance 

against royalties of the song which 

will be recorded by Don Cornell of Coral Records. 

The music store where he obtained his 

entry blank will receive $250 and Howard 

Miller, disk jockey from whom he learned 

about the contest, $500. 

His selection as winner was made by Jane 

Powell, Joseph Pasternak, producer; Johnny 

Green, MGM music department head; Bob 

Thiel, artists and repertoire head of Coral 

Records; Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, 

composers of the music, and Abe Olman, head 

of Leo Feist, Inc. The song will be used in 

the title music of "Athena" and throughout 

the scoring of the picture. 

Filmack Offers Theatres 

Talking Greeting Header 

CHICAGO—Filmack Trailer Co., which has 

offered exhibitors a brochure showing merchants 

what their hohday greetings will look 

like on the screen, has now produced a new 

talking merchant greeting header for holiday 

ads. 

Besides having an especially designed background, 

it is narrated by an offstage announcer's 

voice against a musical background. 

22 


AT AD FILM FESTIVAL IN VENICE 

J. Don Alexander, president of the 

Alexander Film Co., Colorado Springs, is 

shown addressing delegates and their 

wives at the final banquet of the First 

International Advertising Film Festival 

in Venice, Italy, represented by film and 

publicity experts from 17 countries. Alexander 

attended the festival as the only 

American member of the executive council 

of the International Screen Advertising 

Services, which sponsored the 

world film conference. Emphasis was 

placed on the importance of film ads 

reaching the same high quality and production 

standards as feature films. While 

in Europe, Alexander contacted film ad 

producers and distributors in London, 

Paris, Milan, Venice and other large 

cities. 

Drive-In Screen Compound 

Is Distributed by RCA 

CAMDEN, N. J.—The engineering products 

division of Radio Corp. of America has begun 

distribution of "Cinemaplastic," described 

as a relatively new vinyl plastic compound 

for brightening and weatherproofing drivein 

theatre screens. It is manufactured by 

Protective Coatings and is available through 

RCA theatre supply dealers, according to 

J. F. O'Brien, theatre equipment section 

head. 

RCA said Cinemaplastic has a light reflectance 

exceeding 93 per cent and solves 

problems of screen conversion to the larger 

wide-screen films. It is applied in two coats 

by means of spray, brush or roller, and is 

claimed it is a life-long substance. 

Disney Cartoon Selected 

For Command Film Show 

NEW YORK—"Melody," Walt Disney 3-D 

cartoon which traces the birth and history of 

melody, has been selected for the 1954 Royal 

Command Film Performance to be given 

November 15 at the Empire Theatre. London, 

according to Leo F. Samuels, general 

sales manager of Buena Vista. It is the third 

consecutive year that Disney product ha.-^ 

been selected for the occasion. Previously, 

the feature. "Rob Roy, the Highland Rogue," 

and a True-Life Adventure subject were 

shown. 

Award to 'Star Is Born' 

NEW YORK—Tlie magazine Seventeen has 

selected "A Star Is Born," Warner Bros. film, 

a-s its December picture of the month. 

UA to Have Record World 

Gross in '54, Says Krim 

NEW YORK—United Artists will exceed 

Arthur Krim's earlier estimate of a $40,000,000 

world gross for 1954 by a "comfortable $2,000,- 

000 margin," according to the UA vice-president, 

who recently returned from a six-week 

tour of the Far East with Arnold Picker, 

vice-president in charge of foreign distribution. 

The domestic billings for UA in 1954 should 

approximate $26,000,000 while the foreign 

should be about $16,000,000, both the biggest 

in UA history, Ki-im said. During his 

six weeks in the Orient, the billings were 

$7,000,000, also the best in the history of the 

company, he reported. "Apache" will be the 

biggest UA domestic grosser of 1954 with 

more than $3,500,000 estimated while, abroad, 

"Tlie Moon Is Blue" is setting all-time records 

and will be 1954's biggest foreign grosser 

for UA, according to Krim. "Blue" has 

played every foreign country without censorship 

difficulty and its last ban, in the 

Philippines, was recently removed after a 

final appeal to the president there. 

U. S. FILMS WIDELY PREFERRED 

In his Far Eastern tour, which covered 47 

cities and a total of 125,000 miles, Krim found 

the motion picture business is "having a 

tremendous era of prosperity" in every country 

he visited. Except for some native product, 

American films are the champions in 

the Far East although Italian pictures are 

starting to do business, he said. 

Most of the countries Krim visited have a 

native film industry, including Malaya, Thailand. 

Indonesia and even Hong Kong, where 

they still make Chinese pictures despite the 

loss of much of that market. All of these 

countries are looking for an export market 

for their pictures. Krim is looking into the 

possibility of distributing some of this native 

product in the U. S. UA will distribute "The 

Tiger and the Flame," made in India, in this 

country and the company may also release 

another Philippines picture, as it did with 

"Genghis Khan" in 1953. 

CO-PRODUCTION EXPLORED 

Krim also explored the possibility of coproduction 

deals in many of the Far Eastern 

countries and he visited the studios and 

spoke to government officials about the matter. 

However, he has no specific plan in mind 

Arthur B. Krim (right), president of 

United Artists, and Arnold M. Picker, 

vice-president in charge of foreign distribution, 

tell the New York tradcpress 

about their recently completed six-week 

tour of the Far East. 

as first a suitable story must be found. Both 

"Moulin Rouge" and "The African Queen" 

were British co-production films while "The 

Barefoot Contessa" was co-produced with an 

Italian company. 

During his trip, which was tied in with the 

35th anniversary of United Artists, Krim met 

many of the exhibitors who have remained 

with UA through the years, especially the 

crucial period of a few years ago when the 

new management gi'oup took over. He found 

it "heartwarming" to find that the UA name 

has come to mean so much through the years, 

even in remote places like Hiroshima and 

Osaka. By the end of 1954, Arnold Picker 

alone will have visited 90 per cent of all UA's 

foreign offices, Krim said. 

Charles P. Skouras Will 

Is Filed for Probate 

LOS ANGELES—Listing his estate as being 

in excess of $10,000, the will of the late 

Charles P. Skouras, National Theatres and 

Fox West Coast circuit president who died 

October 22, was filed for probate Monday (1) 

In superior court. Under its terms a trust is 

created in his community property interest 

in certain securities, the income from which 

is payable to his widow. Mrs. Florence L. 

Skouras, for life. Upon her death the trust 

property is to go to his three surviving children, 

Mrs. Jack Jungmeyer jr., Mrs. Margaret 

L. Curti and Charles P. Skouras jr. 

The balance of the estate was left to Mrs. 

Florence L. Skouras. 

The son, Charles P. jr., a brother George, 

president of United Artists Theatres, and 

two friends, Michael Rosenberg, vice-president 

of Pacific Drive-ins, and John B. Bertero, 

NT vice-president, were named as executors 

of the will and as trustees of the trust. 

The will was filed for probate by the law 

firm of O'Melveny and Myers. 

Variety Publicity Post 

Is Assigned to Adleman 

PHILADELPHIA—George C. Hoover, head 

of International Variety Clubs, has appointed 

Robert Adleman of the advertising agency 

of Lohmeyer, Adleman and Montgomery director 

of publicity for the organization. Adleman 

has been active in Variety Club affairs 

for ten years. 

The post was created by the executive 

board at its recent French Lick, Ind., meeting. 

It will coordinate the work of the "press 

guys" in each of Variety's 45 tents with the 

office of Ben Goffstein of Las Vegas, international 

press guy, and will plan national 

news coverage of Variety events. 

Svigals Joins Harrison 

NEW YORK—Ed R. Svigals has become 

sales manager of Harrison Pictures and has 

left for Los Angeles to arrange engagements 

for "Ugetsu," prize-winning Japanese picture. 

Later he will visit other key cities. 

He is well known in the foreign picture distribution 

field. 

BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954 23

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By 

IVAN SPEAR 

Studios Start 27 Films in November; 

Columbia and U-l List Five Each 

Previous indications that the late fall and 

winter months might bring with them a 

looked-for increase in the film capital's production 

pace appeared doomed as a survey 

of the aggregate of projected starting features 

scheduled by major and independent filmmakers 

during November reached a total of 

only 27 subjects. This reflects a drop of 

one from the October total. 

Clinging to its position as the busiest studio 

in town was Columbia, with five starters, an 

honor shared this time around by Universal-International. 

Most active among the 

other film plants were Allied Artists, MGM, 

Paramount and United Artists, each of which 

planned to roll three. 

Here is the tally, by studios: 

ALLIED ARTiSTS 

"Sweet Charity." An expose of charity 

rackets. Stars Richard Conte. Pi'oducer, William 

F. Broidy. Director, Frank McDonald. 

"Rider of the Ruby Hills." A sagebrush 

adventure. Stars Carole Mathews. Zachary 

Scott, Barton MacLane. Producer, William F. 

Broidy. Director, Frank McDonald. 

Untitled, a frontier drama starring Will Bill 

Elliott. Pi-oducer, Vincent M. Fennelly. Director 

not set. 

COLUMBIA 

"Chicago Syndicate," A cops-and-robbers 

melodrama about the wiping out of a vice ring 

in the Windy City. Stars Xavier Cugat, Abbe 

Lane, Dennis O'Keefe. Producer, Sam Katzman. 

Director, FYed F. Sears. 

"Creature With the Atom Brain." An 

atomic monster terrorizes civilization in this 

science-fiction entry. Stars Richard Denning, 

Angela Stevens, Michael Granger. Producer, 

Sam Katzman. Director, Edward L. Cahn. 

"Duel on the Mississippi." In Technicolor, 

this is a romantic drama laid in the deep 

south in pre-Civil War days. Stars Patricia 

Medina. Producer, Sam Katzman. Director, 

William Castle. 

"Five Against the House." Four college 

students and a girl plot to hold up Harold's 

Club, a gambling casino in Reno. Stars Guy 

Madison, Kim Novak. Brian Keith. Producer. 

Stirling Silliphant. Director, Phil Karlson. 

"Trouble on the Streets." From the novel 

by Thomas B. Dexwey, "The Mean Street," 

this is a story of juvenile delinquency in 

today's big cities. Stars not set. Producer, 

Lewis J. Rachmil. Director, Arnold Laven. 

INDEPENDENT 

"Kentucky Rifle." This is the first in a 

projected series of films in color being turned 

out by the Howco Corp. A frontier melodrama, 

it stars Chill Wills, Cathy Downs and 

Jeanne Cagney. The producer and director 

is 

Carl K. Hittleman. 

METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER 

"Blackboard Jungle." From the Ladies 

Home Journal serial, this story of juvenile 

delinquency deals with a teacher in a New 

'CHRISTMAS' COMES EARL Y— 

Sparkling and glamor-studded was the 

recent west coast premiere of Paramount's 

"White Cltristmas," the Technicolor-VistaVision 

tunefilm with musical 

score by Irving Berlin, which bowed at 

the Stanley Warner Theatre in Beverly 

Hills. In upper photo, Danny Kaye (left), 

who co-stars with Bing Crosby, Vera- 

Ellen and Rosemary Clooney in the Robert 

Emmett Dolan production, is shown 

with Mrs. Kaye (Sylvia Fine) and Don 

Hartman, Paramount executive producer. 

In lower photo, Mictiael Curtiz, who directed 

the film, is interviewed in the theatre 

lobby by Vernon Scott, United Press 

correspondent. 

York high school whose methods win the respect 

of his hoodlum students. Stars Glenn 

Ford, Anne Francis, Louis Calhern. Producer, 

Pandro S. Berman. Director, Richard Brooks. 

"The Cobweb." A psychological melodrama, 

based on the novel by William Gibson, this 

has a clinic for nervous disorders as its 

setting. Stars Robert Taylor, Grace Kelly. 

Producer, John Houseman. Director, Vincente 

Minnelli. In Cinemascope and color. 

"Love Me or Leave Me." This musical 

biography, in Cinemascope and color, traces 

the career of songstress Ruth Etting, famed 

entertainer of the early 1930s. Stars Doris 

Day, James Cagney, Keenan Wynn. Producer, 

Joe Pasternak. Director, Charles Vidor. 

PARAMOUNT 

"The Court Jester." Localed in the time of 

King Arthur, this concerns a court jester who 

becomes involved in palace intrigue. Stars 

Danny Kaye, Glynis Johns, Angela Lansbury. 

Producers, Dena Productions (Danny Kaye, 

Norman Panama, Melvin Franks.) Directors 

Norman Panama, Melvin Frank. In Vista- 

Vision and Technicolor. 

"The Girl Rush." A musical extravaganza 

with a Las Vegas background, this will be 

photographed in VistaVision and Technicolor. 

Stars Rosalind Russell, Eddie Albert. Producer, 

Frederick Brisson (Independent Artists). 

Director, Robert Pirosh. 

"The Rose Tattoo." A romantic di-ama, 

this is adapted from the Broadway stage 

success by Tennessee Williams, and is being 

shot partly on location in Key West, Fla., in 

VistaVision. Stars Burt Lancaster, Anna 

Magnani, Marisa Pavan. Producer, Hal Wal- 

Us. Director, Daniel Mann. 

REPUBLIC 

"Rebel Island." A New York musical comedy 

star becomes involved with murder and 

racketeering in the Bahamas. Stars not set. 

Producer and director, Edward Ludwig. In 

Trucolor. 

20th 

CENTURY-FOX 

"Lord Vanity." From the best-selling historical 

novel by Samuel Shellabarger, this 

concerns an 18th-century adventurer, the 

illegitimate son of an English lord and an 

Italian ballerina. Stars Robert Wagner, Clifton 

Webb. Pi-oducer, Charles Brackett. Director, 

Delmer Daves. In Cinemascope and 

color. 

"Soldier of Fortune." A story of intrigue 

and adventure in Hong Kong, this is being 

filmed partly on location in China in Cinema- 

Scope and color. Stars Clark Gable, Cameron 

Mitchell. Producer, Buddy Adler. Director, 

Edward Dmytryk. 

UNITED ARTISTS 

"Marty." An adaptation of the prize-winning 

TV drama, in which a young Bronx 

butcher strives for romance. Stars Ernest 

Borgnine, Betsy Blair, Joe Mantell. Producer, 

the Hecht-Lancaster Organization. Director, 

Delbert Mann. 

"Flobbers' Roost." A galloper, in Eastman 

color, adapted from the novel by Zane Grey. 

Stars George Montgomery, Sylvia Findley, 

Richard Boone. Producers, Robert Goldstein, 

Robert L. Jacks. Director, Sidney Salkow. 

"Top of the World." Localed in Alaska, this 

is the story of the operator of a night club 

there which caters to U. S. air force personnel. 

Stars Dale Robertson, Evelyn Keyes, 

Frank Lovejoy. Producers, Lewis R. Foster, 

Michael Baird (Landmark Pi-oductions). Director, 

Lewis R. Foster. 

UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL 

"Cult of the Cobra." A beautiful Burmese 

native gh'l possesses the centuries-old power 

of turning herself into a cobra as a part of 

ancient religious rites. Stars Faith Domergue, 

Richard Long, Marshall Thompson. Producer, 

Howai-d Pine. Director, Francis D. 

Lyon. 

"Female on the Beach." An opportunist 

woos a newly widowed woman, seeking only 

her money, then discovers—almost too late 

that he is really in love with her. Stars Joan 

Crawford, Jeff Chandler, Jan Sterling. Producer, 

Albert Zugsmith. Director, Joseph 

Pevney. 

"Kiss of Fire." A renegade Spaniard in 

New Mexico in the 1680s is engaged to guide 

a princess and her party from Santa Fe to 

the Pacific coast so she can return to her 

homeland and claim the Spanish throne. 

Stars Rhonda Fleming, Jack Palance, Martha 


— 

— 

Hyer. Producer, Sam Marx. Director, Joseph 

Newman. In Technicolor. 

•Tacey Cromwell." From the historical 

novel by Conrad Richter, this is the story 

of a frontier woman who braves disgrace and 

disillusionment to save the man she loves 

although she knows that it means losing him. 

Stars Anne Baxter, Rock Hudson, Julie 

Adams. Pi'oducer. Ross Hunter. Director, 

Jerry Hopper. 

"Third Girl Fi'om the Right." In which 

Technicolor musical a chorus girl determines 

to marry a millionaire. Stars Piper Laurie, 

Rory Calhoun, Mamie Van Doren. Producer, 

Sam Marx. Director, Edward Buzzell. 

WARNER BROS. 

"The McConnell Story." Alan Ladd portrays 

the late Capt. Joseph McConnell, hero 

of World War II and the Korean conflict, 

in this CinemaScope-WarnerColor aviation 

saga. Also stars June Allyson. Producer, 

Hem-y Blanke. Director, Gordon Douglas. 

Crawford and de Havilland 

Get Plum Assignments 

Two of filmdom's female stars plucked 

plum assignments when Joan Crawford signed 

to star for Columbia in a new property, "The 

Queen Bee," and Olivia de Havilland was 

inked by Bernard Luber, independent producer, 

for the topline in "Lelia." 

The Crawford opus, to be produced by 

Jerry Wald, is based on Edna Lee's novel 

about a socially prominent lady in presentday 

Atlanta. It is being scripted and will be 

directed by Ranald MacDougall. In "Lelia," 

Miss de Havilland will portray George Sand, 

the 19th century authoress who shocked the 

world by her unconventional approach toward 

romance. Luber plans to shoot it on location 

in England, France and Italy. 

Currently Miss Crawford is at work in 

Universal-International's "Female on the 

Beach," while Miss de Havilland is starring 

in the Stanley Kramer production for United 

Artists, "Not as a Stranger." 

Director George Sidney 

On Loan to Columbia 

George Sidney, one of MGM's directorial 

standbys. has been borrowed by Columbia to 

. . . Dr. Maurice Nelles, formerly 

pilot its upcoming "The Eddie Duchin Story," 

the first loanout of Sidney by his home studio 

in all the years he has been under contract 

to Leo 

director of the Borg-Warner Corp.'s central 

research laboratory, has joined Technicolor 

Animate Puppet Figures 

Via Electronic Process 

Comes now' Regiscope as an addition 

to the lexicon of the screen's new look. 

Developed by William and Edward 

Nassour, it is a means of animating puppet 

figures electronically, and will be 

combined with Cinemascope and Technicolor 

in "The Beast of Hollow Mountain," 

a forthcoming feature which the 

Nassours will produce for United Artists 

distribution. 

A combination of live action and animation, 

"Beast" will star Guy Madison 

as a modern-day cowboy who tangles 

with a prehistoric monster. The original 

was penned by Willis O'Brien. 

Gigantic Ballyhoo Plan 

Could Be Tonic for Films 

M. JERAULD 

By J. 

NEW YORK—This is the season for introducing 

new automobile mode's—as if you 

didn't already know. This country has never 

seen such concentrated ballyhoo. It is dramatic; 

it is all-inclusive, with many ideas 

taken from the film industry, and it is being 

done in the face of the fiercest competition 

the automobile industry has known in many 

years. 

Unlike the sales approach of the film industry, 

small-town dealers are not being 

neglected. They are receiving the same attention 

as the big centers. The overwhelming 

pressure, with cars distributed to everyone 

for display purposes, is somewhat like the 

regional opening technique of the film business, 

but with this difference— it is nationwide. 

It may cost millions, but there are no 

"print" shortages in the automobile business. 

In the midst of all this, Pat McGee, in his 

keynote address to the Theatre Owners of 

America, said he had been told that distribution 

is reconciled to the loss of another 5,000 

theatres, because of the high distribution 

costs and low profits from scattered smalltown 

theatres. There's nothing like this in 

the motor car business. 

Nobody is reconciled to the loss of a single 

car dealer. The manufacturers want their 

product to be seen "everywhere," all at the 

same time, if possible. 

Some of the promotion methods are as 

startling as those of the film people. In addition, 

they are so widespread that it is practically 

impossible to miss them. 

The Wall Street Journal gave some idea of 

the extent of this promotion October 29. It 

said giveaways to visitors at agencies included 

1,016,920 bottles of perfume: 250,000 

balloons; 275 beany caps; 485,000 yardsticks; 

400,000 key cases; 400,000 Woody Woodpecker 

comic books: 400,000 magnetic potholders. 

Some 1,500 bubble-blowing machines were installed 

in front of Chevrolet dealers' stores. 

There is something for every member of the 

family. 

. . 

in the newly created post of director of 

diversification and research development . 

Barnstorming Metro-ites are George Murphy 

and Vera-Ellen. The former is representing 

Hollywood at tw'o exhibitor conventions this 

month—the North and South Carolina Theatre 

Owners and the Florida Theatre Owners 

—while the latter planed to Chicago to be an 

honored guest of the Theatre Owners of 

America at its annual convention. 

Louis "Red" Nichols Story 

On Paramount Schedule 

Yet another biography of a jazzland great 

is to be subjected to screen treatment with 

the announcement by Paramount that it has 

acquired "Intermission," an original by Robert 

Smith, tracing the career of Louis "Red" 

Nichols, leader of the Dixieland aggregation 

known as the "Five Pennies." To be produced 

by Paul Jones, the opus relates how 

Nichols rose to fame in the 1920s, then 

dropped into oblivion by leaving the bright 

lights to nurse his little girl when she was 

Merchants in Pontiac held a Pontiac Motor 

Day with parades. Hamtramck, Mich., held 

a coming out party for Pontiac. 

"As traditional to autumn as the annual 

upswing in overshoes sales are press previews 

of the new models: they have never been more 

lavish," says the Wall Street Journal. "For 

example, on October 11 Chrysler paid the 

way of 500 newsmen who traveled to Detroit to 

see its new 'Theatre in the Round,' which included 

dancers, models, three bars, a 12-piece 

band, meals—and the 1955 Chrysler models, 

"Totting up the cost, one statistician arrived 

at $100,000. But Chrysler believes that 

isn't much considering that those newsmen 

are the eyes and ears of X million readers, 

listeners and viewers. 

"This philosophy is widely shared in automobiledom. 

News accounts of the previews 

are usually enticing and semi-mysterious, 

though information has long been a topic 

of conversation among many of the auto reporters. 

On Announcement Day, the news 

dams finally burst across the land with detailed 

reports on the information presented 

at the press previews." 

"Announcement Day" comes pretty close to 

the opening of the fall season for motion 

pictures. 

What would happen if the major companies 

should select exchange areas for similar concentrated 

treatment for some of their principal 

pictures all at the same time? With 32 

exchange areas available, they could blanket 

the country in one tremendous sweep. Some 

pictures could open in two or more territories 

at the same time. 

There might be an argument as to what 

company would get what territories, but, if 

there was no other solution, they could decide 

the matter by drawing lots. 

If only a part of the automobile promotion 

technique were adopted—or improved upon 

the people of America would know as much 

about forthcoming releases as they do about 

automobiles. 

stricken with polio. When the child recovered. 

Red got back into the band business 

and once again is going strong . . . Picked 

up by independent producer Paul Gregory 

was "The Original Sin." a story by Richard 

Gordeau, which will be made under the banner 

of Gregory-Goldman Productions . . . 

For his DM Productions, producer-director 

David Miller acquired "House on the Seine," 

a yarn by Jeffrey Brondel, and plans to shoot 

it on location in Paris next year ... To producer-director 

Robert Aldrich went "Pot Luck 

for Pomeroy," an original comedy by Robert 

Russell, who has been retained to develop 

the screenplay. 

'Lovers, Happy Lovers' 

Is Granted Code Seal 

NEW YORK—The Motion Picture Code 

Administration has granted the British film, 

"Lovers, Happy Lovers," now playing at the 

Little Carnegie Theatre here, a code seal 

provided two changes, described as minor, are 

made, according to Paul Graetz. producer. 


^^^K 

'-^ 

.*i. 

BLINDED BY TEAR GAS but still shooting, a 

killer, twice-escaped from prison, staggers out 

of a Los Angeles bungalow into the arms of 

Sergeant Friday and his partner. Jack Webb, 

as Sgt. Friday, stars in this true-to-life series 

based on actual police cases. With "Badge 714" 

began a race against time in which millions of dollars 

are involved. Air Express helps NBC win it.

"DRAGNET!" 

How the top detective drama of all 

TV networks 

is also seen locally in 152 markets as "Badge 714" 

Continuing its highly successful run as the leading program on the NBC-TV Network, 

"Dragnet" has proved so popular that, in addition, it is being re-run throughout the country 

as "Badge 714." This local syndication schedule is made possible only by Air Express. 

KHQ-TV, SPOKANE 

— $8.55 less* 

Police Files provide the material that 

keeps about 65 million Jack Webb fans 

glued to their TV sets each week. A 

large percentage of them see him under 

syndicated (locally sponsored) title 

"Badge 714." Schedules to the 152 syndicated 

markets are rigid. Air Express 

gets the film thei'e on time. 

WHO-TV, DES MOINES 

— $3-47 less* 

Jack Webb Insists that sets be built 

to duplicate Los Angeles Police Headquarters, 

to the very door knobs! It is 

this passion for realism which attracts 

audiences for "Badge 714" worth millions 

of dollars to sponsors. NBC can't 

afford to have film arrive late, and so 

it is shipped regularly by Air Express. 

KFEL-TV, DENVER 

— $5.51 less* 

From Big Cities and small towns, people 

write in to ask whether Sgt. Friday 

isn't an actual member of the Los Angeles 

Police. Many television stations 

are in cities with no airline connections, 

but Air Express connects through 

Railway Express. "Badge 714" films 

get there on schedule, just the same! 

KXLF-TV, BUTTE 

— $4.87 less* 

A Madman tried to blow up the Los 

Angeles City Hall. Jack Webb made it 

into his first NBC "Dragnet" show. 

Now it's making history again as 

"Badge 714," the hottest syndication 

property in the industry. "Air Express 

makes our syndicated operations possible," 

says NBC's Frank Lepore, head 

of Film and Kinescope Operations. 

WLWA-TV, ATLANTA 

— 29< less* 

They Call It "Bicycling." Every 

week, NBC Film Exchanges in New 

York and Hollywood have 4,000 film 

or kinescope programs in circulation to 

and from stations. This method, called 

bicycling, saves thousands of dollars 

in film and shipping costs. It is only 

possible by Air Express, with its ability 

to pinpoint shipments. 

KSD-TV, ST. LOUIS 

— 63< less* 

Human Error does occur. One film 

arrived in Springfield, Missouri, addressed 

to Station WICS. The Air Express 

Agent wired NBC, "No WICS 

in city. Please advise." The film was 

ti-ans-shipped to Springfield. Illinois 

(where there is a WICS) and arrived 

in time ! Alert agents protect against 

error or changing circumstance. 

AirExiJress 

U. S. Scheduled Airlines.. . call Air Express . . . division of Railway Express Agency. 

gets there first via 

:|(Less than any other air service (from N. Y.) that includes door-to-door pickup and delivery. "These are examples of what we 

save on ?.lr'' of our air shipments bv using Air Express. With 97,000 NBC shipments a year, the figure is impressive. The one 

thing that impresses us more is Air'Express service."—Franfe C. Lepore, Mgr., Film and Kinescope Operations and Services.

, 

. 

LETTERS 

Regarding Projection Screens 

TO BOXOFFICE: 

First, may we make it perfectly clear 

that we take no arbitrary stand on the question 

of the superiority of flat, curved, nonreflective 

or reflective surface screens. 

Neither can we agree that it is sound 

reasoning, and especially from the exhibitors 

view point, to take a position that under all 

and every projection situation, only one particular 

type of screen is preferable to all 

others. 

When an unequivocal position of 

this kind 

is assumed, one would be justified to enquire 

nil 

or those 

who appreciate 

the finest . . . 

Surrounded by charm and luiurloi 7 minuTei 

from downtown. Superb food—unturpaiied t 

ice . dancing and delightful enlertalnmenl in 

the bedutKul Zephyr Room. Bungalow luilei 

adjacent to hotel. 

KANSAS CITY, MO. 

to determine if there was not a special reason 

or motive behind it, because the motive might 

actually turn out to be something other than 

the claimed superiority of a picture projected 

upon that particular type of screen. 

An attitude of universal and unquestioned 

acceptance of such counsel could enforce 

the purchase of new arc lamps rectifiers or 

generator equipment, and higher operating 

costs thereafter, which in dollars represents 

an investment far above and beyond that of 

simply installing a different type of screen 

to obtain a picture of equal quality and possibly 

higher brilliance. 

In analyzing a polar curve indicating the 

reflectance of a flat and or matt white surface, 

it must be acknowledged that at least 

75 per cent of its reflected light actually 

reaches areas within a theatre where it is 

physically impossible to seat spectators and 

hence is totally wasted. We mean, of course, 

directly downward toward the floor, directly 

upward toward the ceiling, and directly sidewise 

away from both sides of the screen. 

As this characteristic of flat, matt surfaces, 

is an established fact, doesn't it then, in 

this day and age, seem completely illogical to 

categorically claim that such a screen is the 

only one that should be used in all and every 

type of projection situation and further, 

doesn't this line of reasoning infer a defeatist 

attitude by creating the impression that 

nothing can be done about it, especially in 

the face of the endless variety of polar curves 

which it is possible to obtain from various 

types of reflective screen surfaces? 

To our knowledge there are many very fine 

and distinctly different types of screens available 

to the exhibitor today, and for him it 

is only a matter of selecting the right one to 

suit his projection conditions. We refuse to 

accept the hidden assumption that reputable 

manufacturers of these screens, and their 

sales agencies, would purposely recommend to 

an exhibitor a type of screen that would be 

totally unsuitable for the theatre in which 

it was to be installed. 

President 

J. E. McAuley Mfg. Co. 

Chicago, 111. 

C. A. HAHN 

Two District Managers 

Added by Buena Vista 

NEW YORK—Two district managers for 

Buena 'Vista, distribution subsidiary of Walt 

Disney, have been named by Leo F. Samuels, 

general sales manager. 

Herb Schaefer will be in charge in Boston, 

with New Haven, Buffalo and Albany exchange 

areas under his supervision. Leo 

Greenfield will have the mid-central district, 

with headquarters in Cleveland. His territory 

will take in the Detroit and Cincinnati 

branch areas. 

Nelles With Technicolor 

NEW YORK—Dr. Maurice Nelles, research 

dii-ector of the Borg-Warner Corp., will join 

the Technicolor Motion Picture Corp. in the 

new position of director of diversification 

and research development, according to Dr. 

Herbert T. Kalmus, president and general 

manager. 

WE WANTED 

THE FACTS. . 

ALEXANDER FILM 

CO. 

Colorado Springs, Colo. 

"As you know we have run Alexander advertising trailers 

exclusively for more than 10 years. 

... so we asked Joy N. Houck, president of JOY'S 

THEATRES, NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA, 

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF ALEXANDER FILM ADS? 

HE REPLIED 

Thousands of theatres ore cashing in on the extra profits payed by 

Alexander Film Co. Hitch your wagon to the $3,000,000 poid each 

year to our theatre partners. 

"We have always found Alexander trailers tops and merchants 

have been very well pleased. Evidently Alexander 

has been living up to every promise they made the merchants, 

which is very important to the theatre man, as the 

merchants seem to blame the theatre owner for any bod 

service (in fact, anything that goes wrong with the advertising). 

"Again let me say that we appreciote the close cooperation 

you have given us and the service you hove given the 

merchants. We look forward to many more years of 

pleasant business relations." 

(Signed) JOY N. 

HOUCK 

Joy's Theatres 

New Orleans, Louisiana 

COLORADO SPRINGS 

(Representatives in All Principol Cities) 


Shea Circuit Managers Attend Pittsburgh Meeting 

Managers from New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts. New Hampshire and Ohio attended the annual Shea circuit managers 

meeting held last week in Pittsburgh, Gerald Shea presided at the three-day session. The group also attended .MGM's Ticket Selling 

Workshop. At one of the dinners George Goett. .50 years in the shoiv business. 30 of which have been with Shea"s, was an honored 

guest. Shown seated in the photo are. left to right: Frank V. King, Tom Shea, Kay Smith, Gerald Shea. William Barry, Frank Breden 

and Edward Dooley. 

Half of U.S. TV Sets Saw 

'Disneyland' Opening 

NEW YORK—More than half of all the 

television sets in use during the 7:30 to 8; 30 

p.m. time period Wednesday, October 27, were 

turned on to the first telecast of the ABC-TV 

network's new "Disneyland" series, produced 

especially for TV by Walt Disney. The "Disneyland" 

share of the watching audience was 

52 per cent, compared to 26.7 for the nearest 

competing netwôrk for that time period, according 

to a nine-city survey made by Trendex. 

The nine cities in the Ti-endex survey were 

Atlanta. Baltimore, Chicago, Cincinnati. 

Cleveland. Detroit, New York, Philadelphia 

and Washington. 

The second "Disneyland" TV program in 

the series November 3 was devoted to a special 

television version of "Alice in Wonderland," 

produced by Disney as a cartoon feature 

for theatres in 1952. The third, to be 

telecast November 10, will take TV viewers 

behind the scenes for one of Disney's True- 

Life Adventure films. This will be followed 

by the presentation of the Academy Award 

winning .short, "Seal Island." 

Suit for Brokerage Fees 

Is Filed Against List 

NEW YORK—Albert A. List, RKO Theatres 

board chairman, has been sued in New 

York federal court for alleged failure to pay 

$89,350 in brokerage fees in connection with 

the purchase of 930,000 shares of the company's 

stock from Howard Hughes. The complainant 

is Harry Kuffler of Herzfeld & 

Stern, who claims he suggested the purchase 

to List and aided it by introducing List to 

David J. Green who in turn introduced List 

to Hughes or representatives of his. 

Geo. Gladden to Academy 

NEW YORK—George Gladden, head of the 

motion picture and film TV department of 

the J. Walter Thompson agency for the past 

14 years, has resigned to become associated 

with Academy Picture.s, Inc., a commercial 

film production firm, effective November 1. 

Files Defrauding Charge 

LEWISBURG. PA.— Six 

Pennsylvania theatre 

operators have been charged with defrauding 

Columbia. Paramount and Universal 

of more than $9,000. The distributors filed 

complaints in U. S. district court here chargmg 

that defendants in the action conspired 

in May 1952 and June 1953 to furnish false 

attendance figures in order to get lower film 

rental terms. The defendants are Dr. Walter 

R. Buckley. Mount Carmel; Dr. Mary L. 

Buckley. Philadelphia: Mary Buckley, Coaldale: 

Amusement Enterprises. Mount Carmel: 

Imperial Amusement Co., Inc., and George 

Riester. both of Paxinos. 

Television Technicians 

Picked for Opera Show 

NEW YORK—Television productions heads 

for the Metropolitan Opera opening night 

closed-circuit telecast Monday (8) have been 

selected by Nathan L. Halpern. president of 

Theatre Network Television, which will relay 

the event to more than 30 theatres in the 

U. S. 

Kirk Browning, regular director of NBC- 

TV Theatre Opera, will direct camera rehearsals 

and the telecast from a studio 

adjacent to the "Met." where a battery of 

monitors and a large screen will be set up. 

N. Y. Houses Book Opera Telecast 

NEW YORK—The November 8 closedcircuit 

telecast of the Metropolitan Opera's 

opening night program will be seen here only 

at the Fabian Fox Theatre in Brooklyn and 

the RKO Fordham Theatre in the Bronx, 

according to Theatre Network Television. 

Other theatres elsewhere are being booked. 

Opera at Pittsburgh Stanley 

PITTSBURGH—A telecast of the Metropolitan 

Opera opening night. Monday i8). 

will be featured at the Stanley Theatre here 

at $7.50. $5 and $4 a seat. At Erie. Pa., the 

Warner Theatre will present this TV show 

as a benefit for St. Boniface Church, at $3 

top. tax included. 

'Desiree' Command Show 

At Roxy November 17 

NEW YORK—Twentieth Century-Fox has 

selected November 17 as the date for the 

"Command Performance" opening of 

"Desii-ee," to be held at the Roxy Theatre 

for an invited audience headed by members 

of nobility and society figures. 

Julian Blaustein. producer of the Cinema- 

Scope picture, will arrive from Hollywood to 

participate in the round of promotional activity 

and Marlon Brando, who plays Napoleon 

in the pictm-e, and his recently-announced 

French fiancee, are also expected to arrive 

from France to attend. 

In addition to the Roxy booking. 20th-Fox 

has set 72 Thanksgiving Holiday playdates 

for the Cinemascope picture. It will also 

open November 17 at the Paramount, Syracuse: 

Century. Buffalo: Fox. Philadelphia: 

Chinese, Los Angeles: Fulton. Pittsburgh: 

Senator. Sacramento: Poll. New Haven: Poll. 

Hartford: Fox, Portland: St. Louis, St. Louis; 

Poli. Worcester: United Artists, Detroit; 

Paramount. Oakland, and Hippodrome. 

"Desiree" will also open in 15 situations 

November 24 and in 40 more November 25. 

Carlton, Tulchin Named 

NEW YORK—Richard Carlton has become 

vice-president in charge of operations of 

Sterling Television Co. and Hal Tulchin vicepresident 

in charge of production, according 

to Saul J. Turell, president. Carlton was formerly 

six years with National Screen Service 

and the same length of time with Columbia. 

Bernice Coe is vice-president in charge of 

sales. 

WB Holds Sales Meeting 

NEW YORK—New product, including "A 

Star Is Born," was discussed Thursday (4) 

and Friday at a meeting of Warner Bros. 

home office sales executives and district managers 

at the home office here. Ben Kalmenson. 

vice-president in charge of distribution, 

presided. 


— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

'White Xmas/ 'Hansel and Grefel' 

Draw Big Crowds Despite Rain 

NEW YORK—Heavy rain over the weekend 

and on Election day cut down on the expected 

crowds during the holiday periods but. 

despite this, the youngsters and many visitors 

flocked to "White Christmas" at the 

Radio City Music Hall and "Hansel and 

Gretel" at the Broadway, both in their third 

weeks. The Music Hall had long hnes waiting 

in the rain Election day to give the 

house a gross only slightly below that of the 

second smash week. 

"Carmen Jones" was the best of the four 

new pictures and did strong business in its 

first week at the Rivoli, following a 12-week 

run for "Rear Window." "Black Widow," another 

20th Century-Fox CinemaScope picture, 

also had a big opening week at the Roxy and 

"The Black Knight" did well in its first 

week at the Globe. 

Still leading the other holdovers was "On 

the Waterfront." in its 14th week at the 

Astor, followed by "Sabrina," in its sixth 

big week at the Criterion. "Beau Brummell" 

held up well in its second week at Loew's 

State and "A Star Is Born" continued to do 

good business in its third weeks at both the 

Paramount and Victoria theatres. 

The long-run pictures in the art theatres 

were headed by "Bread. Love and Dreams," 

still doing well in its sixth week at the Paris; 

"High and Dry." in its ninth week at the 

Sutton, and "The Little Kidnappers," in its 

ninth week at the Trans-Lux 60th Street. 

"Illicit Interlude," new Swedish film, got good 

reviews and did strong business in its opening 

week at the Plaza. 

One new film at the Fine Arts Theatre, 

"The Detective" starring Alec Guinness, 

broke the house record on opening day Monday 

(1) and is headed for the long run 

customary for Guinness pictures. 

. , 

(Average Is 100) 

Astor On the Waterfront (Col), Mth wk 125 

Baronet Leonardo da Vinci (Pictura), revival ... 1 00 

Broadway Hansel ond Gretel (RKO), 3rd wk. . I 50 

Capitol The Barefoot Contessa (UA), 5th wk...l30 

Cinema Verdi Half a Century of Songs (IFE).. 105 

Criterion Sabrina (Para), 6th wk 1 35 

55th Street UPA Cartoon Festival (Col), 8th wk.lOO 

Fine Arts The Vanishing Prairie (Buena Vista), 

I Ith wk 100 

Globe The Black Knight (Col) 145 

Guild Martin Xuther (de Rochemont), return run, 

3rd wk 115 

Little Carnegie Lovers, Happy Lovers (ARE), 

5th wk 105 

Loews State Beau Brummell (MGM), 2nd wk....I30 

Moyfoir Suddenly (UA), 4th wk I 20 

Normondte The Runaway Bus (Kromer-Hyoms), 

2nd wk 100 

Polace The Golden Mistress (UA), plus 

vaudeville 115 

Paramount A Star Is Born (WB), 3rd wk 150 

Paris Bread, Love ond Dreams (IFE), 6th wk...l30 

Ploza Illicit Interlude (Hakim) 140 

Radio City Music Hall White Christmas 

(Para VV), plus stoge show, 3rd wk 170 

Rivoli Carmen Jones (20th-Fox) 160 

Roxy Block Widow (20th-Fox) 1 50 

Sutton High and Dry (U-l), 9th wk 120 

Trons-Lux 60th The Little Kidnappers (UA), 

9th wk 110 

Trons-Lux 52nd Lili (MGM), 86th wk 100 

Victoria A Star Is Born (WB), 3rd wk. . . . 150 

Warner This Is Cinerama tCineramo), 73rd wk. 

of two-a-day 1 40 

World The French Touch (Times), 9th wk 100 

"Christmas' Fulfills Name 

With 300 in Buffalo 

BUFFALO—The yuletide spirit arrived 

early at the Paramount Theatre where 

"White Christmas" had a terrific opening. 

The film packed 'em in over the weekend and 

continued to line 'em up all week, ending up 

with a rosy 300. "A Star Is Born" continued 

to hold up in the Center Theatre where it 

grossed a 150 in its third week. "Brigadoon" 

only lasted three days of a second week at 

Shea's, and was shifted to the Teck. 

Buffalo Brigadoon (MGM), 2nd wk 90 

Center A Star Is Born (WB), 3rd wk 150 

Century Passion (RKO) 115 

Cinema The Vanishing Prairie (Buena Visto), 

3rd wk 95 

Lafayette Bengal Brigode (U-l) 105 

Paromount White Christmas (Pare) 300 

Pittsburgh Grosses 

Sho'w Improvement 

PITTSBURGH—Grosses here continued to 

reveal an improved situation over last year 

with most first runs now reporting average 

or better at boxoffices. "A Star Is Born" held 

down the first position with 150 per cent 

in its second week. "Woman's World" and 

"Brigadoon" were both just about average in 

their first stanza reports. 

Fulton The Block Shield of Folworth (U-IK... 80 

Horns A Woman's World (20th-Fox) 100 

Penn Brigadoon (MGM) 110 

Stanley A Star Is Born (WB), 2nd wk 150 

Warner This Is Cinerama (Cineramo), 46th wk.. .110 

Holdovers Lead 

Slow Baltimore 

BALTIMORE—Weekend business helped 

boost grosses which failed to measure up at 

the openings. Even so. final figures were just 

about average for the new products with best 

grosses reported by holdovers. 

Century Brigadoon (MGM), 2nd wk 90 

Film Centre Sabrina (Para), 4th wk 120 

Hippodrome On the Waterfront (Col), 2nd wk...l20 

Keiths Reap the Wild Wind (Para), reissue... 95 

Little Turn the Key Softly (Astor) 90 

Moyfoir Princess of the Nile (20th-Fox); The 

Rocket Mon (20th-Fox) 90 

New The Adventures of Hojji Babo (20th-Fox).. 95 

Playhouse Rear Window (Para), 2nd wk 130 

Town Block Widow (20th-Fox) 110 

Pittsburgh Deadlocked 

On Boothmen Contract 

PITTSBURGH—With local independent 

theatre owners and the lATSE Local 171 still 

"going in opposite directions, contractwise," 

James V. Sipe, business representative for the 

local, this week informed exhibitors that theatre-owned 

anamorphic lenses, equipped with 

prefocusing rings, should be set up in the 

machine the night before the exhibition of 

Cinemascope pictures. When lenses are being 

bicycled between two or more theatres, a twohour 

call will be necessary previous to the 

Cinemascope showing in order to properly 

align and focus the lenses. In cases where 

lenses are not equipped with prefocusing 

rings, it shall be necessary to provide a twohour 

call in order to make the above-mentioned 

adjustments, Sijje says. 

Exhibitors have been holding meetings at 

the Allied office to discuss contract terms 

with Local 171 representatives. 

MGM Ticket Workshop 

Praised by Exhibitors 

NEW YORK—MGM reports receipt of 

telegrams, 

letters and personal messages testifying 

to the success of its Ticket Selling 

Workshop held October 28 in Pittsburgh. Exhibitors 

spoke h;ghly of the discussions conducted 

by Mike Simons, customer relations 

haac; Emery Austin, exploitation head who 

represented Howard Dietz, vice-president in 

charge of adve*'tising, publicity and exploitation: 

Erv dumb, manager of the Riverside. 

Milwaukee; Herbert I. Brown, operator of the 

Victoria. Greenfield. Mass.; Edward M. Hyde, 

advertising manager of the Sharon (Pa.) 

Herald, and Max Reilly, advertising manager 

of station WDTV in Pittsburgh. 

Gerald Shea of Shea Enterprises called the 

workshop "most productive and informative." 

J. Crowley of Blatt Bros.. Somerset. Pa., said 

it indicated that MGM is interested in promoting 

healthy business; Andy Biordi of the 

Majestic Tlieatre. EUwood City, Pa., said it 

proved MGM "still the most friendly company," 

and Russ Wehrle. Capitol, Braddock, 

Pa., said it seemed that "only MGM gets 

away from the beaten path in trying to helii 

the exhibitor." 

Communications were also received from: 

William J. Blatt jr.. Arcadia Theatre. New 

Bethlehem; Anthony N. Askounes, Manos 

Theatre, Monessen; George W. Petropolus. 

Rex Theatre. Wheeling: James G .Bell. Guthrie 

and Lee Theatres, Grove City; Mel Katz. 

Embassy Theatre. Johnstown; Gilbert Cooke. 

Jordan and Mercer Square theatres. Greenville: 

Ralph M. Felton, Spotlight 88 Drive-In, 

Beaver Falls; Charles R. Blatt. Blatt Bros. 

Theatres. Pittsburgh: Lou Fordan. Memorial. 

McKeesport; Max Silverman, Manor. Pittsburgh; 

Bob Leiber. Paramount. Braddock: 

Garland West. West Drive-In. and Colonial 

Theatre. Buchanan. W. Va. 

Also, Marty Shearn, Fairmount. Fairmount. 

W. Va.; Saul Bragin. Stanley Warner Theatres, 

Pittsburgh: Morris Finkel. Mount Oliver 

Theatre. Pittsburgh; Chester DeMarsh. Larkfield 

Drive-In. Grove City; Edgar E. Shaffer. 

Roxy. Slippery Rock; Ray Smith. Shea circuit. 

New York: Bart Dattola. Dattola Theatre, 

New Kensington: Bennett Amdur. Garden, 

and William Finkel. Arcade. Pittsburgh: 

Joseph L. Fecheck, Fayette Amusement Co.. 

Brownsville; Dale Tysinger. Shea's Theatre. 

Ashtabula, Ohio; Edward J. Fahey. State. 

Manchester, N. H.; N. P. Giovan. Manos. 

Elkins, W. Va.. and M. A. Silver. Stanley 

Warner zone manager. 

Funeral Services Held 

For Herman Dolinsky 

NEW YORK—Funeral services were held 

Thursday (4) for Herman M. Dolinsky. 66. a 

Loew's Theatres manager, who died two days 

before at Crown Heights Hospital. Brooklyn. 

He started with Loew's in 1911 as an assistant 

manager at Loew's Delancey Theatre, and 

later became manager of several Loew's theatres 

in Brooklyn. He was manager of Loew's 

Coney Island Theatre for 15 years, and at the 

time of his death was a relief manager for 

the circuit. 

He leaves three daughters, Mrs. Marion 

Lawton; Mrs. Cecile Silverstein and Sandra 

Dolin. and a grandson, David SUverstein. 

Burglary insurance does not cover theft 

without visible, forcible entry. 

32 BOXOFFICE November 6. 1954

Snapped at MGM's Ticket Selling Workshop in Pittsburgh 

More than 300 exhibitors, Dicatif manasers and film men attended the Ticket Selling Workshop at Pittsburgh, the first in a 

series to be held by MGM. Seen in above photo are. left to right: Marvin Samuelson, Stanley Warner, Pittsburgh; Joseph Freeman, 

State, Johnstown; B. F. "Dinty" Moore, SW, Pittsburgh; Howard W. Debold. State, Washington, Pa.; Frank Savage, Warner, Youngstown. 

Pa., and Perry Nathan, National Screen Service manager, Pittsburgh. 

John J. Maloney, MGM central division manager, snapped as he made the introductory speech. Next is Emery Austin, MGM 

exploitation executive, and in the other photograph: Thomas Bello sr., Nanty Glo; Regis Burns, Erie; Harry Stauffer, Patton; Wilber 

Best, West Newton; Bernard Burns. Corry; John Nagy. Rural Valley; Frank Lewis, Pittsburgh; William Blatt jr.. New Bethlehem; 

Jack Crowley, Somerset; Jacob Stefanon, Altoona. and Earl R. Beckwith, Pittsburgh. 

Here are 22 members of the Stanley Warner group gathered around a table at the Workshop. Standing are Harry Rastetter, 

Frank Harster, Harry Thomas, Joseph Sabbio, Edward Johns, Lyle Harding, James A. Laux, Ray J. Laux. Martin J. Shearn, Al Sateri. 

Andrew Garzo and Charles Passinger. Seated: Richard Klein. Robert Bowman. B. W. Steerman. M. A. Silver, Sol Bragin. Max Silverman, 

.Al Skegin. Willard Johnson, Louis Fordan and Jack Keiffer. 

In this photo are seen Harry Rachiele, Grand, Sharpsburg; George Petropoiis, Rex, Wheeling; W. L. Zedaker, Clay, Claysville; 

Mrs. W. L. Zedaker; Joseph Lacava, Manos, Elwood City; John Popescu. Blue Sky, Elwood City; Ken Woodward, Unionstown; 

.\nthony Askounis, Monessen; Louis Guidette, Charleroi. At the right is Herbert I. Brown. Victoria. Greenfield, Mass., who spoke 

on small-town operation. _ ^ _j.i : 

Here are Russ Wehrle and Robert Leiber, Braddock; Frank Babich, Avella; James Bell, Grove City; Edgar Schaeffer, Slippery 

Rock, and Carlo DeMarsh, Grove City. Glimpsed in the back are Robert Hornick, Southport; Charles Schiffauer, Johnstown. Right 

photo: Ray Mervis, Aspinwall; Norman Mervis, Pittsburgh; William Zeiler, Pittsburgh, Charles Mervis, Pittsburgh, and Herman Stahl, 

Oil City. 


. . Robert 

. . Cathleen 

. . Dore 

. . Arnold 

. . Milton 

. 

^ 

B R O A D y\/ 

Ctewart Granger, MGM star, arrived in New 

York en route to London, where he wili 

join his wife Jean Simmons for their costarring 

film, "Deadlock." to be made at 

Shepperton Studios for Columbia. Edmond 

Purdom, also an MGM star, returned from 

London and stayed in New York for a few 

days before heading for the coast. Howard 

Keel. MGM star of "Jupiter's Darling," arrived 

from London Fi-iday (5), where he made 

personal appearances . Nesbitt, 

British stage-screen star, who has been featured 

in the London stage production of 

"Sabrina Fair." has arrived to rehearse with 

Jennifer Jones in "Portrait of a Lady" and 

appear at the opening of "Desiree." in which 

she is featured. 

. . . Alfred 

Spyros P. Skouras, president of 20th-Fox. 

has returned to New York following studio 

conferences in Hollywood . Schary, 

MGM vice-president in charge of production, 

will leave for the coast Sunday i7i after three 

Alex Harrison, 20th- 

weeks in the east . . . 

Fox western sales manager, got back to New- 

York Friday (5) from the Chicago TOA convention 

. Vogel of MGM studios 

in Culver City returned October 31 after a 

week of home office conferences 

Katz, assistant foreign sales manager of 

United Artists, is back from a tour of the 

company offices in Panama, Cuba, Puerto 

Rico, Trinidad and Colombia . . . Mori 

Krushen. UA exploitation manager, flew to 

Texas to set up advance promotion in the 

southwest on "The Barefoot Contessa" and 

"Vera Cruz." 

. . . 

Edward L. Hyman, American Broadcasting- 

Paramount Theatres vice-president, and Robert 

K. Shapiro, managing director of the New 

York Paramount Theatre, are back from 

Hollywood, where they viewed new product . . . 

E. K. O'Shea. Paramount distribution vicepresident, 

got back November 1 from an upstate 

New- York trip . . . Maiu'ice Silverstein, 

regional director for Latin America for 

Loew's International, an-ived October 28 for 

ten days of home office conferences 

Richard W. Altschuler. Republic director of 

worldwide sales, left for the coast October 28. 

R. J. Hortis, manager of the Westrex Co.. 

AY 

. . Michael 

Argentina, a subsidiary of the Westrex Corp.. 

is in New York for conferences . 

Myerberg. producer of "Hansel and Gretel." 

went to London for four weeks of conferences 

with RKO foreign executives on the distribution 

of the Technicolor feature . . . 

John P. Byrne, eastern MGM sales manager, 

retiu-ned from a two-day visit to Philadelphia 

. M. Picker, vice-president of 

United Artists in charge of foreign distribution, 

planed to London October 29 on the 

first leg of a tour of the company offices in 

Britain. France, Italy and Germany. 

William Perlberg, producer of "The Country 

Girl" and 'The Bridges of Toko-Ri" for Paramount, 

planed to the coast October 30 after 

a New York visit . . . Walter Branson. RKO 

worldwide sales manager, arrived on the 

Queen Mary November 2 after a month in 

Europe devoted to demonstrations of Superscope. 

Constance Collier, British stage-screen 

star, and Jennie Tourel. concert star, were on 

the same boat. 

S. Hurok. who is presenting "Aida" as an 

opera-film in conjunction with IFE. came 

here to participate in the promotion plans 

tor the opening at the Little Carnegie Theatre 

November 11 . . . Al Einstein, manager of 

the Linden Theatre. Brooklyn, a Joe Springer 

house, 

Name's 

was seen 

the Same," 

on the 

November 

TV program, 

1 . . . Sammy 

"The 

Lambert was named executive assistant to 

Michael Todd, w-ho w-ill produce two features 

yearly in Todd-AO. 

Jack Falance, star of the forthcoming "Sign 

of the Pagan." was a guest on Art LinlUetter's 

KNXT-TV show November 1 . . . George 

Cukor, director of MGM's "Bhowani Junction," 

and Mel Ballerino. casting director, 

retiu-ned from India and England and left for 

the coast November 3 . E. Cohen, 

eastern division manager of United Artists, 

became a grandfather for the first time November 

1 when his daughter, Mrs. A. Alan 

Friedberg. gave birth to a daughter at Doctors 

Hospital. 

Myron Karlin. MGM manager of Argentina, 

left for Buenos Aires October 29 after a vacation 

in California and conferences in New- 

York with Loew's International executives . . 

Mary Nicolette of MGM's special service department, 

was married to Henry Bode jr. at 

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Rich- 

. . . 

mond Hill, October 30. and the couple 

Herman 

are 

honeymooning in the Poconos 

Kass, eastern exploitation manager of Universal, 

again is a father, this time of a 

daughter named Jane Ellen. He also has a 

son named Michael. 

FERRER MEETS U-I EXECUTIVES— Jose Ferrer (second from right), star and 

director of "The Shrike," Universal picture based on the Pulitzer Prize play, takes 

time out while shooting location sequences in New 'i'ork to discuss long-range promotional 

plans with U-I sales executives. Left to right: F. J. \. McCarthy, southern and 

Canadian sales manager; James J. Jordan, circuit sales manager; Charles J. Feldman. 

vice-president and general sales manager, and P. T. Dana, eastern sales manager. 

United Artists Executive 

Notes Two Anniversaries 

NEW YORK—Louis Lober. general manager 

of the United Artists foreign department, 

celebrated two anniversaries during the 

week—his 25th wedding 

anniversary and 

25 years in the industry. 

He will be one 

of those inducted as a 

member of the Motion 

Picture Pioneers at the 

_^-- , November 17 dinner at 

the Hotel Sheraton 

^^^^ .— 

Astor. 

^^^k Î^B|L Lober married Eva 

Horowitz in 1929 at the 

^^^^^"^^^ 4^^^^ 

same time he took a 

position with MGM. 

Louis Lober 

There are two children. 

Vivian. 21. a student at the University 

of Chicago, and Lionel, 20, a student at 

Brandeis University. He was with MGM 

more than 15 years as regional director for 

Europe and the Middle East. In 1948 he became 

assistant to the vice-president of Warner 

International in Paris. 

During World War II he served with the 

Office of War Information, overseas branch, 

becoming chief of the motion pictui'e bureau. 

He joined United Artists in 1951 as continental 

manager in Paris and was appointed to 

his present home office post in 1953. 

Max Youngstein to Coast 

For UA Producer Talks 

NEW YORK—Max E. Youngstein. vicepresident 

of United Artists, flew to Hollywood 

Friday (5) to confer with studio officials 

and the producers currently filming 

pictures for UA release. Following a sevenday 

stay in Hollywood. Youngstein will swing 

north to San Francisco to explain expanded 

operations with west coast distribution heads. 

Among the UA executives Youngstein will 

meet with are Robert F. Blumofe. vicepresident 

in charge of west coast operations, 

and Leon Roth, west coast publicity 

coordinator. 

The producers on his conference agenda 

include Michael Baird. currently filming 

"Top of the World"; Robert Goldstein, who 

recently completed "Stranger on Horseback": 

Paul Gregory, who completed "The Night of 

the Hunter"; Stanley Kramer, who is producing 

and directing "Not As a Stranger"; 

Harold Hecht. producing "Marty" for Hecht- 

Lancaster"; Ivan Tors, who completed "Battle 

Taxi." and Aubrey Schenck and Howard 

Koch, who are filming "Big House. U.S.A." 

Cinema Lodge Will Honor 

Its Former Presidents 

NEW YORK—Past presidents of Cinema 

lodge of B'nai B'rith will be honored at a 

"charter night" November 23 at the Sheraton 

Astor Hotel marking the 15th anniversary of 

the founding of the organization, according 

to Burton E. Robbins. president. Max E. 

Youngstein. vice-president and chairman of 

its fund-raising drive, will preside. Among 

the past presidents will be A. W. Schwalberg. 

first president and honorary president; Arthur 

Israel jr., Irving Greenfield, Adolph O. 

Schimel. Al Senft. Jack H. Levin. S. Arthur 

Glixon. Robert M. Weitman. Saul E. Rogers 

and Martin Levine. 

The winner of the 1954 Cadillac sedan 

will be announced. 

34 BOXOFFICE 

: 

: November 

6. 1954

. . Charlie 

. 

BUFFALO 

. . . 

T Richard Smyth has been named treasurer 

at the Paramount Theatre by Manager 

Edward Miller. Smyth started as an usher 

at the Seneca Theatre and rose to assistant 

manager during his five years there. He succeeds 

Leonard J. Warchol who resigned because 

of poor health Robert Cecil, who 

has been a doorman at the Seneca for several 

years, has been promoted to assistant 

manager by Manager Charles McKernan . 

Lou Hart put on a big campaign for "The 

Vanishing Prairie" showing at the Avon 

Theatre in Watertown. Among other things. 

he wrote letters to school principals within 

a 30-mile radius of the theatre. 

George H. Mackenna and several of the 

Basil brothers will attend the 16th annual 

dinner of the Motion Picture Pioneers 

Wednesday (17) in New York 

Krolick, Paramount Theatres 

. . . 

district manager, 

went to Chicago to attend a meeting 

set up by ABC-UPT to study how theatres 

can better use television and radio to sell 

tickets. 

. . Richard 

. . Arthur 

There was a big advance sale at the Center 

Theatre for the Metropolitan opening night 

telecast Monday night (8). The event had 

been widely advertised in western New York 

and along the Canadian border . 

T. Kemjjer, Dipson Theatres zone manager. 

will appear resplendent in his all-white Buffalo 

Bill costume at the fall roundup of Buffalo 

Bill Circus Saints and Sinners Club. 

Monday night (8) in the Elks Club . 

Jenkins, manager of the Strand in Brockport, 

summoned a doctor when notified that 

a patron had slumped in her seat during 

"The Caine Mutiny." The patron, Mrs. Harry 

Hill of Brockport, was found dead. 

Buffalo's own Katherine Cornell and Tyrone 

Power will open their new play, "The 

Dark Is Light Enough," in the Erlanger Theatre 

November 24. The play will not reach 

Broadway until next February. Miss Cornell 

is the daughter of the late Peter C. Cornell, 

who years ago managed the old Star Theatre 

in Buffalo . McKernan at the 

Seneca and Bill Colson at the Niagara both 

report overflow houses for their annual 

Halloween spook shows at midnight. In Rochester, 

Lester Pollock put on his annual Halloween 

show, giving prizes to the kids in 

Crazy Horse, pie-eating, shaving and balloon 

contests. 

William Marcus, son of WB Manager Nat 

Marcus, is forging ahead as a reporter on the 

Courier-Express. Bill was given a byline at 

the top of a front page murder story the 

other day and also appeared in a picture 

showing him interviewing police at the scene 

of the crime. 

. . . Saundra 

The contest put on by the Paramount Theatre 

and the Evening News, in which a $750 

white fur coat went to the writer of the 

winning letter on "Why I Would Like to See 

Her in a White Fur for a 'White Christmas,' " 

went over with a bang. The newspaper received 

a huge pile of replies 

Unger. Paramount exchange, modeled at the 

Hadassah fashion show in Hotel Statler. 

Fanny Kaufman Is 

Dead 

NEW YORK—Fanny Kaufman, widowed 

mother of H. C. Kaufman, manager of Columbia 

exchange operations, died November 4. 

Kaufman's father Gustave died in June. 

AT CARMEN JONES' DEBUT—Celebrities of the show business world attended 

the world premiere at the Kivoli Theatre in New York of "Carmen Jones." Thirty 

minutes of the opening festivities were filmed for presentation later on opening night 

on a national TV network. Shown above, left to right: Charles Einfeld, vice-president 

of 20th-Fox, Mrs. Einfeld and Mrs. and Mr. John Raiss. 

Colonial at Albany Being 

Opened by Henry Brown 

ALBANY—Dr. Henry Brown, head of Henry 

Brown As.sociates in New York City, announced 

that the Colonial Theatre was to be 

reopened with a motion picture policy, probably 

this weekend (5). Robert W. Griffeth. 

who for some time served as assistant manager 

of the Grand and recently had managed 

Schine's first run Mohawk in Amsterdam, 

will have charge of the Central avenue 

house, dark since Malcolm Atterbury dropped 

the curtain on a stock season in the spring 

of 1953. 

A native of Schenectady and an army veteran 

of World War II, Griffeth began a 

theatrical career as a teenager under Harold 

Shter, then Mohawk Valley district manager 

for Schine. He worked for Warner Theatres, 

Fabian and Smalley Theatres. 

Brown, who purchased the Colonial three 

years ago from Central Avenue Amusement 

Corp., has cleaned up and refurbished the 

40-year-old theatre. Juvenile vandals did 

considerable damage to the seats and projection 

equipment during the closedown. 

Jack Darrow. Altec, did the booth rejobbing. 

Bud Hill, Johnny Ray and Johnny Sanders 

will be the projectionists and Pete Anderson 

will return as superintendent of maintenance. 

Action and other domestic features will 

be presented, with occasional art films. 

Variety Boxing Tourney 

Nov. 27 at Menands Arena 

ALBANY—November 27 is the date and 

Midcity Arena in Menands is the place for the 

second annual Variety intercity boxing champion.ships. 

More or less "snowed out" last 

January, when a two-night tournament was 

held at Odd Fellows Hall. Tent 9 has made a 

tie-up with Ben Becker, vice-principal of 

Philip Schuyler High School and Adirondack 

district AAU president; Ray Arcel. promoter 

of monthly amateur bouts at the Arena, and 

Phillies Cigar Co. for the Saturday night 

fistic show. It will be televised over ABC 

and WROW. 

Westrex Foreign Managers 

Attend Recording Talks 

NEW YORK—Westrex Corp. subsidiary 

company recording managers from Australia. 

England. France and Japan are in New York 

attending a conference on new recording 

equipment and techniques, convened by R. O. 

Strock. Westrex commercial recording engineer. 

The program includes visits to studios in 

the New York area and. on November 10, all 

conferees will go to Hollywood to visit the 

important studios and inspect the Westrex 

Hollywood division and laboratories. 

Those attending this technical conference 

include J. Y. Abe. director and assistant 

manager, and K. Kagara, recording engineer 

of the Westrex Co., Orient, Tokyo: J. A. Todd, 

recording manager of the Westrex Co., Ltd., 

London; W. E. Kollmyer, manager of Westrex 

Australia Pty., Ltd., Sydney; R. Senechal. 

head of the recording department of Westrex 

Co.. France-Belgium, Paris, and R. W. Wight, 

manager of the Westrex Corp. Hollywood 

division. 

Closed-Circuit TV Used 

For Queen Mother Talk 

NEW YORK—Large-screen closed-circuit 

television was used Wednesday (3) to bring 

the address of Queen Mother Elizabeth of 

England to guests attending a dinner given 

her at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel by the English 

Speaking Union. Her words were carried 

from the grand ballroom to 1.000 guests in 

other areas of the hotel through arrangecents 

made by Theatre Network Television. 

General Precision Laboratory equipment was 

used. 

Rose Continues in Post 

NEW YORK—Arthur Rose will continue to 

handle the sales of Buena Vista product in 

the Albany and Buffalo exchange areas. He 

will headquarter in Buffalo and be supervised 

by Herb Schaefer. New England district manager. 

The company made the announcement 

in connection with expanded sales activities. 


. . Sam 

. . Bill 

. . "White 

ALBANY 

pielding O'Kelly, a longtime Schine manager, 

recently resigned as Amsterdam city director 

for the circuit, and was succeeded by 

Charles Trurran. formerly of the Avan in 

Watertown. O'Kelly, who had been with 

Schine about 26 years, the last seven in 

Amsterdam, and who at one time was district 

manager, with a base in Glens Falls, is visiting 

his son in England. He had first planned 

to go there on a vacation next year, but left 

soon after his resignation. The son. a World 

War II veteran, married an English girl and 

is employed by the State Department in that 

country. O'Kelly hopes to make an affiliation 

with another circuit on his return to 

the U. S. 

ALBANY TENT ELECTS— Tent No. 9 has installed its new crew. The meniluTs 

are. standing left to right: Irwin Ullman, Aaron VVinig, William Wenner, Sylvan Leff 

and Arthur Green. Seated: Norman Jackter, second assistant chief barker; Sid Urbach. 

dough guy; George Schenck. chief barker; Jack Goldberg, first assistant chief 

barker, and Lou Sumberg, property master. Howard Goldstein was absent when the 

photo was made. 

SYRACUSE 

•The special Saturday and Sunday matinee 

kiddy shows started by Frank Myers of 

Schine's Eckel are paying off. On the first 

Sunday there was a line around the block of 

children w-aiting to see the cartoon and feature 

show from 1:30 to 5 p.m. Following that 

he plays his regular art features for adult-s 

... At the red carpet premiere for "A Star 

Is Born," Manager Sol Sorkin of RKO 

Keiths had numerous press, radio and television 

guests plus Earl Crane, cousin of Harold 

Arlen, who wrote the music for the picture. 

Introduced to the audience on opening 

night was Miss Donna Jeffrey of Tenafly, 

N. J., winner of the talent-beauty contest 

for the local "A Star Is Born." 

Jack Zurich, manager of the Midtown Theatre, 

recently installed a Cinemascope wide 

.screen. Art films he has been showing include 

"Leonardo da Vinci" and "The Pickwick 

Papers" . . . Steve Perozzi was in town 

setting up Ihe publicity for "Brigadoon." 

opening at Loew's State Theatre 

burned hulk of the Acme Theatre, 

. . . 

909 

The 

Butternut 

St., was the center of attraction last 

Saturday when fire broke there again. 

Visitors included Jay Golden of Rochester, 

RKO division manager: Mr. and Mrs. Gus 

Lampe, former Schine zone manager, to 

vi.sit their son Joe, a senior at law school at 

Syracuse University, and to attend the football 

game: Seymour Morris, head advertising 

department of the Schine circuit, talking 

business with Harry Unterfoot, zone manager 

in central New York: and Nat Marcus 

of Warner Bros, from Buffalo. 

. 

. . . 

The new assistant manager of the Eckel 

is Paul Johnson from Lockport . Graham 

of Buffalo. 20th-Fox salesman, looks 

with more anticipation to Syracuse visits 

now that his daughter is a student at nearby 

Cazenovia Junior College Gilman, 

manager of Loew's State, set up a special 

boxoffice for "Oklahoma!" next to his regular 

boxoffice. The play will be featured two 

evenings Mrs. Harry Unterfoot, wife of 

the Schine zone manager, spent last weekend 

in Rochester attending a B'nai B'rith 

meeting. 

Shell Trent Is Acting Head 

Of Altec in Northeast 

NEW YORK— Shell Trent has been made 

acting branch manager of the northeastern 

division of Altec Service Corp., with headquarters 

here, by C. S. Perkins, operating 

manager. He succeeds Ralph Kautzky, recently 

made acting division manager of the 

division. 

Trent is a veteran in the field of theatre 

.sound service. He was a member of the technical 

field staff of Electrical Research 

Products, Inc., and joined Altec, successor to 

ERPI, in 1937 as field engineer. He became 

technical consultant of the northeastern division 

in 1946 and field representative in 

the New York area the next year. He had 

much to do with Cinemascope stereophonic 

sound installations marking the opening of 

"The Robe." 

'Cinerama' Run Reaches 

Year at Washington 

WASHINGTON—"This Is Cinerama" becomes 

the first film in local history to run 

for a full year at one theatre on November 

9, and a special celebration is planned for the 

week of November 7-13 at the Warner Theatre. 

A local airline hostess will be named 

Miss Cinerama, and there wUl be ceremonies 

on the anniversary night, November 9. The 

Washington Advertising Club is set to salute 

"This Is Cinerama" at its November 9 

luncheon. 

Troy Theatre Sold 

TROY—A local landmark changed hajids 

October 30. when Martin A. Ginsburg, Glens 

Falls businessman, purcha.sed the 1.975-.seat 

Troy Theatre for investment purposes. Built 

in 1922, the theatre is leased by Stanley 

Warner Corp. The property wa.s sold by 

Riverfront. Inc., whose members include the 

estates of Edward and William Murphy of 

Troy, the estate of Frank P. Dolan of Albany, 

and Mrs. Melen McCann and Richard Murphy 

of New York City. The Murphys and Mrs. 

McCann are children of the late U. S. Senator 

Edward Murphy. The purchase price was 

not disclosed. 

The new Variety Club crew, already at work 

on plans for the Big Brother campaign and 

Denial week, has scheduled a drive of "a 

short, hard hitting nature, so that at its completion 

the club should be able to spend less 

time on fund raising and more on its own 

activity." Thus stated Property Master Lewis 

A. Sumber in a letter to members . 

Wallens' Grand was one of the 

. . Paul 

theatres 

screening MGM's double horror show. "A 

Woman's Face" and "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. 

Hyde," in the Halloween period . . . Alan 

IseUn booked a three-unit Halloween show, 

consisting of "Beast From 20.000 Fathoms." 

"Creature From the Black Lagoon" and 

Bowery Boys in "The Mastermind" at Auto- 

Vision, East Greenbush. 

Ken Harris is new manager of Schine's Mohawk 

in Amsterdam. Mrs. Polly Ziausys 

continues as assistant manager . . . Howard 

Goldstein. RKO salesman, has been chosen 

as a member of the Variety Club crew to replace 

Leo Greenfield. Greenfield resigned 

when he accepted the position of Buena Vista 

representative in Detroit. Cincinnati and 

Cleveland. He served as U-I branch manager 

until a few weeks ago . Christmas" 

showered money into the Palace cash 

box on opening day. Fabian executive Saul 

Ullman said, "If business keeps up. we will 

equal or surpass the figure for 'Greatest Showon 

Earth.' " 

Fabian's Palace had a fine Saturday matinee 

attendance for the Little Miss Albany 

contest, arranged by Manager Bill With in 

cooperation with the Little Folks shop and 

open to children under 12. A 5-year-old, 

chosen by a committee from finalists selected 

by another screening group, received a trophy 

and other prizes. Raymond J. Kinley, president 

of the Albany Chamber of Commerce, 

served on the committee in the audience. 

The Knickerbocker News and the Times- 

Union cooperated on news stories and pictures. 

Mona Smith, director of women's programs 

at WOKO, acted as emcee. The winner 

will compete November 9 in New- York for 

the national title. The picture at the performance 

was "White Christmas." 

'Rainbow' to Open Xmas 

NEW YORK—"The Big Rainbow-," RKOs 

first feature to be released in Superscope, 

w-ill open at the Mayfair Theatre Christmas 

Day, according to Walter Branson, sales manager. 

The picture, which stars Jane Russell 

and Gilbert Roland, w-ill have its first U. S. 

showing at the Fox Theatre, St. Louis, December 

21. 


. . . Joe 

. . Ray 

. . Roy 

. . Abel 

. . 

. . John 

. . Phil 

. . Peggy 

. . 

. . 

PHILADELPHIA Alvin Ehrlich to Head 

TJariety Tent 13 elected Louis J. Goffman 

chief barker. Others elected: Maxwell 

Gillis, first assistant chief barker; Harry 

Romaiii, second assistant: George T. Beattie. 

dough guy, and Meyer Lewis, property master. 

On the crew are Sylvan M. Cohen, Roger W. 

Clipp, Michael Felt, Leo Posel, Jack Greenberg 

and Lester Wurtele. Induction of the 

new crew and board members will be held 

at the annual dinner January 10. 

. . Prank 

. . . Exhibitor 

. . 

The Sablosky case against the major distributors 

for alleged antitrust violations 

should go to trial in early January . 

Kelly resigned from Berlo Vending Machine 

Co. . . . Ted Schlanger, Stanley Warner zone 

manager, was out of town. He became a 

grandfather once again when his daughter 

Marilyn gave birth to a boy 

Jack Greenberg was in University Hospital 

for a check-up . George Evans, U-I shipper, 

was off from work due to the death of 

one of his parents. 

Plaintiff's motion in the Yeadon Theatre 

antitrust case to add Paramount Pictures 

Theatres Corp. as a party defendant has been 

granted, despite the defendants' objections 

that such action would prejudice their rights. 

This case has been placed on the preliminary 

trial call list. Attorney for plaintiff is Norman 

Shigon. 

Sarah Young Heads Slate 

For lATSE Local F-13 

WASHINGTON—At a regular monthly 

1 1 . an 

meeting of Local F-13 Film Exchange Employes 

in the Carlyle Hotel Monday 

unopposed slate of officers and 

) 

board of 

trustees were nominated. The election i.s 

scheduled for December 6. 

The following were nominated: president, 

Sarah Young of 20th-Fox: vice-president. 

Max Rutledge, Columbia; business agent, 

George Sullivan. RKO; recording secretary, 

Sandra Solamon, National Screen Service; 

financial secretary, Agnes Turner, RKO; 

treasurer, Walter Bang.s. U-I; guardian. Hazel 

McCarthy, MGM. 

Those nominated for the board of trustees: 

Ann Fleming, U-I; Esther Blendman, MGM; 

Patricia Bell. U-I; Harvey Wynn, Warner 

Bros. 

Jesse Smith of RKO. Henry Ajello of MGM, 

Ida Barezofsky of MGM and Nate Shor of 

U-I were selected for the executive board. 

Big Turnout Is Expected 

For Smith-Morgan Dinner 

PHILADELPHIA — Reservations 

indicate 

capacity attendance at the dinner to be given 

by Variety Club Tent 13 Monday (8) at the 

Bellevue Stratford Hotel to Ulrich F. Smith. 

Paramount manager her.>, and O.scar Morgan, 

Paramount short subject general sales manager. 

Smith started with Paramount in 1914 

in its shipping department. He became branch 

manager in 1941. Morgan, whose headquarters 

are at the New York home office, held 

the position before Smith. 

Howark Minsky will be toastmaster. Speakers 

will include A. W. Schwalberg, president. 

Paramount Distributing Corp.; Ted Schlanger. 

zone manager. Stanley Warner Theatres, 

and Norman Silverman, chief barker of the 

tent. 

Tent 11 During 1955 

WASHINGTON—Alvin Q. Ehrlich, vicepresident 

of the Kal, Ehrlich & Merrick advertising 

agency, is the new chief barker of 

Tent 11, Variety Club. He was selected at a 

meeting of the group in the Hotel Willard 

Monday il). 

Others elected were Phil Isaacs, Pai'amount 

exchange manager, first assistant chief barker; 

Orville Crouch, eastern division manager 

for Loew's Theatres, second assistant barker; 

Frank Boucher, general manager of TV 

Guide, property master, and Sam Galanty, 

division manager for Columbia, dough guy. 

At the meeting, a number of new men were 

elected to the board of governors for 1955: 

J. E. Fontaine, United Artists: Marvin Goldman, 

partner in K-B Amusement Co.; Nathan 

D. Golden, Department of Commerce's director 

of motion picture, scientific and photographic 

products; Sam Wheeler, Wheeler Film 

Co.; Hirsh De La Viez, president of the 

Hirsh Coin Machine Co.: George A. Crouch, 

general zone manager of Stanley Warner 

Theatres. All of the new officers also will 

serve on the board. 

F^ve former chief barkers will remain on 

the board during 1955: Jack Fruchtman, Victro 

J. Orsinger, Morton Gerber, Wade Person 

and Jake Flax. 

Morton Gerber was named to serve as a 

delegate to the international convention with 

former Chief Barker Fruchtman. Frank 

Boucher and Phil Isaacs were named as alternates. 

Isaacs also was named as an alternate to 

Ehrlich, who will act as international canvasman, 

too. 

BALTIMORE 

IJenry Jones from Long Island is the new 

assistant manager at the Hippodrome 

Walderman of the Park has taken 

on extra activities with the Azrael Advertising 

Agency . Ti-umble, general manager 

for Jack Fruchtman at the New and 

Keiths, has gone to southern Maryland for 

a meeting at the Lexington Drive-In . 

Meyer Leventhal, general manager for the 

Philip Scheck Theatre Enterprises, visited 

Washington . Knight, Stanley Warner 

sound engineer, was in checking up at the 

Stanley preparatory for the Met telecast. 

. . . John 

Maurice Hendricks, film buyer for the 

Hicks-Baker Theatres, was confined to his 

home for several days with a virus attack 

. . . Charles Grimes. SW district manager, 

was in town on a business trip 

Levy, assistant at the Plaza in Lexington 

Park, was married to his former aide. Donna 

Willard Fagan, Westport manager, 

Ickes . . . 

has been called for jury service . . . BUI 

Myers was in from Pocomoke City. He said 

Hurricane Hazel blew down the screen at his 

drive-in, .so he closed till next spring. 

. . . 

Claude Ringer was convalescing at the 

Prince Georges County Hospital in Riverdale. 

He's Columbia head shipper in Wa.shington 

Jake Flax of Republic was in town conferring 

with Gordon Contee and Lou Gaertner, 

Ritz Enterprises . Caplon, Westway 

manager, was in Washington . . . Ditto 

Boy Lyon of 

Sol Goodman of the Ideal . . . 

the Maryland at KitzmiJler has leased and 

will reopen the Majestic at Piedmon' 

WASHINGTON 

n I Pratt, head of the Stanley Warner The- 

. . George 

atres' sound department, returned from a 

hunting trip to Canada. He was with a party 

of four which bagged three deer . 

Payette, manager of the Maryland Theatre 

at Hagertown, has returned to work after an 

illness of three weeks . Hodiak, stage 

and screen actor, will play the leading role 

in a dramatic sketch at a groundbreaking 

dinner of the B'nai B'rith, Sunday i7i, at 

the Mayflo.ver Hotel. 

Jack Kohler, 20th-Fox booker, celebrated 

a birthday last week . Berler, E. M. 

Loew Theatres, was in to book and buy . 

MGM Booker Ida Barezofsky is planning a 

two-week vacation at Miami Beach . 

Frank La Falce, S-W local publicity head, 

was in New York for an advertising meeting. 

Harry Goldberg, over-all head of publicity 

and advertising, returned La Falce's 

visit with a trip here. 

. . . 

The Newbold-Keesling circuit is now doing 

the booking and buying for the Center Theatre 

at Bluefield, W. Va. Lew Ribnitzki. 

local film buyer for S-W, won second prize 

in the circuit's national buyer-bookers contest. 

In addition, the office booker, J. W. 

Root, and the girls in the office received an 

extra half-week's pay . Claggett has 

been promoted from the switchboard to the 

biller's position at 20th-Fox. 

Pittsburgh Theatres Hope 

For City Tax Relief 

PITTSBURGH—Owners and managers of 

the city's theatres and other representatives 

of the amusement and sports industries have 

indicated that they will appear at a public 

hearing scheduled by the city administration 

for November 10 on the continuance of four 

special temporary taxes. One of the taxes is 

a 10 per cent amusement levy which was 

passed in 1948. 

Since the city's tax income for the past 

several months has been greater than anticipated, 

local theatremen hope to be offered 

relief from the amusement tax. The city 

administration has already announced that 

it plans to cut the 1 per cent wage tax in 

half early in November. 

Reports Election Vandalism 

ERIE, PA.—Alden Phelps, Erie County 

Democratic committee chairman, operates 

the Sunset Drive-In between Union City and 

Waterford when he is not occupied with political 

campaigns. Last Saturday, Phelps reported 

that a costly sign in front of the 

outdoor theatre was seriously damaged, then 

marked with the words "Vote Republican." 

in black paint. Phelps characterized the acts 

as "lousy politics." 

CEORGE HERBERT PATRICIA AGNES 

UNOERS MARSHALL ROC MOORENEAO 

'CAPTAIN & 


. . The 

. . Floyd 

. . The 

. . 

. . 

PITTSBURGH 

rjale Shaffer, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. 

Edgar E. Shaffer of the Roxy Theatre at 

Slippery Rock, became father of a second son. 

Dale is associate director of physical medicine 

at the Mayo clinic . . . New Variety Club 

barkers include Robert N. Brown, Cortlandt 

V. Steen, Richard Samuel Simon. Jack Anthony 

Jardine and Ernest Tanner . . . Mrs. 

Rose Kuhar, former Paramount exchange 

cashier, is the mother of a baby son born 

October 29. 

Bert and Dorothy Stearn hosted the November 

5 Family night party at the Variety 

Club Mervis Bros, theatres here pulled 

. . . 

out of the Moore booking agency and returned 

to the Co-op fold . . . Ralph Pew, SW 

manager, was shifted from the Ar-senal here 

to the Columbia at Brookville . . . 

Bick, former Erie theatre manager, 

Charlie 

who is 

busy with North American Films. Inc., furnished 

CBS-TV network films of the recent 

Erie mass evacuation for civilian defense . . . 

Abe Joseph will present his initial Cinema- 

Scope picture next weekend at the Triangle 

Theatre in East Liberty. 

W. W. Waterhouse, Erie county, who led 

the fight in the last Pennsylvania legislature 

to have local amusement taxes eliminated 

from the enabling act, was re-elected. 

Also re-elected was the one man who blocked 

Waterhouse's great effort, James E. Lovett of 

Trafford in Westmoreland county . . . Genevieve 

Blatt, 40-year-old Pittsburgh attorney, 

became the first woman ever to be elected 

to a state office in Pennsylvania, secretary of 

internal affairs. She is a cousin of exhibitors 

Charlie and Jake Blatt . . . The Indiana 

Theatre, a Manos circuit house, was reopened 

this week after being completely 

renovated. 

Claire Boyle, Paramount exchange booking 

clerk, and Robert W. Cox will be married 

The former Filmrow parKing 

November 27 . . . 

lot with 27 stalls now is a private parking 

lot for 20th-Fox employes . "Fritz" 

Klingensmith, Columbia salesman and Freeport 

outdoor exhibitor, has been named program 

chairman for the second annual Har- 

Brack Quarterback Club smoker scheduled 

for February 5 at the Brackenridge Heights 

Country Club 

Local 3 

. . . Phil Doyle, 

business manager who is 

stagehands 

recuperating 

after a heart attack, returned to Presbyterian 

hospital for an operation. 

Paul Bronder recently reopened the Beechview 

Theatre here for weekend operations, 

but the house again is dark. The building 

will be converted into a veterans organization 

home . Warner exchange is honoring 

the district manager with a Bill Mansell week 

Starting November 15, 

December 19-25 . . . 

a one-hour afternoon radio phone and phonograph 

show will be broadcast daily Monday 

through Friday over WAKU from the lobby 

of the Manos Theatre at Latrobe. 

SAM FINEBERG i 

TOM McCLEARY I 

JIM ALEXANDER | 

84 Von Braam Street i| 

PITTSBURGH 19, PA. i 

Phone Express 1-0777 |; 

^Mnyjes Are Better Than Ever How't Your EquipimntBi:j 

Ex-FBI Aide Mazzei Hosts 

Agent Cvetic at Theatre 

MILLVALE. PA.—Mr. and Mi's. Joseph 

Mazzei, operators of the Grant Theatre here 

who posed as Communists for the FBI for a 

dozen years, recently pre.sented Matt Cvetic, 

another FBI undercover agent, during the 

showing of "I Was a Communist for the FBI," 

which depicts some of the activities of Cvetic. 

Mazzei and Cvetic had reported on the 

activities of each other many times without 

knowing that the other was working for the 

FBI. In fact, Mazzei was chosen by his 

"comrades" to kill Cvetic following the latter's 

disclosure of his true status in government 

cases against the Reds. 

Cvetic, in his stage appearance at the Grant, 

answered questions regarding the evils of 

Communism. He now is on a lecture tour. 

His son Dick now is managing a theatre at 

Fargo, N. D. 

Cvetic is shown at left in the accompanying 

photo and Mazzei at right. 

Doubling Airer Capacity 

MONONGAHELA, PA. — The Hill Top 

Drive-In is being modernized and its capacity 

will be doubled by next spring. The 400-car 

outdoor theatre, operated and managed by 

O. P. "Perry" Kinnear of McClellandtown, 

will have a new concession building, necessitated 

by increased business and by the addition 

of many new ramps which requires a 

relocation of the building. A wide screen will 

be erected, modern equipment installed and 

a playground built. The progi-am for increasing 

the capacity has been under way 

for some weeks and installation of additional 

ramps, junction boxes and speakers will continue 

in progress through the end of the 

current .season. 

'Ike' Sweeney Relieved 

PITTSBURGH—I. T. "Ike" Sweeney, Republic 

manager here for a number of years, 

was relieved of duties with the company. 

Sweeney, who had been ill for several weeks, 

suffered a nervous breakdown last year and 

at that time was absent from the office for 

several months, returning later as a salesman. 

The manager's post, meanwhile, was 

filled for six months and then Sweeney again 

took over the duties. Doctors have told 

Sweeney he must take a long rest. Filmrow 

reports from New York were that Lawrence 

Siedelman would come here from Omaha to 

assume duties as manager. 

Morris Shulgold, 92, Dies 

PITTSBURGH—Morris Shulgold, 92, father 

of Max Shulgold of Crown Film Co. here, 

died October 30 in Montefiore hospital. Surviving 

are his wife Rose, a daughter, Mrs. 

O. Hicks Friedman, and two sons. Jacob, a 

lawyer, and Max, film distributor. 

WEST VIRGINIA 

rjavid Shia has received his permanent commission 

as postmaster of St. Clairsville, 

Ohio, across the river from Wheeling. He is 

a member of the family which operates the 

Old Trail and the Shia Drive-In Theatres . 

James Hetzer reports that his Hetzer Theatrical 

Agency, Huntington, will be established 

with a west coast office within two 

months. 

Wheeling Symphony orchestra's winter 

series of concerts will open November 10 and 

11 at the Virginia Theatre, Wheeling . 

Word from St. Marys was that the mother 

of exhibitor Tom Piatts' wife died in Parkersburg 

. Craigsville Drive-In has a new 

name which attaches the owner's handle and 

his policy. It is now billed as Richard's Year- 

Round Craigsville Drive-In. 

When the First Methodist Church in 

Clarksburg was destroyed by fire four 

years ago. Mrs. Madge Stout, manager 

of the Robinson Grand Theatre, invited the 

congregation to hold its services freely in the 

theatre. Sunday morning services have been 

conducted in the theatre auditorium ever 

since. Meanwhile the new church structure 

is nearing completion. 

Wendell H. Holt, theatre manager at 

Richmond, married Miss Anita L. Gambill. 

Sgt. Jack Holt. USMC. served as best man 

for his father. The newlyweds honeymooned 

in southern states. The bridegroom is the 

son of the late Charley Holt, pioneer exhibitor 

here. 

Manos Theatres Admit 

Voters at Half Price 

GREENSBURG. PA.—Voters were rewarded 

with half-price admission on election day at 

theatres in this territory owned and operated 

by the Mike Manos circuit. To encourage 

voting, the circuit's policy is to have each 

voter present his numbered ballot stub at the 

theatre and receive admission for half price. 

Marty Wolf at Altec Exhibit 

PITTSBURGH—Marty Wolf. Altec 

Service 

Corp. assistant sales manager, went to the 

Theatre Owners of America convention in 

Chicago to attend the Altec exhibit at the 

end of the Shea Enterprises meeting of circuit 

managers here. F. C. Dickely returned 

to Chicago, where he is head of the central 

division, L. J. Patton. in charge of the eastern 

division, to Newark, N. J., and C. A. Mc- 

Crork, Philadelphia branch manager, to that 

city. 

Salesman Shift at RKO 

PITTSBURGH—David Brown. RKO salesman, 

was released this week, and Joel Golden, 

salesman recently discharged by Allied Artists, 

stepped into the RKO post as West 

Virginia area representative. Brown is one of 

the 11 founders of the Variety Tent 1 here. 

Murray Weiss, formerly with RKO in Albany, 

came here recently as Golden's successor for 

Allied Artists. 

Wallace Ford has been inked for a character 

lead in the James Stewart starrer, 

"The Man From Laramie," a Columbia film. 

38 

BOXOFFICE November 6. 1954

Jm/icf/ Motion Picture Pioneers 

RESERVATIONS ARE 

POURING IN FOR THE 

FABULOUS 

ENTERTAINIVIENT- 

PACKED 

£/f/r annual 

SHOWMANSHIP 

DINNER of the 

INC. 

honoring 

SI FABIAN 

PIONEER OF THE YEAR!'' 

NOVEMBER 17th, 1954 

GRAND BALLROOM 

HOTEL SHERATON - ASTOR 

RESERVATIONS 

TWENTY DOLLARS PER 

PERSON • DRESS INFORMAL 

SEND YOUR RESERVATIONS IN . . . NOW!

BOXOFFICE 

BAROMETER 

This chart records the performance of current attractions in the opening week of their first runs in 

the 20 key cities checked. Pictures with fewer than five engagements ore not listed. As new runs 

are reported, ratings are added and averages revised. Computation is in terms of percentage in 

relation to normal grosses as determined by the theatre managers. With 100 per cent as "normal," 

the figures show the gross rating above or below that mark.

I 

Among recent promotions focusing the bright 

light of public interest on the theatre was the 

Manager for a Day celebration arranged by 

Manager Bill Burke and the Expositor at the 

Capitol in Brantford, Ont. A lucky newsboy was 

nominated "Manager" and allowed to write out 

passes for his fellow newsboys to a special 

matinee show. The Mayor spoke, footballs were 

awarded door prize winners and the boys were 

escorted through the theatre for a first-hand 

inspection of backstage equipment. Points, earned 

by the boys during the past year for service, 

new customers, etc., were honored at the candy 

bar at a cent a point. The Expositor supplied 

the prizes and reimbursed the theatre for the 

refreshments the boys secured. The newspaper 

naturally boosted the affair with photos and 

feoture articles. Top photo shows Manager 

Burke with a couple of boys backstage, while 

bel( 

door

. . Miss 

— 

" 

Six by four-inch mat available on Poramount's first VistaVision film, "White Christmas," 

features the four stars, Bing Crosby, Rosemory Clooney, Danny Kaye and Vero-Ellen. 

STARS, MUSIC AND VV SHINE 

FOR 

WHITE CHRISTMAS' 

Impressive Lineup of Selling Potentialities Illustrated 

By Popularity of Title Song Hit Alone 

A brief analysis of the billing alone on 

Paramount's "White Christmas" wUl reveal 

an impressive variety of selling potentials 

the star cast, the music and the songs and 

their composer, the introduction of a new 

filming technique and finally the accomplished 

director. All elements are of outstanding 

importance and each rates consideration 

in local promotion of the picture. 

There's a diversification of top talent in 

the quartet of popular personalities in the 

film—Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary 

Clooney and Vera-Ellen. A song stylist 

who has endeared himself to millions, there 

is only one Bing ... an actor of unusual 

comic skill, Kaye's reputation is international 

. Clooney is one of today's 

most popular vocalists . . . and Vera-Ellen 

is justly famed as a graceful and exciting 

dancer. 

Pew songs have achieved the tremendous 

acclaim of the title number, "White 

Christmas," one of the greatest hits in 

musical history, and its masterful composer, 

Irving Berlin, has written nine additional 

tunes for the picture. VistaVision, Paramount's 

new and widely publicized photographic 

process, makes its long-awaited 

debut, in Technicolor, and the picture was 

directed by Michael Curtiz, the winner of 

an Academy award. 

The music from the film probably will 

The 

still 

afford the greatest number of tie-in possibilities, 

with the title song leading the 

way. There have been approximately 18 

million recordings of "Wliite Christmas" 

waxed since it was first introduced, including 

about eight million copies of Bing 

Crosby's version. In sheet music sales the 

song has passed the 3 "a million mark, both 

of these figui'es representing records. 

Altogether there are nine new Berlin 

songs in the picture, and a couple of old 

favorites with one new number, "Count 

Your Blessings Instead of Sheep," currently 

getting top playing on radio and TV networks. 

Three additional songs that are becoming 

increasingly popular are "Sisters," 

"Love You Didn't Do Right by Me" and 

"What Can You Do With a General?" 

The complete list of the many companies 

making recordings of the individual numbers 

is listed in the pressbook and includes 

every major recording firm. Among the 

vocalists on the recordings are Crosby, 

Rosemary Clooney, Eddie Fisher, Peggy Lee 

and Arthur Godfrey. Two special "White 

Christmas" albums, one by Bing Crosby 

and the other by Rosemary Clooney, are 

being distributed by Decca and Columbia 

Records, respectively. 

Disk jockey cooperation is a "must" in 

the campaign. Eighteen hundred radio and 

TV stations around the country have already 

received a personal letter from Miss 

Clooney telling them about the picture, 

her co-stars, the music and VistaVision. 

Irving Berlin recently made a national 

tour appearing on air programs in key 

cities and attending conferences and receptions 

with station executives, disk 

jockeys, motion picture editors and critics. 

Berlin made two special recordings which 

were distributed to 1,500 disk jockeys, radio 

and film commentators which are to form 

the basis of special programs on the picture. 

Paramount is making available free to 

exhibitors on request a two-sided interview 

transcription with Miss Clooney, a 

complete 15-minute radio program with 

music, and a special spot announcement 

record to serve as an inspiration for 

"Irving Berlin Day" or "Bing Crosby Day 

broadcasts, which are to feature the music 

and songs by the two artists. Crosby and 

Miss Clooney are also available for local 

telecasts via a free TV sound film clip 

from the picture. Write to Advertising 

Mgr., Paramount Pictures, 1501 Broadway, 

New York, for information on the recordings 

and the film clip. 

MUSIC TIEUPS IMPORTANT 

Every record and music store in town 

should feature recordings, sheet mu.sic and 

displays of the scene stills. In the New 

York campaign two leadmg stores used 

large-space co-op ads tieing in with the 

picture and Radio City Music Hall. The 

music score should also be played on the 

PA system in the theatre and lobby; promoted 

with local orchestras, and spotted 

on juke boxes. Offer promoted records 

as prizes for patrons submitting the longest 

list of Berlin tunes or Bing Crosby 

records. 

"White Christmas" is the first film to 

use Paramount's wide screen process, a new 

method of "photographic high-fidelity," a 

development which has been publicized for 

many months. With Paramount's first 

production in VistaVision, the motion picture 

company is introducing a new line of 

color stills especially designed for tie-ins 

and display purposes to further publicize 

the new screen process. Packed 12 to a 

set in glassine envelopes, they are available 

at National Screen. VistaVision is also 

featured in the special assortment of theatre 

front and lobby decorative materials 

including valances, auto bumper strips, 

badges, etc., all items in fluorescent satin, 

to be ordered from the vender. 

TO FEATURE VERA-ELLEN 

Almost everyone of the commercial tieups 

will be helpful locally in arranging displays 

and cooperative promotions with 

merchants. The Bostwick Laboratories, 

manufacturers of an aerosol bomb that 

sprays imitation snowflakes, will feature 

Vera-Ellen, while Craft House Pi'oducts, 

manufacturers of Trim-It-Yourself Christmas 

tree decorations and wrappings, will 

use the portrait of Rosemai-y Clooney in 

their respective national magazine, newspaper, 

dealer display and direct mail advertising. 

Both of these products, in addition to 

offering tie-ups. will prove useful in theatre 

decorations for the picture. More than 

8,000 department stores and dress shops 

o 

oo 

o 

— 348 — BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Nov. 6, 1954

(0 

CD 

Irving Berlin, left, and Manoger Carl Ferrozza 

inspect a lobby board in Keiths Theatre at 

Cincinnati on "White Christmos." Note the 

Lite magazine spreod on the film is the basis 

of the display. 

featuring Natlynn Junior Originals for 

junior misses will plug the picture in special 

mailing pieces. Juno Knitting Mills, 

maker of turtle neck sweaters for men, 

women and children: Chief Apparel, men's 

and boys' sports jackets; Van Heusen 

Shirts, men's sport and dress shirts; the 

Hollywood Bread Co.. and the Deeco Furniture 

Co.—all will use portraits of stars and 

featured players in the picture for their 

advertising campaigns. 

Crosby will appear for Bem'us watches 

on filmed TV and recorded radio spot announcements. 

As reported, the National 

Ass'n of Fur Mfrs. will publicize "'White 

Christmas" in ten major metropolitan areas 

in a contest involving the presentation of 

ten white sheared beaver jackets. Department 

stores and specialty shops are to participate 

in the fur coat promotion. Any 

number of other tie-ups may be arranged 

with local dealers. Highlighting the "white" 

part of the film title, urge a 'White Goods 

sale or a sale of washing machines, dryers, 

etc., 

to keep household articles white. 

TWO MAGAZINE COLOR ADS 

Pre-selling on the picture includes two 

color ads In national magazines plugging 

"White Christmas" and VistaVision, most 

of the insertions scheduled for the December 

and January issues, to be on the newsstands 

throughout November and December. 

The local distributing companies 

should feature banners on their trucks 

calling attention to the ads and theatre 

playdates. 

Parents' Magazine for November has selected 

"'White Christmas" as the Movie of 

the Month. A three-page layout including 

pictures in color made during the production, 

appeared in an issue of Life. Redbook 

and Seventeen selected "White Christmas" 

as the Picture of the Month and the 

'Woman's Home Companion for November 

reproduces a number of scenes from the 

film with a review. All these breaks may 

be combined for an effective lobby board. 

It will be only natural for showmen to 

emphasize the yuletide motif or Christmasy 

atmosphere of the story in theatre 

front decorations, direct mail advertising 

and general promotion. There's a lot of 

decorative material available particularly 

during the winter that may be used for 

fashioning a snow-crusted, glittering front 

and marquee. 

A stunt that should get newspaper coverage 

for theatres in the northern sections 

of the country could be worked with the 

cooperation of a local weather man. When 

the picture playdate has been set. ask the 

weather bureau for a prediction on opening 

day, based on the possibility there 

might be snow. In all areas it may be possible 

to promote a truck load of "snow" 

from the local ice company for a snowball 

party to be staged in front of the theatre 

at the opening. 

USE OLDTIME SLEIGH 

If there's a sleigh that can be borrowed, 

have it displayed around town on an open 

truck with youngsters dressed in costumes 

tossing snow balls to passersby. If no snow 

is obtainable, the five-and-dime stores sell 

imitation snowballs which in turn may be 

stuffed with passes to the theatre and 

tossed to lucky citizens. Cotton batting 

snowballs will also sei-ve the purpose. A 

girl dressed in a winti-y short-skirted skating 

costume can be hired to distribute 

throwaways. Use a Christmas-type greeting 

card in mailings to patrons. 

Communities having snow during the engagement 

can stage a sleigh derby, with 

kids racing down a hill for ticket prizes. 

The photos of the four stars pictured in the 

pressbook mat 3-A, and also available as 

a still, will prove effective blown up for 

top-of-marquee display and other poses of 

the full-length figures, from posters and 

stills, may be enlarged for foyer set-pieces. 

As a civic gesture, the picture opening 

may be tied in with a "white Christmas" 

for the needy charity campaign, with patrons 

leaving their contributions at the 

theatre. Get permission from the authorities 

for kids to decorate the pine trees in 

the city park, using paper garlands, cotton, 

imitation snow and homemade decorations, 

with winners to be selected by the mayor 

or group of councilmen. 

Theatre 

and Cafe Host 

54 in School Faculty 

Manager Phil Heil of the Valley Theatre 

in Fowler, Colo., and the proprietors of 

a local restaurant played host to the 

faculty of the local schools and members 

of the board of ed'ucation, and their husbands 

or wives, at a dinner-theatre party 

at the beginning of the school year. 

Fifty-four school leaders and their families 

gathered at the restaurant for a 

turkey dinner, and following this the educators 

went to the theatre for a special 

show. The "^Velcome to Fowler" party 

was greatly appreciated by the group and 

served as a fine introduction to their 

hosts. 

Sales and Car Safety 

Slogans Inspired by 

'Suddenly' Title 

. . . Your 

The title of "Suddenly," the new Frank 

Sinatra film, gave Lester Pollack, manager 

of Loew's at Rochester, N. Y., an inspiration. 

Traffic accidents happen suddenly 

and without warning. Pollack took this 

fact and blazed forth that "Most Accidents 

Happen Suddenly." and recommended 

"Suddenly" as the picture to see at Loew's. 

The placards were attached to lamp 

posts around town. 

Pollack persuaded officials at the American 

Electronic Supply Co. in Rochester to 

use the "Suddenly" idea on circulars sent 

out to customers. Copy read: "Television 

receivers often go 'Suddenly' 

business demands that you avoid being 

caught 'Suddenly' without adequate parts." 

Proper credits appeared at the bottom of 

the herald. 

A Newsweek magazine review of the film 

was blown up for an outer lobby display. 

The 40x60 cutout of P^-ank Sinatra from a 

shooting scene in the film was given added 

realism in the inside lobby by a soundeffects 

record, hidden from view, which 

duplicated the whine and rat-tat-tat of 

bullets. 

The cutout stood next to a poster detailing 

a disk jockey contest. Listeners were 

asked to answer four questions concerning 

Sinatra's recent movie roles and latest 

Capitol recordings, and winners were 

awarded copies of the new album or passes. 

Window Spots 

'Brides' 

Song Hits in Picture 

Manager J. LeFave, manager of the 

Capitol in 'Windsor, Ont., promoted an 

excellent window display in a local record 

and music shop on "Seven Brides for Seven 

Brothers" as his entry in the MGM window 

display contest. Banners displayed at the 

top of the front window showcase heralded 

the song hits from the film, available on 

records and in sheet music at the store, 

and colorful streamers ran from the ceiling 

to "disks" which bordered the window. 

The disks were labeled with the names 

of the song hits featured in the picture, 

while actual records of the tunes were 

displayed next to a large poster. 

BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Nov. 6. 1954 — 349

- 

NO BIG 

TO WIN IN 

BUDGET REQUIRED 

SHOWMANSHIP 

E. J. Jordan Dick Wommack Murray Spector Harry Wilson 

Murray Spector. who manages a oneman 

operation, the Plaza Theatre in Englewood, 

N. J., and was an award winner in 

1953, wins the first Citation for October 

with his tremendous Back-to-School promotion. 

Paired with him in the public 

relations grouping is Edwin Jordan, who 

earns an award for his Happiness Club 

promotion for youngsters, a weekly feature 

at the Belle Meade Theatre in suburban 

Nashville, Tenn. 

There are dual awards for the most 

original ideas submitted during the month, 

one to Dick Wommack for his Cowkid 

contest, which he held at the Pawnee 

Drive-In, North Platte, Neb., and the other 

to Warren 'Bud" Patton, city manager for 

the Downtown Theatre, Tulsa, Olka., for 

another promotion with the town youngsters 

that resulted in excellent goodwill 

publicity. 

Two former Citation winners, dating 

back to 1950. are Harry Wilson, manager 

of the Capitol in Chatham, Ont.. who takes 

an October award for his fine newspaper 

ads. and Pi'ancis Aiello. who put over the 

best general promotion of the month with 

his comprehensive campaign on "Three 

Coins in the Fountain" at the Manosoperated 

Casino in Vandergrift, Pa. 

A good idea worked out in a window 

display for "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" 

wins an award for Howard Rutherford 

of Loew's Theatre, Indianapolis, and 

Don Knight wins his Citation for the theatre 

front setpiece plugging "Rear Window" 

at the Des Moines (lowai Theatre. 

Manager M. A. Maige of the Cloverleaf 

Drive-In in Augusta, Ga.. was rated tops 

for his unusual lobby display on "Demetrius 

and the Gladiators" and the final award 

goes to M. A. Elkins for his very attractive 

bally on "Susan Slept Here" at the Colbert 

Theatre, Sheffield, Ala. 

F. Aiello M. A. Elkins Howard Rutherford M. A. Maige 

Carrot Bouquets Win 

'Francis' Publicity 

Manager Phil Heil of the Valley Theatre 

in Fowler, Colo., made use of an inexpensive, 

imaginative adaptation of an idea 

taken from the pressbook to reap top 

drawer publicity on "Pi-ancis Joins the 

WACs." Heil had a local florist make up 

several bouquets of carrots, with an enclosed 

card reading "Pi-om Francis, see me 

Thursday, Friday or Saturday." These 

were delivered to the mayor, city council 

men and editor of the local paper. All got 

quite a kick out of the stunt. The editor 

of the Fowler Tribune printed Heil's letter 

to the mayor and councilmen, in which 

Heil asked them to be his guests at a showing 

of the film. On the editorial page, 

humorous mention of the corsage was included 

and the editor commented. "With 

the kind of weather we've had this week 

I think I'll ask my wife to use my corsage 

in a nice stew instead of wearing it when 

I go to see Francis." 

Boxoffice business was 150 per cent for 

the run. and the stunt cemented excellent 

relations with city officials. 

Dolls and Manikin Minus 

Credits Used for 'Brides' 

Manager Hilary Howes of the Capitol 

in Halifax. N. S.. experimented with a 

lobby display consisting of a life-size model 

dressed in a bridal costume and seven small 

dolls at her feet. The display tied in with 

"Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," but 

Howes decided not to include a credit 

card on opening night to see how many 

would catch the idea of the exhibit. 

Howes reported patrons passing the display 

were intrigued and stopped to examine 

it more carefully. He felt certain that 

at least 90 per cent caught on instantly, 

and after the first evening reports that 

"no one could have forced me to use a 

Patrons' comments were well 

credit card." 

worth hearing, and while Howes couldn't 

be sure that the display was a factor in 

their holding the film over for a second 

time, he and the cooperating store owner 

were delighted with the success of the 

"seven brides." 

Ten-Foot Mobile Book 

Ballyhoos 'Mutiny' 

Sam Oilman's promotion for "The Caine 

Mutiny" at the Loew's State in Syracuse. 

N. Y.. featured a giant book bally, a naval 

detachment as guests of honor opening 

night and numerous "Read the Book—See 

the Picture" tie-ups. 

The oversize ten-foot book ballyhoo. 

I 

DEAL DIRECT AND SAVE 

on Quality Theatre Equipment 

Factorytoyou Values on the BEST for Drive 

ins and Indoor Houses. SATISFACTION 

GUARANTEED. Write lor complete catalog 

, and valuable portfolio FREE. 

Tirsi •American jpWucb.inc. 

1717 Wyandolle St., 

made portable by rollers attached to its 

base, was pushed through town prior to 

opening and also displayed in front of the 

theatre throughout the playdate. 

A group of local navy personnel, including 

a WAVES representative, attended the 

first performance of the film and posed for 

photos outside the theatre. 

Jack Mitchell of the Auburn Theatre. 

Auburn, N. Y.. has come up with a clever 

gimmick on "Sabrina." He had a local 

dress shop pay for the imprinting of 2,500 

book matches. Scintillating copy read, 

"You'll light up when you see 'Sabrina,' 

starting Sunday at Schine's Auburn Theatre," 

This was on the front cover. On the 

back was, "You'll look striking in a dress 

from the Evelyn Shoppe." 

Son Bob Jefferis Writes 

Program Movie Chatter 

Jeff Jefferis. manager of the Jefferis 

Theatre at Piedmont, Mo., publishes a 

monthly chatter sheet on the back of his 

calendar of coming attractions mailed to 

patrons. For October. Jeff's son Bob, an 

addition to the Jefferis management, took 

over as editor and delighted readers with 

his folksy line of patter. Notes on the recent 

remodeling job and the many improvements 

completed at the Jefferis, new fall 

schedules at the theatre, announcement of 

the grand reopening show and a change 

in the pictures listed on the calendar were 

all written up in a chatty, informal style 

designed to make patrons feel like "one of 

the family." 

— 350 — BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Nov. 6. 1954

, 

Pre-Selling 

Guide 

Exploitable in 

the Magazines 

o 

A report on new films lor which national 

pre-selling campaigns have 

been developed. Listed with each 

picture are tie-ins which have been 

created, plus tips to exhibitors on 

how to use these pre-selling aids to 

exploit the picture locally. 

ROOGIES BUMP 

Rep. 

liooK Store Tieup: Check local book stores 

for the use of window displays built around 

liooks about baseball and/or the Brooklyn 

Dodgers. Some of the current books about 

the Dodgers include "Dodger Daze and 

Knights," by T. Holmes: "The Artful Dodgers," 

Tom -Meany; "The Rhubarb Patch," 

Barney Stein and Red Barber, and "The 

Brooklyn Dodgers" by Frank Graham. A contest, 

with books as prizes, could be promoted. 

Coloring Contest: A two-column color-in 

mat (No. RG-21 is available from National 

Screen and may be used in newspapers or as 

a herald. 

Baseball quiz: Questions about baseball are 

imprinted on Mat No. RG-1, from NS, which 

may be planted in the local paper or used 

on the back of a herald, distributed from 

sporting goods stores, or broadcast over a 

sports program. 

Radio Copy: Spot announcement copy, varied 

in approach, may be had upon request to 

Republic Pictures Exploitation Dept., 17-M) 

Broadway, .New York. This copy is aimed at 

the kids and may be placed before or after 

kid shows, sports programs, etc. Mention of 

the picture may be promoted through local 

game commentators, announcers and newscasters. 

Little League Promotion : Since the picture 

concerns a small boy who gets to play with 

the Brooklyn Dodgers, Little League baseball 

teams throughout the country will undoubtedly 

be especially interested in the film. Contact 

the civic or fraternal group which sponsors 

your town's team and work with its leaders 

on a full-scale campaign. 

TlE-IN Tips: Arrange an invitational premiere 

for the lofai Litt'e League team, 

parade t with band), honor day for playoij 

winners, visit to mayor's office, stage 

presentation of cup or marchandise 

awards, newspaper interviews, etc. 

Accessories: An announcer display showing 

announcer Tedd Lawrence at the mike may 

be blown up, with a concealed record player 

plugging the picture, or the still may be cut 

out and mounted. Order Still No. 4005-P2. 

ann(puncer still, from National Screen. A set 

of four teaser ad mats, Nos. 210, 220, 230 and 

240: the regular ad mats on the picture: an 

upright set of five stills of the Brooklyn 

Dodgers players who are featured in the film: 

and the posters are all available from iNational 

Screen. 

Yule Cards Out in Detroit 

Christmas cards were received early by 

numerous special friends of the Michigan 

Theatre, "flagship house" of the United 

Detroit Theatres. Attractively printed in 

regular greeting card format, in bright 

red. with Santa Claus on the front, the 

cards invited the recipient to the first 

showing of "White Christmas." Each 

served as a pass for two persons, and was 

an attention-getting technique assuring a 

good sendoff for the film. 

Jesse Zunser reviews Warner Bros. "A 

Star Is Born" in Cue and comments that 

Judy Garland has made the film a tremendous 

personal triumph. Zunser also 

lauds the splendid supporting cast which 

includes James Mason and Charles Bickford, 

Tom Noonan and Jaclc Carson. Also 

reviewed in this issue is "Beau Brummell," 

MGM's screen version of the Clyde Fitch 

Regency comedy, which is commended for 

its brilliant color photography and excellent 

performances by Stewart Granger. 

Elizabeth Taylor and Pete Ustinov. 

Ryan Water of Cue's staff interviews 

famed Italian actress Gina LoUobrigida, 

whom he labels "the greatest thing to come 

out of Italy since Columbus." 

Tempo for November 1 selects WB's 

"Track of the Cat" as the Movie of the 

Week. Starring Robert Mitchum, the 

film is adapted from the best-selling 

novel, and features Tab Hunter and 

Diana Lynn. 

and they report that of 

The November issue of Woman's Home 

Companion features an article on "Cheese 

Treats From a Swiss Kitchen," selected 

by the young American couple who visited 

Switzerland for the filming of "Cinerama 

Holiday." John and Betty Marsh of Kansas 

City are the lucky American couple featured 

in the film, 

all the good things they ate, those made 

with Swiss cheese were tops—particularly 

cheese fondue, which is featured in 

a party sequence in the pictm-e. Swiss 

cheese fondue parties will be held in key 

cities throughout the country as part of 

the promotion activities planned for the 

soon-to-be-released film, and the recipe 

lor this unusual dish, contained in the November 

issue of Companion, will serve as a 

guide for such parties. 

Linda Darnell, starring in RKO's 

"This Is My Love," will be featured on 

the color cover of the November 21 

isswe of the Sunday Mirror Magazine. 

A story on inner pages credits the production, 

which co-stars Rick Jason. 

Dan Duryea and Faith Domergue. 

Paramount's "White Christmas" is Compact's 

November Movie Rave of the Month 

and is described as having the "sparkle and 

warmth of Christmas Eve spent round the 

tree." 

Seventeen selects "White Christmas" 

as its November Picture of the Month 

and includes reviews of "Brigadoon" 

I MGM ) "a tuneful, romantic fable" 

, 

starring Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse; 

"High and Dry" iU-I>, "a beaming 

comedy" with Paul Douglas: and "The 

Little Kidnappers" lUA) , a warmly enchanting 

English comedy, recommended 

as one not to be missed. 

Life spotlights star Dorothy Dandridgf 

on its November 1 cover, and on inner page.s 

reviews 20th-Fox's exciting musical drama 

BOXOFTICE ShovTOiandiser :: Nov. 6, 1954 — 351 — 

"Carmen Jones" in a story entitled "A 

New Beauty for Bizet." Life reports that 

nonsinging Miss Dandridge in her sultry 

role as Carmen, backed by an enthusiastic 

all-Negro cast which includes Harry Belafonte 

and Pearl Bailey, "will probably make 

more friends for opera in America than any 

attraction since Em-ico Caruso." 

United Artists' "The Barefoot Contessa" 

has been selected as the Month's 

Best film in the November issue of 

Coronet. Citing director Joe Mankiewicz' 

brilliant talent, the reviewer comments 

that in etching sharp portraits 

of American moviemakers abroad, 

"Mankiewicz again proves himself a 

master of superlative dialog." 

Philip Hartung's November selection of 

Companion Family-Approved Movie features 

Paramount's "Wliite Christmas," 

which "glistens with stars, Ii'ving Berlin 

music and Vista Vision." A two-page pictorial 

synopsis of the plot shows Bing 

Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney 

and Vera-Ellen in scenes from the bubbling 

musical. 

Capsule reviews of "more films worth 

seeing" include Columbia's "The Detective," 

starring Alec Guinness; "Aida" iIFE) 

" 

Verdi's famous opera; "Rogue Cop iMGMi 

and "Suddenly," UA's tense thriller starring 

Frank Sinatra. 

Bill Lavery Goes Strong 

On 'Sabrina' Publicity 

Many showmen might be tempted to let 

the heavy national publicity given "Sabrina" 

and the name value of its three 

Academy award winning stars carry the 

load of local promotion, but not Bill 

Lavery of the Olympic in Watertown, N. Y. 

By means of tie-in displays at retail 

stores, music shops, newsstands and numerous 

posters, Lavery brought the film to 

the attention of people of Watertown and 

the surrounding upstate area. 

Using sealing tape, Lavery simulated 

cracks in the theatre entrance doors, then 

pasted cutout letters on the glass reading, 

"They're knocking the doors down to see 

'Sabrina.' " 

He set up a 24-sheet in the grassy center 

strip of a four-lane trafficway. 

An Oldsmobile convertible supplied by 

a local dealer carried a model, dressed in 

a frock like that worn in the film and wearing 

a "Sabrina" hairdo, thi-ough town, 

then parked in front of the theatre. 

DIT-MCO 

can convert your present screen tower with 

STEEL SCREEN EXTENSIONS 

For popular wide screen pictures. Priced low . . . 

Easy to install. Complete foundation and erectiofi 

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WRITE TODAY FOR QUOTATIONS 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. ^gân^â^cuy.^MT

BOXOFFICE 

NUGGETS 

sums contributed by each merchant. The 

Manager Flay Kane of the Reeves Theatre 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. »Ji*.1'cV.y^M*." really be 'Living It Up' in a new '54 Ford!" 

in Elkin, N. C, decked out his conces- 

trailer will carry an individual plug for 

sions counter to look like a circus sideshow 

each store. 

Manager Fiank McQueeney of the Pine 

Drive-In at Waterbury, Conn., turned over 

the receipts from one evening's showing 

of "King Richard and the Crusaders" to 

the Waterbury polio emergency fund. To 

attract the largest crowd possible, Mc- 

Queeney promoted 25,000 pieces of candy 

which were distributed to patrons. 

Rookie cops and one policewoman of the 

Cincinnati police force were guests at the 

Albee Theatre of Manager Joe Alexander 

on opening day of "Dragnet." The smartly 

uniformed group lined up in front of the 

exhibit for "Ring of Fear" and sold a 

theatre, rating a break in the local press. 

bonanza batch of popcorn in addition to 

giving the picture a boost. The candy attendant 

was dressed as a clown, and put In 'Star' Guessing Event 

Stills From Old Films 

on an act of his own between sales. He 

The pressbook for "A Star Is Born" lists 

also marched and cavorted in a parade 

a number of contest ideas and then notes, 

held before a football game by the Elkin 

"You'll think of others." That is exactly 

high school. 

what Manager John Denman of the Denver 

Theatre, Denver, did. He came up 

The hard-working team of Lou Cohen 

with a contest that is both an excellent 

and Norm Levinson, manager and assistant 

at Loew's Poll Theatre in Hartford, 

example of practical showmanship and one 

that offers even a greater title association 

Conn., drew a lot of laughs from patrons 

than many of the contests suggested in the 

when they posted clever teaser cards on 

publicity manual. 

"Woman's World" in the restrooms and 

With the cooperation of the Rocky Mountain 

News, Denman ran a series of six 

lounge. Accompanied by appropriate scene 

stills from the film, copy on the cards 

stills from pictm-es which had helped to 

read: "Are you an albatross around your 

make stars out of certain featured players. 

husband's neck? See 'Woman's World.' 

Readers had to 

How does a man 

name both the individual 

get ahead? By the sweat 

picture and star. A convenient coupon, 

of his brow ... or the charm of his frau? 

Coming soon, 'Woman's World.' " 

with spaces for both these answers as well 

as the contestant's name and address, was 

included along side 

George Krevo, manager 

the photo 

of the Palace 

each day. 

The Fox 

Theatre 

Intermountain 

in Jacksonville, Fla., had 

manager offered 

the best 

cash 

gag of the week 

awards as prizes. 

when he gave saturation 

According to Paul 

distribution to small 

H. Lyday, 

cards 

the circuit's 

with this 

publicity director, 

mimeographed 

the 

note in longhand, 

contest 

"Would 

garnered a 

lot of free space. 

you get in touch with Detective Kelvany, 

call 6-1124." As 6-1124 is the Palace number, 

the cashiers there were given an opportunity 

Bonus Night at Drive-In 

to describe the merits of "Rogue Manager Paul Amadeo of the Pike 

Cop," in which Robert Taylor takes the Drive-In, Newington, Conn., racked up impressive 

part of Detective Kelvany, to a large number 

results with his recent low-cost 

of persons who had the curiosity to call fall promotion stunt, Pike Mystery Bonus 

the theatre. Krevo said that each caller night. Novelty "mystery bonuses" included 

was told that a free pass was waiting at distribution of passes to future shows and 

the boxoffice. 

free admittance to every fourth patron. 

Manager Arnold Kirsch of the De Luxe 

Amadeo picked a midweek evening, normally 

a somewhat slow night attendancewise 

Theatre in the Bronx, N. Y., has promoted 

for this time of year, to run the pro- 

a special Christmas greetings trailer with motion and reports that "we made a lot of 

neighborhood merchants. The trailer, friends for the rest of 1954." 

which will run from December 15 through 

the 24th, was paid for in its entirety by 

Ford Co-Op on 'Living 

George Porhan jr., manager of the Capitol 

FLAT OR CURVED 

Theatre. Welland, Ont., promoted a 

STEEL SCREEN TOWERS 

fine co-op ad boosting "Living It Up" with 

the local Ford automobile dealer. The twocolumn 

spread, illustrated with cutout 

Drive-ln. Desinned for 30 lb. wind lood plus iofety 

fochpr. Quick and easy erection. 

Also Extensions for Existing Towers 

heads of stars Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin, 

featm-ed sprightly copy reading, 

WRITE FOR QUOTATIONS 

"You'll 

Class in Girl Bally 

Enhances Appeal 

^' ^ 

#% 

I 

Monsieur C. D. Wray came up with ze 

French touch for an ah, la, la ballyhoo that 

drew plenty of attention in Topeka, Kas., 

for the showing of "Beauties of the Night" 

at the Dickinson circuit's Kaw Art Cinema. 

Manager Wray, as he is better known, attii'ed 

himself in a top hat, satin lapeled 

tuxedo, black string tie and adorned his 

face with a moustache and goatee for the 

proper effect. Three girl employes got 

into the act dressed in bathing suits with 

the addition of sheer nylon full-length 

capes. 

All four then drove around town in a 

red convertible loaned to Wray by a local 

dealer. Wray reports that although he 

didn't receive any whistles, the girls received 

their share. The Topeka Daily 

Capital, the local paper, helped out by 

publishing the above photo. 

Fake Bank Notes Given 

Away for Pound Note 

Victor Sims, relief manager for the Regal 

Cinema in Bichester, England, put over 

"The Million Pound Note" (shown in this 

country as "Man With a Million") by preparing 

fake pound Bank of Regal notes 

reading, "I promise the Bearer wUl receive 

nothing but the best in entertainment," 

with the theatre's number imprinted in 

the top left corner. One thousand were 

distributed. Some people brought them 

along to the theatre and tried to change 

them—all in good fun, as the back of the 

paper notes read "Although this note is 

worth nothing, it will be worth your while 

to see 'The Million Pound Note.' " 

A second throwaway in the form of a 

page from a diary, covering entries for three 

days, with the dates corresponding to the 

play dates, contained a notation written 

in script: "I must reserve one of these 

three days to see 'The Million Pound Note' 

at the Regal." These were left in cafes, 

pubs, on buses, and at the local Ai'my 

Depot. 

To Dance 'Americano' 

Arthur Murray studios throughout the 

country will introduce a new dance, the 

Americano, in conjunction with local playdates 

on RKO's "The Americano." 

— 352 — BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Nov. 6, 1954

Hollywood Office— Suite 219 at 6404 Hollywood Blvd.: Ivan Spear, Western Manager/ 

Invitational Debut 

Given to Xontessa' 

HOLLYWOOD—"The Barefoot Contessa," 

United Aj-tists release of the Ava Gardner 

starrer produced and directed in Italy by 

Joseph L. Mankiewicz, was given a gala invitational 

premiere here Thursday (4) at the 

Fine Arts Theatre. Garnishment for the 

event included television coverage via station 

KTLA and personal appearances by Miss 

Gardner and her co-stars in the film. 

Humphrey Bogart and Edmond O'Brien. 

The first-nighters also included Jeff Chandler, 

Joan Crawford, Doris Day, Judy Garland, 

Gloria Grahame, JeiTy Lewis, Robert 

Mitchum, Donna Reed, Debbie Reynolds, 

Rosalind Russell and Clifton Webb. 

Armistice Day, Thursday (11^ was set as 

the date for the world premiere of MGM's 

"The Last Time I Saw Paris." which will 

make its bow then at Loew's State Theatre 

in Indianapolis. The Jack Cummings production, 

directed by Richard Brooks, stars 

Elizabeth Taylor, Van John.son and Walter 

Pidgeon. 

Charities Drive Starts 

In Filmland's Capital 

HOLLYWOOD—With a $1,250,000 goal, the 

motion picture permanent charities 1955 

fund-raising drive officially got under way 

Monday (1) under the supervision of Ralph 

Clare, chairman, and Regis Toomey. president. 

Labor groups are being given increased 

representation on the membership roster, 

labor's executive committee, under the chairmanship 

of Carl Cooper, having been boosted 

from six to ten members. 

Allocations from 1955 campaign funds have 

been budgeted for the Community Chests and 

Red Cross chapters of Los Angeles, Burbank, 

Santa Monica and Glendale, as well as nine 

other major organizations maintaining local 

health and welfare services. 

Clare disclosed that the new drive is being 

launched with a sub.scription backlog of 

$650,000, contributed through "Fair Plan" 

payroll deductions by more than 14,000 industry 

members. 

Writer-Producer Debut 

HOLLYWOOD—Roy Huggins, contract 

scrivener at Columbia, will make his debut 

as a writer-producer on "My Dear Children," 

a picturization of the play which served the 

late John Barrymore as his last stage vehicle. 

It is slated to begin filming early next year 

from a script now being prepared by Huggins. 

BOXOFFICE :: November 6, 1954 

U-l Realigns Studio Staff, 

Executive Committee 

HOLLYWOOD—To keep pace with the 

studio's expanding operations, a number of 

staff promotions and the creation of a new 

executive committee at Universal-International 

were announced by Edward Muhl, vicepresident 

in charge of production. The new 

executive group, operating directly under 

Muhl, comprises James Pratt, executive studio 

manager; Morris Davis, business manager; 

Robert Palmer, talent executive; Ray Crossett. 

story and scenario editor; Morris Weiner, 

in charge of industry relations; George 

Douglas, operations manager, and Ernest 

Nims, editorial executive. 

Muhl, declaring U-I has just completed 

"the most profitable and successful year in 

its history," said the new moves were made 

to integrate more closely the functions of 

creative and administrative personnel on a 

policy-making level. 

In a realignment of executive duties, Doug- 

FRENCH HONOR TO LEROY—Mervyn 

LeRoy, Warner producer-director, is 

shown here with the Victoire trophy, 

presented to him after he was adjudged 

the best nieg:aphonist in a national poll 

conducted by Le Film Francaise, French- 

Belgian motion picture journal. With 

him are (left) Dana Andrews, starring 

with Greer Garson in LeRoy's current 

Warner opus, "Strange Lady in Town," 

and Raoul Bertrand, French consulgeneral 

in Los Angeles. 

las takes over the newly created post of 

operations manager. Charles Stineford, assistant 

business manager, succeeds Douglas as 

studio treasurer. Morris Weiner moves up 

from the post of studio manager to that of 

head of industry relations. 

Douglas also will serve as chairman of a 

studio operations committee, other members 

of which are Gilbert Kurland, production 

manager; Emmett Ward, plant manager; 

Percy Guth, post-production manager; Joseph 

Dubin, chief studio counsel; George 

Bole, commercial and short subjects manager; 

William Batliner, assistant to Douglas; 

Stineford; Ivan Betts, studio controller; 

Jack Baur, casting director; Sam Israel, studio 

publicity chief, and Clark Ramsay, executive 

assistant to David Lipton, vice-president 

and national publicity-advertising director. 

All changes are effective immediately. 

Alan Ladd Joins TV Ranks 

With First Show for GE 

HOLLYWOOD— still another motion picture 

stalwart has expanded his profe.ssional 

activities to include television with the completion 

by Alan Ladd of his first TV subject, 

"Committed," an entry in the General Electric 

Tlieatre video series. The half-hour 

drama, directed by Frank Tuttle, features 

John Howard and Virginia Gibson, Ronald 

Reagan is program supervisor and host of 

the series, and will introduce the Ladd starrer, 

which is tentatively set for January telecasting 

over the CBS-TV network. 

» * * 

In an expansion of its operations, Goodson-Todman, 

Inc., New York video production 

firm, has established offices here with Harris 

Katleman, formerly with MCA, as its local 

representative. 

* « * 

Megaphonist William A. Seiter was inked 

to diiect "Marked Down," half-hour video 

film starring Ida Lupino, an entry in the 

Four Star Playhouse series. 

Walter Wanger at Forum 

HOLLYWOOD — Walter Wanger, Allied 

Artists producer, spoke at a Tuesday (2) political 

science forum at Occidental College on 

"Hollywood and Politics, and Movies as a 

Propaganda Weapon." 

.39

megophonist is Edward 

was JACK CARSON. 

Buzzell. Booked for the film 

ROCK HUDSON will team with Jane Wyman in "All 

That Heaven Allows," romantic droma in Technicolor, 

which Douglas Sirk will direct for Producer Ross 

Hunter. 

JAN STERLING will star with Joan Crawford ond 

Jeff Chandler in "Femole on the Beach," an Albert 

Zugsmith production in Technicolor, to be megged by 

Joseph Pevney. 

MARIE WINDSOR drew the femme lead in "The 

Mummy," Abbott-Costello comedy, a Howord Christie 

production which Charles Lomont directs. 

Scripters 

Warner Bros. 

ARTHUR ROSS was signed to screenplay "Prince 

Bart," from the novel by Jay Richard Kennedy. 

"ROMEO AND JULIET" BOWS IN LONDON—Among those attending the opening 

at the Odeon, Leicester Square were, left to right, Joseph Janni, producer: Renato 

Castellani, director; Susan Shentall, star, and Sebastian Cabot, featured player. United 

Artists will release the Technicolor film in the U. S. late in the year. 

STUDIO PERSONNELITIES 

Barnstormers 

Allied Artists 

JAN STERLING planed out for Toronto, Can., to 

attend the Monday (8) four- theatre Canadian premiere 

of "The Human Jungle," in which she stars 

with Gary Merrill. 

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer 

ELIZABETH TAYLOR will make o personol appearance 

at the Wednesday 

"The Last Time I Saw 

( 1 7) 

Pans" at 

chanty 

the 

premiere 

Capitol in 

of 

New 

will to the 

hospital. 

Miss Taylor stars in the Jock Cummings production 

with Van Johnson and Walter Pidgeon. 

York. 

New 

Proceeds 

York Infirmary 

from the 

and 

opening 

the North 

go 

Shore 

Blurbers 

Paramount 

GENE BROOKS has been assigned as head of publicity 

for Hal Wallis Productions. He has worked in 

the motion picture public relations field in Italy, 

the east and locally. 

Cleffers 

Set OS music 

MARLIN 5KILES. 


director on "High Society" was 

Paramount 

SYLVIA FINE and SAMMY CAHN are composing 

six original song numbers for Deno Productions' 

"The Court Jester." 

Set OS music director on "Lucy Gallant" was 

VAN CLEAVE. 

RKO Radio 

LOU FORBES will compose and conduct the musical 

score for the Benedict Bogeaus production, "Escape 

to Burma." 


Producers Robert Goldstein and Robert L. Jocks 

inked HUGO FRIEDHOFER to compose the score for 

"White Feather." 

Meggers 


Scenarist DAN ULLMAN will make his debut OS o 

director on "Code Three," a Wild Bill Elliott starrer 

which Vincent M. Fenneliy will produce. 

Columbia 

"Devil Goddess," last of the Jungle Jim series 

starring Johnny Weissmuller, will be directed by 

SPENCER BENNET for Producer Sam Kotzman. Following 

completion of the feature, slated to roll next 

rrlonth, Weissmuller will report to Screen Gems, Columbia's 

TV subsidiary, to begin a Jungle Jim series for 

television. 

20th Century -Fox 

SAMUEL G. ENGEL was handed the production 

reins on "Tigrero," based on the best-selling adventure 

tome by Sosha Sienel. 

Options 

Independent 

LANCE FULLER drew the male lead in "Kentucky 

Rifle." 

CATHY DOWNS and JEANNE CAGNEY will be 

featured with Chill Wills in the Howco Productions 

frontier drama being produced and directed by Carl 

K. Hittleman. 

Paramount 

JOHN DEREK drew leading roles in two features. 

He will star with Kothryn Groyson ond Oreste Kirkop 

in "The Vagabond King," a musical to be produced 

by Pat Duggan and directed by Michael Curtiz, and 

also was cast as Joshua 

Ten Commandments." 

in Cecil B. DeMi lie's "The 

Producer Hal Wallis signed BEN COOPER for o 

top role in "The Rose Tattoo," picturization of the 

Broadway play by Tennessee Williams, 

star Burt Lancaster and Anna Magnoni. 

which will 

VIRGINIA 

GREY was inked for a featured spot in the Vista- 

Vision entry. 


Cost with Richard Todd and Jean Peters in the 

Samuel G. Engel production, "A Man Colled Peter," 

wos character actress MARJORIE RAMBEAU. The 

picture is being megged by Henry Koster. 

Universali-International 

Inked to stor with Rory Calhoun and Piper Laurie 

in Producer Sam Morx's Technicolor musical, "Third 

Girl From the Right," was BARBARA BRITTON. The 

OVERSEAS 

VISITOR — MacGregor 

Scott (left), general sales manager of 

Associated British-Pathe, poses here with 

Walter Mirlsch, Allied Artists executive 

producer, during a recent trip to Hollywood. 

The two companies have a joint 

production-distribution agreement. 

Story Buys 

Independent 

Producer-director David Miller purchased "House on 

the Seine," an original by Jeffrey Brondel, and plans 

to film it on location in Pans next year. 

Paramount 

Purchased was "Intermission," an original by Robert 

Smith, dealing with the musical career of Louis 

"Red" Nichols, Dixieland jazz advocate and leader 

of the famous Five Pennies. The film will be produced 

by Paul Jones. 

United Artists 

Producer-director Robert Aldnch acquired "Pot 

Luck for Pomeroy," on original comedy by Robert 

Russell, and inked Russell to develop the screenplay. 

Technically 

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer 

Set OS assistant director "Love Me or Leave 

Me" was SID SIDMAN. 

Paramount 

EDITH HEAD is designing the wardrobe and costumes 

for "The Girl Rush." WILLIAM HORNBECK 

will edit the Independent Artists film. 


Cinemotogropher LEO TOVER was handed a new 

long-term contract. His next lensing assignment will 

be "Soldier of Fortune." 

Universal-International 

PHIL BOWLES, upped from second to first assistant 

director, draws "The Mummy" as his initial chore 

under the new status. 

CARROLL CLARK, formerly and for many years at 

RKO Radio, joined the studio's staff of art directors 

ond drew "Tacey Cromwell" as his first assignment. 

Changes 

RKO Radio 

"Bow Tamely to Me" to ESCAPE TO BURMA. 

Title 

AA Foreign Distribution 

Plan Studied by Ritchey 

NEW YORK—Norton V. Ritchey, president 

of Allied Artists International Corp., has returned 

from Europe where he surveyed the 

market and discussed a plan advanced by 

Steve Broidy, AA president, for revamping 

European distribution. He met with members 

of the industry in Germany. Prance, 

Holland, Belgium, Portugal and the Scandinavian 

countries. He said full details of a 

new policy will be announced at a meeting 

of directors in Hollywood. 

Ritchey was pleased with the results of 

the second joint Allied Artists-Associated 

British Pathe sales convention held at Monte 

Carlo and attended by the entire Pathe British 

sales force and prominent European distributors. 

Besides Ritchey, Allied Artists was 

represented by Broidy and Harold J. Mirisch, 

vice-president. 

Sales policies were set on the new season's 

product. Ritchey said that took only one 

day. 

"The rest of the week." he said, "we devoted 

to the equally serious business of 

beaches, bikinis and sunshine. Much goodwill 

was stimulated. We most certainly plan to 

continue these international get-togethers." 


New SMPTE President 

Authority on Sound 

NEW YORK—Dr. John G. Frayne, newly 

elected president of the Society of Motion 

Picture and Television Engineers, is engineering 

manager of Westrex Corp. and a recognized 

technical authority on sound recording 

and reproducing equipment in Hollywood. 

He is a co-author of the widely accepted book 

on studio recording, "Elements of Sound Recording." 

He either wrote or collaborated 

with others in w^riting more than 20 technical 

papers, most of which were published 

in the SMPTE Journal. Also ten U. S. 

patents have been granted in his name. 

Dr Prayne joined Electrical Research 

Products, Inc., in 1929 as a development engineer. 

At present he is in charge of all 

development work of Westrex on both magnetic 

and photographic recording. It is under 

his direction that the new Westrex equipment 

for both single and multi-track magnetic recording 

has been brought into being and 

is now in use in many studios thi-oughout the 

world, as well as in the majority of studios 

in Hollywood. 

He became active in the SMPTE in 1931 

as the first chairman of the progress committee. 

Later he was chairman of the committees 

on sound. Journal award and Progress 

Medal award. He was honored with both the 

Journal and Progress Medal awards. He is a 

fellow of the Society, editorial vice-president 

and executive vice-president. He has received 

two Academy of Motion Picture Arts 

and Science awards for technical developments 

and has been active for a number of 

years in the Academy and also in the 

Research Council. 

Kaufman-Hart Play Is 

Being Used for TV Series 

HOLLYWOOD—"You Can't Take It 

With 

You," the prize-winning play by George S. 

Kaufman and Moss Hart which won the 

Academy award as 1938's best picture when 

produced by Columbia, is being utilized as the 

basis for a proposed new telefilm series, the 

pilot film for which is being prepared by 

Screen Gems, Columbia's video subsidiary. 

Fred Briskin, Screen Gems production executive, 

is now lining up a director, writer and 

cast. 

* * * 

Video notes: Station KNXT has acquired 

unlimited-run TV rights to 149 Walter Lantz 

cartoons, both silent and sound, made originally 

for theatre distribution betw-een 1927 and 

1937 and starring such characters as Oswald 

the Rabbit, Willie Mouse and Pooch the Pup. 

Gross-Krasne booked Busby Berkeley to 

direct the next four half-hour entries in 

the Big Town series starring Mark Stevens. 

. 

Cornel Wilde will make his television debut 

on Ed Sullivan's Toast of the Town late in 

January . NBC-TV inked Gene Nelson to 

star in 

. 

the Colgate Comedy Hour's video 

adaptation of "Let's Face It," scheduled for 

telecasting Sunday (21). 

Grant Signs for Three 

HOLLYWOOD—Cary Grant was signed to a 

three-picture starring ticket by Paramount. 

He recently completed the topline in "To 

Catch a Thief," produced and directed for the 

studio by Alfred Hitchcock. 

ILLING on 20th Centuiy-Fox's "Black 

Widow" is strikingly illustrative of how 

woefully outdated is Hollywood's socalled 

star system, that casting protocolnurtured 

by avaricious agents and reactionary 

producers—which desperately clings to 

the once-a-star-always-a-star theory, with 

little regard for age, talent or existent fan 

foUowings. Items: 

Four troupers—Ginger Rogers, Van Heflin, 

Gene Tierney and George Raft—are topllned; 

with La Rogers, carrying her considerable 

mileage remarkably well, but a bit beefy 

around the edges, billed above Heflin, whose 

outstanding thespian contributions to several 

recent and current hit pictures irrefutably 

makes his a much more popular name among 

today's ticket buyers. 

Raft, whose characteristic wooden delineations 

have been kept hi the public eye 

through television rather than the contemporary 

motion picture screen, is accorded 

stellar listing, while Reginald Gardiner, in a 

definitely more important role and recording 

a far better performance, is relegated to 

featured-player mention. 

Miss Tierney, despite her superior acting 

abilities, had to settle for the femme part of 

secondary consequence, similar to treatment 

al.so obtained in "The Egyptian," another 

20th-Fox opus. 

Such archaic practices are rendered all 

the more antiquated because of the justifiable 

enthusiasm — over the new look in motion 

pictures "Black Widow" is, of course, in 

Cinemascope—and the ever-present plea for 

new faces by exhibitors, fans and filmdom's 

railbirds. 

RKO Radio's title-thinker-uppers attained 

a new high in something-or-other when they 

selected "Underwater!" as the release tag for 

the Jane RusseU starrer heretofore yclept 

"The Big Rainbow." 

What is it—a movie or a ballpoint pen? 

In either event, the title change makes the 

picture's publicizing a breeze for Praise Pundit 

Perry Lieber, who hasn't been up for air 

for lol these many years. 

Further along name-switching lines, and 

as was predicted here last week, "Bow Tamely 

to Me" didn't abide very long as the tag for 

the Benedict Bogeaus production destined for 

RKO release. It's now called "Escape to 

Burma." 

If they had gone just one bit farther and 

made it "Burma Shave," it could have been 

an ideal twin booking with "Underwater!" 

None of the so-called "spectaculars" and 

"gigantics" that have dotted television screens 

this season has been accorded the superlative 

praise by the tradepress that went to "Light's 

Diamond Jubilee," the two-hour video show 

produced by David O. Selznick for the electrical 

indu.stry in commemoration of the 75th 

anniversary of the invention of the incandescent 

light by Thomas A. Edison. 

And no one who saw the program and 

compared it with the overtouted, alleged TV 

colossi that preceded it will gainsay that the 

precedential kudos were richly merited. 

There was, however, one ironical facet to 

the masterful presentation. It was written by 

Ben Hecht, who just a few short months ago 

was being thoroughly castigated by guardians 

—real or self-appointed—of filmdom's public 

relations because of the disparagement of 

Hollywood and its darlings in his widely read 

book, "Child of the Century." 

Assuming that television is a part of HoUywood, 

an assumption that seems to be growing, 

the magi of production apparently are not 

reluctant about feeding the hand that bites 

them, if that hand is sufficiently talented. 

Teet Carle's Paramount praisery advised 

that, among the first-nighters at the recent 

local premiere of "White Christmas," were 

more than 20 physicians from the Los Angeles 

board of medical examiners. 

Shucks, they're used to attending openings. 

Informs Sam Israel, publicity major-domo 

at Universal-International, "Faith Domergue 

was signed ... for the top starring role in 

'Cult of the Cobra' . . . deaUng with a beautiful 

native girl possessing the centuries-old 

power of turning herself into a cobra." 

That's nothing. 'Most any Hollywood drumbeater 

demonstrates such power daily. 

Ever since Warner Brothers' "A Star Is 

Born" debuted amid paeans of praise, Hollywood's 

ambitious press agents and imaginative 

keyholers have been reporting plans for 

producing musical versions of other dramatic 

successes of yesteryear, most recent 

of which is MGM's "Waterloo Bridge." 

Readers of fan fodder may confidently expect, 

any day now, predictions of melodyand-mirth 

remakes of "Gone With the Wind," 

Bu-th of a Nation" and "The Great Train 

Robbery." 

Also on the weird side is a handout from 

Mickey Gross, catch-as-catch-can spacesnatcher, 

which holds that "The Rin Tin 

Tin Story," a biography of the dog star and 

his descendants, is to be made as a theatrical 

feature by one Herbert B. Leonard. Gross 

describes the venture as a "cavalcade of 

Hollywood lore as told through the eyes of 

the screen's most famous canine star," for 

which a $3,000,000 budget allegedly has been 

set. 

With which HoUywood publicity modus 

operandi went to the dogs, for sure. 

A local tradepaper gossip columnist tearfully 

reports that crooner Eddie Fisher, whose 

palpitating romance with Debbie Reynolds 

has just culminated in their headline-making 

engagement, spent a recent weekend in the 

pool hou.se behind Debbie's home. The brave 

lad, thus roughing it, had to shave with cold 

water! 

Things are tough all over, Eddie. 


Film Editors ai Work 

On 15 Films at MGM 

HOLLYWOOD—Attaining a new high in 

activity for the year, 15 film editors are at 

work cuiTently at MGM. 

They include Ben Lewin, scissoring "The 

Scarlet Coat"; Russell Selwyn, "The Marauders"; 

Adrienne Fazan, "It's Always Fair 

Weather"; John Dunning, "Interrupted Melody"; 

John McSweeny jr.. "Hit the Deck"; 

Albert Akst, "Moonfleet"; Harold F. Kress, 

"The Pi-odigal"; Frank Santillo. "Bad Day 

at Black Rock"; Ben Lewis, "Many Rivers to 

Cross"; Ralph E. Winters, "Jupiter's Darling"; 

Ferris Webster, "The Glass Slipper"; Robert 

Watts, "Invitation to the Dance," and Gene 

Ruggerio and George Boemler. "Oklahoma!" 

for Magna Theatres Corp. 

Butler Will Make Three 

Films for Kling, RKO 

HOLLYWOOD—David Butler will 

produce 

three features for the Kling Picture Corp. 

and RKO will distribute them, according to 

Robert Eirinberg, president of Kling Studios. 

Butler is vice-president of the new enterprise. 

Associated with him are Lee R. Blevins, 

vice-president of Kling Studios, and David S. 

Garber, who will be production associate. 

The first feature will be "Miracle at Santa 

Anita." an original story by Robert Harari, 

to be made for SuperScope in Eastman Color. 

It will have a racetrack backgi'ound and 

shooting will start after the first of the 

year. 

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NAME 

POSITION 

East; In Chicago to attend the annual 

Theatre Owners of America convention were 

J. R. Grainger, president of RKO Radio, and 

Loren L. Ryder, head of technical research 

and development at Paramount. Grainger 

ahso addressed an RKO sales conclave in the 

Windy City. Ryder, a speaker at a TOA 

panel session on new screen processes and 

equipment, discussed the new wide-screen 

VistaVision system. Also in attendance at 

the TOA affair was Robert Gottschalk, president 

of the Panavision Corp., manufacturer 

of anamorphic production and projection 

lenses. 

West: Robert Palmer, U-I talent executive, 

returned to his studio desk after a week's 

business trip to New York. 

* * * 

East: After a one-day stopover at the 

MGM studios here, Morris Frantz, advertising 

chief for Loew's International, returned 

to his headquarters in Gotham. He visited 

here briefly en route home from Tokyo, where 

he attended a Perspecta exhibitor plan convention. 

West: Richard W. Altschuler, Republic 

vice-president and dii-ector of world sales, 

planed in from New York for a week of 

conferences with Herbert J. Yates, company 

president, and studio executives on upcoming 

product. 

* * * 

East: Milton Sperling, president of United 

States Pictures, flew to Washington for huddles 

with defense department officials on a 

military story which he is preparing to film 

for Warner Bros, release. Thence Sperling 

will continue on to New York on a talent 

scouting hunt. 

* * * 

East: Writer-producer Sy Bartlett headed 

back to London after a week of huddles with 

Darryl F. Zanuok, 20th-Fox studio head, on 

the final editing of "That Lady," a Cinema- 

Scope enti-y starring Olivia de Havilland. 

which Bartlett made abroad for 20th-Fox release. 

* * « 

West: Dr. Herbert T. Kalmus, president of 

Technicolor, returned from an extended stay 

in the east. 

* * • 

West: Walter Lantz, cartoon producer who 

this year is celebrating the 25th year of his 

association with U-I, returned from an extended 

stay abroad, during which he secured 

background and atmosphere material for use 

in his pen-and-ink output. 

« * * 

West: Joseph H. Moskowitz, 20th-Fox vicepresident 

and eastern studio representative, 

checked in from Gotham for conferences with 

executives on the Westwood lot. 

* * * 

East: Frank and Maury King of King Bros. 

Pi-oductions. planed out—Frank for a week 

of huddles with RKO Radio sales executives 

in New York. Maury en route to Lisbon, 

Portugal, to scout locations and make preliminary 

arrangements for a forthcoming 

film venture which will be lensed there. 

Ike Asks Celebrities 

To Entertain Troops 

HOLLYWOOD — President Eisenhower 

asked Hollywood celebrities to go all-out in 

entertaining armed forces stationed overseas 

this Christmas. In a letter to George Murphy, 

president of the Hollywood Coordinating Committee, 

the Pi'esident urged filmites to "give 

again the gift which only they can take to 

the armed forces abroad," and emphasized 

that star tours have made an important contribution 

to the morale of the men and 

women in uniform during the past three 

years. 

The HCC has issued a call for 88 entertainers 

to go in five units to military bases 

in Africa, Alaska, Europe, Korea and the 

Northeast Air Command, the tours to be 

handled in cooperation with USO-Camp 

Shows. 

Vision Conservation Unit 

Gives VistaVision Award 

HOLLYWOOD—Y. Frank Freeman, vicepresident 

in charge of Paramount Studios, has 

received a plaque in recognition of the development 

of VistaVision from Dr. Lawrence 

H. Foster, president of Vision Conservation 

Institute. It reads: 

"Its clarity of photography and screen presentation, 

its freedom from distortion, its 

adaptability to the motion picture .screens 

in theatres throughout the world, and its 

beneficial effects upon the visual processes of 

audiences are outstanding contributions to 

visual comfort and the enjoyment of fine 

films produced by the motion picture industry." 

VistaVision has also received the endorsement 

of leaders of the California Optometric 

Ass'n. of which Dr. Foster is former head. 

He has also served as vice-president of the 

American Optometric Ass'n. 

N.Y. State Women's Clubs 

To Honor Samuel Goldwyn 

NEW YORK—The New York State Federation 

of Women's Clubs has invited Samuel 

Goldwyn to accept a citation for achievement 

at the Helmuth fellowship dinner November 

8 at the Hotel Roosevelt. The dinner is the 

traditional opening event in the organization's 

annual convention. The invitation was 

signed by Mrs. Bruce M. Mills, president, and 

mailed to Goldwyn in Los Angeles. 

Frank Tashlin to Direct 

HOLLYWOOD—Producer Hal Wallis Inked 

Frank Tashlin to write and direct the next 

Dean Martin-Jerry Lewis comedy, "Artists 

and Models," w^hich will be lensed in Vista- 

Vision for Paramount release. The opus is 

based on "Rock-a-Bye Baby," a Broadway 

play by Michael Davidson and Norman Lessing, 

to which Wallis recently acquired film 

rights. 

'Terror' Deal Arranged 

HOLLYWOOD—Columbia will distribute 

"Terror in the Night." a semidocumentary 

based on a factual kidnaping case, which Andrew 

Stone will produce and direct independently. 

Stone and his wife Virginia wrote 

the script. A Friday i26) starting date has 

been set. 


. . Mark 

. . Here 

. . W. 

. 

Burton Jones in Suit; 

Asks $60,000 Damage 

LOS ANGELES—Charging conspiracy in 

violation of antitrust decrees, a triple damage 

suit was filed here Wednesday (3) in 

federal district court by Burton Jones, operator 

of the Capri Theatre in San Diego, listing 

the Fox West Coast circuit, the Spreckels 

Theatre in that city, and MGM, Universal. 

Columbia, 20th Century-Fox. Warners and 

Disney's Buena Vista Distributing Co. as defendants. 

Jones seeks damages of $60,000 and asks 

the right to amend this figure to a more accurate 

appraisal before the suit comes to trial. 

His attorneys also request the case be moved 

to San Diego for trial by jury. 

The complaint alleges that his Capri Theatre 

has not been permitted to bid competitively 

for first-run product in San Diego 

and that the defendants have "for a number 

of years" conspired to divide available firstrun 

celluloid among certain large downtown 

theatres in the community. 

Jones took over the Capri, then the Egyptian, 

from Fox West Coast In 1954. 

Oriental at Portland 

Shifts to Family Policy 

PORTLAND—The Oriental, 

second largest 

downtown house here (2,035 seats) has 

changed its policy. Russ Brown, Evergreen 

district manager, reports the theatre, located 

on the east side in a prosperous business district 

across the Willamette river, will change 

from a day-and-date house, or moveover, to 

a second run or family policy. 

This week (3) the theatre opened with 

"River of No Return" and "Viva Zapata." 

The house is the first downtown to charge 

only 60 cents with children free if accompanied 

by their parents for a CinemaScope picture. 

A special 50-cent Saturday matinee price is 

planned. Children pay 20 cents if not with 

their parents. 

The Roxy, a John Hamrick theatre, and 

formerly the Newsreel, is also a second run 

house. This theatre maintains the family 

price scale and has a wide, but not Cinema- 

Scope-sized, screen. 

Plan New Alaskan House 

KETCHIKAN. ALASKA—R. H. Race, Vivian 

Bolton and L. K. Linforth entered 

into a partnership recently to construct and 

operate a theatre here. Present plans call 

for a pre-Christmas opening of the house 

which will be known as the Avenue Theatre. 

Linforth will manage the operation. 

Airer Gets Wide Screen 

EUREKA. CALIF.—The screen of the Midway 

Drive-In has been enlarged and curved 

to prepare it for the showing of Cinema- 

Scope, according to Earl H. Baughman. district 

manager of Redwood Theatres. The 

screen now measurts 110x72 feet. 

Asks City Tax Relief 

BATTLE GROUND. WASH.—H a r v e y 

Johnson, the new owner of the Bee Gee 

Theatre, asked the city council to relieve 

him of his annual $300 yearly admission tax. 

He said he would gladly pay any local tax 

other local businessmen have to pay. 

Simons Qrcuif Reynards Managers 

Managers of the W. A. Simons Amusement Co. receive awards at Missoula. Front 

row, seated: Mary Parisel, Guy Shelhamer and James Hale. Standing: Edward Sharp, 

Joe Robertson, Bill Powers, George Lourbis (receiving checli), Mel Bretzlie, Ralph 

Frame, Gale Ferguson, Emily Johnson, Ear! Stein. Herb Stuart, Sandra Stubban. 

MISSOULA. MONT.—Prizes for the winners 

of a contest for exploitation, maintenance 

and general excellence in theatre 

operation were distributed to managers of the 

W. A. Simons Amusement Co. at a recent 

meeting here. 

Ralph Frame, manager of the Wilma and 

Grand theatres, Wallace, Ida., received a 

major award for his performance in budget 

and curtailment of expenses. He turned in 

the best profit results of any theatre in the 

circuit. 

Mei Bretzke, manager of the Park, Miles 

City, Mont., received a maintenance award. 

George Lourbis, assistant manager of the 

Wilma and Rialto theatres, Missoula, was 

given recognition for his outstanding lobby 

LOS 

ANGELES 

. 

•The Strand Theatre in Redondo Beach, a 

longtime Pox West Coast operation, has 

been taken over by John Paulis T. 

Webb, who has shuttered his Balboa in the 

beach resort for the winter, will reopen the 

long-shuttered Melody in Port Hueneme . . . 

Jerry Sheftel, IFE office manager, took off for 

San Francisco on business. 

Richard Hamilton has sold his Alvarado, 

neighborhood showcase here, to J. Bland and 

associates of Chicago . from San 

Francisco was Max Burkett, Warner exploiteer 

. Tanser is the new manager 

of the Lake Theatre, owned by his father-inlaw. 

Newt "Red" Jacobs. 

Theo Johnson resigned as a secretary at 

the Warner exchange . . . Lester Blumberg 

. . 

of Principal Theatres left for Honolulu to 

inspect theatre properties there . . . Fred 

Stein, new vice-president of Sherrill Corwin's 

Metropolitan circuit, headed for New York . . 

Francis A. Bateman. Republic western division 

sales chief, and wife are celebrating their 

31st wedding anniversary . Ben Bronstein, 

operator of the Sun-Air Drive-In in Palm 

Springs, has taken back his Kinema Theatre 

here from the Eastland circuit, which operated 

the house on lease from Bronstein for 

many years. 

Bob Benton of Sero Amusement Enterprises 

took off for Salt Lake City on business . . . 

Paul Dietrich of the Dietrich-Feldstein chain 

left for New York in connection with the 

-^^ 

campaign on "Ring of Fear" and for his 

street ballyhoos on "Knights of the Round 

Table" and "Rose Marie." Lourbis started 

four years ago at the Wilma as cleanup boy 

and has been advanced as a result of his 

unusual ability to the post of assistant manager. 

He is 16 years old. 

The drive ran nine weeks. Prizes totaled 

$500. Special guest at the prize-award 

luncheon was Bill Powers, owner-operator of 

the State Drive-In here. He formerly was 

city manager for Fox Intermountain Theatres. 

Joe Robertson, who recently joined the 

organization as manager of the Rena and 

Liberty theatres in Kellogg, Ida., was welcomed. 

Crippled Children's League, of which he is 

president . . . B. W. Ardell, manager for the 

B. F. Shearer Co. here, was in Chicago to 

attend the equipment dealers convention. 

The forthcoming marriage of their daughter 

Joan to Lt. Norman David Saunders 

has been announced by Mr. and Mrs. O. N. 

"Bill" Srere. The wedding will take place Saturday 

113) at the Srere home, with Rabbi 

Edgar F. Magnin officiating, following which 

the young couple will make their home at Fort 

Monmouth, N. J., where the groom-to-be is 

stationed. Srere is a partner of Gus Metzger 

in the Metzger-Srere circuit here. 

. . . 

Pacific Drive-ins has broken ground lor an 

1,800-car ozoner, as yet unnamed, to be constructed 

in the booming North Hollywood 

area George A. Smith, Paramount's 

western division sales chief, returned from 

a business junket to Salt Lake City. 

I'-fIN 

Fot 35 Yeats the Laailers 

l327St.Wikith 

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SERVICE AND QUALITY 

With Showmen Everywhere! 


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'Christmas' 

Comes 

With 275 Rating 

LOS ANGELES—First run trade ranged 

from extremely gcxjd to terrible—attributable, 

as concerns the latter category, to an overabundance 

of holdover attractions. Most 

sparkling business was the 275 per cent garnered 

by "White Christmas" in its opening 

stanza, whOe "A Star Is Born" continued 

phenomenally strong with a 250 per cent 

rating in its fifth week. 


Chinese A Woman's World (20th-Fox), 4th wk._. . 85 

Downtown Paramount, Warners Beverly White 

Christmas (Para) 275 

Egyptian, State Athena (MGM) 100 

Fine Arts The Vanishing Prairie (Buena Vista), 

nth wk 50 

Four Star, Orpheum, Vogue Bengal Brigade (U-l); 

Ricochet Romance (U-l) 90 

Fox Wilshire Adventures of Hajji Baba (20th-Fox), 

4th wk 40 

Hillstreet, Fox, Uptown Sitting Bull (UA), 

2nd wk 90 

Hollywood Paramount Sabrina (Para), 6th wk. ..100 

Pontages—A Star Is Born (WB), 5th wk 250 

Warners Downtown, Wiltern, Fox Hollywood 

Passion (RKO); Africa Adventure (RKO) 100 

Warners Hollywood This Is Cinerama (Cinerama), 

79th wk 90 

'Christmas' 

Continues 

In Denver Lead 

DENVER—"White Christmas" continued to 

lead the town at the Denham, where, of 

course, it held a third week. "Black Widow" 

was strong at the Centre and held, and 

"Barefoot Contessa" became one of the few 

to hold at the Paramount after a fine week. 

Centre Block Widow (20th-Fox) 200 

Denham White Christmas (Para), 2nd wk 300 

Denver A Star Is Born ( WB), 3rd wk 110 

Orpheum Brigodoon (MGM); House of Blackmail 

(SR), 2nd wk 90 

Paramount Barefoot Contessa (UA) 160 

Vogue Times Gone By (IFE) 60 

Over-All Grosses Down 

In San Francisco 

SAN FRANCISCO—First run San Francisco 

houses reported one of the lowest overall 

grosses seen for a long time. Both the 

holdovers of "A Woman's World" and "A 

Star Is Born" continued just about average 

while "The Black Knight" was the only newscomer 

to better the average mark. 

Fox—A Woman's World (20th-Fox), 3rd wk 110 

Golden Gate The Bob Mathios Story (AA); Return 

From the Sea (AA) 75 

Loew's Worfield Brigodoon (MGM), 3rd wk 80 

Paramount The Block Knight (Col); Thunder Poss 

(LP) 135 

YOU CAN RELY ON 

nUTIDfl PICTURE SERU CE Ci. 

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WESTERN WASHINGTON THEATRE 

iiin- of till- fiiif.-^t small town theatres In the st.ite. Serves 

im iireii of over 20.000 population. Modern poured concrete 

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5724 S. E. Monroe Portland 22, Oreoon 

Phones Evergreen 1-7100 — 1-1606 

to Los Angeles 

in Firsf Week 

A Star Is Born (WB), 4th wk 100 

St. Francis 

United Artists Sitting Bull (UA); Challenge the 

Wild (UA) 90 

Trairie' With 150 

Highest at Seattle 

SEATTLE) — "The Vanishing Prairie" at the 

Music Box wound up its second week with a 

strong 150, topping all other first runs. Close 

behind and running almost neck and neck 

were "The Barefoot Contessa," paired with 

"About Mrs. Leslie," with 135 at the end of 

the first week at the Fifth Avenue, and "A 

Star Is Born." which chalked up a 130 in 

its fourth week at the Paramount. 

Blue Mouse The Block Shield of Falworth (U-l), 

2nd wk 95 

Coliseum Three Hours to Kill (Col), Human Desire 

(Col) 100 

Fifth Avenue The Borefoot Contessa (UA); About 

Mrs. Leslie (Para) 135 

Music Box The Vanishing Prairie (Bueno 

Vista), 2nd wk 1 50 

Music Hall King Richard ond the Crusoders (WB) 90 

Orpheum Naked Alibi (U-l) 95 

Paramount A Star Is Born (WB), 4th wk 130 

'Contessa' First at 

Portland 

With 200 Per Cent 

PORTLAND—"The Barefoot Contessa" at 

the Orpheum was the leader with 200 per cent. 

Paramount Rear Window (Pare), 3rd wk 115 

Oriental Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (reissue) 75 

Orpheum A Star Is Born (WB), 4th wk 50 

Fox—A Woman's World (20th-Fox), 3rd wk 110 

Liberty The Barefoot Contessa (UA) 200 

Guild The Vanishing Prairie (BV), 5th wk 130 

SAN FRANCISCO 

Tack Gunsky, manager of 

the Fox and State 

theatres in Watsonville for the past four 

years, has been promoted to manager of the 

California in Salinas. Max Knauss takes over 

the Fox Theatre management while Pete 

Cicisly, who has been assistant manager in 

Watsonville. becomes manager of the State. 

Fox West Coast also reports the appointment 

of George Breece as manager of the California 

Theatre in Stockton, replacing L. C. 

Tavolara who was promoted to district manager. 

Hal Honore, manager of the SeaVue Theatre 

at Pacific Manor, settled the problem of 

youthful disorders by contacting some 18 

youths and telling them that if the vandalism 

continued he would have to cut out the 

junior prices, or even bar youngsters from 

the movies altogether. He asked for volunteer 

junior police officers to curtail future outbreaks. 

All volunteers received guest passes 

good until January 1, and their duty is to 

in the theatre and watch for anybody cre- 

sit 

ating a disturbance. The plan works and the 

SeaVue is now the quietest it has been in a 

long time. 

. . . Cinemascope 

. . 

The Patio Theatre in Half Moon Bay has 

installed Cinemascope ... It is now wide 

screen for the State Theatre, according to 

Manager Ralph St. Onge 

has taken over the Se Rancho Drive-In, according 

Mark 

to Manager C. E. Spoor 

Ailing, manager of the Golden Gate, reports 

the appointment of Joseph De Victoria as 

publicist. 

Visitors to Filmrow included Emil Palermo, 

Star Theatre, Stockton; Al Laurice, Cardinal 

Theatre, Palo Alto; Guy Meeks, Crescent 

Marvin Goldfarb Named 

Buena Vista Supervisor 

DENVER — Marvin Goldfarb, recently 

named district supervisor for Buena Vista, 

entered the film distribution business in 1943 

when he was made 

salesman for RKO, 

with New Mexico as 

his territory. He quit 

in 1946 to enter the 

parking business, but 

returned to RKO in 

1948 as salesman, covering 

the central, or 

Colorado area. 

In 1950 he was made 

manager at the Denver 

branch, and has 

continued in that ca- 

Marvin Goldfarb pacity until his resignation 

to join Buena Vista. 

Goldfarb has set up his headquarters at 

737, 21st St.. and will have under his supervision 

the territories of Denver. Salt Lake 

City, Des Moines, Omaha and Kansas City. 

He expects to add sales personnel in each 

of the exchange areas in the near future. 

Goldfarb and his wife Evelyn have two 

children, Terry Ellen and Thomas Arthur. 

Oregonians Improve Theatre 

LAKEVTEW, ORE.—Bob and Jerry Alger, 

operators of the Marius Theatre, have 

equipped the house with a wide screen. 

During the year 1953 a total of 324 feature 

films were released in Sweden. 

Drive-In, Vallejo; William Blair, Blair Theatre, 

Cloverdale and the Ritz Theatre, Calistoga; 

Marvin Martinex, Sky view Drive-In 

Theatres, Sacramento and Salinas; Alan Finlay, 

new owner of the Boyes Theatre, Boyes 

Springs; Tony Gambogi. Analy Theatre, 

Sebastapol; Bill Wagner, Antioch; Bob Reese, 

Lakeport Theatre, Lakeport; Charlie Holtz, 

the Sequoia, Sacramento; Charles M. Hall, 

Alum Rock Drive-In, San Jose; Merritt Espy, 

Starlight Drive-In, Redding, and Sal and 

Johnny Enea, Airport Automovies, Oakland. 

. Millie WUliamson, 

. 

Art Neumer was in from New York and 

Bausch & Lomb headquarters . . . Heaton 

Randall, National Theatre Supply, is planning 

a vacation to the east . . . Rose Rivas, 

Allied Artists, is engaged . . 

inspector, is on sick leave . . . Martha 

AA 

Symons, inspector at Warner Bros., retired 

and was given a farewell party and a parting 

gift by her co-workers bookers 

are getting up a petition to "invite" Dave 

Bolton, circuit owner, to change his brand of 

Rex Allen, Republic film star 

cigars . . . 

who was in town for the Grand National 

show, paid a visit to the local office. 

Local industry men who attended the 

Charles Skouras funeral in Los Angeles included 

Mike Naify, Marshall Naify, Pat Patterson. 

Arnold Childhouse, Ned Tophan, Herman 

Wobber. George Milner and Jim Runte 

who attended the TOA convention 

in Chicago included Charlie Maestri and Doc 

Henning, Lippert Theatres; Rotus Harvey, 

Gerald Hardy, Westland circuit; Roy Cooper, 

Roy Cooper Theatres, and L. S. Hamm, president 

of Northern California Theatre Ass'n. 

Cooper is TOA regional vice-president and 

Hamm is a TOA director. 

44 


. . . Joe 

. . George 

. . . Clarence 

. . . Seventy 

. . Ginger 

. . Jim 

. . Tom 

. . The 

. . Pete 

Thinks Films, TV Make 

Grime Pay Off Too Well 

From Eastern Edition 

PHILADELPHIA—Motion pictures and television 

are guilty of glorifying the gangster, 

Richard C. C»endenen. staff director of the 

U. S. Senate subcommittee to investigate 

juvenile delinquency, asserted here before 

the 84th annual Congress of Correction meeting 

at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel. 

"Too frequently we see the gangster in 

movies or television riding in a long, sleek 

car," he said. "He goes up to his palatial 

apartment in his private elevator. And there 

he is met by a gorgeous blonde. With a drink 

in his hand, he has soft background music 

and the tinkling of ice. 

"At the end of the program there is supposed 

to be some kind of message that crime 

does not pay. But it paid off too well during 

the first 45 minutes of the program. Somehow, 

it sort of petered out in the last two or three 

moments of the picture." 

PORTLAND 

lyjartin M. Foster, Guild manager, reports 

"The Vanishing Prairie" was held for a 

sixth week. "Malta Story" with Alex Guinness 

follows. Foster was in Seattle over the 

weekend to attend the University of Washington-University 

of Oregon game . . . ZoUie 

Volchok. Northwest Releasing Corp., was ill 

with the flu. 

Mrs. Lena McKevitt, Newport, Ocean Lake 

and Taft, Ore., exhibitor, was recuperating 

following an operation . Jackson, 

RKO salesman, has returned after an eastern 

Oregon sales trip. 

Exploiteers in town included Walter Hoffman, 

Paramount, working on "White Christmas" 

promotions and Allan Weider, MGM, 

busy on "Beau Brummell" and "Her 12 Men" 

Shea, press representative for Helen 

Hayes' "What Every Woman Knows," which 

is due here at the Auditorium November 23 

through 25, reports a 1:30 p.m. matinee 

Thanksgiving Day is one of the first such 

early matinees to be staged by a touring company. 

The early curtain permits the players 

as well as the audience to have an earlier 

Thanksgiving dinner. 

^_i, , 

THE ARIHRmS AND RHEUMATISM FOUNDATIOK 

This Space Contributed By 

BOXOFFICE 

DENVER 

n Hied Rocky Mountain Independent Theatres 

will hold its fall directors meeting 

at the Denver headquarters November 9. ReporU 

will be heard from delegates who attended 

the Milwaukee convention of Allied. 

All independent theatre owners. Allied members 

or not, are urged to attend the meeting. 

. 

. . With 

The old Broadway, built in 1890 as a legitimate 

theatre and converted to films in the 

'30s, and at different times operated by Harry 

Huffman, Fox Intermountain Theatres, and 

lately by Wolfberg Theatres, has been closed 

and Ls being dismantled to make way for an 

addition to the Cosmopolitan Hotel, owner of 

the property BaUey, independent 

film distributor, went to Salt Lake . 

the reactivating of Variety Tent 37, the publication 

of On the Midway will be resumed 

with Helene Love again as editor. 

The W'adsworth, owned by Lem Lee, is 

thought to be one of the first drive-ins in 

the country to set up a free children'"; matinee 

on Saturday. Boasting an auditorium 

that seats 502, the Wadsworth is nicely set 

up for such a promotion. The glass front 

of the auditorium will be covered with a 

screen and a portable 35mm projector will 

be used. With one performance set up to 

start with, another will be added if the demand 

is great enough. There will be a western 

film and several cartoons. Admission will 

be free and tickets will be distributed through 

various merchants in the neighborhood, at no 

cost to them. Of course the snack bar will be 

in full operation. 

Oscar Galanter, office manager at Universal, 

was on vacation . local United 

Artists exchange, with a personnel of nine, 

is hanging up a fine record. Up to now they 

have passed the billings made all of last 

year, and the past three years have been on 

the upgrade every year. M. R. Austin is the 

manager . Rogers and her husband 

Jacques Bergerac will be here for the opening 

of "Twist of Fate" at the Aladdin. 

. . . Elden 

Kelso Lee, 64, father of Lem Lee, owner of 

several Colorado drive-in theatres, died in a 

Denver hospital last week. He is survived by 

his wife Tera and four children 

Menagh has remodeled his 

Star at Fort Lupton 

and after adding CinemaScope and other 

improvements has reopened it under the 

name of the Big Top. 

Donald Cook, assistant booker at Paramount, 

and Bernice Ashton will be married 

Olson, former manager here 

for UA, Paramount and Allied Artists, is now 

account executive for radio station KIMN 

people took advantage of the 

offer made by Fox Intermountain Theatres 

one day in the local dailies. In small print 

at the top of its listing ad, the circuit offered 

to admit one and a guest free if the person 

would say to the cashier, "Fox theatres are 

the place to go." 

. . . Evelyn Benson, 

Jerry Pickman, Paramount Pictures vicepresident 

in charge of advertising, was in 

for the opening of "White Chiistmas" at the 

Denham . Ricketts, Paramount manager, 

made several trips into the territory 

on a Vista Vision survey 

bookkeeper at the Denver Inspection and 

Shipping Bureau, is back at work after a 

short leave of absence . Bayes. Paramount 

exploitation man, went to Salt Lake 

City on business. 

SCTOA Asks Probe 

Of Distributors 

LOS ANGELES—Carrying on its attack 

against what it terms a producer-distributor 

"monopoly" assertedly brought about by the 

government's consent decree, the Southern 

California Theatre Owners Ass'n has dispatched 

to Sen. Andrew F. Schoeppel, chairman 

of the subcommittee on monopoly of the 

Senate's select committee on small business, 

another communique again charging that exhibitors 

are now operating on a "day-to-day" 

basis because of "national control of sales 

policies by distributors." 

The communique, signed by Albert Hanson, 

chairman of the SCTOA's trade relations 

committee, and the contents of which were 

unanimously approved by the organization's 

board of directors, urges the Department of 

Justice to investigate the situation and sets 

forth three possible solutions to the problem: 

1. Arbitration within the industry, including 

film rentals. 

2. Action by Congress to place the industry 

under a federal commission. 

3. Direct appeal to the public through motion 

picture theatre screens. 

The missive to Senator Schoeppel stressed 

that the third method would be used only 

with "great reluctance." 

To copies of the letter to Senator Schoeppel, 

being sent to exhibitors and exhibitor organizations, 

were attached copies of a letter from 

Stanley N. Barnes, assistant attorney-general 

in charge of the Department of Justice's antitrust 

division, also addi-essed to Senator 

Schoeppel, and commenting on the SCTOA's 

complaints, exhaustively analyzing the consent 

decree. 

New Airer in New Mexico 

PORTALES, N. M.— All State Theatres of 

Abilene, Tex., has started construction of a 

de luxe 500-car drive-in a mile east of here 

on the Clovis highway. The new drive-in will 

be equipped with one of the largest screens in 

New Mexico, according to Tom Griffing, an 

official of the company. 

New Film for Jack Webb 

HOLL'rWOOD— As his second starring 

theatrical film for Warner release, Jack Webb 

will begin lensing early next spring on "Pete 

Kelly's Blues," in which he will star as a 

cornet-playing bandleader in 1927. Webb will 

produce and direct from a script being written 

by Richard L. Breen. 

Frisco 'TNT' Film Ready 

SAN PRANCISCO—Motion Picture Service 

Co., headed by Gerald Karski, has completed 

a full-length inspirational film in color featuring 

Harold Sherman, author of "TNT, the 

Power Within You." The world premiere of 

the film will take place at the Aladdin Theatre 

in Denver November 9. The film features 

an hour-long lecture. 

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— 

. . Salesman 

. . ZoUie 

. . "Private 

. . Evidence 

Toll TV Condemned 

At SCTOA Meeting 

LOS ANGELES—Officially endorsing action 

taken at a recent Chicago joint meeting 

of exhibitor groups, the Southern California 

Theatre Owners Ass'n passed a resolution 

condemning pay-as-you-see television as 

"against the public interest" and informing 

that the organization will participate in the 

dissemination of statistics on the question 

in an effort to determine whether toll TV 

"would be for the best interests of the United 

States and the people thereof." 

At the Chicago session late last month, 

James Arthur of the SCTOA was named 

secretary of an investigating committee which 

also comprises members of Theatre Owners 

of America, Allied States and the Metropolitan 

Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n of New 

York. It was indicated at that time that the 

joint committee would take its case against 

toll television to the Federal Communications 

Commission. Congress, the President and 

business interests. 

The SCTOA resoultion charged that such 

a video system would give to a "favored few" 

a "monopoly" of the film exhibition business 

and "absolute control" of such communication 

media as newspapers, radio and television, 

would "take from the people a service 

of entertainment and information that in 

this country has since its inception remained 

free to all," and would approach "dangerously 

close" to the ideologies now existing in 

totalitarian countries. 

The public, said the SCTOA, should retain 

both an industry giving free entertainment 

and communication of ideas and information 

—to wit, radio and TV—and an industry 

serving upon a basis of admission price "for 

what the public desires to pay to see" 

namely, the motion picture theatre industry 

as it now exists. 

Copies of the resolution are being forwarded 

to the FCC, the President and members 

of Congress. 

Buys San Francisco House 

SAN FRANCISCO—John Parsons, Telenews 

Theatre manager, and Robert Ki'oenberg, 

president of Manhattan Films International, 

purchased the Four- Star Theatre 

here from D. B. Levin. The sale amount was 

not disclosed. The new owners said they will 

completely remodel the neighborhood house 

and will install CinemaSoope, a new front, 

foyer and candy bar. For the present, the 

subsequent run policy will continue. Tom 

Quinn has been appointed manager. 

Dog Is Special Guest 

HELENA—Charlie, the pet prairie dog of 

the Montana Fish and Game Commission, 

was a special guest of Manager Sid Page 

during the final day's showing of "The Vanishing 

Prairie" at the Marlow Theatre. 

Charlie was on display in the theatre lobby 

throughout the evening. 

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AIDING ROGERS DRIVE—The fundraising 

drive for the Saranac Lake, N. Y., 

Will Rogers Memorial Hospital is planned 

by Will J. Conner, executive vice-president, 

Hamrick Theatres (left), and Vete 

Stewart, Seattle manager for Warner 

Bros. They are co-chairmen of the drive 

in Washington, Alaska and Idaho. Both 

are famous for their humanitarian work. 

SEATTLE 

'Phe program is being completed for the annual 

meeting of the Theatre Owners of 

Washington, Northern Idaho and Alaska November 

16 at the New Washington Hotel. A 

luncheon meeting for exhibitors will be followed 

by an afternoon business session . . 

. 

Selom Burns and Jack Barber of the local 

Modern Theatre supply office and John D. 

Peterson of the Portland office flew to Chicago 

where they attended the trade meetings. 

. 

. . . 

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Greenfield, manager 

at Universal, returned from a vacation trip 

to New York . Volchok, Northwest 

Releasing Corp., was ill with the flu in Portland 

Al Larpenteur was back 

from a .swing through eastern Oregon 

Peter Barnes is putting in Cinemascope in 

his three theatres at Okanogan, Chelan and 

Spracher's Tokay Theatre at 

Oroville . . . 

Raymond was reopened Saturday (6) after 

being equipped with stereophonic sound and 

Cinemascope. 

Prizes for outstanding costumes were 

awarded to youngsters at Halloween parties 

held at Sterling theatres Saturday. Joe Palooka 

and color cartoons were featured at 

the Magnolia, Admiral, Granada, Northgate, 

Uptown, Beacon and Crest. 

Mati and Hari, TV stars and satirists, were 

at the Palomar Theatre for a one-night performance 

Monday . Hell 36" 

opened at the Orpheum Thursday (4) ... 

Filmrow visitors included Mr. and Mrs. Howard 

McBride, who operate tiie Grenada, Spokane, 

with Joe Rosenfield: E. W. Johnson 

of Garland and West End Drive-In, Spokane; 

A. J. Sisk, with the Olympic. Arlington; 

Howard Taylor, Sequim; Glen Nolta, in 

from Lynwood, Port Blakely and Al Fernandez, 

Clallam Bay. who reports he is putting 

in Cinemascope. 

New Manager in Utah 

HELPER, UTAH—The operation and management 

of the local Bonnie Theatre, a 640- 

seat house, has been taken over by Mario 

Machine. 

SALT LAKE CITY 

/^perators of the Tower Theatre, an art 

. . . 

house, have taken over operation of the 

World Playhouse, another art house in Salt 

Lake's suburban Sugar House. Irving GJUi:ian. 

who has been managing the Playhouse, 

will continue as publicity representative. Phil 

A. Speckart is manager of both houses 

A new green paint job is making Salt Lake's 

Filmrow look like a different place. The 

new hue brightens up the whole street. 

. . 

. . . 

Pete Bayes, tub-thumper for Paramount, 

and Frank Jenkins, ditto for MGM, were in 

Salt Lake this week . Charlie lacona, controller 

at Intermountain, was sporting a 

black eye this week after being thrown from 

his horse Variety Tent 38 of Salt La'Ke 

City was nominating new officers this week. 

The list isn't expected to be completed until 

sometime next week . of Hollywood's 

"big" product will be spread on Salt 

Lake's first run screens on the same day this 

coming week. "White Christmas" will open 

at the Uptown, "Brigadoon" at the Centre 

and "Sabrina" at the Capitol, all on the same 

day. 

Charles Walker is back in tlie film business 

after being laid up for many months 

due to illness. The former manager for 20th- 

Fox has established his own buying and 

booking set up. He never looked better than 

the other night at the Variety tent meeting. 

It's the old Charlie, full of fire and fight 

again. 

Julie Adams will star with Anne Baxter 

and Rock Hudson in Universal's "Tacey 

Cromwell." 

"...within 

man's 

povyêr »» 

Monumental achievements have 

marked each era of mankind. 

Within reach of future generations 

is 

the conquest of tuberculosis. 

It is within man's power to eradicate 

tuberculosis— when you buy Christmas 

Seals to support your tuberculosis 

association you help to make this 

possible. 

This year use Christmas Seals 

generously—and send your contribution 

today, please. 

buy Christmas Seals 

This space 

contributed by 

BOXOFFICE 

46 

BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954 

i

— 

— 

— 

— — 

— 

'Hajji Baba' Is Sturdy 

195 in Loop Opening 

CHICAGO—Five new entries, "Adventures 

of Hajji Baba" at the Oriental, "Sensualita" 

at the World Playhouse, "Shield for Murder" 

and "Overland Pacific" at the Loop Theatre, 

and "Mr. Hulot's Holiday" at the Surf scored 

boxoffice successes. At the same time, holdovers 

maintained higher than average grosses. 


Carnegie Viva Zopoto (20th-Fox); The Follen Idol 

ISRO) 140 

Chicago A Star Is Born (WB), 3rd wk 275 

Eitel's Palace This Is Cinerama (Cineromo), 

66th wk 240 

Esquire Gone With the Wind (MGM) 200 

Grand— Sitting Bull (UA), 3rd wk 200 

Loop Shield tor Murder (UA); Overland Pacific 

(UA) 205 

McVickers Betrayed (MGM), 3rd wk 180 

Monroe Southwest Passage (UA), 2nd wk 175 

Oriental Adventures of Hojji Baba (20th-Fox) . . 1 95 

Roosevelt King Richord and the Crusaders (WB); 

The Shanghai Story (Rep), 2nd wk 180 

State Lake The Egyptian (20th-Fox), 6th wk. . . . 1 75 

Surf~Mr. Hulot's Holiday (GBD) 205 

United Artists The Barefoot Contessa (UA), 

2nd wk 225 

Woods On the Waterfront (Col), 5th wk 220 

World Playhouse Sensualita (IFE) 190 

Ziegfeld Scotch on the Rocks (Mayer-Kingsley); 

Folly to Be Wise (Fine Arts) I 70 

'Star' Rates 175 But Trade 

At Kansas City Is Weak 

KANSAS CITY—Although reissues, return 

engagements and holdovers were in all the 

first run houses here this week except for 

the four Fox Midwest houses, managers were 

unanimous in rating business as poor for this 

season of the year. "A Star Is Born" was 

holding well at the Paramount and "Man 

With a Million" at the Kimo, but patronage 

at the other houses was disappointing. "On 

the Waterfront" was held a third week at 

the Midland. 

A local strike may have caused some theatre 

business slump. Then it is a well known 

fact that patronage always suffers during an 

election year at this season. 

Glen Bank Dick (Reolort), Never Give a Sucker 

an Even Break (Realart), reissues 100 

Kimo Man With o Million (UA), 2nd wk 150 

Midland On the Waterfront (Col), 2nd wk 95 

Missouri Suddenly (UA); The Malta Story (UA), 

2nd wk 80 

Orpheum A Woman's World (20th-Fox), 3rd wk..110 

Paromount A Star Is Born (WB), 2nd wk 175 

Roxy Brigadoon (MGM), 2nd wk 90 

Tower, Uptown, Fairway and Granada Bengal 

Brigade (U-l), Trent's Lost Cose (Rep) 70 

Vogue The Man Between (UA) (return engagement) 

100 

Fort Drive-In Assistant 

In Jail on Theft Charge 

LEAVENWORTH— William L. Simms, 26- 

year-old projectionist and assistant manager 

at the Fort Drive-In was arrested Wednesday 

(201 and remanded to the county jail 

without bail on charges of having embezzled 

$1,150 during a period of several months. 

His car was found packed for a trip, and 

friends said he had been planning the winter 

in Mexico as soon as the drive-in closed for 

the season. 

Part of Simm's duties consisted of taking 

the money to the bank at night and getting 

the deposit slips next day and mailing reports 

to the Kansas City office. 

The Fort is operated by Beverly Miller and 

associates. 

Installs Wide Screen 

SHELBINA, MO.—Manager Dan Roads reports 

the installation of a wide screen at the 

Clark Theatre. 

Lou Ansell Will Report 

On TOA at MITO Rally 

ST. LOUIS—The Missouri-Illinois Theatre 

Owners convention here at the Hotel Chase 

Monday and Tuesday i8, 9), following almost 

immediately the TOA convention in Chicago, 

will hear a report on the national meeting 

from Lou Ansell at the Tuesday morning 

session. 

A promotion stunt that has stimulated 

added interest in the occasion is a Miss 

Filmrow contest with the gii-ls along the 

Row, who are participating for the honor, 

selling advance tickets for the final banquet. 

Ticket holders for the Tuesday night affair 

are entitled to vote for their choice. 

The complete agenda for the two days, as 

announced by co-general chairmen for the 

meeting John Meinardi, Bill Williams and 

Lou Ansell, is as follows: 

Monday (8) 

9:00 a.m. Registration in the Zodiac Lounge. 

10:00 a.m. Meeting of officers and directors 

and convention committee chairmen in the 

Park Room. 

12:15 p.m. Luncheon session in the Zodiac 

Lounge hosted by Coca-Cola. Greetings will 

be extended by Lester R. Kropp, MITO president, 

and the welcome by Eddie Clark. 

1:30 p.m. General session in the Starlight 

Roof with Bill Williams, secretary, serving 

as chairman. 

The appointment of committees to serve 

during the meeting will be made by Kropp. 

The speakers will include Sgt. Hugh Nelson, 

U. S. Air Force: Tom Bailey, MGM manager; 

Alex Harrison, 20th-Fox division manager; 

Herman M. Levy, TOA general counsel, and 

Albert Pickus, also of TOA. 

A general discussion will close the session, 

to be followed by a guided tour of the trade- 

.«how exhibits. 

5:30 p.m. Cocktails in the Zodiac Lounge. 

Tuesday (9) 

9:30 a.m. General session, William E. 

Waring jr. presiding in the Starlight Roof. 

Reports of officers and committees and the 

election of officers for 1954-55. 

Lou Ansell will report on the Chicago TOA 

meeting. 

Other speakers will include George Kerasotes 

of TOA and Mike Simons, MGM sales 

promotion manager. 

12:15 p.m. Luncheon in the Zodiac Lounge 

with the invocation by Joseph Ansell. 

1:30 p.m. The third and final general session 

with Bill Powell and Paul Krueger as 

co-chaii'men. 

Speakers will include Kroger Babb, Hallmark 

Productions: Alfred Starr. TOA, and 

Herman M. Levy. 

Following this session there is to be another 

guided tour of tradeshow exhibits. 

6:00 p.m. Cocktails in the Zodiac Lounge 

with Bill Earle, National Theatre Supply, as 

host. 

7:00 p.m. The final banquet with Tom Edwards, 

past president of MITO, as toastmaster. 

The election of Miss Filmrow will be held. 

Also in attendance at the head table will 

be Major Richard E. Dent jr., U. S. Air 

Force, and various Hollywood personalities 

including Robert Francis and May Wynn of 

Columbia, Jeffrey Hunter, 20th-Fox, and, 

through the courtesy of the Empress Playhouse, 

owned by Joseph and Lou Ansell, will 

be Marie Wilson and Melville Cooper. 

Marline Carol, French actress, will make 

her American debut in 20th-Fox's "Can-Can." 

TO PICK MISS FILMROW—Paul Winchell and his friend Jerry Mahoney are 

seen with the candidates for Miss Filmrow, to be elected at the MITO convention at 

the Chase Hotel in St. Louis Monday and Tuesday (8, 9). Candidates representing 

the various local exchanges are, left to right, seated: Carol Ann Ryan, MGM; Aleta 

Ramsey, RKO; Sandra Craven, U-I; Eileen O'Connell, Realart, and Grace Engelhard, 

Republic. Standing: Rose Hearle, Columbia; Gladys Katz, Warner Bros.; Mary Joan 

Placke, 20th-Fox; Ruth Shurnas, Paramount; Margaret Collins, Allied Artists, and 

Jane Finley, United Artists. 


47

. . Stanford 

. . Paul 

. . John 

. 

. . 

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CHICAGO 

n Theatre Owners of America innovation 

drawing favorable comment this year was 

of TOA booths with young 

the "manning" 

women from local theatre circuits . . . Lloyd 

Honey, here from Washington state for discussions 

with Messrs. Gregory and Panagos 

of Alliance Amusement Co., dropped in at 

some of the convention sessions . . Bob 

. 

Boehmer as art director, and Joan McKinlay 

as a correspondent, are newest members of 

the Filmack Ti-ailer Co. 

Danny Kaye, here to handle the list of stars 

attending the TOA convention, attended the 

opening of "White Christmas" at the State 

Lake Theatre. Also here for the opening was 

. . . 

. . 

Vera-Ellen, who obliged patrons by 

Romona 

autographing 

photos in the lobby 

Hamilton resigned at Paramount here to join 

Buena Vista Distributing Co., managed by 

Harry Dudelson Much comment was 

made about 

. 

what looked like a new screen 

at the Clark Theatre. Manager Bruce Trinz 

said, however, that it's the same screen, 

polished up by Estelle Joy Screen Service. 

Arch Herzog and his wife, 

here from California, 

visited TOA convention quarters. 

Herzog was formerly with Balaban & Katz . . 

Sarra, Inc., has appointed Robert L. Foster 

to its sales and film planning staff . . Mrs. 

. 

Jean Sarros, an Alliance Amusement Co. employe 

for more than 15 years, became the 

mother of a daughter named Mary Ann . 

Warner Bros, has cut "A Star Is Born" 27 

minutes, but the cut does not affect the current 

Chicago Theatre run. 

The association of Ruth Ratny, formei 

Chicago advertising copywriter and Washington 

Times-Herald columnist, with Kling Film 

Products here has been announced by Fred 

A. Niles. vice-president . Montague 

and his wife celebrated a wedding anniversary 

November 1. Polks talking about the 

event said it was their 25th . Raptus, 

co-manager at the Chicago Theatre, revealed 

another talent. He has his own orchestra, the 

Raptus band, which played at the TOA President's 

banquet . 

Kohlberg reopened 

the Park Avenue Theatre at Park 

Ridge. The theatre had been closed for 18 

years. 

He is soundly grounded in your prob- 

Mrs. Elizabeth Day Wagner, who for a second 

year did much to make the Ladies 

Hospitality lounge at the convention a big 

succe-ss, said she felt much of it was due 

to recognition the men gave the rest spa. 

This year the men stopping for coffee and 

resting weary feet almost outnumbered the 

women. Another factor in the success was 

this year's prizes were more than tripled. 

Mc 

RAILERS 

JACK HYNES 

Our St. Louis district representative. He 

has many years experience in our industry. 

A good man to represent your service 

to local merchants. 

. . . ems and represents more than 

175 different local dealer classifications 

to sell in your community, large 

or small. Look to Cauger for merchantexhibitor 

satisfaction. 

Pete Panagos of Alliance Amusement Co. 

reported the circuit's outdoor theatre operations 

stopped Sunday for the winter season. 

Meanwhile, Richard Sewai-d, who had managed 

the drive-in at Peru, Ind., was made 

manager of the Mars at Marseilles, 111., and 

Blaine Tritt was moved to the Roxy at Frankfurt, 

Ind. 

The Harlem Drive-In is installing a 50x125- 

foot screen. The airer wiU remain open until 

snowstorms come . . . Irving Mack reports 

Filmack Ti-ailer Co. has produced a "Talking 

Merchant Greeting Header" for holiday ads 

Phil Fisher, head of the Hollywood Amusement 

Co., reports his 76 drink is now being 

bottled in more than 125 Coca-Cola plants 

throughout the country. 

Phone CLifton 9390 

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PHONE, WIRE, WRITE TODAY FOR COMPLETE FACTS 

. . . 

The announcement of Tom Dowd's resignation 

as manager of the Ziegfeld Theatre 

was in error. He will indefinitely continue 

in this capacity The Calo Theatre was 

reopened last week following a two-year 

closing. The Calo had been a popular neighborhood 

house for 40 years. 

Wide Screen to Sparta Airer 

SPARTA, ILL.—A wide screen has been 

installed at the Sparta along with anamorphic 

lenses. J. D. Slayden is the manager. 

48 


. . Leon 

. 

. . The 

ST. 

LOUIS 

naul McCarty and Bill Guinan of McCarty 

Theatre Supply have been suffering with 

colds . . . The Toys for Tots matinee, sponsored 

by the Better Films Council in cooperation 

with the management of various local 

theatres, is to be staged Saturday (6) at 

Bremen, Cinderella, Columbia, Crest, Gem, 

Granada, Hi-Pointe, Maplewood. Manchester, 

Michigan, Osage, Ozark, Rio, Ritz, Savoy. 

Shady Oak, Shaw. Tower and Wellston theatres. 

Admission for a child will be by presenting 

a new or usable toy to be given to 

underprivileged children at Christmas. Last 

year 53,000 toys were collected and distributed. 

Harry C. Arthur. Fanchon & Marco general 

manager, has gone to New York City . . , 

Paul Musser of Casey, 111., who was hospitalized 

at Chicago for three weeks, returned 

home . . . Hall Walsh, Warner Bros, district 

manager, was in Omaha and Kansas City . . 

Exhibitors seen along Filmrow included Dale 

C. Turvey, Pawnee; Forrest Pirtle, Jerseyville: 

Paul Stehman, Winchester; Bill Wandell. 

Lebanon, and Caesar- Berutt, RoUa. 

Bill Earle jr.. National Theatre Supply, was 

in Cairo . Koch, manager of the 

Grand Theatre. Du Quoin, and Charles 

Dickens, projectionist, were each presented 

with a silver tray in recognition of their 25 

years of service with Fox Midwest, which 

IS also celebrating its silver anniversary , , . 

Loew's State is scaled at $5.25 and $4.25 for 

the special one night television closed circuit 

presentation of the Metropolitan Opera 

opening night from New York Monday (8). 

The show is sponsored by the St. Louis Grand 

Opera Guild. 

Some 100 persons who have seen "This Is 

Cinerama" at the Ambassador Theatre at 

least twice were the guests of Ray Conner, 

managing director, Friday (5) . . . About 

1.400 persons attended the Jerusalem anniversary 

festival at the Jefferson Hotel here 

under the sponsorship of the State of Israel 

Bond Drives local committee which was 

addressed by Edward G. Robinson . . . Paul 

Krueger. co-general manager of the Fred 

Wehrenberg circuit, returned home after 

visiting St. Anthony's Hospital for a periodic 

checkup. 

Film Executives Notice 

Resolution on Sex in Ads 

LARNED, KAS.—The Western Kansas 

Theatre Owners Ass'n reports a resolution 

against sexed-up motion picture advertising 

passed at a recent meeting here received considerable 

recognition. (The resolution deplored 

the use of sex in advertising pictures 

where it was not a part of the picture and 

suggested each member write the film company 

and National Screen Service each time 

he got 

something objectionable). 

Letters were written to the presidents of 

film companies calling attention to the resolution. 

WKTO reports "very nice replies" 

from Morey Goldstein of Allied Artists, Al 

Lichtman of 20th-Fox, A. W. Schwalberg of 

Paramount. C. J. Peldman of Universal, 

Charles M. Reagan of MGM, and Paul Lazarus 

answering for A. Montague of Columbia. 

MPAA saw mention of the resolution in 

BOXOFFICE and wrote asking for its text 

so it could be taken up with the film companies. 

sfawd" 

I BEACH FLA. 

PROUD FISHERMAN — James .lovan, 

owner of the Monroe Theatre in Chicago, 

displays a sailfish he caught while on a 

trip off Miami. His son Edward also returned 

with a trophy. The fish have been 

mounted and are on display in the lobby 

of the Monroe. 

Mildred Harris Qualifies 

As Filmrow Gun Moll 

KANSAS CITY—Mildred Harris. Commonwealth 

booker, is the proud possessor of a 

new automatic 12-gauge Remington shotgun 

for which she paid 50 cents—and thereby 

hangs a tale of luck. 

Francis Moore. Commonwealth secretarytreasurer, 

was selling chances on the gun to 

raise funds for the Dad's Club of Boy Scout 

Ttoop 76 at the J. C. Nichols school. Mildred 

says she never has won anything before 

but always takes a chance and so 

bought the ticket on the gun and forgot 

about it. 

Consequently, when members of her family 

relayed a message about Moore being on 

his way out to her farm at Hickman Mills, 

she started worrying about .something having 

gone wrong at the office. Incidentally, 

her husband had just bought her a new 

double-barreled shotgun, as she had complained 

it was the only gun she could load 

easily in the dark. Living out as they do, it 

seemed a good idea to be prepared for 

prowlers. 

But now husband Floyd has to take his 

purchase back. Mildred is a good shot and 

was pleased as well as surprised to win the 

shotgun on her one ticket. 

Fire at Murphysboro 

MURPHYSBORO, ILL.—The Liberty, 425- 

seater, owned by the Marlow Amusement 

Corp. of Herrin, was heavily damaged by a 

fire recently. A new screen, recently installed, 

was among the equipment destroyed. Fire, 

smoke and water caused the most damage. 

Fire Chief Urba Hansen said that the fire 

apparently started in the rear of the theatre 

and may have been caused by a trash fire 

when sparks from that blaze were carried 

through the theatre's ventilating louvers into 

a fan room. 

CS Rates as Big Event 

In Small-Town Lite 

KANSAS CITY—Exhibitors in this area 

continue to fan the public's interest in new 

motion picture techniques by giving the local 

press stories about the installation of new 

equipment. Judging from the amount of 

space given to these innovations by local 

newspapers, the exhibitors are showing themselves 

to be first class showmen in their 

ballyhoo efforts. Cinemascope openings are 

being built up into "events" in the town life. 

At Kingman. Kas.. Commonwealth's Meade 

Theatre held what the Kingman Leader- 

Courier called a "formal opening for its new 

wide screen Cinemascope," with the mayor 

officially opening the ceremonies by cutting 

the ribbon that had been stretched across 

the front of the theatre. The newspaper 

article emphasized that the theatre was making 

no increase in admission prices, quoting 

Manager Charley Shoemake. 

Marty Landau's State Theatre at Mound 

City. Mo., was given good publicity on its 

opening with Cinemascope. Said the Mound 

City News-Independent: 

"After months of preparation for the event, 

the State Theatre will give a premiere showing 

of 'The Knights of the Round Table' in 

Cinemascope and stereophonic sound pictures 

next Sunday ... To bring Cinemascope to 

Mound City it has been necessary to install 

a new Miracle Mirror screen much wider than 

the old screen advent of Cinema- 

. 

Scope is heralded as the biggest improvement 

in motion pictures in 59 years, and the only 

marked improvement in the field of motion 

picture entertainment in the past 27 years, 

The State 

since sound was installed . . . 

Theatre is to be congratulated on its policy 

of always bringing the very best in entertainment 

to Mound City, keeping our theatre in 

step with the latest technological developments." 

The Bethany (Mo.) Republican-Clipper 

gives a nice story to the Noll Theatre, an 

Earl Kerr operation managed by F, F. Chenoweth. 

Said the local paper: 

"Cinemascope, the new projection method 

in motion pictures which gives spectators the 

illusions of depth and distance without their 

being required to wear adapted spectacles 

has been pui-chased for the Noll Theatre. 

" 

'The characters in the background will 

appear as sharp and clear as those in the 

foreground,' says Chenoweth. 'Installation of 

Cinemascope makes available for Noll patrons 

such outstanding productions as "The 

Robe." "The High and the Mighty," "Broken 

Lance," "Garden of Evil," "Three Coins in 

the Fountain," "Demetrius and the Gladiators," 

"The Egyptian," "Seven Brides for 

Seven Brothers," "Rose Marie" and many 

others.' " 

All of which goes to show that the exhibitors 

are making the most of creating new 

interest in motion pictures in their respective 

communities. Starting at the local level, they 

wield an area influence that is felt in all 

phases of the industry. 

EVERYTHING FOR THE THEATRE 

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3310 Olive Street, St. Louis 3. Mo. 

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Dealers in BALLANTYNE 

KAHSAS CITY 

Tjurt Lancaster, who plays the title role in 

"The Kentuckian" which is being relea.sed 

by United Artists, was in town over 

the past weekend to pose for Thomas Hart 

Benton, widely known Kansas City artist. 

Benton is painting some of the pictures to 

be used for advertising and publicity in exploiting 

the picture, and had been on location 

in Kentucky making preliminary sketches. 

Lancaster was accompanied by Bob Schiffer. 

"wig-adjuster." and by Grady Johnson, 

publicist. They did not visit Filmrow. 

. . . 

E. C. Rhoden returned Monday (li from 

Los Angeles, where he attended the funeral 

of Charles P. Skouras, but went back Thursday 

14) for the meeting of the board 

Jack 

of 

directors for National Theatres 

Frost, salesman at United Artists, has resigned 

to go with Buena Vista, which distributes 

Walt Disney films. After November 

15 he will be working out of Omaha, Des 

Moines and Kansas City. Exhibitors Film 

Delivery represents Buena Vista in this area 

Delaplane, who has been living in 

OUR 55th anniversary 

Serving Exhibitors... from Slides to Movies 

Distributor for: 

• Strong Electric Corp., Page 5 

• Projection Optics Co., Page 29 

• Kollmorgen Optical Corp., Page 21 

• Call Products Co., Page 45 

• La Vezzi Machine Works, Page 17-A 

• Bausch & Lomb Optical Co., 

Page 37 

Advertised in Ihe Modern Tiieatre Section in this issue 

• Drive-In Theatre Mfg. Co., 45-A 

• Ideal Seating Co., Page 37 

• Raytone Screen Corp., Page 31 

• National Super-Service Co., Inc. 

Page 50 

• Radiant Mfg. Co., Page 4-A 

and many others 

STEBBINS THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO. 

1804 Wyandotte Kansas City, Mo. 

the west, has been re-employed by Universal 

as a salesman. He replaces Earl Bennett who 

has resigned to go into insurance work. Sliirley 

Thompson has been engaged as booking 

clerk to replace Mrs. Rosalie Wise, resigned. 

Hall Walsh, district manager for Warner 

Bros., was here from St. Louis last week. He 

will attend the district managers meeting in 

New York next week. Francis Blanchard, head 

shipper, is back from a vacation in Oklahoma 

City. According to the standard newsman's 

definition for news ( i, it is 

news that Don Walker, exploiteer, spent the 

past week in town. 

Stebbins Theatre Supply Co. reports furnishing 

a wide screen and Hilux lenses to 

Virgil Green for his Green Theatre at La 

Plata, Mo., to J. L, Porter for the Welling at 

Natoma, Kas., and to Earl K. Wetzel for the 

De Luxe at Hardtner, Kas. To Paul Ricketts 

for his Charm at Holyrood and to Henry 

Beardsley for his Chief at Oberlin went Kollmorgen 

lenses. 

. . . C. L. Martin's Republic 

. . . Paul 

Rube Melcher of Poppers Supply is recovering 

nicely from his recent operation and 

should be convalescing at home this coming 

week The T. H. Slothowers have closed 

their 

. . . 

Meadowlark and Twin Meadowlark 

drive-ins in Wichita except for weekends 

Drake at Bolivar, Mo., says he is 

back in business since he put in Cinema- 

Scope . 

Lux Theatre at Claflin has a 

new wide screen . E. Beemer's Ron Don 

at Waverly, Kas., is also reported going for 

a wide screen 

at Republic, Mo., is being completely remodeled 

to install Cinemascope 

Ricketts will have a wide screen at his 

Charm Theatre in Holyrood, Kas., for December 

showings. 

Dickinson's first art theatre, the Kimo, is 

equipped now with a 33' = -ton air conditioning 

unit, ready for next summer's heat wave. 

Herb Carnes manages both the Kimo and the 

Glen, second art house, with Glen Downy 

as assistant at the Kimo and Ralph Buhrmaster 

at the Glen "Brigadoon" 

has not 

. 

made any records at the 

Roxy, one man has been in three times to see 

Durwood circuit has closed the Skylark 

it . . . 

Drive-In at Leavenworth but the 

Skylark 

at Jefferson City is operating on a full 

schedule and the one at St. Joseph on weekends. 

HANDY SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM 

BOXOFFICE: 

825 Van Brunt Blvd.. Kansas City 24, Mo. 

Please enter my subscription to BOXOFFICE. 52 issues per year (13 of which conlain 

The MODERN THEATRE Section). 

n $3.00 FOR 1 YEAR D $5.00 FOR 2 YEARS D $7.00 FOR 3 YEARS 

D Remittance Enclosed D Send Invoice 

THEATRE 

STREET ADDRESS 

TOWN 

NAME 

STATE 

POSITION 

Woodie Latimer of L&L Popcorn returned 

from Lincoln where he supervised a test of 

the Coldisplay ice cream merchandising machine 

at the Stewart Theatre. This is the 

same machine which was tested at the Ute 

in Colorado Springs and is now being tested 

at the Roxy in Kansas City. The tests have 

shown so far that it enables theatres to go 

to 25 or 30-cent items on ice cream products, 

making it a profitable venture rather than 

a trade accommodation. 

National Theatre Supply has furnished 

special Aluminex recessed-type poster cases 

for the Dickinson at Mission, Kas. Bevelite 

changeable letters with snap-lock Plexiglas 

background were furnished these Wichita 

theatres; Sunset, Tower and Victory, and the 

42 Sky-Vue, Pawnee and Westport driveins 

.. . Mary K. Kiphart is the new 

office secretary at Capitol Flag & Banner 

Co. . Hartman Booking Agency re- 

50 


ports A. L. Fenton's Drive-In at Boonville, 

the Starlite, closed for the season. Also the 

y/C at Yates Center and the Ulysses at 

Some of the exhibitors are 

Ulysses . . . 

complaining Halloween theatre business was 

off—too many civic and private parties. Others 

did well by tieing in with these local groups. 

. Exhibitors 

M. A. Levy, 20th-Fox district manager, was 

in from Minneapolis last week. Howard Kinser, 

southwest Kansas salesman, was in from 

Newton Monday. Frank Norris. head booker, 

is on his second week's vacation seen on Filmrow: Bill 

. . 

Bradfield, Roxy 

at Carthage. Mo.: Lily Welty and Eva Miles. 

Midway Theatre and Riverside Drive-In, Hill 

City. Kas.: W. F. Sonneman, Springdale, Ark.; 

Cle Bratton. Ritz Theatre at Council Grove, 

Kas. . . . Jim Pierson, manager of Commonwealth's 

Uptown Theatre in Carrolton, Mo., 

discussed a program of children's movies at 

a recent PTA meeting. 

Following the example of other cities over 

the country. Kansas City has a group formed 

for the purpose of viewing 16mm films which 

have artistic value but no commercial appeal. 

The group, known as Cinema KC, will 

hold its first meeting at 8:30 p.m. at Haag 

hall in the University of Kansas City. November 

12. Membership is limited to 150 persons 

and the fee of $8 entitle.s the holder to a 

ticket for 12 programs. "Siegfried" is the 

first film to be shown. Applications for membership 

can be made by writing Mrs. C. R. 

Tully, 2822 West 72nd St. 

Fox Midwest is sponsoring a memorial 

fund for Charles P. Skouras, with E. C. Rhoden, 

president, leading off with a substantial 

contribution. Since Skouras was closely associated 

with and greatly responsible for the 

building of the beautiful St. Sophia Greek 

Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, the memorial 

will probably be incorporated in some 

appropriate way with it . . . Lee Thorn, division 

office auditor, treated his co-workers 

the morning of October 26 at the Studio 

cafe. Steve Alan Thorn had arrived thatmorning 

at St. Luke's hospital. The Thorns 

have two other children, Lee jr. and Scott. 

Many from Filmrow attended the wedding 

last Saturday of Joyce Thompson, daughter 

of Mr. and Mrs. T. Roland Thompson, to 

Fred Olsen at the All Saints Episcopal 

church. Thompson, who has charge of the 

film department at KCMO, is a former manager 

of RKO, former district manager of 

United Artists and former manager of Monogram. 

Following the wedding, a reception 

was held at the Junior League clubhouse. 

Bob Bailey is the new assistant to Gene 

Walden, manager of the Roxy Theatre. The 

Roxy, which has been operating on a first 

run policy for several months, is the Durwood 

circuit's house. 

Filmrow visitors included these from Kansas: 

LeRoy Hitchings, Osage City, and Ward 

Spielman, Baldwin. Prom Missouri: Dewey 

Kisor, Gallatin, and Mr. and Mrs. Harold 

Porta, Osceola. 

Satisfaction — Always 

MISSOURI 

THEATRE SUPPLY COMPANY 

L. I. KIMBRIEL, Manager 

Phone BAllimoie 3070 

US W. 18Ui Kansas City 8. Mo. 

Dave Ross Death Report 

'Greatly Exaggerated' 

St. Louis—Dave Ross, souttiern Illinois 

U-I salesman, joined the ranks of Mark 

Twain and a number of other celebrities 

of history, when he learned that tradepaper 

stories out of Milwaukee reported 

that he had died in Chicago. Very much 

alive, and kicking that he had been buried 

without his knowledge or consent, Ross 

lost no time in demanding that he be returned 

to the land of the living. Mark 

Twain once said in a similar situation, 

the story of his death was "a greatly exaggerated 

report." 

Lake County UTOI Unit 

Discusses High Terms 

WAUKEGAN, ILL.—The newly formed 

Lake County district of United Theatre Owners 

of Illinois held its first regular meeting 

last week (26i at the Swedish Glee Club here. 

The top topic was "the excessive demands 

by some of the distributors on some of the 

small-town situations for their so-called special 

attractions." The theatre owners pointed 

out that each succeeding season's product 

brings on a great number of this type of 

alleged top attraction until it has reached 

the point where some of these rentals "appear 

to be confiscatory." 

An exchange of ideas regarding advertising 

promotion and new picture reviews was suggested 

and will be instituted at succeeding 

meetings. 

H. C. Rhyan is vice-president of this group 

and Vincent Quarta of Highwood is secretary. 

Wright Catlow of Barrington and J. N. 

Sikes of Waukegan are UTOI directors. 

Roads Named Manager 

Of Pirtle's Valencia 

MACON, MO.—Don Roads has taken 

over 

as manager of the Pirtle circuit's Valencia 

Theatre here, replacing Ben Barney who 

returned to his former position as projectionist 

at the theatre. 

Roads comes here from St. Louis where 

he was employed with the Railway Postal 

Service. Prior to that time he was manager 

of a theatre at McLeansboro, 111. and has 

had considerable experience in the theatre 

business. He is a native of Shelbina where 

his parents operate the Clark Theatre. 

Barney had managed the Valencia for the 

pa.st year and a half, taking over to fill the 

vacancy created by the resignation of the 

previous manager. Prior to that time he had 

been associated with the Valencia for nearly 

six years as projectionist. 

Fire Destroys E&P Unit 

LEADWOOD, MO.—The 350-seat Roxy 

Theatre, a unit of Edwards & Plumlee Theatres, 

was completely destroyed by fire Friday 

(29). The cause of the fire was not immediately 

known. The frame structure, prior to 

being converted into a theatre some years 

ago, had been used as a community building. 

Robbery at Bunker Hill 

BUNKER HILL. ILL.—The Sharon Theatre 

was robbed recently of $260. T. A. Baker reported 

the robbers also took a target revolver 

and damaged the booth equipment. 

Commonwealth Shifts 

Its Drive-In Personnel 

KANSAS CITY—Bob Shelton, general 

manager of Commonwealth Theatres, reports 

these changes in personnel assignments: Ed 

Kirk who has been managing the Springfield 

Drive-In, will book for Ray Tucker, southern 

division manager. Mildred Harris has been 

transferred from booking for drive-ins to 

booking for J. D. King's western division. 

Leon Hoofnagle will continue as booker for 

M. B. Smith's central division. Bob Walter, 

manager of the Crest Drive-In, will act 

temporarily as booker for the drive-ins remaining 

open under Jack Braunagel's management. 

Shelton said the changes were made to replace 

head booker Walt Kirkham, who died 

recently, and booker Bob Reeves, who resigned 

to go to Phoenix, Ariz. 

Illinois House Reopened 

BRADFORD, ILL—Lyle Meek, manager of 

the Stark Theatre at nearby Toulon, has reopened 

the Brad Theatre after leasing it 

from H. W. John,son, the owner. Meek will 

operate the house on a policy of three changes 

a week. 

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SILVER HULLESS 4.85 

GOLDEN HULLESS 5.65 

POP KING HULLESS 5.25 

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1,000 lb. lots 25c 100 less. 

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BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954 50-A 

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Allied ITO Board to Meet 

KANSAS CITY—Beverly Miller, president 

of Allied Independent Theatre Owners of 

Kansas-Missouri, has called a board meeting 

for next Tuesday (9). The meeting will be 

held at 1:30 p.m. in the Allied offices at 

1719 Wyandotte. All members as well as 

members of the board of directors are invited 

to attend. There will be a general discussion 

of the business transacted at the recent 

national meeting in Milwaukee. 

New Sound and Screen Added 

DECATUR, ILL.—A wide screen and stereophonic 

sound have been installed at the 

Empress Theatre. The manager is Charles 

Lugo. 

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Indiana Cities Shifting 

To Eastern Standard 

PORT WAYNE—Most northeastern Indian 

cities have decided to switch to eastern 

standard time. The Fort Wayne and Indianapolis 

city councils are considering a resolution 

to move clocks ahead an hour permanently. 

Newspaper polls are under way in 

Muncie and South Bend on the question. 

Eastern standard is the same as central daylight 

time, in effect in Indiana all summer. 

A bill to adopt eastern standard time for 

Indiana will be introduced in the 1955 legislature, 

said Senator Von A. Eichhorn, Uniondale. 

A similar measure in the 1953 legislature 

was never reported out of committee. 

Election of MPA Officers 

To Be Held December 6 

KANSAS CITY—Tlie Motion Picture Ass'n 

of Greater Kansas City board at a luncheon 

Monday (25) in the Muehlebach Hotel set 

December 6 for the annual election of officers. 

Ways and means for raising funds to 

take care of charitable projects were discussed. 

It was reported the recent stag party 

showed a profit. Nine of the 16 board members 

attended. 

The December 6 meeting will be held in the 

Casbah room of the Bellerive Hotel. 

Indianapolis Opening Set 

For MGM Film on Paris 

NEW YORK—MGM's "The Last Time I 

Saw Paris" will have its first showing November 

11 at the Loew's Theatre in Indianapolis. 

Oscar A. Doob of MGM and Jim Shanahan 

of the Loew's advertising department will 

leave for Indianapolis over the weekend to 

set up the campaign. The Merchants Ass'n 

will launch a vigorous "shop downtown" campaign. 

Ernest Emerling, publicity director of 

Loew's Theatres, will attend the opening. 

Gift to 25-Year Boothman 

CHRISTOPHER, ILL.—Joe Crowe, projectionist, 

was presented a beautiful silver tray 

by the Fox-Midwest Theatres on the observance 

of his 25th anniversary with the circuit. 

A native of Johnston City, 111., he joined Fox 

Midwest when it was formed 25 years ago. He 

has been a projectionist since 1910. The tray 

was presented to Crowe by Clyde Patton, 

manager of the Globe Theatre, where Crowe 

is employed. 

E&P Unit Installs C'Scope 

FLAT RIVER, MO.—Manager Dave Jennings 

reports the installation of a wide screen 

at the Roseland Theatre, a unit of Edward 

& Plumlee Theatres. 

BOWLING 

KANSAS CITY—Jim Witcher and Mary 

Heueisen report the following standings of 

teams in the Filmrow Bowling League after 

the game FYiday (29) 

MEN'S TEAMS WOMEN'S TEAMS 

Won Lost Won Lost 

Shrevc Supply 21 11 Finton Jones. . 6 

Dixie Ent 20 12 Monley, Inc 14 10 

Poppers Sup. IS'/j 13Vj Heart Drive-ln.M 10 

Jones Boys .18 14 Central Ship. 13 11 

Ques'n-Morks 18 14 Hortman's 13 11 

Monley 14 18 Mode O' Day .. 10 14 

Mode O' Doy.lOVi 21Vj foxy Five 9 15 

United Film.. 8 24 101 Service 5 19 

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MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS 

ENROLLMENT FORM FOR FREE INFORMATION 

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Gentlemen: 

11-6-54 

Please enroll us m your RESEARCH BUREAU 

to receive information regularly, as releasee^, on 

the iollowing subjects lor Theatre Planning: 

n Acoustics n Lighting Fixtures 

D Air Conditioning Plumbing Fixtures 

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n Carpels 

G Coin Machines 

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n Decorating 

n Drink Dispensers 

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50-B BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954

. . Moe 

. . Dick 

* 

INDIANAPOLIS 

O. 

TTniversal-International will hold an open 

house Monday il5i for all exhibitors in 

the newly redecorated offices. One of the 

major changes was the location of 

. 

the saJes 

Lou Gershon 

office on the first floor . . . 

has joined the sales staff of Screen Classics 

here. He also will handle the Cincinnati 

territory Esserman has been appointed 

Hallmark distributor for the Cincinnati 

territory . . . Al Bondy of G. E. Films, 

New York, visited the local Screen Classics 

exchange . Edge, Hallmark exploitation 

chief, was in the city. 

W. S. Mansell, Warner Bros, district manager, 

was at the local exchange . . . Joe 

Small, Warner Bros, auditor, also was in town 

. . . Barney Brager, Republic manager, was 

vacationing at San Antonio . . . The Variety 

Club is redecorating its building . . . Ray 

Thomas, U-I salesman, was home ill . . . 

Sconce Theatres, operator of the Old Ti-ails 

and Pixy neighborhood houses, has installed 

Cinemascope in both houses. 

Exhibitors seen on Filmrow: Ethel Walsh, 

the Scott. Scottsburg; Matt Scheidler, the 

Hartford, Hartford City; Lary Shubnall, Fort 

Wayne, and William Studebaker, Logansport 

The Vogue Theatre was closed 

. . . Saturday night (30). The house was operated 

by Carl W. Niesse. 

Allied Artists Soon to Do 

Own Shipping, Inspection 

KANSAS CITY—Allied Ai'tists exchange 

will start doing its own shipping and inspecting 

of film on November 2. This has 

previously been handled by Central Shipping 

Co., but with the increased office facilities 

in its new location, the exchange will set 

up its own shipping and inspection. William 

Z. Porter from the home office is here supervising 

the changeover. 

Ella Maury Reopens 

LEMAY, MO.—The Lemay Theatre was re- 

by Ella Maury, a mem- 

opened Saturday (30) 

ber of the Lau family which has owned the 

theatre building for many years. The house 

had been dark since July 1953 when it was 

closed by the former lessee, the Fred Wehrenberg 

circuit. Pi'ior to reopening, the theatre 

was equipped with a new Williams seamless 

screen and Cinemascope equipment furnished 

and installed by the McCarty Theatre 

Supply Co. of St. Louis. 

Building Airer For Son 

CHAFFEE, MO.—Mrs. Paul Montgomery, 

owner of the Horstman Theatre here, reports 

plans to construct a $75,000 drive-in. 

She said the airer is to be built for her 

son Morris, who will manage it upon his 

graduation from high school next spring. 

Indiana House Gets CS 

HEBRON. IND.—Owner D. Callahan and 

his assistant, Glen Miller, recently installed a 

wide screen at the Hebron Theatre. Bell & 

Howell lenses were also installed to show 

Cinemascope and the other wide screen processes.

ecause 

Make it the Biggest Bonus ever— 

Give it in U.S. Savings Bonds 

If your company is one of the more than 45.000 companies 

that- have the Payroll Savings Plan you know what your 

employees think of Savings Bonds — they spell it out for 

you every month in their Savings Bond allotments. 

If you don't have the Payroll Savings Plan, and are won* 

dering whether your people would like to receive their 

bonus in Bonds, here are a few significant facts: 

—every month, before they get their pay checks or 

eniie/ope^ — 8.000,000 men and women enrolled in 

the Payroll Savings Plan invest $160,000,000 in 

U. S. Savings Bonds. 

—the ranks of Payroll Savers are growing: On June 

30th sales of $25 and $50 Savings Bonds, the sizes 

purchased chiefly by Payroll Savers, were 6% and 

9% higher than in the corresponding period of 

1952, 

—Payroll Savers hold their Bonds: 75% of the 

$7,400,000,000 Series E Bonds which had matured 

up to June 30. 1953, were being retained by tlieir 

owners beyond maturity under the automatic extension 

program. 

—on June 30. 1953. the cash value of Series E and H 

Bonds — the kind sold only to individuals— totaled 

$36,048,000,000. a new high. 

It costs no more to give your Christmas Bonus in Savings 

Bonds. To the Payroll Saver, and to the man who buvs his 

Bonds at a bank I his companv does not provide 

the Payroll Savings Plan) a One Hundred Dollar Savings 

Bond looks bigger and better than a check for $75. Make 

this a merrier Christmas for every employee. Give the gift 

that keeps on giving. 

The United Slates Government does not pay for this advertising. The Treasury Department 

thanks, for their patriotic donation, the Advertising Council and 

BOXOFFICE 

50-D BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954

State Court Dismisses 

Natchez 'Moon' Suit 

JACKSON. MISS.—The Mississippi state 

supreme court ruled at Jackson that the Ritz 

Theatre at Natchez, Miss., was illegally enjoined 

from showing the movie "The Moon Is 

Blue" on grounds it was lewd and immoral. 

The high court upheld Adams County 

chancery court in dismissing an injunction 

suit brought by District Attorney Lenox Forman 

aaginst Mr. and Mrs. Irvine Oberlin, 

operators of Ritz. 

The chancellor at first gi-anted a temporary 

injunction and cited Mr. and Mrs. Oberlin 

for contempt when they continued to 

show the film. 

The defendants continued the fight and 

asked that the injunction be dismissed. On 

a full hearing the chancellor decided that the 

attorney general did not have authority to 

bring the suit in the name of the state. He 

dismissed the injunction and contempt cases. 

The high com-t ruled it was not necessary 

for it to rule either on the merits of the picture 

or the district attorney's right to file 

the suit. The charge brought in the district 

attorney's bill of complaint was insufficient 

to waiTant issuance of an injunction against 

the showing of the pictiu-e, the supreme court 

held. 

Miami s Famed Olympia, One of Last 

Stage and Film Houses, Is Closing 

FiS '- Ir^J^^s MO CAN 

:°f^.sSî 

Ralph Mann Shifted to 

Frisco City by McLendon 

FRISCO CITY, ALA.—Ralph B. Mann, 

manager of the McLendon circuit's Monroe 

Theatre and the Hub Drive-In at MonroevUle, 

is new manager of the Frisco Theatre here for 

McLendon. 

In Frisco City, Mann succeeds Mrs. Jeffie 

Jones, who has resigned from the McLendon 

organization. With the naming of Mann as 

manager, the Frisco City house increased its 

operation from four to seven days weekly. 

Mann has been with McLendon five years. 

He formerly was with Wilby-Kincey, Foreman 

Rogers and the John R. Moffitt circuits in 

Georgia and Alabama. 

Mann has closed the Hub Drive-In for the 

winter. 

Fox Midwest Buys Crane 

After Carthage, Mo. Fire 

From Central Edition 

CARTHAGE, MO.—The Mo-Fox Realty 

Corp., a subsidiary of Fox Midwest Theatres, 

has acquired the title to the Crane Theatre 

from a number of individual owners. The 

Crane, a Fox Midwest house before the divestiture 

proceedings, had been closed and completely 

dismantled some months ago. 'When 

the Tiger burned last month, it was decided 

to buy the Crane instead of rebuilding the 

Tiger. 

According to Dick Brous, who handled the 

transaction for Fox Midwest, the Crane will 

be remodeled and re-equipped from front to 

back. The lobby of the Crane hotel, also being 

acquired, will be utilized by the modernized 

theatre but the hotel-rooms part will 

be razed. No reopening date has been set. 

Georgia House Improved 

FORS'TTH, GA.—Operator P. F. Shave reports 

that his Rose Theatre is ready for 

Cinemascope. 

MIAMI—One of the last combination stagescreen 

houses in the nation, the Olympia 

Theatre, will be shuttered Tuesday (9), according 

to an announcement by Harry Botwick, 

Florida States Theatres general manager. 

"We are closing the Olympia," Botwick 

said, "because it is no longer economically 

feasible to operate it. It has become increasingly 

difficult to get the type of pictures 

and stage shows audiences demand. So, we're 

just shutting down." 

About 60 employes received notice their 

employment would end with the final show on 

November 9. The notice went to everyone, including 

Les Rohde and his orchestra, stagehands, 

operators in projection booths, ushers 

and management. 

Neither Botwick nor Leon Netter of Jack- 

.sonville, president of the operating company, 

an affiliate of United-Paramount Theatres, 

would comment on the report that Cinerama 

would take over the Flagler street showhouse 

at a later date. 

Botwick acknowledged that Cinerama representatives 

had been in Miami looking for 

a location, and that they had considered the 

J. P. Lindsley to Florala 

FLORALA, ALA.—J. P. Lindsley, a longtime 

employe of Martin Theatres in Georgia, 

Alabama and Florida, is new manager of the 

Martin Theatre here. He came from Milledgeville, 

Ga. 

Shows First CS Feature 

BARTO'W. FLA.—Manager Carlton Bowden 

of the Ritz Theatre showed "The Robe" as 

the first feature with his just installed 

Cinemascope. 

A J. Arthur Rank contractee, David Farrar, 

has been set for a starring role in "Bow 

Tamely to Me," an RKO release. 

Olympia along with others. But, he added, 

no deal has been made. 

Outside sources report that the collapse of 

the Cinerama deal might have been caused 

by the refusal of stagehands and operators 

to give up the employment contract they now 

hold. The contract, only one of its kind in 

the area, requires two operators in the projection 

booth at all times—one as a relief 

man. All other theatres use one operator. 

Cinerama, which requires three projection 

booths, one in the center and two on each 

side of the auditorium, would have to employ 

12 operators under the present contract, instead 

of six. 

Cinerama, which has established showhouses 

in most of the country's leading cities, 

is known to be anxious to establish one in 

Miami. But since it operates on a policy of 

guaranteeing theatre owners profit over the 

"cost of the house," the Olympia labor setup, 

according to show people, would create too 

big a nut. 

The Olympia is the only theatre in the area 

with an auditorium wide enough to accommodate 

the three-way projection necessary to 

make Cinerama work. 

Kay Charlotte Exchange 

Is Handling 'Karamoja' 

CHARLOTTK—The Kay Films Exchange 

office here is distributing Hallmark's "Karamoja" 

and "Half-Way to Hell." 

A recent ad saying other Kay offices also 

were handling Kroger Babb's package was 

incorrect, since the Kay deal was only for the 

Charlotte territory. 

Memphis Post to Riegert 

MEMPHIS—Robert E. Riegert has been 

made sales representative for Lees carpets In 

the southern division with headquarters here, 

succeeding Norman Stevens. Riegert has been 

in the Chicago office. 

BOXOFFICE : 

: November 6, 1954 SE 51

. . The 

. 

CHARLOTTE 

. . . Bill Baker, booker at 

TV/rax Reinhardt had two visitors from the 

hurricane territory. They were Carl 

Dobbin of the Colony at Wilmington and 

Dick Horton, Wayne, Goldsboro . husband 

of Billie Harris, booker at Republic, is 

in the hospital 

Warners, has returned from his vacation . . . 

J. Reeves is the new booker at Fox . . . 

Bob Lynch is the booker at MGM who replaced 

Don Knell, who went in the Army . . 

The Elm Theatre at Bladenboro is closing 

November 30. 

Charlotte Theatre Supply has sold or installed 

Cinemascope equipment in the following 

theatres: Carolina Drive-In at Georgetown; 

Westside, Pembroke: Carolina, Allendale; 

New, North; Swansea, Swansea; Flamango 

Drive-In, Winston Salem; Joy Drive- 

In, St. Paul, and the Crescent Drive-In, 

Thomasville. 

Theatre Booking Service reports that Sky 

Vue and Midway drive-ins at Durham and 

the Jet Drive-In, Fayetteville, are rebuild- 

SERVICE 

and 

COURTESY 

for oyer 20 years 

OUR WATCH WORD 

•CENTURY l^.nrml STRONG la*S'ps 

CONCESSION EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES 

STANDARD THEATRE SUPPLY CO. 

52 

21S E. Washington St., 

GREENSBORO, N. C. 

219 So. Church St. 

CHARLOTTE, N. C. 

QdncydnoL 

:bookinc service 

135 Brevard Court, Charlotte, N. C. 

FRANK LOWRY — JOHN WOOD 

HAZEL RESNIK 

. . . Clayton 

ing and will reopen soon. Hazel blew them 

down . . . The local Monroe Road Drive-In 

is now operating part time 

Humphreys, Swansboro Drive-In, Swansboro, 

was in telling how lucky he was that Hazel 

passed him by. He was in the direct center 

of her path. He is now installing a wide 

.screen and putting in Cinemascope. 

Carolina Booking Service says as soon as the 

Dixie Drive-In in Ayden rebuilds from Hazel's 

visit, they will handle the buying and booking 

. . . They report that Flamango Drive-In 

at Myrtle Beach and Camporama Drive-In 

at Jacksonville, N. C, are also rebuilding 

after the hurricane . . . Preston Temple has 

sold his interest in the Fox Drive-In, Anderson. 

It is now owned and operated by W. R. 

Sanders and J. Major Pruitt . . . The Sky 

Vue Drive-In at Boone has gone on part 

time operation for the winter. 

Queen City Booking Service reports the following 

are rebuilding after Hazel: Moonlite 

Drive-In, Steadman; Sky Vue Drive-In, 

Rocky Mount, and Sundown Drive-In, 

Greensboro . . . Ernest Clark, Melody Drive- 

In at Mamers, rendered a real service to his 

community after Hurricane Hazel. The electric 

power did not go out at his theatre and 

people with deep freezers were invited to 

bring them to his theatre. For those who 

could not take theirs to his theatre, he took 

his portable power plant to their homes and 

charged their freezers so they would keep the 

food for 48 hours. 

. . Seen 

Jinnie Austin, Clinton, Clinton, N. C, said 

Hazel tried to get in his theatre through the 

back door. It took it off the hinges . 

on the Row: D. Holt, Dixie, Troy; Virgil 

Freeman, Newland, Newland; O. K. Hogan, 

St. Paul, St. Paul: S. T. Stoker, State, 

Thomasville: P. B. Grigg, Diane 29 Drive-In, 

Gastonia; George Whitley, Laur-Max, Laurinburg; 

Kit McGown, Joyce, Spring Hope; Carry 

Caudell. Danca, Wallace: Harry Cook. Cook, 

Mount Olive; J. K. Whitley, Swanee, Kannapolis, 

and Buck Herlong, Saluda, Saluda. 

DOn'T KILL THE fllfln UJITH THE FLUTE 

A good sound system should be capable 

of reproducing the entire sound 

frequency range recorded on the film 

from the lowest 40 cycle tones of the 

bass viol to the 10,000 cycle tones of 

the flute. 

mOTIOGRflPH SOUnO SySTEfDS 

(û

David Flexer Leases 

His Memphis Ritz 

MEMPHIS—The Ritz Theatre has been 

leased to Jack Katz, veteran theatre manager 

and ch'cuit executive, by David Flexer, owner, 

and will no longer continue the policy of 

showing predominantly foreign films. 

Joe Simon. Ritz manager, will continue 

temporarily in his present job and then join 

Flexer Theatres. Inc. 

"I intend to revise the film policy." Katz 

said, "to show all the top Hollywood films, 

including those in Cinemascope, as soon as 

they become available after downtown showings. 

From time to time, we will play the 

very best of the foreign films: maybe five 

to eight a year. Many of these foreign films, 

w-hile they may be good entertainment, are 

not good boxoffice, and frankly I have to be 

concerned with boxoffice." 

Katz formerly was district manager for 

Paramount Tenarken Theatres, which operates 

the Strand in Memphis. 

'Brigadoon' Highlights 

Grid Halftime Show 

JACKSONVILLE—The 20-minute halftime 

show at one of the season's leading high 

school football games in the Gator Bowl was 

dedicated to "Brigadoon." which had a first 

run opening the next day at the Florida 

Theatre. 

A crowd of 12.000 teenagers witnessed the 

show, reported Bob Skaggs. theatre manager. 

The band leader narrated a synopsis of 

"Brigadoon," taken from the pressbook, and 

the 50-piece Andrew Jackson High School 

band played musical selections from the picture. 

Marching at the head of the band were 

two boys carrying a 19-foot "Brigadoon" banner. 

They were dressed in Scottish kilt costumes 

donated by Skaggs. The Jackson 

school's girl precision marchers 150 strong, 

known as Pepperettes, were directed by five 

girl cheerleaders who were also attired in 

kilts. 

While the show was going on, Skaggs had 

one crew of boys distributing 5,000 "Brigadoon" 

heralds to the fans, and a second crew 

outside the stadium putting 2.000 heralds 

under automobile windshield wipers. 

Skaggs only expenses were the costs of 

heralds and the banner and the rental of 

seven costumes. In return for the free publicity, 

the Florida Theatre was host the next 

morning to the Pepperettes and members of 

the band at a screening of "Brigadoon." 

Helps School Drive 

HARTSELLE. ALA.—Pruitt Hodges, manager 

of the Ranch Drive-In here for Hubert 

Mitchell Industries, came to the aid of the 

local Future Farmer and Future Homemaker 

chapters in their drive to obtain funds for a 

new football fence at Morgan County High 

School. With each 50-cent "booster" tag for 

automobile bumpers, Hodges awarded a free 

pass. 

CS For Key West Airer 

KEY WEST. FLA.—Joseph R. Sirugo said 

that his Islander Drive-In is being equipped 

for Cinemascope. He recently returned from 

a booking trip to Jacksonville, where he conferred 

with T. P. Tidwell, 20th-Fox manager. 

THERE 

WILL BE 

STAGE WAITS, 

BLANK SCREEN, or 

MISSED CUES at the 

42nd ANNUAL CONVENTION 

THEATRE 

Of The 

OWNERS OF NORTH AND 

SOUTH 

CAROLINA 

The Oldest Organized Theatre Group in 

(Organized May 1912) 

the World 

CHARLOTTE HOTEL • Charlotte, North Carolina 

NOVEMBER 14-15-16, 1954 

A Meeting For the 

BUSINESS at 

Conducted by the 

HAND 

BRAINS of our INDUSTRY 

With gp,eouU êaUtA^ 

for the 

WIVES and 

SWEETHEARTS 

YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME TO 

THE LAND OF THE LONG LEAF PINE 

YouVe heard of The Carolinas in the Fall! 

Where a Hand Shake is A Welcome and not A "Gag' 


53

PHONE 

. 

. . Mitchell 

. . Elma 

, . Wometco 

. . The 

. . The 

i 

MIAMI 

Tânager Burton Clark of the Boulevard 

Drive-In staged a Holloween party for 

his patrons with an Invitation to come early 

and stay late. The biggest event was a costume 

parade early in the evening, with cash 

prizes for winners. Cartoons and a double 

jl:3 

mNO MAGIC. 

just "KNOVy-HOW!' 

But you'll agree we're magicians 

OS seat-repair specialists. 

For without a moment's 

interruption of your 

show we do a complete rehabilitation 

job. And presto, 

your seats are in top-hat condition 

. . . parts repaired and 

tightened, cushions or backs 

reupholstered or replaced . . . 

on any type or make of chair. 

Tell us your requirements, 

and we'll quote promptly and 

cheerfully. 

PARTS replacement for any make! 

RE-UPHOLSTERY lor any style! 

WIRE . 

. 

Tet 42-1658 

WRITE 

MANUFACTURERS— 

[''o.-im Rubber and 

Spring Cushions, back 

rtnd seat covers. 

DISTRIBUTORS— 

Upholslery Fabric! 

and general se&tlnc 

suppUef. 

theatre seat 

service co. 

160 Hermitage Avenue ^ 

Nashville, 

Tennessee 

COCOYL 

GOLDEN COCONUT OIL SEASONING 

ROY SMITH CO. 

TAMPA 

JACKSONVILLE 

feature was the regular screen fare, with an 

additional midnight Frankenstein film. Entertainment 

continued from 6:30 until the 

small hours of the morning with no increase 

in admission . provided children's 

Halloween costume parades and games 

on the stages at four of its neighborhoods. 

There were contests and prizes at each theatre. 

A big yo-yo contest on stage was the 

feature at five houses belonging to the circuit. 

Manager Oscar Ramirez had a big Halloween 

weekend show for his patrons. To all 

children in costume he gave free popcorn. 

Special double feature bookings and cartoons 

were on screen . Roosevelt needed 

larger space and special drawings to ballyhoo 

its exclusive booking of "Lucrezia Borgia." 

The picture, described as "banned in England, 

Italy and Germany," will be banned 

at the Roosevelt to those under 18 years of 

age. A "sensational" slant is being used in 

the ad presentation. 

Showing of "The Human Jungle" here, in 

which Jan Sterling does a dance, stirred up 

a professional fuss in one night club here, 

where a dancer took exception to the typical 

film version of the strip. The dancer invited 

amusement seekers to see the picture and 

then visit the night club for a comparison. 

"Best offer the movie patron will get this 

weekend," was an editorial comment. 

. 

. . . 

In town on weekend business recently were 

Louis Pinske, FST vice-president, and Lamar 

Sarra, attorney for the circuit Circus 

Saints and Sinners' cocktail party was held 

at the Urmey Hotel, recently purchased by 

the E. N. Claughtons. Claughton took guests 

on an inspection tour of the building 

Dade County P>TAs tabled untU the December 

meeting the resolution to "organize 

a board for the selection of films to be shown 

to the children and youth of the community." 

A letter from Harry Botwick, head of FST 

here, asked the council to delay taking any 

action until meeting with theatre operating 

officials. 

Mel Haber, co-manager of the Miracle and 

a popular man especially with the small fry, 

is proud to announce he has just become a 

godfather. His godson's name is Robert Eric 

Jordan . Wolfson forcefully 

scotched rumors that television station 

WTVJ would be placed on the block in a 

$7,000,000 deal. "We have had dozens of 

offers from persons who wanted to buy the 

station," Wolfson said, "but it is not for sale 

to anybody at any price and never has been." 

Ed Myerson at the Miami Drive-In says 

they're doing very well with Cinemascope 

pictures. Myerson says that every year at 

about this time he begins to have visits 

from drive-in exhibitors from "up north," 

and the main subject for discussion is year 

around versus seasonal operation. Yearround 

operation such as is possible here, presents 

problems which northern seasonal operation 

doesn't have, and vice-versa. You can 

get up some good arguments, Myerson says. 

Roger Morin has been named assistant 

manager at Loew's Miami Drive-In . . . Phil 

Berler, Loew's head booker, has been visiting 

in town . Evans, head of the concession 

house at the drive-in, has just left 

on a three-week vacation. She is en route to 

Texas to visit relatives. 

'Rear Window' in Fronl 

Of Memphis Grosses 

MEMPHIS—Three first runs were doing 

better than average business and the others 

just average. 

Second week of "Rear Window," 

at Strand, did 90 per cent above average and 

Malco did 25 per cent above average with 

"Fire Over Africa." Warner did 110 per cent 

during a third week of "A Star Is Born." 


Malco—Fire Over Africa (Col) 125 

Palace— Brigadoon (MGM), 2nd wk 100 

State—Rogue Cop (MGM), 2nd wk 100 

Strand—Rear Window (Para), 2nd wk 190 

Warner—A Star Is Born (WB), 3rd wk 110 

Allied Artists' "Today Is Forever" has been 

retitled "The Hijackers." 

NOW with 

HERE'S YOUR CHANCE 

to get in the 

BIG MOHEY 

TWO convenient locations for 

BETTER than EVER serrice to you 

DIXIE 

THEATRE SERVICE 

&L SUPPLY COMPANY 

YOUR BALLANTYNE DfAltR 

1010 North Slappey Drive 

P. 0. Box 771 

Albany, Georgia 

Phone: HEmlock 2-2846 

a screen game, 

HOLLYWOOD fakes top 

honors. As a box-office attraction, 

it is without equal. It has 

been a favorite with theatre goers for 

over 15 years. Write today for complete details. 

Be sure to give seating or car capacity. 

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S31 Soirili Wabclli Avanu* • Chicago 5, llllnoll 

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WRITE • WIRE • PHONE 

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Phone: Washington 6942 

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P. 0. Box ESS 

Atlanta, Georgia 

Phone: WAInut 4118 

COMPLETE THEATRE EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES 

Prompt, Courtraui Service 'Round tht Clock 


. . Mr. 

Government Reports 

1953 Grosses Fell 

WASHINGTON — Consumer expenditures 

for film tlieatre entertainment dropped to 

$1,252,000,000 in 1953 from $1,284,000,000 the 

previous year, according to the Department 

of Commerce annual survey of current business. 

Record high was $1,692,000,000 in 1946. 

Total public expenditiu-es on recreation fell 

from $1,687,000,000 in 1952 to $1,660,000,000 in 

1953, with most categories up slightly, and 

the small drop in film theatre boxoffice 

pushing recreation to the minus side. 

Expenditures for radios, TV sets, records 

and musical instruments were $2,176,000,000 

in 1953, only a slight rise over the $2,100,- 

000,000 spent on these items during the previous 

year, indicating that the sharp rise in 

this category is about at an end. On the 

other hand, repair charges on radios and 

TV sets reached a record high in 1953 at 

$533,000,000, compared to $476,000,000 during 

the previous year. 

While the figures are not broken down, 

TV set repairs account for most of the repair 

charge total. On the other hand, initial 

expenditures for purchase of television sets 

do not loom nearly as large in that category. 

The figures indicate that the American consumer 

is finding the upkeep on his television 

set a mighty expensive proposition in relation 

to first cost. 

Missing from the figures given this year 

are estimates on profits in the film and 

other industries, dividends, taxes, sales and 

corporate income. These figures are secured 

from Internal Revenue Service and obtained 

by IRS from tax returns, but have never 

been up to date. Figures given in previous 

summaries have been estimated from the returns 

and have not proven to be too accurate, 

so this year they were dropped. 

The film industry in 1953 contributed $835,- 

000,000 to national income, compared to 

$837,000,000 the previous year and a 1946 

record of $1,133,000,000. Radio and television 

broadcasting contributed a record $481,000,000 

to national income in 1953, compared to 

$433,000,000 during the previous year, $91,- 

000,000 in 1940 and $28,000,000 in 1929, rising 

to new record highs each year. 

Motion pictures in all its branches employed 

209,000 full-time equivalent employes 

in 1953. compared to 229.000 during the previous 

year, with total payroll last year of 

$711,000,000, compared to $721,000,000 during 

the previous year. Average salary per employe 

in 1953 was $3,244, compared with $3,190 

during 1952. 

Eight Features Are Rated 

By Film Estimate Board 


NEW YORK—Five features are rated suitable 

for adults and young people and three 

for adults in the October 15 listing of joint 

estimates of current films prepared by the 

Him Estimate Board of National Organizations. 

None are rated for family audiences. 

It is seldom that that happens. 

The films for adults and young people are: 

"Bengal Brigade" (U-Ii, "The Bounty Hunter" 

iWBi, "The Detective" (Col), "The 

Shanghai Story" (Repi and "Sitting Bull" 

lUAi. Those rated for adults are: "Passion" 

(RKOi, "Private Hell 36' iFilmakers) and 

"Shield for Murder" (UA). 

MEMPHIS 

71 general membership meeting of Variety 

Tent 20 has been called for the 15th at 

noon in the Hotel Gayoso. Directors will be 

elected, who in turn will elect officers for 

1955. Variety's midnight supper club for 1955 

went over the top with more than 300 tickets 

sold. Ben Bass was chairman. His co-chairmen 

were Clayton Timstill and Joe Young. 

Midnight supper parties have been scheduled 

for November 27, December 18 and 31. The 

New Year's eve party will feature a big ball, 

M. A. Lightman jr.. entertainment chairman, 

announces. Noel Gilbert and his dance band 

will furni.sh the music. 

Plans for the ajuiual convention of Motion 

Picture Tlieatre Owners of Arkansas, Tennessee 

and Mississippi at Hotel Gayoso December 

6-8 will be announced after the midsouth 

leaders return from the Theatre Owners 

of America sessions in Chicago . . . James 

Carbery, city manager of Rowley Theatres at 

Little Rock, and president of Tristates, expects 

to make some convention arrangements 

at the TOA sessions. Alton Sims will be general 

chairman of the convention. Nona White 

of Little Rock will be vice-chairman. 

Memphians who attended the TOA sessions 

in Chicago included M. A. Lightman sr. 

and jr.: W. C. Sawyer, film and field auditor, 

and Joe Keifer, assistant operations manager, 

all of Malco Theatres. 

Elton Holland, manager of the Memphian 

Theatre, and wife became parents of a baby 

daughter named Belinda Joyce. It's their first 

child 

. and Mrs. A. D. Webb, Webb, 

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Ripley; M. E. Rice, Rice, Brownsville, and 

W. Y. Carlton, Dixie, Cleason, were in town 

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From Mississippi came George Lackey, Starlite 

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Temple, Leland; Jack Flowers, Sunset Drive- 

In, Winona: Mrs. Jack Watson, Palace, Tunica; 

Lton Rountree, Holly at Holly Springs 

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Bentonville. and K. K. King, Rialto, Searcy. 

Santa Claus was seen walking up and down 

Main street this week. He was advertising 

"White Christmas," which opened at the 

Malco. 

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BOXOFTICE November 6, 1954 54-A

. . . T. 

. . Halloween 

. . Terry 

. . Buford 

. . LaMar 

. . Hurricane 

. . 

JACKSONVILLE 

pill Humphries, Warner Bros, office manager, 

was transferred to the Atlanta office 

and will work as a salesman in the Alabama 

territory. His post here was taken by Henry 

Goldberg, a former Paramount auditor . . . 

Clint Ezell. NTE assistant general manager. 

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JACKSONVILLE. FLORIDA 

took time out from a visit to Bailey Theatres 

in Atlanta to see Georgia Tech's homecoming 

game with Kentucky. Ezell was a star guard 

on Tech's 1932 team . Sarra, FST 

vice-president, and another former football 

star, participated in the University of Florida's 

homecoming activities at Gainesville. 

He is an ex-president of the university's 

alumni group. 

. . . 

B. B. Garner of Lakeland, president of the 

Talgar Theatre Co., was here at the circuit's 

Harlow Land, head of 

booking office . . . 

Land Theatres at Mayo, appeared here in 

his new Cadillac Vernon Hunter, who 

recently retired as FST city manager at Orlando, 

and Mrs. Hunter headed their new 

Oldsmobile for Texas and California ... Up 

Adeline Gauthrop, 

. . . 

from Key West on one of his infrequent 

trips was Joe Siruga of the Islander Drive-In 

P. Tidwell, 20th-Fox manager, and 

salesman Bob Stevens returned from Haines 

City where they were the guests of Carl Floyd 

of Floyd Theatres 

in 

. . . 

from Palatka, reported that she had held 

a benefit show at the Linda Drive-In 

Other exhibitors here were J. M. Wells of 

Kingsland, Ga., and Jack Fitzwater of Bay- 

Lan Drive-ins in the Tampa Bay area. 

Carl Carter's Halloween exploitation for his 

Ribault Drive-ln included a children's costume 

contest, pie-eating contest, apple bobbing, 

a balloon shower and other offerings 

with cash prizes to winners. Following the 

regular program, the Ribault had an allnight 

show of four features and three cartoons 

. midnight horror shows 

were presented downtown at the Palace and 

Arcade theatres and, in the suburbs, at the 

Capitol and the Pinecrest Drive-In . 

VistaVision made its north Florida bow at 

the Florida Theatre w^hen "White Christmas" 

opened simultantously with the world premiere 

at the Radio City Music Hall in New 

York. 

. . . 

Sheldon Mandell set up a wide exploitation 

program for "A Star Is Born" at the St. 

Johns Theatre before he was called to jury 

duty. It included window displays of Columbia 

records at downtown music stores, street 

ballyhoos, numerous TV and radio spots and 

Attempted 

cooperative newspaper ads 

burglaries were reported at the Palace Theatre 

on two successive Friday nights by Manager 

George Krevo . Hazel 

caused Lillian Parker, manager of the Brentwood 

Theatre, to drop her plans for a trip 

to the West Indies. Instead, she went to 

New york and was nearly caught in the big 

blow . Gore is back with the FST 

accessories department. 

. . . 

Arv Rothschild sponsored an on-stage Halloween 

party at the Negro-patronage Roosevelt 

Theatre The first of a winter season 

series of Negro vaudeville shows has 

been booked at the Strand Theatre, Rothschild 

said. Scheduled for December 3 is the 

Harlem Holiday troupe from Washington, 

D. C. Nat Levy of RKO's New York office 

. . . 

called at circuit booking offices here ... An 

Indian crone at the U-I Halloween masquerade 

party turned out to be Betty Guthrie 

in a rubber head mask. She and her husband 

took first prizes for costuming; he as 

a baby . 

Styles, U-I manager, and 

Mrs. Styles are vacationing in Atlanta, their 

former home. Styles is a charter member 

of the new Variety Club here. 

Alexander Paal to Make 

Rubens Film in Europe 

HAMBURG, GERMANY—Alexander 

Paal 

will produce a three-language version of 

'The Garden of Love," the life story of Sir 

Peter Paul Rubens, with Jose Ferrer in the 

leading role in the spring of 1955. The title 

is that of Rubens' famous painting, now on 

exhibition at the Prado Museum in Madrid. 

The picture, which will be photographed 

in Eastman Color in English, French and 

German versions, will be filmed in Italy, 

Spain, Germany and Belgium. Marcel Vertes 

will supervise production and design settings 

and costumes, Georges Auric will compose 

the music, Oswald Morris handle the 

camera and Eliot Elisofan the color supervision. 

All contributed the same talents to 

"Moulin Rouge." 

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•

— 

. . 

William Dock Resigns 

FST Publicity Posl 

MIAMI—William Dock, associated with 

Florida State Theatres here for the past 12 

years, has resigned his post as advertising, 

Alabama Theatre Gross 

Shows Strong Upturns 

Birmingham — Theatre boxoffice receipts 

in Alabama during July showed an 

increase of 17 per cent in comparison with 

those of June. 

The University of Alabama Bureau of 

Business Research made that report. The 

survey is based upon reports of sales tax 

collections. The bureau also reported that 

the July receipts this year were up 11.2 

per cent when compared with those of 

July 1953. 

WILLIAM DOCK 

publicity and public relations director. Dock 

has joined the Fincher Motors, distributors 

of Oldsmobiles. 

Howard Pettengill has been named by 

Harry Botwick, district supervisor for FST, as 

successor to Dock. Pettengill comes here from 

Jacksonville. Before plunging into his new 

duties, Pettengill is enjoying a vacation. 

Until his arrival, Al Ghck of the local publicity 

and advertising office is pinch hitting. 

Dock began with FST as an usher at the 

local Olympia Theatre. He later became assistant 

manager at the Rex, since replaced by 

Florida Theatre. He returned to the Olympia 

as assistant manager, later going on to 

management of the Hialeah, the Dade and 

the Boulevard neighborhood houses. From 

the latter he was recruited by the main office 

to assist Al Wilkie, then publicity and advertising 

head for the circuit here. Dock was 

named to the post when Wilkie resigned. 

Dock's survey on motion picture publicity 

and promotion, published originally in BOX- 

OFFICE, was compiled in cooperation with 

George Bourke and Herb Rau, amusement 

editors on the Herald and the Miami Daily 

News, and received national attention in the 

industry. 

Among Dock's other contributions to show 

business has been his efforts on behalf of 

Variety's Children's Hospital. 

He remains chief barker of local Tent 33 

until January 1, when new officers take over. 

Columnist Jack Bell, himself one of the most 

active Variety workers, says that under 

Dock's guidance "we're getting both the club 

and children's hospital out of hock for the 

first time since I've known either." 

Bell reminisces that "I've known Bill a 

flock of years. Way back when I was coaching 

the Miami High baseball team, Bill Dock 

was team manager. This meant that we 

loaded him with equipment and let him lug 

it 

into the gym for us." 

Ready for 

CS and W 

LEESVILLE, LA.—Manager Billy Owers 

reports that the Polk Theatre has been prepared 

for the wide-screen processes. 

54-D 

Ohioans Begin Fighl 

Against Censorship 

From Mideast Edition 

COLUMBUS—The opening gun in a renewed 

campaign to eliminate film censorship 

in Ohio was fired by Robert Wile, secretary 

of the Independent Theatre Owners of Ohio, 

in sending letters to all candidates for the 

state legislature and to all newspapers in the 

state, asking for support in the industry's 

drive to kill Ohio's 40-year-old censor law. 

In the letter. Wile said that because of 

recent decisions by the U. S. Supreme Court, 

the question of motion picture censorship 

probably will be an issue before the 101st 

Ohio general assembly. 

"Our nation's highest court has indicated 

that motion pictiu-es, like the press, are protected 

by the free press guarantees of the 

Constitution," said Wile. 

"You are probably aware that the motion 

picture is the only means of communication 

or expression which is subjected to prior restraint, 

and that Ohio is one of only six 

states which have censorship. Local police 

powers ai'e ample to punish anyone who distributes 

or shows a film which is indecent 

or obscene. This is the same power which 

prevents the publication of obscenity in the 

press and the showing of indecent or obscene 

films on TV or other media." 

First reaction to the letter came from the 

Bryan Times which editorially supported repeal 

of the Ohio censor law. The editorial 

was titled "Let Freedom Ring." The newspaper 

commented: "It is odd that this state 

should go on maintaining a board of censorship 

when censorship is expected only in a 

nation w'here they feel that they must exercise 

thought control. In a nation which boasts 

of liberty as much as this country does, it is 

odd to maintain the same thing. The state 

should shed this control to the thing for 

which this country is supposed to stand 

freedom of expression." 

FCC Reports 33% Increase 

In Television Advertising 

WASHINGTON—The television industry 

sold a grand total of $432.7 million in 

time, talent and program material to advertisers 

in 1953, according to the Federal Communications 

Commission recently. This 

was an increase of 33 per cent over 1952. 

Broadcast income (before federal income tax) 

reached $68 million, or almost 23 per cent 

over 1952. 

Networks, including 16 owned and operated 

TV stations reported 1953 TV revenues of 

$231.7 million, expenses of $213.7 million and 

income of $18 million. 

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BOXOFFICE 


— 

— 

a 

Ten Paramount Films 

On Release Schedule 

NEW YORK—Paramount will release ten 

major features October through March. A. W. 

Schwalberg, president of Paramount Film 

D.stributing Corp., said that each has been 

produced with boxoffice potentials in mind. 

The October and November releases will 

be: "Rear Window," "Sabrina," "Reap the 

Wild Wind," a reissue of a Cecil B. DeMille 

Technicolor pictore starring John Wayne, 

Susan Hayward, Ray Milland and Paulette 

Goddard, and the special VistaVision prerelease 

engagements of "White Christmas." 

"White Christmas" will open Thursday (14) 

at the Radio City Music Hall here. 

December and January releases will be: 

"Three Ring Circus," second VistaVision picture 

in Technicolor, and "The Bridges at 

Toko-Ri." February release has been set for 

"Mambo" and "The Conquest of Space." The 

March releases will be "Ulysses" and "The 

Country Girl." The latter will be pre-released 

in December. 

MGM Plans Super Musical 

With All Its Top Stars 

HOLLYWOOD—All of the studio's top 

stars, as well as leading entertainers from 

many other countries, will be featured in 

MGM's "The International Revue," which 

will have a running time of from three to 

four hours and will be produced in various 

foreign locales. It was disclosed by Dore 

Schary, MGM production chief. The tunefilm 

will be produced by Joe Pasternak and directed 

by George Sidney. The latter is set 

to leave soon on a world tour to select locations 

and interview talent for the opus. 

Already set for appearances are Leslie 

Caron, Gene Kelly, Esther Williams, Howard 

Keel, Cyd Charisse, Debbie Reynolds, Jane 

Powell. Robert Taylor, Pier Angeh, Ann Miller, 

Walter Pidgeon, Vic Damone and Taina 

Elg. The script is being prepared by Leonard 

Spigelgass. 

Dallas Grosses Prove 

To Be Disappointing 

DALLAS—Grosses here continued at just 

about the average mark w'ith only "Rear 

Window" making any appreciable showing. 

"A Woman's World," which had been generally 

reporting good grosses around the country, 

fell short here with 90 per cent. 


Mojestic Reor Window (Para) 115 

Melbo This Is Cinerama (Cinerama), 17th vvk...lOO 

Palace A Woman's World (20th-Fox) 90 

Rialto Four Guns to the Border (U-l) 100 

Ezell Robot Visits Waco 

WACO—Robo, the lifesize robot elephant 

owned by the Ezell Drive-In circuit, spent a 

week here during which time it made several 

appearances in and around town and at the 

Circle Drive-In. Manager Bentley Davis arranged 

a full schedule for the elephant including 

a visit to the Heart O'Texas Pair. 

Robo was seen each evening at the drive-in 

where free rides were given the first 100 

children to enter the theatre. 

For Role in Zone Grey Story 

Peter Graves will play a featured role In 

UA's "Robbers' Roost," based on the western 

novel by Zane Grey. 

Oklahoma Exhibitor Party Tours 

Central Europe /n 

OKLAHOMA CITY—See Eiu-ope at your 

leisure by auto is the advice of Harold Combs 

of the R. Lewis Barton circuit. 

"It was perfectly beautiful, a wonderful 

experience and by far more interesting than 

hopping from city to city and hotel to 

hotel," he said just after his return from 

a month's trip abroad. 

And, after listening to his glowing report 

for a bit, we found his advice sound. At 

least, we were impressed. 

Harold, his wife and their 2 '--year-old son 

Hal, Joanna Barton and her cousin Lee 

Thomas, who has a women's TV show here, 

made the trip. Joanna is a daughter of 

R. Lewis Barton. 

"We went to see the countries, and that's 

what we did, touring the countryside, stopping 

for a picnic lunch or to visit in a village," 

said Harold. 

They toured three countries by auto, a 

British Vanguard, rented in Zurich, Switzerland. 

Harold had to acquire an international 

di'iver's license—learn how to read road signs 

and attend to a few other details before clearing 

as a driver, but passed everything with 

flying colors and made the entire auto 

junket without a mishap. The tourists 

stopped when tired, and found to their delight 

that all inns, hotels and guest houses 

were immaculately clean with superservice. 

He said they were especially happy with accommodations 

in Germany and Switzerland. 

Of course, he explained, they had heard 

hotel accommodations were excellent in many 

of the countries. 

The foursome flew to New York September 

28, then on to Newfoundland, Scotland and 

London. In London they spent six days seeing 

the sights. They also saw a Shakespearean 

play at the old Vick Theatre. 

The Combses then flew to Zurich, spent a 

few days, and there rented the car and 

toured Switzerland. While this was going on 

Miss Thomas was in Paris. She rejoined 

them at Zurich later and the foursome drove 

into the .south half of Germany which the 

Combses found to be "extra wonderful." The 

countryside was so trim and well-kept that it 

SPECIAL CINERAMA CITATION— 

Mrs. Charlotte Baruth, motion picture 

chairman of the General Federation of 

Women's Clubs, presents map showing the 

route of the "America the Beautiful" sequence 

to Sam Rosen, executive vicepresident 

of Stanley Warner Corp. (center), 

and Lowell Thomas, co-producer of 

the picture. 

Rented Car 

was like a huge estate, they reported. However, 

Combs said it was a toss up between 

Switzerland and south Germany as both were 

beautiful countries. 

The foursome then toiu'ed the western 

half or French zone of Austria before returning 

to Zurich and returning their- car. The 

H-day motor trip cost about $123 and they 

feel this was the highlight of the entire trip 

abroad. 

From Switzerland, they entrained for Italy. 

They visited Milan and Rome and loved their 

stay in the latter city. As far as Combs is 

concerned, a tourist should ignore anything 

south of Rome. They took a car and drove 

to Naples, saw the Isle of Capri and the 

Blue Grotto, but Combs won't recommend 

anyone taking the time and effort to go in 

tliat direction. 

Combs reported they missed the Salerno 

floods by about ten miles. Soon after they 

drove through that area the radio reported 

the damaging floods. Tliey spent a night in 

Naples. With Combs, Rome is the place— 

clean city with nice people and worlds to see. 

From Rome they flew to Madrid where they 

spent four days. They made local tours which 

would take them 40 to 50 miles out, visited the 

palace and museum before taking a plane 

Sunday (October 31 1 for New York via Lisbon 

and Newfoundland. 

Harold suggests air travelei's go tourist 

class abroad which he says is the same thing 

as first in America. He traveled it except 

starting at London where the English line's 

tourist and fii-st class flights were the same. 

The TWA return, he said, was superb, with 

the tourist class as good as the stateside first 

class plane flights. A difference was two 

mches in the seat. 

The Combses found all the people willing 

to help, pleasant and friendly. 

Combs said the group went to the pope's 

summer home for a public audience. The 

pope spoke 45 minutes in five foreign languages 

to a crowd of 5,000. They also spent 

one morning at the Vatican. 

GPE Sales and Earnings 

Show a Sharp Increase 

NEW YORK—Consolidated sales and net 

earnings of General Pi-ecision Equipment 

Corp. for the third quarter and first nine 

months of the year were higher than for the 

same 1953 period, Hermann G. Place, president, 

reported Thm-sday (28). 

The 1954 nine-month sales were $85,446,656, 

compared with $62,493,972 in 1953. Net profit, 

after minority interest, was $3,602,640, equal 

to $4.44 a share on 753.790 shares of common 

stock, compared with net profit of $2,283,830, 

or $3.46 a share, on 649.087 shares in the 

1953 period. 

Third quarter net sales were $31,141,460, an 

increase of 45 per cent over the $21,391,405 

reported for the 1953 period. Net profit was 

$1,060,987, or 30 per cent above the $814,763 

reported for the 1953 period. It was equal to 

$1.15 a share on 860,668 shares of common, 

compared with $1.24 a share on 649,087 shares 

of common outstanding at the end of the 

1953 period. 

Edwin A. Link jr., chairman of Link Aviation, 

was elected a director. 

BOXOFFICE :: November 6, 1954 sw 55

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DALLAS 

"The father of Hans Smith of the Irving The- 

. . 

atre at Irving died at the age of 83. He 

Lester DoUison, 

was buried at Palmer 

. 

a partner in the DoUison circuit, advises 

that he and wife Mary Jo reside in 

Denver 

. 

B. Miller of the Village Drivein, 

Ennis, was in town. Mrs. Miller is ill 

Roy Farrar has 

in a Dallas hospital . . . 

changed the name of his theatre at Talco to 

the Star. 

Grady Parsons has purchased the Castle 

Theatre at Newcastle . R. Lloyd of the 

Harlem Theatre, Dallas, is catching a lot of 

Mr. and Mrs. James 

fish at Port Ai-ansas . . . 

Wallis, Matson circuit, were in for the state 

Miss Annie Coleman of the Metro, 

fair . . . 

Abilene, has installed Cinemascope . . . Mr. 

and Mrs. C. W. Matson have installed Cinemascope 

in their Dixie at Rockdale. 

Carl Benefiels has installed wide screens 

and Cinemascope in the Victory at Amarillo 

and the Bronco at Clayton, N. M. . 

and Mi-s. 

. . 

Frank Gillespie have installed 

Mr. 

Cinemascope 

in their Linda at Whitewright, as 

has E. B. Wharton at the Rule in Rule. 

On the Row were: Harry Conner, Ritz, 

Dawson: Bill Young. Apex, Tioga: Jack 

Holden, Mazda, Springtown: J. L. Groves, 

El Rancho, Vernon: George Smith, Rio, Center: 

C. M. Anding, Haltom, Fort Worth: H. H. 

Seifest, Palace, Weimar: Jeff Austin, Strand, 

Frankston: Mrs. J. R. Shipp, Ritz, Ladonia: 

A. E. Wood, Plaza, Evant, and Henry Zimmerman, 

Comfort, Comfort . Ruth Likins, 

Elmwood Drive-ln, Abilene, who is state 

registrar for the Daughters of the American 

Revolution, attended DAR convention in Dallas 

October 28-30. 

Dutch Cammer, Lippert, returned from a 

two-week trip to Houston and Beaumont . . . 

Prank Daud, Rowley United, was in charge 

of degree work at the Scottish Rite temple . . . 

Among those attending the TESMA. TEDA 

and TOA conventions in Chicago, from Southwestern 

Equipment Co.. were J. O. Hill, Dallas, 

and Al Mortenson, Alec McKinzie and 

Tom Vincint, all of Houston . . . L. C. Tidball, 

Park- Air. Fort Worth: Cortez Hann, Cactus, 

Vernon: Bob Euler, American, Bonham; Oscar 

Neu, Neu Made Products, New York City, 

were at the Southwestern Theatre Equipment 

office. 

. . . 

. . . 

P. A. Warner, Manley, attended the TOA 

convention in Chicago Krushen, 

exploitation executive 

. 

from New York City, 

w-as in Dallas Louis Novy, president of 

Trans Texas Theatres, had a very enjoyable 

time in Austin Harold C. Novy, Trans 

Texas, Austin, celebrated a birthday on the 

29th. 

Dan Hulse jr. is the new booker at MGM. 

Other new employes there are Al Media Garvin, 

Mary Nell Chandler, Gerry Williamson, 

Amelia Weaver and Joyce Smith. Leroy 

Blckle, manager, and Walter Penn, salesman, 

called on exhibitors in San Antonio, and Hall 

W. E. Fmch, 

circuit officials in Beeville . . . 

manager at Allied Ai'tists. spent a weekend at 

Lake Texhoma. J. A. Prichard, Allied Artists, 

who will be accompanied by his wife, will 

spend a few days in the Oklahoma City office. 

Miss Carol Ann Cox, 17, daughter of Mr. 

and Mrs. Cranfill Cox jr.. Cox Theatres at 

Gilmer, reigned over the 17th annual East 

Texas Yamboree as Queen Yam XVU. Miss 

Cox was crowned at the climax of the 

Yamboree pageant Thursday (28), in the 

Junior High School gym. Yamboree President 

F. L. Garrison placed the crown upon 

her head. She is a senior at Gilmer High 

School and was voted the "most popular girl" 

there last May. She also was named 1953-54 

Buckeye Band Sweetheart and is a member 

of the band. Miss Cox represented Gilmer at 

the Mineola watermelon festival this summer. 

She is a member of the Homemaking Club 

and Rainbow Girls. 

.\ Phil Isley theatre, the Major, was held 

up and robbed Sunday night (31) of all the 

Saturday and Sunday receipts. The cashier 

had walked out of the boxoffice when the 

robber pushed open the door and told the 

man to give him all the cash. 

. . 

New employes in the Rowley Theatres accounting 

department are Yuonne Pollard, 

Patsy Clark and Pat Johnson . Edan Segars, 

also with Rowley, is the father of a baby 

daughter ... A special matinee is to be 

held for the Camp Fire Girls of Dallas and 

Fort Worth Saturday morning (6) of "This 

Is Cinerama" . . . Visitors at National Theatre 

Supply include H. W. Webb, Palace, Breckenridge: 

Jim Tobola, the Best, West: Henry 

Zimmerman, Comfort Theatre, Comfort: Fred 

Paul and his son, Bolivia, South America; 

E. W. Capps, the Chief, Gainesville; Frank 

Baker, Midway, Lubbock; Bob Atwell, Palace, 

San Marcos: John Crane, Capital, New 

Braunfels, and Sonny Martini, the Martini, 

Galveston. 

The WOMPI held a successful rummage 

sale Saturday (30i. Among those who served 

at the sale were Verlin Osborne, Maxine 

Adams, Minna Mae Stevison, Flo Gann and 

Lorena Cullimore . . . Lew Walters of NTS 

attended the TESMA convention in Chicago. 

Mori Krushen, United Artists exploitation 

manager, is here as part of a three-week 

swing through the Southwest to set up promotions 

for "The Barefoot Contessa." With 

stops also scheduled for Fort Worth, San Antonio 

and New Orleans, Krushen will confer 

with Interstate, Trans-Texas, Paramovint- 

Gulf and the Robb-Rowley circuits, in addition 

to other chains. 

Sterling Hayden will portray Rear Admiral 

John M. Hoskins in Republic's "The Admiral 

Hoskins Story." 

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56 BOXOFnCE November 6, 1954

Analyzes Alleged Product Shortage 

Due to Evolution 

JAN IN CHICAGO — Jan Sterling 

smiled happily even though she was 

greeted by a downpouring rain as she 

arrived in Chicago from Hollywood via 

United Airlines. Miss Sterling spent 

several days in town to exploit "The 

Human Jungle" at the Roosevelt Theatre. 

Free Tickets to Voters 

By Sapulpa Theatres 

SAPULPA. OKLA.—Robert Getter, manager 

of two theatres and a drive-in, offered 

free tickets to all who voted in the general 

election November 2. 

Getter, who neither ran for office nor 

cared how anyone voted, said he made the 

offer in the hope that every voter in the 

area would take his offer because "every 

person should cast a ballot so we really can 

get majority rule." All the voter had to do 

was to present his numbered ballot stub at 

the boxoffice and receive the free ticket. 

of Theatres 

CLEVELAND—"In the big hullabaloo by 

exhibitors about alleged product shortage, 

theatre owners are overlooking the evolution 

that has been taken in the industry," Max 

M. Jacobs, former independent distributor 

and ex-exhibitor says in his analysis of the 

present producer-exhibitor conflict. 

"Today the need for the movie-around-thecorner 

has vanished. Every movie theatre 

serves a much larger area than it formerly 

did. The result, at least as it affects the 

Greater Cleveland area, is bigger but fewer 

neighborhood houses. 

"Time was," Jacobs continues, "when the 

750-seat neighborhood house could get by. 

Its patrons were its neighbors. But today 

that is all different. Today a theatre must 

have at least 1,200 seats and a parking lot is 

an absolute necessity. Without a parking lot 

and enough seats to accommodate patrons 

from considerable distances, a movie theatre 

cannot survive under today's living conditions." 

And as for product, Nate Schultz, president 

of local Monogram Pictures, says "Our exchange 

alone has enough product to keep 

every house in the area open all the year 

round. The cry is not product shortage as 

such, but the ability to get the product the 

exhibitors want at the price they want to 

pay. Double A product cannot be produced 

at bargain prices. Consequently it cannot be 

sold at bargain prices. But let no one tell you 

that any one has to have a dark house because 

of product shortage. I can say for 

myself that we have plenty of product for 

all types of houses." 

Al Burks to Dallas 

NEW YORK—Al Burks, Warner Bros, exploiteer 

who recently covered the Washington, 

D. C, Philadelphia and Charlotte areas, has 

been assigned to Dallas where he will cover 

Dallas, Oklahoma City and Memphis, according 

to Mort Blumenstock, vice-president in 

charge of advertising and publicity. 

Yes, you'll find that Southwestern has become 

the lens headquarters for the entire Southwest! 

There you'll find the best selection 

of CinemaScope lenses— lenses you need to 

show the sensational wide-screen features. 

Come in and see these famous makes . . . 

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OKLAHOMA CITY 

Oam Brunk, recently with United Film, is 

joining Buena Vista and will cover the entire 

state . . . Among those who attended the 

various Chicago conventions were Byron 

Savage. Century Theatre Supply; Mr. and 

Mrs. W. R. Howell, Howell Theatre Supply, 

and their nephew Bob Andrews who works 

for the Howells; Mr. and Mrs. J. Eldon Peek, 

Oklahoma Theatre Supply, with salesman 

David Wilson, and Henry S. Gritting, Claude 

Fulgham, Bob Clark and Louise Wesson, all 

Video Independent Theatres officials. 

Variety Tent 22 held its monthly board 

session Monday (li and made nominations 

for the December 6 election . . . Dee Fuller, a 

member of the Tent 22 crew, is the father of 

a girl, his sixth child. Fuller, formerly with 

the Criterion, is the Municipal Auditorium 

manager . . . Tent 22 pledged $12,000 to be 

used for the Central Day Nursery, sponsored 

by the local Family and Children's Service, a 

United P\ind agency. The donation is a 

renewal of a similar pledge last year. 

Mickey Walker of Newkirk was a visitor to 

Variety . . . Also in town this week were Lee 

Guthrie of Wheeler and Amos Page of Mc- 

Lain, Tex.; Bill Cleverdon, Eldorado; Woody 

Minor, Wewoka; Bob Walker, Broken Arrow; 

Ed Jones, Tulsa; Bill Jones, Sand Springs; 

Les Nordean, Konawa; Lamar Guthrie, Erick; 

Houston Burns, Apache, and Oral Wingard, 

Jay . . . W. T. Kirby's Time Tlieatre at 

Wetumka was smoke-damaged by a fire in 

an adjoining building. Kirby is to reopen 

Saturday (6) after being closed down several 

days. 

The extension of Filmrow was cleared by 

the Oklahoma City planning commission . . 

. 

W. F, Wilson jr., an attorney, said the Oklahoma 

City Shipping and Inspection Bureau, 

which ships and handles films, will construct 

a brick building for offices. 

SAN ANTONIO 

prank Wliisenant, manager of the Fredericksburg 

Road Drive-In, reported that 

eight speakers, valued at $20 each, were stolen 

Residents in the Story- 

from the airer . . . 

Wood area have filed a suit seeking an injunction 

against Robert L. Strickland to stop 

the construction of a drive-in. Plaintiffs 

allege the erection of the airer would violate 

a city zoning ordinance and also would create 

a nuisance . baby daughter of 

Richard M. Landsman, Statewide Drive-In 

Theatres, died in a local hospital from the 

effects of nicotine poisoning. 

Manager William Elder of the El Capitan 

Drive-In became father of a baby daughter . . 

Bill Hendricks, Azteca Theatre, Mathis, wa-s 

here booking Mexican pictures . . Funeral 

. 

services were held here Saturday (30) for 

the mother of Don Miguel Galvan, operator 

of the Pena Theatre, New Braunfels. 

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— 

— 

TOA PRESENTS UNITED FRONT 

PLEA IN BERGER STRONGHOLD 

Reade and Co-Leaders Ask 

Closer Cooperation by 

Exhibitor Groups 

MINNEAPOLIS—Walter Reade jr., president 

of the Theatre Owners of America, and 

other TOA executives, told the TOA story and 

explained its approach to industry problems 

to a gathering of 75 exhibitors, but the anticipated 

organization of a TOA unit in this exclusively 

Allied territory did not develop and 

there is no sign as yet of any such result. 

Besides Reade, the TOA party included 

Alfred Starr, board chairman; Herman M. 

Levy, general counsel: Ray Cooper, vicepresident; 

Al Forman, director, and George 

Kerasotes, executive committee member. 

They left here for the TOA convention in 

Chicago. 

Discussions brought out that both TOA 

and Allied have the same goals—more equitable 

film rentals, the elimination of high percentage 

and prints and product shortages and 

the encouragement of independent film production, 

but it was stressed that the "approaches" 

of the two leading exhibitor groups 

were different. 

NCA DOUBTFUL 

Although all the TOA speakers insisted 

their purpose in 

visiting here was simply to 

tell the TOA story to northwest exhibitors, 

the NCA representatives present were not 

so sure. 

E. L. Peaslee, NCA first vice-president, told 

Reade NCA leaders feel they already have a 

strong exhibitor organization here and see 

no "sense" in having two such bodies, and 

that, anyway, the territory couldn't support 

more than one. 

In addition to Peaslee, the NCA leaders 

present included Ted Mann, former president, 

and Martin Lebedoff. NCA President Bennie 

Berger was in Europe, but before his departure 

he had predicted that any efforts at 

the luncheon to organize anything else than 

"a paper unit" would result in failure. 

TOA speakers asserted they were seeking 

a union of TOA, Allied States and all other 

exhibitor organizations and to present a 

more united front against distributors. 

DENIES DISTRIBUTOR INFLUENCE 

They emphasized that all exhibitors, large 

and small and including the biggest circuits, 

are confronted with the same problems 

principally "confiscatory" rentals. 

They declared a way must be found to 

set exhibitors to stand together and refuse 

to buy any unfairly priced pictures. This was 

the way, they asserted, to "lick" high percentage 

demands. And they intimated that 

they'd pick out individual pictures and try 

to band exhibitors together to refuse to 

buy such films, Starr averring that if such 

concerted action was illegal he'd still espouse 

it even though it meant his going to jail. 

NCA members, however, expressed the view 

such action would be "impractical" and wasn't 

"feasible." 

Reade and the others denied TOA is distributor 

influenced. Reade revealed that, although 

publicity had been avoided, TOA has 

Hosts Field and Ruben 

Are ^Well 

Satisfied' 

MINNEAPOLIS—Harold Field and 

Eddie Ruben, local circuit owners who invited 

the TOA chiefs and hosted the exhibitor 

luncheon, declared themselves well 

satisfied. They said the discussions, which 

occasionally became heated as North Central 

Allied officers who were present and 

the TOA leaders clashed, should lead to 

a stronger organization here, besides giving 

the exhibitors "something to think 

about." 

Field and Ruben explained that they 

had quit NCA and joined TOA because 

they believed that TOA possessed much 

more strength and power than Allied 

States because of its larger and more important 

membership and that, because of 

this, it could accomplish more in the 

battle to obtain film rental and other 

needed exhibitor relief. 

been holding conferences with film company 

sales managers to bring film rental 

relief to exhibitors, and he was confident 

that these efforts would be successful. He 

also told of the undercover efforts now in 

progress to unite all exhibitor organizations 

and eliminate the present "sellers' market" 

by bringing about a substantial amount of 

new independent production. 

In a stirring talk Starr lambasted distributors 

because of their "divisive tactics 

trying to keep exhibitors from presenting a 

united front—and their greed." 

Starr claimed exhibitors are in the most 

precarious situation in the industry's history 

and that "this is the last chance to save 

our industry and its investments." 

"If distributors get away with their present 

70-30 percentage deals, such straight terms 

without even the 10 per cent profit guarantee 

gimmick, would be commonplace and we exhibitors 

will be reduced to the status of janitors," 

he said. "If necessary, we mu.st go to 

the government for relief and in an effort 

to protect our Investments." 

Peaslee pointed out that Allied efforts to 

obtain relief through roundtable discussions 

with distributors and by calling on distributor 

sales heads had been unavailing. 

VERBAL EXPLOSIONS FREQUENT 

Verbal explosions occurred frequently during 

the answer and question periods. Reade 

had stated that the TOA "approach" was to 

follow the policy of the late President Theodore 

Roosevelt "to speak softly, but carry a 

big stick." This aroused Peaslee. 

"You talk of a big stick," replied the NCA 

vice-president, "but I've never seen any evidence 

of your carrying one." 

Reade complained that NCA President 

Berger had never used his influence as an 

Allied States director to bring Allied and 

TOA closer together. 

Asked if TOA intended to be a "militant" 

body in the present crisis, Reade answered 

No Effort to Organize TOA 

In Minneapolis Area 

Is Indicated 

that decision devolved upon its board of 

directors. 

Mann, former NCA president and now a 

director, took exception when Gilbert Nathanson, 

local circuit owner who has quit NCA, 

said that all he had heard at exhibitor meetings 

before the present one were a lot of 

yelling and table pounding which never led 

to any beneficial results for exhibitors. 

"I've done a lot of yelling and table pounding 

and I'll continue to do it and I have no 

apologies to make," Mann interrupted. "I 

think the present situation calls for yelling 

and table pounding." 

Nathanson said he was not criticizing 

Mann. "All we're getting are words and we 

need more than words. I want less rabble 

rousing and more exhibitor unity," he said. 

OPPOSES TOA UNIT 

Lebedoff said he could see no reason for 

the organization of TOA units in this ten-itory. 

W. R. Frank, a Hollywood producer as 

well as a circuit owner in this area, told of 

an independent film producer's trials and 

tribulations. 

Reade called TOA "a democracy at work," 

asserted it represents all type of exhibitor, 

the little fellows as well as the big ones, and 

declared "it fights intelligently for everybody." 

One of its great assets, he said, is 

its "wealth of manpower." 

Starr created a substantial impression with 

a talk that bristled with militancy. 

"Exhibitors have one powerful weapon 

common sense and united action. Since divorcement, 

the big circuits have been in the 

same boat as the small exhibitor . . . Exhibitors 

have reached the desperation stage and 

desperate men can do desperate things," he 

said. "Exhibitors must quit trying to get 

selfish advantages for themselves, but must 

follow their leaders and refuse en masse to 

buy any picture unfairly priced. 

"Distributors are now spreading the word 

that only so-called big pictures are good any 

more—like a shabby little boxofflce click 

such as 'Dragnet' or a stinker like "The 

Egyptian' " —and that there's no longer a 

place In the Industry for the small town 

and little subsequent run exhibitor. 

LEAVE HYSTERICS TO THE PUBLIC 

"Such distributor propaganda is fantastically 

ridiculous. Moviegoing is a habit and 

we're migrating people. I want to go on 

record that when the day comes that a farmer 

visits his nearby town and can't see a 'Ma 

and Pa Kettle' or similar kind of picture, 

we'll be digging the industry grave. 

"And let us exhibitors quit getting hysterical 

about pictures. Leave such hysterics 

to the public. And let us have more of the 

kind of pictures the late Leonard Goldstein 

used to make." 

Starr declared distributors wouldn't have 

(Continued on following 

BOXOFnCE November 6, 1954 NC 59 

page)

. . Don 

Urge Exhibitor 'No on High Terms 

(Continued from preceding page) 

"the upper hand" if exhibitors would stand 

together and refuse to buy "viciously" priced 

pictures. 

Kerasotes called high film rentals the main 

exhibitor problem today and accused distributors 

of inefficiency. He advocated decentralization 

as one remedy, "so that everything 

is not controlled from New York." If 

the local salesmen and branch manager had 

more authority as to film deals, he believed 

the situation would be improved. 

"But New York won't let loose of the reins," 

asserted Kerasotes. "They want to protect 

their $3,000 to $4,000 a week positions." 

In Illinois, Kerasotes said, 20th-Fox had 

been selling Cinemascope releases first runs 

to drive-ins at 30 and 35 per cent, but one 

outdoor theatre owner had come to him and 

told him of 40 to 45 per cent contracts signed 

by him. 

"When I put the matter up to a Fox salesman, 

he told me the exhibitor was a farmer 

and doesn't know anything, so let him pay," 

explaiJied Kerasotes. 

Levy said the exhibitor must learn to say 

no when pictures are overpriced. He believes 

there are ways for theatre owners to work 

together. 

Cooper, too, insisted that the answer to the 

problem is for the exhibitor to say no when 

a film is unfairly priced. He asserted that 

he himself has some good results to show 

for refusing to buy in such cases "even 

though too many exhibitors on all sides of 

me fail to follow my course." 

"I don't think the distributors aim to close 

our theatres, but their policies threaten to 

bring such results," said Cooper. "They're 

hibitors. That fact, he feels, makes a strong 

organization here all the more necessary. 

Jack Wright, Red Wing, Minn., exhibitor, 

was told in reply to an inquiry that his suggestion 

that exhibitor organizations buy a 

controlling interest in major film producing 

and distributing companies isn't feasible. 

One fight in which TOA and Allied are 

uniting now is against subscription TV, it 

was pointed out by Starr, an industry cochairman 

of a committee handling the matter. 

"Subscription TV could drive us all out of 

business and it's no use closing our eyes to 

the fact that it's a possibility," he pointed 

out. "But we'll leave no stone unturned to 

prevent it from coming into being." 

He explained that the battle lines are being 

drawn up to contest the FCC claim that it 

possesses authority to decide on subscription 

TV. The film industry contention is that 

Congress hasn't invested the FCC with any 

such authority, he said. He expressed confidence 

that the bulk of the public would 

aid in the fight to keep TV free. 

DES MOINES 

yim Watts, owner of the Watts Theatre in 

. 

. . 

Osage, introduced Cinemascope with a 

showing of "River of No Return" . . Polly 

Kawarski, assistant cashier at Columbia, resigned 

to await a visit from the stork The 

office force presented her with a gift for the 

baby as a farewell. She was replaced by 

Enes Travaini . Maude McKay, Columbia 

inspector, has been hospitalized again for 

observation. 

just not far-sighted. If we exhibitors stick 

together we'll accomplish something for the 

common good." 

Ruben pointed out that the Minneapolis 

territory provides only 2.7 per cent of dis- 

Mrs. Nick Yiannias, wife of the Associated 

Theatres assistant manager in Dubuque, was 

the subject of an interview by the Dubuque 

Herald. Mrs. Yiannias is not unfamUiar with 

tributors' income and that, consequently, the theatre work as her family is also in the 

film companies can afford to ignore and forget 

theatre business and she was a secretary with 

it entirely if they become 

MONEY 

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her marriage. Now she divides her attention 

between the theatre and raising her two 

small daughters . Hicks and Ken 

Bishard, Paramount manager and salesman, 

and the.r wives attended the Iowa-Wisconsin 

game in Iowa City . . . The Hicks' daughter 

Sue will participate in the annual water 

show at Roosevelt High School. 

To Honor H. Fitzgerald 

At Tribute Dinner 

MILWAUKEE—Dignitaries from all walks 

of life will pay tribute to Harold J. Fitzgerald, 

who recently 

retired from Fox Wisconsin 

after having 

served as president for 

over 20 years, at a testimonial 

dinner Thursday 

(11). The a,ffair, 

to be held in the 

Crystal ballroom at 

the Schroeder Hotel, 

will honor his many 

efforts in behalf of 

motion pictures, as 

well as civic, charitable 

Harold Fitzgerald and other various activities. 

Among the notables who are expected to 

attend are Gov. Walter J. Kohler, Mayor 

Frank P. Zeidler, George Hoover, Variety 

International chief barker; Nat Blumberg, 

Universal-International president; Spyros 

Ekouras, 20th-Fax president; Fred C. MOler, 

president of Miller Brewing Co. and head of 

the Ass'n of Commerce; Edward Gerhardy, 

Greater Milwaukee Committee president; 

Irwin Maier, Milwaukee Journal publisher; 

Robert Bassett, Sentinel publisher; Ben 

Marcus, president of National Allied. 

Vern Touchett is chairman of the dinner 

committee, with Gordon Hewitt, who will 

emcee the affair, secretary. John Quinn is 

treasurer. Sub-chairmen are Arnold Brumm, 

tickets; Einar Gaustad, civic; Martin Thomas, 

patrons; Angelo Provinzano, hotel arrangements; 

W. V. Geehan, program; F. R. Peterson, 

public relations; Joe Strother, alumni; 

Ed Weisfeldt, music; Dr. J. B. Wilets, reception, 

and Clifford Lorbeck, decorations. 

Other committee members include A. D. 

Kvool, Jack Lorentz, Stanley Gross, Edward 

Johnson, Ben Marcus, Oscar Olson, Volmer 

Dahlstrand, Ray Trampe, Robert Polacheck, 

Gene Kilburg, Miss Estelle Steinbach and 

Harold Pearson. 

lATSE Local 332 Rejects 

Central States Offer 

ClllNTON, IOWA—lATSE Local 332 members 

turned down an offer of a five-cent an 

hour raise from Central States Theatre Corp. 

and voted in favor of a strike. A spokesman 

for the 14-member projectionists union said 

he expected LeRoy Upton, union representative 

in this area, to meet with Central States 

officials in Des Moines before any strike goes 

into effect. The houses concerned with the 

action are the Capitol and Rialto theatres 

here and theatres in Fulton and Morrison, 

111. 

The rejected company offer called for an 

increase in the hourly wage from $1.92 to 

$1.97, with the boost to take effect immediately 

though no provision was made for 

any further increases during the life of 

the three-year pact. At present, local projectionists 

work a 35-hour week. 

60 


. . James 

. . Iowa 

. . . Frank 

. . . Local 

OMAHA 

Tôn McLucas, United Ai'tists manager, re- 

. 

. . . 

ports that Opal Woodson, a staff veteran 

of 20 years and a member of the booking 

department, has been designated office manager 

R. Velde. division manager 

from New York, and Mike Lee, district manager 

from St. Louis, visited the UA exchange 

William Haarmann of Co-Op 

Theatre Service is suffering from an injured 

ankle. Bill Barker, Co-Op owner, is 

recovering from an attack of the flu. Barbara 

Boldt, Co-Op secretary, said that her 

husband has been ailing with a back injury 

... On the flu casualty list at UA were 

Opal Woodson and Eleanor Naylor. cashier. 

Flo Hamer, MGM assistant booker, was 

displaying pictui-es of her grandson Bobbie 

Gloden, who was one of the hits in a fivegeneration 

picture. Bobbie is six months of 

. . . 

age, while his great-great-grandfather is 

89 . . . Janet Townsend, secretary to MGM 

office manager Evelyn Cannon, has a new 

baby grand piano . . . Shirley Baker, booker's 

clerk, visited her home at Ida Grove, Iowa 

Betty Randall, Columbia office manager, 

swears that she got her shiner and a cut 

above her eye by walking into a door. She 

entered her apartment with an armful of 

bundles, bent over and when she raised up 

her eye collided with a cupboard door. She 

cut a gash over her eye and behind her dark 

glasses is a beaut of a mouse. 

Donna Nielsen, Ralph Blank's secretary at 

the Admiral Theatre, had to be taken home 

last week when she came down with an attack 

of the flu . . . Max Rosenblatt. RKO 

manager, screened "Hansel and Gretel" on a 

Saturday morning at the suburban Dundee 

Theatre. Among the guests were department 

heads of the World-Herald and their children 

. . . Pat Halloran, 20th-Fox salesman, 

reported corn husking in the western and 

northwestern part of Iowa was behind schedule 

.. . The theatre at Remsen, Iowa, operated 

by Vets Nothen, opened last week with 

Cinemascope . exhibitors seen on 

Filmrow included Ray Brown, Harlan; Earl 

Cowden, Sidney: Bob Fridley, Ida Grove; Nat 

Sandler, Missouri Valley, and Mrs. C. N. and 

Richard Johnson of Red Oak. Nebraskans 

in were Charles Thoene and Mrs. Arthur 

Goodwater, Madison. 

Hosts Football Team 

LENOX, IOWA—The State Theatre Manager 

Frank Shipley was host to the Lenox 

High School football team at a recent showing 

of "Crazylegs." 

lowan Installs 

Wide Screen 

MASON CITY, IOWA—John Banks, 

manager 

of the Avery Theatre, reports that the 

house has had a wide screen installed. 

Blake Edwards, who wrote the screenplay 

for Columbia's "Exactly Like You," will make 

his debut as director of the film. 

NCA Files Pelition 

For Right to Picket 

MINNEAPOLIS—With the filing of a brief 

in federal district court, North Central Allied 

has dissipated any doubts which might have 

existed regarding its determination to battle 

to the finish to try to establish its right to 

picket the Columbia Pictures' exchange here. 

In the brief, S. D. Kane, NCA executive 

counsel, argues that NCA is legally empowered 

to gang up against the film company 

in this fashion because of its allegedly excessive 

"Caine Mutiny" terms. 

Contesting the company's application for a 

temporary restraining order, Kane contends 

that the Constitution's free speech provision 

confers upon his organization the right to inform 

independent exhibitors via picketing 

regarding Columbia's attitude toward them. 

He also denies the plaintiff's charge of conspiracy 

in violation of the antitrust law. 

Pickets employed by NCA marched in front 

of the Columbia exchange carrying banners 

accusing the company of being unfair to 

independent exhibitors. The pickets had been 

on the job three days before Columbia's suit 

was filed. At this junctm-e NCA withdrew 

the pickets voluntarily and agreed not to resume 

picketing. 

David Shearer, Columbia counsel, avers in 

his brief that the picketing constituted an 

illegal effort to injure the company, no labor 

dispute being mvolved. He argues no group 

IS privileged to picket a business concern because 

it objects to latter's .selling prices. 

Whether or not Columbia's application is 

granted by Judge G. H. Nordbye the case will 

go to trial to determine if a permanent injunction 

should issue. If the temporary restraining 

order is denied, however. NCA could 

resume picketing and continue it at least until 

the final adjudication. 

The American Civil Liberties Union has 

filed a petition with the federal district court 

asking for the privilege of intervening as "a 

friend of the court" on the free speech issue 

involved in Columbia's application for a 

temporary injunction to restrain NCA from 

picketing the local Columbia branch. 

Ripon Film Group Chooses 

1 1 for Children's Series 

RIPON, WIS.—The Ripon Better Films 

Council has selected 11 movies for the 1954-55 

season of Saturday afternoon children's shows 

which began October 30. Those selected at 

the meeting were "Deep Waters," "Corky of 

Gasoline Alley," "Young Mr. Lincoln," "The 

Secret Garden," "Treasure of Lost Canyon," 

"Destination Moon," "Boys' Ranch," "Savage 

Splendor," "F^-ancis," "Hiawatha" and a Bowery 

Boys' film. Some alternate pictures also 

approved were "Five Little Peppers," "My 

Friend Flicka," "Jack and the Beanstalk" 

and "Rusty." H. B. Toilette, district manager 

for S&M Theatres, and Jack Lightner, Ripon 

Theatre manager, met with the group to aid 

In selecting the list. 

MINNEAPOLIS 

Denjamin Berger, North Central Allied president, 

is back from a flying ten-day trip 

to Europe with other Crusade for Freedom 

BENJAMIN BERGER 

State chairmen during which, while in 

Munich, he broadcast a message over Radio 

Fi-ee Europe of hope and encouragement to 

the captive people behind the Iron Curtain 

—a broadcast that brought him considerable 

newspaper attention. The party of which he 

was a member also visited Berlin and Paris 

Mantzke's Northwest Theatres 

Service Co., buying and booking association 

and distributor, will move December 1 from 

its present fourth floor Plymouth building 

offices to much larger Filmrow quarters at 

1011 Currie Ave. 

RKO will have a trade showing of "Hansel 

and Gretel" at the suburban World Theatre 

here at 11 a.m. Thursday (11). The picture 

has its territory premiere at the local RKO 

After completing 

Pan December 22 . . . 

Cinemascope installations at Roy McMinn's 

Beacon Theatre, Superior, and Al Smith's 

West End, Winona, O. E. Maxwell, Northwest 

Sound Service, departed for Chicago 

circuit owners Eddie Ruben and 

Harold Field are in Chicago for the TOA 

Following recovery from a 

convention . . . 

long illness, Leo Doth, U-I office manager, 

is back on the job. 

for 

VistaVision 

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BOXOFFICE : 

: November 

ior 

CinemaScope 

6, 1954 61

. . . Miss 

— 

— 

— 

— 

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MILWAUKEE 

/ôrdon Hewitt, Fox Wisconsin general manager, 

flew to Los Angeles to attend the 

funeral of Charles P. Skouras, head of 

National Theatres and Fox West Coast Theatres 

. . . "Down Three Dark Streets" was 

screened by FWAC for Police Chief John 

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Harry Boesel. Palace 

Polcyn and his staff . . . 

manager, celebrated the birth of twins 

Brunner of the FWAC advertising 

staff vacationed in New York. 

Head of the firm operating WTVW, Milwaukee's 

new VHF station, is Rolando F. 

Gran, who organized and operated Standard 

Theatres here as general manager from 1934 

until 1949. when he sold out his interest. 

Associated with Gran are L. F. Thurwachter 

and Andy Spheeris. both of whom have extensive 

interests in the motion picture field. 

the man- 

Jerry Gruenberg-, who supervises 

agement of both the Oriental and Tower 

theatres here for Ortow Theatres, is also 

concerned with the renting and maintenance 

of a number of stores and apartments for 

the circuit. These duties, in addition to the 

recently acquired Oriental Bar & Bowling 

Alleys, have really kept Gruenberg's nose to 

the grindstone. Joe Reynolds, Oriental Theatre 

manager, has been assisting Gruenberg. 

John Giddings is now assistant manager at 

the Oriental, having been at the Alhambra 

and Fox-Wisconsin. Jerry Youniss, formerly 

at the Century. Jackson. Pi-incess and Grace 

theatres, is now manager of the Tower. 

The Better Films Council named Al Meskis. 

Warner theatre manager. Personality of the 

Month. Meskis has had considerable success 

with kiddy progi-ams. PTA movements and 

other affairs in which the council is interested 

Melville E. Maxwell, 62, who spent 

. . . 

20 years in the film industry, died while visiting 

friends in Fond du Lac. Maxwell was an 

announcer at Marinette's WMAM radio station 

for years, but is better known for having 

been personal business representative to 

Douglas Fairbanks sr. 

. 

Harry Oshan, Columbia manager, is the 

chairman for the Will Rogers Memorial Hospital 

drive in his area. Gordon Hewitt of 

Fox Wisconsin is exhibitor chairman . . 

. 

The Parkway Theatre at Madison, operated 

by Dean Fitzgerald, closed. This leaves the 

Strand, also operated by Fitzgerald, as the 

first run theatre on court 

approval. Grand Enterprises will take over 

the operation of the defunct Certtm-y Theatre, 

Rudy Koutnik. 

which closed August 8 . . . 

general manager of Highway 15 Outdoor Theatre. 

Waukesha, was made vice-president of 

the corporation. 

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Fast 'Suddenly' Start 

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MINNEAPOLIS—"Suddenly" got off to a 

fast start in Minneapolis, reporting 125 per 

cent for its first week. With the exceptions 

of "Brigadoon" in its second week and "Sabrina" 

in its sixth, both reporting 100, all 

other first runs were below average. Weekend 

business was helped by the influx of visitors 

in for the Minnesota-Michigan State football 

game which drew a capacity crowd of 

63.800. 


Gopher—Suddenly (UA) 125 

Lyric—The Raid (20th-Fox) 85 

Radio City Brigadoon (MGM), 2nd wk 100 

RKO-Orpheum A Star Is Born (WB), 4th wk. . . 95 

RKO-Pan On the Woterfront (Col), 6th wk 90 

State The Gombler From 

World Sabrina (Para), 6th 

Natchez 

wk 

90 

100 

(20th-Fox) . . . 

Tops Omaha 

"Sabrina' 

With 135 Per Cent 

OMAHA—The Orpheum Theatre reported 

135 per cent with "Sabrina" to lead Omaha's 

first runs. The third week performances of 

"Rear Window" at the Omaha and "A 

Woman's World" at the State fell below average. 

Admiral, Chief Sitting Bull (UA), 2nd wk. . . . . . . 100 

Brondeis They Rode West (Col) 85 

Omoho Rear Window (Para), 3rd wk 90 

Orpheum Sabrina (Paro) 135 

Stote Womon's World (20th-Fox), 3rd wk 90 

Town Abilene Town (UA); Song of the Sarong 

(U-l); Rhythm of the Islands (U-l); reissues... 95 

Cast in Janet Leigh Starrer 

Horace MacMahon and Barbara Brown have 

been cast in the Columbia CinemaScope musical, 

"My Sister Eileen." a Janet Leigh 

starrer. 

62 BOXOFFICE 

: 

: November 

6. 1954

— 

— 

—— 

—— 

Toledo Drive-Ins Vie 

With Multiple Bills 

DETROIT-—The Detroit metropolitan area 

is remaining unaffected by the plague of 

multiple bills which has broken out in Toledo, 

only about 45 miles from some of the di-iveins 

that ring the city. 

Just across the state line, quintuple and 

sextuple bills have made their appearance, 

as indicated by the outbreak of advertising 

by the Toledo and Jesse James drive-ins. 

The Toledo Drive-In offers customers "another 

dawn-to-dusk show ... 5 big action 

features ... 5 top notch cartoons." Prices 

remained unchanged at 60 cents, with high 

school students admitted for 45 cents, and 

children free. 

Advertising tells patrons they can "come 

as late as 8:37 and see 5 features." As an 

extra inducement to take full advantage of 

the all-night session, the theatre offered 

free coffee and doughnuts "for those who stay 

until the finish." 

Not to be outdone, the Jesse James Drivein 

offered a Marathon Show with no less 

than six features, plus six cartoons, at no advance 

in prices—and offered free coffee and 

doughnuts to customers who lasted thi'ough 

it. 

The super shows were offered Saturday 

night only (23). 

TV Opera in Cleveland 

Opens in Confusion 

CLEVELAND—The Metropolitan Grand 

Opera opening on November 8 which will be 

presented on Loew's State screen on a closed 

telecast circuit has been surrounded by confusion. 

The presentation is bemg co-sponsored by 

the Cleveland Opera Guild and CARE which 

has been selling tickets scaled at $3.10, $4 and 

$5. But, on Monday (1), tickets went on sale 

at the State boxoffice at $2.85 for all seats. 

The co-sponsors had hoped to sell a majority 

of the 3,400 available seats and to 

benefit by the amount of the difference between 

the two scales but the advance sale 

was negligible. The performance was fm-ther 

hampered by incorrect information in letters 

mailed by the Metropolitan Opera Guild 

to its Cleveland Guild subscribers which incorrectly 

stated the time, place and scale. 

Ascap Names Leavitt 

To Detroit District 

NEW YORK—David Leavitt, who has been 

operating as Ascap field representative in 

the Boston office, has been named the new 

district manager of the Ascap Detroit office 

by J. M. Collins, Ascap sales manager. Leavitt 

has been associated with the Society for 

seven years. 

The law firm of Grosner & Burak, who 

have represented the Society for many years, 

will remain as counsel in the Michigan territory. 

Marjorie Pickens Dead 

DETROIT— Mi-s, Marjorie Dooley Pickens, 

51, musician and composer, died recently in 

her home at Birmingham. Mich. Surviving 

besides her husband, an executive at the Jam 

Handy Organization, are a son and a daughter. 

Burial was in Kansas City, Mo. 

Train Speed and Ads: 

Bill Wrigley Anecdote 

Columbus—Robert Wile, secretary of 

the Independent Theatre Owners of Ohio, 

relays this anecdote: 

William Wrigley, the chewing gum 

magnate, was riding with a friend from 

New York to Chicago on a train. 

"Why," aslted the friend, "as long as 

your gum is known the world over, don't 

you save millions of dollars spent on advertising?" 

"How fast is this train going?" asked 

Wrigley. His friend said it was going 

about 60 miles an hour. 

"Then," said Wrigley, "why doesn't the 

railroad remove the engine and let the 

train travel on its own momentum?" 

Londons Fete M. Tork 

For Long Service 

DETROIT—M. A. "Millie" Tork, manager 

of the Booth Theatre, received an unprecedented 

honor upon the completion of 25 

years of service with one circuit. The Julius 

D. London family, operators of the circuit, 

feted him with a silver anniversary dinner 

attended by approximately 50 filmites including 

competitors, exchange managers and 

film critics. 

Tork was presented with an engraved gold 

wrist watch by Milton London on behalf of 

the circuit. London also noted that the party 

v.as a fulfillment of a plan originated by 

his late father, Julius, who "always considered 

Millie a trusted friend" rather than 

just an employe. 

London summarized Tork's career, starting 

in 1929 as manager of the now defunct 

Ideal Theatre and then going on to other 

houses and finally taking over the management 

of the Gladwin which was extensively 

lemodeled and renamed the Booth in 1937. 

Commenting on the significance of the 

occasion, believed to be the first public dinner 

given a theatre manager by an employer 

in this area, James Shai-key, film buyer for 

Co-operative Theatres of Michigan, said 

"The motion pictiu'e industry has always had 

the finest relationship between employers and 

employes of any business in the country." 

Two More Detroit Houses 

To Book Day and Date 

DETROIT—The second significant change 

within two weeks in the art house setup 

here was the decision of the eastside Coronet 

Theatre, operated by Albert Dezel, and the 

westside Studio, operated by Studio Theatre 

Corp., under the direction of William Flemion, 

to start a pohcy of first run presentations, 

playing day and date. The new policy 

is set to start Thanksgiving with "High and 

Dry," starring Paul Douglas as the first 

attraction, followed by "Mr. Hulot's Holiday," 

"Ugetsu." and "Stars of the Russian Ballet." 

Special exclusive promotional advertising 

campaigns will be supervised by Dezel. 

Earlier, Sterling Theatres announced the 

reopenmg of the east side Time Theatre to 

play as an art film house on a day and date 

subsequent run policy with the west side 

Carlton, following the Cinema, which continues 

as a downtown fu-st run. 

MGM Reissue Bill 

Tops in Cleveland 

CLEVELAND — Downtown business this 

week was excellent with five of the seven 

first runs reporting better than average 

grosses. They are "Rear Window," "A Star Is 

Born," "Beau Brummell," "Vanishing Prairie," 

and an MGM dual reissue program of 

"Battleground" and "Asphalt Jungle." "Rear 

Window" and "A Star Is Born" in its second 

week, tied for honors, with 135 per cent 

ratings, "Beau Brummell" held strong during 

the second week with 130. Third week of 

"The Vanishing Pi-airie" showed a pleasant 

120 and the double feature program of 

"Battleground ' and "Asphalt Jungle" hit a 

surprising 200 per cent. Fine Indian Summer 

weather over the weekend, helped boost business. 


Allen A Star Is Born (WB), 2nd wk 135 

Hippodrome The Human Jungle (AA) 100 

Lower Moll The Vanishing Prairie (Buena Vista), 

3rd wk 120 

Ohio Battleground (MGM); Asphalt Jungle 

(MGM) 200 

Poloce Woman's World (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 75 

State Rear Window (Para) 1 35 

Stillman Beau Brummell (MGM), 2nd d.t. wk. ..130 

"Star' Remains High 

In Cincinnati 

CINCINNATI—"A Star Is Born" which led 

the downtown grosses in its first week with 

a 190 fell to 135 per cent in its second week 

but still continued to lead the other first 

runs. "Woman's World" opened at the Palace 

with a satisfactory 120 per cent and "The 

Bounty Hunter" played to average business 

during its first week at the Grand. 

Albee A Sfor Is Born (WB), 2nd wk 135 

Grand The Bounty Hunter (WB); Chompagne 

Safari (5R) ]00 

Palace Women's World (20th-Fox) 120 

Slump in Detroit Fails to Hurt 

'Star' or 'Brigadoon' 

DETROIT—Tlie general level of first run 

business suffered an overall slump this week, 

with the exhibitors dividing the blame between 

the weather and the election. But, despite 

the decreased business, "Brigadoon" 

opened at the Adams with a big 160 and 

"A Star Is Born" stayed on top in its fourth 

per cent. 

week with 170 

Adams Brigadoon (MGM) '60 

Broodway-Copitol The Raid (20th-Fox); Key 

Lorgo (WB), reissue '5 

Fox The Adventures of Hajji Baba (20th-Fox); 

The Unholy Four (LP) 100 

Madison A Stor Is Born ( WB), 4th wk 1/0 

Michigan Bengal Brigade (U I); Four Guns to the 

Border (U-l) '0 

Palms Reor Window (Para); Overlond Pacific 

(UA), 2nd wk '30 

United Artists Woman's World (20th-Fox), 2nd 

wk 100 

Bob Wile Dates Speeches 

COLUMBUS—Robert Wile, secretary of the 

Independent Theatre Owners of Ohio, will 

speak December 7 before the Rotary Club of 

Geneva, Ohio. Other speaking dates on Wile's 

schedule include: December 9—Lions Club 

of Richmond; December 15—Lions Club of 

West Lafayette; December 27—Lions Club of 

Mount Gilead, and June 2, 1955—Lions Club 

of West Union. 

Ohioan to Return to Work 

PORT CLINTON, OHIO—Harry Callahan, 

manager of the Clinton Theatre, plans to 

return to work on November 15. He has been 

recuperating from an illness. 

BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954 ME 63

. . Al 

. 

New 

CLEVELAND 

Dube Jackter, Columbia assistant sales 

manager, and Sam Galanty, division sales 

manager, attended the funeral of Oscar Ruby, 

Columbia manager . . . Attending the TESMA 

show in Chicago were Frank Masek, National 

Theatre Supply Co.; Ben L. Ogron, 

Ohio Theatre Supply Co. and Mr. and Mrs. 

M. H. Fritclile, Oliver Theatre Supply Co. 

The first Santa Claus of the season arrived, 

, . 

red suit, white whiskers and all, to 

promote "White Christmas" which opened 

Friday (29) at the Stillman for an extended 

run. After calling on the local newspaper 

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critics, Santa covered the busy downtown 

area during the noon period. 

Sam Fritz, manager of the Hilliard Square 

Theatre, is now a permanent citizen with the 

Ijurchase of a new home on West 189th St. 

The Vermes Brothers installed a new 

. . . 

wide, seamless Walker screen in their Yorktown 

Theatre. The sale was made by National 

Theatre Supply which also installed 

a new 52-foot seamless Walker screen in the 

Paramount Theatre in Youngstown . . . Sheldon 

Sandler, son of Dave Sandler, who manufactures 

in-car heaters, will come home for 

the Thanksgiving weekend from Yale where 

he is a graduate fellow in engineering. 

. . . 

. . . Little Inferno, in-car 

Barbara Salzman, formerly with Lippert 

Pictures, has joined the local IFE organization 

Herb and Liz Ochs are comfortably 

. . . settled in Dania, Fla., for the winter 

Variety Club will hold its annual meeting 

to elect officers on November 11. Present 

chief barker is Jack Silverthorne, manager 

of the Hippodrome . . Cleveland Motion 

. 

Picture Exhibitors Ass'n held a membership 

meeting Monday < 1) to learn details of the 

new four-year operators contract . 

Montgomery of the 

. . Robert 

Paramount home office 

was here for the "White Christmas" opening 

at the Stillman 

h.eaters manufactured by the Sandler Mfg. 

Co., have been installed in the Route 19 

Drive-In in Washington, Pa., owned by Ted 

Lasky. 

. . 

Kay Wesehler of Cooperative Theatres of 

Ohio has resigned to move east with her 

husband . Bob Bial of Luthi Studios came 

through his recent physical examination 

with a 100 per cent report . . . Joe Krenitz 

is back at Republic after a two-week absence 

on account of knee trouble resulting from 

a recent automobile accident . . . Perc Essick 

has closed his summer home at Lakeside 

for the season . 

Margolian has 

been named RKO publicity representative 

for Cleveland, Albany, Toronto and Buffalo, 

where he makes his headquarters. 

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Manos to Build Drive-In 

Near Toronto, Ohio 

TORONTO, OHIO—George Manos, who 

started to build theatres 30 years ago and 

now owns a chain of 18 houses throughout 

Ohio, recently turned the first spade on the 

construction of a de luxe drive-in he is 

building on River road, just south of Coshocton. 

The tract of 20 acres was acquired by Manos 

from Edward T. Jacobs. The space wiU be 

used for a 750-car drive-in, playgrounds and 

a miniature golf course. Provision also has 

been made for non-car patrons with an auditorium 

of 150 seats. A patio, heated in cold 

weather, has been included in the plans as 

well as a modern concessions stand. The 

screen size will be 90 feet wide by 80 feet 

high. Cinemascope equipment will be installed. 

W. E. Gross, who has been manager of 

the Starlite Drive-In at Newcomerstown for 

the Manos circuit, will have an interest and 

serve as manager of the new ozoner tentatively 

called the Town Drive-In. Estimated 

cost of the project is $150,000. 

Greco Sees 'Flamenco' 

And Writes a Review 

DETROIT—When Cy Schechter, 

manager 

of the first run Cinema Theatre, booked 

"Flamenco," an unusual tie-in was arranged 

with the Shubert-Lafayette Theatre, legitimate 

house, where Greco, the Spanish dancer 

was cui-rently appearing for two weeks. A 

special midnight screening of the film was 

scheduled at the Cinema, and Greco and his 

entu-e company invited in for the event. 

Greco then wrote a review of the picture, 

which features Spanish dancing with some 

personal appearances by som.e of his friends, 

for one of the daily newspapers. 

Blowups of the Greco review were then 

spotted in some 17 theatres of the Sterling 

Circuit and in the lobby of the Shubert- 

Lafayette itself. In each case, the motion picture 

houses gave an unusual cross-plug to the 

legitimate production. 

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Tablecloth notes at the Millie Tork luncheon; 

Edmund London, son of the late 

Julius D. London, hEis just confirmed his 

engagement to Suzanne Blau of New Castle, 

Pa. . . . Thomas F. Duane, Paramount manager, 

while Tork opened his present, cracked, 

"If it's a slide rule, give it to Jim Sharkey," 

remembering some close film buying sessions. 

But Milt Zimmerman, Columbia manager, 

decided the award was a set of 3-D goldplated 

glasses—Sam Barrett, Co-op manager, 

made a close examination of the room dividers. 

James Anderson of the Broadway Capitol 

rates as the oldest projectionist in years of 

service at a single house. He has been there 

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66 

ERNIE 

199 officer . . . Al Dezel, just back from New 

York via Chicago, reports his combination 

of "We Want a Child" and "Intimate Relations" 

doing big at the Gratiot Drive-In 

Beechler, Charlotte circuit operator, 

was in town and anxious to return home . . 

Otto N. Ebert, RKO manager, says he is 

optimistic about the coming months. 

. . WUliam 

Harry R. Berns, former operator at the 

National, who has returned to the city after 

several yeai-s in Chicago, is taking over the 

post at Nick George's new Jolly Roger Drive- 

In, teaming up with Jack Smukler . 

A. London, partner in Associated Thea- 

tres, is in town for a short stay to look over 

his properties and visit friends and family 

before going back to his home in California. 

Milton London, opening his Midtown Theatre 

with the assistance of his wife Evelyn, 

was held up by two armed men, who took 

$320 . . . Dave Korman is incorporating the 

Gem Theatre Co. at 8210 12th Street . . . 

Walter Norris, Butterfield dij-ector of advertising, 

is making a short swing around 

Paul Field, longtime 

the upstate circuit . . . 

manager of the Alhambra Theatre, is opening 

a production office on Grand River 

Avenue. 

Gil Liffiit, Local 199 prexy, who runs the 

Spot Lite Bar on Livernois in his spare time, 

is making it a gathering place for operators 

from the northwest section, including Kenneth 

Grenke of the Crystal, Ira Rottell of 

the Royal, Mel Donlon of the Beverly, Roy 

Thompson from the drive-in, and Lee Welch 

of the Royal . . . David Leavitt is the new 

district chief for Ascap here . . . Larry Leins, 

formerly with the Cinema, is the new manager 

of the Time, art house reopened by 

Sterling Theatres. 

Receipts of motion picture theatres in Egypt 

in 1953 amounted to 2,700,000 pounds as compared 

to 2,150,000 pounds in 1952. 

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CHICAGO 

Associated Acquires 

Two Loew's Theatres 

CLEVELAND—Associated Theatres circuit 

has made formal announcement that it has 

acquired Loew's Park and Granada theatres, 

effective November 1, in a deal involving 

$850,000. 

The 3,200-seat Park Theatre at 10211 Euclid 

Ave. was acquired for $250,000 by Park 

Amusement, Inc., headed by Meyer S. Fine, 

head of the Associated circuit, from the Park- 

Cleveland Theatre Co., a subsidiary of Loew's, 

Inc. The Park was built in 1922 by the 

Mall Co., a Loew affiliate, at a cost of 

$750,000 on a site leased from the Henry P. 

Mcintosh estate which still owns it. 

The Granada Theatre was leased by Associated 

for 20 years. The property includes 

rental units amounting to $600,000. Lessor 

was the Granada-Cleveland Theatre Co., also 

an affiliate of Loew's. No changes in the 

runs and policies in either theatre is contemplated, 

but a modernization program will 

be put into effect at both houses. 

"Our faith in a substantial revival of public 

interest in movies was the motivating factor 

in our decision to purchase the Park and 

lease the Granada," Pine said. 

Jerome H. Friedlander of Benesch, Friedlander, 

Mendelson, Gnau and Coplan represented 

the purchaser and lessee. William A. 

Lovn-y of Mooney, Han, Loesser, Keough & 

Friedheim represented Loew's. 

Oscar Ruby Death Is 

Shock at Cleveland 

CLEVELAND—The death last week (26) 

of 

Oscar Ruby, Columbia manager in Cleveland 

the last ten years and prior to that manager 

of Columbia's Milwaukee branch, shocked fUm 

circles here. Although he had been ill for 

some eight weeks, none of his many friends 

had any idea that the end was near. Although 

he had a malignancy, death was due to a 

cardiac thrombosis. 

Ruby had been in the motion picture business 

for more than 40 years. Oldtimers in 

the industry remember when he was local 

Pathe manager. Born in Brooklyn 57 years 

ago, except for a ten-year period in Milwaukee, 

he lived most of his life in Cleveland 

where he had a home at 1730 Wood Rd., 

Cleveland Heights. He was a member of the 

Variety Club and for many years served on 

its heart committee. 

His son Eugene is associated with the 

Robert Hall store in Milwaukee. His wife 

Florence and his parent-s and a sister also 

survive. 

Services were held here Thursday (28). 

Burial took place in Youngstown. 

Loew's House in Louisville 

Sold to UA Circuit 

LOUISVILLE—The Loew's Theatre, said to 

be the city's biggest house with about 3,300 

seats, has changed ownership. Tlie theatre, 

formerly the property of Loew^'s Theatres and 

United Artists, with the title vested in the 

Louisville Operating Co., a subsidiary of the 

two organizations, is now owned by United 

Artists Theatres of New York. 

The theatre is managed by George N. Hunt, 

who said that the name might be changed to 

United Artists, but there probably would be 

no other major changes. 


Foreign Film Group 

To Fight Censorship 

CLEVELAND—Victor Saludo, organizer and 

director of Group 16, newly formed to show 

a series of selected foreign motion pictures 

which have not been passed by the Ohio 

Board of Censors to its subscription members, 

may offer a vital wedge which will overthrow 

motion picture censorship in Ohio. 

"I believe that precensorship is illegal and 

unconstitutional," Saludo stated, "and I propose 

to fight it right up to the Supreme Court 

if necessary." Saludo made this statement in 

discussing his Group 16 first project and the 

difficulties he is confronted with in finding 

a suitable place in which to show the pictures 

he has selected to the more than 400 

paid subscribers to Group 16. 

Scheduled to open this week with "Dedee" 

in the Masonic Auditorium, the Auditorium 

canceled its contract with Saludo when Police 

Chief Frank W. Story notified the Masonic 

Temple Ass'n that "if they (the pictures) were 

deemed to be obscene or licentious when they 

are shown, not only the exhibitors but also 

the owners of the auditorium would be subject 

to arrest." 

At a later period, and after viewing "Dedee" 

Chief Story is reported as stating that he 

has no legal right to halt the foreign films 

which Group 16 hopes to show despite the 

censorship ban. Efforts to secure use of the 

Hotel Manger ballroom also proved fruitless. 

However, further efforts are being made to 

locate a suitable auditorium. 

Group 16 is fashioned after an organization 

called Cinema 16 which has been operating 

for ten years in New York without police or 

state censor board interference. 

Pictures included in the series proposed 

by Saludo in addition to "Dedee" are "Manon," 

"Casque d' Or," "Under Paris Skies" 

and a Mexican film titled "The Young and 

the Damned." 

Cleveland House Granted 

Big Tax Devaluation 

CLEVELAND—Owners of the 105th Street 

Theatre were granted a $125,000 tax valuation 

cut by the board of tax revision. The 

slash was $48,570 less than requested. Previous 

total assessment on the land and building 

of the once famous Keith vaudeville house 

was $481,950. 

Efforts to .secure a lower tax valuation on 

the property were based on two major factors 

claimed to make the buUding obsolete. 

One was the enormous space designed for the 

use of vaudeville troupes, which became useless 

with the decline in vaudeville and the 

rise of films. The other reason for asking 

a reduction was a business drop due to television. 

The claim was made that gross boxoffice 

receipts dropped from $363,267 in 1948 

to $189,021 in 1952. The theatre operated at 

a loss of $36,621 in 1953, according to figures 

presented to the board. 

At the same time it granted a tax valuation 

cut on the 105th Street Theatre property, 

the board turned down a request for a tax 

valuation reduction of $950,530 on the B. F. 

Keith building. The property is currently 

assessed at $2,658,990. Office and store rentals 

in the building, according to the board, offset 

the drop in boxoffice grosses at the RKO 

Palace Theatre, due to television. 

CINCINNATI 

TXrilliam Howard, vice-president of RKO 

Theatres, stopped here to confer with 

Joe Alexander, city manager, before continuing 

with his tour of the territory . . . 

M&M Tlieatres held the grand opening of 

. . . 

its 1,000-car Pike 27 Drive-In on Friday (29). 

The ozoner which is located about 12 miles 

south of here, was completely equipped by 

the Mid-West Theatre Supply Co. It has incar 

heaters for year-around operation 

Mid-West Theatre Supply also reports that 

It has installed wide screens and Cinema- 

Scope equipment at Walter Wyrick's Lyric 

Theatre at Carlisle, Ky., and the local Sunset 

Theatre owned by Charles Ackerman. 

. . . 

Jean Turner has purchased and reopened 

the Seaman Theatre at Seaman, Ohio . . . 

J. H. Davidson has sold his Grant Theatre 

at Georgetown, Ohio, to John Hewitt, 

Members 

an 

exhibitor from Bethel, Ohio 

of Cincinnati Motion Pictures Theatres have 

met each Wednesday for the past two weeks. 

At the meetings which were conducted by 

President F. W. Huss jr., the exhibitors heard 

reports on the National Allied convention in 

Milwaukee by Rube Shor and Louis Wiethe, 

who both attended the meeting. 

J, R. Miller, general manager of Goldman 

Theatres, reports that the local Lincoln, 

Roosevelt and Regal theatres have all been 

equipped with wide screens for the showing 

Milton Gurian, 

of the new processes . . . 

manager of Allied Artists, attended the firm's 

recent sales meeting in Chicago and upon his 

return held a sales meeting of his own for 

all salesmen working out of the exchange . . . 

H. B. Snook, president, and Tom Fisher, vicepresident, 

of Mid-West Supply, attended the 

Theatre Equipment Dealers Ass'n convention 

in Chicago. 

AA city salesman, won the 

. . 

Manny Naegel, 

door prize of a Benrus watch at Fred Krimm's 

recent dinner at the Variety Club in Dayton 

. Lucille Schmolt, office manager of Mid- 

West Supply, has returned from her two-week 

Herb Gillis, Paramount man- 

vacation . . . 

ager, and William Meier, sales manager, have 

been touring the trade territory making a 

survey of theatres equipped for VistaVision 

. . . Keith's Manager Carl Ferraci and Ralph 

Buring, Paramount exploiteer, have been 

collaborating on publicity for "White Christmas" 

which opened here on Thursday (28). 

They sponsored a 10-day contest in the 

Cincinnati Times-Star called "Operation 

Snowfall" which offered a variety of prizes 

tied in with the film to those who guessed the 

time of the season's first snowfall. 

Among exhibitors visiting the Row were: 

J. H. Davidson, Lynchburg, Ohio; A. D. Curfman, 

Westerville, O.; Frank Yassenoff, Columbus; 

Jim Howe, Cai-rollton, Ky.; Moe 

Potasky, Tioy; Jim Herb, Dayton; Jack 

Needham, Columbus; Don Reda, London, Ky.; 

Jack Haynes, Detroit; Harold Raives, Cleveland; 

Joe Joseph, Parkersburg, W. Va.; 

Johnny Goodno, Huntington, W. Va. 

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BOXOFFICE November 6, 1954 67 

TeLept 

'îght: 

"ONf

. 

COLUMBUS 

fJarry Schreiber was host to the three-day 

Columbus Dispatch cooking school held 

at RKO Palace ... "A Star Is Born" went 

into a second week at the Palace after a big 

Jerry Rasor, radio and TV 

first week . . . 

singer from Commercial Point, Ohio, flew 

to Hollywood for a screen test. Rasor has 

been appearing on local airshows. 

Norman Nadel, Columbus Citizen theatre 

editor, will go on a lecture tour in the 

United States and Canada in the fall of 

1955. He will take a three-week leave of absence 

from the Citizen each fall and spring 

for a concentrated series of speaking engagements 

at colleges and universities. His 

^ ^ 

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ELMER BILLS 

Bills 

Salisbury, 

Theatres 

Missouri 

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Mr. Hard, Hendr«'J^^ ^ ^ 

lilted FU-^ -;;i3SOurl 

Kansas ^tUf— Cii^S 

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. . . 

talks will deal largely with the theatre and 

music The Columbus and Franklin 

County Motion Picture Council is now a 

charter member of the National Federation 

of Motion Picture Councils, Inc. 

Dean Myers, radio, TV and assistant theatre 

editor of the Columbus Dispatch, has 

been in New York for a series of interviews 

with show business personalities . . Charles 

. 

Sugarman estimates that "The Moon Is 

Blue" attracted some 90,000 admissions during 

its 26-week record run at the World . . 

Robert Little, manager of the Bexley art 

theatre, announced the booking of Gina Lollobrigida 

in "Bread, Love and Dreams." 

"PRODUCTION QUALITY, 

SALESMEN and 

HANDLING 

are all COMMENDABLE" 

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High School Students 

Program Curbs Disorders 

COLUMBUS, OHIO—An attempt by a 

local high school fraternity to disrupt a performance 

at Loew's Ohio Theatre was turned 

into the initial step in a right-about-face for 

the teenagers involved. Manager Walter 

Kessler of the Ohio has been working with 

the high school group in a program that has 

been attracting community-wide attention. 

The trouble started when 30 members of 

Sigma Rho fraternity, many armed with 

beanshooters, began pelting members of the 

audience. The policemen on duty at the 

theatre attempted to quiet the boys, who 

became noisy and unmanageable. Reinforcements 

were sent for and the boys were 

quieted. On the sidewalk they continued to 

annoy patrons, jostling passersby and ticket 

buyers. 

Later, officers of the fraternity apologized 

to Kessler. He. in turn, offered his help on 

civic projects that would use the talents and 

energies of the members in a way to win 

public approval, rather than criticism. The 

officers later told Norman Nadel, theatre 

editor of the Citizen, that "We expected to 

get bawled out. Instead, he gave us some 

wonderful ideas." 

Kessler was invited to speak to a group 

of the boys and a program of worthwhile 

projects was outlined. The fraternity (composed 

entirely of Upper Arlington high 

school students, although the fraternity is 

not recognized by the school 

i pledged to work 

at a variety of projects. These include: 

(11 Supplying help by 20 members at 

the Kivvanis Club Kids' Day at Lockboume 

Air Force Base. 

(2) Agreeing to assist the Northwest 

Kiwanis Club in any of the club activities. 

(3) Bringing cerebral palsy victims to 

Upper Arlington football games. 

(4) Forming a committee to bring books 

and magazines to the Juvenile Diagnostic 

Center. 

(5i Announcing that the fraternity 

welcomes calls for assistance from any 

civic group. 

The club passed an amendment to the 

that any member found 

bylaws which states 

to be causing a disturbance or "making a 

general nuisance of himself" at any establishment, 

where the fraternity is attending as 

a group, shall be voted upon for expulsion 

from the club. 

Mothers of the fraternity members have 

formed a Mothers' Club to act as chaperones 

and advisers. It might be noted in passing 

that Upper Arlington is the wealthiest community 

in suburban Columbus, with many of 

the city's most prominent businessmen and 

civic leaders residing there. 

In an open letter printed in the Upper 

Arlington News, officers of Sigma Rho said 

of Kessler: "We found him to be extremely 

nice. He impressed upon us that our problem 

was not only one of trying to right our wrong 

but also one of buUding character and that 

we. as officers, had a great burden on our 

shoulders. We were so impressed with his 

talk that we invited him to speak at a club 

meeting so that all of the members could 

have the privilege of hearing this wonderful 

speaker." 

The boys insisted that the incident at 

WALTER KESSLER 

Loew's Ohio was not a planned affair, but 

"just happened." They said that a few of the 

boys bought bags of beans and beanshooters 

on the way to the theatre. 

Reynold E. Greene, managing editor of the 

Upper Ai-lington News, wrote an editorial 

titled "Are Oui- Children OVER-Privileged?" 

in which parents were reminded of their 

responsibilities in knowing what their children 

are doing. He wrote: 

"Are we, as parents, too busy attending 

afternoon teas and evening business and 

social meetings to give the proper amount of 

time to our youngsters? Are our children too 

often given excessive spending money, or the 

privilege of using the family car or perhaps 

one of their own with the thought that we 

are being the proper type of parents? Do we 

actually know, beyond any question, what our 

children are doing every night they are away 

from home? Ninety-seven per cent of the 

youngsters of our community are wellbehaved 

and have the proper respect for the 

property of others. Let's take inventory of 

our daily living and see perhaps if we can 

devote just a little more time each day to 

our children. They need our guidance more 

today than ever before. We certainly do not 

want our community to be one of OVER- 

PRIVILEGED CHILDREN." 

Manager Kessler said that he plans to continue 

to work with any interested Individuals 

or groups to curb misconduct in theatres. 

"We will be happy to meet with such 

groups and develop a program of activities in 

redii-ecting the energies of youth in the hope 

that they will outgrow the desire to give 

trouble." said Ke.ssler. 

Kessler said that it has been found to be 

more effective to call the parents rather than 

the police when juveniles ai-e caught in infractions 

of good conduct. "Too often young 

offenders are protected by police regulations 

forbidding certain measures of punishment. 

As a consequence, many teenagers have no 

fear of the police. We have found that the 

inconvenience to parents caused by having to 

come to the theatre to 'bail out' theii children 

rather than seeing them turned over to 

the police, has been a potent factor in the 

prevention of disorderly conduct. 

"This procedure of calling the parents or 

other responsible adults takes more time 

than merely turning offenders over to the 

police," he added, "but the results justify the 

plan." Kessler said that a good example of 

this technique was the case of a group of 

underprivileged boys, members of the Gray 

Y, assocated with the YMCA. A group of the 

boys was apprehended sneaking into the 

theatre. Kessler called the Y official in 

charge. The boys were threatened with suspension 

of Y privileges. The word soon spread 

and this type of delinquency was stamped 

out in one entire underprivileged area, Kessler 

said. 

Kessler recalled one typical example of the 

success of the method of calling parents to 

come to the theatre and claim their sons. 

"A troublemaker was caught and we called 

his home. His mother was out participating 

in a bow'ling tournament. We contacted the 

mother and told her that she must come 

immediately to claim her son or he would be 

turned over to the police. The son's fear of 

his parent's ii-e was justified when she arrived 

and took him in hand in no uncertain manner. 

In another case a man had to close 

his gas station to take his boy in tow. This 

plan works." 

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. . . Saturday 

. . The 

. . Jim 

'Star' in Boston Met 

Earns Sparkling 300 

BOSTON—"A Star Is 

Born" turned in one 

of the biggest weeks in several years at the 

Metropolitan and led local fii-st run grosses. 

The film is in for thi-ee weeks and may stay 

four. No other program came close with the 

exception of "Betrayed" at Loew's State and 

Orpheum. The Metropolitan prices were 80 

cents mornings, $1 until 5 p.m. and $1.25 until 

closing, with $1.50 Saturdays and Sundays 

from 5 till closing. 

(Averoge Is 100) 

Astor Sabrina (Para), 5th wk 1 00 

Beacon Hill The Vonishing Proirie (Bueno Vista), 

6th wk 85 

Boston This Is Cinerama (SW), 43rd wk 85 

Exeter Street High and Dry (U-l), 2nd wk 105 

Memorial The Adventures of Hojii Baba 

(20th-Fox); Blackout (LP) 110 

Metropolitan A Star Is Born (WB) 300 

Paramount and Fenway Notorious (SRO); The 

Former's Daughter (SRO) 1 00 

Pilgrim Rogue Cop (MGM); Fast and Furious 

(Embassy), 2nd wk 90 

State and Orpheum Betrayed (MGM); Yellow 

Tomahawk (UA) 1 25 

Quiet Week in New Haven 

Led by 'Human Jungle' 

NEW HAVEN—"Brigadoon" and "Human 

Jungle" set the pace here this week, trailed 

by a holdover of "Rogue Cop" and a pair of 

reissues. 

College—Rogue Cop (MGM); Khyber Patrol (UA), 

2nd wk 90 

Paramount Notorious (SRO); The Farmer's 

Daughter iSRO), reissues 90 

Poll Brigadoon (MGM) 1 05 

Roger Sherman Human Jungle (AA); Bowery to 

Bagdad (AA) 115 

'Star' Is Tremendous 

In Hartford 

HARTFORD—"A Woman's World" was the 

only downtown holdover. "A Star Is Born" 

did tremendously. 

Allyn Human Jungle (AA); Two Guns and a 

Badge ( AA) 1 00 

Art— Bellissima (IFE) 80 

E. M. Loew The Block Knight (Col) 150 

Poll Brigadoon (MGM) 1 65 

Palace A Woman's World (20th-Fox), 2nd 

d. t. wk 110 

Strand 

210 

A Stor Is Born ( WB) 

Frank Boyle Disagrees 

With Sports Columnist 

BOSTON—A .sports columnist in the Fitchburg 

Sentinel put show business on the pan 

in one of his columns which offended Frank 

Boyle, managing director of the Saxon and 

Fitchburg theatres there. The columnist 

maintained that a deliberate attempt on the 

part of show business to ridicule personalities 

in American sports was being made, 

depicting the athletes as buffoons or culprits 

of one nature or another. Boyle immediately 

forwarded a letter to the Sentinel, in which 

he declared: 

"If by show business you mean television, 

that's one thing, but if you mean it in an 

inclusive manner, that's quite another, and 

I at once arise in spirited defense of that 

part of show business in which we revel 

the movies ... As I am writing this, marvelous 

tributes to the nation's sports come to 

my mind; such as 'The Pride of the Yankees,' 

'The Joe Louis Story," 'The Jackie Robinson 

Story,' 'Follow the Sun' and 'The Spirit 

of Notre Dame.' the daddy of all football 

pictures." 

Sneaked at Hartford 

HARTFORD—"So This Is Paris" was 

'Paris' 

sneak-previewed at the Strand. 

HARTFORD 

The downtown Strand, which normally starts 

performances at 11 a.m., pushed opening 

time up to 9:30, with screenings at 10, to 

accommodate heavy patronage for "A Star 

Is Born" . . . Denise Darcel, the film player, 

attended the Hartford Jewish tercentenary 

dinner at the Statler October 30. 

Pat Buchieri has left Hartford Theatres 

Lyric, with his new affiliation not disclosed 

morning children's shows are 

in their eighth year at the Central, West 

Hartford, Manager Hugh J. Campbell 

proudly reports. 

Bill Daugherty of Lockwood & Gordon 

Theatres reports resumption of children's 

film programs under sponsorship oi the 

Wethersfield PTA council. On the program 

starting November 13 are "Courage of Lassie," 

"It Ain't Hay," "Dickens Christmas Carol," 

"My Friend Flicka" and "Young Daniel 

Boone." Both morning and afternoon screenings 

are planned . McCarthy, Stanley 

Warner district manager who has been ill 

for some time, passed through town, en 

route from his Bridgeport home to Boston 

for additional hospitalization. 

Joe Bronsteln, general manager, and Isadore 

Bregman, a partner in the Family Drivein 

Theatre Corp.. East Hartford, returned 

from an inspection tour of Miami area driveins 

. . . One of the few Connecticut drive-in 

holdouts against the resumption of eastern 

standard time, the Quinebaug Drive-In on 

Route 131, has finally capitulated and is again 

on EST, after running on daylight saving time 

for many weeks past other Connecticut 

ozoners. 

The suit of a West Haven woman who 

blamed a fall at the Forest Theatre, West 

Haven, for a miscarriage she suffered, was 

settled for $1,700 in an out-of-court aiTangement 

. . . Sky-Vue Drive-In, Ton'ington, has 

closed the early part of the week for the remainder 

of the season. Other Lockwood & 

Gordon units at East Windsor, Danbury and 

South Norwalk are continuing on seven-night 

policy, according to Douglas J. Amos, division 

manager. 

Barbara Dolgin, daughter of the Joe Dolgins 

of the Pine Drive-In, has joined a professional 

dance company in New York, called 

the Merry-Go-Rounders. Miss Dolgin, formerly 

in Hartford schools, has been studying 

dance with some top instructors in Manhattan 

. Waterford Drive-In ran a twoevening 

benefit for the local fire company, 

with nine merchants participating in a fourcolumn 

newspaper ad. On the screen was 

Allied Artists' "Torpedo Alley," which was 

filmed in part at the U. S. submarine base in 

Groton. 

Joe Borenstein, Strand, New Britain, tied 

up with two merchants to underwrite costs of 

distribution of 40-cent records to young patrons 

at Saturday matinee cartoon program. 

Frocks in Lobby 

Ray McNamara of the Allyn Theatre in 

Hartford promoted a handsome lobby display 

of frocks fashioned after those worn 

by Audrey Hepburn in "Sabrina" through 

a ladies dress shop. 

MET's Managers Wind 

Up Busy Drive Month 

BOSTON—The New England Theatres 

Profit and Prestige drive rolled along in high 

gear in October. The majority of managers 

in the circuit planned Halloween kiddy shows, 

merchant participation programs, radio 

broadcasts from theatre lobbies, football 

nights and many other local tie-ins. 

R. A. Bergeron, manager of the Haynes 

Theatre, Waterville, Me., has been staging 

a series of high school victory rallies in the 

theatre, showing films taken at the afternoon 

games on the screen that evening. 

Marvin Huban of the Strand, Dorchester, 

held a special radio broadcast emanating 

from the lobby. 

Arthur Morton, Paramount, Boston, set up 

a street interview broadcast over WVDA in 

front of the theatre. 

Max Nayor, Metropolitan, Boston, set up 

a booth in the lobby to sell Columbia recordings 

of the music from "A Star Is Born" 

during the run of the picture. Attractive 

models made the sales. 

The following managers held morning kiddy 

shows for Halloween and later midnight 

shows for the teenagers and adults: Arthur 

Allaire, Opera House, Bangor, Me.; Alex 

Castoldi, Paramount, Newton; John Fagan, 

Central, Biddeford, Me.; Ben Greenberg, Stadium, 

Woonsocket, R. I.; Marvin Huban, 

Strand, Dorchester; Frank Kelley, Colonial, 

Haverhill, and Lou Kemiey, Capitol, AUston. 

With the October committee completing such 

a terrific job in the exploitation campaign, 

the November committee is shooting for even 

better results in this three-month drive. 

'New Faces' Dinner Nov. 9 

To Mark Filmrow Shifts 

BOSTON—The Variety Club of New England's 

"New Faces in New Positions" testimonial 

luncheon, honoring ten exchange 

workers who have been promoted or transferred 

this year, is a bright event on the 

industry calendar for this season. The event 

will be held at the Roof Garden of the Hotel 

Bradford November 9, with Benn Rosenwald, 

MGM manager, as chairman. All exchange 

managers are serving on the committee. 

Tickets at $5 are available at the Variety Club 

in the Hotel Statler, William S. Koster, executive 

du-ector. 

Seated on the dais will be James M. Connolly 

of 20th-Fox, who was recently appointed 

division manager; John Feloney of the same 

office, who was upped to branch manager; 

Joseph Gins of Universal, who came here as 

division manager; Fr-ancis Dervin of RKO, 

transferred to the home office as an executive 

officer; Herbert Schaefer, who resigned as 

manager of Republic to join Buena Vista Productions; 

Ralph lannuzzi, Warner manager, 

recently transferred here; John Moore of 

Paramount, recently promoted to division 

manager; Jack Brown of Paramount, who is 

now branch manager: William Madden of 

MGM. transferred to branch manager at 

Philadelphia, and Judson Parker of Republic, 

recently appointed branch manager. 

SW Executives in 

Hartford 

HARTFORD—Hany Feinstein and J. M. 

Totman, zone executive of Stanley Warner 

Theatres, were conferring with Jack Sanson, 

Strand manager here. 

BOXOFTICE November 6, 1954 

N£ 71

! 

O S T O N 

'The lineup of new product coming in for the 

Thanksgiving week or the one previous 

includes "The Barefoot Contessa" (UA) at 

Loew's State and Orpheum: "The Black 

Widow" t20th-Pox) at the Keith Memorial 

and "No Business Like Show Business" C20th- 

Fox) at the Metropolitan Theatre. The management 

of the Astor Theatre, where 

"Sabrina" is completing its fifth week, is 

undecided on its holiday feature as it is possible 

that the Paramount comedy may be 

held through the Thanksgiving week. 

For the first time in many years full page 

ads appeared in the local newspapers plugging 

Paramount's "White Christmas." Each 

paper carried the page ad either on the day 

before the film opened or on opening day at 

the Paramount and Fenway theatres . . . 

Major Equipment Co., successor to Joe Cifre, 

Inc., recently installed Motiograph equipment 

at E. M. Loew's Route 128 Drive-In, 

Bm-lington, and a Motiograph mixer in ATC's 

Oxford Drive-In, Oxford. The company has 

added a new sewing room at its headquarters 

for theatre stage draperies and curtains. It is 

supervised by Howard Alcorn who has been 

in the industry for 50 years. 

The Smith Management Co. Cinema Theatre 

at Fi-amingham has formed a Framingham 

Artists Guild with a membership of 43 

artists. Weekly exhibits of the canvasses of 

members and outside artists are shown in the 

inner lounge. The manager is Lloyd Mills. 

This city is the sixth city on the list of 

seven to be visited by Ginger Rogers and her 

husband Jacques Bergerac. They will be here 

for two days (17, 18) to exploit UA's "Tw'ist 

of Fate." Joe Mansfield, UA publicist, is setting 

up a press luncheon at the Ritz which 

will be followed by radio stints for the stars. 

Bergerac, who also appears in the film, will 

be on a TV program . . . Phil Bloomberg, 

Orpheum, Danvers, was in town, reporting 

he has given up his option on the new drivein 

to be built in Georgetown on Route 133. 

l*-'/W 

For 35 Years the Leaiters 

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Rene Le- 

Brun, owners of the Star Theatre, Limestone, 

Me., on the bii'th of their third child and second 

daughter, named Andrea Mary . . . Phil 

Lamport, for the last ten years a poster clerk 

at National Screen, has joined G. Fred Geisler 

Motion Picture Sales and Service as an 

operator for its 16mm service . . Phil Zim- 

. 

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merman, head of the real estate department 

of Stanley Warner Theatres, and C. P. 

O'Toole, head of the engineering department, 

were in two days on routine business. 

In the September Fabian's Fabulous Forty 

contest for the Stanley Warner managers, 

three Massachusetts managers tied for second 

place. They are Steve Barbett, Warners, 

Lawrence; Guido Luminello, Palace, Lawrence, 

and Bob Howell, Port, Newbui-yport. 

Joe Liss is the district manager. 

The Warner office here is preparing for a 

District Managers drive December 5-11, when 

an attempt will be made to have every theatre 

in this territory showing a Warner feature 

and/or short subject. Ralph lannuzzi, 

manager; Bill Kumins, sales manager, and 

salesmen Bill Horan and Jack Hill are hard 

at work on bookings, shooting for a 100 per 

cent coverage. 

Special commendation goes to Morris Sims, 

chairman of the 1954 Jimmy fund drive in 

New Bedford. Sims and his hardworking 

committee managed to raise $6,800 in theatre 

audience collections and other events. Sims 

is the manager of the Olympia there for 

New England Theatres. Extra curricular 

money-raisers included fashion shows, tag 

days, radio and press tie-ins and merchant 

participation events, all of which totaled up 

to the magnificent sum sent to the Jimmy 

fund headquarters. 

Arch Lade, owner of two theatres in 

Maine, one in Kingfield and the other in 

. . Capitol 

Phillips, has had them both equipped for 

Cinemascope with optical sound . 

Theatre Supply is instaUing Cinema- 

Scope equipment in Lillian Keegan's Gayety 

Theatre, Van Bm-en, Me. . . . Doris Flanagan, 

bookkeeper at 20th-Fox, resigned and was 

given a farewell dinner by the office staff. 

Pauline Vallas from the same office spent 

the holiday weekend enjoying outdoor sports 

at the Jug Inn Barn, Pittsfield. 

Oakley Whitney, owner and manager of the 

Pioneer Drive-In, Orange, gave over an entire 

evening's boxoffice receipts to the Will 

Rogers Memorial Hospital at a benefit performance. 

Warner Bros, donated the film 

"Big Jim McLain" and U-I gave "Lawless 

Breed" for the occasion. The $126.50 take 

was augmented by a donation of $41.75 from 

the theatre employes, all of whom gave their 

services free for the charity showing. 

Long-Run Record Set 

By Cinerama in N.Y. 


NEW YORK—"This Is Cinerama" established 

an all-time long-run record for New 

York, which means the U. S. also, Tuesday 

(26). The Lowell Thomas-Merian C. Cooper 

opus began its 109th week on Broadway, exceeding 

the 108-week run of "The Red Shoes" 

at the Bijou Theatre. 

The only other film now being shown that 

has run as long as one year is "Lili," in its 

84th week at the Ti'ans-Lux 52nd Street 

Theatre. "Open City" ran 91 weeks. Other 

films that had extended runs are "The Big 

Parade," 66 weeks; "Hamlet." 61 weeks; 

"Paisan," 51 weeks; "Bitter Rice," 47 weeks, 

and "Gone With the Wind," 43 weeks. 

Film Trailers Shown 

To Circuit Buyers 

BOSTON—A new method of pre-selling a 

film to circuit and independent buyers and 

bookers has been adopted by Terry Turner, 

who has assembled three episodes of TV's 

"Gang Busters" for theatres. 

Turner had several TV and theatre trailers 

prepared in 16mm. With Joseph E. Levine of 

Embassy Pictures, who will distribute the 

"Gang Busters" film in the New England territory, 

Tui-ner set up projectors in the offices 

of the larger circuits and ran the trailers. 

Thus, the film buyers were able to see exactly 

what the public will view on TV and in the 

theatre before the film is released. 

Posters, lobby displays, newspaper ads and 

theatre accessories are also shown to the 

prospective buyer. "Gang Busters" was assembled 

by Visual Drama, an affiliate of 

General Teleradio, Inc., in association with 

Turner. The project is backed by a $50,000 

TV, radio and newspaper promotion campaign 

to launch the film in the New England area, 

which has been selected as the kickoff section. 

After showing the trailers to the larger 

circuits. Turner and Levine invited a group 

of independent film buyers and bookers to 

view them in the offices of Embassy Pictures 

Corp. 

Turner said he chose New England for the 

kickoff because it is a highly concentrated 

area for TV and radio promotion. Through 

station WNAC-TV and its affiliates he can 

hit 200 situations and 60 first runs, he claims. 

The teaser trailers have proven to be most 

successful in the past with other films and 

can be used effectively for boxoffice results, 

he claims. The 78-minute "Gang Busters" 

also will be backed by a managers contest. 

Plans ai'e to have six winners of exploitation 

and promotional contests in the territory 

given an overseas trip by an airline company 

for two weeks. 

PROVIDENCE 

\tThen this city was threatened with the 

third hurricane in less than two months, 

many downtown theatres, along with all 

stores, closed. A hui'ricane watch was set up 

and downtown sections, which were seriously 

flooded in the two previous storms, were 

closed off. Fortunately, Rhode Island escaped 

the brunt of the storm, but theatres suffered 

loss of Friday matinee and evening 

business, with light weekend houses resulting 

from the scare . . . The Avon Cinema was the 

locale of the Rhode Island premiere of "The 

Pickwick Papers." It offered "Edge of Divorce" 

as the companion feature. 

. . 

The Fairlawn in adjacent Pawtucket, showing 

"The Fi-ench Line," advised patrons it 

would be omitted at the Saturday matinee, 

which is largely made up of juveniles . . . 

"On the Waterfront" held for a second week 

at Loew's State . . . The Johnston in nearby 

Thornton is giving away hand-painted ovenware 

to hypo business . The Quonset Drive- 

In while presenting "Three Forbidden Stories" 

suggested that children be left at home during 

Among the neighborhood 

this presentation . . . houses offering Saturday afternoon 

kiddy shows are the Hollywood. East Providence, 

and Community in Centerdale. 


. . Dorothy 

Ralph Kautzky New Altec 

Northeast Division Head 


NEW YORK—Ralph Kautzky has been 

named acting manager of Altec Service Corp. 

northeastern division by H. M. Bessey, execut 

i V e vice-president. 

Kautzky succeeds C. S. 

Perkins, who recently 

was made operating 

manager of the Altec 

organization in the 

New York headquarters. 

Kautzky will direct 

operational activities 

from the northeastern 

engineering 

field force offices at 

254 West 54th St. 

Kautzky has served 

Ralph Kautzky 

with both Altec and its 

predecessor, Electrical Research Products, 

Inc. He joined ERPI in 1928 as a member 

of the field engineering force in Harrisburg. 

and was later transferred to Atlanta and 

London, where he supervised the installation 

of the first sound-on-film equipment. 

When Altec was formed he became a field 

engineer in the New York division office. 

He was assigned to the Newark division In 

1949 as field supervisor for New Jersey. He 

became branch manager of the New York 

division in 1952. 

Matinees Discontinued 

HARTFORD — Hartford Theatres has 

dropped weekday matinees at the Lenox and 

Lyric. 

NEW HAVEN 

paramount's first VistaVision production, 

"White Chi-istmas," will have its Connecticut 

premiere at four theatres on Wednesday 

(10). The group includes the Roger 

Sherman here; State, Waterbury; Palace, 

Norwich, and Capitol, New London. The film 

will open at the Strand in Hartford, Veterans' 

Day (11) . . . Harry Shaw had his 

cousin, Irving Barrett, operator of a New 

York theatrical agency, and comedian Joey 

Adams as his guests for the Yale-Dartmouth 

game . . . Most neighborhoods in this territory 

ran matinee Halloween shows, with some 

offering ice cream and other giveaways from 

merchants. 

Charles Smackowitz, New York district 

manager for Stanley Warner, was in town for 

a conference at the zone office . . . The Whalley 

Theatre here and the Whitney in Hamden 

brought in Fred Murphy and his TV 

"Punch and Judy" puppet show for three 

stage shows during the annual teachers' convention 

when there was no school . . . Mrs. 

Phil Zimmerman, wife of the SW real estate 

manager, was ill with pneumonia. 

Jim McCarthy, Connecticut district manager 

for SW, has entered Massachusetts General 

Hospital for further surgery. He previously 

underwent surgery at the Peter Bent 

Brigham Hospital in Boston. Letters from 

friends would be appreciated . . . Kathy 

Masella, three -year-old daughter of Tony 

Masella, manager of Loew's Palace in Meriden, 

delighted the crowd at a Republican 

rally in that city by shaking the hand of 

Governor John Lodge and surprising him 

with a kiss, 

Harry Browning, publicity representative 

for New England Theatres, and Arnold Van- 

Lear, field representative for Paramount, 

were in on exploitation for "White Christmas" 

. . . Lou Green, Massachusetts sound 

and projection man for SW, and Charles 

Lowe, who has the same duties in New York 

and Connecticut, were here for a two-day 

conference with Cy O'Toole, sound-projection 

chief for the three-state zone. 

Condolences to Sid Kleper, manager of 

Loew's College, on the death of his father 

Hyman Kleper, a building contractor in Hartford 

. . . Paramount's Booker-Salesman 

Month, December 5 to January 1, will be dedicated, 

in this area, to John Moore, now district 

manager and former branch manager 

here. Bookers Dick Carroll and FYank Manzi 

and salesman Chester Plckman are already 

making their promotion plans. 

Phil Allaire, former manager of the Palace, 

Torrington, who remained at that house after 

Stanley Warner sold it to the Jacobson 

brothers in a divorcement move, has rejoined 

SW and is temporarily assistant manager at 

the Strand, Hartford . Breslav, 

ex-secretary at the Paramount branch, now 

living in Miami, was a visitor here. 

The Post Drive-In, East Haven, is the latest 

ozoner to revert to a weekend schedule. 

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BOXOFFICE : 

: November 6, 1954 73

. . . RKO 

. 

. . 

O N T R E A L 

TJob Murphy, Montreal manager for Paramount, 

arranged a preview of "White 

Christmas" at the York Theatre for Monday 

morning for exhibitors from all parts of 

Quebec province, who were here to attend 

the convention of Quebec Allied Theatrical 

Interests, Inc. Murphy's invitations drew attention 

to the fact "White Christmas" is 

Paramount's first VistaVision production. 

Mui"phy described VistaVision as a triumph 

of photography, offering a much greater 

clarity and depth and accuracy of focus. Al 

TurnbuU explained the more technical aspects 

of the process. 

Bill Trow, president of Quebec Cinema 

Booking and of Montreal Poster Exchange, 

announced progress with installation of Cinemascope 

facilities and of extensive alteration 

work being done at his theatre, the 

Cartier at Rimouski. Trow said "Les Enfants 

de L'Amour," shown at his Capitol at Riviere 

du Loup, broke all boxoffice records at the 

four-year-old house. The Quebec Cinema 

REVENUS ADDITIONNELS 

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avec 

PRESENTATIONS CINEMAT06RAPHIQUES 

pour plus de details, ecrivez a: 

ADFILMS LIMITED, 

77 York St., Toronto 

official also announced installation of Cinemascope 

was completed at the O'Connor 

Theatre, Huntingdon. 

Directors of Consolidated Theatres declared 

a dividend of 10 cents a share on Class B common 

stock, and 12 cents on Class A shares, 

both payable December 1 to shareholders of 

record November 1. 

. . . C. S. Chaplin, 

Ted Akinson, former manager for Cardinal 

Films, has been promoted to general sales 

manager for Alliance Films and Astral Film, 

effective October 25. Jay L. Smith, Toronto, 

president of Alliance, was here conferring 

with Atkinson. Bob Johnson. J. Arthur Rank 

manager, has taken over the distributorship 

of Cardinal product here 

Toronto, general manager of United Artists 

of Canada, attended the premiere of "Operation 

Manhunt" at the Princess Theatre here. 

The premiere of the film story of Igor 

Gouzenko was done to the accompaniment 

of the customary popping flash bulbs and 

roving spotlights. A raft of local celebrities 

attended the premiere, which was under the 

auspices of the Cancer Research Society . 

"Fabian of Scotland Yard," the story of the 

fabulous retired Scotland Yard inspector, distributed 

by Astral Films, opened at the Kent 

will soon release "Hansel and 

Gretel" in Technicolor. 

William C. Gehrlng, New York, general 

sales manager for 20th-Fox, accompanied by 

Arthur Silverstone, assistant sales manager, 

and Pete Myers, Toronto, Canadian general 

from every 

angle 

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in the house . . 

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wVhatever your angle a good theatre chair 

should fit your curves. Heywood-Wakefield Chairs 

feature "contour forming" — your patrons sit in not on 

these richly-upholstered chairs. Ask us about the new 

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DOMINION SOUND EQUIPMENTS LIMITED 

HEAD OFfrCE: 4040 St. Catherine Street West, Montreal. 

BRANCHES AT: Halifax, Saint John, Quebec, Montreal, Ottowa, Toronto, 

Hamilton, London, North Bay, Winnipeg, Regina, Calgary, Edmonton, Voncouver. 

sales manager, were at the local office . . . 

Bob Johnson of JARO, distributor of Cardinal 

Films, and wife had an agreeable surprise when 

some 200 friends joined in celebration of 

their 25th wedding anniversary. The party 

was held at the Montreal West Curling Club, 

where a silver tea service was presented to 

the happy couple. 

. . . Mrs. 

M. J. Isman, Empire Universal manager, reported 

good fun on a fishing and hunting 

expedition in the Baskatong area 

Debi Gilletz, stenographer at Warner Bros., 

and her husband took an extensive motor trip 

to Baltimore and New York City . . . Murray 

Swiegman, general manager of Theatre Poster 

Exchange, Toronto, was here arranging 

demonstration of Tushinsky lenses . . . Many 

exhibitors have installed CinemaScope and 

stereophonic equipment in recent weeks, and 

as a result a good number of them were 

visitors to the film exchange to book for 

films for their new facilities. Among them 

were Aime Dionne of the Cartier Theatre, 

Chicoutimi; the three partners in the Laurentien 

at Mont Laurier, Omer Belanger. Gerard 

Gauthier and Ernest Lapointe;- Nat Cohen 

of the Crown, Brownsburg; Emile Ruffo, Cinema 

Iberville of Iberville and of the Dieppe 

Theatre, Montreal .South; L. Lacouture of 

Sorel, operator of the Eden, Capitol and 

Sorel. 

Others on Filmrow: Tom Trow, Imperial of 

Three Rivers; R. D'Amour, the Mackayville 

Theatre, Mackayville; Gonzalgue Ti-emblay, 

Capitol, Chicoutimi; Art Morency, manager of 

the Cartier, Drummondville, owned by Henri 

Tourigny and Eugene Godbout; L. Trottier, 

Acton Vale; Billy Hall, manager of the 

Rimouski's Cartier; Mel Lodge, the Myra of 

Richmond, and Henry Lodge of the Lise of 

Asbestos; Mr. and Mrs. Jacob of the Lyric, 

Black Lake; Georges Champagne, manager 

of a chain of theatres of Shawinigan Falls: 

Phil Karibian, the Pine of Ste, Adele; Ed 

Gauthier of the Rio, Sorel; Romeo Couillard, 

Cinema Tache and Lafontaine of Montmagny; 

M. Chartrand of Malartic, owner of 

the Malartic and Royal, and Gaston Theroux, 

Asbestos. 

John Levitt, Columbia salesman, returned 

from a sales trip in the Gaspe Peninsula . . . 

Romeo Goudreau, Paramount, was on a sales 

expedition throughout Quebec province, while 

Jack Kroll of Warner Bros., also left for the 

Gaspe coast ... Jo Oupcher, district manager 

for IFDL, and Eloi Cormier, salesman, returned 

from Quebec City. 

The Seville Theatre cooperated with the 

Amazing Randi in a Verdun Kinsmen Club 

benefit show. Randi, who is trying to beat 

Houdini's record (90 minutest in escaping 

from a sealed coffin under water, gave a 

demonstration at the Seville Theatre. 

J. P. Desmarais of Cine France Distribution 

said that a preview of "Mam'zelle 

Nitouche." held at the Odeon projection room, 

was well received. A cocktail party held in 

conjunction with the preview attracted a good 

crowd of exhibitors and others interested. 

The film had its debut here at La Scala Saturday 

C30) . . . Photographic tradeshow and 

convention delegates were told that 1955 may 

well represent a record-making milestone in 

Canada's economic history by J. A. Davis, 

manager of the DuPont chemical department 

here . . . Robert Lewis of Ann Arbor, Mich., 

reported his firm had recently expanded to 

Canada. The convention and show was a 

three-day affair and 64 booths displayed 

photographic equipment. 

76 BOXOFFICE : 

: November 

6, 1954

. . . Bob 

. . Painters 

. . We 

. . "Broken 

Film and TV Workshop 

Planned for Montreal 

MONTREAL—William J. Singleton, general 

manager of Associated Screen News, announced 

that the first motion picture and 

television workshop to be held in Canada 

will be staged here December 6 through 8. 

He said the workshop program will include 

discussions, demonstrations and exhibits. 

Representatives of advertising agencies, motion 

picture and television producers, television 

station personnel, government officials 

and advertising and public relations executives 

will attend. 

Dr. A. W. Trueman, National Film Board 

commissioner, will be the featured speaker at 

the opening session Monday, December 6. 

A. Davidson Dunton, chairman of the Canadian 

Broadcasting Corp., will speak at the 

second day session. 

E. Fitzgibbons of Famous Players will discuss, 

the third day, the operation of a private 

television 

station. 

Singleton said that his firm is cooperating 

with the Calvin Co. of Kansas City, Mo., 

originators of the workshop idea, in setting up 

the three-day meeting here. 

VANCOUVER 

. 

f^lark Gable was due here this week to join 

his friend Garry Cooper on a hunting 

trip. Both were expected to attend the film 

ball Halloween night . . . Classifield as adult 

entertainment by the British Columbia censor 

board were Suddenly, The Egyptian, 

House of the Arrow, Human Desire, Kill Him 

for Me, Le Plaisir, The Naked Alibi, Mad 

Magician, Paid to Kill and The Weak and 

the Wicked are picketing the 

new city hall and the reconstructed 1,000- 

seat theatre at Duncan on Vancouver Island 

McMillan, veteran projectionist, died 

while on duty at the Odeon Olympia here. 

He was a Canadian Picture Pioneer. He 

was 73. 

The Valley Drive-In at Creston is being 

built in the Crows Nest Pass district by 

Lloyd Johnstone, owner of the Tivoli there, 

and Bill Tedford. It will be geared for 300 

cars ... A checkup of the small situations 

in British Columbia and the prairie provinces 

shows the majority are too narrow for wide 

screen and even less so for Cinemascope installations 

. . . Roy McCullough has been appointed 

manager of the western division of 

Adfilms, Ltd., and will headquarter in Edmonton. 

Clyde Gilmour resigned as Vancouver 

Sun columnist but remains as critic 

for the CBC network and MacLean's magazine. 

. . Peter Jorgenson, 

Harry Howard, manager of Theatre Equipment 

Supply Co.. was in Kitimat in northern 

British Columbia where he planned to build 

a 35mm theatre in the mining town at present 

serviced by 16mm . 

film technician, wôn an appeal against a 

four-year prison sentence for setting a fire 

to his film studio in Vancouver's east end. 

The crown alleged that Jorgenson started the 

fire after he insured the plant for $400,000. 

More than 150 women urged theatre operators 

to offer a higher standard of films for 

the younger set and commended the Parent- 

Teacher Ass'n for its efforts to sweep crime 

comics off the newsstands. The women were 

at the Social Credit League convention in 

Hotel Vancouver. 

It is no secret that many of the smallseaters 

have fallen on evil days. "They look 

to be dying," is the comment in film circles. 

Five have closed in the past year. 

WINNIPEG 

f^harlie Frankelson, 16mm salesman, returned 

from a lengthy sales trip . . 

. 

Northmain Manager Mort Calof and wife 

. 

will leave for New York on a vacation when 

the ozoner closes Lance" was 

held over for a second week at the Met, and 

"Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" at the 

Capitol. 

The football mania is taking a heavier toll 

of suburban patrons than television. Tuesday 

evening from 8 to 9 television is having 

the same effect on patronage here as it did in 

the States for several years when that was 

Milton Berle's spot. Peak attendance at the 

football stadium (18.000) coupled with a 

good 60,000 listening to the game at home on 

radio depopulates the silver screen houses . . . 

A sign in the window saying, "Free Gas 

Masks for the Kiddies on Saturday Matinee," 

caused the opposition house a block away to 

post this in his window, "Thi.s Theatre Is 

Air Conditioned . Don't Have to Give 

Gas Masks to Our Patrons." 

The Trebinl magic and hypnotism show, 

booked by Joe Harris of Paragon Tlieatres, is 

playing to SRO crowds in the prairie provinces. 

Trebini has been invited by the CBC 

television department to appear on its Pick 

the Stars program in Toronto. 

Jay L. Smith, president of Alliance Films, 

confeiTed with local Manager Charlie Krupp 

and Astral representative Sam Swartz. Alliance 

has taken over distribution of all Astral 

product here, and Swartz now operates out 

of the Alliance offices in the Donalda block, 

across the street from the Famous Players 

offices . . . JARO Manager Phil Geller recently 

became a grandfather. 

Sunday Relief Shows 

Pull Small Crowds 

TORONTO—An interesting sidelight on 

agitation in some quarters to relax Sunday 

observance laws was the comment in the 

Toronto Daily Star on the Sunday benefit 

shows given at 21 local theatres for the relief 

of hurricane sufferers. There was only a 

fair attendance at most of the hou.ses. Jack 

Karr, film critic of the Daily Star, wrote: 

"One thing siu-prises some of the showmen 

around town. Few of the movie houses were 

filled for the Sunday evening performances. 

In view of the often-expressed belief that, if 

Sabbath movies were sanctioned here, the 

theatres would be jammed to the roofs, this 

has some eyebrows raised. 

"The showmen are puzzled, though not altogether 

displeased. Few of them are in 

actual favor of the seven-day work week. As 

who is?" 

Total proceeds realized for the hurricane 

relief fund from the collections at 18 theatres 

of Allied Exhibitors of Ontario at the 

Sunday night benefit shows totalled $5,275. 

Three units of Premiere Theatres also participated 

in the plan to bring the aggregate 

donation to more than $7,000. 

Another angle was the action of the authorities 

at Vancouver in warning the organizers 

of a Sunday show for Toronto flood .sufferers 

that the performance would be a violation of 

the Lord's Day act. The result was that the 

advance sale of tickets on a donation basis 

was stopped and word was sent to Toronto 

that the development meant a probable loss 

of $1,500 for the Ontario fund. 

Strike Hurts Windsor 

TORONTO—The prolonged strike of some 

5,000 workers at the Canadian Ford plant at 

Windsor is costing the community considerable 

money, other companies supplying parts 

One 

and equipment having also closed down. 

result is noted in the curtailment of advertising 

space by theatres in the Windsor Daily 

Star, obviously because of the situation there. 

J. M. RICE & CO., Ltd. 

202 Canada Bldg. 

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Winnipeg, Manitoba 

10029 Jasper Ave. 

Telephone 28502 

Edmonton, Alberta 

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OTT A W A 

Don Wedgewood resigned as manager of the 

Towne Cinema, recently reopened with a 

continental film policy, to become manager 

of the Rialto, which has been acquired by 

Robert E. Maynard. The Rialto, 524 seats, 

also has adopted a class film policy. National 

Theatres circuit sent Jack Boddam from Toronto 

to take charge of the Towne Cinema. 

Bill Cullum, manager of the FPC Regent, 

has installed a wide-vision screen, which was 

introduced with "Betrayed" . . . Three Ottawa 

theatres, the Francais, Westboro and Rialto, 

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\ 

teamed up for a day-and-date engagement 

of "The Sinner," while Manager Prank 

Gallop of the Centre also went "off-beat" 

with a week's run of "Companions of the 

Night," with attendance restricted to persons 

over 17 years of age. 

As a Halloween treat last Saturday, Manager 

Art Knapp conducted a free afternoon 

.'•how at the suburban Winchester under the 

sponsorship of a local bakery firm, "The 

Great Dan Patch" topped the program . 

Manager Ernie Warren of the two Elgins was 

busy with double openings, "The Naked 

Jungle" at the Main Elgin and "Julius Caesar" 

at the Little Elgin. P>revioi;sly, he had three 

excellent weeks with "The Caine Mutiny." 

Vincent Kelly, owner of the Empress at 

Kemptville, was presented a gift by the 

Kmghts of Columbus Council 485 in recognition 

of his services. He is a former grand 

knight . Williams has closed the Port 

Elmsley Drive-In for the winter . . . Raymond 

Levis, former manager of the Eastview here, 

has been charged by police with breaking in 

at the theatre where he no longer is employed. 

No loss was reported . . . Clare Chamberlain 

is still watching the people coming 

into the Glebe Cinema for "Doctor in the 

House," which has completed its sixth week 

there. 

Canadian Calendar 

Full Nov. 22-27 

TORONTO—The attention of the entire 

Canadian motion picture industry will be 

focused on Toronto the week of November 

22-27 when the city plays host to a series 

of conventions, meetings and a tradeshow 

which will bring in representatives from every 

phase of the industry. 

The series of business sessions will start 

Monday, Nov. 22, and the week will wind up 

Saturday, Nov. 27, with the playing of the 

Grey Cup All-Canadian East vs. West football 

championship, which many of the film 

delegates from all parts of the country will 

attend. 

The conventions are as follows: 

Nov. 22—National Committee, Motion Picture Exhibitors 

Ass'n of Canada, morning and afternoon. 

Nov. 23—For the entertainment of industry representatives, 

the Canadian Motion Picture Distributors 

Ass'n tentatively has scheduled a luncheon. 

Nov. 23—Toronto Variety Tent No. 28 will hold its 

award dinner, to which the delegates will be invited. 

Nov, 23-24—Motion Picture Industry Council of 

Canada, two days. 

Nov. 25—Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n of Ontario. 

Nov. 25—The annual luncheon of the Motion Picture 

Theatres Ass'n of Ontario will be held with 

out-of-town visitors as guests. 

Nov. 25.—The Canadian Picture Pioneers will 

hold its annual award dinner to honor the Pioneer 

of the year. 

The convention headquarters will be the 

King Edward Hotel, where all annual meetings, 

noon luncheons and the tradeshow 

will be held. 

The second annual trade exhibition, sponsored 

this year by the Motion Picture Industry 

Council of Canada instead of the Ontario 

Theatres Ass'n., will be presented on the 

three days, Nov. 23-25, under the management 

of Gerry Fitzgerald who had charge 

of the 1953 display. 

The key man for hotel reservations and 

other details is Arch H. Jolley, executive 

secretary, Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n., of 

Ontario, 21 Dundas Squai-e, Toronto 1, Ont, 

Jean Simmons in Musical Role 

Jean Simmons will portray her first musical 

role as a top cast member of Producer 

Samuel Goldwyn's "Guys and Dolls." 

TORONTO 

'The Guelph Theatre Managers Ass'n raised 

$505.50 for Toronto's Variety Village from 

a benefit show. F. G. Doney of the Royal 

and Ken Davies of the Guelph Odeon presented 

the proceeds to Chief Barker W. A. 

Summerville here . . . Formerly operated by 

20th Century Theatres, the Columbia at St. 

Thomas, a 510-seater, has been reopened by 

Harry McLean after being dark for some 

weeks. In earlier years the theatre was 

operated by the McLean brothers. 

B, B. Borbidg-e, who owned the Granada 

Theatre building in St. Thomas, died after 

a long illness . . Charles Stephenson of 

. 

Toronto will be honored at the Canadian Picture 

Pioneers banquet. He started in the 

amusement field 60 years ago when he sold 

song sheets in theatres, later going into 

vaudeville and finally the film industry. He 

is credited with having brought out Beatrice 

Lillie in a theatre at Cobalt, a booming mining 

town . . . Manager Miller got three weeks 

out of "The Green Scarf" at the Cinema in 

Hamilton after it ran four weeks at the 

Towne Cinema here. 

Barry Camon of the local Hyland is getting 

ready for the premiere of JARO's "Romeo 

and Juliet," although the date is yet strictly 

George Petc-s, former Odeon 

tentative . . . 

manager who became CBC radio program producer, 

staged an international variety show 

featuring Tommy Dorsey at the Royal Alexandra 

Elaine Stewart of 

November 1-4 .. . Hollywood wound up her appearances in 

behalf of "Brigadoon" at Loew's by posing 

with Toronto Argonaut football team before 

Saturday's game at Varsity field. 

Mrs. J. A. McCuUoch has offered the Royal 

George, 498 seats, for sale. The theatre, located 

at 1217 St. Clair Ave. West, was long 

operated by her husband . . . John Davis, 

J. Ai-thur Rank executive, is expected to be 

here about the time of the industry convention 

this month. 

George Forhan jr. celebrated Canada's observance 

of Thanksgiving Day, which falls 

on the second Monday of October, by running 

a special morning cartoon show for the 

kiddies at the Capitol, Welland, Ont. The 

holiday feature included a "wild west" show, 

and proved a boon to busy mothers at home 

preparing turkey dinners as a matron acted 

as "babysitter" to younger children. 

Manager Bill Burke of the Capitol Theatre 

in Brantford, Ont., netted a three-column 

art break in the Brantford Expositor as a 

result of a thoughtful public relations gesture. 

Burke invited prominent local W'omen 

connected with the Red Feather drive to see 

a short on Community Chest activities entitled 

"The Red Feather Story." The newspaper 

had a staff photographer snap a picture 

of Burke greeting his guests at the premiere 

of the short, and included the cut on 

the front page of their second section. 

'Wood' at Seven Day and Dale 

TORONTO—After a lapse. Famous Players 

Canadian Corp. went back to its Show of the 

Week with "Knock on Wood" at seven units 

around town—the Alhambra, Beach, College, 

Palace, Parkdale, Oakwood and Runnymede. 

"The Seekers," a J. Arthur Rank feature, had 

a splash premiere at five Toronto theatres, 

comprising the Fairlawn. Danforth, Humber 

and Colony of the Odeon chain, and the independent 

Savoy downtown. 


C.auij:>mant • C^ttCAUi^ftS • 4^

OH 

I 

turn a few 4A4JU)iM h/&t '"* 

a nice 

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P \\ 

' 

' 

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'I'l' 

J 

"^-^ 

SELL 

emv 

for extra 

profit 

g^54 

When you install 

vending equipment for Coca-Cola in a few 

square feet of lobby space, a nice round profit starts to show 

in your ledger. 

That's because theater patrons from coast to 

coast have become accustomed to enjoying refreshment with 

their entertainment. Ice-cold Coke, of course, is real refreshment. 

It's a real profit-maker, too. For the details on a wide 

variety of vending equipment, get in touch with The Coca-Cola 

Company, P. O. Box 1734, Atlanta, Georgia. 

*

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Aiinouncing a 

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When occupant sitt up 

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BOXOFFICE :: November 6, 1954

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THAN JUST 

DELIVER 

LIGHT! 

Good projection also requires 

on arc of unvarying intensity, 

unchanging color, economy 

oi current and carbons, 

and ease of operation and 

maintenance. These are the 

important things that must 

be combined in an arc — the 

things experienced theatremen 

ond projectionists look 

for in the lamps they buy. 

Strong projection lamps 

afford the new way of providing 

all of them. That's 

why good pictures are better 

when projected with these 

arcs. If you're on a merrygo-round 

as to which lamps 

to buy we believe you will 

find the answer to your projection 

lighting problems in 

Strong lamps. 

Dons at 135 •„ "'lex car- 

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a m perls .M^^"."' 

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— 

GOOD PICTURES WILL NOW PULL IN 

A means of building increased patronage is 

now available in the use of the revolutionary new Wagner 

FLUORESCENT PLASTIC 

COPY LEHERS 

CHANGEABLE 

(Neviol U.S. Pot. No. 24868S9. Other patents pending.) 

—an entirely different type of letter, exclusive with Wagner and adaptable with economical 

modifications to oil existing Wagner frames. 

Formed in clear plastic and processed with a newly developed and patented process fluorescent materiol, each of these letters, by the use of "black 

light" becomes a seporate, actual light source not dependent on transmitted visible light or the translucence of the sign face. Tfiey Create 

Colored Light Rather Than Lighted Color. 

UNBELIEVABLE BRILLIANCE 

AND DISTANT READABILITY WITHOUT GLARE 

The extreme brightness ond strikingly DIFFERENT colors, impossible with other letters, make them especially ideal for installations which are 

"hedged in" by an abundance of competing light. They are also unusually effective by natural daylight. 

THE ONLY THIRD-DIMENSIONAL 

ILLUMINATED LETTERS EVER MADE! 

The black light affords an uniformity of illumination of every letter virtually impassible with previous types of lighting. 

GUARANTEED LONG LIFE 

Not to be confused with signs which employed front illuminated fluorescent materials, these new letters ore processed on the back and will not 

pass the ultra-violet rays of the sun. They are accordingly extremely fade-resistont. 

BIGGER BOXOFFICE-GREATER PROFITS 

Attracting the attention of more people always means better business, for people go to the theatre more often when they know what is playing. 

That's only natural. Theatres with obsolete displays will not be able to compete with those equipped with this powerful new type of advertising. 

GET BUSINESS YOU NEVER GOT BEFORE 

You can now do something about the matter of whether they patronize you or the theatre down the street. Wagner Neviol letters impart a new look 

to any theatre front. Leading theatremen at the recent TESMA-TEDA-TOA-IPA equipment show in Chicago were quick to see the advantage of 

Wagner Neviol letters and hove alreody ordered them installed. 

NICE THEATRE-GOOD PICTURE-NO AUDIENCE? 

Don't let on old-fashioned display board steal your profits. Wagner Neviol letters ore not expensive, but failing to use them con be costly. 

Write, wire, or phone for further details and prices NOW! 

GOOD PICTURES ft" NEVIOL LETTERS llM BIG BUSINESS! 

WAGNER SIGN SERVICE. INC 

218 S. HOYNE AVENUE CHICAGO 12, ILLINOIS 

The MODERN THEATRE SECHON

NOVEMBER 6, 1954 

!i.M 

m THIATI. 

o n t n t 

Remodeled Restrooms Win Patron Favor Haviland F. Reves 8 

Carpeting is a Major Investment— Keep It Clean to 

Prolong Its Life 12 

Moke Restrooms "Homelike" in Cleanliness 14 

Don't Let Profits Dribble Away From Leaking Fixtures 15 

Wilby-Kincey Updates a Tennessee Theatre of the 30s Roy Elkins 18 

The Big-Ticket Concessions Item Catches On 23 

1955 Venders on Parade 24 

Develop Double Cross Hybrid 

Popcorn With Superior Flake 

for Confections 26 

Pushbutton Popcorn Processing Plant Utilizes All 

Automatic Equipment 28 

Small-Town Exhibitor Expects CinemaScope Investment Will 

Pay Off Before Two Years 30 

Answer Not Always in Books Wesley Trout 33 

An Aura of Newness Given to Old House Frances Clow 40 

Detroit's Jolly Roger Is Full-Rigged 42 

The Do-lt-Yourself Trend Reaches the Drive-ln Theatre Exhibitor... 46 

Theatre Maintenance Questions and Answers Dave E. Smalley 48 

DEPARTMENTS: 

Refreshment Service 23 Drive-in Theatres 42 

Projection and Sound 33 

New Equipment and 

and Developments 49 

Readers' Service Bureau 35 Literature 51 

Advertising Index 36 About People and Product.. 52 

ON THE COVER 

Spotlights over the mirrored vanity bar in the powder room of 

Denver's new Centre Theatre provide direct illumination without 

glare where it is needed. Luxurious carpeting by Alexander Smith 

adds to the richness of the decor. 

It IS doubtful if there is any 

otlier phase of theatre operation in 

which the exhibitor has a greater obligation 

to his patrons than in the matter 

of sanitation and safety. As a good 

host, he will provide comfort, glamor 

and entertainment—his stock in trade 

—and he must also use every modern 

means to prevent the spreading of 

germs or the possibility of danger to 

patrons in the event of fire. 

Fire safety in the theatre embraces 

many things. Basic, of course, is fireproof 

construction which should be a 

"must" in the case of new theatres. 

Even older theatres can reduce the 

hazard of fire spreading by the use of 

certain types of insulation. 

For all theatres, 

there are available fireproof 

fabrics for draperies, porthole fire shutters, 

panic doors and illuminated signs 

to mark exits. There are also various 

types of fire extinguishers for specific 

kinds of fire, and the right kind should 

be placed where needed in case of fire. 

Each theatre manager should set up 

a definite program to be followed in 

case of fire, and each employe should 

be instructed as to what he should do. 

Periodic fire drills with personnel 

should also be carried out. 

A maintenance program which 

covers both daily and periodic cleaning 

tasks is the major key to sanitation. 

Germs cannot breed in the light 

of cleanliness. 

This applies to all areas 

of the theatre and all furnishings. 

According to one circuit executive, 

if the staff keeps the restrooms clean 

the rest of the house is usually in good 

shape. Good restroom maintenance begins 

with installation of the right kind 

of equipment and easy-to-clectn walls 

and floors. Given these, cleanliness is 

maintained by thorough daily cleaning, 

frequent attention by the porter, 

and inspection after every showbreak. 

I. L. THATCHER, Managing Editor 

The MODERN THEATRE Section of BOXOFFICE is included in the first issue of eoch month. 

Editorial or general business correspondence should be addressed to Associated Publications, 

825 Van Brunt Blvd., Konsos City 24, Mo. Eastern Representative: A. J. Stocker, 9 Rockefeller 

Plaza, New York 20, N. Y.; Central Representatives; Ewing Hutchison and E. E. Yeck, 35 

East Wacker Drive, Chicago 1, III.; Western Representative: Bob Wettstein, 672 South 

Lafayette Pork Place, Los Angeles 5, Colif.

— 

SANITATION AND SAFETY 

REMODELED RESTROOMS WIN PATRON FAVOR 

Theatres Cannot Afford 

To Offer Less Quality 

Accommodations Than 

Patrons Have at Home 

By HAVILAND F. 

REVES 

When the great American public 

comes to the theatre, it expects not only 

entertainment—but service—and that extends 

to the humblest routine details of 

house operation—restrooms, for instance. 

Here is a field where theatres have literally 

gone from the sublime to the ridiculous 

—from the super-streamlined accommodations 

offered in a few theatres to the distinctly 

inferior type offered by far too 

many exhibitors. 

The motion pictures offer an entertainment 

value which may last from two to 

four hours, barring repeats. During the 

period that people are patrons of the glamorous 

theatre, the exhibitor must be prepared 

to cater to their comfort—not only 

in basic hygienic requirements, but likewise 

in the type of accommodations offered 

—they must match the appeal of the theatre 

Itself. 

PATRONS ACCUSTOMED TO QUALITY 

Essentially, modern sanitary requirements 

of a theatre no longer can be based 

upon minimum requirements. With so 

many hundred potential patrons, the 

house will require so many accommodations 

for men and so many for women. The 

statistics, which must be used by the architect 

in the design of the building, must be 

appropriately right, or the exhibitor will 

find himself in trouble—but the requirements 

go far beyond bare statistics. They 

must likewise take into consideration the 

essential point, that patrons are accustomed 

today to quality type sanitary accommodations 

in their homes and the homes of 

their friends—and the theatre as the essential 

temple of glamor cannot afford to be 

in any degree behind what the home offers. 

A TYPICAL EXHIBITOR 

To understand the requirements of today's 

public, a thorough study of the operation 

of a local unit of a modern national 

circuit will help the average exhibitor to 

assay carefully the significance—and value 

to his customers—of his sanitary facilities. 

In United Detroit Theatres, operating 17 

houses ranging from first to subsequent 

run, the picture of the typical exhibitor 

may be studied, backed by the availability 

of counsel upon specific operating problems, 

possible through a national circuit. 

UDT has recently completed the remodeling 

of restrooms in two of its theatres—the 

Cinderella, a neighborhood house, and the 

When United Detroit Theatres remodeled the Cinderella Theatre special attention was given to 

the men's and women's restrooms, both of which are tiled. This powder room, off the ladies' restroom, 

features an extensive mirror framed in cream-colored scrollwork above the vanity counter. 

The cosmetic stools have a cream finish and are upholstered in red velour. 

Palms, a first run downtown theatre. Procedures 

were different but comparable 

and each reflects the modern trend in theatre 

restroom design, in a circuit where the 

theoretical optimum is necessarily controlled 

by the practical requirements which 

the traffic in each case will bear. 

B^ch job was a complete remodeling, as 

far as the restrooms were concerned, with 

everything that had been in before taken 

out, right down to the floor. New floor 

and wall tile, new bowls and toilet fixtures, 

designed essentially to match or blend with 

the basic tUe Installation, were keynotes 

of the program, each designed to a specific 

theatre pattern. 

The Cinderella is a de luxe neighborhood 

house of the 20s, which was given a major 

remodeling program (see Modern Theatre 

Buyers Directory and Reference Issue, Nov. 

21, 1953), in which the simple revamping 

of the washrooms played a prominent part. 

This job was completed a year ago and 

has been well received by the public 

typical of what the modern neighborhood 

house can offer its customers in a planned 

program to retain—or regain—business. 

In the men's room, sand color was used 

as the key color, in floor tile and in sidewall 

tile up to the seven-foot level. Toilet 

bowls and washbowls are in the same basic 

color, only a little lighter. Two different 

shades of tan are apparent in the floor 

tile patterns, and brown, keyed by the 

sand, in checkerboard type design. On the 

wall, the brown theme is carried out by a 

band of tile, two inches wide, at the top of 

the tile area. Above this, the wall and the 

ceiling are painted in a tan color to complement 

the tile. 

The outer room of the men's area, which 

is designed as a smoking area, is finished 

in a complementary design. The flooring is 

finished in a plastic tile in a sand color, 

with a border of light brown tile around 

the room. This area is satisfactory from 

the standpoint of providing excellent resistance 

to wear—but the plastic tile has been 

found to have a serious disadvantage for 

a smoking room, since patrons tend to 

throw the remaining end of a cigaret upon 

it, and it is subject to burning accordingly. 

A GLAZED TILE 

BENCH 

Unusual feature of this outer room is 

the provision of a bench along the wall 

which provides a place for the patron to 

sit down. This is constructed simply of 

cement, and is covered with glazed tile in 

sand-colored wall tile to match the washroom. 

This provides a comfortable space 

for male patrons to relax on their visits to 

the washroom and enjoy a smoke. (Smoking 

is not allowed in the auditorium, foyer, 

or inner lobby of Detroit theatres by fire 

marshal's regulation. > 

The bench is placed along one long side, 

the only area where it is easily located in 

this room because of space requirements, 

and eliminates any need for special furniture 

in the room very efficiently. 

The ladies' room at the Cinderella has 

been given a similar treatment, but with 

different decor. Two complementary 

8 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

— 

— 

shades of coral are used on the wall and 

floor. The fixtures installed here are in 

the lighter shade of coral. 

The outer or powder room is differently 

designed likewise, to meet the feminine 

taste. The major wall area is completely 

covered by the installation of a large mirror, 

fully equipped for the ladies' needs, 

and with benches and stools in front for 

Directly opposite this mirror 

makeup use. 

and bench installation is a large mirror, 

four feet wide and six feet high, which was 

removed from the lobby of the theatre during 

the remodeling process. The room is 

carpeted in the standard carpeting used by 

this circuit, a deep red conventional design, 

and has plastered walls and ceiling, painted 

in the same two shades of coral as the 

inner room. 

COST FIGURES OF INTEREST 

This remodeling is typical of what the 

de luxe neighborhood house can do to increase 

patron comfort in this area. For 

that reason, cost figures are of especial 

interest. Total cost of the job on the washrooms 

for the Cinderella is figured at $9,000. 

This included the obvious major item of 

plumbing, $4,500: tile work costing $2,500; 

and $2,000 of miscellaneous work. The wall 

tile, floor tile and plumbing jobs were let 

oui by the circuit to outside contractors, 

and the balance of the work was performed 

by its own maintenance staff. 

An installation that proved of especial 

interest at the Cinderella were electric hand 

driers. These also have been placed in the 

Broadway-Capitol Theatre, an all-night 

first run downtown house, and probably 

will be added In other houses of the circuit 

as conditions permit. 

"They keep the restrooms a lot cleaner," 

says Malcolm W. (Mickey) Rose, UDT 

supervisor in charge of theatre operations. 

ELECTRIC DRIERS ARE LIKED 

Essential reasons for the drier installations 

are that they enable the staff to 

keep the washroom in much cleaner condition 

and, public acceptance. The nuisance 

of having loose paper around is largely 

ehminated—and, despite careful preparations 

to meet public requirements, too many 

patrons will tend to throw paper towels 

upon the floor or throw them down toilet 

bowls which are not designed to handle 

this heavy grade of paper. The result may 

be a stoppage which could prove very expensive 

for the theatre. 

"It is cheaper," Rose adds, "and the public 

likes it very much. Our electric bills 

have not gone up any appreciable amount." 

While this circuit has not taken detailed 

tests, figures available through service 

companies on the operation of electric 

hand driers indicate that, with a special 

meter on the line, added costs of electricity 

for the meter installation have not been 

significant. 

At the Palms, a major first run house, 

somewhat different conditions prevail, 

since this is an all-night house, closing only 

Continued on following page 

Close Inspection of Restrooms Is Essence 

Of Effective Maintenance Control 

Maintenance of restrooms is an imperative 

object of constant attention in 

theatres. Fine, new, modern washrooms 

in many houses will be wasted if untidy 

conditions are allowed to occur 

through careless housekeeping. 

Basic inspection should be made before 

opening time by the manager or 

the assistant. Then a member of the 

management staff should have the duty 

of checking the restrooms after at least 

every show break—oftener, if possible. 

At closing time, a general check needs 

to be made of the restrooms, to see that 

all people are out and the rooms in 

condition to close for the night. 

City managers should make a personal 

check of the restrooms when they visit 

each theatre on their regular rounds. 

RESTROOMS ARE KEY 

If the staff keeps the restrooms clean, 

the rest of the house is usually in good 

shape. 

The actual cleaning job in the theatre 

usually is done by the porter in larger 

houses, or by an assigned member of the 

staff in smaller ones. Procedure varies 

from house to house, and even considerably 

from time to time at each 

house—governed by the requirements of 

use. The basic rule is that the restrooms 

simply must be kept in thoroughly acceptable 

condition at all times. 

Washbowls and toilet fixtures always 

must be kept clean, and the porter 

should go in frequently during each 

show, to check on condition. If business 

is fast, he should practically live 

there. Basic tools of his trade necessarily 

will include the traditional pan, 

broom, rag, and scouring powder. 

For the general cleaning tasks, materials 

will differ, according to the construction 

of the room. Tile walls and tile 

floors require entirely different treatment, 

for instance, from asphalt tile 

floor covering and rough plaster walls. 

A considerable variation of conditions 

is found in some theatres, and it is 

up to the man in charge of maintenance 

to see that the porter is supplied 

with the right utensils and supplies. 

ODOR CONTROL IMPORTANT 

Control of odors is very important 

and often very difficult. Strong deodorants 

should be avoided because they 

tend to defeat their own purpose by 

creating a smell too definitely associated 

with the restroom. 

Lamps for deodorizing, hung from 

the ceiling, have been used with some 

satisfaction. The odorless type of deodorant 

is definitely preferred. 

For customer convenience, liquid hand 

soap is often preferred. This has been 

believed to 

used for many years, and is 

be handier than the alternatives available. 

However, small cakes of soap have 

been used in some theatres. The experience 

with cakes has been quite satisfactory, 

evidence that both liquid and 

cake soap are acceptable in actual operation. 

A close inspection of the restrooms is 

the essence of maintenance control. In 

larger houses, a special form is often 

provided, as part of the regular operating 

routine, which the matron or 

porter is required to check off, showing 

that the various restrooms have been 

inspected every half hour. In the larger 

houses this formal control is practical, 

but it is usuaUy not felt necessary in 

Ti)is is a section o/ (he somen's restroom in 

the Cinderella. Clay coral tile surfaces the 

walls, ntaking maintenance easy. Coral fixtures, 

including the perfume vender, were installed. 

smaller neighborhood theatres. Instead, 

the responsibility for seeing that a similar 

standard of checkup is maintained 

is laid right upon the managerial staff, 

delegated as circumstances permit. 

Attractive appearance is essential to 

the modern restroom. This is gained in 

the first place by the installation itself 

—colors that are neat and attractive 

units and materials that are easy to keep 

clean—and in the second place, by the 

standards of maintenance observed. 

The restroom is very important in the 

theatre. A patron's impression of the 

restroom may be the biggest impression 

he gets of the theatre. It must be clean, 

and sweet-smelling. 


REMODELED RESTROOMS WIN 

FAVOR 

Continued from preceding page 

for a few hours in the early morning to 

allow the maintenance crew to work. Here 

the remodeling was performed, a little before 

the Cinderella, with somewhat similar 

decor adopted, revamped to suit the special 

needs of the house. 

In the men's room, the wall tile is in 

maroon, the floor tile in a complementary 

pink color blending with it. White rather 

than colored bowls and fixtures were selected 

for this heavy-duty installation. 

The outer room of the men's area is a 

little different however. A similar bench 

of concrete was installed across the major 

wall area, providing smoking and relaxation 

comfort for patrons. Matching tile flooring, 

similar to that in the washroom, was installed, 

but a different wall treatment was 

adopted. Instead of tiling the walls to 

approximately seven-foot height—an important 

item of design in the other installations 

cited, the circuit decided upon rough 

plastered walls here. Earlier experience 

with considerable marring of walls by people 

writing upon smooth plaster was one 

important reason for this changeover. Another 

was that the rough plaster gives a 

distinctly more solid, less bare, look than 

would a wall of smooth plaster. 

In the ladies' room at the Palms, both 

walls and floor were finished in a matching 

tan, and the upper walls and ceiling 

finished in a somewhat lighter shade of 

tan, upon a smooth plaster area. 

In the outer or powder room, mirrors 

New ttêatres plan for patron comfort in t/ie designing stage. This handsome men s lounge is in the 

Centre Theatre in Denver which was opened recently. The sofa was built in, and an outdoor mural 

paper is used on the wall. Walls and floor of the restroom are tile. 

have been installed upon three walls, with 

chairs and benches in front, providing 

maximum accommodation for feminine 

patrons. Flooring is of asphalt tile, with 

alternating blocks of deep red and gray. 

The upper wall and ceiling of this outer 

room are in an off-white. 

Two-tone tile is used in a pink pattern and neat, white fixtures offer an attractive contrast in the remodeled 

women's restroom at the Palms Theatre in Detroit. 

I 

Cost of original installation is no point 

to start saving, according to Rose. 

"There is no economy in buying something 

cheap," he says. "It will deteriorate 

fast, and you will run into trouble. We 

usually can count on experiencing much 

trouble with restroom fixtures, on account 

of the hard usage given them—and whenever 

we have worked on them, we have 

bought the best we could get. 

"We depended partly on the plumbers' 

recommendation, and partly on our own 

men, including engineers, who had had a 

lot of experience, in making the selection." 

When it comes to the number of units 

to be installed, the basic ratio usually is 

determined by the architect in the original 

construction, and Rose frankly admits no 

magic secret that will alter it. However, 

the objective of increasing the number of 

units to provide greater public convenience 

whenever it is possible is kept in mind. 

ACHIEVED 

COMPACT INSTALLATION 

For instance, when both the Palms and 

the Cinderella remodeling jobs were done, 

it was figured out that an extra urinal 

could be provided, simply by switching to 

a different type of fixture which allowed 

a more compact installation to permit this 

added unit. In any busy theatre, the 

washroom facilities may be taxed to 

capacity at times, and any method that 

will help to eliminate this problem should 

be taken. 

The unusual in fixtures is not favored 

here. Perhaps a basic reason is that the 

public tends to be conservative, especially 

in matters affecting washroom use, and it 

is up to the exhibitor to cater to this taste 

preference. 

Continued on page 12 


? 

. 

«*' 

ERST 

Now Renamed 

"•»

— 

— 

Helpful Tips on Proper Care of Theatre Carpet 

Carpeting Is a Major Investment- 

Keep It Clean to Prolong Its Life 

Regardless of how often and carefully 

wool carpeting is cleaned, it is sure to 

absorb a certain amount of soil, which 

naturally causes a slight change in the appearance 

of the fabric. This soil is due 

partly to the dirt which is carried onto the 

carpet by foot traffic and not thoroughly 

removed by every-day cleaning, and partly 

to the dust-laden air which is natural 

gray in color. This dust wOl begin to 

collect on your carpet the day it is laid. 

DIRT PARTICLES CLING TO FIBERS 

Even with daily and weekly care, light 

colors will probably become soiled. This 

is serious when light colors are used where 

traffic is heavy, or where the air contains 

large quantities of greasy soot and dust 

from home furnaces and industrial plants 

which burn coal. The grease and tar content 

of these dirt particles, often as high 

as 10 per cent, cause them to cling tenaciously 

to the pile fibers, and even daily 

use of an electric cleaner will not remove 

all of them. 

This grease-laden dust may cause some 

discoloration in light colored carpets. For 

instance a delicate rose carpet, as it becomes 

soiled, will gradually lose its rose 

tone and change to a neutral taupe shade. 

A light blue carpet may change to a dull 

gray-green. Such apparent loss of color 

often causes alarm, because it is mistaken 

for permanent discoloration or fading. 

However, the original color and tone can be 

restored by professional dry cleaning or 

shampooing. Cleaning of this type is the 

only remedy for such a condition. 

DAILY 

AND SEASONAL CARE 

The care and maintenance of wool floor 

coverings can be broken into two classifications: 

daily care and periodic or seasonal 

cleaning. 

Daily care should include the use of a 

vacuum cleaner on each carpet, particularly 

in frequently traveled areas and near 

street entrances. This is very important 

since dirt and grit, unless removed, will 

work down into the back of the floor covering 

and with continued grinding, may cut 

the threads and materially shorten the 

life of the carpet. A soft bristle broom 

also can be used—but a word of caution 

Do not sweep in a harsh manner. If you 

do use a broom, sweep with a light touch 

and always sweep with the pile. 

The daily vacuuming also will guarantee 

the elimination of moth eggs and all forms 

of insect life that thrive on animal fibers 

like 

wool. 

Periodic care and cleaning consists mostly 

of maintaining the general surface appearance 

of the fabric. It would include 

any needed repairs to the carpet, plus a 

yearly cleaning by a professional cleaner. 

In the intervening period, though, It 

might be necessary to brighten the pile 

surface which may have become soiled or 

discolored. This can easily be accomplished 

by the use of organic solvents, such as the 

common, quick-evaporating cleaning fluids, 

without damage to the fabric or colors. The 

theatre, however, should be well ventilated 

so that the vapor from the fluid is removed 

immediately. 

Absorbent powders may be used effectively 

for surface brightening. Cleaning 

materials of this type have an important 

advantage over fluid cleaners. They do not 

leave a ring and therefore, the contrast 

between the cleaned and uncleaned portions 

of the carpet is less noticeable. Soap 

solutions are to be avoided because of 

slow drying and the deposit of residual 

fats which tend to collect dust rapidly. 

However, soapless lather solutions have 

been used very successfully. Ammonia 

solutions may change or remove colors and 

are to be avoided. 

ACT QUICKLY ON SPOTS 

Many spots can be removed without too 

much difficulty, but—you must act 

promptly. Once spots have "set" they are 

very hard to take out. The most common 

method of removing grease or spots of 

similar nature is through the use of carbon 

tetrachloride or a soapless lather cleaner. 

Saturate the spot with the cleaner and 

then sponge with a clean absorbent cloth. 

Best results can be obtained by working 

from the outer edge to the center of the 

spot. 

If soft drinks are spilled on the carpet 

immediately apply plenty of fresh, clean, 

cold water and squeeze it as dry as possible 

with a clean cheesecloth. If you 

don't get it all out the first time, repeat 

the process. Be sure to rub with the pile, 

not against it. 

Try to remove bloodstains before blood 

Dampen stain with cold water, then 

dries. 

sponge with a salt solution of one-half 

cup of salt and one quart of lukewarm 

water. Do not use hot water, as it will 

set the stain. 

Chewing gum is best removed by saturating 

the spot with carbon tetrachloride. 

Let stand for a few minutes to soften. Remove 

gum carefully with a dull knife, then 

remove remaining traces with carbon 

tetrachloride. 

The carpet cleaning recommendations presented 

here ore excerpts from a booklet titled 

"Keep It Clean," published by Mohawk Carpet 

Mills, 

Inc. 

If mud has been tracked into the theatre 

allow the mud to dry and it wOl brush off 

completely, as a rule. However, if not, use 

a sponge with warm water, then rinse 

thoroughly and carefully with clean, warm 

water. 

Occasionally lighted cigarets, cigars or 

live ashes may be dropped on theatre carpet. 

Unlike many other materials, wool 

will not burn with a bright flame, it wUl 

only smoulder and char. This causes a 

hole in the surface which can easily be 

repaired by sewing in new tufts. 

REMODELED RESTROOMS WIN 

FAVOR 

Continued from page 10 

The new and the unusual also create 

another problem—people are unfamiliar 

with them, and if there is some mechanical 

involvement, it may cause puzzlement, embarrassment 

or serious trouble. People may 

not understand how to use a mechanism 

that is too complicated—and may unintentionally 

put it out of order in trying 

to use it properly. 

An interesting experience is that with 

the one ladies' urinal installed in the circuit. 

This was in the Bloomfield Theatre, 

a suburban house, when UDT took it over 

and it is still there, functioning with reasonable 

satisfaction. But the matron and 

other staff members have reported various 

times that feminine patrons have beheld it 

in wonderment and frankly asked them 

what it was for. 

Because of the obvious lack of general 

acceptance by the women of the area, 

further installations are not planned. 

Doors on the seat compartments are a 

"must" with UDT. While some theatres 

have felt they are unnecessary and an 

added expense—or possibly may create 

further problems, delaying traffic at peak 

hours—this circuit feels that this little 

added satisfaction of privacy given the 

customer is well worth the trouble and expense. 

New Lamps for Smith Drive-ins 

The Phil Smith Management Corp. has 

contracted for installation of RCA Wide- 

Arc screen lamps in 14 drive-in theatres 

located in eight states, according to an 

announcement by the engineering products 

division. Radio Corp. of America. 

The RCA Wide-Ai'c lamp may be used for 

widescreen, 3-D and drive-in projection and 

with any type of theatre projector, according 

to A. J. Piatt, manager, RCA theatre 

equipment field sales. It is designed to 

provide the brilliance necessary to light 

oversize, wide-film outdoor theatre screens, 

and features a 16-inch-diameter reflector, 

special cooling device, and a foolproof feed 

mechanism with rotating motion of the 

positive carbon. 

Each of the 14 Phil Smith drive-in theatres 

will be installed with pairs of the new 

lamps. 


'A 

>:•,*< J 

V • 

PROJECTION ARC LAMP 

Be sure to get the lamp that is readily adaptable to all types of modern screen presentation. 

NAnONAL 

excelite' 

National's Reflect-O-Heat unit permits the great increase in volume of light at the mammoth 

new screens, without a corresponding increase in heat at the aperture. 

The Automatic Crater Positioning Control System insures that both carbons are so fed as to 

maintain a correct arc gap length and to keep the position of the positive crater at the exact 

focal point of the reflector. Thus, throughout the presentation, the screen light is always of 

the same color, 

without variations from white to either blue or brown. The projectionist is 

accordingly freed from the necessity of constantly supervising the arc so that he can devote 

himself to the care of other technical features of projection which are not on an automatic 

basis and which require continual attention. 

The arc is stabilized by a stream of air which maintains a prescribed system of ventilation 

of the area surrounding the arc. This air jet prevents the hot tail flame of the arc from reaching 

the reflector, supplies enough oxygen so that no black soot is produced, and keeps white soot 

from collecting on the reflector in such quantity as to absorb heat which would cause breakage. 

Um't construction permits easy removal of the elements for inspection in servicing. 

m 

DISTRIBUTED BY 

••THERE'S A BRANCH NEAR YOU" 

A SUBSIDIARY OF 

GENERAL 

PRECISION 

EQUIPMENT 

CORPORATION 

BOXOFTICE November 6, 1954 13 

if

I 

wood, 

: 

MAKE RESTROOMS HOMELIKE' IN CLEANLINESS 

Sanitary Association Offers Specific Instructions 

on Care of Toilet Facilities, 

Patrons Will Respect the Properly Maintained Tfieatre Restroom 

"There Is Absolutely No Place Like 

Home" is a slogan featured by the National 

Sanitary Supply Ass'n which points 

out "the more 'homelike' we can make 

toilet rooms, the more careful will be the 

user." The association has prepared a 

bulletin board poster on methods of cleaning 

toilet facilities, and the instructions 

printed here, together with the illustration, 

were furnished by the association. Copies 

of the original poster may be obtained 

from local supplier-members or from the 

association headquarters, 139 North Clark 

St., Chicago 2, 111. 

The illustration below is the key to the 

lettered directions. 

Maintenance of toilet bowls is described in the 

accompanying article under the letters duplicated 

here to point out the various areas. 

A. SEAT AND COVER 

The toilet seat and cover may become 

cracked, chipped and pitted. Rough treatment 

is responsible but lack of proper 

maintenance procedures is the reason for 

the rough treatment. A clean toilet receives 

better care from patrons. A dirty, 

uncared for, toilet invites continuous costly 

misuse. Cracks and pits in toilet seats 

provide excellent breeding grounds for the 

growth of bacteria. Such seats should be 

replaced with new ones. 

All toilet seats should be washed at least 

once a day with hot water and neutral 

cleaner. An odorless disinfectant should 

be included in the cleaning solution. Rinse 

thoroughly. Wipe dry and leave both seat 

and cover up to facilitate complete drying. 

B. THE TOILET RIM 

The rim of the toilet must be cleaned 

frequently and guarded against rough 

treatment. Striking of buckets and pails 

against rim while emptying will cause dam- 

age. Also, screws of worn bumpers will 

scratch and discolor the rim at their points 

of contact, providing additional breeding 

places for bacteria. Replace worn seat 

bumpers as soon as discovered. 

If the top rim of a toilet is dirty and uncared 

for, the underpart of the rim will 

certainly be in very bad condition. The 

uncared for under rim of the bowl is the 

chief starting point of stains and odors. 

Encrustations also plug up the flush holes 

and prevent complete flushing. Daily 

brushing under the rim is necessary to 

prevent accumulations of filth. 

C. METAL PARTS, RUBBER BUMPERS 

A great mistake is made if metal parts 

of the toilet are not included in the cleaning 

program. Dirty hinges, flush handles, 

pipes, screws and bolts, take away the 

beauty of an otherwise clean toilet. 

Between the hinges, around the dirty 

floor bolts, etc., are excellent breeding 

places for bacteria. Dirt and dust collect 

on these metal parts and discoloration 

and odors quickly follow. Patience is required 

to bring back the shine and sparkle 

of dirty metal parts. Once cleaned and 

shiny, they are easily maintained by daily 

wiping and a once a week polishing. 

Note: Flammable polishes and cleaners 

are dangerous since static electricity may 

be generated when rubbing metal parts. 

D. THE TOILET BOWL 

(Inside and Outside) 

Toilet bowls frequently become stained 

and waterlined. In many parts of the 

country mineral hardness of the water Is 

responsible for this. But, everywhere, the 

condition can be prevented by thorough 

daily cleaning. 

A carefully selected bowl cleaner will 

help remove stains already present. Daily 

cleaning with a mild cleaner and odorless 

disinfectant will help prevent further stain. 

All of the outside of the toilet must be 

cleaned daily, front, side and rear. Hit or 

miss cleaning techniques always "miss" 

the back of the outside bowl. This hidden 

rear area, an important source of odors, 

must be specifically included in your cleaning 

plan or it wOl offset the good of your 

effort. 

E. FLUSH TANK 

The flush tank is often the cause for 

stains which occur in the toilet bowl. Very 

often, the only time the flush tank of a 

toilet is examined is when some plumbing 

breakdown occurs. For a clean, sanitary 

toilet, however, it is necessary that the 

flush tank be checked regularly. 

Once a week the flush tank should be 

cleaned by turning off the water going into 

the tank, flushing, and then wiping the 

bottom and sides with brush and mild 

cleaning solution. Turn the water on, wait 

till the tank fills, then brush to rinse, flush 

once more. 

F. PASSAGE AND TRAP 

Uncleaned passages and traps can be 

the start of plumbing troubles. 

Encrustations and filth collecting in the 

passage and trap are the worst source of 

odors. 

Harsh acting cleaners are sometimes 

necessary to remove encrustations but once 

cleaned, the trap and passage may be 

maintained very easily by merely wiping 

daily with soft brush or cloth. 

G. FLOOR AREA AROUND TOILET 

The final step in every toilet cleaning 

operation should be the cleaning and drying 

of the floor area around the base of 

the toilet bowl. Damage to the floor area, 

the hazard of users slipping, odor development, 

bacteria, and also attraction of insects 

and rodents are some of the results 

to be expected if the floor area is not clean 

and dry at all times. Porous floorings 

cement, etc.) should be properly 

sealed. If a tile flooring has been set 

around the base of the toilet, be sure there 

is a proper seal between the base and the 

tiles immediately surrounding the base. 

A Checklist for Weil-Kept 

Theatre Restrooms 

Here is a brief list of some of the most 

important items to check in theatre 

restrooms 

1. Are there plenty of soap dispensers? 

2. Are they working properly, fast and 

free-flowing? 

3. Is soap used fast-acting and easy on 

the hands? 

4. Are there plenty of towel dispensers? 

5. Are there ample mirrors? Ai'e they 

kept clean? 

6. Do toilet seats need replacing? If 

cracked or pitted, they do. 

7. Are seat covers in stall? 

8. Are stall partitions, door handles 

and other metal parts cleaned each 

day? 

9. Is restroom properly ventUated? 

10. Are ventilators and radiators clean? 

11. Is a proper deodorant used? 

12. Are toilet paper holders clean and 

functioning properly? 

14 

The MODERN THEATRE SECTION 

I

: 

—- 

DON'T LET PROFITS 

DRIBBLE AWAY FROM 

LEAKING FIXTURES 

Preventive Maintenance Pays Off 

By WILLIAM E. KRAMER* 

If you're having plumbing troubles, 

chances are they are due to one of three 

reasons 

1. When your theatre was built, not 

enough thought was given to proper selection 

of the type, placement and number 

of fixtures best suited to theatre needs. 

2. Your plumbing has been abused and 

improperly maintained. 

3. A combination of both of the above, 

PLUMBING A TOUGH' ITEM 

Quality plumbing doesn't just "wear out" 

in the usual sense of the word. Actually, 

plumbing is about the toughest item in 

your theatre. Pi'operly cared for it will 

last indefinitely. But abuse and poor 

maintenance practices will result in higher 

maintenance costs and needless repair bills. 

Obviously, one cannot be an expert in 

every field. Many theatre operators are not 

acquainted with the ABC's of plumbing. 

As a result, their plumbing suffers from 

improper care, 

Pi'oper maintenance of plumbing is not 

difficult. All that is required is familiarity 

with a few simple facts, both on the part 

of the theatre operator and on the part of 

his building maintenance and cleaning 

staffs. 

BRILLIANT 

LUSTER CAN LAST 

No doubt you have often noted the brilliant 

luster of a new plumbing fixture. 

That siu'face is the same type of glassy 

hardness you find in a quality mirror. And 

it will last just as long as a mirror, provided 

it is treated properly. 

It's impossible to repair a fixture whose 

appearance has been ruined by abuse and 

Improper cleaning. The only solution is to 

Install a new fixture. Once this has been 

done, you should take positive steps to see 

to it that your investment is protected and 

the new fixture properly cared for. 

Scratches due to abuse and improper 

cleaning are the most frequent causes of 

damage to plumbing fixtures. The bottom 

of a scrub bucket, for example, contains 

thousands of gritty particles that are capable 

of marring the finish of a fixture. 

That's one reason why scrub buckets should 

never be emptied into water closet bowls 

cleaning personnel all too often prop the 

"Plumbing and Heating Industries Bureau. 


A clean restroom invites respect. While patrons are to blame for much of the abuse of 

plumbing fixtures in theatre washrooms, a large part of this abuse might be averted simply 

fay keeping vfashrooms clean and attractive at all times. People tend to respect another 

person's property when it is obvious that he respects it himself. 

bucket against the rim of the fixture 

while pouring. 

Another good reason why pails should 

never be emptied into toilets is that occasionally 

they are dropped into the bowl, 

chipping or breaking it and necessitating 

replacement of the entire fixture. Installation 

of a few utility sinks would virtually 

eliminate this portion of your maintenance 

costs. 

Abrasive cleaners also are ruinous to 

fixtures. They produce hundreds of minute 

scratches which, over a period of years. 

Plain soap and water will remove even the toughest 

of dried accumulations from a new fixture. If the 

theatre's cleaning schedule is frequent enough, and 

maintenance employes properly instructed, stains 

will seldom have a chance to dry and "set" on a 

fixture, making it more difficult to clean. 

may ruin the appearance of the fixture. 

You would never consider cleaning a mirror, 

for instance, with pumice, or any otlier 

abrasive. Yet hundreds of plumbing fixtures 

are subjected to this treatment every 

day. And still they are expected to retain 

their luster indefinitely. 

The scratches resulting from improper 

cleaning not only will ruin the appearance 

of a fixture, but also make it difficult to 

clean. A smooth, glossy surface is much 

easier to maintain than one which has 

been dulled by constant use of harsh, 

abrasive cleaners. 

USE ONLY SOAP AND WATER 

Actually, if a fixture has been properly 

cared for, it should never be necessary to 

use anything stronger than plain soap and 

water. This will remove even the toughest 

of dried accumulations. And the smart 

theatre operator will see to it that restrooms 

are cleaned frequently. That way 

dirt is never given a chance to "set" on a 

fixture, making it harder to clean. This 

not only reduces cleaning costs, but it also 

will reflect itself in increased boxoffice 

totals. 

Acid cleaners (sometimes employed to 

remove stains from toilet bowls) should 

be avoided. They may permanently 

roughen and corrode the surface of even 

the best quality of acid-resistant fixtures 

and drain pipes. 

Your customers are often the chief offenders 

in abusing plumbing and plumbing 

fixtures. They prop their feet on water 

closet bowls to tie their shoes. They 


15

DON'T LET PROFITS DRIBBLE AWAY 

Continued from preceding pgae 

EASY STEPS 

. . . $n(l you'te on yotit mijl 

The CINEMASCOPE, WIDE SCREEN 

and VISTA VISION product is winning 

greater favor every day. Knowing the multiple 

equipment improvements they require, 

National Theatre Supply has devised a simple 

"^5 Step" program whereby even the 

smallest theatre can gradually progress along 

the road to complete wide screen projection. 

Your National man will be glad to advise 

you on this new "5 Step" program. Being 

familiar with theatres of every size, his judgement 

will prove invaluable in guiding you 

towards modern theatre 

NATIONAL'S DEFERRED PAYMENT PLAN 

improvement. 

. . . makes it easy-stepping, too! For if it's 

terms you want to help in 

equipping your 

theatre, National has a time-tested plan that 

will meet your every need. 

For details — contact your nearest 

NATIONAL THEATRE SUPPLY Branch today! 

ATIONAL 

THEATRE SUPPLY 

Division of Nolienol • Simplex • Bludwerth. Inc 

wrench faucet handles shut so tightly that 

necessary 

they damage the seats, making it 

Or they sit on 

to replace the entire faucet. 

the edges of wall-hung lavatories until 

they weaken the strongest of mountings. 

There is no sure cure for the American 

disease of disregard for the other fellow's 

property. However, setting a good example 

will often bring about a reduction in abusive 

and negligent treatment of fixtures on 

the part of customers. 

A clean restroom invites respect. An 

individual is not nearly so apt to prop 

his shoe on a fixture that is kept spotlessly 

clean as he is on one that is dirty 

and unattractive. 

AN INVITATION TO TROUBLE 

Dripping faucets invite their own brand 

of trouble. They help get patrons in the 

habit of wrenching them closed too tightly 

in order to stop the flow of water. 

Frequent and thorough maintenance 

of your plumbing facilities will save you 

money in the long run. Restrooms, including 

floors and fixtures, should be thoroughly 

cleaned as often as is necessary to 

keep them attractive, clean-appearing and 

fresh-smelling. 

Free-running drains are a must. You 

can accomplish this by setting up a preventive 

maintenance program specially for 

this purpose. Clogged drains are a prime 

cause of customer iU will. They increase 

dirt accumulation on fixtures, making them 

costlier to clean. And they are extremely 

unsanitary. 

You could virtually eliminate drainage 

problems simply by having your cleaning 

staff flush out each drain once or twice 

a month with a good solvent compound or 

sal soda. However, be sure to warn against 

allowing the solvent to remain on the fixture. 

Any surplus should be flushed down 

the drain pipe immediately as it may 

permanently damage even an acid-resistant 

fixture. 

DOUBLE LOSS OF MONEY 

Dripping faucets cost you money in several 

ways. They waste an enormous amount 

of water, and if it is hot water they will 

raise your heating bills significantly. 

If your water supply happens to be hard 

water, then a deposit of minerals may fonn 

on your fixture from dripping faucets that 

is not easy to remove. This will ruin their 

appearance. 

Just as important, when patrons wrench 

tight the handle of a leaking faucet in an 

attempt to shut it off, they may damage 

the valve seat. This often makes it necessary 

to replace the entire faucet. 

Liikewise, running flush valves invite 

damaging kicks in attempts to shut them 

off. Those kicks can ruin the valve, making 

it necessary to replace it completely. 

Your staff should be instructed to report 

leaky faucets or running flush valves at 


' 

the first sign of malfunction. And then 

you should take steps to see that they are 

repaired immediately. 

Just as important as the maintenance 

itself is the type of plumbing you install in 

your restrooms in the first place. A recent 

survey of the managers of buildirigs with 

public restrooms reveals that it costs between 

25 and 30 per cent more to clean 

restrooms equipped with floor-mounted 

fixtures than it does to clean those with 

wall-hung fixtures. 

These figures were compiled on the basis 

that the same degree of cleanliness should 

be maintained in both restrooms. 

It goes without saying that partitions 

between fixtures also should be wall-hung 

since it takes just as much extra time to 

clean around a floor-mounted partition as 

it does a fixtui-e. 

Wall-hung fixtures cost slightly more 

"in place" than other types. This is not 

due to increased cost of the fixture, but 

because of the difficult installation problems 

involved. However, they will more 

than pay for themselves in a short time 

in lower cleaning costs. 

AVOID SELF-CLOSING 

FAUCETS 

A souixe of constant irritation to theatre 

patrons—and consequently, ownershave 

been self-closing water faucet handles. 

These make it impossible for patrons to 

wash their hands under a constant stream 

of running water. Whether or not these 

faucets actually ever save on the amount 

of water consumed is dubious because frequently 

patrons become angered and 

fasten them into the "on" position with 

string, rubber bands, or props—deliberately 

neglecting to turn them off when they 

are finished. 

Surveys have shown that the public is 

definitely prejudiced against this type of 

water faucet, so it is doubtful whether any 

savings in water is worth the ill will they 

create. Most building owners are getting 

away from this type of installation for the 

reasons set forth above. 

Proper maintenance of youi- theatre 

plumbing is important to you in two respects; 

it will save you money on future 

repairs; and at the same time it will increase 

customer goodwill and boxoffice receipts. 

A Guide for Exhibitors 

To the ABC's of Fires 

And Fire Extinguishers 

In this modern age a lot of 

information 

is packed away behind two or three letters 

of the alphabet. Even fires have their 

ABC's. And for each classification of fire 

there are one or more types of fire extinguishers 

best suited for putting out the 

flames. It pays to know your ABC's where 

fire control is involved. Failure to use the 

proper type of extinguishers in fighting a 

fire may prove disastrous. 

Class A fires: Wood, paper, cloth 

rubbish and other combustible materials. 

Use: approved* foam or soda 

acid extinguishers. 

Class B fires: Oil, grease, paint and 

related products. Use: approved* foam, 

dry chemical, vaporizing liquid, carbon 

dioxide. (Do not throw water on this 

type fire; it spreads the flames.) 

Class C fires: Electrical installations, 

including motors and generators. Use: 

approved* carbon dioxide, dry chemical, 

vaporizing liquid extinguishers. 

(Do not use "water type" extinguisher 

on electrical fii'es.J 

Fire protection authorities believe many 

small fires can be controlled and extinguished 

with relatively little damage 

through more effective use of fire protection 

equipment. 

If more fii-e protection equipment is 

available, and if more people are trained 

to use that equipment, these authorities 

suggest, a substantial percentage of the 

annual toll of lives and property can be 

saved. 

The greatest number of fires in theatres 

originate in the projection room. Smoking 

and matches and misuse of electricity rank 

next, respectively, with heating defects the 

fourth most frequent cause. Other causes 

which it will pay theatremen to check and 

correct are defective chimney or flue, hot 

ashes and draperies or other fabrics touching 

light bulbs. 

'An approved fire extinguisher bears the label of 

the Underwriters' Laboratories or the Factory Mutual 

Laboratories, indicating it has met rigid performance 

standards. 

Source: Fire Protection Institute 

Highly maneuverable, 

low cost vacuum cleaner 

with the power and capacity 

for big jobs. 

Extremely flexible Accordion 

(R) Hose cleans 

larger area without 

moving the machine, 

stretches from 6' to 16' 

and can be coupled foi 

longer reach. Converli 

to wet pick-up an 

power blower. 

DIRECT-O-LITE 

FLASHLIGHT EXTENSIONS 

V 

Designed to fit the Standard 2-Cell Evereody Flashlight Molded in 

one piece of strong Tenite-will not crack, chip, or peel- will -^^'^^ 

withstand long, hard usage in any kind of weather. ^^:::^^^ 

Primarily designed for Theatre and Drive-In Ushers 

the Direct-O-Lite also makes an ideal accessory 

for the Flashlight in the glove com- — 

partment of your car. ^-^ 

^^-~^^^ 

Pullman Vacuum Cleaner Corp. 

Boston 19, Mass. 

I would like more information about the 

Pullman Theater Vacuum Cleaner with Accordion 

Hose. 

SIGN 

Available from your Theatre Equipment Dealer 

Manufactured by 

LaVezzi Machine Works 

463 S WEST LAKE ST CHICAGO 44. Ill 

in r«d or gi««n, 

and in lengths of 3'^" or 

2", with e. 

nently mold«d-in. 

COMPANY. 

STREET 

CITY . STATE. 


WILBY-KINCEYI 

No Interruption 

on 

By 

ROY ELKINS 

Late in 1953 when officials of 

Wilby-Kincey Theatres of Atlanta decided 

to restore their Bristol, Tenn., outlet, the 

Paramount, they were determined it 

should 

maintain its position as the outstanding 

theatre between Roanoke and Knoxville. 

A six-mcnth renovation program, a 

period during which there was no interruption 

of services, not only accomplished 

the original goal but made it unlikely that 

the Paramount, even without future restoration, 

would become surpassed by competitors 

for many years to come. 

Long cne of the South s premier show 

places among towns of less than 100,000, 

the Paramount required nothing in the 

way of architectural changes; rather, it 

lequired restoration from marquee to 

proscenium. 

Brilliant, multi-hued neon distinnuishes the remodeled marquee and upright sign above the marquee at the 

Paramount Theatre in Bristol, Tenn. The upright has a flashing border of rose neon with the theatre name 

in green neon. The horizontal sign is in 24-inch letters with white neon. 

THEATRE 23 

YEARS OLD 

A house of l.aSO seats, considerably more 

than the capacity of any other theatre in 

the city of 40.000, the Paramount was constructed 

in 1931 and had from the start 

been a place of beauty generously filled 

with an atmosphere of comfort. 

People of the area had come to love 

the Paramount just as it was, architecturally, 

and Wilby-Kincey saw no reason to 

disturb that which the patron approved. 

The program consumed much of a sixmonth 

period although work was suspended 

during the period between installation of 

Cinemascope and stereophonic sound, during 

the first part of January, and May 

when general restoration got underway. 

F^'om installation of an 80-ton Carrier 

air conditioning system through the 

minutest of repainting there was no in- 

PARAMoi*' 

ikV- 

'^^^m^. 

At left is the front and marquee 

of the Paramount before 

its recent remodeling. Note, 

in the picture above, how much 

more dramatic the recreated 

front and marquee appear. At 

right is the handsome, modern 

boxoffice in trapezoidal shape. 

The base is wine Carrara glass 

and the body, to the ticket 

counter line, is chipped gold 

Flex-Glass The upper section 

of plate glass affords a 65 

per cent view for the cashier. 

Contrast the interesting lines 

of this new boxoffice with the 

older type shown in the picture 

at the left. The attractive 

terra cotta facade of the theatre 

was unchanged, and it was 

also unnecessary to replace the 

gray terrazzo floor of the lobby 

which was still in excellent 

condition. 


JPDATES A TENNESSEE THEATRE OF THE '30s 

ervices During Six-Months Remodeling Program 

convenience to patrons. Many, in fact, did 

not know restoration was underway until 

work was finished on the auditorium and 

shifted to the lobby and foyer where ladders 

and canvas were in full sight. 

The theatre got a complete overhaul 

from marquee to proscenium with fewareas 

escaping. The terra cotta facade was 

unchanged, as was the gray terrazzo floor 

of the lobby. 

Carpeting, for the most part, was unchanged 

since much of it had been only 

recently installed. That which was changed 

was replaced with a three-fourth inch 

Gullistan featuring a large golden plume 

design on a rich wine background, thus 

giving the public access area a single floor 

covering. 

MARQUEE DRESSED UP 

The marquee was modernized sharply, 

with incandescent bulbs giving way to 

neon and fluorescent lighting. 

The old upright sign was remodeled, a 

job that gave the effect of a new sign, and 

matched with a new front sign, both featuring 

brilliant multi-hued neon in an eyecatching 

effect. 

The upright features a flashing border 

of rose neon with Paramount recessed in 

channel letters of green neon. The front 

sign is of 24-inch channel letters with 

white neon and the P and T extended into 

the base. 

Backgrounds of both signs are maroon, 

outside returns are fii'e red and inside 

channels of borders are of lamar yellow. 

Silhouette letter panels are of opal glass 

with red Adler marquee letters and the 

canopy features 40-watt fluorescent daylight 

bulbs set on an enameled white 

ceiling. 

A radically new boxoffice, designed by 


The grand drapery in the Paramount is peach, with 

a full-pleated background of light green. A traveler 

curtain of peach nylon and silk, with ends of green 

v/as added, to give a sense of depth for the 

proscenium. The green ends of the traveler curtain 

give the effect of end draperies which were impossible 

to install because of a space limitation 

after the installation of the wide screen. 

^ 

Murals by a noted Italian artist at the time the 

theatre was built had become favorites of patrons 

and were therefore retained. One of the murals is 

pictured at the right. Sections between the murals 

were stenciled. The auditorium has a 40-foot high 

ceiling, decorated in tan and trimmed in rose and 

silver.

UPDATES A TENNESSEE THEATRE 


James T. Redd of Wilby-Kincey, was installed 

and became an immediate hit with 

patrons. 

Considered one of the most modernistic 

and beautiful, it is in the shape of a trapezoid 

with the top larger than the bottom. 

The base is of wine Carrara and the 

body, to the ticket counter line, is of chipped 

gold Flex-Glass. The upper section is 

of plate glass with Kawneer molding 

and affords a 65 per cent view for both 

patron and cashier. 

Ceiling supports are of mirrored Flex- 

Glass. 

Natural birch doors with plate glass 

open into the lobby. 

ALTERNATING PANELS IN 

LOBBY 

One of the most beautiful and eye catching 

of the restored areas, the lobby was 

decorated in a series of arresting and harmonizing 

color schemes featuring alternating 

panels. 

Major panels are of harvest tan overlaid 

with a falling feather design of spun 

gold Applikay. Alternating panels feature 

solid dewberry rose and deep flamingo 

with a design of moonmist white and spun 

gold. 

Alternating bands of variegated leaf and 

chrome silver with a dewberry rose design 

separate panels. 

The ceiling also features panels of handpainted, 

12-pointed stars in variegated leaf. 

For the most part, the background is harvest 

tan. 

The foyer was done in much the same 

scheme as the lobby with walls of harvest 

tan with the predominant theme of falling 

feather of spun gold. The cream ceiling 

was effectively merged into the walls 

with a massive cornice of dewberry rose 

and dove gray. 

GLASS CURTAINS AT ENTRANCES 

Neutral glass curtains were hung in the 

main entrances to the rear of the auditorium. 

One of the most beautiful in the tri-state 

area of Tennessee, Virginia and North 

Carolina, the auditorium was restored 

completely with emphasis equally on comfort 

and beauty. 

Murals on the walls of the auditorium, 

which features a 40-foot ceiling, were redone 

completely in a tedious hand-painting 

process. Painted by a noted Italian 

artist at the time the Paramount was constructed, 

the murals were retained because 

of their popularity. 

Sections between murals were done in a 

stencil design. 

The ceiling weis redecorated with a basic 

color of tan with sections between decorative 

beams bordered in silver with an edging 

of rose. 

Heywood-Wakefield seats with bottoms 

of red leatherette and backs of wildrose 

were installed wherever not already in use 

This attractive concessions setup is three times larger than the old one it replaced. It features extensive 

glass areas above a mahogany wood base. The popcorn warmer at the far end is supplemented by 

the popcorn warmer, with elevator wells, shown in the center front. In addition to drink dispensers 

and self-service ice cream wells, snow cone equipment was installed. 

and backs, bottoms, and standards were 

sprayed in coronado coral highlighted in 

gold. 

The proscenium was re-curtained beautifully 

under the direction of E. H. Geissler 

of Wil-Kin Theatre Supply. 

A grand drapery of peach draped in 

opera curtain style with a full-pleated 

background of light green was installed 

and an impressive traveler curtain of peach 

nylon and silk, with ends of green, was 

added. 

The combination resulted in an effective 

sense of depth for the proscenium, the 

green ends of the traveler curtain giving 

the effect of end draperies which were impossible 

to install because of space limitations 

caused by the installation of the 

Cinemascope screen. 

Lounges for both women and men were 

modernized. 

Two connecting walls of the men's 

lounge were finished in a multi-color 

three-dimensional design on a citrus green 

background. Pink bars were used to link 

aquamarine designs to frames of dewberry 

rose. Opposite walls were done in 

aquamarine and the ceiling finished in 

cream. 

A wall redone to give the effect of a 

floor carpet extension featured work in the 

women's powder room. A heavy plume design 

of brown and gold with a blue etching 

on a background of mint resulted in 

an effective scheme. The other walls were 

done in mint. 

Four oval-framed mirrors over cosmetic 

tables covered in sparkling gold fabrics 

were installed for the convenience of patrons. 

Ornamental stools were covered in 

matching fabrics. 

The main lounge was refurnished in 

functional design with pieces grouped to 

encourage groups or parties. Modern end 

tables with matching lamps were placed 

with couches to give the area an atmosphere 

of home. 

Completely new aluminum display frames 

by Sealuxe with a background of hammered 

satin were installed. A dating system 

with Mitten, two-inch letters was adopted. 

An unusual and effective confection 

center was installed to replace an older 

one that was less than a third as large. 

Also designed by Redd, it features extensive 

glass display areas with rich mahogany 

woods and a decorative run of 

Flex-Glass on one side. 

The latest in popcorn equipment was installed 

at one end and a warmer with elevator 

wells added at the opposite point. 

Heaters of 750-watts and blowers were 

added to maintain a constant temperature 

for both boxed and loose corn. A Buttermat 

was installed, 

also. 

A fountain is a highlight of the center 

with drinks dispensed from either a double 

Coca-Cola head or a Majestic drink dispenser 

for non-carbonated drinks. 

Candy bars were placed under glass exclusively, 

snow cone equipment was installed, 

also self-service ice cream wells. 


ANNOUNCING 

TWO GREAT NEW 

LENSES 

tf)6 SUPEK SKAPLITE 

ml iilPElE SXAPLITB F/I.7X 

tion, better all around filming, try the nev/ 

Now Tm&r Lenses for Finer Motion Pictures 

witli a True Speed of f/1.7 in all 

sizes where fast lenses are needed. 

From Kollmorgen ...the newest, fastest projection 

lenses you can buy. To give you the 

brightest, clearest, sharpest, most uniform 

picture you have ever seen on your screen. 

For better Boxoffice, better patron satisfac- 

SUPER SNAPLITE f/1 .7 today. When vignetting 

is a problem investigate the SUPER 

SNAPLITE f/1.7X. 

True speed of f/1 .7 in focal lengths from 2 

inches through 4 inches in Va inch steps. 

Ask your Theatre Supply Dealer about these 

fine lenses. For more information ask your 

dealer or write for Bulletin 222. 

I' 

KOLLAIOKI 

:OKPOItilTIOK 

Plant: 347 King Street, Northampton, Massachusetts New York Office: 30 Church Street, New York 7, N. Y. 

on BOXOFFICE :: November 6, 1954 21

The woman who comes into your theatre is TB

;Ê#. 

^s^^s$^ssiSs&isssJ^sss^&^^^ 

THE BIG-TICKET CONCESSIONS ITEM CATCHES ON 

Patrons Are Intrigued by New, Unusual Foods and Beverages 

Even at Stepped-Up Prices; Sales High Wherever Introduced 

I HEATREGOERS LIKE food and refreshments 

with then- entertainment, and are 

willing to pay well for them. This has been 

proved by the success of the higher-priced 

items currently being offered in both indoor 

and drive-in concessions. 

While most exhibitors still make nickel 

candy bars and ten-cent popcorn available, 

promotional emphasis is placed on 

the higher-priced, higher-profit ten and 

25-cent candy and buttered corn at 20 

or 25 cents. Also featured are "take-home" 

packages of regular popcorn at 25 to 40 

cents. 

The Paramount Theatre in Kansas City 

features five to seven 25-cent candy items, 

and one to six five-cent bars, the balance 

of the candy assortment being ten-cent 

items. A fair business is enjoyed on the 

highest priced goods, and when patrons 

have the choice between the three prices, 

experience has shown that they react 

psychologically to the intermediate price, 

producing a heavy ten-cent business. 

DRINKS AT 30 

CENTS 

The third theatre concession standby, 

beverages, has also jumped the five-cent 

hurdle. Ten, 20 and 30-cent drinks are 

now being appreciatively consumed by patrons 

with no protest on the price. The 

Ezell drive-ins recently pioneered the 30- 

cent, 24 oz., carbonated drink, dressed up 

with a paper umbrella which costs only 

$1 per gross. The jumbo drink now represents 

30 per cent of the beverage sales at 

Ezell 

drive-ins. 

In Kansas City, the Roxy, an indoor 

house, also features a 30-cent drink, which 

came about accidentally when the manager 

found the concessions girl serving a 

drink in a 24-oz. Buttercup. The patron 

didn't mind the price, so the 30-cent drink 

became a regular item. 

Also in Kansas City, a 50-cent, 35-oz. 

drink is sold at the Riverside Drive-In 

Theatre. Admittedly a novelty, one out of 

a hundred patrons buys one. and the profit 

is 

high. 

So much for the increased stature of 

the three original theatre concession items. 

The really amazing upbeat is found in the 

drive-in theatres where new food items 

Fried chicken, shrimp artd tamale dinners are popular with the family trade at Jack Farr's Trail Drive-In 

Theatre, Houston. He shoots for 33 ':t per cent markup on dinner items. 

and complete dinners ante the check from 

30 cents to $1.25. 

Chinese egg rolls are gaining in popularity 

wherever they are introduced, and 

the French fried, shrimp filled sandwich 

sells for 30 cents in most places. Costing 

only eleven cents, as a rule, this gives a 

high markup. Saul Lerner, owner of the 

Cammack Hempstead drive-ins in the Long 

Island area has enjoyed exceptional success 

with these rolls 

for almost two years. 

Lerner also sells pizza pies, which cost 

about 20 cents to make, for 60 cents. Pi-ices 

on pizza vary, some drive-ins, such as the 

Kallett in Syracuse, charging $1 for a 

large pie. In any case the profit is high. 

Chicken dinners vary from 60 cents to 

$1.25, depending on "extras" and number of 

pieces. For two pieces of chicken, Fi-ench 

fries, potato chips and pickle, the average 

is $1. Three pieces of chicken, roll, butter 

and French fries, usually rate $1.15 to 

SI. 25. 

Shrimp dinners seem to sell generally 

for $1 at drive-ins throughout the country. 

Some theatres have created Dagwoodtype 

sandwiches, filled with layers of meat, 

for which they charge 

cheese, lettuce, etc.. 

as high as 45 cents. Patrons seem to like 

these jumbo-sized novelty sandwiches. 

Most drive-ins charge 25 to 30 cents for 

hamburgers and barbecue sandwiches, and 

many offer jumbo hot dogs, 10 '/z inches 

long, for 30 cents. 

Surprisingly enough, hot dogs are not 

only good sellers at drive-in theatres, but 

many indoor houses now feature the regular 

size sandwich at 20 cents. In San 

Antonio, three Spanish language houses 

are doing a brisk business in hot dogs and 

chiliburgers which also sell at 20 cents. 

In the past year chili cones, selling at 

25 cents, have became popular with drivein 

patrons. 

Many items, such as fried pies and taffy 

apples, will produce a handsome profit, 

since they usually may be obtained for 

about seven cents and sold for 15 cents. 

Another high profit item, particularly if 

the drive-in owner has his own machine, 

is the doughnut, selling for a nickel each, 

and 50 or 60 cents a dozen. This is a good 

"take-home" item to push. 

Since theatre patrons are seemingly always 

hungry and thirsty, the smart exhibitor 

will make it a practice to watch 

for and introduce new items at higher, 

more profitable prices. 


1955 VENDERS ON PARADE 

ftowe introduced 14-column cigaret vender. Nestle products made an impressiye display. 

A French boulevard cafe was created by Pepsi-Cola. ApcQ showed a whole battery 0/ beverage dispensers. 

Flavored syrups and manual dispensers shown by Nehi. Mills Industries featured coffee vending machines. 

"A Cup for Bvery Need"— Made for vending by Lily. Canada Dry displayed vending units for its drinks.

,' 

' 

Candy bars by Mors in their own vending unit. 

[ 

II If -v-.-j I 

| ! [ 

,: I! 

Coca-Cola's garden-like 

hospitaHty center. 

ColeSpa beverage 

machines in a variety 

of designs and sizes 

for various numbers 

of drinks were lined 

up in the Cole 

Products Corp. 

booth. Some of the 

machines have cabinets 

designed to sell 

specific brands of 

syrup flavors, while 

others handle several 

brands. 

Philip Morris Co. 

featured its cigaret 

of that name as well 

as the recently acquired 

Parliament 

cigaret in this attractive 

display at 

the show. Bulletin 

boards flanking the 

display showed vending 

aids for any machine, 

for any location, 

for both brands. 

Automatic Merchandising Ass'n Holds Its Biggest Show 

With Attendance Reaching an All-Time High 

More than 125 manufacturers of the latest 

merchandise and service vending machines 

and vendible products participated 

in the recent tradeshow of the National 

Automatic Merchandising Ass'n held in the 

Washington Armory in Washington, D. C. 

Attendance was the greatest in histoiT- 

One of the hits of the show was the 

presentation of "McNulty's Nightmare," a 

dramatic fantasy, professionally staged, 

which tackled some of the most pressing 

day-to-day problems in employe and patron 

relations, particularly applicable to 

theatre concessions ojjerators. Sponsored 

by the Coca-Cola Co., it dealt expressly 

with problems of cup vending, although 

the principles evolving from the presentation 

applied with equal force to all aspects 

of automatic merchandising. 

Machines on display in the exhibit illustrated 

how automatic merchandising has 

adapted itself to demands of the times. 

The show was held in connection with 

the four-day convention which featured 

"Brass Tack Clinics" keyed to the theme, 

"Bluepilnt for Progress." 

Brand Ney^, Ultra Modern 

Pushbutton Plant 

now offers concession operators 

Better Popping 

Better Eating 

Quality 

POPCORN 

at terrific savings 

Completely automatic time-ond-labor saving 

equipment . big insurance savings, and . . . 

. . 

decreased maintenance costs result in great 

economies which enable concession operators to 

buy the finest quality popcorn at the lowest possible 

prices. 

Big Volume Operations 

Scientifically operated plant processes and produces 

100 thousand pounds of popcorn a day. 

Tarkio Quality Is Tops! 

Cleoner, fresher, better TARKIO POPCORN is the 

finest, most economical obtainable anywhere at 

any price. TARKIO processes nothing but topgrade, 

approved hybrids corefully selected for 

popping structure and eating qualities. 

This is not ordinory popcorn. No sir! Every kernel 

is scientifically graded, tempered, cleaned, polished 

and then maintoined at correct moisture 

content with special, electrical equipment. 

Famous A. O. Smith, glass-lined Horvestore tanks 

equipped with electronic temperature controls provide 

ideal storage facilities for 4 million pounds 

of popcorn ... a tremendous reserve assuring 

customers immediate delivery of ony quantity . . . 

at any time. 

Send Today for Trial Order 

TARKIO 

Popcorn Co., Inc. 

Plant: Torkio, Mo. 

Sales 

Office 

3706 Broadwoy Kansas City, Mo. 

BOXOFTICE November 6, 1954 25

. 

Develop Double Cross Hybrid Popcorn 

With Superior Flake for 

A recent report, "Popcorn Experiments 

for 1953" which summarizes studies in popcorn 

breeding and culture by the Iowa 

Agricultural Experiment Station, contains 

information of use to those buying or using 

popcorn. 

Confections 

The report states though 1953 had a 

comparatively dry summer popping volumes 

of the corn were the highest ever recorded. 

The increased volumes were attributed 

to several factors: The corn was 

allowed to ripen completely on the stalk, 

thus assuring a more uniform moisture 

content when harvested, and then placed 

in humidity rooms to give it an optimum 

moisture content of 13.6 per cent. The results 

indicated the importance of complete 

maturity, optimum moisture and uniform- 

'^My, that popcorn smeUs good. . 

let's 

go hack and get some!" 

WITH BUTTERLIKE FLAVOR AND AROMA 

BRINGS 'EM BACK EVERY TIME! 

the only popping o!l with a real butler 

Check the 

like flavor 

plusses 

measures more accurately 

pours readily in all kinds of weather 

of 

costs less per bag 

Popsit 

produces fewer Plus} 

"duds" 

Made of American Ingredients-Always Available! 

ity of moisture for best popping volume. 

Quality was also considered in the report. 

It stated "Our experience based on 

a study of hundreds of experimental hybrids 

over the past 20 years shows very 

clearly 

that, when ear size increases, quality 

of the popped product is likely to be 

lowered. Hulls are usually heavier and 

coarser and the popped flake is tougher." 

It was noted, too, that too much emphasis 

is being placed on popping expansion, often 

at the expense of eating quality, that is 

tenderness and freedom from coarse hulls. 

The experimental station reported that 

it has developed a double cross hybrid 

which has the size, shape and structure of 

a popped flake which would be desirable 

tor use in confections. The experimenters 

said that they hope to have a single cross 

parent seed of the hybrid available for seed 

producers by the spring of 1955 so that 

commerical seed would be available for 

processors for planting in 1956. 

Information on other experiments in 

Idaho, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina 

and in north Iowa is included in the summary 

with data on individual hybrids. 

The experiments are sponsored by the 

Popcorn Processors Ass'n and several individual 

processors. 

Popcorn Is a Valuable Food 

Only in recent years has the nutrient 

value of popcorn been brought to light, 

supporting what theatre patrons have 

known all along. The Department of Agriculture 

says popcorn has (1) more food 

energy units than all cooked fish and 

meats (except very fat meats";

Built-in 

Refrigerator Featured 

Mills Industries to Move TV Program to Push Candy Bar 

In Snack Bar Units 

The Charles E. Hires Co., maker of root 

beer, is now offering a modern snack bar 

of stainless steel and oak in three sizes, 

six. eight and ten feet in length. The two 

large food and beverage merchandisers feature 

refrigerators with capacities of 1,600 

A. E. Ti-egenza, president of Mills Industries, 

Inc., has announced the sale of 

the firm's plant on Fîllerton avenue in 

Chicago to the Teletype Corp. He said that 

a large part of the plant had been devoted 

to the filling of defense orders and with 

the termination of contracts it had been 

decided to move to a new plant with facilities 

for the manufacture of drink venders 

and ice cream making freezers. The move 

will occur within the next few months. 

Pinal decision on the location has not yet 

been made. Meantime, the Teletype Corp. 

will begin to move its equipment into the 

parts of the plant that were used in the 

manufacture of armaments under the defense 

contracts. 

Williamson Candy Co., makers of the 

Oh Henry! candy bar. will sponsor a TV 

advertising campaign this fall that will 

include over 112 stations. The purpose of 

the campaign will be to offer theatres 

greater promotional support on the local 

level, according to James A. Dickens, vicepresident 

and sales manager. Radio advertising 

will also be used. 

As the company has found that the cartoon 

commercials used on TV keep its 

product among the best sellers, Dickens 

stated, "Oh Henry! TV advertising will 

be bigger than ever this fall . . . the cartoon 

technique seems to bring smiles and 

sales from youngsters and grown-ups 

alike." 

/ 

The house Is 

packed for 

New snack bar, available in three siies. 

and 1.800 frankfurters. All three units can 

be provided with either ice or electrical 

cooling and come equipped with a sink 

for hot and cold running water. The snack 

bars are complete units containing a 50- 

roU moist heating unit, a 150-roll storage 

bin, built-in cup dispenser, waste containers 

and grill. For added sales appeal, a 

fluorescent revolving sign featuring the 

Hires name is displayed prominently. The 

famous keg is also included. 

SENSATIONAL 

NESTLES CRUNCH lAR 

The oll-eut favorite of the 

fans— that milk chocolate War 

with the crunchy goodness. 

NESTLE'S NEW COCONUT BAR 

Another Nestle winner— 

rich milk chocolate, with 

shredded coconut, for 

delicious, delightful eating. 

tl 

PROFIT 

From Being a Good Host 

To Your Potrons In 

D. I. T. 

.HO^^''-"" 

Serve to your Patrons Hot Dogs . . . 

1 

• HOT 

2 

3 

4 

Serve to your Patrons Popcorn . . . 

• HOT and CRISPY 

Serve to your Patrons Cold Beverages 

, ... ICE COLD 

While the show is on, serve your 

Patrons TO their cars. 

In darkness, wind or rain, your Patrons 

C ore enjoying your hospitality at its 

*'• best— in the privacy of their cars . . . 

WALKY SERVICE CO. 

401 Schweiter BIdg. 

Wichita, 

Kansas 

Phone 4-5169 

Monufoeturers of 

"Buffeterio" 

Movoble concession 

on wheels 

Ask for literature 

10c Crunch, Milk, Almond and 

Coconut available coast-to-coast 

— 5c Crunch, Millc and Almond 

available except on West Coast. 

All sizes packed 

100 bars per case. 

See your Nestle Representative 

or write for more details to 

THE NESTLE COMPANY, INC. 

2 William St., White Plains, N. Y. 

BOXOFFICE :: November 6. 1954 27

. 

Would You... 

Push-Button Popcorn Processing Plant 

,ry^Mm Utilizes All Automatic Equipment 

.'>' 

V. 

fj '\ 

us-e 

proje-ction equipment 

like this? 

Tbeii \S liv. .

!1T 

Tv/c 

\l\ 

^ i 

5* 

r-r, 

:i ' :ii 

icH"'" 

:i" 

1 1 - 

n 

il lum 

IIIIIIUlfa± 

aisr- -nr ai aimin.u i.nit uime.

! 

Small-Town Exhibitor 

Expects 

CinemaScope Investment Will 

Pay Off Before Two Years 

Wide screen? CinemaScope? 3-D? 

Install them or sit tight? If you are a 

small-town exhibitor and wonder what to 

do about the new projection techniques, 

maybe the experience of a small-town 

exhibitor in Kansas will help you. 

K. H. Gaston, owner of the 500-seat 

Mayflower in Florence, Kan., was faced 

with lagging boxoffice receipts. Although 

the Mayflower is in a small town a,200 

pop.) it has a good trade territory. The 

first theatre to the south is 30 miles away; 

the first to the east, 45; and to the north 

and west, 10 miles. 

The theatre is air conditioned by a 

Ballantyne 250,000 cubic foot washed air 

evaporative cooler. 

Gaston, who has been an exhibitor for 

over 30 years, could see two reasons for the 

lag at the boxoffice. First, the TV competition 

got rough when the regional station 

went on a national hook-up and his patrons 

stayed home to view higher quality 

programs than they had been getting from 

the local station. 

Second, his rural patrons were experienc- 

K. H. Gaston, owner of the 500-ieat Mayflower Theatre, Florence, Kas., stands proudly In front of his new 

CinemaScope screen which is 32 feet wide, exactly twice as large as the old screen. Boxoffice receipts 

have increased 30 per cent since the installation was made. 

ing a double pocketbook pinch in low 

market prices and a severe drought. 

Gaston found that even with a good 

territory his profits were falling, with the 

20 per cent federal tax on admission taking 

too much of the 50 cents admission price. 

When the tax on admission was removed 


|l 

Bffluiy 

00 Doiy 

Enhance the eye appeal of your posters, 

add showmanship to your entrance and 

lobby with: 

SEALUXE Display Frames 

— standard and deluxe 

EASEL AND INSERT FRAMES 

BANNER BOARDS 

PHOTO AND COMBINATION FRAMES 

DOOR AND LOBBY ACCESSORIES 

BUILD BETTER BUSINESS ! 

Make coming attractions more attractive. 

EASY TO CLEAN 

Permanent alumilite finish needs no painting 

or polishing. 

When you invest in 

Sealuxe Display Frames 

and Accessories t/ie 

First Cost is 

last cost! 

tlie 

NO MAINTENANCE I 

SEALUXE Display Frames have 

maximum strength and minimum 

v/eight. No binding, worping or 

sagging. 


RAYTONE OFFERS 

! I 

fiU 

v»» 

Only Raytone dares to back up its advertising statements 

xvitli 

the absolute guarantee that if the Raytone 

Hilux Screen does not satisfy every claim below, 

YOU PAY NOTHING FOR THE SCREEN! 

NO SEAIwlS show on a Raytone Hilux Screen regardless 

of the size of the picture being projected . . . regardless of the system. 

EFFICIENT LIGHT REFLECTION 

The Raytone Hilux Screen reflects all the light which intelligent surveys 

indicate is 

needed. 

MAXIMUM LIGHT RETURN to the greatest 

number of desirable seats in any theatre is a must with all screens . . . 

a certainty with the Raytone Hilux Screen. 

EVEN LIGHT DISTRIBUTION to avoid hot 

spots and too rapid drop-off beyond useful viewing angles. 

RESISTANCE TO AMBIENT LIGHT 

. . . stray light from sources other than the projector ... is another 

important characteristic of the Raytone Hilux Screen. 

ACCURATE COLOR RENDITION 

makes for richer, more natural pictures on the Raytone Hilux Screen. 

look best when projected on the 

ail-purpose Raytone Hilux Screen . . . regardless of aspect ratio. 

^ In this day and age of advancing techniques and new developments 

in the motion picture industry, quality at reasonable prices is 

needed far more than inferior products at cut-prices. To this belief 

Raytone has dedicated the efforts and energies of all its research 

and development ... to continue to bring you the finest products at 

the lowest possible prices. See your Raytone Theatre Dealer today. 

iaJk^^TC^KIP SCREEN CORP. 

m^^ I ^1^ 1^1 165 Clermont Avenue, Brooklyn 5, New York 

^'IDWEST OFFICE: L. E. Cooley, 408 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Pork, Illinois

. $695 

no end to 

SURPRISES 

Yes, you'll be surprised no 

end to find how much new life 

we can put into your old seats. 

rehabilitation treatments include 

Our 

repair of parts, upholstering of 

seats or bocks, replacement 

of 

worn seats or backs— on any type or 

moke chair. And all 

this is deftly done, 

while your doily show goes on. 

We'll gladly quote on your needs. 

Why not 

write today? 

MANUFACTURERS- 

Foam rubber and 

spring cusMont, back 

and seat covers. 

OrSTRIBUTORS— 

Upholstery tabrlcs and 

general seating supplies. 

CINEMASCOPE IN 

SMALL TOWN 


early in 1954 Gaston decided to try one of 

the new projection methods to increase his 

crowds. He chose Cinemascope because he 

believes it will be the most popular with the 

patrons and the industry in future years. A 

second reason for choosing Cinemascope 

was that many of the major studios were 

adopting the medium for their big pictures. 

Also, the Mayflower has plenty of width 

to take the Cinemascope screen. 

Gaston is convinced the 3-D craze is 

only a fad and that it will fade quickly. 

Show customers, in his opinion, are not 

going to sit through many pictures wearing 

the cardboard glasses. 

A 32-FOOT SILVER 

SCREEN 

Looking over the market for Cinema- 

Scope equipment Gaston decided to purchase 

wide-screen lenses at the same time. 

Cinemascope equipment installed included 

the anamorphic lenses, a 32-foot invisible 

seam silver screen, and a four-track optical 

stereophonic sound system. 

A Williams Seamless screen was selected, 

and Bausch & Lomb anamorphic lenses and 

Ballantyne stereophonic sound were installed. 

The total cost of the installation ran 

close to $6,000. even with Gaston doing 

some of the work himself. 

The Mayflower opened with "The Robe" 

on May 26 for a week and did vei-y well. 

Curiosity as to Cinemascope and wide 

spread publicity both for the book and the 

picture were chiefly responsible. 

Boxoffice receipts have increased approximately 

30 per cent, however, since 

the first Cinemascope showing. Gaston says 

this is encouraging because his first two 

months with the equipment, June and July, 

are chronically the poorest for his business. 

His patrons are busy with farm work and 

harvest at that time of year. Also, Kansas 

experienced the severest heat wave in 15 

years during those two months. 

The Mayflower is the only theatre with 

Cinemascope in the county, which has 35,- 

000 population and three theatres. Getting 

people in for the Cinemascope productions 

has also helped the grosses on other pictures, 

according to Gaston. He said some 

good features like "Miller Story" have done 

more than any of the Cinemascope features, 

with the exception of "The Robe." 

Gaston is well satisfied with his investment 

and believes it will pay out in less 

than two years. 

Naturally it is impossible to predict 

whether installation of a new projection 

technique will pay out in other places. 

However, Gaston would recommend that 

other theatre owners investigate Cinema- 

Scope as a means of drawing people back 

to the theatre. 

Check Wood Seats for Vandalism 

Perhaps the worst problem with wood 

seats is vandalism. Partly shattered plywood 

seats are a common sight in many 

theatres, especially among the front rows 

where younger customers prefer to sit. 

Vandalism (shattering of plywood seats 

in theatres) is more prevalent in theatres 

which show "westerns." Also, double features 

contribute to vandalism, which indicates 

that restlessness is a contributing 

factor. It is a very good plan to check the 

wood seats frequently for loose laminations 

and glue them back before some vandal 

discovers them. 

theatre seat 

service co. 

160 Hermitage Avenue 

Nashville, 

Tennessee 

NOW « the time to 

EQUIP fOfi ClflfdlflSCOPf 

AT LOW COST 

MIRRO-CURIC METALLIC SCREEN $1.00 sq. ft. 

ADJUSTABLE PRISMATIC ANAMORPNIC LENSES . 

Oept. 

32 

pr. 

WRITE FOR DETAILS 

\^ PROMPT SHIPMENTS! 

KOLLMORGEN PROJ. LENSES 

(Wide angle and long focus) 

SPECIAL APERTURES (all sizes) 

S.O.S. CINEMA 

SUPPLY CORP. 

C, 602 W. 52 St., N. Y. 19—Coble: SOSOUND 

You Can Save $400 a Year 

if you have Ashcroff "D" or "E," 

Brenkert-Enorc, Peerless Magnarc, or 

Strong Mogul projection lamps, by 

using the 

CRON-O-MATIC 

Fully 

Automatic 

CARBON SAVER 

Uses positive carbon stubs of ony length, without 

preparation. When entirely consumed, the 

new carbon goes into use without losing the 

light, or otherwise affecting lamp operation. 

Burns average lengths (3'/^") down to 3/i"' saving 

2V2'' or 22.2% of corbon costs. Average 

soving $400 annually. 

Only $42.50 

If your dealer can't supply you, order direct. 

PAYNE PRODUCTS CO. (CronOMatic OWision) 

2455 W. Stadium Blvd. Ann Arbor, Michigan 

n Send literature on the Cron-O-Matlc. 

' 

a Ship Cron-0-Matlc. Q C.O.D. Including postage. 

D Remittance herewith. 

Naiie 

Theatre 

Street 

Cily and SUte 

EXPORT: Frazer & Hamcn, Ltd. 

San Francisco, New York, Los Angtls 

The MODERN THEATRE SECHON

I 

ANSWER NOT ALWAYS IN 

Many Problems That Come Up in 

Are Solved Only By Careful Thought 

By WESLEY TROUT 

%ÛT IN 

THE FIELD 

we run into many 

problems and have to 

f'jjmm 

J 

solve them satisfac- 

»

coated) 

a 


BOOKS 


here is where anti-reflection coatings of 

projection lens have scored a considerable 

improvement. Due to these fine lenses, 

with anti-reflection coatings giving better 

definition and increased illumination, a 

slightly higher level of house illumination 

is possible without affecting screen presentation 

quality. A "treated" 

i lens 

will furnish a brighter screen image by 

approximately 25 per cent or more. 

Again, quality projection depends on good 

lens, screen and arc lamp. Too, these components 

must be correctly aligned in order 

to secure good results, hi other ivords, your 

arc and lens must be alighted optically 

correct. 

NEVER OPEN SEALED LENS 

The modern projection lenses 

are made 

in one piece mounts with the optics 

hermetically sealed in to exclude oil and 

dust from the interior lens elements. Never 

attempt to open a sealed lens. If, for any 

reason, the seal is broken and oil or dust 

has gotten inside, secure a loan lens from 

youi- local dealer and send to the manufacturer 

for cleaning, adjustment and resealing. 

Clean only the outside lens surfaces, 

if you have a better type modern lens. 

If you don't have a sealed-in lens, 

then the lens can be taken apart and the 

inside surfaces can be cleaned, but, as 

explained in another paragraph, use care 

in reassembling lens components so you 

will not damage the threads on the retaining 

parts. 

Daily cleaning of lenses is needed to keep 

projection equipment at its maximum efficiency. 

We have found too many projectionists 

neglect cleaning their lens and arc 

lamp reflectors daily; dirty reflector will 

cause light loss, and dirty lens surfaces 

will cause light loss and poor picture focus. 

SCREEN 

ILLUMINATION 

We have received many letters from exhibitors 

requesting our advice on using 

their present setup of low intensity arcs, 

using a maximum of 30 amperes, and enlarging 

their screen from 10x13 feet to 

23x10 feet. Our answer, of course, is the 

installation of larger arc lamps in order 

to secure sufficient screen illumination. 

Remember, the larger the screen surface 

the more light will be necessary in order 

to achieve acme of top-notch projection. 

43 to 45 amperes should be the minimum 

for this size screen, and as you increase the 

size or distance of projection throw, more 

light will be necessary in order to secure a 

brilliant picture—a picture that will be 

pleasing to the eye. Simplified, high intensity 

lamps are the answer. 

Where a theatre cannot afford new high 

intensity lamps, good rebuilt lamps can be 

purchased at a reasonable price. Low intensity 

lamps, aU types, are suitable only 

for a medium size screen and not a large 

screen. Of course, in a few cases, with a 

34 

The above photograph shows Strong rectifying units 

which can easily be removed from the rectifier 

case. The Strong selenium rectifiers, like other 

mo/ces of selenium rectifiers, are completely dry 

and non-chemical and since rectification is by 

molecular action, and no actual physical changes 

take place accordingly, the useful life of the rectifier 

is practically indefinite. 

The above photograph shows how to pull out a preamplifier 

section in an Ampex magnetic sound system. 

In pulling and replacing these units, in case 

of trouble, be sure to push them in straight so they 

will fit properly. I have had a few cases where these 

units have been damaged slightly because of careless 

handling. These are called plug-in preamps 

and once properly installed they should give practically 

trouble-free operation. Don't handle any 

plug-ins roughly: if handled right they will fit 

in smoothly and not give any trouble. See that 

the tubes fit snugly and keep the interior clean. 

This photograph s/iows the fan for forced draft 

ventilation, absolutely necessary in all selenium 

rectifiers to keep the stack cool. The transformer, 

switch and fan consist of one unit as per above, 

and the rectifier units are a separate unit so 

in case of trouble with either unit, only one 

needs to be removed and repaired or replaced. 

Rectifiers should be kept clean and all electrical 

connections firm. (Strong rectifier.) 

new metallic screen, coated half-size 

lenses, it is possible to use low intensity 

lamps, with large reflectors, and project a 

picture, with sufficient illumination, up to 

about 14 feet; but we strongly advise exhibitors 

to install Suprex or simplified high 

intensity lamps for larger screens. A larger 

capacity generator or rectifier is also required. 

APERTURE AFFECTS ILLUMINATION 

Moreover, changes in aperture sizes 

will 

also affect screen illumination; various 

types of screen surfaces will also affect 

illumination, and various types of projection 

lens. All of these should be considered 

when enlarging the screen. Fi-ankly, our 

experience in the field, and data on hand, 

have proven low intensity lamps are very 

inadequate for large screen presentation in 

any size theatre auditorium. We don't sell 

equipment, so you are getting a straightfrom-the-shoulder 

honest opinion and advice 

about equipment changes necessary to 

achieve good projection. 

70 TO laSAMPERE RECTIFIERS 

While we are on the subject of screen 

illumination, let us tell you about the new 

Strong selenium rectifiers and their maintenance. 

In future articles, we will present 

data on all makes of leading rectifiers 

—both the bulb and selenium types. The 

writer has found this rectifier, the Strong 

selenium type, is very rugged and simple 

m construction and operation. It converts 

the three-phase alternating current line 

supply to direct current for use with high 

intensity projection arcs from 70 to 135 

amperes direct current. The rectifying 

units themselves consist simply of sheets 

of metal which are coated on the outside 

and are completely moisture-proof to insure 

reliable operation in damp climates. 

Two sets of transformer taps are provided 

for adjusting the output current over 

a wide range of amperages and to compensate 

for variations in line voltage from 

200 to 250 volts. Ventilation is by forced 

draft provided by the single-phase ballbearing 

fan which cools the plates to room 

temperature. Plates are spaced enough 

apart so that the draft passes between 

them and in direct contact with the rectifying 

surface. 

All makes of selenium-type rectifiers are 

equipped with forced draft ventilation in 

order to keep the plates at proper temperature. 

We have had very little trouble with 

this type of rectifier in the field. 

We have received many requests for 

instructions 

to repair this type of rectifier. 

Our advice has always been to send the 

unit direct to the factory, as we have found 

very few jobs done otherwise to be satisfactory. 

The failures on these rectifiers— 

Strong rectifier, for example—are very 

rare, and we would like to point out that 

the rare cases when failure occurs would 

undoubtedly be in the rectifier element itself. 

Therefore, the Strong Electric Co. has 

recognized this possibility in the design 

wherein the interchangeability of the rec- 


The MODERN THEATRE SECnON

— 

For MORE INFORMATION on any Product Advertised in this issue or 

mentioned in the New Equipment and news pages or for copies 

of Manufacturers' Literature listed herein — Use Postcards Below. f 

READERS' BUREAU 

NEW EQUIPMENT 

and DEVELOPMENTS 

Briefed from the full description on page 49 

Key 

Number 

PORTABLE LIGHT CONTROL PANEL P.1266 

The Tro-Ute, a poilable, console, light-control panel, 

developed by the Eastern rrcclsion Itesistor Corp., Is well 

suited for usp In theatre audiloriums and movie sets. It has 

30 sep:irate light switches, each with its own circuit breaker, 

ttlilch may be controlled by any of sl.'i different dimmers. 

Tlie panel, which will handle a total of 330 KVA. also 

features a pilot, light indicating the degree of brilliance 

being used. 

GERMICIDAL PADS P-1267 

The mouthpieces of public telephones can now be steiilized 

by using tei-0-cldes. the germicidal pads developed by the 

General Scientific Equipment Co. Steriiization is acrompUslied 

with the pads by simply wiping them over the mouthpiece. 

The pads come packed 100 to a jar. 

ELECTRONIC MESSAGE REPEATER P-1268 

Tlie small and Inexpensive Message Is an 

Repeater Junior 

electronic "barker" manufactured by the Mohawk Business 

Machine Corp, The unit is said to be capable of delivering 

thousands of pre-recorded two-minute pitches at a high volume 

with true fidelily. The messages are recorded on Interchangeable 

cartridges of magnetic tape. 

FIRE-RESISTANT INTERIOR PAINT P-1269 

The G.iddon Co.'s new paint. Duo- Tone, combines the 

ability to retard fire with durability, washabiliiy and 

attractiveness. The resin-base coating swells and ch-irs in case 

of excessive heat to form an insulating blanket. It Is available 

in 12 pastel colors and is said to resist chalking, crazing, 

blistering, fungus and mildew. 

TAPE RECORDER WITH ONE CONTROL P-1270 

The new magnetic tape recorder developed by the International 

Scientific Industries Corp. can be operated by a single 

knob. The recorder, which was designed for uê as the 

central unit In hich fidelity installations, uses the firm's 

Islmetric drive to insure stable performance regardless of the 

external conditions and to keep the recorder in permanent 

adjustment. 

LITERATURE 

Briufed from the description on page 51 

Key 

Number 

WATERLESS AIR CONDITIONERS L.1676 

A new series of coiored and Illustrated folders on the 

Industrial and residential waterless air conditioning units being 

manufactured by Chrysler Airtemp is now available. The folders 

contain data on the various sizes and capabilities of the 

uniis and fully discuss their potentialities. 

CHANGEABLE DISPLAY LETTERS L-1677 

Wagner Sign Service, Inc., has published a comprehensive 

52-page catalog of its numerous chargeable letter displays 

and mountings for marquees and theatre tron:s. Not only does 

the catalog offer illustrations of many real theatre fronts Uitng 

the Wagner product but it contains information on all the 

displays and their usage. 

STORY OF RUBBER LINK MATS L-1678 

Three pieces of literature now being distributed by the 

American Mat Corp. tell the story of the firm's rubber link 

mats: Ezy-ltug, Traff,c-Tred and Tuf-Tred. Each mat is 

designed for a different use, yet all three are said tc improve 

safety, sanitation and the atmosphere. The materiai b 

illustrated. 

FOUR LIGHT FIXTURE CATALOGS L-1679 

The General Lighting Co. has issued four catalogs and a 

single comprehensive price list. Each catalog Is concerned 

with a specific type of lighting fixture: Dome lights, linear 

lighting, custom decorative types and chandeliers. All specifications 

are included In both the catalogs and the price Ust- 

SCREEN RESURFACING PAINT L-ieSO 

Arctic Blanch, a screen resurfacing paint suited for boih 

indoor and outdoor use, is the subject of a folder currently 

being distributed by the National Screen Resurfacing Co. The 

folder contains data on the qualities and application of the 

new rubber base paint. The claims about the paim's quality 

are documented by reproductions of letters from satisfied 

users. 

TWENTY-TWO CANDY BARS L-lSSl 

Two Illustrated slngleslieets describing 22 candy bars produced 

by Hollywood Brands, Inc. are now available. The singlesheets 

offer full descriptions of each bar. Including price. 

weight and Ingredients. Pictures of each bar are also contained 

io the literature. 

NOW used OS a standard reference by hundreds 

of America's leading DRIVE-INS. 

Valuable^ Complete 

DRIVE-IN 

THEATRE 

GUIDE 

to Profitable Drive-in 

Operations 

^ 

only 

per copy 

(In Canada odd 25c. .Foreign odd 50c) 

288 pages — 92 illustrafions 

k Written by America's leading expert on drive-in 

design and operotion. 

k Complete from A to Z . . . includes financing 

designing — constructing — equipping — proiecting 

— concessions — operating and promoting. 

-^ Priceless Information helps you increase boxoffice 

oppeal . . . ovoid costly mistokes . . . 

hold down operating costs. 

Order YOUR Copy NOW 

BOXOFFICE 

82S Van Brunt Blvd. 

Kansas City, Mo. 

I)W to Use These 

i;aders' bureau coupons 

I Fill ouf and complete a separate coupon 

for each New Equipment item, 

or Literature reference (above) which 

interests you. Likewise for each Advertised 

product (reverse side of this 

sheet) about which you want more 

information. 

Put only one key number 

In each square.

A 

. 

A 

READERS' BUREAU 

For literature on products advertised or mentioned in this issue, see other 

side ol this sheet and read how to use the postcard coupons below. 

I 

PRODUCTS ADVERTISED IN THIS ISSUE 

ADMISSION SIGNS 

Bowman. Edsar S 50-C 

ADMISSION 

CONTROL SYSTEMS 

General Register Corp 48-A 

ATTRACTION BOARDS AND LETTERS 

AdIer Silhouette Letter Co 52-B 

Wagner Sign Service Co 6-A 

CANDY 

Henry Htidc, Inc 28-B 

The Nestle Co 27-B 

CANDY FLOSS MACHINES 

Concession Supply Co 28-C 

CARBON 

SAVERS 

Cali Products Co *5-B 

Payne Products Co 32-C 

CONCESSION CARTS 

Walky Service Co 27-A 

CONCESSION EQUIPMENT, DRIVE-IN 


Manley. Inc 

2g-A 

Walky Service Co 

27-A 

DIMMING 

EQUIPMENT 

Superior Electric Co 

.11- 

DISPLAY FRAMES AND EASELS 

Peoples Display Frame 39-A 

Universal Corp 30-A 

DRINKS, SOFT 

Coca-Cola Co 2-A 

Pepsi-Cola Co 22-A 

EQUIPMENT 

LITERATURE MANUAL 

First- American Products 45-C 

FLASHLIGHT EXTENSIONS 

LaVezzi Machine Works 17-A 

FOUNTAINETTES 

Superior Relrigerator Mfg. Co 26-B 

LIGHT CONTROL EQUIPMENT 

Superior Electric Co 11-A 

POPCORN 

BOXES AND SACKS 

Concession Supply Co 2S-C 

POPCORN 

MACHINES 


Cretors Cotp 26-0 

Manley, Inc 28-A 

POPCORN 

SCOOPS 

Sceed Scoop . . 

POPCORN 

SEASONING 

.26-C 

Blevins Popcorn Co 28-D 

POPCORN SEASONING OIL 

Concession Suipiy Co 2S-C 

C. F. Simonins Sons, Inc 26-A 

POPCORN AND SUPPLIES 

Manley. Inc 28-A 

Tarkio Popcorn Co 25-A 

POPCORN WARMERS 

Walky Service Co 27-A 

POSTER FRAMES AND EASELS 

Peoples Display Frame Co 39'A 

Universal Corp 30-A 

PROJECTION 

LENSES 

Radiant Mlg. Co. 4.A 

Raytoiie Screen Corp 31-A 

Wollensak Optical Co 39-B 

PROJECTION AND SOUND 

Ballanlyne Co 46-A, 47-A 

tiitentalionai Projector Corp 1-BC 


RCA Service .51-C 

PROJECTOR ARC LAMPS 

Ashcrafl Mfg. Co 45-D 

National Excehte IJ-A 

Strong Electric Corp 5-A 

PROJECTION 

LENSES 

Bautch & Lomb Optical Co 37-B 

KollinorQen Optical Corp 21-A 

Projection Optics Co., Inc 29-A 

PROJECTION 

PARTS 


PROJECTION 

RECTIFIERS 

Strong Electric Corp 5-A 

SCREENTOWERS, 

DRIVE-IN 

Drive-ln Theatre Mfg. Co 45-A 

SCREENS FOR INDOOR THEATRES 

Ratfia.Tt Mlg. Corp 4-A 

Raytone Screen Corp 31-A 

SO S. Cinema Sufply 32-6 

Williams Screen Co 51-A 

SEAT MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR 

Theatre Seat Service Co 32-A 

SEATING. CONVENTIONAL THEATRES 

American Seating Co 3-A 

Gftgijs Equipment Co 50-8 

Hcy«ood-Wakefreld Co 52- 

Ideal Seating Co 37-A 

SIGNS. DIRECTIONAL, ETC. 

Bowman, Edgar S 50-C 

SOUND SYSTEMS, STEREOPHONIC 

Slclma Electronics 38-A 

SPEAKER CORDS 

Whitney-Blake Co 44-A 

SPEAKERS, IN-CAR FOR ORIVE-INS 

Drive-ln Theatre Mfg 45-A 

Oawo 

44- B 

EPRAD 51 B 

First-American Products 45-C 

International Projector 1-6C 

THEATRE EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES 

National Theatre Supply 16-A 

S.O.S. Cinema Supcly Corp 32-B 

THEATRE OWNERS' MANUAL 

First-American Products 45-C 

UNDERGROUND 

CABLES 

Whitney-Blake Co 44-A 

VACUUM CLEANERS 

National Super Service Co 50-A 

Pullman Vacuum Cleaner Corp 17-B 

Ql

L 

! 


BOOKS 


IDFAI ll/Lttk 

SEATING COMPANY 

(Sia„f/,-/ia/uWi,,y{/,rA. 

To build profitable rojieat patronage... 

tifier element is made a very simple matter. 

It is only necessary to remove the front 

panel on the rectifier case, remove two 

screws holding the front end of the rectifier 

element assembly in the rectifier, and remove 

five connections from the terminal 

panel end of the cable leading to the rectifier 

assembly. The rectifier assembly can 

be slid out of the rectifier and exchanged 

for a new one or repaired at the factory. 

We understand the factory has a very 

liberal replacement plan wherein it is possible 

to remove the defective section and 

replace it, salvaging the usable portions of 

the rectifier and thus making the replacement 

charge very reasonable. When sending 

in a rectifier for repairs, do not send 

the entire rectifier, only the rectifier 

assembly, unless it is definitely known some 

Scene from "The Egyptian," 

part, other than the rectifier element, is 

20th Century-Fox CinemaScope Epic 

defective. In rectifier failure, you will generally 

find the rectifier element is at fault 

Sharpest image, edge-fo-edge • 

and needs repairing. However, check all 

the connections first to see every connection 

is electrically firm. 

most uniform light distribution... 

In other makes of selenium rectifiers, for 

high intensity arcs, you will find it a fairly 

^«^^';'£*»v«^je.>-,^^

have 


BOOKS 


amounts of energy is called the "dividing 

network," because for a continuously varying 

tone the sound output would appear 

to "cross over" from one channel to the 

other at this frequency. 

We have found entirely too much bass 

used in many installations and not enough 

in others. Sound should be pleasing to the 

ear, speaking should be crisp and sharp, 

and music should be soft and clear on both 

high and low notes. We find that each 

installation is a tailor-made job in order 

to secure good coverage, a "happy medium" 

when high and low frequencies are adjusted. 

Each auditorium will require different 

settings in order to secure pleasing 

sound reproduction. A good engineer can 

achieve desired sound reproduction because 

he has a trained ear and equipment. After 

equipment has been in operation several 

years, sometimes adjustments need to be 

made in the entire setup. After the engineer 

has made proper adjustments, it is 

up to the projectionist to keep the equipment 

clean and properly serviced. As far 

as the speakers and associated components 

are concerned, this is a simple maintenance 

procedure which has been outlined in previous 

articles in this department. 

In the event of high frequency unit failure, 

there is no need to close down except 

long enough to go backstage and disconnect 

the crossover and then connect direct 

to the low frequency unit. The LF unit 

can be used until you secure a new unit or 

have the defective one repaired. Sometimes 

a connection comes loose at the 

voice coil, but generally the unit should 

be sent in for any repairs, unless an engineer 

has replacement parts with him. Bear 

in mind, the impedance must be matched. 

Check your wiring diagram and instructions. 

OILING MECHANISMS 

Out on inspection trips recently, we 

have found projectionists using too much 

oil on mechanisms oiled by hand iwith 

pump-type oil can > and the excess amount 

of oil running all over the floor. Excessive 

use of oil on older types of mechanisms is 

unnecessary as one to two drops of oil in 

a bearing is enough. The old type mechanisms 

should be oiled every day and surplus 

oil wiped off so it wiU not get on film and 

down in the soundhead. Too, in a few 

cases we have found projectionists using 

lubricant entirely too heavy for the bearings 

and intermittent movement. A 

medium weight oil should be used and 

purchased direct from your dealer as he 

knows the best type for your particular 

projector. 

While late model intermittents are 

hermetically sealed and require no change 

of oil, if you are operating with an old 

type the oil in your intermittent movement 

should be emptied out after about 

200 hours' run and fresh oil should be 

pumped into the movement. Your intermittent 

will run quieter and parts will last 

longer. Fôm continued use oil becomes 

"poor" and loses its lubricating qualities. 

Most intermittent cases have an overflow 

outlet and the movement need not be taken 

out of mechanism. You can place some 

clean rags or something to catch the oil 

and clean out old oil by using a pump-type 

oil can to pump in fresh oil. In time, the 

movement should be taken out and thoroughly 

washed out and refilled with new 

oil. Never use gasoline for cleaning parts 

or movement, use kerosene or cleaners' 

solvent mixed with a little No. 10 lubricating 

oil. Gears, in an open type mechanism, 

should also be cleaned to keep dirt and grit 

Irom wearing the gears unnecessarily. 

Never use graphite for lubricating gears, 

or anything else; use pure oil. 

Daily, the interior of the mechanism, 

the film side and gear side, should be 

carefully cleaned with lintless cloth. Again, 

if you want a steady picture you must clean 

the sprockets EVERY DAY with solvent 

and a stiff bristle brush. Recent checkups 

have revealed that projectionists are often 

careless about keeping sprockets clean and 

wonder why the picture has a slight jump, 

or if the soundhead sprockets pad rollers, 

etc., are dirty, why the sound is poor. 

I cannot overstress the importance of 

cleaning the reflector of your arc lamp 

every day. It should be a daily habit. The 

small amount of white carbon soot which 

accumulates on the reflector in a day, if 

allowed to remain several days, will start 

to scum the reflector and will become very 

THE NEW STELMA 

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STEREOPHONIC SOUND 

PARAMOUNT (VISTAVISION)-MGM-WARNERS 

ARE RECORDED IN PERSPECTA SOUND 

STELMA PERSPECTA INTEGRATORS 

' 

been fully tested and approved for field use by 

C. Robert Fine, Inventor and President of Perspecta Sound, Inc. 

STELMA PERSPECTA INTEGRATORS 

1 

are completely interchangeable with single optical and magnetic 

sound tracks. A simple to operate 3-way switch is available at small extra cost. The integrator comes complete at no 

acJditional charge over minimum price, although it includes power, input transformer, pre-amplifier base and treble equalizers 

and 3 output balancing controls. Pre-wired in a standard rack if requested. Installation time just a matter of hours. 

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difficult, if not impossible, to remove. This 

scum, as it accumulates, will cause considerable 

light loss. Any accumulation of 

white scum on the reflector which cannot 

easily be removed with a clean, lintless 

cloth, should be cleaned from the surface 

by using a small pad of fine steel wool. No, 

it will not scratch the surface, as you may 

think steel wool would do. The reflector 

can be polished vigorously and then wiped 

with cloth. If you clean the reflector every 

day, it will seldom be necessai-y to use 

this steel wool. Another good cleaner is 

Bon Ami on a slightly moistened cloth, 

wiping it thoroughly clean, of course. 

On high intensity reflectors, carbon and 

copper particles which may occasionally 

adhere to the reflector surface may be 

scraped off with a flexible razor so that 

these specks will not hinder polishing. A 

small cleaning brush should be kept handy 

to brush out dii't and soot accumulation. 

Fl~" 

THE ANSWER 

Finest Lenses 

Are Needed for 

New Projection 

Techniques. .. 

Cinema Raptars 

THE WORLD'S ONLY PERFECTLY 

MATCHED PROJECTION LENSES 

USE ALIGNING KIT 

It is important that you properly align 

your arc lamp with your mechanism. An 

aligning kit is supplied, for modern high 

intensity lamps, with each pair of lamphouses 

to provide an accurate and reliable 

method of locating the house on the 

projector base, so that the ultimate efficiency 

and screen illumination will be obtained. 

As a result of the cai-eful use of 

this aligning tool, your lamphouse will be 

aligned so that its optical axis is in line 

with both the center of the aperture and 

the center of your projection lens. Sound 

engineers generally carry these for various 

types of lamps, but the projectionist can 

secure a kit direct from the manufacturer 

at a very small cost. It is a very important 

tool to have, along with volt-ohmmeter, 

test loops, etc., in the projection 

room. Special tools, easy to use, but helpful 

in securing better projection and sound. 

shoiUd be in every modern projection room. 

COMMENTS—In this particular article 

we have presented quite a variety of maintenance 

tips on sound and projection. 

Some of these problems we have run into 

out in the field and others have come to 

us via mail. We think you will find them 

helpful in .securing better sound and projection. 

We have always stressed cleanliness in 

the projection room because dust and dirt 

and oil mixed will wear moving parts, in a 

projector, arc lamp or motor generator set. 

Dirt will cause sound troubles in amplifiers 

and soundheads: oil or dust on projection 

lens will cause poor definition and loss of 

light, likewise, oil or dirt on a sound lens 

win cause inferior sound quality and low 

sound. Projectionists should clean their 

equipment every day. 

Today with the new movie techniques— CinemaScope, Vista-Vision, Wide 

Screen— exhibitors must have the finest basic lenses in order to give 

theatre goers sharp, clear pictures from edge to edge of the screen. There 

are no finer projection lenses made than Wollensak Cinema Raptars. (For 

CinemaScope these lenses are used with anamorphic lenses.) Cinema 

Raptars use six and seven element construction. Only with such a design 

is it possible to deliver full speed, edgeto-edge sharpness, and highest 

resolution. In addition, Cinema Raptars are the world's only perfectly 

matched lenses-focal lengths matched to within .0025! Marked as matched 

(twin) lenses. Speed ranges are f/1.9 in focal lengths from 2 " through 5" 

and f/2.0 to f/2.7 in focal lengths to 7 " . . . priced from $180 each. 

WRITE for new literature fully describing these new Projection Lenses. 

>*|UST 

PURCHASED NEW PROJECTION LENSES? 

NEED ADJUSTMENTS FOR WIDE SCREEN? 

WHAT TO DO WITH NON-ANAMORPHIC RELEASES? 

Wollensak 

VARI-FOCUS 

a supplementary lens for all screen sizes 

With the new Vari-Focus lens exhibitors can show all the 

current screen releases without buying a complete new range 

of short focus lenses. The Vari-Focus permits you to make 

adjustments for screen width . . . change the focal length 

of your standard projection lens quickly and easily. (See 

table.) The Vari-Focus is a supplementary lens which will 

produce any wide screen aspect ratio (non-anamorphic) when 

used in conjunction with a 3" to 6" projection lens. The 

resolution and picture quality will match those of the finest 

projection lens. Price $235 each. 

Standard Lens 

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Comparable prices for slide fromes, poster 

cases and wall frames. Contact your local 

theatre supply house or for further information 

write: 

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1S13-1S15 Olympic Blvd., Montebello 8, Calif.

AN AURA OF NEWNESS GIVEN 

TO OLD HOUSE 

Exhibitor 

Redecorates Because He 'Hopes Never to Overlook Any Improvements 

if They Mean Added Comfort for Patrons and Profitable Business' 

ant was an arrangement of attractive displays 

publicizing programs scheduled at 

the De Luxe. The uptown district, where 

the De Luxe Theatre is located, is a thickly 

populated area. Shumow had the impression 

that too many people were passing by, 

unaffected by the 22x28 posters and stills 

which had been used to advertise current 

films and forthcoming attractions. A conference 

with Lloyd Niggle of National 

Screen Service took care of that, and quite 

simply so. National Screen Service Co.'s 

40x60 de luxe advertising posters, a standard 

rental item, which is always re-useable, 

turned out to be real eye-catchers. Shumow 

says the poster display draws attention 

to a point where business has increased 

tangibly, and that any one contemplating 

a visit to the theatre gains a comprehensive 

idea of the program without questioning 

management. 

Walls in new soft tones blend with modernistic murals in subdued colors in the redecorated De Luxe 

Theatre, Chicago. The murals were done by Hanns Teichert several years ago, and the new color scheme 

was designed with them in mind. The new concession stand is handsomer and much larger than the 

old one was, and the inclusion of the popcorn machine in the center has resulted in a 50 per cent increase 

in popcorn sales. 

By 

FRANCES CLOW 

«N OLD PROVERBIAL Saying, "a lot of 

water has gone under the dam," could 

well be applied to the De Luxe Theatre of 

Chicago, 111.' It is one of the city's oldest 

movie houses, but by standards of presentday 

modernization, it carries an aura of 

newness. It is located at 1141 West Wilson 

Ave., one of the oldest north side business 

districts, which has a reputation for being 

a "transient" district. It is an established 

fact that many neighborhood theatres have 

suffered either periodically or permanently 

because of locale changes. But the 

De Luxe has almost continuously enjoyed 

a profitable business. 

From time to time the De Luxe has undergone 

some "face-lifting" here and 

there . . . enough to keep it glowing under 

a polished look. 

When D. B. Shumow took 

over the ownership some months ago, he 

went over the theatre's needs with a finetoothed 

comb. As soon as his survey was 

completed a bevy of workmen took over. 

The renovation program started with 

the marquee. This, actually, required very 

little remodeling. The marquee was newly 

constructed approximately ten years ago, 

and some new paint and rewiring fulfilled 

the job. Whiteway Sign Co., however, did 

some first-class reconditioning, and comments 

forthcoming from opening night patrons 

and passersby indicated they thought 

the marquee had been constructed from 

scratch. 

Another portion of the remodeling program 

which Shumow felt might be import- 

The marquee at the De Luxe required little remodeling, 

but was given such a good reconditioning 

that patrons believed it to be new. New 40x60 

display cases to replace 22x28 posters have tangibly 

increased 

business. 

MODERNISTIC MURALS 

Several years ago Hanns Teichert, whose 

decorative services are usually sought when 

creative and interesting design are needed 

in theatre decor, painted murals on the 

lobby walls. The murals are modernistic in 

trend, but subdued in color and content. 

While they don't tell a particular story, 

portraying only the results of some cautious 

imagination, they are impressive. Consequently 

they were left undisturbed when 

the Doolco Co. freshened up the lobby. 

Before P. Coan of Doolco started the lobby 

paint job he spent about ten days of what 

he calls "collaborating with the Teichert 

murals." Coan bears a reputation for his 

fixed ideas on simplified color schemes, 

which, he says, are more adaptable to 

recreational facilities. As a result, the 

lobby, with its soft and artistic colors 

blending in with the murals, appears to be 

more spacious than it actually is, and is 

respectfully looked upon as a sort of pseudo 

art gallery. Coan also I'edid the lounges. 

Again, he by-passed ideas of ornateness 

or riotous color, and both the men's and 

vi'omen's lounges resemble a nicely done 

miniature-type living room. 

THEATRE CHAIRS 

REUPHOLSTERED 

Shumow did some pro and con thinking 

vi'hen he thought about the theatre's 

chairs. They always had been properly 

maintained. But, to carry out the theme of 

"newness," he had Chicago Used Chair Mart 

reupholster the entire lot of 998 chairs. 

Many theatres throughout the city have 

announced the installation of new refreshment 

counters, particularly since snacking 

has become a popular habit among moviegoers. 

The De Luxe was no exception. 

Confection Cabinet Co. did a thorough job 

of revamping the refreshment counter, 


. 

applying the full knowledge which their 

years of experience in the confection cabinet 

business has brought them. A big item 

which has been added is the SodaShoppe 

machine. Dispensing six flavored drinks 

instead of the four formerly sold at the 

De Luxe, and providing non-carbonated as 

well as carbondated drinks, business in the 

soft drink department has practically 

doubled, according to Shumow. Shumow 

said a new Cretors popcorn machine also 

has been a boon to business. Popcorn 

sales, he said, stepped up between 45 and 

50 per cent. He added that he never before 

realized that popping corn right before 

the customer would make sales go soaring. 

The De Luxe caters to patrons of varied 

types with a wide assortment of tastes, 

primarily adults. Therefore, a certain 

amount of concentration on candy bars, 

bon bons, munching-type tidbits and even 

ice cream sundaes has been rewarded by 

sales of good proportion. This strict attention 

to customer wants doesn't only apply 

sweet taste with patrons": and, they said, 

nothing proves this more accurately than a 

full house regularly and a frequent replenishment 

of the refreshment counter 

shelves. 

Last, but not least, modern innovations 

were not overlooked in the redressing of the 

De Luxe Theatre. The De Luxe has a 

Cinemascope screen of which the overall 

size is 16x36 feet, with an actual screen 

size of 16x30 feet. The RCA Dyna-Lite 

screen was installed by Abbott Equipment 

Co. The installation includes Brenkert projection 

heads manufactured by RCA, two 

100-ampere heavy duty rectifiers, and a 

standby generator in the basement. The 

De Luxe, incidentally, is the only theatre 

in its zone, outside of the Uptown, a B&K 

house located within five or six blocks of 

the De Luxe, so equipped. Stereophonic 

sound has been by-passed, but Shumow 

says he may consider this installation at 

a later time. 

Such are the physical improvements, 

but since Shumow has assumed ownership 

there have been other interesting changes 

embracing programming, advertising media, 

gimmicks, tie-in deals, and a continuous 

promotion program for the purpose of keeping 

the current sound business going. 

Shumow said he always is trying to be alert 

to the interests of both adult and .juvenile 

patrons. 

While the pranks and antics of teenagers 

have had theatre owners throughout 

the city worried (and duly so), Shumow 

said the De Luxe has never suffered because 

of willful destruction. He said he had 

at times feared vandalism, but he announced 

happily that he has no reason 

to have even one moment of uneasiness. 

What the answer is, he can't say. But he 

does, and quite seriously, go about the business 

of encouraging children and teenage 

juveniles to attend, both by reason of suitable 

pictures and promotion gimmicks. 


This view of the modernized outer lobby shows how D. B. Shumow, owner of the 

De Luxe, takes advantage of a specially-designed space above the doors to sell 

departing patrons on coming feature presentations. 

Living room comfort is provided in the homelike atmosphere of the foyer 

lounge. The light colors employed make this, and other theatre areas, 

appear more spacious than they really are. 

to snacks; it is carried over into the almost 

scientific training of the personnel behind 

the counters. As an example, even though 

a City of Chicago ruling requiring that 

food handlers must have health certificates 

doesn't become a law until next January 

1, the De Luxe already is complying with 

the edict. 

Courtesy on the part of employes, which 

Shumow regards as an absolute "must," 

also is an outstanding requirement for all 

concessions personnel. In addition to being 

neat, clean and attractive in appearance, 

attendants are trained to know customers, 

even to the point of remembering what 

sort of snack they prefer. 'Courtesy has 

almost become a forgotten art," Shumow 

said, and he feels that they are doing a 

bang-up job in correcting this. In short, 

using a unanimous quotation by both 

Shumow and L. Grand of Confection Cabinet, 

"Courtesy and good service leave a 

Two of the striking murals that decorate the lobby walls are shown in the picture below. Note the 

smart, inset case for display posters, and the fluted glass decorative treatment above the entrance 

to the ladles' lounge. Stairway at right leads to the balcony. Patrons of the theatre look upon the lobby 

with its many murals as a pseudo art gallery. 


A Jolty Roger flag flies on the huge pirate ship painted on the screen tower 

of the theatre of that name recently opened in Detroit. The mural, 45x60 feet, 

is completely outlined with neon tubing. Tubing overlays, shaped into waves 

and connected to flashers create the effect of waves breaking against the 

ship The theme is repeated in the attraction board. The theatre name on top 

of the screen tower is in eight foot high old English letters. 

DETROIT'S JOLLY ROGER IS FULL-RIGGED 

New Half-Million Dollar Drive-in Theatre Featuring Pirate Theme 

Is 

Equipped for CinemaScope and True Stereophonic Sound 

#%LL THE NEW innovations have been 

embodied in the design of the new Jolly 

Roger Drive-In Theatre, the first and only 

drive-in in Michigan and one of the few 

in the entire country to be equipped with 

true stereophonic sound. 

The curved screen tower was designed 

primarily for the presentation of all the 

new wide-screen projection processes. It 

measures 122x82 feet. The projection 

booth is 540 feet from the screen tower, 

thus making it one of the longest projection 

throws in the country. 

This half -million-dollar, 1.500-car drivein 

is located a short distance west of Detroit 

on Van Born Road, just a quarter 

of a mile west of busy U. S. 24. This is 

in the center of several fast-growing communities, 

including Dearborn, Melvindale 

and Allen Park. It is owned by Nicholas 

George Theatres, Inc., an independent 

circuit operating in the down-river area of 

Metropolitan Detroit. 

The screen tower consists of eight steel 

frames with 16 bases supported on anchor 

bolts embedded in 40 cubic yards of concrete, 

designed to withstand a wind stress 

up to 180 miles per hour. More than 20 

lineal miles of lumber were used in construction 

of the tower. The screen tilts several 

degrees inward at the top to reflect 

the maximum of projected light on the 

7,500 square feet of picture area. The exterior 

is covered with Transite which gives 

it a marble stone effect. 

The entrance and exit canopies are attached 

to the tower. Two modernistically 

designed boxoffices, each with its own 

temperature-control heating panel, are 

located below the 82-foot entrance canopy. 

These boxoffices are strategically placed to 

admit six lanes of traffic. The exit canopy 

is 70 feet wide and permits quick movement 

of traffic. The West Construction 

Co. designed and built the tower and canopy 

structure. 

Al Boudouris, Theatre Equipment Co., 

engineered and installed the projection, 

sound and field equipment. This includes 

Century water-cooled projectors. Strong 

Super 135 projection arc lamps, Strong 

135-ampere selenium rectifiers, four-inch 

diameter Kollmorgen objective lenses and 

Bausch & Lomb large diameter, anamorphic 

lenses. A full 1,800 watts of undistorted 

audio power are available to the Eprad 

three-unit, high fidelity, stereophonic 

sound speakers from the Century amplifiers 

which were specially modified and engineered. 

The sound equipment rack was 

also especially designed for the installation. 

Exceptionally attractive signs, pictorials 

and lighting displays distinguish the 

Jolly Roger. The theatre name is formed 

in eight-foot-high, old English, porcelain 

enamel letters mounted atop the screen 

tower. The letters have recessed faces and 

are lighted by multiple rows of lamps wired 

to high-speed flashers to give a scintillating 

effect. 

A huge pirate ship, complete with the 

Jolly Roger flag, is painted on the front 

of the tower in the center. The painting 

measures 45x60 feet and is completely outlined 

and lighted witli neon tubing. In ad- 

42 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION 

I

DRIVE-iN THEATRES 

. aipno 

dition, tubing overlays, shaped into waves 

and connected to flashers, bring about the 

realistic effect of waves beating against 

the ship. 

On the face of the entrance and exit 

canopies, which extend from both sides of 

the tower, are yellow porcelain enamel 

facias. They consist of three rows of lamps. 

On four-inch centers, they are wired to 

high-speed chaser flashers to give light 

action which flows out from the screen 

tower. The porcelain enamel entrance and 

exit signs are lighted by neon tubing 

mounted on top of the canopies. 

UNUSUAL DESIGN IN 

SIGN 

The huge, two-sided attraction board in 

front of the screen tower is 45x34 feet, its 

design suggestive of the prow of a ship, 

and the flag pole to carry the Jolly Roger 

flag is 60 feet high. The changeable letter 

section of the attraction board has six 

lines of letter space and is lighted from 

the inside by 784 feet of 24mm, 4,500' white 

tubing powered by 1,500-volt, 120 milliampere 

lighting transformers. The Jolly 

Roger letters at the top of the attraction 

board are three feet, six inches high with 

a neon outline. Three rows of lamps on 

high-speed chaser flashers border the glass 

panel. The base of the board is enclosed 

by an eight-inch thick, yellow-hued brick 

wall that provides a storage room for the 

letters. Frames, glass and letters were furnished 

by Wagner Sign Service, Inc. Dickey 

Advertising Service designed and erected 

all signs and displays. 

The refreshment stand building, which 

measures 80x70 feet, is operated by Michigan 

Confection Cabinet Corp. Forbes, cabinet 

designer, designed the equipment and 

planned the layout. The 80-foot main 

counter is divided into six separate serving 

units equipped with stainless steel. The 

theme of the Jolly Roger has been followed 

throughout in both color scheme and display. 

The counters have Formica covers 

of various shades of blue and yellow. The 

attractive, wood-paneled back wall is coral 

and blue. 

The booth layout and equipment was especially engineered, including the sound equipment rack. 

Shown in the picture are Strong Super 135 lamps, Century water-cooled projectors, Century amplifiers 

and Theatre Equipment Co. racks. 

In front of the 55-foot viewing window is 

a special. 26-foot, curved counter where 

candy, soft drinks and buttered popcorn 

are sold. The floor of the concession area 

is of beautiful mosaic, glazed tile of freeform 

design. 

This same building also houses the projection 

booth and the restrooms. The restrooms 

are completely modern with glazed 

tile walls and floors. 

The entire theatre area, all beautifully 

landscaped, is enclosed by an eight-foothigh, 

all aluminimi fence. 

The Jolly Roger Drive-In Theatre is the 

third outdoor theatre to be built by 

Nicholas George in the last six years. He 

first embarked on the drive-in theatre 

business in 1948 when he built the Michigan 

Drive-In Theatre in Wyandotte, Mich. 

In 1950, he built the Fort George Drive-In 

Theatre, also located in the down-river 

area. George also owns and operates the 

Allen Park Theatre, a modern community 

indoor house in Allen Park, Mich. 

On hand to celebrate the grand opening 

of the Jolly Roger with Mr. and Mrs. 

Nicholas George were their son, Louis, and 

daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. 

Alexander Thomas. Many exhibitors and 

equipment men in the area were also present, 

including Ernie Forbes, William 

Oleksyn, Christ George, Ben Rosen, Bill 

Boudouris. Fred Tellerite, Jim Ross, Tom 

Clark and Al Boudouris. 

YiiDi 

Suggestive o^ the prow of a ship, the 95x34-foot attraction board has a 60-foot 

flag pole to carry the Jolly Roger flag. Three rows of lamps on high-speed 

chaser flashers border the glass panel. The brick base provides a storage 

room for Wagner letters. 

A view of the field and the 122xS2-foot screen tower. In the foreground is a 

closeup of the Eprad Fiberglas "Stereo 3" in-car speakers. The speakers 

receive 1 ,800 watts of audio power from specially engineered Century amplifiers. 

The projection throw is 540 feet. 

BOXOFTICE November 6, 1954 43

For 

A Lake for Beauty and Drainage at Drive-In 

LONG, EFFICIENT 

speaker performance 

TELESEAL® 

the win thf's 

BUIIT fo be bittkdt 

Don't bury wire that wasn't designed to be 

buried. It's expensive to dig up! 

Take o look at TELESEAL and you'll see 

why it lasts so long underground: 

Copper conductors for strength 

TELEPLATE® cooling 

for lottrng odhesion 

ond corrosi 

resistance 

PLUS 

PLUS 

Special low 

moiitwre absorbing 

insulotion asturing low 

rranimission losiei 

Tough, weather resistant neoprene 

jacket capable of being buried directly 

in 

the ground without damage 

An air view of the ultramodern Gulf Drive-ln Theatre, Panama City, Fla., shows the large lake which 

is a special feature. The lake is surrounded by lights that aid the flashing neon of the attraction sign 

ond screen tower in producing brilliant reflections of all colors and shapes. The lake was developed 

for two purposes, one was for appearance and the other to drop the water level under the drive-in 

theatre. The theatre was built within a few hundred yards of the Gulf of Mexico and the ground was 

only a few inches above sea level. There is a natural drain from the property into the lake ond the 

system has worked very successfully. Since the photograph was taken the ground has been sodded all 

around the area, and palm trees have been planted around the lake. The Gulf, a Martin Theatres property, 

has a capacity of approximately 600 cars, with a curved screen in excess of 90 feet in width. 

Ashcraft 135 ampere lamps are used. 

from moisture and chemical action 

in the soil. 

THAT'S TELESEAL—the wire that is 

built specifically for direct burial in 

the ground ... the high quality wire 

that will 

give you efficient, dependable 

service for years. 

For your drive-in, order TELESEAL by 

name from your theatre supply house. 

Big Heating, Ventilating 

Exposition Is Forecast 

L. N. Hunter, president of the American 

Society of Heating and Ventilating Engineers, 

reports that the group's forthcoming 

61st annual meeting that will open January 

24 at the Commercial Museum and 

Convention Hall in Philadelphia in conjunction 

with the 11th International Heating 

& Ventilating Exposition will be one 

of the biggest and most varied on record. 

Various aspects of heating, ventilating 

and air conditioning will be demonstrated. 

Many new developments and specialty units 

in the allied fields will be shown for the 

first time. The variety of designs, each 

requiring individual treatment, is said to 

have taxed the capacity of the exhibition 

halls. As in the past, the meeting and convention 

will be managed by the International 

Exposition Co. 

No unknown brand of soft drink should 

be served at a drive-in concession unless 

it is some local product that has a heavy 

following. 

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• Most 

Two Promotions Announced 

John Brown Cook, president of the 

Whitney Blake Co. and Koiled Kords, Inc.. 

simultaneously announced the promotion 

of Colonel E. L. Love from the position of 

advertising and sales promotion manager 

of both companies to manager of sales for 

the electronic division of Whitney Blake 

and the advancement of Miss Fi-ances R. 

McCormick to fill the vacancy left by Col. 

Love. Miss McCormick has served as Col. 

Love's assistant for the past three years, 

and prior to that spent eight years in various 

other capacities with the company. 

DIT-MCO's ULTRA MODERN STEEL 

WIDE SCREEN 

and 

TOWERS 

STEEL EXTENSIONS 

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Also 

PAINTLOCK STEEL 

FACING PANELS. 

Greater Strength 

Longer Life 

Lower Maintenance 

Lower Insurance 

HASH!!! 

DIT-MCO Resisk Hurricanes! 

Rugged DIT-MCO Steel Tower installations on the 

Eostern Seaboard have all successfully resisted the 

terrific pounding of Hurricanes Edna, Carol and 

Hazel. One exhibitor reported an 80-mile-an-hour 

gale. These destructive storms penetrated inland 

as far as Washington, D. C. and Lancaster, Pa. 

DIT-MCO Towers ore stondard of beauty and 

strength. Be safe—be sure—buy DIT-MCO. 

Any size—flat or curved—tilted or verticol. Towers 

are engineered for your drive-in, with special 

foundation plans for your further protection. Complete 

erection plans and foundation plans furnished 

for speedy erection. 

Clear area provided at bottom of tower for manager's 

living quarters or warehousing spoce, etc. 

All DIT-MCO Towers are designed for a 30 lb. per 

sq. ft. wind load plus ample safety factor in strict 

accordance with the recommendation of the American 

Institute of Steel Construction. 

DIT-MCO steel extensions for existing towers ore 

designed with the same beauty and strength as 

complete towers. Con be made for wood, masonry 

or steel towers. 

Write or Wire for Full Details. Prices on ill Items 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. 

Division of 

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"World's Largest Manufacturer of Drlfe-In Tbeitia 

Equipment" 

505 W. 9th Street, HArrison 8007-8484, Kansas City, Mo. 

CALI CARBON COUPLERS 

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Redstone Building 2.000-Car 

Drive-In Near Newark 

For Spring Opening 

Michael Redstone of Boston, a pioneer 

in the drive-in field, is building an elaborate 

new outdoor theatre in Newark, N. J., 

for a May first opening. Using a huge 

single screen, the theatre will accommodate 

more than 2,000 cars and will be 

situated in the strategic section of Newark 

between the Pulaski Skyway and the Jersey 

Turnpike, facing Foundry Street off 

the Skyway. The rear of the theatre will 

border the Jersey Turnpike. The screen 

and screen tower, designed by Signs, Inc., 

will show a picture 126 feet wide and 52 

feet 

tall, 

William Riseman Associates of Boston 

are the designers and engineers and will 

supervise the entire project with local contractors 

and sub-contractors doing the 

actual work. Among the features of the 

theatre will be an elevated patio 50x100 

feet in front of the refreshment building 

with tables and chairs for patrons who 

prefer to view the screen from this vantage 

point. Loud speakers will bring the voices 

from the screen to this patio section of 

the new theatre. 

STAR-SHAPED 

COUNTERS 

The concession building will be of contemporary 

design with an all-over dimension 

of 90x100 feet, making it one of the 

largest in the East. It will have a complete 

basement under the building for storage 

space. Air-conditioned and heated, the refreshment 

building will have eight starshaped 

counters for food service with 500 

feet of counter selling space. The projection 

building will be attached to the rear 

of the concession building and will be a 

half a story higher. 

Redstone Drive-in Theatres also operate 

the Whitestone Di'ive-in in the Bronx, N. 

Y., another in Valley Springs, Long Island 

and four large drive-ins in the Boston 

area. (^They also recently opened a drivein 

in Fairfax County, Virginia, i 

"^^^S | 

PBHH 

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No worrying about injury to hiph priced carbon 

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economical carbon saver you ever used! 

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3719 Morjorie Way Sacramento 20, CaliJ. 

The WORLD'S LARGEST Producer of Carbon Savers 

Send For YOUR COPY Of 

This VALUABLE PORTFOLIO 

9 Expandable 

Pockets 

Cover 

All Subjects Of 

Theatre 

And 

Operation 

Equipment 

$150 

I Value 

Yours 

FREE! 

The Theatre Owner's Manual enables you to 

keep clippings, equipment literature and other 

information on theatre operation neatly filed, 

always handy for instant reference. You'll' 

find if just the thing you've needed for years 

to keep such material all together in one 

place in an easy-fo-find, orderly arrangement I 

Fits in correspondence drawer file, stands on 

bookshelf or lies on desk. 

Any theatre owner, manager or circuit executive 

is eligible to receive this useful portfolio 

absolutely FREE! Just clip this ad to your 

letterhead, or write asking for 

"THEATRE OWNER'S IvlANUAL", 

Be sure to state your name and 

Position. 

IMMmSricaii 

Address your request 

iirsi•American jWucts.i 

1717 Wyandotte St., Kansof City 8, Mo. 

THE 

ASHCRAFT 

HYDRO-ARC 

designed to produce 

MORE LIGHT at LESS COST 

than any Suprex Lamp. It is the most 

economical and high-powered lamp for 

SMALL and 

MEDIUM 

DRIVE-INS 

We recommend the HYDRO-ARC for 

drive-in screens from 40 to 57 feet wide. 

s ASHCRAFT MANUFACTURING 

36-32 Thirty-Eighth Street Long Island Cily 1, N. Y 


46 

• • • • 

When it 

• • • • • 

comes to pacbge 

Stereophonic Sound Systems 

For the Medium Size Theatre Series 2000 

Designed so that the smaller theatre can have top quality stereophonic sound 

at a budget price. Wall mounted units sa\ e space in small booths. Complete 

package includes magnetic soundheads, pre-amplifiers, power amplifiers, 

stage speakers and booth monitor. 

Larger Size Theatre Series 3000 

Compact plug in 

t\pe equipment that delivers ample power for the theatre 

in the less than 1200 seat bracket. Package includes all necessar\ equipment, 

magnetic soundheads, pre-aniplifiers, power amplifiers, booth monitor 

and stage speakers. 

Flagship Theatre Series 6000 

Plenty of power! You get the finest sound deli%ered to every corner of 

)()ur theatre. Like all Ballant\ne stereophonic sound, you'll ha\e to listen 

to it to belie% e it — here is the wdy stereophonic sound should be. 

Drive-In Theatre Series 4452 

Supplied with magnetic soundheads, compact, wall mounted pre-amplifiers, 

and power supply. Eas) to install and service. 

Get the full facts from Ballantyne Engineers. 

400 Magnetic Soundhead 

Heart of the Ballantyne 

stereophonic system is this 

compocf, easy to install precision 

mechanism. Simplicity 

is o feature of the cjesign. 

alancecf stabi li ration assures 

flutter free film speed. 

1712 Jackson Street Omaha, Nebraska 

The Do-lt-Yourself Trend 

Reaches the Drive- In 

Theatre 

Exhibitor 

For less than $100, exhibitor Milan G. 

Steele, Lakeside Drive-In Theatre. Pawnee. 

Okla., has constructed and erected a unique 

attraction board sign that has the professional 

look. Steele designed the board 

in the shape of an arrow, and it is 20x5 feet 

through the body with the arrow point and 

feather part extending 18 inches above and 

below. 

To make the sign he set three creosoted 

posts in cement and used lumber from 

three old garage doors to make the backing 

and frame. After cutting Masonite to 

form the arrow he attached it to backing. 

CUT LETTERS WITH SAW 

"I purchased an aluminum extrusion 

from a theatre supply house to apply to 

the sign to hold the letters," Steele says, 

"and I purchased some spring clips and 

brass rivets from a supply house. I cut 

the ten-inch letters in my basement with 

a power coping saw and painted them with 

red enamel. A jig was set up to drill the 

holes for the spring clips so that they all 

line up correctly, and are held fast to the 

metal strips. 

"I have over 200 letters, and altogether 

—sign, letters, three electric lights and some 

labor hired—I have about $100 or less invested. 

The garage doors I had, otherwise 

a frame of 2x4s would do the job. I purchased 

the posts and was able to get some 

scrap 3/16-inch Masonite for the letters 

which cost about five cents a square foot." 

On the back side of the sign Steele built 

a storage cabinet with a hinged door, hasp 

and padlock for storing the letters. 

Steele also designed a boxoffice and entrance 

especially suited for a small drivein 

theatre, where usually either the owner 

or his wife sell tickets. The boxoffice allows 

the handling of the cars by one cashier, as 

patrons can drive close enough that change 

can be made through the window. This 

way, he says, it is unnecessary to give out 

tickets or have someone out in front, and 

that only one lane is required. The cashier 

has a full view of approaching cars. 

BUILT 

BASKET WEAVE FENCE 

Further evidence of Steele's craftsmanship 

is the basket-weave fence which he 

built around the theatre which is ornamental 

and also allows the air to pass 

through without transmitting lights from 

cars. This fence was built out of native 

yellow Cottonwood and formed while still 

green, as were the apron and wings of the 

screen. The same wood was used to build 

a semi-circle of seats separating the playground 

from the main area. 

Incidentally, the new wide screen, 60x30 

feet, replaces the one destroyed in a tornado 

last May 1. The screen is 12 feet off the 

ground as the theatre area is a natural 

slope. 

The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

, IILVH LODE 

JOHK MTME DUN DURTEA 

UIA8ETH SCOTT -» 

tfCHKICOLOR 

r/iis \% the sign Milan Steele designed and built lor his Lakeside Drive-In Theatre, Pawnee, Okla. He 

used three old garage doors to moke the backing and frame, and cut the arrow from Masonite. The sign 

is located at the intersection of State Highway 18 and the approach section line to the drive-in on the 

back of the ten-acre tract on which the theatre was built. 

your New 

Drive-ln NOW 

and let us 

HELP 

When it comes to drive-ins The Ballantyne 

Company has always taken pride 

in being more than just a manufacturer 

of sound and projection equipment. 

We feel that countless owners and 

operators want help and advice on how 

to build a better, more economical 

drive-in. 

That's why we offer these services. 

If you have purchased land for a new 

drive-in, just send us the general plan 

and elevations. Without cost to you we 

will lay out the entire theatre. If you 

need plans for a projection booth, a 

refreshment area or ticket entrance, as 

illustrated above, we'll be glad to furnish 

them without charge. And of 

course, we furnish you with complete 

wiring diagrams as well. 

Steele designed this boxoffice especially suitable for a small drive-in theatre. One cashier can handle 

the cars as patrons can drive close enough that change con be made through the window. Only one 

lane is required and it is unnecessary to have a ticket taker. The cashier has a full view of approaching 

cars and can see the picture through a side window. 

Now is not too soon to plan for next 

season. Take just two minutes and 

drop us a line if you're planning a new 

drive-in. We'd like to help. 

Originators of the complete package 

for the Drive-in Theatres 

A new wide screen, 60x30 feet, now replaces the smaller one which was destroyed in a tornado last 

spring. The theatre area is a natural slope, so the screen is 12 feet off the ground. 


'^Ballafitiine(j& 

1712 Jackson Street Omaha, Nebraska 

47

is 

the time 

^Heaiê AfaMteHOHce 

, Questions 

and Answers 

This regular Modern Theatre feature is conducted by Dave E. Smalley, contributor to many 

important magazines on maintenance and editor of Better Maintenance Mogazine. Questions from 

exhibitors are welcomed. Address them to Theatre Maintenance, The Modern Theatre, 825 Von 

Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 24, Mo. Enclose stamped, self-addressed envelope for personal reply. 

//? Your Admissions 

Control System 

If there ever was a time when the 

Motion Picture Industry NEEDS 

every dollar that comes to its door— 

that time is now. 

Revenue lost through ticket manipulation 

or employee connivance can 

doom your operation. (Last year, 

America's theatres lost over 15 million 

dollars through improper ticket 

handling.) 

Make sure your theatre's admissions 

control system is profit-tight . . . with 

Automaticket Register and 

Ticketaker, to give you effective control 

both in the box office and at the 

door! Write for full information. 

General Register Corp. 

43-01 Twenty-Second Street 

long Island City 1, N. Y. 

1018 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago 5, Illinois 

Q HUMIDIFIERS IN WINTER HEATING 

While we understand that moist air 

promotes better heating efficiency in cold 

weather, do you think open vessels of water 

set at different locations in the auditoriutU 

would serve the purpose or should an electric 

humidifier be used? 

J^ The right percentage of humidity in 

the room will insure body comfort at 

a temperature of about 70°F. While it may 

be possible to accomplish this result with 

the open vessels you suggest, the method 

would hardly be dependable. Unless heated, 

the evaporation would probably be too slowto 

be effective. An electric humidifier 

would be more reliable. Very cold air outside 

the building may be saturated with 

moisture, as it often is, but when it gets 

into the building through entrances, etc.. 

the higher temperature greatly lowers the 

degree of relative humidity, making the 

warm air comparatively dry. The moisture 

must, therefore, be restored by artificial 

means. 

p 

ICY SIDEWALKS 

While our marquee protects most of 

our sidewalk and entrance from the accumulation 

of snow and formation of ice, we 

still have to keep the rest of the walk free. 

We have always used salt but it is often 

tracked into the lobby and even onto the 

foyer carpet. Do you know of a better 

method than salt? 

^ Calcium chloride is equally effective 

but it also is of a nature similar to salt 

and can be tracked into the building. Hot 

sand serves a more temporary purpose and 

is usually removed from the shoe soles as 

they pass over corrugated runners through 

the lobby. Mopping the icy walk with hot 

salt water will remove the ice and since 

the water will evaporate rather rapidly, you 

may be able to get the walk ice free and 

fairly dry and with a minimum of residue 

of salt. 

9 

TO REMOVE SCARS ON 

, ASPHALT FLOORS 

We have some rather bad scars or 

7narks on the asphalt floor in our lobby. 

They are the result of dragging some 

heavy furniture over the floor. We have 

tried several cleaners without result. Ca7i 

you suggest something? 

H We suggest you use steel wool and 

soap suds. The well known kitchen 

item called "SOS," wetted with water. 

is excellent for removing such marks from 

any of the resilient floors. Of course, the 

job must be done by hand and the scouring 

confined to the scar. It cannot be done 

successfully with a floor machine. If, after 

the scouring, a dull streak appears, waxing 

should be the remedy. 

p 

FLAT PAINT IN THEATRES 

In your column recently you recommended 

flat paint as an undercoat for 

glossy enamel on the interior 

of the theatre. 

Isn't flat paint preferable to glossy 

for such a purpose? I understand that flat 

paint is better for acoustics. 

J^ You are correct. Flat paint is preferable 

for painting the interior of the 

auditorium, the walls and ceilings especially. 

A glossy surface is more likely to 

deflect sound than a flat one. When we 

answered the question to which you refer 

we were thinking more about the general 

technique of painting than its application 

to theatre requirements. We are glad you 

brought the oversight to our attention. 

p 

DAMAGED VINYL TILE 

We have one of the semi-rigid viriyl 

tile floors i?2 our lobby. Several tiles are 

damaged and we ivant to replace them. 

Hoio can we get the old tile out without 

damaging the underlay of asphalt paper? 

f^ Heat the tile a little with an electric 

iron or blow torch. Apply the heat 

.iust long enough to lift the tile out and 

promptly insert the new tile while the 

adhesive is still soft. Place a weight on 

the repaii- for a few hours. Loosened tiles 

are easily lifted out with a suction cup 

such as you use for opening drains. 

p 

WORN AISLE CARPETING 

At the back of the auditorium, where 

the traffic is necessarily the heaviest, our 

aisle carpet runners are beginning to shoiu 

wear. We do riot care to invest in complete 

new runners at this time and we realize 

it would be difficult to match up a carpet 

ivith a repair. Would rubber runners be 

advisable over the worn section or do you 

have a better suggestion? 

^ Our suggestion is not offered as something 

new but possibly as something 

you had not thought of. Take up your 

runners and reverse them end to end. Let 

the worn portion go down in front where 

fewer people will see and use it and where 

the worn carpeting will last longer. 


EQUIPMENT & DEVELOPMENTS 

Portable Control 

Panel 

For Auditorium Lights 

^ 

A 

r '1 

P-1266 

For the lighting of movie sets, theatre 

auditoriums and stages, Eastern Precision 

Resistor Corp. has developed a portable 

control panel, the Tro-Lite. The panel 

houses 30 light switches which may be 

controlled by any one of six different dimmers 

allowing the operator to bypass those 

in use. Each switch has its own circuit 

breaker which protects the entire control 

system if it is ever overloaded. The panels 

also are equipped with pilot lights which 

indicate the circuits in use and the degree 

of briUiance or dimming employed. A "G" 

position is provided on the panel, too, to 

function as a master control in establishing 

the degree of light. Each dimmer 

can handle up to 55 KVA or a total of 

330 KVA for the complete panel. 

An upright type console is used to house 

the Tro-Lite. Each unit measures 4' 2 feet 

long, 5 feet high and 3 feet in depth. To 

facilitate movement and stability when in 

operation, the unit is mounted on kick-out 

type casters. 

FOR MORE 

INFORMATION 

USE Readers' 

Bureau Coupons, Page 35 

eral Scientific Equipment Co. has developed 

a new germicidal pad, tel-O-cide. Telephones 

can be disinfected by simply wiping 

them with the treated pads which come 

packed 100 to a jar. The moisture from the 

pads takes effect and dries almost instantly. 

The germicide is said to be nonharmful 

to humans and will act as a deodorant, 

as well. 

Compact Message Repeater 

Uses Magnetic Tape 

^«1R' 

P-1268 

or electrical switching devices. The prerecorded 

talks are delivered through a 

five-inch speaker from a magnetic tape 

which comes in interchangeable cartridges 

the size of a cigaret pack, permitting use of 

a variety of messages. The manufacturers 

suggest that the device also may be used 

behind lobby displays to give sound to advertising, 

to direct traffic in parking lots, 

to push concessions sales and to control 

crowds during breaks. 

Fire-Resistant Interior Paint P-1269 

May Be Brushed or Sprayed 

A new fire-retardant paint called Duo- 

Tex is available from the Glidden Co. 

Flame resistance is combined with durability, 

washability and attractiveness in the 

resin-base coating. An interior finish of 

intumescent type, it immediately swells and 

chars on contact with flame or excessive 

heat to provide a firm insulating blanket 

of combustion-resistant ash over the affected 

surface, according to the manufacturer. 

The paint is available in 12 pastel 

colors and is adaptable to brush or spray 

application. It is said to resist cracking, 

chalking, crazing and blistering as well as 

mildew and fungus. It may be recoated 

with any type of interior paint if desired. 

Magnetic Tape Recorder 

Has One Knob Control 

P-1270 

Germicidal Pads to Deter 

Germ Transmission 

P-1267 

To sanitize telephone mouthpieces, especially 

those used by the public, the Gen- 

street noises are no obstacle to the Message 

Repeater Junior, an electronic 

"barker," developed by the Mohawk Business 

Machine Corp. Although small and 

inexpensive the unit can deliver thousands 

of two-minute pitches with true fidelity 

and high volume either continuously or 

at regular intervals determined by manual 

Claims mode for products described editorially 

on this and other pages ore token from the 

manufacturers' 

statements. 

The International Scientific Industries 

Corp. has developed a new magnetic tape 

recorder which is controlled by a single 

knob. The recorder, designed to be a central 

unit in high-fidelity installations, uses 

the firm's Isimetric magnetic differential 

drive to operate the tape handling without 

frictional clutches or brakes. By using 

Isimetric drive, the units assure constant 

tape tension and a variable drive for editing 

and high-speed transport. The special 

qualities of Isimetric drive provide stable 

performance regardless of external conditions 

and eliminate the need for adjustments 

through the life of the machine. 


— 

— 

AN 

AURA OF NEWNESS 


Examples of this type of promotion are the 

"Back to School" shows which he started 

in September . . . free bicycles to the holders 

of lucky number tickets at Saturday afternoon 

matinees, and tickets to the theatre 

with purchase of school supplies at a 

nearby drug store making a specialty of 

such supplies. Looking ahead, Shumow 

plans to intensify this particular part of 

his program by tying in with local merchants 

during the holiday season. This 

deal will permit children to redeem admission 

tickets at stores in the uptown community. 

Shumow feels that the extensive advertising 

he does in north side newspapers, 

as well as in the Chicago Tribune, Sun- 

Times and American, and program displays 

in 28 neighborhood stores has been instrumental 

in producing capacity business. He 

changes programs three times a week, and 

makes every attempt to present pictures 

Let A Super 

Help YOU Save 

Super Heavy Duty Suction Cleaners are money 

savers. They do a maximum of work with a 

minimum of expense and effort. 

Easy to operate, one operator and a Super with 

its special tools clean everything everywhere 

screen, sound equipment, walls, floors and carpets, 

upholstery, draperies, air fihers. 

Cleaning ceases to be an expensive item of the 

budget when done with a Super. Let your Super 

dealer show you how to get the best cleaning 

to please his patrons. Above all, Shumow 

says, courtesy is his keynote. He says his 

personnel have been so thoroughly indoctrinated 

with the policy of courtesy that 

he has heard a variety of comments pointing 

to the fact that patrons are "practically 

thanked to death." "Comments such 

as these," said Shumow, "makes me feel 

I'm running a business which is a tribute 

to the community of which I am a part." 

Shumow, reared in 

the theatre business, 

and holding the philosophy of his father. 

i 

Jack Shumow an experienced theatre man 

now retired), said he looks forward to 

many, many years at the De Luxe Theatre. 

He added that as a theatre owner he hopes 

never to overlook any improvements, new 

or old, if they mean added comfort for 

the patron and profitable business for him. 

He feels that a movie house is an important 

part of community business operation, 

therefore, he takes a prominent role 

in community affairs. 

Outdoors or indoors, showmanship still 

rules the world of entertainment. 

Super Model JS 

Mocjerately priced. 

Light weight, quiet, 

same pov/er and 

pickup as large 

Super. 

job for the least money. Or write 

NATIONAL SUPER SERVICE CO., INC. 

GREATER 

1941 N. 12th Street Toledo 2, Ohio 

"Once Over Does It" 

SUPER SUCTION 

SINCE 1911 (§) 

•THE DRAFT HORSE OF POWER SUCTION CLEANERS" 

Durability in 

GRIGGS 

CHAIRS 

Superior 

construction 

gives years of service. 

Comfort —the minute 

they're 

occupied! 

Their Beauty sparkiest 

WRITE FOR CATALOG 

GRIGGS E0Uir\1E^T CO. 

Belton, Texas 

For 

YOUR 

BOXOFFICE 

Engraved by 

our exclusive 

process on lucrte 

to your 

specificotions. 

LAMOLITE 

Model M—For all 

general cleaning 

Easily converted to 

blovêr. 

Sales and Service in Principal Cities 

In Canada: Plant 

Mointenonce Equipment 

Co., Toronto, 

Montreal, Vancouver 

ILLUMINATED PRICE ADMISSION SIGNS 

Our enlarged plant facilities assure 

OVERNGHT service from coast to coast. 

Plastic Signs Engraved for the Entire Theatre 

Send for Folder *Pat pend 

Edgar S. 

Bowman 

682 Sixth Avenue Nm Y»rk 10, N. Y. 

Semiportable Widescreen 

For 16mm Projection 

A new semiportable widescreen with 

an aluminum frame has been developed by 

Radiant Manufacturing Corp. The newunit 

was designed for the showing of 16mm 

wide screen processes. 

The units, which are available in sizes 

of 6x16 feet and 8x21 feet, use a screen 

made of high-reflection fabric which is 

both flame and mildew resistant. The 

screen is attached to the aluminum frame 

with self-adjusting tension hooks, thus assuring 

a smooth surface and easy assembly. 

A special shipping and storage container 

comes with the screen and frame. The 

fabric screen may be rolled onto a special 

tube and placed in the container along 

with the dismantled frame, when it is not 

in use. 

Radiant is also offering another widescreen 

for 16mm projection in the more 

common roller type which uses a tripod 

or a wall for support. The roller models 

come in two sizes, 3x8 feet and 4x11 feet. 

Steel Screen Towers Withstand 

Blast of Recent Hurricanes 

The full impact of the recent hurricanes 

Edna, Carol and Hazel failed to damage 

DIT-MCO all-steel screen towers at 

drive-ins along the eastern seaboard. 

Eager to know how the installations stood 

up, screen tower engineers of Drive-In Theatre 

Manufacturing Co. sent telegrams of 

inquiry to each of its customers in the 

storm area following each hurricane. All 

reported no damage during the 70 and 80- 

mile-an-hour gales. 

Typical of 

the messages received are the 

following: 

"Wind velocity 76 miles per hour hitting 

screen direct center. No damage.—Gordon 

Jarvid, Mallets Bay Amusement Co., Burlington, 

Vt." 

"Screen tower suffered no damage during 

Hazel. Wind velocity 80 miles.—Brodsky 

Skyview Drive-In Theatre, Lancaster, 

Pa. " 

"We have been building drive-in screen 

towers since 1947," commented George 

Heller, president of the Kansas City firm, 

"and we are mighty proud of the tested 

and proved fact that no DIT-MCO screen 

tower has ever collapsed, even under the 

most severe storm conditions such as these 

experienced in recent months." 

Heller added that his company is currently 

filling a growing demand for allsteel 

extensions for existing towers. 

Exterminate Insects and Rodents 

Continue to fight disease-carrying flies, 

insects and rodents. Help promote the nation's 

health.—National Sanitary Supply 

Ass'n. 


— 

— 

The following concerns have recently 

filed copies of interesting descriptive literature 

with the Modern Theatre Information 

Bureau. 

Readers who wish copies may 

obtain them promptly by using the Readers' 

Bureau postcard in this issue of The Modern 

Theatre. 

L-1676 

Chrysler Airtemp, a division of 

the Chrysler Corp. and manufacturers of 

waterless air conditioning units, has recently 

issued a new series of multi-colored 

and illustrated folders on its various cooling 

units. Using a new background design 

of white clouds against the blue sky which 

represents the products of Chrysler Airtemp, 

the folders tell of the potential of 

the different air conditioning units, both 

industrial and residential. The industrial 

and commercial folder contains dimensional 

and capacity data, as well as information 

on the features of the units. 

L-1677—A COMPREHENSIVE Catalog on the 

changeable copy display letters and mounting 

equipment manufactured by Wagner 

Sign Service. Inc., is now available. The 

52-page covered edition offers a variety 

of illustrations of real theatre fronts and 

changeable displays throughout the United 

States and Mexico. Instructions on the use 

and installation of the various Wagner 

units is also included. The various types 

of display products discussed include slotted 

plastic letters, aluminum letters, window 

type frames, background assemblies, 

Colorite letters and mounting rails, background 

glass and frame units, railock and 

standee letters, and the firm's mechanical 

letter changing device. 

L-1678 The story of the American Mat 

Corp.'s rubber link mats is told in three 

pieces of literature recently pubUshed by 

the company. The firm, whose motto is 

"a mat for every purpose," offers many 

convincing arguments for the use of its 

product, by using illustrations of patterns 

and installed mats, as well as words. Specifications 

and general information is offered 

on three different rubber link mats: 

Ezy-Rug: Ti-affic-Tred. and Tuf-Tred. 

Each form of matting has a specific use 

TT 

jLL-PURPOs? 

SjUERSCREEj^ 

' l/oM Cant (Buy, Setter^ 

Wl LLIAMS 

SCREEN COMPANY 

and all three improve safety, sanitation 

and the atmosphere, according to the 

makers. 

L-1679—A SERIES of four catalogs and a 

price list have been prepared by the General 

Lighting Co. Each of the four catalogs 

is profusely illustrated with examples of 

the firm's lighting fixtures. The catalogs 

each featm-e a different type of fixture: 

Custom Decorative Lighting Fixtures: 

Chandeliers: Dome Lights, and New Forms 

in Linear Lighting. Both the price list and 

the catalogs offer such information as size, 

shipping weight, colors and other valuable 

information. 

L-1680 An attractive folder describing 

the qualities of Arctic Blanch, a screen resurfacing 

paint, for indoor and drive-in 

theatres, is available from the National 

Theatre Screen Refinishing Co. The folder 

contains information on application and 

the various qualities of the paint, which 

are also attested to be copies of letters from 

exhibitors who have used Arctic Blanch. 

To further strengthen the claims made 

about the quality and versatility of the 

paint, a list of satisfied users is included. 

The paint is said to have a high degree of 

reflectivity, freedom from glare and the 

ability to withstand weather due to its 

rubber base. 

L-1681 Twenty-two items in the line 

of candy bars made and distributed by 

Hollywood Brands, Inc., are the subject of 

two illustrated singlesheets published by 

the firm. A full description of each bar is 

given, including retail price, weight, packaging, 

shipping quantities 

and ingredients. 

Typical of the many candies described are 

the Zero, Payday and the Milk Shake. The 

sheets are punched to fit any standard 

8xll-inch notebook regardless of the number 

of rings. 

Try The "SOUND TEST" 

Repeated sound-comparison 

tests between 

EPRAD "Universal" inthe-car 

speakers and 

other makes have conclusively 

proved EPRAD 

the BEST! Ask your 

EPRAD dealer to hold a 

test between an EPRAD 

and any other make or 

makes. 

The "Universal" is 

the best-sounding, most 

trouble-free, easiest-to-service speaker on the 

market It hos a Die-Cast Aluminum 

case and a 4-inch cone. 

$760 

Per Speaker 

A SPEAKER FOR EVERY NEED! 

Whether you desire o 1 , 2 or 3 channel 

drive-in sound system, see your 

EPRAD dealer for the best at the 

lowest possible cost. 

EPRAD 

"The Voice of the Drive-In" 

1206 CHERRY TOLEDO 4, OHIO 

Behind 

this 

The facilities of RCA Service Company 

make available to thousands 

of theatres tnroughout the country 

the vast technical resources of the 

Radio Corporation of America. 

Problems posed by optical or magnetic 

sound, single or multiple 

track, 2-D, 3-D or wide screen techniques 

are minimized when RCA 

Service Company is behind the vital, 

operating heart o{ your house. 

RCA SERVICE COMPANY, Inc. 

.i Radio Corporation of America Subsidiary 

Camden, N.J. 


L 

about PEOPLE/and PRODUCT 

Roy Boomer, secretary-treasurer of Theatre 

Equipment & Supply Manufacturers 

Ass'n for the past eight yeai-s, has resigned 

because of ill health. Mrs. Boomer who has 

been his active assistant in the work will 

also retire from TESMA. Known throughout 

the entire industry, Boomer began his 

career as an actor, from 1906 to 1922. In 

the following period, through 1927, he was 

exchange manager and theatre executive 

of the operation were directly under the 

president; now the operation will be divided 

into three separate, self-contained divisions: 

industrial, commercial and international. 

The reorganization, which is expected to 

increase sales, was accomplished by the 

assignment of new duties and promotions 

within the company. The new division 

heads are R. K. Serf ass, industrial; J. K. 

Louden, commercial, and C. B. Morrison, 

international. Pi-esident Lauer will also 

have a staff directly under him which will 

assist and advise the various divisions. 

V 

Theatre 

Seating Division 

Menominee • Michigan 

ADLER 

for theatre signs 

that build 

boxoffice 

lines! 

ADLER 

CHANGEABLE 

LETTER DISPLAYS 

'3D DIMENSION' Plastic and 

Cast Aluminum Letters 

GLASS-INFRAME DISPLAYS 

'REMOVA-PANEL' 

FRAMES 

'SECTIONAD' LOW-COST 

DISPLAYS 

For Free Catalog, Write to 

ADLER 

Silhouette Letter Co. 

11S43 W. Olympic, Los Angeles 64, Calif. 

Roy Boomer 

with Universal Pictures. In 1928 Boomer 

joined Warner Bros, where he was a theatre 

executive until 1934 when he went into 

private business. He became sales manager 

of Motiograph, Inc., in 1938 and continued 

in this position until he accepted the post 

with TESMA. He is a member of the Society 

of Motion Picture & Television Engineers. 

The Raytone Screen Corp. has undertaken 

one of the largest indoor wide-screen 

installations on record at the Cine Revolucion 

Theatre in Mexico. The Raytone Hilux 

screen wiU have a picture surface of almost 

2,100 square feet, measuring 29 feet 

high by 72 feet in width. 

Three new members have been added to 

the sales staff of Carbonic Dispenser, Inc., 

to intensify the sales program for its soft 

drink dispensing products. George W. 

Rhoad of Cleveland was named national 

carbonator sales representative. O. J. 

Sponseller of Canfield, Ohio, will be assigned 

to the northern Indiana-Illinois 

territory and Howard Fern of Long Island, 

N. Y., will cover the home office district 

of Maryland-Delaware, which includes 

Philadelphia and Washington, D. C. 

A retirement and two promotions have 

been effected at Kodak, Ltd., the British 

division of the Eastman Kodak Co. A veteran 

of 51 years with the company, Ernest 

E. Blake has retired as chairman of the 

board but will remain as chairman of 

Kodak's European and Overseas Advisory 

Committee. Blake joined Kodak as a lantern 

operator and within three years had 

been promoted to wholesale sales manager, 

and five years later to head of all sales 

and service overseas. After a series of promotions, 

he was named board chairman 

in 1946. 

Following the retirement of Blake, Harold 

S. Carpenter, managing director, was 

named chairman of the board. He will also 

continue as managing director. Carpenter, 

who joined Kodak in 1913, also worked his 

way up through the sales department. The 

other promotion was that of I. D. Wratten 

to deputy managing director. Wratten 

will continue to function as a Kodak director 

and the supervisor of motion picture 

film sales in England, Europe and 

India. 

RocKwooD & Co., which is reported to 

have done a 30 million dollar business last 

year to make it the second largest chocolate 

manufacturer in the nation, has been 

taken over by three Chicago businessmen, 

Marshall Bennett, Edwin J. Drobka and 

Stuart Doyle. H. Russell Burbank will continue 

as president of the firm. 

After two years with an eastern screen 

company, Samuel N. Saiia has resigned to 

join the sales staff of the Raytone Screen 

Corp. Prior to entering the theatre business, 

Saiia was the New York State industrial 

representative for several paint companies 

and before that he spent eight years in the 

selling of intangibles. He is still a member 

of the New York State Industrial Ass'n. 

Improvement? 

PAYS... r 

IMPROVE YOUR THEATRE 

AND YOU 

IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS 

The field and main office organization 

of the York Corp., air conditioning and 

refrigeration firm, has been reorganized 

under the direction of its president, Stewart 

E. Lauer, who explained that the old business 

structure which had been in existence 

since 1928 had become too unwieldy for 

the company v/hich now grosses $90 million 

in sales annually. Formerly all facets 

P. P. WiNBERG was recently elected to 

the presidency and made a member of 

the board of directors of American Aerovap, 

Inc., manufacturers and developers 

in the field of controlled vaporization of 

insecticides. The selection of Winberg, who 

was formerly general manager, is the first 

step in an expansion of the firm's activities 

in the domestic and foreign markets. 

52 

The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

— 

0XOfflCt(SDDjlJJJi''iJJD5 

The EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY ABOUT PICTURES 

ALLIED ARTISTS 

Bowery Boys Meet the Monsters, The (AA) 

—Leo Gorcey, Huntz Hall, Bernard Gorcey. 

Missed this while away on vacation but from 

the popcorn report the town must have 

turned out. The trailer led me to believe it 

would be up to the series' past results. Played 

Sunday., Mon. Weather: ?.—James H. Wiggs 

jr., Tar Theatre, Tarboro, N. C. Small-town 

and rural patronage. 

Return From the Sea (AA)—Jan Sterling, 

Neville Brand, John Doucette. Here's a picture 

about a seafaring captain that is really 

a dandy. Hats off to Allied Artists. These 

guys are going to be mailing top product If 

they keep improving. NeviUe Brand is plenty 

good. Played this as a second feature with 

"Outlaw Stallion" and actually the positions 

of the two features should have been reversed. 

Played Wed., Thurs., Pri. Weather: 

Clear and hot.—Robert Klinge, Uptown Theatre, 

Sedalia, Mo. Medium size town and 

rural patronage. 

COLUMBIA 

Jesse James vs. the Daltons (Col)—Brett 

King, Barbara Lawrence, James Griffith. All 

we have to have is "Jesse James" on the 

marquee and we'll do more business on a 

western and this was no exception. A good 

enough western to fill that double bill on the 

weekend and the price was right for us, so 

we were happy with better than average 

business. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Dry and 

dusty.—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach Theatre, 

Lincoln, Kas. Small-town and rural 

patronage. 

Mission Over Korea (Col)—John Hodiak, 

John Derek, Audrey Totter. Now here's a subject 

that you'd think didn't have much popular 

appeal but we did better than average 

midweek business. Lots of action and not 

too much flying. No punches pulled in the 

story either. Played Wed., Thurs. Weather: 

Hot.—Walt and Ida Breitling, Comfrey Theatre, 

Comfrey, Minn. Small-town and rural 

patronage. 

Outlaw StaUion, The (Col)—Phil Carey, 

Dorothy Patrick. Billy Gray. Just another 

horse picture. They seem to be losing their 

appeal. Guess the public is seeing too much 

of the same on TV. This definitely is not 

worth percentage. Might do better as a 

Friday-Saturday change. Played Wed., Thurs., 

Fri. Weather: Clear and hot.—Robert Klinge, 

Uptown Theatre, Sedalia, Mo. Medium size 

town and rural patronage. 

METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER 

Desperate Search, The (MGM)—Howard 

Keel, Jane Greer, Patricia Medina. This picture 

turned out to be a sleeper and did above 

Sunday business on a Wednesday one night 

booking. MGM sold this one right so I came 

up with a little profit.—W. L. Stratton, Ljric 

ITieatre, Challis, Ida. Small-town and rural 

patronage. 

Easy to Love (MGM)—Esther Williams, 

BOXOFFICE BooldnGuide : : Nov. 6, 1954 

Likes Allied Artists 

Sports Features 

TJOAR OF THE CROWD (AA)—Howard 

Duff, Helene Stanley, Dave Willock. 

Howard Duff is the only name to sell but 

he's strong enough. AlUed Artists has a 

good thing in their sports pictures such 

as tills one, "Rose Bowl Story," "White 

Lightning," et cetera. I'm waiting as 

eagerly for "The Bob Mathias Story" as 

some guys are for the percentage to drop 

on "Caine Mutiny."—Norman Merkel, 

Time Theatre, Albert City, Iowa. Smalltown 


Van Johnson, Tony Martin. A slick, easy-tolook-at 

musical. Swimming, singing, love, 

color, pageants. Comments were good. 

Played Fri., Sat., Sun. Weather: O.K.—Frank 

Sabin, Majestic Theatre, Eureka, Mont. Smalltown 


Gone With the Wind (MGM)—Reissue. 

Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable, Olivia de Haviland. 

Comments are not necessary—it's still the 

greatest picture of all time. More vivid in 

greater than 

wide screen and the boxoffice is 

ever before. This reissue has broken all 

records here. By all means play it! Played 

Sun. through Fri. Weather: Rainy.—Robert 

Klinge, Uptown Theatre, Sedaha, Mo. Medium 

size town and rural patronage. 

Gyi)sy Colt (MGM) — Donna Corcoran, 

Ward Bond, Frances Dee. We were sorry we 

didn't book this three or four days. Had- 

"SRO" the two nights shown and for matinee 

Sunday which hardly ever happens any 

more. We did no extra exploiting—word-ofmouth 

did it for us. They don't make enough 

of these. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Wonderful.—Walt 

and Ida Breitling, Comfrey 

Theatre, Comfrey, Minn. Small-town and 


Homesteader Droopy (MGM) —Short. These 

cartoons from MGM are the cream of the 

crop—none better. Ran this with Super Panatars. 

Why don't you cartoon makers leave 

out the frame lines and we can fill our 

screen in height using Cinemascope apertures.—Roy 

S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile, 

Minn. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Mogambo (MGM)—Clark Gable, Ava Gardner, 

Grace Kelly. This didn't draw as well 

as I expected. I guess our patrons don't 

read movie reviews. I liked it though and it 

appealed to the women most. Wonderful acting. 

Gable is stUl good, though aging—and 

really looked it. Played Sun., Mon., Tues. 

Weather: Nice and warm.—Evelyn Burgess, 

Roxy Theatre, McClusky, N. D. Small-town 


Tennessee Champ (MGM)—Shelley Winters, 

Dewey Martin, Keenan Wynn. Not a 

bad picture but a dismal faOure at the boxoffice. 

Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Hot.— 

Paul Ricketts, Charm Theatre, Holyrood, 

Kas. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Young Bess (MGM) — Jean Simmons, 

Stewart Granger, Deborah Kerr. Here is a 

nice little picture that has fine acting and is 

well produced. This type of picture is usually 

poison in my situation but I was sure surprised 

on this one as it did 160 per cent of 

Wednesday business and seemed to please. 

W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Ida. 

Small-town and rural patronage. 

PARAMOUNT 

Alaska Seas (Para)-Robert Ryan, Jan 

Sterling, Brian Keith. Another one like this 

from Paramount and I will get a hatful of 

pencils. Don't buy it if you can get anything 

else.—W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, 

Ida. Small-town and rural patronage. 

My Son, John (Para)—Helen Hayes, Robert 

Walker, Van Heflin. Guess this was just 

a little too heavy for our French-speaking 

patrons. It was well liked by the few Englishspeaking 

patrons who saw it. Played Wed,, 

Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Rain and cold. 

Harold Bell, Opera House Theatre, Coaticook, 

Que. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Scared Stiff (Para)—Dean Martin, Jerry 

Lewis, Lizabeth Scott. Not as good as the 

others but my patrons like them. Business 

fair. Showed this 2 to 1—keeps the operator 

Busy! Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather: 

Good.—Ray S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile, 


Stalag 17 (Para)—William Holden, Don 

Taylor, Otto Preminger. Mighty entertaining. 

A former POW who was at Stalag okayed 

every part of it, except the wristwatch incident. 

Says the Germans took all watches. 

Great audience show. Played Fri., Sat., Sun. 

Weather: O.K.—Frank Sabin, Majestic Theatre, 

Eureka, Mont. SmaU-town and rural 

patronage. 

REPUBLIC 

Flight Nurse (Rep)—Joan Leslie, Forrest 

Tucker, Arthur Franz. For some of you folk 

who are suffering from the picture scarcity 

this will get you by. There are some good war 

shots, but not enough of them to drive away 

the people who are war-picture shy. Played 

Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Rain.— 

Harold Bell, Opera House Theatre, Coaticook, 

Que. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Jubilee Trail (Rep)—Vera Ralston, Joan 

Leslie, Forrest Tucker. A fair picture but 

not worth what Republic asks for it. Did only 

average business with enough profit to keep 

it on the right side of the ledger.—W. L. 

Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Idaho. Snâlltown 


Thunderbirds (Rep)—John Derek, John 

Barrymore jr., Mona Freeman. Another war 

picture—but something must have been good 

about it because we certainly had good business. 

We bought it right and made a dollar. 

Played Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: 

Cold.—Harold Bell, Opera House Theatre, 

Coaticook, Que. Small-town and rural patronage. 

RKO RADIO 

French Line, The (RKO)—Jane Russell, 

Gilbert Roland, Mary McCarty. What was all 

(Continued on following page) 

>- 

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X 

OS 

O 

t 

X X 

OZ 

< 

ea 

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X 

a.

— 

— 

— 

The EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY 

I 

(Continued from preceding page) 

the ruckus about this picture? Russell does a 

dance—and a "lulu," too—but no one here 

saw anything objectionable about this short 

bit. In fact, the men walked away with a 

gleam in their eyes. I should think you could 

play this to very good advantage and without 

a lot of preseUing. We had a good gross 

and satisfied customers. Played Thurs., Fri., 

Sat. Weather: Oood.—Nate Oglesbee, Ramona 

Theatre, Ramona, Calif. Small-town 


Hans Christian Andersen (RKO)—Danny 

Kaye, Farley Granger, Jeanmalre. We didn't 

do too bad but lacked a lot of hitting the 

split on a picture that is really what people 

are crying for—and then refuse to patronize. 

What's the answer? Was it Danny or the 

story? You can't go wrong with this one, if 

you don't get rich. Played Tues.-Thurs. 

Weather: Dry and dusty.—Mayme P. Musselman, 

Roach Theatre, Lincoln, Kas. Smalltown 


She Couldn't Say No (RKO)—Robert 

Mitchum, Jean Simmons, Arthur Hunnicutt. 

With a few more dollars spent to make this 

in color it could have been a top notch picture. 

Subject excellent, acting good. A good 

clean comedy and a fair draw but not a 

money-maker for us. Played Sun., Mon. 

Weather: Rain.—Walt and Ida Breitling, 

Comfrey Theatre, Comfrey, Minn. Smalltown 


Sword and the Rose, The (RKO)—Richard 

Todd, Glynis Johns, James Robertson Justice. 

All this picture did was drive my customers 

out faster than they came in. I could write 

an "excuse" book after hearing all the reasons 

why they had to leave. Personally, I 

think Disney had better stick to cartoons 

and True Life Adventures (which are really 

good). In these even though the actors are 

animals, they are American. Played Tues., 

Wed., Thurs. (I hope.) Weather: Perfect. 

Harland Clark, Milford Theatre, Milford, 111. 


20th CENTURY-FOX 

Beneath the 12-Mlle Reef (20th-Fox)— 

Robert Wagner, Terry Moore, Gilbert Roland. 

Played this Cinemascope with optical sound. 

Some parts were out of focus and we couldn't 

clear them. Using coated Super Snaplites 

F19 with Super Panatars. 2:1 ratio to fUl 

13:26. Good enough show but it was no draw 

here. Played Sim., Mon., Tues. Weather: Pair. 

—Ray S. Hanson, Fox "Theatre, FertUe, Miim. 


Invaders From Mars (20th-Fox)—Helena 

Carter, Arthur Franz, Jimmy Hunt. Guess 

our patrons were expecting another "War of 

the Worlds" and didn't get it. This one is all 

just a nice big dream. However, your folks 

may go for that sort of thing. Played Wed., 

Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Showers.-Harold 

Bell, Opera House Theatre, Coaticook, Que. 


Man in the Attic (20th-Pox)—Jack Palance, 

Constance Smith, Byron Palmer. Played 

this with "Man Crazy" (Fox). "Man in the 

Attic" should have stood in bed but "Man 

Crazy" is a good little picture. People want 

comedies. The price of eggs "ain't" funny. 

No business. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Excellent.—Ray 

S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile, 


River of No Retnrn (20th -Fox)—Robert 

Mitchum, Marilyn Monroe, Rory Calhoun. 

This was our first picture In CinemaScope, 

although we have been using wide screen since 

Jime. My theatre, being only 23 feet wide, 

gave me a problem. I finally projected the 

picture 20 feet wide and nine feet high. This 

gave a very good picture. However, I believe 

that a ratio of 2.1 would be better yet. This 

is a pretty good film and drew very well here 

as it is a story about this country, although 

it was made in Canada. This is the first time 

since we showed "Greatest Show on Earth" 

that we had a line waiting for the second 

show. I ran "Hollywood Stunt Pilot" in Cinemascope 

and this is really a fine short with 

plenty of thrills. It gives an effect closest to 

Cinerama of anything that I have seen yet. 

I made a profit on this picture in spite of 

the percentage.—W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, 

Challis, Idaho. Small-town and rural 

patronage. 

UNITED ARTISTS 

Beachhead (UA)—Tony Curtis, Prank Lovejoy, 

Mary Murphy. We didn't do too bad 

even at a late date and actually had some 

favorable comment on this semi-war picture. 

Nice cast and good color with plenty 

of action but we didn't do business this time 

of year with so many state and country fairs 

operating. Then, too, school cuts into the 

Finds a Gold Mine In 

Spanish Program 

A TODA MAQUINA (Class Mohme)— 

Spanish Language Feature. Now here is 

something—an all-Spanish program and 

an excellent picture. Look at your hole 

card. Here we do not have more than 

two Spanish-speaking people in town. 

So we advertised the first Spanish program 

anywhere in this part of Northern 

California and they came for miles. This 

pleased the local merchants and we did 

an excellent business, considering all the 

facts. Do not pass up the possibilities of 

this type of program. They are terrific. 

Many larger spots could find this a gold 

mine. Played Sat. only. Weather: Good. 

Walter H. Finn, Chester Theatre, Chester, 

Calif. Lumber, logging, tourist, sportsmen 

patronage. 

family budget and they have to cut down 

somewhere—and naturally it is entertainment. 

Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Hot and dusty. 

—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach Theatre, Lincoln, 


Gog (UA) — Richard Egan, Constance 

DowUng, Herbert Marshall. Gog and Magog, 

his mate, wrought havoc in the finale but 

most of the story covered the operations of 

an underground laboratory testing all sorts 

of fearful weapons. Hats off to the electronic 

engineers it took to wire the complicated 

maze of gadgets to make panels of lights 

switch on and off, signifying something or 

other. It was just futuristic enough to keep 

folks interested. I was worried, myself, a time 

or two! Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather: 

Drizzles.—Nate Oglesbee, Ramona Theatre, 

Ramona, Calif. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Return to Paradise (UA)—Gary Cooper, 

Roberta Haynes, Barry Jones. Here's a nice 

South Seas picture that we played second 

run. No business—I guess second run is a 

thing of the past here except perhaps in a 

drive-in where the title on the marquee isn't 

so important. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Cool 

—60 degrees.—Robert Klinge, Uptown Theatre, 

Sedalia, Mo. Medium size town and rural 

patronage. 

UNTVERSAL-INTERNA-nONAL 

Drums Across the River (U-I) — Audie 

Murphy, Walter Brennan, Lyle Bettger. Another 

good western from Universal which 

drew slightly above average and seemed to 

please. Audie Murphy is popular here so gets 

a larger crowd than some of the others. 

W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Idaho. 


Francis Covers the Big Town (U-I)—Donald 

O'Connor, Yvette Dugay, Gene Lockhart. 

The "Francis" series is only fair in 

our situation. This picture is good and is 

worth any playing time. Terms okay. Played 

Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair and warm.—C. H. 

(Buck) Fryce, Alma Theatre, Alma, Wis. 


Law and Order (U-I)—Ronald Reagan, 

Dorothy Malone, Preston Foster. The guys 

and gals who pay for the prints found it 

a welcome relief for popular Ronald Reagan 

to be shooting outlaws instead of Injuns this 

Friday and Saturday. It deUvers entertainment 

in every department as a fine supporting 

cast makes the use of nice scenery and 

Technicolor worth the expense. Doubled with 

"Prowlers of the Everglades" to give TV a 

couple of nights of rough competition. 

Weather: It would have been cool for a lot 

of your folks but it seemed hot to us.—Bob 

Walker, Uintah Theatre, Fruita, CX)lo. Smalltown 


Bide Clear of Diablo (U-D—Audie Murphy, 

Susan Cabot, Dan Duryea. Audie Murphy 

has what it takes to bring in the cash cus- 

Plenty of bloodshed 

tomers, large and small. 

and, of course, our hero wins out at great 

odds. They don't come any better for our 

money. Played FYi., Sat. Weather: Cool and 

showers.—Walt and Ida Breitling, Comfrey 

Theatre, Comfrey, Minn. SmaU-town and 


WARNER BROS. 

Boy From Oklahoma, The (WB)—Will Rogers 

jr., Nancy Olson, Wallace Ford. This is 

not one of those shoot-em-up westerns, just 

a good simple story that should please. We 

did very well with it. Maybe it was because 

the Indians and cavalry were missing for 

once. Played Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: 

Showers.—Harold Bell, Opera House Theatre, 

Coaticook, Que. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Dial M for Murder (WB)—Ray Milland, 

Grace Kelly, Robert Cummings. An outstanding 

mystery displaying the deft touch 

of Alfred Hitchcock. The audience follows 

the plamiing of a murder, the attemp*' to execute 

the plans and how the police finally 

apprehend the guUty party. Mostly a character 

representation, with little action, yet 

this held the attention of even the youngsters. 

Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather: 

Good.—Nate Oglesbee, Ramona Theatre, Ramona, 

Calif. Small-town and rural patronage. 

Duffy of San Quentin (WB)—Louis Hayward, 

Joanne Dru, Paul Kelly. Good enough 

for the lower half of your weekend double, 

with action and a pretty good cast and story. 

You'll run a lot worse and get less satisfaction. 

Priced right and worth a date. 

Played FYi., Sat. Weather: Dry and dusty. 

Mayme P. Musselman, Roach Theatre, Lincoln, 


High and the Mighty, The (WB)—John 

Wayne, Robert Stack, Claire Trevor. A well 

made picture by a star-studded cast but it 

doesn't fit in our situation. Should go over 

as terrific in larger cities where the customers 

can endure a two-hour and 27-minute plane 

ride and a plot which includes the life story 

of every one of the passengers. Played Sun. 

through Thurs. Weather: Rain storms. 

Robert Klinge, Uptown Theatre, Sedalia, Mo. 

Medium size town and rural patronage. 

BOXOFFICE BookmGuide Nov. 6. 1954

• 

1573 

ILÂn interpretive oiuilysii of lay ond trodepress reviews. The plus ond minus signs indicate degree of 

iV merit only; audience clossification is not rated. Listings cover current reviews, brought up to dote regularly. 

iKThis deportment serves also os on ALPHABETICAL INDEX to feature releases. Numerol preceding title 

IHb Picture Guide Review page number. For listings by company, in the order of releose, see Feature Chart. 

P 

liyiimBiMi +:*' 

++ Very Good; + Good; — Fair; — Poor; — Very Poor. In the summary +t is rated 2 pluses, — as 2 minuses. 

LS,*? About Mrs. Leslie (104) Drama Para 

1546 Act of Lo>e (105) Drama UA 

2^4 Adventures of Hajji Baba. The 

Drama (93) 20(h-Fox 

15S7 Adventures of Robinson Crusoe (90) Drama UA 

USS Affairs of Messalina. Tbe (108) Drama. Col 

U23 Africa Adventure (63) Documentary RKO 

1602 Aida (110) Musical I.F.E. 

1555 Alaska Seas (7S) Drama Para 

1524 All tlie Brothers Were Valiant (101) 

Adv-Drama 

IMGM 

1588 Always a Bride (83) Comedy U-l 

1555 Annaourna (58) Documentary. . Mayer- Kingsley 

1595A|iache (90) Drama UA 

Arrow in the Dust (80) Drama AA 

Atbena (119) Musical MGM 

B 

1517 Back t» God's Country (78) Drama U-l 

1544 Bad for Each Other (83) Drama.. Col 

1562 Bait (79) Drama tol 

1627 Barefoot Contessa. The (128) Drama UA 

1562 Battle of Rogue Riier (71) Drama Col 

Beachcomber, The (..) Drama UA 

1553 Beachhead (89) Drama UA 

1564 Beat the Devil (89) Drama UA 

1625 Beau Brummell (107) Drama MGM 

1573 Beauties of the N

REVIEW DIGEST 

++ Very Good; + Good; * Fair; — Poor; — Very Poor. In the summary tt is rated 2 pluses, — as 2 minuses. 

ii 

CLE 

++ 13+ 

+ 3+2- 

- 1+2- 

+ 10+1- 

7+1- 

H

I 

++ Very Good; + Good; — Fair; — P oor

. 

. 

1 

. 

. 

' 

! 

©Flame 

. M. 

j 

Feature productions by company in order of release. Number in square is nationol release date. Running 

time Is in parentheses. Letters and combinations thereof indicote story type os follows: (C) Comedy; (D) 

Dromo; (AD) Adventure-Drama; (CD) Comedy-Drama; (F) Fantasy; (M) Musical; (W) V/esiern; (SW) Superwestern. 

Releose number follows. (J denotes BOXOFFICE Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Photography: 

Color; -^ 3-D; en Wide Screen. For review dotes and Picture Guide page numbers, see Review Digest. 

>- 

Of 

< 

ALLIED 

ARTISTS 

(B Highway Dragnet (72) D. .5405 

Jou Bennett. Richard Conte, fVandt Hendrli 

CQ SJBittef Creek (74) ....W..5423 

Wild Bill Elliott, Bertrly Garland. C. Young 

El Riot in Cell Block 11 (80) O..S^1 

NcTllle Brand. Bmlle Meyer, Prank Faylen 

21 Porta Playboyt (62) C..5418 

Leo Oorcey. HunUs Flail, Viola Vonn 

£ Of Mr. Pottt Goes to Moscow (93) C..5400 

< 

Oscjir Homolka, Nadla Gray, George Cole 

Dragonfly Squodron (83) D . . S-2 

John Hi)dl>l[, Barbara Brltton, Bruce Bennett 

a Loophole (79) D. .5414 

Barry Sullivan, Dorothy Malone, C. MeOraw 

a gjPrlde of the Blue Grass (70). .D. .5410 

Uoyd BrIdiM, Vera iUlea, U. Sheridan 

COLUMBIA 

©Charge of the Loncen (74).. D.. 625 

I'aulette Goddard, Jean Pierre Aumont 

©lyMiss Sodie Thompson (91 ). . . D. .630 

Rita Hayv\orth. Aldo Ray, Joae Ferrer 

(Special prerelease) 

Wild One, The (79) D. .623 

Marlon Brando, Mary Murphy, Bobert KtUh 

Bolt (79) D..639 

Cleo Moore, John Agar, Hugo Haas 

fiBoHle of Rogue River (71 ). . .D. .637 

eorge Montgomery, Martha Hyer, B. Denning 

It Should Happen to You (87).. C. 63 

Judy Holllday, Peter Lawford, Jack Lemmoo 

Drive a Crooked Rood (82) D. .638 

Mickey Rooney, DIanne Foster, Kevin McCarthy 

©Iron Clove, The (77) D. .634 

Robert Stack, Crsula Thelss, R. Stspley 

O^Jesse James vi. 

the Daltons 

(65) V^..629 

Brett King, Barbara Lawrence. James Orirritb 

LIPPERT 

B Queen of Shebo (99) 

Special cast 

S We Wont a Child (76). 

Spocial cast 

BH Bloekout (87) 

Dane Clark, Belinda Lee, B. 

.D..5325 

.D..5324 

D..5309 

A. Darles 

(a Fongs of the Wild (71). D. 

Charles Chaplin Jr., Margla Dean 

ES Heof Wove (70) 

Alu Nlcol, Hillary Brooke 

.5311 

.D. .5310 

M-G-M 

[U ©Soodio (82) D..415 

Cornel Wilde, Mel Ferrer, Rita Gan 

i li©Long, Long Trailer, The 

(96) C..416 

Lucille Ball, Desi Amaz, Marjorle Main 

Julius Caesar (122) D. .462 

Marlon Brando. James Mason, Louis Calhern 

(Special prerelease) 

O ©Tennessee Chomp (73) D. .417 

Dewey Martin, Shelley Winters, Keenao WysD 

51 ©inRose Marie (106). . 

Ann Blyth, Howard Keel, 

Fernando 

M..418 

Lamas 

g) ©Gypsy Colt (72) D..419 

Lionna Corcoran, Ward Bond, Prances Dee 

511 ©Rhapsody (115) MD..420 

Gllzabeth Taylor, Vlttorlo Gasiman, J. Erlcsea 

I®Arrow In the Dust (80) D. .5404 

Bterllng Hayden, Coleen Gray, Kellli Larsep 

I 

Forty-Nlners, The (701A) W. .5424 

Wild Bill Elliott, Virginia Grey, Denver Pyle 

S Bowery Boys Meet the Monsters 

(66) C..54I9 

Leo Gvrcay, Hunti Hall, Laare Maaw 

1 

Desperado, The (81) W..5426 

Wayne fiiorrta. Beverly Garland, J. Lydoa 

m Weak ond the Wicked, The 

(72) D. .5432 

Olinils Johns, John Gregson, Slmone Sllva 

EIRctunt From the Seo (80) D. .5409 

Jan Sterling. Neville Brand, Eobcrt Arthur 

1 Security Risk (69) D. .5417 

John Ireland, Dorothy Malone, Keltb Larsen 

1 Killer Leopord (70) 

JuhnDy Sheffield, Beverly O&rland 

.D..54I2 

^Mod Magician, The (72) D. .640 

Vincent Price. Mary Murphy, Eva Oabor 

Massacre Canyon (66) W. .635 

Phil Carey, Audrey Totter, CharllU 

Miami Story, The (75) D. .641 

Barry Sullivan, Adele Jergens. Latbar A(fier 

Jungle AAon-Eoters (68) D . . 707 

Johnny Wetjsraullor. Karln Booth, K. Stapley 

©Saracen Blade (76) D. .633 

Itlrairda Uoatolban, Betta Bt. Jobn 

©Hell Below Zero (91) D..709 

Alan Ladd. Joan Tetiel, Basil Sidney 

Indiscretion of on Amerlcon 

Wife (63) O..703 

Jennifer Jones, Montgomery CUft. V. DeSlca 

©Outlow Stallion (64) W..705 

Phil Carey, Dorothy Patrick 

©Low vs. BtHy the Kid, The 

(73) W..711 

Scott Brady, BetU St. John. Alan Hale Jr. 

Pushover (88) D..704 

Fred MacMurray, Rim Novak, Phil Carey 

9 Monster From the Oceon Floor 

(64) D..5328 

Anne Klmbell, Stuart Wade 

i ©The Cowboy (69) Doc. . 5308 

Narrators: Tex Rltter, BUI Conrad, John Dehoer 

SaBIg Chose, The (60) D. .5328 

Lon Chaney, Qlenn Langao 

iJl Pold to Kill (70) D..5326 

Dane Clark 

M River Boot (73) D . . 5329 

Phyllis Klrb, John Bentley, Robert Ayrci 

@ Thunder Poss (76) D. .5405 

Dane Clark, Dorothy Patrick, Andy Devlne 

63 Êxecutive Suite (106) D. .423 

Willi.im llolden, Barbara Stanwyck, J. AJlysoa 

gS ©Prisoner of War (81) D. .427 

Ronald Reagan, Dewey Martin, Steve Forrest 

and the Flesh (104) D..421 

Lana Turner, Carlos Thompson, Pier Angell 

531 ©Men of the Fighting Lody (80). D.. 425 

Van Johnson. Dewey Martin. Walter PldgeoD 

j©aStudent Prince, The (109) . .424 

Ann Blyth, Edmund Purdom, John Erlcsoa 

1 

©Valley of the Kings (83) D. .431 

Ttobert Taylor, Eleanor Parker, Carles TbompsoB 

ID t,>©aSeven Brides for Seven ^ 

Brothers (102) M..42a 

Jane Fuuell, Howard Keel, Jrff Richards 

!©Hcr Twelve Men (91) CD.. 429 

Groer Garson, Robert Ryan, Barry Sullivan 

GO 

S 

H) Jungle Gents (64) C. .5420 

Leo Oorcey, I!unt2 Hall, Laorette Luei 

iTwo Cuns and a Bodge (69). .W. .5427 

Wayne Morria, Damlan O'Flynn, B. Barcroft 

©Block Dakotas, The (65) W. .721 

Gary MerrUl, Wanda Hcndrls. John Bromfleld 

©Bullet Is Waiting, A (82) D..712 

Jean SlDjmone, Rory Calhoun, Stephen McNally 

Human Desire (90) O. .710 

Glenn Ford, Glorl* Qrahaaie, B. Crawford 

Q] Terror Ship (72) D..5330 

William Lundlgan 

52 Silent Raiders (65) D..5404 

Richard Bartlett, Earle Lyon, Jeanette Bordeaux 

H Unholy Four, The (80) D. .5401 

Paulette Goddard, WllUam Syliester 

12 ©Betrayed (108) D . . 501 

Lanii Turner. Clark Gable, Victor Mature 

©Brigodoon- (108) MD . . 502 

Gene Kelly. Van Johnson, Cyd Cbarisse 

g 

G 

(U Human Jungle, The (82) D. .5501 

Gary Merrill. Jan Sterling, Paula Baynend 

I 

Bob Mathlos Story, The (80). .0. .5502 

Bob IMatblas, Diane Jergena, Ward Band 

On the Woterfront (108) D. .702 

Marlon Brando, Karl Maiden, Lee J. Cobb 

©Three Hours to Kill (77) W. .720 

Dana Andrews, Denna Reed, Diane Poster 

B Deadly Gome, The (..) D..5402 

Uoyd Bridges. Flnlay Currle. Slmone Sllva 

g] Rogue Cop (92) 

Robert Taylor, George Raft, J. Ldgk 

.503 

I ©Beou Brummell (107) D. .504 

Elizabeth Taylor, Stewart Granger 

(S Torget Earth (..) D..5503 

Virginia Grey, Richard Denning, K. Crowley 

Cry Vengeance D . . 5504 

Mark Stevemi, Martha Hyer, Joan Voha 

. 

Affairs of Messolino (106) D. . 

Maria Felix, Georges Marchal 

©Block Knight, The (85) D. .719 

Al;in Ladil. Patricia Metiina, A. Morrell 

Cannibal Attoek . . ) D . ( 

Johnny VVeissmuller, Judy Walsh, David Bruce 

©Fire Over Africa (84) D..7I6 

Maureen O'Uara, Macdonald Carey 

[s] The Siege ( 

Special cast 

) D..5323 

©Athena (119) M. . 

J;ine I'owell. Vic Damone. Debbie Reynolds 

©Lost Time I Sow Paris, The 

(128) D.. 

Elizabeth Taylor, Van Johnson, Donna Reed 

o z 

o z 

i 

o 

©African Fury 

Doc. 

Ânnopolis Story, The D . 

John l)eri-k, Diana l.,>iin, Kevin McCarthy 

.Big Combo, The D. .5508 

Cornel Wilue. Jack Palance, Jean Wallace 

©Block Prince, The D.. 

Errol riytm, Joanne Dru, Peter Pinch 

Bowery to Bogdod C. .5421 

Leo Gorcey, Ilunlz Hall, Elrlc Blore 

John Brown's Raiders D. . 

Haymond Miuîsey, Debra Paget 

Port of Hell O..5505 

Dane Dark, Carole Matthews, W. Uorrl* 

Riders of the Ruby Hills D. . 

Z;rrh,iry Scott, Bart McLajie, C. Mattliews 

©Shotgun 

D 

Sterling Hayden, T. De Carb, Z. Scott 

©Tonight's the Night (..) D. .5506 

Yvonne Da Carle. David Nlrai, B. Fitzgerald 

Bamboo Prison, The D. . 

Robert Francis, Diane Foster, Brian Keith 

Bandit, The (92) D . . 

Alberto Ruschel, Msrlsa Prade, M. Elbelro 

©Coine Mutiny, The (125) D..701 

Humphrey Boeart, Van Johnson, Jose Ferrer 

Detective, The (91) CD.. 

Alec Guinness, Joan Greenwood, Peter Finch 

End of the Affair, The D. . 

Deborah Kerr, Van Johnson, John Mills 

©oLong Groy Line, The D. 

Tyrone Power, Maureen O'llara 

Phffft (91) C. .715 

Judy Holllday. Jack Carson, J. Lemmon 

©They Rode West (84) D..717 

Robert Francis. Donna Reed, Phil Carey 

©iriThroe for the Show M. 

©aViolent Men, The D. 

Women's Prison D. . 

Ida Liiplno, Howard Duff, Jan Sterling 

Block Pirotes D..5407 

Anthony Dexter. \Mn Chaney, Bobert Clarke 

Gloss Tomb, The,..' D. .5409 

John Ireland 

Race for Life, A (. .) D. .5403 

Richard Contc. Marl Aldon 

They Were So Young D..5406 

Scott Brady. Ra^'mond Burr 

©i=iBad Doy at Block Rock D. . 

Spencer Tr.icy, Robert R.san, Anne Francis 

Crest of the Wave (90) D. . 

Gene Kelly, John Justin, Jeff Rldiards 

©Deep in My Heort MD. . 

Jose Ferrer, Merle Oberon, Helen Traubel 

©Gloss Slipper, The M. . 

Leslie Caron. Michael Wilding, Keenan Wyno 

©cuGreen Fire D. . 

Stewart Granger, Grace Kelly, Paul Pouglaa 

©Invitotion to the Dance M. . 

Gene Kelly. Bellta, Tamara Toumanova 

©tnJupiter's Darling M. . 

E,stlKT Williams, Howard Keel, George Sanders 

©trjMony Rivers to Cross D . . 

Eleanor i'arkcr. Robert Taylor 

©aMoonfleet D. . 

Stew-irt Granîer. Viveca Llndfors, J. Greenwood 

©Prodigal, The D . . 

Lana Turner. Edmond Purdom, L. Calhern

, 

Humphrey 

.C. 

. 

I 

Untamed 

. 

FEATURE 

CHART 

I 

PARAMOUNT 

Aiosko Seos (78) D. .5313 

Bobert Bjao. Jan Sttrlint, Briiin Keltb 

©Jivaro (92) D..53n 

Fernando Lam.-u, Bhondi Fleming, Brian Keith 

SfMonsy From Home (100) . 

.5310 

Deim Martin, Jerry Uwis, Pat Crowley 

RKO RADIO 

B ©>yFreneh Line, The (102) M. .407 

Jane Russell, Gilbert Holand, J. McKeniie 

glShe Couldn't Say No (89) C. .408 

Jean Simmorb', Robert Mltcluim, A, Hunnlcutt 

g3©Rob Roy, the Highland Rogue 

(84) D. .494 

Richard Todd, Glynla Johns, Flnlay Currle 

REPUBLIC 

H Phantom Stollion (54) W. .5331 

Ua Allen, CarU Balenda.'SUm Pickens 

?OTH 

CENTURY-FOX 

©Hell and High Woter (103). .D. .403 

Richard Widmark. Bella Darvi, David Wayne 

©Miss Robin Crusoe (75) D. .338 

Amanda Blake. George Nader, RoaaUnd Hayes 

CD 

c= 

> 

so 

-< 

ONoked Jungle, The (93) D..5315 

Charlton Ilejton. Eleanor Parker, W. Conrad 

©Red Garten (90) M..5314 

Rosemary Clooney, Jack Carson, Guy Mitchell 

a ©-^/Dangerous Mission (75) . . . . D. .410 

Victor Mature, Piper Laurie. William Bendlx 

SI Flight Nurse (90) D. .5301 

Joan Leslie, Forrest Tucker, Jetr Donnell 

©New Faces (98) M. .409 

Eartha Kitt, Ronny Graham. Robert Clary 

©CDNight People (93) D..407 

Gregory Peck. Broderick Crawford, A. Biork 

©Rocing Blood (76) D..410 

Bill Williams, Jean PorUr, Jimmy Boyd 

3 

> 

TO 

3: 

OCaunovo'i Big Night (65). . .C. .5316 

Bob Bope, loan Fontaine, Basil Bathbono 

El Soint's Girl Fridoy, The (68). . . .D 411 

Loula llaywanL Naomi Chance, Sidney Tafler 

m Geraldine (90) CO . . 5302 

Uala Fovers, John Carroll, Krlstlns UlUer 

Heiress, The (70).. 

Judy Canova, Donald "Red" Barry 

.C..5325 

©Prince Voliont (100) D..411 

Robert Wagner. Janet Leigh, James Mason 

Rocket Man, The (80) D..412 

Charles Cobnrn, Spring BylngUm, 0. Wlnalow 

Êlephant Wolk (103) AD.. 5317 

Elliabelh Taylor, Dana Andrews. Peter Finch 

©Secret o» the Incos (101 )... D. .5318 

Charlton BestoD, Bobert Yoimc, Yma Sumac 

aOCorniYol Story, The (95) D. .412 

Anne Barter. Stete Cochnn, Lyl« Bettger 

SgeSllTor Lode (80) SW. .413 

John Payne, Uzabetb ficott, D&n Duryea 

HSIns of Rome (75) D..414 

LudmiUa Tctaerlna, Masalmo Girotti 

aSOJubilee Trail (103) W..5303 

Vera Ralston, Forreat Tucker, Joan Leslie 

la Hell's Holf Acre (91) D. .5304 

Wendell Corey, Byelyn Kcyes, . Lanchestar 

©e/Gorillo ot Lorgo (83) D. .406 

Anne Bancroft, Cameron Mitchell, Lee J. Cobb 

©River of No Return (90) D. .405 

Marilvn Monroe. Robert Mttchum, R. Calhoun 

©Siege ot Red River, The 

(86) D..404 

Van Johnson, Joanne Dru. Richard Boone 

OSaThree Coins in the Fountoln 

(101) D..413 

Clifton Webb, Dor othy McGuire, Jean Peters 

©Demetrius and the 

Gladiators (101) AD. .415 

Victor Mature, Susan Ha5^vard. U. Bennle 

©Princess of the Nile (73) D. .414 

Debra Paget. Jeffrey Hunter. Dona Draka 

©Knock on Wood (103) MC..5319 

Dannv K.ije. Mai Zetterllng, Darid Burns 

©Living It Up (95) C..5320 

Dean ftUrtin, Jerry Lewiu, Janet Leigh 

[S ^XiiHons Christian Andersen 

(112) M. 

Danny Kaye, Jeanmalre, Farley Granger 

551 

S eSuson Slept Here (98) C, .501 

Dick Powell. Debbie Reynolds, Glenda Farrell 

ii; ©Loughing Anne (91) D. .5305 

Wendell Corey, Mîrgarot Lookwood, P. Tucker 

©Garden of Evil (100) D. .416 

Susan Hay.vard, Gary Cooper, B. Widmark 

©Gambler From Notehei, 

The (89) *>' 

Dale Robertson, Debra Paget c: 

-< 

About Mrs. Leslie (104) D. .5321 

Shirley Booth. Robert Ryan, Alex Nleol 

?)Reor Window (112) D. .5401 

araa BtewaM. Orace Kelly, Ttaelma Bitter 

©Africo Adveonire (63) 

Doc. .H)2 

a Moke Haste to Live (90) D. .5306 

Dorothy McGuire, Stephen McNalljr, M. Murphy 

31l©0uteost, The (90) D. .5308 

John Derek. Joan Evans, ilarry Carey jr. 

^©Johnny Guitar (110) W..5307 

Joan CrauTord. Sterling llaydcn, Scott Brady 

§1 Roogie's Bump (71) CD. .5310 

Ruth Warrick. K. Martottl. Brooklyn Dodgers 

m Shdnghal Story (90) D. .5311 

Edmond O'Brien. Ruth Roman. R. Jaeckel 

a Tobor the Great (77) D..5309 

Charles Drake, Karin Booth, Arthur Shields 

lIl©aBroken Lonee (96) D. .419 

Spencer Tracy, Jean Peters, Robert Wagner 

©Roid, The (82) D 

. . 408 

Van Heflin, .taoe Bancroft, Lee Marvin 

©Egyptian, The ( 1 40) D 

. . 420 

Edmund Purdom, Gi'ne Tierney, Jean Simmons 

Sobrlno (113) CD. .5402 

Hunphrey Bogart, .Audrey Hepburn, W. Holden 

(S ©Passion (84) D . . 503 

Cornel Wilde. Yvonne De Carlo, Lon Chaney 

©This Is My Love (90) D..504 

Linda DamcU. Dan Duryea. Faith Domenê 

©Adventures of Hojli Bobo, 

The (93) D..424 

John Derek. Elaine Stewart. Thomas Gomel 

1 

©aWoman's World, A (94) CD. .421 

Clifton Webb, June Allyson, Cornel WUde 

J/) 

m TJ 

o < 

©aWhite Christmas (120). .. ,M. .5403 

Blng Crosby, D. ICaye. B. Qooney, Vera-Ellen 

©Cottle Queen of Montana 

(..) D.. 

Barbara Stanvyck. Ronald Reagan. Lance Poller 

She-Wolf, The (. .) D. 

Kerima, Ettore MannI, May Brltt 

Block 13 (..) D.. 

Peter RevnoUls, Rona Anderson, Lana Morris 

©cziBlock Widow (95) D. .423 

Van lloflin. Ginger Rogers, Gene Tierney 

©Desiree ( . . ) D . 

Marion Brando. Je-in Simmons. Merle Ob*ron 

©Outlaw's Daughter, The (..)..D.. 

Bill Williams, Jim Davis, Kelly Ryan 

. 

©Bridges ot Toko-Ri, The....D.. 

William llolden. Frederic March, Mickey Boone; 

©Conquest of Space AD. . 

Walter Brooke. William Redfleld G. Johnson 

Country Girl, The D . . 

Blng Crosby. Gr.icc Kelly, William Holden 

©oLove Is a Weapon D. . 

©Mam bo ' 

D. . 

©cRun for Cover D. . 

Jamm Cagi-ey. V, LIndfon, J. Derek 

QcnStrategic Air Command. . . .0. . 

Jame< Si en art, June Allyson 

©DThree-Ring Circus 

©oTwo Captains 

(1 

Wast 

.C. .5404 

D. . 

10). . . 

Charlton Heston, F. MacMurray, Donna Reed 

©Ulysses D. . 

Kirk Diiuclai!. Slliana Mangano, A. (Juliin 

©caWe're No Angels CD. , 

Bogart, Joan Bennett Aldo Bay 

©Americano, The D. . 

Glenn Kord, Cc-âr Romero. Ursula Thelss 

©Bow Tamely to Me D. . 

©oConqueror, The (..) D. . 

John Wayne, Susan llayward, Pedro Armendarlz 

©Hansel and Gretel F. . 

Heavy Water Doc. . 

©Jet Pilot (119) D . . 229 

John Wayne, Janet Leigh, J. C. Fllppen 

©Quest for a Lost City Doc. . 

Dana and Cinder Lfimb 

©Seven Bad Men D. . 

Randolph Scott. Mala Power.i, Forrest Tucker 

©\ySon of Sinbod AD.. 

Dale Robertson. Sally Forrest, Uli St. Cyr 

Torzon's Hidden Jungle D. . 

Gordon Scott, Vera Mlks, P. Van Eyck 

©oUnderwoter! D . 

Jane Russell, Gilbert Roland. Richard Bean 

Admiral Hoskins' Story D. . 

Slorling Haydcn. Alexis Smith, Dean Jagger 

Atomic Kid CD.. 

Mickey Rooney, Robert Strauss, BHaine Davis 

©Carolina Connonball C. . 

Jndy Carjova, Ross FlUnt. Andy Clyde 

©Doctor in the House C. . 

Iiirk liofanlf, .Muriel I'avlov, Donald SInden 

Hell's Outpost D. . 

Rod CaTneron. Joan Leslie. ChiU Wills 

©Magic Fire D . 

Vuiiinc Di- c.irlo. Carlos Thompson, Rita Gam 

CSanto Fe Passage W. . 

Joltn V.iym-. faith Doraeraue, Rod Cameron 

©Trouble in the Glen D. . 

Ihrvaret l.ofkwood, F. Tucker, V. McLaglen 

©Timberjack D. . 

Vera Ralston. Sterling ITayden. A. Menjou 

©oCormen Jones ( 1 05) M . . 422 

Harry Eclafonte. Pearl Bailey, D. Dandrldge 

Life in the Balance, A D. . 

Ricardo Montallian. Anne Bancroft, J. Marvin 

©Man Colled Peter, A D. . 

©Prince of Players D . . 

Richard Burton. Masgle McNamara, John Derek 

©Racers, The D . . 

Kirk Douglas. B. I>An1, Gilbert Roland 

.©Seven Year Itch, The C. 

Marilyn Monroe. Tom B'.vell, Evelyn Keyea 

©Thot Lady D. . 

OlMa DcHavil.nnd, Gilbert Roland 

©There's No Business Like 

Show Business M . . 

Ethel Merman, Dan Dailey. Marilyn Monroe 

©Untomed D. . 

Tyrone Poner. Susan Hayward, Richard Egai 

©White Feather D . . 

O 

O

. 

. 

FEATURE CHART 

©Overlond Poeif ic (73) W . 

Act of Love (105) 

Frank Graham 

©Adventures of Robinson 

Crusoe (90) D. . 

©Apoche (90) . D . 

Down Three Dark Streets 

Suddenly (77) D . 

Shield for Murder (82) D. 

UNITED ARTISTS w ocz 

©Beochheod (89) D..5408 

Tony Dirtis. Mary Murphy, Frank Lovejoy 

Man Between, The (99) D. .5340 

James Slason, Claire Bloom, midegarde Neff 

Jack MaUoncy. Peggie Castle, A. Jergens 

Personal Affair (82) D.. 5402 

Gene Tierney, Leo Oenn, Glynls Jolms 

©Top Banana (100) M..5409 

Phil Sllvera, Rose Marie, Danny ScboU 

D..5406 

Kirk DoLiRlas. riany Robin, Robert Strauss 

Beat the Devil (89) D . . 5347 

Humphrey Bogart, Jennifer Jones, R. Morley 

©Golden Mosk, The (88) D. .5412 

Vail Heflln. Wanda Hendrh, Eric Pcrtman 

©Scarlet Speor, The (78) D. .5411 

Martha Hyer, John Bentley, Morasl 

Heidi (97) D. .5405 

Elsbotb SIgmund, Heinrlch Gretler, T. Klameth 

©Lone Gun, The (73) D. .5416 

George Mnnti;omery, Dorothy Malonc 

©x'/Southwest Possage (82) . . . . D. . 5415 

Kod CamiTon. Joanne Dru, John Ireland 

Queen's Royol Tour, A (84). .Doc. .5413 

Witness to Murder (83) D. .5420 

Barbara Stanwyck, Gary Merrill, G. Sanders 

©Captoin Kidd and the Slave 

Girl (83) D..5418 

Eva Oabor. Anthony Dexter, Alan Hale Jr. 

a ©Yellow Tomahawk, The (82). .D. .5414 

Kory Calhoun, Peggie Caatle, Noah Beery 

3 Long Woit, The (93) D. .5421 

Anthony Qulnn, Charles Cobum, Gene E^•ans 

©Challenge the Wild (72). . .Doc. .5422 

Hobson's Choice (107) C. . 

Charles Laughton, John Mills, Brenda DeBanzle 

©Gog (85) D..5423 

Richard Egan. Constance Dowllng, H. Marshall 

©Man With a Million (90) D. . 

Gregory Peck, Jane Griffiths, A. B. Matthews 

Dan O'Hcrllhy, James Fernandez, C. Lopez 

. 5427 

Burt Lancaster, Jean Peters 

Lawless Rider, The (62) W. .5431 

Johnny Carpenter, Frankle Darro 

to Treasure Island (75) D. .5417 

©Return 

Tab Hunter, Dawn Addams, James Beay 

©Crossed Swords (85) D. .5334 

Errol Flynn, Ghla Lollobrlglda 

Diamond Wizard, The (83) D. .5432 

Dennis O'Keefe, Margaret Sheridan 

(85) D..5433 

Broderick Crawford, Ruth Roman, Martha Hyer 

Malta Story, The (103) D. .5429 

Alec Guinness, Jack Hawkins, Flora Robson 

Victory ot Sea (97) Doc. 

©Jesse James' Women (83). . .W. .5435 

Don Barry, Pegcle" Castle. Jack Beutel 

©Golden Mistress, The (82) D. .5437 

John .\gar, Rosemarle Bowe, KlU 

©Khyber Patrol (71) D. .5419 

Richard Egan. Dawn Addams, Patrlc Knowles 

. 5436 

Frank Sinatra, Sterling Hayden, Nancy Gates 

©Borefoot Contessa, The (128).D. .5440 

Humphrey Rngart, Ava Gardner, E. O'Brien 

Little Kidnappers, The (93). . . .D. .5439 

Adrlenne Corrle, J. Whiteley, V. Whiter 

Operation Manhunt (77) D..5441 

Harry Townes. Irja Jensen, J. Aubucbon 

©Sitting Bull (105) D. .5434 

Dale Robertson, J. Carrol Nalsh 

Eilmond O'Brien, Maria English 

Snow Creature ( . . ) D . 

Paul Langton, Leslie Denlson 

Twist of Fote (. .) D. . 

Gin-êr Kogers, Jacques Bergerac, Herbert Lom 

©White Orchid, The (. .) D. . 

William I.iindlgan, Peggie Castle 

©You Know What Sailors Are 

() C. 

©Beachcomber, The D. . 

Robert Xewtnn, Glynls Johns, Donald Slnden 

Good Die Young, The D. . 

John Ireland. Gloria Grahame, L. Harvey 

©oKentuckian, The D . 

Burt Lancaster, Klana Lynn, Una Merkel 

Lilacs in the Spring M . . 

Othello D. . 

Orson Welles, Suzanne Cloutler, Fay Compton 

©Purple Plain, The D. . 

Gregory Peck, B. He Banzlc, Win Mln Tha 

©Romeo and Juliet D. . 

L-Hwrenec Harvey, Flora RoblnsoB 

©Stor of Indio D. . 

Cornel Wilde, Jean Wallace, Herbert Lom 

Steel Cogo, The (80) D. .5443 

Paul Kelly. M. O'SulUvan. W. Blezak 

©Summertime C-D. . 

©Vera Crux D . . 

Gary Cooper. Burt Lanearter. Denlse Darcel 

UNIVERSAL-INT'L. 

U©Glenn Miller Story, The 

(120) MD. .412 

James Stewart, June Atlyson, George Tobias 

©VToza, Son of Cochise (80)..D..410 

Rock Hudson, Barbara Rush, Gregg Palmer 

S/Creoture From the Black 

Logoon (89) D. .415 

Richard Carlson. Julia Adams, Richard Denning 

©Genevieve (86) C. .481 

Dinah Sheridan, John Gregson, Kay Kendall 

©Ride Clear of Diablo (80) D..413 

Audio .Murphy, Dan Duryea, Susan Cabot 

©Saskatchewan (88) D. .414 

Man Ladd. Shelley Winters, J. Carrol Nalsh 

Ma and Pa Kettle at Home (81). C. .418 

Marjorle Main, Percy Ivllbride, Alan Mowbray 

©Roils Into Laramie (82) D. .419 

John PajTie, Marl Blancbard, Dan Duryea 

©Yankee Pasha (84) D. .417 

Jeff Chandler, Rhonda Fleming, Lee J. Cobb 

Fireman Save My Child (80) C. .421 

Buddy Hackett, Hugh O'Brlan, Adele Jergens 

Playgirl (85) D. .420 

Shelley Winters. Barry Sullivan, G. Palmer 

©Block Horse Canyon (82) D. .423 

Joel McCrea, Marl Blancbard, Murvyn Eye 

©Drums Across the River (78). SW. .422 

Audle Murphy. Lisa Gaye, Walter Brennan 

Alwoys a Bride (83) C..485 

Peggy Cummins, Terence Morgan, Ronald Squire 

©Johnny Dork (85) ;D. .424 

Tony Curtis, Piper Laurie, Uka Chase 

©Tanganyika (81) D. .425 

Van Heflln, Ruth Roman, Boward Duff 

Francis Joins the WACs (95). . .C. .427 

Donald O'Connor. Julia Adams, Zasu Pitts 

ii@Magnificent Obsession (108).D..428 

Jane Wyman, Rock Hudson, Otto BCnjger 

(ôBlack Shield of Folworth, 

The (100) D..430 

Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh 

©Dawn ot Socorro (80) D. .431 

Rory Calhoun, Piper Laurie, David Brian 

High and Dry (93) C. .486 

Paul Douglas, Alex MacKenzle, J. Copeland 

Noked Alibi, The (86) D. .431 

Sterling Hayden. Gloria Grahame, Gene Barry 

©West of Zanzibar (..) D. . 

Anthony Steel, Sheila Blm 

©Bengal Brigade (87) D..434 

Rock Hudson, Arlene Dahl, Ursula Theiss 

©Four Guns to the Border (87). .D. .502 

Rnrv ('alhoun. Colleen Miller, O. Nader 

Ricochet Romance (80) C. .504 

Marjorle Mahi. Chill Wills, Rudy Vallee 

©c]Coptain Lightfoot D. . 

Rock Hudson, Barbara Rush, Jeff Morrow 

©Chief Craxy Horse D. . 

Victor Mature, Suzan Ball, John Lund 

©For Country, The D. . 

James Stewart, Ruth Roman 

©Foxfire 

D.. 

Jeff Chandler, Jane Russell, Dan Duryea 

Ma and Pa Kettle Go to Wolklkl C. . 

Marjorle .Main. Percy Kilbride, Lorl Nelson 

©Sign of the Pagan D. . 

Jeft Cliandler, Rita Gam, Jack Palance 

©So This Is Poris C. . 

Tony Curtis. Corlnne Calvet, Gene Nelson 

©This Island Eorth D. . 

Bart Roberts, F''alth Domcrgue, Jeff Morrow 

©Yellow Mountain, The D. . 

Lex Marker, Mala Powers, Howard Duff 

WARNER BROS. 

SeaCommond, The (94) D. .319 

Guy Madison, Joan Weldon, James Whltmore 

] 

©Boy From Oklahoma, The 

(88) D. .320 

Will Rogers jr., Nancy Olson, Lon Chaney 

E Crime Wave (74) 

...D..308 

Sterling Hayden. Gene Nelson, P. Kirk 

62 Duffy of Son Quentin (78) D. .321 

Louis Hayward, Joaime Dru, Paul Kelly 

i 

©>J/Phantom of the Rue 

Morgue (84) D. .322 

Karl Maiden. Claude Dauphin. P. Medina 

S ©Riding Shotgun (75) W. .323 

Bandulph Scott, Joan Weldon, Wayne Morris 

SOdLueky Me (100) M..324 

Doris Day, Phil Slivers, Robert Cummlngs 

HI ©Dial M for Murder (105) D. .327 

Bay MlUand, Grace Kelly, Robert Cummlngs 

IThem! (94) D. .328 

James Whltmore, Joan Weldon, Edmund Qwenn 

g] t5©nHigh and the Mighty, 

The (147) D..329 

John Wayne, Claire Trevor, Laralne Day 

a ©Ring of Fear (93) D. .330 

Pat O'Brien, Qyde Beatty, Mickey Bplllane 

Hi ©aKIng RIchord ond the 

Crusoders (113) D. .331 

Vh-glnia Mayo, Bex Harrison, Laurence Harvey 

g©Duel In the Jungle (102) D. .332 

Dana Andrews, Jeanne Craln, David Farrar 

B) ©Dragnet (90) D. .401 

Jack Webb, Beo Alexander, Aim Boblnion 

H ©Bounty Hunter, The (79) SW,.402 

Randolph Scott, Marie Windsor, D. Dom 

ESQaStor Is Born, A (182) MD. .403 

Judy Garland, James Mason, Jack Carios 

H©oDrum Beat (111) D. .404 

Alan Ladd, Audrey Dalton, Marlsa Pavan 

^©Track of the Cat (102) D..405 

Robert Mitchum. Diana Lynn, Teresa Wright 

©Battle Cry D. 

Van Heflhi, Aldo Ray, Tab Hunter 

©East of Eden D. . 

Julie Harris, James Dean, Raymond Massey 

©Helen of Troy D . , 

Rossana Podesta, Jacques Semas, C. Hardwlcke 

©Land of the Pharaohs D. . 

Jack Hawkins, Dewey &larllD 

©Mister Roberts D. 

Henry Fonda, James Cagney, WilUam Pewell 

©crjMoby Dick D . . 

Gregory Peck. B. Baaehart, Orson WcUes 

©Sea Chose, The D. . 

John Wayne, Lana Turner, Tab Hunter 

©Strange Lady In Town, A...D.. 

Greer Garson. Dana Andrews, Camer^m Mltofaall 

©Tall Man Riding W. . 

Randolph Scott. Dorothy Malone, Peggie Castle 

©Young at Heart M, 

Dnrte Day. Frank Sinatra, B. Barrymore 

. 

MISCELLANEOUS 

ASTOR 

Turn the Key Softly (81)..D.. 

Yvonne Mitchell, Terence Morgan, Q. 

BUENA VISTA 

2- 1-54 

Keen 

©Living Desert, The (72) Doc. 

©Vonishing Prairie (71) Doc. 

CARROLL 

©Out of This World (75). Doc. .Sept.-54 

Lowell Thomas, Lowell I'bumas Jr. 

FILMAKERS 

Private Hell 36 (81) D. .Sept .-54 

Steve Cochran, Ida Luplno, Howard DuJff 

HALLMARK 

Halfway to Hell (61) Doc. 

Narration by Quentin Reynolds 

©Karamoja (63) Doc 

.Jul. 2-54 

.Jul.-2-54 

I.F.E. 

(American Dialog) 

Aida (110) 

.M..Oct.-54 

Sophia Loren, Lois Maxwell, Afro Poll 

A Husband for Anno (105), .D. .Aug.-54 

SUiaua Pampaninl 

Bread, Love and Dreams (90) D. .Sept-54 

Vittorio de Slca, Ghia Lollobrlglda 

City Stands Trial (..) D. .Sept.-54 

Silvana Pampaninl, Amedeo Nazzarl 

Girls Marked Danger (75). .D. .Aug.-54 

Eleonora Rossi Drago, Vittorio Gassman 

©Golden Coach, The (105). .0. .Sept.-54 

Anna Magnani. Duncan Lament, Paul Campbell 

Hell Raiders of the Deep 

(93) D..Aug.-54 

Eleonora Rossi Drago, Pierre Creasoy 

Love in the City (110) D. .Sept .-54 

Sensualita (74) D. .June-54 

Eleonora Rossi Drago, Pierre Cressoy 

Too Young for Love {..)... .D. .Oct.-54 

Marin Vlady. P. M. Beck, Aldo FabrW 

Voice of Silence (..) D..Nov.-54 

Rosamia Podesta, Aldo Fabrizl, C. Greco 

RESSSUES 

ASTOR 

Dangerous Visitor (formerly A 

Kiss for Corliss) (88) C. .Oct.-84 

David Xlven. Shirley Temple. Tom Tully 

Intruder, The (fomierly Cover 

Up) (83) D..0ct.-»4 

William Bendix, Dennis O'Keefe, B. Brltton 

Under Suspicion (formerly Don't 

Trust Your Husband) (90). C. .Oct.-54 

Fred MacMurray. Madekhie Carroll 

Woman Accused (formerly 

Without Honor) (69) D..Oct.-54 

Laralne Day, Dane Clark, Franehot Tom 

CARROLL 

©Down Memory Lane (72) 

. Doc. . July-S4 

Blng Crosby, W. C. Fields, Gloria SwansOB 

©Tulsa (90) W. .July-54 

Susan Hayward, Robert PrestOD 

COLUMBIA 

Coroner Creek (90) W. .Auo.-54 

Randolph Scott, Marguerite Chapman 

Gunfighters (87) W..Aug.-54 

Randolph Scott, Barbara Brltton 

Miss Grant Takes Richmond 

(87) C. .Oct.-54 

Lucille Ball, William Holden 

MGM 

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde 

(..) D..Oct.-54 

Spencer Tracy, Ingrld Bergman 

©Gone With the Wind (..) D.. July-54 

Clark Cable, VMen Leigh, 0. DeHavllland 

Tarzan Escapes (..) D..Nov.-54 

Johnny Welssmuller, Maureen O'SuUlvan 

Tarzan, the Ape Man (. .). .D. .Nov.-S4 

Johnny Welssmuller, Maureen O'Sulllvan 

Woman's Face, A (..) D.. Oct .-54 

Joan Crawford, Melvyn Douglas 

PARAMOUNT 

©Greatest 

(153) 

Show on Eorth 

MD. .July-54 

James Stewart. Betty Button, Charlton HeatoD 

©Reap the Wild Wind (I24).D. .Nov.-54 

John Wayne, Susan Hayward, Ray Mllland 

RKO RADIO 

Gunga Din (95) AD. .July-S4 

Cary Grant, Douglas Fairbanks Jr. 

Every Girl Should Be Married 

(. .) C. .Sept.-54 

Carv Grant, Betsy Drake, Franehot Tone 

Lost Petrol (66) AD.. July-54 

Victor McLaglen 

©She Wore a Yellow Ribbon 

(. .) D..Oct.-54 

Henry Fonda. Joanne Dru 

Window, The (73) D . . Sept.-54 

Arthur Kennedy, Ruth Roman, Barbara Hale 

20th CENTURY-FOX 

Orchestra Wives (98) M. .MGy-S4 

Glenn Miller Jl Orch.. George Montgomery 

Sun Valley Serenade (86). .M. .Moy-54 

Sonja Henie. John Pame, Glenn Miller Orch. 

UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL 

Egg and I, The (108) C. July-54 

Claudette Colbert, Fred MacMurray, M. Mal» 

WARNER BROS. 

Girl for Joe, A (formerly Force 

of Arms) ( 1 00) C . . 5-1 5-S4 

William Holden, Naocy Olson, Don Taylor 

Time for Comedy) (93). .C. . I-18-*4 

Guy With a Grin (formerly No 

j 

Jamej Stewart. Rosalind Ruinll 

Mil! 

dSS;

. 

ISbott tublacti, listed by company. In order of release. Running Hme follows title. First is national 

second the date of review in BOXOFFICE. Symbol between dates Is rating from BOXOFFICE 

-t^ 

fiCTiow. ++ Very good. + Good. ± Fair. — Poor. = Very Poor. © indicates color piiotograpliy. >)xJfll]fl) lilJllflT 

3ci-!( 

» 

let. 

Cct-il 

Nov.-S 

Columbia 

Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating 

ALL-STAR COMEDIES 

(415 Tootino Tooters (17) . . . 5-13-54 ± 

«416Two April Fools (IffA) 6-17-54 

74U Fire Chaser, The (..).. 9-30-54 

ASSORTED FAVORITES 

(Reissues) 

•424 Oh, Baby! (IS/z) 2-11-54 

«425Two Nuts In a Rut (18) 3-U-54 

(426 She Snoops to Conquer 

(171/2) 4-29-54 

7412 Hi! Hotel Sweet (IT/t) 9-16-54 

7422 Billie Gets Her Man 

(17) 10-14-54 

CANDID MICROPHONE 

(One-Reel 

Specials) 

(553 Subject No. 3 (10) .... 2-18-54 : 

(554 Subject No. 4 (10).... 3-18-54 : 

1555 Subject No. 5 (10).... 5-20-54 

7551 Subject No. 1 (11) 

reissue 9-23-54 

COLOR FAVORITES 

(Technicolor 

Reissues) 

(607 Way Down Yonder In the Corn 

(7) 2-11-54 

(608 Doo, Cat and Canary (6) 2-28-54 

(609 The Eon Yego OVi) 

«10 The Way of All Pesli 

. . 3-31-54 

(TV;,) 5-13-54 

(611 Amoozin' But Confoozin' 

(8) 5-27-54 

(612 A Cat, a Mouse and a Bell 

(7) 6-17-54 

(613 The Disillusioned Bluebird 

(7) 6-24-54 

(614 Mr. Moocher (7) 7- 8-54 

(615 Herring Murder Mystery 

(7) 7-22-54 

7601 Imagination (8) 9-2-54 

7602 Red Riding Hood Rides Again 

(7) 10- 7-54 

7603 A'hunting We Won't Go 

(7) 11- 4-54 

7604 Gifts From the Air 

(TJ/z) 11-25-54 

COMEDY FAVORITES 

(Reissues) 

(434 Get Along Little Nubby 

(19) 2-25-54 

(435 Slappily Married (16!4) 3- 4-54 

(436 Fiddling Around (IT/i) . 7- 8-54 

7431 Wedding Belle (17) 10-21-54 

7432 Rolling Down to Reno 

(I6/2) 11-18-54 

ONE REEL SPECIALS 

7999 Autumn in Rome (9) . . 9- 2-54 

Rer*!! 

6-19 

5-20 

S- 3 

MR. MAGOO 

(Technicolor) 

(702 Magoo Goes Skiing (7).. 3-11-54 +f 4-10 

(703 Kangaroo Courting (7).. 7-22-54 

SCREEN SNAPSHOTS 

(856 Hollywood Stars to Remember 

(10) 2-25-54 + 4-10 

(857 Hollywood Goes to Mexico 

(lO'/j) 3-25-54 ±5-8 

(858 Hula From Hollywood 

'l^'/s' 

,„.„ 5- 6-54 ± 5-29 

. 

(959 Hollywood's Invisible Man 

(9) 

„„ 6-10-54 ± 10-16 

, 

(860 Hollywood Grows Up 

(lOl-i) 7-15-54 -t- 

9-18 

7851 Hollywood Marches On 

,_,„ (8) 9-23-54 -f 10- 9 

7852 Hollywood Stars on Parade 

,„„ (•) 10-21-54 

7853 Hollywood Cowboy Stars 

(•) 11-18-54 

SERIALS 

;.\-t 

(15 Chapttrs) 

(160 Gunfighters of the 

Northwest 4-15-54 -|i June-54 + 8-14 

6403 Isles of Destiny (9) Aug. -54 

SPORTS 

3401 Touchdown Trophies (8) . .Apr.-54 + 7-17 

3402 Dizzy Diving (8) July-54 + 8-14 

3403 Sporty Simians (S) Sept.-54 + 10-30 

TERRYTOONS 

(Technicolor) 

5407 Mighty Mouse in the Helpless 

Hippo (7) Mar.-54 + 5-28 

5408 Terry Bears in Pet Problems 

(7) Mar.-54 + 5-27 

5409 The Frog and the Princess 

(7) (reissue) Mar.-54

. 

) 

SHORTS CHART 

5410 Little Roqaetort in Prescription 

for Percy (7) Apr.-54 + 

5411 The Talkinj MaopiM in 

Satisfied Customers (7) Apr. -54 

5412 Mijtity tf.iuit in the Wreck of the 

Hesperus (7) (reissue) Apr.-54 

6413 Photiy Baloney in the Tall 

Tale Teller (7) May-54 

5415 Gandy Goose in the Ghost 

Town (7), reissue May-54 

5416 Terry Bears in a Howlino 

Success (7) June- 54 + 

5417 A Day in June (7) June-54 

5418 Percival Sleuthhound in Pride 

0* the Yard (7) July- 54 -f 

5419 Gandy Goose In Fisherman's 

Luck (7) July-54 

5420 Little Roquefort In the 

FishEf man's Luck (7)..Auo.-54 

5421 Ants in Your Pantry (7) Au|).-54 

5422 The Reformed Wolf (7) . Auii.-54 

. 

5423 A Wicky Wacky Romance 

(7) (reissue) Aui|.-54 

5424 Heckle and Jeckle in Blue 

Plate Symohony (..) Sept.-54 

Torrid Toreador, A ( . 

5425 

(reissue) 

Se|it-54 

5441 Willie the Walrus In Arctic 

Rivals (7) May-54 

4- 3 

7-17 

8-14 

United Artists 

Prod. No. Title Rel Date Ratino Re»'d 

UAl Tlie Royal Symphony (26) + 3-27 

Universal-International 

Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rn'd 

3- 1-54 4

. . Where 

. . Across 

. And 

. . There 

. . Here 

. . And 

. . 

And 

— 

Opinions on Current Productions 

I 

Drum Beat 

Warner Bros. (404) 

111 Minutes 

Ratio: 

Western 

2.55-1 (Cinemascope. 

WarnerCo;or) 

Rel. Nov. 13, '54 

Nature endowed western America with its rugged scenic 

beauties, but apparently it remained for CinemaScope and 

WarnerColor to completely tapture them via photographic 

techniques. Which is by way of reporting that breathtaking 

backgrounds are not among the least of the numerous assets 

to be found in this action-laden, suspenseful, spectacular 

outdoor drama, which on every count easily earns classification 

as a super-western. That its reception in both praise and 

profits will be as munificent as its productional qualities is 

an inescapable conclusion. 

Giving consideration to those qualities in more or less 

logical order impels an initial and outsize nod toward the 

screen story, written by Delmer Daves and finding genesis 

in a colorful, bloody, exciting incident in the winning of the 

west, the Modoc Indian uprising on the California-Oregon 

border in 1869. How Captain Jack, the paranoic, fanatical 

leader of the rebellious redskins, held the U. S. army at 

bay for many months and was finally brought to justice is 

the yarn's framework. It follows per se that the picture is 

fundamentally about cavalrymen and Injuns. But it transcends 

the run-o'-mill feature of that overcrowded category 

so materially that it qualifies as engrossing drama, at the 

same time retaining all of the ingredients dear to the hearts 

of galloper devotees of all ages. This dual literary coverage 

—and the paralleling double commercial potential resulting 

therefrom—is the result of the meticulous research that went 

into the scrivening thereof and the sociological overtones of 

the historical story. 

But the acclaim due Daves doesn't end there. He also 

directed the show—expertly and incisively—and it is the 

initial effort of Jaguar Productions, a newcomer filmmaking 

outfit, in which he and toplining Alan Ladd are partners. 

While Daves is accomplishing this triple-threat larceny on 

the production credits, partner Ladd makes a comparable 

haul in the acting department. His interpretation of Johnny 

Mackay, the professional Indian fighter commissioned by 

President U. S. Grant to bring peace to the frontier, without 

bloodshed if possible, is every bit as good as— if not better 

than—any role he has as yet essayed. It is a shining standout 

despite excellent contributions by many members of a 

competent and carefully selected supporting cast. Rating 

mention among the latter are Audrey Dalton, Ladd's romantic 

interest; Marisa Pavan, exceptionally effective as the native 

girl in love with Ladd, who gives her life aiding his peace 

efforts, and Charles Bronson as the ruthless Indian renegade. 

While scenery, story, CinemaScope, color and cast are 

enough to load the big guns of merchandising, not to be 

overlooked in either evaluating or exploiting the feature is 

its sizable slice of spectacle, inasmuch as the wide-screenfilling 

numbers of soldiers, Indians and horses are reflective 

of the top-budget, hang-the-costs procedure of yesteryear. 

The same goes for many other technical and productional 

details, notably the stirring musical score written by Victor 

Young. 

Thus Jaguar Productions is launched auspiciously and 

promisingly to occupy a noteworthy niche among the growing 

number of high-bracket independent picture manufacturers. 

Altm Ladd, Audrey Dalton, Marisa Pavan, Robert Keith. 

Rodolio Acosta, Charles Bronson, Warner Anderson. 

CATCHLINES: 

He Stood Alone . a Hundred Men Were Afraid to 

Be ... At the Foot of Superstition Mountain . the 

Lava Caves and Buttes of the Lost River Land 

the 

Indian Drums Beat Out Their Chant of Death . It's Magnificent 

New Screen Excitement. 

1646 

.vvn u 

.. Bart 

)2fi. 

BOXOFFICE 

Mlc 

i-iron ! 

g 

.-uid 

Athena 

MGM (to?) 

96 Minutes 

F 

Ratio: 

Musical Comedy 

1.85-1 (Technicolor) 

Rel. Nov. '54 

In its highly popular and profitable "Seven Brides for 

Seven Brothers," MGM convincingly demonstrated a refreshing 

eagerness to use an away-from-formula story as background 

for a filmusical. Although in a more modern and 

luxurious vein, this handsomely mounted Joe Pasternak production 

is another example of Leo's admirable reach for a 

new tunefilm format; and there is every indication that it 

will reap comparable rewards in kudos and cash. Even were 

it a lesser package of screen entertainment, the star-loaded 

cast would in itself prove sufficiently magnetic to assure 

success. Obviously the topliners thereof should keynote the 

smart merchandising which the film'.s superiority merits. 

Manifested throughout is a tandem appeal, there being 

elements in every facet to please the ticket buyers who 

appreciate filmmaking finesse, while at the same time offering 

desirable diversion to the customers of more prosaic 

tastes. The considerable comedy content for the most part 

is subtle and slightly satirical, yet it attains a hilarious 

earthiness in several sequences, especially one in which an 

array of musclemen are paraded in a "Mr. Universe" contest. 

While most of the songs veer toward the operetta type, the 

tact that crooner Vic Damone sings many of them takes care 

of the devotees of pop music. 

The screenplay, masterfully limned by William Ludwig and 

Leonard Spigelgass, concerns an odd-ball family of seven 

lovely lasses and their grandparents, all fanatical healthfood, 

fresh-air, astrology and exercise advocates. Two of the 

sisters, Jane Powell and Debbie Reynolds, fall in love 

respectively with Edmund Purdom, a stuffy young attorney, 

and Damone, a TV-nightclub star. Following a series of 

laugh-generating incidents, clashing viewpoints are reconciled, 

and the dual romances are brought to the inevitable 

happy culminations. Under expert direction by Richard 

Thorpe, all performances are excellent. 

Jane Powell, Edmund Purdom, Debbie Reynolds, Vie 

Damone, Louis Calhern, Linda Christian, Evelyn Varden. 

CATCHLINES: 

A Salute to Youth . . . Music . Romance . . . With 

an All-Singing-Dancing Cast ... A Screen Musical at Its 

Most Scintillating and Delightful Best . . . About a Happy- 

Go-Lucky Family of Health Addicts. 

The Last Time I Saw Paris 

MGM (510) 

' 

116 Minutes 

Ratio: 

Drama 

1.85-1 (Technicolor) 

Rel. Nov. '54 

Those motion picture patrons who relish a heady concoction 

oi high living and romance—laced with a dash of tears 

such as was the forte of the late F. Scott Fitzgerald's prolific 

literary output, which was considered prime reading during 

the roaring '20s, are probably going to flock to see and to 

enjoy this lushly mounted feature, based on one of his more 

popular stories. And it's a foregone presumption that those 

ticket buyers are sufficiently numerous in virtually every 

situation to guarantee the film's financial success. To bolster 

that assurance further, as well as the picture's exploitability, 

is the star-weighted, marquee-mighty cast and the exciting 

Parisian backgrounds in bright Technicolor. 

As was to be expected in considering this stellar array, 

performances, under direction of Richard Brooks, are universally 

competent, with that contributed by Van Johnson 

garnering top acting honors. The sharply dialoged, cleverly 

contrived screenplay, written by Julius J. and Philip G. 

Epstein and director Brooks, modernizes the original Fitzgerald 

yarn, changing its circa to the years following World 

War II. It has Johnson as an American army lieutenant who, 

celebrating V-E Day in Paris, meets two pretty sisters—Donna 

Reed and Elizabeth Taylor. Both fall in love with him, but it 

is Miss Taylor—whose philosophy is "nothing is more important 

than fun"—whom he woos and marries. Their life 

together proves disillusioning and tragic, and when Elizabeth 

dies the custody of their young daughter is won by Donna. 

She refuses to give the child up, despite Johnson's fervent 

pleas, but finally realizes that he needs the youngster at 

his side. 

Appurtenances and technical details marshalled by producer 

Jack Cummings are all of high quality and endow the 

photoplay with an aura of glamor to make it an important 

booking in any theatre. 

Elizabeth Taylor, Van Johnson, Waller Pidgeon, Donna 

Reed, Eva Gabor, Kurt Kasznar, George Dolenz. 

CATCHLINES: 

They Met . 

Was a Fleeting Kiss From 

. 

That First Electric Moment They Knew They Were Meant for 

Each Other . Is the Story of a Deep But Troubled 

Love . . . Told With Tender Compassion. 

Novemljer 6. 1954 1G47

. . Here 

. . See 

REVIEWS 

Adiines for Newspaper and Programs 

Twist of Fate 

Drama 

United Artists (5446) 89 Minutes Rel. Nov. '54 

Here is an import that displays many of the more praiseworthy 

qualities of both British and Hollywood filmmaking 

techniques. It boasts the meticulous attention to backgrounds, 

atmosphere and casting that is the forte of the 

English producers and at the same time possesses cm actionladen, 

suspenseful, engrossing plot which is more characteristic 

of American methods. The result is a picture that 

should thoroughly satisfy average initial ticket buyers and 

generate among them enthusiastic reactions to assure continued 

profitable patronage. Productionwise and as concerns 

cast, the feature is amply qualified to carry the topside 

of most dualers, and it can certainly serve as an exceptionally 

strong support booking where conditions so indicate. 

Ginger Rogers is effective in the starring role, and her 

name should keynote exploitation, with a passing nod, perhaps, 

to her wardrobe, which will set femme mouths a-watering. 

At the same time, there will be considerable interest on 

the part of those distaifers in Jacques Bergerac, La Rogers' 

real-life husband, who debuts herein and turns in a creditable, 

handsome, rugged performance, one that should pave 

the way for further and more important parts. 

The story concerns itself with an American actress, being 

lavishly supported on the French Riviera by a tycoon who 

is to marry her as soon as he secures the divorce for which 

he is purportedly trying. She meets and falls in love with a 

penniless artist, simultaneously learning that Mr. Money Bags 

has been deceiving her, both about his pending divorce and 

the source of his wealth, which is very illegal. When he is 

murdered, suspicion falls on the artist and the girl, v/ho are 

cleared in a lightning-paced climax. David Miller directed 

expertly for producers Maxwell Setton and John R. Sloan. 

Ginger Rogers, lacques Bergerac. Herbert Lorn. Stanley 

Baker, Margaret Rowlings, Eddie Byrne. Coral Browne. 

CATCHLINES: 

Many People Wanted to See This Man Dead . . . But When 

He Was Found Murdered . . . Suspicion Pointed to Two 

Innocent Persons . . . The Girl He Had Deceived . . . And 

the Young Man Who Loved Her . Is Suspense 

Supreme ... A Taut, Thrilling Drama of Raw Emotions and 

Tingling Adventure. 

Operation Manhunt F î ~r 

United Artists (5441) 77 Minutes Rel. Oct. '54 

Based on actual experiences of-Igor Gouzenko, the Russian 

code clerk who has been under police protection from the 

Soviet for nine years, this is an interest-holding semidocumentary 

programmer which can be exploited to good 

returns in the action houses. Elsewhere, it will serve only 

as a supporting" feature, mainly because its name value is 

nil. Produced by Fred Feldkamp and directed by Jack Alexander, 

both formerly associated with March of Time, the 

picture follows the realistic approach of their two-reelers by 

using unfamiliar players and occasional narration by Westbrook 

Van Voorhies. 

While the picture has considerable suspense and will 

prove absorbing to adult, serious-minded patrons, it has 

nothing to appeal to the younger, entertainment-minded fans. 

Harry Townes, stage actor who plays Gouzenko, and Jacques 

Aubuchon, as a Soviet MVD agent, are both excellent and 

Irja Jensen supplies the slight feminine interest. Gouzenko, 

himself, speaks a brief epilog while wearing a hood to cover 

his face. It was filmed in its entirety on actual Canadian 

locations. 

In the story, Igor Gouzenko (Harry Townes) is leading a 

secluded life in Canada since the former code clerk for the 

Soviet Union broke with them and helped to smash the atom 

espionage ring. Gouzenko is approached by his publisher, 

the only man who knows his secret, and asked to help 

another Russian agent who wants to break from the Soviets. 

Gouzenko goes through with a plan to meet the agent 

(Jacques Aubuchon) who is supposed to carry out a Soviet 

plot to murder the forAier clerk. With the Canadian police 

watching from afar, Aubuchon draws his gun to kill Gouzenko 

but, instead, breaks it open and turns over a list cf Soviet 

spies operating in Canada. Although Aubuchon is wounded 

by his Soviet associate, he manages to survive—a free man 

like Gouzenko. 

Harry Townes, Irja Jensen, Jacques Aubuchon, Will 

Euluva, Robert Goudier, Albert Miller, Ovila Legare. 

CATCHLINES: 

Six Hundred Million People Want to See This Man Dead 

. . . The Biggest Spy Story of the Decade ... For This Man— 

No Corner of the World Was Safe . the Far-Flung Spy 

Ring at Work. 

.3-54 

1-54 

0.5» 

M-5^ 

1648 BOXOFFICE 

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SHORT 

SUBJECTS 

Boos and Arrows 

Paramount (Casper Cartoon) SMina. 

Good. Ubiquitous Casper, the friendly ghost, visits the wild 

west and tries to make friends with some Indians. A squaw, 

with a little papoose on her back is worried about a big 

hawk, but when Casper shows up she runs for her life. 

Her son. Little Feather, invites Casper on a hunting expedition. 

Every time the little brave shoots at the Woodland 

animals, Casper has to work some ghostly magic to save 

their lives. Later, when the big hawk carries off the papoose, 

Casper dashes to the rescue and returns the child to its 

mother. In a council meeting, Casper is adopted into the 

tribe and becomes known as Little White Cloud. 

Fido Beta Kappa 

Paramount (Noveltoon) SMins. 

Good. An interesting treatment of the cartoon characters 

highlights this Technicolor short about a dog who is so stupid 

his master threatens to send him to the pound. Fido begs 

for another chance and attends a canine college from which 

he soon graduates with high honors. Now a smart puppy, 

he starts giving his master lessons on how to go hunting 

using the latest scientific methods. Much to the man's 

chagrin everything Fido does turns out right save for the 

final scene when the dog sagely remarks that lightning 

never strikes twice in the same place. Unhappily his master 

takes him at his word and suffers the consequences but Fido 

is only slightly concerned when another lightning bolt hits 

the man. 

House of Knowledge 

RKO (Screenliner) 8 Mins. 

Good. The several branches of the Smithsonian Institute 

in Washington, D. C. are visited in this interesting short. 

Many visitors to the nation's capital inspect the wonderland 

of exhibits. In addition to scientific knowledge, the institution 

contains a study of animal life, aviation and transportation 

and holds some of the world's great works of art. 

Experimental aircraft 57 years old, the Wright brothers' plane 

and Lindbergh's "Spirit of St. Louis," are among the many 

machines pictured covering America's technical progress. 

Calypso Cruise 

20th-Fox (Cinemascope Special) 9 Mins. 

Good. A CinemaScope camera crew is aboard the cruise 

ship S. S. Olympic as it sets sail from cold, grey Manhattan 

headed for the Caribbean. In a short time the happy passengers 

are dressed in gay sport clothes playing deck games 

and gathered around the ship's swimming pool. Tropical 

scenes filmed in color include stops at Haiti, Curacao, Trinidad, 

Martinque, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Nassau with 

Calypso music forming an appropriate background. Panoramic 

views from island mountain tops have d third dimensional 

effect and the photography is excellent. 

Isles of Destiny 

20th-Fox (See It Happen) 9 Mins. 

Good. A compilation of several amphibious assaults made 

by U. S. Armed Forces on Japanese held islands during 

World War II provides a memorable episode in this aweinspiring 

subject. The camera intimately pictures the grim 

action as Marines make their heroic attacks on Guadalcanal, 

the Solomon Islands, Tinian, Guam and other Pacific isles. 

Shown are air attacks on the pillbox fortresses, Japs committing 

suicide rather than surrender, and the famous scene 

of the flag mounting on top of Mount Suribachi. 

So You're Taking in a Roomer 

Warner Bros. (Joe McDoakes Comedy) 10 Mins. 

Good. The McDoakes are renting a room in their house to 

help out finances. A glamorous gal, Joe's prospect, is turned 

out by Mrs. McDoakes and in turn Joe dismisses a handsome 

male roomer his wife has accepted. They finally rent 

to a neighbor, Marvin, who talks Joe into becoming a partner 

in his potato business. Telephone calls come in ordering 

different brands of potatoes. Everything is fine until two 

hoodlums call to collect their order and Joe discovers he has 

been making book on the horses. Marvin has skipped town 

and Joe is in a spot trying to pacify his two tough customers. 

The boys get together again in a satisfactory ending, doing 

business with another brand of potatoes. 

November 6, 1954 1645

I 

i opportunity 

I ; theatre 

I 

BINGO-OIE-CUT 

I 

Tards. 

I 

, 

ance. 

I 

I 

I 

Virginia. 

I 

theatre, 

"^ 

;RAT£S: ISc per word, minimum S1.50, cash with copy. Four consecutive insertions for price 

of three. CLOSING DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy 

• answers to Box Numbers to BOXOFFICE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 24, Mo. 

HELP WANTED 

Theatre manager. We want a man who knows 

the theatre business and is willing to work 20 

hours a day If necessary to do the job. South 

i i 

California drive-in. Want man who appreciates 

and is willing to do something about 

I 

{iiit. Full details first letter. Bosofflce. 5654. 

|H Wanted: Manager for Art operation and also 

1 

house manager or experienced assistant that knows 

operation for eastern Virginia. Write full 

qualifications and salary expected. Boxoffice, 

5655. 

Manager, capable buying and booking. A good 

opportunity. Pbone: 9192 or 3392. Mar Theatre, 

Wilmington, 111. 

\ Expanding supply house wants working partners. 

iSmall investment secured. Also salesmen, single. 

'Good pay plus commission, car, allowance, Insur- 

Reply, Boxoffice, 5661. 

Make extra money. Address, mail postcards 

spare time every week. BICO, 143 Belmont, 

Belmont, Mass. 

POSITIONS WANTED 

Manager, age 53, capable, sober, honest, willing 

worker. 15 years experience. Would like in 

Desire change. References. Boxoffice, 

L5662. 

Thorouohly experienced, sober general manager 

Idesires tuil charge small circuit. Salary $25 per 

minimum $150 per week. Buy, book, 

(supervise entire operation. Exploitation, concession 

minded. Bo.xoffice, 5663. 

Manager, assistant manager, projectionist. Over 

20 years experience in theatre and drive-in operation. 

Cm furnish reference. Am single and 

sober minded, 40 years old. Can leave within few 

days. Prefer south or west but will consider anything 

worthwhile, anywhere, Willard W. Frazier, 

215 Goggin St., Macon, Mo. 

SIGNS 

Easy Way to Paint Signs. Use letter patterns. 

Avoid sloppy work and wasted time. No experience 

needed for expert work. Write for free samples. 

John Rahn, B-1329 Central Ave., Chicago 51, III. 

THEATRE TICKETS 

Prompt service. Special printed roll tickets. 

100.000. $28.75: 10,000, $8.95; 2.000. $4 95 

.Each change in admi.ssion price, including change 

In color. $3.50 extra. Double numbering extra. 

IF.O.B. Kansas City. Mo. Cash with order. Kan- 

•sas City Ticket Co., 109 W. 18th St., Kansas 

rity. Mo. 

GENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED 

Big Picture, Big Savings at Star! Good used 

enses, all sizes, $17.50 pair up; new silver seamless 

screens, $1 foot; silver screen resurfacer, 

$8.95 gallon: prompt delivery on amtmorphics: 

booth equipment at lowest prices! Contact us! 

Star Cinema Supply, 447 West 52nd St., New 

York 19. 

One A-5 Altec Voice of Theatre speaker, high 

horn. 2x5. price $250. Excellent. Two Holmes 

projectors, sound, etc., $450. Roxy Theatre, 

Menno. S. D. Phone: 19. 

Values unsurpassed! DeVry dual sound projectors 

w/amplifier, speaker, excellent, $595. Available 

on time. Hoimes L25N amplifiers, rebuilt, 

$95; used rewinds, $6. 95 set; automatic enclosed 

rewinds, excellent. $45. Dept. CC, S.O.S. Cinema 

Supply Corp., 602 W. 52nd St., New York 19. 

Walker hi metallic all-purpose screens, like new, 

used 8 months, lS'xl3'6", $100; 24'xl8'. $200. 

First nearest offer takes them. Complete Selsyn 

3-D equipment and permanent type 3-D glasses; 

Bausch & Lomb series 2.F2.3. 5*4 in- E. F. 

lenses. Delft Theatre, Marquette, Midi. 

Wide screen Holmes projectors, slip-in apertures, 

bases, rectifiers, lamps; complete sound. $595. 

Silverlite resurfacer, $7.95. Box 323, Exeter, 

N. H. 

For sale: 350 chairs, box spring, upholstered 

bottoms, panel backs. $750. Boxoffice, 5665. 

Projectionist wants permanent position. 8 years 

experience. Ktferences. Non-drinker. 4 years in 

-l drivt-in. in indoor house. Lhable salary. Write 

pii'ces uf equipment from picture booth. Curtains, 

to ffUlard Wiilker. Box 304, Loyall, Ky. 

carpet and everything movable in theatre for sale. 

Contact Metropolitan Theatre, Main 6210. Seattle, 

Wash. 

Everything must go! 1.437 seats. Two Motiograph 

model K 35mm projectors plus dozens of 

Special purchase! From large circuit large quantity 

Simplex rear shutter double bearing mechanisms, 

high numbers, latest features, good condition, 

for regular or standby use, a steal at only $99.75 

each. Star Cinema Supply, 447 West 52nd St., 

New York 19. 

GENERAL EQUIPMENT—NEW 

Everyone's buying 'em! Masonite marquee letters, 

fit Wagner, Adler, Bevelite signs: 4"—35c; 

8"— 50c; 10"— 60c; 12"— 85c; 14"— $1.25; 

16"— $1.50: 17"— $1.75: 24"—$2.50. Dept. 

CC, S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp., 602 W 52nd 

St, New York 19. 

Go Cinemascope with adjustable anamorphic 

lenses, $695 pair. Mirroclaric metalized seamless 

screens, $1 sq. ft. Prompt shipments, lowest 

prices all sizes projection lenses. Dept. CC, S.O.S. 

Cinema Supply Corp.. 602 W. 52nd St.. New 

York 19. 

LCLfflfilflGHOySt 

THEATRES WANTED 

Theatre, Nebraska, western Iowa, northern Kansas. 

No brokers. Over 400 seats. Town of 1,800 

population or over. Confidential. Experienced. L. 

J. Burkitt, Sparta, Wis. 

Will buy 350-car or more drive-in or controlled 

town location. Midwest. Must be good. George 

L. Barton. Sharon Springs, Kas. Phone 60. 

Individual wishes to buy or lease theatre 

drive-in. Give details. Boxoffice, 5653. 

Wanted to rent or lease. Small-town house, 

300 seats or over. Southern Kaasas or Oklahoma 

preferred, others considered. All replies answered. 

Airmail complete details. Boxoffice, 5668. 

THEATRES FOR SALE—CONT'D 

Opportunity with small investment. 650 seats, 

low cost operation. Second run house, modern 

equipment. A real money maker. Write S. Stein, 

Armo Theatre, South Bend 18, Ind. 

350-seat theatre, central Wisconsin. Wausau 

Interested in leasing or buying small drive-in 

area. All modern. Wide awake town of 1,200. 

theatre, central Florida preferred. Send all first 

Same owner 14 years, first time offered. Retiring. 

reply. Confidential. Bo.\offlce, 5650. 

Boxoffice. 5667. 

THEATRES FOR SALE 

Webster Drive- In Theatre, 150 cars, for sale in 

part or in full, including land and screen tower 

and/or hou.se. P. 0. Box 407, Craigsville, W. Va. 

Phone: Richwood. W. Va., 5547. 

Only theatre south California town 5,000. 

Cinemascope equipped. Wonderful opportunity for 

someone. $15,000 cash for lease and equipment 

all paid for. Hurry! Boxoffice. 5652. 

East Tennessee theatre, 487 cusliion seats, RCA 

and Simplex equipment, brick building. Located 

in f;ist growing industrial city with large payroll. 

Ralph Taylor, c/o Fox Theatre. Kingsporl, Tenn. 

250-car drive-in theatre for sale west central 

Texas. With wide screen showing one and two 

Cinemascope pictures a week. Year around operation. 

Bo.xoffice. 5659. 

For sale: Only theatre in north central Minnesota 

town of 2.000. Cinemascope and 3-D 

equipped. 400 seats. Operated over 30 years by 

present owner. Wonderful hunting and fishing. 

Poor health forces retirement. Boxoffice, 5650. 

Combined indoor and outdoor drive-in. 300 

speakers and 140 spring edged seats in inside 

theatre on grounds located between two towns of 

3.500 population each in western Georgia. Nearest 

drive-in 25 miles. RCA equipment, fully 

equipped concession stand, etc. Absentee ownership. 

Will sell for less than construction cost. 

Easy terms to right party. Boxoffice, 5666. 

All modern theatre for sale, including building 

and equipment. E. M. Mullikin, 1615 N. Robberson, 

Springfield, Mo. 

Kansas City, Mo., central west side. No close 

competition, 739 seats. Good concessions. Large, 

5-line V-shaped marquee, large vertical. Wide 

screen and CinemaScope. Good lease. Other business. 

Attractive terms. Boxoffice, 5669. 

THEATRE SEATING 

Chair supplies, parts for all chairs, Fcnsin Seating. 

Chicago 5. 

Repairing and reupholstering in your theatre. 

Fensin Seating, Chicago 5. 

^^__^ 

New spring seats for all chairs, Fensin Seating, 

Chicago 5. 

Patch-o-seat cement, permastone anchor cement. 

Fensin Seating. Chicago 5. 

Seat coverings, sewed combinations, all styles. 

Fensin Seating, Chicago 5. 

Plastic leatherette, all colors, send sample. 

I'>nsin Seating, Cliicago 5. 

Upholstery fabrics, all types, send sample. 

Fensin Seating. Chicago 5. 

Need chairs? S.O.S. has 'em! 

BUSINESS STIMULATORS 

BINGO: More action; Better cards; Die-cut: 

75 Number $4.50M. 100 Number and Other theatre 

games. Off or On the Screen. Novelty Games Co., 

106 Rogers Ave.. Brooklyn 16. N. Y. 

Build attendance with real Hawaiian orchids. 

Vt-w cents each. Write Flowers of Hawaii. 670 

S, Lafayette Park Place, Los ,\ngeles 5, Calif. 

I 

I 

CARDS. Increase your box- 

-iffioe. 75 or 100 numbers, $4.50 per M. Best 

Premium Products, 3:i9 West 44th St., 

.New Yurk 36, N. Y. 

CHRISTMAS CARDS FOR THEATRE 

MANAGERS 

I 

Free sample theatre boxoffice Christmas cards. 

I 

Pjrkhurst Enterprises, 824 Lincoln, Lansing, Mich. 

EQUIPMENT WANTED

ki^ 

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Boxoffice-November.06.1954

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