Boxoffice-January.17.1948

HUGHES REPORTED NEGOTIATING
TO ACQUIRE CONTROL OF RKO
Page 9
QUARTERLY INDEX TO PICTURE
GUIDE REVIEWS IN THIS ISSUE
COVER STORY: United Nations Appeal
For Children Campaign in February
Page 22

SPENCER TRACY
One of the industry's top stars now gives his greatest performance.
Yes, in "Cass Timberlane" he tops even such great roles as "Thirty
Seconds Over Tokyo" and "A Guy Named Joe."
LANA TURNER
Magnificent as "Jinny" the girl from the other side of town. She
loved life — and found it when "Cass" lifted her into a world every
girl dreams about.
ZACHARY SCOTT
He was their best friend but he loved "Jinny" too in the explosive
romantic drama M-G-M has made of the famed Sinclair Lewis novel.
TOM DRAKE
•
•
MARY ASTOR
ALBERT DEKKER
Screen Ploy by Donold Ogden Stewart • Adaptation by Donald Ogden Stewort and Sonya Levien • Based on the Novel by Sinclair lewis
Directed by GEORGE SIDNEY
A MBTRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURE
• Produced by ARTHUR HORNBLOW, JR.

ftlVVW
A REMARKABLE RECORD!
9 weeks Criterion, N. Y., 22 days in
Boston (playing 2 theatres simultaneously),
26 in Los Angeles, 21 San
Francisco, 28 Seattle, 21 Cincinnati, 23
Portland and 20 Spokane, 20 Providence
— and Philadelphia with 35. Moveovers
after l4 days in Cleveland, 15 in
St. Louis, 14 in Toledo, 13 in Syracuse
—and new hold-overs reported daily.
M-C-M^r
GREEN
DOLPHIN
STREET
LANA
VAN
TURNER HEFLIN
DONNA REED • RICHARD HART
FRANK MORGAN EDMUND GWENN- DAME MAY WHITTY
REGINALD OWEN • GLADYS COOPER
S„ee„ PUv by S.o„ R.phaehcn
B.sed on ,he Novel by EU..be,l. Goudge
„„c..a.v VICTOR SAVILLE • P„a„c.a br CAREY WILSON
A METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURE

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BRANDT THEATRES. 96 OTHERS \
BEING SUED BY PARAMOUNT.
Allege Wide Discrepancies
In Reporting Receipts On
Percentage Pictures
NEW YORK—Paramount has filed a
checking suit against 87 Brandt theatres
and 96 tlieatre corporations and 53 officers
in the New York metropolitan area and
northern Jersey. Tliirty-three separate
causes of action are listed and damages of
$563,265 are sought.
There are several complaints against
some theatres and more than one corporation
is listed as the owner of some of them.
A 63-page summons and complaint filed in
New York supreme court by Phillips, Nizer,
Benjamin and Krim for Paramount charges
that Harry Brandt, Bernard B. Brandt, Louis
Brandt and William Brandt, doing business
as Brandt Theatres, "in collaboration with
the other defendants," conspired "to defraud
the plaintiff by making, or causing to be
made, false and inaccurate statements of the
gross admission receipts from percentage
pictures."
COVERS SIX-YEAR PERIOD
Paramount also charges that the defendants
"induced checkers, by bribery, deceit,
and other means, to sign certain of the written
reports pertaining to the boxoffice
receipts of percentage pictures" and that
"the defendants' acts were willfully deliberately
and fraudulently committed."
The action covers a six-year period immediately
preceding the filing of the suit.
It includes more theatres and more individuals
than any suit of the kind ever filed in
this country.
The complaint charges that expenses of
theatres and the operating companies were
padded to hold down percentage payments,
and that this resulted in lowered flat rentals
on other pictmes. These practices followed
common plan. Paramount alleges.
a
Records were falsified, the complaint states
and these falsifications were "effected by
the following methods and devices, among
others:
"By crediting as received from flat rental
pictures a portion of the receipts that had
in fact been derived from the exhibition of
some of the percentage pictures of the plaintiff:
by using duplicate ticket rolls: by using
unreported ticket rolls; by selling tickets out
of continuity; by reselling tickets and by engaging
in fraudulent and illegal methods in
connection with the admission of patrons to
the theatres; by maintaining separate um-eported
bank accounts; by switching ticket
rolls between different theatres in the same
circuit; by submitting to the plaintiff altered
and/or rewritten daily tally reports; and by
attributing portions of the gross receipts to
other soui-ces, thus diminishing the amount
of gross receipts reported."
LIST MULTIPLE ALLEGATIONS
The complaint describes "the split figure
arrangements" based on exhibitors' expenses
as follows: . . . "by paying excessive theatre
rentals to realty corporations owned and
controlled by the corporate defendants; by
claiming as operating costs certain non-existent
items of expense attributable to nonoperating
or extraneous sources; by claiming
as operating costs certain personal nonbusiness
expenses of officers of the defendant
corporations; and by claiming as operat-
Brandt Says Charges
False, Libelous'
NEW YORK—Harry Brandt, president
of Brandt Theatres, said the
charges made by Paramount in its
$563,265 percentage fraud suit against
him and his associates are false and
libelous. He promised to prove this in
court. He also tied up the action with
what he called monopolistic practices
used by the distributors against independents.
His statement follows:
"This type of action is typical of the
actioris instituted all over the country
against independent exhibitors in an
effort to impose the pressure of the
monopoly upon the independent. The
allegations of the complaint are libelous,
baseless and wholly without merit.
Appropriate action to redress these
charges will be taken in due course.
"Typical of the falsehood, inaccuracy
and absurdity of the allegations of the
complaint is the inclusion, for instance,
of theatres neither owned nor booked
for by the Brandts and theatres which
never made any contracts with Paramomit.
"The other charges will be proved to
be equally false and inaccurate. It is
high time that some of the monopolistic
industi-y practices which have caused
the deplorable conditions affecting the
independent exhibitor be given a
thorough airing. I welcome this suit
because it affords an opportunity to
bring to the light of day the circumstances
surrounding the monopolistic
practices to which independent exhibitors
are subjected. It will be a revelation
to the public when the facts of
this case are aired in court. It will
show the extremes to which some of
the companies are willing to go in theiigreed
for control over the independent
exhibitor, to the extent that they must
rule or ruin. The exhibition industry
should once and for all be free of these
onerous practices."
ing costs, sums in excess of the actual expenses
incurred."
Defendant's answer.s are scheduled to be
filed in New York supreme court on or before
February 2.
A similar claim was made against Brandt
Theatres last year by 20th-Fox and it was
understood at that time that Spyros P.
Skouras, acting as arbitrator on request of
Brandt, settled the claim for $275,000.
It is reported that Warner Bros, and Loew's,
Inc., have claims against Brandt Theatres.
The theatres named with location and
owners are:
New York State
Academy, Wappinqer Falls, Jay Dee Theatre Corp.
Amenia, Amenia, Constance Theatre Corp.
Cameo, Brewster, Wells Theatre, Inc.
Kisco, Mt. Kisco, M P. Theatre Corp
Rome, Pleasontville, PhilUps-Sussman. Inc.
Embassy, Dobbs Ferry, Selhel, Inc.
Hastings, Hastings, Selhel, Inc.
Alden, New Rochelle, Alden Rochelle, Inc.
Colony, White Plains, Gladpearl, Inc.
Central, Yonkers, Central Amusement Yonkers, Inc.
K!ent, Yonkers, Yonkers-Kent Corp.
Terrace, Yonkers. Germal Operating Corp.
Biltmore, Mt. Vernon, T, C. Theatre Corp.
Music Hall, Tarrytown, Music Hall Theatre Corp,
^
luhet, Arlington, Juliet Theatres. Inc
Liberty, Poughkeepsie, Libeo Theatre, Inc.
Rialto, Poughkeepsie, Rtalto Amusement Enter-
Vernon Corp.; Mt,
New Jersey
Queen Ann, Bogota. Raygota Theatre Corp.
Broad. Newark, Rayhertz Amusement Corp.
Ricflto, Newark, Raygoid Amusement Corp.
State, Paterson, Stateray, Inc.; Raybond Theatres,
Maylc West Ne
Rialto, West New York, Bergenline Amu
Savoy, Cliffside, Cliffside Amusement Co.
Temple, Union City. Golden Lane Theatre Corp.
Rivoli, West New York. West New York Thea-
-e Co.
Congress, Newark, Cinema Theatre Corp.
Colony, Union City, Colony Theatre i
Corp.,- 48th
;treet Xmusement Co., Inc
Palace, Netcong, Netcong Amusement Co., Inc.
Kent, Newark, Davestan Amusement Co., Inc.
Ampere. East Orange, Joseph E. Rubinstein doing
msiness under the name of Ampere, Ltd.
Plaza, Newark, Frances Amusement Corp,
New York City
(Manhattan)
Colony, Harkray, Inc., Eisenbran, Inc
Alden, Lou-HoT, Inc.
Audubon, Audubon Amusement, Inc., Harmark,
Hels Inc.
Tudor, bobar Theatre Co., Inc ; Tudor Theatre Corp. s
Normandie, Normandie Amusement Corp.
Eagle, Eaglamuco, Inc.
Monroe, Monamco, Inc; Monthecrop, Inc.
Park Lane, Aljoma Amusement Corp.
Greenwich, Grenvil Theatre Corp
Schuyler, Schuyler Theatre, Inc.
Liberty, Helgus, Inc.
Town, Carol Ann Theatres, Inc
Hams, Andear Amusement Corp.
Selwyn, Irish Joyce, Inc.
New Amsterdam, Anwell Amusement Corp.
Yorktown, Broadyork, '
Edu
Amuseir
Cori
Laconic, Jaysebe Theatres, Inc
Wakelield, Wakefield Cinemas, Inc
Decatur, BenwiU Theatre Corp
Mosholu, Bednob, Inc.; No, 14 Theatre, Inc,
Bedford, Bedford Theatres, Inc ; Bednob, Inc.
Dale, Bernbar, Inc.
Tower, Vinegrad Theatre Enterprises, Inc,
(Brooklyn)
Halsey, Harlou, Inc.
Colony, Raystock Theatre Corp.
Empire, Quinral, Inc.
Midway, Rayito Theatres Corp.; Hal Theatres Corp,
Rivoli, Rayraark Theatres, Inc.
Rogers, Mangood Operating Corp.; Rogel Amuse-
'"wycko°f^' Linllar Amusement Co.. Inc.; Kaydee
Amusement Co., Inc.
Willoughby, Lednar Amusement Co,, Inc
Electro, Electro Amusement Co, Inc,
Carlton, Lawbin Theatre Co., Inc
Flatbush, Addie Co., Inc.
Sutter, Ralsut. Inc.
Globe, Sanglo Operating Co.. Inc.
Sanders, Sanglo Operating Co., Inc.
Starr, Ridgewood Amusement Corp. Milton Feldman,
Leonard Feldman, Florence Feldman and Louis:
Feldman, doing business as Midtown Opercrting Co,
Willoughby, Lednar Amusement Co., Lnc.
National. ME&H Amusements, Inc.; Sagamore The-i
aire Corp.
Terminal. MEcSH Amus Inc.; Dean Enter-;
Jewel, Jewel Theatre of Brooklyn, Inc.
Regun, 60 West 1 16th St. Theatre Corp.
Elton, Sanpine Operating Co , Inc.; Tenlov
Operating Cforp.; Richie Amusement Corp
Sheldon, Emmons Theatre Corp.
Bell, Museum Theatre Co., Inc.
Lakeland, Weingin Amusement Corp.
(Queens)
Fair, Fair Operating Corp
Arion, R.O.R. Amusement Corp
Drake, Middle Village, R. H. R. Amusement Corp,
Beacon, Queens. Ravenswood Realty Corp.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17.

HUGHES IS REPORTED SEEKING
^ TO BUY CONTROL OF RKO RADIO
It Is Officially Admitted
Talks Under Way to
Obtain Odium Stock
HOLLYWOOD—Reports that Howard
Hughes is negotiating to acquire Floyd B.
Odium's 935.000 controlling shares of RKO
stock were confiiTned here by N. Peter
Rathvon, RKO president. Rathvon said
that there have been some preliminary discussions
regarding such a sale, but that
the talks had hardly reached the "negotiation
stage."
Ne\'ertheless. it was reported that Odlimi
and several members of the RKO board of
directors are in San Diego conferring with
Hughes anent the possible buy.
HELD BY ATLAS CORP.
The stock is held by Atlas Corp., of which
Odium is president. At present there are
almost 4.000,000 RKO shares outstanding, but
purchase of the Atlas Corp. holdings would
give Hughes control of the company. RKO
common closed at $8 on the New York stock
exchange at midweek.
Odium has been discussing the sale of the
Atlas RKO holdings for several months. At
one time Rathvon was said to be seeking
to acquire the stock.
Strangely enough, the report that Hughes
was interested in buying the Atlas holdings
came on the heels of another report that
Hughes intends to abandon his motion picture
activities "temporarily." The explanation
was that he was to devote all of his
time to his aviation interests. It was .stated
that he had turned a block of his story
properties over to the Music Corp. of America
for sale, besides remake and reissue
rights to "Scarface," which he produced in
1932.
ITEMS INCLUDED
The properties are reported to include
ibout 15 items, among them being "Up Ship,"
1 dirigible story for which Hughes acquired
I.i
film footage costing $1,060,000. The independent
producer also was said to have told
MCA that he was willing to loan out his
contract players, Jane Russell. Jack Beutel,
Faith Domergue and George Dolenz.
At the moment, Hughes has two pictures
for release through United Artists—"Mad
Wednesday," with Harold Lloyd, and "Vendetta."
starring Miss Domergue.
Fairbanks to Produce
NBC Tele Features
NEW YORK—Jerry Fairbanks, president
of Jerry Fairbanks Productions, has signed
a five-year agreement with the National
Broadcasting Co. to produce feature films
if all types and lengths especially for telesion
showing. The films, to be produced
'11 NBC's order, will incorporate special film
pchniques developed by Fairbanks for television.
The network will acquire all distribution
rights.
Drop Claude Lee's Dept.
NEW YORK—Paramount has eliminated
Its exhibitor relations department, headed
by Claude Lee, as an economy measm-e. Division
managers hereafter will handle exhibitor
relations problems.
20th-Fox Zones Chicago
For Sales on Bid Basis
NEW YORK— Competitive bidding for
flexible runs is to be introduced in Chicago
by 20th-Fox. The first two pictures to be
released under this system will be "Daisy
Kenyon" and "Captain From Castile," according
to Andy W. Smith jr., general sales
manager, and Jack Lorentz, central division
manager.
Letters conveying information about the
new arrangement are being sent out to exhibitors
by Joe Neger. branch manager.
The plan is experimental and may be
changed from time to time, or abandoned.
Chicago, outside the Loop district, has
been divided into 15 major key zones. These
include Gary and Hammond, Ind. All comparable
theatres in each of the 15 zones and
in sub key zones in their turn, will be given
an opportunity to buy a run on each of these
picttires in competitive negotiation with
every other theatre in the respective zone
which wishes to compete.
FIRST RUNS IN EACH ZONE
Thus, 15 theatres will be allowed to play
20th-Fox pictures day and date on the same
availability. First runs will be offered in
each key zone.
First runs in the Loop will be granted
flexible clearances of seven to 14 days and
in some instances the seven-day clearance
may be reduced. Smith says this will afford
subsequent run theatres better opportunities
to book.
There may be some theatres that cannot
play a picture if the clearance is fixed definitely
at seven days or 14 days, Smith says.
In each of the 15 zones clearances will be
fixed on the seven to 14-day basis over the
next run and so on down the line with the
same clearances for each prior run. These
clearances are subject to change and may
be dropped if a booking .situation develops
which requires the change.
On "Daisy Kenyon" clearance will be 16
days and on "Captain From Castile" it will
be 15 days, so that these pictures can complete
their present runs and offer sufficient
time to establish the new plan.
TWO FILMS AVAILABLE
"Daisy Kenyon" will be available for first
run in each of the major key zones on
January 30, and "Captain From Castile" will
be available February 6. No proposal for
first run on "Daisy Kenyon" in the major
key zones will be received after 5 p. m.
January 19 and none on "Castile" after 5
p. m. January 21.
For sub-key zone runs the availability days
on "Daisy kenyon" will be February 13,
with the deadline for bids 5 p. m. January
20. "Castile" will be available February 20
with the deadline for bids 5 p. m. Februarys.
Smith made it clear that 20th-Fox would
not make any requirements for fixed admission
prices.
No reference was made in the 20th-Fox
statement to the recent decision upholding
the Jackson Park verdict which upset the
current
clearances.
Ascap Board
Extends
Rates to March 15
NEW YORK—The Ascap board of
directors has decided to extend present
music license rates until March 15 to
permit further discussion of a new theatre
licensing formula by Ascap and
the TOA. The deadline was extended at
a meeting of the Ascap board. Thursday
(15 1. Ascap's current rates were
scheduled to expire Februarj' 1.
Ascap and TOA officials will meet
again within the next ten days.
UA Sets '48 Release
For Nine Features
NEW YORK—Enterprise Studio's "Arch of
Ti-iumph" heads the list of nine pictures
scheduled for release by United Artists during
the early months of 1948. according to
Gradwell L. Sears, president. The film, which
was directed by Lewis Milestone from the
novel by Erich Maria Remarque, stars Ingrid
Bergman, Charles Boyer and Charles Laughton.
The other pictures for winter and spring
release are: "A Miracle Can Happen." the
Benedict Bogeaus-Burgess Meredith production
directed by King 'Vidor and Leslie Fenton
and starring James Stewart, Henry
Fonda. Dorothy Lamour, Victor Moore, Fred
MacMurray, Meredith and Paulette Goddard;
"Sleep My Lovf'." co-produced by Mary
Pickford. Buddy Rogers and Ralph Cohn and
starring Claudette Colbert. Robert Cummlngs
and Don Ameche; "So This Is New York."
produced by Stanley Kramer for Entei-prise
Studios with Henry Morgan, radio comedian,
and Dona Drake and Virginia Grey;
"They Passed This Way." produced by Harry
Sherman for Enterprise and stan-ing Joel
McCrea, Fi-ances Dee and Charles Bickford;
"Atlantis," a Seymour Nebenzal production
starring Maria Montez, Dennis O'Keefe and
Jean Pierre Aumont; "Intrigue." a Sam Bischoff
production starring George Raft and
June Havoc: "Red River," produced and
directed by Howard Hawks and starring John
Wayne, and "Man of Evil," a J. Arthur Rank
production starring James Mason with
Phyllis Calvert. Stewart Granger and Wilfred
Lawson.
Cagney Productions' "The Time of Your
Life," starring James Cagney with William
Bendix, Wayne Morris and Jeanne Cagney,
is still listed for release by UA this year
despite its inclusion in Warner Bros." release
list for 1948. UA has started legal
action against Cagney Pjoductions claiming
that the latter reneged on the releasing deal.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17. 1948

'
Newest Offer From British:
KEEP PROFIT ON OUR PRODUCT
BUT GIVE US AMERICAN FILMS
U. S. Films in England
Earn 10-20 Times That
Of English Films Here
NEW YORK—The British came up
with still another proposal for a settlement
of the 75 per cent film tax problem and
lifting of the U.S. ban on film shipments
to England 24 hours after Erie Johnston,
MPAA president, said tax talks in London
had come to a standstill.
Under the latest plan advanced by Sir
Henry French, president of the British
Film Producers Ass'n, American companies
would be permitted to keep the profits
earned by English pictures in the U.S. if
they resume exports to Britain. However,
the 75 per cent tax would stand.
A VARIANCE IN EARNINGS
Sir Stafford Cripps, chancellor of the exch£quer,
has admitted that the volume of
American films being shown in England as
of last May earned from 10 to 20 times as
much as British films were earning in the
U.S. He pointed out that this was "despite
the fact that America has at least four times
the number of filmgoers."
Like many earlier suggestions that have
received little attention here, the main purpose
of the French plan is to get new
Americ?n pictures into British without sending
more dollars out of the country. To date
the French plan has not been given official
blessing by the British treasury.
French said the British government is willing
to
discuss this plan vrith American pro-
ducers as a means of breaking the present
stalemate. He pointed out that British theatres
are being starved for product.
The latest estimate on the number of
American films awaiting release in England
is 20. This means that since last August
when film shipments were halted, British
theatres have gone through approximately
105 new American releases. Reissues and
stage shows are being used to stretch the
estimated two-month supply of unreleased
American films on hand. United Artists has
ten unreleased features in England. RKO
and Republic have two each.
British exhibitors expect to .start feeling
the pinch within a few weeks. The general
council of the Cinematograph Exhibitors
Ass'n declared during the week that the
British film industry would not be able to
turn out more than 40 films this year, and
that this number could not possibly keep
English theatres open.
CALLS STATEMENT MISLEADING
French called misleading Johnston's statement
that the British government has summarily
rejected in principle any alternative
to the tax." Johnston also said that the
American film industry still is prepared to
negotiate at any time on tax alternatives,
and that the film shipment ban would continue
until a satisfactory settlement had been
reached.
French contends that American companies
have failed to understand that Britain cannot
afford to spend $17,000,000 annually for
American films. Johnston declared that the
British government has declined to receive
or consider mutually beneficial proposals to
reduce Britain's dollar exports for films while
10
Foreign
Developments
During the Week
British producers propose American
distributors keep profits earned
in this country from English films.
British exhibitors to feel pinch of
film ban in a few weeks.
Six governments to allow U.S.
producers to liquidate blocked
funds by requiring them to either
produce pictures or send location
crews into the countries.
Spain may tax imported films, in
changing its film import license
policy.
maintaining an uninterrupted flow of American
product to keep English theatres open.
He stressed once more that the 75 per cent
tax would give American companies only 4
cents of every dollar earned in England.
Permit Use of Blocked
Funds in Six Countries
NEW YORK—Six foreign governments have
agreed to permit American producers to
liquidate blocked funds by producing pictures
or sending location crews into the countries.
according to a report by Gerald M. Mayer,
chief of the international department of the
MPAA. The countries are Italy. France, Holland,
Norway, Sweden and Australia.
Mayer's report was submitted to Eric Johnston,
MPAA president. He pointed out that
these six countries are anxious to give financial
backing to American producers.
Mayer feels that the U.S. film industry may
become definitely interested in overseas production
when it learns all the facts he has,
gathered during his recent European tour,
Wherever close scrutiny discloses production
costs on location are not too high, it
would be advantageous for American film
producers to consider taking crews abroad,'
he declared.
Spain Considering Changes
In Film Import Licenses
WASHINGTON—The Spanish government
is considering changes in the present system
of granting film import licenses only to
Spanish producers, according to the U.S
Commerce department. One alternative being
contemplated is to abolish import licenses;
and substitute a tax on imported films o)
200,000 to 300,000 pesetas which could be
used to subsidize domestic producers. Anothei
possibility listed in a report by Nathan D
Golden, film consultant, is to award import;
licenses to anyone, but give Spanish producers
dubbing permits in proportion to theii
output.
Under the present system, the number ol
licenses granted to Spanish producers depends
on the number of films they produce
New Restrictions,
Canada Talks
May Even Resort to Film Tax
OTTAWA^Designated as the chairman §>f
the Canadian film industry's dollar-economy
committee, President J.
J. F i t z g i b b n s of
Famous Players Canadian
corp. held a behind-the-doors
c o n-
ference in Ottawa with
Rt. Hon. C. D. Howe,
federal minister of reconstruction
and supply,
to work out details
of a film-producing
program in the Dominion
by Hollywood
companies to offset a
portion of film-rental
remittances to the j. j. FitzgibBSns
United States.
Some weeks ago this correspondent conveyed
the news from an official source that
the Ottawa government favored the retention
of 50 per cent of film rentals in the Dominion
and that it had throw^n out the suggestion
that Hollywood pictures should be made in
Canada insofar as practical. This information
was disclosed in trade circles in the
United States, but your correspondent stuck
to his story.
Now the conversations have been held and
Howe, who has been given the authority to enforce
import restrictions, is responsible for
the stateraent that he proposed that more of
the film be left Inside Canada through actual
production of short subjects and suitable;
sequences of feature pictures within the
Dominion. He gave the implied understanding
that film companies must cooperati' in
the dollar-saving economy by cuttini; tlnwn
the flow of cash to the States. The Canndianmade
films would have to circulate in the
United States, it was suggested, so that resulting
revenue would come to Canada,
An element of bargaining has developed, it
is said, with the film business indicating that
it will lend full cooperation to the government
plan if, in turn, the Dominion authorities
abolished or substantially red/ced the
federal war excise tax of 20 per cent on theatre
grosses. This money does not go out of
the country, but the removal of the levy would:
cancel a burden for the theatre in Canada
which is beginnlHg to mount in view of postwar
economic developments affecting the
boxoffice.
The following statement appeared in Ottawa
in connection with the discussions between
Fitzgibbons and Howe: "Alternative,
might be action similar to that of the United
Kingdom government which imposed a filmrevenue
tax."
Fitzgibbons is also chairman of the national
committee of Moving Picture Exhibitors'
Ass'n of Canada, which is campaigning
for the abolishment of the federal war tax
Accordingly, both sides have an important
weapon at their disposal in the issue.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194J

WAY)
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he love ... the songs ... the laugH
Jeanne
{"MARGIE")
CBAIN
OSCAR LEVMBAll
Directed by LLOYD BAQ
Original Screen la
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IF I HAD YOU • AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' • YOU WERE MEAN'
I'LL GET BY • CRAZY RHYTHM • S

ifI
an era that'll never be forgotten
Dan
{"MOTHER WORE TIGHTS'
DAIIEY
r . Selena Royle • Percy Kilbride
Lee MacGregor • Herbert Anderson
MucedbyFRED KOHLMAR
StIi)^AII
and Valentine Davies
# 500DNIGHT SWEETHEART • AIN'T SHE SWEET?
RDS AMONGST THE GOLD
"""
/

P.
"CAPTAIN FROM CASTILE"
TECHNICOLOR
Darryl F. Zanuck presents "CAPTAIN FROM CASTILE" • Color by TECHNICOLOR • Starring
TYRONE POWER with JEAN PETERS, CESAR ROMERO, JOHN SUTTON, LEE J.
COBB, Antonio
Moreno, Thomos Gomez, Alan Mowbray, Barbara Lawrence, George Zucco, Roy Roberts,
Marc Lawrence • Directed by HENRY KING • Produced by LAMAR TROTTI . Screen Ploy
by Lamor Trotti • From the Novel by Samuel Shellobarger
DAISY KENYON"
JOAN CRAWFORD, DANA ANDREWS, HENRY FONDA in DAISY KENYON" with Ruth
Warrick, Martha Stewart, Peggy Ann Garner, Connie Mors all, Nicholas Joy, Art Baker
Produced and Directed by OTTO PREMINGER • Screen PL y by David Hertz . Based
on the Novel by Elizobeth Janewc
"GENTLEMAN'S AGREEMENT'
Darryl F. Zanuck presents GREGORY PECK, DOROTHY McGUlRE, JOHN GARFIELD in Laura
Z. Hobson's "GENTLEMAN'S AGREEMENT" with Celeste Holm, Anne Revere, June Havoc,
Albert Dekker, Jane Wyott, Dean Stockwell, Sam JofFe • Produced by DARRYL F. ZANUCK
Screen Ploy by MOSS HART • Directed by ELIA KAZAN
"CALL NORTHSIDE 777'
JAMES STEWART in "CALL NORTHSIDE 777 RICHARD CONTE, LEE J. COBB, HELEN
WALKER and Betty Garde, Kosiaa Orzozewski, Joanne de Bergh, Howarc/ Smith, Moroni
Olsen, John Mclntire, Paul Ha
• Directed by HENRY HATHAWAY • Produced by OTTO
lANG • Screen Play by Jen Cody and Jay Drotler • Adoptotion by Leonard Hoffman
nd Quentin Reynolds on Articles by Jarr , McGu
"SUMMER LIGHTNING'
/ TECHNICOLOR
HAVER in "SUMMER LIGHTNING" • Color by TECHNICOLOR • With LON McCALLISTER
ALTER BRENNAN, ANNE REVERE, NATALIE WOOD, Robert Karnes, Henry Hull, Tom
Tully • Directed by F, HUGH HERBERT • Produced by WALTER MOROSCO • Screen Ploy
by F. Hugh Herbert • From a Novel by George Agnew Chamberlain
CENTURY-FOX
"FURY AT FURNACE CREEK"
"FURY AT FURNACE CREEK" starring VICTOR MATURE with COLEEN GRAY, GLENN'
LANGAN, REGINALD GARDINER, Albert Dekker, Fred Clark, Charles Kemper, Robert
Warwick, George Cleveland, Roy Roberts, Frank Orth, Willard Robertson • Directed by
BRUCE HUMBERSTONE • Produced by FRED KOHLMAR • Written by Charles G. Booth
Additional Dialogue by Winston Miller • Suggested by a story by David Garth

MORE TICKET TAXES IN EFFECT
AS EXHIBITORS BEGIN TO FIGHT
Across the Country, Right
To Levy on Admissions
Is Being Challenged
By NATHAN COHEN
The mcrease in the number of amusement
taxes, which became a source of top concern
to exhibitors in 1947, hit the news columns
with the turn of the new year— with the
promise that the levy on tickets will retain
all the glamor it held for taxing bodies both
on the state and local levels in the last 12 to
18 months.
New taxes went into effect on January 1
in Pittsbiu-gh, East Palestine, Ohio; Circleville,
Ohio; Erie, Pa., and Abington, Pa. In
Pittsburgh, the 10 per cent levy was challenged—not
by an exhibitor, but by the
operator of a roller rink—and the whole
question was sent to the courts. An order
restraining the city from putting the tax
into effect was asked.
YEAR OF TAX CAMPAIGNS
Around the country, there was every indication
that this is to be a year of tax
campaigns, and a more united movement on
the part of theatre owners to forestall further
tax encroachments on the admission ticket.
The Kentucky Ass'n of Theatre Owners has
already organized its legislative campaign to
oppose a proposal of the Louisville city council
to obtain enactment of a state law to
permit cities to impose a tax on amusements
in lieu of the state tax. There are other indications
that exhibitor groups are ready to
carry the fight against taxes directly to
legislative halls, rather than resorting to big-
."ipace appeals to the public in the daily press.
In 1947, the direct newspaper advertisement
appeal did not tm-n the trick for exhibitors.
The newspaper advertisements technique was
tried in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and St. Louis,
and in each of the cities councilmen passed
an amusement tax. On the other hand, the
most successful fight against an amusement
tax was carried on in Oklahoma, where the
Theatre Owners of Oklahoma went directly
to the legislative chambers and successfully
sold the solons against enacting amusement
tax legislation.
It is this plan of direct legislative
action which the Theatre Owners of
America is adopting, both on the national
and state levels, and in local communities
where TOA assistance is requested.
SEVERAL LEGISLATIVE FIGHTS
An important legislative fight is now being
faced in St. Paul, where theatremen, after
losing out in a movement to prevent enactment
of a 5 per cent levy, fought a successful
delaying action, they obtained sufficient
Tax Topics
The admission tax battle broke into
the open in the Pennsylvania sector
during the week. In Pottstown, the
William Goldman and Warner theatre
interests went into court to attack a
5 per cent gross sales tax atop a 10 per
cent ticket tax. In the Philadelphia
trade area, the Easton council voted in
a 7 '/a per cent levy and in Allentown,
an ordinance calling for a compromise
8 per cent tax was given its first reading.
Harrisburg passed a 10 per cent
tax, effective March 11.
Stiffest amusement tax believed enacted
in 1947 was in Decatur, Ala.,
where the scale called for a 1 cent tax
for tickets 15 cents or less; 2 cents for
tickets costing 15 to 20 cents; 4 cents
for tickets 20 to 30 cents; and 7 cents
for tickets over 30 cents. The tax
validity is to be tested in the courts.
In Memphis, there is no amusement
tax, but theatres "kick in" for the privilege
of keeping open on Sundays. It
comes in form of an annual donation
to the city welfare fund to provide relief
to the poor. The "donation" which
has been running from $7.50 a week for
neighborhoods to $45 a week for the
downtown houses was boosted to $15
and $75 respectively in 1947.
Exhibitors in Compton, Calif., won a
two year fight against a 2 per cent
amusement tax. Patrons got a refund
totaling $29,000 when the courts ruled
the tax unconstitutional.
Atlanta, Ga.; Lincoln, Neb., and Arab, Ga.
In Crestview, Fla., the district court invalidated
a 3 per cent tax, and in Compton,
Calif., a 2 per cent tax was held imconstitutional
and theatre owners returned $29,000
to patrons—a fund impounded during the
two years of court action.
Altogether, between 50 and 60 cities passed
theatre admission taxes in 1947, of which approximately
30 were in Ohio. In this state,
a 3 per cent state tax was voted out and cities
were given the authority to enact their own
ticket taxes. While the actual number of
schedule was a stiff one. In St. Petersburg,
Fla.. the compromise was 20 cents per seat
for larger hou.ses and 15 cents for smaller
theatres. In Springfield, 111., exhibitors agreed
to a straight 50 cents a seat tax. A 25 cents
a seat tax was accepted in Homestead, Fla.
and in Dalton, Ga., where the occupational
tax had been $100 a year, the tariff was increased
to $500 a year for theatres charging
20 cents admission to $2,500 for those charging
over 40 cents. In Lincoln, Neb., where a
tax on tickets was defeated, the compromise
calls for a $500 annual license for theatres
with 1,000 seats or more; $300 for theatres 600
to 1,000 seats and $100 for smaller houses.
3% LEVY IS UNIFORM
On admissions, however, a three per cent
tax seems to be the uniform levy in most
sections of the country, but no set pattern
has been developed. The municipalities themselves
have little information regarding the
amusement tax, but the City Managers' Ass'n
has provided some data on ordinances in an
annual report which comments that the
ticket tax is a lucrative and somewhat easy tax
to collect. The way ticket taxes are being
proposed, it looks like a good many city officials
are going to go after the theatre ticket
for new revenues. They are watching with
great interest the testing areas of Pittsburgh,
St. Paul, and a number of smaller communities.
If the precedents are upheld by the
courts, council talk around the country may
well be translated into tax action before
another year of exhibition is turned.
Following is a list of reported amusement
taxes enacted in the United States during
1947:
ALABAMA
Alexander City (10%, anticipate $1,500 month return);
CoUinsville, (1 cent on each ticket of 10
cents or more); Cullmdn (increased tax from 2% to
10%).
over 15 cents).
FLORIDA:
Dla (added 1% to each ticket).
ILLINOIS:
Chicago (4%, with exhibitors passing tax on in
form of o'dmission price increase); Bloomington
(4%).
MINNESOTA:
St. Paul (5% tax, enforcement delayed by petition
for referendum).
cities swinging to the ticket tax principle to
bolster municipal budgetary requirements
was not as extensive as exhibitor association
talk indicated, nevertheless the trend was
NEW JERSEY:
Atlantic City (3%, authority for tax in resort cities
sue. The two opposing forces are now rallying
given by state Idw).
along the
signatures to force a referendum on the is-
spreading. Talk was being translated into
action legislative front. Cities
supporters for the early spring election.
where tax conscious councilmen are eyeing OHIO:
The validity of the amusement tax was the boxoffice include Camden, N. J.; Harrisburg,
Beaver Meadville, Pa.;
questioned in St. Louis where eleven exhibitors,
Pa.; Falls, Pa.;
Clairtown, Auburn, and Norristown.
operating 50 theatres, filed suit
Pa.; Ala.;
asking the court to set aside the recently
Pa., where an ordinance calling for a
enacted 5 per cent tax as "arbitrary, unreasonable,
10 per cent levy is now being prepared. In
discriminatory, and confiscatory" addition, the matter of adopting an amuse-
and to enjoin the city from collecting the levy.
The suit was filed in behalf of the St. Louis
Amusement Co., Loew's, the Kaimann interests,
ment tax has been informally discussed by
councilmen
Birmingham,
in Los
Miami
Angeles,
and the
Miimeapolis,
supervising
2 cents on next 3314 cents; and 3 cents on next
33 H cents)
the Ansell brothers, Amritz Amuse-
board in Washington, D. C.
PENNSYLVANIA
In number of instances, where ment Co. and Movie Enterprises, Inc.
a exhibitors Pittsburgh (10%); Erie (5 cents on each admission);
were faced with an admission tax, they
Abington (3%).
Exhibitor victories were won in 1947 in a schedule of occupational
compromised on Baltimore, Bowling Green, Ohio; Alliance,
Ohio; Millersburg, Ohio; St. Petersburg, Fla.; or seat taxes; and. In some instances, the final
East Palestine, Dayton, Jamestown, Conneaut, Portsmouth,
Cleveland, St. Paris, Plymouth, Millersburg,
Columbus, Circleville, Tiffin, Plain City, Jackson,
Springfield, Youngstown, Urbana, Daylon, Delaware,
Bucyrus, Newark, Mcfnsfield, Crestline, Niles, Norwalk,
Akron, Bellefontaine, Warren, Ravenna, Jackson,
Chillicothe (all 3%).
Georgetown (21/2%); Grover Hill (3% plus $25 license
lee); Piqua (I cent tax on first 33% cents;
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

!
No other distributor enters 1948
in a greater blaze of glory than
o
CENTURY-FOX
—Film Bulletin
because all of these great attractions
are in release NOW!...
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[
l
I
ALTON,
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desired
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suit,
I!
New Jersey TOA Raps
Princeton Film Poll
NEW YORK—Assertions by the New
Jersey poll of Princeton that three out of
every five residents of New Jersey blame
films for juvenile delinquency have drawn
fire from the recently oi-ganized New Jersey
TOA unit. The poll has sent a news
release on its findings to all papers in New
Jersey.
The TOA, which will be joined later by
the Jersey Allied unit, challenges the conclusions
of the poll by saying no information
is given on the types or backgrounds
of persons questioned, that the findings
are not in accord with opinions of most
child psychologists, that the study of the
effect of films and radio on the child
mjnd is a specialized science.
The TOA statement says the poll conclusions
are "a sweeping indictment of
the parents of New Jersey, inasmuch as it
Is known that the children of almost
four-fifths of the families with children
are regular attendants at movies."
Signers of the statement were Maury
Miller, president; Adam Adams, secretary;
Walter Reade jr., director of the New
Jersey chapter of TOA.
lowans Ask Flat 15% Rental
In Towns of LOOO or Less
IOWA—A resolution asking distributors
to establish a flat rental scale not to
exceed 15 per cent of the gross for theatres
in towns of 1,000 population or less to 25 per
cent for theatres of in towns of 5,000 population
was adopted by exhibitors in the eighth
Iowa congressional district this week. The
group is affiliated with Allied Independent
Theatre owners of Iowa and Nebraska.
The exhibitors said they were opposed to
percentage deals for small towns. Their resolution,
addressed to distributors, also pointed
out that percentage type film rentals which
are successful in large cities cannot work satisfactorily
in smaller communities.
The group had as its guests Congressman
Charles B. Hoeven; Leo F. Wolcott, board
chairman of the AITO, and Wolcott's son,
Harrison. Wolcott discussed current problems
cf exhibitors, and in this was joined by
Congressman Hoeven who, himself, was at
one time an exhibitor in this community.
Arranging the meeting were Al C. Myrick of
Lake Park; William Horstman. Odebolt; and
Wayne C. Nebben. Alton.
Another regional meeting will be held in
mid-March,
P. J. Wood Seconds Motion
Of lowans on 'Senator'
COLUMBUS—Pete Wood, secretary of the
Independent Theatre Owners of Ohio, told
members in his cun-ent bulletin that Universal-International's
"The Senator Was Indiscreet"
may "hamper seriously efforts of
the industry to obtain tax relief and other
legislation from Congress." As a re-
he urges exhibitors to "leave the picture
on the shelf for the time being."
The Ohio unit is the second Allied group to
take action on the comedy, which has received
uniformly good reviews. Last week, the board
of directors of the Allied Independent Theatre
Owners of Iowa and Nebraska, asked its
membership not to play the picture on the
grounds that it ridiculed American poUtics
and provided subversive groups with propaganda
material.
First playdates in key cities for the comedy
have been New York, Los Angeles and
San Francisco, where the combined average
has been 145 per cent of normal business.
Duel in Texas:
Exhibitor Groups Split
On Payment for Services
DALLAS—Texas Theatre Owners, Inc., and
Allied Theatre Owners of Texas— led by
Henry Reeve and Col. H. A. Cole, respectively
—have broken into open controversy over the
manner in which exhibitors of the state
should proceed to obtain a cut in film express
and motor transport rates. Both were
busy this week with charges and countercharges.
Result of the controversy is the defeat of
a unified move for lower film carrier rates,
with the two associations going their separate
ways; Allied charging for its services and
TTO offering them gratis.
Colonel Cole recently invited a group of
industry representatives to meet with him
to talk over the rate increase, and to map
plans for combating it. Present at the session
were Reeve, the TTO president; John
Adams and Speed Hoover, Interstate circuit;
Sam Landrum, Jefferson circuit; Don Douglas,
Robb and Rowley theatres; Phil Isley, Dallas
Independent Exhibitors Ass'n; and C. D.
Leon, Leon Theatres. The colonel outlined
the problem of delivery rates and suggested
follow-up sessions with exhibitors and trucking
interests.
Then the battle broke out. Reeves issued
a statement.
"Nothing was ever said about charging exhibitors
for our efforts to render this service,"
he said. "First thing we knew. Colonel
Cole held a meeting two days later with exhibitors
in Houston presenting them with a
contract to pay Allied 50 per cent of any
savings in express for a several year period.
This same proposition has been presented
to a mail list of Texas exhibitors.
"We do not like any part of this," the TTO
president declared, "and would never have
agreed to attend the meeting or to cooperate
had we known this in the first place. The
TTO will now undertake to bring about this
relief through their own efforts, without any
expense to the exhibitors of Texas. If any
individual or organization wants to cooperate
with us on this basis, their assistance will be
appreciated."
This statement brought Colonel Cole to the
firing line. The Allied chief said that
he hadn't even invited the TTO president
to the meeting in the first place. Reeve, he
said, just happened to be in town "drumming
up" interest for his convention February 3
and 4, and looked in. Douglas, he said, was
the TTO secretary, and Interstate and Jefferson
circuits are affiliated with the Texas
Theatre Owners group.
"We are perfectly willing to go it alone,"
he said. "It has been an Allied pohcy to let
exhibitors pay for benefits the organization
brings, especially to nonmembers." Cole
added that he started collecting data on the
express boosts in advance of the November
Allied convention and had amiounced his
plans to try for relief at that time. If this
relief is obtained, nonmembers should pay
their share, he believes.
To this, TTO came back with the parting
statement that the new express rates were
dealing a "death blow" to many exhibitors,
and that all forces should get together to
seek relief. But, said Reeve, if the cut in
costs can be obtained the savings should be
passed on without charge to all exhibitors
who have a stake in the motion picture industry.
Second Allied Unit in an Attack
On the Motion Picture Foundation
DENVER—Allied Rocky Mountain Independent
Theatres has fired a blast of criticism
at the Motion Picture Foundation. It
the .second regional unit of National Allied
is
to question the purposes of the foundation.
EarUer the directors of North Central Allied
had voted unanimously not to participate in
it the MPF, charging that is a producerdistributor
controlled organization.
The Rocky Mountain unit said the foundation
"requires some good healthy prying
into." It called ridiculous the statement
that the foundation will offer impartial aid_
to independent theatre operators and distributors
alike. Rocky Mountain Allied
charged that all the benefits of the foundation
will go to "cast-off employes of the
distributing companies who end up half
dead in their harness,"
Foundation to Review Aims
For Critics in Allied
NEW YORK—The Motion Picture Foundation
will act quickly to contact the two
regional Allied units that have criticized
the organization on the theory that they
are not clear on the objectives of the foundation.
The foundation intends to explain
its purpose and clarify its position,
E. V. Richards, president of the foundation,
said the attacks on the organization
are unfounded. He urged the industry to
withhold criticism until the foundation has
set final plans for operation.
The first criticism of the foundation was
issued by North Central Allied in Minneapolis.
It came as a surprise to foundation
headquarters in New York. Less than a
week later Allied Rocky Mountain Independent
Theatres also attacked the organization.
Richards' statement answering the charges
by the AlUed units read in part;
"I know that the Motion Picture Foundation
was launched with the highest motives
and for the best interests of all the
people of our industry. If there were any
effort to shift the burden from one phase
of the industry to another, I would not
want to be a party to it. However, nothing
of the sort is in prospect. On the contrary
there has been every evidence that each
phase of the industry has been willing to
carry its fair share of the responsibility.
I earnestly suggest to everyone that we wait
in all good faith until final plans have been
formulated before indulging in any premature
or unwarranted criticism."
BOXOFFICE :; January 17. 1948

.
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LOOK at thestrreviews . .
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toVce.^

S2felo'il"'
OP?'
'There's murder,
suspense, psy.
slchology. Shakeppeare
and
['omance all
livrapped up info
Pne polished
poclcage of class
'creen enterfainfiient."
KANIN PRODUCTIONS Presents
giving NEWgredtiu'Si to the Saven m
"A DOUBLE LIFE
•
SIGNE HASSO EDMOND
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SHELLEY WINTERS RAY COLLINS • PHILIP LOEB
Written by RUTH GORDON and CARSON KANIN
Directed by GEORCE CUKOR • Produced by MICHAEL KANIN
A
Universal-International
Release

ILLINOIS EXHIBITORS HEAR PLEA
FOR SALES PRACTICES CHANGE
SPRINGFIELD, ILL.—Supei-vised selling
as now practiced by the film distributing
companies is "a costly farce," President
Edward Zorn told the convention of
the United Theatre Owners of Illinois last
week. He called for a return to direct
negotiation and binding agreements between
the exhibitor and salesman and decried
the use of salesmen as "muscle men
to strong-ann the exhibitor."
Producers and distributors were verbally
castigated for the methods they are using
in the current economy wave. There is need
economy, Zorn agreed, and he suggested
for
that sales methods be revised and the companies
"dispense with their overpaid geniuses."
He had these other points to make:
1. Exhibition should develop a research
agency to gather accurate information about
audiences, actual and potential; their theatregoing
habits and tastes. Today all is guess
work, both in production and exhibition.
Facts might prevent costly mistakes.
SHOULD HAVE A VOICE
2. With an investment six times as great
as that of production and distribution, exhibitors
should have some voice in determining
what pictures are made. Showmen
are in direct daily contact with the ultimate
consumer, yet have little or no influence on
production.
3. It is a credit to the exhibitors of America
that they, as an industry, "have not added
to the spiral of inflation." As solid members
of their community, theatre owners should
resist $1.20 pictures and protect their patrons
against producer efforts to boost prices.
4. Producers have lost touch with ordinary
people, who want only to be entertained by
pictures they can understand. They do not
expect to see an epic every time they go to
the theatre.
5. The picnic is over, and "if we are to survive,
we must apply ourselves as showmen."
6. Illinois stands unique in that there is
not a single law on the books which is adverse
to exhibition. On the local level, however,
the ticket tax is likely to plague exhibitors
for some time to come.
Zorn devoted a great portion of his talk
to selling methods of the distributors.
"They have a capacity for capitalizing on
every new development," he said, "and every
new idea means that things are that much
tougher for the exhibitor. These new ideas
and new methods have led us to the courts,
with the possibility of government regulation,
and we question the sincerity of many distributors
who ruthlessly reduce office forces
TOA Affiliation
Voted
By Illinois Group
Springfield, 111.—Affiliation with tlie
Theatre Owners of America was voted by
United Theatre
Owners of Illinois
at their convention
here last weekend.
The affiliation was
urged by Edward
Zorn, who was reelected
president,
and Herman Levy,
general counsel,
and Robert Coyne,
executive director,
of TOA. George
Kerasotes of
Springfield was
named as the Edward Zorn
UTOI member of
the TOA board and State Senator Charles
Carpentier, East Moline exhibitor, was
named legal representative. All officers
were re-elected.
all in the name of economy. There is need
to economize. Selling, as now practiced, is a
costly farce.
"Imagine the seUing of a $25 picture in a
town called Podunk. A salesman must call
his office before he can make a deal. He
must submit it by long distance to the sales
manager, who refers it to the exchange manager,
who refers it to the district manager,
who refers it to the New York office for approval.
Any one of these supervisors may
take a notion to tui-n the deal down, with instructions
to send the salesman back to
Podunk to get another $10. He is immediately
notified by long distance telephone to drive
across the state to get the $10. The exhibitor
cannot say no, so he gives the salesman the
$10 increase. Then he gets bawled out for
it.
"Is all this supervision by high priced
executives, all this long distance telephoning,
all this driving to sell pictures necessary? If
the distributors want to make an honest effort
to cut down the cost of distribution, let
them restore the salesmen to their original
capacity. They know the deals; they know
the towns; they should represent their company
to the exhibitor.
"If this practice continues, it can only
mean buying pictures by mail or by phone on
a take-it-or-leave-it basis, the exhibitor having
no opportunity to give his side of the
story. He should have an opportunity to
negotiate with the salesman on his own
grounds, and never with the sales manager.
"We are not impressed," Zorn continued,
"by hysterical ways of economy that only result
in chopping off the heads of salesmen
and office workers. Just let me give you one
illustration. Not long ago, a female star, was
placed under contract by one of the major
producers at $1,200 per week, but not as an
actress in pictm-es. Her duty is to advise the
stars of that company as to what social
functions they should attend and what clothes
they should wear. And for that Anita Colby
gets $60,000 a year. Now, this would be funny,
ludicrous, if it were not tragic. For at the
time that contract was made, that same company
let out 35 film salesmen."
Urging resistance to $1.20 films, Zorn reminded
the distributors that the motion picture
business caught on and prospered because
it afforded the mass of the people an
inexpensive form of entertainment. "We appeal
primarily to the people in the lower income
groups," he said. "We afford them, perhaps,
their only form of entertainment. We
are, or should be, solid members of our communities.
We must guard and protect the
best interests of our patrons.
NO GREAT NEED FOR EPICS
"The average theatregoer does not expect
to see an epic every time he goes to a show.
There is always a good market for good pictures
which people can understand. These
cycles of neui-otic themes, psycopathic pictures,
etc., are made by producers who have
lost touch with the ordinary people. Unfortunately,
we who are in direct contact
daily with the ultimate consumer of motion
picture entertamment have Uttle or no influence
on what pictures are made, nor of
their subject matter.
"I do not mean that the exhibitor should
start making pictures. But the theatres
should have something to say about the type
of pictures that are made and their subject
matter.
"On the other hand, we are very lax among
ourselves. We have no way of finding out
what he should know. There is no research
as to what makes this business tick. There
is no reliable information to guide either the
exhibitor or the producer. All is guess work.
It is possible that many of the daily mistakes
in production and many of the false impressions
about our business could be avoided.
We have no actual figures about the people
who attend movies, age, sex, education, how
often they attend, what they hke and what
they dishke, and the large potential audience
that never goes to a movie. Exhibition should
undertake this survey because the theatre
owners represent the largest investment in
this industry."
Shown at the speakers table of the United Theatre Owners of
Illinois convention in Springfield, left to right: Steve Bennis, Lincoln;
George Kerasotes, Springfield; Fred Wehrenberg, St. Louis;
Charles F. Carpentier, Moline; Edward G. Zorn, UTO president.
Pontiac; Leon J. Bamberger, RKO, New York; Gus Kerasotes,
Springfield; Dave VVallerstcin of Balaban and Katz, Chicago; H. M.
Richey of MGM, New York; and C. C. Mundo, president of Theatre
Owners of Arkansas. Little Rock.
20 BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194fi

^Act/nA ^€u
MR. EDWIN BALMER
MISS FLORENCE SOMERS
MR. THORNTON DELEHANTY
and the entire REDBOOK organization
for selecting Argosy Pictures' "THE FUGITIVE
as "the outstanding picture of the past year," and for giving the
MOTION PICTURE AWARD OF 1947 to JOHN FORD for the exceptional work he has done
in the production and direction of motion pictures.
yUetian "€. '^oc/ie
PRESIDENT, ARSOSV PiaURES CORPORATION

Film Leaders Backing UN
For Overseas Campaign
NEW YORK—Film leaders throughout the
U.S. and Canada are joining in promoting
^
the American
Ove:&eas Aid-
United Nations
Appeal for Childien
campaign
to laise $60,000,-
000 m the next
month. In many
communities, exhibitors
are serving
on fundraising
committees and are cooperating by
making lobbies and screens available for the
campaign activities.
The drive officially opens on February 1.
but some areas are stepping into action
ahead of the international kickoff date. In
Canada the drive opened this week with a
world premiere of "Sleep, My Love" at the
Elgin Theatre in Ottawa. Mary Pickford.
her husband Charles "Buddy" Rogers and
Ralph Cohn, who com.prise Triangle Productions,
producer of the picture; Charles
Chaplin, Canadian representative of United
Artists, and Paul Lazarus jr., UA's advertising
and pubhcity director, joined many
Canadian dignitaries.
Paramount has produced a 2-minute newsreel
clip for the UN appeal. It stars Ray
Milland. It is scheduled for release the last
week in January, and will be included in
the releases of all newsreel companies.
American Overseas Aid is a federation oi
voluntary American agencies for foreign relief,
representing America's effort for United
Nations Appeal for Children. Tire latter is
UN's emergency organization to help finance
UN's children's emergency fund. The AGA-
UNAC itself does not conduct any relief
work, but merely serves as a medium for
financing activities of agencies which administer
funds to defray relief and service costs.
It also audits the books of the agencies and
coordinates the various programs.
It is estimated that approximately 230,-
000,000 children throughout the world a/e
in need of help—representing one-fourth of
the world's child population. Forty per cent
of the world's population reported near the
starvation line are children. The funds to
be raised will go for food, medical care,
medicines, clothing, shelter, rehabilitation,
education and training workers in emergency
fields.
Participating agencies in the campaign are
International Children's Emergency Fund,
American Friends Service Committee,
i
Church •World Service Special Pi-ojects
Division i
Unitarian Service Committee,
War Relief Services of the National Catholic
Welfare Conference,
World Emergency and War 'Victims Fund
of the YWCA,
American Aid to France,
American Hungarian Relief,
American Relief to Austria,
American Relief for Czechoslovakia,
American Relief for Italy,
American Relief for Poland,
Greek War Relief Association,
Philippine War Relief of the U.S.,
United Lithuanian Relief Fund,
United Service to China,
AFL Labor League for Human Rights—
(foreign rehef division),
CIO Community Services Committee—
(overseas rehabilitation activities i.
Freedom Fund-Cooperative League of
U.S.A.,
International Rescue and Relief Committee,
International Social
Tolstoy Foundation.
COVER PHOTO
Reading, writing and a
in ui
Europe wooden huts
are completed Here seri
eagerness to leatn. The
helps care for these childr
Service,
Petrillo Cleared of Lea Act Charge;
AFM Union Upheld in Radio Strike
CHICAGO—James C. Petrillo, president of
the American Federation of Musicians, was
acquitted in United States district court of
violating the Lea act, which Congress had
specifically enacted to curb his broad imien
powers, Petrillo's attorney immediately declared
"The essence of this opinion is that
the Lea act is dead." Petrillo had been accused
of calling a strike on a radio station
because the station refused to hire three additional
musicians.
It was a week in which the AFM president
held the headlines. The acquittal here came
as the house labor committee was investigating
charges that Petrillo, through the union
he heads, was exercising a monopoly over the
nation's music. Radio, television and recording
executives fOed through the committee
room in Washington during the week to
speak their mind about the music czar. One
of the more vocal anti-Petrilloites in Congress,
Rep. Clare Hoffman of Michigan, declared
that he favors a law making it a criminal
offense to interfere with radio broadcasts,
as a means of curbing the AFM chief.
This suggestion was followed up in the com-
mittee hearing by Representative Barden of
North Carolina who said that Congress "must
take the antitrust law principles and see if
we can't make PetrUlo line up and walk with
the rest of the nation."
There are some differences of opinion on
the effect of the federal court decision here
on the activities of Petrillo. Radio Industi-y
executives said they believed the decision
would have little effect on negotiations soon
to get under way with the major networks
for a new contract. It is not believed that
Petrillo will pull musicians off network shows
when the present contract expires on January
1.
Petrillo believes that, as a result of the
decision, he can ask radio stations to hire
more musicians, as long as the musicians perform
actual services. He contended that
broadcasters had told him he could not force
them to hire additional musicians. Judge
Walter La Buy, who handed down the decision,
held there was no violation of the Lea
act, even though Petrillo did call a strike
when the station refused to hire the musicians.
Independent Film
Distributors Unite
PHILADELPHIA—What may be the forerunner
of a national association of independent
film distributors was organized here this
week by six Philadelphia companies.
Organized as a trade association, the Independent
Film Distributors of Philadelphia,
Inc., has not yet determined its operating
policies. It was said, however, that the organization
will attempt to eliminate imfair
competition by fly-by-night operators. The
fact that business has dropped also is seen
as a motive for the independents to work
together.
Ben Harris of the American Film Co., who
was elected treasurer, said he expects the local
membership to grow larger vei-y shortly and
that he would not be at all surprised if the
group and its ideas became national in membership
and scope.
Officers of the association are Jack Engel
of Screen Guild, president; Edward Gabriel
of Capitol Films, secretary; Harris, treasurer,
and attorney Al Cohen, executive secretary
and counsel. Other members are Carl Munzer,
Hollywood Film Exchange; Nelson Wax, Box
Office Pictures, Inc., and Dave Molliver, Principal
Films. Headquarters have been set up
temporarily in Cohen's offices at 12 South
12th St.
An 'Interdigitation' Charge
Sends Iowa to Dictionary
DES MOINES—A lot of Iowa folks have
rushed to their dictionaries to find out what
Harlan Miller, film editor of the Des Moines
Register and Tribime, meant when he referred
to the "alarming amount of interdigitation"
being permitted in Iowa Theatres.
The board of dii-ectors of the Allied Independent
Theatre Owners of Iowa and Nebraska
not only rushed to its collective
dictionary, but also into print. They wrote
Critic Miller that by an inferential use of
the "tricky" word, "interdigitation," tied In
with such phrases as "alarming amoimt,"
"morals squad," and "flagrant cases," in regard
to theatres in Iowa, he had succeeded
in creating the impression in the minds of
many readers that actions of a "highly questionable
character were tolerated and allowed
to go on among theatre audiences.
If you mean hand holding, said the AITO
board, "why not say so, in plain English,
American style?" The dictionaries, the directors
commented, are not too clear in their
definition of the word. Results: lowans, in
great niunbers, have been misinterpreting
the phrases used with resulting damage to
the "character, high moral standing, reputation
and even the business of our theatres
and their management."
Monogram Will Reissue
Eight 'Range Busters'
HOLLYWOOD — Monogram will reissue
eight of its Range Busters western series during
1948. Four of the subjects, "Texas to
Bataan," "Trail Riders." "Two Fisted Justice"
and "Haunted Ranch," star John King,
Davey Sharpe and Max Terhune, while the
remaining quartet, "Land of Hunted Men,"
"Cowboy Commandos," "Black Market Rustlers"
and "Bullets and Saddles," star Terhune,
Ray Corrigan and Dennis Moore.
Set 20th-Fox Tradeshows
NEW YORK—Twentieth-Fox will tradeshow
two features, "Call Northside 777"
and "You Were Meant for Me," in all exchange
centers January 20, 21, respectively.
22
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194S

'sis-j.
EL Plans to Release
Four Films Monlhly
LOS ANGELES—Plans to release four films
monthly during the current year were mapped
at a two-day regional
sales meeting held by
Eagle Lion at its Hollywood
studios January
10 and 11. The new
schedule was disclosed
by Harold S. Dunn, assistant
general sales
manager, who presided
over the conclave.
An optimistic outline
of EL's future was
presented by President
Arthur Krim; Bryan
Poy, production chief;
and Producers Walter
W anger, Aubrey
,j o .^
Harold S. Dunn
Schenck and Ben Stoloff.
Tlie four-picture-a-month release schedule.
Dunn explained, will comprise two topbudgeters,
one exploitation feature and one
western.
Delegates viewed upcoming releases including
"The Noose Hangs High," "The Adventures
of Casanova," "Mickey" and "Prelude
to Night."
Among those attending were Del Goodman,
western division manager: Sam Milner, district
chief: Frank Soule, branch operations
supervisor: and branch managers including
Tom Charack, Los Angeles; Lloyd Katz, San
Francisco: Ralph Amacher, Portland; Walter
Rucker, Seattle: Arthur Jolley, Salt Lake
Citv: and Bud Austin, Denver.
Ten Committees Formed
For Brotherhood Week
NEW YORK—Ten committees have been
urganized to work with the film and amusements
divisions recently set up for American
Brotherhood week. February 22-29, which is
.sixinsored by the National Conference of
Christians and Jews.
J. Robert Rubin is national chairman of
the amusements division, and Spyros P.
Skouras is national chairman of the film
division.
The committees and the members are as
follows: Campaign, David Weinstock, chairman;
Hollywood—N. Peter Rathvon, chairman:
exhibitors—Harry Brandt, chairman:
special
Hays,
gifts—Emil Friedlander
co-chairmen: distributors
and Will H.
— Robert
Mochrie, chairman: home office—Max A.
Cohen, chairman: allied industries—Benjamin
Sherman, chairman: legitimate theatres
Brock Pemberton, chairman, John Golden
and Oscar Hammerstein II, vice-chairmen:
advertising and publicity—Silas Seadler.
chairman, S. Barret McCormick and Charles
Schlaifer, vice-chairmen; company publications—Roger
Ferri, chairman.
National associate chairmen are: Barney
Balaban, Jack Cohn, Ned E. Depinet, Tad
R. Gamble, Jack Kirsch, Louis Nizer and
Albert Warner.
U-I Luncheon Launches
Al Daff Sales Drive
NEW YORK—Ben Cohn,
Universal-International
home office executive and captain
of the worldwide Daff Aniversary Sales Drive,
presided at a sales executive luncheon to
launch the drive January 12.
The drive, which started January 11, will
wind up May 20. The manager of the winning
territory will receive a trip to Paris.
Other prizes will be aimounced later.
THe^t a«td S(^^cat^
iVo Concession, No Yiims
^DD up all
the propaganda and informal
suggestions from persons connected
with the British film industry and the
British government and you have two
things—a distinct impression that many
British film men think they could reap big
profits if exhibitors here could be forced
to book British pictures and that some
British government officials think they
can solve their film scarcity simply by
ordering an increase in production.
Both may be right, but some practical
considerations are involved.
In the first place the vast majority of
theatres in this country are owned by individuals
or by small regional groups and
they book pictures they think will show a
profit, and no others. No doubt the British
could, in the course of time, convince these
exhibitors the imported product would pay
off, but nobody is going to get anywhere
with them by trying to use pressure.
In the second place the theory that pictures
can be made by simply ordering a
studio speedup is not uncommon in this
country. The pictures can be made, but
can they show a profit? Hunches and guesswork
are important factors in making pictures.
If the hunches and guesswork are diluted
by a conviction that British pictures should
show the British way of life, the popularity
of the product will be confined to Great
Britain and the British producers will be
tossing the rest of the world market right
back to the U.S. firms solely for entertainment
puiTJoses and with the international
market in mind. This won't help the
British in their search for dollars.
About twice a week on the average, word
seeps out of London that the British government
is not going to recede an iota from
its 75 per cent tax stand and is waiting for
a compromise proposal from the United
States.
Eric Johnston, MPA head, has now laid
it on the line. He says the compromise
proposal was made some time ago. The
U.S. companies are willing to leave a substantial
portion of their receipts in Eng-
Tilm. Delivery Truck
Has Telephone Unit
Detroit—Charles Simpson, new owner
of Exhibitors Service, has installed what
is believed to be the first Industry mobile
unit in use to allow constant telephonic
control of film shipping. The unit
has been placed in the truck driven by
Simpson and which he uses for all personal
transportation around the territorjin
order to be on 24-hour call in case of
emergency film shipment.
Simpson's special number is known by
exhibitors, film exchanges, bookers and
other agencies so he can be reached on
the road at any time. The new system
is being used to handle emergency calls
covering delayed or lost prints, missouts
or special problems which arise in the
shipment of a film. The new system also
allows prompt dispatching of assignments
to the company's other drivers.
By JAMES M. JERAULD
land, but they are not willing to turn 7,5
per cent of their grosses over to England
as taxes and attempt to pay their distribution
expenses out of the remaining 25 per
cent. It would result in a loss, Johnston
says.
In the meantime American companies
are adjusting their financial plans to an
expectation that the British market will
be closed for some time. Tliey have been
doing it for several months. Their confidence
in their ability to weather the
emergency increases as the weeks go by.
The full effects of a film scarcity have
not been felt yet by British exhibitors, but
they are already complaining about threats
of increased rentals, forced long runs, and
an increasing number of reis.sues. Also, independent
British producers are finding it
difficult to raise money for pictures.
They Crave Relief
TT SEEMS that austerity, like
can wear out.
an old suit,
In the Januai-y 8 issue of the Wall Street
Journal, Charles R. Hargrove said the
British were beginning to call austerity a
socialist craze and black markets were
flourishing. They have had eight years of
and loss of American films hasn't added
it.
to its popularity.
On the same day, in the New York Times,
there was a Moscow dispatch saying the
Soviets have issued a sharp order against
displays of photographs of Clark Gable
and other Hollywood stars in beauty shops,
barber shops and elsewhere. Russians are
not allowed to see them in films.
This again points up the well-known fact
that people crave surcease from their cares
and the drab facts of workaday life.
10P.M. Curiew
QOUNCILMAN S. Samuel DiFalco succeeded
in getting a resolution through
the New York city council calling upon the
police department to "instruct, request and
order teen-agers, unchaperoned, hanging
around the theatrical, hotel and night club
districts after 10 p. m. to go home."
That's a first class assignment for any
police department. The idea is good, but
in mid-Manhattan there are not enough
policemen to enforce the no-parking rules,
to say nothing of shooing youngsters home.
Also, there is a big tenement house area
where thousands of kids live within three
or four blocks of Times Square.
Scully, Bergman Attend
U-I Studio Conferences
HOLLYWOOD—William A. Scully, Universal-International
vice-president and general
sales manager, and Maurice A. Bergman.
eastern advertising and publicity director,
have arrived from New York for a series of
studio conferences on forthcoming releas'^s.
The pictures to be discussed are: "Double
Life," "Naked City." "All My Sons." "Another
Part of the Forest," "Up in Central Park,"
"Are You With It?" "Casbah." "Letter From
an Unknown Woman" and "Black Bart,"
i
BOXOFHCE :: January 17, 1948
23

.fter « ^oman
and cheated
jor
has
1^,1
**-t|« fc
— starring
CARROLL • RALSTON • PAIGE • CRAWFORI
lENRY IRAVERS • BLA NCHE CONSTA NCE DOWIING HATTIE Mc

There s one love that haunts
every man... obsesses
every woman I
If the stakes are high enough,
^ ^oman like me is a fool to
^'t love stand in the way."
y*'^Ma^^
UNGWot
V*'>^•fJ
love
r-r."--
d be a fool to let
love siand in
niv
way."
iii'
Screen Play by
LAWRENCE KIMBLE
Based on a Story by
ROBERT T. SHANNON
ssoclate Producer-Director
JOHN H.
AUER
Mk

M. A. Lightman (seated) looks over some plans submitted in his new crusade on
Malco Theatres' chain for selling the advantages of the motion picture to the public
Left to right in the picture: Myron Meyer of the Malco advertising and publicity
staff, Mr. Lightmaxi and Elliott Johnson, manager of the department for Malco.
Malco Sells
Significance
Of Films to the Public
M. A. Lightman, believing that American filmgoers don't
really appreciate the motion picture industry, creates a program
to do a public relations job in his 70-theatre circuit.
By NULL ADAMS
Memphis
n CITIZEN in London stood on a street
corner all night and got one glimpse of
the royal carriage as it passed next morning.
A prominent American citizen was invited
to the royal wedding, flew the Atlantic and
attended only to see the royal couple from a
distance at the ceremony.
But the average American citizen who
stayed at home was taken right into the
midst of the colorful ceremony through the
eyes of the color camera, right into the palace
via the same route and saw a review in pictures
of the lives of the bride and groom.
And all he had to do was pay a modest admission
price to his favorite theatre and the
British royal wedding was dumped right into
his lap along with a regular program of
movies and newsreels.
That is only one of the numerous advantages
of motion pictures that the public
generally is inclined to take for granted and
never give a second thought.
But
Theatres,
at least
Inc., of
one
Memphis—has
theatre chain—Malco
launched a
crusade throughout the 70 theatres in its
chain to wake up the American public to the
real signifio^ce of what the motion pictyre
brings tliem day after day and year after
year.
And M. A. Lightman sr., president, who
started the crusade at the 1948 annual managers
meeting in Memphis, has set up a
special budget and ordered an all-out campaign—hoping
that the motion picture industry
throughout the United States will
adopt similar programs.
First Mr. Lightman gave all of his managers
a sales talk along these lines:
"The theatre has outgrown the place it
held in the amusement category. Its educational
values are second only to educational
institutions themselves.
"The neighborhood show is the place where
the fellow on one side of the tracks gets acquainted
with the man on the other side.
"The rich see in the movies how the poor
live. The poor see how the rich live.
"There is the finest music in the world in
the movies. You go all the way to New York
and on an $8 ticket hear Metropolitan opera.
In 'Carnegie Hall,' a movie, you can hear
four or five grand operas in one evening all
for the small admission price of the theatre.
And the man seated in the balcony at the
opera gets only a far-away look while the
man in the theatre gets the closeups through
the eyes of the camera.
"You can and do travel around the world
through the eyes of the movie camera and
you get more intimate closeups than if you
made the trip at great expense and loss of
time. You fly to the South Pole with Admiral
Byrd and discover it by simply going to a
movie.
"TN no other way could we have lived with our
boys in World War II. Wo shared their
sufferings, their joys and their hardships
through the eyes of the motion picture
camera.
"You can read books in the movies and
how you can read them. All the good books
are made into movies. And they are cleaned
up too. You can't read a book in two hours
but you can see it in that time at your favorite
movie.
"The finest teachers in the world are taken
to every village and hamlet in the country
through the movie. Seeing a movie will improve
your diction. You even see when to
use your knife and when to use your fork.
If this is done wrong in the movie, you are
told it is WTong.
"Motion pictm-es are bringing the countries
of the world closer together. We have foreign
pictures brought to this country and we send
our movies over there.
"You become acquainted with your President,
members of Congress and the supreme
court through the movies while it would be
impossible for everybody to go to Washington
and meet them."
iy[R. LIGHTMAN asked each of his managers
to submit suggestions.
From these and with his own ideas, the
year-long crusade of public relations to "sell"
the American public on the movies and their
advantages is already under way along the
following lines:
1. Small "sellers" are being inserted m
Malco advertisements in all newspaper.s
There may be just a line which says: "Did
you know that the motion picture newsreel
cameras are working in 11 foreign countries?"
Or: "Did you see the New Year's Rose Bowl
game in the movies?"
2. These advertisements, some just general
and some specific will be grouped together
in larger newspaper advertisements from
time to time, presenting a strong case on how
the movies are improving the American way
of life.
3. Posters along these same lines for lobbies
and show windows are contemplated.
4. Movie trailers telling the story of how
the movies serve the public are definitely
being planned.
Elliott Johnson, advertising manager of
Malco Theatres, Inc., is working with the
managers all over the circuit. Mr. Johnson
and his staff are working daily with Mr.
Lightman on plans, ideas and suggestions
along the lines of showing the great educational
values of the movies.
Slogans in advertisements, roving reporter
shorts on the screens, posters in the lobbies,
spot radio annoimcements and many other
means of taking this message into the American
home are being planned.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Seven Features in Two Months:
ZOth-Fox Accelerates
Releasing Schedule
NEW YORK—Twentieth-Fox will start off
its increased 1948 distribution schedule by
releasing seven big budget pictures during
January and February. Included in the
schedule for the two-month period is "Forever
Amber," which will continue playing at
advanced prices. Five of the pictures currently
are playing special prerelease or first
run dates.
Andy W. Smith jr.. general sales manager,
s.iid tlie pictures scheduled for the two-month
period add up to the largest number of top
budget films to be released by the company
at one time.
The lineup includes "Gentleman's Agreement."
Darryl F. Zanuck production: "Captain
From Castile," starring Tyrone Power;
Amber": "Daisy Kenyon," starring Joan
Crawford: "An Ideal Husband," first British
production to be delivered under the 20th-Fox
deal with Sir Alexander Korda: "Calling
Northside 777," starring James Stewart, and
•You Were Meant for Me," starring Jeanne
Grain.
Also scheduled for release during the twomonth
period is "The Tender Years," first
Alson production from Edward L. Alperson.
It stars Joe E. Brown.
To date the company has completed filmmg
eight additional films to be released during
the year. These are: "Sitting Pretty,"
"Summer Lightning," "Fm-y at Furnace
Creek." "Escape," "Green Grass of Wyoming,"
"Deep Water." "The Snake Pit" and "Give
My Regards to Broadway."
Six more pictures are before the cameras,
including "That Lady in Ermine," "The Walls
of Jericho," "Street With No Name," "The
Chair for Martin Rome," "The Iron Curtain"
and "Apartment for Peggy."
The Yearling' Leader
In Two Board Polls
NEW YORK—"The YearUng" (MGMi
topped list of ten best pictures for 1947 in
a
a juvenile poll conducted by the National
Board of Review through community councils
and clubs. The voters ran from eight to
18 years of age.
The other nine films on the list were : "The
Best Years of Our Lives" (Goldwyn-RKOi,
Great Expectations" (U-Ii, "The Bachelor
and the Bobby-Soxer" iRKOi, "Crossfire"
'RKOi, "The Egg and I" (ELi, "The Perils
of Pauline" (Parai. "Life With Father"
'WBi, "Mother Wore Tights" i20th-Fox» and
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" (Goldwyn-
RKO'.
A poll taken at the same time among adult
members of commimity councils and clubs
also placed "The Yearling" in the lead with
the other nine in the following order: "Life
With Father (WBi, "Miracle on 34th Street"
(20th-Foxi, "Welcome Stranger" (Para).
"Great Expectations" (U-Ii, "Song of Love"
'MGM). "Dear Ruth" (Parai, "The Egg and I"
>ELi, "Mother Wore Tights" (20th-Fox) and
The Farmer's Daughter" (RKOi.
March of Time Will Sell
Forum Edition Prints
NEW YORK—March of
Time has decided
to sell its 16n-mi Forum Edition film outright
.it $55 per print. Prior to January 1 the films
were available only on a rental basis to
schools and discussion groups. At present
ihere are 35 subjects in the Forum Edition,
each averaging 16 minutes rimning time.
Five additional films will be released March
1. They are: "New Frontiers of Medicine,"
"Transportation in the U.S.," "Radio,"
"Czechoslovakia" and "Turkey."
Hint Studio Labor Peace;
Employment Index Down
HOLLYWOOD—After dragging along for
more than 15 months, the last few of them
with little fanfare and minu.s concrete developments
which might lead to a settlement,
Hollywood's studio strike popped back into the
labor picture again with moves stemming
from two sources aimed toward peace.
From Washington came word that Rep.
Carroll Kearns, chairman of a house labor
subcommittee who spent several weeks here
last fall in an effort to reach a solution to
the stalemate, will reopen hearings in the
nation's capital February 17 and will request
studio executives and labor leaders to appear.
His last local effort resulted in failure. The
fight over set erection jurisdiction between
the lATSE and the Conference of Studio
Unions has been carried on since September,
1946—one of the longest struggles in AFL
history.
REPORT AN lATSE OFFER
Locally there were persistent reports that
the lATSE had offered peace terms to the
brotherhood of painters, one of the striking
CSU members, which called for the virtual
dissolution of the conference, of which Herbert
K. Sorrell is president. Roy Brewer,
local lATSE representative, declared, however,
that he had checked with Richard
Walsh, president of the alliance, and that he
had been informed Walsh had not been in
communication with leaders of the painters'
union on such a proposal. He admitted there
had been discussions with local representatives
of the painters but emphasized ihere
could be no settlement "which would
jeopardize the employment of the men who
have been loyal to the lATSE in this bitter
struggle." Sorrell, on the other hand, reported
he had received a letter from L. P.
Lindelof. head of the painters, declaring he
had heard the lATSE was willing to reach
a settlement, one clause of which would provide
for the exclusion of Sorrell from further
activities within the studios. Sorrell emphasized
that the CSU was given "practically
the same offer last year and didn't take it."
Meantime a two-day labor forum cosponsored
by UCLA and the Hollywood AFL
film council was voted generally successful.
Attended by nearly 300 labor leaders and
studio representatives, the forum was addressed
bv N. Peter Rathvon, RKO Radio
president: Charles Boren, MPAA labor liaison
executive: Ronald Reagan, president of the
Screen Actors Guild, and several UCLA faculty
members. Boren keynoted the affair with
an address calling for an end to jurisdictional
strikes and a declaration that continued ruthless
competition among unions may result
in even more stringent legislation than the
Taft-Hartley law.
SAG HOLDS REFERENDUM
SAG members marked and mailed ballots
in a referendum vote on 21 resolutions, now
being counted by a firm of certified public
accountants. The resolutions deal with such
subjects as anti-Commmiist affidavits, reissues,
the Taft-Hartley law, unemployment,
contract negotiations and other matters.
The AFL Film council has begun drafting
a constitution and bylaws, embracing the organizational
operations of more than 20 AFL
film crafts within the group. The constitution
bars any person or organization "connected
with or sympathetic toward" either
communism or fascism.
Industry employment in November 1947
dropped to a rating of 86, according to figures
compiled by the California labor statistics
department. This compares with 97.8
for August and 104 for November, 1946.
The Screen Writers Guild scheduled a general
membership meeting for midweek, at
which action was to be taken on a controversial
resolution proposed by Hugo Butler
and calling upon the SWG to aid those of
its members indicted for contempt of Congress
following their appearance at the house
un-American activities committee hearings in
Washington. One faction within the guild
has served notice it will seek an injunct-;on
to tie up all SWG fimds should the resolution
be passed.
Rank Film Is Being Edited
HOLLYWOOD—"Master of Bankdam," J.
Arthur Rank film, is being edited at the Universal-International
studio for U.S. release.
A print of the film was brought to this country
by Walter Porde, producer, who recently
arrived from England. The picture stars
Anne Crawford and Dennis Price.
When It Comes fo Suing for Damages,
Hollywood Gives It Top Production
HOLLYWOOD—Litigation which shoots at
astronomical figures continues to be the most
newsworthy among local developments relating
to
the question of alleged communism,
or lack of it, in film circles.
Following the action taken last week by
three other members of the so-called "unfriendly
ten," Pi-oducer Adrian Scott assembled
counsel and slapped a $1,314,200 suit
against RKO Radio, which summarily discharged
him after he had been indicted for
contempt of Congress for refusing to testify
at the un-American activities committee
hearings recently staged in Washington. He
asks $500,000 for being "deprived of artistic
and intellectual gratification," $250,000 for
"humiliation and anguish," $473,000 for "optional
increases" on his contract and $91,000
in other compensation. He charges the company
acted in "bad faith" and "without
course" in discharging him. Scott's action
was similar to that taken by Ring Lardner jr.
against 20th-Fox, Lester Cole against MGM
and Edward Dmytryk against RKO Radio.
Scenarist Emmett Lavery, meantime, fOed
an amended action against Lela Rogers and
eight others, seeking $1,000,000 in damages
on the grounds he was wi'ongfully accused
by Mrs. Rogers of being a Communist on a
national radio broadcast last September.
Other defendants include Sam Wood. James
K. McGuinness, Morrie Ryskind, Ayn Rand,
Frank O'Connor, Robert Arthtu". the American
Broadcasting Co. and the "Town Hall"
program.
Otherwise the lion's share of the limelight
plaved on Washington, where a federal court
set February 9 as the date for the beginning
of trials of the ten Hollywoodians cited for
contempt. Scenarist John Howard Lawson
will be the first to go to trial, on that date,
and will be followed by Dalton Trumbo,
Albert Maltz, Alvah Bessie. Samuel Ornitz,
Herbert Biberman. Dmytryk. Scott. Lardner
and Cole, in that order.
OXOFFICE January 17. 1948
27

1947
OH! WHAT A BEAUTIFUL RECORD!
OH! WHAT A WONDERFUL YEAR!!
for
^y4^nnci
and ^J^erbert
And the Records Tally .
SIX EVENTS—SIX FIRSTS

Anna Neagle
Anna Neagle
Herbert Wilcox
(1) MOTION PICTURE HERALD POLL OF FAME
TOP BOX OFHCE ACTRESS IN ALL BRITAIN'S FILMS
1. ANNA NEAGLE
2. Margaret Lockwood
3. Patricia Roc
4. Deborah Kerr
BUT MORE THAN THATl
(2) TOP BOX OFHCE WOMAN STAR IN
THE WHOLE INTERNATIONAL FIELDl
1. ANNA NEAGLE
2. Margaret Lockwood
3. Bette Davis
4. Ingrid Bergman
(3) MOTION PICTURE HERALD OFHCIALLY LISTS
THE COURTNEYS OF CURZON STREET
the TOP at Britain's Box-Office 1947
(4) THE KINEMATOGRAPH WEEKLY
LIKEWISE LISTS "THE COURTNEYS"
BRITAIN'S TOP BOX OFHCE GROSSER FOR 1947
Anna Neagle
(5) AWARDED PICTUREGOER GOLD MEDAL FOR THE
BEST PERFORMANCE of any ACTRESS IN 1947 in
PICCADILLY INCIDENT
Herbert Wilcox
(6) AWARDED SILVER STAR NATIONAL FILM AWARD
FOR THE BEST BRITISH FILM FOR 1947 WITH
PICCADILLY INCIDENT

Savs Benedict Boqeaus:
Stable Independents
To Remain Active
NEW YORK—Under the "new order" for
independent production, pictures will con-
K
tinue to be made by UDOS
stable independent
producing units, according
to Benedict
Bogeaus, a 1 1 h o u g li
there will be less independent
picturemaking
on a one-shot
basis. Bogeaus has just
delivered his multistarred
production, "A
Miracle Can Happen,"
to United Artists under
terms of a contract
entered into in 1946.
Benedict Bogeaus Conferences with
Gradwell L. Sears,
Artists, resulted in the
president of United
latter's decision to handle the $2,500,000 picture
personally, according to Bogeaus. Present
plans call for a first release in late
February or early March with a general release
later. No decision has been made as to
whether it will be shown under advanced or
regular admissions. Bogeaus believes this
vindicates the company's position as the top
distribution company for independent producers,
despite recent rumors that it was
having difficulty obtaining top product following
William Cagney's decision to give
"Time of Your Life" to Warner Bros.
BIG LINEUP OF STARS
Paulette Goddard, James Stewart, Dorothy
Lamour, Henry Fonda, Fred MacMurray, Burgess
Meredith, Victor Moore, Harry James,
Hugh Herbert and William Demarest are
among the stars in "A Miracle Can Happen,"
which was directed by King Vidor, George
Stevens and Leslie Fenton, among others.
The pictui-e, which was started in January
1946, was completed last November, Bogeaus
said. Bogeaus has a non-exclusive contract
with UA and will probably produce two more
pictures for the company during 1948. He is
now negotiating for the rights to a Broadway
stage hit and a best-seller. A production of
"The Life of Charles Dickens" has also been
in the plarming stage for a year.
Only cooperation between producers, directors
and top personalities will help in
lowering production costs, according to
Bogeaus. He also believes that more care
must be taken in selecting stories which do
not require elaborate sets or spectacular
sequences. Although the independent producers'
overhead is on "a par with that of
the majors," according to Bogeaus, he has
experienced no difficulty in securing backing
from bankers who are mainly influenced
by a record of past performance. Independent
production has dwindled to about half what
it was a year ago, with only the established
ones remaining active. Bogeaus said.
'I Walk Alone' Launched
In Thirteen Key Cities
NEW YORK—Paramount is launching "I
Walk Alone," Hal Wallis production starring
Burt Lancaster and Lizabeth Scott, with a
number of early engagements in cities
throughout the country.
The picture has already played Phoenix
and Tucson, Ariz.; Miami, Fla., Rochester,
Detroit, Baltimore. San Francisco, and
Washington, D. C. Other dates are:
Boston and Minneapolis, January 22, and
St. Paul, Minn., and Los Angeles, January 29.
and shillelaghs— the latter of
Igk legal variety—dominated Cinemania's
^ horizon as never-a -dull-moment Hollywood
entered the new year.
To the accompaniment of much tubthumping,
the American Legion staged ceremonies
in the film capital at which 21 film
figures were presented with Americanism
awards for having appeared as "friendly"
witnesses at the recent, widely-discussed
hearings into alleged Communist infiltration
into the film industry, conducted in Washington
by J. Parnell Tliomas and his un-
American activities coirimittee. On hand to
distribute the citations of honor was James
F. O'Neil, national commander of the Legion,
who handed them out to Louis B. Mayer,
Jack L. Warner, Sam Wood. Walt Disney,
Leo McCarey, Robert Taylor. Adolphe Menjou.
Morrie Ryskind, James K. McGuinness,
Robert Montgomery. Lela Rogers, Fred Niblo
jr., Gary Cooper, Jack Moffitt, Ayn Rand,
Ronald Reagan, Richard Macaulay, Roy M.
Brewer, George Murphy, Rupert Hughes and
Oliver Carlson.
In a presentation address broadcast over
a national network. Commander Bradley
lauded the "friendly" witnesses for their
"militant opposition to subversives."
Almost simultaneously, those of the left
wing of the film capital's red teacup tempest
were heard from, via their respective lawyers.
Adrian Scott, Lester Cole, Ring Lardner jr.
and Edward Dmytryk—four of the so-called
alleged contempt of Congress—brought damage
"unfriendly ten," who were indicted for
actions totaling more than $4,000,000
against their respective erstwhile employers,
Metro, 20th-Fox and RKO Radio, from whose
pay rolls they had been summarily removed
following their appearance at the Thomas
hearings.
Cole challenged the legality of his suspension
from Metro, asked declaratory relief
and sought an injunction restoring his contract.
Lardner sought $1,382,500 in damages
from 20th-Fox, charging loss of salary, screen
fame and personal hiunlliation. Similar
charges were filed against RKO Radio by
Dmytryk, asking $1,783,425 in damages on
the grounds of lost earnings, anguish and
harm to his artistic reputation. Scott sued
RKO for $1,314,200, alleging breach of contract.
He made no mention in the suit of
the congressional hearing, asking the damages
on the grounds that his $l,400-a-week
contract had two years to run. In addition,
he asked $500,000 for loss of prestige and
$250,000 for "humiliation and anguish."
The suits were filed just two days before
the date set for the arraignment of the "unfriendly
ten" in a Washington, D. C., federal
court which will determuie whether or not
they are guilty of contempt of Congress as
charged. As a by-product of those trials, it
further may be revealed whether or not the
ten reluctant recipients of Thomas' tender
attentions are or are not Communists, and
just how heinous—if any—are such political
persuasions.
So, at long last, apparently coming to a
head is the ruiming fight between Hollywood's
left and right, which for too long a
time has occupied too much of the attention
of the industry and has done too much to
damage its public relations. The average,
middle-of-the-road, loyal. American toilers
in the celluloid vineyards—and let it again be
recorded that they constitute a dominant
majority—were first amused, then bored and
finally annoyed by the controversy, mosti
especially when it attracted official i
actior
by Rep. Thomas' probers. They will be glatj!
to see the various issues concerned determined
once and for all by the courts, both,
criminal and civil.
When those courts have rendered their
decisions, there should be little further room!
for doubt as to what constitutes Hollywood-'
ians' advisable, proper and legal procedure'
regarding politics and ideologies.
Then maybe the film capital and its crusading
denizens will settle down to their number
one job—the making of good and profitable
entertainment. Seldom, if ever, before in
trade annals has that job been more in need
of their undivided concentration.
And, parenthetically, while one would not
presume to question the sincerity and motives
of the American Legion, the courts'
rulings may establish that the veterans' organization
was a bit premature in handing
]
out its bumper batch of "citations of honor'
for Americanism." I
Obviously, however, it is too much to expect
that HoUywood will ever be entirely
free of controversies and, causes. An indication
of such perpetual propensity was
the recent action by the Screen Actors Guild,
whose directorate voted to support a strilte
of farm workers at the DiGiorgio ranch near
Bakersfield and collected a cash contribution
for the strikers' assistance.
SAG's concern with the farm strike is
particularly noteworthy in view of the guild's
fence-straddling position during the late
not lamented studio
strikes.
but
But maybe the Thespians feel they have
more in common with the DiGiorgio farm
workers. It could be a turkey farm, ya know.
Out Westwood way, 20th-Fox reportedly is
looking for a character to portray a leprechaun,
Irish folklore figure, in its upcoming
Tyrone Power starrer. The leprechaim is
described as a "wizened, gnome-like creatm-e."
Han-y (The Palm) Brand has declined a
screen test.
TITLE TINKERS' CORNER
Republic has changed the title of "Thunder
in the Forest" to "Lightnin' in the For-
Why not up the budget a bit and have
both?
Reportedly, Metro is huddling Maurice
Chevalier anent the possible production of
a picture based on the French entertainer's
career—a la "Jolson Story."
If the same inexplicable casting techinque
is employed, Charles Boyer probably will be
cast in the title role—or, possibly, Mickey
Rooney.
30 BOXOFnCE :: January 17, 1948

^A hit ... a sock show."
-FILM DAILY
lint spells boxoffice."
-HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
"Action plus
"Payees should
3ile in." "Has what it takes to start
-VARIETY
that merry jingle at boxoffice." "Wide
-DAILY VARIETY
iiudience appeal."
"Calculated to
-BOXOFFICE
*C M the till." "First rate...
I^K*^^ f*^ -M. p. DAILY
chockful of swashbuckle."
^
m
-M. p. HERALD
"Excellent for all
audiences."
-SHOWMEN'S TR. REV.
£
COLi
Uh'P-"--
i ^^ORGt
4*fe^-W '»4«« s,

New
'
7iJ€i^Ac»t^to*t
n SHARP FIGHT over the 20 per cent admissions
tax shaped up this weelc in the
face of the new budget request from the
White House, which is counting upon the levy
for another year at least.
President Harry S. Truman estimated the
admissions tax, a form of excise levy, would
yield the Treasury department $380,000,000
in the fiscal year 1949 which starts July 1.
This is the same figure as estimated for the
fiscal year 1948.
The total comes chiefly from theatre admissions,
although tickets to sporting and
other events also must bear the 20 per cent
tax.
The budget release brought an immediate
reaction from the Capitol. Rep. Harold C.
Hagen, Republican of Minnesota, said he
would speedily introduce his bill to cut the
tax to 10 per cent. "This would save persons
going to theatres an estimated $200,000,000 a
year," he declared.
Other congressmen expressed support.
Meanwhile, the whole budget proposal came
under a heavy attack, chiefly from Republican
congressmen who thought it sh.-uld call for
lower corporate taxes and a reduction, instead
of an increase, in federal spending, as
asked by the budget message.
In a move to aid the industi-y. Rep. Gordon
L. McDonough, Republican of California,
sought to bat down the 20 per cent tax on
the manufacture of motion picture equipment
produced by a company for its own use. Mc-
Donough is sponsoring legislation on this.
SEVERAL PROBES in the entertainment
field are under way or in the works. One
aimed at James C. Petrillo, head of the
American Federation of Musicians, is designed
to end restrictive covenants and agreements
which are tying up the free distribution *f
music to television and radio. Complaining
witnesses took the stand before the house
labor committee first, with Czar Petrillo to
appear January 19. As he went to the witness
stand, the television cameras were aimed
at him.
In an action designed to iron out the tangled
Hollywood labor dispute. Rep. Carroll D.
Kearns, Republican of Pennsylvania, head of
a labor subcommittee, promised to try to
"fix the trouble and the blame." He called
heads of film companies in subpoenas returnable
February 17, and said he would invite
labor leaders, too.
There has been conflicting testimony in
the Hollywood hearings, he said. "I hope this
Washington hearing will result in satisfactory
settlement of existing jurisdictional disputes,"
he said. "If not, however, the Kearns
subcommittee will do all in its power to fix
the responsibility for this catastrophe and
recommend remedial legislation to the Congress."
THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
struck out this week against an Argentine
proposal to require presentation of stage
shows in all theatres showing films.
^cftcnt
By LEE GARLIN6
"In the first place, there would hardly be
enough talent available to provide stage programs
for the 1,700 theatres in the country."
according to Nathan D. Golden, consultant
for motion pictures of the department. He
was commenting on a report from the U.S.
embassy in Argentina.
"More important, the question of division
of gross receipts between theatre owner and
film distributor would become more complicated
in view of the added stage feature,"
he said. "First run theatres have tried on
many occasions to introduce stage performances
on the same program with motion picture
films, but every such attempt has ended
in complete failure.
"Audiences would seem to prefer programs
made up entirely of films or entirely of stage
acts, but not mixed programs," Mr. Golden
told BOXOFFICE.
The idea is contained in a bill submitted
to the Argentine Chamber of Deputies. The
bill would requii-e all motion picture theatres
to put on stage performances for at least one
hour a day for three days weekly.
Musical numbers, dances and theatrical
bill acts could be included, the specifies. At
least 75 per cent of the actors would have
to be Argentine nationals.
A FULLER EXPLANATION of the Burma
entertainment tax, which wiU cut deeply into
the sales revenues of the U.S. industry,
reached Washington this week from Rangoon.
The tax is an 80 per cent levy on the gross
receipts of motion picture films made in the
United States, when the film involves payment
in United States or Canadian currencies.
The tax, which became effective
Dec. 1, 1947, absolves educational or travel
films.
The Rangoon officials told Commerce department
consultants that the idea is to hold
on to scarce dollars and to foster the domestic
industry. The country is trying hard to hold
on to U.S. and Canadian dollars.
Edison Laboratory Opens
ToPubliconFeb.il
WEST ORANGE, N. J.—The laboratory of
Thomas A. Edison at West Orange will be
opened to the public February 11, the 101st
anniversary of the inventor's birth—and the
laboratory thereafter will serve as headquarters
for the Thomas Alva Edison Foundation
educational and research program, it
was announced this week by Charles F. Kettering,
president of the organization.
The West Orange laboratory was the birthplace
of such important inventions as the
motion picture, improved phonograph, fluoroscope,
and the universal electric motor among
others. One of the first projects of the
Foundation will be to make a comprehensive
study of the more than 2,500 notebooks and
other data concerning Edison's work which
are now stored in a fireproof vault there.
Members of the board of the Foundation
include Mary Pickford, Spyros Skouras, and
David Sarnoff.
Establishes Bus Route
To Pick Up Patrons
Cut Off, La.—Fishermen and farmers
of this bayou country are transported, free
to the Star Theatre in nearby Galiano in
a bus put into service by John L. Guidry
and Menton A. Chouest sr. soon after
they purchased the Star last month.
Tlie .50-passeng:er bus, driven by a member
of the theatre staff, covers a route
eight miles on each side of Bayou Lafourche
twice nightly, five days a week,
picking up theatre patrons and taking
them home. About 40 per cent of the
patronage comes to the theatre by bus,
according to Daniel J. Olivier, manager.
A loudspeaker system installed in the bus
broadcasts news of the attractions as it
drives through the countryside.
Galiano is a town of about 2,000 residents,
serviced by mail from Cut Off.
Principal industries of the community are
seafoods, oil and truck farming.
They Were Just a Couple
Of Film-Struck Yesss
Chicago—Two Chicago men who apparently
had an overpowering desire to
operate their own theatre, strictly for
their own entertainment, discovered
this week that their venture was not
so amusing.
They had stolen a projector last
June from the B&K Century Theatre
and set it up at home. Since then they
have been stealing reels of film from
the loading platforms on Filmrow to
use in their stolen projector. To make
their enterprise even more realistic,
they finally broke into the Cine Theatre
and took several ushers un-iforms,
some candy, and a small amount of
money.
Patrolman Leo Mikell of the Chicago
police department arrested Leonard
Soszynski outside the Cine Theatre.
He said Sosyznski and John
Kledzik confessed the thefts, and that
police had taken from them films
valued at $10,000.
RCA International Chairs
in 51 Houses
Installed
CAMDEN, N. J.—International Theatre
chairs, distributed through independ-
RCA
ent theatre supply dealers, have been installed
in 51 theatres throughout the country.
The theatres are:
Rex, East Rutherford, N. I ; Academy, Northampton,
Mass: Didsbury, Wal»!en, N. Y.; Arroyo,
Arroyo Grande, Calif,: Fox, Crestwood, Fla.; Ohio,
Cave-in-Rock, III.: Pix, Sunnyslope, Ariz: New
Theatre, Hyden, Ky.: Monarch, Pritchetl, Colo,:
Coy's Hi-Line, Seattle: Kirby's, Bothell, Wash,: Martin,
: Martin, Ky,: New Theatre, Lester, W. Va New
Theatre, Crossville, 111: Astor, North Charlotte,
N, C: Harlem, Augusta, Ga.: Richfield, Minneapolis,
Minn.: New Theatre, Wheelwright lunction, Ky,:
Arcadia, Wellsboro, Pa., and Lake, Bailey's Harbor,
Wis
Also: Kirkwood, Atlanta, Ga.: Royal, Warsaw,
Ritz, Denison, Iowa: La Forge, La Farge, Wis.,
111,:
New Theatre, Middletown, Ind,: Colusa. Colusa,
Calif: Broad, Horrisbura, Pa: Waco, Huntington,
W. Va: New Theatre, Clinton, Minn : Irvine, Irvin.,
Kv Theatre, Ozona, Tex: New Theatre,
Wilder, Idaho: Tower, Melba, Idaho: Southern,
Columbus, Ohio: Paonia, Paonia, Colo,: New Thea-
tre, Shenandoah, Iowa: Ideal, Sprinafield, V\
Tarkio, Torkio, Mo.: Civic, Portsmouth, N H.:
Royal, Findlay, Ohio: New Theatre, Chapmansville,
W. Va,: Twain, Mansfield, Pa,: Fairfax, Kilmarnock
Va.: New Theatre, Chincoteague, Va,: Colonial,
J.; Vt.: Bradford, Parks, Caldwell, N, Rialto, Cape
Girardeau, Mo.: Leedom, Elbow Lake. Minn.: Royal,
Chillicothe, Ohio: New Theatre, Steele, Mo and
,
Pal, Mount Vernon, Ga
NBC Television Readying
Phila.-Baltimore Link
NEW 'VORK—The National Broadcasting
Co. is completing a temporary radio relay
link between Philadelphia and Baltimore to
relieve the congestion of television circuits
southward from New 'York. The circuit will ;
eventually be extended to Washington.
J
When the new link goes into operation early
in Febniary, NBC Television will have fulltime
use of a four-station network from
i
Schenectady to Baltimore. At present NBC
shares a circuit with CBS and DuMont.
Roosevelt Film in Europe
THE HAGUE—Oliver A.
Unger, vice-president
of Distinguished Films, Inc., and coproducer
of "The Roosevelt Story," attended
a command performance by Queen Wilhelmina
of the film January 10. This was
also the first European showing. On January
20, Unger will launch the film in Great
Britain at the Odeon Theatre in London.
"The Roosevelt Story" is having soundtracks
made in 14 languages.
32 BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194«

!>.
f
'T-Men, the new Thrilluloid!'
-\Na\\&r Winchell
"The Pick of the Pictures.
Best Picture of Week!"
—Jimmy Fidler's Coastto-Coast
Broadcast
'Exploitation natural
should click heavily with
—Daily Variety
'Red-blooded, hard-boiled
drama can be expected to
deliver handsome returns!"
'Ranks with best, not
excepting
'House on 92nd St.!'"
—Boxoffice
-yvi. P. Daily
'Unlimited possibilities for
top exploitation . .
headed for top grosses
everywhere!"
—Showmen's Trade Review
"Box-ofFice natural/ equal if
not superior to 'House on
92nd St.', 'Brute Force', and
'The Killers!'" ,., „ „ ,.
—Film Bulletm
"Dynamic, smashing
entertainment... a winner!'
—Hollywood Reporter
"One of most interesting
pictures of the kind I have
ever seen!"
—Louella Parsons
"What 'House on 92nd St.'
did for the FBI, 'T-Men' does
for the Treasury agents!"
—Variety
"Has what it takes to pull
customers off streets!"
—Independent
"Solid box-ofFice click...
not a dull foot of film!"
—Film Daily
I?
EDWARD SMALL
presents
starring
DENNIS O'KEEFEwth mary meade-alfred ryderwally ford
JUNE LOCKHART- CHARLES McGRAW. Produced by AUBREY SCHENCK- Directed by ANTHONY MANN
Wntten by John C. Higgins
• Suggested by a Story by Viiginia Kellogg • An Eagle Lion Films Release

. . Edward
. . . "Wake
. . Paramount's
. Over
. . United
. . Eronel
. . Viveca
. .
. .
'?^Mf«M^ defiant
Three Distribution Deals
Signed by Screen Guild
On several counts, it appeared obvious
early in the new year that Independent production
organizations generally have not yet
succumbed to the bad case of jitters cun-ently
affecting the major film-makers. At any
rate, picture-making schedules charted by
several of the sharecropping units were
reaching new highs, at least as concerns
optimism, while among their bigger brothers
the trend has been toward cutting down output
and reducing expenditures in every possible
way.
Exemplifying this expanded activity among
the independents was the disclosure that
Screen Guild's 1947-48 distribution program
has been augmented through setting of distribution
deals with three production units,
one of them a newcomer. This one. y-clept
East-West Pictures and headed by Irving
Goldstein and Jack Goldberg, is committed
to deliver six pictures to SG within the next
15 months. At the same time Maurice Conn,
veteran independent, arranged SG distribution
for his next two offerings, while release
through the same outfit was set by Maurice
Nunes for five outdoor films which he plans
to make this year.
Still another independent, R. B. Roberts
Productions—headed by Roberts and John
Garfield—mapped a schedule of four pictures
to be turned out during the next two
years, two of them to star Garfield. The outfit's
initialer, "Body and Soul," was made in
association with Enterprise for United Artists
release. The forthcoming quartet will
include "Tucker's People" and "The World
and Little Willie," starring Garfield, and
"Great Indoors" and "Deborah." On these.
Roberts and Garfield are negotiating major
distribution.
Jules Buck Joins Horizon
In Executive Capacity
For the past two years an associate of the
late Mark Hellinger, Jules Buck has joined
Horizon Pictures, recently-orgianized independent
headed by John Huston and Sam
Spiegel. He will function as talent executive
and supervisor of publicity and advertising . . .
Bill Peirce has been named publicity director
of Transatlantic Pictures, the Alfred
Hitchcock company which set a two-picture
releasing deal through Warners. Peirce recently
resigned as publicity-advertising chief
for Benedict Bogeaus . Finney was
booked as a production supervisor by Audio
Pictures and is functioning in that capacity
on "Children of the Sun," semidocumentary
with an all-Indian cast . . . Gibraltar Pictures
signed Bill Deming as an associate
producer, with "Song of India," starring
Sabu, as his first chore.
William A. Seiter to Meg
'One Touch of Venus'
Veteran picture-pilot William A. Seiter will
handle the reins on "One Touch of Venus,"
film version of the stage musical, which
Lester Cowan will produce for Universal-International.
Seiter replaces Irving Reis.
originally set, but now in New York dickering
for a stage play . . . Bill Thomas will direct
two, and Bill Pine will direct a third, of
their independent unit's first batch of four
for Paramount this year. Thomas will meg
"Dynamite" and "Special Agent," while Pine
By
IVAN SPEAR
will handle "Disaster" and Lewis R. Foster is
set to direct "The Man Who Stole a Dream"
. . . Scott R. Dunlap, executive aide to Steve
Broidy, president of Monogram-Allied Artists,
will return to active production this
spring by turnuig out "Sweet Molly Malone,"
musical to star Gale Storm . California
Productions signed Richard Wallace
to pilot "Let's Live a Little," the outfit's first
for Eagle Lion release . . . William Cameron
Menzies will be associate producer on Walter
Wanger's forthcoming "The Ballad and the
Source" . . . Second film on the program for
Frank Seltzer Productions and 20th-Fox release,
will be "Flymi and Mr. Flynn," an
original comedy by Seltzer, which Jack Jevne
is scripting . . . R. G. Springsteen is set to
direct Republic's "Secret Service Investigator."
Budd Schulberg Assigned
'Rosanna McCoy' Script
Samuel Goldwyn added a new property to
his 1948 slate for RKO Radio release and
ticketed Budd Schulberg, noveUst and
scenarist, to develop it. Titled "Rosanna
McCoy," it is a novel by Alberta Hannum
of the Red Witch," John Wayne
starrer at Republic, will be directed by Edward
Ludwig ... An addition to Jeffrey
Bernerd's production schedule at Monogram
is "Forgotten Women," based on current
agitation to keep unescorted women out of
bars . "It's Always Spring"
will be megged by Norman Z. McLeod.
MGM Adds More Names
To 'Musketeers' Cast
MGM is still adding to the cast of its bigbudgeted
costumer. "The Three Musketeers."
Handed prominent roles in the featm-e were
Frank Morgan. Vincent Price, Gig Yoimg and
John Sutton'. . at Paramount John
Beal was set for a topline in "Abigail, Dear
Heart" . . . Warners assigned Alexis Smith
to one of the starring roles in its forthcoming
comedy, "Four Wise Bachelors" . . . Windsor
Pictures, headed by Frank Melford and
Julian Lesser, borrowed Gale Storm from
Monogram to co-star in "When a Man's a
Man," its initialer for Monogram-Allied Artists
release.
Of Three Story Purchases
Independents Buy Two
Additional evidence of the contrast between
major and independent activity was
reflected in the story market—where, out of
a total of only thi-ee transactions, two properties
were acquired by sharecroppers.
To Gibraltar Productions, new unit hea,fied
by Albert S. Rogell and David L. Hersh, went
"Shadow of Time," a story by Lee Frederi«6.
Slated as the third on Gibraltar's six-picture
program, it will be filmed in Cinecolor for an
unannounced release . . . The Brethren King,
who hang their respective chapeaux at Monogram-Allied
Artists, picked up "Fighting
Dukes," prizefight yarn by Alvin Singer. The
story of an east side boy who makes good as
a professional boxer, it is slated for camera
work in April . . . Republic, the only major
to build up its story files during the period
bought "Flight Prom Fury" from John K.
Butler and assigned Sidney Picker to produce
it. The yarn concerns a young couple who
steal some money and then find their loot
can't bring them happiness.
SicLuh's 16th Year
With Columbia
In an industry characterized, among
other foibles, by mercurial changes in
personnel, it becomes newsworthy when
one picture-maker observes his 16th anniversary
with the same studio. Such is
the accomplishment of Ralph Staub, who
has begun his 17th year with Columbia
by editing his 369th Screen Snapshot.
Staub, it is claimed, holds the Hollywood
record for short subjects turned out
by one man, with a total of 630 to his
credit.
MGM Loans Out Two Stars.
Borrows 20th-Fox Actor
Borrowed from MGM, Marjorie Main is set
to co-star with Donald O'Connor and Percy
Kilbride in Universal-International's new
slapstick western, "The Wonderful Race at
Rimrock" ... At the same studio another
loanout found Audrey Totter also moving over
from Metro for a co-starring role with Robert
Montgomery in "The Saxon Charm" .
Meantime, Metro hit the loanout trail to borrow
Cesar Romero from 20th-Fox. He and
Mary Boland will have top supporting roles
in the Greer Garson comedy, "Julia Misbe-
.
haves" Pi-oductions, headed by
.
Sam Abarbanel and Alan Posner, signed William
Gargan to star in its initialer for Film
. . . Classics, "The Argyle Secrets" Lucille
Ball has signed a seven-year, one-pictureannually,
ticket at Columbia, where here
first starring role will be in "Pink Lady"
Gene Lockhart draws a topline in 20th-Fox's
"Apartment for Peggy" . Lindfors
will next appear in "Autumn Crocus" at Warners
. . . Jack Holt goes into Republic's new
untitled William Elliott starrer in a featured
spot.
'Prefabrication' Is Used
For RKO African Film
Time was, when a Hollywood studio planned
a film about Africa, it would immediattly
assemble an ambitious and expensive Iikjtion
crew and dispatch it to the Dark Continent
to pick up background shots. Not mi,
however, since economy in production became
a prerequisite in film technique.
With the banki-oU in mind, Producer-Director
Merian C. Cooper has introduced what
he calls "prefabrication" in the manufacture
of "Mr. Joseph Young of Africa." now
before the cameras for RKO Radio release.
In effect, the idea embraces the liberal u.se
of specially-made stock shots without tran.sparencies,
which Cooper hopes will give the
film a semidocumentary flavor and eliminate
the aura of fuzziness which frequently
characterizes such money-saving shortcuts
in the finished product. African location
footage forms an integral part of the story,
and backgrounds for closeups are being
duplicated entirely by set-dressing on stage.
First of Modest-Budgeters
From Warners Started
First of Warners' modest-budget features
to be turned out by the new program unit
headed by Saul Elkms has gone before the \
cameras. Titled "The Fighting Terror," it is
being megged by Sherry Shourds, former
assistant director, and features Wayne Morris.
Fred Clark and Lois Maxwell.
This will be followed by a minimum of five
others during 1948, all to be shot on short
schedules and serving as "proving grounds"
for the studio's younger players.
34 BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948 &

E RETURNS ARE COMING IN...AND IT'S A LANDSLIDE!
^f^
ACROSS THE NATION THEY'RE RAVING
ABOUT YOUR NEW STAR SENSATION!
"Feminine fans are bound to receive him
with the same fervor as a new Gable or
Boyer."
-DETROIT NEWS
He has personality

^(mcUh^ "^efrMt
terest in the affairs of the company until his
internment along with Zampi when Italy entered
the war. Released before his associate
he took over the reins of Two Cities and
secua-ed backing to make Noel Coward's "In
Which We Serve," which was an undoubted
success both artisticall and financially. At
about this time J. Arthur Rank started expanding
and brought Two Cities into his group
with Del installed as production chief. In the
years that followed he was responsible for
the production of the cream of Rank's prestige
output and was associated with several
of the most famous British pictures. He was
also associated with some very expensive
flops and the split with Rank came when the
latter laid down the rule that pictures had to
be made good but cheap.
It was after the split that Del Giudice began
a campaign against the distributors obviously
aimed at Rank's GFD setup, which
has a great deal to say when pictures are
scheduled. It is safe to say that this campaign
has not helped Del to any extent for
this country, like America, has little time for
By JOHN SULLIVAN
J^AN OF THE WEEK, in terms of publicity a man who attacks a former employer, particularly
space at least, is Filippo Del Giudice, the
one who has backed him up to the
former production chief of Two Cities Films, hilt.
who recently left Rank to form his owm production
If his statement is true and he has found
company.
the money to back several pictures Del Giu-
Del has been breaking into the headlines dice's stake in the affair is still somewhat
consistently in the last few weeks. First with vague. As stated above the first film will be
his long-winded manifesto about divorcing
production from distribution, then with the
"The Guinea Pig," which the Boultings will
produce for release by Pathe and since Del
news that his backers had got cold feet and will be neither producer nor distributor his
withdrawn their support and now with the role seems to be that of an intermediary between
the finance and the production office.
story that another mystery man—referred to
as Mr. X—has come to his aid with the His former associate, Mario Zampi, is now
promise of financial backing.
making a comeback as an independent, producing
modest-budget
The mysterious Mr. X is reported to be a
films for release as
North of England industrialist who has been
second featiu-es and making them well.
impressed with Del Giudice's fight to keep
the producer independent of financial interests
GAINSBOROUGH'S new speed-up policy
seems to be paying off with the announcement
and it is an odd coincidence, to say
the least, that this shy manufacturer should
this week that "Easy Money" has been
rush into print in the Daily Mail, giving set for trade show on January 21. This picture
his reasons for backing Del and signing himself
went on the floor September 15—and 18
weeks between start of production and trade
"The Gu-'nea Pig" which is the title of the film which the Boulting Brothers are show is something of a record for England!
making under the Del Giudice banner. In The company was aided in this case by the
trade circles the story is not believed nor is
mode of story construction as the film is composed
of four episodes and it was possible to
the other tale that Del's visit to New York is
sponsored by the Board of Trade. For obvious
shoot these in continuity and have a rough
reasons the government would be chary
to
of sponsoring a man who was interned during
the next. In this film Sydney Box is going
cut of each part ready before proceeding
the war years as an enemy alien.
If he does exist, Del's backer must be a very
brave man, for the program lineup that has
ahead with his idea of making popular pictures
and is convinced that he has an even
bigger boxoffice winner in "Easy Money" than
been announced is one that would make the in "Holiday Camp," which
normal "angel" quail. The Boulting twins,
was top moneymaker
of the year on the Gaumont circuit.
Peter Ustinov and Noel Coward are all noted The story deals with the football pools which
for artistic disregard of cost of production have an enormous following in England and
and, with the exception of Coward, have not the picture should have a ready-made market
with the millions of enthusiasts who fill
yet had a boxoffice hit to justify this lofty
contempt of mere money, although the Boultings
in their pools coupons each week.
may yet pull it off with their latest film,
Box's story some weeks ago that he was
"Brighton Rock," which is mentioned later in
determined to speed up production by making
use of location units is put into effect this
this column.
week as a unit leaves for Africa to start work
on a picture provisionally titled "Ti-ek." This
SOME RECOLLECTION of Del Giudice's will come back to floor work in England in
about three months time and will be the
film background may be interesting at this
stage in his career. He first came into the industry
second of a series of family films rather like
the Andy Hardy series. While the unit is
when he was associated with Mario
Zampi as legal adviser to the latter's newly
formed Two Cities Films. It is worth recalling
that the two cities mentioned in the title
were London and Rome and Del's first connection
with the company was when, in his
away the first of the series will be in production
at Gainsborough's Islington studio.
So it seems that at least one producer is
taking the film shortage seriously and working
to turn out as many films as possible.
capacity as an Italian attorney-at-law practicing
in England he was consulted over a
(
legal matter involving a question of the validity
RKO'S "CROSSFIRE," which opened here
of a contract. He took an increasing in-
two weeks ago, has been doing an SRO busi-
ness at two west end theatres—the New Gallery
and the Tivoli. "Crossfire" got off to a
very good press as a sincere and intelligent
picture and has been reaping a good profit.
Adrian Scott, the producer, is remembered
here for his work at Denham on "So Well
RKO-Rank produc-
Remembered," the joint
tion.
STARTING ITS FIRST RUN at the Warner
Theatre this week is "Brighton Rock,"
the latest production of John and Roy Boulting.
There is no doubt that in this picture
they have considerably modified their ideas
of film art and aimed frankly at the boxoffice.
The result is a picture which is a competent,
well-made job and one which should
do a big business at home and abroad.
The film is based on the play and novel
by Graham Greene and tells of the activities
of razor gangs in Brighton in the period between
the two wars. It is authentic and gripping,
but will probably be attacked here since
it is another of the large number of crime
pictures which have recently been previewed
Se/zniclr io Start Filming
In Europe During April
New York—David O. Selznick will start
producing films in Europe in April. Selznick
Releasing Organization will handle
worldwide distribution. The pictures will
be made with American stars.
The first film
will be made in
Sweden. It will be
the first sound
film version of "A
Doll's H o u s e,"
based on the Henrik
Ibsen play.
Dorothy McGuire
will star. Shooting
will start April
15.
Argyle Nelson,
Selznick studio
David O. Selznick
production
has
m a n -
ager, left for
Sweden to act as general manager for the
project. Selznick is footing the bill. The
picture will be produced without foreign
financial aid.
in England. Its value in art houses in the
U.S. is also undoubtedly great, but it is a
debatable point whether it will do the prestige
of Britain any good to show the seamy side
of life here, particularly as these race-track
gangs have long since vanished.
One thing is certain; "Brighton Rock" is
a personal triumph for young Richard Attenborough,
who has the part of his career as
Pinkie, a sadistic young gangster. Its effect
on his fans is problematical, for Attenborough
has built a very large following here
among teen-agers, comparable only to that
e.rjoyed by Frank Sinatra a year or two ago
in the U.S. To see their star in such a role
after a succession of pleasant but somewhat
negative parts may well prove a shock to
them.
Attenborough is under personal contract to
the Boultings and will start work on their
new picture. "The Guinea Pig," January 29.
Dutch Propose 45% Tax
On Exhibitor Grosses
THE HAGUE—The Netherlands govern^
ment has proposed that all municipalities
raise their amusement taxes on motion picture
theatres from 20 to 45 per cent. The tax
on legitimate houses will continue at 20 pei
cent.
Exhibitors throughout Holland have protested
to the minister of the interior, who
made the proposal. They are also campaigning
against the measure in their communities.
It has been pointed out that grosses dropped
during 1947. Amsterdam theatremen said
that their business was off 25 per cent over
a 12-month period.
'Joan of Arc' Is New Title
Of Bergman's RKO Film
NEW YORK—"Joan of Arc" will be the release
title for Sierra Pictures' Technicolor
film starring Ingrid Bergman, according to
N, Peter Rathvon, president of RKO, which
will release the picture. It is based on Maxwell
Anderson's stage play, "Joan of Lorraine."
During production, it had the working
title of "Joan."
WB to Show British Film
NEW YORK—Warner Bros, will hold a national
tradeshowing of "I Became a Criminal,"
a British-made production with Sally Gray,
Trevor Howard and Griffith Jones, February
9. The feature will be nationally released
March 6.
36 BOXOFFICE :: January 17,

CHESTER FRIEDMAN
EDITOR
HUGH E. FRAZE
Associate Editor
OOXOfflW
SECTION
PRACTICAL IDEAS FOR SELLING SEATS BY PRACTICAL SHOWMEN
December BOXOFFICE Bonuses
Reward Persistent Ttieatremen
C**\
Showmandisiiig during December paid off
wltli a BOXOFFICE Bonus to ten tlieatremen,
several of whom liave been Icnoclcing
regularly on the door to fame and honor aad
cash. Each of the ten will receive a check
for $10 and a Letter of Commendation for
ideas and promotions devised and executed
in behalf of the boxoffice, and submitted
to the Showmandiser section last month.
Bill Reisinger, manager of Loew's, Dayton,
a persistent subscriber to the theory that
promotional advertising is most effective and
economical, delivered an overwhelming number
of cooperative newspaper ads to earn top
laurels in that department.
In England, where theatremen are still
striving to overcome numerous obstacles to
successful exploitation and promotion, Benny
Goodman, manager of the Savoy in Grimsby,
Lincolnshire, was awarded the Ballyhoo
bonus in connection with an all-around campaign
on "It's a Wonderful Life."
Canada also produced a bonus winner in
G. K. Garbig, manager of the Kent in Lindsay,
Ont., for several excellent window tieups
arranged to exploit "Adventure Island."
For the most outstanding theatre front of
the month, Dwight Seymour, manager of the
Arbor in Nebraska City, Neb., was honored.
W. B. Porter, manager of the Avalon, Minneapolis,
a neighborhood operation, earned his
bonus for an attractive lobby display which
helped to boost business by over 200 per cent.
An outstanding Christmas week house program
won the approval of the BOXOFFICE
staff and $10 for Bierney Feld, manager of
the Jersey in Morristown, N. J. Feld has been
making the layouts for the Walter Reade
theatres in the area in addition to his regular
managerial duties at the Jersey. The
program he submitted is original, colorful,
and embodies all the elements of good layout
with potent selling and institutional copy.
Larry Beltz, manager of the Grand, Wausau.
Wis., came up with an original idea, a
"Coke and Jam Session" that cut a good boxoffice
figure; Phil Katz, Kenyon, Pittsburgh,
clicked with a general tieup that pushed his
theatre gross ahead for two solid months;
Jim Pi-eddy's smart newspaper ad layouts at
the Telenews in Dallas won him deserved
recognition, and Aubrey Penny. Ritz, Waycross.
Ga., annexed the Public Relations
bonus for a civic tieup on "Welcome Stranger."
W. B. Porter
Kiwi G. K. Garbig Jim Preddy
oLion Ljoed ^Jrheadl
The announcement last week by Max Youngstein. director
of advertising, publicity and exploitation for Eagle Lion, that
his company would continue to expand its policy of direct aid
to the exhibitor is a cheering note so early in the year.
Although Eagle Lion is practically a newcomer in the distribution
field, its policy of aggressive merchandising has been
an inspiring spectacle during recent months when so many
companies dispensed with their field forces and reduced exhibitor
aid to a bare token effort.
Mr. Youngstein and his associates, both in the home office
and in the field, do not have top name values to sell. Nor do
they have the vast resources which many of the other companies
enjoy. But there are many exhibitors who have reason
to be thankful for Mr. Youngstein's hard-hitting force of ex-
•^ ploiteers, who apparently know how to make the most of what
materials
^
they do have to bring every last dollar possible into
the boxoffice.
In the final analysis, that is what
in the trade as "smart showmanship."
generally recognized
A package of tearsheets in the mail reporting the reopening
of the Saenger, Hope, Ark., indicates how grateful the
citizens and businessmen of the community feel toward the
Richards-Lightman enterprises for refurbishing the beautiful
house destroyed by fire four years ago. The Hope Star dedicates
an entire issue to the reopening. A page one editorial
commends the owners and cites the Saenger as a real community
asset.
Memories are awakened of 1930, when we called at the
Saenger regularly during our travels for Publix Theatres Corp.
The theatre, only three years old then, was many years ahead
of its time, providing 2,000 seats for the 6,000 inhabitants of
Hope. We have a vivid recollection of the only hotel there, a
modest two-story building, whose owner displayed unmatchable
faith in his fellowman There were no locks on the doors
—and no keys.
(Continued on next page)

I
i
What Makes You Think
There's Nothing New
In Show Business?
In this country the customary phone
is greeting "Hello." In England, when you
call someone on the phone, the response is,
"Are you there?" But if you call someone
in Coleman, Tex., the chances are you will
hear, "Go to the Dixie and see 'Mother
Wore Tights,' " or whatever else happens
to be on exhibition that day.
All this is not as fantastic as it sounds.
It is all the result of the Dixie phone
award, conceived in the fertile mind of G.
Farris Squibb, manager of the Dixie Theatre,
to get telephone subscribers in Coleman
to boost his programs and keep his
current attractions on the tip of their
tongues.
Every day Squibb selects at random a
phone number from the local directory and
calls. If he gets the required answer, the
alert citizen on the other end wins the
jackpot. Each day the jackpot is increased
by $1 if the person called forgets himself
and answers, "Hello." When the approved
"Go to the Dixie and see ..." is the re-
li's a Bird, It's a Plane,
No! It's Bob Hope
Buddy Heck, manager of the Mayfair in
Asbury Park, N. J., executed a stunt for
"Where There's Life" that had motorists
passing along nearby lake shores stopping to
rub their eyes.
Driving by the icy waters of Deal and
Ocean Grove lakes, the unsuspecting drivers
suddenly noticed what appeared to be a man
clad only in underwear, standing calf-deeii
among the ice-floes. Upon examination at
close range, they discovered the "man" was
merely a cutout, blown up from a still, of
Bob Hope and an announcement of the Mayfair
playdates of "Where There's Life."
Stage Show Turns Monday
Into Top Money Night
Martin Cave, manager of the Dominion
Tlieatre, Victoria, B. C, has converted Monday
nights from one of the poorest in attendance
to a top money night by presenting
a stage show and amateur contest each
week.
Cave presents a cowboy troupe sponsored
by McDonald's Electric Co.. and every Monday
night has local amateurs compete for
prizes. The Victoria radio station broadcasts
the program from the theatre stage whicii
has helped to publicize the event. The electric
firm also boosts the program frequently
in its newspaper ads and radio broadcasts.
For the initial program. Cave induced
Mayor Percy E. George of Victoria to make
a personal appearance, with newspapers carrying
stories and pictures of both the mayor
and the talent.
Kids Get Gifts, Prizes
At a special Saturday morning show for
children just before Christmas, Leonard
Little, manager of the Laurelton, Laurelton,
N. Y.. awarded prizes and games. Each child
who attended received free candy, cookies
and a comic book.
38
A Texas exhibitor comes up with a
neiv adaptation of a popular radio
technique and proves that low cost
advertising can make his shorvs the
subject of everyday conversation in
a community of 6,000. // you can add
a dollar a day to your ad budget, or
if you divert that sum frcnn your
present setup, here is an idea which
you, too. may find profitable, Mr.
Showmandiser.
sponse, Squibb pays off and starts the
jackpot over again with $1.
The stunt, which has housewives frantic
keeping the Dixie attractions propped
around the telephone, is the most economical
method of publicizing his shows »hat
Squibb has uncovered in 15 years as an
exhibitor, and by far the most effective.
Squibb started the idea just a few weeks
ago. Already it has captured the fancy of
everyone in Coleman. He used a trailer,
lobby board, circulars and his house program
to start it off. Now word-of-mouth
does the rest.
The name of the person called each day
is posted in the lobby, and careless citizens
who give the habitual "hello" instead of
the required "Go to the Dixie and see ."
. .
come in for some good-natured ribbing
among their friends. This serves to keep
the phone busy and builds up even greater
publicity as the now cautious person decides
to give all callers the proper salutation.
-^^

PUTTING UP
A GOOD FRONT
The showmandiser puts his right foot forward getting color
and action into his most prominent selling point, the theatre
front, for that is where extra sales are frequently clinched
as the transients shop their entertainment.
Lithograph cutouta, irregular
lettering and
"See" panel vividly
portray the of
thrills
this adventure program
in contrast to
holiday decorations.
Dan Dandrea, manager
of the Stanley,
Bridgeton, N. created
J.,
the front to at-
tract Christmas shoppers.
IlllllllllHIHIIilllilli^
This device focused attention on two programs
for Reg Streeter at the Mission.
Santa Barbara. Apparent disarray of
posters was result of excitement when the
doorman learned a fine show had been
booked to follow—so says the 40x60.
Below, Stillman front, Cleveland, gives
Manager A. Gates opportunity to exploit
ast-minute ideas, current events or, as in „
his case, a good review. P
WARD '^::^t^:::::-x
^"'^:—
mm
---
i^ffi TARTLING'SENSATOHAL^
^eSijfll PR D STRANGE ^
Above, Sam Greisman's
prison front for
"Brute Force" at the
Colonial in Detroit
had large star cutouts
behind iron bars
with over-all theme
conveying the picture's
lusty action.
Electric chair replica
may deter the timid,
but goes well with
most of Colonial patrons.
|r 2*k.
Hefty spear-toting amazon
gives an extra atmospheric
touch to Manager Arthur
Bergoffen's out-front efforts
to attract passerby trade to
the Portola in San Francisco.
At right, bird and animal
exhibit, borrowed from taxi
dermist, extends into the
outer vestibule where the
curious find additional
posters to entice them.

Patrons Response to Gift Nights
Sees Hoosier Through December
Bridgeport's Rooney
Lands 'McCoy' Slory
In Newspapers
Landing extra publicity stories on the sports
pages of the local dailies helped the engagement
of "Killer McCoy" at the Majestic
in Bridgeport. Conn., for Manager Harry A.
Rose.
Fred Versini, sports editor of the Bridgeport
Telegram, devoted a portion of his daily
column to plugging the film after Rose pointed
out that the plot of the picture, which
stars Mickey Rooney, might well be based
on the life of a local boxer named Jimmy
Rooney.
Rose obtained favorable advance reviews
and publicity in This Week in addition to
landing cooperative tieups with a local beauty
salon which featured a cut of Ann Blyth
who appears in the film production.
Daily plugs were set on a Guess the Tune
contest over WNAB and with Joe Barber,
sportscaster for that station. Fairfield county
news trucks were bannered, silk screen cards
were placed in choice window locations, and
125 bus cards were used with three-column
art illustration.
Louis Nye, manager of the Hoosier,
Whiting, Ind., concluded a solid month
of top promotional which enabled the
theatre to weather the drop of normal
business during December.
Highlight of his activities was centered
around Christmas Gift nights held on
three successive Wednesdays prior to
Christmas, during which $1,500 worth of
merchandise was given away at the theatre
through the courtesy of the Indiana
Supply Corp. The articles included an
electric washer, juicer, irons. broUmaster,
clocks, phonograph-radio, bicycle, etc.
The theatre furnished coupons for the
drawing and a trailer, with the merchant
contributing a window display, newspaper
and radio advertisements in addition to
supplying the gifts. The theatre seats 850
but averaged more than 1,200 admissions
on each night of the giveaway.
Street ballyhoo and outside exploitation
were favored by Nye on successive programs
throughout the month. For "Down
to Earth," red-headed couples were invited
to see the show as guests of the management.
Glamor charts in the form of circulars
were distributed through beauty
shops, stores and hotels.
A special front was created from litho
Newspaper Tieup Helps
Xmas Party in Jersey
A tieup with the Newark Star-Ledger
proved helpful in promoting a Christmas
cartoon party arranged by Thomas P. Arrants,
assistant manager of the Ritz, Elizabeth,
N. J.
The newspaper made up inserts which
were placed in newspapers and distributed
tliroughout Elizabeth two weel^s prior to the
show. They also supplied back issues of
comic sections which were given to children
attending the Ritz on Saturday and Sunday
matinees.
Arrants prepared 6,000 heralds armouncing
the cartoon show which were distributed
house to house by the theatre ushers.
The publicity obtained through the advertising
tieup brought increased business to
the theatre.
40
cutouts at slight expense, and a novel
street ballyhoo was effected, using two
ushers costumed to represent an angel and
a prophet, who toured the city streets with
banners carrying the playdates.
An annual custom of the theatre on the
day before Christmas is a free show for
children up to 13 years of age, with no
strings attached. A western feature, cartoons
and comedies were screened at the
morning performance. Fifteen hundred
tickets were distributed at school. The
device pays off annually in goodwill and
letters of approval received from scores
of parents.
"Song of the Thin Man" was exploited
by means of a 24-sheet flash front and
a ballyhoo boy dressed as "Hawkshaw the
Detective," carrying a sign: 'Tm looking
for the murderer and laughs in, etc., etc."
On "The Bachelor and the Bobby-
Soxer," Nye obtained permission to hang
a street banner, which was visible for
many blocks. He also used a boy and girl
ballyhoo with the man dressed in high
hat, cutaway and striped trousers typifying
the bachelor, and the young bobbysoxer
escorting him as he made the rounds
of the city streets.
Merchants Sponsor Co-Op
A page ad in the Santa Barbara News
Press was promoted by Norman W. Lofthus,
manager of the California Theatre there, to
exploit "Down to Earth." Local merchants
keyed their copy to "Down to Earth" prizes,
with Lofthus reserving space for a banner
headline, scene cuts and a display ad announcing
the theatre dates.
Ballyhoos 'Dear Ruth'
Loris Stanton, manager of the Strand,
Clarkesvllle, Ark., used a novel street ballyhoo
to exploit "Dear Ruth." Stanton had
a young man walk around the main streets
carrying a post card blowup addressed to
"Dear Ruth" at the Strand. On his back
another card carried a complete message
announcing the playdates.
—352—
Theatre Display Packs
Good Football Motif
An attractive foyer display was created by
Mike Piccirillo, manager, and Sid Wolf, assistant
manager of the Dyckman, New York,
to help plug coming attractions. A number
of cards, cut out and painted to simulate
footballs, were imprinted with the titles
and stars of coming hits. Tiein copy read:
"In football, a sure way to score a touchdown
on a pass is to flood one zone with
pass receivers. We have stolen one from the
gridiron masters by flooding the Dyckman
with a high score of entertainment value."
The football cutouts were suspended against
the background of the curtain above the
standee rail.
Another lobby device which has attracted
plenty of attention to coming attractions
at the Dyckman is an electric train set on
a table and surrounded by a picket fence.
Copy read: "Three Great Trains—The Freedom
Train, the Friendship Train, and the
Dyckman Entertainment Train." As the cars
run around the circular track, patrons are
able to read the titles of coming attractions
painted on the cars.
Safety Insurance Issued
For 'Copacabana' Date
Paul Dodson, manager of the Ritz, Russellville.
Ark., used a novelty herald to exploit
the recent engagement of "Copacabana."
Cards enclosed in envelopes were distributed,
with a small ad cut from the film production
and theatre playdates. A safety pin was
affixed to the card with a note: "Just in
case you cast aside all restraint and laugh
aside all buttons. Take this insurance with
you when you p-o to see, etc., etc." The envelopes
had this catchline, " 'Copacabana'
insurance policy."
Gives Away Radio
Tommy Lee, manager of the Northslde
Theatre. Pittsburgh, duplicated a recent successful
tieup in conjunction with local merchants
in which the theatre gave away five
radio and phonograph combinations at no
cost to the theatre. Scheduled for the week
before Christmas, the tieup helped boost
grosses during a normally slack period.
BOXOFnCE Showmandiser :: Jan. 17, 1948

; , ware
Costume Party Opens
/ Junior Club Series
At Los Angeles
*•
A Junior club series of Saturday morning
^ sliows initiated by Walter Meyen, manager
"*
of the Western Theatre in Los Angeles, has
been playing to capacity attendance with
enthusiastic youngsters sharing in prizes,
birthday parties and seeing special attractions
booked from the Children's Film library.
A program of cartoons supplements
the shows.
At the first program, advertised as a costume
party, more than 175 youngsters showed
up in costume to compete for prizes donated
by merchants. Club officers are elected by
the youngsters and highlighting each program
is an address by police and fire officials
on safety.
Each child is registered by name, age,
birth date, school attended, his hobby, and
other pertinent infonnation.
Any child having a birthday falling during
the week is invited to the stage where
he receives a gift donated by neighborhood
merchants and cuts a cake. Then everybody
joins in the fun and eats.
Bicycles and Turkeys Curb
December Business Drop
Gertrude Tracy, manager of the Knickerbocker
in Cleveland, tied up with local merchants
for adult and children giveaways to
overcome the usual December business
doldrums.
A Christmas party was scheduled with ten
bicycles offered to holders of lucky tickets
distributed through the cooperating stores.
The party was plugged via personal announcements
to the audience, 5,000 circulars
distributed at schools, window displays
and an exhibit of the bicycles in the theatre
lobby.
For the grownups. Miss Tracy promoted
a giveaway of ten turkeys on the Tuesday
prior to Christmas.
A practical method of boosting the theatre
earnings developed when merchants
were asked to extend their holiday greetings
to the people of the neighborhood
through a trailer screened at the Knickerbocker.
Businessmen paid more than $200 for
the cooperative gesture which helped to
fatten the theatre income.
Holiday Holdovers
How theatremen sold their Christmas and New Year programs
is illustrated in this representative group of display
ads submitted to the Showmandiser.
HANK HAROLD, art director RKO
Theatres. Cleveland.
ICAMBSfkRLY
foseeoBARKimf
Signs and Stencils Sell
;d 'Red House' in Arkansas
To exploit "The Red House" at the Strand
3 in Clarksville, Ark., Manager Loris Stanton
got out a special herald and an invitation
from the stars of the film production to
.ttend the showing of the picture.
Stanton also had four signs placed in
school zones, with copy: "Slow down. School
zone. Watch out for 'The Red House.'
Sidewalks were stenciled with copy: "Beof
'The Red House.'
'. J _ The Strand did better than average busipiipffiB
^
''^ss
with the picture.
Steve McManus Returns
L I After a two-year absence from theatre
business, Steve McManus was appointed
manager of the Odeon. Kingston, Ont., which
plays many English pictures. One of Mc-
Manus' first tasks on taking up his new assignment
was to mail post cards and a message
of greeting for the holiday season to
800 theatre patrons who had previously indicated
interest in English films. He put in
a plug for upcoming imported films.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser " Jan. 17. 1948
JAMES R. NAIRN, advertising-publicity
director. Famous Players
Canadian, Toronto.
Gives News Flashes
Bob Anderson, manager of the Newsreel,
Portland, Ore., has added a personal touch
to liis programs which meets favor with
both regular and occasional patrons of the
house. During program intermissions, Anderson
gives a brief summary of late news
received at the theatre direct from AP wires.
Tying up with the Travelers Insurance
Co. in Hartford, Sam Horwitz, assistant manager
of the Poll Theatre, sold over 400 theatre
tickets to the home office girls club for
a party to see "Green Dolphin Street."
—353—
ERVIN CLUMB. advertising and publicity manager.
Towne Theatre. Milwaukee.
Best Picture Nomination
Helps 'Monsieur Verdoux'
When the National Board of Review recently
selected "Monsieur Verdoux" for its
choice as the "best picture of the year,"
Walter Chenoweth, manager of the Alexandria
Theatre in San Francisco, took quick
advantage of the nomination. He rushed
special trailers, lobby displays, advertising
copy and publicity stories to announce the
board's decision. 'The hypo treatment yielded
excellent results at the boxoffice, according
to Chenoweth.

Refreshments, Gifts
Mark Bellerose's
Birthday Show
Manager Mel Aronson provided patrons of
Century's Bellerose in Bellerose, N. Y., with
extra entertainment and some goodies on
a recent anniversary of the theatre.
Congratulatory telegrams from Hollywood
stars were displayed in the lobby along with
a large basket of flowers and a huge cake
served with coffee to patrons on the mezzanine
lounge.
Stage activities got under way with a Boy
Scout band entertaining. Aronson then invited
the couple which was married the
longest, to the stage where they were given
makes 'em bu
many gifts provided by public spirited businessmen.
Three couples were then invited
to participate in a "movie quiz," each receiving
gifts for their cooperation.
A total of 27 gifts were distributed, all of
which were promoted by John Roche, assistant
manager.
Aronson closed the ceremonies by personally
thanking the audience for past and
future patronage and assuring them that
the Bellerose would continue to bring them
the finest in entertainment, comfort and
service.
Display of War Material
Sells 'G.I.' in Sacramento
When Ernest Alcanter, manager of the
Mission in Sacramento booked "The Story of
G.I. Joe," he realized that he had an attraction
which is difficult to sell as anything
other than a war documentary.
Accordingly, he turned to the army recruiting
officers for help and obtained a display
of modern war weapons for the theatre lobby
that attracted wide interest from his patrons
in advance and brought many of them back
to see the picture.
Alcanter publicized the exhibit through
newspaper ads, inviting the public to come
and examine the implements.
Clues in 'Danger' Contest
In Windows of Sponsors
A merchant sponsored contest was used to
good advantage by Daniel Martin, manager
of the Station, Huntington, L. I., to promote
"Green for Danger." Contestants were asked
to look for clues in the window displays of
ten merchants. A page co-op ad was placed
in the local newspaper, a 30x40 was used in
the lobby and 2,000 heralds carrying details
of the contest were distributed. All this cost
the theatre nothing, the expense being absorbed
by the income from the merchant
tieup.
Fowl on the Fare
Dock Lowe, manager of the Roxy Theatre
in Gainesville, Ga., promoted a turkey giveaway
prior to Thanksgiving. The turkey was
awarded to the adult holding the winning
ticket and a duck went to a child. The stunt
made a hit with patrons of the Roxy, which
is a Negro house.
'Boycott' Slogans
Sell Cardiff Dale
For A. J. Brown
A Slogan contest was the highlight of the •
campaign for "Captain Boycott" by A. J.
Brown, manager of the Empire, Cardiff,
Wales. Newspaper readers were invited to 'T]
submit slogans made up with words having
initial letters taken from the world "boycott."
The contest was sponsored by the Empire and
the Suburban News and proved highly popular,
with several hundred entries being received.
Girls on the staff were dressed in Irish
colleen costumes. The stunt proved a good
impromptu advertisement when Brown photographed
the group in front of the house.
Hundreds of curious people gathered about,
tying up traffic which was unknotted only
after the police took a hand in the situation.
Tieups were set with local stores and 20
book shops plugging the film attraction
through an arrangement with a wholesale
book distributor.
The picture opened a season of new
British films at the Empire, which was played
up in press advertisements and in front-ofhouse
displays.
Fighters on Turntable Plug
Picture in Montgomery
Ralph Mann, manager, and Tom Landers,
assistant, of the Rogers Theatre, Montgomery,
Ala., put up an animated display to plug
the showing of the Louis-Walcott heavyweight
title fight pictures.
Mann and Landers constructed a model i|
ring outside the Rogers. They cut out two i
plywood figures, painted them a dark color
that gave them considerable resemblance to
the real fighters, and momited the figures
on a phonograph turntable.
A few weeks earlier, the managers decorated
the theatre front with hanging moss to
produce a frontier effect dm-ing the showing J
of the "Last of the Mohicans."
Mann reports that these displays have attracted
considerable interest and attention.
For those iiates where colored oil
is not sold — vse Simko brand.
the m-ikers of POPSIT PIUS!
Simonin of Philadelphia
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•
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SYSTEM
Here's the theatre loudspeaker system you
have been waiting for. New for 1948 -
compact, powerful, with brilliant reproduction
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meet the exacting requirements demanded
for sound on film reproduction in your
theatre, and especially designed to fit your
present sound equipment regardless of
make. Immediate delivery can be had on
these new low cost two-way loudspeaker
systems. Literature sent upon request. Inquiries
from Dealers and Sound Men invited.
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SOUTH BEND • INDIANA
42 —354— BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: Jan. 17, 1948

that
ADitorial No. 2 oi a Series * i^^^lnt-y hygiene bldg
^SSrrr WILMINGTON, OHIO U SA
things done. They
travel lasll Hygier
on! Its people get
They work hard
: ilies! Its organization
oi over 200 was g hered up by three big
chartered planes ai I 49 scheduled airliners
Hollywood for a week's
opportunity (banner in
say, the background) to "Don't Forget—
in . . .
Luck plays a part everything we do
but Hygienic has proven that those who
the work hardest are always the luckiestl"
irs. Leona Stautner. head of
auditing department, wears
liaction. Her department handied
over thre -million last year and checked
out to the pe .ny. Hygienic's "slaves" call
her "Hawksho V." She sure isl Seated with
Millard Lieurance, who kept
automobiles, two airplanes,
equipment and people iully
ar Hygienic carr
The 'Dream' that
Gave Birth to HYGIENIC!
NUSUAL in many respects—even unbelievable in
u
some—"Hygienic's Story" is
an extremely difficult one to faithfully relate. Yet, many hove asked to hear
it. One thing of which you can be certain—it could only have happened in this
free America!
Hygienic is owned and controlled by J. S. lossey and Kroger Babb. Originally
a partnership, it is now a corporation. Babb and lossey hold equal shares. Babb
is president, lossey treasurer, and a young attorney, Charles R. Kirk, is secretary.
We don't need a vice-president—and have none.
Mr. lossey is of Welsh descent, was bom in Forsyth, Georgia—is strictly "Youall"
and solidly American. He speaks softly, smokes big, costly cigars, figures
rapidly. As for myself, I'm strictly "country." Born in Lees Creek. O.—which is as
small as it sounds—I was educated in Wilmington public schools, high school and
college and did a two-year stretch at U. of Florida.
lack got into show business at a ripe young age, when he ventured out of
Georgia into Yankeeland. He hit it lucky—his first job was at $5 per wk. as a
shipping clerk. That was big dough in those days. Yours Truly learned it's essential
to work in order to eat at the ripe young age of seven. Newspaper business
(the broom-handle department) was our starter. First promotion was to the sinkscrubbing
battalion. Then newsboy . . . printer's devil . . . composition man's
assistant ... ad compositor . . . linotyper . . . make-up man . . . sports wrriter
. . . news reporter . . . sports editor . . . radio broadcaster . . . classified advertising
.. . display advertising . . . adv. manager . . . business manager . . . then show
business with the Chakeres-Warner circuits as the springboard.
lack and myself first met in 193S. He had Bank Nightt ... I had Chakeres-
Warners' southern Ohio "headaches"—plenty of 'em. We became good friends.
Time marched on and took vrith it K. B. to Filmack, then on the highways ahead of
French Follies, then Calvert's Egyptian-magic show, then "LIFE'S home-tovra party,"
then "Dust to Dust."
In '39 the idea hit me which I tagged "Mom and Dad." In '42 I wn-ote as best
I could the story. For four years I tried to interest guys with dough, including two
partners I had in that era. In '43 I hired Mildred Horn, an Indianapolis writer,
to put "Mom and Dad" into screen form. But this didn't help. In '44 I was in
Cleveland. There was a midnite gin rummy party. Ben Fish (Goldwryn's brother),
Harry Schwartz, Cox, Underwood, Sam, the Josseys and many others were there.
Underwood put me on the spot, relating my ideas of producing "Mom and Dad,"
organizing a company of showmen-specialists, handling each engagement like
the majors do a premiere. Naturally they all laughed. Why shouldn't they? Silly
wasn't it? Next morning, before I was up, the phone rang. It was lack lossey. He
asked me to join him for breakfast. Before lunchlime he had convinced me I
wasn't nuts and that he would gamble. It was a "dream" come true. Hygienic
born!
REAL SMILESI-

^uMkmi DAD 'sZS^^^i^
B
,^v'::>
r' ^^^^'
,^^.
3 Meadow Hills
Knoxville, Tennessee
December 11, 1947
HYGIENIC PRODUCTIONS
Hygienic Corner
Wilmington, Ohio
DEAR SIRS:
In my estimation your picture, "MOM AND DAD,"
should be a 'must' for all
high school boys and girls
to see. The picture is truly educational. It portrays the
truth about loose living ond VD without pulling any
punches.
:^\
.tN^t^
ot^^^'
OVJC ,-V\0^*^
,„xOt'
Many students have been in my office since seeing
this picture and we have had frank discussions about
their relations with the opposite sex. Many have admitted
that their parents hove failed to give them the
fundamental facts of sex education. So when the
parents of our nation are failing, it is fortunate that a
company such as yours is willing to give to our young
people such essential information.
Very truly yours.
u\i.
(Mrs.) Willie A. Roberts
Dean of Girls
Rule Jr.-Sr. High School
>(out* -Vto\l.
_>^ fi^
* Educated
/tUke This
Citizens tjt
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IIOUID SEASONING
costs you
per bag of
popcorn!
—Ask any of the
11,590 showmen
who've used
Popsit
Plus for the last
.Simonin of Philadelphia
SSBBISEIIIII&BH
FROM THE FILES OF
^O l/ leard ^^Ar^o
n NEW camera lens arrangement which
follows action, such as a galloping horseman,
while the camera remains stationary on
its base, has been invented by Percy Hilburn,
cameraman.
Gilbert's "Cossacks,"
It will be used in filming John
an MGM production.
The apparatus consists of a number of lenses
which change in their relationship to each
other as the adjustment is altered. It is
described as traveling photo lens.
a
Universal is starting the year with 32 pictures
in various production stages at Universal
City . . . Betty Compson added her
name last week to the list of stars by appearing
in her second production, an untitled
story in the hands of Columbia . . .
Walter Camp jr., only son of the late selector
of AU-American football teams, has
been elected a director of the Art Cinema
Corp., film financing organization headed by
Joseph M. Schenck.
Variety says "Harold Lloyd is still the
leader of all stars of all companies." It U
also authority for the statement that Clara
Bow "jumped ahead of all the company's
stars in boxoffice drawing power and leads
them in popularity." Richard Dix is credited
with being the most "substantial money
earner, with the Beery-Hatton team right
on his heels."
A check for $10,000 and a solid gold model
were awarded by Paramoimt Pictures to •
Josef 'Von Sternberg as director of the ftiotion
picture "Underworld," which was adjudged
the outstanding of all motion pictures
shown at the Paramount Theatre in
New York during the last year. As a second
prize, Clarence Badger was awarded
$5,000 for direction of Clara Bow in "It,"
while the third prize of $2,500 went to
Mauritz Stiller for "Hotel Imperial," starring
Pola Negri.
Irving G. Thalberg, MGM executive, recently
said there are very few critics or other
writers on the subject of motion pictures
who are really "for" pictures in the sense
that writers are for baseball or any other
of the popular institutions of this comitry.
"We are making more good pictures today
than ever before, and they are more accurate
and authentic than they have ever
been," said Thalberg.
Albert Dezel to Handle
Masterpiece Reissues
DETROIT—Albert Dezel Productions, Inc.,
has acquired the distribution rights to all
releases from Masterpiece Productions for
the Chicago, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Detroit,
Cleveland and Cincinnati territories.
The Masterpiece package comprises 39 United
Artists reissues, including 13 "Hopalong Cassidy"
westerns.
Dezel's product lineup also includes Screen
Guild releases, "Shoe-Shine" from Lopert
Films, Film Classics group of Goldwyn, Selznick
and Hal Roach reissues, 19 action and
western featm-es recently acquired from
Stage and Screen Productions, Inc., "Sangamon
Fighter," formerly titled "Abraham Lincoln,"
and an assortment of independent
product condensed from serials.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194}

M Alarm N. J. Allied
., Tavern Screenings
*| NEWARK—Members of the Allied Theatre
is J,
* in
Owners of New Jersey have
tI
been warned
)1 ,,„.T against the threat of 16nim competition from
'
taverns. The warning was delivered by Edward
Lachman, president, during the monthly
meeting January 13 at the Newark Athletic
club.
He reported that tavern owners in the
Washington exchange area have been showing
pictures, and that one tavern keeper in
New Jersey also has held a screening. Lachman
added that one 16mm distributor is getting
ready to rent equipment and provide
product as recent as 18 months old to tavern
operators.
The New Jersey state department of alcoholic
beverage control interested in is all
reports of tavern screenings, according to
VNathan Davis, a member of the control staff.
He said tavern screenings have been prohibited
during the past four years.
There are several reasons for the ban, he
ded. Fire hazard is one; violations of state
ding laws regarding public showings of
tion pictures is another reason, and the
rd, is the possibility of showing indecent
ms in taverns.
chwartz Urges Licenses
&'For Bars With Video
NEW YORK—An amusement license for
[heis using television sets has been proposed
by Fred J. Schwartz, vice-president of Century
Theatres. This proposal, made several
'times in the past, had been rejected by the
'"department of licenses.
When informed of this latest proposal.
Patrick J. Meehan, acting license commissioner,
said that bars would be required to
take an amusement license only if they collected
money specifically for television screenings.
He added that his department regarded
television as a form of radio, which is not
subject to amusement licenses.
The latest estimate by television authorities
places the number of bars with television
sets at about 10,000.
Curtis Mitchell Joins
New Premium Firm
NEW YORK — Curtis Mitchell, recently
resigned as national advertising and publicity
director for Paramount, has joined
Berkshire Entei-prises, new premium distributing
company, as treasurer. The firm is
handling RCA Victor phonograph records
and record players. It expects to service from
500 to 700 theatres, with records selling to
exhibitors at 23 cents each.
Berkshire was incorporated in Massachusetts
five months ago. It was organized
Springfield, Mass. Offices will be opened in
New York. A sales staff is being lined up.
Representatives have been appointed in
Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Cleveland,
Detroit, Chicago, Minneapolis, Des Moines,
Omaha and Denver.
Mitchell will leave for the southeast territory
to line up new clients. To date Berkshire
has signed 90 theatres and is servicing
47 of these. The company buys surplus popular
records from RCA Victor. These are sold to
the theatre operators, who in turn charge
patrons a handling fee of approximately ten
cents per disk.
Exhibitors Offer Savings
To Offset Harrisburg Tax
HARRISBURG—Eight protesting theatre
managers went a second time to the city
council with suggestions which they said
could effect .savings totaling enough to eliminate
the proposed amusement tax to raise
$117,000 a year. They challenged a number
of allegedly political projects, including the
filter plant and pumping station, the refusal
to equalize city property assessments, and
the cutting of the mercantile tax on wholesalers
from three-fifths to a half mill, as
well as others.
Spokesmen Robert Sidman, Senate, and E.
G. WoUaston, Fabian area manager, scored
council for planning the proposed levy against
"those least able to pay, movie patrons." The
speakers said they attended the first meeting
in a peaceful mood and their cause was
ignored, while mercantile and hotel interests
who used "a forceful manner and named
names" were granted conce-ssions.
Mark Rubinsky, Capitol Theatre owner,
pointed out his house operated at a $2,100 loss
in 1947 and imposition of a tax might force
him to close. The group assured council they
wished to "assume our rightful share of the
cost of city government, but we do not want
to be discriminated against."
The meeting ended on a heated note with
city officials holding to their stand that they
believe the "movie tax should stand," and
indicated it might be for only this year. The
exhibitors advised coimcil they planned to
run a trailer on their screens informing
patrons of the tax and suggesting general
protests.
Must Fight Tax Bill,
Utica Session Told
UTICA, N. Y.—Exhibitor must be strongly
organized to fight such legislation as Governor
Dewey's proposed law to permit small
towns to levy ticket taxes, a meeting of theatremen
here Januai-y 14 was told by Harry
Lamont, temporary chairman of the Theatre
Owners of the Albany Exchange Area.
In his message to the legislature. Governor
Dewey proposed that cities of less than 100,000
population be given the same authority as
bigger towns to levy a series of special taxes,
including a 5 per cent ticket tax.
It is imperative that upstate exhibitors get
together immediately to fight such laws. Lamont
said. He announced that he was going
to contact the New York City headquarters
of TOA to see what steps the organization
intended to take against the Dewey proposal.
The local group will vigorously oppose the
legislation in the assembly and, if unsuc-
by James C. Fletcher, at one time vice-president
of Buchanan & Co., and William T. nances wherever they arise, Lamont said.
cessful there, will fight adoption of local ordi-
Powell, who has held theatre posts with
Paramount affiliates in New England. Fletcher
is chairman of the board. Powell is
Exhibitors Battle Amusement Tax
president.
Berkshire at present is operating out of
In Easton, Allentown, Pottstown
EOXOFFICE :
: January 17, 1948 N
PHILADELPHIA—The controversial problem
of city amusement taxes is still hogging
the news spotlight hereabouts. Several communities
within this trade area, using Philadelphia's
year-old 10 per cent amusement
tax as a pattern, are trying to pass legislation
on similar measures. Theatremen are up
in arms.
In Easton, the city coimcil adopted an
ordinance January 6, imposing a 7^4 per cent
tax on theatre and other amusement tickets.
The tax was set originally at 10 per cent, but
theatremen told the council that such a tax
would considerable reduce the volume of
business and in the long run would defeat
the purpose of the measure.
In Allentown, the situation is taking on
all the aspects of a good fight. The city council
there proposed a flat 2 cents on each 25
cents of the admission price. Theatremen
retaliated by saying that the jump would be
too steep on a 26-cent ticket, which would
rate 4 cents tax. They also objected on the
ground that the two cents also would be
charged on children's admissions. The council
was to hear a first reading on an amended
measure, calling for a flat 8 per cent tax, at
their meeting January 14. Second and third
readings were scheduled for January 21.
Local theatre operators have joined forces
and purchased large blocks of advertising
space in the Allentown newspapers, calling
on the public to demand defeat of the tax
measure, even in its amended form.
In Pottstown, the validity of the licen.sing
measure there was being conte.sted by William
Goldman Theatres and Warner Theatres,
owners of the Strand and Hippodrome.-
Attorney Edmund C. Wells, representing the
city, declared the measure, which imposes
a five per cent fee on gross receipts of theatres,
would result in restraining and suppressing
"undesirable types of second-class
sleeper pictures, cowboy pictures and cheap
type serials."
Jersey Cities Trying
New Tax Methods
NEW YORK—New Jer-sey cities are attempting
to impose sales and admission taxes
without asking the state legislature for per-
This development was reported January
13 at the monthly meeting of the Allied Theatre
Owners of New Jersey. Camden exhibitors
said that a proposed ordinance had been introduced
into the city council providing for
a 1 per cent amusement tax. This proposal
has had one reading.
On January 1 a Trenton ordinance went
into effect providing for a tax to be collected
on a percentage of gross wholesale and retail
sales receipts. The amount will be on a sliding
scale.
It is understood that the legality of these
sales and admission taxes has been questioned
by members of the New Jersey Taxpayers
Ass'n, So far no action has been taken to
challenge these levies.
The usual procedure for communities is to
get their sales and admission taxing rights
from the state legislature. Last year the legislature
gave foiuth class coastal cities the
right to impose a 3 per cent admission and
sales tax if approved by referendiuns. Atlantic
City passed such a tax and now Ocean City
is considering a similar levy. The matter was
discussed at a public meeting January 13.
There is no question about the legality of these
taxes.
The entire tax situation, including admission
taxes by ordinance, is scheduled to be
reviewed by Governor DriscoU. In a statement
made Januai-y 13 he said that taxation
under the new state constitution will be
revised.
The charter was approved at the last election
in November.
Meanwhile the Allied Theatre Owners of
New Jersey will consult with the New Jersey
Taxpayers Ass'n on steps to be taken to fight
new admission taxes.
The members will meet in Trenton next
month.

. . Sam
Along New York's Film
a RROW THEATRE SUPPLY CO., Inc., operated
by Otto Price and Jack Glauber,
By WALTER WALDMAN
has been named New York representative for
Berkshire Enterprises, a record premium distributor.
Approximately 15 theatres in the
metropolitan area have signed with Arrow to
buy RCA Victor records which wall be used
as giveaways. Among the first theatres to
sign were the Gloria and Normandy, Brooklyn,
and the Astor, North Bergen, N. J.
Nick John Matsoukas, ad and publicity director
for Skouras Theatres, has been hobnobbing
with royalty. During the past ten
days he has been showing the town to Prince
Peter and Princess Irene of Greece. He has
been serving as their public relations adviser.
Prince Peter is third in line for the Greek
throne. Joe Besch. Nick's assistant, reported
that his twins, Andrew and Andrea, are one
month old and doing fine.
Bob O'Brien has resigned from the Loew's
advertising department to work for a bank
in. Canton, Ohio . . . There have been two
resignations from the MGM exchange. Eleanor
Moserowitz, assistant booker, and Laura
Rosenthal, who handled boxoffice statements,
left January 17 ... A. N. Weinberger, Warner
office manager, lectured Thursday (16) before
the New York university class on showmanship
and distribution. This was his third
repeat engagement.
Leon Siritzky has named his new theatre
on West 58th street the Elyseel It formerly
was the ABC Radio and some years ago was
known as the Filmart. It will reopen with
"Fanny" Januaiy 28 . . . McKerman, president
of Favorite Films, left for Los Angeles
to confer there with Favorite franchise holders
and afterwards leave for Palm Springs,
where he and Mrs. Kerman will remain for
several weeks.
Vacation items: Dave Rosenzweig, Bronx
exhibitor, is in Florida . . . Joe Rosenzweig,
no relative, and a Brooklyn theatre operator,
just back from Miami . Lake,
Paramount salesman, also back from Florida.
Filmrow romance: Charles Krips, Brooklyn
salesman for 20th-Fox, and Estelle Hernan,
secretary in the exchange booking department,
are engaged . . . Al Mendelson,
New Jersey booker for 20th-Fox, has served
on jui-y duty for two weeks . . . Leo Jacobi,
New York salesman for Warners, has taken
over the Brooklyn territory formerly handled
by Harry Dekker . . . Ann Brown of the
Paramount exchange will be married in
April.
Row
Rugoff & Becker; Joe Green, Irving Place;
Sonny Liggett, Liggett-Steiffel booking service;
Rudy Stravitiz, Colonial, Monroe; Stan
Sobelson, West End, Newark; Lou Gold of
the Rivoli, Newark; Russell Moore of the
Astor, New Republic; Ike Capsuto of the
Variety.
Henry Randel, Paramount district manager,
back at work after a two-week illness . . .
Phil Winnick, U-I salesman, had the time
of his life during his recent trip to California
. . . Martin Levine of the Brandt office
returned to work after his Florida vacation.
N. Y. Projectionists Union
Ready for New Contract
NEW YORK—The projectionists union.
Local 306, lATSE, and local affUiated circuits,
will soon draw up a new contract settling
their long-standing wage raise dispute,
according to a union spokesman. The settlement
will call for the affiliated circuits to
meet the 15 per cent increase granted by
local independent circuits last year. Only a
"few minor items" remain to be settled before
the new contract is drawn up following
the next negotiation meeting.
Richard F. Walsh, lATSE international
president, has been sitting in on recent meetings.
The raise will affect some 800 projectionists
in 125 affiliated theatres.
'Rosie O'Grady' Verdict
Reserved by U.S. Court
NEW YORK—The U.S. circuit court of appeals
has reserved decision in the copyright
infringement case brought by Maude Nugent
Jerome against 20th-Fox over "Sweet Rosie
O'Grady." Mrs. Jerome had appealed the
decision of the district trial court here last
February in dismissing her suit against 20th-
Fox. She claimed that the company did not
have the right to use her song, "Sweet Rosie
O'Grady," in the film of the same name
made with Betty Grable. The picture was
released in 1943.
'Agreement' Is Tops
On Slow Broadway
NEW YORK—Postholiday business wa«
generally slow. First runs were about evenly
divided as to below- and above-average
grosses. "Gentleman's Agreement" at the
Mayfair again set the pace, followed closely
by "The Paradine Case," which opened nicely
at the Music Hall. "The Bishop's Wife" had
good fifth week at the Astor.
a
Arrivals during the week were "An Ideal
Husband" at the Roxy and "Secret Beyond the
Door" at the Winter Garden. The Italian
film, "Furia," will replace the French picture,
"Panic," at the Rialto January 20.
(Average Is 100)
Astor—The Bishop's Wiie (RKO), 5th wi. 115
Capitol—High Wall (MGM), plus stage show
3rd wk _ _ 100
n—The Senator Was Indiscreet (U-:
3rd
Globe—Body Soul (UA), 10th wk
Golden—Mou g Becomes Eleclra (RKO), 8th wk.
Gotham—Women e Night (FC)
Mayfair—Gentl Agreement (20th-Fox), 9th
.
90
Life (Pctra), plu
3rd
Radio City Music Hall—The Paradine Case (SRO),
plus stage show 120
Rialto—Panic (Tricolore), 7th wk _ 95
Rivoh—Captain From Castile (20th-Fox), 90
3rd wk..
Roxy—Daisy Kenyon (20th-Fox), plus stage show,
3rd wk 85
Strand—My Wild Irish Rose (WB), plus stage
Victoria—The Fugitive ( RKO), "3rd" w~k.'";'""!.'.";:"; 95
Warner—The Voice of the Turtle (WB), 3rd wk.. , 68
Winter Garden—The Exile (U-I), 3rd wk 85
T-Men' Opens With Big 270;
Philadelphia Trade Spotty
PHILADELPHIA—'T-Men" and the second
run of "Green Dolphin Street" set a fast pace
:
at the Stanton and Keith's, respectively, last
week, with business in other houses rather
spotty, due to a galaxy of holdovers.
Aldine Unconquered (Para), 3rd wk 130
Arcadia-Where There's Liie (Parj),
2nd
Boyd—The Swordsman (Col), 3rd wk 100
Earle^Killer McCoy (MGM), 3rd wk _...I10
Fox—Captain From CasHle (20th-Fox),
3rd wk
Goldman—Good News (MGM), 3rd wk _
130
130
(U-I) 150
Karlton—The Lost Moment
Keith's—Green Dolphin Street (20th-Fox),
2nd run
Anna Rosenberg, formerly of Flveboro circuit,
is now with Screen Guild . . . Visitors
were all over Filmrow during the past week.
They were making up for time lost during
the recent snow and sleet storms. Among
those seen were: Morris Broskie of the State
and Windsor theatres. West Orange: Bill
Didsbury of the Didsbury, Walden; Frank
WoUen of the City, Union City; Max Wallach,
Orpheum; Sid Gottlieb, Cosmo; Harold Klein,
JJ circuit; Dick Perry and Eddie Stem,
NEW MIRROPHONIC SOUND
JOE HORNSTEIN, Inc.
630 NlnlK Av York Cily
PRESENTS MERIT AWARD — Phil
WUlcox (left) director of motion picture
relations for Parents' magazine, hands
a special award of merit to Harry Kosiner,
Edward Small's executive, in behalf of
Small's production of "T-Men," released
by EL. Looking on is Max E. Youngstein,
director of advertising, publicity and exploitation
for EL. The award is in addition
to the magazine's long-established
monthly award.

Through him . . .West meets East
ACROSS his "front page" the world
parades . . . before the eyes of moviegoers
on Main Street. There, West
and East do meet—through the highly
specialized efforts of the newsreel
editor.
He sifts the facts and foibles of the
world . . . and presents in one short
reel the significant, the human, and
the odd—the news that helps the
world to know itself.
To his objectivity . . . his sense of
the newsworthy . . . his feeling for
concise and graphic storytelling . .
the newsreel owes its unique place
in American journalism.
Yet the newsreel editor would be
the first to give due credit to his
staff of cameramen . . . and to the
Eastman motion picture films which
help them cover the news—and help
him present it so effectively.
EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY
ROCHESTER 4, N. Y.
J. E. BRULATOUR, INC., DISTRIBUTORS
FORT LEE • CHICAGO • HOLLYWOOD
BOXOFFICE ;; January 17, 1948

. . . Rosalie
. . Paul
. . Pat
. .
BROAD WAY
Den Goetz, head of MOM production activi-
^ ties in England, and Mrs. Goetz will sail
Januai-y 28 for New York and Hollywood to
confer with home office and studio executives
. . . Lena Home will open a threeweek
singing engagement at the Latin Quarter
in Boston January 18, following which she
will return to the coast to start work in the
Arthur Freed production, "Words and Music,"
to be released by MGM.
Henry Grunwald, former NYU student majoring
in motion picture writing, has sold a
script to RKO. Pi'oduction has not been
scheduled .
HoUister, national director
of publicity for RKO, is in Hollywood for
two weeks of discussions with production
executives on forthcoming product, including
"I Remember Mama," "The Miracle of the
Bells," "War Party" and "Joan of Arc."
Ed Hinchy, head of the Warner Bros, home
office playdate department, was in Boston
during the week ... A. Barr-Smith, English
actor-writer-producer-director, is in New York
for an extended stay, principally to do research
for his play, "Hitchhike to Heaven"
Ross of Rutgers Neilson's publicity
contact staff at RKO will be married
January 24 to Alfred Jacob. They will leave
for Johannesburg, South Africa in mid-February,
where they will make their home .
Frances Dee and her husband, Joel McCrea,
are in town for a stay of several weeks to
prepare for the opening of "They Passed
This Way," to be released by United Artists.
Valli is in town following the completion
of her role in "The Miracle of the Bells," to
be released by RKO. Gus Eyssell, managing
director of the Music Hall, gave a party for
her on Wednesday, as she is in "The Paradlne
Case," now current in the big theatre.
Herman Ripps, assistant eastern sales manager
for MGM with headquarters in Albany,
will be at the home office for a month sitting
in on sales cabinet meetings . . . Mervyn Le-
Roy will be here until January 21, when he
will leave for a southern vacation . . .
Charles
C. Moskowitz. vice-president and treasurer
of Loew's, is on the coast . . . Jay Eisenberg,
liaison between the sales and legal departments
of MGM, will be in Washington January
19 to meet with Rudy Berger, southern
sales manager; Charles E. Kes.snich of Atlanta
and Jerry Adler, Washington manager.
Producer William Pereira is back from a
one-month scouting trip in England. After
a few days In New York, he will return to
the RKO studios to prepare "Bed of Roses"
for production in the spring .
O'Brien
Is in town to make recordings for his radio
show, "Tales of Broadway." While here he
is the house guest of Mayor O'Dwyer . . .
Carol Brandt, head of eastern editorial activities
for MGM, and Olin H. Clark, eastern
story head, have postponed their departure
for the coast until January 18.
Jules Weill, president of Masterpiece Productions,
is on a tour of the company midwest
offices to consolidate their sales plans
and operational procedures. He expects to
return in three weeks . . . E. Z. Walters, Altec
Service controller, and Mrs. Walters are back
on the coast after a month in New York . . .
Clarence Brown, MGM producer and director,
has returned to Hollywood after an extended
tour of Europe . . . Leon J. Bamberger, RKO
sales promotion manager, was in Washington
Tuesday (13) on special business in the interests
of the Freedom Train.
Gulislan Wilton Theatre Carpet
JOE HORNSTEIN has it!
AT WALDORF PARLEY—Seen at the
National Conference of Christians and
Jews gathering in the Waldorf-Astoria,
New York, were (above, left to right)
former Gov. Herbert Lehman, Spyros
Skouras and (below) WUl Hays and T.
Robert Rubin.
David Niven sails from London for New
York January 17 on the Queen Elizabeth.
Sailing with him are his sons, David and
James . . . Alan F. Cummings, head of MGM
exchange operations and maintenance, is on
a tour of western exchanges. He is expected
back February 1 . . . Godfrey Winn, British
columnist and writer, is in New York. He will
remain in the U.S. four months.
Leonard Hirsch, home office assistant to
Rudy Berger, is mourning the death of his
brother, Ned, of Westwood, N. J. . . .
WiUiam
Gleicher, head of the MGM theatre auditing
division, is back from New Haven . . . Charles
M. Reagan, vice-president in charge of distribution
for Paramount, and Hugh Owen,
eastern and southern division sales manager,
are touring the southern exchanges.
James R. Grainger, executive vice-president
in charge of sales and distribution for Republic,
is back at his desk following a fourweek
trip to Atlanta, New Orleans, DalTas,
Mexico City, San Francisco and Los Angeles
. . Oscar A. Doob, Loew's general theatre
executive, is at home nursing a heavy cold.
Susan Pearl is the name of a six-pound, 14-
ounce baby born to Mrs. Murray Goldstein
at Moimt Eden hospital. Daddy is an artist
for Columbia . . . Terry Turner, national exploitation
director for RKO, is on a tour of
exchanges in the U.S. and Canada . . . Irving
Kahn, radio manager for 20th-Fox, is in
Cincinnati to setup the radio campaign for
"Gentleman's Agreement" at the Albee Theatre.
Bradford Washburn, who led "Operation
White Tower" to the top of Mount McKinley
for the Boston Museum of
Science RKO expedition,
flew from Chicago January 16 to
Alaska, Japan and China, where he will confer
with officials of the Chinese Academy of
Science concerning mountain exploration of
Paulette Goddard and her
. . .
husband. Burgess Meredith, are in Europe
the interior
where they will supervise distribution of food
and clothing packages for CARE. Their trip
will take them to England, France and possibly
Italy.
Counterclaim Suit Filed
Against CR, Four Majors
NEW YORK—Jesse L. Stern and Abram
H. Levy have filed a counterclaim against
Loew's, Paramount, 20th-Fox and Warners
and Confidential Reports alleging conspiracy
to violate the New York antitrust act. The
four distributors and CR recently fUed a
fraud action against Stern and Levy.
In answering the recently instituted action,
Stern and Levy denied aU the material allegations
of the complaint and alleged that the
contracts of the film companies were in violation
of both federal and state antitrust
laws. Monroe E. Stein, attorney for Stem
and Levy, now seeks an injunction against
checking by Confidential Reports in New
York state and the exchanging of information
relating to exhibitor operations between
the checking oi-ganizations and the distributors.
20th-Fox Firings Need
Not Be Arbitrated
NEW YORK—Justice Henry C. Greenberg
of the New York supreme court has ruled that
20th-Fox has the right to layoff employes
for economic reasons without having to submit
the matter to arbitration. The SPG has
contended that the firing of nine 20th-Fox
publicists last August came under the arbitration
provision of its contract with the company.
Twentieth-Fox took the matter to
court.
The union will appeal Justice Greenberg's
decision.
Paramount Pictures will also be affected
by the outcome of this case. The SPG is
planning to ask for arbitration of five layoffs
at Paramount which were ordered last
fall.
Nine SPG members were discharged by
United Artists. Their cases are being discussed
with company officials.
Plagiarism Suit Dismissed
Against 'Rebecca' Author
NEW YORK—Federal Judge John Bright
has dismissed a plagiarism suit brought
against Daphne du Maurier. British novelist
and author of "Rebecca": Doubleday Doran,
publishers of the book; David O. Selznick
and Selznick International Pictures, producers
of the film, and United Artists distributor.
The suit, instituted by J. Clifford MacDonald
of Tampa, Fla., son of the late Mrs.
Edwina Devin MacDonald, and administrator
of her estate, charged that Miss Du Maurier
had based her novel on a short story and
novel written by Mrs. MacDonald.
Three-Station Tele Hookup
Tried on New Year's Eve
NEW YORK— Something new in television
programs was presented by a threestation
hookup New Year's eve from 8:45
p. m. to 12:05 a. m.
The program consisted of studio entertainment
from the NBC stations In New
York, Philadelphia and Washington, scenes
of Times Square activities.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194S

. . . Sara
. . . Norma
. . Work
. . Helen
. . Student
. . Hazel
. . Joseph
. . Lewis
I WASHINGTON
ismiL ^harley Hurley, RKO salesman, underwent
I 6li»
an operation in Georgetown hospital last
Woflj, week Norma Harker, also RKO, cele-
. . .
%ti brated a birthday . . . Al Benson, Paramount
fflilpl manager, visited the home office . . . Lil-
^^lian "Peanuts" Lee made a weekend trip to
New York . . . Sympathy to Fi-ank Gormley,
Warner booker, whose father died.
Marjorie Collins of WB celebrated a birth-
|day Norman Ayers, WB division manager,
was in . . . Louise Stark left Johns
. . .
Hopkins hospital and is at home convalescing
Warners here came in first in the diion
on shorts in a recent drive.
Betty Hoover, cashier at Monogram, visited
datives in Pennsylvania . Minsky,
»le Lion district manager, was in town . . .
'Fred Rohrs made a trip to Richmond to call
on Neighborhood Theatres . . . Congratulations
to Jack Dean, MGM shipper, who is the
father of a baby boy . McCarthy is
back at her desk at Metro after a case of the
flu . . . Jack Rider, MGM student booker,
has been transferred to Buffalo . . . Birthday
celebrants at MGM included Bernice
Cook and Hazel McCarthy.
Ann Griffin, 20th-Fox booker, entertained
her sister and brother-in-law, the Don O'-
Reillys of St. Paul. Don is an exhibitor and a
partner in the Mans-O'Reilly circuit there
Yoimg, head booker at 20th-Fox,
vacationed in New York and Boston. Her
son Dick returned to Augusta Military
academy at Staunton, Va., after a holiday
vacation.
.\U employes of the 20th-Fox office received
three weeks additional salary for their job
in the Andy Smith
Emil Kashouty,
drive
assistant
just
to
completed
Glenn
. . .
Norris,
district manager, is sporting a new Studebaker
. has begun on the new district
office in the local 20th-Pox exchange . . . Belated
birthday greetings to Emily Watts,
cashier.
Ira Sichelman, 20th-Fox salesman, was
called to New York by the illness of his
father Jack . . . Glenn Norris, district manager,
was in Pliiladelphia for a few days . . .
Universal Manager Harry Martin made a trip
to Portsmouth and surrounding towns . . .
Helen Racossin, U-I's hello girl, has resigned
Stagg was given a bridal shower
Monday night. The wedding date is Februai-y
7.
Harry Lohmeyer was host at a year's opening
party given for local Warner theatre managers
in the managers room at the Warner
Bldg. . . . Helen Palty of advertising and publicity
has returned from a week's holiday at
Niagara Falls and has numerous aches and
pains from enthusiastic Ice skating . . . Carl
Blanchard has joined the contract department
. McGarth returned from three
weeks in the Florida sunshine.
NEW TENT 11 OFFICERS—Variety Tent U inducted new officers at a ceremony
in the WiUard hotel, Washington, presided over by Alvin Newmyer. Above, left to
right: Wade Pearson, second assistant chief barker; Leon Makover, director; Jake
Flax, first assistant; Sam Wheeler, director; Nathan D. Golden, chief barker for 1947;
Newmyer, tent counsel; Milford Schwartz, associate counsel. In the rear: George
Crouch, Frank M. Boucher, chief barker, and Robert Denton.
Fox Manager Gordon Contee, has a new
apartment . . . Eileen Oliver, contract clerk
at 20th-Fox, had a pleasant surprise during
the holidays when her son in the navy came
home to spend a week with her.
The following officers of Local B-13 were
installed January 8 by past President
Pearl Torney: business agent, Robert Kuttler,
Fox; president, Claude Ringer, Columbia;
vice-president, Mary Grasso, Universal;
recording secretary, Wendell Allen, Fox;
financial secretary, Lyman Fitzgerald, Paramount:
treasurer. Carmen Jaccarina, Clark
Film: guardian, Grace Brannon, Metro. The
executive board includes James Burns, Myer
Coleman and George Simpson. Trustees are
Geraldine Saul. Mary Claison and William
Wilson.
Catherine Caruana of 20th-Fox, who has
been ill, is back at work.
Erianger Reopens Jan. 28
With 'Cass Timberlane'
PHILADELPHIA—The Erianger will make
another stab at first run operation, reopening
January 28 with "Cass Timberlane." The
house opened in November, after being the
center of a vicious com-t fight, with "The
Outlaw," but was foi-ced to close suddenly
when that highly controversial film was
withdrawn at the insistence of the Catholic
church.
A. W. Kelly Sails for U.S.
LONDON—Arthur W. Kelly, UA executive
president, was scheduled to leave Satiu-day
(17) for New York after completing a deal
for release of seven films remaining from a
group which were imported before the 75
per cent tax went into effect.
Johnston Comes Out
For Marshall Plan
LOS ANGELES—Eric Johnston, MPA president,
came out strongly in support of the
Marshall European aid program in a speech
before a luncheon meeting at Town Hall,
Thursday (15 1. He called the Marshall plan
a middle way between the extreme left and
extreme right in the U.S., and said the only
way to get world peace is to join in partnership
with western Europe in the common
cause of freedom.
He pointed out that an unbalance of trade
restating from world devastation, results in
inflation. The only way to stop inflation is
to start a flow of goods coming in from other
quarters of the world, he added. Johnston
said that the U.S. needs fresh stockpiles of
raw materials.
He remarked:
"The Marshall plan recognizes that without
recovery in western Europe there will be no
peace. The key word is rehabilitation, not
relief.
"It's a two-way blueprint to help western
Europe work its own way back to economic
health and political stability.
"One of om- major self-interests in the
Marshall plan is a revival of healthy, vigorous
two-way traffic in international commerce.
"For some years now we have been exporting
many billions of dollars worth of goods
more than we took in by way of import. That
imbalance was to be expected after the devastation
of world conflict. But that unbalance
must not continue for long. The unbalance
reduces our substance and definitely contributes
to inflation."
THE IDEAL THEATRE CHAIRS
JOE HORNSTEIN has them
The Savoy Theatre bowling team twice beat
;he Penn to take over again tmdisputed possession
of first place . . . Lamar Keen, manager
of the Capitol in Winchester, Va., estimated
that 1,200 school-age yoimgsters attended
the free Christmas matinee sponsored
by the Junior Board of Trade . C.
Forney, manager of the Tivoli in Frederick,
Me., reports 700 children and adults turned
out for the annual Food show, with nonperishable
foodstuffs for Chirstmas distribution
to the poor as the admission price.
-^i^^
WAHOO
America's Finest Screen Game
.
Jake Flax, Republic manager, has a new
secretary, Verda Les . booker Don
Bransfield. RKO, has been promoted to
booker . Millie Layden, secretary to 20th-
.
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT CO.. 831 S. WABASH AVE., CHICAGO
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Philadelphia Exchange Area Has 830
Open Theatres With 674,652 Seats
NEW YORK—In the Philadelphia exchange
area there are 268 theatres with a seating
capacity of 271,014. This puts this area among
the first six in the United States. This information
is contained in the 21st of the
regional trade directories being compiled by
the Motion Picture Ass'n.
Within the city limits of Philadelphia there
are 268 theatres with 271.014 seats. Six of
the largest cities in the territory have 199
theatres with 194,189 seats, or an average
of 976 seats per house.
Number
Seating
Capacity
Theatres in operation 796 674,652
Closed theatres 34 26,6C0
Totals ;. 830 701,452
In 126 towns with a population of 2,500, or
under, there are 132 theatres with a total of
57,585 seats. This is an average of 436 seats
per theatre.
More than half the theatres—473—are circuit
operated. Circuit in this instance means
a group of four or more theatres. The circuit
theatres have 473,947 seats. Individually operated
houses total 357, with 227,506 seats.
Thirty-four theatres with 26,800 seats are
closed.
The summary:
Seating capacity of theatres now in operation, according to population groupings:
Population
1,000,000 and over
250,000-100,001
100,000- 50,001
50,000- 25,001
25,000- 10,001
10,000- 5,001
5,000- 2,501
2,500 and under .
1 (Philadelphia)
Harry Hall an Early
Circuit Owner, Dies
BUFFALO—A pioneer motion picture exhibitor
in the nickelodeon days and one of
the first theatre circuit operators in the
coimtry, Harry Hall, 75, of Buffalo, died last
week in Ti-oy, where he had gone on a
business trip.
Born in Attica, Hall moved to Rochester
with his family as a child and was educated
there. He came to Buffalo in 1896 and
went into business as a merchant, purchasing
concerns, large homes and hotels at
auctions and reselling them.
In 1905, attracted by the possibilities of
the fledgling motion picture industry, he
established one of the first film exchanges
in Buffalo. Under the name of Novelty
Amusement Co., he branched out as an exhibitor
and at one time had a chain of 87
theatres in western New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania
and through the south.
He was one of the first to introduce mo-
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jimach S.Wabash, Chicago
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CLASS DISTRIBUTION FOR
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HABWOOD & IACK80N STS.. DALLAS 1. TEX.
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OURGEOIS
79,592
73,717
59,261
57,585
Number
Seating
Capacity
473,947
227,505
tion pictures in England and France and, at
one time, operated theatres in Greenland.
In 1928 he retired from the business and
turned to real estate operation and brokerage.
His largest properties were located in
Troy.
Surviving are his wife, two sons, three
daughters and four brothers.
Al Sherry, Buffalo Pioneer,
Dies After Heart Attack
BUFFALO—In the theatre business in this
area for 50 years, Alfred R. Sherry, 66, of
Williamsville, died last week at his home after
a heart attack.
During his half century of theatrical
life, Sherry managed the Lyceum, Academy,
Star and Family theatres. He was the first
manager of Shea's Hippodrome Theatre when
it opened. One of the first film exchanges
in Buffalo was opened by Sherry. He was a
member of lATSE Local 10. At the time of
his death, he was stage manager at Shea's
Teck.
He is survived by his wife, a son, a daughter
and three brothers.
FCC Okays Schine's Buy
Of Albany Radio Station
ALBANY—Transfer to the Schine theatre
interests of Gloversville of the Patroon Broadcasting
Co., which holds a permit for a 10,000-
watt radio station in Albany, was approved
Wednesday by the Federal Communications
commission. Purchase of the property-»"for
$101,500 was made in September, subject to
FCC approval. The Patroon company has
been assigned the call letters 'WPTR. Studios
it will be in Schine's Ten Eyck hotel and is
expected the station will be in operation in
several months. It wiU bring to five the
number of local stations. This will be the
Schines' first venture into radio.
SMPE Will Meet Jan. 21
NEW "VORK-The Atlantic coast section
of the Society of Motion Picture Engineers
will meet January 21 at the RCA film recording
studios, 411 Fifth Ave.
Buffalo Trial Starts
Of Bordonaro Plaint
BUFFALO—With the prospect that it may
continue for at least two weeks, the $300,000
damage action against 12 motion picture distributing
companies, charging them with discrimination
in marketing films, was reconvened
this week before Judge Harold P.
Burke in federal court.
A truckload of Olean newspaper files, covering
several years, was brought to court for
possible use as documentary evidence. If permissible,
they wiU be used to check lists showing
pictures exhibited at the Palace Theatre,
owned by Bordonaro Bros., Inc., plaintiffs in
the action, and a competing theatre, the
Haven, owned by Warner Bros., one of the
defendants.
Judge Burke has not yet ruled as to whether
the newspaper files will be deemed competent
evidence. Anthony X. Bordonaro, co-manager
of the Palace, has been the principal
witness so far. He alleged the picture companies
favored the Haven Theatre in offering
pictiu-es. He said that a representative of
Paramount, after refusing to sell first run
pictures to the Palace in 1942, offered him
pictures that had been rejected by the Haven.
"Were these rejects top-flight products,"
asked William Gray, attorney for the Bordonaros.
"They were not," Bordonaro replied.
He testified about purported difficulties he
had in obtaining other pictures and told of
conversations he had with representatives of
the film companies.
CSA's Intervention Plea
In Trust Suit Filed
WASHINGTON—The Confederacy of
Southern Ass'ns filed its intervention plea in
the appeal of the New York antitrust decision
with the supreme coui't Tuesday (13). The
CSA brief urged elimination of competitive
bidding and asked for permission to intervene
in the appeal.
The CSA already has been granted time to
argue its motion to intervene before the court.
The CSA brief pointed out that the organization
represents more than 2,000 theatres.
It asked for permission to intervene on the
grounds that the independent exhibitors have
been "completely disregarded."
The brief said bidding will bring chaos in
exhibition, and that the relief granted in
other sections of the New York decision will
end unlawful restraints of trade. It said competitive
bidding, as outlined by the court, is
"pregnant with litigation" and gives the producer
the right to "exact the highest possible
price for his features from exhibitors."
Students Damage Theatre,
College Pays Up, $99.04
AUBURN, ALA.—Alabama Polytechnic Institute
has paid a $99.04 claim to the Tiger
Theatre for damage done by students in a
demonstration following a pep rally here
October 16. Light globes were broken and
damage done to the marquee and exterior.
Boris Vermont Returns
NEW YORK—Boris Vermont has returned
to his former post as head of the 20th-Pox
foreign versions department after completing
a special assignment for 20th-International,
including the production of a series of shorts,
"The World Today." Edward Leggewie, who
held the post diu-ing Vermont's leave of
absence, will shortly be promoted to a new
assignment in a European territory.
52
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

, doctors,
. . . Plans
. . . Some
. . The
. . The
. . The
. .
. . Ballantyne
. .
NEWARK
T E. Thyfalt, new assistant at the Hawthorne,
' comes to Newark from Washington state.
He worked for a short time last year as assistant
at the Globe in Newark. In 1938 and
1939 he was connected with his grandfather's
theatre, the Thorpe in Edes, Colo., which has
been sold since then to Prank Kussrow . . .
Raymond Seery, former assistant at the Haw-
'ilSisJiithorne, left to go into the used car business.
* I!:>W For the "Life With Father" opening at the
Hawthorne February 4, Joseph Geller, manager,
arranged tieins with the Social Center
for Aged People, an organization claiming
400 members. A horse and buggy still and
another picturing the
111pleased the old timers.
fashions of the '90s
'nm.,.» Ann Bontempo, publicity head for Loew's,
'
ushered in the new year as a patient at St.
Michael's hospital as a result of a fall on the
porch steps at her Bloomfield home . . . Unfavorable
weather conditions have affected
attendance at quite a number of the theatres
but have helped boost it in others. The
Center, Bloomfield, did exceptionally well
with its Christmas show for children and
since then has carried on a terrific business
notwithstanding the ice storm.
The "Wild Harvest" display painted in
flaming letters on a mirror 15 feet long and
five feet wide in the lobby of the Center
Theatre, Bloomfield, has won the applause
of patrons and exhibitors alike, according
to Paul Peterson, manager. The theatre has
used these displays for some time on smaller
mirrors, but not on one of this size. As pa-
^
"^ trons enter the lobby they catch a glimpse
of their own shadows as well as the decorations
and announcements.
John Tasko, operator at the Center, and
Mrs. Tasko are receiving congratulations on
the birth of a son . theatre is running
cartoon shows Saturdays . . . Broadcasts over
WAAT for the "Second Honeymoon" contest
were held from the stage of the Union Theatre,
Union, January 13 . . . The Union will
continue its kiddy matinees on Saturdays.
With the renovation of the Grant-Lee in
Palisades Junction, both inside and out completed
during the past year, the theatre becomes
one of the most beautiful in the state
are under way for the complete renovation
of the local Cameo, another of the
Harold S. Eskin houses.
Stage shows are continuing in popularity
at the Court . National has a new
marquee and has added new flash lights. The
front is also being altered. There will be no
further renovations until the weather settles,
according to the owner, Adolph Nussbaum
theatres offer special service for
nurses and business men who are
subject to receiving phone calls. Persons in
QlK
,1 these catagories can leave their names in the
!< manager's office.
Full color reproductions of Currier and
Ives prints and famous masterpieces distributed
in 'Warner houses and other theatres
have met with so much success that a
second series will start shortly. The series
are given by the Star Ledger in exchange for
coupons . . . "Cass Timberlane" was held over
a second week at Loew's . . . The Mayfair did
exceptionally well with "Green Dolphin
Street" notwithstanding bad weather.
Thomas Arrants, assistant at the Ritz,
Elizabeth, is carrying on an extensive campaign
for "My Wild Irish Rose," opening
January 22. He is tying in with the Altenburg
Piano House and the House of Westmore,
New York cosmetic firm. A 40x60 display
Is used in the window of the piano store.
The firm is also mailing between 3,000 and
4,000 circulars advertising the records and
using a two-line insert plugging the film.
Westmore cosmetics are sold in local drug
stores in which display cards are used. Arrants
has likewise posted a 40x60 display in
the window at Woolworth's.
C. P. Murphy, manager of the Ritz, Elizabeth,
has been out for several weeks due to
illness. . . Mrs. Frances Jeremias, former assistant,
left to be married to Norman Trumpore
who is engaged in the insm-ance business.
The couple will live in Elizabeth .
The Maplewood Theatre, Maplewood, ran a
cartoon carnival January 10 . . . The Elmora
Theatre, Elizabeth; the Park, Roselle, and
the Rahway Theatres, Rahway, are running
three cartoons plus extra features at Saturday
matinees . Savoy will continue indefinitely
to use selected features at kiddy
matinees.
PHILADELPHIA
pour hundred children and 100 adults left
the Grant Theatre Sunday afternoon
when smoke filtered into the auditorium from
a bui-ning shop next door. George Resnick,
owner of the theatre, said his audience numbered
about 500, four-fifths of them children,
when wisps of smoke appeared in the shaft
of light from the projection booth to the
screen. At the same time, Evelyn Liftman,
cashier, saw smoke in her booth and sent in
a fire alarm. Resnick turned on the house
lights and firemen helped supervise evacuation.
They were hindered by children who
refused to leave, shouting "Give us our money
back." The kids quieted down when they were
told the show would start again when the fire
was out.
The Berwyn Theatre, in suburban Berwyn,
has been purchased by a syndicate headed
by V. N. Barrington, New York investment
broker, and embarked on a policy of stock
with a performnace of "Kiss and Tell"
January 16 . . . Mr. and Mrs. David Milgram
were robbed of cash and jewelry valued at
$14,000 while vacationing in Flordia. He's
head of the Affiliated Theatres circuit . . .
Telephone operators at EL now answer the
phone by annoimcing "Eagle Lion Films, the
T-Men company . . . Not so long ago, a set
of false teeth was turned in at the lost and
foimd department of the Fairmount Theatre.
Setting the pace for the new year, a
crutch was turned in the other night.
WINS GOLD WATCH—James Ricci
(left), manager of the Stanley Theatre,
Atlantic City, is presented a $350 solid
gold watch by Ted Schlanger, Warner
Bros. Theatres Philadelphia zone manager.
Ricci was first prize winner in the
recent kiddie attendance drive held in
118 Warner Bros. Theatres in the Philadelphia
zone.
ALBANY
J^ouis W. Schine, vice-president and general
manager of the Schine circuit, has returned
to his desk in Gloversville after a
holiday vacation in Flordia. Mrs. Schine will
remain in the south a little longer. J. Myer
Schine and his wife also are in Florida . . .
Leo Abrams, who supervises the Albany,
Bo.ston, Buffalo, New Haven and New York
branches for National Screen Service, visited
here Monday and Tuesday . . . C. J. Latta,
Warner zone manager, went to Buffalo for a
court case involving a theatre in Olean.
Nate Dickman, Monogram manager, spent
part of the holidays in Buffalo and Detroit.
Dickman came to Albany from Buffalo, where
his partner, Harry Berkson, operates. Nate
reports that "The Gangster" has been booked
for 19 Schine theatres in this territory . . .
Jack Goldberg, Metro manager, hopped to
Monticello and Liberty for a conference with
Max Cohen, who operates the Rialto and
Broadway in the former town and the Liberty
and Academy in the latter. The Liberty and
Rialto are year-round situations. The other
two are leading summer spots. Goldberg also
called on Harvey English of the English circuit
in Hancock.
Harry Hellman, a leading Albany independent
exhibitor for 35 years, is suffering from
an infection in his eye. Harry must remain
in bed for a month at his winter home near
Miami. Harry is the oldest exhibitor here in
point of continuous operation, having opened
the city's third nickelodeon, the Whiteway
on South Pearl street. He also conducted the
first open-air theatre in Albany. Hellman
now conducts the Royal and Paramount In
Albany and the Palace in Troy.
"Unconqucred," at advanced prices, drew
large audiences to the Grand over the weekend
. . . Cab Calloway, who was appearing
with his orchestra in the Rainbow room of
the New Kenmore hotel, appeared on the
stage of the Strand for the first performance
and broadcast of Barnyard Follies, teen-age
show, written and produced by Tommy Sternfeld
and sponsored by Belt Line Motors, Inc.,
of which Sam Rosenblatt, Watervliet and
Lake George exhibitor, is an officer.
Al Kane, Paramount district manager, and
Ed Ruff, branch boss, hopped to Gloversville
for a conference with Schine officials . . .
Ray Smith, Warner manager, met Carl Gold,
one-time Albany manager for Gaumont-
British, when WB recently held a district
sales meeting in Boston. Gold asked to be
remembered to his local friends. He is now
New Haven manager for Warners . . . Joe
Grand has switched giveaway night at the
Eagle from Wednesday to Thursday.
Hellman's Royal is now staging Fiesta night
on Wednesdays via a giveaway of tableware.
Large newspaper space was used to advertise
the opening gift, a stainless steel knife with
red and white handle. The trend to giveaways
seems to be coming more pronounced in this
area . sound has been installed
in Harry Lament's Strand at Philmont .
Joe Riley, former projectionist for the Coneery
circuit in Ravena and present employe
of the Hughes Autograf Brush Co. in Watervliet,
renewed acquaintances with Filmrow
friends during the holidays.
The current run of two weeks for "Unconquered"
at the Grand is one of three
booked for Fabian theatres at roadshow
prices. The DeMiUe Picture will also play for
a week at Proctor's in Troy and a week at
the State in Schenectady.
"Voice of Theatre Speakers"
JOE HORNSTEIN has them!
OXOmCE :: January 17, 1948 53

Capt. Auten Decorated
By Dutch Government
WASHINGTON—Capt. Harold Auten, VC,
DSC, RNR, who has been supervising the
showing of United Artists "Henry V in the
United States and Canada, has been awarded
the Order of Orange Nassau, degree of commander,
by Queen Wilhelmina and the Netherlands
government. The award was presented
by Dr. Van Kleffins, Netherlands ambassador
to this country, at the Dutch embassy.
It was made in appreciation of Auten's
services to the Netherlands during the war.
Auten has lived in this country 20 years.
He served as British routing liaison officer
in New York from 1939 to 1945. He has represented
Greater Union Theatres of Australia
in this country for the past 16 years.
He recently was awarded the Medal of Merit
by President Truman.
Types of Films Exported
For Trade Discussion
WASHINGTON—Soon after the senate
passes the Mundt bill authorizing continuance
of the State department overseas information
service this industry will be called
into conference on the types of films exported
to foreign countries. The Mundt bill alreardy
has passed the house.
Under its terms the State department can
set up si>ecial committees for special problems.
A senate foreign relations committee
report already has indicated that the department
will "make a plea for quality exports."
Senator Smith of New Jersey says this does
not involve censorship, although he pointedly
remarked that some films going abroad "show
the seamy side of American life."
At the same time Smith indicated that the
State department intended to take action
seeking release of frozen funds
Argentine Studio Records
Film With WE Equipment
NEW YORK—A single Western Electric 435
type recording channel has produced over
one million feet of film for Argentina's
Emelco Studios in the past seven months, according
to Harro Zeppelin, manager of the
Western Electric Co., Inc., of Argentina,
which supplied the equipment.
With no other channels available at Emelco,
this equipment is used for both studio and
location work and has operated continuously
over this period.
Oberfelder in ABC Post
NEW YORK—Theodore I. Oberfelder has
been named director of advertising and promotion
for the American Broadcasting Co.
by Ivor Kenway, vice-president in charge of
advertising, promotion and research. Oberfelder
joined ABC in February 1945 as coordinator
of program promotion.
Get Extension on U Suit
NEW YORK—Universal Pictures, Nate J.
Blumbei^, president, and four directors of
Universal, have been granted an extension
by the U.S. district court to January 23 to
file answers to the suit of Bertha T. Aine,
a stockholder. The suit seeks to collect for
the corporation over $250,000, which it is said,
the five directors made on Universal stock.
Experimental Films Set
For Review Board Group
NEW YORK—The National Board of
Ban 'Outlaw' in Bermuda
HAMILTON, BERMUDA—"The Outlaw."
Howard Hughes production, has been harmed
until further notice by Mayor B. G. Butterfield.
Review
will collaborate with Cinema 16, a newlyformed
cultural institution for the presentation
of documentary and experimental films,
in offering special programs to its members.
A National Board committee, consisting of
educators and film experts, will make a
monthly selection of informational and experimental
films. An executive committee,
consisting of two members of Cinema 16 and
one member of the board will use this selection
as a basis for framing Cinema 16's programs.
Cinema 16, which originally planned to
present four performances per month at the
Provincetown Playhouse, gave 32 performances
during its first two months of operation.
All but six of these were sold out in
advance. The number of January performances
is being increased to 18, including Saturday
and Sunday matinees.
Under the board's new membership plan,
its New York members will be offered special
private performances of Cinema 16 programs
during 1948, according to Quincy Howe, president
of the board. Amos Vogel, president of
Cinema 16, said that plans are now being
laid for the expansion of Cinema 16 into a
permanent documentary film theatre.
20th-Fox Pays Off Author
For Book Title Not Used
CHICAGO—After nearly three years of
litigation and two court defeats, 20th Century-
Fox studios has paid $26,203 to Stanley Johnston,
Chicago author and reporter for the
Chicago Tribune, and E. P. Dutton company,
publishers, for the title of Johnston's book
on sinking of the aircraft carrier Lexington,
"Queen of the Flat Tops."
Comprising the sum was the original $20,-
000 for which the studio agreed to purchase
the title, $5,193 interest at 7 per cent from
March 14, 1944, to Dec. 29, 1947, and $1,010
in legal fees.
The case attracted considerable attention
because Johnston's victory was won on the
basis of establishing in court that oral contracts
such as usually are made between
studio representatives and agents for writers
and actors are as binding as though they were
written.
Superior Judge J. W. Vickers ruled that
even though the studio did not use the name
for a motion picture it must pay the sum
it had agreed upon in a verba! contract entered
into with Johnston's agent, Myron
Selznick, in April, 1944.
The studio appealed the ruling to the California
appellate court which heard the case
last October and November. The full bench
of three judges upheld the superior court
ruling. Before expiration of the 40-day period
in which an appeal could be taken to the California
supreme court, the studio paid the
judgment.
Film on New Jewish State
To Be Sent Out by UJA
NEW YORK—The problems of establishing
a new Jewish state in Palestine are shown
in a 16mm film called "Birthday of a Prophecy,"
which is to be released shortly by the
United Palestine Appeal, according to Dr.
Israel Goldstein, national chairman.
The picture will show the various activities
of the appeal. It was photographed by
Lazar Dunner of Jerusalem and produced by
Affiliated Films, Inc., for the appeal. Present
plans for showing the film to community
groups, but 35mm theatre prints for theatre
showings may be made later if there is a call
for them.
U.S. Levels Charges
Against Film Transit
MEMPHIS—Film Transit, Inc., is charged
with 19 counts of violating federal motor
carrier safety regulations and one count of
falsifying reports in a criminal information
,
filed in federal court by District Atty. Gen.
William McClanahan.
The corporation, which transports film all
over the midsouth, is charged with violations
jj
coming under the following general groups: I
(1) Engaging physically disqualified persons
to drive vehicles. (Two drivers were named
who had lost a leg.) (2i Failing to have in the
company files certificates of physical examinations
of drivers; (3) Requiring or permitting
drivers to remain on duty in excess of
the 60 hours a week permitted under federal
safety regulations; i4i Falsifying hours of
service reports with the Interstate Commerce
commission.
Maximum penalty for conviction on each
of the first 19 counts is $100, or a total of
$1,900, and for the final count $5,000.
Argentine Army Thwarts
MGM's Plan for Theatre
BUENOS AIRES—The Argentine army has
expropriated property owned by MGM on
which the company had planned to build a
$2,000,000 office building and theatre. The
government publication. Official Bulletin, announced
that the Army Institute for Financial
Aid and Payment of Retirement and
Military Pensions would build there instead
MGM had owned the 100-foot frontage foi
two years and had demolished buildings
preparatory to building a first run house witl:
a seating capacity of 2,600.
Blumenstock Will Confer
With Warner on Coast
NEW YORK—Mort Blumenstock, Warnei
Bros, vice-president in chai-ge of advertising
and publicity, left January 14 for west coas
conferences with Jack L. Warner. They wil
discuss plans for "Treasure of the Siem
Madre," "My Girl Tisa," a United States Pictures
production; "The Voice of the Turtle,'
"I Became a Criminal." a British-made pic
ture, and "April Showers," which will be thi
Easter week release. Blumenstock wiU retun;
before the end of January.
Tassos Quits 20th-Fox
NEW YORK—John Tassos has resigned a
assistant to the 20th-Fox general manager a
Bogota, Colombia, to take an executive pos
with the Hudgins, Inc., owner of one of th
islands in the Key West chain. The islani
is being developed as a yacht basin and fish
Ing resort which, Tassos hopes, will attrao
members in all branches of the film industry
Moulin Heads Kodak Store£
ROCHESTER. N. Y.—Clyde N. Moulin ha
been appointed general manager of Eastma;
Kodak stores. He was formerly head of th
company's stores in Chicago. Moulin ha
been with the firm since 1905, when he took :
job as a messenger with the Kodak store i
Sioux City.
Gering to Film in Denmarl
NEW YORK—Marion Gering. playwrigh
will produce a film version of "Life Is a Fair
Tale," dramatization of the life of Har
Christian Anderson, in association with I
Melchior. Filming wiU start in Denmark i
June.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194)
i
I

NEWSHOLLYWOOD
PRODUCTION
Fourth Sound Stage
Begun by Nassour
HOLLYWOOD— Scheduled to be completed
and ready for occupancy early in June,
ground has been broken for a new sound
stage at the Nassour studios, fourth stage to
be constructed by the rental firm since an
expansion and modernization program was
undertaken about two years ago. The new
stage will be built of concrete and fabricated
steel, completely soundproof and air conditioned.
Meantime Nassour's third sound stage, now
under construction, is scheduled for completion
in March and a new administration
building, just completed, is now being occupied.
Pine-Thomas Productions is the
tenant.
first
RKO, 20th-Fox Presidents
Brotherhood Week Chiefs
HOLLYWOOD—Spyros Skouras, 20th-Fox
president, and N. Peter Rathvon, president
of RKO, have been named national and local
chairman, respectively, for the observance of
American Brotherhood week February 22-29,
under the sponsorship of the National Conference
of Christians and Jews. Appointment
of Skouras and Rathvon was disclosed by
Dr. William Lindsay Young, director for the
southern California and Arizona area. President
Truman is honorary chairman.
Louis Mayer Entertains
Visiting AP Directors
HOLLYWOOD—Newsmen descended en
masse on the Metro studios when Louis B.
Mayer was host at a luncheon for visiting
members of the board of directors of the
Associated Press in Los Angeles to attend a
series of business conferences. Following
luncheon in the executive dining room, the
journalists were taken on a tour of the lot.
Ross Lederman to Assist
'Babe Ruth' for Del Ruth
HOLLYWOOD—Ross Lederman has terminated
his Columbia directorial commitment
to join Roy Del Ruth Productions in a supervisory
capacity. His first assignment will be
to assist in preparations for making "The
Babe Ruth Story," upcoming Del Ruth entry
for Monogram-Allied Artists.
Signed to Pilot 'Superman'
HOLLYWOOD—Sam Katzman has signed
Spencer Bennet to pilot "Superman," forthcoming
serial for Columbia release, based on
the comic strip and radio program. Kirk
Alyn has the title
role.
'Hollywood Office—Suite 219 at 6404 Holluwood Blvd.: Ivan Spear. Western Manager'
CENTER
Guild Limits Its Support
For Ten Cited Members
Narrow Gauge Politics Role
Evident in New CIO Film
HOLLYWOOD—An indication that narrow-gauge
celluloid may be destined to play
an important role in politics—something the
commercial film cannot do—was seen in the
announcement that Pictures, Ltd., has completed
a 23-minute 16mm subject, "People's
Pi-ogram," including music and commentary.
An attack on the Taft-Hartley law, its
making was sponsored by the Los Angeles
CIO council and was produced and directed
by H. Arthur Klein. The picture is available
on a rental basis and features an allunion
cast, without professional actors. It
was turned out primarily for use by unions
of all affiliations in efforts to combat legislation
which they feel may be hannful.
This year is going to see the production
of "sponsored" films increase by 50 per cent
or more, in the opinion of Jerry Fairbanks,
producer of short subjects, commercial films
and television footage. Fairbanks bases his
prediction on growing interest in commercial
celluloid by large manufactm-ers and advertising
agencies, and an expected jump in
production of 16mm projector units during
the year. About 70 per cent of the nation's
major manufacturers, Fairbanks declared,
plan or are now using motion pictures to
exploit their products and services. He now
has 17 non-theatrical films in various phases
of production.
Feature-length films exclusively for television
will be tinned out by Jerry Fairbanks
for NBC's video chain under terms of a fiveyear
contract just negotiated. NBC executives
will supervise production and will retain
complete distribution rights.
Fairbanks plans immediate enlargement of
his New York offices, with a large percentage
of the films for NBC to be made in
the east. The producer has been experimenting
with film production for television for
some time and currently has one such offering,
"Public Prosecutor," in work.
New Bob Hope Honor
HOLLYWOOD—To Bob Hope goes the
1947 annual honor award of Amvet Post
No. 48 of Long Beach, which paid tribute
to the Paramount star and radio comedian
in recognition of his "outstanding service
for veterans and people still in service,"
Tlie engraved trophy and scroll were presented
to Hope at the post's annual banquet
and dance.
HOLLYWOOD—Plans whereby the Screen
Writers Guild would lend its all-out support,
financial and otherwise, to those of its members
indicted for contempt of Congress as a
result of their refusal to testify at recent un-
American activities committee hearings in
Washington were considerably curtailed as
the result of a midweek membership meeting.
By a margin of more than 100 votes, scenarists
rejected a resolution offered by Hugo
Butler which called for the guild to furnish
financial backing to the indicted writers to
the limit of the organization's resources; to
campaign for reinstatement of those scripters
who have been discharged by the studios and
to inaugurate a public relations campaign on
behalf of the scriveners involved.
The guild still will support its ten indicted
members, however, to the extent of representing
them in civil suits as an amicus curiae.
President Sheridan Gibney disclosed negotiations
have begim with Thurman Arnold, former
antitrust head in the U.S. attorney-general's
office, to prepare briefs on behalf of
Lester Cole and Ring Lardner jr.
By overwhelming majority, members of the
Screen Actors Guild voted in a mail referendum
that all officers, directors and members
of the Communist party. Similar action
was taken at a membership meeting last November,
but because of lack of a quorum at
that .session, the question was resubmitted by
mail vote.
Members approved other proposals, including
setting up of machinery to investigate
unemployment, reissues, and support of a
campaign to repeal the Taft-Hartley act.
Herald New Camp Shows
HOLLYWOOD—A cast of Hollywood's
wartime entertainers heralded the launching
of show business' Veterans Hospital Camp
shows, which launched its peacetime program
of entertainment for hospitalized veterans
with a nationwide broadcast over NBC.
Headliners on the program were Jack Benny,
Bob Hope, Eddie Cantor, Dinah Shore, Marlene
Dietrich, Fiances Langford, Al Jolson,
Tony Romano, Douglas Fairbanks jr. and
Audie Murphy. Veterans Hospital Camp
shows has taken over the entertainment
schedule previously under the wing of USO-
Camp Shows. Inc.
Full Spooker for A&C
HOLLYWOOD—Abbott and Costello will
have the Wolf Man, the Frankenstein Monster
and Count Dracula, in the persons of Lon
Chaney, Glenn Strange and Bela Lugosi,
respectively, as support in their upcoming
Universal-International comedy, "Tlie Brain
of Frankenstein."
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

'
, the
STUDIO PERSONNEUTIES
Barnstormers
Eagle Lion
BUD ABBOTT and LOU COSTELLO hcve scheduled
their first personal appearance junket of the southern
states in connection with key city openings of "The
Noose Hangs High."
Paramount
BILLY DE WOLFE checked in to prepare lor his
role in "It's Always Spring" following a personal
appearance engagement at the New York Paramount
Theatre.
Blurbers
Warners
BILL PEIRCE has been set as publicity director for
TranstJtlantic Pictures, sharecropping unit headed by
Producer-Director Alfred Hitchcock. Company's initialer
will be "Rope," to star James Stewart
Peirce formerly was publicity-advertising chief for
Benedict Bogeaus.
Briefies
Metro
Quimby's 1948 produclion schedule, mcludtny
"Carnegie Howl" and "Mad Man Mouse," in the
Tom and Jerry series, and "Egg O' My Heart," a
SHck Chick entry.
Universal-International
Bandleader Woody Herman and his orchestra were
signed for a two-reel musical teaturette which Will
Cowan is producing and directing.
Warners
A pair of comedy shorts, "So You Want to Be a
Baby Sitter" and "So You Want to Mcfke Friends,"
have gone into production with George O'Honlon
in the starring spot in both. Richard Bare is directing
for Gordon Hollmgshead's short subjects depart-
Cleffers
Monogram
Set to score the Allied Artists production "The
Tenderfoot," is composer DIMITRI TIOMKIN. Eddie
Albert and Gale Storm topline the feature, which
was directed by Kurt Neumann.
REX DUNN will compose the musical sc
the Allied Artists production, "Panhandle." :
Rod Cameron and Cathy Downs.
Warners
DAVID BUTTOLPH was handed the assi
to compose the score for the Dennis Morgan
Lindfors starrer, "To the Victor " .^iv^^
Loanouts
Universal-International
Borrowed from Metro, AUDREY TOTTER joins the
ost of "The Saxon Charm." Robert Montgomery,
usan Hayward and John- Pcfyne Joseph
topline
istrom's produclion, which Claude Binyon is direct-
Meggers
Film Classics
SIG NEUFELD will produce "The Easy Way" with
Peter Stewart directing from Al Martin's original
screenplay.
Independent
ROBERT TANSEY has been signed by Audio Picmentary
picture which will be filmed in Arizona
with an all-Indicm cast, topped by Chief Thundercloud.
WILLIAM CAMERON MENZIES will produce "The
Ballad and the Source," based on the Rosamond
Lehmonn novel, for Walter Wanger Productions.
No release has been set
Monogram
WILLIAM BEAUDINE was inked to direct the next
Charlie Chan mystery, "Murder by Alphabet," with
Roland Winters in the title spot. James S. Burkett
produces, and the original screenplay was written
by W. Scott Darling and Sam Neumann.
LAMBERT HILLYER set to direct "Partners of the
Sunset," next Johnny Mack Brown starrer, which
Louis Gray will produce. J. Benton Cheney is preparing
the screenplay.
A high-budget period musical, "Sweet Molly Malone,"
is slated as an upcoming vehicle on SCOTT
R. DUNLAP s production schedule. John Barrows
scripted.
Republic
R. G. SPRINGSTEEN draws the directors post on
"Secret Service Investigator," an original story by
John K- Butler, which Sidney Picker will produce.
Universal-International
GEORGE SHERMAN was ticketed for another directorial
term. He begins "The Wonderful Race at
Rimrock" next month
Options
Columbia
KIRK ALYN was handed the title role in Sam
Katzman's upcoming film serialization of the comic
strip character. Superman. The femme lead was
debut in "Let's Fall in Love,"
Dorothy Lamour musical. WILLARD PARKER joins
the cast, replacing Lee Bowman, who was previously
booked for one of the top male spots. Douglas Sirk
directs the feature which also stars Dorothy Lamour,
Jeffrey Lynn and Janis Carter.
Initial starring role for LUCILLE BALL, under a
new seven-year pact which calls lor her to make
one picture a year, will be in Virginia Van Upp's
production, "Pink Lady."
Eagle Lion
A top male role in "The Spiritualist" is slated lor
RICHARD CARLSON, who joins Turhan Bey and
in Lynn Bari Ben Stoloff's production. Bernard
Vorhaus is directing.
ZACHARY SCOTT was signed by Arthur Lyons'
Producing Artists to a one-picture-a-year contract.
Film Classics
The starring spot in Eronel Productions' "The Argyle
Secrets" was handed to WILLIAM GARGAN
Cyril Endfield, who wrote the original screenplay,
will direct for Producers Alan H. Posner and Sam X.
Abarbanel. MARJORIE LORD was signed for the
femme lead. The second male lead was awarded
RALPH BYRD.
Metro
portray Richelieu, villain of the Du
Gig Vc
for the part of Port]
SUTTON drew a supporting spot. George Sidney
Pandro Berman.
Garson and Walterr Fidgeon are starred in t:,vers
Riskin's produc which Jack Conway is directii
Into the cast goes REGINALD OWEN iVEN.
Stcn-ring with Red Skelton in "A Southern Yankee"
will be BRIAN DONLEVY. Paul Jones is producing
the comedy. ARLENE DAHL was named^ to play
the leading role opposite Skelton. Both will play
spies, Skelton for both sides. Miss Dahl for the
South. S. Sylvan Simon will direct. LEON AMES
drew a featured spot.
Monogram
VIRGINIA BELMONT booked lor the leminine lead
opposite Jimmy Wakely in "Melody Range," which
Lombert Hillver directs for Producer Louis Gray.
GEORGE LEWIS, STEVE CLARK, FRANK LA RUE,
J. MILT MORANTE, CHARLES KING, C. LYTTON,
ARTIE ORTEGO, MURRAY, STAN JOLLEY, RICH-
ZON
ARD REINHARDT, ARTHUR SMITH and DON WES-
TON joined the cast.
for Additional castings "Jinx Money," upcoming
Bowery Boys feature, include STANLEY ANDREWS,
GEORGE ELDREDGE, MIKE PAT DONOVAN, TOM
KENNEDY, SHELDON LEONARD, LUCIEN LITTLE-
FIELD, BERNARD GORCEY, BENNY BAKER, RALPH
DUNN and JOHN ELDREDGE. William Beaudine is
directing for Producer Jon Grippo.
GALE STORM wins the femme lead opposite Rory
Calhoun and Guy Madison
"When a Man's a Man."
Pictures'
—
in Windsor
Paramount
Broadway comedienne ZAMAH CUNNINGHAM
joins the cast of "Abigail, Dear Heart," lor a top
supporting role. Mitchell Leisen is directing tor
Producer Richard Maibaum, who also wrote the
screenplay. Veteran film actor HENRY HULL was
set for a key role. The production stars Claude
Rains and Wanda Hendrix. JOHN HEAL drew a' top
featured role.
RKO
MICHAEL STEPHEN FLAGG epacted
other session. He has appeared in several short
subjects.
BARBARA HALE drew the top leminine role in
"The Boy With Green Hair." Pal O'Brien has the
starring spot in Stephen Ames' Technicolor production,
which Joseph Losey will direct.
IRIS ADRIAN, JOYCE COMPTON and FRANK
SCANNELL have been added to the cast oi Arko's
Ernest B Schoedsack
3per are directing
Republic
JACK HOLT signed lor a top role in the untitled
William
>tt starrer, which Joe Kane is
producing am
Into "Moon in a comedy role goes FHIL
BROWN, who Dane Clark, Gail Russell and
Ethel Barrymore
cast. HARRY CAREY JR.
has been signed his first film role in this producdischarge
from service. Top leatured
roles were set lor ART SMITH and HENRY MORGAN.
JAMES BROWN was signed lor a featured role in
the untitled William Elliott starrer which Joseph
Kane is producing and directing.
20th-Fox
RANDY STUART was inked for the femme lead m
"The Chair for Martin Rome," with Victor Mature
and Ri rd Conte. Simultaneously with the book-
^as handed a new seven-year contract.
A three-pictures-a-year c
EMERY by Frank Seltzer
following h
:t was set with JOHN
recropping producer,
Let's Live Again."
Dutch act s JOANNE DE BURGH was handed a
following her screen debut in "Call
Northside 777."
GENE LOCKHART will join Jeanne Grain and Edmund
Gwenn in "Apartment for Peggy," which
William Perlberg is producing from George's Seaton's
screenplay, with Seaton directing
United Artists
JAMES DUNN was signed to star with Guy
son and Diana Lynn m Robert S. Golden
tion, "Texas, Brooklyn and Heaven." AU die'mur-
PHY also joined the cast, which Willie Cas
Universal-International
BOBBY HYATT was signed lor the role ol the
Juvenile in Nunnally Johnson's "Mr. Peobody and
the Mermaid," which stars William Powell and Ann
Blyth. Irving Pichel is directing.
ROBERT WALKER and DICK HAYMES were set by
Producer Lester Cowan for top spots m "One Touch
of Venus." Ava Gardner has the title role and
William Setter will direct. Walker was borrowed
A leatured supporting role in the Fredric March-
'
Florence Eldredge starrer, "The Art ol Murder is
set for STANLEY RIDGES. Michael Gordon will direct
for Producer Jerry Bresler.
TONI DOYLE was signed lor a part in the Michael
Curtiz production, "The Forty-Niners."
ERNEST COSSART is set f^or a character ro!e m
"John Loves Mary," picturization of Norman Krasna's
Broadway play. Ronald Reagan, Jack Carson. Wayne
Morris and Patricia Neal head the cast o! Jerry
Wold's production.
DAVID BRUCE ticketed lor a leatured role in
"The Adventures of Don Juan." Jerry Wald is producing
and Vincent Sherman directs.
Key castings lor Allred Hitchcock's production
to "Rope," went JOHN DALE, JOAN CHANDLER and
FARLEY GRANGER. Jomes Stewart was previously
announced lor the male lead.
ALEXIS SMITH draws one
in "Four Wise Bachelors,"
comedy by Leonard Spiegelga
will produce.
Scripters
~ie starring spo
lich Alex Gollhe
Universal-International
OSCAR BRODNEY was assigned to polishmq
lialog job on "Brain ol Frankelstein," next co
laled lor Abbott and Costello
Story Buys
Columbia
An original story by Paul Gongelin, "Sons of New
Mexico," was added to the Gene Autry Productions
slate. Plans are under wav to film the picture
in in Cinecolor on location New Mexico, using the
military institute at Roswell as one ol the principal
backgrounds.
Independent
"Shadow ol Time," based on a story by Lee
Frederics, has been acquired as the third lilm on
the six-picture program o! Gibraltar Productions.
The lilm will be made in Cinecolor, with Al Rogell
producing and directing.
.
Republic
"Flight From Fury," John K. Butler's original yarn,
was purchased lor production by Sidney Picker.
of The story a young couple who steal money and
then find theft the money can't bring them happiness,
the film is slated to go into production in
early spring.
Technically
n
Columbia
BILL LYON was named lilm editor on "Let's Fall
Love."
Film Classics
Technical crew lor Sig Neufeld's production, "The
fContinued on next news page^
56
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Through him . . .West meets East
ACROSS his "front page" the world
parades . . . before the eyes of moviegoers
on Main Street. There, West
and East do meet—through the highly
specialized efforts of the newsreel
editor.
He sifts the facts and foibles of the
world . . . and presents in one short
reel the significant, the human, and
the odd—the news that helps the
world to know itself.
To his objectivity . . . his sense of
the newsworthy . . . his feeling for
concise and graphic storytelling . .
the newsreel owes its unique place
in American journalism.
Yet the newsreel editor would be
the first to give due credit to his
staff of cameramen . . . and to the
Eastman motion picture films which
help them cover the news—and help
him present it so effectively.
EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY
ROCHESTER 4, N. Y.
J. E. BRULATOUR, INC., DISTRIBUTORS
FORT LEE • CHICAGO • HOLLYWOOD
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948
t'

20th'Fox Schedules
48 Features
For Release During This Year
HOLLYWOOD—Reflecting a substantial
increase in output over the past several
years, 20th-Fox will release 48 feature films
this year, of which 23 will be made on the
home lot, four in England by Alexander
Korda and 21 by various independent producers
releasing through the company.
Darryl P. Zanuck and Joseph M. Schenck.
production executives who announced the
1948 schedule, said the program "will boast
the greatest lineup of stars and producer and
director talent ever gathered for one season"
under the company's banner.
The Westwood film plant began the new
year with 11 isictures either finished or editing,
in release, five two shooting and five
being readied for early camera work.
Two big-budget offerings included as 1943
releases, which are now in distribution, are
"Gentleman's Agreement" and "Captain
From Castile." A third, "Forever Amber,"
will complete roadshow runs shortly and go
shooting are "The Walls of Jericho," "The
Iron Cm-tain," "The Street With No Name,"
"The Chair for Martin Rome" and "Apartment
for Peggy."
Scheduled for early shooting are "For
Fear of Little Men." to star Tyrone Power,
"Burlesque," "Road House," "Symphony" and
"Sweet Sue." Others in preparation include
"Sand," "Party Line," "That Wonderful
Urge," "Blind Date," "Lydia Bailey," "Call
Me Mister," "The Heller," "Lady Windemere's
Fan," "The Dark Wood" and "Yellow Sky.'
Korda's releases will include three in Technicolor—"An
Ideal Husband," "I Will Repay"
and "Bonnie Prince Charlie"—and one blackand-white,
"Anna Karenina."
Independents contributing to the company's
program include Sol M. Wurtzel. Edward
L. Alperson, Frank Seltzer and Reliance
Pictures, headed by Bernard Small
and Ben Pivar.
Contract producers comprise William
general release.
The 11 completed offerings are "Call Perlberg. Otto Pi-emlnger,
Northside 777," "You Were Meant for Me," George Jessel, Robert Bassler, Sam Engel,
"Deep Waters," "Summer Lightning." "Fury Edward Chodorov. Louis D. Lighton, Walter
Morosco, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Sol Siegel,
Fred
of Furnace Creek," "Sitting Pretty," "Escape,"
into
Kohlmar,
"The Snake Pit," "Give My Regards to Broadway," "Green Grass of Wyoming" John M. Stahl, Lamar Trotti, Pi-eston Stur-
ges, Walter Reisch, Gene Markey and Otto
and "That Lady in Ermine." Currently Lang.
Three Scripts Okayed
For Industry Films
HOLLYWOOD—First three scripts in the
series of industry documentaries being sponsored
by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts
and Sciences have been okayed by the supervisory
committee. Subjects approved are
"Movies Are Adventure," "Film Writers" and
"Film Directors."
N. Peter Rathvon, representing the major
producers, heads the committee, which includes
Leon Ames and Warner Anderson,
actors: Delmer Daves, representing directors;
I. E. Chadwick, independent producers; Fj-ed
Ullman, special representative; Thornton
Sargent, for exhibitors; Mary C. McCall jr..
writers; Margaret Herrick, the Academy; Edward
Cheyfitz, Motion Picture Ass'n, and
Grant Leenhouts, producer-coordinator of the
films.
Seltzer Picks 'Mr. Flynn'
For Second Production
HOLLYWOOD—"Flynn and Mr. Flynn"
be the second film to be made by Frank
will
Seltzer Pi-oductions, headed by Seltzer and
Hugh King, for 20th-Fox release. The story,
an original by Seltzer, was scripted by Jack
Jevne and is scheduled to roll late this month
at General Service studio.
The sharecropping company's initialer,
is "Let's Live Again," slated for early release
by 20th-Fox.
Bill Deming to 'India'
HOLLYWOOD—Gibraltar Pictures, new
independent company headed by Albert S.
Rogell, set Bill Deming as a.ssociate producer.
His first chore will be "Song of
India," to star Sabu. No release has been
set as yet for the Cinecolor offering.
'Citizen Saint' to Premiere
In Hollywood January 28
CHICAGO—Clyde Elliott's "Citizen Saint,"
feature based on the miracles of Mother
Cabrini and released by Clyde Elliott Attractions,
will have its premiere at the Marcal
Theatre in Hollywood January 28 at $10 admission
price. The picture opens the following
day at both the Marcal and Center
theatres. It tees off in the east at the Mayfair
in Baltimore on the same date and opens
in the middlewest for Balaban & Katz at
the Princess Theatre. Toledo, February 4. A
short featuring the 'Vatican choir, filmed at
the RKO studios by Elliott, will be presented
on the same program.
Monogram-Allied Slates
'Forgotten' for March
HOLLYWOOD—"Forgotten Women," ui
exploitation special, has been added to Producer
Jeffrey Bernerd's agenda at Monogram-Allied
Artists. Slated to start in March,
it is based on current agitation toward keeping
miescorted women out of bars.
Early Films Arrive
HOLLYWOOD—The first consignment of
100 early-day film subjects have been shipped
from the Library of Congress to the Academy
of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, wlffire
the paper rolls are being converted to celluloid.
The pictures includes such pioneer efforts
as Edwin S. Porter's "The Life of an
American Fireman," a group of 50 French entries
made by George Melies, and the first
industrial film ever made, "The Westinghouse
Works," produced for Westinghoiise by Biograph
in 1904.
Richard Sokolove Resigns
HOLLYWOOD — By mutual agreement
Richard Sokolove, Paramount story head, has
terminated his contract with the studio. His
future plans will be announced soon.
Studio Personnelities
I Continued from preceding news page)
technical
Easy Way," will include BERT STERNBACK, production
monager; STANLEY NEUFELD. assistant director;
EDDIE JEWELL, art director, and JACK
GREENHALGH, comeramanm
"A Southern Yanke
Monogram
director
Paramount
WARREN LOWE, executive film
or Hal
Wallis Productions, begins his lir:
Walhs when "Sorry. Wrong
Number" goes before the cameras. NORMAN
STUART was set as dialog director.
RKO
lor
"The
Universal-International
LAURENCE WEINBERG, studio legal head, has
been assigned to work as technical advisor with
Producer Jerry Bresler and Director Michael Gordon
on courtroom, judicial and attorney phases ol
"The Art oi Murder." ROBERT BOYLE was assigned
the crrt directorship.
Technical assignments lor "One Touch ol Venus"
were awarded to ORRY KELLY, costume designer;
MAURY GERTSMAN, first cameraman; EMRICH
NICHOLSON, art director; and LOUIS Da PRON,
dance director.
Saxon Charm" will include
MILTON KRASNER, cameraman; ALEXANDER
Production staff for "The
GOLITZEN art director; EDDIE DODDS, unit production
manager; FRANK E-HAW, first assistant director,
and PAUL WEATHERWAX, film editor.
Warners
Cutter assignment for "The Fighting Terror" went
to FRANK McGEE.
STANLEY FLEISCHER was handed the art director
post on "Until Proven Giilty."
Crew assignments for "John Loves Mary" are
HERSCHEL DAUGHERTY, dialog director; ERIC
-
3TACY
unit manager; PHIL QUINN, assistant diand
PEVERELL MARLEY, photography direc-
Title Changes
Film Classics
The Argyle Album" switches to THE ARGYLL
SECRETS.
RKO-Radio
JOAN OF ARC was set as the final release title
for Sierra Pictures' production ol Maxwell Anderson's
play, which was filmed as "Joan."
Republic
"Recoil" has been switched to KING OF THE
GAMBLERS.
The current William Elliott _
i released as THE
20th-Fox
FURY OF FURNACE CREEK repla
Academy Gets New System
For Awards Sound Tests
HOLLYWOOD—Just so there shouldn't be
any squawks that faulty equipment faOed to
do justice to the sound reproduction quality
of contenders for sound recording awards in
the upcoming Oscars sweepstakes, the
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
has installed a new Altec loudspeaker system
and has remodeled the projection booth
at the Academy Award Theatre, where
nominated films will be run off for the judges.
At the same time a special mixer console
was designed and constructed by the Academy's
research council to provide the necessary
switching keys, volume controls and
equalizers required in making the tests.
Winners in the sound category as well as
other achievements will be announced at the
Academy's 20th annual awards ceremonies
March 20.
SPEARHEADS
On Page 30
58
Januai-y 17. 1948

i
The stars in sight- ^. b
s. i
will be big and bright, ^
,
Deep in the heart of Texas —
and the whole Southwest
.
y Coming in Person' To Help Celebrate
The Southwest's World Premiere Fiesta Week 2
Of
Paramount's Cinecolor Epic
RANDOLPH scon
Barbara George "Gabby' Lon
BRITTON
HAYES CNANEY
RUSSELL HAYDEN • CATHERINE CRAIG • GEORGE CLEVELAND
Directed by RAY F.NRIGHT
Screenplay by Gene Lewis and Clarence Upson You
A Clarion Production
These headliners are scheduled to appear
in one or moic oF the premiere cities.

. . Glen
. . Bob
. . Mel
. . Bob
SEATTLE
^oUie Volchok, city manager for Sterling
circuit, is recovering from illness in Virginia
Mason hospital Willis Coolley
painted the main
. . .
characters from RKO's
"Fun and Fancy Free" on mirrors to advance
his attraction at the Granada in
Everett . Scholine, who handles theatrical
ad accoimts for the Times, is in the
hospital with acute arthritis.
Frank L. Newman sr.. Evergreen president,
hosted a cocktail and dinner for wives of
home office executives and Seattle managers
at the Olympic hotel. Those present were
Mesdames Vic Gauntlett, Carl Mahne, A. M.
Ahlskog, Frank X. Christie, Doug Forbes,
Lowell Parmentier, Robert Haase, Willard
Elsey, Dan Putnam, Herbert Sobottka, Dan
Redden, Jack Hamaker, Jack Dudman, Chris
Casper, Marvin Fox, Del Larison, Clyde
Strout and Lou Kahn.
Oscar Nyberg, manager of the Fox, Spokane,
talked the famed Athletic Round Table
club into featuring a "Road to Rio" cocktail
as a part of his campaign . . . Sterling announces
the appointment of Dave Bloom as
manager of the Madrona, and Gene Neavitt
at the Uptown . Blair, Paramount exploiteer,
is back with his family after spending
the holidays in San Fi-ancisco. The trip
was made difficult by the illness the whole
time of his two small children.
S'Zecu^iccie
West: William A. Scully, Universal-International's
general sales manager, and Maurice
Bergman, eastern advertising-publicity director,
for two weeks of conferences with J.
Cheever Cowdin, Nate Blumberg, Leo Spitz.
William Goetz, William Dozier, John Joseph
and other company executives, in connection
with productions now being readied for national
release. Meantime David Lipton, advertising
and promotion coordinator, checked
out for New York for business huddles with
eastern U-I officials.
West: Lawrence Green and Fred Ehrman,
members of RKO's executive committee, from
New York to attend committee sessions with
Floyd Odium, board chairman, and President
N. Peter Rathvon. Due in shortly from England
is Producer William Pereira, who spent
some weeks abroad lining up locations for
"The Captain Was a Lady," which he will
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'Albuquerque' Debut
In New Mexico Feb. 2
HOLLYWOOD—"Albuquerque," produced
by Pine-Thomas for Paramount release, will
be given a two-theatre world premiere in
Albuquerque February 2, with city officials
and representatives of the Interstate circuit
and Paramount cooperating in the event.
The color film, starring Randolph Scott
and Barbara Britton. will make its bow at
the Kimo and Sunshine theatres with cast
members and other Hollywood luminaries in
attendance. The premiere will be followed
by sectional openings in Houston. San
Antonio. Dallas and Fort Worth.
20 Per Cent Wage Boost
For So. Calif. Operators
LOS ANGELES—Wage increases averaging
20 per cent, as well as other concessions, were
granted local lATSE operators in a oneyear
contract set with the Independent Theatre
Owners of Southern California. Operators
will be paid Class A scale for roadshow
and first rim bookings, paid vacations and
time-and-a-half for overtime.
Negotiations were conducted between
George ochaefer, representing the union, and
Robert Poole. ITO executive secretary. The
deal, expiring Nov. 30, 1948, was said by
Schaefer to include "all clauses now proving
stumbling blocks in contract talks with circuit
operators."
^^uuie/e^
West: Neil Agnew, president of SRO, and
Milton S. Kusell, vice-president and sales
manager, from Manhattan for huddles with
David O. Selzniok, Daniel T. O'Shea, Ernest
Scanlon and Paul MacNamara anent national
release plans for three upcoming Selznick
films.
West: Robert Young, president of Pathe
Industries and a member of the directorate
of Eagle Lion, due in from New York early
next month for conferences at EL with President
Arthur Krims, Bryan Foy, production
chief, and other studio executives, concerning
picture-making plans for the balance of 1948.
East: James R. Grainger, Republic sales
chief, to New York after three weeks on the
coast, during which he visited western exchanges
and huddled at the studio with
President Herbert Yates.
West: George D. Burrows, Monogram-Allied
Artists treasurer, from Manhattan after
a three-week business trip.
North: Carmelo Santiago, foreign department
chief of Cosmos Films, Buenos Aires,
to study local film conditions and incorporate
Hollywood production techniques into his
company's Argentine output.
West: Joseph Hazen, president of Hal Wallis
Productions, from New York for a twoweek
stay to discuss the 1948 production program
for the Wallis unit, which releases
through Paramount.
East: Walter Lantz. cartoon-maker releasing
through United Ai-tists. on a motor
trip to New York, combining business and a
vacation, accompanied by Mrs. Lantz.
SALT LAKE CITY
T^arryl F. Zanuck and George Jessel lost
quite a bit of publicity when a press conference
was muffed here this week. They
were scheduled to arrive in Salt Lake City
from Sun Valley the morning of January 10.
A press conference had been announced in
the morning paper, but no one informed the
afternoon papers of the whereabouts of
Zanuck and Jessel and reporters were unable
to find them. It turned out the pair had
arrived in their private train and waited in
vain for reporters . . . Gary Cooper, however,
fared somewhat better. He arrived in Salt
Lake from a Sun Valley vacation and his
presence was properly chronicled. He landed
a two-column story and a one-column picture
in the morning paper.
"T-Men" has had two local previews, both
well received. Local treasury departm.ent employes
attended one and lauded the picture
as "a thriller." Beverly Miller, Eagle Lion
district manager, was in Salt Lake for both
previews . Quinn. Paramount field
representative, was in town to plug "I Walk
Alone." Bill Prass of Metro has been here
for several days working on "Cass Timberlane"
and "Desire Me."
Bill Fowers, Fox Intermountain city manager
in Butte, was in Salt Lake City with
Mrs. Fowers on one of their rare visits . . .
Frank Ricketsen, Fox Intermountain president,
visited the Idaho territory briefly last
week . Glatz, the company's purchasing
agent, also was in the Idaho territory.
Charles M. Pincus, doughty manager of the
Utah Theatre, faced rioting high school students
in Salt Lake City again last Friday
night. This is the third time within a year
that Pincus's theatre has been mobbed by the
teen-agers after sports events in town. Pincus
and bystanders have complained to police, 25
of whom were on hand to stop rioting last
Friday. On this latest and the other two occasions,
the exuberant prepsters attempted
to crash the theatre.
Several .stars, including Margaret O'Brien
and Mary Kckford and possibly Gene Autry,
are expected in Salt Lake for personal appearances
on behalf of the polio drive, rracy
Barham, vice-president and general manager
of Intermountain Theatres, is theatre chairman
for the campaign.
28 Fox West Coast Pilots
Join NT's 'Inner Circle'
LOS ANGELES—During 1947 a total of 28
Pox West Coast managers joined the "Inner
Circle of Showmanship." mythical honorary
organization sponsored by PAR. National
Theatres houSe organ, membership in which
is extended for outstanding ticket-selling
ideas.
FWC personnel so honored during the year
for exploitation campaigns included George
Sharp, Robert Retzer, Allen Martin. Homer
Skillion, Gerald Cruea. Neil Brown. Robert
Benton, Lee Wentz, Jack McGeorge, Rodney
Slinde, C. G. Ramsey, James Mastro, Ray
Lindsey, Carl Meeker, Lew HaiTis, Edward
Sudduth, Clyde Griffin. Dudley Winscott.
George Zischank. Frank Burhans. Lou Singer,
C. E. Macdonald. Gordon Goodloe, Frank
HoUis, Lloyd HoweU, William Straub, Bill
Dumond and Louis Albert.
Goldwyn 'Birthday' Party
HOLLYWOOD—Pioducer Samuel Goldwyn
gave a "birthday" party for 175 little
girls living at the Los Angeles Orphan asylum,
with Loretta Young acting as hostess and the
Robert Mitchell boys choir on hand to provide
entertainment. Following refreshments and
distribution of gifts, a 16mm print of "The
Bishop's Wife" was screened for the children
in the auditorium of the institution.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194«

. . Ted
. .
. . Music
. . Connie
. . "Pop"
. . Mr.
. . RKO's
SAN FRANCISCO Exhibitor Wins Suit
pive Hollywood stars are scheduled to lead
^ the parade to be staged January 24 in
Coloma, El Dorado county town, where a
three-year-long celebration of the discovery
of at gold Sutter's Mill will begin. Scheduled
to come from the film capital are Gregory
Peck, Edward Arnold, Donald Crisp, Roy Rogers
and Dale Evans, and Rogers' horse
Trigger.
Edward Baron, local theatreman, was reappointed
to the board of permit appeals
when Elmer E. Robinson took office as San
Francisco's new mayor last week. The four
other members of the board were replaced
. . . Al Dunn, manager of the Orpheum, was
home ill last week . . . Bill Helm of the Niles
Theatre shook off a cold and returned to
his job.
Dave Petersen, new Humboldt county district
manager for Redwood Theatres, presented
a bonus check for $250 to LeRoy Petterson,
honoring his ten years of service with
the company as a projectionist, at a dinner
meeting of MPMO Local 430. Cliff Morris
was up from the San Francisco office to attend
the affair.
Carol Petersen of Petersen Theatres was in
Los Angeles for talks with Ken and Jewel
Hodkinson, associates in the organization .
Melba Berry Crafton, secretary to Lawrence
Borg, the circuit operator, has sold her exclusive
fabric shop in Redwood City . . . Borg
and John Peters are back from a jaunt to
Los Angeles.
Dave Cantor, west coast ejcploiteer for RKO,
was here working on the opening of "The
Secret Life of Walter Mitty" at the Fox and
the premiere of "Night Song" at the Golden
Gate . Galanter, MGM pubhcist, is
back from a vacation at Sun Valley . . . Monogram
salesman Howard Butler is up and
around again after being bedded with a cold
. . . Percy Kilbride, the Pa Kettle of "The
Egg and I," spent some time in Alameda
recently with his family, the Howard Kilbrides.
About the only Robert he didn't have on
his double bill program at the Balboa Theatre
was Taylor, so in his marquee and newspaper
copy Manager Edwin Scheeline cried,
"Call for Robert Taylor." His bill consisted
of Robert Young, Robert Mitchum and Robert
Ryan in "Crossfire" and Robert Cummings in
"Heaven Only Knows."
A gunman took $150 from the cashier of
the Paramount January 8. PhU Booker, assistant
manager, had just removed $500 when
tne thief called . . . New Simplex projectors
have been installed in theatres in Mountain
View, Sunnyvale, Los Gatos, Colfax, Clovis,
Exeter and Lemoore.
Lawrence Lash, student assistant at the
Alexandria, landed a window display in a
sporting goods store on "Black Narcissus,"
capitalizing on the fact that the picture was
produced by the Archers, one of J. Arthur
Rank's producing outfits. The display consisted
of an archery target in a 30x60 poster,
with small arrows carrying the names of
other Archer pictures and a large arrow, right
on the bullseye, proclaiming, "The Archers
score their greatest hit." Frank Duino, circuit
artist, prepared the piece, which was surrounded
by a window full of archery equiiJment.
Huge Orpheum Kiddy Crowd
SPOKANE, WASH. — Eighteen hundred
children, many accompanied by parents, making
up the largest audience to ever fill the
Orpheum Theatre here, attended the annual
Christmas party provided by the Eagle lodge.
"The Last of the Mohicans" and a local
Santa and his helpers comprised the entertainment.
In Egg' Print Shift
NEWPORT, WASH.—Mr. and Mrs. Charles
E. Bishop, operators of the Rex Theatre here
and three others in the county, won their suit
against Universal-International requiring
them to carry out a contract to deliver "The
Egg and I" after the company had informed
them that prints would not be available at
the Seattle exchange for them on dates
agreed on.
The Bishops went into court on the basis
of a contract he signed for the picture in
October for Christmas season dates covering
his four situations. He said the contract was
confirmed by the branch manager, that he
was later asked to book a short subject along
with the feature, and that subsequently was
informed that the print held for him had
been ordered sent to another exchange.
The Bishops in their suit declared that the
contracts signed with the company salesman
were binding, that they had gone to expense
of advertising the film, had negotiated contracts
for films on other dates and insisted
upon the "Egg and I" print. The state court
upheld their contention that the print had
to be delivered.
15,000 Crowd Butte Streets
For Fox Auto Giveaway
SALT LAKE CITY—Hall Baetz, Fox Intermountain
division manager, said there has
been a "terrific response" to the revival- of
giveaways in his houses. A car recently was
awarded at Butte, where Fox has five theatres.
All five houses were full, and it was
estimated that 12,000 to 15,000 people crowded
the streets of the town for the occasion. A
similar occurrence was recorded in Pocatello.
Merchants of both towns did so well on the
days the cars were given away, they have
asked Fox to see what can be done about
conducting other similar giveaway nights.
Open in Molalla, Ore
MOLALLA, ORE.—This community's first
theatre, the Molalla, has been put into operation.
COMPLETELY NEW
AND MODERN
^^SH
Ne» Styling, New Comjorl ,
LOS ANGELES
IJ Rosenbloom is taking over the Victor from
Joe Moritz . Auer, secretary
to Bob Poole of the ITO, is back on the job
following a Palm Springs vacation . . . Paul
Williams' secretary, Ida Schrieber, has also
returned from a vacation ... A recent Filmrow
visitor was Wade Laudermilk of the
Buckeye in Buckeye. Ariz.
Jack Sonnenshine of Embassy Pictures left
for Salt Lake City, where he will open an
Embassy exchange . Krieger of the
K&R exchange has booked his double feature,
"Devil Monster" and "White Gorilla" throughout
of the Fox West Coast ten-itory.
Republic's executive vice-president and general
sales manager, James R. Grainger, announced
that Earl R. CoUins. west coast district
manager, has been upped to Pacific coast
division manager . and Mrs. Rudy
Faulds of the Des Moines Theatre Supply
Co., Des Moines, Iowa, visited friends on Filmrow
. Hall notes: Jack Lowry, assistant
manager of the Downtown Music Hall,
transferred to Beverly Hills as manager, and
Mathew Trotter from the Hollywood r-jplaced
Manager Cliff Chellew, of the Downtown,
who is on the sick list.
F. A. Bateman, Screen Guild's general sales
manager, checked in after spending a weekend
at Las Vegas . local exchange
was in fourth place at the end of the second
week of the Ned E. Depinet drive. The company's
western district under J. H. Mac-
Intyre had Portland in first spot, Seattle in
third Jerry Safron, western district manager
for Columbia, . . .
and Wayne Ball, local
chief, pulled in from a business junket to
Phoenix.
GUARANTEED POPCORN
AND SUPPLIES
W. H. TURPIE, Western Division Manager
HE 7528 Los Angeles 7, Calil.
J DuTabilily
NOW
SHOWING
HEYWOOD-WAKEFIELD THEATRE CHAIRS
B.F. SHEARER COMPANY
WAHOO
America's finest Screen Game
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
831 South Wabash Avenue • Chicago, Illinois
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. . . Friends
. . M.
. . The
. .
H:i.-,
DENVER
atres
.
n farewell party was given at the Rocky Frank Childs, Selected Pictures branch
Mountain Screen club rooms in honor of manager, is traveUng his territory north that
Milt and Rose Marie Hossfeld, who are going
to California to make their home. Both man, western division sales manager for U-I.
he used to make for RKO . . . Charles Feld-
Mr. and Mrs. Hossfeld are club members, and Foster Blake, district manager, were m
Hossfeld having been president the past year. Denver for fom- days Metro exchange
is fast getting the "new look" what
.
He has resigned as film buyer for Fox Intermountain
Theatres, effective January 23. with new booking desks, new floor covermgs,
He plans to take a vacation before entering lowered ceiling and air conditioning.
the business again.
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Huffman have gone
New York for two weeks. He is Denver
United Artists exchange personnel are enthusiastic
over having three their films
to
Intermountain The-
city manager for Fox
of
Fred Lind, Rifle, Colo., has set
new
here this month.
getting first run breaks
Knows" into the Paramount
"Heaven Only goes the date for the opening of his $100,000
and Webber: "Christmas Eve" into
the Paramount and Esquire, and "Sleep My
Manley
Love" into the Denver and Esquire. As part fer Co. to office secretary at the
of the publicity for "Sleep My Love," Buddy office Hugh Braly, Paramount district
. . .
Rogers will fly into Denver in his own plane manager, and his assistant, Harold Wirthwein,
the Denver
held sales meetings at January 22, will meet exhibitors at a screen-
branch this week.
ing at the Esquire, and will be entertained
at a cocktail party the next day at 5 p. m.
Rogers will make appearances at the Western
National Stock show, along with several
other places. Nate Krevitz, United Artists
publicity man. is here doing the publicity.
Tom Bailey, Film Classics special representative,
weekended it to Salt Lake City
of Hazel Olson gave her a surprise
party on the eve of her departure for
San Francisco to make her home. Clarence
Olson, her husband, has been promoted from
Denver United Artists branch manager to a
similar job there . R. "Bud" Austin,
Eagle Lion branch manager, flew to Los
Angeles for a .sales meeting.
62
^^C E N T U R Y"
THE MODERN PROJECTOR
IF
187 Golden Gate Ave..
San Francisco 2. Calif.
Phone Underbill 7571
600-seat Ute for January 20 . . .
Patricia
Johnson has moved from the Weicker Trans-
Albert Feit has been named assistant rtanager
at the State . . . J. H. Roberts, Port
Morgan theatre owner, brought his son Gene
to Mercy hospital, Denver, for a checkup
Theatre folk from out of town seen on
Filmrow included W. F. Aydelotte. Fort
Collins; Leon Coulter, Loveland; Robert
Smith, Steamboat Springs; Russell Allen,
Harry Allen and Kelly Crawford, Parmmgton,
N M.- John Bohannan, Hatch, N. M.; Charles
Klein, Deadwood, S. D.; Wally O'Neill, Spearfish.
S. D., and C. E. McLaughlin, Las
Animas.
Show Children's Films
LOS ALAMOS, N. M.—B. J.
Edwards, manager,
has started showing pictures from the
Children's Library at the Hill Tlieatre here
Saturday mornings.
Empire Theafrkol Consultonts
925 21st St. TAbor 4962 Denver, Colo.
YOUR SPECIAL SHOW
NEEDS "PUNCH" SELLING
7^ ^dmack'4.
SPECIAL
TRAILERS
ALWAYS TOPS FOR RESULTS!
Los Angeles Office Now Open
1574 W. WASHINGTON BLVD.
'Rio' in Second Week
|
Takes Top in Frisco
SAN FRANCISCO—The second week of
"Road to Rio" at the St. Fi-ancis collected top
honors of 250 per cent. In for second place
with 200 was the first week of "Intrigue" at
the United Artists.
(Average Is 100)
Esquire—The Swordsman (Col); Blondie's
Anniversary (Col), 3rd wk 90
Fox—Captain From Castile (Fox), Znd wk 180
Golden Gale—Tycoon (RKO), plus stage show 180
Guild—Body and Soul (UA), 6th wk., moveover. .140
Orpheum—The Senator Was Indiscreet (Ul);
Glamour Girl (Col) 160
Paramount—My Wild Irish Rose (WB) 150
St. Francis—Road to Rio (Para), 2nd wk 250
Stale—Unconquered (Para), moveover, 9th wk 150
United Artists—Intrigue (UA) 200
United Nalions—Daisy Kenyon (20th-Foxl Roses
Are Red (20th-Fox), 3rd wk 100
Warheld—Good News (MGM) IBO
"Killer' Punches 150; Holdovers
Abundant in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES—Holdovers have been doing
so well in first run situations that only
one new entry appeared on the scene during
the period. The newcomer, "Killer McCoy,"
opened in three houses and nabbed a 150
per cent rating—a mark equaled by "The
Paradine Case" in its second week and by
"Gentleman's Agreement" in its third stanza.
Belmont. Culver, Rey, Million Dollar, Orpheum,
Vogue—T-Men
El
(EL); Linda Be Good (EL),
3rd wk 100
Fox Palace—Gentleman's Agreement (ZOth-
Beverly,
Fox, 3rd wk., roadshow 150
Bruin, Vogue—The Paradine Case (SRO), 2nd
wk., roadshow
l^G
Carthay—The Bishop's Wife (RKO), 3rd v.k ^
roadshow - 1^^
Chinese, Loyola, State, Uptown—Captain From
Costile (20th-Fox), 3rd wk 115
Downtown, Hollywood Paramounl..?—The Road to
lIC
Rio (Pal-a), Znd wk
Egyptian, Los Angeles. Wilshi: e— Killer McCoy
(MGM) 15(
Four Music Halls-Christmas Eve '.A ,:,.iv,k 101
Four Star—Mourning Becomes Eleclra nr.O),
3rd wk., roadshov.-
Ins, Guild, Los Ange',- >\-\A\: C::y U:-i;t.'-d
Artists—The Senator Was Indiscreet (Ul)
- 2nd wk 14
Pontages, Hillstreet-Tycoon (RKO), 3rd v/k 8
Warners' Downtown, Hollywood, Wiltern—My Wild
Irish Rose (WB), 3rd wk 9
'Road to Rio' Leads Parade
Of Week at Seattle
SEATTLE—New Year's week fomid all first
run situations except two opening with new i
programs. All houses reported grosses well >
above average. Leading the parade was "Road c
to Rio" which had a resounding 225 at thei '
Paramount. "Captain From Castile," in a
second week at the Fifth Avenue, and "My „
Wild Irish Rose" at the Orpheum, tied for
^
second with 175.
Filth Avenue—Captain From Castile (20lh-Fox), i
y—The Swordsmi
1) 3rd wk ,
Box-The Wistli
), The Pretender
Waller Mitty (RKO)
Orpheum—My Wild Irish Rose 1
Palomar- It Had to Be You if-
Stranger (EL)
Paramount—Road to Rio (Para
Roosevelt—Good News (MGM)..
Widow ol Wage
Rep), ):nd d t \
louse The Secre
Girl
*Irish Rose' Moveover Tops,
Others Also Good in Denver
DENVER— "My Wild Irish Rose" copped
the top percentage on a moveover at the
Aladdin.
Aladdin—My Wild Irish Rose (WB) Blondie's
d. Anniversary (Col). 3rd wk t
Fenham—Road to Rio (Para) 3rd wk
b-
UU
Denver and Esquire—The Swordsman (Col),
Glamour Girl (Col) '«
Orpheum—Tycoon (RKO), Wild Horse Mesa
(RKO) 2nd wk „ 100
.,
Pn-amnunt and Webber—Captain From Castile
Last Roundup
Smoky River Ser
-The Return of Rin Tin Tin lEL), Whispering
130
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 19*;

I , infancy
I
I
reason—that
1 apron
. .
FAST VIDEO AND 16MM GAINS
THREATEN THEATRE INDUSTRY
R. W. Coyne Lists Four Big
Film Problems; Zorn.
Other Renamed
SPRINGFIELD—Continuing a leadersliip
that started with its organization eight years
ago, the United Theatre Owners of Illinois
re-elected Edward G. Zorn, president, at the
close of its two-day session here last week.
George Kerasotes, Kerasotes Amusement
Co., Springfield, was renamed vice-president
as were all directors with one exception.
Marion Bodwell, Wyoming, 111., replaces G. W.
Maxw^ell of Galva. The re-elected directors:
E. E. Alger, LaSalle: George Barber, Villa
Grove; Steve Bennis, Lincoln; Charles Dyas,
Earlville; John Giachetto, Springfield; R. L.
Cutler, Macomb; William Griffin, Cairo;
R. N. Hurt, Toluca; John Koletis, Rock
Island; Ralph Lawler, Peoria; August Marches!.
Amboy; John Marlow, Herrin; Art
Nelson. Hoopeston; Lee Norton, SuUivan;
S. E. Pittle. Jerseyville; Gene Russell, Cham-
I
I
paign; Fred Souttar, St. Louis; Sam Tray-
I
nor. Princeton; O. L. Turner, Harrisburg,
I
' and E. H. Wieck, Staimton.
POINTS TO HOME VIDEO
Robert W. Coyne, executive director of
TOA, included home-type television as one
of four current developments threatening
possible grave consequences to the theatre
business. He named the others as mounting
admission taxes, increase in Ascap fees and
16mm competition.
Coyne admitted that television is in its
and its threat is greater in the east
f than elsewhere, but he warned that homef!
is type television advancing like a house
afire is while theatre type moving slowly.
"Television is competitive," he said, "just
how I don't know. There were, a year ago,
some 12,000 television receivers; this last
year there were 80,000 and this next year it
is estimated that there will be between 600,-
000 and 750,000 receivers throughout the
country. Television will not compete for this
the wife likes to take off her
and go somewhere in the evening
but we lose sight of the fact that she might
like to come over to my living room and see
a full length featiu-e on a television set.
"This week in New York there were five
feature films, old ones of course, but feature
films, and in Washington six feature
films.
SLOW ON THEATRE VIDEO
"We have been assured that the research
laboratories, such as RCA, v/ould do more
by way of theatre type if they knew that a
big segment of exhibitors were interested in
this thing that might bring about a change
in the industry. Might it not be possible, for
instance, for the world series to be shown
in your theatre as it is being played . . It is
possible and it is feasible. We pre gomg to
get you complete information upon which
you might authorize us to take .some action
"We may have misinterpreted television. It
might bs a business builder for the theatres,
but there are so many things that we have
to keep our eye on, any one of which could
change the entire course of this mdustn
Let us hope that it develops to be the screen s
little brother, rather than its rival
In contrast, 16mm competition is showing
up more outside of New York, but he predicted
the pressure will increase greatly m
1948. He said the 16mm manufacturers now
Registered at Springfield UTI Convention
I- G. Wilcox
SPRINGFIELD — Registered at the UTI
convention were the following:
CHICAGO
Jerry Wies
Milton Somon
Wa-yne Brown
Harris Silverberg
William Devane
C. C. Alexander
Ben Eisenberg
Ben EIrod
Abe Fischer
A: Monette
Mike Godshaw
W. E. Banlord
Dan Goldman
Dave Wallerstein
G. W. Koerner J- 1- Allm
Ben Lourie
Bill Wright
Irving Mack and wife Edward Schulman
Herman Marks
Nat Nathanson
C. R. Martin Will Baker
Edward Saiier
Harry Lorch
O. C. Wells
SPRINGFIELD
W. H. Harvey Randolph Pedrucci
C. C. Murray Dominic Giachetto
Eve Sherrock
William Giachetto
Dave Jones
lohn Giachetto
George Kerasotes
James Frisina
Gus Kerasotes
John Greemore
Nick G. Kerasotes
Tony Serra
John Kerasotes
A- Toigo
Donald Foss
Louis Kerasotes
Mort Herman
Christine Kerasotes
George L. Kerasotes J. B. Giachetto
Edmond Metzger C. L, Farber
C. I. Pedrucci C. V. Luers
LOUIS
ST.
Lou Du Four
George Ware
Lester Grand
Fred C, Souttar
Ray Nolan
Clarence Kaimcmn
Edward Peters
Thomas James
Tom Williamson
A. W. Amos
Fred Wehrenberg
Barney Rosenthal
Andy Dietz A. L. Matreci
Ed Bellew
ILLINOIS
Farmington—
Champaign—
Tom Brewer
Frank Clark
Gene Russell
Freeport
Gil Martm
Steve Bennis
East Moline—
/yoming
Sen. C. F. Carpenti
M, F. Bodewell
Charles Duncan
R Cmler
Thomas Finin
"Edward Codo,
Earlville—
L, Joseph Etheridge Charles W. Dyas
jectors, which will make a total of 285,000
16mm projectors in use by the end of this
year.
"You can imagine the pressure that will be
exerted by this many sound projectors," he
said.
"We have no complaint if 16mm stands on
its own feet, but when it becomes a parasite
we do have sound grounds for complaint .
The greatest offender now is an organization
known as United World, with whom we
have not made much- progress."
The peril in current high admission taxes
is a recession in theatre business, the TOA
speaker said. Grosses are 25 per cent off
generally around the country, he asserted,
and if they should go back 25 per cent more,
many of the smaller ones, and later the more
substantial theatres would go out of business.
Herman Levy
Fred Wehrenberg
J- L. Frieburg and w
*i are tooled up to produce 185,000 sound pro-
Logcfn Hedrick
Aledo—
Harry Haines
Toluca—
R. N. Hurt
Arthur-
W. H. Hoffman
Harvard
H. W. Johnson
Former City-
John J. Kendall
J. Kendall
Sheffield-
Ted Keelen
Lincoln-
Mike Kirkhart
Peoria—
Ralph Lawler
John Mitchell
Galena-
Stanley Legy
Matoon—
Bud MuUaney
Amboy—
August Marchese
Sullivan-
Lee Norton
Auburn-
Mrs. C. G. Redford
Lion-
Charles Secord
La Salle—
Frank Stewart
[ew York-
Leon J. Bamberger
Robert W. Coyne
Herman Levy
Sam Shain
Henderson Richey
R. Taflinger
Monlicello—
W. E. Simmons
Princeton-
Samuel Traynor
Monmouth-
James P. Toal
Ponfiac—
Edward Zorn
Waverlv—
H. Hart
R. Ha
Altc
lUiopolis—
Edward Grieshem
R. A. Viner
Rock Island
John Koletis
S. E. Pirtle
Sauremin—
1. P. Lamson
Mt. Carmel—
J. D. Petty
Fairfield—
C- L. Farber
Galva—
G. W. Maxwell
Jacksonville—
B, M. Montee
Corlyle & Pinckneyv
Charles Beninati
Mason City
Art Struck
McHenry-
Mille
Little Rock, Ark.—
C. C. Mundo
Hollywood, Calif.
Leon Rose
Charles Buddy Rogeri
Chuck Wright
Jack Martin
And there are few theatres which can stand
a total tax of 38 per cent, which is imposed
on them in some instances, he said.
"We, representing Theatre Owners of
America, hope to convince the house ways
and means committee that the 20 per cent
federal tax is excessive, first, from the point
of view of the theatre business. Second, we
hope to prove that this tax is a poor man's
essentially. We know that to be so, but
tax
we have never been able to document it
in a way to impress legislators. We hope
to show how many children go through these
portals and how many men make only $50
a week; that it is regressive legislation in
that it hurts a medium of communication.
I can make all of those statements as forthright.
When, however, we try to find the
statistics to support them, we find that the
industry is almost without such statistics,
and we have only one choice and that is to
go out and build these statistics which must
be built carefully and by skilled men.
"We may have to retain an economist so
that we can prove the caliber and economic
status of the person upon whom we depend
for our earnings. We may have to prove that
families that formerly went to the movies
before the sky-rocketing prices no longer go
to the movies. We have a great job before
us to convince Congress of this and we must
do so scientifically. We have been in almost
constant contact with the house ways and
means committee and we have almost a
(Continued on next page>
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

TOA Seeking Slash
InU.S.TickelTax
(Continued from preceding pagei
commitment from a substantial committeeman
that something might be forthcoming.
"We could go down there and say take off
the 20 per cent tax. But we have elected
to ask that the tax be reduced to 10 per cent
at the present time. It is not politically
feasible to get it all off, so we have placed
our sights at a point where we believe there
is a reasonable chance.
"We may have to ask that two or three
exhibitors from every state come to Washington
to help us get this job done. I am
convinced, off the record, that the only way
we will get this relief is by way of a reasonable
position. We have been trying to
think quite broadly, and if we ask two or
three exhibitors to come to Washington, we
expect to pay their expenses. We have been
thinking in terms of building an organization
that is able to make that approach."
Fred Wehrenberg, TOA chairman, cited
the soldiers' bonus as an example of what
can be done by united effort., such as through
the TOA. He gave the following as his
observation for 1948:
"If this business of ours, which was made
the great industry it is today by the masses,
is to remain and continue a great industry,
we must keep that entertainment for the
masses and not for a class. Just as soon
?s we get too many $1.20 pictures, the theatre
becomes a class theatre."
He counseled that exhibitors could "beat
this sort of thing" by refusing to give playing
time to advance price pictures.
Wehrenberg injected several caustic comments
regarding the refusal by producers to
pay one-fourth of 1 per cent on film rentals
into the Motion Picture Foundation fund
"because of the loss of the foreign market."
He insisted all, both producers and exhibitors,
will have to take smaller profits, the
former will have "to get back to making real
pictures" while the latter must become showmen
again.
"We want no more 'Forever Ambers' that preventing
will bring the wrath of religious groups
local taxes is "getting to know
youi- mayors and commissioners in a friendly
down on us," he said.
Herman Levy, counsel for TOA, reported
TOA had spent more than $50,000 in the
way."
Buddy Rogers, here for the opening of
"Sleep, My Love," told the convention
his
of
fight in the supreme court against the Ascap some of the trials of making pictures. He
and in the New York statutory related how Claudette Colbert, signed to
proposal
work till 6 o'clock on the set, promptly quit
court on the antitrust case. Explaining the
case of TOA, Levy said through it the exhibitor
at five minutes to 5 regardless of Rogers'
pleas, which helped run up the costs.
problems have been made national
problems. He said TOA favored the conference
Claude Mundo of Little Rock, Ark., exec-
table as the best way to settle inutive
of the MPTO of Arkansas, Tennessee
and Mississippi, told how personal contacts
dustry problems but goes into court when
necessary. He viewed litigation as an un-
averted passage of a local option tax bill
necessarily expensive method of settling
disputes.
He said TOA would move its office where
its members wished— to Springfield. 111., if
they so chose.
am "I asking you to come along and fight
with us. What are your objections? First
a New York office. We will be glad to move
it any place you want it. If Washington suits
your taste better we wall move it to Washington,
and if you want it here, we will try
to get a movement on to move it to Springfield.
Another objection or question is
'What will I get from it?' That was explained
by Bob Coyne yesterday. In addition
to the major problems, we furnish you with
news bulletins, a legal analysis of current
problems and other items of interest to the
exhibitor's association.
"There are only two paid offices in the
association. Bob Coyne and myself. It would
be pointless to disclose our salaries, although
I will be glad to if you want to know. So
that any fears that you may have would be
taken care of, Fi'ed Wehrenberg is chairman
of the board and passes on the bills. He was
the first to request a monthly statement of
what happens to the money and you need
have no fears on that score."
Lee Norton of Sullivan moved that UTT
affiliate with TOA, which was seconded and
voted unanimously.
Leon Bamberger of RKO said more money
is spent on direct mail advertising than any
other; that this type of promotion is economical,
it is flexible, that it is selective and
it is "truly personal."
Henderson M. Richey of MGM counseled
that one of the most effective methods of
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of BOXOFFICE classified ads.
They
keep coming back. There's a tremendous
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a reader audience
of over 22,000 subscribers.
Use BOXOFFICE Classified
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at Low Cost
by the Arkansas legislatm-e and settled an
unequal theatre tax situation in his city.
MPTO representatives went to the sponsors
rf the local option plan with the question,
"Why should you burden us with this tax?"
"We in St. Louis had a 5 per cent tax bill
forced on us." Wehrenberg related. "We
theatre owners do not mind paying our just
share but we do mind being singled out as
one industry to bear the entire burden for
those who are paying nothing for the upkeep
of our city government.
"We are going to contest the legality of
that tax. We contend that those who enjoy
the privileges of the city should share the
cost of it. We have doubts that it will
be upheld in the courts. Some attorneys
tell us that the city has a perfect right to
assess us tew. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch
came out the other day with an editorial
which said that we were poor sportsmen to
attack the legality of the tax; the city had
told us that in the event they got enough
money from the state that they would repeal
it. That just cannot be done, for the
state will always find a place for additional
revenue.
"Each and every town is going to be faced
with some kind of tax measure, and that is
one of the reasons, whether we win or lose,
we are going to test it. but if we just get
some little town in Illinois to hold off until
our case is tested in the courts, we think
that we have rendered the exhibitors of the
country a service and that is what Theatre
Owners of America stands for.
"Now, then, let me say something about
Ted Gamble. You are fortunate in having
him. He has a memory par excellence, is a
lovable fellow, an independent theatre owner
in Oregon and is trying to build up a circuit,
and it is a mystery to me why he accepted
the presidency of TOA. He has sacrificed
a great many things that he could or would
have done just to build up a strong organization
for the theatre owners. He is unselfish.
He wants to build up a strong organization
for you and me so we can sit down and iron
out our difficulties and attack the legislative
matters that should be attacked. That is the
kind of a man at the head of this organization
and I am proud of him and know you
will be too.
"You heard Mr. Coyne talk about the 16mm
problem. In our universities, a number of
them are having 16mm shows and are selling
tickets which will permit you to see several
shows for $2.40. Sixteen millimeter means that
a fly by night exhibitor pulls up into your
town, puts up a screen on a truck and puts on
a free show. I happened to go fishing in
Minnesota last year and passed through several
towns where this was being done by men
going from town to town.
"Our business was built up for mass entertainment.
But what has brought on advanced
admission prices? The producer goes
ahead and puts all his energy, all his resources
in one pictm-e, and the pictures
have been lousy. Then it is easy to say this
picture cost us"$5,000,000.
"It is through the sales resistance of the
exhibitor that this boxoffice dollar must be
divided more justly. Many expenses, long
distance telephone calls upon the part of
distributors has added to the cost and all of
that must be changed, and it only can be
changed by a good strong local organization."
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Commonwealth Circuit Men Visit St. Louis

. . Leon
. . Alida
. .
. . The
.- . Maxine
CHICAGO
Qver the weekend, the B&K State-Lake
^^ switched to a stageshow policy, with the
Mills Bros, headlining the opening program,
plus "T-Men" on screen. The Chicago Theatre
went to a straight film policy starting
with "Captain From Castile." Both houses
had strong openings . . . Steve Fitzgibbon,
head of Devonshire Films, Boston, was in
town for a confab with Henri Elman of
Capitol Films . . . Mary Pickford was a stopover
from Hollywood en route to Ottawa for
benefit premiere of "Sleep. My Love."
The new Universal-International exchange
will open with great fanfare January 26. Officals
from coast to coast will be here for the
opening . . . Bill Koch, manager of the
Southern Theatre, Oak Park, reports his open
house Christmas show, sponsored by the
Southern District Ass'n, was a huge success
on Christmas eve . . . Jack Schwartz, formerly
of the EL booking department, was on
the Row for a visit with old pals and will
announce a new connection soon ... Ed
Heiber, Eagle Lion district manager, is holding
sales conferences in Milwaukee, Indianapolis
to spark the openings of "T-Men."
Dave Ross of the Warner Bros, sales department,
has been switched to the St. Louis
exchange . . . Ben Kalmenson, Warner vicepresident
and general sales manager, was in
town for conferences with Harry Seeds and
Jack Shumow . Valli, Italian screen
star who has just completed her first Hollywood
role in David O. Selznick's "The Paradine
Case," is currently starring at Charles
Lindau's Annex Theatre in "Schoolgirl
Diary," new importation from Italy.
Bernard Mack of Filmack Trailer Co. and
his wife have returned from a holiday in New
York . J. Bamberger, RKO sales promotion
head, visited the local exchange. He
was en route to the UTO of Illinois convention
in Springfield . . . Freddie Mindlin of
Mindlin Film Trailer Co., reports his new
phone number is DANube 2743 . . . Len Utecht,
manager of the Lake, Oak Park, reports that
the Amling florists sent a lovely bouquet of
25 large roses to the theatre for the opening
day of "Carnegie Hall."
The Variety Club will install officers and
directors for 1948 at a dinner-dance January
23 in the Sheraton hotel. Col. Bill McCraw,
Variety International executive director, will
be present. Henri Elman and Harry Goldman
are in charge of the arrangements and
ask that members order their tables early.
It will be a case of first come, first served
and they anticipate a sellout.
Robert Wilson, recently of the Buckingham
Theatre managerial staff, joined the Essaness
circuit publicity staff, replacing Edna
Adams, who left the organization after seven
years to join the Lubliner & Booth Theatre
Enterprises . . . Edward Safer of 20th-Fox
sales department has left that company .
Wally Helm, local RKO praise agent, has so
many suits he has been propositioned by a
veteran looking for an apartment to rent his
clothes closet . . . Herman Busch, head projectionist
at Paramount exchange, is a
grandpappy. His son Albert is the father of
a husky son, Thomas Busch.
Irving Mandel, Monogram franchise holder,
went to Miami for a vacation . . . Tom Delaney,
premium mogul, is displaying new
dish sets for the trade . Smith,
former motion picture editor of the Herald-
American, was married last week to Roberto
Fernando, sportsman and motion picture
actor, in Texcoco, Mexico. They met at Acapulco
where he was swimming and diving
in "Tarzan and the Mermaids" and she was
unit pubUcist for the picture. Maxine comes
from Decatur, 111. They'll make their home
in Mexico City.
"The Roosevelt Story," which opens at the
Garrick January 29, is only the second UA
film booked into a Balaban & Katz theatre
in the last 24 months. The other was "Spellbound"
. censor's ban on EL's "Crime,
Inc." has been lifted and the picture will
show at the La Salle Theatre starting
February 11.
Universal Goes Into Tie
With UA in Pin Loop
CHICAGO—In the Chicago Motion Picture
Bowling league, the Universals went into a
tie with United Artists for first place by
sweeping their series with Metro and shooting
a high team series of 2,550. Universal also
had a high team game of 899, with C. Vetrover
shooting 627 for three games. National
Screen took three from Film Chauffeurs. Columbia
took a couple from United Artists, and
Allied took two from Warners. Sweepstake
winners in the order named were: C. Vetrover,
617: H. Couston, 556: C. Stockseth, 561; P.
Sadzeck, 556: E. Klass, 549. and R. Coleman,
528.
United
Arti.
TEAM STANDINGS Wo
Orphans Needy Children
See Free Chicago Show
CHICAGO—Lou Mayer, publicity director
for RKO Theatres in Chicago, and John Gilmore
of Coin Machine Industries, served as
hosts to 2,000 orphans and underprivileged
children at a Christmas show at the RKO
Palace Theatre December 23. A Walt Disney
feature and ten cartoons were shown. For
refreshments for the youngsters, Mayer promoted
2,000 candy bars and other goodies
from Chicago candy manufacturers.
WAHOO
America's finest Screen Came
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
831 South Wabash Avenue Chicago, Illinois
Indianapolis Good
In New Year Week
INDIANAPOLIS — Theatre grosses were
good New Year's week and all first run houses
grossed above average. There were good shows
at all houses. In fact, above the average.
The public turn-out was excellent.
Wild Irish Rose (WB) 180
Indic
Keiths—The Wistful Widow of Wagon Gap
(U-I), 2nd wk-
Loew's Good News (MGf.1 ), The Lone Wolf :
London (Col)
Lyric—Out oi the Blue (EL)
..17b
..100
Storm Clips All Grosses
At Chicago; 'Kenyon' New
CHICAGO — Chicago's first runs were
snowed under startmg New Year's day, and
grosses skidded at all Loop houses in a big
way. Bus and trolley service were subnormal
and the streets were deserted the first three
days of the week. However, business picked
up over the weekend, but not enough to make
up for the slump.
Only one entry, "Daisy Kenyon," bowed in
at the United Artists.
Apollo— Gentleman's figreement (20th-Fox),
9th wk 90
Chicago—It Had to Be Ifou (Col), plus stage show,
2nd wk - 95
Garrick—The Swordsman (Col), 2nd wk 90
Grand—Out oi the Past (RKO), 2nd wk 85
Oriental-Intrigue (UA), plus stage show, 2nd wk. 90
Palace—Tycoon (RKO), 2nd wk 85
Riallo—Forever Amber (20th-Fox),
10th d. 1. wk 90
Roosevelt—The Unsuspected (WB), 2nd wk 85
State-Lake—Road to Rio (Para), 2nd wk 90
Studio—High School Girl (Capitol),- Wild Youth
(Capitol), 2nd wk., reissues 85
United Artists-Daisy Kenyon (20th-Fox) 90
Woods—Body and Soul (UA), 9th wk 90
World Playhouse—Barber of Seville (Teitel),
reissue, 2nd wk 95
Milwaukee Business Down;
Blame Aftermath oi Storm
MILWAUKEE—Business was down at the
first run houses last week and managers attributed
it to slow removal of snow following
the recent storm. They said business is quite
a bit below what it was in the same period
a year ago. Neighborhoods reported patronage
rising but still below normal. Only two
new pictures came in last session, "Intrigue"
at the Towne and "Always Together" at the
Warner. Top attraction in town was "Road
to Rio," which hit 125 in its second week at
the Palace. Nothing else was above average.
Alhambra—A SUght Case ol Murder (WB);
I Am a Fugitive (WB), reissues 95
Palace—Road to Rio (Para); I Cover Big Town
(Para), 2nd wk 125
Riverside—The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (RKO),
2nd wk 100
Strand-The Swordsman (Co!) Her Husband's
Affairs (Col), 3rd wk 95
Towne—Intrigue (UA), Stork Bites Man (UA) 100
Warner—Always Together (WB); Exposed (Rep).... 95
Wisconsin—Captain From Castile (20th-Fox),
2nd wk - 100
The Stukeys Buy Rex
MONTEZUMA. IND—The Rex here has
been purchased by J. E. Stukey and his son
Claire, who also own the Warren in Warren
and the Princess in Cayuga. They formerly
had a house, also, in Montpeher, but sold
to Settos Theatres of Indianapolis.
Theatre Escapes Flames
MARENGO, IND.—The Rialto Theatre
here, operated by E. L. Ornstein, escaped
damage when fire destroyed tlii-ee of the
largest stores directly opposite the theatre.
Ralph W. Bryant Dead
ELGIN, ILL.—Ralph W. Bryant, 43, former
manager of the Aixada in St. Charles,
died recently in a local hospital after a long
illness.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194«
i

. . . Word
St. Louis Not Impressed
By Terminal Film Plan
ST. LOUIS—An announcement that the
lirst of a series of motion picture theatres
to be operated at major airports will soon
be started by Airlines Terminal Theatres
of Detroit at the Willow Run air terminal
hasn't caused much excitement in the St.
Louis motion picture circles.
Motion picture veterans here recall that
a number of years ago a small "intimate"
type of motion picture theatre was launched
on the second floor of Union Station, the
big local railroad station, and finally folded
after several years of operation because
there wasn't sufficient patronage to make
it profitable.
The Union Station theatre was advised of
the arrival and departure of trains for the
convenience of persons attending the shows.
The programs were composed largely of news
reels, cartoons and other short subjects.
Free Film Programs Given
Children in Fort Wayne
FORT WAYNE—Two free theatre parties
were sponsored by the management of the
Jefferson the morning of December 30.
Special
tickets were printed and distributed to
various civic groups and business firms in
the city for distribution to children. Arrangements
were made to accommodate the
children from St. Vincent's Villa, Fort Wayne
Children's home, and the Allen County Children's
home.
By special arrangements with the circulation
department of the News-Sentinel, carrier
salesmen also attended the party. Screen
program was "Abbott and Costello in Hollywood"
and two-color cartoons. Next year the
management plans to make arrangements to
play host to groups not included in this year's
party.
Gust Sarantos Acquires
Kaw City, Okla., Tivoli
OAKLAND CITY, IND.—Gust Sarantos,
manager of the Ohio Theatre here for eight
years, has purchased the Tivoli in Kaw City.
rolled a three-game total of 2,578. Team 3,
led by C. Millis, was runnerup with 2,537 and
Team 1. led by E. Klase, third, with 2,504.
Team 3, had one game of 918. E. Klase, with
621, was high individual for three games, R.
Wittman was second with 599 and M. Klase
third with 577. Highest single game was N.
i li Habersat's 250. R. Wittmann had a 244 and
ejtril E. Klase 243. Team No. 1 leads the league
jpdl with 32 won and 13 lost.
Mrs. Harvey Cocks Home
FORT WAYNE—Mrs. Harvey Cocks, wife
of the manager of Quimby Theatres here, has
returned to her home after a hospiital confinement
of six weeks. She is reported doing
nicely.
ST.
LOUIS
.
garney Rosenthal, Monogram manager, has
closed a deal with the St. Louis Amusement
Co. for Monogram product. "Black Gold"
will open at the Fox February 17 . . Oscar
Neu, president of the Neumade Mfg. Co.,
New York City, was in January 8 visiting
Bill Earle, manager of National Theatre
Supply.
Tommy Williamson, manager at RKO, suffered
painful bm-ns on his hand while attempting
to relight an automatic gas water
heater in the basement of his home. He is
protecting the hand with a glove while at
work . . . Ruby S'Renco's Art Theatre has
been doing very well with "Children of
Paradise," now in its third week. It probably
will be held for ten weeks. It has been doing
the best business for any picture shown at
the Ai-t with the exception of "Fantasia."
Exhibitors on Filmrow included Bill Williams
of Union, Mo.; A. M. Charmless, Carrier
Mills, 111., and Delbert Wagner, Eldorado
and Crossville, 111. . . . Herman Levy,
general counsel, and Robert Coyne, executive
director of TOA, were in January 9 and
accompanied Fred Wehrenberg to the United
Theatre Owners of Illinois meeting in
Springfield.
January 15-30 has been proclaimed March
of Dimes weeks here and in the surroimding
territory. Robert L. Lund is chairman of the
local campaign. Eddie Alperson, producer of
"The Tender Years," an-ived Sunday (11 >
with Joe E. Brown, star of the film, who
opened a three-week run of "Harvey" at the
American Theatre January 12.
Maury Edgar, who traveled portions of eastern
Missouri and southern Illinois for 20th-
Fox, has resigned. He hasn't annoimced his
new plans . . . Jack Martin, former central
Illinois salesman for Republic, is now on the
sales staff of United Artists. He was with
Republic for about 18 months and prior to
that was associated with the aircraft industry.
Fred Souttar, district manager for Fox
Midwest, will go to Los Angeles to attend a
meeting of National Theatres, Fox West Coast
and Fox Midwest managerial personnel
Okla., and has gone to that community to
Louis K. Ansell, president
take over the property. His wife and children
February 2-4 .. .
are remaining here until the end of
the school year and until then Mrs. Sarantos
manage
of Southern California Pictures, producers of
"Women in the Night," is in New York City
to confer with Film Classics officials oil
will the Ohio.
Sarantos has been active here in civic plans for promotion and selling that pictiu-e.
He was accompanied by William Rowland,
work, as has his wife. He is a veteran of
World War II and conunander of the Veterans
He who is associated with Ansell Bros, cir-
cuit here.
of Foreign Wars. is a member of
the board of the Kiwanis club. His purchase
in Kaw City includes the theatre and Several theatres in the Wehi'enberg circuit
awarded three-month passes to parents
five upstairs apartments.
of the first 1948 babies born in the areas serviced
I Bowlers in Top Form
— by the houses. Theatres participating
r MILWAUKEE Bowlers in the lATSE
(. league are in mid-season form. At recent a
^. session. Team 2, captained by E. Bigelow,
were the Lemay, Michigan, Cinderella, Melba,
Southway and Studio.
Johnny Walsh, Screen Guild manager, is
back from Chicago where he attended the
wedding of
MGM screen
his Audrey Totter,
niece . . .
luminary, will be at Loew's
State for personal appearances January 15
comes from East St. Louis that
bu.siness estabUshments there, with the exception
of taverns, which are covered in
a separate ordinance, can anticipate license
fees about 35 per cent higher this year if
an ordinance being drafted by the city attorney
is adopted.
George Kerasotes to Build
Big Drive-In at Decatur
SPRINGFIELD, ILL.—George Kerasotes
has announced plans for construction of a
drive-in theatre in Decatur, 111. It will be
built on North Jasper street near Route 121
by the Decatur Drive-In Corp. of which
Kerasotes is the head.
Construction is to begin this month and
it is expected to be completed by May 1.
The general contract has been awarded to
the Chris Bendsen Co. of Decatur. The
theatre is to accommodate 1,000 cars.
It is understood that this is a separate
enterprise of George Kerasotes and that it
will not be operated by the Kerasotes circuit.
Clem Shaffer Named
FORT WAYNE—Clem Shaffer has been
named stage manager at Quimby auditorium
here. A longtime resident of Fort Wayne he
has been connected with Quimby for a number
of years. Quimby Theatres, Inc., began
showing films in the Auditorium on a regular
schedule on Chi-istmas day, following the installation
of a new concave-convex screen.
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lo^ BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. . . "Wild
. . . The
. . . Another
. . Russ
. . . Anne
. .
. .
MILWAUKEE
JJarry Dudelson, Screen Guild district manager,
spent several days in town with
Benny Benjamin, local manager. Dudelson's
call was a followup to the recent Chicago
meeting relative to the Playdate drive, in
addition to special advertising promotion on
"The Burning Cross." While here Dudelson
called on circuit heads and other exhibitors.
Eugene Van Norman, manager of the Palace,
recently was awarded an MGM Photo
of the Month certificate.
Wally Bennin,
Leroy Smith and William
Mattingly of the
local MGM office
made the presentation
Bill" Foley,
RKO salesman, has a
bevy of tall Irish yarns
on tap for exhibitors,
all starting : "There
—
were two Irishmen
Russian film
"Ballerina" portraying
the ballet's history,
is slated for the Pabst
January 14-16 ... A E. Van Norman
new little theatre unit, the Wood Employes'
Theatre Guild, will present its first play,
"Joan of Lorraine," January 25 and 26 at
St. John's Cathedral Auditoriimi.
.
.
.
Jerome Goderski, Aragon, Milwaukee,
booked product Leddy, Orpheum,
Green Bay, was another caller . . Eddie
Heiber, Eagle Lion district manager, was in
from Chicago for conferences with Milwaukee's
branch manager Joe Imhof . . Bill
Exton, Roosevelt, Kenosha, booked and reported
he'd get to Florida if it killed him
. . . H. L. Otto, Clinton, was a Row visitor
was Nick Johnson, Strand
Manitowoc.
Max Wiesner of the Mozart and Alamo
is home after undergoing a major operation
at a Chicago hospital and is reported recuperating
nicely . . . Durgan Beemer departed
from his booking post at Warners exchange
... Ed White, RKO, is back in the
well-worn harness following his recent illness
and working harder than ever . . . Len
Dorece, Crown, Racine, booked product.
Carl Neltzel will open the remodeled Juno
in Juneau, Wis., January 25. Neitzel reports
improvements in the physical plant as well
as improved sound and projection equipment
will make the Juno one of the most modern
theatres in Wisconsin. Neitzel formerly
operated the Victor in Hartland . . . Ray
Smith is again greeting exhibitors desiring
equipment at his State Street desk. He had
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Mmm i 1
mPTIDnPICTOBtSEIjlflEEC'
12S HYDE ST.
San Francisco (I) Calif.
been ill . . . John Adler, Marshfield, is wintering
in Florida . . . Bill Ainsworth of Fond
Du Lac, president of the ITO of Wisconsin
and Upper Michigan, is vacationing in Arizona
and California . . . George Langheinrich,
Burleigh, Milwaukee, was down with the
flu.
Morey Anderson, RKO salesman, lost his
father-in-law ... Ed Johnson, Roosevelt,
Milwaukee, was on the Row . . . Elmer Hall,
MGM engineer, is back after a two-week
illness . . . Marion Fiss, secretary to Nat
Marcus, Warners exchange branch manager.
IS a bride . . . Gertie Schneider and Jeanette
Seefelt, Monogram bowlers, are sparking
their team to top spot in the league . . .
Tom Smith, former operator of the Sun,
Broadhead. was in to say hello. He has been
111 for quite some time . . . John Radsky,
Republic shipper, purchased a television set
. . Sil Schernick, Elite, Appleton, was a
Row visitor.
Elmer Hall, MGM engineer, keeps the
Row's feathered friends eating by tossing
bread on the snow . . . James Juell, Garden,
South Milwaukee, booked product . . . Libby
Sindelar, former secretary to John G. Kemptgen,
MGM resident manager, spent Christmas
in Prague, Germany, and New Year's
eve in Switzerland. She is working as a
civihan with the U.S. army in Germany .
Barney Sherman of the Douglas, Racine,
says his collie, a perfect double for Lassie,
steals the show each time he goes out for a
walk . . . The Delft circuit, Marquette, Mich.,
is said to be handling buying and booking
for Lucile Fowler's circuit. That means
the Spring Green, Spring Green; Palace,
Antigo, and Cosmo, Merrill. Lucile Fowler
made her last personal booking jaunt to the
Row recently.
Every time Jack Prackman, Republic
branch manager, called on Sil Schernick at
the Elite in Appleton last summer, Schernick
was golfing. Now, with the winter snows
preventing that. Jack finds Sil polishing his
clubs and practicing swings ... At the
Empress, operated by Charley Fox, "Looney"
Lewis pleased patrons with a burlesque of
Joe Stalin.
Rosemary Fusso, secretary to John G.
Kemptgen, MGM resident manager, served
as maid of honor at a friend's wedding recently
. . . Vi Cremer and Margaret Mistele.
both Paramount staffers, were ill with the
flu . . . Eddie Howard and band cracked
existing attendance records at George De-
Vines' Eagles ballroom, pulling 9,000 dancers.
Vaughn Monroe set the previous high of
7,500 . . . Rudy Koutnlk, Modjeska manager,
played a one-nighter, "Nabongo" and "Whits
Pongo," capitalizing on the current song
favorite, "Civilization."
Helen Richcreek, secretary to Jesse T. Mc-
Bride, Paramount manager, spent the holidays
at Evanston . . . Larry Kelley of the
Majestic, Cudahy, was in for hellos . . . Rosemary
Ward, 20th-Fox hello girl, will l^ve
for a post in Chicago as instructor with the
Patricia Stevens modeling school . . . Lucile
Forbes, Merrill circuit operator, was a visitor.
.
Oliver Trampe, Monogram booker, is yearning
. . Ruth
for a few rounds of golf
Schw-entner, 20th-Fox biller, departs for permanent
residence with her husband in California
soon . . . Bill Young, manager for
Selznick here, reports the office on State
street now is open for business and a formal
opening will be held soon.
Mary Connors MGM inspector, recently
dazzled the gang with red checked hosiery
Buffington, secretary to Lou Elman,
RKO manager, reports each time she arranges
a party at her home, the guests get fouled up
and fail to arrive. Last time Anne was set
for 20 guests but all lost the address and
failed to show.
The Badger Theatre in Wittenberg, operated
by Mr. and Mrs. F. Hellstrom, is now
under the Theatre Service Co. banner .
June Anderson, who functioned as booker
and switchboard operator at National Screen
Service for some time, has joined Warner
Bros. Circuit Management Corp. as switchboard
operator.
Television received a setback here when
the scheduled WTMJ-TV televising of New
Year's fights at Milwaukee auditorium failed
to jell. The fight promoters asked the station
to pay for any empty seats and that did
it . . . Former Milwaukeean Dave Miller, who
fronted the Riverside pit and house band,
has been in Hollywood for some time. Recently,
Miller took a fling at production of
musical films.
Raynold Black, Rialto, Edgerton, is a
flying enthusiast. Piloting his own plane
near Janesville recently, he searched for an
airstrip in the heavy fog. After cruising
above the field for two hours. Black set the
ship down with just enough gas left to make
the landing possible.
Estelle Steinbach Directs
Youth Films Discussion
MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee County
Better Films council's first meeting of 1948,
at the YMCA, was highlighted by a discussion
of pictm-es for children, directed by
Estelle Steinbach of the Fox Wisconsin public
relations department.
The council's preview committee announced
the following pictui-e ratings: Family, "This
Time for Keeps," "Two Blondes and a Redhead"
and "My Wild Irish Rose": mature,
"Green Dolphin Street," "The Man in the
Iron Mask," "Captain From Castile," "Her
Husband's Affairs" and "Cass Timberlane":
adults and young people, "Bowery Buckaroos,"
"Where There's Life," "Good News" and "Always
Together": adults, "The Millerson
Case," "Nightmare Alley" and "The Spoilers."
Paramount to Screen-Test
Nancy Olson, Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE—A Milwaukee girl, Nanc,
Olson, who attends the University of California
at Los Angeles returned to the coast
for a screen test at Paramount after spending
the holidays here. Miss Olson, 19, is a
vocahst and plays the piano. She w-as discovered
when playing the lead in "The Play's
the Thing" at UCLA. She appeared on children's
programs on station WTMJ while attending
high school and at the University of
Wisconsin participated in the Student Night
Club Union entertainment activities. She
starred in "Way of the World," a Wisconsin
Players' production.
Robert Brucker Buried
EAST ST. LOUIS. ILL.— Services were held
here recently for Robert A. Brucker, 63, who
died of a heart attack in Indianapolis, where
he had been manager of the Sheridan. He
was a native of East St. Louis, moving to
Indianapolis three years ago. Surviving are
his wife, a daughter and a sister.
Directs Football Sequences
Nate Barrager, former ail-American and
pro football star, has been signed to act as
technical director on the football sequences
for an untitled Republic film, featuring William
Wright, Bill Henry and Janet Martin.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 194S

. . Al
. . Guy
. .
Milwaukee Depressed Says Chicago Theatres Becoming
As Snow Lingers
A Substitute for Baby Sitters
MILWAUKEE — Theatre managers went
In Hollywood January 28
CHICAGO— Clyde Elliott's "Citizen Saint,"
feature based on the miracles of Mother
Cabrini and released by Clyde Elliott Attractions,
will have its premiere at the Marcal
Theatre in Hollywood January 28 at $10 admission
price. The picture opens the following
day at both the Marcal and Center
theatres. It tees off in the east at the May-
aroiuid with long faces last week as their
casliiers sat by, idly waiting for customers,
and city crews slowly removed the heavy 'Citizen Saint' to Premiere
snow of the previous week's storm.
At a time when they expected the best
business of the season, exhibitors found
themselves with half empty houses. Not only
the theatres, but all retail businesses were
suffering in the wake of the storm, and all
vented their wrath on the city snow removal
crews.
Perry Anderson, executive secretary of the
Downtown Ass'n, blamed the city's snow removal
methods for the slack business. He
fair in Baltimore on the same date and opens
pointed out that traffic lanes were opened,
in the middlewest for Balaban
but shoppers were forced to make their way
& Katz at
the Princess Theatre, Toledo, February 4.
thi-ough slush and snow and run
A
the danger
.short featuring the 'Vatican choir, filmed at
of being splashed by passing cars. Harry
the RKO studios by Elliott, will be presented
on the same program.
Bylan, executive of the Upper Third Street
Advancement Ass'n, also took a crack at the
snow removal work. "Snow removal was very
disappointing, considering the type of equipment
Milwaukee is supposed to have," he
said. "Thank goodness we did not have more
than 10 inches."
Bill Sherman, EL Manager,
Resigns to Tend Theatres
ST. LOUIS— Bill Sherman, local manager
for Eagle Lion, has resigned to devote his
time to his theatres, the 300-seat Sherman,
formerly the State in Bloomfield, and the
200-seat Sherman in Advance.
Reconditions Booth
HUTSONVILLE. ILL. — B. Temborious,
owner of the Fox Theatre, recently reconditioned
his booth equipment, installing new
lenses and improving the sound. Dave Newlin
is manager of the theatre.
INDIANAPOLIS
Qarl Harthill, manager of Monogram, was
called to Cleveland by the severe illness
of his brother . Craig, manager of
Columbia, returned after a brief vacation in
Florida . . . William Sherman, manager of
Eagle Lion in St. Louis, was a visitor on
Filmrow.
Tom McKean, Paramount salesman in
Oklahoma City, visited his brother Claude
McKean, manager of Warner Bros, here .
James Haney, operator of the Milan TTieatre.
Milan, Ind., is confined at home by sciatica
of the hip . Thompson, operator of
the Park and Ritz theatres in North Vernon,
Ind., is preparing for his annual vacation
at Miami Beach where he will spend two
months.
Jack Eward, assistant shipper at Republic,
has been appointed head shipper, succeeding
Clarence Brown, deceased . . . Rosemary
Gigerich succeeded Mary Alice Smith on the
contract desk at Warner Bros, exchange . . .
Ted Liebtag, manager of National Screen
Service, played host to his employes at a
New Year's eve celebration . . . Ted Hammer.
Eagle Lion salesman, spent the holidays with
his family in New York City.
Jim Ricketts, formerly with 20th-Fox on
the booking desk and now a salesman for
Republic in Des Moines, visited his old friends
on Filmrow during the week . . . Betty Vollmer.
biller at Warner Bros, exchange, and
Edward J. Luding will be man-ied January
2i in Holy Cross church here.
Chicago Council Lines Up
Speakers for January 21
CHICAGO—Mrs. Joseph R. Chesser, president
of the Better Films Council of Chicagoland,
amiounced the next meeting will
b9 held January 21 in the Federation of
Women's Clubs rooms. In the morning, Mrs.
Frances Ryan of the crime prevention bureau
will speak on "Experiences of An Investigator"
and Clara Duax, junior prevlewer,
will tell how "Youth 'Views the Movies." At
the afternoon session, Mrs. John K. Shennan,
music chairman, will present her "Film Keynotes,"
followed by Dr. Irvin Deer of the
MPA public relations department on "What's
New in the Motion Picture World."
Policeman's Flying Tackle
Stops Would-Be Bandit
CHICAGO—Theodore Dare, 21, was seized
January 12 by Policeman Patrick Egan who
said he was trying to hold up the Clark Theatre
by pretending he had a pistol in his
pocket. Egan had entered the theatre to
quiet a minor disturbance. As he emerged,
he said, he saw Dare at the boxoffice, menacing
Mrs. Ruth Crosson, the cashier. Egan
hit Dare with a flying tackle. At the station
Dare was identified by Linda Pergeh, waitress
in Annes restaurant, as the youth who had
taken $500 in an earlier holdup at the restaurant.
Would Pay for Video
CHICAGO—Seventy per cent of the television
set owaiers surveyed by the La Salle
Extension university would be willing to pay
fees for improved programs, according to
William Bethke, general education director
of the correspondence school. The television
fans, 52 per cent of whom said they were
satisfied with present programs, said they
would welcome the opportunity to pay fees
for telecasting of first run films, Broadway
plays, and other features, not currently presented.
Delay on Owl Show Ban
FOND DU LAC, -WIS.—Local theatre
operators January 6 won a week's delay on
an action by the city commission to prohibit
the showing of motion pictures after
midnight. The proposed measure had been
requested by Police Chief James Cahill, who
declared that after-midnight shows were
"contributing to the waywardness" of boys
and girls.
CHICAGO—Chicago's motion picture theatres
rapidly are becoming substitutes for
baby sitters, Mi's. Ruth Biedermann, supervisor
of the city's policewomen and matrons,
disclosed. She said there is an increase in
the number of complaints that youngsters
are attending motion pictures at late hours
without adult escorts. "Some parents take
their youngsters to a cinema in the early
afternoon and instruct them to remain there
all afternoon and evening," Mrs. Biedermann
said.
She reported that the city's 70 policewomen
have been instructed by her to exert every
precaution to apprehend young boys and girls
who are present in motion picture theatres
at late hours without proper adult escorts.
She said such vigilance is necessary to prevent
the youngsters from falling into the
company of undesirable persons. When policewomen
locate boys or girls who are alone
in a theatre late at night, the youngsters
are taken into custody and an attempt is
made to locate their parents. If the policewomen
cannot find the parents, the children
are taken to the juvenile home until
the parents are notified. No arrests are made
in connection with these cases, Mrs. Biedermann
said, but the parents are warned that
they should exercise closer supervision over
their children.
Policewomen also are watching for morons
who make a practice of molesting children
in theatres, she said, and a special watch
is being kept for boys and girls who attend
"adult only" shows.
Jefferson in Fort Wayne
Starts Children's Series
FORT WAYNE—The Jefferson here, an
Alliance Theatres, Inc., unit, has started
showing of the Children's Film library series.
Claire W. "Bud" Jones, manager, is working
closely with the Fort Wayne Parent-Teachers
Ass'n. Showing of the library classics has
received the whole-hearted endorsement of
Merle J. Abbett, superintendent of city
schools.
Mrs. K. Eugenia Woods, president of the
Parent-Teachers council has publicly urged
all parents to back the films 100 per cent and
to encourage their children to attend the
showings. Many local authorities and clubs
also have requested the showing of these
films in the city.
Jones saids that arrangements have been
made for handling the admission of parents
as well as children. The admission for children
of school age will be 14 cents, tax included.
The first showing was at 10 a. m. Monday
aOi with the screening of "Alice in Wonderland,"
and three color cartoons. All scheduled
bookings have three color cartoons listed. The
remainder of the bookings for January: "Mrs.
Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch." 17; "Geronimo,"
24, and "The Biscuit Eater," 31.
Jones, who became manager of the Jefferson,
new Alliance house here recently, finally
has located living quarters and has moved his
family here.
Geneva Is Renovated
GENEVA, ILL.—Completely remodeled, the
Geneva was reopened Christmas day by Valos
Bros, circuit. The theatre has been given
new rugs, new pushback seats, a new stage,
new heating and air conditioning, and new
lighting to go with the subdued new decorations
in the auditorium.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

'
Mormons Will Censor
Church-Shown Films
From Western Edition
SALT LAKE CITY—Formation of a film
council of the Church of Latter-Day Saints
(Mormon I was announced in Salt Lake City
this week. Unlike the Catholic Legion of
Decency and some Protestant censoring
boards, the council will not use its influence
on showing of pictures in commercial theatres,
but will pass on films to be shown in
ward recreation halls of the church.
The council is the first undertaking of its
kind by the church.
Pictures not approved by the council probably
will not be allowed to be shown in church
meeting houses, A. Hamer Reiser, chairman,
hinted in announcing the council's formation.
Teams are being organized to appraise
the pictures being considered for distribution
under the churchwide program, he said. In
some areas of Utah and Idaho, ward chapels
are the only place where motion pictures are
shown, since some of the regions do not have
theatres.
Reiser said films will be considered in two
categories (1) entertainment and (2) educational.
The former field will be appraised
first and a list of the approved pictures circulated
throughout the church.
Reiser said "organization of the council is
the outgrowth of several years of effort which
has been put forth in order to obtain whole-
.some films for use in their recreation halls.
"Cooperation from large motion picture
releasing agencies has been promised," he
added.
The "censorship" will cover only the pictures
to be shown in the ward recreation
halls, and the films must live up to the Ideals
of the church, according to council officers.
This means there must be a minimum of
smoking and drinking, since those habits
violate the word of wisdom of the church.
The move does not extend to commercial
houses in the area. The church has never,
the knowledge of motion picture people in
to
this area, attempted to censor individual
pictures.
Newsboys See 'Swordsman'
INDIANAPOLIS—Members of the Indianapolis
Newsboys band attended a special
screening of "The Swordsman" at the U-I
screening room as guests of Columbia Pictures
Corp. and Loew's Theatre, where the
film will open.
MARCH OF DIMES
JANUARY 15-30
SPRINGFIELD 35 Theatres Ordered
Opringfield residents had the opportunity
last week to view television for the first
time. Several sets were installed in the
lobby of the Abraham Lincoln hotel. The
sets were equipped with a new antenna which
made it possible to pick up a St. Louis television
station. The new antenna, known
as the Vee-D-X, is designed for very long
distance receiving. Observers characterized
the reception as "quite good." The first program
viewed was an address by Sen. Robert
A. Taft at a dinner in the Congress hotel,
St. Louis. The sets were brought to Springfield
by the National Radio Laboratories of
St.
Louis.
Heavy storms New Year's eve resulted in
power failures in many northern Illinois
cities. Not only did the storms keep people
away from the boxoffice but in some in- ,
stances the theatres were forced to close
because of the lack of power.
The response of Springfield audiences to
the regular admission prices of "Captain
Prom Castile" at the Fox Lincoln Theatre
has been terrific. Manager Charles reports
a packed house ever since the beginning of
the engagement December 31. He has had to
run late shows to accommodate the crowds.
Paul Raffety Purchases
Pix in Blue Mound, 111.
BLUE MOUND, ILL.—Maurice Bugg has
sold the Pix Theatre here to Paul Raffety,
formerly of Wyatt, Mo. Rafferty, an ex-GI,
took possession January 1. He is a newcomer
in exhibition. The sale was handled
by Saverelde Theatre Brokers through their
Chicago office.
City Condemns Tower,
Old Indianapolis House
INDIANAPOLIS—The Tower Theatre here,
one of the oldest houses in the city, and
operated by Lou Golden for many years, has
been closed by the city fire marshal and
the building inspection department. The
house was one of the first downtown theatres.
Betty Walsh Purchases
Standard in Chicago
CHICAGO—The Standard Theatre on
North Clark street has been sold by the
estate of Fredrick M. Winston to Betty M.
Walsh for $72,500.
Ice-Cream Bar Vender
GREEN BAY, WIS.—A new local corporation
is the Vendi-Freeze Agency, with 200
shares of stock of no par value, to distribute
Vendi-Freeze coin-operated ice cream bar
vending machines and parts. Incorporators
are Roy E. Knowles, Querin A. Herlik^nd "
W. T. Hicks.
Howard Young Moves Up
HAVANA, ILL —Howard Young, manager
of the Home, Rantoul, 111., a unit of the
Kerasotes Bros, circuit, has succeeded Eddie
Walker as manager of the chain's Kaye and
Lawford theatres here. Walker resigned to
enter the automobile business at Canton, 111.
I Tiprovement at Bourbon Comet
BOURBON. IND.—New lenses have been
installed in the Comet Theatre, Gene Rovenstine,
owner, reported.
To Remove Hazards
From New England Edition
HARTFORD—Orders for abatement of
hazardous and poor housekeeping conditions
were issued to 35 theatres as the result of
inspections made during November by the
state police department, according to Herman
M. Levy, executive secretary of the
Motion Picture Theatre Owners of Connecticut.
State police inspected 325 theatres of which
176 were class A, 101 class B and 48 class C.
Six theatres were found to have fire extinguishers
which had not been refilled
within a year: six were found with torn and
hazardous carpeting, 15 with loose and faulty
seats, four with entrance and exit doors
which did not open properly, seven with
courtways which were obstructed or in hazardous
condition, two with defective electrical
outlets, seven with poor housekeeping conditions
in the projection room, 12 with poor
housekeeping conditions in the boiler room
and one with poor housekeeping in general.
Gov. Dewey Asks Retention
Of Local Option Tax Act
From Eastern Edition
ALBANY—Gov. Thomas E. Dewey, in his
message to the legislature at its opening session
recently, urged retention of the special
local tax program enacted last year, extending
authority to smaller cities and counties
to levy taxes for general purposes as well
as for education. The optional levies include
an amusement tax up to 5 per cent, although
no county or larger city has yet voted such
a one.
Erie county (Buffalo) has a 1 per cent
sales tax, which is so unpopular that it was
a factor in the Democratic upsurge which saw
Elmer Lux, former RKO manager there,
elected to the council. Syracuse will levy a
sales tax beginning March 1.
Governor Dewey pointed out the New York
City administration had recommended use
of the special taxes in its program to meet
increased costs, and had requested permission
for additional taxing powers. He reported
that a number of counties had asked
that permissive taxes be permitted for general
purposes, at option of the county. In
recommending "careful consideration of these
and all other amendments which may be
proposed to make the program work better
and to correct any omissions that have been
observed," Dewey urged the "permission and
optional character of all these taxes be preserved."
Theatre interests may fight the extension
of the special taxes to cities of less than
100,000 population. At present, cities with
100,000 or more population may levy the
taxes if counties elect not to do so.
Governor Dewey announced that no increase
would be recommended in state taxes.
He came out for continuation of the state's
standby residential rent control, which would
become operative if and when the federal
government relinquished control. The governor
likewise recommended that New York
City's control of commercial rents be extended
by state statute for another year.
Opposes Advanced Prices
From Eastern Edition
ALBANY—William C. Smalley, head of the
15-theatre Smalley circuit and veteran of 34 •/
years in the motion picture business, is opposed
to advanced admission prices for special
pictures. Smalley, here briefly, said he had
played one increased-scale film, "The
Years of Our Lives," in five situations to
"fair business."
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, IS

Rival Groups Seek
Si. Paul Airer Okay
ST. PAUL—Dave Flexer of Memphis has
taken up the gauntlet, thi-own down bv the
Minnesota Enterprises, organized locally to
keep away outside drive-in theatre interests.
Flexer, who last season built and opened
the Twin City territoi-y's first drive-in, has
applied for a permit to build and operate another
with 500 to 1.000 cars capacity in Rose,
a St. Paul suburb.
At the same time, the Minnesota Entertainment
Enterprises, which has a $1,000,000
capitalization, is also seeking a pennit in
Rose and, if it obtains the license, will proceed
with the venture regardless of Flexer.
Rites Held for Lee Jones,
Former Circuit Associate
KANSAS CITY—Funeral rites for Lee
Jones, former associate of Commonwealth
Theatres who died in a hospital at Tucson.
Ariz., January 8, were held here Sunday (1 li
Jones, who had been ill for a number of
years and died at 57, had been associated
with the circuit in Clinton and Harrisonville,
Mo., and Hamson, Searcy and Batesville,
Ark.
Jones was a pioneer in the industry, having
been a partner in the old Sears and Jones
circuit years ago. When the circuit sold out,
he went into partnership with Wendell Lenhart
in Trenton and a little later, Harrisonville.
While in Harrisonville he bought and
operated a farm. As a builder, Jones was
one of the originators of the Plaza Theatre
here. At one time he was with the Universal
circuit.
Surviving are his wife Lillian, sons Bob
and Johnny and two sisters. Bui-ial was in
Harrisonville.
Charles Peterson Interests
Are Sold to Son Walter
HAMPTON, IOWA—Charles Peterson, proprietor
of the Windsor and Lido theatres here,
has amiounced the sale of a substantial interest
in the business to his son, Walter C.
Peterson, w^ho has been actively engaged in
the management of the theatres for the last
several years.
Charles now plans to give more of his time
to his other interests, and. after more than
30 years here in show business, he and Mrs.
Peterson are planning to do some traveling.
Walter Peterson has grov^Ti up in the theatre
business with his father. He says the
theatres will continue to be operated along
the same line as in the past.
FMW Transfers Managers
KANSAS CITY—Merle "Rock" Mayo, manager
of the Watson in Salina, has been promoted
to the post of city manager in Arkansas
City by Fox Midwest. W. P. Welton, former
manager of the Strand at Salina, has
succeeded Mayo at the Watson and Virgil C.
Oliver, manager of the Salina Jayhawk, has
succeeded Welton at the Strand. New manager
at the Jayhawk is Max Turner, former
assistant at the Watson.
Jack Braunagel Resigns
KANSAS CITY—Jack Braunagel, head
booker and purchasing agent for Durwood
Theatres, has resigned. Announced late last
week by the circuit home office, Braunagel
was in California up to press time. He had
been with the chain for one year, having
come here from the Northio circuit in Cincinnati.
NEW CHILLICOTHE HOUSE—FoUowmg:
approval of the office of the housing
expediter. Theatre Enterprises has let
contracts for the construction of its proposed
812-seat theatre to be built in Chillicothe.
Mo. Robert Boiler's slietch of the
house appears above. Other TEI houses
in the city are the Kitz and Grand, having
a combined capacity of about 1,000
seats.
The house, to be erected on a lot on
North Washington, will be flanlted on
either side by shops and store buildings.
Front of the building will have structural
glass and porcelain enamel trim. The
house will be air conditioned. John Newcomer
is city manager for the circuit.
Mill City Sales Staff Cut
To Five Men by 20th-Fox
MINNEAPOLIS—It's still more economy
for Filmrow here. The newest cut is at 20th-
Fox where Harold Lundquist, northern Minnesota
salesman, was let out. The exchange
lopped off Harry Buck. South Dakota salesman,
recently, and its sales staff now will
comprise only five, according to Jack Cohen,
manager.
Buck went to Columbia in Des Moines.
Lundquist will run the Parkway, local neighborhood
theatre, which he owns.
Dan Hudson Appointed
Kiwanis Club Leader
DULUTH—Dan J. Hudson, manager of the
Norshor Theatre, was named reception chairman
for the Duluth Kiwanis club for 1948.
Among officers of the West Duluth Business
Men's club elected for the year is John P.
Brandenhoff .jr., manager of the West Theatre,
who was chosen second vice-president.
Commonwealth Shifts
KANSAS CITY—L. W. Morris, Commonwealth
division manager, has shitted Manager
Paul Stonum from the Dreamland in
Herington to the Kansan in Great Bend. Replacing
Stonum at the Herington spot is
Frank Kennedy, originally from Harrison,
Ark., and recently comiected with the John
Graham Tlieatres. The vacancy in Great
Bend came about through Jack Kempton's
moving from the Kansan there to the Gillioz
at
Monett.
Posl-New Year Great
In Omaha Theatres
OMAHA—From the boxoffice viewpoint,
1947 ended with a dull thud, but 1948 boomed
in with a record bounce.
The big news was at the Oi^pheum Theatre.
There Frankie Carle's all-time week's record
for the city was pas,sed with a zip that carried
Horace Heidt on stage and "Out of the Blue"
on screen A little higher price minimum and
a nationwide broadcast from the stage
costing patrons $1.50 a seat helped set the
record.
The combined grosses of all five first runs
probably set another record for the week.
Percentagewise the five theatres averaged
between 175 and 200 per cent above normal.
The holiday and spring-Uke weather following
the snow were major assists.
(Average Is 100)
Omaha—Road to Rio (Para), 2nd wk., moveover
Irom Paramount _ 140
Orpheum—Out oi the Blue (EL), plus stage show..200
Paramount—My Wild Iri-h Rose (WB) 185
RKO-Brandeis-Tycoon (RKO): Two Blondes and a
Redhead (Col) 190
State— It Had to Be You (Col) 185
Town-White Stallion (Astor); Destry Hides Again
(U-I),- Hidden Crime (SR), split with Let 'Em
Have It (Astor); The Brule Man (EL); Ghost
Town (EL) 150
Staqe Show Doubles Average
At Paramount, Des Moines
DES MOINES—A stage show featuring
Horace Heidt and his Musical Knights,
brought capacity crowds to the Paramount
Theatre during the four-day run last week.
"Adventure Island" was the screen offering.
The program drew double the average business.
"Tycoon," in its second week at the
Orpheum, also did good business, but "Daisy
Kenyon," showing at the Des Moines, proved
not as popular as had been expected, according
to Dale McFarland, Tri-States official.
The picture fell below par.
Des Moines—Daisy Kenyon (20th-Fox) 90
Orpheum—Tycoon (RKO); Two Blondes and a
Redhead (Col), 2nd wk 125
Paramount—Adventure Island (Paia), plu.? .stage
show 200
McCoy' Fast Punch
"Killer
Tops Kansas City Figures
KANSAS CITY—"Killer McCoy" won the
round for the week with a solid 140 punch.
The Esquire had one of its biggest attractions
with "The Gangster" and "Thimderbolt,"
running up one of its few above-average figures.
"Captain From Castile" suffered in its
second week at the Tower, Uptown and Fairway
and "Magic Town" scored only par at
the Orpheum. Weather was clear and warm
for most of the week.
Esquir^The Gangster (Mono-AA); Thunderbolt
(Mono) 1'25
Midland— Killer McCoy V.l.' Glamour Girl
(Col) 140
Orpheum—Magic Town i-K'" 100
Paramount—Road to Rio iPa-ai i-h wk 110
Roxy—Caravan (LL), Blonde Savage lEL) 115
Tower, Uptown, Fairway—Captain From Castile
- (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 90
Tri-States Awards $L000
Safety Prize to Boone
BOONE, IOWA—The $1,000 Tri-States
Theatres safety award was presented to the
local Junior Chamber of Commerce here last
week bv officials of the circuit. The contest,
held from April to September, was
judged 50 per cent on "deathless days" and
50 per cent on safety programs carried out
by junior chambers.
Presentation was made by Myron Blank
a banquet attended by 150 guests. G.
at
Ralph Branton, general manager of the circuit
who served as toastmaster, announced
that the same cash award would be offered
by Ti-i-States next year.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948 ^
71

. . . George
. . Beverly
. . Carolyn
. .
. .
. . . Ken
. . With
. . Audrey
. Edward
. .
. .
. . . Thomas
. . . Motion
. . M.
. . W.
. . H.
i
]
KANSAS CITY
Tyjr. and Mrs. Jack McGaughey, Commonwealth
family in Harrison, announce the
birth of a new son, Thomas David . . . Gus
Kubitzki, 20th-Fox city salesman, has returned
from a "second honeymoon" in New
Orleans Tracy, ledger clerk .u
.
Paramount, has resigned to join Commonwealth
Theatres in the accounting department
. Miller, Eagle Lion district
chief who returned from a three-week jaunt
to California, left Friday with M. G. Shackelford,
Eagle Lion branch manager, for a
regional meeting in Chicago.
William Tniog, manager of United Artists,
was in Tulsa to see Ralph Talbot and in
Oklahoma City with the Griffith chain .
Stan Durwood of the Durwood circuit returned
from driving his father Ed to Arizona
Smith, Paramount division manager,
was in the local exchange the first part
of the week for a sales meeting with Manager
Ray Copeland and District Manager
Ralph LiBeau.
Gabriel Bamett, national franchise holder
of Julian King's clock department, for which
Jules Benedic is area salesman, was expected
in the local King Enterprises exchange this
week. King himself was to be here over the
weekend.
Gladyce Penrod, secretary to Arthur Cole
at Paramoimt, left for a vacation Friday .
Visiting National Theatre Supply were F. M.
Bennett, Falls, Falls River; Ben Spainhour.
Twilight, Greensburg: Mamie Rhodes, Liberal.
Liberal, Mo.: Mrs. S. C. Andrews. Andrews.
Olathe; Lloyd Mahon, Ritz, Burlingame; W.
D. Coop, Doric, Elkhart; Harley F*i-yer, Orpheum,
Neosho; Ray Miner, Miner, Moran;
Cle Bratton, Ritz, Council Grove; Bob Robinson,
Grant, Grant City, and W. E. Korsmeyer.
Family, Kirksville.
Voice of the Theatre horns have been in-
POP
CORN BOXES
10c Size
ATTRACTIVE DESIGN
IMMEDIATE SHIPMENT
Paper Supply Co.
505 Delaware Street
KANSAS CITY 6. MO.
stalled at the Meade in Meade. Other improvements
include new carpet for aisles and
lobby . the promotion of Bob Shelton
to vice-president of Commonwealth circuit,
and his subsequent move upstairs in the office
headquarters, new rooms are being created
on the first floor of the home office. L. J.
Lenhart, head booker, is to get a new office
as is M. B. Smith, division manager.
George Hayob, owner of the Mary Lou in
Marshall, was in St. Mary's hospital here for
a general checkup. Operating the house in
his absence was his nephew Leo . . . Filmrow
sends condolences to Mrs. Rene Hall, switchboard
girl at Commonwealth-Republic, upon
the death last week of her grandfather .
John Goshorn, managers of NTS's seating
department, was in the local branch last week
conferring with "Count" deStefano. 'With
Goshorn was Keith Dickinson, production
manager of the American Seating Co.
Steve FitzGibbon, Devonshire Pictures
executive, was in the local King Enterprises
office. Julian King is the franchise
.
holder for Devonshire in this area
Charles Craig has sold the Plaza and Royal
theatres in Bentonville, Ark. P.
Urshel, MGM auditor, was in the exchange
here Totter, star of Metro's
.
"High Wall," made three personal appearances
at Loew's Midland Wednesday il4).
From here she went to St. Louis to continue
her series of engagements.
Eddie Golden, MGM city salesman who
returned this week from a swing through the
state, reports that the Boosters club at Tina
has reopened the Community Theatre there.
It is being managed by Seth Simpson. Bob
Egender sold the house a few weeks ago.
In Bucklin, Leo Walker, a local resident, has
bought the CB Theatre from Cliff Byler
Winklemeyer is remodeling the
Casino in Boonville. Included in the changes
are a remodeled lobby, refinished seats and
installation of a manager's office.
. . COUNT ON
Jilmack
FOR YOUR
SPECIAL
TRAILERS
For All Occasions!
E^BRH a
From Jhe BOXOFFICE Files
(T-wenty Years Ago)
JAMES FOLAND, sales manager for Lakeside
ventilators, returned to his Kansas
City office from the south ... Ed Alperson,
formerly district manager for Warner Bros.,
has been promoted to assistant southern and
western division manager . J. Freudenj
berger. general sales manager for Ad-Vance
|
Trailer Service, visited Kansas City. He also
conferred with Charles Russell, formerly of
|
Universal and other companies, now manager
of the trailer service o:-ganization in Omaha
Reddy has been added to the
'
staff of the Charles M. Stebbins Picttu-e Supply
Co.. Kansas City, according to Clyde
Badger, manager.
Patrons of the Liberty, Kansas City, may i
ride to the theatre on the street cars and
have their fares returned to them, according
to a plan devised by Sam Carver and the
transportation company . Bradley Fish,
who has been manager of the Fox exchange
in Kansas City the last year, resigned. E. T.
Gomersall, short subjects sales manager for
Pox, is now acting manager of the exchange
pictures as an aid to education
are well recognized in Kansas City, according
to Rupert Peters, director of visual education.
Eighty schools are adopting this form of
instruction, compared with eight local institutions
using them a year ago.
The Gillioz Theatre in Springfield, Mo.,
completed less than two years ago at a cost
of $250,000, has been taken over by the Midland
Theatre Co. It has been a Universal
house . B. Shanberg. managing director
for the Loew theatres in Kansas City,
the Newman and Midland, has resigned to
head the Sears-Harding circuit.
Joe La Rose, formerly of the Fox Theatre
in Philadelphia, came to Kansas City to take
charge of the stage productions at Loew's
Midland. La Rose will also have charge of
production at the State in St. Louis.
Pittsburg, Kas.. still has a "blue war," with
more than 50 businessmen arrested for operating
businesses in violation of the Kansas
Sunday closing law. The trouble began when
the ministers of the city started an atta.^k
on the reopening of Pittsburg's four picture
shows. For many years the theatres have
been closed, but last summer the exhibitors
opened for Sunday business. Tlie general
sentiment is that if theatres close, all houses
of business should be closed, as the Sund.iy
closing law does not discriminate as to the
tvpe of business.
LOBBY MATS AVAILABLE AGAIN!
CORRUGATED and PERFORATED
U. S. ROYALITE QUALITY
in i/,"_3/j" and 1/2" thickness. Cloth Inserted.
BLACK—MAROON—RED—WHITE—GREEN—YELLOW—BLUE—SALMON
^ ^ 4 Q .t'^'$:* r
4 ^ « •» «^ ,
>

. . . Sherman
. . Radio
. . Bennie
. . Stan
. . Gus
. .
'Killer McCoy' Strong
In Minneapolis Bow
MINNEAPOLIS—There were only two major
newcomers downtown last week, "Killer
McCoy" and "I Love Ti-ouble." and both made
a ^od impression. The record-breaking
•'Road to Rio" was in its second week at
Radio City and leading the procession. Other
holdovers were "My Wild Irish Rose." in its
third week, and "Tycoon" and "I know Where
I'm Going" in their second. "Best Years of
Our Lives" had another downtown engagement
at $1.20, this time at the Lyceum. "Road
to Rio" is proving one of the new year's boxoffice
sensations here. In its first week at
Radio City it pulled one of the five biggest
grosses for a straight film in the 4,400-seat
theatre's history. Only two other pictures
ever exceeded its takings and one other
equaled it. Holdout crowds, running as high
as 2,000, were in evidence during the first
week.
Both the St. Paul Paramount and Duluth
Garrick, like Radio City here, held "Road"
over for a second week. It also has been
running seven days or longer in Rochester,
Austin, Winona and Faii-mont, Minn.; Sioux
Falls, Watertown and Aberdeen, S. D., and
Eau Claire, Wis.
Aster—Lone Woli
Killer
Dill (SG)
Century—My Wild Irish Rose (WB) 3rd wk
Gopher—Mark of Zorro (20lh-rox), reissue
Lyceum—Best Years ol Our Lives (RKO), 3rd ru
Lyric—Diamond lim (FC), The Spoilers (FC),
Radio City—Road to Rio (Parol, 2nd wk
RKC-Orpheum—Tycoon (RKO) 2nd wk
RKO-Pcm- 1 Love Trouble (Col)
Stat^Killer McCoy (MGM)
World—I Know Where I'm Going (U-I), 2nd wk
Renewed Jewell Opened
By FMW in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — Fox Midwest reopened
the Jewell Theatre here Thursday (15) to
replace the burned-out Fox, formerly the
Electric. The house, named the Plaza when
last opened, has been closed since a oneweek
roadshow engagement in 1933.
Built before the first world war, the Jewell
has 1,000 seats and has been completely reseated,
redecorated and re-equipped as well
as renamed. The present title is the fainily
name of the property owners.
Manager of the house is Roy Hill, former
pilot at the Fox, who will continue lo work
imder G. I. Hunter, city manager. Opening
attraction was "Good News."
No fm-ther activity has been taken to rebuild
the Fox, which burned last month.
Policy Change at Earlham
EARLHAM. IOWA—Changes of programs
three times a week have been inaugurated at
the Earl here. Pictures will change Sunday,
Tuesday and Thursday.
MINNEAPOLIS
.
por the second successive week the Lyric
here, ordinarily a moveover house, has
played twin reissues at usual 50-70 cents
its
and did well with them Carlson,
Superior exhibitor, was a Filmrow visitor . . .
Al Schreiber, Michigan circuit owner and proprietor
of the local Lyceum, legitimate roadshow
house, was in to make some picture
deals.
Terry Turner, RKO Theatres publicity department
head, is due in from New York next
week for a brief stay . . . Gertrude Guimont,
Warner head booker, suffered an ankle
fracture for a second time . . . Republic's
"Hit Parade," "Northwest Outpost" and
"Wyoming" are spotted into the downtown
Garrick, independent house, for their fir.st
runs in St. Paul. They played MAC theatres
downtown here, but a booking jam in St.
Paul caused the shift there.
Ida Shartin has been promoted from contract
clerk to branch manager's secretary at
Warner Bros. She succeeds Helen Rothstein
who resigned . Berger, North
Central Alhed president, was vacationing in
Florida . City and the Daily Times
have a jingle contest tieup for "Sleep, My
Love." There are cash prizes of $15, $10 and
$5 and free tickets for the picture.
For its Sunday night show featuring the
Horace Heidt band and show on the stage in a
coast-to-coast broadcast, the admission is
being boosted from 85 cents to $1.50. The theatre
will sell only the 2,800-seat capacity .
E. G. Fitzgibbons, Paramount exploiteer, was
here to help sell "I Walk Alone."
EL's "T-Men" will go into all MAC situations
as result of deal closed by Abbott
Swartz, manager here . Kane, North
Central Allied executive counsel, was chosen
by the village board at Golden Valley, a
suburb, as town counsel for the seventh time
Pitch, RKO manager at Sioux
Falls, S. D., took the lead in the cm-rent Ned
Depinet drive. He was the winner nationally
last season.
NCA Prepares Trailer
ST. PAUL—North Central Allied will enter
the fight against the proposed 5 per cent
local admission tax, which faces a referendum
March 9, by means of a trailer. S. D. Kane,
executive comisel, says the trailer now being
prepared for showing on St. Paul screens will
urge everyone to register and vote. The
prospective voter must register at least 30
days before the referendum. After the
registration period other trailers and the
press and radio will be utilized in the battle
to defeat the amendment.
To Stage Musical Numbers
Robert Sidney will stage the musical numbers
and handle the choreography for "Let's
Fall in Love." Columbia production.
WAHOO
America's finest Screen Came
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT CO., 831 S. WABASH AVE.. CHICAGO
Close Theatre to Vacation
BANCROFT, IOWA—The Croft here was
closed for ten days while Mr. and Mrs. C. E.
Hendrickson and their son Roger spent their
vacation traveUng in the south. Since coming
here, the Hendricksons have operated the
theatre continuously without a vacation. The
theatre reopened with a special Christmas
day matinee.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
TRAILERS
16mm — Motion Pictures — 3Smm
Sound Recording — Talkies
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1719 Wyandotte — Suite 208
Telephone GR. 5365 Kansas City. Mo.
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Your Deal Handled Personally
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Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 Einmore Dallas 10. Texas
Phone T3-2026
THEATRE INSURANCE Specio/isf
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I. KIMBRIEL. Managei
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^ lis W. 18Ui Kansas City 8. Mo. iS
STEBBINS THEATRE
Equipn
TALKING TRAILERS, LOBBY PAPER
AND MATS
Write, Wire or Phono
PENNINGTON POSTER SERVICE
130 West I8th Phone: GRand 8628
City 8, Mo.
CDE^T MPTCDM
STAGE
EQUIPMENT COMPANY
.UIILHI tlLUILIIIl,
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. . . Jack
. . Nouvello
. . Warner
. . William
. . Mike
. . Ralph
. . Bonnie
. . . Mr.
. . Glenn
. . William
. . Joe
. . Arnold
. . Three
. . Louise
. . Richard
. . William
. .
'
'
|
DES MOINES Allied Screen Trailer OMAHA
n R. Brown of Fonda. Iowa, has sold his
theatre there to R. J. Ralston and R. L.
Johnson. The new owners will take over
immediately .
Bros, here is having
a new paint job in all its offices . . . Erna Fae
Vannell is a new employe at Warners, replacing
Joys Simipter. resigned. Blanche Hefley
also resigned.
. . . Beverly
Mel Evidon, Columbia branch manager, is
vacationing in California . . . Arnold Shartin,
assistant booker at Columbia, was transferred
to the Omaha office and Mark Dersh
promoted to the booking position . . . Bonnie
Bryant resigned at Colimibia to be married
Greenberg, NSS salesman, returned
from a trip to Minneapolis
Morris, former Warner stenographer, was
honored at several showers prior to her marriage
January 22 to Robert Lovejoy.
Ben Molstre Buys Roxy
BIRD ISLAND, MINN.—The Roxy here has
been bought by Ben Molstre.
^SPECIAL SHOWMANSHIP
liMMiii
RIDTIOn PICTURE SERVICE Co.
IIS HYDE IT. .$aiilMKtico(I)Cai;f.
To Fight Si. Paul Tax
ST. PAUL—North Central Allied will assist
exhibitors and other entertainment interests
here in opposing the proposed 5 per
cent amusement tax when it comes up for a
vote of the electorate. President Bennit
Berger feels that if the tax is put over in
St. Paul other communities will attempt similar
levies. A vigorous campaign will be
waged to defeat the tax, Berger said.
It appears the proposal will not be voted
on until the April elections. In order for
the referendum to be called before that time
a unanimous vote of the council would be
necessary to approve a costly special election.
The tax cannot go into effect until it is approved
by a majority of the voters who cast
their ballots at the referendum.
The referendum became mandatory, suspending
the imposition of the tax, when the
amusement interests successfully put over a
referendum petition.
Theatres used trailers on their screens asking
their patrons to sign the petitions and
Ravenna Grand Sold
RAVENNA, NEB.—Richard Lysinger Tias
sold the Grand here to Thomas Sandberg,
former exhibitor at Anthon, Iowa. Lysinger
will devote more time to the film transport
business he operates with his brother.
COMPLETELY NEW
HORKY'S CAFE
Bigger and Better Than Ever
— Featuring "DeliBh" Steaks
120Z High SI. Des Moines. Iowa
Filmrow Friends Gather
Open Daily 4 p. m.
Dobert Logan, former exhibitor at Logan and
Shelby, Iowa, has taken over the Muzu
at Fonda, Iowa . Ghantry, head of the
Goldendough project, has recovered from his
recent illness and is back along the Row .
Walter Hoffman, 20th-Fox exploiteer, was in
town for a few days . Wilson,
MGM salesman, took a few days out to have
several teeth removed and is now back on the
road . . . Joe Scott, 20th-Fox manager, journeyed
to Des Moines Monday.
George March, exhibitor at Vermillion, S.
D., and his family, are vacationing in Callfornia
. Rogers offered a screening
|
'
of Rose Bowl pictures and invited the press
and Mrs. Henry Tammen, Yankton,
'
S. D., theatre owners, are spending the winter
in Florida ... J. J. Sparks, former RKO
assistant shipper, has moved to Eagle Lion
where he heads the shipping depari ment now
i
under Film Ti-ansport . . . Gerald Hastings
is the new RKO assistant shipper . . . Harold
Johnson, Universal manager, is back from a
trip through the South Dakota territory.
Esther Huston, Universal cashier, is still on
the sick list . . . Joe Anchor, Universal booker,
is batching it these days while Mrs.
Anchor visits in St. Louis . Olson is
kept busy during his hours at home, trying played the principal part in getting the signatures.
Trailers also will be run urging the Eugene Post, SRO manager in Des Moines,
to entertain his daughter, who is confined
with mumps.
public to vote "no" and large newspaper ads was in town . Miskell, Tri-States
will be utilized, Berger said.
Theatres district manager, started off the
Marjorie Walde and Clare Hanigan are
week visiting circuit houses at Grand Island
new employes at the Iowa Theatre in Denison
. Phillips, branch manager's Berger Sees Divorcement new booker here, has arrived from Des
and Hastings . Shartin, Columbia's
secretary at RKO, is recuperating from
Moines. Mort Ives, who is switching to Des
a
serious operation, performed last week
As Certainty This Year
Moines as a salesman, will not pull out until
at
Iowa Methodist hospital . . . Thelma Washburn,
RKO booker, is also on the mend after ing to members, Bennie Berger, North Cen-
MINNEAPOLIS—In a New Year's greet-
later in the month.
a prolonged battle with pneumonia.
tral Allied president, predicts theatre
M. P. King has taken over the Shelby Theatre
at Shelby . R. D. Goldberg
divorcement
as part of the supreme court's
houses, the Dundee. Military and Avenue, are
A screening for Joe E. Brown and the cast decision in the decree suit, Ascap's death
featuring special Saturday afternoon children's
programs . . . Arnold Johnson, Onawa.
of "Harvey" was held at the Fox screening and "a lot of lawsuits by independent exhibitors
against distributor-producers."
room last Tuesday night, with Tri-States
Iowa, exhibitor, spent a second week down
as host. The picture was "The Tender Years," Berger calls upon "distributors and stars
with the flu.
starring Brown . Lee, Eagle Lion who have been making as much as $2,000 a
branch manager, attended a district meeting day" to start "remedymg their behavior Jim Burrus, Crete. Neb., exhibitor, stopped
in Chicago . Pine, Paramount producer,
visited the exchange here last week. "The public and the independent exhibitor.^ Hot Springs, Ark. That shotUd take care of
toward the independent exhibitor and public." along the Row and said he was headed for
have been paying the colossal salaries of these an ache in the shoulder .
Wink,
Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Blank, Tri-States president,
have left for the Hollywood Beach hotel them unless these people work out, pronto, back on the road . Cotter of the
top people and they can and will stop paying Warner salesman, is out of the hospital and
in Hollywood. Fla., where they will spend a plan which will stop the fleecing of the RKO-Brandeis has set up special screenings
several weeks . . . A. G. Stolte, Tri-States public and the independent exhibitor through for the clergy to see "Fugitive" January 24.
district manager, is recovering from an such silly and ridiculous practices as compulsory
percentage and advanced admissions. teachers also were made with Superintendent
Arrangements for a screening for parochial
operation performed last week in Rochester,
Minn. Mrs. Stolte is also in Rochester.
"It is not too late for the distributors and P. E. Schneider. The picture opens here
producers to work out a live-and-let-live the 28th.
Kenneth Weldon, former MGM booker, visited
the exchange last week . . . Betty
Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Johannsen, owners of
plan."
Ahrends, MGM stenographer, played basketball
in Denver, Colo., last weekend and her
ing a son on the west coast. They hope the
the Wonderland at Paullina, Iowa, are visi^ -
Decision Is Deferred
team won both of its games . . . "Pete"
sunshine will be good for Johannsen who ha.s
MINNEAPOLIS—The city council license
Peterson, RKO booker, is rightfully proud
been ill . . . Lon McDowell, Hartley, Iowa, exhibitor,
is busy these days building a new
of his two sons, who won acclaim in then-
for two weeks
Sloan, Iowa; P. King. Shelby:
committee has deferred action
appearance with the Horace Heidt stage show
on the application of H. D. Griffith for a
house for his son Bill. It will be across
permit to build and operate a theatre on
last week at the Paramount. The boys played
the street from his own.
neighborhood property owned by him. He
several two-piano numbers . Breeze,
has been trying unsuccessfully for more than
RKO stenographer, has real reason for her
Exhibitors along Filmrow included Frank
ten years to obtain the permit, which is
exuberance this week—her boyfriend has
Good. Red Oak, Iowa; Eddie Kugel. Holstein.
Iowa; Phil March. Wayne; Louis
opposed by North Central Allied, trying to
returned from many months in the Pacific.
keep the clamps down on further theatre
Weiner. South Sioux City: Andy Anderson.
construction here.
M. Mervin
Neeley. Griswold. Iowa; C. C. Moore. Dunlap.
Iowa; Mr. and Mi-s. Fred Shuler, Humboldi:
Okey Goodman. Villisca. Iowa: E. L. Bartak.
Greeley; Carl Mansfield, Schuyler: Jean
Bohnker, Charter Oak, Iowa.
Coming outside competition includes Jose
Iturbi at the City Auditoritim January 31,
and the San Carlo Opera Co. here January
26, 27 . . . Norman Pyle is now handling promotion
representation for MGM in the Omaha
and Des Moines territories.
Theatre Loot Is $300
DICKINSON, N. W.—Burglars robbed the
Dickin.son here of $300, Manager Frank Hallowell
reported.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Says Low-Cost Net
Will Extend Video
From Central Edition
CHICAGO—WBKB will De able to offer
network television to certain small stations
at a cost of $40 an hour for 40 program
hours a week In 1948. Capt. Bill Eddy, director
of the Balaban & Katz station, told
members of the Television Broadcasters
Ass'n. His statement was made at TBA's
luncheon at the Waldorf-Astoria in New
York recently when accepting one of the organization's
five annual awards for contributions
to the development of television.
The citation, equivalent to the motion picture
industry's "oscar" honored Eddy for
•'application of existing microwave equipment
to a relay between South Bend and
Chicago which permitted televising of the
Notre Dame football games."
Indicating that the Balaban & Katz station
is in the midst of contract negotiations
to utilize its existing relay facilities to bring
television service to additional communities,
Eddy stated that methods pioneered during
WKBS's telecasts of the Notre Dame games
can open a new era in telecasting. Small
stations which could not normally afford to
televise, may because of lower network costs,
find it practical to go on the air.
Construction of the present WBKB relay
began in January 1947 when w^ork was started
on an experimental tower at Michigan
City. Ind., where tests were conducted to determine
that very-high frequency signals
could be received across Lake Michigan from
the station's transmitter 42 miles away in
the Chicago Loop.
KMTA and AITOKM Open
Kansas City Row Offices
KANSAS CITY—For the first time in Filmrow
history two theatre associations are to
have offices here simultaneously. The new
Allied Independent Theatre Owners of Kansas
and Missouri opened their three-room
suite above the Monogram exchange at 1719
Wyandotte. In line with resolutions adopted
at the convention here last month, a manager
will be in charge of the office. Up to press
time this week, however, no final choice had
been made. Secretai"y in the office is Dorothy
Murphy, former secretary to Beverly Miller
at Eagle Lion.
The Kansas-Missouri Theatres Ass'n. TOA
group in this area, was to announce at its directors
meeting Thursday (15i the February
1 opening of its new quarters in the RCA
building. Secretary at this office will be
Gladyce Penrod. since 1939 secretary to
Arthur Cole of Paramount. Address of the
KMTA quarters is 221 West 18th St.
Remodel in Oskaloosa
OSKALOOSA, IOWA—Remodeling of the
Princess, oldest operating theatre in the
city, is under way and is expected to be completed
around the first of the year, Bruno
Pierce has annoimced. Workmen are tearing
out seats preparatory to replacing the old
wooden floors in the main theatre and on
the stage with concrete flooring. Approximately
150 new seats wil be installed and
the remaining 150 seats reconditioned.
Iowa Holiday Kiddy Shows
DES MOINES—Among the
many theatres
In Iowa cities and towns which held free
showings for children during the holiday season
were the Osceola and Lyric at Osceola,
sponsored by the firemen of the town: the
Ritz at Chariton, sponsored by the Chamber
of Commerce; the Riada at Adair; the
Avalon, West Union; Star, Ute; King, Albia;
I^ake, Independence, and the Iowa, Onawa.
Patron, Watch Your Hat;
Retrieve at Own Risk
Omaha—Patrons have ticklish problems,
too. Exhibit A is the shy young Omahan
who glanced from the screen to note a
buxom matron sitting down in front of
him—on his hat.
He snatched for the hat, but didn't
quite make it. His hand was trapped
against the arm rest of the seat. He
decided to wait until the woman shifted.
But the cramped arm couldn't take it.
He tried to withdraw the hand stealthily.
A shrill scream rang out. The woman
turned and began to bellow for police
and psychiatrists.
"My hat ." . . the young man said weakly,
waving the crumpled headpiece. Then
he beat a hasty retreat.
Open in Mountain Home
MOUNTAIN HOME, ARK.—The new Baxter
Theatre opened here recently. The
675-seat theatre, operated by Commonwealth-
Evans Corp., is the second house for this
town and will replace the Evans as the community's
A house. The Evans will continue
to operate as the B theatre. Manager for
both houses is Clyde Bradley, who has been
in charge of the Evans. Attending the opening
were the mayor and other civic officials,
C. A. Schultz, president of the Commonwealth
Amusement Corp., and other circuit
home office representatives from Kansas
City. Opening feature was "Tarzan and the
Huntress."
Pitch Set for 'Night Song'
OMAHA—The RKO Brandeis has decided
'Night Song" will be a picture with many
exploitation angles. Already these promotionals
are lined up:
A special screening set for the music, plus
tieins with local record dealers: a stuffed
parrot in the lobby with a radio announcer
behind the draperies to act as emcee in offthe-cuff
remarks about incomers and outgoers,
plus plugs for the picture, and small
cards reading "Who Killed Her?" plus the
Brandeis telephone number. The caller will
be told: "Come and see 'Night Song' and you
will find out."
New Cass Lake Installations
CASS LAKE. MINN.—A new Simplex projector
and Voice of the Theatre sound have
been ins ailed in the Lyric. The theatre was
closed for three days while the work was
being
done.
HANDY
NCA Balks at New Flat
In Lieu of Percentage
MINNEAPOLIS—Percentage is
bad, but the
new special flat, ni lieu of it frequently is
worse, according to North Central Allied. In
its current bulletin, the Allied organization
warns exhibitors to "beware of film salesmen
or exchange managers who come to you bearing
a gift in the form of a new special flat
in place of percentages."
The bulletin tells exhibitors that, by going
for the new special flat, they'll be establishing
a new flat for themselves and, in addition,
"will continue to be faced with percentage
demands." Instances are cited of companies
having supplanted old top flats with the new
higher ones, which were first established and
accepted as alternatives to perceiitage.
In all this connection, the bulletin claims
distributors here have "kicked adjustments
out of the window." The bulletin accuses film
companies of making independent exhibitors
foot the bill for "the producers' costly mistakes."
"Because producers are making costly
mistakes and throwing away money in film
production, they are insisting that their sales
forces get extra revenue to pay for these
errors," the bulletin charges.
Hot-Dog Concession Added
To Dickinson Lobby Shops
KANSAS CITY—The Dickinson circuit has
U;egun a series of hot-dog concessions in a
number of its theatres. So far the weiners
are being served in the Mullikin. Springfield
and the Glen, Tampico and Kimo.
The sandwiches are served from a steamer
which is part of the lobby shops Dickinson
has in all its theatres. Pi'ice for the hot-dogs
is 20 cents for wiener, bun and mustard. According
to Paul Kelly of the circuit home
office, "the stands are doing quite well."
Former Projectionist Dies
SWEET SPRINGS, MO.—Bob Bowman, former
chief projectionist for Commonwealth
Theatres in Lawrence, Kas.. died recently
in a government hospital in Colorado. He
was buried here.
Desseau Scores "Law"
Paul Desseau has been named to score Film
Classics' 'The Unwritten Law." starring John
Calvert and Rochelle Hudson.

. . Mike
3,000 See Horace Heidi
In Des Moines Show
DES MOINES—Three thousand persons
jammed the Paramount here last Simday
night to hear the nationwide radio talent
hunt broadcast by Horace Heidt and his
band, which originated from the Paramount
stage. The Heidt company appeared at the
theatre for four days.
A 17-year-old accordionist, Dick Gontino,
won the contest for the sixth consecutive
week. He was winner over three local finalists,
chosen from among 1,500 lowans who
auditioned during the Heidt stage appearance.
Gontino was awarded $250 and the
opportunity to go on with the revue imtil
possible elimination by a contestant elsewhere.
The talent hunt moved from here to
the Orpheum in Minneapolis.
The three local finalists, Margaret Davis,
Ralph Peer, and Bill Dutcher. will be presented
gifts by the Philip Morris Co., sponsors
of the weekly broadcast. A second contest,
sponsored by a local store, was won
by David Gartner, 12-year-oId pianist. He
won $50 and a radio-phonograph combination
for his school.
Des Moines MGM Chief
Buys J. O. Doop Theatre
ADEL, IOWA— J. C. Kennedy, manager of
the MGM exchange in Des Moines, has taken
over the ownership of the New Rialto Theatre
here from Mr. and Mrs. J. O. Doop, who
have operated the house for the last 14 years.
Kenndy named Marian Hesselink, a former
Doop employe, as manager of the business.
Kennedy will continue to live in Des Moines,
but will make frequent visits to Adel.
Kennedy announced several changes in
dates and schedules of picture attractions
here. There will be a regular Saturday afternoon
matinee for children, plus continuous
Sunday showings starting at 2 p. m.
Mr. and Mi's. Doop will continue to live here,
although they soon will leave on a vacation
trip to the south.
Open G. I. Joe in Polo
POLO, MO.—The G. I. Joe opened here recently,
owned and operated by Paul Neal of
Lexington. Neal is a veteran of World War
II. The house, newly constructed by Dean
Alspaugh, will have showings six nights a
week. This town has been without a theatre
for several years although it had been the
custom, in the past, for local merchants to
underwrite the showing of outdoor films during
the summer season.
To Reopen Zearing House
ZEARING, IOWA—The Business Mens
Ass'n here has voted to lease the Zearing
Theatre, hire a manager and reopen the
house as soon as film contracts can be negotiated.
Appointed to a committee to handle
arrangements were Charles Snider, Glenn
Nelson and Lynn Hull. It is expected the
theatre will reopen about the middle of
January.
Empress Being Modernized
ROCKWELL CITY, IOWA—A modernization
program is being carried on at the
Empress here, Dick Phillips, manager, announces.
Included in the improvements will
be repairing and reupholstering of seats.
Closes Northboro House
LINCOLN
f^harles KroU, hou.'ie manager at the Stuart,
found that the possibilities for music store
tieups are good on both "Good News" and
"My Wild Irish Rose." A great radio enthusiast,
KroU spends much of his spare
time designing and building radios.
.
Charles Shire, manager of the Nebraska,
displaying a 40x60 poster on "Unconquered"
is
in Lincoln's city library, something which
Cavander
is seldom seen in Lincoln
returned to his post as assistant manager at
the Nebraska after spending a week in Chicago.
He said the floor show at the College
Inn was good.
During a recent screening of "Daisy Kenyon,"
a cashier at the Lincoln Theatre expressed
disapproval of Daisy caUing a theatre
to ask what was showing. "Why doesn't she
look in the paper? We get enough phone
calls" . . . One of the popcorn girls at the
Stuart spent a few days resting in Lincoln
General hospital after an attempt to get a
quick sun tan under a new ultraviolet lamp.
She's from Georgia and used to having a tan
the year 'round.
St. Louis Council to Choose
Best Western of Month
From Central Edition
ST. LOUIS—The Better Films cotmcil
will
select each month what it regards to be
the best western for the month. The picture
will be judged on its appeal to youthful
audiences that patronize the Youth Cinema
clubs sponsored by the council in cooperation
with the motion picture committee
of the General Federation of Women's
Mrs. Arretus Franklyn Burt, honorary
clubs.
president and founder of the council, is
chairman of the motion picture committee.
There are four Youth Cinema clubs in
this area that are on a self-sustaining basis.
They are operated in conjunction with the
Manchester and Rio theatres here, the Shady
Oak in Clayton, and the Osage in Kirkwood.
Buddy Rogers in Twin City
MINNEAPOLIS—Buddy Rogers, producer
"Sleep, My Love," flew here in his own
of
plane and stayed three days prior to and at
the pictures opening in Radio City. He hosted
members of the press and exhibitors at a
screening and cocktail party at the Hotel
Nicollet. The picture was very well received.
Chick Evens, UA exploiteer, preceded Rogers
to Minneapolis.
New Smithville Equipment
SMITHVILLE. MO.—Don Cotter has installed
new Weber booth equipment in his
State Theatre here. The house has been open
about three weeks. Projection and sound
equipment, a new screen and popcorn machine
were included in the improvements
purchased from Stebbins Theatre Equipment
Co., Kansas City.
Herman Berman Resigns
DES MOINES—Herman Berman,
who for
the last five months has been branch manager
in charge of all sales in Iowa and Nebraska
for King Enterprises, has resigned.
He has not yet announced any further plans.
Opens Lyons Theatre
LYONS, NEB.—Glen McKenzie is
opening
165. He
the new Star theatre here, seating
remodeled an old theatre to provide the
town's second house.
-"
Large Fee Slapped
On County Airers
F.'om E.csiern Edition
WASHINGTON—A $1,000 license fee on all
drive-in theatres was levied recently by the
Montgomery county, Maryland, board of commissioners.
The unusual fee, called discriminatory,
was explained by the board as
a necessary means of curbing juvenile delinquency.
Washington theatre owners, interested in
the new law because Montgomery county is
a suburb of Washington, said they had never
heard such an exorbitant charge ever being
levied at the film industry.
Sidney Lust, circuit owner, who would not
comment on the board's action, is known to
have planned to build a huge drive-in theatre
in Montgomery county.
The ordinance, effective January 10. was
drawn by attorney James R. Miller, Rockville.
Me., representing the protesting citizens
in the county who originally complained of
the new drive-in to be built by Lust.
The Rev. J. Virgil Lily of Rockville who
said he spoke for the county ministerial association,
described the outdoor theatres as
"a demoralizing influence leading to promiscuous
relationships." Mrs. Thomas M. Bartram
of the Montgomery County League of
Women Voters, predicted the theatre would
"tend to increase juvenile delinquency."
In addition to the stiff $1,000 annual license
fee, the ordinance also calls for written applications,
public hearings on the applications
and no showing of movies after 11 p. m.
Ehlers Brothers Get Okay
For Arlington, Minn., Job
AUSTIN, MINN.—The Ehlers brothers.
Roy and Adolph of Austin have received
authority from the CPA to build a 350-seat
theatre in Arlington. Minn.
Adolph Ehlers announced that the house
would cost about $35,000. It will be modern
in every way, will be air conditioned, and
will be outfitted with completely new equipment,
he said. It is expected to be open some
time next summer.
While the theatre is under construction,
the Ehlers brothers will show pictures in the
Arlington Community Bldg.
"i' ll/aA 2/ou'd 2*ut
Running Classified Ads
in BOXOFFICE!"
BOXOFFICE January 17, 1948

Film Circuit Slated
For Far North Area
from Canadian Edition
MONTREAL—Lonely residents of the great
Canadian north are getting a new deal in
education thi-ough the medium of films and
radio, according to H. L. Keenleyside, commissioner
for Northwest Territories.
Films, particularly, are a delight to the
people in the Ai-ctic and sub-Arctic areas and
for that reason the territories commissioner
is setting up a film circuit embracing seven
of the major settlements in the growing
Mackenzie district. Films provided by the
resources department and the National Film
board will be shown at schools in connection
with classroom work and also will be available
for adult education.
Tlie circuit will stretch from Aklavik,
which is on the Mackenzie river just off the
Arctic ocean, to Port Smith, which is situated
just north of the boundary between the
Territories and the province of Alberta. Other
towns In the circuit will include Simpson,
Province, Yellowknife, Hay River and Resolution.
The Northwest Territories council has arranged
to pay the cost of all audio-visual
equipment purchased by any school in the
Territories, Keenleyside said.
Eskimos in particular get a lift out of
motion pictures, he recently told the council.
Often one family will come back to watch
the same picture 18 times, he reported.
Radio is coming into its own in the northland
with the purchase by the Northwest
Territories administration of battery sets for
installation in schools of the district. In
addition, arrangements are being completed
with the CBC for recordings of national
school broadcast programs to be rebroadcast
from station CHAK, Aklavik.
School children in the Territories generally
attend day or residential schools operated by
by chui-ch missions under the supervision
of the council. At Yellowknife, a modern public
school is nearing completion, made possible
through p $150,000 grant by the administration.
Boone, Iowa, License Fee
Raised From $50 to $200
BOONE, IOWA—City license fees for Boone
theatres have been raised $150 a year by action
of the Boone city council. Heretofore the
annual fee has been $50. The new $200 charge
will be assessed against all theatre and
vaudeville shows.
Petrillo Ban Hits Canadians, Too
From Conadian Edition
To Fix NCA Parley Date
MINNEAPOLIS—North Central Allied will
hold its annual convention at the Hotel
Nicollet here in April. The exact date tor
the two-day meeting will be fixed by a committee
comprising Martin Lebedoff, E. L.
Peaslee, George Granstrom. Sidney 'Volk and
Jack Heywood, appointed by President Bennie
Berger. The committee also will make
all arrangements.
Building Jamesport Theatre
JAMESPORT, MO.— Col. R. Clark, who recently
was discharged from the army, is building
a new 350-seat theatre here, to be known
as the American. This is Clark's first theatre
and the first motion picture theatre for this
town. Equipment now being installed was
provided by Missom-i Theatre Supply, Kansas
City.
Thomas Drive Winners
KANSAS CITY—The local
Eagle Lion exchange,
captained by M. G. Shackelford, has
won second place in the Harry Thomas Playdate
drive which ended August 30, it was announced
recently. Beverly Miller, district
manager for Kansas City, Denver and Salt
Lake City, won first prize in that classification.
The drive began last April.
MONTREAL—Canadians will be almost as
greatly affected by the ban of the American
Federation of Musicians on the further
manufacture of recordings as will the U.S.
Comparatively few master disks, from which
records are cut, are made in Canada, the
disks being mostly imported from the U.S.
The Canadian recording industry is, broadly,
confined to local radio programs, French
Canadian folk music, and a few purely Canadian
orchestras and musicians. These in sales
volume fall far behind popular music by
U.S. bands.
As far as possible the recording studios
worked overtime to pile up a backlog of local
radio programs. One major studio completed
recording a program which runs until the end
of April, another completed a year's music
recordings.
Although it is an offense under the copyright
act, most Canadian radio stations have
in the past paid little attention to the prohibition
against playing records on the air.
Much of the French Canadian folk-song
and national music is recorded by nonunion
musicians, and as Union Leader James C.
Petrillo is unable to replace these, he will
not, according to a Montreal recording man,
pay much attention to them. Petrillo, according
to this authority, has left the door
open for one or two other minor "infractions"
of his ruling. For instance, to places
where there are no telephone wires, such
as Newfoundland and parts of northern Quebec,
it will still be permissible to record the
programs in Montreal and ship them to radio
stations in these places for rebroadcast.
U.S. companies have built up a backlog
estimated at a year's supply of popular music
and a stockpile of classical music large
enough to last two or three years.
Des Moines Police Okay
A Night at the Follies'
DES MOINES—Police, called to investigate
the showing of "A Night at the Follies" at
the Casino Theatre here, announced they
would take no action i-egarding the picture,
which was billed "for adults only."
Lieut. Ralph Brophy, head of the police
juvenile bureau, and John Rider, bureau secretary,
sat through a performance of the
show and then conferred with Assistant
County Attorney Clyde Herring.
"We found nothing morally wrong," Brophy
said. "The show contains several dancing
girl scenes and is no more suggestive than
other similar Hollywood productions," he
added.
Warning on Red Scare
MINNEAPOLIS—The Minneapolis Times
editorially warned that in the present instance
of screen censorship to keep out communistic
propaganda "censorship may well
serve as a reminder that communistic propaganda,
in the minds of many zealots, is any
conviction or opinion that runs darkly counter
to their own. The Hollywood gentleman
who scented communism in a script which
departed from the classic southern concept
of the Negro as a shufflin' and obsequious
second rate citizen merely helps to
point," the editorial stated.
prove our
Grand to Amy Zimmer
HOWARD, S. D.—The Grand here has been
purchased by Amy Zimmer of Woon.socket,
where she owns the Rex. She has appointed
Bud Zimmer manager.
Film Transport Handles EL
OMAHA— Film Transport Co.. headed here
by M. G. Rogers, took over the Eagle Lion
shipping operation, effective New Year's
week.
Buys Protection House
PROTECTION. KAS.— Merle Long has
bought the local theatre from H. D. Mc-
Coughlan.
Sells Hurley House
HURLEY, S. D.—Darwin Evans has sold
the State Theatre here to George Cappers,
effective January 1.
Expands Midnight Shows
OMAHA—The RKO-Brandeis plans more
midnight shows in 1948. Manager Will Singer
announced the first will be Saturday night,
January 10, with a mystei-y bill. Other midnighters
will follow at frequent intervals,
many of them falling before holidays. In
some cases sneak previews will be featured.
Cancels 'Amber' Date
ALGONA, IOWA—A showing of "Forever
Amber" at the theatre here has been canceled
because of complaints from the public. Announcement
of the change was made by N. C.
Rice.
Sell Norborne Theatre
NORBORNE, MO.—Mr. and Mrs. Robert
Egender have sold their Royal Theatre here
to Nelson Stainbrook of Jamestown, Kas. The
Egenders also operate the Waverly at
Waverly. Mo.
Buy U.S. Savings Bonds
REGULARLY
Ask where youWORK
Ask where you BANK
January 17, 1948

THE NATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR INFANTILE PARALYSIS
fRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, FOUNDER
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Miles Plan Okayed
For West Virginia
CINCINNATI—The Miles Plan for handling
the Allied fight against Ascap was
approved by the board of directors of the
West Virginia Theatre Managers Ass'n at
meeting here last week.
a
Several changes in the organization's
official family were made. Lloyd Rogers
of Welch was elected vice-president in place
of Dave Brown, who has given up his theatre
in Cabin Creek, and Frank Mandros was
elected to the board in Rogers' place. Because
of press of business, John Powell resigned
as a director and was replaced by
Louis Shore of Williamson. The president
is Wendell Holt.
Others who attended the board meeting
were Mrs. Thomas of Parkersburg, Mannie
Shore, Gene Custer, Fred Helwig, Don
Keesling, Goode Holmes and Hallie Gilbert,
board members, and Rube Shor, executive
director, and his secretary, Dorothy Schuster.
Theatre Programs Under
Michigan Sales Tax
DETROIT—A decision that sales of theatre
programs are subject to the state's 3 per
cent sales tax was handed down last week
by the state supreme court in a case brought
by concessioners handling programs in various
public halls. The ruling will affect sales
of urograms for premieres, roadshows, and
similar events in motion picture theatres.
The court held that the programs are sold
like any other merchandise, and so subject
to the tax.
Braddock School Board
Seeks Amusement Tax
BRADDOCK, PA.—Local school board
filed notice that it will impose a ten per
cent amusement tax this year.
Theatres Change Hands;
Both Line Up With Allied
DETROIT—Ti-ansfer of ownership at two
northern Michigan houses is giving two new
members to both Allied Theatres of Michigan
and Allied Theatres Service, the booking
agency handled by Lawrence Shubnell. At
Rogers City, the Rogers Theatre is being
taken over by L. P. Hawkins from Kenneth
Vogelheim, and at Swartz Creek, the new
Creek Theatre has been sold by Theodore
Simons to Maurice Snow. Snow was formerly
in educational work in Hart.
Plush Belding House Opens
BELDING, MICH.—Everybody in town is
proud of Belding's new theatre, a plush,
700-seat house that compares favorably with
some of the finer big-city theatres. It had
its gala opening Christmas day. The theatre
is owned by Harvey Callier and is managed
by Ken Lybolt, a veteran in the industry.
Work had been under way since August
1946. being delayed repeatedly by the squeeze
in materials and labor. It is air conditioned,
has a cry room, hard-of-hearing aids and all
modern appointments.
Charles Stofer Dies in Tiffin
TIFFIN, OHIO—Charles Stofer, 68, former
local theatre owner, died recently in Mercy
hospital. He formerly was a part owner in
the Grand here and later was associated
with the Ideal Check System Co., a ticket
printing firm.
Legality of Pittsburgh's
Ticket Tax Is Challenged
Postholiday Recovery
Is Slow in Cleveland
Cleveland—Exhibitors in the Cleveland
area report that business has not recovered
from the usual holiday slump. While
it has come back slightly, the majority
are in agreement that the degree of recovery
is not enough to bring grosses to
the pre-Christmas levels.
Neighborhood houses in Cleveland are
especially disappointed at the slow boxoffice
recovery. They say that the trouble
is with the pictures. "We do business
with the good pictures," they say, "but
most of the pictures haven't enough pull
to bring people to the theatres.
"We do better business with top reissues
than we do with run-of-the-mill
new product," another subsequent run
theatre manager said. "At least they are
assured of quality in these pictures."
Jack Stewart's Resignation
Accepted by AT of Mich.
DETROIT—The surprise resignation of
Jack Stewart, general manager of Allied
Theatres of Michigan, was accepted January
7 by the board of directors. The actual
resignation was reached on a strictly amicable
basis, and will not become effective until
May 31, giving the organization time to appoint
a successor, who will be able to learn
the ropes under Stewart.
Stewart, formerly a salesman for Universal,
took over the post about two years ago,
succeeding Fred E. Pennell of Decatur. He
has not announced his future plans, indicating
that the move was for strictly personal
reasons.
CHECK FOR SICK BOY—M. H.
Chakeres, right, city manager of Chakeres-
Warner Theatres in Springfield, presents
check for $174.73 to trustees of the Stewart
Warner Knisley fund. The check
represented contributions of patrons in
the Regent, State, Majestic, Ohio and
Fairbanks theatres. Boy Scouts took up
the collections in the theatres to aid the
4-year-old boy who has been in hospital
four months suffering from a gunshot
wound. The sum brought to more than
$1,000 the fund for the boy to apply on
a $1,600 hospital bill. Left to right are
B. D. Coffelt, Oscar L. Fleckner, Springfield
city manager, and Francis A. Lewis,
CIO Council president, who are trustees
of the fund. As Christmas presents, the
Knisley boy received phonograph records
and autographed photographs of Gene
Autry, his favorite actor.
PITTSBURGH—Legality of the city's new
10 per cent amusement tax was challenged
January 8 and the entire new tax program
was brought into court. Plaintiff Hyatt D.
Ruhlman, operator of a local roller rink,
alleged before the common pleas court that
the municipal levies violate both the state
and federal constitutions. Previous suits have
challenged the right of the city to levy taxes
on merchants and personal property.
A preliminary injunction restraining the
city from attempting to collect the tax, which
has been in effect since January 1, is sought
by the Lexington Amusement Co. proprietor.
The suit contends that the amusement tax
ordinance is "indefinite, ambiguous, vague,
contradictory, conflicting and cannot be properly
executed and interpreted": it grants
"special immunity and exception" to certain
amusements; it is "discriminatory and not
uniform"; it denies "equal protection of the
laws," and it deprives persons of property
without due process of law.
While several other suits have been filed
attacking certain applications of the tax, this
is the first suit attacking the tax itself as
illegal.
General Theatres Signs
Two Big Detroit Houses
DETROIT—Carl W. and Robert Buermele,
who operate General Theatre Service, are
adding two additional major Detroit area
houses to their booking-buying cooperative:
the Parkside in Detroit and the Ferndale in
subui-ban Ferndale.
The Ferndale, owned by Thomas H. Ealand,
is involved in a major lawsuit, now pending
in federal court, against Cooperative Theatres
of Michigan. The action was brought
by Ealand after he withdrew from Cooperative
in order to secure more favorable bookings.
The Parkside, which was booked independently
up to now, is part of a large recreational
development which is operated by a
business men's group and managed by Ben
Wachnansky for several years. Wachnansky
has resigned to join the Brooks brothers as
manager of the new Melody. He was replaced
by Lewis Stavale, also with the Parkside
organization.
UA Takes Bowling Lead
In Second Half at Detroit
DETROIT—United Artists is in first place
in the second half of the Film Bowling
league. Quality Premiums and Republic Pictures
are tied for second.
TEAM STANDINGS Won Lost
United Artists Corp 6 Z
Quality Premiums 5 3
Republic Pictures
Theatrical Advertising
5
-.4
3
4
Allied Film Exchange 4 4
Monogram Pictures 4 4
Co-Operative Theatres 3 5
RKO Radio Pictures 1 7
High 3. team, RKO. 2,633; Repubhc, 2,573;
Cooperative, 2,558: high 1, team, Theatrical,
968; Cooperative, 939: RKO, 939; high 3, individual,
J. Pavella, 657; S. Small, 616; W.
Goi-yl, 616; high 1, individual, J. Pavella, 245;
C. Sheran, 244: S. Small, 242. Other high
scores; C. Sheran, 216; W. Goryl, 211; J.
Sharkey, 211; R. Lamb. 204, and E. England,
203.
{
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948
ME
79

. . . Rocco
. . Mr.
. . Ralph
. . . Mr.
. . . Atlas
. . The
. . Mrs.
. . Art
. .
. . Abe
. . Mr.
. . Mrs. :
. . A
|
'
PITTSBURGH
Israel Roth of the Penn is ailing . . . Milie
Winograd, Rochester,. Pa., exhibitor, has departed
for his winter vacation in Florida . . .
C. C. Kellenberg of 20th-Fox continues confined
to a local hospital. Mrs. Kellenberg's
mother is ill at Clarksburg, W. Va.
With the death of Ella M. Hepinger, 83,
sister of Lew Hepinger, the pioneer exhibitor
at Clarion continues to make a home for
another maiden sister, Theresa, 87, who has
been in declining health for a long period.
. . .
Grandpop Jake "Rhumba" Soltz reports
that his grandson has been named Joe.
Infant is the son of his daughter Evelyn and
John
son-in-law Bernard Bebkowitz
H. Harris returned to Los Angeles last week,
accompanying John jr. who is enrolled at a
. . . military school there Mort Nathanson.
Paramount exploiteer, was here working on
"I Walk Alone."
.
David Lefton, son of Lew Lefton, who had
been in the candy-popcorn supply business
here imtil recently, is distributing table
lamps which are manufactured in Braddock
. . . Samuel Gould, manager of Warner theatres
in Greensburg, announces the marriage
of his daughter Rhoda and Lawrence
Torn . . . Bertha Gibson displayed new
jewelry the other day, a birthday anniversary
gift from hubby Gordon "Hoot" Gibson,
Norman Fleishman of the Brighton has a new
hobby—photography.
. . Atlas Theatre Supply
proprietor
Ferrucclo Tagliavini in "Barber of Saville '
is featured at the Art Cinema, and other
Italian films, including "Shoe Shine" and
"To Live in Peace," are to follow . . . Edna
R. Carroll, chairman of the Pennsylvania
censor board, addressed the Federation of Allegheny
County Councils of Republican Women
in the Roosevelt hotel last week.
The Archie Finemans are grandparents, a
daughter Barbara Ann having been born
January 5 in Montefiore hospital to their
son-in-law and daughter. Dr. and Mrs. Bernard
Braveman . and Mrs. Lawrence
Lowstetter, Meyersdale exhibitors, and sons
Don and Prank Dale returned from a threeweek
vacation in Florida Stahl,
son of the Herman
.
Stahls, Oil City, and
Bernice Tucker were married in Oil City
January 4. Ralph is joining his father and
brother Morton in exhibition.
Mrs. Ben Greenwald, sister of Mrs. H.
Goldberg, Beaver Falls, and aunt of Jacob
Soltz, Pittsburgh, died here January 6. Surviving
also are her husband and two sons
Serrao, manager of the Roxy,
Ford City, reports that this newly opened
theatre is playing MGM, half of U-I and
lim Alexander |
Sam Fineberg |
1705 Blvd. of the Allies|
PITTSBURGH 19, PA. |
Phone ATlantic 6156 I
Weber Syncrofilm Equipment
Pennsylvania Distributor
PITTSBURGH
Theatrical Sound Service
Turtle Creek, Pa.
1203 Lynn Ave. Phone: VAlley 506S
has acQuired half of the Paramount product
.. . The Rothensteins met in Filmrow
the other day, Sam coming from Evans City,
and sons Louis from Cambridge Springs,
Abraham, from West Aliquippa, and Martin
from Baden. Lou reported he had leased
the store in the Rose Theatre Bldg. to enable
him to meet his theatre expenses, and
Marty said that the newly opened theatre
at Baden was progressing slowly.
H. P. Way, golden anniversary showman of
DuBois, is at St. Petersburg, Fla., and Mrs.
Way will join him there soon . . . The 12th
annual Dapper Dan dinner will be held Sunday
evening (18 1 at the William Penn hotel.
and Mrs. William Weiss, McKeesport
exhibitors, departed for their winter vacation
at Miami Beach .
Franklin Film exchange
is distributing a short reel of the Penn
State-SMU Cotton Bowl game on New
Year's day.
John Jaffurs jr., the Glassport theatreman,
and Theodora Copetas will be married February
19 in St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox
church, Oakland. He is the son of the late
John Jaffurs, Wilkinsburg, and the brother of
James Jaffurs, the Millvale-Wilmerding exhibitor
. . . Allied MPTO directors met Friday
last week with Lee Conrad, Hymie Goldberg
and Israel Roth absent . Levy.
Columbia manager, reports that he enjoyed
hi.s Florida vacation with his wife and son.
Sam Galanty, Columbia district manager,
was here for conferences with Art Levy,
local manager . . . Jack Goldberg, theatre
premium tieup representative, was back on
the job here following vacations in Virginia
and in Chicago . Martha Guthrie,
former Grove City theatre owner who recently
was ill in a Meadville hospital and
Linesville nursing home, is convalescing at
her sister's home in Sewickley.
The infant daughter of Ben "Bud" and
Eleanor Rosenberg has been named Barbara
Ellen . . . Gray Barker, West Virginia showman
who is interested in opening a drivein
near Elkins, was a visitor . . . Joe Stack.
Screen Guild shipper, underwent a spinal
operation in Mercy hospital . . . Mrs. H. B.
Roy, who opened the 160-seat Allegheny in
Harman, W. Va., last year, is shopping for
product.
George McFadden joins the ranks of the
benedicts February 2. He is the son of the
J. J. McFaddens of the Rialto, Renovo .
Mrs. L. L. Chamberlain, wife of the Dale
proprietor, Johnstown, is in a hospital. Their
17 year old son, a high school football
star, suffering a blood Infection, is very ill
. Harry Gold, representative of Howard
. .
Hughes, was here on business
Wayne, Monogram salesman,
.
was
. Leo
back on
the job this week after being hospitalized
for treatment of ulcers.
Charlie Anderson's Alpine circuit was preparing
to enroll with Co-Op, and Bernie
Potts, his right-hand man, was withdrawing
to join his father in the fur business and-*he
hardware business at Wellsburg, W. Va.
Alpine has 16 units served with film from
Cleveland, Cincinnati, Washington and Pittsburgh
. . . Al Skiegen, Warner Cameraphone
manager, says his son has been named Jeffrey
Allan . . . Mrs. Guido. the former Lillian
Perretta, Mahoningtowai, will be a mother
this summer.
the office and shop . . . Times Square Tavern
at Erie has been razed to make way for the
new $100,000 Strand.
George Tice, Columbia city salesman, sends
packages to needy in Europe. Last Saturday
afternoon he was busy with correspondence
m connection with this charity . . . Eddie
Wappler, Nixon manager, will not serve as
company manager for the Civic Light Opera
this summer . Joseph's Triangle, East
Liberty, dated a colored stage show for midnight
January 18.
Margaret Miller, Paramount exchange
switchboard operator, has resigned after a
score of years with this company . and
Mrs. Michael Manos will depart January 18
for Florida . . . Emil Braun, manager of Ben
Amdur's Garden, north side, is recuperating
j
in Allegheny General hospital after underj
going an operation. In his absence, Walter
Hamilton and Margaret Erdelac have been
doing a good job at the Garden .
Mabel Maluty is a new employe in the general
office at the Paramount exchange . i
son was born January 12 to Mr. and Mrs.
;
George Rodnok. Papa, who manages the
Lehigh, Oakmont, and Mrs. Rodnok also are
parents of a daughter. George's brother, Steve
Rodnok jr., and his wife cradled a daughter
Betsy Ann a month ago. They, too, are
parents of a yoiuig daughter.
Battle Creek Group Plans
1,000-Car Development
DETROIT—Midwest Theatres, Inc., of Battle
Creek will erect the first drive-in theatre
in southwestern Michigan. Theatre, to
be erected at Battle Creek, will cost around
$150,000 for a 1,000-car layout. Plans call
for construction on a 30-acre site just east
of the city limits, with May 15 scheduled
tentatively for the opening. The new company
bears no relation to Midwest Theatres,
Inc., of Detroit, headed by Raymond Schreiber,
according a spokesman for the circuit
in
Detroit.
Harold Hendee Addresses
Cleveland Film Council
CLEVELANI>—Harold Hendee, director of
research for RKO Radio, was scheduled to
speak at the first meeting of the year of the
Motion Picture Council of greater Cleveland
January 15 in the Higbee Lounge. His subject
was "Making the Movies the Real Mc-
Coy." On February 19 the Council's guest
speaker will be Erwin Deer of the Motion
Picture Ass'n public relations department.
Closes Arlington House
ARLINGTON, KY.—D. B. Stout, owner of
the Arly Theatre, has closed the house "until
further notice." He owns several other theatres
in western Kentucky and southern
Illinois.
To Start Port Huron Ozoner
PORT HURON, MICH.—Work is expected
to start shortly on a drive-in theatre to be
built at Pine Grove avenue and Elmwood
street. Tlie building permit was issued last
May.
Morris .E. Lefko, RKO manager, was called
to Cleveland last week by brothers who informed
him their father had suffered a stroke Audrey Totter will make personal appear-
Totter in Personal Appearances
. . . Palace, Parkersburg, W. Va., has been ances iii connection with key city openings
transferred to Nick Keffalos from Leon Velas of Metro's "High Wall" in Kansas City, St.
Theatre Supply has installed a Louis, Dayton, Columbus, Louisville, Memphis,
modern intercommunication system between Atlanta and Houston.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. . Norman
John Tender Reopens
Tivoli in Lorain, Ohio
LORAIN, OHIO — The reopening of the
Tivoli Theatre last week after a five-week
shutdown was the occasion of a double celebration.
it
First, presented to the theatre pa-
trons of Lorain a completely remodeled theatre,
and is also marked the birthday of its
owner, John Tender.
During the reconstruction period, National
Theatre Supply Co. installed new Bodiform
chairs, a plastic molded screen, new Crestwood
carpeting throughout, veloui- wall
drapes, stage hangings and lighting fixtures.
In addition, NTS also installed a refrigeration
and air conditioning system. Colors used in
the auditorium decorative scheme are red
and taupe. New booth equipment was installed
in the Tivoli two years ago.
Following the formal reopening, more than
100 guests, including many film folks of
Cleveland, were guests of Tender and his
mother at a birthday celebration at their
home. Among the Cleveland film representatives
present were I. J. Schmertz, 20th-
Fox branch manager, and Mrs. Schmertz;
Harry Weiss, 20th-Fox publicity man, and
Mrs. Weiss; Bill Gross, Leonard Steffens
of Columbia; Margaret Macsay, Republic.
Also, Jerry Steel, Apollo Theatre, Oberlin,
August Ilg, Ohio Theatre, Lorain, and officials
of the other Lorain theatres. Opening
picture, which attracted capacity attendance,
was "Captain From Castile."
Inventor of Carbon Saver
Dies at Detroit Home
DETROIT—Wallace E. Cross, 55, nationally
known in the industry as the inventor of the
Cross carbon saver, died at his home recently
after a protracted illness. He headed the
Cross machine shop here the last quarter century,
and about 15 years ago developed the
carbon saver as the result of contacts with
projectionists who pointed out the familiar
waste of carbons in theatre operation. He
also developed a number of special purpose
spotlights and other theatrical equipment.
Cross was a member of the Society of Motion
Picture Engineers. His son Wallace jr.,
who has been associated with him for a
number of years, plans to carry on the business
established by his father. The saver has
been widely distributed throughout the countr>'
for over a decade, and active production
was resumed again after the war.
COLUMBUS
.
^owntown first runs have reduced their
weekday matinee admissions from 40
cents to 39 cents and their weeknight prices
from 65 to 64 cents. Saturday, Sunday and
holiday admissions of 50 cents and 70 cents
remain unchanged Nadel. theatre
is
editor of the Citizen, in New York
for a two-week look at Broadway attractions
. . . Samuel T. Wilson, Dispatch theatre editor,
is back at his desk after several days'
illness. Jack Keller and Vernon Havener of
the Citizen staff are subbing for Nadel.
The Alhambra, north side neighborhood,
the second local suburban house to play
is
"Duel in the Sun" at advanced prices. The
is $1.25 top about four times the Alhambra's
usual admission price . . . Michael J. Cummins,
90. prominent Ohio temperance leader
and father of Bernie Cummins, died at his
home in Akron while his son was opening
here at the Deshler-Wallick Ionian room.
Where Elstun
Dodge Began Career
A quarter-century ago Elstun Dodge took over the management of the old
Opera House in New Richmond, Ohio, becoming one of the youngest managers in
the country. He was 15. Remodeled and called the Dodge Theatre, it is now one
of two houses Dodge operates. The other is the Elstun in Mount Washington, Ohio. A
third is being planned by the Cincinnati exhibitor. It is to be a 675-seater at the
intersection of Beechmont and Salem Pike, near Forestville. The house will be
erected by F&Y Construction Co., Columbus, on a lot 116 feet wide in front, 188 feet
wide at the back and 354 feet deep, with parking space at the rear for 300 cars.
During the second world war. Dodge served as a flying instructor. In his absence
details of managing the theatres were handled by his wife and his mother, who
initiated him into the motion picture business. Dodge is now a member of the
Theatre Owners Corp., which relieves him of buying and booking chores.
DRIVE-IN and THEATRE
EQUIPMENT
Drawings, specifications, blueprints to fit any expenditure
for the simplest to the most complex theatre.
(Drive-In Ttieatre construction done by ttie
ROSDIT CONSTRUCTION CO..
an aHiliate of SHELDON THEATRE SUPPLIES)
* The NEW "12,000" DeVry Projectors and
Amplifiers
* DeVRY "In-A-Car" Speakers
* ALTEC LANSING Amplifiers and Speakers
* STRONG Rectifiers >' NATIONAL Carbons
* NEUMADE Accessories GOLDE Supplies
"TIFFIN Draperies and Scenery
* IRWIN Seats * STABILARC Generators
* GENERAL Register Machines
"Before You Buy. See and Hear DeVry"
Complete Booking Service • Complete Factory Service
SHELDON THEATRE SUPPLIES
Office Phone: ADams 9644
1420 CANFIELD AVE.
It
Nights and Sundays: TAylor 7511
DAYTON. OfflO
Pays to Advertise in BOXOFFICE
BOXOFFICE ;: January 17, 194^

. . . Robert
. . . Winifred
. . Edgar
. . Jack
. . George
. . Alex
. . Al
. . Saul
. . Mike
I
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Fl/ISH
DETROIT
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visitors . . .
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of
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a series of
;
pitalization at
. . . .
t* R. Holtz of the Centui-y received a nice the old Royal in 1907), entered Women's
commendation in Vera Brown's Detroit hospital Sunday for a general checkup and
Times column in connection with his Goodfellow
activity . . . Wisper & Wetsman's
treatment.
Avalon was robbed of $3,700 Sunday night Bob Dunbar, Warner manager, is reported
Salter, manager of the Fisher, much improved in health after his hospitalization
Hefferan will open the new
had a new problem the other day when a
patron dropped her baby in the goldfish
house at Marne January 30, Carl W. Buermele,
who will book it, reports Sloan,
pool lobby and he had to furnish
in the
superdiaper
Mercury owner, was seen at the Transporta-
service.
tion Bldg. confabbing over a deal . . . BUI
Saul J. Conn of the Norwood Telenews reports
Green, former manager of the Tuxedo in
an exceptionally enjoyable holiday sea-
Highland Park, is back in Los Angeles after
handling publicity for the Hawaii territorial
son. Nat Barnett of the Midway was over
with his family to visit the Conns . . . H. exposition and will return here shortly to
Edward Stuckey reports two Paramount producers,
visit his mother.
Bill Pine and Bill Thomas, were
Jack Smukler is back on the job
David M. Idzal, managing director of the
Fox, commuting His daughter,
is to Flint.
at the Beverly after his protracted illness.
Mrs. Leslie Weingarden, is about to make
Clayton Wilkinson reports that the Master him a grandfather—and he's rooting for January
Mind got a direction finder for Christmas . . .
20, his own birthday . . . Sam Merson,
owner the Amsterdam, has been G. M. Studebaker of the National Theatre
undergoing
prolonged Supply has just had that second wolf he
shot mounted
tests during hos-
Lew Wisper, on.
Harper
. . Harold Stephens of the
to Jefferson is getting set celebrate his behalf of Michigan Variety Club, presented
daughter's first birthday . Schreiber, checks for $72,601 to the American Cancer
society.
Associated chieftain, made a quick weekend
trip to Minneapolis.
Mannie Gottlieb, former U-I manager, was
back in town for a conference. He's now
district chief. Eddie Potash, U-I, has been
promoted to booker . Schlaifer, Monogram
district manager, was another visitor
Broder and Celia Newman are
incorporators of the new Rose Theatre Corp.
for $2,000.
Edward Macyshyn has taken over the interest
of William P. Short in the B&C Film
Service. Charles Steinbom remains as senior
partner . Douville of the Linwood
LaSalle presented his wife a 16mm projector
for Christmas. Invited for the premiere were
F. H. Akins of the Circle and Welber Haartge
of the Midtown and their families. With
these 75 years of projection room experience
assisting, the show opened—with the film
upside down!
Floyd Akins lost two trees out at his place
in Dearborn in the ice stoiTn . . . Jerry Brie,
stagehand business agent, has had more than
his hands full arranging for that big 40th
anniversary party . McArthur has
installed Centui-y projectors and Strong lamps
in the Avenue for damage & Rothstein . . .
Charles Rothstein is vacationing in Miami for
several months.
Michael and Leo Stecz closed shop and
took a two-week vacation over the holiday
season . . . Oliver Stout is readying some new
scaffolding equipment for plastering operations
. . . Vincent Tilotta has moved up from
Saul Korman's Elliot in River Rouge to
manage the Chic for Dave Korman, while
'ihnmas A. 'Dusty" Murray returned to his
post at the Elliot . . . Michael Schoenherr,
aean of Detroit theatre managers (he opened
SPRINGFIELD
Tn a cooperative promotion with R. J. States
Motors. Inc., of Springfield, Chakeres-
Warner Theatres will award a 1948 model
four-door Mercury sedan on March 11. The
promotion started January 1. A chance on
the car is given with each theatre ticket
purchased at the Regent, State. Majestic.
Ohio and Fairbanks theatres.
.
Mike Chakeres, city manager of Chakeres-
Warner Theatres, reports that New Year's
eve shows at the Regent, State, Majestic, Oliio
and Fairbanks played to capacity houses and
topped boxoffice figures of a year ago. Increased
patronage was attributed to advance
ticket sales. Community sings were featured
at the New Year's eve shows Chakeres
has been elected president of the
Chakeres-Warner club. Other officers are
Harding Lemon, manager of the Fairbanks,
vice-president, and Mary Lynch, Ohio Theatre
cashier, secretary-treasurer.
Jim Chakeres, brother of Mike, opened the
Lyric Theatre at Greenfield, Ohio, January 4.
He has taken a lease on the Lyric and plans
extensive remodeling and an addition in the
spring.
New Neon at Kalkaska
KALKASKA. MICH.—A new neon sign
now brightens the front of the Kal Theatre.
Installation was arranged by the owTter, O. W.
Keelor.
mtm OKmg uke magic j
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82
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. . Ward
Policy Sessions Set
By Cleveland Tent
CLEVELAND—Milton Mooney. Variety chief
barker, has inaugurated a poUcy of monthly
general membership meetings in order to
give all members a voice in the club's policy
making.
First of these meetings, held last Monday,
was well attended. Subsequent meetings will
be held the first Monday in each month.
Heretofore, policy making was exclusively in
the hands of the executive board. Now that
the younger members are taking an active
part in Variety affairs, an interesting program
of events is being planned.
To boost the heart fund, tickets are being
sold for a Chrysler sedan. The car will be
placed on exhibition in front of theatres
from now until the date of the drawing in
February. A Variety member will be in attendance
to sell tickets which are labeled
a "donation to the Variety Club Heart Fund."
Irwin Shenker and Sandy Leavitt are in
charge.
Old Poplar in New Boston
Reopens After 20 Years
NEW BOSTON. OHIO—The old Poplar
Theatre here, which had been dark for more
than 20 years, has been rebuilt by E. L. Harvey,
formerly of Greenfield, Ohio, and reopened
as the Pan. The house is equipped
with DeVry projection and sound equipment
and Ideal seats. It has a capacity of about
450
Ṫhe Pan is the second addition to the
theatre trade here. Chris Malavosos and his
son James have remodeled and reopened the
Lyric under its new name, the Ohio. It has
Brenkert projectors, RCA sound, and seats
by International Seating Co. The curtains
and acoustic tapestry were done by the Tiffin
Scenic Co. of Tiffin, Ohio. It seats about 450
also.
A third new theatre in the area is due to
open soon. J. N. Brandenberg is installing
a house at South Shore, Ky., across the Ohio
river from Portsmouth. Harold Ware. Portsmouth
sound man, has sold him Weber
equipment.
Both new theatres have signed contracts
with Local 571, MPMO, extending unionization
of the booths to all nine theatres
operating in the Portsmouth-New Boston
area.
First House for Essexville
ESSEXVILLE. MICH.—This community
will soon have its first theatre. Alfred Hamlin
of Essexville and Thomas G. Arnold of
Saginaw have organized Colonial Theatres
Corp. and will build a 500-seat theatre as
a central part of the shopping district they
plan. A two-story building of colonial style
is planned for the theatre, which will be
known as the Colonial. It is expected to
be ready in June. The building will be one
of the first in this section to have radiant
heating.
Four Vari-Torks Installed
DETROIT—W. P. Dawson has installed the
new Vari-Tork in the projection booths of
the Roxy, Hollywood, Rio and Paradise theatres
for the Cohen circuit.
New Crestline Sound
CRESTLINE. OHIO—Leo Burkhart, manager
of the Hippodrome, has installed an
entirely new sound system.
Scene Showing Rooney Intoxicated
Roils Detroit Censor of 'Holiday
DETROIT—The surprise elimination by who is intoxicated, in association with a
Inspector Charles W. Snyder of key scenes woman who is depicted as of easy virtue.
from MGM's "Summer Holiday" contrasted "There is no lesson to be learned from it
sharply with over-all reduction in censorship as portrayed," Snyder said.
eliminations during the last year in films
reviewed here. Explaining the present condi- Snyder disclosed he had eliminated only
tion. uom me cend_.i-'s angle, Snyde;- said: 11,750 feet of film out of 5,367,400 feet re-
"Most of the cuts that have been made viewed during 1947, in contrast to 12,500
recently were in unnecessary dialog that eliminated out of 5,759,000 feet reviewed in
either could have been changed or eliminated 1946—an improvement of about 10 per cent,
in production. More careful adherence to the Censorship covered a total of ten languages,
Pi-oduction code would solve this. but only two eliminations, both in Russian
"There is much objectionable drinking films, totaling 800 feet, were made in the
shown in current films. I am inclined to feel foreign films. Of the 393 English features
that the reference to what is "required by the submitted, only 14 were cut, for a total of
plot' is an evasion, taking advantage of the 10,400 feet. In other words, less than 4 per
code. Who is to be the authority to say cent of films required censorship deletions.
whether it is required for the plot or neces- An additional 550 feet was cut out of two
sary for proper characterization? of the 430 shorts reviewed.
"In the past, we have tried to go along with Totals of foreign language films reviewed
the producers by eliminating only small
scenes that would not hurt the picture. But P'les available m these fields, with the Mexinow
show an interesting diversity of fihn sup-
we are going 'crack down.' to can films fax in the
lead:
"I feel that the drinking scenes would sub- Language Features Shorts Footage
TOLEDO
•The 3.400-seat Paramoimt, the city's
largest
house, held over "Road to Rio," which became
one of the few films ever held more
than seven days there. All-time recordholder
to date for the house was "Blue
Skies" . Farrer. who was assistant at
Loew's Valentine several years ago, and later
returned to the house on several occasions
as relief manager, was here recently to ballyhoo
"Sleep, My Love," booked at the Valentine.
The EUiot Lawrence orchestra will play in
the Trianon balh'oom January 23. Spike
Jones' band will play in the Sports arena
January 28 . . . Joe Everett of the Toledo
Sports and Home show is heading for Florida.
Rick Weaver, Toledoan who played bit parts
in 20th-Fox films a year or so ago, spent his
honeymoon in Toledo following his- marriage
to Bobbie L. Richardson, Columbus, Miss.
Weaver now is sports announcer at WCAV,
Norfolk, Va.
Heavy Spot to Barcroft
The chief heavy spot in "The Timber
Trail," a Republic production, will go to Roy
Barcroft.
IF
YOUR SPECIAL SHOW
NEEDS "PUNCH" SELLING
7^ ^dmack'A.
SPECIAL
TRAILERS
ALWAYS TOPS FOR RESULTS!
Sells Galesburg Theatre
GALESBURG, MICH.—EU Frank has sold
the G^le Theatre to Carl Roelof of Climax,
the new owner taking over January 1. He
also acquired the fountain, grill and bowling
alleys in the theatre building.
EXKIBITORS — PARK FREE AT
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BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. .
. .
. . . Ann
. . Jim
CINCINNATI
The Hyman brothers of Huntington, W. Va.,
Abe and Sol, were both hospitalized, Abe
with a blood infection and Sol with a heart
ailment. It is reported Abe's condition improved,
enabling him to return to his home,
but Sol is still confined to the hospital bed.
Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Harvey of Greenfield,
Ohio, who are operating the Pan Theatre,
New Boston, visited the exchanges last week.
Harvey is contemplating opening a suburban
theatre in Marion. Ohio, some time in April.
He is now having the house remodeled .
George Jacoby, RKO home office representative,
is making a routine check of the Cincinnati
branch ... Si James of Eaton and
Brookville, Ohio, made an appearance here
for the first time in many months.
Jett Saylor has taken over the Wallins
Theatre, Wallins Creek, from Charles Miller
. . . Jack Furrer, West Virginia salesman
for RKO, took his father to the Cleveland
clinic recently for examination, due to the
latter's weakened condition. No serious ailment
was found . . . Juanita Gardner, billing
clerk at MGM, received a beautiful diamond
engagement ring as a Christmas
present.
When Keenan Wynn drove through Cincinnati
recently he made a surprise stop and
a personal appearance at the RKO Capitol.
The MGM office people were delighted with
Wynn's wit and genial good humor .
Another engagement on the Row is that of
Thelma Dellerman. office manager's secretary.
Paramount. She intends to marry some
time in June . . . Walter Wiens. Paramount
branch manager, and his family spent the
holidays with friends in Dallas, Tex. On his
return Wiens reports he tipped the scale
ten pounds heavier than when he left.
Ruth Rudin, telephone operator at Universal-International,
is flashing a sparkler
on her fourth finger, left hand. She is planning
to be married in April to Louis Oscherwitz
of Chillicothe, Ohio, and will make her
home there . . . Floyd Price of Newark was
a visitor at the exchanges last week, as were
Warren Shafer, Morehead, Ky.; AdeUne
Ward, Somerset, Ky., and the Warner Cleveland
trio, Nat Wolf, Tony Stern and Marvin
Samuelson.
I. Hutchison and James Rector have been
added to Jack Frisch's theatre personnel as
managers of the Findlay Theatre and Alan
Adamore and Charles P. Carr as manager of
the Freeman. The latter two will take over
management of the new Hippodrome Theatre,
which Frisch plans to open in the near
future as a first run colored house. At that
time Echols will move to the Freeman.
Betty Thorne, secretary to Allan Moritz.
Columbia, is vacationing in Miami Beach
Milligan, telephone operator at
Columbia, plans to be married April 3 to
Arthur Clause . . . Marty Edmonds, biller
for Columbia, resigned to take a position
with the Cincinnati & Suburban Telephone
Co.
Adeline Ward of Somerset, Ky., left with
friends for a sojourn in Florida for a few
weeks . . . Harry Keller, former publicity
representative for U-I, recently underwent a
major operation at the Good Samaritan hospital.
His condition is reported to be improving
. . . J. E. Fontaine, division manager
for SRO with headquarters in Washington,
D. C, spent Wednesday of last week
with J. J. Oulahan . Herb, booker
and buyer for the Semelroth circuit in Dayton,
made the roiuids of the exchanges.
When "The Fugitive" opens at the RKO
Grand January 28, a choir of 40 boys from
the St. Agnes church will render several
religious selections from the stage. This tieup
was arranged by field representative Hugh
MacKenzie, who screened the picture for
clergymen of the city.
Shirley Grand, former secretary to Arthur
Manheimer at National Screen Service and
who is now residing in New York, visited
her former co-workers during the Christmas
hohdays. She is working for a paper bag
corporation in New York and is enjoying
her new sm-roundings . . Betty Dumas,
.
booker for National Screen, has resigned to
await the stork.
Local managers have been invited by the
Shea organization to attend a cocktail party
and informal dinner Tuesday night, February
3, at the Carter hotel. The affair will
conclude the Annual Managers Meeting of
this circuit . . . Dave Litto is traveling in
the Kentucky and West Virginia territory
for Screen Guild.
Bill Hitchcock, who operates theatres in
Winchester, Sardinia and Green Hills, has
received a permit for construction of a new
theatre in Green Hills. Hitchcock has closed
the Community Theatre in this town and
work will start immediately on the new
house . . Joe Mercurio, shipping clerk for
.
National Screen, is the father of a new baby
girl.
Big Rapids Lobby Improvements
BIG RAPIDS, MICH.—A new floor has
been laid in the lobby of the Big Rapids
Theatre and new attraction boxes will be
installed soon, according to Manager Rex
Chapin.
READY TO SERVE YOU
llOMPLETE EQl IPHIEW for TIIKATRES and DRIVE-I^S
Immediate Delivery .. LOWEST PRICES
CENTURY PROJECTORS AND SOUND SYSTEMS
24-HOUR PROJECTION AND SOUND SERVICE
Write for Free Literature
THEATRE EQUIPMENT COMPANY
AL BOUDOURIS
Manager
515 CtiaHevoix BIiIq.
Irish Rose' and 'Rio'
Hit 300 in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI—New Year's eve and New
Year's day showings are reflected in the outstanding
grosses of "My Wild Irish Rose" at
the Albee, and "Road to Rio" in its third
downtown week at the Lvric. Both hit 300.
Other grosses were average or less, but all of
them, with the exception of "Daisy Kenyon,"
were holdover runs. "Daisy Kenyon" moved
to the Shubert for a second week.
(Average i

. . Nate
. . Earl
. . Alan
. .
. . Lou
CLEVELAND
Edwin R. Bergman, Screen Guild branch
manager, spent the week making personal
calls on the exhibitors . . .
Substantiating
.'le "re "'ins intprest in foreign films in the
small towns of Ohio. Schine circuit has
bought "Open City," "The King's Jester,"
"Carmen" and "Mayerling" for the Cort
Theatre. Athens, from Bob Snyder and Mannie
Stutz.
Marty Seed has changed his address from
''j'Ue i^iin to healart Pictures, whe e hp is
now associated in a sales capacity with Bob
.
Snyder Schultz, Monogram franchise
owner, and Mrs. Schultz were in New-
York last week on a combined business and
pleasure trip. While Nate took care of business,
Mrs. Schultz looked after the pleasure
end of the trip . . . "Carmen" won a second
week holdover at the Lower Mall Theatre.
Another new theatre is in process of construction
in Akron. Word comes that Anesto
AUessio, a building contractor, is erecting an
850-seat house in Goodyear Heights . . .
There's a reversal of affairs in the office of
P. T. Tanner of Film Transit Co. Instead
of the bosses going to Florida and leaving
the office operation to their employes, it's
the other way around. Dorothy Gasper,
secretary, has gone south for a month's
vacation, leaving the operation of the office
to Tanner and his assistant Art Marchand.
Business builders, to attract patronage at
theatres, grow in popularity. Jack Gertz of
Theatre Films reported he has closed deals
with the Almira and Ambassador theatres for
cash giveaway deals . . . Arnold Berger, general
manager of the Phil Smith Drive-In
Theatres, was in town . Shaw has
been promoted at Screen Guild from head
booker to salesman and Mary Drews steps
up from assistant to top booker . . . Henry
Brenner has resigned as manager of the
Haltnorth Theatre . Pollock, representing
John Ford, producer of "The Fugitive."
was here and screened the picture for
.1 sroup of church representatives.
Visitors of the week included Mrs. Helen
Smith, Majestic, Akron; J. A. Beidler of the
Smith and Beidler circuit in Toledo, and
Olen Martin, Grove Theatre, Lorain . . . The
salesmen are back from their vacations and
out in the territory again.
Albert Norton has resigned as manager of
the Plaza Theatre . . . J. S. Jossey of Hygienic
Productions is reported recovering from an
illness which has confined him to a Los
Angeles hospital during the past several
a two-week rest period . . .
That added sparkle at the RKO Palace
comes from the new diamond solitaire that
Edward Petrykowski gave to Jerry Kinkoph,
secretary to Manager Max Mink . . George
Manos, leading Ohio
.
circuit owner, beams
when he tells about his first grandchild, son
of Tom Manos, who will carry on the Manos
tradition and also the name of George .
Jerry Wechsler, Warner manager, made his
first appearance on Filmrow last Friday after
spending the hoUdays at Cleveland Clinic
He says he feels as good as new after
hospital.
Word was received
here last week that Frank Drew,
former local MGM manager and now manager
of the 20th-Fox exchange in Seattle.
ill, is seriously having suffered a cerebral
hemorrhage.
OLIVER THEATRE
SUPPLY CO., INC.
M. H. FHITCHLE
Manager
23id and Payn« Avenue
Phone: PRospect 6934
CLEVELAND
Cleveland Perks Up;
All Firsi Runs Big
CLE'VELAND—Good New Year's eve business
boosted the week's takes all down the
line, every first run house reporting better
than average business. Crowding the top
place were "My Wild Irish Rose" with a very
big 175 at the Hippodrome, "Good News" with
l.SO at the State and "Carmen" with 150 at the
Lower Mall, home of foreign pictures. The
holdovers did all right, too. "Road to Rio,"
in its second week, scored 135. "Tycoon" did
a good 110 in its -second week and "Captain
From Castile," with a stage show and not including
the New Year's eve business, topped
the Palace average by 5 per cent. Weather
was mild, with occasional snow flurries.
Allen—Tycoon (RKO), 2nd wk.. holdover 110
Hippodrome—My Wild Irish Rose (WB) 175
Lake—Heaven Only Knows (UA) 115
Mall—Carmen (Superiilm), reissue 150
Ohio—The Man in the Iron Mask (EL);
Gentleman After Dark (EL), reissues 125
Palace—Captain From Ca;tile (20th-Fox),
2nd wk., plus stage show _ 105
State—Good News (MGM) 130
Stillmon-Road to Rio (Para), 2nd d. t. wk 130
Burgess Merediths Give
Projectors to Colleges
From New Enaland Edition
AMHERST, MASS.—Burgess Meredith,
writer, actor and producer, and his wife
Paulette Goddard have presented two complete
units for the production of sound motion
pictures to Amherst and Smith colleges.
This equipment was given for the announced
purpose of promoting the making of
motion pictures outside of Hollywood and
stimulating serious study of the film medium
an academic atmosphere.
in
"The motion picture can be studied in
academic surroundings," Meredith said at informal
ceremonies at Amherst College's
Kirby Memorial Theatre, "the same as any
other medium or art. Colleges have courses
in painting, music, design and literature;
they should take seriously the importance
certainly,
and the influences of motion pic-
tures on growing generations."
At Amherst, the unit will be used to record
special events and documentaries on college
life as well as for the filming of original
dramatic material.
The gifts were accepted by President
Charles W. Cole on behalf of Amherst, and
for Smith College by Denton Snyder, associate
director of Smith's department of theatre.
They are the first donations of the
Motion Picture Foundation for Colleges and
Universities, recently established by Meredith
and Miss Goddard, to present a means
through which similar gifts may be made to
other institutions. The foundation will be
administered by Morris Ernst, New York
attorney.
From the BOXOFFICE Files
(Twenty Years Ago)
QLEVELAND exhibitors are urged by J. J.
Harwood, president of the Cleveland
MPEA, and Elsie Loeb, Cleveland editor of
the Ohio Showman, to support the bill introduced
in Congress by Senator Smith W.
Brookhart of Iowa to make possible the endorsement
of the findings of the Federal
Trade commission.
Albert F. Ptak, owner and manager of the
Lyceum, Cleveland, has discontinued vaudeville
and will confine his programs to pictures
. . . The Oriental, East Ninth, Cleveland,
has abandoned burlesque in favor of
dramatic stock. Raynor Lehr and his stock
companies are to come from Columbus where
his company has played a three-year continuous
run at the James and Broadway
theatres.
Manager John F. Kumler of the Pantheon,
Toledo, reported to the Cleveland First
National exchange that "The Patent Leather
Kid" had broken all house records at the
location . . . Al Jolson's new picture, "The
Jazz Singer," will open at the Stillman in
Cleveland in February for a continued run.
The portable Vitaphone equipment is being
installed, the first of its kind in Cleveland.
The regular 'Vitaphone installation, put into
the Stillman last year, was transferred to
the State at the beginning of the present
season.
M. J. Raful is the new owner of the Parkview
in Cleveland, on East 93rd street, having
bought it from J. Tittl . . . Willard Rauh
has joined the sales force of the Standard
Film Service Co. here. Walter Loewe is now
with the same company in a sales capacity
. . . R. C. Steuve, veteran retired Canton exhibitor,
had a bad fall on the ice before the
holidays . Geiger, assistant Film
Booking Offices division manager, has resigned
to become affiliated with the sales
division of Tiffany-Stahl . . . The State Theatre,
Youngstown, was opened last week. Joe
Trunk is manager.
The Jefferson Theatre, Hamilton, Ohio,
burned recently with a loss of about $225,-
000, including the four-story building it occupied.
Ruth Elder, flyer and film actress, was
featured at the State in Cleveland recently,
with record crowds ... A. V. Abel and I. S.
Russell have bought the Cinderella at Coshocton
from Harry W. Strong. Abel is a
veteran exhibitor.
HANDY SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM
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BOXOFTICE :: January 17, 1948

Detroit Exchange Area Reports 589
Theatres Open With 435,830 Seats
NEW YORK—In the Detroit exchange area,
which takes in all the state of Michigan on
the east side of Lake Michigan, there are
589 theatres with 435,830 seats, according
to the statistical summary just released by
the Motion Picture Ass'n. This is the 20th
report in a series.
In addition there are 24 other theatres with
13.728 seats not now in operation.
As is usual in a number of exchange areas,
many of the larger houses belong to circuits.
In the Detroit territory there are 286 circuitoperated
houses with 274,608 seats. Noncircuit
houses total 327 with 174,950 seats.
Detioit, Grand Rapids and Flint, the three
largest cities in the territory, have a total of
212 theatres with 208,804 seats. There are
147 towns with a population of 2,500 and under.
In these there are 151 theatres with an
average of 364 seats.
Theatres in operdtior
Closed theatres*

Miles Plan Approved
By lENE Members
BOSTON—Members of the Independent
Exhibitors of New England, Inc., formally
approved the Miles plan for battling the
Ascap higher fee proposals at a regular
meeting here.
Walter Mitchell and Leslie Bendslev, chairmen
on arrangements, reported plans for the
lENE convention here in April are progressing
satisfactorily.
Ray E. Feeley, business manager, reported
two bills affecting the theatre business are
pending in the Massachusetts legislature.
One, now in committee, would create a new
board of six censors to replace the present
three-man setup which supervises Sunday
showings. The other would set up penalties
for managers of amusement places who refuse
admission or wrongfully eject a patron.
Frank Lydon, chairman of the legislative
committee, was instructed to inform the
organization of any new legislation that may
arise. Continued support of the New England
coordinating committee was voted. This
committee was set up last year to watch out
for adverse legislation in the five New England
states.
In a discussion of advanced price pictures,
Feely commented that roadshow films are
decreasing since "many of the distributors
realize that the public does not readily accept
advanced admissions."
The budget committee was instructed to
submit a detailed report at the next meeting.
A. R. Daytz, Stan Farrington
Join Affiliated Theatres
BOSTON—Albert R. Daytz, former New
England sales manager at Warner Bros., and
Stanley Farrington, former head booker at
Republic, are now associated with Affiliated
Theatres Corp., local buying and booking
organization.
Daytz has been elected an officer and
director and will serve as buyer and con-
a
tact man. Farrington presumably will serve
in a booking capacity.
Daytz became Warner manager in 1945.
Before this he was a salesman for the firm
in Maine and eventually the entii'e New
England territory. Farrington served Affiliated
for a brief term in 1945. He has
been booker at 20th-Fox and head booker
at Monogram and Republic.
Formed in 1942 as a cooperative booking
?nd buying organization, Affiliated became
a corporation in 1943 with Ai-thur Howard
as president. Seth Field joined the group in
1947 as vice-president. The organization, the
largest in New England, today services 47
theatres.
Harry Welch Theatres Aid
Victims of Maine Fires
GORHAM, ME. — Harry Welch recently
played fom- benefit performances at his two
theatres, the Playhouse, here and the Playhouse
in Kezar Falls for the victims of the
fire disaster at Bar Harbor and other Maine
places. The local American Legion cooperated.
A total of $500 was realized and distributed
to the neediest families. Universal,
20th-Fox and Metro donated the Films.
"There are many destitute families still homeless
in our section and we distributed cash
to the neediest of the burned out victims,"
said Welch. He recently sold the Rialto in
Westbrook to Mrs. Elizabeth Church. She
had been general manager of 24 Skouras
theatres in New York and Long Island. At
the conclusion of her contract, she resigned
and bought the 300-seat Rialto for her son
to operate and manage. She was born in
England but is now an American citizen.
Welch also has sold the Playhouse, Rangeley,
to Walter Esley, a former investment banker
and retired broker. The Lisbon, has been sold
to Norman Roy, a former wool and cotton
foreman.
Lou Weiner Is Exploiteer
For Hollywood Figures
HARTFORD—Lou Weiner, former exploiteer
for United Artists in the New England
territory, is now living in Los Angeles.
He writes that he's been handling special
pubhcity assignments for Bob Hope, Bing
Crosby Enterprises, and George Jessel, in
addition to being Hollywood liaison man for
several New York firms in securing top
Hollywood stars to endorse their product in
national advertising campaigns, and also securing
big west coast names for Men of Distinction
endorsements. Weiner sent regards
to his industry friends in the Hartford and
New England section.
Experiment on Policy
NEW BRITAIN—Frank Smulski and Ladislaw
Jackimowski are experimenting with
various types of programs before settling
on a policy for their newly acquired Music
Box in New Britain.
Larry Laskey Buys
Puritan in Roxbury
ROXBURY, MASS.—Tlie Puritan, situated
on the edge of the colored di-strict, has
been sold to Larry Laskey by the Smith
estate. Laskey will assume title on February
1 and close the 750-seat house for
complete renovation. Harry Norton had
been operating the theatre for the past 20
years, during which time the policy had
swung over to colored patrons. It is not determined
at this time whether or not Laskey
will turn the house into a complete colored
house, but should he do so, the Puritan
would be the first Boston theatre to go
over as a 100 per cent theatre for the colored
Joseph Nuzzolo Renamed
Head of Boston Local
BOSTON—Officers of the Boston Motion
Picture Operators Union, Local 182, lATSE,
were elected and installed la.st week. President
Joseph Nuzzolo and Business Representative
Walter F. Diehl were re-elected
for a second term.
Others elected were: Vice-president, Jim
O'Brien, Loew's Orpheum; treasurer, Joseph
Caplan, Oriental, Mattapan; financial secretary,
Leon A. Narbut, Dudley, Roxbury; recording
secretary, Bernard Lynch, Adams,
Dorchester; trustee for three years, Michael
DriscoU, Keith Boston; delegate, Thad C.
Barrows, Metropolitan, Boston; alternate
delegate, Leon Narbut, Dudley, Roxbury.
Thi-ee members were elected to the executive
board: M. A. Goldman, Loew's State;
James Gibbons, Rivoli, Roxbury, and Charles
Jandreau, Dudley, Roxbury. Five members
were elected to the seniority committee:
Harold Armistead, Broadway, Chelsea; Wil-
Uam Dwyer, Strand, Maiden; Michael Keller,
Jamaica, Jamaica Plain; Leo Westfield,
Adams, Dorchester, and Oscar Perlow, Centre,
Boston.
The officers were installed by Asisociate
Commissioner of Labor Benjamin J. Hull,
former president of the Springfield operators.
Hull was introduced by former President
Nathaniel Max.
Ray Wylie Signs With FC
To Cover Connecticut
HARTFORD—Ray Wylie, with United Artists
for 15 years, has joined the field staff of
Film Classics as salesman in the Connecticut
territory. Wylie's past positions with
UA included branch managerships in New
Haven and Albany. At present Wylie is headqv.artering
in his New Haven home, 204 Fountain
St., phone 3-2871.
Stamford Strand Reopens
After Major Alterations
Ts;-i STAMFORD, CONN.—Mary Vuono's 1,300-
iel- seat Strand Theatre has reopened after be-
;tii ing dark .since July 7, 1947, when it closed
he!' for alterations. It now has a new floor, seats
;, I and is remodeled and redecorated.
REOPEN IN NEWPORT—Billy B. Van, well-known comedian and resident of
Newport, N. H., was on hand as master of ceremonies when the Coniston Theatre in
Newport had its gala reopening Christmas day. The house, operated by Interstate
Theatres of Boston, had been closed in November for complete remodeling. Van is
shown in the picture, left, with Esley A. Blanchard, house manager; Maurice Downing,
chairman of the Newijort board of selectmen, and James F. Mahoney, general
manager of Interstate. Remodeling of the house was under the direction of Wilham
Riseman Associates. Boston architects. Stores which had fronted on the street
were done away with in order to allow for further space for a ladies' lounge, a
manager's office and a new and enlarged front and marquee. The foyer was entirely
redecorated and a new candy and popcorn bar installed. Special lighting effects
were added in the auditorium and balcony, 900 new Bodiform seats were installed,
and new carpets and stage appointments were put in. Attraction for the
reopening was "Road to Rio."
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948 ME

. . Ann
. .
. . . Sadie
. . . The
BOSTON
eteve Fitzgibbon, Devonshire Film execu-
^ tive, left on a three-week trip through
.
the midwest for distributor conferences
Maxwell Andelman. another Devonshli-e
executive, was wreathed in smiles when encountered
on Pilmrow recently. "Did you
hear that the Ford Sunday Evening Hour
has arranged for a broadcast of 'Storm in
a Teacup' on its regular radio program next
Sunday? That's our picture, starring Vivien
Leigh and Rex Harrison, and since the announcement
over the air we have had numerous
wires from exhibitors all over the
country asking about playing time."
Dominic Turturro, Elms. Milbury, has been
made a director of the Millbury Kiwanis club
and one of his first assignments is the chairmanship
of the classification of members
committee Harrington, popular
.
switchboard operator at MGM. is back at
her desk after a three-month leave due to
a broken ankle.
John Dervin, UA manager, called in his
for a two-day meeting on coming
sales staff
releases, during which time there were
screenings of "Christmas Eve" and "Heaven
Only Knows." The UA film, "Intrigue," starring
George Raft, is set to open February 3
at Loew's State and Orpheum here.
MGM screened "Good News" for the disk
jockeys of this area on the Monday following
AfanJe^ POPCORN
MACHINES
fops for all showmen!
Ask the theatre that has one!
SAM
HORENSTEIN
Genuine Manley Supplies
New Year's. Each jockey was given an album
of recordings of the songs from the picture
Goldman, head inspector at MGM,
is recuperating at home after an operation
new office manager at MGM is
Charles J. School, who has been with the
company for 18 years ... He takes over from
Arthur Sklar, temporary office manager the
last few months. School has found an apartment
and has sent for his wife and young
daughter, who were vacationing in Windsor,
Ontario.
The publicity boys, Joe DiPesa and Jim
Shanahan of Loew's and Phil Engel of UA,
are working on "Sleep, My Love" which is
dated for Loew's State and Orpheum January
15 or 22. A duplicate of the hostess
gown worn by Claudette Colbert in the film
will be on display in Jordan Marsh's window.
Jim Wall has been named manager of the
Bowdoin Square, owned by William Lavery
circuit. A brother of Tom Wall, manager of
the M&P Circle, Jim was manager of the
Olympia, Cambridge for nine years and before
that he was in Pittsburgh with the
Paramount Theatres. He assumed his new
duties on January 1.
Thomas F. Wall, manager of the Circle,
was married December 27 to Marie B.
Crowley of Allston. The couple spent a twoweek
honeymoon in New York . . . Doris
Mollica, manager of the Opera House, Lebanon,
N. H., was a Filmrow visitor.
Angela Carbone, pay roll clerk at E. M.
Loew's headquarters, will be married to
Joseph McConaghy, a guard at the custom
house, January 31 at St. Mary's Church,
with a reception following at the Hotel
Manger. After a honeymoon trip to Bermuda,
the couple will reside here. Angela has resigned
her position . . . Jack Jennings has
recovered after his operation and was to
return to his post as salesman for Republic.
Due to the death of Mark Hellinger the
Selznick meeting for district and divisional
managers has been postponed until
later in January. Tom Duane, district manager
here, has had to change his plans for
the trip to the coast until the later date.
Sam Davidson, Cameo Screen Attractions,
has returned from Pittsburgh where he had
an exhibit of the product of the Salem China
Co. at the first national crockery and glass
show held since the war. He is the New
England theatre representative of the Salem
company, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary
in May . . . Ai-t Moger, Warner
publicist, is working on "The Voice of the
Turtle," which will open at the Metropolitan
foUow-ing "Daisy Kenyon."
Charles School, former field auditor for
MGM, has been named office manager of
the local MGM exchange. Arthur Sklar, who
has been acting as office manager, has returned
to his former duties as field auditor.
Seven New Theatres
For Hartford Region
HARTFORD—The Hartford territory, judging
from present indications, will have a
number of both standard and drive-in theatre
construction projects in the works soon.
Among the announced standard construction
plans:
Elmwood Theatre Corp., New Britain,
headed by Peter Perakos, a 1,000-seat motion
pictm-e at New Britain Avenue and South
Quaker Lane, Elmwood.
Glackin and LeWitt Theatres of New
Britam, a motion picture-vaudeville house
somewhere in the Hardware city.
A standard project in the business section
of Kensington, by parties so far unidentified
publicly.
Joseph Gloth of New London will build a
drive-in at Waterford, while his brother
Robert of Hartford will erect an open-airer
in suburban Newington. E. M. Loew's Theatre
circuit has announced plans for a drivein
in West Springfield, and David J. Willig
has plans for a drive-in on the Wallingford-
North Haven town line.
Several theatres are scheduled for major
remodeling.
Morton Downey to Sing
At Wallingford Theatre
HARTFORD—Morton Downey, the singer,
a native of nearby Wallingford, is booked for
the Wilkinson Theatre there January 21 for
the benefit of the Chamber of Commerce
community swimming pool fund, according
to George Wilkinson jr., operator of the
house.
Run Kiddy Shows
NEW LONDON, CONN.—Two houses,
the
Garde and the Victory, ran special children's
shows last week. Garde performance was
sponsored by the Policemen's Benevolent
Ass'n. Merchants sponsored the Victory
show.
"RUST TULIP"
BOX OFFICE BAIT!
-A-
• AUDIENCE ATTRACTION!
* PROHT PLENTY!
U umU fxcuf> diaiAe^uii, to. caniult
Stocked With All
Necessary Repair
and Replacement
Parts for Any
Sound System.
iqin£.z,xmq
Now
with
Expanding
Additional
personnel to cover
a Larger Service
Area.
"Ask any
exhibitor using
our service"
HAROLD DAVIDSON
Many theatres
under our
maintenance
from
CAMEO SCREEN ATTRACTIONS, INC.
50 Melrose St. Boston, Mass.
Samuel I. Davidson, Pres.
BOXOFFICE January 17, 1948

. . . The
. . Manager
. . Esther
. . Additions
. . . Mr.
. . Saul
WORCESTER
TJreaks into two theatres were solved last
week when police arrested two men.
Samuel Jigarjian, 20, and Edward J. Lamasney,
20, both of Worcester, were charged
with breaking, entering and larceny at the
Capitol. Jigarjian also was accused of a
break-in at the Plymouth.
Only two theatres did capacity for the
New Year's eve shows. The Elm Street did
not give a show contrary to custom. Night
. . . clubs reported a lively business Edward
Selette, manager of the Modern in Marlboro,
extended an invitation to all children
of the city to attend a special performance
as a holiday treat. He recently played host
to newsboys and students at the Hillside
school.
George Flynn of the Warner, recalling
Red Skelton, then an obscure vaudeville
player, said Red got so discouraged
while playing the Plymouth here that he
almost gave up show business. Flynn. then a
stagehand at the Plymouth, had to run up
the street and bring Skelton back after the
comedian had packed his bag and started
for the train after the opening show.
A columnist in the Sunday Telegram observes,
"Theatre marquees lost much of their
glamor when neons replaced the bulbs that
performed all those little tricks of lighting"
tree erected outside the entrance
to the Elm Street during the holiday season
attracted much nice comment for Manager
Bob Portle and the boys responsible for it.
Timothy Lynn Kearse, who played a year
ago in the stock company at the Boylston
Town House here, has signed a long-term
contract with Paramount and left for the
coast. Her husband, Don Richardson, directed
the Boylston cast. On Broadway she
appeared in support of Ingrid Bergman in
"Joan of Lorraine."
The Modern in Marlboro awarded a $25
savings bond to the first baby born in Marlboro
this year. Editors of the Marlboro
Enterprise acted as judges . Forbes
of this city, winner of MGM's $150,000 prize
novel contest, was surprised and pleased at
the studio's prompt casting of the novel,
"The Running of the Tide."
When Nate Goldberg revived the Rogers-
Astaire picture, "Follow the Fleet," which
was made 12 years ago. he pointed with pride
to the fact that he had the only picture
in town in which women wore dresses of
the cun-ent stylish length to
the Capitol's staff are Chester Griginski and
Albert Ermanski.
Several of the theatres in Fitchburg
changed to stage shows for the New Year's
eve performances, and reported excellent
response . John Matthews of
the Warner reports a holdover on "My Wild
Irish Rose" . . . Joseph Mathieu, owner of
the Capitol in Winchendon, is convalescing
after a spell in a Boston hospital.
. .
Manager Harold Maloney of Loews Poll
conducted a "sneak preview" of Mickey
Rooney's new one, "Killer McCoy," and said
he got a better reaction than from any
. During a recciu
other such preview
snowstorm, Manager Leo Lajoie of the Capitol
and two of his men were stranded downtown
for the night.
Urges Caution on Checks
HARTFORD—Bernie Kranowitz, executive
of the New Britain Chamber of Commerce,
urged caution among businessmen in accepting
checks from imidentified persons. "Bad"
checks are being passed in the lower part
of Connecticut, he said.
Turnstiles Click Off
Merry Boston Tune
BOSTON—Business for the first week of
the new year started with a rush, but two
blizzards crippled transportation badly. New
product helped, however, with "Road to Rio"
at the Metropolitan and "Tycoon" at the
Memorial, both earning holdovers. "Good
News" at Loew's State and Orpheum was a
disappointment. At the Astor, where "The
Bishop's Wife" ended the second week, grosses
were almost as high as the first. "Captain
From Castile" at Keith's Boston, with a stage
show, also held over.
(Average Is 100)
Astor—The Bishop's Wile (RKO), 2nd wk 195
Boston—Captain From Castile i.'::ii Fox), 2nd w)t...l30
E.veler Street-To Live in Peace Italian iilm) 140
Ken.Tio:e-Shoe Shine : ; :, 2nd wlc 130
Memorial—Tycoon ;:..._ Dick Tracy Meets
Gruesome iRKO) ISO
Metropolitan—Road to Rio (Para), Dragnet (SG). .160
Paramount and Fenway—My Wild Irish Hose
(WB); Chinese Ring (Mono), 2nd d. t. wk 150
State and Orpheum—Good News (MGM);
Blondie's Anniversary (Col) 100
'Good News' and 'Road to Rio'
Rate New Haven Holdovers
NEW HA'VEN—New Year's eve business
stopped dead in most spots at 10:30 p. m.
evidently in favor of house parties, but New
Year's night was good all around. "Good
News" moved over from the Loew Poll to
the College for a second week. "Road to Rio"
is a holdover at the Paramount, where it did
excellent business. Bad street conditions hurt
downtown business most of the week, with
car and bus travel difficult. Detail for the
week ended January 7:
Bijou-Out of the Blue (EL); Whispering City
(EL) 90
College—Daisy Kenyon (20th-Fox);
Roses Are Red (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 108
Loew Poll— Good News MGM), Crime Doctor's
"
115
Gamble
Paramoun;- Road Rio '::: Hat Box Mystery
to
(SG) -- ISO
Roger Sherrn jn- My Wild Irish Rose ('.VHi,
2nd wk 65
Holdovers Predominate
In Hartford First Runs
"
HARTFORD—Newcomers last week were
"The Exile" and "Killer McCoy." The State
had Claude Thornhill, Marilyn Maxwell and
the Harmonicats on stage.
Allyn—Road to Rio (Para); Hot Box Mystery
(Para), 3rd wk 160
M. Loew's—The E. Swordsman (Col). Sweet
Genevieve (Col), 2nd wk 140
Poli—Killer McCoy (MGM); Curley 125
I'j;-.:
Palace—Good News (MGM); For You I Die
(FC), 2nd wk 100
Regal—Ride the Pink Horse (U-l: Upturned Glass
(U-I), 2nd wk 90
State Jiggs and Maggie in Society (Mono), plus
stage show 90
Strand—The Exile (U-l! Frieda (U^I) 130
'Wind' at Rutland, Vt.
RUTLAND, VT.—"Gone With the Wind"
was shown twice daily at the Paramoimt
here January 5 to 10.
BK.-
HARTFORD
Oeorge E. Landers, Hartford division manager
for the E. M. Loew's Theatres, returned
from Cleveland where he visited Mrs.
Landers and daughter Marilyn, who have
been with the road company of "Oklahoma!"
and Mrs. AI Schuman of the Hartford
Theatres circuit weekended in New- York.
Schuman recently recovered from a bad cold
. . . Abe Bernstein, Columbia field representative,
was in town beating the drums for
"The Swordsman" at E. M. Loew's.
Carl Halprin, manager of E. M. Loew's
Milford Drive-In, is at his winter home in
Florida. He is due back in April for the
drive-in reopening ... All employes of the
Hartford Theatres circuit received year-end
bonuses . . . Johnnie D'Amato, manager of
the Palace, New Britain, and Mrs. D'Amato
are observing their second wedding anniversary.
Joe Mansfield, Eagle Lion field man, while
passing thi-ough town, dropped In at Loew's
Palace to say hello to an old pal, Fred,
Greenway, Palace manager. Greenway and
Mansfield were friends back in the days
when Greenway was manager of Loew's State
in Boston and Mansfield was working for
. . . George
Universal in the Hub town
Pouliot is the new usher at the Palace.
Frances Gordon, daughter of the Jack Gordons
of Gordon Entertaimnent Bureau, resigned
from the 20th-Fox home office exploitation
staff . . . Arnold 'Van Leer, Paramount
praise agent, huddled with Walter
Lloyd of the M&P Allyn on "The Road to
Rio."
Mollie Stickles, manager of the Loew's Poll
houses in nearby Meriden, took members of
the Meriden High School Projection club on
a tour of the Loew's Poll Palace last week
... I. J. Hoffman, zone manager, and Dan
Fij-m, zone executive of Warner New Eiigland
Theatres, were here last week.
Frank Ramsey, formerly manager of the
Rialto and Lenox theatres here for Warner
Bros., has been named publicity man for
radio-film actor Candy Candido. Ramsey
is living in Los Angeles . Carp, formerly
chief of staff at the Harris Bros.
State, has been appointed student assistant
manager at Loew's Poll, succeeding Ben
Fred Anderson, 70-
year-old retired fiction writer for magazines
and author of "The Notorious Sophie Lang,"
wliich was made into a motion pictm-e back
in 1934, is dead in Pittsfield, Mass. Paramount
produced "The Return of Sophie Lang"
and, in 1937, "Sophie Lang Goes West."
Brookie LeWitt gave away Dick Ti'acy wrist
radios for a week at the Arch Street, New
Britain . . . Doris Piquette is new candy
girl at the New Britain Palace, Manager
Johnnie D'Amato reports.
HAM6^ 'm FROM THS SAUOMV
WAHOO
America's Finest Screen Game
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT CO.. B31 S. WABASH AVE., CHICAGO
BOXOFFICE :; January 17, 1948

. . Best
. . . Bob
NEW HAVEN
n good representation of the film colony
be on hand to congratulate Mr. and
will
Mrs. Robert G. Elliano, Walnut Beach exhibitors,
when they celebrate their 25th
wedding anniversary. Bob jr. arranged the
pai-ty for his parents on Monday, January 26,
at the Emerald room of the Sound View
hotel, Wildermere Beach . wishes of
the Street go to oldtimer Mike Tomasino
of the White Way and Victory, who is recuperating
at home from an operation . . .
Congratulations to another politician in the
film family, George LeWitt, who is taking
some time from his New Britain theatre to
serve on the city board of finance . . . Sympathy
to Jack Schwartz, Bridgeport exhibitor,
on the death of his sister-in-law.
National Theatre Supply laid new Crestwood
carpeting in the Astor and in Athan
Pi-akas' newly-redecorated Rivoli, Bridgeport,
as well as Simplex E7 mechanisms and
other booth equipment . . . Same company is
responsible for the new pedestals and magazines
in the Lido, Waterbury and two Peerless
Magnarc lamp houses with copper oxide
rectifiers in the Newington Theatre.
Still in the negotiation stage are the circuit
Bridgeport booth. New Haven stage,
Meriden and Waterbm-y stage and booth
union contracts . . . Walnut Beach Bowling
team, sponsored by Bob Eliano, is now leading
league by nine games.
Sid Kleper and Norm Levenson left no
chill unspilled for the horror program
"Frankenstein" and "Dracula," which, incidentally,
turned in a record Sunday business
for the College . . . Two Flanagan ambulances
bore cards, "Another Dracula-Frankenstein
patient from the Loew Poli College"
. . . Taft Pharmacy suggested, "Be sure to
buy smelling salts before visiting the Loew
Poli College." ... A 4-inch spread on the
second page of the Register was a triumph
in this town. Casey's copy was, "Brace
yourself with a double Mickey Finn before
seeing the show" . . . Cards in the form of
caskets were used for window displays. Street
pole cards suggested reservations in local
hospitals before the show.
Morton L. Stevens of Marlboro, formerly
of the Playhouse, has joined the forthcoming
Broadway play, "Kathleen," in New York . . .
Manager Nate Goldberg of the Plymouth
obtained some effective sports page tieups
for the Louis-Walcott fight pictures . . .
Esther Forbes' winning MGM's award of
$150,000 with her historical novel, "The Running
of the Tide," was page one news here
as Miss Forbes is a resident of the city. The
story also ran as a feature, on the woman's
page and the editorial page, which lauded
the selection.
The Modem in Marlboro makes quite a
play for child patronage on Saturdays. For
nine cents admission it presents two features,
five cartoons and a free cartoon book.
"Mothers," it advertises, "Let us be your baby
sitters (all ages from 3 to 93)."
Tim O'Toole, Columbia manager, is still
talking of the sunshine and sea breeze he
enjoyed at Fort Lauderdale . . . Max Salzburg
is full of vim and vigor after a week
of boardwalking at Atlantic City . . . Joe
Faith of Terryville and other "villes" and
Mrs. Faith off for an annual two-month
vacation at Fort Lauderdale . . . Phyllis Shelling
of the 20th-Fox staff has' set the date
for February 15 with honeymoon plans for
Bermuda . . . Ralph Banghart, RKO exploiteer
for Boston and New Haven, was in
town for advance stuff on "Walter Mitty."
The Thursday change of bills inaugurated
during the holidays remains in force for
a while at the Loew-Polis in New Haven
and Waterbury. Change date was Wednesday
. . . Jose Iturbi, coming in MGM's
"Three Daring Daughters," appeared in concerts
here and in Hartford, Springfield and
Worcester . . . Harry Shaw is back from a
few days business call in New York.
Lou Brown of the Loew-Poh circuit made
Springfield and Hartford theatres last week
Kaufmann, 20th-Fox exploitation
whiz, was in Hartford . . . Mrs. Elsie Jacobs
resigned from the RKO staff to resume duties
as housewife. Rita Brednich took over as
secretary to the office manager.
Jack Williams, Metro assistant shipper, has
joined the army for a year . . . Joe Rost,
Warner auditor, is in town for a stay . . .
Lee Kissner of RKO was out a few days with
the grippe . . . Recent contributors to the
dentists: Ben Simon, 20th-Fox manager, and
Charlotte Zitser, Harry Shaw's secretary . . .
Coincidence on Filmrow and occasion for
dbuble Congrats: Arthur Greenfield, U-I
branch manager, and Jack Post, Fishman
circuit booker, both celebrate wedding anniversaries
on Valentine's day.
Morris Rosenthal of the Poli, New Haven,
arranged a radio contest on the tune which
represents your favorite dream to plug "The
Secret Life of Walter Mitty," pushed Danny
Kaye album tieups with music stores, tied
up with travel agencies on "Do you day
dream of travel?" ideas, pushed the Del
Monte coffee tieup by distributing special
at stores, cards grocery distributed "How to
Dream the Mitty Way" booklets to radio
stations for giveaways, and followed through
on the national Coro jewelry tieup.
At the Poli, Waterbury, Ed Fitzpatrick used
milk bottle collars, newspaper "daydream"
contests, tied up with beauty parlors on the
Virginia Mayo hair-do and plugged the
"Beautiful Dreamer" theme song on WATR.
Jim Darby, manager of the Paramount, is
getting wide popularity on his front-of-thetheatre
radio interview program ... Sid
Kleper did a big job on "Good News" window
displays around the Center.
Ordway Brothers Acquire
Rockville Enterprises
HARTFORD—Russ Ordway, manager of
the Lockwood & Gordon's Webb Playhouse
in Wethersfield, has resigned to go into partnership
with his brother Jack, formerly with
the Shulman Theatres in Hartford, in the
operation of the Princess Bldg. in suburban
Rockville, effective February 1.
The Princess Bldg. includes the 300-seat
Princess Theatre, ballroom, a tavern-grille,
lounge and rathskeller. The brothers are
taking over the building on a 13-year lease.
The place was operated up to now by Frank
Haiko of Hartford. -iT
James Farrell, formerly assistant, has been
upped to manager of the Webb. The Webb
starts two-day bookings of foreign product
January 27, 28 at 65 cents top. Films will
be first run.
Wayland Corp. Formed
PROVIDENCE—The Wayland Amusement
Corp. of Providence is a newly-chartered
Rhode Island corporation. Incorporators are
Maurice Robinson and Charles M. Robinson,
both of Pi-ovidence, and Harold H. Winsten,
Pawtucket. Purpose: Operating theatres and
amusement enterprises, dealing in real estate.
Big Turnpike Center
To Have Theatre
WORCESTER—The plans for the seven
million dollar shopping center in the nearby
town of Framingham include a motion picture
theatre, it was announced last week at
a meeting of business men and town officials.
Framingham is 20 miles from both Worcester
and Boston on the turnpike, which will
make the vast trade mart easily accessible
to these cities. The emporium, with 40 stores,
is described as another step in the decentralization
of business in large cities. There
will be accommodations for 3,000 parked automobiles.
Col. McCraw. C. J. Latta
To Seat Variety Heads
NEW HAVEN—Installation of officers of
Variety Club of Connecticut will take place
at a dinner party Januai-y 27 at the Oneco
restaurant. Speakers will be Col. William
McCraw of Dallas, Tex., executive director
of the Variety International, and C. J. Latta
of Albany, Warner Theatres zone manager
and second assistant International chief
barker.
The newly elected slate is headed by Barney
Pitkin, manager of RKO, re-elected chief
barker; Lou Brown, Loew Poli publicity chief,
first assistant chief barker; Leo Bonoff, Madison
and Saybrook exhibitor, second assistant
chief barker; George Wilkinson, operator of
the Wilkinson, Wallingford, dough guy, and
Arthur Greenfield, manager of Universal,
property master.
The new canvasmen are Harry F. Shaw,
Loew Poli division manager; Bill Brown,
manager of the Bijou; Tim O'Toole, Columbia
branch manager: Henry Germaine, Paramount
branch manager; Maurice Bailey of
the Bailey circuit; Ben Simon, 20th-Fox
branch manager, and Israel Levine of Film
Classics.
Personnel of E. M. Loew's
Shifted at Year's Start
BOSTON—The following changes in managerial
personnel has been announced by
the E. M. Loew circuit, effective the first
of the year:
Joe Argenzio has been appointed manager
of the Capitol, Providence, replacing A. E.
Hamilton, who is on vacation.
Jack Cummings of the Providence Drivein
has been put in charge of the Olympia,
Olneyville, R. I., taking over from Phil
Garside who will remain on as assistant
under Cummings.
Fred Caldwell, formerly at the Lynn Open-
Air has been placed at the Ware. Beverly,
while Eddie Sellette has replaced Jack Wallins,
son of Wally Wallins at the Modern,
Marlboro. WaUins has resigned to enter
another field of business.
Don King left before the first of the
year to take over the managership of the
Miami Drive-In in Miami, Pla.
Newport House Reopens
NEWPORT, N. H..—The Coniston Theatre,
only motion picture house in town reopened
Christmas day after being closed two months
for extensive repairs. Chairman Maurice J.
Downing of the board of selectmen presided
at the afternoon exercises, which were attended
by a capacity crowd. Interstate Theatre
Corp. acquired the property some time
ago and have made extensive changes and
repaii-s. Ersley Blanchard is manager.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17. 1948

Texas Film Maker
Starts Talent Hunt
DALLAS—H. K. Carrington and his Nationwide
Pictures have got onto solid footing
since the announcement was made that
they would make six westerns here this year.
Gene Thomas has been signed as director
of the first picture.
Carrington came to Dallas five years ago
from the west coast where he was a fullfledged
cameraman and had other experience
in picture making. He went right to work
here, making pictures all over Texas. Many
theatres played his "See America First"
films. Others he turned out were "Great
Moments in American History." "Skylines of
America" and "This Is Texas."
Before cameras roll on the first picture.
a nationwide search-for-talent stunt will be
started. It gets under way January 22 in
the Dome Theatre. Lawton, Okla., operated
by Max Brock and Joe Turner. A male star
for the six westerns in the Lone Rider series
will be sought over a wide area. Feminine
star of the series will be Jane Lee.
Distribution of the series will be through
Crystal Pictures of New York.
Thomas has put on stage shows and radio
programs in New York during the past four
years. He has appeared on the radio with
"Mr. District Attorney," "Mr. and Mrs.
North." Jimmy Dorsey, Xavier Cugat and former
Gov. Coke Stevenson of Texas.
Three More Situations Dot
Theatre Map in Texas
DALLAS— Another big drive-in and two
smaller indoor theatres will be pinpointed
on the heavily marked Texas theatre map.
D. T. "Doc" Haynes of Associated Industries
Co.. DeVry equipment distributors, has
lineup equipment sales and part of the installation
of these three projects. In Lexington,
D. W. Cantrell opened his 300-seat
Lextex Theatre, and in Goldsmith, Francis
Anderson is fixing up a building where he
will open the Gold Tlieatre soon. In Midland,
Carl and Taylor Jones are getting their
600-car drive-in theatre ready for a spring
opening.
Bill Paige Circuit Opens
Sabine Theatre in Many
NEW ORLEANS—Bill Jenkins announced
the opening of the Sabine Theatre in Many,
La., January 1. This is one of the many theatres
of the Bill Paige circuit. It was a gala
opening with a great number of exhibitors of
the adjacent territory and film men and
equipment men from New Orleans attending.
Among them were Paul German and W. L.
Hodges of Hodges Theatre Supply Co., which
supplied the equipment.
Film Building Sold
DALLAS—Winfield Morgan and the Mangold
estate have sold the two-story film exchange
building at Harwood and Jackson
streets to Genecov & Roosth of Tyler for
$135,000. The purchasers are all operators who
have been investing in Dallas real estate.
Most of the leases in the building expire next
year.
Ban Kiddies in Midland
MIDLAND, TEX.—Theatre operators here
announced that no children under 12 would
be admitted to theatres until a disease, which
has caused the deaths of six young children
in three weeks, is halted. The disease has not
been positively identified.
J. A. Sheridan of Houston,
Stage Oldtimer, Is Dead
HOUSTON—James Alfred Sheridan, stage
manager for Loew's State here, died recently
at the St. Joseph hospital, ending a long and
colorful career that spanned his whole life.
Born in Galveston in 1884, Sheridan was one
of the survivors of the great flood. He was
working there at the time and could recall
many details of the disaster.
ice Homer McCallon, manager of Loews, commented
that
show that night.
Discussions of
Sheridan was the only man he
Ascap, taxes, 16mm films
knew who could remember Broadway when
and aspects of the forthcoming supreme court
it
was
decision
in its most colorful heights. Often
are on the agenda.
interviewed
on Broadway of the Gay
Ted R. Gamble,
president, and Robert W. Nineties,
Coyne, executive director
of
he would tell of seeing Diamond Jim Brady
Theatre Owners of America, are
drawing
scheduled for talks.
up TTO affiliated
to the theatres in his elaborate
two years
ago with the
carriages and
now
of the glamorous
defunct American
ladies of that
Theatres
Ass'n but
day with their jewels and
now has
plumes.
no national tieup.
Henry Reeve, president of TTO. promises
He could describe vividly the conversion of meetings with a punch and is jubilant over
Broadway from its beautiful but conservative obtaining several top men in the industry
.stage shows to the glamor and glitter with no for the program. Reeve will report on what
heed to cost wrought by Ziegfeld, Jerome is being done to reduce express charges and
Kern and Victor Herbert. He knew and the chances for getting this relief.
worked with these three men and was with
the openings of all the Ziegfeld Follies.
Those he knew and worked with were Ten Managerial Changes
Maude Adams, all the Barrymores, Thomas
W. Ross, Lou Tellegen, Anna Held, Gus Edwards,
E. H. Sothern. Julia Marlowe
Made in Griffith Units
(who
he said was most famous for her Juliet)
Sophie Tucker, Al Jolson, Eddie Cantor and
others too numerous to mention.
The shows he worked in and the cities in
which he traveled with the shows ran into
the hundreds.
Sixteen or seventeen years ago, when he
decided that he was too old to make the
rounds, he returned to Houston as electrician
for Loew's State, later becoming stage manager.
When stage shows went out, he retained
his position as stage manager and
electrician.
The last big star that he worked a show
with was Van Johnson, when he made a
recent appearance here. Sheridan also spent
two years with the circus.
Two Ask Drive-In Permits;
Dallas May Reject Both
DALLAS—Two separate interests are trying
to obtain permits from the city to build
drive-in theatres in practically the same
location.
W. G. Underwood and C. C. Ezell announced
some time ago they had acquired
property on which to build a drive-in on
South Beckley at Zangs boulevard and
Hawkins Golden proposes to build a shopping
center and a drive-in just across the
road from there.
The city has not said who will get the
permit or whether both applications should
be denied. At the hearing last week the
developer of an adjacent addition said the
drive-ins would retard values, and so did
the FHA, which has many nearby home
loans. A special permits committee indicated
would recommend to the city plan
it
commission that both applications be denied.
Recently Opened Quonset
Hit by Fire in Marrero, La.
NEW ORLEANS—Fire swept through the
Hut Theatre in Marrero, La., causing damage
estimated at $10,000. The screen and
about half of the seats in the building were
destroyed. Firemen reported that the density
of the smoke made it impossible for them to
combat the flames effectively. Built several
months ago and valued at $25,000, the building
was formerly a naval Quonset hut. Frederick
Cross is owner and operator of the
business.
Convention of TTO
At Dallas on Feb. 3
DALLAS—Texas Theatre Owners will hold
a two-day open convention here February 3,
4 in the Adolphus hotel. The organization
will be host at a luncheon the first day. A
registration fee of $5 will be charged those
who wish to attend a dinner and take in the
OKLAHOMA CITY—Ten company transfers
and promotions have been announced
by Griffith Consolidated Theatres, Inc. C.
O. Fulgham, executive, said the managerial
transfers will be completed before the end
of January. They are:
Paul Cornwell, manager at Enid, is being
transferred to the home office, where he
later will assume certain division managerial
duties.
Woodie Minor, assistant manager at Bartlesville,
will become manager of the Chandler
theatres.
Paul Shipley, manager at Chickasha, will
become manager of the Aztec, Cherokee and
Chief in Enid.
Taylor Joyce, Wewoka manager, is being
transferred to Chickasha as manager.
Hollie Herod, Hugo manager, is being promoted
to the managerial post at Wewoka.
William Hurd, manager at Wellington, Tex.,
is being transferred to Cleburne, Tex.
Emmett Passmore, manager at Wink. Tex.,
will take over management of the Wellington,
Tex., situation.
A new manager for Wink will be named at
a later date, Fulgham said.
Allen Benson Dean, Chandler manager,
is being moved to the Hugo operation as
manager.
Clyde Young, manager at Cleburne, Tex.
will assume the management of the Pampa,
Tex., houses.
R. D. Shaha, manager of the Kiowa in
Hobart, is being transferred to the Rodeo in
Oklahoma City.
C. B. Akers, who recently became a Griffith
partner in the Kiowa and Oklahoman in
Hobart, has assumed active management of
these houses.
Colemans Take Option
On Melrose in Waco
WACO, TEX.—Annie Louise Coleman and
her brother Tom have taken over the new
Melrose Tlieatre near Baylor university.
They are operating on a trial basis and have
an option to buy. The Colemans are school
teachers with much small town theatre experience.
They have had previous successful
theatre ownerships in Goldthwaite and
Hico.
Assigned to Screenplay
Dorothy Kingsley has drawn the screenplay
assignment on an uncoming Esther Williams
starrer, "Neptune's Daughter," a Metro production.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17. 1948 sw 91

. . H.
. . . Dallas
DALLAS
\X7aUace Walthall and Dock Allen of Na-
*' tional Screen Service were in Oklahoma
City this week to take part in the formal
opening of the company's new branch there.
Jim Moore, service manager here, and Winnell
Coates, Allen's secretary, also made the
trip, but returned earlier in the week. Gilbert
Clark is manager in Oklahoma City.
B. A. Susan, former service engineer with
Interstate circuit and Altec, has started an
airplane service for special passenger trips
or film deliveries. He is a licensed transport
pilot and lived in Grand Prairie, where
his plane service is based . J. Robinson,
new owner of the Texan in Sanger, was
here on his first buying and booking trip.
Others over the Row were H. B. Leathers
of the Palace, Paducah: C. D. Donaldson
of the Azle, Fort 'Worth, and Lester Dollison
of the State in Sherman, and a new
drive-in at Denton.
H. S. Usry is getting right along on the
new theatre building he has under construction
at Decatur. Usry sold his Majestic
and Ritz last year to the late B. C.
Gibson and 'Walter Penn of Columbia. Mrs.
Gibson operated the houses for a time and
sold them to Griffith Theatres. Usry is
building the new house for lease to the
Griffith interests ... Sol Francis, Monogram
district manager in Omaha, was here
to sell Theatre Enterprises for its theatres
in Oklahoma, and Lou Fidler, Monogram
franchise holder for the central west, was
here to sell TEI houses in New Mexico and
Interstate in Albuquerque.
"Joe" Joseph, theatre broker, and Leo Tresp,
lawyer, are partners in a new enterprise,
Ringo Amusement Co., with office in the
Republic Bank Bldg. They have a game for
theatres designed to stimulate boxoffice
receipts,
Texas Producer Jack Wrather, here during
the holidays, confirmed reports he had
bought "Strike It Rich," a story of the eastern
Texas oil fields based on the experiences
and tenstrike by his father in that sector
clubwomen will present a patriotic
program at 10 a. m. June 26 at the Palace
Theatre, four days after the arrival of Freedom
train in this city. Mrs. George A. Ripley
is chairman of the planning committee.
A traditional New Year's night supper for
a group of friends was given at the home of
P. E. 'Wilson and his wife following the Cotton
Bowl game. This happens every year
and the same friends are there. S. G. Fry
and his wife came from Tyler, and E. P.
'V. Herber, Paul Thompson, 'W. Crisp and
their wives were among local guests. The
three stalwart sons of the Wilsons were present.
P. E. 'Wilson jr., a navy veteran now
works in the Paramount exchange. Starky is
a student in Kilgore Junior college and
Charles goes to 'Woodrow high school here.
True Thompson and Bill Lloyd were among
other guests. Ti-ue was one of the state's
first film roadshowmen. During and after
the first world war he had "Mickey," "Kaiser,
Beast of Berlin," "The 'Whip" and others.
Wilson, Lloyd and Paul joined the company
later. This foursome still exists although
they have theatre interests now instead of
films.
George H. Dowling of the Nuplay Theatre
in Grandview was in for a quick booking trip
(Continued on next news page)
Westerns-Features-Seriah
Tower Pictures Co.
HAROLD SCHWftRZ
10S1/, S Harwood St.
DALLAS I. TEXAS
REMODELING-DECORATING
LUPE ROMERO
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
'ifour Deal Handled Personally 1
27 years experience
We Cover the U. S. Market
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 Kinmore Dallas 10, Texas
Phone T3-202E
OF FINE SERVICE
An idle pop com machine
makes no mone'y.
That's 'why we give
quick, efficient and economical
repair service.
We repair and carry
parts for all makes of
popping machines.
Our mechanics are the best. They
know where to look for trouble, how
to keep repair costs low, and get
your machine back into service in
minimum time.
Your popper is making money again
before you know it. Take advantage
ol our popper service. WE DO IT
FAST AND WE DO IT RIGHT.
de-6134 (
CHAS. E. DAROEN & CO. • 308 South Harwood • P. 0. Box 2207 • Dallas, Texas • Riversi
92
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

The stars in sight
^
will be big and bright,
Deep in the heart of Texas —
and the whole Southwest
Coming in Person To Help Celebrate
The Southwest's World Premiere Fiesta Week ^
Of
Paramount's Cinecolor Epic
RANDOLPH SCOTT
Barbara George "Gabby" Lon
BRITTON- HAYES CHANEY
RUSSELL HAYDEN
• CATHERINE CRAIG • GEORGE CLEVELAND
Directed by RAY ENRIGHT
Screenplay by Gene Lewis and Clarence Upson Young
A Clarion Production
_0^
Ihese headliners are scheduled to appear
n one or more of the premiere cities.

'^iCfUiet
DALLAS
I
Continued from preceding news pagei
and bought a few miscellaneous supplies. He
said business had been a little rough but
figured it could be worse.
The distributors retrenchment program,
now in full swing, put two veterans of the
portfolio and film can
temporarily into the
ranks of the unemployed
last week. L. E.
Harrington is no
longer connected with
20th-Fox and Al Wolf
is no longer on the
pay roll at Warners. L.
E. is a film man from
way back. He was
branch manager of the
old Fox Film Co. in the
1920s and has service
in the trade antedating
L. E. Harrington
that. In more re-
cent years he has confined
his activities to that of film salesman.
Friends know he will be back selling
films soon or be into something for himself.
L. E. is the father of Linwood Harrington,
RKO salesman. Wolf has been a
film salesman for two decades and has had
some theatre experience. He is now building
a big drive-in theatre at San Antonio, i''
which project he has interested .i couple of
relatives.
B. G. Berber had a new car ordered for
a year and hoped to get it for Christmas.
Cnfor SPECIAL SHOWMANSHIP
7 rHAIlERS
lOTIOn PICTURE SERVICE [0.
125 HYDE IT. • )an rrancTtco(2)Carif.
CERAID L. KAKtKI Qtmersl Ultnt^tr
He finally got delivery January 2. It was
one of those list price deals with a few extra
gadgets, most of which he wanted anyway.
The Cole brothers, both bearers of titles
that have stuck, were in the news on widely
different subjects. Col. H. A. Cole, president
of Allied Theatre Owners of Texas and of the
Texas Bridge club, said the annual winter
tournament will be held at the Melrose hotel
January 21-26. He argues film matters with
top flight film men of the nation and plays
bridge with some of the best talent in the
country. Maj. H. S. Cole of the American,
Best and Elite theatres in Bonham, is chairman
of the board of trustees of Allen Memorial
hospital and has announced hiring of
a new administrator and corps of assistants
for the institution, where an enlargement and
modernization program will soon be under
way. Both Coles got their titles the hard way
diu-ing the first world war.
Alfred N. Sack of Sack Amusement Enterprises
was elected president of Texas
Ass'n of Visual Education Dealers in session
at Austin. He deals in 16mm equipment and
films in addition to his 35mm exchange activities.
Sack has been in the film business
about 20 years. He graduated from the University
of Missouri in journalism and took to
show business soon after. Charles D. Fair
has been employed to handle advertising and
publicity for the several Sack offics. He will
have headquarters in the Sack Bldg. at Pearl
and Jackson streets. Fair has done similar
work for Southwestern Medical Foundation.
Gene Autry, on a tour of big city onenight
stands with his own show, played to
nearly 7,000 admissions in two performances
in Fair Park auditorium.
A feature story appeared in the Dallas
News about a bedridden arthritis victim in
Archer City, Tex., a former stonemason who
developed a talent for painting pictures for
part of his living. The Lion's club has
helped him. David Perdue, owner of the
Royal Theatre there, and a Lion gave the
invalid artist a wheel chair, and takes both
in his car to his theatre to see all the Technicolor
pictures.
George and Ruth Likens of Abilene drove
to Mexico City on a Chi-istmas vacation.
En route home they bought numerous items
of Mexican artistry in pottery, silverware
and brass, including some antique pieces.
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We have a large stock on hand
ready for immediate delivery.
Several patterns from which to select.
All special theatre designs by Mohawk and Leedon Mills.
Samples on request.
Complete Theatre Equipment & Supplies
Modern Theatre Equipment Co.
214 South St. Paul St. Phone R-5009 DALLAS (1), TEXAS
Will the Quality of Your Popcorn
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The Quality Hybrid Corn
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Telephone C-4549 P. O. Box 12G7 Ralph W. Thomiley
2021 Jackson St. Dallas, Texas President
BOXOFFICE :: January 17. 1948

. . Juanita
. . The
j
',
j
|
'
OKLAHOMA CITY
flmong the committeemen named to work
out details of the Rededication week observance
which will precede the Freedom
Train's appearance here on January 25 is M.
D. Brazee of Warner Bros. Theatres. He was
appointed chairman for motion pictures.
Mrs. Ralph Warner, wife of Oklahoma's
Manley popcorn representative, fetched the
fish home to back up her story. It's 36 inches
long and beautifully mounted. Mrs. Warner
landed the fish by herself after a 45-minute
battle while fishing with her husband and
P. A. "Bob" Warner and others at Port Aran-
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
Your Deal Handled Personally]
27 years experience
We Cover the U. S. Market
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 Einmore Dallas 10, Te
Phone T3-2026
rHERE'S MORE SELLING PUNCH IN
Rohde, Warner exchange
sas, Tex. .
pay cashier, who married Richard
Frederick in December, is back at work . . .
Jackie McDonald, assistant cashier of the
Warner branch, has returned from New
Orleans, where she spent the holidays with
her
family.
Roy Rogers, star of western films, was made
an honorary chief of the Oklahoma City fire
department while he was honeymooning in
the state. Also made an honorary chief was
his manager. Art Rush. Rogers and his
leading lady. Dale Evans, were married on
the Bill
eve.
Likins ranch near Davis New Year's
The Criterion, managed by Dee Fuller, has
come in for extra publicity breaks of late.
One item told about the theatre's marquee
being frozen, just when the film changed,
and the theatre was unable to get any information
on the sign but the one line, "Good
News," for the new attraction. Snow and
sleet hit the city New Year's eve, just before
the theatre switched from "Unconquered" to
"Good News" for the midnight show. Another
story told about the 50 people who spent the
night in the theatre because of the weather,
which brought traffic to a virtual standstill.
"Hollywood on Ice" opened at the Municipal
auditorium January 14 to play through
January 18. This attraction, first of its kind
ever to play here, is being sponsored by the
American Business club to raise funds for a
mental hygiene cUnic. M. D. Brazee, Warner
Theatres chief here, and Vernon Adams,
manager of the Warner exchange, are ABC
members.
Loren Tindall, who has been getting into
an increasing number of Hollywood pictures,
was home for the holidays, visiting his mother,
Mrs. M. G. Tindall. While here, he got some
newspaper publicity, with art, when he visited
J'
the Criterion Theatre, where his newest film,
"Good News," was playing, and helped put
his name up in lights.
Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Federer are vacationing
until February 1 in Arizona. Federer recently
opened the new Center Theatre. Relieving
him here is Walt Jancke, Lincoln city man-
I
ager for Nebraska Theatres, Inc. Jancke, who I
arrived before Chi'istmas. returned to Lincoln
for the holidays. He has been back in :
the
city since New Year's eve and will remain
here until T. B. Noble jr., Colorado Springs,
i
can relieve him. Noble is now in a Colorado
1
Springs hospital.
Leon Stokesbury, State manager, has resigned
effective January 17, according to
Jancke. Stokesbury has been with the State
Theatre for two years. The previous three
years, he spent in the marine corps, and be-
fore the war he was with Standard Theatres ,
for two years. His future plans haven't been
[
announced. Frankie Barnett, assistant manager
of the Center and formerly at the State,
will retui-n to the State as temporary manager.
The Griffith-owned Isis here ceased operation
at the close of business Tuesday (13) and
will remain closed for an indefinite period
. . . Griffith shorts: Mary Marie Ragland
of this city and Chickasha, and Wayne Loafman,
Stillwater and Chickasha, plan to marry
this month. Mary is secretary to A. C. Ince,
chief engineer and construction head. He is
an Aggie student in Stillwater where the
couple plans to reside.
Lester Gibbs, booker for Griffith Consolidated,
and Mrs. Gibbs are parents of a son
named David Kent . . . C. V. Ellis, implement
dealer, succeeds Abe Rosewall, Griffith manager
in Vinita, as president of the Vinita
Chamber of Commerce . Clinton high
school honor roll includes three Griffith employes,
Ophelia Muse, Helen Evans and James
Crane.
1 ^
Rl NGO
f
(COPYRIGHTED)
r
No. 1—The biggest boxoffice attraction since Bank Nightl
No. 2—Turns any night into Saturday night!
No. 3—Lots of fun . . . lots of customers!
No. 4—The most sensational theatre stimulator ever produced!
No. 5—A very attractive eye-appealing lighted plastic and chrome stage display!
No. 6—Cost is very lo'w!
Be the first in your area to have it
Get on our list NOW! Write, wire or call
RINGO" AMUSEMENT COMPANY
(Copyrighted)
1422 Republic Bank Bldg. DALLAS, TEX. Phone Central 4800
BOXOFFICE January 17, 1948

. . . The
. . Johnny
. . Sympathy
. . Jimmy
. . Oldtime
. . Harold
. . William
HOUSTON
Don Alexander, Colorado Springs, president
J of the Alexander Film Co., docked his 62-
foot, custom-built yacht here for a twelve
day stay. Alexander contacts his nationalwide
sales force personally by sailing his Two
Smiles II through the waterways of the
country and holding sales conferences, etc.,
from the soft pillows of a deck chair. "It's
the only way to live," he explains.
A two-hour cartoon and comedy show, under
the sponsorship of the Houston PTA
council, was held in 13 Interstate neighborhood
theatres. Funds from the matinees
went into tlie council's benefit fund. Theatres
presenting the show were the Alabama.
Eastwood, Broadway Santa Rosa, Wayside,
River Oaks, Tower, Village. Yale, Fulton and
North Main . to John Ellis, manager
of the Texan, whose father died in
Kentucky . Smith, manager of the
Metropolitan, flew to California to be with his
mother who is ill and not expected to live.
"Ice Cycles of 1948" opened at the Coliseum
whole staff of the North Main The-
IS
YOUR THEATRE FOR SALE?
We Have Buyers With Cash
"lOE" JOSEPH
THEATRES
Let "loe" Sell Your Show
Theatres bought—sold—equipped—fire
inventories—consultant and equipment.
1003 Galloway St. Dallas, Tex.
Phone Yale 2-7650
atre took a boat ride to the San Jacinto battlegrounds
and rejoiced that they didn't have
to walk back. Last time they arranged such
a party, the boat wouldn't run when it was
time to go back home . Loge, one
of the operators at the North Main, is back
at work after an operation.
Art Meyer is still chuckling over an event
which happened during the screening of
"Thunder in the 'Valley" on New Year's day.
During a scene where a man was shooting his
dog. a little girl in the audience threw the
patrons into an uproar trying to get her
mother to "stop the man from shooting his
pretty little dog."
Al Adams, manager of the River Oaks, kept
on the job despite a touch of the flu. He .says
that the response to "The Women," a reissue,
has been unprecedented and was held a
second week.
Buddy Rogers, the former film actor and
band leader who held the screen title of
"America's Boy Friend" a number of years
ago, arrived in his own plane to boost his
new picture, "Sleep, My Love," which opened
at Loew's State. He was also here to help
with the navy recruiting drive and had a full
schedule arranged for him, beginning with
a Navy league luncheon at the Houston club,
six radio appearances on all five Houston
radio stations, and an address to the 12 recruits
signed up the day of his arrival at the
recruiting office. Rogers said that he learned
to fly in Texas back in 1927 when he was just
starting his film career, playing in "Wings,"
which was filmed in San Antonio.
THEATRE SEAT INSTALLATION
20 years experience — Satisfaction guaranteed.
Write or Phone 5327
Johnnie Boutwell
Temple, Texas
EL PASO
Comething new will have been added at the
Plaza by about mid-February, Charles
Russell reports a new candy and popcorn
stand will be ready then . Brannon,
operator at the Wigwam, is vacationing in
Los Angeles . Jack.son, who left the
Wigwam three months ago, is u.shering there
again.
The Texas in Ysleta is being remodeled.
The theatre will be enlarged to accommodate
100 . railroad men will be honored
at the world premiere of "Albuquerque," to
be held in the city of the same name February
2, at the Kimo Theatre. Randolph Scott, and
Barbara Britton, stars of the film; William
Demarest, who will emcee, and Gabby Hayes
head the list of stars who are scheduled to
appear at the premiere.
Tickets to the Del Norte Drive-In were
given as a prize in a Christmas decoration
contest held In a nearby housing project.
'%/nited jheatres
>> E n \ I ( E 4 O R P O R .\ T I O N
308 S. Harwood St. Dallas, Tex.
Griggs
Designed for comfort, Griggs chairs are constructed
with form-fitting, laminated wood or
multi-spring cushioned seats and upholstered
backs. Patrons appreciate the ball bearing action
of easy-to-operate seats, too. All this comfort
plus the eye-appeal of smart new fabrics,
leatherette coverings, pleasing pastel-colored
enamels, mean increased box office sales
wherever Griggs Theatre Chairs are installed.
See for yourself the chairs that are stealing the
spotlight. There's a dealer near you. Write
today for full details.
GRIGGS £, t Co
Illustrated is Model
16MBW — newest
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I
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fortable theatre seats. This chair may be
had in any one of several color schemes
and with a choice of end designs.

. .
. . Bob
. . Tom
. . . Manager
. . Edwardo
. . The
. . Recent
NEW ORLEANS
Ceen shopping on Filmiow; F. G. Prat jr.
" and W. G. Waguespack. Vacherie. La.;
Wilbur Jolet of the Smyles Theatre, Week.s:
Jeff Rebstock, Golden Meadow: Roy Pfelffer,
Baton Rouge: Ira Phillips, Joy Theatre,
Monroe: Mr. and Mrs. William Terrell, Joy,
Roseland, and Bonnie Theatre, Amite, and
Locke Bolen, Jackson, Ala.
Grover Schaffer, Film Classics auditor from
New York, was a visitor . . . Ditto Ben Hill,
former manager here for UA ... A large number
of local film fans, including employes of
various department stores, attended the
screening of "Sleep, My Love" in the Fox
will build a new white theatre in Houma, La.
Schaffer Film Delivery Service has taken
over the Magazine Service, which operates
23 trucks and trailers and handles all freight
for the Southern Railway Co.
The Strand, Cotton Valley, La., has reopened
after being closed following the recent
storm in that area . Neely, local manager
for NTS, returned from a trip throughout
the ten-itory . . . Cy Bridges, the veteran
MGM representative, visited a number of
his old accounts.
Mrs. Rodney Toups, wife of the manager of
Loew's State, was selected to head the registration
department during the visit of the
Freedom train here recently. She has been
complimented highly for her excellent performance
. . . Mi-, and Mrs. Leo Seicshnaydre
screening room.
and two sons returned from a trip to Los
Angeles, Hollywood and San Francisco. They
Mrs. Rose Davis, widow of the late Jeff
attended the Rose Bowl game on New Year's
Davis, UA manager narrowly escaped serious
day.
injury recently when the car she was driving
was struck from the rear by another automobile.
She sustained a fractured neck
News has been received here that the
Queen, Eunice, La., operated by J. C. Kelly
.
Billy Fox Johnson, Louisiana exhibitor who
The Joy in
was destroyed by fire recently . . .
recently sold an interest in three of his theatres
Grosse Tete, is now being operated by L.
Blanchard . Helms, recently appointed
to the Jay circuit, is now Louisiana
salesman for Screen Guild. Bill Thomas will manager for Kay Films, returned from a
continue to cover Mississippi for that company
selling trip through Florida, Alabama and
... It is rumored Exhibitor Lapryhouse parts of
Louisiana.
BUFFALO COOLING
EQUIPMENT
lOfh n_ 2nd Unit. Santa Fe Bldg BUFFALO ENGINEERING CO-, INC. Dallas, Tox.
DISTRIBUTORS OF
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Expert Repairing Over 30 Years
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JOHN HARDIN. SOLE OWNER
"{Hardin theatre Supply^ Co.
Tarts for all
crakes Trojectors
DALLAS. TEXAS
SAN ANTONIO
. . .
pinkie Smith, manager of the Cameo, a colored
house, has been sworn in to serve
on the Bexar county grand jury for the
Nancy Phillips,
January-February term . . .
former amusements editor of the Austin
American-Statesman, was married last month
in Big Springs, Tex., to Garth Jones, Associated
Press staffer in Dallas William
director for the
Oliver, one time publicity
old Acme Amusement Co. here, now a press
agent for Dailey Bros. Shows, is visiting in
town from St. Louis.
Gilbert Fernandez is now operating the
New Globe, Corpus Christi . . . Albert Coppel,
Azteca Film exchange manager, was in Dallas
on business . . . Senor T. Gonzales of the
Teatro Perez, Encinal, was here to contract
for Spanish language pictures . . . Delia
Coppell brought her Mexican stage show to
the Zaragoza for a benefit midnight performance
last week.
Florence Bates, Hollywood actress, was
here in her home town visiting friends over
the holiday period . visitors to
the Interstate office in the Majestic Bldg.
were Ray B. Willie sr., assistant general
manager. Interstate circuit, Dallas, and Cliff
Lewis, RKO Studios, Hollywood . . . "War
Party" was given a sneak preview at the
Majestic recently. The cast includes John
Wayne, Henry Fonda, Shirley Temple, John
Agar, Pedro Armendariz and others . . .
The Silvas brothers of Asherton were among
the shoppers on the Mexican film market
here.
Claude Ezell of the Underwood & Ezell
Drive-In Theatres visited in Los Angeles
during the holiday season.
Concrete was poured last week for San
Antonio's new $3,750,000 Coliseum on East
Among the attractions
Houston street . . .
booked for the Municipal Auditorium are
Carmen Cavallaro, February 10: Nelson Eddy,
March 9, and KCOR's third anniversary
show, which will include several visiting
Mexican film and stage stars, March 23.
Crox Alvarado and Armanda Dellano, Mexican
film actors, visited Clasa Mohme. They
.
are from Mexico City and play in Clasa productions
Gomez, who is connected
with the operation of the Mexico
Tlieatre in Raymondville, was among the
callers along the Mexican Filmrow. His
Ramon Ruenes, who has the Mexico,
cousin,
Brownsville, also was a visitor.
.
.
Gordon Craig, erstwhile film player and
veteran of World War II, is visiting the
old home town . . Also back in the city is
Willie McGinnis. who was formerly on the
managerial staffs of the Empire and old
Majestic Sunday motion picture
reviews for the Corpus Christi Caller and
Times are now being done by Kay Bynum
Gordon B. Dimlap of the
Clasa-Mohme film office has returned from
a flying business trip to "Big-D."
/Tf MORE MONEY PLACING
WAHOO
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
831 South Wabash Avenue • Chicago, Illinois
Ruben Reyes and his 1948 FoUies played
a seven-day engagement at the Nacional last
week. The company came here from Mexico
City . . . Roy Rogers and his bride Dale
Evans were in Uwalde last weekend and enjoyed
themselves fishing. They were house
guests of Mrs. Byron PuUiam, Mrs. Rogers'
aunt. They were swamped by autograph
seekers.
Jesse Oppenheimer, president of the bank
here that bears his name, said in a story
in the Sunday Light: "San Antonio is destined
to be the largest city in Texas, despite
Houston's present unprecedented business
growth. Living conditions here mean
this city will continue to expand."
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Wometco Prepares
To Start Miracle
MIAMI—Frank Rubel of the Wometco organization
reports plans have about been
completed for the erection of the new Miracle
Theatre in Coral Gables, and materials are
now being accumulated so the construction
of the building will start and proceed rapidly
as soon as permitted by the various government
regulations.
"Plans for the theatre provide for an
ideally shaped auditorium." he explained,
"which is narrower toward the stage and
widens out in the rear of the auditorium.
This will permit the best possible sight lines
from all parts of the theatre and will entirely
eliminate the usual poor seats down
in front on both sides of the stage. Further,
according to acoustical engineers, this will
also provide the ideal shape to obtain the
best acoustical response thi-oughout the
auditorium.
"Many innovations are planned for the
new Miracle which, it is hoped, will truly
live UP to its name. Architect W. H. Lee
of Philadelphia, who has built over 200 theatres
in the U.S.. has prepared the plans
with extreme care and with the help and
suggestions of Colonel Wolfson and other
members of the building committee.
"The structural steel for the building is
on the lot in Coral Gables, and it is expected
actual construction of the building
will commence next spring or before, if the
government regulations permit."
Tristates Ass'n Directors
Will Meet January 30
MEMPHIS—There will be a meeting of officers
and directors of the Motion Picture
Theatre OwTiers of Arkansas. Mississippi and
Tennessee January 30 at 10:30 a. m. in the
east lounge of the Hotel Chisca. Meeting
with the board will be Robert W. Coyne,
executive director of the TOA, the president
and secretary-treasurer of the Arkansas Independent
Theatre Owners, the president and
secretary-treasurer of the Mississippi Motion
Picture Theatre OwTiers. and officers of the
Tennessee Theatre Owners Ass'n.
Inasmuch as there will be messages brought
to this meeting of definite importance, there
also will be an industry-wide meeting at 2
p. m. January 30 in the hotel. All exhibitors
and members of the industry are cordially
invited.
Pensacola May Repeal
Raise in Ticket Tax
PENSACOLA. FLA.—Possibility of the repeal
of the additional 1-cent amusement tax
and a tobacco tax in favor of a 1 per cent
sales tax was seen here. The city council has
asked its finance committee to look into the
proposal. Another proposal is that the city
obtain additional revenue through a reassessment
of real estate. It was said that no other
city has gone 16 years without such reassessment.
Estimates were that an additional
$1,000,000 would be provided.
William W. Birchfield loins
Montgomery Photo Shop
MONTGOMERY. ALA. ^William W. Birchfield,
manager of motion picture theatres in
North Carolina and Virginia for a number of
years prior to 1937, is now a.s.sociated with
Shop 21, a photographic firm here. Birchfield
formed his own production company in
Washington in 1937, making 16mm commercial
films. After joining the navy in 1942, he
averaged shooting 1,000 feet of sound film a
month. He otherwise covered all phases of
photography as a photographic officer.
Floyd Theatres Donates
$1,000 to Hospital Fund
AVON PARK, FLA —The Walker Memorial
hospital is $1,000 nearer completion because
the Floyd Theatres made a Christmas donation
of that amount toward the project.
Floyd Theatres operates throughout the state.
The Florida of Avon Park is one of their
units. Headquarters are in Haines City.
Newport Houses Closed
For Repair, Remodeling
NEWPORT. ARK.—The Base Theatre has
been closed ten days for repairs by Robert
Dunham, owner. The Independent Theatre
here also has been closed temporarily for remodeling.
It is owned by Clifford Nicks.
Seasonal Operations Begin
At St. Petersburg Houses
ST. PETERSBURG—Both the Capitol and
the Ninth Street Theatres have been opened
for the winter season. These are both units
of the Florida State Theatres; Inc., and are
operated on a seasonal basis.
Moves Arkansas House
MEMPHIS—The Shannon Theatre,
which
formerly was the Buffalo Theatre at Rivervale,
Ark., has been moved to Brooklyn, Ark.,
by its owner, O. W. Shannon, and was opened
for business this week.
Complete New Office
DANIA, FLA.—The State Theatre which
has been undergoing extensive remodeling
and renovating of late, has completed its new
office addition.
Ministers Keep Alive
Sunday Show Issue
COLUMBUS. GA.—The Columbus-Phenix
City Ministerial Alliance has redoubled its
efforts to halt Sunday shows here, voting
to ask local law enforcement to halt them as
violating state statutes.
William K. Jenkins, president of Lucas &
Jenkins Co., Atlanta, previously had declined
the ministers' request to close the theatres.
He asserted the theatre would not be closed
on the Sabbath until such time as the general
public desires it.
I. Lawrence Shields, local manager of the
Georgia Theatre Co., charged that Sunday
closing would be "rank discrimination"
against picture shows. He said that if the
operation of theatres on Sunday is against
the state law, "then so is practically all other
activity in Columbus on Sunday."
Meanwhile, W. C. Pease jr., president of
the Community Chest, revealed that Sunday
shows in Columbus paid a total of $6,298.80
into the chest during 1947. This payment,
he said, covered operations on Sunday by all
Georgia Theatres Co. and Martin Theatres
in Columbus— "in fact every movie in Columbus
excepting the Dixie and the Drivein."
Variety Committee Heads
Named by David Flexer
MEMPHIS—The Variety Club met January
5 for the first time in 1948 and Chief Barker
David Flexer took over for a year. His first
act was to name committees for the coming
year.
Committee chairmen are Buster Hammond
and Cliff Wallace, luncheon: Leonard Shea,
house: Ben Bluestein, entertainment; Tom
O'Ryan, assistant chief barker, and Herman
Christman, dough guy, membership: Bill
Kemp, Tommy Baldridge and Mike McGee,
publicity: Herb Kohn, milk bank, and Tom
Young, shutin parties.
Columbus MOD Campaign
Headed by Shields, Martin
COLUMBUS, GA.—I. LawTence Shields and
E. D. Martin have been named Muscogee
county chairmen for theatres' participation
in the March of Dimes campaign. Shields is
local manager for Lucas & Jenkins Theatres.
Martin, an executive of the Martin circuit, is
also state chairman for theatres' participation
in the MOD.
GIFTS FOR THE CHIEFS—The four partners in the IMartin & ilu i>uii lireuit
display luggage receive dfrom employes at the year-end, party given at the Hotel
Dempsey in Macon, Ga. More than 300 were present. In the photo are E. D. Martin,
Roy Martin jr., J. H. Thompson and Roy Martin sr.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948 99

Smart Names Aides in
CHARLOTTE—Appointment of committees
to carry on the work of the Variety Club
during the year was announced here by Roy
L. Smart, the new chief barker.
George Roscoe is chairman of the important
heart committee, with Harry Haas as
vice-chairman and E. C. DeBerry, Roy Ervin,
H. D. Hearn, Harr>- Jones. Ernest Stellings,
Worth Stewart, J. F. White jr., Don Graham,
Wade Drake, F. H. Beddingfield and Olin
Mock, members.
Other committees are:
House—Ralph lannuzzi. chairman; L. C.
Sipe. A. L. Burks, Cecil McCommons, Tom
Bailey, P. E. Dyer, Charles Leonard, Fred
Hull, Bob Finlayson, Jack Webb, Richard
Eason, C. G. Lawing, J. Ed Carroll, H. H.
Jordan, J. B. Erskine, C. C. Kauffman, Earl
Mulwee, B. C. Talley, J. G. Ward, Jules Williamson,
Jake Houston, J. M. Chappell and
Scott Lett.
Clubroom Entertainment—James V. Frew,
chairman: Roy Bradley, J. H. Dillon, Norman
Jackter, W. R. Waldron, Ralph lannuzzi,
Everett Olson, George Ebersole, W. T. Tidwell,
R. T. Good, Charles Gregory, William
Lawrence, R. W. Ramsey and Frank St. Claire.
Clinic—John Vickers, chairman; R. F.
Branon, Byron Adams, R. L. Simpson and
Harry Hardy. Variety members of Clinic
board: John Vickers and Byron Adams.
Mobile—Don Graham, chairman; R. H.
Bradley, vice-chairman; Carl Patterson, Bob
Saunders, R. M. Simril, Frank Strange, L. L.
Theimer, J. N. Wallace, Ralph lannuzzi, Ellis
Blumenthal, K. M. Clontz, Joe Cu'rell, J. B.
Erskine. Charles Freeman, Ralph Jackson,
Harry Kerr and Robert C. McArtan.
Membership—J. E. Holston, chairman;
Dean House, Hal Keeter, Frank Sims, Scott
Lett and W. P. White.
Outside Entertainment—Scott Le*t, chairman;
W. S. Alexander. A. W. Bell, J. W.
Bishop, Paul Cockrill, A. B. Craver, F. E.
Dyer, Marsh Punderburk, Robert Hames, Paul
Hargette, Frank Harris, Max Holder, R. O.
Jeffress, D. B. Kizziah, Jack London, Morris
Nuger, Barney Ross, R. L. Simpson, B. A.
Slaughter and Hugh Sykes.
Ways and Means—P. H. Beddingfield, chairman;
Earl Crawford, vice-chairman; A. L.
Burks, T. D. Kemp, Walter Griffith, B. W.
Variety Club
Allen, W. B. Boling, J. H. Dillon, Robert Footman,
Bomar Lowrance. W. L. Parker, Perry
Reavis jr.. Jay Schrader, R. D. Williamson
and Haskett Deaton.
Publicly—Everett Olsen, chairman; Jack
Austin, vice-chairman; Edward DeGray, Bomar
LowTance, John Ward, Emery Wister and
Dick Pitts.
Bulletin—Dick Pitts, chairman; Emery
Wister, vice-chairman; Charles Hunsuck, R.
D. Turnbull and Everett Olsen.
Finance—T. A. Little, chairman; Earl Mulwee,
vice-chairman; Bob Allen, T. B. Autrey,
Sam Craver, H. H. Everett, H. F. Kincey,
Carroll Ogburn, R. F. Pinson, W. H. Porcher
jr.. Jack ReVille and W. G. Driver.
Project—John Vickers, chairman; H. H.
Everett and H. F. Kincey.
Civic Affairs—Jack Austin, chairman;
Charles Crutchfield, vice-chairman; Frank
Sims, H. E. Buchanan, J. C. Long, Ben Strozier,
Dick Pitts and Everett Olsen.
Corporate—Frank Sims, chairman, and T.
W. Varnon.
Smart's crew consists of Scott Lett, first
assistant chief barker; Barney Ross, second
assistant; Sam Trichner, property master; T.
A. Little, dough guy; R. M. Simril, J. E.
Holston, Hal Keeter, F. E. Dyer, A. L. Burks
and H. P. Kincey, canvasmen, and W. H.
Everett, L. C. Sipe, P. H. Beddingfield and
J. H. Dillon, past chief barkers.
OHE Halts Construction
Of Greensboro Theatre
GREENSBORO, N. C—On the order of
the Office of the Housing Expediter in
Washington, work was halted here on the
$100,000 theatre building being constructed
for Modern Enterprises, Inc.
Walter W. King, contractor, called off construe',
ion after receiving a second order
against the work. The Atlanta office of the
OHE ordered the work stopped on December
19, and again on December 29 the Washington
office telegraphed orders to stop the
work.
Officers of Modern Enterprises are Basil
George, president; M. P. Caloyianis, treasurer,
and H. J. Pakas, secretary.

. . Actress
. . The
. .
. . Fred
Support by Theatres
Vital for Clean Ads
MIAMI—The more difficult job in the effort
to clean up motion picture advertising,
writes Jack Bell of the Herald in a front page
New Air Control System
At Fox in Fort Meade
FORT MEADE, FLA.—A new heating and
air conditioning system has been installed in
the Pox Theatre. It changes the air every few
minutes and keeps the temperature at a uniform
level. The Fox is a unit of the Floyd
Theatre chain. Bill Masters is manager.
Negro House for Bessemer
ALA.—Joe Romano has
opened the Star Theatre, a new Negro house
here. It seats about 400. A third Negro house
is being planned for Bessemer. Sam Raine,
owner of the Frolic, has received a CPA permit
for construction of another theatre.
More Gadsden Owl Films
GADSDEN, ALA.—Effective last Saturday
(3), the Pittman Theatre inaugurated a series
of Saturday night owl shows. The attraction
will be the film which will open the next
day. A similar policy had been announced
a short time previously by the Princess.
Buy Berry Theatre
BERRY, ALA.—Ralph and Lowell Barnes
have purchased the Berry Theatre here. The
new owners said they plan to make improvements
in the house.
MIAMI
lyjr. and Mi-s. Abe Wallerstein celebrated
their 50th wedding anniversary. He
the Tivoli here in 1926 and operated
built
it for about ten years. At the anniversary
entertamment committee for the big Variety
International convention to be held here
The Embassy, Claughton
next spring . . .
circuit, previewed "The Fugitive" for the
30XOFFICE :
"It
Has Everything
I've
ALWAYS Wonted'
Say
MANY MANLEY USERS
Come in to see us.
1. C. (Curt) Shreve
Southeastern District Manager
102 Cain St., N. W. cypress 5116 Atlanta 3, Ga.
: January 17, 1948 101

I
Maico Opens Its First Cry Room
MEMPHIS—The Malco circuit is
trying out its first cry room.
The glassed-in room is at the rear
of the theatre over the lobby.
The first and only cry room in
Memphis was opened this week by
the Linden Circle Theatre under
direction of Mis. W. E. Elrod, manager.
She views it as a triple boon: First,
a place fox bawling babies to bawl
in peace: second, a place for harried
parents to see the show while
baby wails away: third, a place where
crying babies will not annoy other
matrons.
The room has space for a dozen
child-carrying papas and mamas. It
is soundproof, with controlled sound
fljeakers inside. There is a clear
Tiew of the screen through specially
iinted plate glass window across the
antire front of the room.
'•Babies are cute and we all love
them," said Mrs. Elrod. "There's no
reason to stay at home if you can't
get a sitter. Come and see the show.
It's fine."
M. N. Wolf of MGM Speaks
To Southern Civic Clubs
BIRMINGHAM—Maurice N. Wolf of Bos-
.^o^, Mass., a representative of the pubhc
,-elations department of MGM, has been
making a series of addresses before luncheon
clubs throughout the southeast.
He spoke before the Rotary club here, the
Rotary in Chattanooga, and the Lions club
in Montgomery.
In his talk at Montgomery, he said that
-^nly about five per cent of the two billion
.i.ollar motion picture industry is Invested
in Hollywood. "The rest of the money in
this vast industry," he said, "is scattered
throughout the country." Only six per cent
of the people employed in motion picture
work are employed in the film capital, he
udded.
In his speech here. Wolf said that the
average black and white feature costs about
$225,000 to produce and the average color
It's nice and comfortable inside the Linden Circle
cry room. Babies soon quit crying as you can see from
this picture. They amuse one another.
film about four times that much. Average
is length 10,000 feet, or two miles film.
of
A graduate of the University of Texas,
Wolf owned and operated theatres in his
home city of Houston before entering the
distribution end in 1917. He managed offices
in Denver, Salt Lake City, Albany. Los
Angeles and Canada.
in charge of MGM
For 23 years he was
sales and distribution
New England.
in
Higher Audience Standard
Key to Better Pictures
MIAMI—At a recent Town Hall Forum program
here, Harold J. Kennedy, actor and
playwright, told his of audience a thousand
persons that much as they need improvement,
neither radio programs nor movies will
be better until the American public does something
about raising its own intellectual
standards.
"Film producers," said Kennedy, "are not
interested in making good pictures. Neither
are they interested in making bad films. They
want successful pictures: they want pictures
that people will go to see. The same thing
is true of radio sponsors: they want the kind
of shows that will sell their products, regardless
of whether the shows may be good or
bad."
Kennedy said that despite its reputed average
mental age of 13 li years, the film audience
enters a show at any stage of the picture
and immediately picks up the thread of the
plot, keeps it in mind during a cartoon, a
newsreel, a preview, and then starts right out
at the beginning of the feature without a
hitch.
Illustrating his points with many specific
instances, Kennedy said the "live" theatre is
becoming better because of motion pictures.
He predicted the singing commercial will close
with the general coming of television as
"singers' adenoids are not photogenic."
NIGHTS, 21222 21348 New Booth Equipment
SYLVANIA, GA.—New sound and projection
equipment has been installed in the
New Fernandina Theatre
Being Built by C. E. Beach
FERNANDINA, FLA.—C. E. Beach, owner
of the local Ritz, has started construction of
the new 800-seat Han (pronounced eye-Ian)
theatre. Contract was awarded last November
Reduce Northport Prices
NORTHPORT, ALA.—Admission prices at
to the
Augusta, Ga.
is set at five
Southern Construction Co. of
Estimated construction period
months. Cost will be about
the new Disney Theatre here have been reduced
to 10 cents for children and 33 cents
for adults. Roth E. Hook of Eutaw, Ala., recently
$100,000.
This is definitely a "theatre of tomorrow,"
which
constructed almost entirely of steel, concrete
assumed control of the house,
and plastics. Specifications provide
was built by A. R. Disney of Northport.
for its being fireproof, htirricane-proof and
Takes Fencing Master Role
vermin-proof. The building will be air conditioned.
The role of fencing master in the Errol
Flynn starrer, "Don Juan," a Warners' picture,
It will be a new type of semifabricated
building as manufactured by Great Lakes
has been assigned to Fortunio Bonanova.
The front will be designed and
Steel Corp.
built by Poblocki & Sons of Milwaukee. It
will first be the Poblocki designed theatre
of its kind in the southeast, according to
the designers, although several are said to
have been erected by the Paramount and
THEATRE
Fox chains. Beach decided on this type theatre
SUPPLY
COMPANY
after extensive inspection of theatres
in the northwest.
1021 GRAND
PROIECTORS
FORT SMITH, ARK.
•MARQUEES
Actors Lose Baggage
KNOXVILLE—Members of the Barter Theatre
troupe lost clothing, personal property,
suitcases and trunks valued at more than
when they played at the Bijou Theatre
SEATS
• TICKETS
$800
here
four
recently.
Abingdon,
The
Va.,
property,
members
belonging
of the ca.st,
to
was stolen from a bus.
SCREENS
• ACOUSTICS
TUBES
•CARPETS
Remodeling at Jasper
JASPER, FLA.—The Fay Theatre is dark
at present while repairs are being made to
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
the building and new seats installed. James
Biddle is manager.
24-HOUR SERVICE .. PHONE 7402
SUNDAYS, HOLIDAYS — PHONE 4910 -
Dixie Theatre, according to Mrs. Marjorie A.
Flanders, manager.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. . . New
. . Fred
BIRMINGHAM
•R/Tack Jackson of Alexander City, president
^^ of SETOA. was a visitor here. His sister
has been ill at Highland Baptist hospital . . .
M. J. Curl, father of Hai'ry M. Curl, Melba
manager, also has been ill here. He underwent
treatment at Jefferson hospital . .
N. H. sr., Waters of head Waters Theatre
Co.. is a member of the committee seeking to
raise $2,500,000 throughout the state for Howard
and Birmingham-Southern colleges . . .
R. J. Inghram, Southern division manager for
Columbia, was a visitor.
H. M. Van Devender. formerly employed in
the Atlanta office of Southeastern Theatre
Equipment Co., accompanied R. M. Ware, Alabama
representative, on a visit here. Van
Devender is taking over the Temaessee territory
for the company . Ford. RKO
exploiteer, Memphis, was here working on
the campaign for "The Fugitive." He reported
that Charles Kinney wiU be in
Birmingham to set up some pictures for the
Empire after he finishes a Miami assignment
on "The Bishop's Wife."
J. A. Jackson, Empire manager, is high
in his praise of "Tycoon" as "a good allaround
picture," expecting to hold it for a
third downtown week. Jackson has been busy
plugging "Carnegie Hall," which will follow
"Tycoon," and has effected a good Steinway
piano tieup. All local treasury department
employes were guests of the Empire for a
screening of "T-Men" January 7.
Wilby-Kincey local managers report an enjoyable
time at the birthday party held recently
in Atlanta for R. B. Wilby. Among
those attending, in addition to the managers,
were Mrs. Betty Crum, secretary to R. M.
Kennedy, Alabama-Tennessee district manager,
and Paul Engler, head of Jefferson
Amusement Co. . . . John Geiger, husband of
Mrs. Mildred Geiger, secretary to Frank V.
Merritt of Acme Theatres, has been undergoing
hospital treatment.
Sarah O'Brien, Norwood cashier for
Waters, has resigned and has been replaced
by Barbara Ann Mauldin, a former relief
cashier . . . Lois Howell is new cashier at the
Avon, replacing Colleen Blair . . . Lucy
Barnes, who has been on leave of absence
from the Fairfield Theatre, has returned as
a relief cashier . . . Mrs. Earl Bladom, Empire
cashier, was off several days because of
illness . . . T. C. Laird, Royal doorman, is another
who has been on the sick list.
S. L. Masdon jr. of the Princess Theatre
staff in HaleyviUe presented a trophy to
Edna Earle Fuller, 17, w'inner of the title,
"Miss Haleyville of 1947" in a contest sponsored
by the theatre and local merchants
members of the Chamber of Commerce
in Jackson, Miss., include Arthur Lehman
of the Booker T. Theatre and Elton
Houck of the Joy. They were among 72 newmembers
signed by the chamber during a
November campaign.
Leroy Renfro Sells Grove
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BOXOFFICE ;; Januai-y 17, 1948
103

. . Mr.
. . W.
.
. . Gene
MEMPHIS
T^avid Flexer, head of Flexer Theatres, is in
New York on business for his chain of
drive-ins. Flexer, recently elected chief
barker of the Variety Club, will leave New
York January 20 for two weeks of business
conferences in Hollywood where he is a partner
in Impossible Pictures, Inc., engaged in
production of cartoons.
Clair Hilders, who became district manager
for Eagle Lion in charge of the Dallas division
last week. Is expected in for an official
visit to the local exchange within the next
few days. The exchange here is now in Hilder's
division . . . J. E. Garrison, district
manager, St. Louis, and F. J. A. McCarthy,
general sales manager, New York, were visitors
at Universal . B. Rogers, who
January 5 bought the Grove in Holly Grove,
Ark., from L. J. Renfro jr., was on Filmrow
booking.
Two operators of new theatres at Mountain
View, Ark., were in booking and shopping.
Mrs. T. T. Foster, owner of the new Uptown,
which opened in Mountain View January 10
replacing a theatre that burned there, reported
good business. R. N. James, owner of
the new Stone Theatre, which just recently
was opened in Mountain View, was on the
Row at the same time. He also reported
lively business.
Two Universal salesmen have been honored
in a company sales campaign. Charles
Ost won second highest place among southern
salesmen and R. N. Wilkinson fourth
place in the same division . . . Blanche James,
availability clerk at Eagle Lion, was married
here January 3 to Howard McClelland. They
are on their honeymoon at an unannounced
resort. Mrs. McClelland will be back on the
job next week . and Mrs. Tom Young
attended the funeral for Mrs. Young's father,
I. L. Shepard at Dyersburg. Tenn. Young is
manager of 20th-Fox.
Midsouth exhibitors visiting on the Row included
A. J. Cole, Cassidy, Webb: W. S.
Tyson, Tyson, Clarksdale; Emma Cox, Gem,
Osceola; W. T. Ellis, Ellis, Regent and Wesco,
Cleveland; Burris Smith, Diane and Imperial,
Pocahontas; Louise Mask, Luez, Bolivar; J. A.
Petty, Wayne, Waynesboro; Mrs. Jack Mahon,
Tutrovansum, Tutwiler; Mrs. H. L. Love,
Bono at Bono and Egypt at Egypt; Prank
Fisher, Jan, Como; Garlon Swift, Dallas,
booker for Dunlap Theatres which operate
the Palace at Greenwood, Ark.; G. H. Goff.
Rustic, Parsons.
Also Tom Ford, Ford, Rector; W. F. Sonneman,
Ozark, Uark and Royal, Fayetteville;
Phillip Turnipseed
CARPET LAYING CONTRACTOR
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FILMACK TRAILERS
TWO THOMPSONS GREET BUDDY—
When Buddy Rogers visited Atlanta recently
in behalf of his "Sleep, My Love."
among those to greet him were J. H.
Thompson (center) of the Martin &
Thompson circuit and Gov. M. E. Thompson
of Georgia.
J. M. Mounger, City, Calhoun City; Mr. and
Mrs. Roy Cochran, Juroy, North Little Rock;
R. R. Clemmons, Dixi», Adamsville; J. J.
Sharum, Chandell and Metro, Walnut
Ridge; E. F. Van Blake, Strand, Morehead;
Walter Gray, Rutherford, Rutherford; C. T.
Willis, Munford, Munford, and J. A. Owen,
Amory, Amory.
Also J. T. James, James, Cotton Plant; Wilfred
Bond, Dyer. Dyer; Bennie Huffner, Clinton,
Clinton; Walter Lee, Gem, Heber
Springs; Mrs. Ann Hutchins, State, Corning;
H. O. Odom, Odom Bros. Theatre, Durant;
K. K. King, Pla^a, Searcy; K. H. Kinney,
Hays, Hughes; W. C. Kroeger, Shannon,
Portageville; Louis Haven jr.. Haven circuit,
Forrest City, Ai'k.
Forrest Dunlap, Dallas, who operates the
Dunlap chain, one house of which is the
Palace in Greenwood, Ark., was on the Row
. . . O. W. McCutchen, Roxy, Ritz and Gem
at Blytheville, was a visitor . . . Mrs. Beatrice
Davie of the booking department at Warner
Bros, has been transferred to the contract
department and Martha Summers, contract
department, to the stenographic department
. . . Virginia Redmond, booking stenographer,
is a new employe at Paramount. She took
the place of Rachel White, who has resigned
Audrey Totter, MGM actress, will make personal
appearances at Loew's State January
22 in connection with the opening of the
picture, "High Wall," in which she plays opposite
Robert Taylor . Autry and his
show gave four performances last Saturday
and Sunday at EHis Auditorium. Autry flew
here in his twin-engine Beechcraft.
Resumption of Saturday afternoon kiddy
matinees at three Memphis theatres under
auspices of Better Films councils proved
popular recently and well be continued each
Saturday until further notice. Peabody, Airways
and Rosemary are the theatres . . .
Joyce Arling and her husband, James Bell,
frequently appear in films shown here, l^ss
Arling is the former Doris Burge, whose
parents, Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Burge, still live
in Memphis. Bell, playing the kindly priest
in "Killer McCoy," was recently seen at
Loew's Palace.
FOR GREATER LISTENING PLEASURE
HARDIN THEATRE
SUPPLY CO.
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I Kinds olThealre (gulpmenl -k Parts lor All Makes ol Pioiectoi!
Wometco Managers Open
'Popcorn Bowl' Contest
MIAMI—Van Meyers of the Wometco organization
writes that "considerable speculation
was aroused one morning when ominous
signs reading 'WWATD' appeared on office
walls." A lot of guesses were made including
'ine by a morbid rascal who stated maybe
It meant, 'We want all troupers dead.'"
"Managers," reported Meyers, "were sent
personally addressed cards reading 'WWATD.'
Some wondered whether they were 'mash'
notes, but a selected few were sure it was the
bosses' code word for 'raise.' With the followup
teasers it became increasingly apparent
that a confection contest was getting under
way and that WWATD stood for 'We Want a
Touchdown.'
"The theme of the contest is the rugged
game of football. In a morning meeting at
the Capitol, attended by confection girls and
managers, the 'secret' was revealed, and the
machinations laid bare. A quota was given
each theatre based on past performance, and
the five week's quota of each unit equals 100
per cent. Since a gridiron is 100 yards long,
every time a imit sells 1 per cent of its total
quota its football moves one yard.
"The 'Popcorn Bowl' gridiron is in Van
Meyers office and the progress of the units
can be observed there. First prize will give
the winning manager and winning confection
girl an all-expense two-day trip to Havana
reportedly worth $125 each. For second prize
each winner will receive a table model radio.
Third prize amounts to $15 for manager and
for sales girl. Fourth prize is $7.50 for winning
manager and for winning sales girl."
Reject Switch of House
To Negro Patronage
BIRMINGHAM—Proposals to convert the
Birmingham Theatre into an all-Negro playhouse
have been spiked again by the city
commission. The city fathers reaffirmed their
action in revoking a peiinit for building
alterations necessary to carry out the conversion.
The Panta Corp., represented by attorney
William S. Pritchard, sought to have the
commission reconsider its action. He contended
that the theatre has been used by
Negroes for more than 20 years through an
entrance on 17th street. The street is now
zoned for Negro commercial and business
property.
The owners, Pritchard asserted, "now
r.'.erely want to continue to do what has
been authorized all the while." That is,
he explained, use the Negro entrance on
17th street, closing the present white entrance
on Third avenue and make it an all-
Negro house.
Pritchard said that there are now only
2,500 seats for Negroes in downtown theatres,
while there ai'e 12.500 for white.
Supervises Premiere Plans
Mort Goodman airlined to San Francisco
to supervise the final plans for the world
premiere of Republic's "The Flame." Proceeds
will be given to the European-aid organization,
CARE.
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

. Front
. . Branch
. . Janet
. .
CHARLOTTE Showman s Son Is Swim King at 3
/-Construction is to start soon on the 600-car
^ drive-in theatre which B&L Theatres will
build on the road between High Point and
Thomasville. The B&L company is made up
of Frank A. Beddingfield, T. A, Little, S. W.
Craver and J. P. White jr., all of Charlotte.
Walter Powell has resigned as salesman for
20th-Fox to join Screen Guild. Manager Scott
Lett assigned him to eastern North Carolina
office personnel at RKO worked
in overcoats recently when the boiler blew
out just as a cold spell developed. A new
furnace was installed.
Office Manager Clay Jessup spent several
days in Walhalla, S. C, with Mrs. Jessup's
family .
Manager Rovy Branon
and family visited Mrs. Branon's mother in
Davidson . Ingle spent several days
in Lake City, S. C, with her mother .
Ruby Poovey went home to Granite Falls,
Ruby Brown to York and Kit Woodard to
Raleigh . . . Laura Gross and husband made
a quick trip to Cincinnati and Mary Lou
Gregory spent several days in Kershaw.
Visitors on the Row: H. R. Berry, Hartsville,
S. C: William Conn, Gastonia, N. C;
H. P. Howell, Smithfield. N. C; J. W. Mc-
Millan, Latta, S. C: Mrs. J. T. Gibson. Laurinburg.
N. C: Lyle M. Wilson, Roanoke Rapids.
N. C.: Roy Rosser. Sanford. N. C: Jimmy
Austin, Clinton. N. C; A. O. Hill, Ware
Shoals, S. C, and Morris Littman, Rutherfordton,
N. C.
MIAMI—Franklin Maury, manager of the
Surf, a Wometco theatre, has such an expanded
chest he can scarcely get through
the door. The reason is because his 3-year-old
son Vincent won the second annual junior
swim-for-health contest, and was crowned
Junior Swim king while notables applauded
and newsreels turned. The contest was held
at an ocean front pool recently.
Vincent was entered by his mother, not so
much in the hope of winning, but because
newsreels were to be taken of the event and
it seemed a good way for his grandparents
up north to get to see him. But Vincent up
12
EPISODE
and won, being picked for his build and personality
and general looks. He made the
sports pages of all the local papers, posed
with the queen of the Orange Bowl, and was
pictured being held in the arms of Frank
Leahy, Notre Dame's famed coach.
The junior king displayed such savoir-faire
that he now has his fir.st job modeling clothes
for a bathing suit company and is about to be
issued a social security card.
"Shucks, it weren't nothing," says "the
king" in effect.
Maury formerly was with the Fabian circuit
in Harrisburg, Pa.
SERIALS
%^
Jacksonville Robber
Tripped by Generosity
ST. AUGUSTINE— Several weeks ago the
Palace in Jacksonville was robbed of $1,100.
Now the robber has been caught here. The
clue which led to his capture was the carelessness
with which he passed out wads of
money in a cafe.
The thief, James McPherson, stated that
he was at a cafe when it came time to
settle the check. None of his companions
had any money.' McPherson told the others
sit still to while he went out and got some.
He went around the block to the Palace
and held up the cashier with a fountain pen
as his only weapon. Returning to the cafe
the generous robber passed out wads of
money until the suspicions of a nearby guest
were aroused. Following McPherson he learned
his name and where he was going. Police
did the rest.
McPherson comes from California and
when arrested confessed to this theft and
many others. Said he: "I've been drunk for
eight months. All the things I got away
'.vith! It even puzzled me!"
Null Adams in New York
MEMPHIS—Null Adams, BOXOFFICE representative
in Memphis, is in New York to
attend the American Press Institute's city
editors seminar January 19-February 7.
Adams is city editor of the Press-Scimitar.
The seminar is held at Columbia university.
Hila McGee, a member of the Press-Scimitar
staff, is handling BOXOFFICE's business
in Memphis during his absence.
Keeps Spring Promise
OKEECHOBEE, FLA.—Last March Gilbert
Culbreth, manager of the Gilbert Theatre,
announced he would make a Christmas
present of a new Chevrolet sedan to the
holder of a lucky ticket stub. Stubs were to
be deposited in a big box during the yf
There were almost a million stubs in the box
when the drawing was held. J. H. Parker of
Port Drum was the lucky holder.
BOXOFFICE : : January 17, 1948
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ACCESSORIES
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Ready for Dating Feb. 1, '48
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105

. . Nat
. . Jack
. . Florence
. .
. . . Jimmie
. . . George
. . Fred
. . Warner
. . ALso
Showman-Artist Glamorizes Lobby
By Drawing Sketches of
MIAMI—At the Strand Theatre, one
of the Wometco chain, the manager,
Bernard Schaft, is capitalizing on what
used to be his trade and is now his
hobby. Every night, from 6 to 9, he
sets up his easel in the lobby and begins
to sketch.
A very handy man with crayon,
Schaft soon has an interested audience
and he offers to sketch any patron
who cares to pose for a few moments.
Few can resist and those who are
sketched may either take their portrait
along with them, or may leave it
to be hung in the lobby along with
many others.
Schaft, of course, makes no chargvfor
his work and those who do not
it is realize that the Strand's manager
who sketches nightly in the lobby, become
very curious to know why an
artist should so cheerfully be giving
away his handiwork. "They ask some
pretty fimny questions," he says, their
bafflement seeming to add to the enjoyment
that he takes in his self-appointed
job.
If you think that Schaft's nightly
sketching sessions, which "I began just
as a gag," don't beglamor the theatre's
lobby and draw patrons like
ATLANTA
paul V. Phillips, Wilby-Kincey manager in
Salisbury, N. C, was a visitor. He is one
of the oldtimers in the show business, having
worked for all the old majors here before
entering exhibition. R. B. 'Wilby gave him a
watch in commemoration of 20 years service
with the circuit . Williams, the circuit
showman from southern Georgia, and the
Alexanders of the Heard in Franklin, Ga.,
were here.
R. A. Dye has acquired the Eagle, Monteagle,
Tenn., from G. C. Davidson.
The following changes have taken place on
Filmrow: At Eagle Lion, Grover Parsons,
local manager, moved up to district manager,
and Nelson Towler, sales manager,
moved up to branch manager at Republic.
Merritt Davis, former southern district manager
now manager of the local branch, and
Jimmy Hobbs. branch manager, is sales manager.
Walter Hickey, oldtimer on Filmrow, is in
the hospital ill . . . 'William K. Richardson,
president of the Astor Pictures of Georgia,
left on his annual vacation in Florida . . .
Betty Coppens has resigned at Film Classics.
Harry Whitestone and son, owner of the
Patrons
Bernard Schaft, manager of the
Strand in Miami, sketches a bathing
beauty in the theatre lobby.
flies, you're very much mistaken. Customers
love it, the models love it.
and Schaft himself gets a great kick
out of the whole idea.
Fairmount in Fairmount, Ga., were on the
Row . . . Z. C. "Curt" Shreve, southeastern
district manager for Manley's, Inc., back at
his desk after a road trip, says that business
was getting better in the theatres he visited
. . . P. L. Taylor, Dixie, Columbus, Ga., was
in booking . Elwell, general manager
of the Dixie Drive-In Theatres, visited company
theatres in the southern district.
Howard Wallace, local manager for Sack
Amusement Enterprises, was in Alabama . . .
Mr. and Mrs. Bernie Shapiro, owners of the
Southern Poster & Pi'inting Co.. returned
from a trip lasting several weeks . . . "Holiday
on Ice" will be at the Municipal auditoritmi
February 6-12.
Mrs. Wallace Smith, Gem, Barnesville, Ga.,
was in . . . Back from a pleasure trip to New
Orleans were Mi', and Mrs. Charlie Durmeyer.
Southern Automatic Candy Co., and
Jimmy Howell, 'Wilby-Kincey Theatres .
Grosses have taken an upturn here. The
Peachtree Art had "Upturned Glass," the
Rialto was showing "It Had to Be You" a
fourth week; Loew's Grand had "Good News,"
the Tower "Heaven Only Knows," the Fox
"Road to Rio," the Roxy "My Wild Msh
Rose" in its second week, and Nancy Carroll,
screen and stage star, was in "Personal Appearance"
at the Woman's Club auditorium.
Abe Brown of K&B, the hangout for Filmrow,
and his wife have returned from a visit
to Miami. Mi's. Brown left for Panama to
visit a daughter . ChamJee,
secretary to O. S. Barnett at Monogram, was
so excited the other day that in place of
carrying a can of tuna fish home she dropped
it
into the mail box.
Information furnished by an 11 -year-old
who "passed out" in a local theatre led detectives
to arrest William Dalton on charges
of possession of nontax paid whisky and
Gala Atlanta Party
Honors R.B. Wilby
ATLANTA—R. B. Wilby, one of the south'.s
most successful showmen, was honored
Wednesday (7) at an impressive party marking
his 60th birthday and his 40th anniversary
as a theatre owner.
More than 350 of the theatre executive's
employes, associates and friends gathered
at the Piedmont Driving club to pay their
respects to one of Atlanta's first citizens who
has given generously of his time to war
charities. Ma.sonic activities and Georgia
Tech alumni programs.
One of the most pretentious birthday cakes
ever baked in Atlanta, a replica of his first
theatre and complete with signs, marquee and
boxoffice, was presented to Wilby. Tlie cake
weighed more than 100 pounds.
A numbea- of New 'Vork and southern theatre
executives were present, including
Leonard Goldensen, president of Paramount
Theatres; E. 'V. Richards, New Orleans, president
of Paramount-Richards Theatres, and
Myron Blank, Des Moines, head of Ti-i-
States Theatres. Managers of all Wilby-
Kincey theatres also attended.
giving whisky to m.inors. The youth, taken
to Gradv hospital for treatment, said he went
to the show after drinking whisky given to
him by Dalton.
Clyde Goodson, local manager, and E. Fitzgerald
of Paramount were in Albany, Ga.
Willard, formerly with Capital
City Supply Co. and now with Strong Electric,
was a visitor.
.
Wil-Kin Supply notes: Gilbert Thornhill
has been added to the office force . . . Ralph
Blalock, sound engineer, returned from a
. . Jimmie
trip thi-ough South Carolina
Wilson, sales department, was on a vacation
Parr, for many years owner of
theatres in Lancaster. S. C, was here the
first time in many years . Jacks, UA
southern district manager, was at the local
branch,
Bert Davis of SRO and Henry Krunn,
southeastern district manager were back from
Memphis and New Orleans . Bros,
has recovered film valued at $371 which disappeared
from a shipment December 16. A
baler at the Atlanta Paper Co. found the
missing prints among stacks of waste paper.
Police speculated that boys collecting paper
accidentally picked up the packaged films
WiHis Davis, assistant to William K. Jenkins,
head of Georgia Theatres, got the jump
on Santa Claus while on a two-week fishing
trip. He sent back to the home office gifts
of filets, prepared from his catch . . . Many
happy returns to Athens, Ga., City Manager
Dan Hill of Georgia Theatres . to
Tom Jones, booker.
Although his first effort to erect an open
air theatre in DeKalb coimty met with defeat,
James G. Thigpen of Atlanta is still
trying. Thigpen submitted plans to DeKalb
planning board for a drive-in theatre to be
built between Memorial Drive and the old
Redan road. This week the board turned
him down after citizens of the area submitted
four petitions protesting the proposed cinema.
"The board had no objection to a theatre as
such," Thigpen said. "They merely followed
the will of the majority. I'm going to keep
trying to find a suitable location."
New owners of theatres in Georgia; J. N.
Well, the Hanger in Hapeville, and James
W. Blackwell, Linco. Lincolnton . . . Filmrow
visitors included C. A. Pittman, Gadsden,
Ala.; the Hammond brothers, Fyffe,
Ala.; R. E. Hook, Aliceville, Ala., and H.
Claude Boyd has
Jones Sulligant, Ala. . . .
resigned at Wil-Kin Theatre Supply to join
the State Neon Co.
106 BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Mary Pickford Opens
'My Love' in Ottawa
OTTAWA—Mary Pickford. Canada's original
film star, appeared at the world premiere
of "Sleep, My Love" at the twin Elgin
Theatre here Monday night (12 1. Miss Pickford
officiated at the formal opening of the
Canadian campaign for $100,000 for European
children. Proceeds of the premiere were
donated to the campaign, being conducted
under the auspices of the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
The Elgin is a 20th Century Theatres
house, managed by Ernie Warren.
Pi-ior to the premiere Miss Pickford was
a guest of Pi'ime Minister Mackenzie King
and of Governor-General Alexander and wife,
after which she was the honor guest at a
dinner attended by government officials and
other leaders.
A guard of honor from the Canadian
Mounted Police met here at the Elgin.
In Miss Pickford 's party were Ralph Cohn.
who with Miss Pickford and her husband.
Charles "Buddy" Rogers, comprise Triangle
Pi-oductions. makers of "Sleep, My Love," and
Paul Lazarus jr., publicity director. Charles
S. Chaplin. Canadian district manager for
UA. .said Gradwell Sears, general manager
of UA. was unable to come here because of
illness which confined him to bed in New
York.
Miss Pickford's party went to Montreal
Tuesday for the opening of the picture that
night, and to Toronto Wednesday for i{s bow
at the Upto^^^^.
Toronto Mayor Asks Shift
Of Show Tax to Provinces
TORONTO—Barely had the ballots been
counted in the 1948 city election, in which
he was returned to office before Mayor Robert
H. Saunders reopened his attack on the
theatres, this time taking in all the cinemas
of Ontario.
Addressing the Rotary club at nearby
Bramoton, Mayor Saunders advocated the
abolishment of the federal 20 per cent war
tax on theatre grosses and the transfer of
the tax privilege to Ontario for the benefit
of municipal governments to provide for hospitals
and unemployment and relief costs.
The mayor said he was making the request
for every city, town and village in Ontario
The attitude of Mayor Saunders has already
received the consideration of the National
Committee of Moving Picture Exhibitors
Ass'n, which in its demand for the
abandonment of the war tax, included a proviso
to exclude the provinces from reinstituting
the levy.
Ben Cronk's Deft Brush
Catches Friends' Fancy
Toronto—Ben Cronk. veteran advertising
director for Empire-Universal, sent
out a Christmas greeting card that is still
the talk of the Canadian film industry.
The picture on the handsome folder, consisting
of a religious sister clasping a
young girl, was a reproduction of one of
his oil paintings and the enthusiastic
comments of many associates stamp him
as an excellent artist.
One result has been a flood, of offers
to purchase the original work of art
at his own price but, as a painting hobbyist,
he has declined to sell. However, he
has prepared a photographic reproduction
in color and the reprints are in
great demand.
Some of the more curious admirers of
the painting have questioned Ben on his
selection of a church sister as his subject
because he is high in the Masonic lodge.
To which inquirers Cronk naively has
replied: "It's an Anglican nun."
The likeable Cronk only smiles when
the further suggestion is made that this
answer means he is boosting "Black
Narcissus," the feature of a rival film
company.
Quebec Withdraws
Approval of 'Duel'
TORONTO—The Canadian Selznick Releasing
Organization sustained a setback
when the Quebec Board of Moving Pictm-e
Censors at Montreal withdrew approval of
•Duel in the Sun" just prior to its opening
Sherbrooke. Que.
in
The picture, which is the first important
production of the new Selznick organization
in the Dominion, previously had enjoyed
its first run in the Province at Loew's,
Montreal. No reason was given by the Quebec
board for recalling the film which has
been approved in all other Canadian
provinces.
There was no immediate comment from
Charles M. Weiner. the Canadian Selznick
district manager at Toronto, or from Larry
Druxerman, the representative at Montreal.
Based on experience, there is little likelihood
of the success of an appeal from the
Quebec ruling.
First Quonset House
To Open in Canada
TORONTO—Brampton, a town in the
greater Toronto district, will have second a
theatre, and quickly. The first of the quon.settype
units in Canada is being completed there
at an estimated cost of $60,000 for its 600-.seat
capacity. The structure was erected in ten
days after the concrete foundations were set.
In front of the "hut," which measures
40x130 feet, is stone building with a 40-foot
a
frontage to accommodate the boxoffice, manager's
office, projection room, retiring rooms
and heating unit. Brampton has had one
theatre for years, the Capitol, which recently
was remodeled. It has been linked with
Odeon Theatres of Canada for several years.
Calgary Publisher Buys
Bulletin in Edmonton
EDMONTON—One of the two evening
dailies here, the Bulletin, has just been purchased
by a small svndicate headed by G. M.
"Max" Bell, publisher of the morning Albertan
in Calgary. Charles E. Campbell was
the publisher from whom the purchase was
made.
The Bulletin was founded by the late
Senator Frank Oliver on Dec. 6. 1880.
International Typographical union. AFL,
members returned to the Bulletin's composing
room immediately, ending a work stoppage
that started in June 1946.
FPC 25-Year Fete
VANCOUVER—This city will be the scene
of the annual 25-Year club banquet of
Famous Players Canadian January 26. Four
new members will be inducted: Dave Borland,
Dominion: Charlie Doctor, Capitol:
Tommy Thomson, Grandview, and Willis
Dewees, F. P. partner, all of Vancouver.
The club has 30 members in British Columbia.
Small Fire in Port Credit
PORT CREDIT, ONT.—Had the building
not been flameproof, fire, which broke out
January 4 at the Vogue Theatre, might have
caused heavy damage instead of being confined
to a small area in the basement. The
Port Credit volunteer fire brigade confined
damage to the electrical wiring, the telephone
box and a few old chairs.
Canada Removes Piano Tax
Giving Hope to Theatres
OTTAWA—The government has removed
pianos from the list of articles on which a
25 per cent consumer tax was imposed in
the dollar economy measures announced last
November. No other goods have been removed
from the new tax list, and the fact
that pianos have been exempted is not so
important as the indication that the government
is disposed to amend its regulations.
There is hope for others, including product
imoortant in the theatre business, which is
feeling the pinch in the import ban on projectors
and sound systems, including parts
for such equioment. and structural steel, the
latter for new theatres.
Bari in The Spiritualist'
Lvnn Bari has been cast in one of the starring
spots in Eagle Lion's "The Spiritualist."
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948 B
AT WHEATLEY OPENING—The Community club of Wheatley, Ont.. took a
prominent part in the program attendant to the opening of Harland Rankin's new
Erie Theatre in that community recently, sending a floral piece to the theatre and
taking two full pages in the newspaper in which merchants hailed the theatre's
opening. the picture, at Erie de

. . . Donald
. . The
. . Howard
. . . Most
. . Doug
. .
I
VANCOUVER
Mew on the Strand staff is Lillian Wren,
cashier. She replaces Stella Shewack, who
resigned to become a bride. Irma Pahl.
Strand head cashier, has announced her engagement
. Cameo at Whalleys Corners,
which has been doing below average
business since it opened six months ago, has
hit the jackpot with the addition of Foto-
Nite each week. It plaved to capacity last
week. Charlie Nelson of Foto-Nite supplied
the stage talent.
As usual at this time of the year colds
and flu are taking their toll of theatre staffs.
Hardly a house is 'unaffected and this plays
havoc with operations. There is still a continual
turnover in employes but with the new
employes union now getting under way managers
are hoping that staff conditions will
improve .
Boothe, Odeon district
manager, and his wife have left for a month's
combined vacation and business trip to California
and points south of the border. During
his absence Earl Hayter, British Columbia
supervisor, will take over.
Jack Randall, Strand manager, had his
first New Year's eve off in 16 years, but instead
of hitting the high points he and his
assistant, Mac Smee, spent the occasion completing
end-of-the-year reports and inventories.
Dave Borland, Dominion manager,
The new Odeon at West Vancouver,
expected to open shortly, is not wait-
did likewise . . .
ing the arrival of Gaumont-Kalee equioment
from overseas. Odeon is equipping the new
house with Century prelectors and sound
equipment. G-K equipment, however, is expected
to prrive in time for Installation at
the new Odeon at Victoria.
Al Jenkins, manager of the Odeon Plaza,
was passing out cigars on arrival of his first
child, a daughter . . . Violet Jenik of the
State boxoffice has been voted the best looking
local cashier . . . Lloyd Pantages of the
Hastings is mighty proud of his son Rodney,
who was the sparkalug when the local Blue
Bombers gave the Hamilton Tieers a beating
in the Dominion junior football finals held
here. Rod is also a fine basketball player
Hood, owner of the Lux at Hudson
Bay, Sask., was re-elected mayor of that
town for his second term at last week's elections.
Al Goodwin, manager of the Odeon Rio and
well known in radio circles, is doing a good
job in putting on amateur shows at three
of the chain's houses each week. He is in
charge of local talent at the Olympia, Rio and
Kingsway. The stage shows are upping
grosses considerable . . . The Hastings downtowner
will start amateur stage shows this
month, Al Mitchell reported. They will replace
the studio previews which will be moved
to the suburban Dunbar.
Joe Archer, manager of Foto-Nite, at long
last has been able to find office space. It is
two miles from Filmrow but was the only accommodation
available . . . Ivan Ackery and
his committee are working like beavers in
an-anging for talent, press and tieups for the
Canadian Picture Pioneers first film ball to
be held at Hotel Vancouver February 3. Ticket
sale is reported brisk and a big crowd is expected
to help swell the funds of the CPP
Benevolent fund.
Visitors were Herb Stevenson of Prince
George theatres; Maud Smithe, Odeon manager
from Duncan, B. C, and Dave Griesdorf.
Canadian manager for International
. . Pictures Because of the backlog of product
through lengthy runs, Odeon circuit has
made three additional first run outlets to its
Vancouver circuit. Policy now in effect at
the Paradise, Park and Lux gives Odeon six
first run outlets here, two more than Famous
Players.
Theatre Confections, Ltd., played host to
Famous Players managers recently in the
new spacious candy warehouse in the east
end. Occasion marked the opening of this
new local service now available to B. C. theatres.
Neil Troy, assistant manager of TCL
from Toronto, and Kevin Fitzgibbons, who is
in charge of the local office, were hosts.
Front office employes now have been
granted a charter by lATSE. Election of officers
for Local F-71 will be held shortly, and
wage scales will be presented to the head offices
at Toronto.
Ivan Ackery, manager of the Orpheum, has
bolstered the Monday night screen program
with the Harmony House radio show from
his stage. The unit has an orchestra of 20
with guest stars each week. The program
is broadcast over the western CBC network,
and it is proving a business builder to this
city's largest theatre . . . James Smith,
president of Alliance Films, has completed
plans for the opening of a local exchange
which is expected to be operating in the new
year. The company will release foreign films,
the first of which will be "Shoe-Shine," to
be followed by "Before Him All Rome Trembled,"
both Italian-produced films.
A complete revision of British Columbia
theatre and film regulations is planned at
the new session of parliament this month
Vancouver theatres which ran
New Year's eve midnight shows reported that
business was not any too good due to many
house parties and the night club competition.
An epidemic of theatre breakins occurred
over the holiday season. Four suburban theatres
were entered with a gun battle taking
place between police and the thugs at one.
Losses were very small and juveniles were
blamed by police . . . Charles Weiner, general
manager of Selznick Releasing Organization
for Canada, was here checking SRC
releases with the circuits . . . Famous Players
will have 35 new theatres under construction
by the end of 1948 and 15 are expected
to be in operation before that time.
Two are in British Columbia.
Susan Fletcher, local radio commentator
who recently returned from Hollywood, did
not have a very happy holiday. She went to
a local hospital for an operation and while
there fire caused $2,000 damage to her residence
. . . The trade advisory board to Alberta
government recently was expanded
from three to five members, adding projectionist
members Bert Roebuck of Calgary
and Bill Geen of Edmonton. Phil Barber,
is
chief inspector of theatres for Alberta,
chairman. Theatre representatives are Walter
Wilson of the Capitol, Edmonton, and
Matt Parks of Stettler, who is also president
of the Alberta Theatres Ass'n.
Because the music forms an important
part of MGM's "Song of Love," CharUe Doctor,
manager of the Capitol, prepared and
mailed to 4,500 members of the city's musical
societies a special letter calling attention to
music by Liszt, Brahms, Schumann and
Strauss, featured in the picture, resulting
in a good week's business.
. -
Remodeling of the Odeon's Lonsdale in
North Vancouver will be started shortly .
The new Cardinal Pictures Co. announced it
has acquired the Dominion franchise for the
Devonshire group of British reissues. Harry
jr. is Allen Cardinal's British Columbia representative.
Cardinal also will release Film
Classics in British Columbia.
Frank McKenzie, assistant manager of the
Orpheum, is back on the job after a stay
in a hospital for an operation . . . Sandy
Arenovsky, formerly at the Stanley, has been
added to the staff of the Orpheum .
Marion Morton, who was at the Strand here
for 12 years, is back in show business again
as assistant to Norman Duncan at the Cinema
International.
The Marpole, which has been closed for
alterations, reopened in time for the Christmas
season . . . Byron Joy, projectionist at
the Lonsdale, returned from the hospital following
an appendectomy . West, who
operates a 16mm circuit up the coast from
Vancouver, was here for the Christmas
holidays, combining business and visiting exchange
friends.
New Warner Newsreel
Premieres in Toronto
TORONTO—The first Canadian edition of
the newly inaugurated Warner Bros, news
weekly appeared at the Capitol and Eglinton,
two Famous Players first run theatres here
January 9. The Canadian reel, to be issued
weekly, contained a number of clips in color,
which is an innovation in the Dominion, except
for special topical releases such as the
Arthur Rank picture of the royal wedding.
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Quantities up to 1200 of a kind
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945 Granville St.
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108 BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

Very
. . S
Calgary Grosses Up
After Holiday Drop
CALGARY—Finish of the holidays came
up to local show-men's expectations. .First run
attractions were of mediocre caliber, but all
houses drew above average, pointing to the
start of a good winter season. Top hits, when
they come along, are probably going to bring
back the lineups again.
(Average Is 100)
C^rilol—Where There's Lile (Para) Very good
3-and—New Orleans (U.^); Blondie's
Anniversary (Col) 'Very good
.--nd—Wistlul Widow ol Wagon Gap
J-1) . good
.!:::re—Wild Harvest (Para' Very good
Road to Rio' and Tor Keeps'
Top Good Vancouver Week
VANCOUVER—Grosses were still on the
upgrade this week where new top product
was being shown, but signs of slipping appeared
in spots which depended mainly on
holdovers or oldies. "Road to Rio" at the
Capitol was the leader. "This Time for Keeps"
at the Orpheum also was good. The Dominion
finished a 15-day engagement on "The Foxes
of Harrow" to record breaking business;. A
twin bill. "The Fabulous Texan" and "That's
My Girl" at the Paradise did above average.
r^citol—Head to Rio (Para) Excellent
rrriinicn—The Foxes ol Harrow (20th-rox),
nioveover. Two Blondes and a Redhead
iCol) 2nd wk Good
Hasting Body and Soul (UA), moveover Good
Internctional Cmema—Thief of Bagdad (SR),
reissue
Good
Oroh-um—This Time for Kee"s (MG»1) Very good
Paradise—Fabulous Texan (Rep); That's
My Girl (Rep) Good
r-irt and Plaza—Captain Boycott (EL) Good
;• rand—The Secret Life of Waller Mitty
RKO), 2nd wk _ Average
'.•--gue—It Had to Be You (Col) Good
Business at Toronto
Maintains High Level
TORONTO—Last week was featured by
holdovers of holiday attractions at five theatres
with business maintaining a high level
desDi'^e the ealloDing prices on living commodities.
"The Bachelor and the Bobby-
Soxer" was in its third week at the Tivoli and
Eglinton and pictures having a second week
were "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" at
the Imperial, "Road to Rio" at Shea's, and
"Green Dolphin Street" at Loew's.
Capitol and Victoria—Drums Along the Mohawk
(20th-Fox),- The Mark of Zorro COtli-Fox), reissues
100
Eglinton and Tivoli—The Bachelor and the Bobby-
Soxer (RKO), 3rd v.k 95
Fa:rav.n—Captain Boycott (EL) 115
:rr...;e::a!—The Secret Life of Waller Mitty (RKO),
:nd -.-.v.
__ 105
L?.3v.-s—Green Dolohin Street (MGM), 2nd wk 105
S;ieas—Road to Rio (Para), 2nd wk, . . 105
jFlcwn—The Pirates of Monterey (U-I).. 115
Odeon Changes Managers
In British Columbia Spots
VANCOUVER—Odeon circuit has completed
several managerial changes in the
British Columbia division.
Bob Fraser has been moved from the Circle
to the Paradise here.
Frank Brown, assistant manager of the
Hastings, was promoted to manager of the
Odeon in Abbotsford, succeeding John Stobbart,
who moved to the local Rio.
Jimmy Adams of the Olympia has taken
over the Circle and Al Goodwin of the Rio
was moved to Olympia.
Elliott Brown of the Odeon in Trail will
be in charge of the new Odeon at West Vancouver,
which is to open shortly.
Jack Armstrong of the local Paradise has
succeeded Brown at the Odeon in Trail.
Al Davidson of the Plaza in Victoria has
been promoted to manage the new 1,500-seat
Odeon there.
Silverstone Is Introduced
At Dinner in Toronto
TORONTO—Andrew W. Smith jr.,
general
sales manager of 20th-Fox. introduced the
acting Canadian
asion
divi-
manager, Arthm-
Silverstone, at a dinner
for industry leaders
last week in the
Royal Park hotel. Silverstone
took over in
place of Sydney Samson,
who is on an indeterminate
leave of
absence due to illness.
Silverstone has been
assistant managing director
for 20th-Fox in
London. Among those
„., at the luncheon were
, ,. ^
Arthur Silverstone jghn J. Fitzgibbons,
president: Ben Geldsaler, Jimmy Nairn,
Morris Stein. Larry Bearg, Rube Bolstad
and Jack Arthur of Famous Players; J. Earl
Lawson president; Harvey Hunt, George
Peters, Clare Appel and Larry Graburn of
Odeon Theatres; Nat Taylor, president;
Raoul Auerback and Harry Mandell of
Twinex Theatres; Sam Fingold and Ralph
Dale, National Theatres; Jules Allen, Herb
Allen, Sol Allen and Gurston Allen, Premier
Theatres; Arthur Gottlieb, Consolidated
Laboratories; Edward Wells, president,
of the film board of trade; Ben Freedman,
president of Allied Exhibitors; Ben
Okun, president of Biltmore Theatres;
Arch Jolley, secretary of the Ontario Motion
Picture Theatres Ass'n; O. Silverthorn,
J.
Ontario censor
board.
latter recently acquired control of the Biltmore
theatres in Oshawa and Kingston.
The word in official quarters is that the
new economic measures. Including import restrictions
and heavy luxury taxes on some
articles, have brought an unemployment
situation to several Ontario cities and towns.
Three fires in a row have brought uneasiness
to the theatre interests. Flames destroyed
a part of the basement of the Vogue
at nearbv Port Credit. The theatre was
empty. Fire gutted the interior of the Paris
at Gatineau Point in the Ottawa area, causing
a loss of $10,000 in the 240-seat house
bought last spring by Wilfrid Berlinguette.
At Kitchener there was a scare for a large
audience in the Capitol when a man rushed
in shouting "Fire," but Manager J. C. Musclow
calmed the patrons from the stage. The
blaze was in an apartment block next door.
MONTREAL
^el Johnson, director of advertising for
United Amusement Corp., announced the
opening January 15 of the Van Home Theatre,
a new house at the corner of Van Home
avenue and Cote des Neiges road .
. . Warner
Bros, commenced showing of Warner
Pathe News at the Imperial January 9 . . .
The Motion Picture hall at Shelter Bay, near
Bale Comeau, Quebec, was destroyed by fire
recently.
Astral Films of Toronto has opened an office
at 5965 Monkland Ave., Montreal, with
Gerry Bastien as manager and Miss. D. Carbonneau
as booker. I. H. Allan is proprietor
. . . "Bill" Trow, president of Quebec Cinema
Booking, also will open an office at 5965
Monkland Ave. Mort Prevost will be manager
and booker. Trow, who is president of Montreal
Poster exchange, recently returned from
a five-day stay in New York City.
Elmer Hollander, head of the playdate department
of International Film Distributors,
New York City, visited the Montreal office
. . . A. W. Perry, president and general manager
of Empire-Universal, paid a New Year's
call at the Montreal office . . . HaiTy Kaufman,
Toronto, eastern division manager for
Cardinal Films, has temporary headquarters
here with International Film Distributors.
Jason Cohen, office manager of Empire-
Universal, became the uncle of a baby girl,
born to his sister.
Allied Artists' first big picture, "It Happened
on Fifth Avenue," was in its third week
at the Snowdon. "Black Gold," next Allied
Artists production will open early February
Also Haskell Masters, Warners; Ted Gould
and Henry Nathanson, MGM; Leo Devaney,
RKO; Alf Perry, U-I; Charles Chaplin, UA; at one of the first run houses.
Frank Vaughan, Monogram; Oscar Hanson,
Monogram;
dorf, PRC;
Frank Fisher, EL;
Gordon Lightstone,
Dave Gries-
Paramount;
Gordon Dann, general supervisor for Odeon
Theatres, announced the opening January
Louis Rosenfeld, Columbia, and Sam Fine
15 of a new theatre, the Odeon Mercier, of
and Sam Bloom, B&F Theatres. The 20th- which Alf Goulet has been appointed manager.
Goulet was replaced as manager of the
Fox Toronto office was represented by H. J.
Bailey, manager, and Harvey Kathron, Verdun Palace by Pat Brennan, who, in turn,
Lionel Lester, William Reid, Sam Glasier. was replaced at the Electra by E. Gariepy,
Among press representatives attending the whom Roger Houle succeeds as manager of
luncheon were Ray Lewis, Hye Bossin, Rolv the Parent Theatre . Jacobs, Montreal
Young, Helen Allen, Jack Karr, Bill Gladish
and Jack Chlsolm.
manager of Eagle Lion, made a two-day visit
to Sherbrooke, Que.
TORONTO
n fter many months the Biltmore at Yonge The Palace at Hamilton organized a morning
and Dundas streets downtown is nearing
cartoon show for the juveniles but was
forced to call off the performance because
completion. An attempt is being made to set
of a bad storm, the theatre offering its
the opening at Easter. Launched by Ben
Okun and associates, it is exnected the house apologies in a subsequent paid announcement
will be operated by Odeon Theatres, as the
. . . Louis Ziff. associated with three
theatres at the Niagara border, has been
elected mayor of Fort Erie, Ont., for 1948.
After attending a sales conference in New
York on the HolljT\'ood product of Eagle
Lion. David Griesdorf, president and general
manager of the newly formed International
Film Distributors, "Toronto, left for a
western Canadian tour of the company's
branches. He will be back about January 26.
J. Earl Lawson, president, and the directors
of Odeon Theatres were hosts at a cocktail
reception in the King Edward hotel for
prominent Torontonians. Invitations were
extended to a few key officials of the film
realm, magazine publishers and association
officials. This was the second function of
the season for Canadian Odeon, the previous
event having been a dinner for head office
employes, including staffs of affiliated Rank
companies.
1,1)«| BOXOFTICE :: January 17, 1948 109

. .
ST. JOHN
Alterations at the 300-seat Royal in Dominion,
N. S., including remodeling of
the projection booth and new equipment,
have been completed under the direction of
Olive Liscomb, manager. Her father, J. S.
Liscomb, has owned the place 30 years . . .
One of the buds from the grapevine is that
a new theatre to seat about 400 will be
started at Trenton, N. S., in the spring.
Tj-enton is a town of about 2,700, and a production
center for steel, railroad cars, etc.
Gordon Theakston, recently named manager
of the Gaiety, Halifax, can step up to
the piano or organ and entertain in any
emergency. Since leaving the navy and joining
the Walker chain, he has been manager
of the Armview, Halifax-Armdale, and the
Spryfield Kent.
Frank and Mrs. Audas of Parrsboro, N. S.,
will start work on their new theatre in
April, according to current plans. In the
meanwhile they are operating their Community
in Parrsboro, with Audas in the
projection booth and his wife as the manager.
For about 20 years she managed the
Strand, Empress and Capitol for P. G.
Spencer at nearby Amherst, and at the same
time Frank was the chief of projection.
Al Foster, who opened the Community at
Yarmouth for Franklin & Herschorn and
was there as manager for about seven years,
and later for several weeks at the Armview,
Halifax, his home town, has moved to
Quebec province to work for a theatre chain.
R. D. MacKay, chief projectionist at the
Savoy, Glace Bay, has a collection of ancient
photos he shows to friends who call on him.
There are some pictures of distribution figures
who worked here in bygone years. One shot,
of which Mac is especially proud, depicts
him with an elaborate, spraddling soup
strainer, including two-way handles .
C. E. Woodbury of the Savoy staff huddled
with Manager Henny Deveau of the Halifax
Garrick on a holiday trip there.
Being considered at the FPC Vogue, Sydney,
N. S., is a return to one afternoon matinee
and two shows a night . . . When informed
that the Garrick, Halifax, is being
remodeled, Joe Franklin wrote from his
Miami Beach winter home that this building
was "a fortress," the strongest that
plenty of cement and crushed rock could
make it. He should know, for he cleaned
up heavily there when he captioned it the
Strand, and offered vaudeville plus films in
the early war years. About a decade ago it
was taken over by Abe Garson. now maritime
topper for Odeon, from the bank that
had owned the building several years.
The Pictou county, Nova Scotia, CYO had
its president, Mrs. J. F. MacGuire, contact
theatre managers in the county in an effort
to have "Forever Amber" given the red light.
She was referred to the provincial censors
at Halifax and Odeon headquarters here as
well as local distributors. A request that
"immoral films" be barred from Nova Scotia
has been submitted to the provincial
government.
There is a possibility that the balcony rate
for the Regent, St. John, which recently
was raised to 39 cents, same as for the lower
floor, may be dropped to 35 cents in the
spring. The balcony patronage has gone
down.
If you saw Santa riding around at the
steering wheel of a car at St. John and
environs at yuletide, it could have been
Mitchell Franklin. Wearing the red garb
and white facial foliage, and liberally padded,
he covered a lot of mileage, dispensing
"Ho-Hos" and distributing gifts. Finding
liis impersonation in such demand he was
unable to cope with the deluge of calls not
only from friends but people he didn't know.
In "The Private Affairs of Bel Ami," John
Carradine lifts up a pant leg and fastens a
garter. While this scene was being depicted
on the screen at the Mayfair a stentorian
voice was heard. "Wliat's he putting a garter
on a cane for?" creating a hurricane of
laughter from the audience. This indicates
the prevailing trend toward sarcastic and
critical vocals from the audiences through
the maritimes.
CALGARY
n s the holidays ended, car after car pulled
out from the Film Exchange Bldg. as
film salesmen hurried to the road, taking
advantage of the mild weather. Within 48
hours the building was shorn of its usual
hum and hustle and personnel settled down
to the routine of shipping and rerouting film
cans, handling long distance calls and receiving
and dispatching publicity material.
A few reports coming in from larger country
towns and communities express satisfaction
with theatre business for the month
of December, after a fall season that has
been spotty. There's hope expressed that this
improved business will continue until the
opening of spring field work.
Holiday business in the theatres of Edmonton
has been excellent, well up to the
peak years. Midnight yule frohcs and previews,
aided by good weather, drew above
average patronage. Business on the whole is
excellent in this gateway of the north and
is expected to continue during the winter
months.
Adult Tag on Wedding
OTTAWA—The general public is not aware
of the fact but Ontario censorship regulations
require the words, "Adult Entertainment,"
on a theatre marquee when an adult
feature is included in a screen program.
Therefore, there was some eye-lifting when
the Centre used the canopy space to announce:
"Royal Wedding, in Color," with
"Adult Entertainment" in the third line
of spaces. The classification was not meant
to refer to the wedding but was there by
legal
compulsion.
Boycott Forces Valley
To Roll Back Prices
Peace River, Alta.—A "strike" of p^
trons of the Valley Theatre here against
an increase in ticket prices forced the
management to restore the old prices a
week after the new scale had gone into
effect. The theatre had put into operation
a 10-cent increase, boosting the adult
rate to 60 cents and the student fee to
45 cents. As soon as the new prices were
announced, pupils of the high school and
other schools declared a boycott and it
soon spread to their parents. One morning
the theatre discovered that its doors
had been marked up with huge lipstick
signs reading, "On Strike," "Don't Pay
Forty-Five," and similar messages. Soon
afterward the prices were rolled back.
New Theatre Considered
For Little Current, Ont.
LITTLE CURRENT, ONT.—Albert Rolston,
operator of the local theatre and gentleman
Albert Rolston
farmer, plans to put
up a new house this
year if building regulations
permit.
Rolston is a leading
citizen of the corirmunity,
and in addition
to operating the
theatre has a 2.000-
acre sheep ranch on
Manitoulin island, a
large turkey ranch, a
cold storage locker
plant here and a silicon
quarry which is
said to be one of the
best on the North
American continent. Rolston also is active in
politics.
Last year the Toronto radio made mention
of Rolston's Bar R ranch on its weekly comments
on outstanding industries of Ontario.
Britain Loses Preference
On Canadian Negatives
OTTAWA—The tariff preference of 50 per
cent on Canadian film imports from the
United Kingdom was wiped off by terms of
the Geneva tariff convention, January 1, but
the disappearance of this preferential treatment
has been practically offset by reduced
duties on the product from all comitries.
The duty on negative films from all sources
has been reduced from 27 'i to 10 per cent
while the new agreement cuts the duty on
positive prints from 2'i to 1^2 cents per foot.
Under the new excise and tax schedules,
the Canadian charges on each 1,000 feet of
negative film, brought into the country for
printing, amount to $22.60, which includes
excise, duty and sales tax with an arbitrary
valuation of eight cents per foot on the film.
In connection with the importation of 16mm
negatives for printing in Canada, such reels
can be brought into the country for a period
of three months without duty.
The trade practice has been to bring in the
negatives of many 35mm and 16mm theatrical
pictures for the running off of prints in a
Canadian laboratory.
Fire at Dalhousie
DALHOUSIE, N. B.—Damage was sustained
by the Capitol Theatre here when fire destroyed
an adjoining store.
OTTAWA
prior to the opening of "Crossfire" at the
Regent. Manager Henry Marshall conducted
a screening for invited guests and secured
well-worded reviews and editorials in
the press.
Leonard \\. Brockington, a director of
Odeon Theatres, attended a gathering of the
company executives in Toronto. He is scheduled
to be the speaker at the annual dinner
here February 4 of graduates of Queen's
university of which he is the rector.
Morris Berlin, proprietor of the Nelson,
staged a gift week for which patrons were
invited to bring articles for needy children,
which were turned over to the Salvation
Although the
Army for distribution . .
Rideau has been reopened after an extensive
remodeling job. the finishing touches are
being applied a of by corps workmen and
Manager Isser Singerman has been kept extremely
busy.
110
BOXOFFICE :: January 17, 1948

I
I
ICE BAROMETER • EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
\E CHART • REVIEW DIGEST • SHORTS CHART
rS REVIEWS • FEATURE REVIEWS
BookinGuide
• EXPLOITIPS
OXOFFICE
FIRST RUN REPORTS
This chart shows the records made by
pictures in five or more of the 21 key cities
checked. As new runs are reported, ratings
are added and averages revised.
BAROMETER
TOP HIT OF THE WEEK
My Wild Irish Rose-
Cincinnati 300
Denver 188
Omaha 185
mputed in terms of percentage in
ation to normal grosses. With 100
cent as "normal," the figures
percentage above or below
mark.
do Affair,
The (MGM)

EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
ABOUT
PICTURES
Just as the Barometer page shoius first run reports on current pictures this
department is devoted for the most part to reports on subsequent runs, made by
exhibitors themselves. A one-star contributor is new, two stars mean the exhibitor
has been writing in for six months or longer, and a three-star contributor
is a regular of one year or more, who receives a token of our appreciation All
exhibitors welcome.
COLUMBIA
Last of the Redmen (Col)—Jon Hall, Michael
O'Shea, Evelyn Ankers. Yes, sir—this was
some picture, and what casting! Michael
O'Shea and his Brooklyn accent sure did
Hawkeye plenty of good. And Jon Hall's characterization
of Major Haywood (an Englishman)
was really something. They should have
put Randy Scott and Henry Wilcoxon back in
their old roles and refilmed it as "Last of the
Mohicans" instead of "Last of the Redmen."
The people got a big laugh out of the whole
thing, flowever, we aren't kicking too much
as business was okay. Played 'Wed , Thurs.
Weather: Fair and cold.— R. V. Dinkle and
W. W. LeMaster, Midway Theatre, Midway,
Ky. Rural and small town patronage. * * »
Refurn of Monte Crisfo, The (Col)—Louis
Hayward, Barbara Britton, George Macready.
This picture was very well liked but its title
failed to draw here. Some alert film inspector
spliced the leader on one reel backwards
so the sound track was in the picture, necessitating
a shutdown. Audiences, of course,
always blame the operator for such occurences.
Had a good print and the sound was
excellent. Played Sat., Sun. 'Weather: Good.
—Lloyd Lafond, Rimrock Theatre, Winnett,
Mont. Small town and rural patronage. * * •
Song of the Prairie (Col)—Ken Curtis, June
Storey, Andy Clyde. This very is entertaining.
Comments were good. Doubled with
"Girl of the Limberlost." Average attendance.
Played Saturday. Weather: Cold.—
J. E. Rougeau, Club Theatre, Seven Sisters
Falls, Man. Small town and rural patronage.
•
Walls Came Tumbling Down, The (Col)—
Lee Bowman, Marguerite Chapman, Edgar
Buchanan. This was a very good murder
mystery and kept the people interested in it
all the way through. These Columbia pictures
do not draw as a rule and this was no
exception. Played Wed., Thurs. Weather:
Fine.—George MacKenzie, York Theatre,
Hantsport, N. S. Small town patronage.
*
EAGLE LION
Last of the Mohicans (EL)—Reissue. Randolph
Scott, Binnie Barnes. I enjoyed this
old one when I first saw it, so I gave
time. It backfired this time—can't understand
it A
it. A good action show for the small town.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.—Ralph
Raspa, State Theatre, Rivesville, W. Va. Rural
patronage. * * *
Three in a Saddle (ED—Tex Ritter, Dave
O'Brien, Guy Wilkerson. This is fine in every
detail —good musical numbers and action galore.
You've got to have the latter to make
a western go over big. Too much drama in a
western does not lit in well here. It's got to
be lively and this one was. Played Wednesday.
Weather: Snow, drifted on roads, and
cold.—W. H. Swan, Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe,
S. D. Rural patronage. . .
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
Love Laughs at Andy Hardy (MGM)—Mickey
Rooney, Lewis Stone, Sara Haden. Mickey
Rooney still packs them in and puts a comedy
over. The comments on this picture were good.
Played Wednesday. Weather: Clear and cold.
—J. E. Rougeau, Club Theatre, Seven Sisters
Falls, Man. Small town and rural patronage.
* •
Mighty McGurk, The (MGM) — Wallace
Beery, Dean Stockwell, Aline MacMahon.
Walter Beery should be put back in pictures
like Bad Bascomb." People here didn't like
this one.—James Davis, E. Rialto Theatre
Bennington, Okla. Rural and small town patronage.
* *
My Brother Talks to Horses (MGM)—"Butch"
Jenkins, Peter Lawford, Beverly Tyler. "Butch"
Jenkins gets by here and this made us a
nice bargain-night show. Played Wednesday
Weather: Cold.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre,
Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
^Unfinished Dance, The (MGM)—Margaret
O'Brien, Cyd Charisse,' Danny Thomas. Although
it was a ballet in Technicolor, it received
favorable comment by a select audience.
Played Wed., Thurs.-James C. Balkcom
jr., Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town
patronage. * * »
^Yearling, The (MGM)—Gregory Peck, Jane
Wyman, Claude Jarman jr. There is little
I can add to what Leo has already said
about this picture, except that I agree with
him all the way. This is the kind of picture
that brings new patrons to your boxoffice
and they leave so satisfied that more than
they will be back again. It did capacity
business both nights, which hasn't happened
midweek since "The Outlaw." Played
Thurs., Fri. Weather: Cold and cloudy.—
Carl E. Pehlman, Rio Theatre, Edinburg, 111.
Rural and small town patronage. * *
PARAMOUNT
Imperfect Lady (Para)—Ray Milland, Teresa
Wright, Sir Cedric Hardwicke. This show is
no good for us as it had an English locale
and people here go against them. We had 'a
true Paramount print—had to patch
day to get it to hold enough to run.
it for a
Played
Sunday. Weather: Okay. J. W. Trisko, Ritz
*
Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage. *
Jungle Princess, The (Para)—Reissue. Dorothy
Lamour, Ray Milland, Akim Tamiroff.
We have a soft spot here in our hearts for
Dorothy. Who wouldn't after playing this
picture three times to good business? Played
Wed., Thurs. Weather: Snow.—Harland Rankin,
Plaza Theatre, Tilbury, Ont. Small town
patronage. * •
Perils of Pauline (Para)—Betty Hutton,
John Lund, Billy De Wolfe. 'Very good. I believe
Betty Hutton is losing some of her zest,
but she still has plenty on the ball. Played
Sun., Mon. Weather: Cold.—Marcella Smith,
Vinton Theatre, McArthur, Ohio. Small town
patronage. * * *
Plainsman, The (Para)—Reissue. Gary
Cooper, Jean Arthur, James Ellison. Here is
a reissue that is worth while, although we
Gripes on Allocation;
Finds He Was Wrong
QNE of our Texas exhibitors is big
enough to admit he guessed wrong,
with the following comment about "Wild
Harvest," a Paramount production:
"I griped about the allocation on this
one only to find it outgrossed 'Welcome
Stranger," 'Desert Fury' and "Blaze of
Noon.' However, is less commendable
it
than the three mentioned."—C. J. Otts,
Royse Theatre, Royce City, Tex.
No Profit on Roadshow
Lost Balance of WeeJr !
BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES, THU
(RKO)—Myrna Loy, Fredric March
Dana Andrews. A wonderful picture thai
is everything they say, but could havt
grossed three times as much at regulai
prices—$1.20 is not for a small town. I
didn't make anything on this and lost
business the rest of the week. Played
Tuesday. Weather: Good.—E. J. Petersen,
Cozy Theatre, Jeffers, Minn. Rural
and small town patronage.
could have enjoye.d more people. Weath
and Christmas shopping were against
Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Snow.^
Harland Rankin, Beau Theatre, Belle Rive
Ont. Small town patronage.
Swamp Fire (Para)—Johnny Vv^eissmuU^
Carol Thurston, Buster Crabbe. This i:
sure-fire action picture. Everyone liked it
said so. This was one of the Pine-Thomd
better hits. Played Wed., Thurs. Weathi
Fair.—James E. Davis, Rialto Theatre, Be
nington, Okla. Rural and small town
tronage.
Wild Harvest (Para)—Alan Ladd, Dorotl
Lamour, Robert Preston. This show is ob
but business was off. Maybe the holiday sq
son's buying hurt. The show is well done
the acting good. Played Fri., Sat. Weath
Okay.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jeroi
Ariz. Mining patronage.
RKO RADIO
Cornered (RKO)—Dick Powell, Waller £
zak, Micheline Cheirel. A powerlul drama yi
plenty of action, but the story was hard |
follow. A pleased audience, in my car
Played Wed., Thurs. Weather: Good.—E.
Petersen, Cozy Theatre, Jeffers, Minn, Smcj
town and rural patronage.
^Farmer's Daughter, The (RKO)—Loretj
Young, Joseph Gotten, Ethel Barrymore. 'W
opened up our new Erie Theatre in V/heatle'
with this. Although it had played all aroun
us and in our other three units, it clickei
Played Mon., Tues., Wed. Weather: Cold.-
Harland Rankin, Erie Theatre, Wheatle
Ont. General patronage.
'-^Farmer's Daughter, The (RKO)—Lon
Young, Joseph Gotten, Ethel Barrymore. „
swell plot, swell comedy, good acting—
where was the crowd? At the Junior pli
Carnival and American Legion dance. B
if, though— it'll make any exhibitor hap]
Played Sat., Sun. Weather: Good.—Lla
Lafond, Rimrock Theatre, Winnett, Mont. Rii
patronage.
Gun Law (RKO)—Reissue. George O'Brii
Rita Oehman, Ray Whitley. This seemed
please those who came but business yf
just average. 1 guess they have forgotg
George O'Brien. Played Fri., Sal. Weath
Good.—E. M. Freiburger, Paramount Thi
tre, Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage. *
Honeymoon (RKO)—Shirley Temple, Frc
chot Tone, Guy Madison. This is a lovi
Long Night, The (RKO)—Henry Fonda, 1
bara Bel Geddes, Vincent Price. Too li
and rather boring. Business terrible and n
ly shouldn't have been played on my 1^
time. Pictures that must be seen from
beginning to be understood always fail hi
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Cold.—Rd
Raspa, Stale Theatre, Rivesville, W. Va. Ru
patronage.
Vacation in Reno (RKO)—Jack Haley, M
Jeffreys, Wally Brown. This is a good dou!
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide
^'

: Aifoirs
bill show, if you play "Dick Tracy vs. Cueball"
with it. There is comedy in the iirst
and Tracy in the last. It went well here.
Played Sunday. Weather: Okay.—D. W. Trisko,
Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage.
* *
1^ Wonder Man (RKO)—Danny Kaye, Virginia
ifayo, Vera-Ellen. What few saw it praised
highly. The cast members did their best
a T, but a blizzard hit us at 5 p. m., so no
trade that Sunday. We should have
sne twice the business we did. Sorry—no
jlt of the picture. Played Sat., Sun. Wealh-
As described.—W. H. Swan, Auditorium
3tre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural patronage. • * *
REPUBLIC
of Geraldine (Rep)—Jane Withers,
les Lydon, Raymond Walburn. We ran
is one with "Sioux City Sue" and can't
dge the draw but had some nice comments
this little programmer, which was a very
iiller for the weekend double bill. The
was okay and all satisfied. Played
Sat. Weather: Fine.—Mayme P. Musselm,
rice
",.,
Roach Theatre, Lincoln, Kas. Small town
stronage. * * »
Angel and the Badman (Rep)—John Wayne,
' lil Russell, Harry Carey. This man Wayne
appeal for our out-of-town customers.
^ed with a fight picture and did all right.
ired Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Snow.—
Hand Rankin, Joy Theatre, Bothwell, Ont.
nail town patronage. * *
i
Colorado Pioneers (Rep)—Bill Elliott, Bobby
"ike, Alice Fleming. Doubled with "G.I.
Brides." The first was fair, the second,
smal. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Good.—
J. Petersen, Cozy Theatre, Jelfers, Minn.
Bmall town and rural patronage.
*
Thai's My Man (Rep)—Don Ameche, Cath-
McLeod, Roscoe Karns. A very good
acture and I am sorry more people didn't
it, as Catherine McLeod is not only a
rgeous creature but a good actress. Played
jsday. Weather: Cold.—Marcellq Smith,
iton Theatre, McArthur, Ohio. Small town
Ironage. * * •
Winter Wonderland (Rep)—Lynne Roberts,
Tiarles Drake, Eric Blore. A lovely little ice
Mcture. We doubled and business was off,
to adverse weather conditions. Played
Sat. Weather: Cold and snow.—Harland
ikin, Plaza Theatre, Tilbury, Ont. General
onage. * * •
^Wyoming (Rep)—William Elliott, Vera Ral-
John Carroll. A good western for a
lity where westerns draw. Here it is
St another show. Played Mon., Tues. Weath-
Fair.—D. W. Trisko, Rilz Theatre, Jerome,
Mining patronage. * *
SCREEN GUILD PRODUCTIONS
[Wildfire (SG)—Bob Steele, Sterling Hollo-
>ay, William Farnum. A good picture that
"
Duld do well where they like horse pictures,
would recommend it for weekend book-
. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Cold
[jd snow.—Harland Rankin, Beau Theatre,
sUe River, Ont. General patronage. ' * *
20th CENTURY-FOX
fCamival in Costa Rica (20th-Fox)—Dick
irmes, Vera-Ellen, Cesar Romero. This is
good picture—no complaints. They came
Jt to see the fight reels and liked this, too.
yed Mon., Tues., Wed. Weather: Cold.—
rland Rankin, Beau Theatre, Belle River,
Small town patronage. * * *
[Forever Amber (20th-Fox)—Linda Darnell,
rnel Wilde, Richard Greene. This is our
St advanced-price show and it was very
but as many people said, not worth
money. We had a very good film and it
3sed all that came. The roads were very
so that kept a lot of people away, as
the admission iee. We had one person
40 miles to see it, though. Played Mon.,
Weather: Very bad.—George Mac-
Kenzie, York Theatre, Hanlsport, N. S. Small
town patronage.
•
Forever Aniber (20th-Fox)—Linda Darnell,
Cornel Wilde, Richard Greene. The admission
price on this picture kept them away—
we had one student the first night. For $1.20
our students can see three shows. People
didn't appreciate- that they were being given
the same opportunity as people in the large
cities, but could only feel they were being
held up at the boxoffice. Any advanced admission
here defeats the purpose ol this theatre.
It was started as a hobby because young
people had nothing to turn to lor amusement.
We had a few walkouts but think the picture
was enjoyed by those who did come. Played
Sat., Sun. Weather: Good.—Lloyd Lafond,
Rimrock Theatre, Winnett, Mont. Small town
and rural patronage. * *
Homestretch, The (20th-Fox)—Cornel Wilde,
Maureen O'Hara, Glenn Langan. The most
beautiful Technicolor I've ever seen. A fast
moving horse-racing picture that I recommend.
Played Mon., Tues.—James C. Balkcom jr..
Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town patronage.
* * *
Leave Her to Heaven (20th-Fox)—Gene
Tierney, Cornel Wilde, Jeanne Grain. We
used this instead of a new punk we didn't
want to run and had nice comments on
some
the picture, even though it is old. If you
haven't run it, you can buy it right and the
picture will please. We used it on Sunday
and did fair enough. Played Sun., Mon.
Weather: Cold.—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach
Theatre, Lincoln, Kas. Small town patronage.
» • •
Nightmare Alley (20th-Fox)—Tyrone Power,
Joan Blondell, Coleen Gray. My patrons were
well pleased with the picture—apparently
enjoyed seeing Tyrone Power back in movies
and by word-of-mouth I could say a very good
picture indeed. Played Sun., Mon., Tues.
Weather: Good.—Ken Gorhara, Town Hall
Theatre, Middlebury, Vt. College and rural
patronage. * *
UNITED ARTISTS
Abilene Town (UA)—Randolph Scott, Ann
Dvorak, Edgar Buchanan. This is a fair western—didn't
seem to have the draw other pictures
have. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather:
Cold and snow.—Harland Rankin, Beau Theatre,
Belle River, Ont. General patronage. * * *
Caesar and Cleopatra (UA)—Claude Rains,
Vivien Leigh, Stewart Granger. This was a
picture about Julius Caesar—the romantic and
historic features of his life. This has drawing
power for the older people only. The acting
was superb and color beautiful, was the main
comment. The sound was very poor on the
first reel but the other reels were up to normal.
Played Mon., Tues. Weather: Fine.—
George MacKenzie, York Theatre, Hantsport,
*
N. S. Small town patronage.
Copacabana (UA)—Groucho Marx, Carmen
Miranda, Steve Cochran. I can't understand
how anyone thought up this "nothing." No
plot, no comedy, just nothing entertaining at
all. Carmen Miranda was lost as the leading
lady and Groucho Marx was no good without
his brothers. Played Wednesday.—James C.
Balkcom jr.. Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small
town patronage. * * *
Fun on a Weekend (UA)—Eddie Bracken,
Priscilla Lane, Tom Conway. The stars played
wonderful roles but it didn't go over so hot
for a comedy. This type of picture could have
been one of UA's good pictures but the patients
here didn't like it. Played Saturday.
Weather: Good.—James E. Adams, Nichols
VA hospital, Louisville, Ky. Patient patronage.
*
Hal Roach Comedy Carnival (UA)—Waller
Abel, Margot Graharae, Marie Wilson. This
was just what I've been waiting for. Comments
were very good and I hope Hal Roach
can make more than one a year. Everybody
came out laughing. Played preview. Sat.,
Sun. Weather: Good—L. Brazil jr.. New Theatre,
Bearden, Ark. Small town patronage.
» » •
Hal Roach Comedy Carnival (UA)—Walter
Abel, Margot Grahame, Marie Wilson. This is
a good double feature comedy in color, the
first being "Curley" and the second, "Fabulous
Joe." The first is an overgrown Our Gang
comedy and the latter is about a talking dog.
All who came were pleased but it was hard to
get them in because it lacked star power.
Business was average. Played Sun., Mon.
Weather: Good.—E. M. Freiburger, Paramount
Theatre, Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage.
• * •
Hoppy's Holiday (UA)—William Boyd, Andy
Clyde, Mary Ware. Played in opposition to a
local basketball game and grosses were very
low on this one. Enjoyed by the 10 or 15 who
did see it. Played Tuesday. Weather: Very
good.—R. V. Dinkle and W. W. LeMaster, Midway
Theatre, Midway, Ky. Rural and small
town patronage.
* * •
Oi«law, The (UA)—Jane Russell, Jack Buetel,
Thomas Mitchell. It did business, but
Hughes got most of the take, and there was
nothing that hurt anyone in this state. The
picture was just a good western with a cast
that looked like any high school play, and
the publicity got the business, in some places.
We had plenty of room for more patrons, except
Sunday night. Played Sun., Mon., Tues.
Weather: Cold.—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach
Theatre, Lincoln, Kas. Small town patronage.
» » »
Stage Door Canteen (UA)—Cheryl Walker,
William Terry, Marjorie Riordan. The salesman
was sure that this would be a sellout but
it failed, thank God, for the film was cut up
so bad you'd have found it impossible to
follow. Played Tues., Wed. Weather: Good.
—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre, Rivesville, W.
*
Va. Rural patronage. •
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL
Buck Privates Come Home (U-I)—Bud Abbott,
Lou Costello, Tom Brown. Really and
truly a riot. This one should cure dyspepsia,
gout or the grouch. I think it's the funniest
A&C in a long time. Played Fri., Sat. Weather:
Stormy.—Bill Leonard, Leonard Theatre, Cedarvale,
Kas. Small town and rural patronage.
» * »
Dark Mirror, The (U-I)—Olivia de Havilland,
Lew Ayres, Thomas Mitchell. I had some good
and some bad comments on this one. It will
do average business in a small town situation,
but don't bet too heavy on it. Played
Wed., Thurs. Weather: Cold.— I. Roche, Vernon
Theatre, Vernon, Fla. Small town and
rural patronage. *
Dracula (U-I)—Reissue. Bela Lugosi, David
Manners, Helen Chandler. This reissue fell
flat for me. It did not draw and did not please.
They said it was "old hat." Played Tuesday.
—E. M. Freiburger, Paramount Theatre,
Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage. • • *
Great Expectations (U-D—John Mills, Valerie
Hobson, Bernard Miles. This great Charles
Dickens story is so popular that it brings
the crowd in nicely, especially college students
and faculty members. They proclaimed
it a marvelous picture and it was enjoyed
thoroughly by everyone who came. Especially
good for class spots. Played Sun., Mon.,
Tues. Weather: Snow storm the first two
days, Tues. cold.—Ken Gorham, Town Hall
Theatre, Middlebury. Vt. College and rural
patronage. » •
I'll Be Yours (U-I)—Deanna Durbin, William
Bendix, Tom Drake. Here is where I join the
rest of you boys who hove become dissatisfied-
with your contracts with this company.
This is the fourth one and eyery one is above
average in price and below average in value
and lousy at the boxoffice. Played Sunday.
Weather: Cool.—Rahl and Hanson, California
Theatre, Kerman, Calif. Small town and rural
patronage. * *
Stairway to Heaven (U-I)—David Niven,
Kim Hunter, Robert Coote. This is very un-
JXOFFICE BookinGuide :: Jan. 17, 1948

I Constance
r
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: Jan. 17, 1948 '
FEATURE CHART
release
date. Froduction number is at ngtit. Number m parentheses 13 running time, a
iumished by home oiiice of distributor; checkup with local exchanges is recommendec
R—is review date. PG—is Picture Guide page number. Symbol ii indicates BOXOFFIC
Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Symbol © indicates color photography.
M (70) Dtuna S14
MILLIE'S DAUGHTER
B—Mar. 8—PO-T98
I
MARCH 22
(95) Mys-Dr B33
JOHNNY O'CLOCK
PoweU
Dick
H
(64) Drua* SP72
UNTAMED FURY
R—Apr. B—PO-808
Reissue
^ (97) Western 731
IT CARSON
D. Andrews-J. HaU
g
(71) Dram &
THE GUILTY
a Qranrllle
Don Castle
John Lltel
E—Mar. 22—P0-8M
^
(88) Rom-Com 4608
SUDDENLY IT'S
SPRING
Paulette Goddard
Fred MacMurray
Macdonald Care;
Arleen Wbelan
R—Feb. 16—PQ-789
^
(90) Miuleal 610
KIT PARADE OF 1947
Eddie Albert
Moore
R—May 3—PO-816
|27] (57) Western 864
WEST SF DODGE CITY
R—Mar. 29—PQ-806
_
MARCH 29
(T9) Outdr-Dr 809
KING OF THE WILD
HORSES
fi—Mip. 22—PG-8M
29] (71) Drama :
-OST HONEYMOON
Franchot Tone
.Mar. 15—PO-801
'
@ W) Western
LAST OF THE
MOHICANS
(58) Western 676
[|9]
TRAILING DANGER
Johnny Mack Brown
[28] (73) Drama 4620
SEVEN WERE SAVED
Richard Denning
Catherine Craig
1) Western 717
TRAIL STREET
Randolph Scott
Robert Ryan
Jeffreys
R—Mar. 1—Pa-794
[T] (71) West-Mus 68
TWILIGHT ON THE
RIO GRANDE
Gene Autry
Adele Mara
Sterling HoUoway
R—Apr. 19—PO-811
[I] (64) Drama 715
THREE ON A TICKET
Hugli Beaumont
Cheryl Waller
Paul Bryar
Ralph Dunn
B—Apr. 12—PO-809
[4] (103) Musical 71
UIT HAPPENED IN
BROOKLYN
Frank Sinatra
Jimmy Durante
Katluyn Qraysoo
Peter Lawford
[T] (65) Western 684
SIX GUN SERENADE
Jimmy Wakely
Lasses" WUt«
[4] (87) Comedy 4609
MY FAVORITE
BRUNETTE
b Hope
Dorothy Lamoui
Peter Lorre
Lon Chaney
R—Feb. 22—Pa-791
m (68) Outdoor 664
HOMESTEADERS OF
PARADISE VALLEY
Allan Lane
R—Apr. 26—Pa-813
\T\ (71) Com-Dr 611
YANKEE FAKIR
R—Apr. 12—PO-810
[b] (74) Outdr-Dr 4614
BELLS OF SAN
FERNANDO
Donald Woods
Gloria Warren
B—Apr. &—PO-807
APRIL 12
io] (67) Comedy 801
iLONDIE'S HOLIDAY
Penny Singleton
Lake
Larry Slmms
—Mar. 8—PG-798
[12] (61) Western 746 (63) Drama 702
WEST TO GLORY THE BIG FIX
Eddie Dean
James Brown-Sbella Ryan
R_May 3—Pa-816 B—May 12-PO-817
m (62) Mystery 707
PHILO VANCE'S
GAMBLE
R—May 3—PQ-81B
u] (92) Drama 719
.ITTLE MR. JIM
Butcb Jenkins
James Craig
Frances Glfford
B—June 16—PO-7aO
(72) Drama 615
HH
VIOLENCE
Nancy Coleman
Michael O'Shea
R—Apr. 19—PO-812
(57) Western 720
CODE OF THE WEST
mes
Debra
Reissue
Warren
Alden
ar. 8—Pa-799
[l| (59) Western HC08
TEXAS TRAIL
m Boyd
Russell Hayden
George Hayes
(83) Drama 836
THE GUILT OF JANET
AMES
Rosalind Russell
Melvyn Douglas
Sid Caesar
K—Mar. 8—PQ-798
^
APRIL 19
Allied Artists
|19] (115) Comedy AAl
IT HAPPENED ON
FIFTH AVENUE
Don DeFore
Ann Bardhig
Victor Moore
—Feb. 8—PO-788
Pine-Thomas Prod.
l| (72) Drama 4621
FEAR IN THE NIGHT
Paul KeUy
Kay Scott
DeForest KeUey
Ann Doran
ar. 1—PO-79B
Group 5
(72) Adventure 723
TARZAN AND THE
HUNTRESS
lohnny Welssmuller
Brenda Joyce
lohn Sheffield
8—Mar. 29—PG-806
m (78) Mus-West 642
3BELLS OF SAN
ANGELO
Roy Rogers-Dale Evans
R—May 31—Pa-824
19] (70) Outdr-Dr 4613
iUFFALO BILL RIDES
AGAIN
Richard
Jennifer
R—Apr.
Arlen
Holt
6—PG-807
(82) Drama 834
FRAMED
Olenn Ford-Janls Carter
R—Mar. 8—PG-798
g
(55) Western 867
UW OF THE CANYON
Starrett-Burnette
^ (38-39) Westerns
SIX BRONCO
BUCKAROO REISSUES
4 with Buster Crabbe
and Fuzzy St. John
with Tes O'BrleD and
Jim Newlll
123) Drama 720
se^A OF GRASS
Spencer Tracy
Katharine Hepburn
^
(59) Western 671
LAND OF THE LAWLESS
johnny Mack Brown
Raymond Hatton
Ctarlstlne Mclntyre
Teresa
Wright
Virginia Field
Cedrle Hardwlcke
B—Mar. 16—PO-802
mI (66) Drama 612
SPOILERS OF THE
NORTH
Paul Kelly
Adrian Booth
Evelyn Ankers
R—May 12—PO-817
^
(71) Western HC09
PARTNERS OF THE
PLAINS
iVllllam Boyd
Harvey Clark
Russell Hayden
Tj (69) Drama 812
"OR THE LOVE OF
RUSTY
Ted Donaldson
fom Powers
R—June
MAY 3
28—PG-834
2] (91) Drama 721
HIGH BARBAREE
Van Johnson
Allyson
Claude Jarman Jr.
3 MltcheU
IT. IS—PG-801
(91) Drama 4611
J\
3LAZE OF NOON
Baxter
Winiam Holden
Sonny Tufts
WUllam Bcndli
Sterling Hayden
R—Mar. 8—Pa-797
Group 5
-1) Comedy 724
A LIKELY STORY
Barbara Hale
Williams
R—Apr. 19—PG-81J
m (65) Horror-Dr 4608
©SCARED TO DEATH
Bela Lugosl
Joyce Compton
Douglas Fowley
To\ (56) Western
JORDER FEUD
1 "Lasb" La Rue
1 "Fuzzy" St. Job
—May 24—PO-8:
To] (63) Melodraoi
HARD BOILED
HONEY
Leo Gorcey
Bowery Boys
Teala Lorlng
R—May 3—PO-Ml
Group 5
(68) Musical
BANJO
SharsTl Moffett
Jacqueline White
Iter Reed
a O'Connor
-Apr. 26—PG-8:
rJSS
(69) Western
||
CASSIOY OF BAR
m Boyd
Russell Haydei
Frank Darien
(96) Musical IW
3CARNIVAL IN COSTA
RICA
Dick Haymes
Vera-Ellen
Cesar Romero
Celeste Holm
R—Mar. 20—PQ-SOI!
(89) Drama 71
THE LATE GEORGE
APLEY
Ronald Colman
Peggy Cummins
Vanessa Brown
Richard Haydn
Charles Russell
R—Feb. 8—PO-788
(76) Drama 714
SAN DEMETRIO,
LONDON
Walter Fltjgerald
Mervyn Johns
Ralph Michael
Robert Beatty
Charles Victor
R—Apr, 5—PG-808
leorge Sanders
i?dna Best
sa Brown
,v 24—PO-8
I a"
(89)
Drama
MACOMBER
AFFAIR
Gregory Peck
Joan Bennett
Robert Preston
R—Jan. 25—PO-T84
|28] (69) Western
UNEXPECTED GUEST
WUllam Boyd
R— Dec. 14—PO-772
ORLEANS
Arturo de Cordova
Dorothy Patrick
R—May 3—PCI-818
(94) Outdr-Dr
U]
RAMROD
Joel McCrea
Veronica Lake
Don DeFore
Donald Crisp
R—Mar. 1—PO-793
3j (661 iin
^ADVENTURES I
DON COYOTl
tlfhard
Frances
May
Mirtln
RaftertJ
3—PO-S
(103) Drama 6li
©STAIRWAY TO
HEAVEN
David Niven-Klm Hunter
R—Dec. 21—PG-773
Reissue
(94) Outdoor Drama
DESTRY RIDES AGAIN
nietrkh-Stewart
Victor McLaglen
Rita Johnson
R—Feb. 22—PQ-792
[29] (84) Com-Dr 616
THAT WAY WITH
WOMEN
Dane (^ark
Martha
Sydney
B—Feb.
Vlckers
Grcenstreet
22—PO-791
JW) Comedy Sz
BUCK PRIVATES
COME HOME
Bud Abbott
Lou Costello
Tom Brown
Joan FuItOQ
R—Mar. 16—PO-802
(73) Comedy 2793
YOU CAN'T CHEAT AN
HONEST MAN
W. C. Fields
Edgar Bergen
CbarUe McCarthy
[12] (97) Drama 617
STALLION ROAD
Ronald Reagan
Alexis Smith
Zacfaary Scott
R—Mar. 29—PO-806
(78) Drama 2794
STOLE A MILLION
(leorge
Raft
Reissues:
[26] (109) Drama
THE SEA HAWK
Errol FijTin-aaude Rains
[26] (87) Drama "~
THE SEA WOLF
Edward G. Robhison
Ida Luplno-John Garfield
(88) Drama 61
TIME OUT OF MIND
Phyllis Calvert
Robert Button
Enia Raines
lar. 22—PO-804
[3] (93) Comedy 6-
LOVE AND LEARN
Robert Button
lartba Vickers
>ni3 Paige
-Mar. 29—PG-80e
i
i
(57) Mus (New Bel)
BEWARE
Louis Jordan
CHEERS FOR MISS
BISHOP
Martha
Scott
(72) Comedy Reissue
FLYING DEUCES
(60) West Reissue
GHOST TOWN
Harry
Carey
(57) Mus-Dr Reissue
HOLLYWOOD BOUND
Betty Orable
(70) Com (New Bel)
IT PAYS TO BE FUNNY
Bob Hope
Milton Berle
Bert Lakr
(89) Reissue
JIMMY STEPS OUT
Jimmy Stewart
(67) Mus (New Rel)
REET. PETITE AMD
GONE
Louis Jordan
June Richmond
(67) Musical Reissue
ROAD TO HOLLYWOOD
Blng Crosby
B—Mar. ]—PO-79e
(100) Drama Bi
SCARFACE
Paul Muni
George Raft
(86) Mus-Dr B
SECOND CHORUS
Paulette Ooddard
Fred Astalre
(65) M-Dr (New Rel)
STAIRWAY FOR A STAB
Cornel WUd«
(68) O'd-Dr (New Rel)
WHITE STALLION
Eddie Dean

I <
I
I!
MAY 17
(70) Mystery 82(
LDOG DRUMMONO
T BAY
Rundell
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
^
MAY 24
(111) Drama 73:
CORSICAN BROTHERS
Dougliis Fairbanks Jr.
Akim Tamlroff
^
(60) Drama 716
TOO MANY WINNERS
R—June 7—PO-828
MAY 31
129] (72) Mystery
THE MILLERSON CASE
Wsmer Baiter
Nancy Saunders
R—June 28—PO-834
gl (51) Western E
PRAIRIE RAIDERS
Starrett-Burnette
fiol (nn) Ilriima
Ul (70) Drama 7(
REPEAT PERFORMANCE STEPCHILD
Louis aayward
Brenda Joyce
li—May 31—PG-823 Donald Woods
|3l) (03) Drama
R—June 21— PO-833
MLLER AT URGE
Robert Lowery
R—June
^
7—Pa-828
(12S) Drama 7
SuJ©THE YEARLING
Gregory Peek
Wyman
Jane
DanHf
n—Dec.
Jarman It
7—rG-7ro
JUNE 7
|3ll (87) Mystery S2
THE CORPSE CAME
C.O.D.
Ueucgi- Brent
Joan Blondell
Adele Jergena
R—Sept. 13—PI.-866
(90) Melodrama
[J]
724
DARK DELUSION
James CraiK
Lucille Bremar
Lionel Barrymorp
Apr. 12-Pa-809
JUNE 14
\u\ (04) M.vstery
PHILO VANCE
RETURNS
Alan Curtis
Terry Austin
May 3—PQ-81B
70S
JUNE 21
[l9j (60) Musical
LITTLE MISS
BROADWAY
John
Until
Reissue
Shelton
Donnelly
\ii\ (84) Drama 736
SOUTH OF PAGO PAGO
Victor McLaglen
Jon Hall
Frances Farmer
(103) Mus-Com 725
LIVING IN A BIG WAY
Gene Kelly
Marie McDonald
(Carles Wlnnlnger
~ R—June " " PG-825
JUNE 28
(68) Drait 811
SPORT OF KINGS
21—1'0-832
It—June
|26] (66) West-Mus 853
SWING THE WESTERN
WAY
lloosler Ilotshots
R—July 6—PG-83S
1^ (71) Comedy 703
HEARTACHES
C. Wllls-S. Ryan
R—July 12—PG-838
g (56) Ontdr-Dr 753
PIONEER JUSTICE
R-^uly 5—PG-836
JULY 5
[U (56) Western I
STRANGER FROM
PONCA CITY
Charles Starrctt
Smiley Burnctte
Virginia Hunter
R—July 5—PG-835
[T] (98) Dram
CYNTHIA
Elizabeth Taylor
i] (66) Western 672
IW COMES TO
GUNSIGHT
bnn; Mack BrowD
Rsymoad Hattoo
^
(60) M'draini 46
BIG TOWN
PhUlp Reed
Hillary Brooke
Robert Lowery
~ ~!b. 23—PQ-rei
^ (58) Western
SONG OF THE
WASTELAND
Jimmv Wakply
Lee "Lasses" White
ro| (83) M-drama 4612
ALCUTTA
Alan Ladd
William Bendli
Gall RusseU
rr 10—PO-811
g (61) Drama
WOLF GIRL
John Carroll
Motlll
^ (83) Drama
IGH CONQUEST
Gilbert Roland
2§ (66) M'drama 4623
DANGER STREET
Jane Withers
Robert Lowery
" Mar. 1—Pa-796
g
(63) Western 677
CODE OF THE SADDLE
Johnny Mack Brom
Kay Morley
Raymond Hatton
g
(80) Rom-Com 4614
THE TROUBLE WITH
WOMEN
Ray Mllland
Teresa Wright
Brian Donlevy
R—May 17—Pa-819
Reissues
Iji] (70) Drama
DILLINGER
Laurence Tierney
[U (83) Drama
MUTINY IN THE BIG
HOUSE
Charles
Blckford
[?1 (96) Com-Dr 4615
©PERILS OF PAULINE
Betly Hiitton
John Lund
William Demarest
R—May 24—PG-822
Group 5
(74) Comedy T
HONEYMOON
Shirley Temple
Guy Madison
Franchot Tone
B—Apr. 19—P0-81J
(58) Ould'r-Dr 665 \n\ (75) Mus-Com 6141
EGON TRAIL SCOUTS WINTER WONDERLAND!
-May 24—PQ-821 Lynne Roberts
-
Charles Drake
(66) Mus-Com 609
R—June 7—PC
THArS MY GAL
(«S) Drama 56:
OCT TO KILL
sseU Wade
in Walters
;elas Blackley
-Apr. 12—Pa-809
[T] (99) Com-Dr 613
MY MAN
lO] (58) Drama
WEB OF DANGER
i
THAT'S
Mara
[t] (60) Out-Dr. 4616
BUSH PItOT
llocbelle Hudsos
BlU Kennedy
R—June 21—PG-831
Reissue
[m] (88) Western HCll
HEART OF ARIZONA
WUliam Boyd
George
RusseU
Hayes
Bayden
Group 6
(71) Drama 71
WOMAN ON THE
BEACH
Joan Bennett
Charles Blckford
Robert Ryan
R—May 17—PG-820
[l5| (72) Western 684
SADDLE PALS
Gene Autry
Lynne Roberts
"jne 21—PG-831
511 (^2) Mus-Com 4701
HOLLYWOOD BARN
DANCE
Ernest Tuhb
Lorl Talbott
Earl Hodglns
R—June 7—PG-827
FEATURE CHAR-
Is] (91) Drama 615
NORTHWEST OUT-
POST
Nelson Eddy
a Massey
May 17—Pa-«19
Group 6
(73) Drama 72
DESPERATE
Brodie
Audrey Long
" May 17—PO-820
[i] (68) Western
RUSTLERS OF DEVIL'S
CANYON
Allan Lane
R—July 12—PO-837
3] (71) Drama 619
THE TRESPASSER
" ' ly 12—PG-837
(M) Drama TT
rHE HOMESTRETCH
r,el WUde
-Apr.
26—Pa-814
(85) Drams
SHONOREO LADY
'Jv Lnmarr
nols O'Keefe
-Apr.
26—PO-SIS
(84) Drama 7
JEWELS OF
BRANDENBURG
Richard Trarts
.Vllchellne Chelrel
Leonard Strong
Carol Thurston
pr. 19—PG-81I
m Boyd
Andy CTyde
8—Apr. 1—PO-7»3
^ (91) Mnsle^l
COPACABANA
Groiicho Mar.t
tarmeu Mirandi
Andy Bussell
Gloria Jean
R—June Jl—PO-8M
(82) Drama 7
MOSS ROSE
Peggy Cummins
Victor Mature
Ethel Barrymore
Vincent Price
Margo Woode
lay 24—PG-821
i) Drama TlS Re-release
MIRACLE ON 34TH
(95)
STREET
Drama
WESTERN
Maureen
UNION
O'Hara
Robert Young
Payne
Randolph Scott
Edmund Gweno
Dean Jagger
Gene Lockhart
Virginia Gilmore
Natalie Wood
John Carradlne
R—May 10—Pa-818
(72) Comedy
STORK BITES MAN
Jackie Cooper
Gene Roberts
R—Aug. 23—PG-849
(108) Comedy S3
E EGG AND I
«) MarMiirrsy
u*tte Colbert
rterle Main
ey KHhrids
ils« Allbrttton
-Apr. 6—PU-808
)1) Drama
MAGNIFICENT
OBSESSION
Irene Dunne
Robert Taylor
Reissue
(84) Mus-Dr 2796
100 MEN AND A GIRL
Oeanna Durbtn
Leopold StokowsU
Adolphe Menlou
(87) Drama 6.
THE WEB
Edmund O'Brien
Ella Raines
William Bendli
ay 31—PO-823
(115) Drama (
ODD MAN OUT
James Mason
Kathleen Ryan
ar. 1—P(3.T9B
Joan Fontaine
Patric Knowles
R—June 14—PO-829
(67) Outd'r-Dr 618
©VIGILANTES RETURN
Hall
Margaret Lindsay
" R—June " " PO-827
551 ''*• Drmt 62]
TWO MRS. CARROLLS
Humphrey Bogart
Barbara
Stanwyck
(100)
ly]
Dra
" EYENNE
Dennis Morgan
H] (109) Drama 623
THE UNFAITHFUL
Ann Sheridan
Zachary Scott
R—Apr. 26—PG-813
It—May 31—PG-834
(A (90) Drama New Rel
n FURIA
« a (Italian)
jOT R—Oct. 18—PO-88l>
(73) Drama New R«l
I
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O Albert Basserosao
Mary Brian
(90) Drama New Rel
WOMEN IN THE NIGHT
Taia Blrell
Wmiam Henry
(80) Drams New Rel
FOR YOU I DIE
Cathy Downs
R— Dee. 27—P0-8S(S
(77) Drama New Bel
SPIRIT OF WEST
POINT
Blanchard-Davis
R—Oct. 11-PG-863
(96) Drama Reissue
CATHERINETHE GREAT
Douglas Fairbanks Jr.
Elisabeth Bergner
WEST
Robert Donat
(97) Drama Reissue
HENRY THE EIGHTH
Charles Langhton
Robert Donat
Merle Oberon
(82) Drama Reissue
THE MAN WHO COULD
WORK MIRACLES
Roland Young
Joan Gardner
(78) Mystery
THE PATIENT
VANISHES
R—May 31—PO-823
(81) Drama Reissue
THE RETURN OF THE
SCARLET PIMPERNEL
Barry Barnes
(98) Drama Reissue
SCARLET PIMPERNEL
Merle
Leslie
Oberoa
Howard
(124) Drama Reissue
THAT HAMILTON
WOMAN
Virien Leigh
Laurence OUrler
(92) Drama Reissue
THINGS TO COME
Raymond Massey
Margaretta Scott
BOXOFTICE BookinGmde :: Jan. 17, 1948

"
'
I COVER
FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
JULY 12
lio] (68) Drama
JULY 19
(87) Drama 803
82
KEEPER OF THE BEES ©GUNFIGHTERS
Michael Duane
liandolph Scott
Gloria Henry
Barbara Brltton
Harry Davenport
liruce Cabot
6—PG-835
14—PG-830
It—June
II—July
(i2| (64) Comedy
GAS HOUSE KIDS GO
WEST
^
JULY 26 AUGUST 2
^ an Drama
(58) Western 75
GHOST TOWN RENE-
GADES
Al "Lash" LaRue
Al "Fuzzy" St. John
Jennifer Holt
Aug. 9—PG-845
©LAST OF THE
REDMEN
Jon Hall
.Michael OShea
Evelyn Ankers
R—Aug. 2—PG-844
AUGUST 9
[t] (09) Drama 8]
THE SON OF RUSTY
Ted Donald;>on
Stephen Dunne
.\nn Doran
R—Aug. 16—PG-848
AUGUST 16
ju] (55) Western
RIDERS OF THE
LONE STAR
Charles Starrett
Smiley Burnette
Virginia Hunter
|i6] (81) Drama 1
RED STALLION
Itobert Paige
.Noreen Nash
It-July 26—PO-841
AUGUST 23
|2i] (67) Mus-West 85
SMOKY RIVER
SERENADE
Hoosier Hot-shots
Paul Campbell
Ruth Terry
R—Aug. 23—PG-850
(63) Comedy 712
HOUSE KIDS II
OLLYWOOD
"Alfalfa" Sivitzer
Benny Bartlett
Rudy Wlssler
Tommy Bond
R—Sept.
6—PG-853
AUGUST 3
H^ (58) Mystery
PHILO VANCE'S
SECRET mission;
Alan Curtis
Sheila Ryan
Frank Jenks
Jo Montalban
Mary Astor
Cyd Charlsse
jne 14—PG-830
Reprint
|5| (103) Musical 723
THE GREAT WALTZ
Lulse Rainer
Femand Cravet
(115) Drama 7;
THE HUCKSTERS
Clark Gable
Dcborali Kerr
Iveenan Wynn
Sydney Greenstreet
R—June 28—PG-843
(IW) Drama 7
ROMANCE OF ROSY
RIDGE
Van Johnson
Janet
Leigb
[ie] (68) Comedy 621
KILROY WAS HERE
lackle Cooper
: Coosan
Wanda McKay
It—July 5—PG-835
95) Comedy 4616
DEAR RUTH
Caulfield
m Hoi den
Rdwnrd Arnold
Billy De Wolfe
May 31—PG-834
Is] (63) Drama 4624
BIG TOWN
Philip Reed
Hillary Brooke
Robert Lowery
Ii_Mar. 1—PO-795
06) Drama THI (95) Drama 4617
l^WELCOME STRANGER
g| (67) M'drama 4625 (93) Musical 4
^DESERT FURY
Bing CiTOby
JUNGLE FLIGHT VARIETY GIRL
Lizabeth Scott
Itobert Lowery
Paramount stars
Barry F.tzgerald
|„hn „odiak
Ann Savage
Mary Hatcher
Burt Lancaster R—Mar. 1—PG-795
„ San Juan
R—Aug. 2—PG-844
R—July 19—PO-840
fl2l (44) Mys-Com 4617
BOX IWYSTERY
Tom Neal
lien Jenkins
nmela Blake
R—Jan. 3—PG-888
Group 6
(60) Drama 7
DICK TRACY'S
DILEMMA
llalph Byrd
Kay Christopher
Ian Keith
It-May 24—PG-822
fil] (75) Western
^SPRINGTIME IN THE
SIERRAS
Roy Rogers-Jane Frazee
li—Auk. 2—PG-843
iTs] (71) Western 68
ROBINHOOD OF TEXA
R—Sept. 13—PG-855
(19) (65) Western HC12
BAR 20 JUSTICE
im Boyd
Russell Hayden
George Hayes
Group 6
Western 730
(iifl)
THUNDER MOUNTAI
Tim Holt
M.irlha Hyer
Richard Martin
R—May 24—Pa-832
"251 (67) Drama 61
BLACKMAIL
William Marshall
\dele Mara
R—Aug. 16—PC-847
Sil (40) Mys-Com 4618
CASE OF THE BABY
SITTER
Tom Neal
Jenkins
Pamela Blake
Group 6
(95) Mys-Dr 726
THEY WON'T BELIEV
lane Greer
llita Johnson
1!—May 17— PG-820
[Tj (84) Outd'r-Dr 618
WYOMING
Vera Ralston
William BHliott
lohn Carroll
It—Aug. 2—PG-843
(71) Com-Dr 4702
[U
KILLER DILL
Stuart Erwin
Anne Gvvynne
Frank Albertson
R—May 17—PO-819
"1) Drama 8
RIFF-RAFF
Pat O'Brien
R—June 14— l'G-829
UNDER THE TONTO
[is] (58) Western
MARSHAL OF CRIPPLE
CREEK
Allan Lane-Bobbv BlaKe
R—Aug. 23—PG-849
Iifil (69) Drama 620
THE PRETENDER
I!—Aug.
30—PG-851
(68) Drai
SEVEN KEYS TO
BALDPATE
Phillip Terry
Claire Trevor
R—June 7—PO-828
Group 1
(86) Drama I
CROSSFIRE
Robert Young
Robert Mltchtim
Robert Ryan
Gloria Grahame
Sam Levene
It—June 2S—PG-83:
g (64) Wester
©ALONG THE OREG
TRAIL
R—Sept.
13—PG-aS!
(99) Drama 72
(lEET ME AT DAWN
Villiam Eythe
lazel Court
ilargarct Rutherford
(76) Drama 72
THE CRIMSON KEY
Kent Taylor
Dnrls Dowllng
-
s Hoey
Currie
R—July 12—PG-838
(104) Musical 723
WONDER WHO'S
©I
KISSING HER NOW
June Haver
Mark Stevens
Martha Stewart
Reginald Gardiner
R—June 21—PG-832
(Tel ("8) nrama
THE OTHER LOVE
ra Stanwyck
David NIven
pr. 12—PG-810
ITil (60) Western
HOPPY'S HOLIDAY
m Boyd
.\ndv Clyde
Shy 24—P0-8ai
[U (133) Musical
CARNEGIE HALL
illiam Prince
arsha Hunt
Concert stars
lar. 8—PO-797
(112) Comedies
©COMEDY CARNIVl
• Iter Abel
rgot Grahame
-Aug. 30—PG-8S;
(98) Drama 62
BRUTE FORCE
Lancaster
Hume Cronvn
R^une 29 -PG-833
©SLAVE GIRL
nne De Carlo
rge Brent
July 26—PG-842
§6] (108) Drama 624
POSSESSED
Joan Craiiford
ffflln
nd Massey
Geraldine Brooks
R—June 7—PG-825
Reissues
"le] (84) Drama 6',
(81) Drama 626'
CRY WOLF
MARKED WOMAN Errol Flynn
Dav)s-ll. Bogart Barbara Stanwyck
?] (87) Drama 627 Geraldine Brooks
DUST BE MY DESTINY R—July 12—PG-837
John Garfield
Pri

BOXOFFICE BookinGuiJe :: Jan. 17. 1948
;t.
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
IBER 6 SEPTEMBER 13 SEPTEMBER 20 SEPTEMBER 27
[B] (8(!) Comedy 801
SONG OF THE THIN
MAN
William Powell
Myrria l.oy
If—Aug.
-rG-844
(lis,
[27) Mu..-Cum
WHEN A GIRL'S
BEAUTIFUL
|7] ("2) Drama 710
RAILROADED
John Ireland
If—Oct. 18—PO-8G6
OCTOBER 4
Cyd Charlsse
Karln Booth
li— Aug. 8—PO-846
OCTOBER 11
|¥1 (Ii7l Drama 905
KEY WITNESS
John Beal
I'rudy Marshall
Jimmy Lloyd
I!—Sept. C—Pa-854
fu] (85) Drama 106
Caravan
Stewart Cranuer
li—Sept. C—PO-853
m (53) Western
RETURN OF THE LASH
Al "Lash" La Rue
U— Nov. 15— G-873
!To] (US) Drama^ 8
SONG OF LOVE
Katharine Hepburn
Paul llenrcid
Robert Walker
It—July 26—Pa-841
FEATURE CHART
OCTOBER 18
[14j (55) Weslern 961
aUCKAROO FROM
POWDER RIVER
K—Nov. 16— PG-873
(69) Comedy 911
olUNOIE Ih THE
DOUGH
27—PG-8B(»
l(—Sept.
[n] (87) Comedy 801
OUT OF THE BLUE
tJeorge Brent
H—Sept R—PU-8(13
lis] ( . ) Western
FIGHTING VIGILANTES
Al "Lash" La Hue
li—Nov. 29—PO-877
gv] (82) Comedy 803
MERTON OF THE
MOVIES
Red Skelton
Virginia O'Briei.
R—July 19—PQ-83H
OCTOBER 25 |
li. Hayworth-L. Parks
II—Aug. 8—PO-844
§3{ (68) Musical 918
iWEET GENEVIEVt
lean Porter
Ilmmy Lydoo
«—Sept 20— l'(i.»58
(23] (71) Dram.i 803
tlURY ME DEAD
Mark Danleli
«—Oct. 11—PO-8e4
m
(60) Western 851
8LACK HILLS
Sddie Dean
White Cloud"
(55) Driima 623 (88) nr.,m:i 61
HOOD OF
[ll
NEWS HOUNDS
UTEREY
Mclntyre
CliiHIiiie
IJowery Boys
21—rG-831
l:—June
Allied Artists
[l|] (89) Outd'r Dr AA2
BLACK GOLD
It—.lime 28—PO-833
|o] (59) Western 673
FLASHING GUNS
loliriny Mack Brown
(53) Western
U]
6
RIDIN' DOWN THE
TRAIL
Jimmy
Wakely
Taylor
|l]] (72) Drama 4701 |li] (72) Comedy 4702
IGH TIDE
JOE PALOOKA IN THE
on Castle
KNOCKOUT
nabel Shaw
toe Ktrkwnod )r
Lee Tracy
(51yse Knoi
IC—Aug. 9—PG-845 Leon Errol
R—Aug. 30—P0-8S1
(55) Drama (
|25l
PRAIRIE EXPRESS
lohnny Macfc Brown
Virginia Belmont
Itaymond Hatton
Hi] (92) Drama 47
WILD HARVEST
Alan Ladd
Dorothy Lamour
Robert Preston
Lloyd Nolan
U—Aug. 9—PG 845
Tthonda Fleming
Paul KeUy
I!—Aug. 23—PG-850
THE LONG NIGHT
Henry Fonri.-i
I!arl).ir:i Bel Goddes
(lliril Comcdv 851
0©SECRET LIFE OF
WALTER MITTY
(73) Comedv
©FUN AND FANCY
FREE
Bdgar Bergen
Special
(103) Comedy 8(
MAGIC TOWN
lames Stewart
«—Aug.
30—PO-SBl
|T| (59) Drama 62
EXPOSED
Allele Mara
Knhert Scott
It—Sept. 20—PG-857
I15J (90) Drama 621
DRIFTWOOD
Ituth Warrick
Walter Brennan
Dean Jagger
R—Nov. 15—PG-874
[T] (59) Western 75:
THE WILD FRONTIER
Allan "Rocky" Lane
ISddie Waller
Jack Holt
(i-Oct. 11—PO-863
lis] (75) Outd'r Mus 648
THE OLD SPAN
ISH TRAIL
Roy Rogers
Tito Guizar
It
30—PG-852
II3) (55) nrama S-
RACKETEERS
Preston Foster
Melvyn Douglas
Ii3| ("4) Drama S-:
CALL IT MURDER
ihrey BoKart
Itichard Whorf
Donlevy
Co'een Gray
Ti—.\ug. 16-PG-847
(12] (93) Comedy
HEAVEN ONLY
KNOWS
Itobert Cnmmings
Donlevv
rie nevnold9
I!—Aug. 2—PO-843
g
Herald (Negro)
(69) Mus-Cora X
BOY, WHAT A GIRL!
Tim Moore
ood Smith
Duke' William
—Feb. 1.5—PG-790
Reissue
(118) Drama 727
) Drama
OW (^RFEN WAS SWAMP WATER
VALLEY
'allor Pidseon
r Huston
(R2) Drama 726 Baxter
SECOND CHANCE Dana Andrews
July 26—PG-842
m (110) Drama 72
FOXES OF HARROW
Itex Harrison
Maureen O'Hara
Richard Haydn
Victor McLaglen
Vanessa Brown
it—Sept. 27—PG-8S9
(89) Comedy
MAD WEDNESDAY
Harold Uoyd
Frances Ramsden
U—Feb 23—PO-79a
[n] (78) Drama 4704
THE BURNING CROSS
Hank Daniels
Virginia Patton
K—July 2R—PO-842
Reissues
IS (93) Drama 740
THE MARK OF ZORRO
Power-Darnell
1^3 (103) Drama 74:
DRUMS ALONG THE
MOHAWK
Claudette_ Colbert
23) Comcdv
MONSIEUR VERDOUX
Charles
Martha
R—Apr.
Chaplin
Raye
26—PG-81S
Herald
(Negro)
fi8| (70) Musical X-1
SEPIA CINDERELLA
Rllly Daniels
Sheila Guyse
Pondalayo
Ruble Blakey
R—Aug. 9—P0-»4B
'151 '^3' ^"'"^ 732
Special
FHE INVISIBLE WALl
j22| (IJO) Drama 7
li—Oct. 16—PO-86B
©FOREVER AMBER
18| (111) Drama 730 Linda Darnell
NIGHTMARE ALLEY Cornel Wilde
ryrone Power
liichard Greene
loan Blondell
George Sanders
18—PG-Ses R—Oct. 18—PG-866
(90) Drama
CHRISTMAS EVE
eorge Katt
Ueorge Brent
loan BlondeU
Randolpk gcott
8_Nof. 8—PQ-8TJ
(71) Mys-Dr 4703
|25l
DRAGNET
Henry Wilcoxon
Mary Brian
Virginia Dale
Douglass Dumbrille
i!—July 12—PG-838
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FRIEDA
David Farrar
Glynis Johns
Flora Kobson
R—Aug. 30—PG-852
(78) Comedy
WISTFUL WIDOW OF
WAGON GAP
Abbott & Costello
Marjorle Main
\udrey Young
R—Oct. 4—po-sea
fi5| (118) Comedy 702
PiLIFE WITH FATHER
William Powell
Irene Dnnne
Klizabeth Taylor
Fdmnnd Gwenn
ZaSn Pitts
R— .\Mi; 23— PG-8.5n
[27] (106) Drama
DARK PASSAGE
Humphrey Bogart
Reissues
[T| (71) Drama 704
BAD MEN OF MISSOURI
Morgan-J, Wyman
[T| (84) Drama 705
EACH DAWN I DIE
Cagney-Raft
g
(103) Drama 706
E UNSUSPECTED
ii Caulfleld
Claude Rains
Hurd Hattleld
R—Sept. 20— PO-8B8
(87) Mus-Com
I.opert
CAGE OF
NIGHTINGALES
n—Mar. 8—PG-SOO
(85) Drama
\.F.E
5NGEL to SINNER
(nS)
Drama
O.'iford
TORMENT
R—May 10—PG-8I8
(90) Comedy
(110) Opera-Com
Excelsior
BARBER OF SEVILLE
R_Mav in—PG-817
(105) Drama
Slrlt7,kv-Tnt'l
QUEEN'S NECKLACE
Viviane Romance
I{_:May 31—PG-829
TWO ANONYMOUS
LETTERS
R—June 7— PG-828
(91) Drama
Superfllm
THE LITTLE MARTYR
It—June 7— P0.82S
(9B) Drama
Mage
THE BELLMAH
R—June 7—P0-8JT
MIRACLE OF MONTE
CASSINO
B—June 14—PG-829
(80) Fant-Drama
1 100) Doc-Drams
ArlkIno
THE VOW
R—July 5— P0-S3B
(1*5) Dram
Superrtlm
KING'S JESTER
R—July 5—pa-83S

FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES

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IBER 27
Musical
BF SANTA
Uotsbots
Wblu
NorlCKS
3—PCI-888
ROSA
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
JANUARY 3
PKtrlcla Morison
Adele Jergens
R— Dec. 6—PO-f
[20) (00) Drama {
LINDA BE GOOD
Marie Wilson
Elyse Knoi
Jubn Hubbard
B—Not. 1—Pa-869
JANUARY 10
(54) Western ;
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SIX-GUN LAW
(«7) Mus
GLAMOUR GIRL MARY LOU
Starrett-Burnette
Virginia Grey
Robert Lowery
li—J.-rn. 10— PO-890 MIcbael Duane
Joan Barton
(81) Drama 932 Gene Krupa's Orch. Glenda ParrelJ
©THE SWORDSMAN K—Jan. 3—PQ-88i Frankle Cvle
Larry Parks
R—Oct. 25—PG-867
Drai
{9} (119) Drama 813
CASS TIMBERLANE
Spencer Tracy
Tumpf
lacban Beott
g
JANUARY 17
(71) Drama 810 (55) Western 8
HEADING FOR HEAVEN CHECK YOUR GUNS
Siuart Erwln
Kddle Dean
Glenda FarreU
[it] (98) Drama 81
IF WINTER COMES
iValter Pldgeon
Deborah Kerr
Angela Lansbury
R—Dec. 27—PG-885
^
JANUARY 24
JANUARY 31
Drama ( 8
U
. . ) [?](..) Western
THE SMUGGLERS MAN FROM TEXAS
MIcbael Redgrave
Kent
R—Jan. 17—PG-892
_ (52) Western 7
STAGE TO MESA CITY
Al U Sue
FEATURE CHART
FEBRUARY 7
[6] (..) D,
WRECK OF HE
HESPERUS
Wlllard Parker
Edgar Buchanan
Patricia White
[e] (99) Drama
HIGH WALL
Robert Taylor
Audrey Totter
Herbert Marshall
R—Dec. 20—Pa-883
FEBRUARY 14 |
[io] (66) Comedy 4704
JIGGS AND MAGGIE
IN SOCIETY
oe Yule
[17] (53) Musical 686
SONG OF THE DRIFTER
Jimmy
Wakely
|3i] (78) Drama
FIGHTimS MAD
Joe Kirkwood Jr.
[t] (88) Western 4751 (66) Drama 4707
J4\
OVERLAND TRAIL PERILOUS WATERS
Johnny Mack Brown Don Castle
Raymond Hallon
Audrey Long
Virginia Belmont
Peggy KoudsoD
I
[ie] (98) Drama 4708
WALK ALONE
Burt Lancaster
Llzabeth Scott
Wendell Corey
Kirk Douglas
R—Dec. 20—PO-88S
Special
(128) Drama 8(
TYCOON
Wayne
Jobn
Uralne Day
R—Nov. 29—PG-878
Drama 8!
(70)
©BAMBI
|T] (64) Com-Dr 701
MAIN STREET KID
Al Pearce
Janet Martin
REMEMBERED
lohn MUls
Martha S

Pao.
Titll
Time
Running
Distributor
REVIEW DIGEST
and Alphabetical Picture Guide Index-
G.
p.

I (100)
1 trade press reviews. The plus and minus signs indicate the degree
-lliavor or disfavor of the review. This department serves also as an
i'HABETICAL INDEX to feature releases. Numeral preceding title is
Guide Review page number. In parentheses after title is running
wme. uaiB ioi.ov«ng distributor .3 BOXOFFICE review date. Listings cover
current reviews. It is brought up to date regularly. The meaning of the
various signs and their combinations is as follows:
++ Very Good; + Good; - Fair; - Poor; = Very
In the summary tt is rated as 2 pluses; = Poor,
as 2 minuses.
Broadvray (69) Col...
Big Way (103) MGM
in London, The (68) Col.
Niuht, The (97) RKO 6- 7-47
Moment, The (SS) U-l 10-18-47
ilana (85) Mono 8-16-47
and Learn (83) WB 3-29-47
Lwt From a Stranger (81) EL. .. .11-15-47
Lurai (10) UA 7-19-47
M
Bow, The (105) U-l 7-19-47
Town (103) RKO 8-30-47
jMain Street Kid (65) Rep
:: iMin About Town (89) RKO 10-25-47
UA 7-19-47.
hal of Cripple Creek (58) Rep.-- 8-23-47
I Lou (..) Col
(Werton ot the Movies (83) MGM.... 7-19-47
l«Illerson Case, The (72) Col 6-28-47
n Miracle on 34th Street (96)
20-Fox 5-10-47
QDonsleur Verdoux (120) UA 4-26-47
a*oss Rose (82) 20-Fox 5-24-47
KMiher Wore Tights (107) 20-Fox.. 8-30-47
n^ourning Becomes Electra (173)
My Wild Irish Rose (101) WB..

'
SHORTS REVIEWS
Action in Sports
Warner Bros.
10 Minutes
(Technicolor Sports Parade)
Fair. Peru is shown to be a sportsman's
paradise in this short. There are shots of
soccer games, track meets, polo, surf-riding,
golf and tennis.
Catch As Cats Can
Warner Bros. (Technicolor Cartoon) 7 Minutes
Very good. Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby
are parodied here. Frankie is shown as an
undernourished canary and Bing as a well-fed
parrot. The parrot talks a hungry cat into
trying to catch the canary. But the canary is
too smart. In desperation the cat swallows
the parrot.
Dad Minds the Baby
Dangerous Dan McFoo
Horse Fly Fleas
Warner Bros. (Cinecolor Cartoon) 7 Minutes
Very good. There are plenty of laughs in
this story of flea and horse fly who seek
a
a home on a dog's back. Their adventures
9plo/oos 00 ffte Curreat Short Sub'iBcts-
include a battle with flea Indians and jobs
in a flea circus.
Let's Sing an Old Time Song
Warner Bros. 10 Minutes
(Memories from Melody Lane)
Fair. Here are the stories behind the writing
of "A Bicyele Built for Two," "Come Josephine
in My Flying Machine" and "Daring
Young Man on the Flying Trapeze." Community
singing invited for all the songs.
Borrah Minevitch &
Harmonica School
Warner Bros.
10 Minutes
(Melody Masters Bands)
Good. Minevitch and his harmonica "Rascals"
still
get the most laughs out of a mouth
organ routine. Here they use harmonicas
ranging in size from an inch to two feet, and
combine slapstick with melodious renditions
Warner Bros. (Adventure Special) 10 Minutes
Good. Anybody who has ever tried to mind
a baby will enjoy the shenanigans displayed
here. Dad tries feeding and diapering the
of "Begin the Beguine," "Always in My Heart"
and "Bugle Call Rag."
squalling infant at the very time the grocer,
laundry man and tailor make their deliveries Rosebowl Football Game
and ask for money. To top it off the telephone Warner Bros.
81/2 Minutes
(Warner Patho Newsreel)
rings. The confusion is confusing.
Good, Warner uses Cinecolor for the first
time in a newsreel with the January 7 issue
Exhibitor Has His Say
(Continued from page 3)
usual—good color, unusual photography in
many instances, and to me, interest-holding.
I sold it as a class picture to fair business,
but it's the last one from Mr. Rank. Too many
characters are hard to understand. Played
Tues., Wed., Thurs. Weather: It rained.—
still can't understand, as this is a fine outdoor
action picture in excellent Cinecolor. It
seemed like a natural for good business but
turned out otherwise. However, I would recommend
it to any small town exhibitor. Played
Tues., Wed. Weather: Cool.—Carl E. Pehlman,
Rio Theatre, Edinburg, 111. Rural and
small town patronage. * *
event. The game itself is also made more interesting
by use of color, although there is
considerable fuzziness. Warners plans to use
Cinecolor in its newsreels for special events
only. It will stick to black-and-white as a
regular policy.
because the drivers of the stage knew they
weren't held up before and that the note had
to be put in the box before they left. Played
Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair.—George MacKenzie,
York Theatre, Hantsport, N. S. Small town
*
patronage.
In the Newsreels
Movietone News, No. 2: First films made
inside atomic plant in Canada; Tojo takes
1
|
i
stand in war crimes trial in Tokyo; freaks of I
weather: Louisiana tornado, France floods;
j
hail to 1948; a message from John Garfield; J
Bowl football: Rose Bov/1, Cotton Bowl, Orange 'jA
Bowl, Sugar Bowl.
News of the Day, No. 236: Gridiron thrills
from the nation's bowl classics: Rose Bowl,
Orange Bowl; first films of Canada's atom
plant; Tojo on trial as Japan's No. 1 war criminal;
message from John Garfield; gay sendoff
for 1948; Tournament of Roses; king orange
jamboree; Chelsea art ball.
Paramount News, No. 39: Orange Bowl; Cotton
Bowl; Rose Bowl; Sugar Bowl.
Universal News, No. 106: Tornado takes
heavy toll in south; mummers in salute to
King Momuns; Orange Bowl; Cotton Bowl;
Sugar Bowl; Rose Bowl.
Warner Pathe News, No. 41: Tojo on trial;
Friendship Food in France; new look centuries
old; Cotton, Sugar and Rose Bowl games.
Movietone News, No. 3: Truman reports to
Congress on the State of the Union; Michael
of Romania forced to abdicate throne by
Reds; New Jersey-government seizes contraband
TNT; ski jumping; boxing.
News of the Day, No. 237: Truman reports
to Congress; marines answer call to duty;
male jury tests new beachwear; ski classic;
golden gloves; zoom racing.
Paramount News, No. 40: Leathernecks sail
for Mediterranean; first Friendship Food arrives
in Italy; ex-king Michael reaches exile
in Switzerland; Congress hears Truman.
Universal News, No. 107: President's message
on State of the Union; marines sail to
join warships in the Mediterranean; Torger
Tokle ski meet at Bear Mountain; east-west
grid classic at San Francisco; golden gloves
battle it out in Brooklyn.
Warner Pathe News, No. 42: UN committee
at Greek front; Japs get peek at royal palace;
Florida shows hair fashions; big headache;
King Michael in exile; Australia honors U.S. ,
war dead; spills m'ftrk ski meet at Bear Mountain;
novice fight for golden gloves; Famous^j
People—Ben Franklin.
Just Before Dawn (WB)—Warner Baxter,
Adele Roberts, Martin Kosleck. Better than All American News, Vol. 6, Mo. 272; Ken- 1
expected but business was off due to the fact tucky state college chemistry class; all-Negro
that many do their Christmas shopping on Western Union agency; Laurence G. Abernathy
Saturday night. Played Fri., Sat. Weather:
of Chicago elected president of the
C. W. Ritenour, Milford Theatre, Milford, 111.
Rural patronage. * * * Cold.—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre, Rivesville, Order of Episcopal Pencemen; Meharry medical
W. Va. Rural patronage. • » *
college of Nashville, Tenn. gets airplane
Vigilantes Return, The (U-I)—Jon Hall, Margaret
Lindsay, Paula Drew. We did iess business
on this than "Michigan Kid," which I
Kings Row (WB)—Reissue.
Robert Cummings, Ronald Reagan.
Ann Sheridan,
This is
to use as "Angel of Mercy' to speed specialists
to three Negro hospitals in the south;
tailoring school in Chicago for disabled veterans;
a very good picture that was well liked by
all. We always get walkouts on dramas but pohcemen give party for under-
privileged children in New York.
there were only a few on this. You can buy
this picture right and your patrons will like
Telenews Digest, No. 1: German SS chief
it. You'll agree it is another reissue that
many of the new pictures to shame.
Sat., Sun. Weather: Good.—Lloyd
puts
Played
Lafond,
faces death penalty; largest whaler in trial
run; elections—South American style; native
Rimrock Theatre, Winnett, Mont. Rural patronage.
children given clothes for Christmas; amateur
« * •
world series draws Latin teams; auto and
Wistful Widow ot Wagon Gap, The (U-D—
Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, Marjorie Main. San Antonio (WB) — Errol Flynn, Alexis
motorcycle stair race; bullfighting.
Smith, S. Z. Sakall. Errol Flynn does a nice
This is sure-fire boxoffice draw. By all means
book it. Any exhibitor who plays this picture job in this picture. Although we were somewhat
Petersen, Cozy Theatre, Jeffers, Minn. Rural
late in playing it, we still found it drew.
should really clean up. Thurs., Fri.
Weather: Cold and raining.—Arvil Hartford, Played Thurs., Fri., Sat.
Played
Weather: Snow.—
and small town patronage.
(WB)—Ann Appalachian Theatre, Appalachia, Va. Small Harland Rankin, Erie Theatre, Wheatley, Ont. Unfaithful, The Sheridan, Lew
town patronage.
Small town patronage. • * •
•
Ayres, Zachary Scott. A gripping story that
could happen to anyone. All the actors played
WARNER BROS.
Two Mrs. Carrolls, The (WB)—Humphrey to their full abilities. This is not a small town J
Bogart, Barbara Stanwyck, Alexis Smith. One picture, but it should be. Ann Sheridan, al- J
Cheyenne (WB)—Dennis Morgan, Jane Wyman,
Janis Paige. This is our first show with below the stars' standards. No one had a ness was poor. Played Sun., Mon. Weather:*
of the most miscast films ever made—definitely ways good, surpasses "Nora Prentiss." Busi-
Dennis Morgan as a rough-and-tough cowboy chance—only the stars' names drew them. Good, but before Christmas.—E. J. Petersen,
and everyone liked him that way. The only A large number of unfavorable comments. Cozy heatre, Jeffers, Minn. Small town and
thing that the people didn't like was the plot, Played Wed., Thurs. Weather: Snow.—E. J. rural patronage.
12 BOXOFFICE BookinGuide Jan. 17, 19«

ip/lAnions on Current Productions; Exploitips for Selling to the Public
FEATURE REVIEWS
Relentless
Columbia ( ) 92 Minutes Rel.
Richly endowed to easily earn that classification at which
so many sagebrush sagas aim and so few attain—the super
western—here is romantic adventure fare which should exert
a strong appeal to fans whether or not they be devout followers
of gallopers; while to the latter classification it will
prove a bonanza of entertainment. Photographed in flaming
Technicolor which makes an eye-treat of the rugged beauties
of Arizona's desert and mountain backgrounds, against which
the picture was filmed, the story has all of the time-honored
ingredients of westerns but boasts enough new twists to
transcend formula aspects of that category. Versatile Robert
Youna reveals himself to be characteristically at home with
a saddle and six-gun. Noteworthy that Young's company
Cavalier Productions—made the picture, its initialer. Skilfully
directed by George Sherman.
Robert Young, Marguerite Chapman, Willard Parker, Aldm
Tamirofi, Barton MacLane, Mike Mazurki.
Sleep, My Love A "J^
United Artists ( ) 97 Minutes Rel. Ian. 4, '48
Triangle Productions leads off with a high-powered suspenseful
story, well mounted, excellently photographed and
intelligently cast, as its first offering for UA release. Solid
marquee draw is provided by trio of top performers. They
lend credibility to the intricate tale of a man's cunning attempt
to drive his wealthy wife, Claudette Colbert, to suicide
by drugs and hypnosis. It is engrossing adult fare. Cleverly
handled humorous interludes and the romance between Robert
Cummings and Miss Colbert relieve the taut atmosphere.
Hazel Brooks is eye-filling as the voluptuous brunette menace
with a yen for money and Don Ameche. He is Miss Colbert's
husband. George Coulouris contributes on impressively terrifying
performance as Ameche's partner in crime. He thoroughly
frightens Miss Colbert. Cummings saves Miss Colbert.
Ameche and Coulouris are killed. Douglas Sirk directed.
An Ideal Husband
20th-Fox (-
96 Minutes
ALioht Drama
(Technicolor)
Rel. Ian. '48
Paulette Goddard's vivacious personality and elaborate
Technicolor backgrounds and costumes of the Victorian period
dominate Alexander Korda's screen version of Oscar
Wilde's play and obscure the action. The film's appeal lies
primarily with sophisticated audiences and devotees of
Wilde's wordy witticisms and highly mannered
^
drawing
room dramas. Two romances provide interest for the women.
Miss Goddard capably handles the unsympathetic role of
a ruthless schemer. The story moves at a leisurely pace,
affording ample opportunity for the cast to express Wilde's
tongue-in-cheek views of life in London society. Michael
Wilding is good as the gentleman who thwarts Miss Goddard's
plan to bribe Hugh Williams, government official and
ideal husband of the title. Williams retains his honor and
saves his marriage. Alexander Korda directed.
Paulette
Goddard, Michael Wilding, Diana Wynyord, Glynis
lohns, Constance Collier. Sir Aubrey Smith.
Tenth Avenue Angel
MGM ( ) 75 Minutes Rel. Feb. '48
Neighborhood houses might be able to take in extra dollars
by exploiting the Margaret O'Brien angle. Fans of the
young actress will be satisfied because she appears in
nearly every foot of film. There also is name value in George
Murphy and Angela Lansbury, although they have tough
going with a poor script. In trying to make the most of
Margaret's cuteness, the scriptwriters have come up with an
unbelievable story about an 8-year-old New York girl who
finds it painful to learn the facts of life. Mice do not turn
into money, Margaret discovers to her keen disappointment.
She is also disillusioned to learn that George Murphy spent
18 months in jail, and was therefore not away on a trip around
the world, as she had been told. But in the last reel, everything
turns out fine, and Margaret is happy. Roy Rowland
directed.
Claudette Colbert, Robert Cummings, Don Ameche, Rita Johnson,
George Coulouris, Hazel Brooks.
The Smugglers
p
'•
Drama
(Technicolor)
Eagle Lion (811) ( ) Minutes ReL Ian. 31, '48
This J. Arthur Rank offering is splendidly produced in
Technicolor and should hold most audiences tense throughout,
even though there is that tendency to sadistic touches
which so many of the English pictures have. Some critics
call it realism but not all American motion picture patrons
call it entertainment. Plot deals with those times and that
section of England which winked at smuggling in much the
same way piracy was more an occupation than a crime
though both smugglers and pirates were hanged when
caught and proved guilty. A sensitive boy's father dies and
leaves him under the guardianship of a "gentleman smuggler,"
who shares his enthusiasm for "The Song of Solomon."
Turning informer in revenge for an undeserved beating, he
finds peace and romance after going through many harrowing
and exciting experiences. Bernard Knowles directed.
Michael Redgrave, lean Kent, Richard Attenborough, Felix
Aylmer, Francis L. Sullivan, Joan Greenwood.
The Lone Woli in London F
Columbia (917) Minutes Rel. Nov. 13, '47
Those reformed rogues, the Lone Wolf (Gerald Mohr) and
his butler-colleague (Eric Blore) arrive in London to complete
a book on famous gems. Scotland Yard, notified of their
arrival, is suspicious when at the same time the famous "Eyes
of the Nile" are stolen. This complicates the Lone Wolf's
plans to complete his book and he is threatened with a
shortage of funds, but receives a mysterious visit from the
daughter of a baronet who has a fine collection of famous
jewels. Accepting her invitation to dinner, he learns the
baronet's purpose in 'asking him^to propose that he pawn
some of the baronet's gems and keep the owner's identity a
secret. Complications set in, of course, but the Lone Wolf
solves everything for Scotland Yard—neat of him, what?
Deftly and amusingly handled, though unoriginal. Leslie
Goodwins directed.
i
Margaret O'Brien, Angela Lansbury, George Murphy, Phyllis
Thaxter, Warner Anderson, Rhys Williams, Barry Nelson.
The Flame
RepubUc (628) 97 Minutes Rel. Nov. 24, '47
Austere yet engrossing is this heavily dramatic story of
illicit love and a double murder that stems therefrom. In productional
mountings and its impressive cast \he picture
reflects the upped budget which was appropriated to its
making, while lohn H. Auer, who both produced and directed,
obviously made every dollar do yeoman's service. The film's
length earmarks it for top-of-the-bill booking in most situations,
in which spot it will satisfy, most especially if supported
by a carefully-selected running mate. Performances,
considering the grim mood of the screenplay, are adequate,
with John Carroll stealing what small thespic honors the
piece affords. He portrays a ne'er-do-well who arranges a
marriage between his French sweetheart and his wealthy
brother who has but a few months to live. When the girl falls
in love with her husband the avaricious plot fails.
lohn CarroU, Vera Ralston, Robert Paige, Broderick Crawford,
Henry Travers, Blanche Yurka, Constance Dowling.
Women in the Night A ''t^"
Film Classics ( ) 90 Minutes Rel. Ian. '48
A shocker-type of exploitation film filled with sensational
scenes dealing with the brutality of our Nazi and Jap oppressors.
It's adult fare pest suited to houses specializing in thrill
pictures. Cleverly sold to exploit the "Crimes Against
Women" — "Torn from United Nations Secret Files" angles,
this will pay off in good boxoffice returns. While the wartime
Shanghai background seems somewhat dated, the lurid,
intensely dramatic plot situation still packs a punch. William
Rowland's direction stresses action rather than realism and
some of the players are forced to over-act to impress audiences
with their heartlessness. Tola Birell, as a loosemoraled
French girl, and Bernadene Hayes, a sadistic Nazi
matron, do the best work. A group of women held captive
by the Nazis are forced to entertain a group of Japanese
officers and help overthrow their captors.
Gerald Mohr, Nancy Saunders, Eric Blore, Evelyn Ankers,
Richard Fraser, Q'ueenie Leonard, Denis Green.
892 BOXOFnCE January 17. 194S
Tala Birell, William Henry, Virginia Christine, Richard Loo,
Bernadene Hayes, Gordon Richards, Jean BrooKs.

. . . The
. . . American,
. . Sophisticated
. . She
. . And
. . Oscar
. . And
. .
. . . Against
. . Adventure
. . Two
. . Trapped
. . And
. . How
. . He
. . You'll
. . Suspense
. . Taut
. . The
. . The
EXPLOITIPS Suggestions for Selling; Adiines for Newspaper and Program.
SELLING ANGLES:
"An Ideal Husband"
Paulette Goddard is the only selling point with mass audience
draw. Her popularity, plus the highbrow appeal of
Oscar Wilde, should make this a good bet for selected situations.
Art audiences are familiar with the British principals
and Korda's reputation. The film may be plugged in opening
spots through newspaper man-on-the-street interviews.
You may approach the editor of the publication with the
suggestion that a roving reporter ask passing women what
they consider the "Ideal Husband" may be.
CATCHLINES:
Have You Found the "Ideal Husband" . Wilde at
His Wittiest Best . . . Paulette Goddard As the Woman
With a Past and a Wicked Wink . . . Paulette Shocks London
Society . Drama,
Oscar Wilde's Classic Play Reaches the Screen . . . Spectacular
Technicolor Spices the Drama of the Year . . . Romance
in the Wilde Manner ... A Rare Film Event . . . Paulette
Winks at Scandal.
SELLING ANGLES:
"Tenth Avenue Angel"
Margaret O'Brien is your chief asset. Work through her
fan clubs and local newspapers that carry her syndicated
column. Children's clothing shops may be willing to cooperate
on tieups with dress styles featured in the film by
Margaret. In New York City there is a special angle for
the West Side Ass'n which may help plug the picture because
of its locale.
An Angel Who Will Wing Her Way Into Your Heart .
Margaret Is Cuter and More Adorable Than Ever . . . She
Believes in Miracles and Makes Them Come True.
Margaret Tenderizes the Tenderloin District . . . Hardboiled
New York Goes Soft Over Margaret . Ploys Cupid and
Works Wonders . . . An Amazing Child in an Amazing Film
... A Charming Picture.
SELLING ANGLES:
"The Hame"
~Make tieups on the title with fire insurance agencies. As
throwaways use specially-imprinted matchbooks. Persuade
local cocktail lounges to concoct a "Flame" cocktail and work
out a "Flame" sundae with drugstores. Conduct a wordbuilding
contest, the entrants using only the letters contained
in the title. Arrange to have Vera Ralston chosen their
"Flame Girl" by some local group, such as a college class
or service club. Such a selection would be good for newspaper
breaks.
CATCHLINES:
Emotional Impact That Will Leave You Gasping for Breath
Story of a Double Life and a Double Love ... Of a
Woman Who Married for Greed . . . But Hid Her Scarlet
Secret Under a Mask of Affection.
.
. There Was No Conscience Between Them . . This Man
. Who Knew Love Only as Something to Waste . . This Woman
Thought His Kind Who She Was Close to
Came .
Murder Before She Discovered Her Mistake Found
Joy in a Few Precious Stolen Moments.
SELLING ANGLES:
"Relentless"
A map telling the whereabouts of a gold mine ligures
prominently in the plot, suggesting you work out a "Treasure
Hunt" merchandising stunt with local stores in which certain
items are marked down to bargain prices. Sell Robert Young,
heretofore noted for comedy and romantic roles, as the newest
and best screen cowboy. As mailing pieces prepare
"stock certificates" in an "entertainment gold mine." Dress
up theatre front and attendants in western style.
CATCHLINES:
It's Pulse-Pounding Drama of the Rugged West ... As a
Wandering Cowboy Wages His Own Private, Desperate War
Ruthless Killers Who Framed Him for a Crime
He Didn't Commit . Kept a Rendezvous With Death.
Bob Young Rides the Danger Trail ... In an Action Epic
of the West That Was . Hail the Screen's Newest
Outdoor Star ... In a Thrill-Packed Tale That Gives You
Action . . . Story of a
Desperate Man . for a Killing He Didn't Commit.
SEUING ANGLES:
"Sleep, My Love"
The top drawer cast is a guarantee of popular appeal.
Hazel Brooks is stunning. She warrants considerable lobby
art. This is adult entertainment and should be sold as such.
The provocative title may be pushed through tieups with
department stares on feminine sleeping apparel. Teaser ads
may be used, i. e., "Has He Ever Whispered 'Sleep, My
Love'?" The film is based on a novel of the same title which
was published several years ago.
CATCHLINES:
He Whispered Love, His Heart Held Murder . . . Lies Covered
His Evil Plot . . . Murder Stalked This Woman's Life . . .
A Spine-Chilling Triumph . . . Danger Lurks in the Shadows
... A Thrill in Every Moment.
Her Beauty Drove Him to Murder . Most Terrifying
Words a Man Can Whisper to a Woman . . . Claudette Colbert
in a New Kind of Role . Mystery, Strange Love.
SELLING ANGLES:
"The Smugglers"
Plant newspaper stories about the ancient crime of smuggling
and its effect on trade, especially in its relations to
duties, tariffs, etc. This might be the subject of a high
school essay contest, with passes to your theatre for the winners.
Ask the newspaper editor to be one of the judges, some
member of the police force to be another, and the third should
be a faculty member of the high school. Publish the winning
essay in the local paper, if this can be arranged.
CATCHLINES:
His Desire for Revenge Was Deeper Than His Sense of
Loyalty ... He Was Always a Coward Until He Met a Girl
Who Taught Him Courage ... A Hard Life on the Sea Following
a Dangerous and Illegal Trade.
Hunted by His Former Companions, Hounded by His Own
Conscience . Women Haunted His Thoughts, but He
Loved Only One . Owed This Man Everything—Including
a Grudge . . . Struggling to Conquer Cowardice, He
Tries to Save the Friend He Betrayed.
SELLING ANGLES: "Women in the Night" SELLING ANGLES: "The Lone Woli in London"
Because name value is mild, exhibitors must stress the
Based on the mystery-thrillers of Louis Joseph Vance, make
litle and "case histories" theme by using stills of women being
library and book store tieups. Get the cooperation of the
local police department and set up a display of crimedetection
forced to submit to the embraces of their Nazi and Japanese
aids in the lobby. Invite local police officials and
oppressors. Play up the fact that the story is based on cases
in the files of the United Nations Information Office. Announce
private detectives to attend the opening show and release
ihat any former victim of the Nazis or Japs can make a personal
news of the invitation to the local newspapers. Send a boy
appearance at the theatre to create interest in the film.
about the streets leading a silly-looking mongrel, wearing a
blanket on which is printed: "No, I'm not the Lone Wolf.
See him at the State Theatre."
CATCHLINES:
CATCHLINES:
Hitherto Untold—the Story of Women Victims of Nazi and
The Lone Wolf's Got a Way With Women Who Try to Get
Japanese Forces ... A Drama of Helpless Women Hopelessly
Enmeshed in Circumstances Far Beyond Their Control
Ever Got His Hands On . . . The Lone Wolf Mixes Romance
"a Way" With Murder . . . The Costliest Jewels the Lone Wolf
French, Mexican and Australian Women Held
and Sleuthing . Can the Lone Wolf Go Straight
Captive in Japanese-Held Shanghai.
Around Such Dangerous Curves.
Actual Case Histories From the United Nations Information
Files . . . Beautiful Captives Forced to Entertain the Enemy
They Loathed . . . Captive Women Ordered to "Entertain" or
Be Killed.
This Smart Girl Doesn't Date the Lone Wolf Alone—She
Brings Along a Gun . . . It's Another Mystery Thriller With
That Debonair Ex-Thief Turned Sleuth ... It Took a Former
Thief to Catch This Thief.

pj TTP CUDT/TpP Listed herewith, alphabetically by companies, are all of the feature pictures
r L U O Orirl Y 1 UlJ reviewed in BOXOFFICE during the last twelve months. This is designed as a
further convenience for Picture Guide Users, the page numbers being the key to reviews kept therein.
Between quarters. Review Digest pages serve as accumulative P. G. index.
QUARTERLY INDEX
TO PICTURE GUIDE REVIEWS
First, Second, Third i QA'7 January
and Fourth Quarters Through December
p. G. Page
Time Out ol Mind 804
Upturned Glass. The 869
Vigilantes Helurn, The 827
Web, The 823
P. G. Page
Wistful Widow ol Wagon Gap.
The
8G2
Woman's Vengeance. A. 886
Years Between. The 802
15)
Warner Bros.
p. G. Page
Always Together _ 884
Cheyenne 813
Cry Well - -..-837
Dark Passage 854
Deep Valley 843
Escape Me Never 871
Lile With Father 850
Love and Learn _.._ _806
My Wild Irish Rose _ 882
P. G

QUARTERLY INDEX
TO PICTURE GUIDE REVIEWS
First, Second, Third 1 January
q^7
and Fourth Quarters '*'*' Through December
Black
Gold
p
Monogram

I
mechanisms,
tht \a used I
"ill
,;;
IIS
your
, liCA
e.i , all
e Industry s iviarKei lor rurcnase or ocue oi r.quipmeni, ineatres, service
Classified Ads 10c Per Word. Payable in Advonce. Minimum SI. 00. Display Rates on Request. •
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED
ijeavy Duly blowers. b.ill-bi;arlni; equipped,
liuu elm 10 5U,UUU oini. Air washers, all
u. Hydraulic drives, two and four speed motors
Bcuiitruls- iiiiiiii-diate delivery. Dealers wanted.
Honal Eiyineeruig and Mfg. Co.. 519 Wyaoloi
S1-. Kansas City, Mo.
THEATRES FOR SALE
pair of Powe 3 6B pin roller,
have theatres. .Many theatres lur sale,
investigating. Contact us immediately.
$90 for the pair. PhUlip
Joseph, 1U03 Oalloway. Phone Vale
2-7650, Dallas, Texas.
rbntplete booth equipment. I'air rebuilt simrear
shutter projectors, double bearing
fflbetliNe'". pedestals, magazines, ultra fone sound-
Bis moiors, brand new amplifiers. Strong high
"^islty lamps, 30 amp. rectifiers. $1,000 takes
S bargain. Worth $2,000. Phillip Bland. 1330 wng town over 1,000.
ago following tire. 325 Se Ave., Chicago 26. 111.
Farming territory Owned 10 years,
ice one-third. Pay
$35,000 takes all. Will Una
pedestals. magazines.
Oklahoma.
Cordell,
sound
perfect condition, $1,065. Star
For Sale: 650-seat downtown theatre
y of 85,000. Will take $65,000, all
4S9 W. 46th St., New York 19,
•illy
handle. Contact Boxolfice, A-2936
Two 35mm Century heads, RCA
r>yt Sale: 825 Van
too low intensity Peerless lamps with recijrs
ja'd,
Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 1, Mo.
One of finest
Bquipmont practically new. Best offer
plete investlgati
Wi Boxoffice, A-2935, 835 Van Brunt
all.
Kansas City M o. 1, Cuirent annual profits approximately $1,000
JU.,
Have plenty of used and rebuilt weekly. First run product, all the majors. Uui
exclusive listing requires personal interview ;md
equipment at reasonable prices.
ihtre booih
S or nrile Universal Theatre Equipment Co., financial references prior inspection. $175,000.
Approximately 60% cash down. Arthur Leak
18th Phones: Superior 3912 or
lii E. St,
Theatres Exclusively, 3422 Kinmorc, Dallas,
Texas.
•*
g C. .Mye
-W I iitest typ
rfcoi
fclMdually or nil
Ut Station,
Tex.
SB's, rotary stidiilizer soundheads.
Excelile Mazda lamphouses. Best offei
po dired. Box 513. Tulsa, Okla.
i ir« RCA 16mm sound projectors, complete
-•" !»i amplifier and four PM speakers. $250 ea.
_ia

= DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR...
PATRON FOR PATRON...
YOU CANT BEAT
THE BOX-OFFICE VALUE
OF A TRAILER!-*
*"Trailers draw 31% of your Patrons'
...says Woman's Home Companion
in authoritative 1947 Movie Survey!
^^HHIlUlmiS\C^^€€n SERVICE
\J
p/uzeB/tBY Of memousmy