Boxoffice-December.04.1954

. . Story
DECEMBER A, 1954
l^Me e/^ M
Samuel Pinanski, veteron industry leader, was honored in Boston (or liis many contributions
to motion pictures at a surprise testimoniol luncheon last week. Among
those who attended, shown above, were: (L to R) Arthur Lockwood, former TOA
president; Edwin Canter, treasurer, American Theatres Corp.; Herman Levy, TOA
general counsel; Pinanski, receiving a watch as a gift; Nathan Yamins, National
Allied leader; Martin Mullin, head of New England Theatres, Inc.; Walter
Brown, Boston's Voriety Clubs chief barker .
on Page 34.
Mcond-clau motter at ttw Pott Offica at Karuot
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I , Kaiuos City, Mo. Subscription ratet
^3 00 per yeor. Notional Edition, $7.5l,
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE EDITION
IncKidiitO the Sectton^i hi-ws Pages of All Editions
M
N THIS ISSUE
THi
TiiAmi
SECTIONi

CHEERFUL
EARFUL!
GOOD NEWS
FROM M-G-M!
^
M-G-M's
The tentative line-up of Big M-G-M
attractions below is
just a sample of
what's to come. They've been screened
in various stages
of completion and
are assured hits! Following right after
"THE LAST TIME I SAW PARIS"
and the great Christmas -New Years
musical "DEEP IN MY HEART,"
showmen may happily depend on a
consistent flow of top product from
M-G-M. THRIVE IN '55!
JANUARY
BAD DAY AT
BLACK ROCK
(CinemaScope— Color)
A stranger comes to a guilt-ridden town
and the suspense is terrific!
M-G-M presents in CinemaScope • Spencer Tracy • Robert
Ryan in "BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK" . co-starring
Anne Francis • Dean Jagger . Walter Brennan • John
Ericson • Ernest Borgnine • Lee Marvin . Russell Collins
Screen Play by Millard Kaufman . Adaptation by Don
McGuire . Based on a Story by Howard Breslin . Photographed
in Eastman Color • Directed by John Sturges • Produced by
Dora Schary
STAR-HIT
LINE-UP!
JANUARY
GREEN FIRE"
(CinemaScope— Color)
A flaming beauty . . . fabulous gems . . . high
adventure filmed in South American jungles!
M-G-M presents in CinemaScope • Stewart Granger • Grace
KeUy . Paul Douglas in "GREEN FIRE" . co-starring
John Ericson . with Murvyn Vye • Written for the Screen
by Ivan Goff and Ben Roberts • Photographed in Eastman
Color . Directed by Andrew Marton • Produced by Armand
Deutsch
•
FEBRUARY
MANY RIVERS TO CROSS"
(CinemaScope— Color)
A fighting frontiersman . . . but a red-headed beauty
made him surrender! Loaded with danger and delight!
M-G-M presents in CinemaScope "MANY RIVERS TO
CROSS" starring Robert Taylor . Eleanor Parker . with
Victor McLaglen • Russ Tamblyn • Jeff Richards . James
Arness • Screen Play by Harry Brown and Guy Trosper
Based on a Story by Steve Frazee • Photographed in Eastman
Color . Directed by Roy Rowland . Produced by Jack Cummings '

!
.^:a-n,^idja^iSX^lilMI'i
fEBRUARY
JUPITER'S DARLING"
(CinemaScope— Color)
Biggest of all M-G-M musicals . . . about the beauty and
the barbarian! Song hits!
Spectacular glory!
Cast of thousands!
M-G-M presents in CinemaScope "JUPITER'S DARLING"
starring Esther Williams • Howard Keel • Marge and Gower
Champion . George Sanders . with Richard Haydn • William
Demarest . Screen Play by Dorothy Kingsley . Based on the
Play "Road to Rome" by Robert E. Sherwood • Songs:
Burton Lane and Harold Adamson .
Photographed in Eastman
Color . Directed by George Sidney • Produced by George Wells
•
MARCH
HIT THE DECK"
(CinemaScope— Color)
Three sailors on the loose in 'Frisco . . . it's hilarious
song-dance-and-love entertainment
M-G-M presents in CmemaScope "HIT THE DECK"
starring Jane PoweU . Tony Martin • Debbie Reynolds
Walter Pidgeon • Vic Damone . Gene Raymond • Ann MiUer
Russ Tamblyn • with Kay Armen • J. Caurol Naish • Richard
Anderson . Jane Darwell . Written by Sonya Levien and
William Ludwig . Based On the Musiced Play "Hit the Deck"
by Herbert Fields . Presented On the Stage by Vincent
Youmans . From "Shore Leave" by Hubert Osborne • Music
by Vincent Youmans • Lyrics by Leo Robin, Clifford Grey
and Irving Caesar • Choreography by Hermes Pan . Photographed
in Eastman Color . Directed by Roy Rowland
Produced by Joe Pasternak
MARCH
INTERRUPTED MELODY'
(CinemaScope— Color)
The singing and sock of another "Great Caruso".
Beautiful singer overcomes Fate, finds
love and joy!
M-G-M presents in CinemaScope "INTERRUPTED
MELODY" starring Glenn Ford . Eleanor Parker . with
Roger Moore . Cecil Kellaway . Screen Play by William
Ludwig and Sonya Levien . Based On Her Life Story by
Marjorie Lawrence • Photographed in Eastman Color
Directed by Curtis Bernhardt • Produced by Jack Cummings
APRIL
THE GLASS SLIPPER" (Color)
The same star, producer, director and writer of
enchanting "Lili" in a brilliant nev^ triumph!
M-G-M presents "THE GLASS SLIPPER" starring LesUe
Caron . Michael Wilding • with Keenan Wynn . Estelle
Winwood . Elsa Lanchester . Barry Jones • Written for the
Screen by Helen Deutsch . Ballets by Roland Petit . Featuring
Ballet de Paris . Photographed in Eastman Color . Directed
by Charles Walters • Produced by Edwin H. Knopf
APRIL
-BEDEVILLED"
(CinemaScope— Color)
A girl sacrifices everything for love ... in an intriguepacked
adventure filmed entirely in exciting Paris!
M-G-M presents "BEDEVILLED" in CinemaScope . starring
Anne Baxter . Steve Forrest • with Simone Renant • Maurice
Teynac • Robert Christopher . Joseph Tomelty and Victor
Francen . Based on an Original Story and Screen Play by
Jo Eisinger . Photographed in Eastman Color . Directed
by Mitchell Leisen . Produced by Henry Berman
1955-THE YEAR OF M-G-M's "THE
PRODIGAL"

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Proudly Warner Bros.
PRESENT THE MIGHTIEST
Story of Truth and
Temptation Ever Told-'
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OVER 25 MILLION PEOPLE
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V\/ITH
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Today
America will
know
which city, large or
small, wins the
World Premiere of
The Sliver
Chalice"!
This is
the day,
after three weeks
of spearheading
the national sale
of
Christmas Seals,
Art
Linkletter
on his famous
CBS "House Party"
announces on
69 TV stations
and 203 radio
stations the name
of the American
community which
has led
the
nation in
the
first three days
of Christmas Seal
sales— and the
first theatre in
the world to
show this
mighty
attraction on
WILLE PRODUCTION
ING THOUSANDS. STARRING
as DEBORRA. ihe Innocent
The Night Of
December
as BASIL, the DeJenHer
i/th,i

SHAPING
UP
WITH
THE
YEAR'S
BIGGEST
GROSSERS!
4
OTTO PREMINGER presents OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN'S
JqKtKS
from 20th Century-Fox
Cinema
slirrini
HARRY eElAFONIE' DOROTHY DANDIGE
PEARlBtEY'OlGA MS' MADAMS
Produced ind Directed by
OnO PREMINGER
Books and Lyrics by
OSCAR HAMMERSTEIN, 2nd
screen Pli, by HARRY KLEINER
color by Deluxe

"PuAe-oftA^^lTMamT^ictuJie/neiuS^
^
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DECEMBER 4, 1954
Vol. 66 No. 6
RESEARCH FOR PROGRESS
OC.0,ONG an advocate of research,
Elmer C. Rhoden. new president of National
Theatres, this week announced establishment of
a $500,000 fund through which his compan\
will seek to determine the best ways of increasing
patronage. Among other things. Mr. Rhoden
wants to know the relative values of presentlyused
advertising media, the recreational habits
of potential customers, how patrons feel about
admission prices and policies and public tastes
in
entertaininent.
For a number of years the industry has shown
more than passing interest in research. In fact,
one of the four planks in the COMPO platform
was concerned with ''obtaining research guidance"
for the purpose of increasing theatre attendance.
It was a new thought to undertake such
a program collectively, whether in
the interest of
public relations or some other all-industry purpose.
But it has never gone beyond the talking
stage. From time to time, however, individual
companies, both in exhibition and distribution,
have embarked upon research programs.
It was through private exploration that the
technological developments of recent years came
about. However, it is believed that they could
have been brought to fruition much earlier and.
perhaps, at much less cost, had there been a
pooling of effort and resources. The new discoveries
have, generally, been brought out from
under wraps or hastily produced when an "emergency"
has arisen, rather than as a natural
])rogressive development. And some of these, released
before they were perfected, did more harm
than good—3-D, for instance.
The techniques of theatre operation should
be ever-changing to keep pace with the times,
public tastes, new media for reaching the public,
new forms of competition, etc. But, in large
measure, virtually the same routine is followed
today as obtained in the early years of this
business. Mr. Rhoden realizes this and wants
practical reason, not theory, on which to base
conclusions and devise new methods of keeping
the customers coming.
It's the same storv in production and distribution.
New methods are needed, not only
to reduce operating costs but to bring about improvement
all up and down the line. This should
not be left to chance discovery; it should he
something that is pursued with a determined
effort, the basis for which is thorough research.
Exhibitors will be the beneficiaries of any
progress made in this direction, just as ])roducers
and distributors will benefit from improved
public relations and increased theatre
attendance. Therefore, we wonder whv. now that
COMPO has concluded its all-out effort on the
federal admissions tax campaign, its facilitx is
not harnessed for an all-out effort on research,
promotion, improving public and internal relations.
With the collective sup]iort of the industry,
the plans COMPO now has in the blueprint
stage, could be brought into full bloom. Success
would be more quickly achieved and the investment
returned many-fold.
The Tension
Eases
The heav\ atmosphere of strife between exhibition
and distribution is lifting and some
rays of sunshine are beginning to break through.
Not only are exhibitor leaders, who previously
excoriated distribution executives, now being
kindlier in their expressions, but there are evidences
of actual "delivery" by distributors on
their promises that special consideration would
be given to sinall town and subsequent-run situations,
particularly those in distress. There may
only be a trickle of such actions up to now, but
it is at least a beginning, offering hope that it
will develop into a continuing trend.
In a trip half across the country, we spoke
with a number of exhibitors representing a crosssection
of exhibition. They told us they now are
buying product on reasonable terms. In some
cases business relationships have been resumed
with distributors with whom dealings had been
broken off for several years. In these particular
situations a substantial backlog of pictures has
become available which may serve as an offset to
the product shortage by which they have been
affected.
Noteworthy is the statement made by Ben
Marcus. National Allied president, that he is
"convinced that our (distributor-exhibitor I differences
are not as great as they may have appeared"
and they can be settled amicably. Mr.
Marcus also stated that "Allied is not interested
solely in the exhibition end of the business. It
is interested in the welfare of the entire industry.
We can help production and distribution to
solve the problems for the good of all."
So enthused was Mr. Marcus of the better
outlook for harmonious understanding, that he
declared the inauguration of an arbitration system
could become unnecessary. Such a view
would seem to be. not only over-optimistic, but
unrealistic, for there are many trade disputes
other than over film rentals that can best be
resolved through arbitration.
In any business, differences between buyer
and seller or between competitors are bound to
arise. If there is available a means through which
these disagreements can be promptly settled, before
they are allowed to fester and grow, many
disputes will be held in check, if not entirely
eliminated. This would be a form of self-regulation
which would allay, if not completely cure,
nianv basic causes of the industry's ills.
\JL^ /MJL^fui^

MAJOR COMPANIES SPEED UP
ARBITRATION PLAN CAMPAIGN
Will Reopen Negotiations
With Exhibition Monday;
Roundtable Plan Waits
By SUMNER SMITH
NEW YORK—The arbitration
negotiating
committees representing exhibition and
distribution will meet Monday (6) at 10
a.m. at the headquarters of the Motion
Picture Ass'n of America. S. H. Fabian,
president of Stanley Warner Corp., will
head the exhibition committee whose other
members will be Max A. Cohen and Leo
Brecher, with Herman M. Levy as counsel.
Al Uchtman, distribution director of 20th-
Pox, will head the distribution committee,
whose other members will be A. Montague
and Charles M. Reagan, with Adolph O.
Schimel as counsel.
EARLY MEETING A SURPRISE
The decision to hold the meeting came as
something of a surprise. Earlier in the week
it had not been expected to occur quite so
soon. The decision was undoubtedly due to
rapid progress at an earlier meeting.
Discussion on how to get fast action on a
workable arbitration system featured a
meeting Monday (29) of the MPAA general
sales managers committee which had been
called to discuss the Lichtman plan for roundtable
talks between distribution and exhibition.
It was said afterwards that so much stress
was laid on arbitration that "time had run
out" on the Lichtman plan to get major company
presidents and sales managers together
with exhibitor committees for talks on trade
practices. The Lichtman plan will come up
at a later meeting. He had no objection to
its deferment because both arbitration and
his plan have a common goal.
The Monday meeting was called by Morey
Goldstein of Allied Artists, chairman of the
MPAA committee, at Lichtman's request. It
dealt chiefly with the "one remaining problem"
in the way of agreement on an arbitration
system, that of amount of damages.
The sales managers agreed unanimously that
efforts to arrive at a solution must be
speeded up.
SCHIMEL, KEOUGH PRESENT
Stressing the special interest in arbitration
was the presence of Schimel. vice-president
and general counsel of Universal
Pictures and counsel for the distribution arbitration
negotiating committee, and Austin C.
Keough, Paramount vice-president and general
counsel, who had been active in earlier
arbitration negotiations and had aided in
drawing up previous arbitration drafts.
The meeting laid the groundwork for another
meeting, probably at the weekend, of
Schimel and Levy, general counsel of
Theatre Owners of America, coun.sel for
the exhibition arbitration negotiating committee
and long-time exponent of arbitration.
They have cooperated several times in the
past in drafting a system, and their work is
apparently nearing an end, although Levy
has said that while damages may be the sole
'Complacent' Industry
Draws A. L Mayers Ire
TORONTO—Arthur L. Mayer, former executive
vice-president of COMPO, was in a
critical mood when he addressed the convention
of Motion Picture
Theatre Owners of Ontario
here last week.
He warned exhibitors
against pressing
for government regulation
of film rentals,
declaring that as a
cure for current industry
ills, "the proposed
medicine was
even more deadly than
the malady." He castigated
distributors
Arthur L. Mayer "who have misplaced
their hearts" and charged he could not detect
the "faintest glimmer" of any effort on
their part to promote exhibitor welfare.
"As the market prices of their stocks rise,
their humanity and their humility dwindles,"
he declared.
He said there are more than 3,000 theatres
needing help, if they are to survive, and all
of them could be given the assistance they
need "without a significant loss to a single
major company."
Politically and socially, he said, the smalltown
theatre is the industry's first line of
remaining topic to be agreed on, damages
represents a "wide area of disagreement."
Schimel and Levy have been unable to
meet recently because the latter has been
attending the TOA convention and regional
TOA meetings. He said the previous week
that he was again "available" and was awaiting
a call.
There have been clear indications recently
that distribution has redoubled its efforts to
reach agreement with exhibition. Before Eric
Johnston, MPAA president, left for his visit
to the Far East, he asked to be briefed on
the progress up to that time and said he
hoped there would be considerably more
progress to report on his return. He was due
to be back at the weekend.
MARCUS FOR LICHTMAN PLAN
While National Allied has had some reservations
about an arbitration system that did
not include arbitration of rentals, Ben Marcus,
president, said November 17 he was
optimistic that distribution and Allied can
get together on solutions to trade problems.
He emphasized that he could speak only as
an official of Allied. He welcomed the Lichtman
plan after reporting that talks with
sales managers had convinced him that they
sincerely wished to reach an amicable settlement
of differences. He said he believed that
the attitude of the major companies might
make an arbitration system unnecessary.
defense. The grass roots must be cultivated
if the industry expects to grow high in the
esteem of congressmen, cabinet members or
candidates for public office.
On arbitration, Mayer said quick action was
essential, even if distributors remained adamant
in refusing to accept film rentals as an
arbitrable subject.
The former COMPO executive also charged
the industry with paying little more than hp
service to public relations. In this respect,
he commented, the COMPO dream of an
expansive public relations program has faded,
and "we have not succeeded in making a dent
on the hard core of public indifference."
He also warned against complacency in the
area of television competition. There is little
justification for the "prevalent mood of complacency
and self-satisfaction," he said, and
added that the industry's salvation in its
recent emergency was "primarily due to the
courage and energy of one man, Spyros
Skouras."
The industry is confronted with giveaway
competition, and he predicted that within a
few years practically every home in America
will be equipped with a living room theatre
showing greatly enlarged colored and perhaps
three-dimensional pictures. Television
productions and projection will not stay at the
same level as they are at present, he declared.
Lichtman Talk Available
Now to All Exhibitors
NEW YORK—Twentieth
Century-Fox has
reprinted the speech delivered by Al Lichtman,
distribution director, November 2 at the
Theatre Owners of America convention.
Copies will be distributed to exhibitors by
the TOA and National AUied and through
20th-Fox branches. Lichtman spoke as a
representative of the company, as co-chairman
of the Council of Motion Picture Organizations,
as chairman of the distribution committee
drafting an arbitration plan and as a
veteran of 44 years in the industry. He made
a deep impression.
Eady Plan Extension O.K.
Given by Board of Trade
LONDON—The Board of Trade has approved
extension of the Elady Plan tc Oct.
24, 1957. following acceptance by the four
trade organizations. Payments to producers
out of theatre receipts will be resumed soon.
There have been none since August 1. The
date of resumption will be set by Sir Harold
Barton, production fund chairman.
The current agreement prohibits fund payments
to film producers specializing in the
television field. This new clause will become
effective March 31, 1955.
8 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

ZENITH ASKS IMMEDIATE OKAY
FOR SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION
FCC Petition Is Direct
Challenge to Theatre
TV Programming
WASHINGTON—Zenith Radio Corp. this
week (29) requested the Federal Communications
Commission to authorize immediate
commercial operation of subscription television
by properly equipped TV stations.
The request took the form of a petition substituted
for one filed in February 1952. It
pointed out that the Commission has legal
authority to expedite subscription operation
by granting a simple modification of existing
TV station licenses without prolonged formal
hearings.
AGAINST PROLONGED HEARINGS
The petition asserted that public interest
would best be served by eliminating prolonged
hearings which might delay introduction of
subscription television, and cited instances of
matters which were not settled until after
years of consideration. It then outlined three
simple alternative procedures by which the
Commission could take this action within the
scope of its present authority.
Zenith contended that establishment of
subscription television would make possible
a new and better kind of programming that
will not duplicate or interfere with present
commercial programs. It would also restore
to home TV many important events, such as
grand opera and championship fights, which
have been lost to theatre TV or blacked out
altogether, the petition informed the FCC.
The company said that subscription TV
would not replace present programs or equipment.
Instead, it would put first run movies,
heavyweight championship fights, MetropoUtan
Opera, Broadway openings, a variety of
top sports events, and other major boxoffice
entertainment into subscriber homes on the
same TV receivers with which they watch
commercially sponsored programs.
Zenith optimistically predicted subscription
television would make possible the showing
of top Hollywood movies. These, and other
important boxoffice events, the Commission
was informed, are now denied to the home
television audience because their production
costs are too high for advertising sponsorship.
SAVINGS FOR PUBLIC SEEN
According to Zenith, if subscription TV is
approved, the public will be able to see boxoffice
events in the home at a fraction of the
cost of attending them in person, or of seeing
them in a TV-equipped theatre.
Subscription TV would also tend to increase
the quantity of educational and public service
programs in general, the petition said.
Stations would be able to afford more programs
of this nature on a sustaining basis,
because of their increased income from subscription
programs. Zenith stated.
The company foresees no reduction in the
number of advertising-sponsored programs
available to the public. The public itself wUl
determine the amount of time it will devote
to subscription television, and will pay only
for programs that are markedly superior to
No Immediacy About Zenith's Petition;
Rembuscb Calls It a Tactical Move
FRANKLIN, IND.—The petition of Zenith
Radio Corp. asking for immediate approval
of subscriber television was characterized as
a tactical maneuver by Trueman Rembusch,
who with Alfred Starr, is co-chairman of the
exhibitors' joint defense committee against
toll TV.
There is no immediacy about the Zenith
demand, and theatremen should not become
alarmed over the prospect of an early approval
by the Federal Communications Commission
of the petition, Rembusch said, adding
that the possibility that the Commission
will dispense public hearings on so important
a matter is virtually nonexistent.
To allay the fears of exhibitors that subscriber
TV is just about to get the approval
of an FCC edict, the co-chairman of the exhibitors'
committee, issued a statement under
his own name explaining the status of toll
television. He did this because there was
no time to call members of the committee
together, and he wanted to let theatremen
know exactly what Zenith's petition meant.
Rembusch said that he is to leave for New
York next week to confer with Phil Harley,
Fabian's television chief, and other interested
exhibitor leaders on formulating plans of the
committee. In all probability a legal counsel
will be engaged not only to represent the committee
at FCC hearings but to begin collecting
data which theatremen can use as ammunition
in their fight against subscriber television.
There also is the problem of financing
the work of the committee, and a decision
must be made shortly on how funds can be
raised, Rembusch said.
The industry undoubtedly will find a number
of supporting groups in its fight, but at
the moment there is no indication in what
form this support will present itself, he said.
One point which Rembusch wanted to make
clear was that exhibition, in collectively
combatting toll television, is not involving
itself with the Department of Justice because
those supplied by advertisers, the petition
stated. Zenith said that the amount of program
material of this caliber is small in relation
to the airtime requirements of hundreds
of TV stations operating 18 hours a day. Consequently,
very few stations would devote
more than a small percentage of their broadcast
time to subscription programs.
Zenith stated that prompt establishment of
subscription TV will benefit the broadcasting
industry. The petition noted that many commercial
stations are finding it increasingly
difficult to make financial ends meet, because
of rising production costs and insufficient
advertising revenue. The company
stated that 31 operating stations have already
been forced off the air, because of
financial difficulties, and that more than 100
of the patterns set in the Paramount antitrust
suit and the 16mm suit. Some industryites,
he explained, have expressed fears that
by linking themselves into a committee to
oppose such petitions as that of Zenith, they
are opening themselves to Department of
Justice action. This is not so, he said.
"An entirely new concept of broadcasting
is involved in the Zenith petition, which
threatens to change the philosophy of keeping
the airlanes free, and theatremen have a
right to present their opposing views to such
an agency as the FCC," Rembusch contended.
In his statement, he said there is every
indication that the FCC will explore the
question thoroughly before reaching a decision."
There are too many basic and complex
problems which the petition poses, such as:
"Whether or not it has the authority under
existing law to grant use of the free air
waves for toll TV? Whether or not granting
use of the free air waves for toll television
would create a communications monopoly
leading to controlled thought of the citizens
of this country? Whether toll TV would destroy
motion picture exhibition thereby destroying
the valuable theatre-created public
travel in front of retail establishments; such
travel destruction naturally would result in
a serious drop in all retail sales? Whether
toll television would by its very natm'e monopolize
free television stations' choice broadcast
time leaving the public in many television
markets without free television during
normal listening hours and eventually result
in complete destruction of free television as
we now know it? Whether granting toll
television would reverse the long time traditional
position of the FCC established by a
decision in 1929 tm-ning down toll broadcasting?
Whether transmission facilities are
available and more practical for toll TV
such as AT&T's coaxial lines to the homes
which transmission lines would put toll television
on the same basis as theatres in this
country now buying AT&T transmission lines
for theatre TV?"
would-be television stations surrendered their
construction permits because of inadequate
potential revenue. Zenith contends that subscription
television will provide an auxiliary
source of revenue, so that many more stations
will be able to operate than is possible with
advertising revenue as the sole source of
income.
Because subscription television is a totally
new service. Zenith recommended that detailed
rules for its operation be avoided until such
time as experience indicates what rules
should be made. In the interim, the company
said, the FCC has ample power to cope with
any abuses that may develop, and can exercise
its authority to prevent these abuses on
a case-to-case basis. Zenith pointed out vast
problems lie ahead.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

Says Paramount Will Not Cut
Quality to Liit Output
Y. PVank Freeman basing production plans
on stories available; company has $35,000,000
invested in VistaVision, with 14 films finished
in this medium or being shot; has
great hopes for future.
Theatre Owners of Oklahoma
To Meet December 6, 7
Organization's 37th annual convention will
be at the Biltmore Hotel in Oklahoma City:
E. D. Martin, S. H. Fabian, John Rowley, Pat
McGee and Bob O'Donnell to be among the
speakers.
*
Intermountain TOA Unit
Is Being Organized
About 70 exhibitors from Utah, Idaho, eastern
Nevada and western Wyoming meet in
Salt Lake City December 1 to hear E. D.
Martin and Walter Reade jr., national leaders,
speak.
•
Schine Theatres Trial
Delayed in Buffalo
Scheduled for November 29, Judge John
Knight adjourns divestiture suit with no
definite starting date because of other commitments
by legal counsel.
•
Michael Todd to Produce
Tolstoy 'War and Peace'
Will be on Todd-AO wide screen; Robert
E. Sherwood working on script, with camera
work scheduled for start in September; will
ask Yugoslav government for use of troops.
•
Italy and France Promoting
European Production Pool
Industry leaders of both nations at Paris
meeting invite Germany to join in co-producing
films and later will invite others on
continent to collaborate; such fUms called
commercial successes everywhere.
*
IMPDAA Votes to Admit
Exhibitor-Importers
Independent Motion Picture Distributors
Ass'n of America to extend membership to
exhibitors who are also importers and distributors
of foreign films.
•
Two Biggest Australian
Circuits Study TV Use
Greater Union Theatres, J. Arthur Rank
affiliate, and Hoyt's, 20th Century-Fox unit,
may form company and make joint application
for television station at Melbourne.
*
Over 400 Sponsors to Aid
Spyros Skouras Diruier
President of 20th Century-Fox to be honored
by American Fund for Israel Institutions
January 5 at Waldorf-Astoria in New York;
S. H. Fabian is committee chairman.
Ohio's Top Court Rules
Against Censor Law
Columbus, Ohio—By a vote of five to
two the Ohio Supreme Court apparently
knocked out the 41-year-old Ohio film
censorship law. The Court declared: "Any
censoring; made by the Ohio board pursuant
to state censorship is unreasonable
and unlawful.
By a one-vote margin, however, the
court failed to rule that the state cannot
enact a properly drafted censorship law.
It takes six votes on constitutional questions'.
The decision came on appeals by
RKO Radio to void censor cuts on "The
French Line" and "Son of Sinbad" and by
Capitol Enterprises, Washington, D. C, on
"Mom & Dad." Attorney General William
O'Neill is expected to rule over the weekend
on whether the censorship function
should end immediately.
$10,000,000 Trust Suit
Is Filed in Boston
BOSTON—An antitrust case seeking damages
which when tripled would amount to
$10,000,000 has been filed in federal district
court here by Jean C. Campopiano, owner
and operator of the Capitol Theatre in Lawrence.
The suit is directed against the Stanley
Warner circuit; Warner Theatres; Empire
Amusement Co., Roland and Harold Siskin,
theatre property owners; James A. Donovan,
owner of the Astor Theatre, Lawrence, Gene
Ippolito, owner of the Central Theatre. Lawrence;
Joseph Liss, district manager of Stanlay
Warner Massachusetts theatres and James
M. Connolly, northeast division manager of
20th-Fox. Other defendants are Spyros
Skouras, Al Lichtman, Nicholas Schenck,
Charles Reagan, Ben Kalmenson, Si Fabian
and Harry Warner.
The complaint alleges restraint of trade,
monopolistic control of film distribution and
discrimination in favor of the exhibitor defendants
by the distributor defendants.
Defense Dept. to Study
Request for Post Runs
WASHINGTON—An industry committee on
November 23 asked that the army and air
force play fUms on posts 14 days after nearby
theatres have had them, according to Defense
Department officials on Thursday (2).
The industry representatives agreed that the
present policy of running films on posts 21
days before they are shown in first run theatres
should be continued overseas and in isolated
posts where no private theatres are
located nearby.
The Defense Department has appointed a
committee to study the request, and this committee
is expected to have recommendations
ready for another meeting with the industry
tentatively scheduled for January.
Walter Reade, jr., and A. Julian Brylawski
of TOA; Morey Goldstein, chairman of the
distributors committee and Kenneth Clark
of MPAA, represented the industry at the
November 23 conference.
R. M. Eyman, chief Ohio censor said,
"We will have to seek new legislation
which will be constitutional and give us
the right to make certain cuts and rejections
in films."
Governor Lausche immediately directed
the State Education Department to draft
censor legislation which will meet constitutional
requirements. He said such a
bill will be presented to the Ohio legislature,
which meets in January. He said,
"Ohio must have film censorship" and
the film industry, "for its own preservation,
ought to support a stronger law."
He said he was gratified that the Ohio
Supreme Court decision upheld the constitutional
right of the legislature to regulate
public showing of films by a properly
drafted law.
TOA Protests Over
Disney Sound Policy
NEW YORK—Theatre Owners of America
has expressed "grave concern" over plans to
issue "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" in
magnetic stereophonic sound prints only for
the first 90 days of national release. E. D.
Martin, president, wired Walt Disney at production
headquarters and Roy Disney of
Buena Vista, distributing company, to that
effect Wednesday (1). The wire said:
"This pohcy will create a new and objectionable
system of clearance, creating further
exhibitor hardships. This will deny your outstanding
production to thousands of theatres
that do not have magnetic sound equipment
because of financial or other reasons.
"These are the theatre owners who are
suffering the most from low profits and
shortage of pictures. They are the desperate
men of the industry. Your isolated policy
will reopen the wound recently healed after
the battle of magnetic stereophonic sound for
Cinemascope productions.
"We lu-ge you to reconsider and to release
this so vitally needed film so that it is
made available to all theatres in their normal
release pattern."
Roy Disney replied to Martin by wire that
it was physically impossible to have optical
prints for the opening of the picture simultaneously
with stereophonic prints. He added
that even though both types had been available,
it was "good business and common
sense" to use stereophonic sound for first
showings in de luxe houses, otherwise "substantial
production costs will have been tossed
to the wind."
"I am very cognizant of the problems of
the little theatre man and most sympathetic,"
he said, "but surely no fair-minded person
would expect us to present our picture in
its first runs in any other way but the very
best it could be presented and for which it
was produced. To me that is an obvious fact
that any reasonable man should recognize."
Wilbur snaper of Allied brought the matter
before the last national convention. Since
then, he said Wednesday (1), Ben Marcus,
president, has written Walt Disney of Allied's
views.
I,
10 BOXOFFICE :
: December 4, 1954

LIVING I
F^rsteng agements of
"nr «sirM4s
YOUR BUSINESS WILL
CONTINUE TO THRIVE
'FIFTY-FIVE WITH
MORE BLOCKBUSTERS

.
PARAMOUNT'S
NEW BLOCKBUSTERS WILL
INCREASE THE PROFITS
YOU MADE FROM PARAMOUNT
IN 1954 . .
Paramount is the industry's leading source of boxoffice
pictures as, at year's end, exhibitors look back
at 1954. In 1955 Paramount w^ill continue in this
dominant position.
Last spring's business upsurge was markedly influenced
by Danny Kaye's record-stunning comedy,
with
KNOCK ON WOOD. Paramount followed this
Martin & Lew^is' strongest grosser, LIVING IT UP. Then
came REAR WINDOW- followed at once by SABRINA
- and soon climaxed by WHITE CHRISTMAS.
With WHITE CHRISTMAS, Paramount brought to successful
fruition the ultimate in big screen presentation
— VistaVision, now^ unanimously hailed by press and
public, now^ unanimously recognized by exhibitors as
a potent boxoffice asset.
As the industry looks to the New^ Year, Paramount has
amassed the most impressive wealth of completed
product ever made available to theatre operators.
From these pictures will come the great new^ boxoffice
records of 1955 . . .

3 RING CIRCUS • A Hal Wallis
Production • In VistaVision • starring
Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis
co-starring Joanne Dru • Zsa Zsa Gabor
with Wallace Ford and Elsa Lanchester
Color by Technicolor
Directed by Joseph Pevney
Story and Screenplay by Don McGuire
^mn^
James A. Michener's
THE BRIDGES AT TOKO-RI
A Perlberg-Seaton Production • starring
William Holden • Grace Kelly • Fredric March
Mickey Rooney • with Robert Strauss
Charles McGraw • Keiko Awaji • Color by
Technicolor • Produced by William Perlberg
and George Seaton • Directed by Mark Robson
Screenplay by Valentine Davies
From the Novel by James A. Michencr
Robert Rossen's MAMBO
starring Silvana Mangano Michael Rennie
Vittorio Gassman • Shelley Winters
with Katherine Dunham • Produced by
Dino DeLaurentiis and Carlo Ponti
Directed by Robert Rossen
Story and Screenplay by Guido Piovene,
Ivo Perilli. Enio de Concini and Robert Rossert

f
THE
CONQUEST OF SPACE . Color by
Technicolor • Produced by George Pal
Directed by Byron Haskin
Screenplay by James O'Hanlon
Adaptation by Philip Yordan, Barre
Lyndon and George Worthington Yates
Based on the Book by
Chesley Bonestell and Willy Ley
I
THE COUNTRY GIRL
'a Perlberg-Scaton Production
starring Bing Crosby
Grace Kelly • Williant Holden
Produced by WUIianr* Perlberg
Written for the Screen ar»d Directed
by George Seaton
Front the play by Clifford Odets
I
Kirk Douglas • Silvana Mangano
in ULYSSES • co-starring
Anthony Quinn • with Rossana Podesta
Color by Technicolor • Directed by Mario
Camerini • Screenplay by Ennio de Concini,
Ben Hecht, Ivo Perilli and Irwin Shaw
Based on Homer's Odyssey • A Lux Film
Produced by Dino DeLaurentiis and Carlo Ponti
in association with William W. Schorr
^^m
;;>*•
RUN FOR COVER • fn VUtaViaion
starrins Jam«s Cagney
Viveca Lindfors . John Derek
with Jean Hersholt • Grant Withers
Color by Technicolor Produced by
.
William H. Pine and William C. Ttiomas
Directcid by Nicholas Ray • Screenplay
by Winston Miller • From a story by
Harriet Frank. Jr. and Irving Ravetch
I

Humphrey Bogart . Aldo Ray • Peter Ustinov
in WE'RE NO ANGELS In VistaVision
co-starring Joan Bennett . Basil Rathbone
Leo G. Carroll • Color by Technicolor
Produced by Pat Duggan
Directed by Michael Curtiz
Screenplay by Ranald MacDougall
Based on a play by Albert Husson
.yjfUtWWWi^
Jameit Stewart and June Allyson tn
STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND In VUtaVlulon
co-atarring Frank Lovejoy • Alex NIcot
Barry Sullivan • Bruce Bennett • Color by
Technicolor • Produced by Samuel J, Briskin
Directed by Anthony Mann
Screenplay by Valentine Davies and
Beirne Lay, Jr. • Story by Beirne Lay, Jr.
mm
<
''JFj.:v?'-'" .".
w
I
I
i
LOVE IS A WEAPON
In VistaVision . starring John Payne
Mary Murphy . with Francis L. Sullivan
Eduardo Noriega • Arnold Moss
Color by Technicolor • Produced by
William H. Pine and William C. Thomas
Directed by Phil Karlson • Written for the
screen by Maxwell Shane • From a story
by Jack Leonard and Martin M. Goldsmith
Alfred Hitchcock's
THE TROUBLE WITH HARRY
In VistaVision • Color by Technicolor
starring Edmund Gwenn • John Forsythe
with Mildred Natwick • Mildred Dunnock
and introducing Shirley MacLaine
Produced and Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Screenplay by John Michael Hayes
Based on a novel by John Trevor Story 1

Cary Grant and Grace Kelly in
Alfred Hitchcock's TO CATCH A THIEF
In VistaVision • with Jessie Royce Landis
John Williams • Color by Technicolor
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Screenplay by John Michael Hayes
Based on the novel by David Dodge
m»
"'^^I^HHICOI-
THE
In VistaVision • Color by Technicolor
Starring Bob Hope as Elddie Foy co-starring
Milly Vitale • with George Tobias and
Angela Clarke • Produced by Jack Rose
Directed by Melville Shavelson • Written for
the screen by Melville Shavelson and Jack Rose
.. "i.tusitm.

I
MOUNT NEWS AND SHORTS
Dean IVIartio and Jerry L.ewis in
YOU'RE NEVER TOO YOUNG
In VistaVision . Color by Technicolor
with Diana Lynn and Nina Foch
Produced by Paul Jones
Directed by Norman Taurog
,»\«>\2
Danny Kaye in THE COURT JESTER
In VistaVision • Color by Technicolor
co-starring Glynis Johns • Angela Lansbury
Basil Rathbone . Cecil Parker • Written,
Produced and Directed by Norman Panama
and Melvin Frank • Words and music by
Sylvia Fine and Sammy Cahn
Jane Wyman • Charlton Heston in
LUCY GALLANT In VistaVision
Color by Technicolor • co-starring Claire
Trevor • Thelma Ritter • with William
Demarest • Wallace Ford Tom Helmore
Produced by William H. Pine and
William C. Thomas • Directed by Robert
Parrish • Screenplay by John Lee Mahin and
Winston Miller • From the novel "The
Life of Lucy Gallant" by Margaret Cousins
mm
Humphrey Bogart • Fredric March in
William Wyler's THE DESPERATE HOURS
In VistaVision • co-starring
Arthur Kennedy • Martha Scott and Dewey Martin
Produced and Directed by William Wyler
From the best selling novel by Joseph Hayes
'»-»j
ith every great Paramount feature, play

I
V—'^•.:l'l-uj:-
— first seen by the public on October 14th, 1954, at the
Radio City Music Hall's world premiere of "White Christmas"
— has now proved itself a boxoffice plus in hundreds of
engagements. Life Magazine reported that "it projects an
enormous image with remarkable clarity." "Wonderful!"
said Los Angeles Times. "Spectacular!" said Detroit News.
"Better than anything yet!" said New York Post.
Paramount's second VistaVision picture, "3 Ring
Circus," a Hal Wallis Production starring Martin & Lewis,
will play Christmas and New Year dates across the nation.
In 1955, w^ith the Paramount Studio converted
exclusively to VistaVision cameras, the importance of Vista-
Vision will be further extended toward increasing theatre
attendance. In addition to the VistaVision productions presented
in the foregoing pages, VistaVision's unparalleled
realism and full-stage scope w^ill dramatize the most eagerly
aw^aited motion picture in production today:
CECIL B. DeMILLE'S
IN VistaVision and color by technicolor
WITH THE GREATEST CAST EVER ASSEMBLED

.
NATIONAL THEATRES SETS UP
$500,000 FUND FOR RESEARCH
Elmer Rhoden Outlines
Program to Increase
Theatre Business
LOS ANGELES—That National Theatres,
the country's largest circuit, is facing
the future with unbounded optimism as
concerns the continued growth of the motion
picture industry in all its branches was
manifested at a four-day divisional convention
which ended here Thursday (2). The
first such meeting to be called since 1952,
it was also the first to be held since Elmer
C. Rhoden was named to succeed the late
Charles P. Skouras as NT president.
As the conclave got under way, Rhoden
outlined an aggressive four-point businessbuilding
program, placing major emphasis
on a $500,000 advertising research fund to
carry out explorations in the fields of promotional
advertising and direct selling. Other
points in the four-way plan include:
A traveling cavalcade to be brought to all
key cities, with the cooperation of Hollywood
studios and local theatre operators in each
region, illustrating the industry's 50 years of
development.
EMPLOYES PLAN PROPOSED
Creation of an incentive plan for theatre
and district managers and department heads.
The proposal, which must be approved by
stockholders, would supersede former periodic
drive bonuses and, Rhoden declared, is expected
to provide a continuous stimulus for
showmanship on the part of all theatre executives.
Rhoden pointed out that he favors the
Sears, Roebuck & Co. plan whereby employes
are given the opportunity to invest in NT.
Compliance with the government's consent
judgment by Jan. 1, 1955, at which time the
company will be in a position to request
approval of the Department of Justice for the
acquisition of additional theatres. This expansion
has been held in abeyance because
of the existing government freeze.
Going into greater detail regarding plans
for the research fund, Rhoden said the project
would cover the determination of relative
values of presently used advertising media,
research on the value of premiums, recreational
habits of potential customers, admission
prices and policies, advertising budget
expenditures, and public tastes in entertainment.
BERTERO DISCUSSES DECREE
Also speaking at
the opening day's session
was John B. Bertero, president of FWC and
chief legal counsel for NT, who discussed
legal aspects of the consent decree. He
pointed out that NT still has eight theatres
and one theatre property to be disposed of,
and is expected to do so by next Jan. 1.
Bertero said the completion of the divestiture
program wUl put the company in a position
to expand, with court approval, in cities
where it does not now have theatres.
Significantly, Bertero added that NT looks
forward to building drive-ins where they
would not be in competition with existing
conventional NT houses.
Treasurer Alan May reported the company
^r
r*n,f4
/•=r,
^^ B -tM
JriF-*
Here are the representatives of every National Theatres division who participated
in a four-day planning conference at the circuit's Los Angeles home office. It was the
first such NT meeting to be called since 1952 and the initial parley of its kind since
Elmer C. Rhoden was recently named to succeed the late Charles P. Skouras as
president of the organization.
is in strong financial position. He cited various
investments, such as in Cinemascope and
stereophonic sound equipment, the acquisition
of an interest in Magna Theatres-Todd-AO,
and the erection of two new theatres.
Candy is the leading sales item among concessions
in southern California. Andy ICrappman,
merchandising chief, reported. In the
midwest, popcorn and beverages are the most
popular, while ice cream tops the list in the
Wisconsin area, he declared.
Other speakers during the conclave's opening
day included Bert Pirosh, film buying
head, who said forthcoming product is "5 to
1 better" than last year; Irving Epsteen,
insurance department topper, and R. H. Mc-
Cullough, purchasing and maintenance chief.
Highlighting the second day of the convention
was a discussion of all aspects of
advertising and promotion, led by Thornton
Sargent, NT public relations director, with all
divisional advertising representatives participating.
Other talks were given by Jess E.
National Theatres Develops
Mobile Cinerama Unit
Los Angeles—Kept under wraps during
several months of development, mobile
equipment designed to handle screenings
of "This Is Cinerama" in any showcase
was demonstrated here Thursday (2) for
delegates to National Theatres divisional
conference. As perfected by NT technicians,
three projectors are required and a
mirror system of projection is employed,
with screen size limited only by the dimensions
of the individual theatre involved.
It was reported that NT will begin negotiating
immediately with Cinerama for
bookings in various of the circuit's houses.
Elliott, real estate head, and Joseph P. Tuohy,
labor relations chief. That evening the delegates
jom-neyed to MGM to witness a special
screening of the Magna-Todd-AO process.
Sargent urged a "wise" increase in advertising
activity in order to sell movies to the
public and said "the most profitable contribution
a manager can make" is to sell an otherwise-empty
theatre seat. He pointed out that
NT's advertising expenditure is 5.4 per cent
of the gross admission and declared it would
be "foolish to cut the flesh away from the
bone" by unwisely reducing advertising
budgets.
MAY RESUME HOUSE ORGAN
Conducting the roundtable session, Sargent
discussed the mounting costs of newspaper
advertising rates, the use of effective
trailers, direct-mail advertising, TV-radio
spots and various promotional ideas. Also up
for discussion was the proposed resumption
of a national house organ, which was eliminated
several years ago in an economy drive.
This publication, it was reported, would serve
for the interchange of company information,
policies and selling ideas, but would in no
way conflict with existing trade pubUcations.
Pi-esident Rhoden opined that advertising
and selling "is the heart of show business."
Other roundtable participants included Pete
Latsis, of PWC's Los Angeles publicity department;
Joe Redmond. Kansas City; Russ
Brown. Seattle; Paul Lyday. Denver; Fay
Reeder, San Francisco: Al Fi-ank, Milwaukee,
and Perry Pasmezoglu and Dean Hyskell,
both of Los Angele.?
On Wednesday (1), business included the
presentation of committee reports and a program
of guest speakers. These were Al Lichtman,
20th-Fox director of distribution; Herman
Wobber, 20th-Fox western division
sales head, and Frank Whitbeck, MGM studio
advertising director.
A "golden era" of entertainment is "within
(Continued on page 26)
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
19

THE BRIDGES OF TOKO-RI STRATEGIC AIR COMMAND WHITE CHRISTMAS THREE RING CIRCUS
PARAMOUNT BRINGS UP BIG ONES FOR '55
Minimum of 20 Features, 16 in Color, Placed on Release Calendar
NEW YORK—Twenty productions have
been scheduled thus far by Paramount for 1955.
with more to be added later. Paramount in
announcing its lineup also revealed that all
releases after March will be in VistaVision.
Fifteen of those filmed to date are in
VistaVision, with "White Christmas," prereleased
during November and December,
heading the list.
Music has a prominent place in the listing.
There will be one musical romance, one
musical drama, a Danny Kaye comedy with
music, two Dean Martin-Jerry Lewis comedies
and a Bob Hope comedy with music.
The schedule also includes two Alfred
Hitchcock suspense thrillere, a sciencefiction
drama, three adaptations of hit stage
plays of recent vintage, four action-adventure
di-amas, a romantic drama and two
historical dramas—giving good variety of
subject matters to the company's output.
Sixteen of the 20 are in Technicolor. Of
these, 13 also are in VistaVision. Early in
the year the first VistaVision films in black
and white will be presented. Two of these
will appear during the 12 months.
General release of "White Chi'istmas" has
been set for January. The other releases for
January will be: the Martin-Lewis comedy,
"Three Ring Circus," in VistaVision: "The
Bridges of Toko-Ri," in Technicolor, from
the James A. Michener novel, starring William
Holden, Grace Kelly, Fredric March
and Mickey Rooney.
There will be two February releases:
"Mambo," a Ponti-DeLaurentiis production,
starring Shelley Winters, Silvana Mangano,
Vittorio Gassman and Katherine Dunham,
and "The Conquest of Space," George Pal
interplanetary thriller in Technicolor.
Three have been set for March: "Ulysses,"
Ponti-DeLaurentiis' Technicolor production
of the Homeric legend, starring Kirk Douglas
in the title role, and Silvana Mangano,
Anthony Quinn and Rossana Podesta; "The
Country Gu'l," Perlberg-Seaton production
based on the stage hit of the same name,
starring Bing Crosby, William Holden and
Grace Kelly. "Country Girl" will have a prerelease
premiere December 16 at the Criterion
Theatre, New York, for the benefit of the
U. S. Olympic fund.
Specific release dates for pictures after
March will be announced later.
This list includes:
"Run for Cover," outdoor action film in
Technicolor, produced by William H. Pine
and William C. Thomas, and starring James
Cagney, Viveca Lindfors and John Derek.
"Strategic Air Command," in Technicolor,
starring James Stewart and June Allyson.
"Love Is a Weapon," adventure story in
Technicolor produced by Pine and Thomas,
starring John Payne and Mary Murphy.
"We're No Angels." comedy-drama in Technicolor,
starring Humplu-ey Bogart, Aldo Ray,
Peter Ustinov, Joan Bennett and Basil
Rathbone.
"The Trouble With Harry," in Technicolor,
produced on location in Vermont, and starring
Edmund Gwenn, John Forsythe and Mildred
Natwick.
"To Catch a Thief," in Technicolor, produced
by Alfred Hitchcock in southern Prance
with Cary Grant and Grace Kelly starred.
"The Rose Tattoo," in black and white
VistaVision; shot on location at Key West
with Bui't Lancaster and Anna Magnani,
Italian star.
"The Seven Little Foys," starring Bob
Hope as Eddie Foy, in Technicolor, with
Milly Vitaly co-starred.
"The Far Horizons," Technicolor, the story
of the Lewis and Clark expedition, starring
Fred MacMurray, Chaa-lton Heston, Donna
Reed and Barbara Hale.
'The Court Jester," comedy about old England,
co-starring Glynis Johns, Angela Lansbury
and Basil Rathbone: Norman Panama
and Melvin Fi-ank, co-producers and directors.
"Lucy Gallant," in Technicolor, from bestseller
by Margaret Cousins, starring Jane
Wyman, Charlton Heston, Claire Trevor and
Thelma Ritter.
"You're Never Too Young," in Technicolor,
starring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, and
Diana Lynn and Nina Foch.
"Desperate Hours," black and white Vista-
Vision drama produced and directed by
William Wyler and starring Humphrey Bogart
and Fredric March.
ULYSSES THE CONQUEST OF SPACE RUN FOR COVER COUNTRY GIRL

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be the proudest showman i
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o o o o o o o

COLOR FILMS INCREASE AGAIN;
13 FOR RELEASE IN DECEMBER
Features in CinemaScope
VistaVision, Superscope;
9 in Color a Year Ago
By PRANK LEYENDECKER
ITOW YORK—Ten of the major companies
will have color pictures for release
during December, the fourth month of the
1954-55 season, including features in Cinemascope,
VistaVision and the new Superscope
process. In addition, Buena Vista
will release its first Cinemascope feature
in color for Christmas.
December 1954 will have a total of 23 features,
compared to 21 in December 1953, the
first time this season that the monthly total
was higher than last year. Thirteen of the
23 will be in color, also an increase over
December 1953, when nine of the 21 features
were color films.
FOUR IN CINEMASCOPE
The December 1954 releases wUl include
four in CinemaScope, "20,000 Leagues Under
the Sea" from Buena Vista; "There's No
Business Like Show Business" from 20th
Century-Pox; "Sign of the Pagan" from
Universal - InternationaJ and "The Silver
Chalice" from Warner Bros. All of these are
in color as are "Three-Ring Circus" in Vista-
Vision and "Vera Cruz," the first to be released
in Superscope. A year ago, the only
new Cinemascope release was "Beneath the
12-Mile Reef" from 20th-Fox.
Other color pictures for December release
will be: "Deep in My Heart." a musical;
"Romeo and Juliet," the Shakespearean
drama; "Hansel and Gretel," a fantasy using
Kinemins, electrically controlled puppets;
"Tonight's the Night," a British-made comedy,
and "Trouble in the Glen," also Britishmade,
and "Yellow Mountain" and "They
Rode West," the last three in the actionadventure
category.
The other pictures for December release
will be: "Crest of the Wave," "Devil's Harbor"
and "A Race for Life," all British-made
dramas, and "Port of Hell," "The Steel Cage"
and "The Other Woman," also dramas as
are two Warner Bros, reissues, "Saratoga
Trunk" and "The Big Sleep." "Phffft" and
"The Atomic Kid" are comedies. No program
westerns are on the December list.
LINEUP BY COMPANIES
Broken down by companies, the December
1954 releases will be:
ALLIED ARTISTS—"Tonight's the Night,"
in Technicolor, produced by Associated British-Pathe,
starring Yvonne De Carlo, David
Niven and Barry Fitzgerald, and "Port of
Hell," starring Dane Clark, Carole Matthews
and Wayne Morris.
COLUMBIA—"Phffft," starring Judy Holliday,
Jack Carson, Jack Lemmon and Kim
Novak, and "They Rode West," in Technicolor,
starring Robert Francis, May Wynn
and Donna Reed.
LIPPERT—"A Race for Life," starring
Richard Conte and Mari Aldon.
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER — "Deep in
My Heart," in Eastman Color, starring Jose
Ferrer, Merle Oberon and Helen Traubel
Odium Says Still Possible
For Atlas-RKO Deal
NEW YORK—Floyd Odium, president of
Atlas Corp., says there is a possibility that he
will reach an agreement with Howard Hughes
for taking over RKO Radio Pictures, but he
doubts it will happen.
What he is interested in at the moment is
the acquisition of RKO Pictm-es Corp., the
holding company in which both Atlas and
Hughes have large blocks of stock amounting
to control, with the general public holding
the rest. The corporation's only assets are
$15,000,000 in the treasury and a capital loss
carryover useful for tax computations. Odium
wants to take over Hughes' share and would
like to finish negotiations this month.
Up to last April RKO Pictures Corp. owned
RKO Radio Pictures, the picture producing
and distribution unit, but Hughes offered $6
per share for the stock. This offer will expire
December 31, if not renewed again. Hughes
didn't get all of the stock. Atlas went into
the market and acquired almost as many
shares as Hughes holds and there are still
shares in the hands of the public.
Odium told the story of his negotiations
with Hughes to the annual meeting of Atlas
stockholders at the Ambassador Hotel here
November 30.
There have been reports from time to time
that Odium was negotiating with Hughes to
take over most of his principal enterprises.
Odium cleared this up by saying that he had
never discussed acquisition of the Hughes
Tool Co., but had outlined a plan for taking
over the Hughes Aircraft Co. It was not
whipped into shape because part of the
Aircraft stock was vested in a foundation for
medical research and changes in the tax
law introduced complications.
with Doe Avedon and Gene Kelly, Rosemary
Clooney and MGM guest stars, and "Crest of
the Wave," starring Gene Kelly with John
Justin and Jeff Richards.
PARAMOUNT—"Three-Ring Circus," second
VistaVision feature in Technicolor, starring
Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis and Joanne
Dru and Zsa Zsa Gabor.
RKO-RADIO—"Hansel and Gretel," produced
by Michael Myerberg in Technicolor
with Kinemins, electrically controlled puppets,
and the voice of Anna Russell.
REPUBLIC—"Trouble in the Glen," produced
by Hert>ert Wilcox in Technicolor,
starring Margaret Lockwood, Orson Welles
and Forrest Tucker with Victor McLaglen,
and "The Atomic Kid," starring Mickey
Rooney with Robert Strauss and Elaine
Davis.
20th CENTURY-FOX—"There's No Business
Like Show Business," in CinemaScope
and color by DeLuxe, starring Marilyn Monroe,
Donald O'Connor, Ethel Merman, Dan
"Serious and continuous" negotiations were
carried on for transfer of RKO Radio Pictures.
An agreed upon plan was disturbed by
the new tax law, which required a "different
approach," as Odium phrased it.
When this came about Odium told Hughes
that the company was worth more to him
(Hughes) than to Atlas. Hughes agreed.
"What he will now do with it remains to
be seen," Odium stated. "Perhaps Mr.
Hughes and I will find a common meeting
point as to the economics and values of this
particular unit, although I am inclined to
doubt it, particularly as long as others keep
making proposals that seem to be based on
lack of knowledge of all the facts.
"That leaves RKO Pictures Corp., in which
Hughes and Atlas each have large blocks of
stock and the general public a minority. The
company has cash and a capital loss carry
forward. It should get organized to make
profits to offset these losses because time
is running. We are willing to assume the
management responsibility, but hesitate to do
so without assurance of continuity for a
period. Mr. Hughes seemingly would like
us to take over such management. It seems
necessary that a mutual understanding be
reached with respect to this matter before
December 31 and I hope for such an understanding
soon."
George E. Allen of Washington, D. C, was
elected a director of Atlas Corp. at the annual
stoclcholders meeting. Allen is a Washington
attorney and a director of many companies,
among which are Republic Steel Corp.,
Standard Gas & Electric Co., Penn Mutual
Life Insurance Co., Occidental Life Insurance
Co. and Avco Manufacturing Corp.
Dailey, Mitzi Gaynor and Johnnie Ray;
"Devil's Harbor," starring Richard Arlen and
Greta Gynt, and "The Other Woman," starring
Hugo Haas and Cleo Moore.
UNITED ARTISTS—"Vera Cruz," in Technicolor
and Superscope, starring Gary Cooper,
Burt Lancaster, Denise Darcel and Cesar
Romero; "Romeo and Juliet," produced
by J. Arthur Rank in Technicolor, with
Laurence Harvey, Susan Shentall, Flora Robson
and Mervyn Johns, and "The Steel Cage,"
starring Paul Kelly, Maureen O'SuUivan,
Walter Slezak and John Ireland.
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL — "Sign
of the Pagan," in CinemaScope and Technicolor,
starring Jeff Chandler, Jack Palance,
Ludmilla Tcherina and Rita Gam, and "Yellow
Mountain," in Technicolor, starring Lex
Barker, Mala Powers and Jeff Morrow.
WARNER BROS.—"The Silver Chalice,"
in CinemaScope and WarnerColor, starring
Virginia Mayo. Jack Palance, Pier Angeli
and Paul Newman.
24 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

..m^JHKK
independent
John Ford to Direct
Whitney Pictures
HOLLYWOOD—Director John Ford has
joined Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney and
Merian C. Cooper in the newly organized
C. V. Whitney Pictures,
Inc. Cooper,
vice-p resident in
charge of production,
revealed Ford has been
inked to a non-exclusivo
deal to direct three
pictures.
-
^ k 1
Both Ford and
^L / ~ \ Cooper will continue to
I
Hl
'
' '"6"^^'''' active in their
'^'3L*
unit, Ai--
'
^^ ..-^''ftfti*
L, _ , M gosy Pictures, of which
Ford is board chairman
and Cooper John Ford
serves
as president of the company.
Whitney and Cooper first were associated
as directors of Pan American World Aii--
ways. Their most recent association prior to
the formation of C. V. Whitney Pictures was
in Cinerama, for whicli Cooper co-directed
and co-produced "This Is Cinerama."
The new company has placed two properties
on its schedule, "The Searchers," a novel by
Alan LeMay, and "The American," an original
by Cooper, which LeMay will script. Releasing
arrangements have not as yet been
announced.
Patriotic Groups Urging
'Your Army' Attendance
NEW YORK—Attendance at theatre showings
of "This Is Your Army" has been urged
on all members of the American Legion, Veterans
of Foreign Wars and Junior Chambers
of Commerce and their families, according to
the Council of Motion Pictm-e Organizations.
The Technicolor film, which runs 54 minutes,
will be relea.sed December 13.
COMPO has received copies of letters written
members by Seaborn P. Collins, national
commander of the Legion; Merton B. Tice,
VFW commander-in-chief, and LaMar Buckner,
president of the Junior Chambers of
Commerce, which support industry promotion
of the film.
fox British Investment
Will Yield Profit Soon
NEW YORK—Investment in Cinemascope
in Britain has cost 20th Centui-y-Fox $2,500,-
000 in reduced revenues but by March 1955
"we will get all that back," Darryl F. Zanuck,
vice-president in charge of production, said
Tuesday (30) on Iris return from a one-week
visit there.
"By March we will be surpassing our biggest
war year," he said.
Zanuck said the only problem facing British
exhibitors as well as 20th-Fox was getting
enough prints of Cinemascope pictures. The
government has permitted the importation of
only the first few Cinemascope pictures.
Prints of the others must be made there,
and that means supplying the negative and
consequent delays.
EASTMAN MAKING TESTS
Tlie company and Eastman Kodak are now
experimenting with a method of making a
"near-perfect" duplicate negative which could
be sent to Britain for printing to start at
about the same time printing would start on
the original negative in the U. S.
On the production end there have been delays
due to a lack of Cinemascope photographic
lenses, and it is still impossible to
fill all producer requests, Zanuck said. West
Germany has filed 22 requests and 18 lenses
are definitely in work in Britain, nine in
Italy and seven in Fi-ance. However, five
foreign-made pictures in Cinemascope are
in work or in the planning stage, including
"Oasis," a $1,500,000 French and German coproduction
being made in Morocco and intended
only for European release.
Zanuck said he went to Britain primarily
to learn at fii-st-hand the effect of Cinema-
Scope on the public, exhibitors and producers.
Eight of the pictures had been released there,
"and the public was just as eager for the new
look as in the U. S." A theatre survey which
compared results with a pre-CinemaScope
era showed revenues increased by 50 per
cent and equipment installations running 40
a month. The survey took in theatres in outlying
cities as well as the Marble Arch, Rialto
and Carlton in London. "Three Coins in the
Fountain" proved even more successful in
Britain than in the U. S. In Birmingham it
was in its 16th week, exceeding the record
run of "Gone With the Wind," he said.
Zanuck described a group of independent
exhibitors booking Cinemascope pictures
which has come to be known as the "Fox
circuit." The company does not sell to the
J. Arthur Rank Organization. Zanuck said
the company had no idea of "building" a circuit
and that that just naturally happened.
He said the company would never desert the
chains and independents that have supported
it.
One reason for the popularity of Cinema-
Scope pictures in Europe, he said, is that
they are action subjects requiring little dubbing
and subtitling. Stereophonic sound installations
in Europe are about 75 per cent
of the total number of Cinemascope screens
and in the Orient the figure is 100 per cent,
he said.
20-30 IN CS PLANNED
Turning to the domestic scene, Zanuck repeated
an earlier prediction by Spyros P.
Skouras, president, that at least 20 Cinema-
Scope pictures wOl be made by the company.
He said the figure did not include outside
product which might bring the total up to 30.
"We have not set any exact production figure,"
he said. "The program will consist of
as many pictuies as we can make effectively.
No mass production is planned or needed. We
can prove to any exhibitor anywhere, except
some small houses, that he has had and will
have longer playing time with Cinemascope
pictures than with a double number of other
pictures."
He said Skouras would return from Europe
after the first of the year.
He reported that the studio is preparing a
short technical film on the uses of Cinema-
Scope especially for the guidance of producers.
Some time ago the company started
work on a similar motion picture to help
projectionists.
Six Pre-Release Dates
For 'This Is Army'
WASHINGTON — Six pre-release engagements
of "This Is Yom- Army," the Department
of Defense picture, sponsored by the
Council of Motion Picture Organizations,
have been set, according to Lt. Col. Walter
Griscti, assigned by the department as liaison
officer with the motion picture industry in
the distribution of the film.
Following the first opening, at the Warner
Wiltern Theatre, Los Angeles, December 7,
with Army searchlights, bands and exhibits
of Ai-my equipment aiding the event, the
picture will open at the Metropolitan Theatre,
Washington, and the Paramount Theatre,
Atlanta, December 9.
Dates have also been set at the Mastbaum,
Philadelphia, and the Majestic, Dallas, December
10. and the Globe Theatre, New York,
December 14. Army troops, bands and equipment
will also be available at these engagements.
Colonel Griscti said.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
Walt Disney Sees Benefit in
Of Television
NEW YORK—Motion pictures and television,
working together, will find the relationship
mutually advantageous, declared
Walt Disney in accepting one of the Sylvania
Television awards at the annual presentation
dinner in the Hotel Pierre Tuesday (30).
He admitted that he had been told that he
was gi'abbing a tiger by the tail when he
decided to enter the television field after his
long career as a film producer, but defended
the move by saying:
"We have entered now what appears to be
a more moderate and enlightened stage. The
thought that as time goes by and television
defines its own particular sphere in the
American scene, it will conflict less and less
with the habits of the moviegoing public.
Union
and Motion Pictures
That both media, working in cooperation,
will find this relationship mutually advantageous.
That's one of the reasons we came
into television."
Disney said he finds television "tremendously
exciting."
"Under the tremendous pressure of weekly
television and the stimulation of an immediate
audience reaching high into the millions,
we hope to evolve new methods of entertainment,
both in tales of the imagination and
in the presentation of facts.
"Speaking for my organization and myself,
we soon found our entrance into television
to be a great energizer. We are all walking
faster, acting faster, and—I hope—thinking
faster than we ever did before. And, I may
add, enjoying every moment of it."
25

RKO-Pafhe Shows New Filming Process National Theatres
The executive vice-president of RKO-Patlie (right), explains his company's latest
contribution to cutting time and costs in fiimmaldng at the annual convention of the
Public Relations Society of America in New York. Jay Bonafield, photographed by
the movie camera, can also be seen on the monitor screen. Helping in the demonstration
are, left to right: Harry W. Smith, director of photography for RKO-Pathe; Sidney
Kramer, short subjects sales manager; Jack Heimberger, DuMont technician, and
Robert A. Sherwood, sound man.
NEW YORK—RKO-Pathe showed a new
process for making motion pictures with a
saving of time and money by combining a
TV and standard movie camera at the opening
session of the annual convention of the
Public Relations Society of America at the
Roosevelt Hotel November 29. Demonstrations
of the new process, still in the experimental
stage, were held for three days.
Brotherhood Posts
Accepted by 47
NEW YORK—Forty-seven industry leaders
have agreed to act as national associate chairmen
and members of the 11 regional committees
of the National Conference drive in
observance of Brotherhood Week, states John
H. Harris^ national chairman of the amusements
division.
Men who will head regional groups are:
Jack Beresin, national associate chairman for
Pennsylvania, Delaware, Ohio, Maryland and the District
of Columbia; 5. H. Fabian, New York, Connecticut,
New Jersey; Theodore R. Gamble, Montana,
Idaho, Utah, Oregon, V/ashington; Rotus Harvey,
Arizona, Colifornia, Nevada; Robert Hoff, Missouri,
Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and John F. Jones, Michigan,
Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin.
M. A. Lightman, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas;
Robert J. O'Donnell, Texas, Louisiona, Oklahoma, New
Mexico; F. H. Ricketson jr.. North Dakota, South
Dakota, Colorado, V/yoming; Robert J. Wilby, North
Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida;
Marc Wolf, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia and
Indiana.
Committee members who have accepted
appointments are:
James Balmer, Pittsburgh; Jay Emanuel, Philadelphia;
Meyer Fine, Cleveland; Rube Shor, Cincinnati;
Abe Lichtman, Washington; Joseph Grant, Baltimore,
ond Roy Wells, Dayton.
Walter Reaae jr., Joseph Seider, Harry Brandt,
Gerald Shea, Spyros S. Skouras, Montague Salmon,
Somuel Rinzler, New York; Harry Feinstein, New
Haven; Marvin Jacobs, Buffalo; Charles Smakwitz,
Albany; Frank Newman, Seattle; Ben Goff stein. Las
Vegas; Harry Arthur jr., Los Angeles; James Arthur,
St. Louis; Myron Blank, Des Moines; Clive Waxman,
Grand Rapids; Benny Berger, Minneapolis; Hugo Vogel,
Milwaukee, and Monty Gowthorpe, Detroit.
Arthur Lehman, Jackson, Miss.; Robert Talbot,
Tulsa; M. Loewenstein, Oklohoma City; E. V. Richards
jr.. New Orleans; Mike Kincey, Charlotte; Mitchell
Wolfson, Miomi; Leon Netter, Jacksonville; Richard
Kennedy, Birmingham; Sam Switow, Louisville, and
Morton Thalhimer, Richmond.
By combining the DuMont Teleye, a miniature
TV camera recently invented by DuMont
Laboratories, with a 35mm Mitchell camera,
the director and his staff are able to see
instantaneously on a monitor screen the
scene being shot as it will appear on film.
This eliminates waiting for daily rushes and
the scene can be done over immediately, if
shot improperly.
Attendance Is Increasing
At MGM Workshop Meets
NEW YORK—More than 350 reservations
have been received by MGM for the Ticket
Selling Workshop to be held at Boston December
6. This is tops thus far. The Pittsburgh
Workshop October 28 attracted 304
exhibitors and the Indianapolis gathering
November 16 drew 324.
Mike Simons, director of customer relations,
predicts subsequent workshops will
draw five or six times as many men. He is
trying to induce exhibitor organization leaders
to devote an hour or two, a half-day or
even a full day to ticket selling activities at
future conventions.
"Participation by cii-cuit representatives
was 100 per cent in the first two meetings
and the smaller theatre representation was
satisfactory," says Simons. "Each is designed
to fit the territories in which it is
held."
Emery Austin, exploitation manager, will
outline the company's 33 exhibitor aids. Mrs.
Alice N. Gorham of United Detroit Theatres
will be a guest panelist. Small town promotion
discussions will be conducted by Perry
Reavis jr. of Charlotte. Ervin J. Clumb,
manager of the Riverside Theatre. Milwaukee,
will discuss the big city problems. Norman
Knight, executive vice-president of the
Yankee Network and general manager of
WNAC and WNAC-TV, Boston, will talk on
the various ways to make use of radio and
television in exploiting motion picture theatre
programs.
(Continued from page 19)
your grasp," Lichtman told the NT conventioneers,
if the industry will provide better
pictures, fight complacency and reach out
through every media to sell its product to the
public. The trade faces many problems, he
declared, including the need for more quality
pictures, comfortable theatres, personalized
service to patrons—including children—and
proper utilization of projection and sound
equipment. He suggested the staging of theatre
parties for people who claim they haven't
seen a movie in years, and said his company
would "furnish the picture free—you furnish
the refreshments."
Lichtman added that new stars must be
developed and that double features have hurt
the business. Twentieth-Fox's Eidophor color
TV will be the answer to home television, he
predicted.
Wobber urged cooperation among the production,
distribution and exhibition branches
so that studios can continue to schedule highbudget,
top-quality features.
Whitbeck contended the trade has lost
touch with the public "because we've lost the
knack of showmanship," and urged the use
of stunts, gags and gimmicks to stimulate
new interest.
FULL ATTENDANCE LIST
Representing every division, delegates to
the circuit's four-day planning conferences
here included:
From NT's Los Angeles headquarters—Elmer C.
Rhoden, president; Alan May, John E. Lavery, F. C.
Ireland, Lynn Boughman, Fred Mains.
Fox West Coast, Los Angeles division—John B.
Bertero, president; Edwin F. Zabel, general manager;
M. Spencer Leve, T. H. Sword, Laurence A. Peters,
Bert Pirosh, M. A. Lundgren, A. M. Ahlskog, Andy
Krappman, W. H. Loltier, Jess Elliott, Irving Epsteen,
R. H. McCullough, John Hodges, Paul Scherer, Jomes
Cox, William Jensen, Jack Wilson, James Dillon,
Walter Bantou, Roy E. Evens, Bruce Fowler, Fred
Glass, John Klee, Stanley Brown, Ernest Strum, Homer
Gill, Dick Smith, Joseph Tuohy, Everett Sharp, Frank
Prince, Thornton Sargent, Pete Latsis, Perry Pasmezoglu,
Dean Hyskell, Chet Eckert, Gurd Price, Phil
Anawelt.
Fox West Coast, Son Francisco division—James
Runte, George Milner, Cliff Reynolds, Herman Kersken,
Fay Reeder, Robert Rothafel, Clarence Poos, Louis
Tavolaro, Robert Northmore.
Fox Midwest—Richard Brous {newly-named president);
Senn Lawler, Lou Pope, Frank Bamford, Howard
Milton, Leon Robertson, James Long, Ed Haas,
Harold Hume, Fred Souttar, John Meinardi, Ralpti
Adorns, Charles Schaefer, Joe Redmond.
Fox Intermountoin—Frank H. Ricketson jr., president;
Robert W. Selig, Robert J. Garland, Paul Lyday,
Melvin C. Glantz, Ray Davis, Tom Brennon, Jack
McGee, Harold Rice, Harry Green,
Evergreen district, Seattle—William Thedford, Frank
Christie, Russ Brown, G. S. G. Patterson.
Milwaukee district—Gordon Hewitt, Thomas Hartmett.
New York—Williom Moclair.
Detroit—Dave Idzol.
Philadelphia—Harold Seidenberg.
Wilcox and Republic End
Co-Producing Agreement
NEW YORK—Herbert Wilcox and Republic
have ended their co-production and distribution
contract signed in May 1952 and future
Imperadic films made by Wilcox in Britain
will be released in the eastern hemisphere
by British Lion, which Wilcox left to join
Republic. United Artists will distribute one
Wilcox film here, "Lilacs in the Spring,"
which stars Errol Flynn and Anna Neagle.
The independent producer in cooperation
with Republic has also made "Laughing
Anne," a Joseph Conrad story, which Republic
has already released, and "Trouble
in the Glen." which will be released shortly.
The original plan was for co-production of
a longer series of films in color for Republic
26 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
release.

Film rental for this 54-minute
FILM RENTAL
HOMINM
;
One of the Year's Greot
Technicolor Features!
^
picture sufficient only to
cover costs of prints and
advertising accessories!
Produced in
cooperation with the UNITED STATES ARMY
"
\t the following exchanges
COLUMBIA
ilbany
Iharlotte
les Moines
Milwaukee
UNIVERSAL
Boston
Cincinnati
Denver
New Orleans
20»h CENTURY-FOX
Cleveland
Los Angeles
Minneapolis
New York
WARNER
itlanta
lutfalQ
Ihiladelphia
l«attle Y
BROS.
PARAMOUNT
Chicago
Detroit
Oklatioma City
Salt Lake City
UNITED ARTISTS
Dallas
New Haven
REPUBLIC
Indianapolis
San Francisco
RKO RADIO
Kansas City
Memphis
Portland
Washington, D. C.
Sponsored by
THE COUNCIL OF
MOTION PICTURE ORGANIZATIONS,
INC.

—
'WoUtftM^ defiant
By
IVAH SPEAR
Production for December Drops;
Or\ly 20 Features Before Cameras
Christmas pickin's for toilers in the celluloid
vineyards appear destined to be mighty
slim this yuletide, judging from the meager
number of pictures going into work during
1954's final month and the consequent and
unfortunate tapering off of employment figures
in the studios.
The coming of December saw a total of
only 20 features either scheduled to go into
production or having already been started in
the month's first few days. This reflects a
sharp drop from November's aggregate of
27, and is only two more than 1954's previous
low month, February, when only 18 projects
hit the sound stages.
The tally, by studios, looks like this:
COLUMBIA
"Devil Goddess." This is the last in the
lengthy series in which Johnny Weissmuller
stars as "Jungle Jim," African adventurer.
Producer, Sam Katzman. Director, Spencer
Bennet.
"Duel on the Mississippi." In Technicolor,
this is a romantic drama laid in the deep
south in pre-Civil War days. Stars Patricia
Medina. Producer, Sam Katzman. Director,
William Castle.
"The Gentle Wolfhound." A tough American
sergeant and his buddies in World War
II adopt an orphanage of Japanese children.
Stars not set. Producer, Fred Kohlmar. Director,
Richard Murphy. Being photographed
on location in Japan.
INDEPENDENT
"Five Guns West." Five southern criminals
are given pardons for crimes ranging from
manslaughter to murder in return for performing
a special mission for the Confederacy.
Stars Dorothy Malone, John Ireland.
Producer and director, Roger Corman (Palo
Alto Productions) . Filmed in color, this is for
distribution by the American Releasing Corp.
LIPPERT
"Lonesome Trail." An action drama of the
early west. Stars not set. Producers, Earle
Lyon, Richard Bartlett. Director, Richard
Bartlett.
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
"The Cobweb." A psychological drama,
based on the novel by William Gibson, this
uses as its setting a clinic for nervous disorders.
Stars Lauren Bacall, Charles Boyer,
Richard Widmark. Producer, John Houseman.
Director, Vincente Minnelli. In Cinema-
Scope and color.
"The King's Thief." An Irish patriot in
London risks death to prove that royalists are
pillaging innocent citizens during the reign
of Charles II. Stars Edmund Purdom, Ann
Blyth, Michael Wilding. Producer, Edwin H.
Knopf. Director, Hugo Pregonese.
"Love Me or Leave Me." This musical
biography, in Cinemascope and color, traces
the career of songstress Ruth Ettlng, famed
BLITE RIBBONS FOR 'BRIDES'—
When the National Screen Council chose
MGM's "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers"
as the "best picture of the month for the
whole famUy" to go into release during
September, awarded to the fabricators
thereof were the coveted BOXOFFICE
Blue Ribbon awards. Shown here with
their plaques are Jack Cummings {top),
who produced, and Stanley Donen, who
directed the sparkling musical comedy.
entertainer of the early 1930s. Stars Doris
Day, James Cagney, Keenan Wynn. Producer,
Joe Pasternak. Director, Charles Vidor.
PARAMOUNT
"The Girl Rush." A musical extravaganza
with a Las Vegas background, this is being
photographed in VistaVision and Technicolor.
Stars Rosalind Russell, Fernando Lamas,
Eddie Albert. Producer, Frederick Brisson
(Independent Artists). Director, Robert
Pirosh.
"The Vagabond King." A Technicolor-
VistaVision version of the operetta by
Rudolph Friml, which in turn was based on
a novel by Justin H. McCarthy about Francois
Villon, beggar-poet who lived during the
reign of Louis XI of France. Stars Kathryn
Grayson, Oreste Kirkop, John Derek. Producer,
Pat Duggan. Director, Michael Curtiz.
REPUBLIC
"Man From Texas." This historical western
is adapted from a Saturday Evening Post
serial and will be photographed in Trucolor.
Stars not set. Producer and director, Joseph
Kane.
"I Cover the Underworld." In which a
crusading crime reporter smashes a vice syndicate.
Stars not set. Producer, William J.
O'Sullivan. Director, not set.
20th
CENTURY-FOX
"Lord Vanity." From the best-selling historical
novel by Samuel Shellabarger, this
concerns an 18th century adventurer, the
illegitimate son of an English lord and an
Italian ballerina. Stars Robert Wagner, Clifton
Webb. Pi-odueer, Charles Brackett. Director,
Delmer Daves. In Cinemascope and
color.
"Violent Saturday." An action drama in
Cinemascope and color, this deals with a
bank robbery in a small town and the effects
of the crime on the populace of the community.
Stars Victor Mature, Tommy Noonan.
Producer, Buddy Adler. Director, Richard
Fleischer.
UNITED ARTISTS
"Canada's Great Manhunt."
A story of the
Canadian Northwest Mounted Police, this is
adapted from an article in Coronet magazine.
Stars Edward G. Robinson, Gay Nelson,
George Raft. Producers, Sam Bischoff, David
Diamond. Director, Lewis Allen.
"The Beast of Hollow Mountain." A combination
of live-action and animation (the
latter through electronically-controlled puppets),
this will be photographed in Cinema-
Scope and Technicolor. It concerns a modernday
cowboy who tangles with a prehistoric
monster. Stars Guy Madison. Producers,
William and Edward Nassour. Director, Edward
Nassour.
"Kiss Me Deadly." Third in the series of
whodunit dramas based on the detective
novels of Mickey Spillane, dealing with the
exploits of private eye Mike Hammer. Stars
Ralph Meeker, Cloris Leachman, Albert
Dekker. Producer and director, Robert
Aldrich (Parklane Pi-oductions).
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL
"All That Heaven Allows." A wealthy
widow in a small town falls in love with a
younger man, posing a problem for herself
and her family. Stars Jane Wyman, Rock
Hudson, Agnes Moorehead. Producer, Ross
Hunter. Director, Douglas Sirk.
"Female on the Beach." An opportunist
woos a newly-widowed woman, seeking only
her money, then discovers almost too late
that he is really in love with her. Stars Joan
Crawford, Jeff Chandler, Jan Sterling. Producer,
Albert Zugsmith. Director, Joseph
Pevney.
WARNER BROS.
"Blood Alley." In Cinemascope and
WarnerColor, this is a melodrama of adventure
and intrigue in modern-day China. Stars
Robert Mitchum, Laiu-en Bacall. Producers,
John Wayne, Robert Fellows (Batjac Productions).
Director, William A. Wellman.
Hecht-Lancaster Assigns
James Hill As Producer
Short takes from the sound stages: Hecht-
Lancaster has handed James Hill the producer
chores on two upcoming entries for
28 BOXOFFICE :: December 4, 1954

.
United Artists release,
. . .
"Trapeze"—which will
be lensed in England—and "Until They Sail,"
scheduled for shooting in New Zealand
James Stewart will take off for the Orient
shortly after New Year's, planning a fiveweek
jaunt to Hong Kong, Tokyo, Yokohama
and other key cities discussing his two most
recent Paramount films, "Strategic Air
Command" and "Rear Window," with exhibitors
and the press . . . Actor Paul Douglas
has received incorporation papers for the
Senalda Corp., organized to produce theatrical
films, stage plays and television subjects.
Literary Market Enlivened
With Five Stories Sold
Hitting the briskest pace to be recorded in
many a month, the literary market was enlivened
by the sale of no less than five
properties.
Columbia is acquiring "The Doll Maker,"
a novel by Harriet Arnow which has been on
the best-seller lists for 29 consecutive weeks.
Assigned to William H. Wright as his first
production project since being signed to a
term pact recently, the film deals with an
Appalachian farm family which moves to
industrial Detroit during World War 11 in
order to make a better living, In attaining
material prosperity, however, it destroys its
fundamental way of life ... To Hal Wallis,
who will produce it independently for Paramount
release, went "The Rainmaker," a
Broadway play by N. Richard Nash. Being
tailored as a possible starring vehicle for Burt
Lancaster, the property is a comedy about a
family on the western plains during a drought,
and of a mysterious stranger who fraudulently
passes himself off as a rainmaker and
convinces the family's spinster daughter that
he is no fraud as a romantic swashbuckler . .
A galloper, "Back Trail," was purchased by
Universal-International. The yarn, penned
by Lewis B. Patten, has been added to Howard
Pine's production agenda. Its central
character is an 18-year-old youth who accidentally
kills a man and, as a i-esult, goes on
to become a notorious gunfighter. Eventually,
however, he is persuaded to put his shooting
prowess to use in maintaining law and order
. . . "So Shall I Live," a story of restless,
defiant young men and women in a post-war
setting, was picked up by Warners and handed
to Frank P. Rosenberg to produce. James
Webb is penning the screenplay, which has a
California and Nevada locale ... A Robert
Carson original, "Rhythm and Blues," has
been bought by Arwin Productions, independent
unit headed by Marty Melcher and his
songstress-wife, Doris Day, as a starring
vehicle for the latter.
Two Independents Schedule
Releases Through RKO
Plans for February filming were being
finalized for two independent projects slated
for distribution through RKO Radio.
The newly formed Edmund Grainger Productions
has scheduled "The Treasure of
Pancho Villa," based on historical occurrences
in the career of the Mexican revolutionary
leader, as the first in its scheduled slate.
Based on a story by Gladys Atwater and
Robert Bren, it will be shot in Technicolor
and Superscope. much of it on location in
the Rio Grande country on the border between
Texas and Mexico.
Inked by King Brothers Productions to
COLUMBIANS RECEIVE SILVER BOWLS—Twelve Columbia sales executives,
who have been with the company for over 25 years, were given silver bowls at the
recent sales convention held at the Biackstone Hotel, Chicago. Left to right: R. J.
Ingram, southeastern division manager; Saul Trauner, New York branch manager;
A. Montague, vice-president and general sales manager, who did not receive a bowl;
Rube Jackter, assistant general sales manager, and James Beale, division manager.
Standing—I. H. Rogovin, New England division manager; Sam Galanty, mideast division
manager; H. Duvall, New Orleans branch manager; I. Levit, Montreal branch manager;
Harvey Harnick, Canadian sales manager; Abe Cass, Toronto branch manager;
Phil Fox, Cincinnati branch manager; Neal Walton, Seattle branch manager, and Jack
Underwood, southwestern division manager.
meg "The Boy and the Bull," also being
geared to start in February, was Irving Rapper.
It, too, will be in Technicolor, and will
be lensed on location in Spain.
Warners to Release Film
Produced in Germany
Filmed in semi-secret on location in Germany,
"The River Changes," a semidocumentary
di'ama produced and directed by Owen
Crump, has been added to the Warner re-
Teasing schedule.
Crump also wrote the original screenplay
for the opus, which depicts what happens to
European villagers when an adjacent river
alters its course, cuts them off from their
own people and puts them behind the Iron
Curtain.
Continental thespians Rosanna Rory and
Harold Marisch have the leads, the balance
of the cast being made up of citizens recruited
from the areas where the picture
was filmed.
Mark Stevens Unit Formed;
Plan Two Films Yearly
Formation of Mark Stevens Productions,
with plans to film two theatrical films annually
beginning next year, has been disclosed
by Stevens, Jack Gross and PhUip
Krasne. First on the docket will be "Twisted
Street," a drama of the numbers racket, on
which Stevens will function in a triple capacity
as star, director and producer.
The new company is an outgrowth of
Stevens' cuiTent association with Gross and
Krasne as star of the "Big Town" telefilm
series.
Many Openings Are Set
For 'Show Business'
NEW YORK—"There's No Business Like
Show Business" will open during the hoUday
season at 275 domestic and Canadian situations
after its initial opening next month at
the Roxy Tl-ieatre here, 20th Century-Fox reported
Wednesday (24). It will be one of the
largest openings to date of a CinemaScop>e
production, the company said.
John M. Wolfberg Resigns
As Makelim Executive
HOLLYWOOD—John M. Wolfberg resigned
this week as vice-president and sales
manager of the Hal R. Makelim organization,
and taking over is Herb Kaufman who had
been midwest sales chief. Kaufman becomes
the third sales manager Makehm has had
since he began his independent production
organization early this year.
Also departing from the Makelim payroll
was Hy Daab, veteran publicist, after a brief
tenure as director of advertising and publicity.
Wolfberg did not immediately disclose his
future plans. Prior to joining Makelim, he
had been active in southern California exhibition
circles.
Kaufman was formerly a sales executive
with Republic pictui-es. He arrived here early
in the week to go over newly signed exhibitor
deals for Makelim product. He will remain
here for about ten days.
He will then leave on a cross-country tour
to finalize a number of new contracts with both
circuit and independent theatre owners.
U-I Plans a Showmanship
Contest for 'Zanzibar'
NEW YORK — A new Universal-International
exhibitor showmanship contest wUl
give exhibitors in small towns an opportunity
to compete on an equal basis with big city
exhibitors, according to Charles J. Feldman,
vice-president and general sales manager.
The contest is promotion for "West of Zanzibar,"
J. Arthur Rank film. The prize is a
trip for two to Africa where it was produced
by Rank in association with the Schlesinger
Organization of South Africa.
Feldman said that all types of exhibitors
will have the chance to develop campaigns on
the film, and that the campaigns and other
activities will be judged solely on the originality
of ideas and the effective way they
are developed regardless of size of theatre or
status of exhibitor. Basic campaign material
will be provided exhibitors playing the film.
The judges will be editors of film trade publications.
The contest will start with the
release of the film in January and end
June 1, 1955.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 29

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..J.
.IGHT CENSORSHIP ON TWO FRONTS
West Memphis Exhibitor
Defies Ban on Truck Ad
MEMPHIS—Memphis, known throughout
the country for its strict movie censorship,
tried a new type of censorsliip last week, but
didn't get away with it.
Police Chief J. C. Macdonald banned from
the streets of Memphis a truck carrying billboards
advertising a movie showing at Sunset
Drive-In, West Memphis, Ark., just across
the Mississippi river ' from Memphis. The
movie, "She-Wolf," had been banned by censors
from Memphis.
"I don't think it proper to have a truck
running up and down our streets displaying
advertisements of a half nude girl, especially
when it advertises a picture banned in Memphis,"
said Chief Macdonald.
Chief Macdonald said the future policy of
the police department would be to forbid advertisements
on Memphis streets of movies
banned in Memphis.
But Bob Kilgore, manager of Sunset Drive-
In, didn't bluff so easily.
He ordered his truck driver to continue. He
made one change in the billboard. He hung
a new sign "Banned in Memphis" across a
portion of the billboard which read: "The
most evil woman who ever lived. Savage!
Sinful! Shameless!"
"There's an issue of free speech involved
here," said Kilgore, "and we were doing
nothing illegal. We'll fight this all the way."
His truck continued to operate and police
did not arrest the driver.
Faced with this situation. Chief Macdonald
said: "There is no law against advertis-
Although Sunset Drive -In paid $25 a
year special tax to the City of Memphis
and another $25 to the County of Shelby
for permission to let this truck use the
city streets, Police Chief Macdonald ordered
it banned from Memphis last week.
However, Bob Kilgore, manager of the
Sunset, defied the police order and got
away with it. No arrest was made.
ing movies here which have been banned by
city censors. But I personally feel it should
not be allowed."
But the truck continued and no arrest was
made.
Cleveland Censors Attempt to Halt
Showings by Private Film Group
CLEVELAND—Victor Salupo, organizer and
general manager of Group 16 formed to present
to memljers only a series of five foreign
films that were turned down by the Ohio
censor board, together with his associate
Anthony Dennison, ran smack into the arms
of the law Friday night (261 when they presented
the French film, "Dedee," before an
audience of approximately 600 alleged members
at the Moreland Theatre.
Group membership for the entire series is
$5. Membership is open to the public, according
to Salupo.
A warrant for the arrest was signed by
Ezra Miles of the Ohio Board of Censors.
The arrested men say they are prepared to
take their case to the highest court in the
land, which, they claim, has already ruled
against film censorship.
Both Salupo and Dennison pleaded not
guilty before Municipal Judge Lillian Westropp
Saturday morning (27) and were granted
a continuance until January 5. They were released
on personal bail.
Nathan Batwln, attorney who helped arrange
for the men's bonds, said that in his
opinion the situation arose out of a series
of newspaper advertisements which listed the
five pictures involved, each stamped heavily
with the word "censored." The advertisement
also stated that membership to the group
could be purchased at the door of the Moreland
Theatre. This is interpreted as meaning
that the presentations would be open to the
public on the series purchase plan.
The Friday show was not stopped but continued
to its conclusion. Pictures in the series
other than "Dedee" are "Manon," "Casque
d'Or," "Under Paris Sky" and "The Young
and the Damned."
U-I to Use Male Magazines
To Advertise 'Bridges'
HOLLYWOOD — Magazines devoted
primarily
to male readers will be dominant in
the advertising campaign being drafted by
Universal-International for its upcoming
melodrama, "Six Bridges to Cross," it was
disclosed by David A. Lipton, vice-president
in charge of advertising and publicity. The
film, starring Tony Curtis and based on the
unsolved $2,500,000 Brink's robbery in Boston,
wiU be blurbed in True, Argosy, National
Detective, Saga, Sport. Official Detective,
Police Detective, Ti-ue Crime. Ti-ue Cases and
True Mystery. Also to be utilized, for readers
of more general tastes, are Collier's, Life,
Look and Seventeen.
Bishops Ask Critics
To Back Legion
WASHINGTON—Film critics of the Catholic
faith were told by the Catholic Bishops
of the United States in the annual Catholic
Legion of Decency motion picture report
last week that in their reviews they must
be careful not to approve a film with technical
and dramatic value if the film "would
call for grave reservations from the moral
or the religious viewpoint."
The bishops reminded Catholic critics that
the moral values of a film are most important,
although they recognized that otherwise inferior
films could not be approved simply because
they are "morally recommendable."
The bishops issued a sharp blast against
"lowering of standard of decency" in motion
picture advertising, ascribed "apparent indifference"
to the ad trend to industry leaders,
and expressed the hope that "no like
lapse from acceptable standards" will affect
the Production Code Administration in
Hollywood.
Reporting on the moral qualities of films
reviewed during the year, the bishops said
that 2 of 279 U. S.-produced films were condemned,
while 7 of 73 foreign films were
placed in this category.
Of U. S. films, 120 or about 43 per cent
were put in the A-I classification, 101 or
about 36 per cent were termed A-II. while
56, or about 20 per cent were rated B. Of
foreign films, 18 or about 25 per cent, were
A-I, 26 or about 36 per cent. A-II and 22 or
about 30 per cent were rated B. A-I is
morally unobjectionable for general patronage,
A-II is morally unobjectionable for
adults, and B is morally objectionable in
part for all.
The Most Reverend William A. O'Connor,
D. D., Bishop of Springfield. 111., has completed
his term as a member of the Bishops'
Committee and has been succeeded by the
Most Reverend Hubert M. Newell of Cheyenne,
Wyo.
The bishops took the occasion to remind
all Catholics of the seriousness of the pledge
of the Legion of Decency and called for
"faithful compliance" with it. The pledge is
taken by Catholics on the Sunday within the
Octave of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception
and provides for the avoidance of
films dangerous to their moral life.
Six U. S. Films Entered
For Uruguay Festival
NEW YORK—Tliree American features
and three shorts will be entered at the Uruguay
Film Festival to be held January. 15-31
at Punta del Este. The features will be "The
Caine Mutiny" (Coll. "Sabrina" (Para) and
"The Living Desert" ( Disney 1. The shorts
will be "VistaVision Visits Norway" (Para),
"Gauchos Down Uruguay Way" (Col) and
"Ben and I" (Disney). The festival authorities
may permit a few additional American
entries.
Rathvon Retitles Film
NEW YORK—The first
Rathvon Overseas,
Lta.. German-American production. "Embassy
Baby." has been retitled "Special Delivery."
It is being shot in Frankfurt for the
American market. Joseph Cotten and Eva
Bartok are co-starring.
32 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

THE
STORY OF
THE WEST
r
^
...of all the legends of
the frontier there is
none greater than
the story of
that day -when
Destry carried a gun!
D
starring
AUDIE MURPHY- MARI BLANCHARD • LYLE BETTGER'LORl NELSON
THOMAS MITCHELL with
EDGAR BUCHANAN- WALLACE FORD-MARY WICKES
Directed by GEORGE MARSHALL
• Screenplay by EDMUND H NORTH and D. D, BEAUCHAMP
•
Produced by STANLEY RUBIN
Suggested by MAX BRAND'S novel "DESTRY RIDES AGAIN"
f^
Pictures with that Universal appeal"

New England Turns Out
To Fete Sam Pinanski
By FIFI HARDING
BOSTON—A surprise luncheon given to
Samuel Pinanski last week (24) turned into
one of the most sincere affairs ever staged in
this city. It was a
strictly New England
gathering limited to
about 100 of the intimate
industry friends
of the president of
American Theatres
Corp. who has won national
recognition for
his valued services and
leadership to the industry.
Nathan Yamins and
Arthur Lockwood, co-
Sam Pinanski
chairmen, opened the
testimonial at the Statler Hotel. Walter
Brown, chief barker of the Variety Club of
New England, told of the many effective
World War II bond drives which Pinanski
conducted. Martin J. Mullin, president of
New England Theatres, recalled his 18 years
with Pinanski as partner in operation of the
M&P Theatres.
Herman Levy, general counsel of Theatre
Owners of America, recounted Pinanski's contributions
to the industry in general.
PRESENTED ELABORATE WATCH
Edward S. Canter, treasurer of ATC. presented
Pinanski an elaborate wrist watch.
"It has been my great fortune to be associated
with Sam for many years," Canter
said. "It will in fact be 32 years next March
when I first met him and I have never
ceased to admire his enthusiasm, his basic
optimism, his gi-eat foresight and his eternal
youthfulness. Many honors which he richly
deserves have come to Sam during the years.
"Today we, the representatives of the motion
picture industry in New England, honor
him for the great work he has done for our
industry, and if it were in our power to
grant honorary degrees, his would be the
first to be granted and his citation would
read as follows: 'Outstanding public servant
in war and peace; sincere worker in humanitarian
causes; a great, loyal alumnus of his
college; untiring and sincere worker in the
motion picture industry, ever striving to improve
the exhibitors' lot with especial interest
in the grassroots exhibitor: constantly
sought for his sage counsel from the great
and the small, and a generous, sincere, forthright
human being who wears the mantle of
success gracefully.'
"We cannot grant any honorary degrees
to Sam. but he has earned our admiration
and gratitude, and as a small token of appreciation
and affection we present him with
this gift, which carries with it the best
wishes from all of us for his continued success
and good health."
Pinanski recently was appointed honorary
chairman of the board of directors of TOA
and subsequently was named chairman of
the new Exhibitors Film Financial Group,
Inc., an organization created to provide financing
for independent motion picture production.
He also serves as co-chairman of
the governing tribunal of COMPO, representing
all facets of the industry. Perhaps his
most prominent local appointment was made
three years ago when he was chosen to be
on the board of directors of John Hancock
Mutual Lite Insurance Co.
LOCKWOOD MAKES APOLOGY
At the finish of the celebration, Arthur H.
Lockwood expressed his regret and apologized
to the many friends of Pinanski who were
not invited to the surprise luncheon. Lockwood
explained that several months ago a
group of friends of Pinanski were arranging
a formal and elaborate testimonial dinner.
When he heard of the plans, Pinanski immediately
asked that the plans be stopped.
However, after the recent TOA meeting in
Chicago, Lockwood said that a few close
triends decided to arrange a private, unpublicized
surprise luncheon to express their
appreciation of the many wonderful things
Pinanski has done for the benefit of the
entire industry. As word got around of this
affair, it mushroomed suddenly.
"It was not intentional to omit anyone."
said Lockwood, "and in behalf of Sam Pinanski
and of my co-chairman, Nathan
Yamins, we hope that those who were not
formally invited will understand the situation."
Levy referred to Pinanski as an exhibitor
"who paints better pictures than the distributors
have been giving him for the
screens of his theatres."
"We attend many testimonial parties reluctantly,
either because we feel obligated to
the guest of honor, or because we want the
guest of honor to feel obligated to us, or
because we want to be seen, or for any one
of many other uncharitable reasons. But
this testimonial, Sam, is different. Nobody
here wants anything from you. These men,
coming from all walks of life, love you, admire
you, and respect you.
PINANSKI'S
PHILOSOPHY LAUDED
"Sam, because you have always been impelled
by a philosophy of life that the greatest
good must always be for the greatest
number, because you have always judged each
man on his own, because you were a nongrasping
pioneer in this industry, because
you are now a man of reknown in the world
of finance, because you have been a champion
of the weak and of the underprivileged, because
you have been an effective and undisputed
leader of exhibition, because you have
been a militant but logical warrior against
adverse and discriminating tax and other
legislation, and, finally, because, at a period
in your life when you were privileged to spend
more time on your Sabine farm you have
accepted the cares, the worries, and the hard
work that go with the office of president of
an independent production financing unit
that is dedicated to relieving your fellowexhibitors
from the sellers market consciously
created by distribution in its shortsightedness
and in its complete lack of sympathetic
understanding of exhibitor problems. Because
of all of these things, Sam, you are a man
among men—a man loved, respected, and
admired. Those who do not feel that way
about you, if there be any, do not understand
you."
vy
/
im^
CHRISTMAS SEALS BEADY—Ginger
Rogers takes time out from a personal appearance
stop in Chicago to give the
annual Christmas Seal drive a good start.
George Dixon, local chairman of the
drive, is holding the enlargements. On
the right is Jacques Bergerac, Miss
Rogers' husband, who appears with her
in "Twist of Fate."
New Production Company
Formed in New Orleans
NEW ORLEANS—The formation of
an independent
film producing company which will
specialize in low-budget feature film made
ia foreign countries was announced by George
M. Leppert of New Orleans. The firm, named
Draw Poker Films. Inc., will have its legal
headquarters in Houston, Tex. The New-
Orleans base of operations will be the office
of the treasurer, George Wetzel, and Robert
L. Irvin of Long Beach, Calif., attorney and
public relations counsel, will head the west
coast center. Leander H. Perez jr. is the local
vice-president.
The company's first production will be a
suspense film to be shot in Spain. The story
was co-authored by Leppert and Ed Ainsworth,
novelist and feature writer of the Los
Angeles Times.
Each of the firm's productions will be
financed on its own basis or by subscription
contracts for a direct participation in the net.
Leppert. president of the new corporation,
said it is organized on a nominal capital
basis, with no stock sales offered to the
public.
Leppert, who owns the copyright for the
first film, said he plans to arrange for coproduction
with a Spanish group, sell the
show to them, or return to make it in California.
'Vera Cruz' Is Scheduled
In Superscope for Xmas
NEW YORK—United Artists has scheduled
"Vera Cruz" for 19 Christmas holiday regional
openings which will make it the first
film to be released in the Superscope process,
William J. Heineman, distribution vicepresident,
has reported.
The cities are San Francisco. San Diego,
Denver, Chicago. Houston. Detroit, Evansville,
Dayton, Columbus, Harrisburg, Reading,
Nashville, Norfolk, Wilmington, Richmond,
Charlotte, Syracuse. Bridgeport and
Springfield. Showings will start December 24
and continue through New Year's Day.
United Artists has placed an initial order
for 200 Superscope prints of the film for the
openings and regional saturation showings to
follow.
34 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

.HE SMASHED THE RULE OF THE IVORY PIRATES
who plunder the forgotten wilderness
off the Outlaw Coast!
/f^
nt'on, fiU SHOWMeN!
HERE'S YOUR ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME
CHANCE TO VISIT AFRICA!
Some enterprising showman is going to win an all-expense-paid, three
week trip for two to Zanzibar and other fascinating countries in Africa,
for the best promotion campaign on WEST OF ZANZIBAR.
J^ ^
s^^f
WRITE,
WIRE OR PHONE FOR FULL DETAILS
AND BIG CONTEST CAMPAIGN PACKAGE TO:
Mr. Charles F. Simonelli, Universal Pictures Company,
445 Park Avenue, New York 22, New York.
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Ever/ confesfant will win an exciting prize!
starringANTHONY STEEL
SHEILA SIM
Sto,y and ftrection b, HARRY WAH- Produced b, LESLIE NORMAN . ScfBerpla, b, MAX CATTO and JACK WHITTINGHAM
A MICHAEL BALCON PRODUCTION A J. ARTHUR rank organization PRESENTATION -a UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL RELEASE

Fox 39-Week Net Exceeds
LastYear by $4,299,026
CALENDAR Of EVENTS
DECEMBER
NKW YORK—An increase of $4,299,026 in
consolidated net earnings was reported Tuesday
(30) by 20th Century-Fox for the 39
weeks ended September 25 over the same 1953
period. The 1954 earnings were $5,732,063, or
$2.17 a share on the 2,644,486 shares of common
stock outstanding. The 1953 figure was
$1,433,037, or 52 cents a share on the 2,769,486
shares outstanding.
Third quarter earnings this year amounted
to $2,635,518, compared with $1,274,728 for the
1953 third quarter. The net earnings for the
second quarter of 1954 were $1,048,515.
Amortization of film costs was taken on the
same basis as in previous years.
The company declared a quarterly cash dividend
of 40 cents a share and an extra cash
dividend of 10 cents a share on the common
stock, payable December 24 to stockholders
of record December 10.
The 1954 39-week consolidated profit and
loss statement showed film rental income as
$78,010,380, compared with $75,540,617 in the
1953 period. Other 1954 operating income was
$5,570,524, compared with $4,478,890. Contributions
to the employe retirement plan rose
to $1,123,879 from $614,371.
Total of 11,000 CS Installations
Expected by End of Year
NEW YORK—Cinemascope installations in
the U. S. and Canada will total at least 11,000
by the end of the year, according to equipment
dealer reports to 20th Century-Pox.
Tliese put the total for the week ended November
6 as 9,234 theatres. Of these, 7,869 are
conventional theatres, 1,234 drive-ins, 129
army installations and two non-theatrical.
The estimate for the end of 1954 of installations
of Cinemascope and stereophonic
sound, averaging more than 200 situations
weekly, would mean installations in at least
50 per cent of the theatres in operation in
the two countries, according to 20th-Pox.
The company reported that exhibitors in 40
other countries are interested in Cinema-
Scope, with 2,000 abroad already equipped
with the process and with 4,000 others having
filed orders for it.
The success of "The Robe," the first Cinemascope
stereophonic sound picture, was
quoted by 20th-Fox as reflecting interest in
the process. The company said the theatre
grosses of the picture have exceeded $31,000,-
000, with rentals of the picture, in many
situations, having been ten to 12 times higher
than on earlier pictures. The company also
cited extra playing time given the picture.
RKO Action vs. Pimstein
Is Dismissed by Court
NEW YORK—The RKO lawsuit against
Harry M. Pimstein, former RKO attorney,
has been dismissed in Federal District Court.
It had charged him with supplying confidential
information to Albert List who later
acquired the RKO Theatres stock in RKO
Theatres. Pimstein's suit against List for
payment of alleged services in connection with
List's acquisition of the stock is still to be
heard.
ANTA Plans Telecast
To Film Theatres
NEW YORK—Plans are being made for the
fii-st closed-circuit telecast of legitimate theatre
entertainment to film theatre;. The
American National Theatre and Academy and
CARE, which sends food packages abroad, are
co-sponsoring the "ANTA Album," tentatively
set for February 21 presentation. The two
organization have reached agreement on
the most important details.
The show would present highlights in the
past of the theatre. It would emanate from
the stage of the Adelphi Theatre of the
DuMont Television Network, with the Du-
Mont crew handling the physical presentation.
ANTA and CARE plan to do their own
film theatre bookings instead of using an
established organization in that field, such
as Theatre Network Television, which telecast
the opening of the Metropolitan Opera.
Profits will probably be equally divided.
Perspecta Demonstrations
To Reach a Total of 80
NEW YORK—The trade demonstration of
Perspecta stereophonic sound Monday f29)
at the Stanley Theatre, Philadelphia, was the
first of a series of ten to be held in key
cities here and abroad in the coming months.
With fom- already held, the total will eventually
be 80. The four were held in Lisbon.
Beirut, Dublin and Cuidad Ti'ujillo.
December demonstrations are scheduled for
the Metropolitan Theatre, Buenos Aires; Dai
Nam Theatre, Saigon, and Metro theatres in
Johannesbiu-g, Durban and Capetown. Others
will follow soon in Indonesia, Israel, Spain
and Taipeh. The foreign territorial managers
of MGM, one of the companies adopting the
system for all its product, will cooperate in
demonstrating it abroad. The Philadelphia
demonstration was supervised by Elmer O.
Wilschke, executive vice-president of Perspecta
Sound.
Three Exchanges Leading
In Benjamin Sales Drive
NEW YORK—The Washington. St. Louis
and Salt Lake City branches of United Artists
took first place in their groups in the
fourth week of the second lap of the Robert
S. Benjamin drive, according to William J.
Heineman, distribution vice-president, and
B. G. Kranze, general sales manager, cocaptains
of the drive.
Publicity Post to Kohn
NEW YORK—Howard E. Kohn II is coordinating
national publicity and promotion
for "Day of Triumph," Century Films production,
according to George J. Schaefer.
Kohn will be supervised by Myer P. Beck,
national advertising-publicity director.

IGGEST
STORY OF
E DECADE IS
m BOXOFFICE!
"Excellent exploifafion
possibilities that should
be capitalized upon for
good boxoffice returns.
Should net word-of-mouth
and plenty of publicity. SuspensefuM
Fast-moving action!"
-INDEPENDENT FILM JOURNAl
" Should please most
types of audiences! "
-M. P.
DAILY
"Engrossing! The story has
been given a realistic touch
by its semi-documentary
treatment. Mounting suspense
throughout! Can be
exploited to advantage!"
-HARRISON'S REPORTS
" Suspense-filled! Authentic
settings and backgrounds,
good performances, capable
direction and production!"
-EXHIBITOR
"Spy meller with documentary
flavor. Exploitation value
helps fair b.o. prospects.
Suspense builds nicely."
-VARIETY
"Taut, suspenseful drama.
Should sell
to old and
young alike. Sustains interest
throughout.. .screenplay
extremely interesting."
-FILM DAILY
1
THIS IS
IGOR GOUZENKO
in the picture
everyone is
gasping
about... and the
author of the best-seller,
"THE FALL OF A TITAN,"
everyone is talking about
and JACQUES AUBUCHON • WILL
IRJA JENSEN • Produced by FRED FELDKAMP
Directed by JACK ALEXANDER
Original Screenplay by PAUL MONASH

. . form
. . but
LETTERS
WHO'S RIGHT, WHO'S WRONG IN THIS BUSINESS?
A Circuif Operator Asks Some Searching Questions in a Letter to the Editor
TO BOXOFFICE;
Our industry has a peculiarity not to be
found, so far as I'm aware, in any other
American business ... a constant, bitter, internecine
war between the manufacturer and
the retailer. This war has been raging for
the entire 40 years I've been in the business,
and it shows no signs of abating.
Generally speaking, it has been the retailer
on the offense and the manufacturer,
literally, figuratively—and legally—on the
defense. Such organizations as the exhibitors
have are merely weapons to be employed in
the struggle, and the individual member expects
his particular organization to be his
personal "bai-gaining agent." On that account,
exhibitor organizations have degenerated
into associations of grownup, small
boys, making faces at—and directing nasty
names to—the branch of the industry providing
us with our merchandise.
WHY NOT -ONE BIG UNION?'
.
. . . are enthusiastic
The time has come for all exhibitor groups
to merge "one big union." Get a
Dave Beck or a John L. Lewis to head it up.
Boys like that don't waste time making
faces or calling names: they crack the whip;
and, of course, they will crack it over the
back of the exhibitor as well as the producer.
My suggestion isn't so outlandish. We seem
to be approaching that stage in the war.
The nasty word, "boycott," is appearing with
great frequency, and picketing of film exchanges
has started. Why not go "whole
hog?" Let's quit name calling and facemaking,
and apply the screws! Our Big
Boss will tell us what company is "unfair,"
and we'll get word from him when to walk
out ... or maybe, close up. Everything will
be hunky-dory. Of course, we'll surrender
our rights of decision to the Boss . . . but,
by gosh, we'll put those producers in their
place!
I think there are great possibilities in my
proposal . you can include me out.
We American businessmen—theatre men
(dubiously) included
and vociferous defenders of the "free enterprise
system." But do we really believe in it?
FREE ENTERPRISE QUESTION
From what I've heard in exhibitor meetings
I'd say, "no." If we really believe in
the free enterprise system, we must grant
the seller the right to price his merchandise
and grant the buyer the right to buy, or
not to buy, according to his means or inclination.
This principle, like free speech
and free press, is fundamental in the "American
Way." To attempt to control the seller's
rights through boycott, legislation, or judicial
judgment is, in my opinion, un-American.
We must always remember that we are not
just buyers; we're sellers, too. If punitive
measures can be taken against the "greedy"
distributor, they can also be taken against the
"greedy" exhibitor who raises his admission
price. And then we'll have controls all around,
as in Mexico.
It sounds like I'm arguing the case of the
producer, doesn't it? Well, I'm not. I'm
merely defending America's heritage of uncontrolled
free enterprise—a heritage that is
Howard E. Jameyson is
president of Commonweolth
Theatres, a
100-theatre circuit
with headquarters in
Kansas City. Starting as a
Pothe salesman in 1915, he
held various industry odvertising
posts and was engaged
in independent theatre
operations. From 1932
to 1948 he was division
f^k
manager for Fox Midwest
Theatres, joining Commonwealth
in 1950.
slowly being nibbled away because too many
businessmtn— like our producers—are failing
to exhibit enlightened self-interest, and too
many— like the exhibitor—want preferred
treatment.
Consider Cinemascope, for instance: We're
all belly-aching about CinemaScope terms.
As the story came to me, Spyros Skouras
gambled about 20 millions on this deal. If
it had gone sour, like 3-D, Skouras and 20th
would have gone down the drain. Can you
see any exhibitor organization hustling up
to his office and saying, "It was a noble experiment,
and we're gonna' help bail you
out?" Like hell they would
Now, 20th. in the best American tradition,
is cashing in on one of the most daring ventures
in American business history, with a
lot of free riders on its coat tails, and we're
squawking our heads off. Personally, I'm
hurting, just like most other small-town operators:
but my firm belief in American principles,
plus a mite of intellectual honesty,
prevents me from joining the wolf pack of
howlers.
HAVE A SELLERS' MARKET
What we're up against right now is a recurring
phenomenon in business: a sellers' market.
I Remember when we had to buy seat
covers, fox tails, and a mess of useless gadgets,
to get a car?) We're facing drastically reduced
production, print shortages, and bigcity
extended runs. The sellers are having
a hey-day and, as usual, under similar circumstances,
the seller is blinded by the
gleam of the quick dollar, to the detriment
of his long-range prosperity.
Competition among the producers has
almost ceased.
Each has so few pictures and
so many selling opportunities, there's no
chance for the theatre to pick and choose.
The exhibitor buys, he pays the price asked,
he froths at the mouth, and yearns for the
"good old days" when he was permitted to
make a reasonable profit ... or was it
"reasonable?"
In other words, we are in a state of economic
unbalance, with the scales weighted in
the favor of the producer.
Now there are ways in the American system
to achieve balance which, frequently, I
must admit, lead to excesses in the other
direction.
Take unionism, as an example. It grew
out of the buccaneering practices of 19th
Century employers who were both ruthless
and niggardly. There was no balance between
erriployer and employed. Today we've
achieved a sort of shaky balance in this area
but have raised a new crop of buccaneers in
the process.
THE CO-OP TECHNIQITE
And take the co-op. as another method
of balancing a bad economic situation. In
this case, it was the seller who was at the
mercy of the buyer. The seller, as a rule,
was a small fruit or vegetable producer who
had to sell when his crop was ready, at any
price the brokers offered. By organizing a
co-op (Sunkist, for example), he w'as able
to market his crop, independent of the broker
and at generally profitable terms. The success
of the co-op idea has been surprising
and, to me, alarming. The idea, like yeast,
has grown and multiplied in a hundred different
fields. Today you can buy everything
from lubricating oil to insurance, through a
co-op. And we've got hundreds of co-op buccaneers
in the making.
But, even while I'm mindful of the danger
of creating one evil, while correcting another,
I'm of the reluctant opinion that a variation
of the co-op idea is the answer to the
exhibitor's problem and perhaps the only
thing that will keep him in business.
I think the theatres will have to get into
the production business, either by underwriting
production, pledging play dates to independent
producers, or by some other practical
means.
I don't think this step should be taken as
a punitive measure. It should be undertaken
with the thought of bringing about an economic
balance, of steadying the market, and
providing an even flow of product.
I don't share the commonly held exhibitor
view that we, as a group, are more sinned
against than sinning. There's plenty of skulduggery
in our fraternity, and it's been my
observation that the exhibitor who yaps the
loudest at the policies of the producer is the
most adroit at chiseling him out of his just
deserts. However, that's not to say that I
hold the producer blameless. We have a right
to expect from him more vision, more wisdom,
and a greater responsibility for the industry
as a whole. In other words, we
expect him to be a bigger man. But. is he?
NEED FOR BROADER VIEWS
Certainly, his exalted position should give
him a broader view of the industry as a
whole. Certainly, he could bring to bear the
same talents and intelligence that raised him
to his station—to the boarder problems of
the industry as a whole.
Certainly, if he is really a "big" man,
it is to his own self-interest to do so. Certainly
he should know that the health of any
industry— its life stream—flows upward from
the final contact with the ultimate buyer—
the retail outlet. Certainly, the leaders of
our industry realize our retail branch is not
in a healthy condition. But they seem either
unaware or indifferent to the fact that the
malignancy can spread to them.
Today our operating climate ranges from a
30 per cent low, up through 50 and 60 per
cent, to the unique "70-30-10" deal. Granting
the producer the right to exact such terms,
(Continued on page 40)
38
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

:
December
1
BOXOFFICE
:
4. 1954
39

—
—
Letters
(Continued from page 38)
is he wise to take such a disproportionate
share of the boxoffice "take?"
We're inclined to view bureaucracy as a
peculiar appendage of government; but it
occurs in business, too. The sales manager
and the bureaucrat are brothers under the
skin. They hand down the policy to the lower
echelons; and. no matter how unrealistic its
applications may be in many circumstances,
they insist that their underlings hew to the
And, since the sales managers are closer
line.
to, and better-acquainted with, big operations,
their policies are generally geared to the
possibilities of these operations.
Of course, no sane or reasonable exhibitor
and there are a lot who ai'e not—can ever
expect to return to the "good old days" of
fat rentals, when big boxoffice pictures
could be made for a half-million dollars.
Furthermore, I think the demand for discontinuance
of percentage sales is stupid, arrogant,
and dishonest. I think, as a matter of
principle, the producer is justly entitled to a
fair percentage of the "take," but I don't
think "fairness" can be achieved by broad,
all-embracing policy edicts, or remote rulings
from above. Generally speaking, I've always
felt that more authority at the local level
would iron out a lot of our troubles. Of cour.se,
I know some companies have made gestures
in this direction—but they're empty ones. No
branch manager with shoes to buy and mouths
to feed is going to court his sales manager's
disapproval.
But what worries me most about the rising
costs of film production and attendant rise
in rentals is the ultimate effect upon our
business as a whole.
It's axiomatic today that the public is indifferent
(that is, we think it is) to the
admission price, if it really wants to see the
picture ; and we have resigned ourselves to an
acceptance of that situation. We say, "no
matter how low the price, they won't go to
an ordinary picture; and no matter how high
the price, they'll come to the one they
want to see." I've said that—and you have,
too. But is our reasoning valid? Could it be
we are rationalizing ourselves into a faulty
frame of mind? Have we, by continually
raising prices, laid low the "movie habit" that
nursed our industry into prosperity? Today
a trip to the movie is no longer a spur-of-themoment
diversion. In most families it has
become a planned event, with due consideration
for the household budget, and inspired
by an eventful picture. Unfortunately for us,
both the "event" and the "eventful" picture
are too infrequent.
Here seems to be the question: did the
public first lose interest in the ordinary
"bread and butter" picture of yesteryear or
did our high price for that picture turn it
away?
It's a sort of a "which-came-first-thechicken-or-the-egg?"
dilemma, in which we
find ourselves. And I don't know the answer.
But, if the present trend continues, the movie
business, as you and I know it, will be a dead
duck, so far as the small-town or neighborhood
theatre is concerned. We'll function
like the old town "Opry," open up only when
we've got a show we can make a dollar with,
and go dark the rest of the time.
President HOWARD E. JAMEYSON
Commonwealth Theatres,
Kansas City, Mo.
Opposed to Reissues and Gadgets
TO BOXOFFICE:
I haven't ever put a letter in your good
book, but felt I must on "What's Wrong With
Show Business." For instance, "The Adventures
of Marco Polo," with Lana Turner
on the marquee and being run by one of the
best showmen I ever knew. Was I sorry for
him! Was that revolting to an old boy,
who had been in the business 35 years!
Reissue! Reissue! with a new title, with
former title below it in small letters.
I have run some Waynes and Scotts made
before they began to show. They expect us
to sell this hokum and stay on the front of
our theatres. E^ven expect us to bid on pictures
15 years old.
If they will forget all of the new gadgets
except the wide screen and give us pictures
like "Rear Window," "The Last Time I Saw
Paris," "Susan Slept Here" and "Sabrina"
good, plain projection whereby you
and just
can count every freckle on their face, it will
solve most of the problems now confronting
us.
Let's quit squeezing, not only in pictures,
but life blood out of exhibitors, who have
given their lives to the industry.
H. FORD TA"YLOR
Ford Theatres,
San Angelo, Tex.
Goldwyn Jr., UA in Deal
NEW YORK—Samuel Goldwyn jr. has
formed his own independent motion pictui-e
production unit, and Arthur B. Krim, president
of United Artists, has signed a releasing
deal for his first picture. This will be
"Sharkfighters," to be started in February.
£VER
STICK
YOUR
NECK
OUT?
We did when we osked Art Adamson, president
of ADAMSON THEATRES, VANCOU-
VER, WASHINGTON,
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF
ALEXANDER FILM ADS ?
ALEXANDER FILM CO.
Colorado Springs, Colo.
"Over thirty years ago I started using Alexander trailers
on my screen. My first deal was made with you personally
and we have consumated the start of our 31st year.
"The quality of the ads and the quality of your salesmen
have improved over the years but your policy of clean
dealing on a highly ethical basis is as it always has been
first class.
"There have been times when we were so prosperous that
I thought I might quit screen advertising, which meant quit
Alexander. When we discussed this matter of discontinuing,
our managers brought to my ottcntion that we were
receiving a fine revenue, that Alexander was accepted as
part of the show, and that if we quit in the fat days we
would have to start all over again in the lean days.
HE
REPLIED:
"Kindly convey my best wishes to J. Don Alexander and
all the personnel. Thanks for over thirty pleasant and
profitable years with o very fine organization."
Next time you ore in Colorado Springs pay us a
visit. Let us show you how the finest in film
advertising is produced and distributed.
(Signed) ART ADAMSON
Adamson Theatres
Vancouver, Washington
COLORADO SPRINGS
"Representatives in all Principal Cities"
40 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

If^ these Arag^ ske/
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Patrons pay you back fast . . . beginning the day you equip your house
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And RCA Speakers are essential to the fine sound system you need for
this job. You have eight models and sizes to choose from . . . one
for every theatre need. You should be taking advantage of
RCA-engineered features like:
• ALL-NEW DESIGN— First truly modern design offered to the industry.
Designed specifically for today's new sound techniques.
• RADIAL-TYPE FLARE— Mathematically correct horn shape spreads
sound throughout the house. Ideal distribution pattern for stereophonic
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• HIGH-POWER DRIVER MECHANISM— All the power needed to drive
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• EXTENDED FREQUENCY RANGE—High Fidelity reproduction— true
living sound for greatest possible emotional impact.
TYPE PL-301— Speaker System
• SPECIALLY TREATED ACOUSTIC CHAMBER— Treated chamber in
baffle augments bass— improves distribution.
Begin now to plan your RCA Sound System for a sound boost at the
box office. Included in RCA's complete line of 8 speakers are the ones
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TYPE PL-301A— Speaker System
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I
TYPE PL-303R— Speaker System
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THEATRB EQUIPMBMT
RADIO CORPORATION of AMERICA
EMGIMEERIMG PRODUCTS DIVISION, CAMDEN, N.J.
BOXOFFICE :
: December 4, 1954 41

; December
''
Walter Reade Using Novel Programs
To Build TV Station Audience
NEW YORK—In the process of building up
a local audience for his ultra-high-frequency
television station, Walter Reade jr. and his
staff have created a number of interesting
programs but none of greater appeal at present
than "The Case of . .
." The reason:
It presents legal matters of public interest
entertainingly as well as informatively.
Reade, best known as circuit owner and
Theatre Owners of America executive, knew
that he had a job on his hands when he
invested in WRTV on channel 58 near Asbury
Park, N. J. In the area covered by the station
there is stiff progi-am competition from
the big very-high-frequency stations located
in New York. That meant he had to develop
programs of local interest. Furthermore, they
had to be of extreme interest if the public
was to spend money on changes in sets to
receive UHF.
Other UHF stations in the eastern area
began despairing months ago of ever competing
successfully with VHF. They united
in a demand for toll television as a means of
gaining needed revenue. Reade declined to
go along with them. In common with exhibitors
who have been vocal on the subject, he
wanted nothing to do with toll TV, calling it
competition for the film theatre.
Reade stuck to his guns and has been
working hard to win a large public following
for his TV station. He has been making
steady progress, according to reports from
the executive offices of Walter Reade Theatres
in Oakhurst, N. J., to which he moved
from New York.
Matters having to do with various laws
and court proceedings are not uncommon on
radio and television. Reade features a local
twist. Lawyers themselves, selected by the
Monmouth Bar Ass'n, appear and play all the
roles—judge, plaintiff, defendant, prosecuting
and defense lawyers, witnesses, with as many
as a dozen appearing on each of the weekly
shows.
But there is much more to the show than
the appearance of well known local people.
There is the fact that the show interprets
points of law in a manner understandable to
lay audiences. And—this tops the list of
qualifications—the legal matters argued are
those that commonly come up in the area.
One show had to do with "bailment"
wherein personal property is left with another
to be returned. Salt water swimming
is popular along the Jersey shore. The case
involved a familiar incident in which jewelry
was deposited with the proprietor of a beach
club. It went into the respective rights and
liabilities of the patron and the proprietor.
'Hansel' School Guide
NEW YORK—Audio-Visual Guide will
make "Hansel and Gretel," Michael Myerberg-
RKO puppet film, the subject of one of its
motion picture studies. The guide goes to
schools. A text and photo display of 12
pages will be supplemented by 40 color film
strips for classroom projection. Distribution
will start early in December.
Navy's TV Limited
To Distant Areas
WASHINGTON—The Navy Department
operating two television stations in remote
areas and has plans for a third under consideration.
The idea is to maintain morale.
The two stations, both low-powered, are
at Limestone, Me., and in the Azores. The
third will be in Greenland. This project has
been held up thi'ough lack of funds.
This information was obtained after John
W. Fletcher, manager of the Orpheum Theatre
at Kodiak, Alaska, had sent a letter to
BOXOPFICE with the information that a
television station for the navy base seven
miles from Kodiak was under consideration,
if $30,000 could be obtained for this purpose.
Civilian employes of the Electronic branch
had made speeches before the Rotary Club
to the effect that a six-hour recorded program
would be telecast on a high frequency
so the public could tune in.
Fletcher was disturbed by the prospect of
competition for his theatre.
Navy Department spokesmen say no commercial
TV programs will be presented and
that it is highly improbable that a station
will be authorized so close to a town. The
rule is that these stations will be confined
to remote spots where morale is a problem.
There are many other spots, it was stated,
that would have priority over Kodiak when
funds are available and these will be of very
low power so that they could not be picked
up at a distance from the bases where the
stations are located.
Ida R. Koverman Dies;
With MGM Since 1928
HOLLYWOOD—Services were held Friday
(26» for Ida R. Koverman. 78, who had been
with MGM since 1928 in a variety of executive
capacities including public relations
counsellor, executive secretary and talent
scout. Victim of a heart attack, Mi's. Koverman
died suddenly at her home.
She launched her business career with the
New York office of a South African mining
company, became interested in politics and
was executive secretary for both the Calvin
Coolidge and Herbert Hoover presidential
campaigns. It was during the latter campaign
that she met Louis B. Mayer, then
MGM studio head, and jollied his staff at
the film plant.
is
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42
BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1954

Exhibitor-Importers
Admitted by IMPDAA
NEW YORK~The Independent Motion
Picture Distributors Ass'n of America has
voted to broaden the organization's membership
basis by admitting exhibitors who are
also importers and distributors of foreign
films.
The organization has also named a special
committee, consisting of Ai'thur L. Mayer,
Max A. Goldberg, Martin J. Lewis, George
Roth and Thomas J. Brandon, to select the
winning picture for the annual Joseph
Burstyn Award for the best foreign-language
film released in the U. S. during 1954.
At a meeting held November 30, the organization
agi-eed to postpone fiu-ther legal
proceedings against IPE Releasing Corp. in
connection with its purported restriction of
competition in the field of Italian films or
the rumored proposals that IFE is seeking
to obtain a similar preferred position in the
French film field until after the Federal
Trade Commission renders its report, which,
it is expected, will be issued prior to Jan. 1.
1955.
The following re,solution was also unanimously
passed at the meeting: "On this, the
first anniversary of the death of our beloved
former president, Joseph Burstyn, we, the
members of the Independent Motion Picture
Distributors Ass'n of America, rededicate ourselves
to the ideas and principles to which
his life was devoted. We shall continue his
gallant fight to liberate the screen from the
dead hand of censorship and the black hand
of bigots and pressure groups. We shall use
every means in our power to protect the
small group of pioneers who have, over the
years, labored to broaden the public appreciation
of unusual and experimental films
and whose continued existence is now grievously
threatened by subsidy-finance monopoly
and competition-destroying covenants. We
shall continue to explore the markets of all
freedom-loving nations in order to make
available to the American public foreign films
which will enrich our own domestic pictm-e
production and which will broaden the
mutual understanding and goodwill upon
which the peace of the world is dependent."
Italians and French Plan
To Expand Co-Production
PARIS—Five years of Italo-French collaboration
on production was called a success
at the ninth meeting of the Italo-French Film
Accord Commission here. Germany has
already been invited to join in a European
production pool to be formed, and it was voted
to invite other Em-opean nations later.
Delegates extended the Italo-French coproduction
pact of 1949 until March 31, 1955,
when it will be extended again if Italy revises
a film law affecting it. The film exchange
pact was renewed until Dec. 31, 1955.
Italo-French co-productions have been
commercial successes everywhere, according to
statistics presented by the Italians.
Republic Sets 25c Dividend
NEW YORK--A dividend of 25 cents per
share on the preferred stock of Republic Pictures
Corp. will be paid January 3 to stockholders
of record at the close of business December
1.
Charles A. Smakwitz
To Jersey SW Zone
NEW YORK—Charles A. Smakwitz, Albany
zone manager for Stanley Warner Corp.,
has been made zone manager for New Jersey,
according to Harry M.
Kalmine, vice-president
and general manager.
He succeeds
Prank Damis, resigned.
Smakwitz began as
page boy in the Broadway
Strand in the days
of S. L. Rothafel. After
graduation from Syracuse
University, he became
manager of the
Ritz in Albany and
later the Strand. In
Charles Smakwitz 1927 he assumed supervision
of publicity for theatres in Albany,
Ti-oy, Utica and Syracuse, and then was made
assistant general manager of them, concentrating
on buying and booking.
In 1929, he became manager of the four
towns for Warner Bros., and in 1932, when
Moe A. Silver became zone manager of the
Warner group, Smakwitz was made assistant
zone manager. He became zone manager in
1947.
Smakwitz is well known also for public
service, his close association with New York
State governors and as chief barker of the
Albany Variety Club and international representative
of Variety Clubs of America.
Albany Grand Stagehand
Cut; Picketing Begun
ALBANY—The weekend saw the
outbreak
of the fii'st important Albany theatre labor
dispute in 19 years when lATSE Local 14
started picketing the Grand, leased by Paul
Wallen from Fabian. The controversy arose
over the number of stagehands to be employed,
the union insisting on two and the
management holding out for one. The break,
in the making for some weeks, came when
the retirement of Henry "Dutch" Harris at
the Strand touched off a series of shifts.
Buster Foley moved from the Ritz to take
the place of Harris, who retired after 52 years
of employment to move to Dade City, Fla.
The schedule called for Leo Swarz, who
had been swing man, to take George Powers'
place at the Grand, Powers transferring to
the Ritz. Wallen is reported to have taken
the position that the Grand did not need
and could not support two stage workers;
that one, John Lanahan, was enough. Swarz,
therefore, was not accepted.
Terming Wallen's action a lockout. Local
14 began picketing the theatre.
Sunday, Wallen put out front a large sign
stating that "All union employes of this
theatre are members, in good standing, of
lATSE, affiliated with AFL. There is no labor
dispute at the theatre. (Signed) The Management."
The sign was interpreted in industry
quarters to mean that the projectionists
did not intend to walk out. They were
said to be going through the picket line.
Aris Theatre to Reopen
ERIE, PA.—The long dark Ai-is Tlieatre
here is being prepared for reopening by
William D. Hewitt.
Schine Circuit Trial
Delayed at Buffalo
BUFFALO—The trial of the Schme Chain
Theatres, Inc., and other defendants on civil
and criminal contempt charges did not get
under way in Buffalo Monday (29) as
planned. Judge John Knight adjourned the
trial with no definite starting date, because
of other commitments by William B. Mahoney,
who represents Elmer F. Lux, head of
Elmart Theatres and one of the defendants
in the case. Judge Knight said the case
would be resumed after the end of the gambling
trial now under way in Buffalo supreme
court, in which Mahoney is one of the defense
attorneys.
The government's "ghost of secrecy" was
condemned by attorney Frank G. Raichle as
he sought to have the government produce
certain documents relating to the Schine,
other corporations and individuals. Raichle,
representing the defendants in the contempt
case, told Judge Knight that part of his
defense in the trial, against charges that the
defendants failed to abide by terms of a 1949
antitrust decree, is that they were "forgiven"
such failures when an extension of the decree
was agreed to between Schine interests and
the government in 1952.
The discussion came during a motion by
government attorney Joseph E. McDowell to
quash a subpoena that would require the
government to produce for examination by
the Schine defendants a number of documents.
McDowell characterized the request
as one that would "require the government
to produce virtually everything in the files
of the Department of Justice that is relevant
or may be relevant to issues in this case."
"This is a most sweeping wholesale demand
for documents in our possession," McDowell
argued.
Judge Knight reserved decision on the
matter.
Judge Knight has refused permission for
the Schine to sell two houses for nontheatrical
purposes, but ruled that authority to sell a
third in Van Wert, Ohio, should be granted.
The opinion came on a motion requesting
permission to modify a 1949 antitrust decree,
in which the chain was ordered to divest itself
of 46 theatres to create competition in Schine
towns. Permission was asked to sell 11 theatres
and a plot of land for nontheatrical
purposes. The theatre chain, in requesting
this permission, stated it had offers for three
of the properties. In his opinion. Judge
Knight dealt only with those three theatres.
The government opposed the petition,
claiming that it is a major modification and
that it defeats the purpose of the antitrust
decree, which was designed to end exhibition
monopolies.
AB-PT Shifts Warshaw;
O'Kelly Joins Circuit
NEW YORK—Malvin Warshaw, manager
of the Paramount Theatre, Peekskill. has
been transferred to the Juliet Theatre,
Poughkeepsie, by Eugene W. Street, district
manager of American Broadcasting-Paramount
Theatres. The Juliet is an art house.
Fielding K. O'Kelly has succeeded Warshaw
in Peekskill. O'Kelly has just joined AB-PT
after having been with another circuit 25
years.
BOXOFFICE December 4. 1954
43

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White Chtistmas/ Vesiree Up
In Thanksgiving Holiday Week
NEW YORK—Thanksgiving Day and the
long holiday that followed brought prosperity
and long waiting lines back to the majority
of the Broadway first runs, with the result
that business was far above the preceding
week.
The mecca for out-of-towners was the
Radio City Music Hall, where the gross for
the seventh week of "White Chi-istmas" was
$30,000 over the preceding stanza. The $1,-
000,000 total mark was passed during the
week. The picture stayed for an eighth week
and will be followed by "Deep in My Heart"
and the annual Nativity stage pageant December
9. The 20th-Pox CinemaScope features,
"Desiree," in its second week at the
Roxy, and "Carmen Jones," in its fifth week
at the Rivoli, also bettered the previous
weeks, as did "A Star Is Born," in its seventh
week at the Victoria.
"Drum Beat," also in CinemaScope, hit a
near-record figure in its second week, mainly
attributed to the draw of Jackie Gleason and
his stage show, and "Sitting Bull," United
Artists first OS feature, had a big opening
week at the Mayfair. "The Human Jungle"
and the Palace vaudeville show gave the
theatre its best business in weeks.
Two long-run pictures, "On the Waterfront,"
in its 18th week at the Astor, and "Sabrina,"
in its tenth week at the Criterion, were better
than the preceding weeks as was "Phffft," in
its third week at Loew's State.
"Aida," in its third big week at the Little
Carnegie, set a new high for the art house,
and another IPE release, "Bread, Love and
Dreams," in its tenth week at the Paris
Theatre, was above the preceding week, attributed
to the national publicity breaks on
its star, Gina Lollobrigida. Also up was "The
Detective," in its fourth week at the Fine
Arts. Two new British films, "An Inspector
Calls" at the Plaza and "The Heart of the
Matter" at the Normandie. attracted crowds
at night showings.
Two MOM reissues,
"The Asphalt Jungle,"
now playing up Marilyn Monroe, and "Battleground,"
did strong business at the Globe.
Four art houses, the Guild, the Baronet, the
55th Street and the Beekman, are currently
playing revivals prior to the Christmas season.
(Average Is 100)
Astor On the Waterfront (Col), I 8th wk 115
Baronet Notorious (RKO), revival 110
Broadway Hansel and Grefel (RKO), 7th wk 125
Capitol The Last Time I Sow Paris (MGM),
2nd wk 140
Criterion Sabrina (Para), 10th wk
Fitth Ave UPA Cortoon Festival, (Col), 3rd
125
d.t. wk 100
Fine Arts The Detective (Col), 4th wk 150
Globe The Asphalt Jungle (MGM); Battleground
(MGM), reissues 1 20
Little Carnegie Aida (IFE), 3rd wk 175
Loew's State Phfftt (Col), 3rd wk 135
Mayfair Sitting Bull (UA) 150
Normandie The Heort of the Matter (AA),
2nd wk 110
Palace The Human Jungle (AA), plus vaudeville 125
Poramount Drum Beat (WB), plus Jackie Gleason
on stage, 2nd wk 200
Pans Bread, Love and Dreams (IFE), 10th wk. ..130
Plaza An Inspector Calls (AA) 110
Radio City Music Hall White Christmas (Para)
plus stage show, 7th wk 150
Rivoli Carmen Jones (20th-Fox), 5th wk 125
Roxy Desiree (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 180
Sutton High and Dry (U-l), 13th wk 115
Trans-Lux 52nd Lili (MGM), 90th wk 110
Trans-Lux 60th The Little Kidnappers (UA),
13th wk 115
Victoria A Stor Is Born (WB), 7th wk 1 50
Warner This Is Cinerama (SW), 77th wk. of
two-a-day 145
World Componions of the Night (Arlan) 115
Philadelphia Shoppers
Like "Christmas'
PHILADELPHIA—The Christmas shopping
crowds helped swell first run grosses at a
time when boxoffice returns generally dip.
This year, apparently many shoppers took
time off to see a picture dui'ing their downtown
visits. "White Christmas," in its fifth
week at the Randolph, was still the hottest
thing in town with a boiling 200. "Suddenly"
was strong in its seventh week at the Trans-
Lux World with a 160 average. "Desiree," in
its second week in the Fox, was also doing
well.
Arcadia Rear Window (Pora), 1 4th wk 1 00
Boyd This Is Cinerama (Cinerama), 60th wk... 75
Fox Desiree (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 160
Goldman Phffft (Col) 1 25
Mastbaum Track of the Cat (WB) 80
Midtown The Borefoot Contessa (UA), 5th wk.. .140
Randolph White Christmas (Para), 5th wk 200
Stanley Carmen Jones (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 150
Stanton Three Hours to Kill (Col); The Black
Dakotas (Col) 85
Trans-Lux Sabrina (Para), 6th wk 150
Viking Athena (MGM), 2nd wk 90
Trons-Lux World Suddenly (UA), 7th wk 160
Grosses in Weekend Upsurge
Af Baltimore Theatres
BALTIMORE—Holiday prices and holiday
crowds helped boost grosses over the weekend.
The new attractions did big business;
even the holdovers rang up substantial figures.
"White Christmas" has held unusually
well.
Century The Lost Time I Saw Paris (MGM).,.. 115
Film Centre Sabrina (Pora), Bth wk 90
Hippodrome On the Wotertront (Col), 6th wk. . . 90
Keiths White Christmas (Pora), 4th wk 140
Little The Great Gilbert ond Sullivan (UA) 120
Mayfair Cattle Queen of Montana (RKO) 105
New—The Barefoot Contessa (UA), 3rd wk 100
Ployhouse Rear Window (Para), 6th wk 100
Stanley Drum Beat (WB) 110
Town— Phffft (Col) 1 20
at the Paramount ended up with a 135.
"The Barefoot Contessa" ended a three-week
run with a nine-day week in the Teck.
Buffalo The Last Time I Saw Paris (MGM).... 190
Center Drum Beat (WB) 170
Century Desiree (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 90
Cinema The Holly and the Ivy (Pacemaker) .... 105
Lafayette Phffft (Col) 150
Paramount Athena (MGM) 135
Teck The Barefoot Contessa (UA), 3rd wk 125
Pittsburgh Penn Grosses
230 With "Christmas'
PITTSBURGH—The Penn Theatre turned
in one of its best grosses of the year with
"White Christmas."
Fulton Desiree (20th-Fox) 130
Harris Block Widow (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 60
Penn White Christmas (Pora) 230
Stanley A Stor Is Born (WB), 6th wk 50
Warner This Is Cinerama (Cinerama), 50th wk..ll0
Music Hall Christmas Show
Will Open December 9
NEW YORK—MGM's "Deep in My Heart,"
starring Jose Ferrer, Merle Oberon and
Helen Ti-aubel, will open at the Radio City
Music Hall as the theatre's Christmas attraction
December 9 in conjunction with the
annual Nativity stage pageant and a new
Yuletide extravaganza, "King Kringle."
The eight-week run of Paramount's "White
Christmas" ends December 8. Paramount's
"The Bridges of Toko-Ri" has been booked
by the Music Hall in January.
New York Theatre Showing
Russian Films Is Sold
NEW YORK—Property including the Stanley
Theatre at 586 Seventh Ave. has been
.sold
to Irving Maidman, investor and builder,
for occupancy after alterations by a large
banking institution. The Stanley, operated
by David Fine, has been showing Russian
films. Artkino Pictures, distributor of the
films, said it did not know what other arrangements
would be made for exhibition of
its
films.
GS&D Leases Corona
NEW YORK—The GS&D Amusement
Corp., headed by Morris Goldman and Dave
Dubin, has taken a long-term lease on the
1,600-seat Corona Theatre, Jackson Heights,
L. I., the firm's 15th theatre acquisition in
the metropolitan area. The lessor is the
Interboro circuit, headed by Solomon M.
Strausberg.
GS&D has started a complete rehabiUtation
of the Corona, including the installation
of CinemaScope and a new air conditioning
system. Berk & Krumgold, theatre
realty specialists, negotiated the deal.
You Name the Rental! Free Advertising!
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'Paris' Contributes Fine
190 at Buffalo
BUFFALO — The Thanksgiving holiday.s
helped boxoffices all along first run row.
"The Last Time I Saw Paris" turned in a
hand.some 190 at Shea's and "Drum Beat"
gave the Center one of its best weeks in
recent months, hitting a healthy 170. "Phffft"
rated 150 at Basil's Lafayette and "Athena"
44 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

. . Charles
. . Leon
.
. . N.
Epilepsy Ass'n Planning
Celebrity Ball Journal
NEW YORK—A 'celebrity journal" will be
published for distribution at the second annual
celebrity ball of the United Epilepsy
Mrs. Seymour D. Hesse, seated left,
Mrs. William J. German, wife of the
treasurer of the United Epilepsy Ass'n,
and Mrs. Arvid Kantor discuss this year's
Celebrity ball to be held at the Waldorf-
Astoria Hotel New Year's Eve.
Ass'n in affiliation with the Variety Club of
New York, to be held New Year's eve at the
Waldorf-Astoria, according to Mrs. Seymour
D. Hesse, president of the women's committee.
Co-chairmen of the committee which will
prepare the journal are Mi's. William J. German,
Mrs. Harold Kolbert, Mrs. Edward
Rubin and Mrs. Morty Weil. Co-chairmen of
the ball committee are Mrs. Arde Bulova,
Mrs. Hugh Casey, Mme. Andre Dubbonet and
Mrs. Budd Getschal.
The proceeds from the ball will go to the
epilepsy association, which supports the
Variety Club Clinic for Children with Epilepsy
at the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical
Center.
'Show Business' Opening
To Be Actors' Benefit
NEW YORK—The first performance of
Irving Berlin's "There's No Business Like
Show Business," 20th Century-Fox Cinema-
Scope picture with DeLuxe color, will be a
benefit for the Actors Fund of America, of
which Walter Vincent is president. The picture
will open at the Roxy Theatre here December
16 following the run of "Desiree," also
a 20th-Fox CinemaScope picture.
Allied organizations which will be aided by
the benefit include the Episcopal Actors
Guild. Catholic Actors Guild. Jewish Theatrical
Guild. Negro Actors Guild. Lambs
Welfare Fund and American Theatre Wing.
Spyros P. Skouras. president of 20th-Fox,
said the benefit would be a well deserved
tribute to entertainers in every pha.se of show
business.
Plan 'Romeo' Benefit
NEW YORK— Plans for the March of
Dimes benefit showing of "Romeo and Juliet"
here December 21 were completed Thursday
at a meeting of the women's division of the
social agency. The United Artists film will
be shown at the Sutton Theatre.
Edward J. White has been named music
director on AA's "Twilight Alley."
BROADWAY
TJoy O. Disney, president of Walt Disney Productions,
and E. C. Walker, executive vicepresident
of Buena Vista Film Distribution,
Disney subsidiary, came here to confer with
the home office group, headed by Leo P.
Samuels, Buena Vista sales manager, and
Cyril Edgar, sales supervisor for the United
Kingdom, on sales policies on "20,000 Leagues
Under the Sea." first Disney CinemaScope
feature . Simonelli, eastern advertising
and publicity manager for Universal,
left for Hollywood for conferences with studio
executives prior to the week-long sales conference,
which starts December 6.
Russell Holman, Paramount eastern production
manager, was back after viewing
footage on "Strategic Air Command" and
"The Seven Little Foys . . . Earl I. Sponable,
research director for 20th-Fox, returned from
a studio visit . . . George Weltner, president
of Paramount International, and A. L. Pi'atchett.
Latin-American division manager, left
on the 29th on a Latin American tour on
behalf of "White Christmas" . Roth,
publicity coordinator for United Artists on
the west coast, got in November 29 for ten
days of meetings with home office executives
on promotion plans for pictures in production
in Hollywood.
H. M Bessey, Altec Service Corp. executive
vice-president; L. D. Netter jr., sales manager,
and Marty Wolf, assistant sales head, returned
Myer P Beck,
to the home office . . . independent producers representative, left for
the coast to confer with Stanley Kramer on
"Not as a Stranger" . . . Mitzi Gaynor, one
of the six stars of "There's No Business Like
Show Business," was in for promotion on the
opening at the Roxy Theatre December 17
. . . Charles Boyer, French star who will
.
play in MGM's "Cobweb." returned to
America on the Queen Mary
Kaye, who will repeat his
. .
stage
Stubby
role in
Samuel Goldwyn's picturization of "Guys
and Dolls," was on the same boat.
Leora Dana, wife of Kurt Kasnar. went to
Hollywood to join her husband, who is making
"Jump Into Hell" for Warner Bros. . . .
Albert Dekker flew to Hollywood to play in
"Kiss Me Deadly," Mickey Spillane picture
for United Artists release . . . Joan Collins,
British player signed by 20th Century-Fox,
arrived via BOAC Uovember 26.
Henry Wilcoxson, associate producer on
Cecil B. DeMille's "The Ten Commandments,"
planed in from Cairo December 2 accompanied
by Kenny DeLand, Clem Jones, Jack
. . John
Harris, Henry Noerdlinger and others as.sociated
with the VistaVision film. Loyal
Griggs, cameraman, arrived on the Queen
Mary December 1. They left for Hollywood
Friday (3) ... Tony Reddin, Paramount's
director of advertising, publicity and theatres
in England, arrived December 1 from London
and departed for Hollywood Saturday (4) to
attend the "international promotion coordination"
meeting
Winckles of the J.
.
Arthur
Davis and Ken
Rank Organization,
flew back to England December 3.
Virginia Mayo, who headed the Macy's
Thanksgiving Day parade, and her husband.
Michael O'Shea, retui-ned to Hollywood November
30 ... J. Y. Abe, director and assistant
manager of Westrex Co.. Orient, and
K. Kagara, recording engineer, left New York
after conferences here to return to Japan . .
Barry Jones, British stage-screen star, returned
to England . M. Bermean, head
of Tempean Films, Ltd., returned to England
November 30 . . . Merle Oberon flew to Hollywood
... Ed Gollin. Filmakers eastern publicity
representative, left for the coast November
Charlton Heston, who plays
26 . . .
Moses in Cecil B. DeMille's "The Ten Commandments,"
left for Hollywood December
2 . . . George Nichols, MGM studio publicist,
got in from the coast December 1 for advance
promotion on "Bad Day at Black Rock."
Louise Leonard, manager of Loew's Lexington
Theatre, is recuperating from an operation
at Doctor's Hospital and Al Gutterman,
manager of Loew's Coney Island, has been
released from the hospital following a back
injury and is recuperating at his home . . .
Jack Harris, film buyer for Walter Reade
Theatres, and Mrs. Harris, returned from a
vacation in the Virgin Islands November 29
. . Pinky Sober of MGM's legal department,
.
is in Miami for the AAU convention and Jay
Eisenberg, legal liaison for MGM's distribution
department, is back from Florida while
Joel Bezahler of the MGM sales department,
got back from his
southern vacation December
3.
Matthew and Mrs. Polon announce the confirmation
of their son Neil Michael at the
Congregation Beth David in Lynbrook, Long
Lsland. A reception followed at the Lawrence
Country Club. The father is an executive
in the film booking department of RKO
Theatres.
National Conference Honor
Planned for J. R. Rubin
NEW YORK—J. Robert Rubin will be honored
for his 17 years of service as general
chairman of the amusement division of the
National Conference at the annual dinner to
be held at the Waldorf-Astoria January 13.
He was the organizer of the division.
Meetings of the executive committee have
been held since the luncheon for discussion
of plans held some weeks ago. John H. Harris,
chairman for the 1955 campaign, predicts it
will be the most successful of any to date.
The dinner committee, now being organized,
will include representatives of all the
branches of the entertainment industry.
Universal Votes 2 Dividends
NEW YORK—Universal Pictures Co. directors
have voted a quarterly dividend of 25
cents and an extra dividend of 25 cents on
the common stock, payable December 22 to
holders of record at the close of business
December 10.
Tom Gries and Wray Davis, heading Gravis
Productions, have obtained the film rights
to "Trouble Rider." a western novel.
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1327 S.WABASH
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BOXOFFICE :
: December
4. 1954
45

. . The
LBANY
. . .
tSob Lament's Auctions, Inc., has been formed
with Robert J. Lament, Lewis A. Sumberg
?nd Mrs. Ethel G. Wallace (Sumberg's secretary)
as directors. "The younger brother of
Harry Lamont and office manager of Lamont
Theatres, Bob successfully conducted drive-in
auctions in 1953 and 1954. The past season,
he held them weekly at the Sunset, Kingston;
Riverview, Rotterdam, and the Vail Mills, all
operated by his brother Winifred Allen.
20th-Fox cashier and one of Filnu-ow's longtime
employes, was reported recovering at her
home from injuries suffered when hit by an
automobile.
The Albany Boys Club, with which the
Variety Club cooperates in operation of a
free summer camp at Thompson's Lake, is
launching a drive for $500,000 to build two
new clubhouses to replace the present 50-
year-old quarters on Beaver street and another
on Sherman street, both inadequate for
present needs and long outmoded. Wilson C.
Codling, former vice-president of the Tobin
Packing Co. and now head of his own concern,
has been named general chairman . . .
The boxoffice of Fabian's Plaza, Schenectady,
has an army recruiting sign below the coin
counter. Lou Rapp manages the first run.
Happy though tired after a strenuous day
of inspecting Fabian Theatres, Eddie Fabian
and Lou Golding checked into the Sheraton-
Ten Eyck Hotel, with the observation that
"White Christmas" had piled up pre-Christmas
bags of money in its area and other
theatres. Fabian said that the patronage for
the VistaVision release was 200 to 300 per
cent above average, adding that it would be
wonderful if pictures of similar strength were
released "once a month." Golding ticketed
"The Country Girl" as a coming attraction
probably with high boxoffice potentials. Like
the younger Fabian, he stated that big pictures
drew solid business, but the average
films do not mean much.
Johnny Gardner, who achieved unusual
success with late fall weekend shows at the
Turnpike Drive-In, Westmore, told friends
that he would continue them until "snow is
on the ground." He believed he has set a
record for extended operation in the Albany
district. "I am getting good pictures and
doing business with them, too," he said, mentioning
"Seven Brides for Seven Brothers"
and "Brigadoon" as two percentagers that
brought plenty of cars in. The Turnpike
is a family operation and overhead is less.
Gardner holds a card in the projectionists
local and often works the booth himself, and
his wife and 19-year-old son hold down key
spots.
. . Jules
Stanley 'Warner theatres in Albany, Troy
and Utica carved fine pre-Thanksgiving dinner
grosses, with kiddy shows
Perlmutter recently closed the
.
Warren in
Warrensburg for the winter. He kept the
theatre, which he refurbished and reequipped
after assuming direction, open last
winter. Perlmutter also darkened until spring
the Lake George, ten mOes away. He also
operates the Carol in Chestertown, another
Adirondack mountain situation.
Lou Hart was one of the fiist Schine men
to advertise Schine Theatres gift books as a
suitable Christmas present. He hopped on
to the annual circuit promotion before
Thanksigiving at the Avon in Watertown . . .
TV Viewing Drop Seen
In 18-35 Age Group
Albany—A sharp decline in television
viewing among young people—from 18
to 35—is a big plus for motion pictures
believes
today,
Saul J. Ullman,
Fabian di^^sion
manager and veteran
of 36 years in
the industry.
"The younger
people have grown
tired of the mediocre
fare of television,"
said Ullman.
"Older folks, par-
those
ticularly
from 50 up, are
Saul J. Ullman still video fans, but
the younger group want to get out and
see something better. That's a break for
motion pictures, with the representative
product now being screened.
The Palace and Leiand, Albany, will stage
a Chevrolet giveaway in a tieup with Don
Allen December 22. Tickets are being distributed
by the theatres and the dealer. Bill
With, Palace manager, and Irwin Ullman,
Fabian division exploiteer, arranged the
hookup to bolster pre-Christmas business.
Fabian houses in Schenectady and Troy also
have arranged car giveaways .
Times-
Union ran a three-column picture of Mayor
Erastus Corning purchasing the first tickets
to the Variety Club intercity boxing championships
at Midcity Arena.
Dr. Ben Yolk, nose and throat specialist,
is one of the Variety Club's anchor men in
the annual Big Brother solicitation for Camp
Thacher. He usually raises between $600 and
$700 for the cause among physicians. Charles
A. Smakwitz, former chief barker and heart
fund chairman, has letters struck off for
Dr. Volk's use in the campaign.
Boxing Program May Net
$5,000 for Albany Test
ALBANY—A fine tieup, vigorous effort and
smart promotion paid off handsomely for the
Variety Club on the second annual intercity
championships, held Saturday night (27) at
Midcity Arena and televised by ABC network.
Chief Barker George H. Schenck, former
chief Charles A. Smakwitz and crewman
Irwin Ullman estimated that Tent 9's net
might reach $5,000.
Eighteen hundred tickets at $1.25 and $2
were sold, while a substantial revenue was
derived from a 14-page journal published as
part of the boxing show. Bernard J. Mealey,
an associate member of the club, registered
an outstanding promotion with the booklet.
Variety officers said. He corraled heavy advertising,
large and small. Camp Thatcher,
the club's summer camp, will be the beneficiary.
Variety members assisting at the Arena
included Jules Perlmutter, Norman Jackter,
Jack Hamilton, Aaron Winig and Harold Gabrilove.
Schenck and Hamilton directed the
concession stand, with George and Anthony
Lourinia, Ken Farrar, Harry Fisher and
Stanley Potrzuski assisting. Bill Wennar
served as timekeeper.
Cities in Albany Area
Offer Little Parking
A feature article appeared in the Buyer's Directory
of Modern Theotre, October 23 issue.
ALBANY—Parking is not easily accessible
to patrons of most houses in the Albany exchange
district, where age of the communities
and long-established locations are adverse
factors. No theatre in 300-year-old Albany,
for instance, has a parking lot immediately
adjacent, nor has any in nearby Schenectady
and Troy so far as is known. The same
condition prevails in many other cities and
towns according to information available
here.
The 1,920-seat Stanley Warner Strand has
a tieup with one of the Park-and-Shop lots
established by downtown stores, which permits
theatregoers to put up their cars there
except on Thursday, a shopping night, for 25
cents—paid under the honor system. The lot
located on the west side of Broadway near
Columbia street, is about 400 feet from the
theatre. Many Strand customers take advantage
of it. Manager Al La Flamme reported.
For a time, the theatre held a tieup
under which its patrons using the lot had
their tickets stamped at the Strand boxoffice.
This has been discontinued, but a sign in
the outer lobby calls attention to the lot and
the 25-cent service charge. The lot cannot
be used by Strand stubholders Thursday evenings.
There is another lot around the corner
from the Strand on Sheridan avenue where
night parking is 50 cents.
Patrons of Fabian's 3,650-seat Palace can
park, if space is available, at a parking lot
south of the White Tower restaurant directly
across Clinton avenue from the theatre, or
in the Ten Eyck Hotel garage, approximately
150 feet north of the Palace, where the
charge is 50 cents. Garage accommodates
400 automobiles.
Stanley Warner Zone Manager Charles A.
Smakwitz estimated that 60 per cent of
Strand evening customers come in private
automobiles. Like other area theatremen, he
called the parking problem "tough." Smakwitz
said the Ritz. five blocks south of the
Strand and also a first-run, has no parking
facilities: that the Madison, a second-run, is
without specific parking, although there are
wide streets in that neighborhood.
GP Declares Dividend
NEW YORK—General Precision Equipment
Corp. has declared a dividend of 60
cents a share on the common stock, payable
December 5. It was the third such dividend
this year, bringing dividend declarations to
$1.90 a share, compared with payments of $1
a share In 1953.
Loew's Votes Dividend
NEW YORK—Loew's, Inc.. directors have
voted a quarterly dividend of 25 cents, payable
December 24 to stockholders of record
December 7.
RCA Retains Stevenson As Counsel
CHICAGO—Former Gov. Adlai Stevenson
has been retained by Radio Corp. of America
as legal counsel in the $16,000,000 antitrust
suit Zenith Radio Corp. Ls pre.ssing against
RCA. He hasn't appeared in a courtroom as
an attorney in more than seven years.
46
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

.
: December
"
BUFFALO
. . There
pd Lurie of the United Artists was in working
with Messrs. Cohen and Slotnick on
"Romeo and Juliet," which will come to the
Buffalo Cinema early in January .
was a very plushy surprise party hosted by
Lester Pollock of Loew's Rochester and Jay
Golden, district manager for RKO Theatres,
in the Rio Bamba restaurant in Kodak Town
in honor of Carl S. Hallauer's election to the
presidency of Bausch & Lomb Optical Co.
The new B&L president, incidentally, is a
songwriter. It was back in 1919 that he wrote
"The Gii'l From Kodak Town." It'., copywrited,
too. "My first and last attempt along
that line," Hallauer says.
Marvin Board, 23, formerly of Lincoln, 111.,
now an inmate of Dannemora, was sentenced
by Judge John S. Conable in Wyoming County
court at Warsaw, N. Y., on a charge of robbery
of the Farman Theatre there in March
1950. The sentence was foiu- to 15 years to
be served concurrently with the sentence
Board is now serving— 7'-; to 45 years. Board
got $250 in the holdup ... It is reported that
a theatre incorporating all the most modern
equipment, including Cinemascope, will be
erected in the mammoth shopping plaza to
be erected at Main street and Transit road
in Amherst.
Buffalo's Katharine Cornell, who has never
starred in a motion picture, admitted she's
available, but only for something "exactly
right." Miss Cornell made this statement in
an interview while here last week for the
debut of her new play, "The Dark Is Light
Enough," on the stage of the Erlanger and
in which Tyrone Power has a prominent role.
The show was in Toronto this week. She
appeared briefly in one film, a wartime epic
entitled "Stage Door Canteen."
E. J. Wall, Buffalo-Albany field representative
for Paramount Pictures, conferred with
Arthur Krolick and Charlie Taylor at the
UPT executive offices on promotion for
"Three Ring Circus." Wall was on his way to
the Paramount promotion coordination meeting
in Los Angeles the week of the 6th . . .
For "The Last Time I Saw Paris," Lester
Pollock of Loew's in Rochester and Noah's
Ark there offered a French poodle to the
person submitting the best name for the
canine. Noah's Ark used a large ad on the
contest featuring a mat of Elizabeth Taylor
holding a poodle.
Joe Levine, sales inanager. Embassy Pictures,
was here in company with Terry
Turner, former RKO exploitation head, and
Sylvan Leff, distributor, with offices in Buffalo
and Albany. All were signing up dates
for "Gang Busters," on which there will be a
radio and TV saturation campaign on the
30 or so dates in the Buffalo area soon after
the first of the year. Turner is presenting
the picture in association with Visual Dramas,
Inc., and Leff is distributing the production
in upstate New York. Levine said "Gang
Busters" now has 150 dates in the New England
territory, where the picture also will
be given a saturation TV and radio campaign.
The latest report on Cinerama in Shea's
Teck is that work will begin soon after the
first of the year to prepare the interior of
the theatre for presentation of the new projection
process.
Paul Stewart will play the role of a crime
overlord in Columbia's "Chicago Syndicate."
UNIQUE SOUVENIR — Barney Balaban
(center) president of Paramount, receives
from Cecil B. DeMille, left, facsimiles
of the original Ten Commandments
slabs in granite cut from the summit of
Mt. Sinai and in ancient Hebrew script.
DeMille presented the gifts on his return
from Egypt, where he filmed his "The Ten
Commandments" on location. Witnessing
the presentation at the New York home
office are: Adolph Zukor, right. Paramount
board chairman, and Charlton
Heston, who portrays Moses in the De-
Mille picture.
Over 400 Sponsors Aiding
Plans for Skouras Dinner
NEW YORK—More than 400 sponsors have
been listed for the dinner m honor of Spyros.
P. Skouras by the American Fund for Israel
Institutions to be held January 5 at the
Waldorf-Astoria. S. H. Fabian is chairman
of the dinner committee.
The American Fund supports the three
leading agricultural institutions in Israel, as
well as the only maritime school and the only
school for commercial and industrial design.
The campaign goal is $1,857,000.
In addition to Fabian as chairman, the
committee includes:
S. Hurok, Fredric R. Monn, Edward A. Norman and
Samuel Rubin as honorary chairmen; Joseph Durst,
Mrs, Henr'y Ittleson, A. B. Joffe, Herbert Katzman,
Harry J, Rubenstein as ossocrate chairmen, and
Walter Artzt, Frank L. Bernstein, Max Doft, Noum
Eitingon, Erwin Eliel, Emil Fried lander, Mrs. Em 11
Friedlander, Moe Gale, Mrs. A. L. Gorbat, L, L.
Gildesgome, Emonuel Goldman, Theodore Gruen, Constance
Hope, Mitchell Leventhal, Kassel Lewis, Herman
Li pin, Harry Liverman, Felix Pfeffer, Theodore
R, Racoosin, Adolph G. Robison, Mcz Stern, Jack
D. Torcher and George Textor as vice-chairmen, and
Oscar M. Lozrus as treasurer.
Cue Honors Jesse Zunser
NEW YORK—Veteran employes of Cue
honored Jesse Zunser at a surprise luncheon
in celebrating his 21st year as movie reviewer
and critic for the New York entertainment
weekly. Mr. Zunser received congratulatory
wires from over 100 film industry
leaders. When asked to name the greatest
pictures he had seen in the 21-year period,
the Cue critic said, "Off the top of my head,
Walt Di.sney's 'Three Little Pigs,' 'Gone
With the Wind,' 'Best Years of Our Lives,'
'Hamlet,' 'Zola' and 'Grapes of Wrath.'
Cocktail Party for Hirsch
NEW YOKK—Elroy Hirsch, known In the
football world as "Crazylegs," was guest of
honor at a cocktail party at Toots Shor's
November 23. Hirsch, who recently completed
his second feature, "Unchained," for Hall
Bartlett Productions, was in the east to play
against the New York Giants November 21.
Earlier, Hirsch starred in "Crazylegs," made
by Bartlett, which Republic distributed, and
he has signed a five-year pact with Bartlett.
Glowmeter Is Granted
Extension to Dec. 15
BUFFALO—A three-week stay in bankruptcy
proceedings involving the Glowmeter
Corp. of North Tonawanda, manufacturer of
motion picture theatre screens, to give directors
a chance to raise $75,000, has been ordered
by Judge John Knight. Owen B. Augspurger
jr., attorney for the corporation,
asked an adjournment until December 15,
despite objections by Morley E. Townsend,
attorney for eight former employes who
claim they are owed some $4,500 in back
wages.
Augspurger told the court that the original
program, disclosed after the corporation filed
a petition for reorganization under Chapter
II of the federal bankruptcy act, called for an
eight-week production test period during
which it would be determined if the corporation
could remain in business. He said
that it was discovered that products manufactured
during this period were not acceptable
to the trade and that further work must
be done.
"We are asking an additional three weeks
to attempt to raise $75,000 or $80,000," he
stated. "We, therefore, ask the court to hold
this matter until December 15."
A representative of Radiant Manufacturing
Co. of Chicago, described as the principal
creditor and distributor of Glowmeter, stated
that his concern is willing to go along with
the three-week adjournment.
Glowmeter is trying to develop a process in
screen manufacture that is revolutionary, the
court was told, and is on the brink of discovering
something important. Townsend
said, however, that three of his clients, technicians
with the concern, do not believe the
aim can be achieved within a short time and
they ask an immediate liquidation of the
corporation and distribution of assets.
Virginia Mayo Is Queen
Of Thanksgiving Parade
NEW YORK—Virginia Mayo, Warner Bros.
star, was Queen of R. H. Macy's annual
Thanksgiving Day parade, which moved down
Central Park West, from 77th street to
Broadway and 34th street, where the store is
located. Miss Mayo rode on a 26-foot-high
Queen of Hearts float.
Other motion picture personalities and
p'oductions represented in the November 25
.jarade were: Jackie Cooper, who portrayed
Young Jim Hawkins in a float for "Long John
Silver," first release of Distributors Corp. of
America; Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, Universal-International
stars, who were ringmasters
of a troupe of acrobats on a circus
float; Jon Hall, portraying "Ramar of the
Jungle," his TV film series; Judy HoUiday,
Columbia star, as the snow queen on a Winter
Holiday float, and a Peter Pan float with
various characters from the Walt Disney cartoon
feature.
Carol Haney, star of the Broadway musical,
"The Pajama Game," and Sid Caesar, TV
comedian, and his daughter, Michele, were
also in the parade.
'Passion' Opens Dec. 10
NEW YORK—"Passion," co-starring Cornel
Wilde and Yvonne De Carlo, will open at
the Palace Theatre December 10, states Walter
Branson, sales manager for RKO.
BOXOFFICE :
4, 1954 47

. . The
. . . Norville
lot
. . Exploiteer
. . Mr.
. . Hank
. . Mrs.
. . Sam
. . Verda
GREET PERSONALITY OF YEAR—Eddie Fisher, the popular sing:er, was presented
the Variety Club of Washington plaque as the Show Business Personality of the
Year at a dinner dance in the Statler Hotel there. Shown are. left to right: Jack Beresin,
former Variety International chief barker, and George Hoover, present chief; Jake Flax,
Variety, International representative; Debbie Reynolds, film star and fiancee of Fisher;
George Eby, assistant International chief; Fisher; Jack Fruchtman, 1954 chief of the
Washington tent, and Alvin Q. Erlich, new chief of the Washington club.
WASHINGTON
t"arl Taylor, 62, died in Mount Alto Hospital
IVIonday (29). He broke into the motion
picture business in tlie days of General Film
Co., later became a shipper and booker with
MOM and was associated for many years
with Educational Comedies. Before he retired
from the industry, he was booker at
Columbia. Taylor was confined to Will Rogers
Memorial Hospital for several months last
year and after an operation returned to his
home in Takoma Park. Md. A veteran of
World War I, he is survived by his wife, a
daughter and four grandchildren.
Pat Notaro has been named a vice-president
and director of the Roth circuit, headed by
Sam Roth. Notaro, a veteran of 20 years
in the industry, spent most of this time with
Warner Theatres, He has been supervising
the Roth chain in the Wa.shington area since
lie joined the company two years ago . . .
Pete Prince, MGM Baltimore representative,
was selected by the Edmonston Village Theatre
there to present tlie award to Buddy
Young as the most valuable player on the
Baltimore Colts football team. The award
was made at the Colts and San Francisco
49ers game Sunday (28).
Gus Lynch, Schine circuit zone manager,
. . . Robert
. . Birthday greetvisited
the Strand and Liberty theatres in
Cumberland this week . MPAA has
installed Cinemascope with stereophonic
sound in its Academia Theatre
stover with the Marines, son of Buck Stover,
Alexandria Amusement Co., came in third in
platoon rifle competition .
WASHINGTON, D.
C
920 New Jersey Ave., N.W.
. .
.
ings to Ora Donoghue. secretary to Jack
Fruchtman . Anne Bruce, bookkeeper, went
home to spend the holidays with her folks
in Glen Falls, N. Y. Doris West,
former secretary with Alexandria Amusement
Co. gave birth to a son . Galanty. Columbia
district manager, spent several days
in Cincinnati.
.
.
Booker Harold Goldstein went into Episcopal
Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital for minor
surgery Sid Zins is working
on "Black Knight" which opens at Warner's
Metropolitan and Ambassador theatres Friday
I ... Pliil Isaacs. Paramount manager,
Night shipper
visited Baltimore exhibitors . . .
Samuel Knight is in the hospital . . .
Mary Lou Nickson is the new booker's clerk
at Paramount . Howard, RKO exploiteer,
was in town Lee and
Frieda Berman celebrated bu-thdays recently
Price drove his new car to
liis home in Rocky Mount, N. C, for the
Thanksgiving holidays.
District Theatres secretary Lucille Brown
spent the weekend at her home in Colonial
Beacli . and Mrs. Joe Rowley and
Bernard Madrey. Regal and Booker T. theatres,
Norfolk, came up to Washington to
attend the Cleveland Browns-Washington
Redskins football game. The Rowleys and
Madrey were awarded the trip as a prize for
.celling the most subscriptions for the Variety
Club Welfare Drive during the last week of
the recent drive. George Miller, manager of
District Theatres' Lincoln, won first prize
for selling tlie most subscriptions during the
entire drive. Eddie Evans, Howard Theatre,
won second prize and Shep Allen, supervisor,
came in third. Jack Barton, Royal Theatre,
Baltimore, won a $500 bond for selling the
ticket that won the Cadillac.
. . . Martin Moskowitz, 20th-
Booker Ida Barezofsky is vacationing at
Miami Beach
Fox division manager, went to Richmond
with Manager Ira Sichelman to visit the
Neigliborhood Theatres office. Sympathy was
extended Sichelman over the sudden death
of his uncle Marco Siclielman in New York
. . . Dick Young, son of 20th-Fox booker Sara
Young, reports on Monday (6i to the Boston
exchange where he will go into the booking
department as a student.
IFE-French Distribution
Discussions Continuing
NEW YORK—Discussions are continuing
regarding the distribution of French films in
the U. S. by Italian Films Export, local releasing
organization for Italian films. Taking
part in them were Renato Gualino, IFE president,
who came here from Rome; E. R.
Zorgniotti, head of the local office; Georges
Lourau, French producer, and John G. Mc-
Carthy, president of International Affiliates,
local representative of Lourau.
Zorgniotti confirmed that they had to do
with the distribution of "one or more" French
films.
"During these discussions," he said Tuesday
1301, "many points were examined, including
possible personal collaboration among
the interested parties. Following the return
of Gualino to Rome, discussions are being
continued by Lourau, McCarthy and me."
There have been rumors in the industry
that IFE may extend its operations to include
the product of other European producers.
Warners End Block Sales
In Latin American Area
NEW YORK—Warner Bros, has dropped
block selling in Latin American countries.
Wolfe Cohen, president of Warner International,
has instructed all sales executives
in the area to sell pictures individually on
theii- merits after screenings in each territory.
Heretofore pictures have been sold for an
entire season in blocks, or in groups, which
was the sales method in this country before
the antitrust decrees.
Cohen said, "In the future we shall not
ask any exhibitor to buy any picture before
it is available for screening."
The new policy will be instituted on "Dragnet,"
"Duel in the Jungle," "King Richard
and the Crusaders," "Ring of Fear," "A Star
Is Born," "Drum Beat," "Track of the Cat"
and "Battle Cry."
MPEA Works Out Formula
On Italian Remittances
NEW YORK—The Motion Picture Export
Ass'n Tuesday (30> worked out a formula
for obtaining additional film earnings in
Italy. It concerned an earlier agreement
negotiated by Eric Johnston, president, providing
for the remittance of 60 per cent of
revenue instead of a lesser amount surrounded
by a number of technical restrictions. Forty
per cent remains in the blocked account and
can be used for compensation deals.
Ted Smith Leaving MPEA;
Declined Post in India
NEW YORK—Theodore Smith has resigned
from the Motion Picture Export Ass'n which
he joined in 1946. He was recently offered
the post of representative in India but declined.
He was continental European manager
operating out of Paris for two years
until brought back to New York early this
year. Marc Spiegel succeeded him in Paris.
Trans-Lux Dividend 15c
NEW YORK—The board of directors of
Trans-Lux Corp. has voted a dividend of 15
cents per share on the common stock payable
December 20 to stockholders of record at the
close of business December 13.
48 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

. .
. . . Edward
. . The
. . Harold
.
BALTIMORE
. . .
Cydney R. Traub, chairman of the Maryland
board of censors discussed the application
of motion picture censorship at the local and
national level during the annual Thanksgiving
service of the Beth Jacob Brotherhood
Joe Brechen. RKO's manager, was in Baltimore
with salesman Elbert Grover . . . Carroll
Bayne. for 27 years projectionist at the
Stanley and business agent for the lATSE
Local 181. died unexpectedly.
George Payette, manager of
the Maryland
at Hagerstown. has recovered from an illnes.s
that confined him to bed for three weeks .
Mrs. Lucille Williams, cashier at the Met. returned
to duty following surgery at Johns
Hopkins Hospital . . . Electric in-car heaters
have been installed at the Edmondson Drivein
The Howard has installed new seating
.. . Gus Lynch. Schine circuit zone manager,
. . . was in Easton conducting a regional
meeting.
Maurice Hendricks of the Hicks-Baker Theatres
and his brother George, manager at
the Mayfair, mourned the death of their
Joe Gins. Universal district manager,
sister . . .
was in town with branch Manager Har-
Oscar Coblenz jr.. owner of the
old Saltz . . .
Alpha, and wife are vacationing in Florida
. . . I. M. Rappaport, owner of the Hippodrome
and Town, was in New York on business
Rodney Collier. Stanley's manager,
. . . had his relatives over from Washington for
a Thanksgiving Day dinner.
M. Magill to Buena Vista
As District Sales Head
NEW YORK—Mort Magill has been named
district sales supervisor for the Philadelphia,
Washington and Pittsburgh exchange areas
by Leo F. Samuels, president and general
sales manager of Buena Vista Film Distribution
Co. His headquarters will be in Philadelphia.
Magill recently resigned as manager
for United Artists in Philadelphia.
Theatre Receiver Named
ERIE. PA.—Judge Burton R. Laub appointed
Sumner Nichols, president of the
Security-Peoples Trust Co., as receiver of the
Star Drive-In Theatre. Inc., due to a "hopeless
deadlock" on the board of directors. Attorney
Thomas P. Dunn had petitioned for
the receivership. He said that Sam and
Rebecca Colman. owners of 50 per cent of the
stock, refuse to sign papers for dissolution of
the company arranged last July 8. The suit
was brought by Joseph and Mollie Gold, who
own the remaining half of the stock. The
dispute broke out last week when the Colmans
filed suit against Joseph Gold and the
Erie Drive-In Theatre Corp.
Movielab Leases Plant
NEW YORK—Movielab Film Laboratories.
Inc, has taken a long-term lease on its present
quarters at 619 West 54th St. Saul Jeffee.
president, has started alterations. Three
floors are being constructed for use of the
Eastman Color process. Additional cutting
and editing rooms, plus projection facilities.
will be available for the motion picture and
television
industries.
STARS AT STANTON—Manager Al
Plougii liad Olympic champion Bob
Matiiias and famed athlete Jesse Ovpens
as guests for the opening of "The Bob
Mathias Story." The two track and field
stars made personal appearances on the
stage of the Stanley Warner Stanton in
Philadelphia, Pa., to help launch the premiere
of the Allied Artists release.
Watson Is on Committee
Of Paramount Opening
NEW YORK—Thomas J. Watson sr.,
chairman of the board of International Business
Machines Corp.. has accepted m.embership
on the United States Olympic Fund
world premiere committee Ln connection with
the benefit performance of Paramount's "The
Country Girl" at the Criterion Theatre December
15.
Also serving on the committee with Watson
are: Bernard F. Gimbel. chairman of the
board of Gimbel Bros.: Col. Edward P. F.
Egan, chairman of the Olympic Finance Committee,
and J. Lyman Bingham, executive
director of the U. S. Olympic Committee.
The opening night proceeds for the Olympic
Fund will help send an American team to
Melbourne. Australia, to the 1956 games.
'Game of Love' to Open
At New York Baronet
NEW YORK—"The Game of Love," which
won the Grand Pi'ix de Cinema Francaise in
1954. will open at the Baronet Tlieatre December
14. Based on the novel by Colete. "Le
Ble en Herbe," and directed by Claude
Autant-Lara. the picture is distributed in the
U. S. by Times Film Corp. Nicole Berger,
Pierre-Michel Beck and Edvvige Peuillere axe
starred.
Fabian Enterprises Sells
11,241 Shares of SW Stock
NEW YORK—Fabian Enterprises, Inc..
beneficial owner of more than 10 per cent
of the common stock of Stanley Warner Corp.,
in September sold 11,241 shares of SW common
.stock, decreasing its direct holdings to
328.094. according to a report to stock exchanges
under Securities and Exchange Commission
regulations.
PHILADELPHIA
\X7 T. Theatre Enterprises is no longer operating
the Sky Tlieatre in Middleburg.
William G. Weiner has assumed management
of the theatre . Ritz in Weatherly has
been shuttered . Cohen has reopened
the Centre in Lewistown. The house
formerly known as the Temple, is being serviced
by Allied Motion Picture Theatre Service.
Allied is now doing the booking and
buying for Stanley Peters Ritz in New Holland
and Ritz in St. Clair, Pa.
Harry Brillman, office manager, reports
that Screen Guild will handle the distribution
. . .
in this area for the two Selznick rereleases.
"Notorious" and "Farmer's Daughter"
Stamco. Inc.. announced the Standard Theatre,
which was damaged by hurricane Hazel,
will be rebuilt and modernized as a one-story
house, eliminating the balcony. Completely
air conditioned and equipped for Cinema-
Scope, the South Street theatre should be
ready for a Christmas or New Year's opening.
. . . Dorothy
Elmer O. Wilschke, executive vice-president
of Perspecta sound, assisted by Al Mian, engineering
staff, took part in a demonstration
of Perspecta's directional optical sound on
Monday (29i at the Stanley
Dandridge. star of "Carmen Jones," was here.
. . .
Ed Karpen is now operating the Broadway
in Palmyra. N. J., formerly a unit of the
Lew Fortunate, son of
Varbalow circuit . . .
U-I booker Ferd Fortunate and formerly at
Paramount, is now at Republic. He replaces
Mickey Greenwald, who resigned as Republic
booker to join Exploitation Pictures, which
has moved to new quarters at 1321 Vine St. . .
Variety Tent 13 will give a dinner January 10
honoring Norman Silverman, retiring chief
barker, and welcoming new Chief Barker
Louis J. Goffman and his crew at the Bellevue-Stratford
Hotel The headquarters
of Tent 13 have been refurbished at an expense
of close to $20,000. making this one of
the city's most beautiful clubrooms.
Sidney Samuelson, president and general
manager of Allied Independent Theatre Owners
of Eastern Pennsylvania, is up and around
again after being in a wheel chair for two
months as a result of an automobile accident
Charles Beilan. Warner Bros, manager
. . .
who is heading the Will Rogers Memorial
Hospital drive, was in charge of a meeting
at RKO projection room of local branch and
district managers.
Sol Blumberg, Stiefel Theatres, became
the father of a baby daughter, his third child
Heiber, U-I manager, celebrated
his 32nd wedding anniversary at a Washington
party.
Dr. Lubin to Become N. Y.
Industrial Commissioner
NEW YORK—Dr. Isador Lubin has been
selected as industrial commissioner of New
York State by Gov.-elect Averell Harriman.
He has been known internationally for 35
years as an outstanding economist and statistician,
much of the time in the employ of
the federal government. He is intimately
known to the film industry as president for
four years' of Confidential Reports, Inc.,
checking organization. The company is no
longer in existence. He will succeed Edward
appointed by Gov. Thomas E. Dewey.
Corsi.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 49

. . Joe
. . Mr.
. . The
. . Sam
has
ITTSBURGH
:,; ilea's circuit will transfer Ed Fahey from close the house Christmas week . . . Dave
''
Manchester, N. H., on January 1 to this Leff, IFE representative, was here this week.
City a-s manager of the Pulton Theatre. He headquarters at the Hanna office . . .
Bernie Hickey, who managed the local house Dixonville merchants again are sponsoring a
as successor to the late John D. Walsh, was free Christmas show at the Dixon Theatre,
assigned to Shea's home office several months Victor Profughi states . . . Mr. and Mrs.
ago as booking and promotional representative,
with Frank King sent here to look after motored to California where they will spend
Herman Lorence, Erie theatre owners,
the Fulton. King will return to roving assignments
with Shea's.
circuit theatres at Johnstown have reduced
the winter at the home of a son . . . Ideal
admission prices to a dime and a quarter . . .
The annual film premiere here for the Blair Theatre at HoUidaysburg was closed
benefit of the Press Old Newsboys fund campaign
which assists Children's Hospital will screen.
one day this week for installation of a wide
be staged for the first time at the Stanley
Theatre. The feature will be Warner Bros, James and Ann Nash and Francis and
musical, "Young at Heart," and the date will Catherine Ti'ainor hosted the December 3
be December 15. In all past years the Old family night at the Variety Club. The club
Newsboys' premiere was presented at the is featuring contract bridge every Tuesday
Warner Theatre, where last year the benefit evening. A football sport night was a club
exhibition was the initial showing of "This event December 1 with Al Abrams as chairman
. and Mrs. Francis Thomas were
Is Cinerama." Arrangements for the Children's
Hospital benefit show were made by treated to a surprise 25th wedding anniversary
party at Mercy Hospital Thanksgiving
M. A, Silver, zone manager for the Stanley
Warner Corp. The Pittsburgh Press goes all Day. Thomas, Filmrow projectionist and for
out every December in promoting the picture many years projectionist at Mercy Hospital
which is offered by Warner Bros, for this
for the Sisters, and his wife were presented
special benefit premiere.
gifts following a screening and there was
Zelig "Zay"
a special silver
Bass, who has managed
decorated cake for them to
the
enjoy.
Family Drive-In near New Kensington since
its opening, vacationed recently in Montreal
. . . Township of Elizabeth here on De-
Robert H. Suits, Arthur Manson and R. C.
Bryson of the Warner Theatre staff for Cinerama
were in Philadelphia for several days
cember 6 will re-enact its 10 per cent admission
tax . . . Saul I. Perilman, Warner
attending a national institute on Cinerama
Bros, salesman, and Charles Dortic, Columbia,
promotions . Rudolph Navai-i family
were local delegates to the film salesman's
of the Eastwood Theatre in Penn township is
convention held recently in Chicago . . .
building a new home on Verona road . . .
Initial area showing of "Ti-ack of the Cat"
Fred Serrao, manager of the Circle Theatre,
was at the Manos circuit's Indiana Theatre,
New Kensington, ran an ad in the Daily
Indiana, Pa., which also marked this theatre's
Dispatch congratulating the Dattola Theatre
initial Cinemascope exhibition.
there on the installation of Cinemascope and
Erie county Democrats staged a victory stereophonic sound.
dinner with Americans for Democratic Action.
Congratulated was Alden Phelps, owner
Harold
of
S. Eskin, who recently acquired
an outdoor theatre at Waterford, and Erie
eight local area theatres under lease from the
county Democratic chairman . Hanna Stanley Warner circuit, via divorcement, was
vacationed from duties at Hanna
a visitor . . .
Theatre
Other visitors included T. O.
Service . . . Jack Judd, Columbia manager,
McCleaster of 20th-Fox and Nicky Goldhammer
of Allied Artists . . . Mr. and Mrs. Jack
lined up several hundred theatres to exhibit
complete Columbia programs during Christmas
week. Bookings were at "bargain
Judd will sail on the Caronia for a South
American cruise
prices"
on December 21 . . . Mrs.
for the period when help is badly needed
Jennie R. Drake, 80, mother of MGM shipper
. . .
David Brown, former RKO booker and
Francis Drake,
salesman,
returned to booking
died December 1 . . . Exhibitors
duties with
are urged to
this
make returns for the Will
company Monday, succeeding Mrs. Marion
Rogers Memorial Hospital fund.
Willet Cebula who resigned. Brown's former
Burtus Bishop jr., former local
territory for RKO now
MGM manager
and now midwest sales manager, will be
is handled by Joel
Golden, formerly here with Allied Artists.
the national captain of the 1955 bonus campaign,
Mr. ajid Mrs. Tom McCleary of Alexander
a 17-week drive which will end next
Theatre Supply enjoyed
April 28 . . .
a motor vacation
RKO employes will stage their
to
California,
holiday
with
party at the
a stop at Phoenix
Ankara . . . Arcadia
to visit
partner Sam
Theatre,
Fineberg. In California, Tom
New Bethlehem, will introduce
sold his automobile and he and
Cinemascope on
Mrs. Mc-
December 13 . . . Mr. and
Cleary returned to Pittsburgh
Mrs. Frank (Columbia Pictures) Silverman
via train . . .
Joe will
Bell recently
vacation in Atlantic City over the holidays.
installed anamorphic lenses
at his Bell Theatre, Fayette City. He will
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Manos recently departed
for their winter home at Miami Beach
after the pioneer cii-cuit exhibitor had recuperated
at his Greensburg home follow'ing
SAM FINEBERG
TOM McCLEARY surgery here several weeks ago. Now he is
JIM ALEXANDER hospitalized in Florida. Sons Ted and Alex
Manos were absent from their Greensburg
84 Van Braam Street headquarters offices this week . . . The city
PITTSBURGH 19, PA.
of McKeesport this week re-enacted its
Phone EXpress 1-0777 nuisance taxes which include a local amusement
levy of 1 cent on every 20 cents !i!!?i»_*'?^ Brtler Thaa Ziv • >to«'» Voir ^ulpmenttj of
admission. This tax was cut in half earlier
this year on appeal by theatre owners.
Thomas and Frances Simon are parents of
a son named Thomas Vincent. Papa is manager
of Shea's Orpheum Theatre. McKees
Rocks . Pace of Ray Showe's Theatre
Candy Co. is studying refrigeration and
will be able to offer complete service for
drink dispensers, etc.
Filmrow hears that Bob Ruskin, former
film salesman and trade reporter (for some
other papers, not this publication i figured
in the various multi-million-dollar antitrust
suits against the local film distributors
and certain exhibitor groups, etc., recently
filed in U. S. Court in New York City. Ruskin
is licensed to practice law in the Empire state,
but he never got into the legal profession.
He started as a film salesman here for Columbia
Pictures several years ago, later leaving
the payroll and returning to New York. In
1953 he returned here as a Paramount salesman
and a correspondent for film trade
papers. Some months ago Paramount cut
down on salesmen throughout the country
and Bob was handed his walking papers. He
tried to get other film industry jobs here and
then turned his mind to law. He has a family
to support. Back in New York he entered into
the practice of law and offered his services,
so it is said, to various exhibitor circuits and
others here who had been claiming the film
distributors had used illegal practices against
them. Filmrow reports are that Ruskin is the
"brains" of the multi-million-dollar conspiracy
actions.
Slot machines have been ruled out of Pennsylvania
for the coming four years of Democratic
administration and the familiar cry of
"Bingo" will be stilled for the duration. In
many counties these money-grabbers have
been silenced by district attorneys and police
actions. Herbert B. Cohen, who was designated
to be the new attorney general by
Governor-Elect George M. Leader, said the
gambling laws will be strictly enforced and
that state police will be used to uphold them.
Ben Amdur Is Elected
PITTSBURGH—Screen Guild Pictures of
Pittsburgh has named Ben Amdur of the
Garden Theatre on the north side as president;
Harry Hendel, vice-president; Harry
Rachiele, treasurer, and Charles Mervls, secretary.
Renovated Oaks Theatre
OAKMONT, PA.—The Oaks Tlieatre has
been renovated and all seats have been reupholstered
in crushed nylon with gold
threads. The floors were being repainted this
week, and by the fii-st of the year a beautiful
lobby concession stand will be installed to
replace an old confection counter and popcorn
machine, Steve Rodnok jr., manager, announces.
William F. Graham Dies
PITTSBURGH—William F. Graham, projectionist
at the Regent Square Theatre, died
recently at St. Clair Memorial Hospital as the
result of a heart attack. Surviving are his
wife Edna Rupert, two daughters, a son and
two grandchildren.
Buy "Lincoln McKeever' Novel
Pine-Thomas Productions have purchased
"Lincoln McKeever," a novel by Eleanor
Lipsky, for Paramount production.
50 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

MEWS AND VIEWS THE PRODUCTION CEMTER
(Hollywood Office— Suite 219 at 6404 Hollywood Blvd.: Ivan Spear, Western Manager/
Goldwyn, Selznick Air
Production Views
HOLLYWOOD — Two veteran filmmakers,
Samuel Goldwyn and David O. Selznick. aired
their respective views on phases of productional
problems in a recently published number
of the Screen Producers Guild Journal.
Producers today. Goldwyn asserted, are in
many cases indicating a willingness to revert
to the policy of "assembly-line" celluloid
manufactm'ing under the pressure exerted by
exhibitors who are vociferous in demanding
a greatly increased supply. Sounding a warning
against acceding to such requests, Goldwyn
claimed that the making of pictures in
bulk, with little regard for quality, brought
about "near-tragedy" in Hollywood in the
recent past and that "no good can be accomplished
by returning to the practices that
nearly ruined us once before."
As concerns his suggestion, made some
months ago, that the industry's production
code be revised and modernized, he said that
as a result of his remarks thereon he received
plenty of indications of support from other
filmmakers but that when a showdown
loomed most of them "found it expedient to
either say or do nothing, or to state publicly
views that were completely different from
those they had expre.ssed to me privately."
Selznick, in his SPG Journal article, paid
high tribute to the ability and know-how of
video technicians and the flexibility of television
equipment, which impressions he
gleaned when he produced the recent twohour
TV "spectacular" used by the lighting
industry to commemorate the diamond anniversary
of the invention of the incandescent
bulb by Thomas Edison.
Selznick urged his fellow-producers to form
a cooperative liaison with television to revolutionize
the motion picture industry's equipment
and working methods, and charged that
filmdom has been comparatively "niggardly"
in its expenditures of time and talent in research
and technological advances as compared
with video. The latter, he said, "has
taken greater strides" in a few short years
"than the motion picture has in decades."
Franklin Returns to MGM
HOLLYWOOD—Sidney Franklin is returning
to MGM after an extended leave of
absence and, after more than ten years as
a producer for the studio, w'ill revert to his
former status as a megaphonist with his
assignment to direct the forthcoming "Ben
Hur." The high-budget entry, to be produced
by Sam Zimbalist, will begin lensing
next year on location in Italy and Spain.
BOXOFFICE December 4. 1954
SAG Asks Raising of Bars
Against Foreign Actors
HOLLYWOOD—A firm stand against the
entry of alien actors into the U. S. for supporting
and "even minor" roles in American
films is being taken by the Screen Actors
Guild. An intelligence report to members
states that the SAG has been "plagued" by
the situation for some time.
The problem has been discussed with H. R.
Landon, of the U. S. immigration and naturalization
service, by John Dales, SAG executive
secretary. In a subsequent letter to Landon,
the SAG reiterated its belief that "It is
one thing for a foreign star, who may also
have some appeal for American audiences,
such as Sir Laurence Olivier, to be admitted
to this country as an actor of distinguished
merit and ability to replace an American star
(or a star who is a resident alien), but it is
quite another thing for non-resident alien
actors to come into our country and our
industry for mere supporting roles at salaries
ranging from medium down to actual minimum
rates, and it is on this aspect that we
respectfully urge a stricter application or
interpretation of the law."
The missive pointed out, further, that the
situation is aggravated "by reason of the
very firm prohibition by many foreign coun-
MGM OFFICIAL RETIRES — W. K.
Craig, controller of IVIGM and president
of the MGiVI Studio Club, social and welfare
organization, retired from the studio
position November 30. He has been with
MGM since it was founded in 1924. Here
Craig, right, is seen with E. J. Mannix,
studio general manager.
tries, especially Great Britain, against allowing
any American actors other than stars
to work in pictures made in those countries."
The SAG suggests, as a working standard,
three regulations:
1. The performer in question must have
acquired, in his own country, "definite stature
of such distinction and merit" that he
is recognized in the U. S. as "outstanding."
2. The prospective employer must certify
that the compensation to be paid is sufficient
to justify application of the phrase of the
immigration law defining such employment
as being "of an exceptional nature requiring
such merit and ability," and that the performer
is being hired for a starring or featured
role.
3. An alien performer should be hired, under
the above conditions, for only one specific
picture, and subsequent offers of employment
in other pictores should be scrutinized
with "even more than usually careful
and rigid apphcation" of the law.
The SAG'S intelligence report also disclosed:
That Bernard Tabakin, producer of the
"China Smith" telefilm series, has been removed
from the "unfair" list, agreement having
been reached with his company regarding
residual payments due actors for earlier films
in the "China Smith" group starring Dan
Duryea.
That the SAG's active membership has decreased
a trifle in Hollywood—from 6,402 a
year ago to 6,334 today—while in eight other
cities where the SAG has branches, membership
has been boosted from 1,811 to 2,036.
To Aid Dystrophy Ass'n
HOLLYWOOD—The Muscular Dystrophy
Ass'n has named Mervyn LeRoy, Warner
producer-director, motion picture industry
chairman for its upcoming fund-raising
drive, with HaiTy Ackerman, CBS vice-president
set as chairman of the radio-TV division.
Debut to Be in Brazil
HOLLYWOOD—"They Were So Young,"
produced and directed by Kurt Neumann for
Lippert Pictures release, will be worldpremiered
January 5 in Rio de Janeiro, locale
of the romantic drama. It stars Scott Brady,
Raymond Burr and the German actress,
Johanna Matz.
51

Live,"
Cleffers
STUDIO PERSONNELITIES
Allied Artists
EDWARD J. WHITE was named music director
on "Twilight Alley."
Meggers
RKO Radio
King Bros. Productions inked IRVING RAPPER to
direct "The Boy and the Bull," on which a February
starting date has been set. It will be filmed in
Technicolor on location in Spain.
Universal-International
GEORGE MARSHALL was signed to direct "The
Second Greatest Sex," folklore musical to be produced
in Technicolor by Albert J. Cohen.
Inked to direct "So This Is Rio" was RICHARD
QUINE, who piloted the earlier "So This Is Pans"
for the studio. The followup Technicolor musical
will have the some three male stars, Tony Curtis,
Gene Nelson and Paul Gilbert, and the same producer,
Albert J. Cohen.
JESSE HIBBS drew the directorial assignment on
"The White King," historical drama with a Hawaiian
locale, and has planed out for Honolulu with Aaron
Rosenberg, who will produce, to scout locations.
Options
Allied Artists
Producer William F. Broidy added VIRGINIA GRAY
and JAMES MILLICAN to the cast of "Twilight Alley,"
the Richard Conte-Constonce Smith vehicle, being
megged by Frank McDonald.
Independent
LANCE FULLER has been booked to star in "Buckskin
Lady," frontier drama to be produced end
directed by Carl K. Hittleman for Howco Productions.
Paramount
Acting veteran WALTER HAMPDEN will portray
King Louis of France in the VistaVision version of
"The Vagabond King," the Pat Duggan production
in Technicolor, starring Kathryn Grayson, Oreste
Kirkop and John Derek. The tunefilm will be megged
by Michael Curtiz.
Veteran character comedian JAMES GLEASON was
signed for "The Girl Rush," the VistaVision-Technicoior
tunefilm being produced by Frederick Brisson
and directed by Robert Pirosh with Rosalind Russell,
Fernando Lamas, Eddie Albert ond Gloria De Haven
in starring roles.
20th Century-Fox
Character comedian TOMMY NOONAN was assigned
roles in two upcoming features. He'll appear
with VICTOR MATURE in "Violent Saturday," a Buddy
Adier production to be directed by Richard Fleischer,
and with Sheree North in producer Samuel G. Engel's
musical, "Pink Tights," which Henry Koster will meg.
Set for featured roles were SYLVIA SIDNEY, RICH-
ARD EGAN, STEPHEN McNALLY and LEE MARVIN.
ROBERT STACK and SHIRLEY YAMAGUCHI will
be starred in "The Tokyo Story," a Buddy AdIer
production to be directed on location in Japan by
Samuel Fuller.
United Artists
Set for leads in "Kiss Me Deadly," starring Ralph
Meeker, were CLORIS LEACHMAN, New York video
and stage actress, and NICK DENNIS. The crime
drama is being produced and directed by Robert
Aldrich.
Hecht-Lancoster handed KAREN STEELE, radio-TV
player, a term contract under which she makes her
film debut in "Marty," the romantic comedy being
megged by Dfilbert Mann.
Universal-International
Cost for a musical interlude in "Third Girl From
the Right," Technicolor comedy starring Rory Calhoun
and Piper Laurie, was CARL POST, former film
publicist who turned concert pianist. The feature, a
Sam Marx production, is being directed by Eddie
Buzzell.
Warner Bros.
JAMES WHITMORE was cast with Alan Ladd ond
June Allyson in "The McConnell Story," CinemaScope-
WarnerColor pictunzation of the career of Copt.
Joseph McConnell, air force hero, which Gordon Douglos
ts directing for producer Henry Blanke.
Story Buys
Columbia
Film rights are being acquired to "The Doll Maker,"
best-selling novel by Harriet Arnow, on which production
chores hove been handed to William Wright.
Independent
"Rhythm and Blues," an original by Robert Carson,
was acquired by Arwin Productions, headed by Marty
Melcher and his songstress-wife, Doris Day, as a starring
vehicle for the latter.
Paramount
Producer Hal Wallis purchased "The Rainmaker," o
Broadway play by N. Richard Nash. It is a comedy
about a fraudulent but romantic rainmaker.
Universal-International
"Back Trail," an original western by Lewis B.
Patten, was purchased and assigned to Howard Pine
to produce.
Warner Bros.
"So Shall I an original by James Webb, was
purchased and added to Frank P. Rosenberg's production
slate. Webb is writing the screenplay.
Filmakers to Produce
Drama Series for TV
HOLLYWOOD—In an expansion of its production
activities, Filmakers, the theatrical
film organization headed by Collier Young
and Ida Lupino, will branch out into the
video field early in 1955. Its initial venture
will be a series of half-hour courtroom
dramas, titled "The Trial," and based on
actual court actioiis. Larry Marcus has been
inked to develop the project.
:t * *
Replacing Cass Daley, who bowed out of
the part, Mitzi Green has been inked for the
femme starring role in "So This Is Hollywood,"
being written and produced by Edmund
Beloin as a half-hour TV series which
Toni is sponsoring beginning Jan. 1, 1955,
over NBC. Her co-stars in the series, being
megged by Richard Bare, are Virginia Gibson,
Gordon Jones and Jimmy Lydon.
* * *
A new filmed TV series, "Alias Jimmy Valentine,"
based on the character created by
O. Henry, has been set for lensing by Jack
J. Gross and Philip N. Ki-asne. With Donald
Hyde producing, it will roll early in January
and will be distributed by United Television
Programs.
Three months ago this man
was a TB patient
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This space
contributed by BOXOFF I
C
E
Steve Broidy Chosen
HOLLYWOOD—Steve Broidy, Allied Artists
president, has been named chairman
of the Brandeis Youth Foundation's annual
fellowship campaign for the Brandeis camp
institute at Santa Susana, Calif. Serving with
Broidy as co-chairman is Dore Schary, MGM
studio head, while committee members include
Samuel G. Engel, Joseph Gershenson,
Sam Jaffe, Max Laemmle, Harry Maizlish
and Milton Sperling.
To Film TV Bible Series
HOLLYWOOD—Artists Productions, headed
by Aithur Lyons, and Fred M. Packard have
entered into an association to produce "The
Great Design," a series of 156 half-hour
telefilms based on Biblical material. The
first three films have been completed.
52 BOXOFFICE December 4. 1954

—
Directors Pact After
Year of Negotiations
HOLLYWOOD—Culminating a year of negotiations,
the Screen Directors Guild has
reached an agreement with the major producers
on terms of a new collective bargaining
contract calling for salary increases and
changes in working conditions. The pact,
now being drawn, becomes effective Jan.
2, 1955, and extends through March 12, 1958,
it was jointly announced by Charles Boren,
industrial relations liaison for the Ass'n of
Motion Picture Pi'oducers, and George Sidney,
SDG president.
The agreement brings assistant directors
within the provisions of the industry's pension
and health and welfare funds, and includes
senior megaphonists in a pension plan.
Other new provisions:
An increase from a minimum of $550 to
$600 weekly for directors; from $300 to $335
for freelance first assistants; from $170 to
$190 for second assistants, and a new scale
of flight and underwater pay for assistants.
Handling negotiations for the producers, in
addition to Boren, were E. L. DePatie, Warners;
Y. Frank Freeman, Paramount: B. B.
Kahane, Columbia; E. J. Mannix, MGM;
Howard McDonell, Republic: Fred S. Meyer,
20th-Fox: C. J. Tevlin, RKO; Morris Weiner,
U-I; Al Chamie, Maurice Benjamin, L. K.
Sidney and Mendel Silberberg. The SDG's
negotiators were Sidney, Fred Zinnemann,
George Stevens, Rouben Mamoulian, H. C.
Potter, Willis Goldbeck, John Ford, George
Marshall, King Vidor, Emmett Emerson, Delmer
Daves, Dick Moder. Frank Bauer. Mark
Sandrich jr., Mabel Walker Willebrandt, Morrie
Abrams and Joe Youngerman.
Pickman Heads
Milton B.
Production for DCA
HOLLYWOOD—Milton B. Pickman, veteran
industry executive, has joined the newly
formed Distributors Corp. of America, of
which Fred Schwartz is president, as executive
in charge of production. His immediate
duties will be to supervise the completion
of "Finian's Rainbow," an all-cartoon feature,
being co-produced by DCA and Morris
Binder.
Rckman recently left Columbia after two
years as a member of that studio's executive
staff. Previously he had been vice-president
and general manager of the Wald-Krasna
organization. He is now negotiating for offices
to house DCA's west coast production
and distribution activities, and for studio
space and production facilities.
Pete Smith Finishes Four
And Resigns From MGM
HOLLYWOOD—Having finished four shorts
to complete the lineup of ten Pete Smith
Specialties for release during 1955, Smith
has terminated his contract at MGM. The
veteran producer is planning a six-month
vacation in Mexico, after which he intends
to return to filmmaking activity via a new
studio connection.
Some months ago Smith took a leave of
absence from MGM because of ill-health, and
subsequently returned to the studio to make
the quartet of subjects to round out the
coming year's slate. They are "Global Quiz,"
"Animals in Action." "The Fall Guy" and
"Historical Oddities."
eOLLYWOOD'S public
relations — at
least the Scandinavian division thereof—should
have benefited materially
from the recent luncheon at which the Ass'n
of Motion Picture Producers hosted His
Royal Highness Prince Axel of Denmark and
an assorted group of other dignitaries from
that nation, Sweden and Norway. Held at
the Universal-International studios, the
glamor-studded affair feted the prince as
well as the prime ministers and ambassadors
from the three countries upon the occasion
of their arrival in the southland as passengers
aboard the first roof-of-the-world flight
of Scandinavian Airlines.
Film capital news outlets were well represented,
of course—the food was good and the
price was right—and, additionally and more
importantly, in attendance were several reporters
from Scandinavian newspapers and
radio stations. Because of the good taste and
warm hospitality that characterized the
gathering, these foreign observers necessarily
must have sent to their respective homelands
laudatory and enthusiastic reports about
Cinemania and its denizens.
For which bows are due Duke Wales, executive
secretary of the AMPP's studio publicity
directors committee—who impresarioed
the efficiently organized and thoroughly impressive
function—and David Lipton and Sam
Israel of U-I's blurbing brass, who worked
so competently with Wales to make the
affair a success.
Even Y. Frank Freeman, who as president
of the AMPP acted as master of ceremonies,
was refreshingly brief and admirably restrained.
He never once mentioned Vista-
Vision, and made only one reference to
Georgia.
Speaking of U-I, lUessrs. Lipton and Israel
advise that the company purchased, and
assigned to Aaron Rosenberg to produce, a
novel by Samuel B. Harrison called "The
White King."
The title to the contrary, it is not to be a
soap opera; although one might observe that
the studio's Rosenberg Duz everything.
When the Fox West Coast circuit recently
unveiled its most recent new showcase, the
Fox at Trona, Calif., most natural it was
that a 20th Century-Fox upcoming mastodon
was .shown as the piece de resistance. Thus
the good people of Trona were accorded a
double treat, a shining, modern new theatre
and a gander at the intensively touted
"Desiree," an artistically triumphant photoplay.
An' that ain't all. Hollywood glamor—in
the flesh, already—was also present in the
persons of such reasonably well-known
mummers as Broderick Crawford, Edmond
O'Brien, Olga San Juan, Rita Moreno, Jeffrey
Hunter, Tommy Noonan, William Talman,
Lori NeLson and Randy Farr. Regardless of
one's appraisal of the fame and talent of
these troupers—individually or collectively
glaringly inescapable is the fact that none
of them had even the smallest bit in the
picture.
Perhaps next time the circuit debuts a
newcomer unit it should premiere a Bowery
Boys opus. Then it could be certain of some
relationship between what's on the screen
and who's in the flesh.
The elaborate and ambitious planning being
undertaken by the major studios for an allindUstry
video show, to be telecast by >fBC
as a tribute to the trade's production, distribution
and exhibition branches and to give
the TV-viewing public a look at some of
1955's top releases, again poses the controversial
question regarding how far the motion
picture industry should pursue its if-youcan't-Iick-'em-jine-'em
approach to television.
After an exploratory session, NBC and the
major film companies worked out an "agreement
in principle" on a 96-minute program,
the format for which is as yet vague, but
which in all probability will encompass personal
appearances by top stars and clips from
upcoming releases. By-passing an offer of
commercial sponsorship, the studios have decided
instead to pick up the tab for the costs
of the venture.
Quite probably the proposed TV colossus
will rank as one of the most-viewed of the
so-called "spectaculars" which have characterized
video programming during the past
season. But will it sell extra future theatre
tickets? Enough of them, that is, to compensate
for the millions who will spend that
evening—tentatively some time in March—in
their living rooms, who might otherwise be
at movie theatres?
Under a Colombo, Ceylon, dateline, Arthur
P. Jacobs, high-roUing independent press
agent, offers an academic note to the effect
that the legislature of that dominion voted
Gregory Peck and director Robert Parrish
honorary memberships in the island's "cultural
and art organization" and awarded
them both the Order of the Elephant of
Ceylon because they used the area as background
for a newly completed United Artists
release, "The Purple Plain."
No need for alarm, Arthur. Actors and
directors who go cultural and artistic usually
wind up with an elephants—white, that is.
Teet Carle's Paramount praisers broadcast
a touching tale about one Duke Fosler, an
Indiana deputy sheriff brought here as technical
advisor on "The Desperate Hours." It
seems that during his absence—and despite
a hurried trip back to Indianapolis for some
last-minute campaigning—the Democrats
ousted Duke's Republican boss from office,
and Fosler is now a private citizen.
That's what happens when a guy goes Hollywood,
Duke.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 53

kKO to Unveil Vnderwater Beneath
Surface of Florida Silver Springs
HOLLYWCXJD—Unique in motion picture
the plan dreamed up by Howard
premieres is
Hughes and RKO for the late-January debut
of the Jane Russell-Gilbert Roland co-starrer,
"Underwater!" The action drama, in Technicolor
and Superscope, will be shown underwater
at Silver Springs, Fla., to an audience
comprismg the Hollywood and New York
press and film celebrities.
Invited guests will be equipped with aqualungs
for the beneath-the-surface premiere,
while the studio advised that spectators who
"prefer to remain dry" can make use of six
electrically driven submarines equipped with
large viewing portholes. It was reported that
engineers and technicians, after surveying
the SUver Springs site, declare underwater
projection will present no difficulties, and
that -sound also can be utilized successfully.
Pi-oduced by Harry Tatelman and magged
by John Sturges, "Underwater!" was photographed
in Hawaii and the Bahamas, and
includes considerable under-the-sea footage.
* * *
"Day of Triumph." Biblical feature dealing
with the life of Christ, has been set for a
Friday (17) world premiere at the Tyler
Theatre in Tyler, Tex. Produced by James
K. Friedrich under the banner of Century
Films, the color entry is being distributed
on a roadshow basis by George J. Schaefer.
-Following its Tyler opening, "Triumph" has
been booked to begin a run Friday (24) at
the Kirby Theatre in Houston.
* * *
"Hansel and Gretel," the Michael Myerberg
feature in Technicolor, featuring electronically-animated
puppets, will have its
west coast premiere Thursday (16) at Loew's
State, the Egyptian and Fox Beverly theatres
here. RKO is distributing the opus.
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Carver Institute Medal
Awarded to Tony Curtis
HOLLYWOOD—A couple of Universal-International
personalities were active in extracurricular
events with the disclosui-es that
Tony Curtis is the winner of the George
Washington Carver Memorial Institute's annual
award of merit and that Audie Murphy
had planed east to participate in army ceremonies
welcoming back from Korea the third
infantry division, with which he served in
World War II.
Cm-tis received the Carver award for his
"outstanding contributions to inter-racial
unity." Dr. Robert D. Hobday, president of
the institute, who flew here from Washington
to make the presentation, said Curtis was
chosen because of his assistance in the organization
of Carver Youth clubs to combat
juvenile delinquency.
Murphy, America's most-decorated soldier
in World War II. headed for New Orleans to
assist in greeting the third infantry division,
and then proceeded to Ft. Benning, Ga., for
additional ceremonies. His itinerary also included
Dallas for the world premiere of "This
Is Your Army," a recruiting film.
F. McCarthy Says He Will
Film Hemingway's Next
HOLLYWOOD — Statements from New
York to the contrary, Frank McCarthy claims
he has both oral and written agreements with
novelist Ernest Hemingway whereby Mc-
Carthy and an associate, William Lowe, are
to produce a feature film based on Hemingway's
next novel, now being written.
McCarthy has dispatched a telegram to
Alfred Rice, Hemingway's attorney, in
Gotham, requesting clarification of reports
circulating there that Hemingway has denied
any agreement exists with McCarthy and
Lowe.
British Hero Visits Set
HOLLYWOOD—Field Marshal Montgomery
toured the sets and met a number of acting
personalities at the Warner Bros, studio.
HANDY

. . Jack
1
Intermountain TOA
Is Being Organized
SALT LAKE CITY—Exhibitors from four
states met here Wednesday and agreed to
organize a new affiliate with the Theatre
Owners of America. About 70 attended the
meeting from Utah, Idaho, eastern Nevada
and western Wyoming.
Roger Mendenhal of Boise was named chairman
of a committee to study plans for organization,
with David K. Edwards, Hal
Hawk. O. J. Hazen and Irving H. Harris as
members.
E. D. Martin, president of TOA; Walter
Reade, board executive; Joe Rosenfield of
Spokane, who operates the Lyric in Salt Lake
ajid who is a vice-president of TOA, and Carl
Anderson of Kalispell, Mont., Intermountain
TOA director, recounted the aims and principles
of TOA and the national exhibitor
association's plans for independent financing
of motion picture production,
Sidney Cohen, who manages Film Service
Corp., acted as chairman pro-tern for the
meeting.
Utah and Idaho, eastern Nevada and western
Wyoming of the Salt Lake exchange have
not been represented in an organization for
the past two or three years. Pi-ior to that
time, they had theii- own state groups and
then joined the PCCITO, which functioned
for a while.
Holland Likes Hollywood.
Says Dutch Editor
HOLLYWOOD — American films satisfy
public taste and conform to a cultural pattern
of entertainment in Holland, it was reported
by Dr. Herbert H. Planten, editor of
one of that nation's newspapers, the Algemeen
Handelsblad, when he aiTived here for
a filmland visit. Dr. Planten toured Hollywood
sets as a guest of the Ass'n of Motion
Picture Producers.
Shift in Lima & Peters
ROSEVILLE, CALIF.—Fred W. Curtice of
Sacramento was named manager of the Tower
Theatre to succeed James Brinton, who was
transferred to San Jose to manage another
theatre in the Lima & Peters circuit
LOS ANGELES
\X7ith a spring opening planned, construction
has begun on a new 1,200-car drive-in,
the Mission, in the Ontario area. It will be
owned and operated by Jack Anderson, whose
company currently operates the Valley Drive-
In in the same community as well as the
Rubidoux Drive-In near Riverside and two
conventional houses, the California and
Chino . Dowd, local manager for
Republic, is recuperating at Queen of Angels
Hospital after undergoing an appendectomy.
. . Following
Harold Wirthwein, western division sales
chief for Allied Artists, took off for Denver
and Salt Lake City for conferences .
five days of production huddles at the
studio, John J. Houlihan, Republic chief in
Dallas, returned to his headquarters. He
conferred with Herbert J. Yates, Republic
pre.sident, and Richard Altschuler, director of
worldwide sales.
$200,000 Fox Theatre Opens in Trona
Citizens of Trona, Calif., and the surrounding community got a taste of Hollywood
glamor at the gala premiere opening of Fox West Coast's new Fox Theatre. Here
are some of the crowds at the star-studded debut.
Danny Kaye Is Honored
As Friend of Children
HOLLYWOOD—For his
work on behalf of
the children of the world, comedian Danny
Kaye was honored at a luncheon hosted by
the Hollywood Foreign Correspondents Ass'n,
the United Nations International Children's
Fund and the Screen Pi-oducers Guild. Kaye,
who last summer made a 40,000-mile world
tour for the UN agency during which he
filmed a documentary, "My 20,000,000 Children,"
received a commemorative medal from
UNICEF and a plaque from the foreign
correspondents. Arthur Freed, on behalf of
SPG, thanked Kaye for the public relations
job his tour had accomplished on behalf of
the film industry.
Gathering to honor Kaye were Paul G.
Hoffman, former Marshall plan administrator:
Y. Frank Freeman, borad chairman of
the Ass'n of Motion Picture Producers and
Paramount vice-president and studio head:
Don Hartman, Paramoimt executive producer;
Mrs. George Taubman, president of the California
Committee for UNICEF, and C. M.
Nelson, UN representative to the film trade.
Variety's New Officers
SAN FRANCISCO—Newly elected
officers
of the Variety Club include George Mitchell,
chief barker: Marshall Naify, first assistant;
Henry Nasser, second assistant; Stanley Lefcourt,
property master, and J. Leslie Jacobs,
dough guy. Other members of the board are
Monroe Belling, Nate Blumenfeld, Charles
Maestri, Jack Marpole, Frank Harris and Ed
Sonney.
LA Rams Story to TV
HOLLYWOOD—Hall Bartlett, independent
producer and president of the Los Angeles
Rams Club, wUl WTite and produce the organization's
second annual awards show,
which is slated for telecasting Monday (13
over Station KHJ-TV. The entire Rams profootball
squad will appear, along with Glenn
Davis, Kenny Washington, Bob Waterfield
and other former players.
TRONA, CALIF. — Featuring a 45-foot
Cinemascope screen, directional stereophonic
sound and glass-wool acoustical treatment,
the new 636-seat Fox Theatre has been
opened in this community, 35 miles east of
Inyokern in the Mojave desert.
Hollywood-style festivities marked the
opening. Filmland luminaries on hand included
Edmond O'Brien, Broderick Crawford,
Olga San Juan, Rita Moreno, Jeffrey Hunter,
Tommy Noonan and William Talman. Company
executives making the trek were Elmer
C. Rhoden, new president of National Theatres:
John B. Bertero, counsel; Edwin P.
Zabel, general manager of Fox West Coast;
Alan May, NT treasurer, and R. H. McCullough,
du'ector of construction.
Pi-emiered at the opening was 20th-Fox's
"Desiree." Proceeds went to charity.
Constructed at a cost of $200,000, the Fox
features lobby doors of glass and aluminum,
a fast-action ticket machine, plastic, colored
marquee letters, thick-piled, heavily padded
carpet, Bodiform chairs and a screen capable
of accommodating Cinemascope, VistaVision,
Todd-AO and large-screen television. The
screen is curved to a 107-foot radius.
The Fox utilizes Simplex projectors, two
high-intensity projection lamps and motor
generators with a 65-ampere rating for each
lamp.
The air conditioning system is automatically
controlled by thermostats. The refrigeration
system is hermetically sealed and uses
Freon 12.
Austrian-German Film Agreement
During recent years the Austrian-German
film agreement has provided for the importation
of at least 15 Austrian films annually
into Germany and a considerably
larger number of West German films into
Austria.
WE CAN SELL YOUR THEATRE
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
55

. . Prank
. . Murry
. . . The
. . Elmer
. . Bob
SAN FRANCISCO
JNave Peterson, Western Theatrical Equip-
^ment Co., returned from the Mt. Shasta
area where he spent his Thanksgiving vacation
. . . Hal Neides, Blumenfeld circuit, was
away from his desk for a few days with a
siege of the flu . . . Visitors to Filmrow included
Bob Davis, Maribel Theatre, Weott;
Johnny and Sal Enea, Airport Automovies,
Oakland; William Hayden, Suisun Theatre;
Al Stanford, Oaks Drive-In, Paso Robles;
Merritt E.spy, Starlight Drive-In, Redding;
James Lemos, Victory Theatre, Benicia; Bob
Patton of the Uptown, Sonora and Calaveras,
San Andreas; Bob Borovoy, Cortland Theatre,
and James Stephens, Dixon Theatre.
Many drive-ins in the immediate bay area
were fogged out Thanksgiving Eve . . . Arthur
Unger says that his Sweetie Pies are doing a
fine business at conventional and drive-in
theatres . Yokoi, Lincoln Theatre,
Sacramento, was in booking and buying, as
were Audrey Jacobs, Capitol Theatre, Capitola
and the Osocales Theatre, Soquel; Tony
Gambogi, Analy Theatre, Sebastopol; Guy
Meeks, Crescent Di-ive-In, Vallejo; C. A.
Spivey, Porterville Drive-In, Porterville; Bill
Wagner, Bridgehead Drive-In, Antioch; Harry
Hayashino, Lincoln Theatre, Stockton; Randall
Goldenson, Plumas Theatre, Greenville;
Joe Seery, Oaks Theatre, Live Oaks; Gordon
Shirley, Victory Theatre, Hanford, and Joe
Boyd, California Theatre, Kerman.
. . Jesse Wright, head
.
. . .
Mike Newman was in town for the opening
exploitation of "Phffft" at the Paramount
Theatre here .
at Warner Bros.,
booker
gave up smoking for three
whole days Gersen, U-I, and Al
Adolph, Republic, who were delegates representing
San Francisco at the recent Colisseum
convention, and Bill Tomlinson, Republic,
acting west coast committeeman, returned
from the meeting. Tomlinson was
elected western regional vice-president
Rudy Buchanan, Lakeside Theatre, Stateline,
reports that he is taking over the booking
and buying for the Cactus and Desert theatres
at Hawthorne, Nev., for Mrs, E. M.
Bearden. Buchanan also is booking and buy-
€t them / ORDER 6^^
;reen
mOTIDII PICTURE SERVICE Ci.
125 HYDE ST. SAN FRANCISCO (2), CALIF.
Gerald L Karski. ... President
ing for the Brockway Theatre at Kings Beach
for owner Thomas Lucas.
Deepest sympathy to Agnes Cannon, cash-
. . . Irving
ier at Allied Ai'tists, on the recent death of
her brother Harold Nick Hansen who died
as a result of an auto accident
Ackerman has moved his Ackerman-Rosener
headquarters to the Warfield Theatre Bldg.
from 25 Taylor St. . C. Rhoden, new
president of National Theatres, called his first
general meeting, which was attended from
the San Francisco FWC offices by Jim Runte,
district manager; film buyer George Milner;
R. C. Tothafel, district manager; Lew
Tavolaro, district manager; merchandise
manager C. Poos, and real estate division
head Bob Northmore.
The new board of directors elected by the
Women of Variety include Lottie Henning,
president; Rose Levin, first vice-president;
Corin Mannheimer, second vice-president;
Barbara Parsons, recording secretary; Romas
Jacobs, corresponding secretary; Paula Grubstick,
treasurer, and Berle Belling, historian
Variety Club's amiual blind children's
Christmas party will be held at the
Richelieu Hotel December 16 at 2 p.m. The
annual party for the children of Variety
barkers and guests will be held the same evening
at 6 p.m.
Seattle Councilmen Hold
Up Decision on Rivoli
SEATTLE—The city council license committee
has withheld decision on a request for
suspension of the license of the Rivoli Theatre,
First avenue burlesque and film house,
by the board of theatre supervisors, after
hearing Manager A. L. Meakin tell of his
problems in eliminating minors. The board
wants to suspend the license for ten days
and then renew it only if the management
pledges closer cooperation. Frank A. Ursino,
board chairman, told the committee that
minors had been seen in the Rivoli.
Meakin said part of the trouble with minors
had to do with young servicemen who, though
out of uniform, had presented official identification
cards. He explained that under a
former board ruUng, all servicemen were to
be considered adults, but later the rule was
changed to admit servicemen in uniform.
Meakin said he had had trouble after Friday
night high school football games when
teenagers gained admission by opening side
exit doors.
DRIVE-IN
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Located in Southern Oreoon. on highway 99. 400
speakers, double ramp layout. 80x40' screen; all new
projection and concession equipment. Price, $62,500,
one half down, balance on terms.
THEATRE
EXCHANGE CO.
5724 S. E. Monroe Portland 22, Ore.
Phones: EVergreen 1-7100 — 1-1606
Five MGM Managers
Confer With Geo. Hickey
LOS ANGELES—Branch managers of five
of MGM's west coast exchanges met here
November 30 with George A. Hickey, Pacific
coast sales manager, to discuss the company's
four-month 1955 sales drive. The 17-week
event will tee off January 1, continuing
thj'ough April 28.
Huddling with Hickey were Sam Gardner,
San Francisco; Lou Amacher, Portland; Sam
Davis, Seattle; Carl Nedley, Salt Lake City,
and Tom Aspell, Los Angeles. Also participating
was Ted Galanter, exploiteer.
Electricians' Strike Ends
HOLLYWOOD—Via terms which as yet
have not been disclosed, a week-long strike
called against Station KHJ and KHJ-TV by
Local 45, Internationa! Brotherhood of Electrical
Workers, was brought to an end. A
joint statement issued by the local and the
Don Lee Broadcasting Co., which owns KHJ,
said both groups were "gratified" at the
"friendly termination of the dispute," which
had been brought about through the failure
of negotiations for a wage increase.
SCATTLE
.
'M'orthwest Releasing Corp. has just completed
negotiations to take over the Denver
and Salt Lake territories on Hallmark's
"Karamoja" and "Half-Way to Hell" with
additional areas to be announced soon . . .
Howard D. McBride assumed operation of the
Grenada Theatre in Spokane, effective Tuesday
1 30 1. Joe Rosenfield was the former
operator . . J. M. Haines has purchased the
Alpine Theatre and Auto Drive-In, Colville,
and the Avalon, Chewelah, from Max Hadfield,
who is moving to California.
. . . Reville Kniffin,
. .
"Track of the Cat," the drama currently at
the Coliseum, was filmed entirely in Mt.
Rainier National Park . Walker, Allied
Artists salesman, returned from a trip to
eastern Washington
20th-Fox assistant district manager, was in
from Los Angeles . The Olympic at Forks,
owned by Mrs. Fletcher, will open with
Cinemascope Sunday (5) ... Allied Artists
steno Georgia Del Bianco spent Thanksgiving
in Spokane.
. . . Midstate
Jack J. Engerman and Zollie Volchok of
Northwest Releasing Corp. returned from a
business and pleasure trip during Thanksgiving
week. They spent four days at the El
Rancho Vegas in Las Vegas and met Victor
Mature, Esther Williams, Sally Rand, Tommy
Noonan, William Talman and others. In Los
Angeles they conferred with Lippert and
Filmakers officials, Kroger Babb of Hallmark
Productions and other producers
executives John Doer, Pete Penagoes,
Howard McGhee and Ed Hickey were in town.
for
VistaVision
For DRIVE-INS&THEATRES with HUGE, WIDE- AREA SCREENS • CARBONS, Inc.BOONTON, N.J.
iof
CinemaScope
56 BOXOFFICE Etecember 4, 1954

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'Desiree' Rates Big 220
In Second LA Week
LOS ANGELES—Hitting a very strong 220
per cent in its second week. "Desiree" outpaced
other first run competitors locally.
Close on its heels, at 210 for its fourth
stanza, was "The Barefoot Contessa," while
among newcomer attractions. "Track of the
Cat" was strongest with a 140 per cent opening
week.
(Averoge Is 100)
Beverly Canon Breed, Love ond Dreams (IFE),
3rd wk 90
Chinese— Desiree (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 220
Downtown Paramount, Warners Beverly White
Christmas (Para), 5th wk 1 20
Hollywood Paramount, State The Last Time I Sow
Paris (MGM), 2nd wk 1 30
El Rey—High and Dry (U-l), 4th wk 50
Fine Arts The Barefoot Contessa (UA), 4th wk. . .210
Four Star Trouble in the Glen (Rep) 100
Fox Wilshire, Los Angeles Cormen Jones
(20fh-Fox), 4th wk 100
Globe, Vogue Jesse Jomes' Women (UA);
Hollywood Thrillmakers (LP) 40
Hawaii A Woman's Face (MGM), Dr. Jekyll and
Mr. Hyde (MGM), reissues 80
Hillstreet, Egyptian, Uptown The Block Knight
(Col), Cannibol Attack (Col) 125
Pontages A Stor Is Born (WB), 9th wk 110
Warners Downtown, Wiltern, Fox Hollywood
Track ot the Cat (WB); Shanghai Story (Rep). .140
Warners Hollywood This Is Cinerama (Cinerama)
83rd wk 90
'Window' Leads Seattle
With 225 Average
SEATTLE—"Rear Window" led the holdovers
with a strong 225 in its second week
at the Orpheum. "White Christmas" at the
Music Hall wound up a very successful fourth
week with 200.
Blue Mouse The Firebird (Lesser), 2nd wk 100
Music Box Sobrino (Para), 3rd wk 170
Music Hall White Christmas (Para), 4th wk...200
Orpheum Rear Window (Para), 2nd wk 225
'Desiree' Opens Strong
To Top Frisco
SAN FRANCISCO—"Desii-ee" opened at the
Fox Theatre here and set the winner's pace
by marking up an excellent 250 per rent for
the week. The rest of the first run houses
played holdovers.
Fox— Desiree (20th-Fox) 250
Golden Gate Drum Beat (WB), 2nd wk 100
Loew's Warfield Athena (MGM), 2nd wk 90
Poramount White Christmas (Para), 4th wk 100
St. Francis Carmen Jones (20th-Fox), 2nd wk...125
United Artists The Barefoot Contessa (UA),
2nd wk
1 25
Denver Likes 'Paris'
S f
To 210 Per Cent
DENVER—"The Last Time I Saw Paris"
packed the Paramount to the best business
in Denver for the week with 210 per cent.
"White Christmas" still proved sensational at
the Denham, and will hold for a seventh
week. "Desiree" goes into its third week at
the Centre after grossing 200 in its second.
Aladdin Aido (IFE) 120
Centre Desiree (20fh-Fox), 2nd wk 200
Denham White Christmas (Para), 6th wk 190
Denver—Phffft (Col); Law vs. Billy the Kid (Col). 190
Esquire The Little Kidnappers (UA) 95
Orpheum Cattle Queen ot Montana (RKO); Turn
the Key Softly (Astor) 1 20
Paramount The Last Time I Saw Paris (MGM).. 210
Vogue Ugetsu (Harrison), 2nd wk 60
Record 'Christmas' Run
Tops Portland Grosses
PORTLAND—The record-breaking run of
"White Christmas" produced a 300 per cent
gross for its third Portland stanza to take
top honors for the week. "Desiree" and "The
Last Time I Saw Paris" both reported 200.
Broadway The Lost Time I Sow Paris (MGM),
2nd wk 200
Fox Desiree (20th-Fox) 200
Guild The Molto Story (UA), 2nd wk 150
Liberty Shield for Murder (UA) 100
Orpheum Track of the Cot (WB), 2nd wk 100
Paramount—White Christmas (Para), 3rd wk....300
Vera Cockrill
Longtime Single Bill
DENVER— Probably the first woman exhibitor
in the world to present the new
VistaVision process on a motion picture
screen is Mrs. Vera L. Cockrill, president of
Denham Theatre Corp., and manager of the
Denham Theatre here.
Mrs. Cockrill brought Irving Berlin's "White
Christmas" to the Denham screen seven
days after its world premiere opening at the
Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
"White Christmas" marks the 20th anniversaj-y
of close association between the
Denham and Paramount Pictures, Mrs.
Cockrill's late husband. B. D. "Dave" Cockrill,
took over the Denham in 1934, and made a
home for Paramount's product which had
led a rather undependable existence in Denver
previously. Daring the subsequent years
the Denham has presented every picture
Paramount has produced—a record probably
equalled by no other theatre. With the Denham
showing only the one product. Paramount
has had a first run in the area practically
every week for 20 years. This was
done on a single bill basis in a city that Is
practically 100 per cent for double bills.
Mrs. Cockrill assumed active management
of the Denham two years ago following the
death of her husband, a veteran of over 30
years in the motion picture business. She
took over the theatre at a time of radical
change in the local industry: 3-D, widescreens,
stereophonic sound and the advent
of four TV channels. That she has kept the
Denham a successful operation attests to
her ability.
Of course, Mrs. Cockrill did not come
to the Denham without theatre background.
She had experience as a theatre
manager a number of years before she married
Cockrill. The two met when Cockrill
ran the Princess in Newcastle, Ind., and she
Ezra Stern Will Head
Los Angeles Tent 25
LOS ANGELES—Succeeding W. H. "Bud"
LoUier. Ezra E. Stern has been elected chief
barker of Tent 25. Variety Club of Southern
California. Serving with Stern, a Filmrow
attorney, will be O. N. "Bill" Srere, first assistant
chief barker: Lloyd Ownbey, second
assistant: M. J. E. McCarthy, property master:
Al Hanson, dough guy; Steve Broidy,
Fred Stein, Morton Scott, Darryl Johnson,
Dick Dickson and Edwin F. Zabel, canvasmen.
At the election meeting, preliminary arrangements
were discussed for Tent 25 to
serve as host to the 1955 Vai-iety Clubs International
convention, which will be held here
next May.
Hawaiian Film Planned
HOLLYWOOD—For use as a public relations
and sales-aid film, the freelance publicity
fii-m of BIowitz-Maskel has been retained
by the Matson Navigation Co. to produce a
30-minute color subject, "Hawaiian Hospitality."
The entry, to be photographed by
John Florea, will be shot entirely in Hawaii.
Bill Blowitz of the BIowitz-Maskel agency,
will check out for Honolulu within the next
week or two to begin camera work.
Continues Denham s
Para. Policy
was his cashier. Later when Cockrill went
to Wilmington, Del., to take over a position
with the Warner circuit, she assumed supervision
of the Princess. The two were married
six months later. Today the Denham Corp.,
has extensive theatre holdings in Indianapolis.
Mrs. Cockrill has pursued her late husband's
policy of doing only those things that
are for the benefit and advancement of the
motion picture industry. She has kept up with
all of the changes of the past two years and
has kept the Denham's equipment on a
par with the best.
All these things she has done in addition
to supervising the rearing of an 8-year-old
daughter, Ann.
PORTLAND
. . Russell Brown, accompanied
"The de luxe Evergreen Theatres' Hollywood
and Oriental will show Cinemascope films
day-and-date, according to Russell Brown,
district manager .
by William H. Thedford, Seattle divi-
sion manager, was in Los Angeles for the
executives meeting called by National Theatres.
Martin M. Foster, to promote "Always a
Bride," arranged with a local bakery to bake
a huge cake for opening night Friday (3).
Some 400 slices, enough for every patron,
were passed out. Some slices contained
passes and prizes . . . Don Prince, RKO press
representative from Los Angeles, was in town
. . . Exploiteers working here included Allen
Welder. MGM, and Walter Hoffman, Paramount.
Record Anchorage Gross
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—The Denali Theatre
here rang up a new alltime house record
with a gross in excess of $7,000 in four days
with Hallmark's "Karamoja" and "Half-Way
to Hell" twin bill.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
57

. . . Two
. . Tonl
. . Theatre
E NV E R
T oraine McCarthy, after driving back and
forth to Strassburg, 37 miles each way,
has decided it was too much of a job and
has sold the Ute to Clayton and Edith Crabb.
Miss McCarthy had operated the house since
the first of the year ... Joe Ashby, general
manager for Allied Rocky Mountain Independent
Theatres, went to Steamboat Springs
over the weekend. He is partner in a theatre
there, as well as one at nearby Oak Creek.
Tom Bailey, Lippert and Filmakers franchise
owner, is on a sales trip that is taking
him into Montana, Idaho and Salt Lake City
sales meetings at the United Artists
exchange kept things humming. Jack Schlaifer
of the New York home office was in for
one meetuig, and Jim Velde, western sales
manager, and Ralph Clark, western district
manager, were in for another. Attending the
meetings were M. R. Austin, local manager,
and salesmen William Sombar and Herb
Buschmann, the latter coming in from his
Albuquerque headquarters.
Stanfill Day Stanfill, Alexander Film Co.
representative. Lubbock. Tex., and formerly
.
.
a theatre manager in this area, was in for
Thanksgiving Medley, assistant to
Fred Brown, film buyer and booker for the
Black Hills Amusement Co., is on a vacation
Norma LeeMaster,
to Oklahoma City . . .
former biller at Paramount, was in showing
off her first son folks seen on
Filmrow included Leonard Leigh, Socorro;
John Roberts, Fort Morgan; George and Harold
McCormick. Canon City; J. K. Powell,
Wray; Mrs. Bert J. Lewis, Holyoke; Paul
Cory, Basin. Wyo.; J, O. Conwell. Ti-uth or
Consequences, N. M.; Mr. and Mrs, H. D.
Bergtholdt, Deertrail; Tom Murphy, Raton,
N, M,. and Dr. F. E. Rider, Wauneta, Neb,
SALT LAKE CITY
Wariety Tent 38 of Salt Lake City will elect
officers at its annual meeting Monday.
A. L. "Bus" Campbell is retiring as chief
Ralph Ti-athen, veteran of many
barker . . .
theatre jobs, has taken over leases of the
Holladay in HoUaday, a suburb of Salt Lake;
the Spur at Ketchum and the Gooding at
Gooding, Ida.
Two letters to the editors in Salt Lake
papers this past week assailed what they
called "salacious advertising in the case of
some movies."
Named Assistant Manager
SPOKANE—Maurice Post has been named
assistant manager of the Orpheum Theatre,
according to Manager Robert M. Cooley. Post
replaced Dan Thompson who will resume his
studies at Oregon State College.
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NT Delegates Pay Tribute
To Memory of Skouras
LOS ANGELES—A tribute to the memory
of the late Charles P. Skouras, who held the
presidencies of both National Theatres and
Fox West Coast until his recent death, was
paid by delegates to NT's divisional conference
here via a resolution read and passed
during the opening day of the huddles. The
text:
"Whereas we, the representatives of National
Theatres, Inc., assembled at the armual
district managers convention, and on behalf
of the many hundreds of local employes, wish
to voice ours and theii- sorrow at the recent
loss of our beloved leader, Mi'. Charles P.
Skouras.
"He was a great man, but most of all, he
was our friend, and through his great heart,
his thoughtfulness, and his generosity, the
tuture welfare of all of us and our families
is secured and assured.
"His memory will be sacred to all of us
as long as we shall live.
"Therefore, be it resolved that a copy of
these sincere sentiments be forwarded to the
family of Mr. Skouras, and also be recorded
in the minutes of this meeting."
NT and FWC Switches
Announced at Meeting
LOS ANGELES—Several changes within
the executive structure of National and Fox
West Coast were disclosed at NT's divisional
conference this week.
Paul Scherer of FWC's film-buying department
was upped to assistant treasurer of
NT. working under treasurer Alan May.
Other FWC switches, as announced by general
manager Edwin F. Zabel, include:
Dave Boyd of the real estate department
i.5 promoted to the merchandising department
under Andy Krappman and will manage the
cu-cuifs warehouse in Culver City, Calif.
Murray L, Mosby is retiring from the merchandising
department at the age of 6.5 after
12 years with FWC. Replacing Boyd in the
real estate department is Fi'ank Prince of
the booking-buying department who has been
upped to assistant to Jess E. Elliott, real
estate head. Dan Poller, booker, moves into
Prince's spot.
Hecht-Lancaster Expands
HOLLYWOOD—In an expansion move, the
Hecht-Lancaster organization has purchased
the William Morris Bldg. in Beverly Hills.
Currently at the Key West studios, the H-L
unit will move into the new quarters In
April, when remodeling and redecorating have
been completed.
Screen Gems Inks Two
HOLLYWOOD—Screen Gems, Columbia's
TV subsidiary, inked Melvyn Douglas and
Joan Bennett to star in "Letters Marked
Personal," an entry in the Ford Theatre
series. Penned by Karen DeWolf. the halfhour
project is being directed by Fred F.
Sears and produced by Irving Starr.
Fox Intermountain Shift
CALDWELL, IDA,—Tom Schneider from
Denver has been named manager of the Fox
Theatre here, replacing Jack Hall who has
gone to Illinois, Schneider has been with
Fox Intermountain for one year and in the
theatre business for tlu'ee years.
I
'
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for
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to receive information regularly, as released
the following subjects for Theatre Planning:
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D Complete RemodeUng ° Sound Equipment
n Decorating
D Drink Dispensera
n Lighting Fixtures
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58 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

—
—
— —
—
Vogue in Indianapolis
Sold by Carl Niesse
INDIANAPOLIS—Carl Niesse recently sold
his Vogue Theatre to W. A. Brennan, Inc.
The 767-seat house which features a boxoffice
at the front and one at the rear near
the parking area was designed and built
under the personal supervision of Niesse.
Niesse, who was once assistant general
manager of the Robert Lieber Co. which operated
the local Circle, Ohio, Indiana and Roof
theatres and was later an executive with the
Skouras circuit, has not disclosed his plans
for the future.
The house has been reopened under the
management of Henry Davidson, formerly of
Louisville and Terre Haute. It had been
closed approximately a month while undergoing
renovation which included the installation
of new seats and the redecoration
of the foyer and lobby.
Illinois Variety to Donate
Extra Fund to La Rabida
CHICAGO—The Variety Club of Illinois
will present additional checks totaling $75,000
to its major charity, the La Rabida Sanitarium.
Chief Barker Jack Kirsch said the presentation
will be made at a special luncheon
at FYitzel's restaurant December 9. This extra
contribution includes funds raised by the
Variety Club auxiliary.
Booked by Great States
ST. LOUIS—Publix Great States southern
Illinois circuit has booked Hallmark's "Karamoja"
and "Half-Way to Hell" in all situations
following a test date at Decatur in October.
Izzy Wineshank, zone manager, reported the
program did 300 per cent business on the
test run. Hallmark's H. R. Cox handled the
contracts and exploiteer Dick Edge will assist
Publix Great States managers with
saturation campaigns.
Charles Beninati Adds CS
CARL"XXE, ILL.—Charles Beninati, owner
of the Ritz Theatre, has installed Cinema-
Scope with a screen measuring 15x26 feet.
Three extra sets of lenses have also been
added to the equipment along with new stage
curtains.
Bird in Theatre Gives
Him 'Bats in Belfry'
Cameron, Mo.—A. E. Jarboe, who operates
the Ritz here, says an exhibitor had
better have "bats in his belfry" than to
have a martin turned loose in the auditorium.
The two pigeons turned loose at
the same time were easily captured but
the martin kept flyingr back and forth
trying to light on the trees showing on
the screen.
This delighted the patrons much more
than it did Jarboe and it was a relief
when someone finally captured it.
Directors of KMTA
Initiate Row Office
KANSAS CITY—Directors of the Kansas-
Missouri Theatre Ass'n held their first meeting
in the refurbished office rooms on Filmrow
Wednesday ( 1) . Fourteen were present
and all enjoyed the luncheon which Zella
Faulkner, office secretary, had arranged. The
new rugs were also down, thanks to the assistance
of some exhibitor members who had
been in town the day before and whose services
had been commandered.
President Ed Harris asked Doc Cook to
give a report on the recent TOA convention
in Chicago. A motion was adopted endorsing
the TOA program to finance independent production
of pictures.
The board adopted a recommendation by
George Baker that the spring drive-in session
and fall theatre convention be combined in
one annual spring meeting. March 8, 9 were
selected as tentative dates. An attempt will
be made to get MGM to hold its Ticket
Selling Workshop on the first day. Discontinuance
of the annual banquet, because of
the expense and poor attendance, and substitution
of a final cocktail party in its place
were favored by many of the directors.
Others who attended the board meeting
were Paul Ricketts, Holyrood, Kas.; Al Mc-
Clure, Wichita; Calvin Strowig, Abilene; Jim
Cook, Maryville, Mo.; Bob Fellers, Manhattan;
Harley Fryer, Lamar; J. A. Becker and
Lauren Turner, Independence, Mo.; M. B.
Smith, Commonwealth; Dick Durwood. Durwood
Theatres; John Basher, Topeka.
Three New Bills Reach
High Level in Chicago
CHICAGO—An influx of theatregoers in
the Loop sent "Phffft" at McVickers,
"Desiree" at the Oriental and "The Last Time
I Saw Paris" at the Woods into the higher
grossing levels. Other new entries, "Drum
Beat" at the Grand, and "This Is My Love"
with "Africa Adventure" at the Monroe scored
worthwhile grosses.
(Average Is 100)
Carnegie Falmenco (Lewis), 3rd wk 170
Chicago A Star Is Born (WB), 7th wk 250
Eitel's Palace This Is Cinerama (Cineroma),
70th wk 230
Esquire ^Woman's World (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 175
Grand Drum Beat ( WB) 1 90
Loop She Wolf (Rep), 3rd wk 1 80
McVickers Phffft (Col) 255
Monroe This Is My Love (RKO); Africa Adventure
(RKO) 190
Oriental Desiree (20th-Fox) 245
Roosevelt—Suddenly (UA); The Yellow Mountain
(U-l), 2nd wk 210
State Lake White Christmas (Para), 4th wk 235
Surf Mr. Hulot's Holiday (GBD), 5th wk 185
United Artists Cormen Jones (20th-Fox), 2nd wk..210
Woods The Lost Time I Saw Paris (MGM) 240
World Playhouse Bread, Love and Dreams (IFE),
4th wk 200
"Christmas' Is 240
At Kansas City
KANSAS CITY—Thanksgiving week was
good in show business here in spite of other
business-damaging factors like the continuing
plumbers strike and the threatened bus and
streetcar strike. "White Christmas" did a
little better in its third week than its second
because of the holiday, and all the other
houses did average business or better. Of the
new attractions, "Desiree" did 175 at the Roxy
downtown, a Durwood house, and was also
playing first run at Fox's Fairway in the de
luxe suburban section of town. Because all
the Fox Midwest executives were in Los
Angeles at a National Theatres meeting, no
grosses were available at any Fox houses,
although "Carmen Jones" opened day and
date at both the Orpheum and the Lincoln,
the latter a Negro house.
Fairway -Desiree (20th-Fox) Unreported
Glen High and Dry (U-l), 4th wk 100
Kimo Julius Caesar (MGM), return engagement. ,175
Midland The Last Time I Saw Paris (MGM); The
Diamond Wizord (UA) 150
Missouri Drum Beat (WB); Sins of Rome (RKO). .180
Orpheum Carmen Jones (20th-Fox) Unreported
Paramount White Christmas (Para), 3rd wk....240
Roxy Desiree (20th-Fox) 1 75
Tower, Uptown and Granada Ricochet Romance
(U-l); The Yellow Mountain (U-l) Unreported
Vogue Murder on Monday (Mayer-Kingsley),
2nd wk 1 00
AT COLUMBIA SALES MEETING—The above were snapped
during Columbia's recent sales meeting at the Blackstone Hotel in
Chicago. In the photo at the left are Clarence Hill, St. Louis branch
manager; Harry Olshan, Milwaukee branch manager; Carl Shalit,
central division manager; Milton Zimmerman, Detroit branch manager,
and Murray Devaney, Indianapolis branch manager. In the
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
group on the right are Chicago e.vhibitors who attended a reception
given by .\. Montague, Columbia sales manager, standing at left.
Seen left to right: Dave VVallerstein, Balaban & Katz; Mike Stern,
Stern Theatres; Ben Lourie, Chicago branch manager, and Rube
Jackter, assistant general sales manager.
Representatives were present from all exchanges.
59

KANSAS CITY
Cociety columns only run pictures of the
*
bi'ide but when a bridegroom-to-be is an
exhibitor, this column feels his friends ought
to see how happy he
looks about the coming
event. Some may already
know that Marty
Landau of Horton,
Kas., will soon take the
fatal step. The bride
is Jeanne Roberts, who
has a dance studio at
63rd and Brookside
Plaza, and the wedding
will take place
January 6 at the
Marty Landau Broadway Methodist
Church at 8 p.m. The
groom's brother, Eddie, will act as best man
and his nephew, Dick lUmer, will act as
usher. A niece, Paula Illmer, will light the
candles. The couple will honeymoon in New
York and make their home in Kansas City.
The Landau brothers have operated theatres
in Kansas and Missouri for a number of
years and were at one time interested in
the Tivoli in Kansas City.
Columbia Division Manager Ben Marcus
found more satisfaction in the recent meeting
which he and Tom Baldwin attended in Chicago
than any he can remember. "It was not
only the pictures," he said. "I also was pleased
to see that we have a fine bunch of young
men coming up as replacements for executives
later on—enthusiastic and showing the
company is growing in strength. Tom and
I had the salesmen in over the weekend to
pass along what we had learned at the meeting.
Believe me, the splendid product we
saw made us all optimistic for Columbia's
future."
Robert Withers, Republic manager, has returned
from a trip to New York taken for a
twofold pm-pose. He met Republic executives
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Equipment Co.
and saw new product, about which he is
enthusiastic. Also he met Mrs. Withers who
was returning from a three-month world trip
which took her from San Francisco to Honolulu,
Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bombay,
Karachi, Beirut, Damascus, Athens, Rome,
Cannes, Gibralter and back to New York.
Friends fortunate enough to be invited to
the Withers home this winter are being given
an enthusiastic, first-hand report of what
she saw, illustrated by scenes which she
snapped along the way.
Jack Hillyer, director of public relations for
United Film Service, underwent major surgery
Monday (29) after a week of observation
in St. Luke's Hospital. He is recovering
nicely but unable to have callers at the present
time . . . "Hansel and Gretel" goes into
the Missouri Theatre for the Christmas trade.
Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Golden have returned
from a week in New York where they saw
some new product and talked to distributors
and area exhibitors. They found business in
New York very good, both in theatres and
other lines of business. With that many people,
Eddie says business is bound to be good,
but it surely makes it hard to get around
because of the cars and the ci'owds.
Kansas City MPA Stag
On Monday Night (6)
Kansas City—Members of the Motion
Picture Ass'n of Greater Kansas City are
holding their annual Stag at the Bellerive
Hotel on Monday (6) at 6 p.m. The meeting
will open with a dinner to be followed
by the election of directors for the
coming year. There will be card-playing
after the business meeting. Ed Hartman
of the Hartman Booking Agency is in
charge of reservations.
. . . Out-oftown
Durwood Theatres closed the Skylark Drivein
at St. Joseph Sunday (28) and the Skylark
at Jefferson City Saturday (27) ... Mr.
and Mrs. Nat Hechtman spent Thanksgiving
with relatives in St. Louis, picking up thenson
Elliott at Columbia on the way. Nat says
it was purely a pleasure trip but quite by
accident he ran into a customer, making it
combined business and pleasure
exhibitors from Kansas seen on the
Row recently were Gene Musgrave of Minneapolis,
Lily Welty of Hill City, C. S. Schafer
of Blue Rapids. Missouri visitors included
Loral Reagan, Buckner; Ray Cook, Maryville;
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Murphy, St. Joseph,
and Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Kisor, Gallatin,
M. S. Heath, Liberty.
RKO salesmen were all in the office Friday
after Thanksgiving conferring with Manager
Jim Lewis . . . Carl Bain, booker at United
Artists, can be thankful he is not a butcher
who needs his thumb on the scales. Bain's
hobby is woodworking and he got his left
thumb too close to the electric saw and
clipped it. Now he is wearing a bandage
and answering questions on the Row. G. M.
"Doc" Deen, salesman for southern Kansas,
returned to the road Monday (29) after
spyending two weeks at Hot Springs, Ark. . . .
Mildred Harris, booker at Commonwealth,
is moving to a larger place at 107th and
Wornall road with her husband Floyd and
the four children.
Les Durland, film buyer for Consolidated
(Continued on next page)
Sam Abend Dies; Long
On Kansas City Row
KANSAS CITY—Sam Abend,
vice-president
and secretary of Exhibitors Film Delivery
and Central Shipping, died Friday (26)
SAM ABEND
at Menorah Hospital of a heart aliment. He
was 59 and had become so much a part of
the Filmi-ow scene that it will be hard to
think of it without him. Only a few weeks
ago when the teachers were taken on an
industry tour, Sam gave a lecture about the
film delivery service his company operates
which impressed the industry representatives
as well as the educators.
Born in Poland, Abend was 14 when he
came to Kansas City. He began his film delivery
service in 1915 and sold out to his
competitor, E. E. Jameson sr., when he went
to serve in the armed forces in World War I.
In 1926 the two formed a partnership which
has continued for the past 29 years. He al.so
was interested in several theatres in Kansas
City, Kas.
Abend was a director of the Motion Picture
Ass'n of Greater Kansas City. He is survived
by his mother, Mrs. Miriam Abend; a daughter,
Mrs. Abbott Sherr; a sister, Mrs. Esther
Glickstein, and three brothers, Joseph, Allen
and Irving, all of Kansas City.
Tlie funeral was held Sunday (28 1. Pallbearers
were Sidney Cohn, Jules Goldman,
Ben Gershon, Herbert Krigel, Bernard Glickstein
and Alex Shniderman. Honorary pallbearers
were Finton Jones, Arthur Cole, Robert
F. Withers, Jack Langan, Clarence
Schultz, Bill Gaddoni, Sam Naster, Senn Lawler
and Robert Slielton.
Shutters Indefinitely
QUINCY, ILL.—The Orpheum Theatre has
been closed for an indefinite period. It has
been under the management of Perry Hoefler.
nPCHT \«[PT[DM
STAGE
tUIILHI
EQUIPMENT COMPANY
CVEJtYTHING FOR THE STAGE . AU
BOX OFFICE • 1924 Grand Avel,
IfLUILim,
60 BOXOFFICE
:
: December
4, 1954

__
. . Harry
.
ST.
LOUIS
nil local theatres are reported to be using
the short trailer advertising the current
National Muscular Distrophy Ass'n drive.
Lester R. Kropp, MITO president and cogeneral
manager of the Wehrenberg circuit,
is a director of the St. Louis chapter while
Mrs. William Guinan, whose husband is with
McCarthy Theatre Supply Co., is recording
secretary for the chapter . C. Arthur,
Fanchon & Marco vice-president and general
manager, left for the west coast and will not
return until after the Christmas holidays, according
to his present plans.
Carson W. Rodgers, Rodgers Theatres president
and general manager, Cairo, enjoyed
some duck hunting recently . . Out-of-town
.
exhibitors seen along Filmrow included William
Dean Davis, West Plains: Judge Frank
X. Reller, Wentzville; Bernard Temborious,
Breese; Mr. and Mrs. Leon Jarodsky, Paris;
Rani Pedrucci, Frisina feature booker,
Springfield, and Joe Goldfarb, Alton . . . Mr.
and Mrs. Leon Jarodsky of Paris motored to
Boston after a visit to Filmrow. They plan
to spend about a month there.
. .
Charley Goldman, local exhibitor, is expected
back from a Miami vacation .
McCarty, head of McCarty Tlieatre
Paul
Supply
Co., and his family spent the Thanksgiving
holidays with Mj-s. McCarty's folks near Des
Richard A. Beckl;iam, son of
Moines . . .
F. C. Beckham of Henry Kahan Film Delivery
Service, was married in Alton to
Juanita Nally. The young couple will live at
Waco, Tex., where the groom is stationed in
the Air Force.
Clarence Turley, one of the owiiers of the
Ambassador and Missouri theatre and office
buildings, is one of a 16-man financing
commission which was appointed by Mayor
Raymond R. Tucker to develop and locate
funds to meet the local housing needs . . .
. . . 20th-Fox
Cliff Mantle has joined the 20th-Fox sales
staff and is traveling Missouri
had a trade showing of "Carmen Jones" at the
Fox Lincoln Theatre in Springfield for owners
and managers as well as newspapermen.
radio commentators and other invited guests.
Wendall Stead Buys House
GRIGGSVILLE, ILL.—The Pike Theatre
closed early in November by Richard
Wade, is to be reopened by Wendall Stead.
Stead reportedly has closed a lease on the
theatre building with a group of local businessmen
who have purchased the property
from the estate of Ed Wade, the brother of
Richard and Joe Wade. Richard Wade had
been in the theatre business here for 25 years.
Stead is planning to install a wide screen, newseats
and other improvements prior to reopening.
Signed to a term contract as director by
MGM, Robert Wise's first assignment is
"Bannon."
Drive-In at Waynesville
Loses Concession Bldg.
WAYNESVILLE, MO. — Commonwealth's
new Wood Lane Drive-In Theatre which
opened only last spring had its projection
and concession building completely destroyed
by a fire of unknown origin Thanksgiving
morning. Film consisting of two program
changes, four features and two cartoons, was
also destroyed. The safe had been broken into
and all the money taken, it was found when
firemen were able to break in.
The fire was discovered about 6 a.m. by
the State highway patrol and was well on
its way then. Fire-fighting was hampered by
the distance from water. The screen tower,
speakers and ramps were not damaged and
a spokesman for the circuit says Commonwealth
will rebuild. An estimate of the damage
held it at around $25,000. The fire is
being investigated by the police.
KANSAS CITY
(Continued from preceding page)
Agencies, was in Des Moines the past week
booking for the circuit's Iowa theatres. Clarence
Schultz, president, spent the weekend
visiting theatres in Marshalltown, Mason City
and Des Moines. Thomas O'Connor, auditor,
vacationed during Thanksgiving week . . .
Mary Morrow, L&L Popcorn office manager,
visited a brother in Random Lake, Wis., and
was there to welcome her new niece on
Thanksgiving Day . . . Bob Herrell of United
Film exchange reports the reissue package,
"Notorious" and "The Farmer's Daughter,"
goes into the four Fox houses December 10.
M. A. Levy, 20th-Pox division manager, conferred
with Joe Neger, manager, and his
salesmen Monday (29i. Howard Kinser came
in from Newton for the conference . . . Salesman
Raymond McKitrick reports from his
Kaiosas territory that Paul Ricketts at Holyrood
has redone the front of his Charm Theatre,
repainted the canopy and remodeled the
neon sign. Also that Don Shade at Ottawa
has been installing Cinemascope and will
start playing CS pictm-es before Christmas . .
New MGM employes include Virginia
Pequeno, booking clerk and Jan Gagel, secretary
to Al Adler, assistant manager. Bernie
Evens is tub-thumping in St. Louis.
. . .
O. D. Carmichael, western Kansas representative
for the A, V. Cauger Service who
has been in the hospital at Hays, soon will be
back on the job James L. Cornwell,
metropolitan representative, has been in
Wichita on a busines trip. T. R. Cauger, vicepresident,
recently spent a few days in the
Springfield. Mo., area with John Hawkins,
representative for southwest Missoui'i. The
company is now in its 21st year and is located
in Independence, Mo., where it was
established by the late A. V. Cauger.
INDIANAPOLIS
Ryrax Schaefcr, former assistant at the Indiana
Tlieatre, is now managing the
Esquire Theatre, north side art house. He
was replaced at the Indiana by William
John E. Servaas, 68-year-old
Reinecke . . .
theatre operator and member of the local
Variety Club and Allied Theatre Owners of
Indiana, died recently. Servaas, a native of
the Netherlands, was associated with the industry
a large part of his 45 years here. Surviving
are his wife, two daughters and a son.
Exhibitors doing business along the Row
included J. B. Sconce of the Sconce circuit in
Bloomington, Ind.; Louis Arru, Twilight
Drive-In, Louisville, and E. L. Orenstein of
the Orenstein circuit of Louisville.
Ted Loeff, a freelance praiser, joined the
Rogers & Cowan organization as an executive
vice-president December 1.
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WAVERLY. ILL.—The Rex Theatre, owned
by J. Wyman Hart and William Jackson,
has installed CinemaScope. Admission prices
were increased to 50 cents for adults and 20
cents for children. Youngsters under six
are admitted free if accompanied by an
adult.
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
61

. . John
. . Robert
.
. .
. . Manager
. . Tom
. . Richard
CHICAGO
/Columbia staffers feted three men who have
completed 25 years of faithful service with
the company. Each was presented a gold
watch. Sam Lamansky, head shipper and
business agent for the back shop union: Mun
DaLano, office manager, and Emanual Hester,
assistant shipper, received the tributes at an
office party Monday ... Ed O'Donnell, associated
with Balaban & Katz for 35 years, died.
He was manager of the Paradise Theatre in
recent years . . . Herb Wheeler of Stanley
Warner Theatres was on a two-week vacation
in Florida . . . Sam Levinsohn, head of
the Chicago Used Chair Mart, said his company
is dismantling the Harvard Theatre.
It has been closed for a couple of years and
will shortly become a furniture warehouse.
Jim Shields, head of B&K's accounting department,
returned from a vacation .
"Black Knight," a Columbia production, will
open at the Roosevelt Theatre December 15 . .
Balaban & Katz installed Cinemascope in its
Paradise, Portage, Broadway Strand, Coronet
and Luna theatres. Thirty-five of the circuit
houses are now so equipped . Jacobson
has been added to the IFE staff here.
Filmack Trailer Co. executives were subjected
to a session of finger-printing last
week, which became necessary after signing
a contract to do some government work . . .
IFE's "Aida" will open at the World Playhouse
on Christmas Day. Abe Teitel expects
the run to extend into the Easter season.
Local IFE officials held a series of screenings
for 1,500 music teachers . Balaban's
summer estate at Mercer, Wis., is being
transformed into a church and settlement
house. The estate, named Bilida for a son
Bill and a daughter Ida, includes seven buildings
on 80 acres and nearly two miles of
shoreline.
The John Balabans have vacated their large
south side apartment where they have resided
for 34 years and are now living at 1000
Lake Shore Drive in a new apartment building
. . . Cliff Keefer, head of the Orange
Crush Co. fountain department, said his
newest beverage, "pink lemonade," is far on
its way to, success. The drink was introduced
at the recent TOA convention . . . Marie Mac-
Donald and her children Herman, 4, and
Denice, 5, posed for some pictures before
going on to New York City via United Air
Lines.
Alan Mowbray was honored by the 52 Association
of Illinois December 1 at the Congress
Hotel . . . Joe Puelner of H&E Balaban said
the circuit will open "The Detective" at the
Sm-f on Christmas Day . . . Dave Badtke, co-
CANDY - POPCORN
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Theatres and Drive-ins
Distributors
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Send for Price List
Freight Prepaid on $100.00 or More
KAYLINE CANDY CO.
1220 S. Michigan Avenue Chicago 5, III.
. . .
manager at the Commercial Theatre, was on
a vacation Al Tribbett has been made
manager of the Indiana at Terre Haute, succeeding
Ed Kennelly, promoted to supervisor
by Alliance Amusement Co. During the
summer Tribbett managed the East Side
Drive-In . . . MGM and Republic staffs will
hold their Christmas parties December 20.
Gil Bartell of Filmack returned from New
York City where he spent Thanksgiving with
his mother. Joni King of Filmack also spent
the holiday in New York . . . Heru'y Stevens,
manager of the Twin Drive-In, returned
from Wisconsin where he had been visiting
relatives since the airer closed for the winter
. . . Chuck Schmid of the Palace, Oilman,
111., was a Filmrow visitor.
A poll indicated that over two million people
crowded into the Loop area on Friday following
Thanksgiving Day. Theatre business in
the downtown area floui'ished accordingly,
with record crowds on Saturday and Sunday
as well . . . Red Norland has been added to
the Filmack staff as purchasing agent and
maintenance man.
Pete Panagos and James Doerr of Alliance
Amusement Co. left for Washington state to
conduct a meeting of the Midstates Theatres
managers. Plans will be set up for annual
Sam Chernoff
drive activities in that area . . .
of IFT said showings of "The Secret Conclave,"
a religious feature, are scheduled prior
to and immediately following the holidays . . .
Republic's "Trouble in the Glen" with Margaret
Lockwood, Forrest Tucker and Victor
McLaglen, and "Tobor the Great" will open
at the Monroe December 17.
Al Miller, president of Cointeria, Inc., announced
that in addition to the automatic
coffee machine, the company will soon have
a hot chocolate unit available for placement
in theatres. Miller recently resigned from his
post with Republic to give full time to the
company he heads . . . Harris Dudelson, head
of the Walt Disney operation here, went to
Cincinnati on business. At the same time,
publicist Jerry Field went to Minneapolis.
Robert Sable has joined the staff of Kling
Film Productions here. Fred A. Niles. vicepresident,
.said Sable is a member of the
American Society of Cinematographers . . .
Erwin, Wasey & Co. has been appointed to
handle the advertising of three divisions of
Dad's Root Beer Co., including the national
franchise bottling division, national fountain
flavor division and the bottling plant . . .
"Filmorama Adventure," called the first widescreen
travelog, will be shown at Orchestra
Hall December 6 on a 40xl5-foot convex
screen. Filmorama is an outgrowth of widescreen
Cinemascope techniques applied to
16mm film.
The 24th anniversary celebration of Allied
Theatres of Illinois is to be held December
29, according to Jack Kirsch, president.
Members who will handle arrangements
are Van Nomikos, general chairman;
Jack Clark, chairman on arrangements;
Bruce Trinz, publicity, and Charles R. Lindau
and Jack Rose, ticket sales.
Robert G. Smith, vice-president of sales
and advertising of the Three Dimension Co.,
a division of Bell & Howell, announced three
new executive appointments in the TDC
sales division. John F. Stewart has been appointed
national manager for filmstrip projector
sales and Wes Summerfield became
manager for tape recorder sales. John C.
Marken was named assistant to the vice-president
of sales and advertising.
Oriental Theatre Manager Charles Hogan
said that a revival of some stage show entertainment
is currently a topic of discussion
. Bob O'Donnell of the
B&K Paradise Theatre is at St. Anne's Hospital
Ervin Noyer, manager of the
. . . Nortown Theatre, created widespread community
interest when he spoke before the
Rogers Park PTA ... A preview of MGM's
"Deep In My Heart" has been scheduled
at MeVickers Theatre December 15 . . .
Dan Goldman resigned his post with Republic
to join Macklin Enterprises, now
headed by Herb Kaufman. Rasty Herman
will take over Goldman's job at Republic.
. . . Stage
Charlene Weber of Republic announced
her engagement to Bob Lindau
revues will be resumed at the Chicago Theatre
December 17. Eddie Seguin of B&K's
publicity staff said the stage program will
highlight Don Cornell, the Mamba Jets and
a complete ice skating show. Revues were
discontinued during the showing of "A Star
Is Born" .
Gilliam, 20th-Fox manager,
and his wife spent the Thanksgiving
holiday with their son James who is stationed
at Camp Chaffee, Ark.
Joni King: of Filmack spent Thanksgiving
Day in New York . Graff, assistant
manager with U-I, attended the Steve
Bennis funeral at Lincoln, 111. ... As in previous
years, U-I will sponsor a party for the
children whose parents are associated with
the Chicago press. The event will be held
at the Esquire Theatre on the morning of
December 18. Hostesses will be Myrna Hansen
and Reggie Dombeck, who were Miss
Photoflash in 1953 and 1954 respectively.
Norm Kassel, Joe Mink
Open Art Work Studio
CHICAGO—Norman Kassel, former ad
head of Essaness Theatres, and Joel Mink,
art director, have opened a new art studio
devoted exclusively to show business, called
Mink-Kassel & Associates, 54 West Randolph
St., in the Woods Theatre building.
Tax Evasion Charged
ST. LOUIS—Sol Bank, who formerly was
interested in motion picture theatres in both
Missouri and Kansas, was charged with income
tax evasion in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury.
The two-count indictment covered the years
1948 and 1949. It alleged that in those two
years he reported and paid federal income
taxes of $2,759 on a total income of $18,924.
The government charged that the total income
shauld have been $34,007 and the taxes
$7,806.
Addresses Kiwanis Club
MATTOON, ILL.—Gordon Halloran, 20th-
Fox manager in St. Louis, was the guest
speaker at a recent luncheon meeting of the
Mattoon Kiwanis Club and gave a talk on
Cinemascope. Arrangements for Halloran's
appearance were made by Jerry Baker, resident
manager here for the Prisina circuit,
operator of the Clark, Mattoon and Times
theatres here.
62 BOXOFFICE :: December 4, 1954

—
A Reporter's Notes at Florida Convention
Harry Hart, special BOXOFFICE representative, was busy with his camera at the annual convention in Jacksonville of the Florida
Motion Picture Exhibitors Assn. This panel, left to right, shows Jimmy Biddle of Jasper, Bolivar Hvde of Lakeland and Maurice
Hensler of Auburndale, known as the shovnnen with million-doUar smiles; Alfred Starr of TO A, Mrs. Carl Carter, Ed Haley and
Carter, and in left photo, Mr. and Mrs. Bernie Shapiro of Southern Poster Co., Atlanta, and Elmer Hecht of Wometco, Miami Haley
former Negro theatre operator in North CaroUna, has opened a buying and booking office in JacksonvUle, where Carter operates driveins
and a concessions supply business.
By HARRY HART
JACKSONVILLE—Sidelights of the sixth
annual convention of the Motion Picture
Exhibitors of Florida:
You cannot find a more friendly town anywhere
than Jacksonville. Every merchant had
cards in his windows days before the convention
saying, "Welcome, Motion Picture
Exhibitors of Florida." Advertising like this
sure doesn't hurt theatre business any.
Let's aJl shake Bill Beck's hand for the fine
job he did as convention chairman. He really
must have worked. And don't forget the excellent
talent he had for helpers—Bob Anderson,
Sheldon Mandell, Bob Cornwall, Bob
Heekin, Carl J. Carter, George Krevo, Mrs.
Bettty Loop, Fred Hull, Arv RothchUd and
Clint Ezell. We would like to have that bunch
in charge of a few theatres—they sure would
keep the joint jumping!
« * *
While passing out compliments we must
include Horace Denning, the 1954 president,
who has almost talked the Seminole Indians
into signing a treaty—there still is a group
in the Everglades who have never signed a
treaty or become citizens of the U. S.. but
Horace hasn't given up.
Bolivar Hyde, a showman with more friends
than anybody I know, was awarded the gold
Beau Brummell statuette by MGM at the
President's banquet. The presentation was
made by Claude Lee, emcee, who accused
Bolivar of wearing silk shorts, which was
promptly denied.
More beautiful women were present at the
convention than at a bathing beauty contest,
most of them exhibitors' wives, and all with
sunny smiles and winning friendliness—real
assets in the show busine.ss!
Elias Kanaris, who operates a drive-in at
St. Augustine, said he had put in Cinema-
Scope and now can smile again.
Recognition of 52 years in the show business
was given to John Krevo at the Pi-esident's
banquet.
* * *
George Hoffman of National Screen, who is
one of the best known men in Florida, said
he still enjoys meeting every exhibitor despite
his many years of service.
I thought for a minute that Georgia had
moved en masse to Florida when I saw
Tommy Thompson, John Thompson, Hugh
Martin, Skipper Martin, Roy Martin, Ed Martin,
Nat Williams, Hap Barnes, James Mc-
Clung. Oscar Howell, Charlie Fortson, Harold
Spears and just about evei-ybody from along
the border of Florida coming into the hotel.
Bernie Shapiro, the Southern Poster Service
man from Atlanta, hung Do Not Disturb
cards on every exhibitor's hotel room door.
H. G. Arenson was present from Charlotte,
reporting he has a group of new pictures he
i.s booking in Florida this winter.
C. O. Jeffrey of Alexander Film Co. had
E. D. Collins, J. F. Hoffar and Jack Stephenson
with him helping greet customers at the
Alexander Oasis of Good Cheer.
Horace Denning of Dixie Drive-In brought
his managers along—Joe Lipson and Al Horton
from Orlando, Robert Ward and Andy
Sullivan from Savannah and Tom Kelly and
M. A. Sargent of Jacksonville. Sargent is
taking charge of the Dixie's Neptune Drive-In
at Daytona Beach soon.
* * *
Republic Pictures had a lobby display of
stills from "Yellow Neck," the first picture
made in Florida by Florida capital and
Florida people. It will be world-premiered
in January at Orlando.
Ray Colvin of St. Louis, TEDA executive,
had a time greeting his many friends. Hugh
E. Hollon was a genial host at the MPAA
party.
Paul Allen of Canada Dry, in charge of
vending and fountain syi-ups, distributed
free drinks at the entrance to the convention
floor.
Roy Smith brought from Tampa Whitney
Lindsey, who served hot coffee to all comers.
Lindsey is branch manager for Smith in that
city. Pete Sones of Tampa listened intently
to every speech that dealt with drive-in
theatres.
* « *
There was a lot of corridor comment on
picture pricing, with the exhibitors claiming
there are no profits left for expansion and
maintenance of theatres after rentals. It
seemed that most of them thought the situation
much worse than a year ago. All agreed
they are getting better pictures, but not
enough of them to keep the public coming
"the stinkers outweigh the good ones and the
public refuses to buy the stinkers." This
situation is making business spotty, according
to the showmen.
Also prominent in the hallway discussions
were closed television channels and theatre
television. Many favored the idea. It seems
that a sales job could be done by someone
with the know-how and product providing
there would be something to show after the
installations. Another topic was screen
brightness for drive-in theatres. Lack of
brightness was laid more to screen surfaces
than to lamps. This appears to be quite a
problem with the wide screens.
Most everybody could be heard talking
(Continued on following page)
In left photo are Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Spiering, recently married. He i.s Jai k.sonvilIe manager for Koy Smith Co. She is the
former Sylvia Rogers. In second photo are Clint Ezell and wife with Harold Spears of National Theatre Enterprises; third, Mr. and
Mrs. Hugh Thomas of the Trail and Siesta drive-ins, Sarasota, and extreme right, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Haynes of Naples,
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
SE 63

:
Left photo, Bob Capps of MGM and wife, and Lee A. Sherwood and wife, drive-in operators at Chattahoochee. Next is a couple
from Key West, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Sirugo. The single snapshot shows Mrs. Katherine King, who operates two theatres at Fort Myers.
She flew to the convention in a plane. Extreme left are Mrs. Betty Loop, who had charge of registration; Grace Chambers, Homestead,
and Tiny Williams of Warners.
Leon Task (left photo), who operates the 22nd Avenue Theatres in ?,Iiami, and his longtime friend Jim Squires of Hubert Mitchell
Industries, Hartselle, Ala. Next are seen Max and Dorothy Guilford, who have a drive-in at Tallahassee, and Mr. and Mrs. William Lee,
Keystone Heights Drive-In. When the photo at extreme left was snapped John Tomlinson, Warner salesman, had his hand in the
pocket of Hugh Thomas, who had been chiding Tomlinson about getting his hand in the exliibitor's pockets on film rentals.
Florida
TOA Notes
I Continued from preceding page)
about showmanship, which is recognized down
here as a deciding factor in the attendance
picture.
JACKSONVILLE — Registrations at the
Florida Exhibitors Ass'n convention reached
325. Among them were (wives not Usted)
JACKSONV ILLE
Dr. R. Allen
Judge J. May
John Allen
R. C. Price
Robert Allen
Havey Reinstein
Bob Anderson
Jack Rigg
Jack Barrett
Pot Rigg
William L. Beck
Buck Robuck
Frank E. Benton
E. 0. Bledsoe
Abner Camp_
Bob Capps
E. G. Chumley
Robert Corr>wall
Danny Deaver
Horace Denning
Mark Dupre
Clint Ezell
Grace Ezell
W. E. Fegenbush
Marguerite Fegenbush
L. J. Finske
Henry A. Frank
Nell Gardner
Harvey Garland
Sunny Greenwood
Ed M. Greesom jr.
O. G. Gryder
Mrs. Joe Hackel
E. J. Haley
Arv Rothchild
LaMar Sarro
C. W. Scott
Bob Skaggs
H. W. Small
Roy Smith
Wayne Spiering
James Stonsel
HqI Stanton
Buford Styles
Tjncy Tomlinson
Charles Turner
Joe Walker
W. A. Wallace
Leo Witt
Carl Carter
Karl Chalman
Mrs. Ed Chumley
John L. Krovo
J. J. Deitch
Joe Hackel
Dick Johnson
Robert Harris
Guy A. Kenimer
Hank Heorn
Hallie Kenimer
Robert Heckin
H. R. Kistler
Fred Hull
Carroll Ogburn
Bert Jordan
N. A. Sorgent
Tom Kelly
Joe Thrift
Fred M. Kent
John B. Tomlinson
Charley King
Jack Werner
George Krevo
C. J. Gallowoy
Betty Loop
Ed McLaughlin
Sheldon Mondell
Louis Left ler
George Mason
FLORIDA AND OTHER STATES
Adams, Byron
Barfield, K. T.
Addison, H. M.
Beck, Dick
Allen, Leonord Allen
Bell, Frank
Allen, Paul
Benton, Lex
Andrews, Curry
Ashworth, Arthur T.
Ashworth, S. Arthur
Arnold, R. T.
Arenson, H. D.
Bailey, T. V.
Biddle, J. O.
Biggers, C. M.
Blake, Carl C.
Botwick, Horry
Braunagel, Jock
Busier, Ray
Camp, Robert C.
Cannon, R. E.
Carscallen, J. S.
Carter, Leonard C
Cartwright, J- L.
Chambers, C. B.
Chartrond, Mark
Chesnutt, Jock
Chumley, E. G.
Cohen, Horold F.
Colvin, Ray G.
Cumbaa, Bill
Dougherty, R M.
Davis, Bud
Duggan, Bill
Dumestre, J.
Dunn, Ray O
Durmeyer, Charlie
Eckert, Ed
Edmondson, R. A.
Ellinor, Randolph
Failers, Ronald
Fairchild, R. H.
Fink, Jack
Fitzwater, Jack
Floyd, Carl
Follon, O.
Fortson, Charlie
Frank, Henry A.
Franklin, W. P.
Gold, Jerry
Gold, Louis
Goldsmith, Bob
Gordon, Harry
Goss, Cullen B.
Goss, Mrs. C. B.
Grayson, Jack
Green, Jomes B.
B. jr.
Guilford, T. Max
Homer, Bill
Hammonds, W. W
Harrell, Johnnie
Harrison, Paul
Hart, Harry
Harvey, French
Haynes, D. A.
Hecht, Elmer
Hensler, Maurice
Hoffman, Geo.
Hollon, Hugh
Hornstein, H. R.
Morton, Al
Howell, Carl C.
Howell, 0. J.
Hull, D. L.
Mutt, W. C. jr.
Hyde, Bolivar
Hyde, T. L.
Jeffery, C. O.
Jernigan, J. D.
Kincheloe, Jock D
King, Katherine C
Lachman, Edward
Laird, Harold E.
Loird, Alva B.
Laird, W. K.
Lam, O. C.
Land, Harlow
Lee, Claude F.
Lee, William
Lentz, Phil
Lester, Charlie
Lipson, Joe
Lindsey, Whitney
Loyall, E. L.
Lucas, Pete
Lyons, M. L.
McComos, D. K.
McDannold, James
McMahon, Carroll
McMohon, Josephine
Marlowe, Jesse L.
Martin, Hugh G.
Martin, J. E.
Matthews, Phil
Maughon, Mrs. Lucille
Mayer, George H.
Melenoreras, M.
Mewborn, F. B.
Miller, Curtis H.
Nicaud, Roy
Palmer, Austin
Portlow, J. R.
Peters, Sonny
Pitts, Dick
Poindexter, J. M.
Poindexter, Emily
Price, R. C.
Raulerson, James
Reddick, Howell
Riggins, Ward P. jr.
Robbins, Burton E.
Rodberg, Carl
Rogers, Ray
Rutledge, H. M.
Sammons, Bernard E.
Schechter, Roy R.
Scott, C. W.
Shapiro, Bernie
Sherwood, Lee A.
Sindlmger, A. E.
Sirugo, Joe
Smith, W. Howard
Smith, Mrs. W. O.
Sones, P. J.
Spears, Harold
Spears, H. T.
Squires, Jim
Starr, Alfred
Steinhurst, Spence
Stith, Marguerite
Stratos, Sam K.
Sullivan, A. M.
Swinney, C. L.
Tankersley, J. S.
Task, Leon
Taylor, O. G.
Thomas, Hugh jr.
Thompson, Mrs. F. C.
Thompson, John
Thompson, J. H.
Vickers, J. R.
Walder, Charles
Walker, Joe
Wallace, W. A.
Walter, G. H.
Ward, Robert
Weir, Ralph
West, Geo. H. jr.
Williams, Nat M.
Williams, Roy
Wilson, Billy
Wolf, David
Wolf, Marty
Woodward, Walt
Battin, Robert
Leoch, Bob
Mullett, Ellin
Schupp, Regis A.
Taylor, Joe
Martin, R. E.
Martin, E. D.
Portlow, Robert
Womelco Building
Lauderdale Airer
FORT LAUDERDALE—The sixth Wometco
drive-in in the three-county area is under
construction here on an 11 -acre site. According
to Burton Clark, under whose direction
the theatre is being built, plans have
been revised twice since the tower was designed
to keep up with the technical development
of new motion picture equipment,
type of Cinemascope screens and lenses,
sound facilities, etc.
Clark said the large refreshment center
will serve everything from pizza to whole
course dinners.
Planned to be the ultimate in beauty as
well as equipment, extensive landscaping is
an integral part of the architecture, foliage
shielding viewers from approaching car lights.
the driving
Much thought has been given to
lanes as a safety factor.
Although situated in the midst of a residential
neighborhood, Clark claims the 700-
car drive-in will cause no noise outside the
park, as attendants turn off all speakers left
outside of cars, and there are to be no loudspeakers
at all.
The new theatre will be named the Davie
Boulevard.
New Screen at Fort Myers
FT. MYERS—A 39':;Xl5';; foot screen has
been installed at the Arcade Theatre. It is
equipped with automatic masks on rollers to
adjust to different size films. P. G. Bailey
is manager of the Florida State Theatre.
64 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

—
Grievance Panel Urged
For Tennessee TOA
MEMPHIS—Five regional meetings of exhibitors
were held in Tennessee this week by
Tennessee Theatre Owners Ass'n,
at which it
was proposed that the association set up a
service committee to liandle grievances in all
categories, including film rentals.
Increased film rentals have wiped out benefits
of the removal of the 20 per cent federal
admission taxes, Morton Tune of Shelbyville.
vice-president of TTOA. asserted in his
speeches at Jackson and Memphis. The new
committees should "exhaust every effort to
solve their difficulties," Tune said.
George Gaughan said the state group
would fight any tax legislation before the
Tennessee legislature next month.
Walter Morris, Knoxville, outlined the Exhibitors
Film Finance Group, Inc., and exhibitors
indicated they would subscribe to the
stock when it is made available.
Stacy Wilhite, president, said the meetings
considered a threat of a state gross tax increase
during the coming session of the legislature,
exhibitor financing of production, including
the TOA plan, arbitration, unified
exhibitor activity and proposed governmental
control of film rentals.
The first meeting was held Monday (29)
at
the New Southern Hotel at Jackson with
Brian Gooch of Selmer as chairman. On
succeeding days there were meetings in the
following order: Variety Club, Gayoso Hotel,
Memphis, with J. A. West as chairman: the
Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, with Morton
Tune of Shelbyville as chairman: the Tennessee
Tech cafeteria, Cookeville, with Wilhite
as chairman, and Brown's cafeteria,
Knoxville, with Walter Morris of Knoxville
as chairman.
All meetings started at noon except the
Memphis meeting, which opened at 10 a.m.
All were attended by Pi-esident Wilhite, Vice-
President Tune; Walter Morris, TTOA representative
to TOA, and George Gaughan,
TOA field representative.
West Palm Beach Theatre
Sues WB for $300,000
WEST PALM BEACH—A $300,000
tripledamage
suit against Warner Bros. Pictures
Distributing Corp. has been filed in federal
court, Jacksonville, by Elias Chalhub who
does business as the Carefree Theatre, 2000
Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach.
The suit accused the Warner Bros, firm of
"permitting multiple buying power of competitors
to control bids for motion pictures
affecting only the Carefree area." The suit
also claimed that Warner Bros, refused to
"License or rent its products to Carefree."
Buys Alexandria House
ALEXANDRIA, LA.—Jimmie Thompson,
local promoter, sportsman and stock-raiser,
reports his purchase of the Don Theatre
from the Don George Enterprises of Shreveport
for $121,000. According to Thompson,
he is the sole owner, and included in the sale
are the building, land, equipment and improvements.
He said all policies of the theatre
will remain unchanged. There will be no
changes in personnel, and Leon Avery will
continue as manager. The Don was recently
equipped for Cinemascope with stereophonic
sound.
SOUTHLAND DEAN—Dean of the recent
Motion Picture Exhibitors of Florida
convention in Jacksonville was 80-yearold
George Hoffman of National Screen
Service. Hoffman began his theatrical
career in Anderson, Ind., and he has been
touring the southland longer than any
exhibitor at the convention could remember.
He is universally loved and respected
by all who know him in the industry.
Promoting Seal Drive
AUGUSTA, GA.—Milton Newsom, manager
of the Imperial and Rialto theatres, was ap-
'Paris' Draws 400%
Grosses in Memphis
MEMPHIS—"The Last Time I Saw Paris"
attracted four times average business during
its opening week at the Palace Theatre. Taking
second place with 20 per cent over average
was Warner Bros.' "Track of the Cat"
showing at the Warner Theatre. The State
and the Strand theatres both drew average
business and the Malco offering "The Black
Knight" slipped ten points below.
(Average Is 100)
Malco The Black Knight (Col) 90
Palace The Lost Time I Sow Poris (MGM)....400
State Down Three Dork Streets (UA) 100
Strand Sobrino (Para), 3rd wk 100
Warner The Track of the Cot (WB) 120
Fire Damages Drive-In
HIGH SPRINGS, FLA.-Fire damage estimated
up to $3,000 was suffered by Carlos
Gutschlog's High Springs Drive-In. A passing
motorist reported the blaze and the fire department
had to break locks on the doors
to get inside the concessions building. The
fire was discovered early in the morning but
had evidently been burning all night. The
blaze had started in a stack of empty crates.
The two projection machines were damaged
but will be reconditioned immediately.
M. O. Tolbert to Manage
TRUMANN, ARK.—M. O. Tolbert has been
named the new manager of the Maxie Theapointed
promotion chairman for the local tre to succeed Zel Jaynes, according to owner
1954 Christmas Seal drive. John Hurd.
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 65

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lOXOFTICE December 4, 1954 67

. . Johnee
JACKSONVILLE
T H. Thompson, friendly and active president
of tlie Motion Picture Theatre Owners of
Georgia, was credited with bringing about the
large tui-nout of Georgians attending the
Motion Picture Exhibitors of Florida annual
coni'sntion here. He and 54 other persons,
mostly theatre owners, registered for and took
part in the sessions, with Thompson speaking
at two of the business meetings. E. D.
Martin, Alfred Starr and Dick Pitts provided
fine representation for TOA.
The biggest position in MPEOF, its presi-
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JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA
dency, went to the man who is probably the
smallest member in point of physique, little
but dynamic Jerry Gold of Pahokee . . .
Manager George Krevo of the Palace Theatre
lent a helping hand in the Junior Chamber
of Commerce annual Toys for Tots Christmas
drive, to provide gifts for the children of
indigent parents, by staging a Saturday
morning matinee at which the price of admission
was a new or used toy . . . Tubby
Watson, manager of the Oceanway Drive-In,
promoted a novel jingle-writing contest, with
the cash-prize-winning jingles being published
in his daily newspaper ads.
. . . Special
The siuburban San Marco Theatre, managed
by Al Hildreth, opened with its first Cinemascope
program on November 28. The installation
was supervised by Maurice Shaaber,
WU-Kin Theatre Supply technician . . T. P.
Tidwell, 20th-Fox manager, extended his stay
in Texas for visits to KerrvlUe and Fort
Worth . Sims replaced Betty Lawrence
as Marvin Skinner's secretary at 20th-
George F. Cooper was expected to
Fox . . .
be at the 20th-Fox office for at least two
months for an annual audit
exhibitor invitations were being readied for
a big tradescreening of 20th-Fox's "There's
No Business Like Show Business" on December
9 at the Florida Theatre.
The annual Christmas party of the Florida
State Theatres home office personnel and
local theatre managers was scheduled at the
Atlantic Beach Hotel on the night of December
18 . . . Louis J. Finske, FST vicepresident:
Fred Kent, attorney and theatre
owner; and C. H. Deaver, manager of the
Normandy Twin Outdoor Theatre, all local
men, were named to the MPEOF board of
directors for the Second district.
Xucrezia Borqia' Case
Dropped in Miami Beach
MIAMI—The case against Martin Caplan
of the Roosevelt Theatre was dismissed In a
Miami Beach court. The charge claimed the
picture "Lucrezla Borgia" contained objectionable
scenes. Since there is no censorship
here, the theatre was not stopped from continuing
the picture's run and charges were
dropped.
Caplan says the Roosevelt wlU continue
to show foreign films which have proved
popular with the clientele. The Swedish film,
'Tllicit Interlude," will begin an extended
run Thanksgiving. The picture, with English
sub-titles, has had a long run in New York
and has broken records in New Orleans.
Malco Building Airer
JONESBORO, ARK.—M. A. Lightman of
Memphis, vice-president of Malco Theatre
Corp., reports the start of a new drive-in. He
said construction would require about 90
days. The airer will be erected on Highway
63 between here and Nettleton. and will be
the third ozoner for Jonesboro. Malco also
operates the Liberty, Strand and Palace theatres
here.
Kid Matinee Draws 500
MELBOURNE, FLA.—Over 500 children attended
a free cartoon carnival at the Van
Croix Theatre as guests of a local automobile
dealer. Nu-Grape Bottling Co. served
soda pop with doughnuts furnished by the
car dealer. Manager Jim Branch said this
was the largest crowd he has ever had at a
children's matinee.
NEW ORLEANS
Uig^hlighting the WOMPI holiday season activities
will be the Christmas dance at the
American Legion Home Friday (10), the proceeds
from which will enable the club to entertain
369 orphans at a Christmas party
December 18 at Rene Brunei's Imperial Theatre.
A feature movie, toys, candy, popcorn,
and a Santa Claus will complete the orphans
program. Committees for these two programs
include Helen Bila and Ida Kloss, Paramount-
Gulf; Judith Hamner, Dorothy Rybiski and
Evelyn McNulty, Universal; Shirley Folse,
United Artists; Janice Barrett and Ethel
Holton, 20th-Fox; Mary Morris and Ann
Balencie, Paramount; Marie Berglund, MPA,
and Nathalee Odom, MGM.
Joy Houck, owner of Howco Films and Joy
Houck Theatres, announces that he Is filming
his latest feature "Kentucky Rifle" in
Hollywood. Young Clyde Joy Houck, his
5-year-old son, will make his movie debut in
the feature, playing the role of a pioneer lad
crossing the desert in a covered wagon . . .
Mrs. Carol Bellows, billing clerk at Transway,
Inc., is the mother of a new baby girl . . .
Roy Nicaud, Lippert manager in Atlanta, was
a recent visitor ... In booking were Doyle
Maynard, the Don, Natchitoches; Don
George, Don George Theatres; W. A. Parker,
Gordon, Westwego; E. W. Clinton, Mono,
Monticello, and Ed Jenner, the Drive-In,
Laurel.
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68 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

. . George
MIAMI
TXTalton H. Oakerson, manager of the Essex,
was walking down one aisle, near the
end of the last show one Saturday night,
when a man sitting in an end seat asked
him for change for 50 cents. "I started to get
the change from my pocket," Oakerson said,
"when the man poked a gun in my ribs and
told me to head for the office. He forced me
to open the safe and then took $265 " The
bandit fled with the money which was in
bills. The holdup man had been m the theatre
for some time, watching a movie about
crime, "Gambler From Natchez."
Edward N. Claughton, who recently underwent
surgery, was able to leave the hospital
You're proctically married
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and we do it all without interruption
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and spend Thanksgiving with his family at
home . . . The Ralph Puckhabers are celebrating
the bii-th of a son. Puckhaber is
manager of FST's downtown Florida Theatre
. . . Sidney Meyer, Wometco co-owner, was
unanimously elected president of the Westview
Country Club. Meyer has been an ardent
golfer for many years, and he and his family
have been prominent members of the
club w^hich he now heads.
Harry Botwick, PST district manager, took
his two daughters with him when he went
to Key West recently to watch some of the
shooting for "The Rose Tattoo." The two
girls, Lennye and Judy, were signed on as
extras for the day .
C. Hoover,
Variety International chief barker, was
elected regional vice-president for the southeast
at the fifth annual convention of United
Cerebral Palsy in Washington. Hoover, former
district head of FST here, is also president
of the Florida group . . . Tom Newman,
assistant at the Tivoli, returned to his
post after an illness.
The Tivoli, owned by Charles Walder, is
being made ready for the December 18 party
sponsored by the Elks. The event, which
Manager Earl Potter says has been held for
20 years, is scheduled for a Saturday mornuig
matinee and all children are invited as
guests. The theatre contributes the services
of the staff, the use of the theatre and a special
screen show. A local dance studio puts
on a stage show. The Elks provide transportation
for boys and girls from the Children's
Home and for underprivileged small
fry. The latter receive presents of toys, candy
and fruit. Other children are given comic
books and fruit. Gifts and cheer are distributed
by Santa Claus, also present
through the courtesy of the Elks.
One day's proceeds of the Ice Carnival, featuring
175 Florida skaters, will be devoted to
Variety's children's hospital . . . Bernstein's
Little River Theatre, which adds five vaudeville
acts to its double bill screen show every
Pi'iday night, is now using separate ads for
the occasion. There is no advance in admission
price and the acts are sponsored by
neighborhood merchants. Manager Mack
Herbert has found the plan so successful
that he is now working on a deal to run his
stage show three nights a week instead of one.
New Head at Augusta
AUGUSTA—After 20 years with the Georgia
Theatre Co., local city manager Pierce E.
McCoy resigned. He has been replaced by
James Cartledge who has been city manager
at Macon. Cartledge who has been with
Georgia Theatres for the past two years will
supervise the operation of the local Miller
and Modjeska theatres and the Cloverleaf,
Hill Top and Augusta drive-ins. McCoy's
plans for the future are undecided.
To Premiere Xhalice'
As Seals Sale Award
From Western Edition
HOLLYWOOD—As an unusual Christmas
gift, some U. S. community is going to receive
a Hollywood-type world premiere,
complete with stars and fanfare, as a reward
for its efforts in the sale of Christmas
seals. The project, being jointly undertaken
by Art Linkletter, radio-TV personality;
the National Tuberculosis Ass'n
and Warner Bros., involves "The Silver
Chalice," a CinemaScope-WarnerColor feature
produced by the latter. The town or
city showing the greatest mail sales in proportion
to population during the first three
days of its local Christmas Seal drive will
be chosen as the site for the premiere of
"Chalice," tentatively set to bow December
17.
Linkletter will announce the winner early
in December on his daily House Party program
over the CBS network.
Starring Pier Angeli and Jack Palance,
"Chalice" was based on the historical novel
by Thomas Costain and was produced and
directed by Victor Saville.
Bill Arnold in Jackson
NEW ORLEANS— Bill Arnold, Hallmark
roadshowman, has taken over the franchise
of Hallmark's "Karamoja" and "Half-Way
to Hell" in the New Orleans exchange area.
Arnold will make his headquarters at 1103
Bellvue Place, Jackson, Miss.

'
—
Variety 20 Elects
M.A.LightmanJr.
MEMPHIS—The new chief barker of Memphis
Variety Tent 20 for 1955 is M. A. Lightman
jr., executive for Malco Theatres, Inc.
Lightman, who succeeds M. H. Brandon,
was elected Monday night. Brandon becomes
an international canvassman.
Others elected; Gilbert Brandon, first
assistant chief barker; Fordyce Kaiser, second
assistant chief barker; Howard Nicholson,
property master, and Nate Reiss. dough guy.
Named canvassmen were Ben Bass. Tony
Tedesco, Alton Sims, George Simpson, Fred
Meyers and Conrad Bach.
Son to W. H. McKenzie Jr.
BIRMINGHAM—A baby son named William
Henry III was born on Saturday (20)
to Mr. and Mrs. W. H. McKenzie jr. Tlie
father is sales manager of the Queen Feature
Service Co. here.
Billy Brooks to Manage
MOORE HAVEN, FLA.—Billy Brook.s, who
has been assisting in the management of
the Glades Theatre, has been appointed manager.
Former Manager J. C. McMahan is
now located in Fort Myers.
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MEMPHIS
A^idsouth exhibitors booking in Memphis in-
. . .
cluded Louise Mask, Luez, Bolivar,
Tenn.; William Elias, Murr, Osceola. Ark.,
and Moses Sliman, Lux, Luxora, Ark.
Null Adams, BOXOFFICE representative at
Memphis, will give a lecture Monday C6) before
the city editors seminar conducted by
America Press Institute in Columbia University's
Journalism building. New York City.
R. L. Bostick, district manager, and C. C.
Bach, manager. National Theatre Supply Co.,
attended the Ole Miss-Miss State football
game at Oxford, Miss. . . . The Plaza Theatre
at Han-ison, Ark., has reopened for business.
The Landers Theatre,
closed.
Weona, Ark., has
Women of the Motion Picture Industry
WOMPI—asked the Variety Club's new convalescent
hospital for children what they
could do to help the project. The hospital
officials said a blackboard for use in the
hospital was needed. WOMPI presented it to
Alton Sims, Rowley United Theatres, who
accepted it on behalf of the hospital.
Cleveland Sub Runs Rebel
Against Cuts in 'Star'
From Mideast Edition
CLEVELAND—Local subsequent run theatre
owners are up in arms over the announcement
that 27 minutes would be cut from the
running time of "A Star Is Born." They
claim that to run a reduced version of the
pictm-e after it has played a full version
downtown is suicidal.
"Our patrons demand, and are entitled to
see the same picture that is shown downtown
in its entirety," a leading theatre owner
.';aid.
Another said "it takes years of hard work
to establish confidence between a theatre and
its patrons. Now, in one sweep, it is planned
to scrap all our efforts."
Some exhibitors even went so far as to say
they absolutely would refuse to play a cut
version.
Agreeing with subsequent run exhibitors
but for another reason was W. Ward Marsh,
Plain Dealer critic. Marsh doesn't want it
cut because he thinks every minute of its
three hom-s and two minutes is packed with
entertainment. "I found its three hours and
two minutes running time the shortest hour
and a half I have ever spent in a movie
house," Marsh said in his column. He went
on to say, "Here is a great picture . . . Let's
hope that it won't be cut."
Florida Airer to Aid Pilots
STUART, FLA.—A new movement to help
the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Ass'n with
exact longitude and latitude of the drive-ins
all over the nation has been joined by the
Stuart Drive-In Theatre. The service is asked
of drive-in managers because these theatres
are "such distinctive landmarks from the
air, and to all pilots this information could
be the difference between life and death."
The exact latitude and longitude is marked
plainly so as to be seen from the air by
pilots.
The Tex at Port Arthur
Bought by Capri Chain
From Southwest Edition
PORT ARTHUR, TEX.—The Tex Drive-In
on Orange highway, has been purchased by
Capri Theatres, Inc. of Dallas. Its name will
be changed to Capri Drive-In, according to
Charles W. Weisenburg, president, who also
named Charles "Don" Donaldson the new
manager.
Extensive improvements at considerable
cost will be started immediately, Weisenburg
said. This will include widening of the screen
for Cinemascope, installation of a new fountain
in the snack bar, a cafeteria system
in the concession stand, new driveway lighting,
marquee improvements and the addition
of more speakers.
The theatre will not be closed during remodeling
activities and the regular schedule
will be carried out. The improvement program
is expected to take six weeks for completion.
Instead of the present 40 cents per person
admission, the new winter special policy will
admit an entire carload, regardless of the
number of persons, with the purchase of two
adult tickets at 40 cents each.
Weisenburg owns eight other drive-ins
around the state.
The Tex, which was opened September 4,
1953, had been managed by Howard Arthur
and was owned by Tex Drive-In Theatre Co.
John Lawson to Palatka
PALATKA, FLA.—John Lawson has piu--
chased the New Theatre from H. A. Dale of
Lake Butler. Lawson has had more than 15
years experience in theatre operation, moving
to Florida from Baton Rouge, La., where
he was city manager for Pittman Theatres.
Lawson's wife will assist him in the theatre.
The couple have one son Delbert, 12.
Georgian Installs CS
GRAY, GA.—Operator James Balkcom reports
the installation of Cinemascope equipment
at his Gray Theatre.
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

—
Ticket Tax Saving
Was $122,500,1
From Central Edition
CHICAGO—Passage of the Mason ticket
tax reduction bill freed 9,288 theatres from
payment of all ticket taxes, as they were
charging 50 cents or less, and cut in half
the tax burden on 8,677 theatres, it was disclosed
in Sam Pinanski's report on the Council
of Motioia Picture Organizations report
to the Theatre Owners of America convention.
The estimated total saving to all theatres
is $122,500,000, based on pre-tax-cut admission
prices.
Another result of the campaign, Pinanski
pointed out, was a notable improvement in
public relations through the effort that was
made to convince editors of the justness
of the industry's plea. Great credit to the
series of Editor and Publisher ads was given
in this connection.
Now COMPO is turning its attention to
giving assistance to exhibitors faced with state
and municipal taxation.
"On the theory that the best defense is
vigorous offence," the report states, "I suggest
that all exhibitors now subject to local
amusement taxes should immediately request
their reduction or elimination, when they
can present satisfactory proof that they are
being discriminated against and that these
local taxes are preventing a fair return on
their investment."
Maintenance on state and local levels of
the same kind of relations established with
members of Congress is recommended by
Pinanski.
Pinanski also pointed out the value of a research
program.
"It is easy enough for us as individuals
to blame television, night baseball, less spending
money, or countless other influences for
the falling off in movie attendance," he
stated, "but to find out where the lost audience
is and how best to appeal to it, we need
a scientific appraisal which involves studies
of movie habits, the impact of advertising,
penetration of pictures, incidence of attention,
shifts in population, changes in the
mode of living and many other facets of the
problem. When we get the answers to these
questions, we will be able to deal more intelligently
with the problem and, I hope, find
the proper solution."
'Crusoe' With 150 Score
Leads Dallas Bills
DALLAS— "White Christmas" closed after
two weeks at the Palace still drawing a full
house. Weldon Flanagan, organist, played
Christmas songs. "The Barefoot Contessa"
took over the Majestic screen. There were
thousands in town for the holidays. The
renovated Rialto featured "The Adventures of
Robinson Crusoe" and topped all the other
Dallas bills.
Majestic—The Barefoot Contessa (UA) 110
Melba This Is Cinerama I'dnerama) 1 40
Palace The Last Time I Saw Paris (MGM) 120
Rialto The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe ;UA).150
Brave Youngster Wins Pass
PORT ARTHUR. TEX.—Manager T. L.
Dickey awarded a six-month pass to one
brave young lad who agreed to spend one
night in an antiquated old horse drawn hearse
in front of the Village Theatre as a publicity
stunt for a midnight horror show.
Exhibitors of Oklahoma
Open 37th Convention
OKLAHOMA CITY — A n o t h e r
Owners of
Theatre
Oklahoma convention—the 37th—
has rolled around, officially opening Monday
16), for a two-day stand at the BUtmore
Hotel.
The program lineup is much the same as
in previous years. There are trade discussions
on tap, plus luncheons with key speakers,
and some social affau-s on the agenda.
One thing that will be missing for the fii'st
time in years is the annual open house, sponsored
by Oklahoma Theatre Supply. This
always preceded the closing banquet event.
This year Mr. and Mrs. J. Eldon Peek will
not host the affair. Both have been away
considerably, especially of late, due to the
serious illness of Mrs. Peek's sister. Mrs.
Peek also was scheduled to model in the fur
showing on Tuesday at the women's luncheon,
but will not, because of her sister's critical
illness.
NO OPEN HOUSE THIS YEAR
MoiTis Loewenstein, TOO president and
general chairman of the convention again
this year, is not planning any replacement
for the open house.
Another change will be in the fur showing
and luncheon, now booked for the Flamingo
room of the Oklahoma Club, since this event
has been opened to the public. Loewenstein
said industry women will model and the
affair will be for the industry wives, but
others may purchase tickets to attend the
event. Pejlon-Marcus furs will be shown.
The Flamingo room is the Oklahoma Club's
largest gathering place. Mrs. Ina Ince is
slated to be Mi's. Peek's replacement in the
model lineup. She is the widow of the late
A. C. Ince who was associated with the
Griffin circuit.
Loewenstein also announced arrangements
have been made to present the young singers
and dancers, Jane Lehman and Prunell Hite,
at the style revue and convention dinner on
Monday night, again this year. The tiny
girls entertained at last year's convention.
Then- instructor, Mrs. Irene Huntley, will
accompany them at the piano. Also scheduled
at this affair as vocalist is Mrs. J. A. Dantes,
a friend of the Loewensteins.
Mrs. Loewenstein is in charge of arrangements
and is also directing the style revue,
which also is being presented by Peyton-
Marcus.
TWO MAILINGS ON CONVENTION
A barrage of postcards was mailed by Loewenstein
reminding exhibitors of the convention,
with one card in the series mailed
for return for reservation purposes. This
mailing was followed up by the mailing of
the souvenij' convention program. December
1.
The progi'am was made possible by the following
advertisers; Loew's, Inc., National
Screen Service. Video Theatres. Theatre Calendar
Service, National Theatre Supply.
Screen Guild Productions, Theatre Poster
Service, Superior Neon Co.. Loge 30 of the
Colosseum of Motion Picture Salesmen of
America, Manley. 20th-Fox, Paramount Pictures.
Mistletoe Express, A&O Theatre Booking
Service, Panhandle Film Service, Cooper
Foundation Theatres, OK State Motor Express,
Borden's, Warner Bros, and Oklahoma
Theatre Supply. Also listed were the following
tradeshow exhibitors: Manley, Howell
Theatre Supply, Coca-Cola Co., Logan Concession
Supply, Tulsa, and the Ti-iple "AAA"
Co.
The souvenir program salutes Si H. Fabian,
president of Stanley Warner Theatres, who
will be the honored guest at the banquet,
and other outstanding showmen—Pat McGee,
Denver, vice-president of Theatre Owners of
America, who will be the keynoter at the
Monday luncheon, and E. D. Martin, Columbus,
Ga., TOA president, who will be honored
at the President's luncheon Tuesday. Paul
Stonum, TOO chairman, will preside at the
latter event where Martin will speak. Loewenstein
will preside at the keynote luncheon,
where U. S. Senator Kerr will be a special
guest.
Fabian, treasurer of TOA, will be the only
speaker at the TOO Star Showmanship banquet
Tuesday night.
Triple "AAA" Co. will host the keynote
luncheon, starring Pat McGee of Cooper
Foundation Theatres. United Film Service is
donating door prizes for business meetings
and business luncheons. Oklahoma Theatre
Supply is contributing a $100 tape recorder
for the grand attendance prize.
ON SPEAKERS LIST
Participating in the program, too, will be
John Rowley, TOA vice-president, and R. J.
Bob O'Donnell, Interstate circuit executive,
both of Dallas;
Jack Braunagel. Kansas City,
Commonwealth Theatres, and Ray Colvin, St.
Louis, TEDA executive du-ector. O'Donnell
will emcee the banquet, and will discuss
COMPO and the Will Rogers Memorial Hospital
program at one of the business sessions.
Rowley will discuss TOA's new production
fund-raising project.
During the convention a Variety Tent 22
general membership meeting wUl be held to
elect directors. It is set for 6 p.m. Monday
in the clubrooms.
The auxiliary to Variety Tent 22 will meet
for luncheon December 8 in the clubrooms.
Mj-s. C. a. Gibbs, president, urges the out-oftown
women exhibitors and wives of exhibitors
to stay over for the luncheon and
program. The monthly board session is called
for 11 a.m. and the luncheon at 12 o'clock
noon. Mrs. Ed Thorne. a new board member,
also has been named program chairman.
PICTURE SERVICE Ci
fllDTIDI
125 HYDE ST. SAN FRANCI CO (2), CALIF.
Gerald L. Karski.... President
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 sw 71

. . Ernest
. . James
A L L A S
ly/Tart Cole, exhibitor from Rosenberg, and
his wife and daughter Rita visited here
last week after driving his mother to Fort
Worth to visit with a daughter there. Forrest
Thompson, manager of the Majestic Theatre
here, a relative of Mrs. Cole, was their
guest at the Town and Country restaurant
lor luncheon.
The Variety Club will hold its monthly
general meeting Monday evening (6) in the
clubrooms in the Hotel Adolphus. All members
are urged to be present for the buffet
at 6 p.m. and the meeting afterwards. The
newly redecorated clubrooms were opened to
the members after refui'bishing over the
Thanksgiving holidays. The quarters have
been enlarged and repainted. The first large
color television set of its kind in the southwest
was also installed, together with new
and modern chairs. The reopening took place
Saturday evening (27) with a floor show featuring
the McQuaig Twins and Jack DeLeon.
Interstate Theatres throughout Texas
opened the sale of Christmas gift books on
Thanksgiving Day with beautiful displays of
the gifts to be awarded to the lucky ticket
owners. In Dallas, for instance, a beautiful
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Buick went on display at the Palace, together
with many ot{ier gifts including a cooking
range, deep-freeze unit and refrigerator . . .
Palace patrons waiting in line for the opening
show Thanksgiving Day were pleasantly surprised
to be served delicious hot onion soup
from the Town and Country restaurant,
served by Nick DeGeorge himself.
Ernest Rockett, Pastime Theatre, Itasca,
was at the Herber Theatre Equipment Co.
office, bringing with him a date book of
1929-30 used by his father E. H. Rockett, who
died in 1944. Mrs. Ernest Herber recalled
the elder Rockett's generous gifts from his
garden . stated he grew up in his
father's theatre, the first of which was built
in Waxahachie in 1910. The family owned
the theatre in Waxahachie until 1927, and
in the meantime had built theatres in other
nearby communities such as Italy, Ferris and
Itasca. Included in the 1929-30 booking chart
are the following: Clause-by-clause analysis
of the Standard Exhibition contract, a brief
digest of the rules of arbitration, suggestions
for handling sound records and sound film,
1929-30 releases and a buyer's guide for theatre
equipment and accessories.
. . .
Mr. and Mrs. John Rowley celebrated their
14th wedding anniversary with a small party
Lorna Paul, 20th-Fox,
of close friends . . .
visited her family in Shreveport over the
Thanksgiving holidays W. J. Cammer,
Lippert Pictures, was on a two-week business
trip to south Texas. Both Don Grierson,
visiting in Victoria, and Connie Epts, visiting
Houston, were gone over the holidays.
The Rlalto Theatre and KRLD-TV will
.sponsor a Find Theodora contest on the Variety
Fair program starting at 4:45 p.m. The
SCREENS • LENSES
For
All Picture Presentations
1. Objective lenses from $200.00 a pair up,-
2. Anamorphic lenses from $695.00 a pair up,-
3. Screens from $0.70 per square foot up,-
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winner will receive an all-expense paid vacation
for two at the Mayan dude ranch in
Bandera, plus $100 in cash. An unidentified
girl appeared on Variety Fair Monday to give
clews as to where she will be the next day.
The first person who walks up to her and
says "You are Theodora, slave empress," wins
the prize.
"This Is Your Army," a newly released
documentary film, will have its southwestern
premiere at the Majestic here December 10.
Tlie film covers all phases of army activities,
nicluding training, combat maneuvers and
barracks life. The color film is released by
W. E. Finch, manager at
United Artists . . .
Allied Artists, enjoyed the Thanksgiving
holidays with his family in Oklahoma City.
. . A. M. Gaines, Bronco
Nell B. Houston sr. of Manley has as his
Thanksgiving guest his son Neil B. jr., who
is teaching in the high school at Odessa.
Houston attended the three-day state teachers
contest at Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum,
Fort Worth, and distributed free popcorn on
behalf of Manley .
Drive-In, Beeville, was at the Modern Theatre
Equipment Co. office . . . Mi's. T. S. Jennings
of MTE was at Leesville, La., over the Thanksgiving
holidays . . . Otto Akin was at Lake
Charles, La., and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Humphries
were at San Antonio for the hoUdays.
. . . Ford
Maxine Adams, Frontier Theatres, and
president of WOMPI, vacationed
Taylor, San Angelo, was at Southwestern
Theatre Equipment office . L. D. Brown,
. .
Palace, Brownwood, was in.
At Associated Popcorn were A. L. Watson,
Eagle Drive-In, Azle; Hugh Millington, Alvarado;
Tom Luce, Ritz, Selina; Bob Fry,
S. G. Fry Theatres, Tyler; Bob Davis, Perrin
Drive-In, Sherman; Thill Miller, Gem, Quitman;
Paul Klatt, Lobo Drive-In, Monahans;
Jerry Stout, Coed Drive-In, Denton; Estem
Burgemy, Ropes, Ropesville; Clinton Bailey,
Chief Drive-In, Nocona; C. E. Campbell,
Ti-ail Drive-In, Bowie; Bill PhlUips, Hi-Vue,
Sulphur Springs; C. H. Cox jr.. Cox, Gilmer,
and Henry Smith, Texas, McGregor.
Dan Lawson, Associated Popcorn, was at
Cloud Croft in New Mexico where he has a
summer cabin under construction.
Leroy Bickel was welcomed back at MGM
by all the employes after an illness
Bixler and Al Kane of
. . . Bob
Paramount left to
attend the Paramount international promotional
coordination meeting scheduled the entire
week starting on the 6th at the Hollywood
studio . . . The Paramount Pep Club will hold
its Christmas party December 17 at Texas
Bank building. There will be a dinner and
dancing.
The new treasurer at the Rialto is Robert
Shane . . . James Lewellen is now manager
of the Varsity Theatre . A. Brassell
has been appointed apprentice booker at
Trans-Texas Theatres ... A farewell party
was held for John J. Houlihan Friday (3) in
the auditorium of the Alford's warehouse.
Houlihan has been with Republic for many
years.
Gene Hughes to Denton
DENTON, TEX.—Gene Hughes of Sanger
has relieved Gwen Mulkey as manager of the
Texas Theatre here, a unit of Trans-Texas
Theatres. Hughes has been associated with
theatre management for several years in
Sanger and other Texas cities.
72 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

. . Another
OKLAHOMA CITY
Qeorge Fisher of MGM went to Dallas for a
company meeting, returning November
29 . . . Maxine Adams of the Frontier Theatres
advertising department in Dallas, was a
Thanksgiving holiday visitor. Maxine,
WOMPI president in Dallas, reported about
15 Dallasites planned to be in Oklahoma City
Saturday (4) for a luncheon at the Oklahoma
Club to discuss plans for organizing a local
unit. About 50 local Filmrow women indicated
they would attend this meeting. If the
city group is organized, it will make the fifth
WOMPI unit.
C. B. "Brownie" Akers has been pushing
full speed ahead with Tulsa's newest TV station,
slated to go on the all- on Sunday (5i.
It will be channel 2. KVOO-TV is a NBC
outlet . . . Incidentally, his daughter Shii-ley
Conrad is now associated with the television
station in Peoria, 111., which Akers established
more than a year ago. Shirley is in Peoria
with her mother Margaret . Akers
daughter, June, one of the twins, is engaged
to marry soon, so we hear. June's mother,
who is associated in the Hobart theatres, resides
here.
Three Columbia employes were feted recently
at a dinner party held at Sleepy Hollow and
were presented wrist watches in appreciation
of their 25 years of loyal service at the local
exchange. Honored were Jim Hudgens. office
manager: Sid Gibbs, salesman, and Mrs.
Sophia LaMont, inspectoress. Attending the
dinner in addition to the honored guests were
Mrs. Sid Gibbs, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Dewey
Gibbs, the latter couple's daughter, Mrs Tony
Zdzieblowski, Fort Worth, and Mrs. Hudgens.
Mrs. Zdzieblowski has been visiting here for
two weeks, and was joined by her husband on
Thanksgiving. They returned home November
28.
City youngsters were to be admitted to a
morning movie at the Harber and Plaza on
Satiu-day (4i with a boxtop from Fab soap
as the price of admission—all in an effort to
aid the city's Camp Fire Girls in their boxtop
campaign for dolls to give the county's
needy children at Christmas. The two Cooper
Foundation houses hope to help the girls
collect enough boxtops to redeem 3.000 historical
dolls offered by the soap company.
The youth group will give the dolls to the
Salvation Army to distribute. The dolls were
to be displayed in the lobbies of the houses,
and Camp Fire Girls were to be present to
collect the boxtops.
per cent interest, stand to get $3,368,360.30
each for their share. Ponies Oil Co., owned
and operated for benefit of Southern Methodist
University, pui'chased the properties
now consisting of 42 oil wells in Scurry area
of west Texas . . . Allied of Oklahoma's regular
monthly board session is set for noon
Monday (6) at the Biltmore.
S. V. Eagan of Siloam Springs, Ark., took
over the operation of the Grand Theatre on
Thm-sday i2) after pui'chasing it from T. C.
Killibrew, who opened the house about 15
years ago. He is retiring to devote full time
to his cattle business. The purchase gives
Eagan both theatres at Siloam Springs. He
has the Spot which was opened as the first
class situation about eight years ago. The
Spot recently was equipped with Cinema-
Scope. Century Theatre Supply here made
the installation.
Century Theatre Supply also has installed
Cinemascope in the Majestic at Temple,
owned by Raymond Sparks; the Palace at
Haskell, owned by Silas Pack, and the Skyview
Drive-In at McAlester, owned by Mrs.
J. D. Lankister and son J. D. jr., who is
actively managing the ozoner. The motherson
combination also owns the "V" Theatre
at McAlester. a conventional house.
Acme Motion Picture Service has a new address,
610 North Hudson, Bill Kitchen reports.
Acme distributes Lorraine carbons . . . Claude
W. Atkinson has been transferred back to
Dallas. He was manager here for Republic.
Jake Guiles has been promoted to exchange
chief, and Ed Harris, booker, has been
switched to salesman. No booker replacement
as yet.
Glenn Horner, formerly of Video's accounting
department, is now associated with Stalcup
and Kiser Sheet Metal & Cabinet shop.
The latter now answers to Stalcup, Kiser and
Horner. B&H Passmore Co., an allied company,
which also does roofing, has been purchased
by Stalcup, Kiser and Horner, and
Horner is managing the latter.
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Library of TV Shows
In Home Predicted
NEW YORK—The day is coming when
families will have libraries of television programs
as many of them now have sound
record collections, Dr. C. B. Jolliffe, vicepresident
and technical director of the Radio
Corp. of America, told an Oklahoma City
Chamber of Commerce meeting November 19.
He said it would be made possible through
the commercial production of television tape
recorders and the development of more compact
and inexpensive recordings for home
use.
Dr. Jolliffe discussed research in the new
science of solid-state electronics in which electrons
are produced and controlled within tiny
bits of solid material. He made other predictions,
as follows:
Mural television, providing for a thin screen
on a wall and images regulated from a small
control box that adjusts them to any size
or brilliancy desired and in either color or
black and white.
Continued extension of the range of existing
television facilities into a worldwide communications
net.
Transistorized radio receivers making possible
tiny pocket radio sets with power supplied
by flashlight batteries or by an atomic
battery that would last a lifetime.
Dr. Jolliffe said that the emergence of
solid-state electronics is a revolution that
is "placing in our hands a variety of remarkable
new tools with which to develop
the electronic systems of tomorrow."
Texas House Reopened
CAMERON, TEX. — The Milam Theatre
Thanks-
managed by Dean White reopened
giving Day on a full time .schedule. The
house, which had been operating on weekends
only, has been equipped for the showing
of the new wide .screen processes. New
seating and carpeting were also installed.
Cushing's largest and oldest theatre, the
Dunkin owned by Video Independent Theatres
and managed by Dale Hellwege. is in for
a general overhaul to the tune of about
$50,000. Work is under way now to completely
remodel and modernize the situation. The
house, built in 1923 by the late Hiram Dunkin.
will continue normal operations, except for
two weeks while seats are installed. Carl
Shipman, Cushing builder, is the contractor
on the job. The front is being extended 15
feet to more than double the lobby space.
The theatre w'ill have 800 new-type seats,
new cai-peting and a complete new look Work
is expected to be completed on the job before
February 1.
Bob Hope and Bing Crosby will profit by
the sale of some oil properties for almost
$21,000,000. They joined with W. A. Moncrief
and associates in the oil business a couple
years ago. Hope and Crosby, each with a 16
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
73

. . Tom
. . . The
SAN ANTONIO
The Fredericksburg Road, Hi-Park and Trail
di-ive-ins brought back "Martin Luther"
for a day and date run at popular prices . . .
Cameras will start rolling on "The Alamo,"
a Republic epic of Texas' struggle for freedom,
about January 15, according to Director
Frank Lloyd.
. .
.
Columbia sent a team of a producer and
writer to Lackland AFB on their fii'st stop
to gather material for a story on the life of
a jet pilot. The picture is supposed to be
made on the base at which the pilot actually
takes his training. Lackland, Hondo and
Laredo are scheduled to provide scenic backgrounds
when actual shooting starts. The
men are Producer Arthur Gardner and
Writer Joseph Landon . Lynn Krueger held
over "White Christmas" at the Majestic for a
second week Sumners held "The
Vanishing P>rairie" at his Josephine Theatre
for a two-week run.
Exiiibitors in town booking and buying
Mexican pictures were Dave J. Young sr..
Mexico Theatre and Fiesta Drive-In, Brownsville;
Enrique Flores and his son Epitacio,
Rio, Mission: Manuel Soils, Rancho Drive-In,
Alice; Faustino Vallego. Progresso. Valentine;
Fi-ancisco Irlas, Gloria, Big Wells, and Ignacio
Luna. Crystal City.
. .
Sydney Pearlman, the actor and producer,
is planning to have the first minstrel show
The
of 1955 at the San Pedro Playhouse .
Sunset Theatre has inaugurated a Family
Night every Thur.sday. A whole family is admitted
"The Mighty Fortress,"
for 50 cents . . . a short religious film produced in Dallas by
Paul Short of National Screen Service, was
screened here Tuesday morning (23) at the
Aztec for members of the local clergy. Billy
Graham, the evangelist, has the starring role
in the picture.
Moe Rosenblum, head of Vogue Entertainment
agency, celebrated another milestone
recently . . . Julius Sadowosky of the Waeltex
Theatre, Waelder, was in visiting the
Azteca Film Exchange and said he is reopening
his house soon. Other visitors included
Jose Carabaza, Carabaza Film Exchange,
Laredo, who was en route to Los
Angeles on business; Frank Trevino. Ideal,
Pearsall, and Gustavo Lavenant, Haydee,
Dilley . . . Milton Lindner, NSS salesman
from Dallas, was in calling on the trade.
. . . Robo,
Franli Fletclier of the Ritz Theatre, Houston,
was in booking . . . Karen Sharpe was
here from Hollywood to spend the Thanksgiving
holiday with her parents
the mechanical elephant touring the
Ezell circuit, dehghted the kiddies at the
Hi-Park and Trail drive-ins here . . . G. A.
Lucchese, president of Zaragoza Amusement
Co., returned from a vacation tour of Europe
Brackenridge High School held its
pep rally on the Majestic stage Tuesday (23),
and on the following night, Thomas Jefferson
High School held its session preceding
the Thanksgiving Day football game.
Joseph Wolfe, manager of the San Pedro
Drive-In, is back from Minneapolis where he
visited his son who is a student at the University
of Minnesota. Before moving to
Texas, Wolfe was a salesman for IFE in the
John T. Floore of
Minnesota territory . . .
Helotes reports his father died recently . . .
Mi-s. M. Wolfe, manager of the Arts, will
show four George K. Arthur short films along
with ten UFA cartoons as her Christmas week
offering.
Milton L. DuBose of the Majestic, Cotulla,
has been elected a director of the Cotulla
Chamber of Commerce for the next two
Manager Henry Bergman of the
years . . .
State Theatre has started Parakeet night
every Monday. Each week 20 of the rare
talking birds are given away as prizes . . .
Robert Bixler, Paramount exploiteer, Dallas,
was among the recent visitors to the Interstate
circuit city office.
Remodels Frontier Unit
GAINESVILLE, TEX.—The State Theatre
is being completely remodeled, according
to Louis Littlefair, resident manager. Frontier
Theatres of Dallas, operator of the State,
Plaza and Chief here, and R. E. Griffith
Realty Co. purchased Marin Wade's interest
in the State and Plaza and have ordered the
fii-m of Waller & Allen to go ahead with
the first phase of the remodeling. In addition
to remodeling the entire building, all
new equipment will be installed. This includes
air conditioning, heating and a new
projection and sound system for Cinema-
Scope. Seating capacity will be increased by
an additional 175 seats and new retractable
type seats will be installed.
Additional C'Scopes
DALLAS—Recent CinemaScope installations
around the state include the Ritz,
Celina, owned by Tom Luce; the Grove here,
managed by Roy Gothard; the Palace, San
Saba, managed by Abe Willis; the Pleasant
Drive-In, managed by Kenneth Sleigh;
Francis Hardwick's Star, Hereford; the
Pecos at Fort Stockton, managed by Guy
Moses, and Mr. and Mrs. Gillespie's Linda at
WhiteWright.
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Theatre Editor Is Guest
Jack Sanson, manager of the Strand in
Hartford, Conn., netted a three-column
art and story break in the Hartford Times
en "A Star Is Born" by inviting the Times
Theatre editor to the circuit screening.
HANDY SUBSCRIPTION

—
—
— —
Twin Cities Grosses
Solid Despite Snow
MINNEAPOLIS— Snowstorms and icy
streets did plenty of boxoffice damage. Nevertlieless,
two of the comparatively small number
of newcomers, running neck and neck,
came through superbly. They were "Desiree"
and "The Last Time I Saw Paris." "Cattle
Queen of Montana" wasn't any boxoffice
slouch, either. Holdovers comprised "The
Vanishing Pi-airie" in its fourth week and
"Black Widow" and "Karamoja" in their
second. All were solid.
Gopher Karamoja (HP); Half-Woy to Hell (HP)
2nd wk 150
Lyric Black Widow (20th-Fox), 2nd wk MO
Orpheum Cattle Queen of Montana (RKO) 100
Pan— Fire Over Africa (Col); They Rode West (Col) 85
Radio City Desiree (20th-Fox) 150
State The Lost Time I Saw Poris (MGM) 150
World The Vanishing Prairie (Bueno Vista),
4th wk 125
"Christmas' Averages 190
In Two Omaha Weeks
OMAHA—"White Clii-istmas" brought a big,
fat Christmas present in advance to the
Orpheum Theatre—a two-week average of
190 per cent. The second week went to nearly
150 per cent after a record-busting opening.
Other first runs ran about normal.
Admiral-Chief
Shield for Murder (UA); Jesse
James' Women (UA) 95
Brandeis Masterson of Kansos (Col); Miss Grant
Takes Richmond (Col) 95
Omaha Suddenly iUA); Killer Leopard (AA)....105
Orpheum White Christmas (Para), 2nd wk. . 150
State Block Widow (20th-Fox) 1 00
Town Great Sioux Uprising (U-l); Francis Covers
the Big Town (U-l) 90
Theatres in Iowa Add
New Screens, Projection
DES MOINES—Four theatres completing
installations of new screens include the following
:
E. J. Ki-amer has installed a new screen at
the Winfield Theatre in Winfield, also Strawberry
Point's Orpheum, according to Manager
Bob Thomas. The Swea in Swea City
has a new Panoramic Glo-Lite screen as well
as Cinemascope lenses.
The Orpheum in Rock Valley has a new
screen, new rectifiers and lamphouses. Walt
Weverstad is manager. Equipment for the
projection of Cinemascope pictures has been
ordered by Jack Kennedy, owner of the Rialto
Theatre in Adel. At the time of the uistallation,
the lobby, offices and restrooms will be
redecorated. The grand opening of the new
wide screen will be on December 15.
Cinemascope, VistaVision and all the other
big picture production and projection systems
have come to the new Rivola in Oskaloosa.
A huge aluminized screen that fills
the theatre stage, together with the conversion
of projection equipment are now being
installed. A new porcelain front, enlargement
of the canopy sign, new neon lighting,
new acoustical ceilings, new light fixtures,
stairways enclosed and the lobby concession
stand rebuilt, the restrooms and the office
remodeled and redecorated, new carpeting,
rebuilt air conditioning and the heating systems
and a large mural by Dr. Hans Teichert
were also on the renovation program.
Want To'wn Theatre Reopened
GEORGE. IOWA—Businessmen announced
they are having a meeting to see what can
be done about getting the George Theatre
back in operation.
Episcopal Paper Explains
How fo Choose a Film
From Eastern Edition
NEW YORK—Moviegoers should select
motion pictures on the basis of the
director and producer rather than the
stars. That is the recommendation made
in the October 31 issue of the Episcopal
Churchnews.
The bi-weekly magazine singled out
Billy Wilder, Joseph Mankiewicz, Stanley
Kramer and John Huston as men whose
names on a film insured quality. It
praised "Sabrina," "The Barefoot Contessa."
"The Caine Mutiny" and "Beat the
Devil," which one or the other of them
made. It also called "On the Waterfront"
the "most powerful and important film
of the year, which everyone should see."
"Dragnet" was rapped.
Theatre Trade Good
In No. Central Area
MINNEAPOLIS—"When we have a good
picture we do business" is the one-sentence
story of exhibition's winning fight in this territory
against TV as told by Harry B. French,
Minnesota Amusement Co. president, and
other exhibitor leaders.
And the fact that currently there are a
considerable number of hefty boxoffice performers
being released, such as "The Last
Time I Saw Paris" and "Desiree," for example,
French pointed out. accounts in large
part for the fact that "business has been
good."
Grosses during the recent Thanksgiving
holiday period were well above par and
highly encouraging over the entire large MAC
circuit, according to French.
Theatre attendance is running well ahead
of many corresponding periods in recent
years, although not up to that of 1953 when
Cinemascope first was hitting the scene with
such boxoffice powerhouses as "The Robe"
and "How to Marry a Millionaire." Expectations
have been exceeded in most of the MAC
situations, French said.
Many of the neighborhood exhibitors here
also report that their recent business has been
good. A favorable boxoffice influence has
been the fact that until a few days ago the
weather left little to be desired.
Omaha Exhibitors Start
Cerebral Palsy Group
OMAHA—Oran Woodson. United Artists
office manager, and Bernard Dudgeon, manager
of the West Dodge Drive-In, returned
from Washington, where they were local delegates
to the United Cerebral Palsy Ass'n convention.
The two Omahans are co-chairmen of an
organization here too for a young adult
cerebral palsy group under the sponsorship
0} the UCPA. They observed a similar unit
which has been in operation in Washington.
The Omahans were in charge of the first
meeting to form a group of young adult
members here last week. The co-chairmen
said top Variety officials took an active part
in the national meeting.
Northwest Variety
Salutes Workman
MINNEAPOLIS—More than 200 associates.
friends and industry members gathered at
the Hotel Nicollet recently to honor W.
H. Workman, MGM
r>^ branch manager who
is retiring after 30
'
'
years in the company
and will move to
"?% ""^
•
Florida.
JL _ The occasion was
•
(^ ;••(,]
Northwest Variety
J^ST' Mim Club, Tent No. 12's,
testimonial dinner for
Workman who became
an industry member in
1921. Speakers paid
tribute to him as a cit-
W. H. Workman izen, a credit to the industry
and an able and conscientious employe.
He was acclaimed for his civic and
other contributions and presented with various
gifts.
Workman helped to organize the Variety
Club here, was a charter member, is a former
chief barker and has been a board
member and held other offices in addition to
chief barker since its inception.
Representing MGM, Eddie Saunders, assistant
general sales manager, said Workman
always had been "an excellent representative"
of the company, given his best to his
employer and never taken a one-sided viewpoint.
"He leaves behind a record for hard
work and accomplishment," declared Saunders,
wishing him the best of luck and continued
good health in his retirement.
Other MGM executives present included
Burtus Bishop and Ralph Maw, midwest
division sales manager and district manager,
respectively. Among those who sent telegi'ams
of tribute to Workman were Vera-
Ellen, Gene Kelly, Esther Williams, Lana
Turner, Elizabeth Taylor, Walter Pidgeon and
W. F. Rodgers.
LeRoy J. Miller, present Northwest Variety
Club chief barker, extolled Workman for his
part in various club activities and drives and
activities. "Bob worked for every project this
club has ever sponsored and it is happy to
hold this testimonial dinner for him," said
Miller. "His departure will be a loss to the
club and community. We want to express our
appreciation for everything that he has done
and to wish him all happiness and good
health."
Emmett Salisbury, local manufacturer, was
toastmaster and among other speakers was
District Court Judge D. D. LaBelle, who told
of Workman's activities as a member of the
BPOE. Unable to be present because of illness,
the pastor of Westminster Presbyterian
Church, which Workman has attended, sent
a letter in which the film man was lauded as
a congregation member.
Thanking those who attended the dinner
and expressing his appreciation of the tributes
paid to him and for the gifts. Workman
said that such friendship as was being evidenced
meant more to him than anything
else. While he is retiring, he asserted, he still
expects to be active in civic and charity
affairs and he looks upon the future as a
challenge.
Character Roles in 'Guys and Dolls'
Stubby Kaye and B. S. Pully have been
booked by Samuel Goldwyn for character roles
in "Guys and Dolls."
BOXOFFICE :
: December
4, 1954 NC 75

. . Lou
over
. . The
.
. .
INNEAPOLIS
Caul Malisow, 20th-Fox manager, and the
. . .
wife departed on a vacation in Florida
One of the happiest men on Filmrow
is Don Swartz. who is distributing the "Karamoja"
and "Half-Way to Hell" package which
has been doing smash business at the Minneapolis
Gopher and St. Paul Tower. It was
ir a third week at each house. It's set for
12 days, at the Duluth Lyric and for a week
at the Fargo Grand.
DELIVERY
We oim to moke delivery
on lenses and screens 2
weeks ofter receipt of order.
We try to get you the hardto-get
items so thot you don't
hove to moke them locally.
Our engineering service, plus
the engineering service of
our many large factories,
places us in a much better
position to give you the best
of new equipment under
these trying times. Ask to
have our representoHves coll
on you for further Information.
^>^>i^^^>^^^^^^W^^^^^^M>
For use on both drive-in and
indoor theatre screens. For
both 2-D and 3-D pictures.
"UNI MAX'' Metallic
Screen Paint
WE ARE
Engineered by Charlie Winchell, Minnesota
Amusement Co. executive, and partly staged
at the circuit's St. Paul Paramount Theatre,
last weekend's cerebral palsy benefit telethon
raised $121,000. The fu'st such benefit here
a year ago, also directed by Winchell, gar-
Jerome Cowan, who has
nered $150,000 . . .
appeared in more than 100 films, often in the
roles of a prosecuting attorney or shyster
lawyer, was at the Lyceum in the stage play,
"The Moon Is Blue."
John Thompson, Columbia exploiteer, returned
to New York after beating a loud
drum for "Phffft" at the RKO Orpheum
. . . Cinemascope
installations in this territory
have now risen to a total of 350 out of
a 640 potential ... At its monthly dinner
meeting in the Hotel Nicollet clubrooms the
Northwest Variety Club will have Bill Stevens,
Minneapolis Star-Tribune executive editor, as
a speaker. And, advises entertainment committee
chairman Saul Malisow, don't forget
TO SELL YOU
Complete 3-D Equipment
Stereophonic Sound
25" and 26" Magazines
For
Wide Angle Lenses
CinemaScope Lenses
Century—Motio—Simplex
F-2 Speed Aperture plates,
also new gates, if needed
Cinemascope Screens
Standard Metallic
Silver Screens
2 weeks delivery
Wide Angle Curved Screens
2 weeks delivery
DES MOINES THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
1121-23 High Street Phone 3-6520 Des Moines, Iowa
the club's big New Year's Eve party in the
clubrooms.
Condolences to Fay Dressell, RKO manager,
whose father died in Sioux City, Iowa .
L. O. Huntsinger resigned as assistant RKO
Orpheum manager to join Cinerama at the
Century as house manager. He succeeds William
Knowles, who resigned . . . Dick and
Don Maw, sons of the MGM district manager
here, have organized and are booking a college
musical sextette which has grabbed off
a Prom ballroom engagement . South
Dakota Exhibitors Ass'n will hold its annual
convention at Sioux Palls December 9, with
film rentals and product shortage expected
to be the principal topics of discussion. Plans
to fight any proposal for a state or local
admission tax also will be outlined.
DES MOINES
A surprise reunion took place in Lou Levy's
office at Universal last week when Archie
Herzoff, studio executive here gathering information
for improving Universal's service to
exhibitors, met his uncle. Archie Kroloff,
whom he had not seen for 40 years! The
was arranged by Levy when he
get-together
learned that the two men had not seen each
other for so long and was planned as a surprise
for Herzoff. Kroloff is the father-inlaw
of Jay Sandler, son of Nathan Sandler,
so he's acquainted with Filmrow personnel.
Roberta Rebelsky is the new contract clerk
at Allied Pictures, taking over the duties of
Ann Branco who has been promoted to cashier
at Allied . . . Sol Francis, Allied district
manager, visited the exchange recently . . .
A. H. Blank, Ti'i-States president, is one of
two representatives on the national Jewish
tercentenary committee for Des Moines. Observance
of the tercentenary opened in Des
Moines November 26 with services at several
synagogues.
. . Bernice
Don Willis, president of the Des Moines
Junior Chamber of Commerce, presented a
"Beau Brummell" statuette to Dave Ostrem,
who was elected "best-dressed Junior Chamber
member in Des Moines" la.st week. The
contest was sponsored by Badower tailoring
shop in connection with "Beau Brummell,"
playing at the Ingersoll Tlieatre . . . Jerry
McGlynn jr. of Arlington, Va., visited his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry McGlymi (MGM
manager I the weekend .
Rudston, 20th-Fox secretary, was special arrangements
chaii'man for Senior Hadassah's
annual Mary Davidson donor reception which
was held last Saturday night at Yonkers tearoom.
Mildred Davis, Universal, journeyed with
her husband to Centerville for the weekend . .
Frank Zanotti is the new second booker at
Universal. Frank w'as formerly a shipper at
RKO before he served his stint with Uncle
Sam . Levy is making plans to go to
Kansas City with his salesmen on December
17 and 18 and receive reports of the general
me-etings now going on at the Universal
studios in California.
Filmite Injured in Omaha
OMAHA—Mrs. Esther Green, owner of
FEPCO. film advertising company, suffered
a bruised nose in a three-car collision on a
heavily-traveled street here and was treated
at County Hospital. Her car collided with the
rear of another car which was pushed into
another auto.
76 BOXOFFICE :
: December
4, 1954

Alvin at Minneapolis
Still Revival Center
MINNEAPOLIS—The Rev. R. H. Russell,
who a year ago outbid Charlie Fox, burlesque
impresario, for the Alvin Theatre and converted
the showhouse into an evangelistic
tabernacle, says the operation has been so
successful that he's renewing the lease. It's
a disappointment to Fox who had hoped to
recover the theatre and install burlesque
again.
Staging revival meetings with "guest stars"
seven nights a week, the minister now calls
the theatre the Minneapolis Evangelistic
Auditorium, but hasn't removed the big
"Alvin" sign.
For the venture the evangelist says he
borrowed $10,000 and by the time it opened
the tabernacle was $17,000 in debt. But now
all cm-rent bills have been paid and the debt
is nearly entirely wiped out.
The tabernacle features traveling evangelists
for two or thi-ee weeks and a local
preacher recently married one of them, "Sister
Pern" Huffstutler of Tulsa, Okla.
800-Car Drive-In Begun
By Standard, Green Bay
GREEN BAY. WIS.—Work was started
recently
on a $150,000 drive-in near here by
Standard Theatres. E. H. Brennan, district
manager, said the site is on Highways 41 and
141 where circuses showed for many years.
The 70x90 screen tower will accommodate
both Cinemascope and VistaVision pictures.
Perspecta and stereophonic sound equipment
will be installed, there will be spaces for 800
cars and a large children's playground.
A Breakfast 'Star' Debut
LA CROSSE, WIS.—A "Breakfast Premiere"
was held at the Rivoli Theatre here by Manager
Hayden Owen of "A Star Is Born " The
theatre was opened at 8:30 a.m. and coffee
and doughnuts were seiTed to patrons. An
announcer from the local radio station interviewed
the early theatregoers.
Pay as You Like
WHITE, S.
D.—The White Theatre, owned
by Melvin Blaisdell, permits patrons to witness
the screen attraction and then set the
price they'll pay. Policy is on an experimental
basis, Blaisdell says.
MILWAUKEE
T ocal
exhibitors are musing over the recent
report released by the National Catholic
Welfare Conference, which pointed out that:
"... there is grave concern over the lowering
of standards of decency in motion picture
advertising." adding, that the bishops are
worried about the apparent indifference of
the authorities of the industry toward the
trend of their inability effectively to deal
with it. The report showed that 56, or about
20 per cent of the American films it viewed,
were found morally objectionable in part for
Catholics, with two films being condemned.
The Legion passed 120, about 43 per cent, as
morally unobjectionable for general patronage,
and 101, or about 36 per cent, for adults
only. Comment from one exhibitor: "The
trick, is to show a film which one and all will
appreciate, and still do good business for us."
Television and the film houses joined in a
weekend Celebrity Parade, running from
Saturday night, through Sunday the 28th
till 2 p.m., for the Cerebral Palsy campaign.
TV station WTVW, Milwaukee's latest, in
which Harold J. Fitzgerald and Andy Spheeris
have an interest, handled the TV end of it,
while on stage at the Palace, a star studded
array of acts performed throughout the long
vigil. Collections were made, and pledges
accepted.
Comes now. the latest in added features. The
Royal Tlieatre which reopened recently with
Cinemascope and all the trimmings, is going
in for wrestling. Kids. 15 cents: adults, 50.
Other exhibitors in this area are keeping
their sights geared to the boxoffice appeal
of the "new deal."
. .
George Levine. who operates the Grace.
Pearl and Layton theatres, announces that
he is installing Cinemascope and wide screen
in his Layton house. Says he will open
Christmas Day with a really big program .
Tommy Mack, who was nudged out of his
position as manager of the Zenith Theatre
when it was sold to a religious organization, is
now managing the Zenith Recreation Parlors,
adjacent to the former film house.
Sidney Margoles, manager of the Regal, had
what appeared to be a "close call." Says Sid:
"I left the theatre Sunday night carrying
the boxoffice proceeds for the day. Somehow,
I discovered that I was being trailed by
a motorist who slowed down when I slacked
HANDY

. . . Paul
. Howard
. . The
. . P.
. . Mrs.
: December
M A H A
rjick Marvel, exhibitor at St. Paul, is doing
a lot of redecorating to the lobby of the
Riviera. He is putting in tile flooring in the
outer area, redoing the boxoffice and putting
in new carpeting in the inner area and foyer
Kennedy, owner of the Bow
Theatre at Broken Bow, is taking an extended
visit in Arizona . . . Hillis Hubbell has closed
the theatre at Fairfield.
Norma Craig, ledger clerk at Paramount,
will be married January 8 to Robert Mountain
at St. Peter's Catholic Church ... Flo Hamer,
MGM booker, and her husband visited relatives
at Grand Island over the weekend. Virginia
Struble, cashier, went to her home at
Castana.
Cal Bard, United Artists salesman, suffered
a leg injury in an auto accident near Wahoo
Tramp, Oxford exhibitor, is recovering
from injuries suffered in a car crash but
his arm still is in a cast . . . Only a handful
of Belleville Kansans were aware of the visit
of Victor Jory, his wife and daughter. John
Miller, motor court operator, recognized them
when they registered and had them as guests
at his cafe in the morning.
Hob Hirz, hustling manager of the Cass
Theatre at Plattsmouth, Is entering into the
bowling alley business with two townsmen,
Jim Begley and Don Bell, the latter a runnerup
in the state golf tournament. The trio
are building an eight-alley layout in the
American Legion building.
Wally Johnson has reopened the Vogue
Theatre at Friend . Moon at Wilber
also is in operation again . W. Naulteus,
operator of the Maple at Mapleton. Iowa, was
so enthused when he saw "White Christmas"
that he wired Manager M. E. Anderson at
Paramount: "Can't say enough about "White
Christmas.' The color is wonderful and it's
all entertainment."
Ira Crain, exhibitor at the Woods Theatre
in Fairbury. has entered into a hookup with
the PTA for a Christmas party for the kiddies.
At Cambridge, George "Bud" Baughman
has .scheduled a special show at the
Ritz for children in the area . Jerry
McGlynn, wife of the former Omaha MGM
manager who now heads the Des Moines exchange,
was in Omaha with her son Jen'y jr.
He was best man at the wedding of Dennis
Radford, who was best man at young Jerry's
wedding.
Exhibitors on Filmrow included John
Fischer of Valley; Earl Cowden, Sidney;
Frank Good, Red Oak; Charles Thoene,
Lyons; Dick Johnson, Red Oak; Sol Slominsky,
Loup City; Harold Schoonover, Aurora;
Mrs. Ai-t Goodwater, Madison; Cliff Shearon,
Genoa; Phil Lannon, West Point, and Mr.
and Mrs. Fred Schuler, Humboldt.
The Warner staff was puzzled when calls
started coming in regarding "a new representative
of the company transferred to
Nebraska who advertised for a house or
apartment." There were no newcomers to the
staff. When the calls increased, WB checked
with the newspaper on the wanted-to-rent
ad. It developed that a representative for a
firm selling bras had placed the ad for a
friend. And the friend was employed by a
women's foundation garment company with a
name similar to Warner Bros. Somewhere
along the line somebody more familiar with
the film company than the foundation firm
got Warner Bros, into the act.
Couple to Manage
MADRID. NEB.—Mr. and Mrs. Virgil Johnson
recently took over the management of
the Zala Theatre here.
Installs CS for $1,000
COLD SPRING. MINN.—A CinemaScope
installation has been completed at the Spring
Theatre at a cost of $1,000, according to owner
Carl Fiala.
Rash of Twin Bills Hits
Minneapolis Screens
MINNEAPOLIS—In the late runs here, independent
neighborhood houses are twin billing
Cinemascope pictures with other features.
During the past week, for example, one
house, the Ritz, had as duals "King of the
Khyber Rifles" and "Johnny Dark," while
another, the Leola, linked "Prince Valiant"
and "Stunt Pilot," while recently a St. Paul
'late run outlying theatre twin billed "The
Robe."
Although this is considered a single feature
stronghold, last Sunday found many other
local neighborhood theatres twin billing.
Among the bills were "Rear Window" and
"Fighter Attack," "The Stooge" and "Etetective
Story," "On the Waterfront" and "Battle
of Rogue River," "Dragnet" and "Along Came
Jones" and "Apache" and "Detective Story."
Bought by Bill Farrell
SCRANTON, IOWA— Bill
Farrell has purchased
the Rex Theatre here from the Security
Savings Bank. He plans to operate the
house along with his TV, radio and appliance
business.
Installs More Seats
WESTFIELD, WIS.—The Westfield Theatre
has added 375 seats, according to William
Pi-ice. manager.
Melvin Ehlers Installs CS
ARLINGTON. MINN. — CinemaScope was
installed at the Lido Theatre by owner Melvin
Ehlers.
Ringsted, Iowa, Theatre Sold
RINGSTED. IOWA—The Ringsted Theatre
has been sold by Leslie Larson to Harold
Kramer of Whittemore. effective December 1.
The sale does not include the theatre building.
Kramer's brother and sister-in-law. who
have been employed in the theatre, will continue
in their jobs.
Let Western Show You the Advantages of
RCA Stereoscope
Sound
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• Professional counsel by RCA engineers
• Complete installation . . . costs less than you think
• Nationally-famous RCA quality and performance
• Proved Projection Equipment, Stereoscope Sound
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• Year 'round parts and service facilities.
WESTERN
THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
214 N. FiUccnlli. Om.ilu. Neb. .. Phone: Allaiillt 9046
Hundreds of theatres throughout the nation are
building up big grosses on new wide screen pictures
with RCA installations. Ask us to prove it. And remember,
Western can supply you with everything
else for the theotre, including booth ond concession
supplies, disp'ay signs, etc.
at Manitowoc
"Christinas'
MANITOWOC. WIS.—"White Christmas"
was opened Thanksgiving Day at the Capitol
Theatre here by Manager Robert Guiterman.
BUY AND USE
X
CHRISTMAS SEALS
TUBERCULOSIS
78
BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1954

—
——
—
Frank Moyer Quits
After Half a Century
GEORGETOWN, OHIO — Frank "Pop"
Moyer, manager of the Grant Theatre, has
retired from show business after an intermittent
association with the house for over
half a century. Recently the house changed
hands and Moyer resigned, something he had
been wanting to do for the past ten years.
"Pop" Moyer began in show business here
back in 1893 when he was just 16. The Berz
Opera House was in operation then and young
Moyer was given the job of tacking up signs
for the coming vaudeville and stage shows.
Stage shows first started in the Auditorium,
now known as the Grant, in 1908. Six
years later. Moyer, along with the late Bill
Eylai- and George Steele, formed the Georgetown
Home Amusement Co. which presented
vaudeville and stage shows at the Auditorium
until 1918 when a continual run of movies
took their place.
Moyer left the Auditorium in 1929, returning
in 1942 when the theatre changed to the
Grant and was taken over by Hank Davidson,
who operated it with "Pop" as manager until
the recent sale.
As well as a theatre manager, Moyer has
been equally well known as a painter. Some
of his oil paintings have won both state and
national awards.
Dorothy Moore has replaced Moyer at the
Grant under the new ow-ners John Hewitt of
Bethel and Jerry Jackson of Williamsburg.
Fred Schram Death Stirs
Memories in Cleveland
CLEVELAND—The death recently of Fred
Schram in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he
and his wife retired after more than 40 years
in the film business In Cleveland, has revived
memories among some of the local
old timers.
Frank Greenwald recalled that back in
1912 he, Fred Schram and his brother Victor
Schram operated a small independent exchange
called Exclusive Features, with offices
at 737 Prospect Ave., over the old
Corona Theatre.
"Our product," Greenwald said, "consisted
of two-reel foreign pictures. WTien we split up
in 1928, Fred joined Nate Schultz to distribute
the first of the Disney cartoons in
northern Ohio, Victor moved to California to
break into the production end of the growing
industry and I joined the local Goldwyn
branch as a salesman under H. A.
Bandy. With the development of theatre circuits
I decided to go into exhibition and
joined the old Universal Theatres circuit.
This was the circuit later acquired by the
late Dr. I. B. Brody. In later years I joined
the Paul Gusdanovic circuit as theatre manager
but to escape the severe winters I went
south for several years."
Today Greenwald is retired but he returned
to Cleveland to spend his leisure days and
occasionally shows up in the Film building
to see some friends.
Detroit Day-Dates for 'Duel'
DETROIT— Citywide .showings of "Duel in
the Sun" will begin on December 12, according
to Albert Dezel. Arrangements have
been completed with James Sharkey of Cooperative
Theatres. Jack Haynes of United
Detroit Theatres and other circuits.
Local 735 Holds 15th
Anniversary Dinner
DETROIT—lATSE Local 735 celebrated
the 15th anniversary of its founding at a
dinner at Marine City for oldtimers, mem-
One of the main features of the 15th
anniversary dinner of the lATSE Local
735 at Marine City was the presentation
of a life membership to John Baker,
right, the union's oldest active member.
Shown presenting a watch to the 71-
year-old projectionist is John Shuff,
lATSE representative from Akron.
bers. exhibitors and guests. Fred Fritz Devantier,
president of the local, acted as toastmaster.
Guests included John Shuff, lATSE representative
at Akron; Clyde Adler. business
agent of Stagehands Local 38 at Detroit and
president of the Michigan Alliance; Earl
Ross, business agent of the Pontiac local;
Jack Cassin, business agent of the Port Huron
local, and Frank Kinsora, business agent of
Detroit Local 199.
A highlight was the presentation by Shuff
of a gold engraved life membership card to
the oldest member, John Baker, who has
been a projectionist in Marine City for 42
years and is still working at the Mariner
Theatre at the age of 71.
William Green to Represent
Mich. Showmen's Ass'n
DETROIT—William H. Green, midwest
director of exploitation for Cinerama, has
been named as the first representative of the
motion picture industry ever to head the
Michigan Showmen's Ass'n. Green has been
nominated for the presidency without opposition
and will take office in January. His
fh-st official appearance will be as presidentelect
at the annual banquet of the Showmen's
League of America in Chicago.
Gina Gets on Look, Life
Covers in Same Month
NEW YORK — Gina Lollobrigida
achieved a new distinction in her national
publicity buildup by IFE Releasing
Corp. by getting on the front covers
of Life and Look in succeeding weeks.
It was the first time it has been done
within the memoi->' of most of the publicity
directors.
'Desiree' Scores 190
At Cleveland Debut
CLEVELAND—Big pictures, new and held
over, brought in the patrons. Sneak previews
helped swell attendance at two theatres, the
State with "The Last Time I Saw Paris" and
the Palace with "Carmen Jones. Of the regular
shows on the first run screens, "Desiree"
was a smash hit at the Hippodrome with a
190 per cent rating and "The Little Kidnappers"
boosted the Lower Mall take to 140 per
cent. Three holdovers chalked up excellent
records. "White Christmas" was still very
strong in its fifth straight week at the Stillman;
"The Barefoot Contessa" made an excellent
showing in its second week on a holdover
at the State, and "Sabrina" hit better
than average in its thu-d week on the Main
Stem. Good weather, heavy downtown shopping
and early Christmas displays brought
lots of people downtown.
(Average Is 100)
Allen Black Widow (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 75
Hippodrome Desiree (20th-Fox) 190
Lower Mall The Little Kidnoppers (UA) 140
Ohio Sabrina (Para), 3rd wk, 115
Palace Private Hell 36 (Filmakers); Drive a
Crooked Mile (Col) 100
(UA),
Stillman
(Para),
State The Borefoot
White Christmas
Contessa 2nd wk
4th wk
115
240
Cincinnati
Grosses
On the Weak Side
CINCINNATI—Grosses have been on the
weak side. The holdovers made better showings
than the new attractions. "White Christmas"
in its fourth week at Keiths scored 150,
and "Sabrina" in its third downtown week
was 125.
Albee Suddenly (UA) 1 10
Grand Sabrina (Para), 3rd d. t. wk 125
Keiths White Christmas (Paro), 4fh wk 150
Palace The Adventures of Hajji Babo (20th-Fox) . 1 20
'Desiree' and "Christmas'
Lead at Detroit
DETROIT—Holiday business varied from
terrific to below average. Leading the local
first run bills were "Desiree" at 200 per cent
at the United Ai-tists Theatre and "White
Christmas" at the Michigan Theatre with
190 in its fourth week. The only other films
which attracted above average boxoffices were
"Down Three Dark Streets" at the Palms and
"A Star Is Born" in its eighth week at the
Madison Theatre.
Adams Athena (MGM), 2nd wk 70
Broodway-Capitol The Golden Mistress (UA);
Target Earth (AA) 95
Fox—Block Widow (20th-Fox), 3rd wk 80
Madison A Star Is Born (WB), 8th wk 120
Michigon White Christmas (Para), 4th wk 190
Palms Down Three Dark Streets (UA); Khyber
Potrol (UA) 1 20
United Artists— Desiree (20lh-Fox) 200
Little
Boys Abandoned
In Theatre at Toledo
TOLEDO—Two little boys, one 3 and the
other 2, were abandoned by their mother one
day recently in the Rivoli Theatre. A note
pinned to the jacket of the older boy read:
"Please take my little boys to the welfare
station so they can have a home. I have no
money and no food for them. Please see that
they get a home." The boys were found by
an usher of the Rivoli Theatre, owned by
Howard Feigley and W. N. Skirball. They
did not know their last name nor where they
lived. Both boys were clean and well dressed.
They were taken by Child Welfare Board
workers to the Miami Children's Home. No
trace of either parent has been found.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 ME 79

. . Mrs.
GET ALL YOUR SPECIAL
^DAYTi^S
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Van Praag Detroit Office
Headed by Woodburn
NEW YORK—Van Praag Productions,
headed by William Van Praag, has opened
a branch office at Detroit in the Dime Building
with William
Robert Woodburn in
charge.
Offices also will be
opened in Chicago and
Los Angeles in the
near future.
Woodburn has been
a producer, director
and writer on more
than 200 industrial
pictures and film
strips.
At the home office
W. K. Woodburn
Marc S. Asch has been
promoted to executive vice-president from
head of production. Gilbert Williams, former
production manager, has been named director
of production and Sidney John Kuppershmid
has been named head of the creative
department.
Old Law Assists Theatre
In Toledo Damage Suit
TOLEDO—Federal Judge Fiank L. Kloeb
invoked an Ohio law- that established "a
person opening a door to enter a dark room
is at fault if he falls in the room and is injured,"
in a personal damage suit involving
the Paramount Theatre operated by the Theatre
Leasehold Corp.
Upon instruction from the judge reciting
this Ohio law, a jury hearing the case returned
a verdict in favor of the theatre in a
suit in which George Reiser, a musician,
claimed damages in the amount of $125,000
for injuries caused when he fell into a raised
orchestra pit in the Paramount in March 1933
while he was orchestra leader of the stage
show, "Top Banana." Reiser said the sixfoot
fall injui-ed his arm and shoulder, interfering
with his career as a violinist.
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DETROIT
. . .
. . Joseph Ellul, owner
gill Green, regional exploitation director for
Cinerama, is back from a trip to Chicago
and Minneapolis Fi-ank Upton, manager
of the Music Hall, has been visiting in Minneapolis
and inspecting the presentation of
Cinerama in that city .
of the Empress Theatre, writes from Fort
Lauderdale, where he is running the Sans
Souci Apartments, that "the weather is on
the sunny side" . . Floyd Akins, secretary
.
of the Nightingales Club, was a singularly
.silent bowler this week.
Joseph J. Lee, 20th-Fox manager, and Dillon
M. Krepps, managing director of the
United Artists Theatre, combined forces for
a screening of "Desii-ee" Monday at the
Anne O'Donnell, office manager
theatre . . .
for Dezel Roadshows, has moved to the west
side . . . Thomas F. Duane, Paramount manager,
reports "White Christmas" doing top
business in Butterfield houses across Michigan
in addition to its phenomenal Detroit
record Leonard Gray is coming in from
. . .
Denver to take over as exploitation man for
Paramount here and in Cleveland, succeeding
Harry Weiss who resigned.
. . .
Mel Donlon, formerly of the Westown Theatre,
has succeeded Fi-ed Warendorp as operator
at the Beverly Emery Williams, a
newcomer to show business, is managing the
Dawn. He replaces Robert Brutell . . . Walter
. . . Nita
P. Conlan has returned to management of
the Globe, succeeding Basil Julian who has
gone into the painting business
Shoemaker, veteran cashier at the Strand,
has moved out to the Beverly . . David M.
.
Idzal, managing director of the Fox Theatre,
is making a ten-day trip to the West Coast.
COLUMBUS
•The RKO Palace, RKO Grand, Loew's Ohio
and Loew's Broad cooperated with the
Columbus Retail Merchants Ass'n in awarding
50 tickets each day in a nine-day Shop
Downtown promotion in which the Columbus
Transit Co. assisted. Free bus tickets were
given to downtown shoppers. Theatre tickets
were given to shoppers who identified the
"Mystery Shopper" who circulated among
downtown stores.
Former screen star Elyse Knox accompanied
her husband Tom Harmon, University of
Michigan All-American, here for his television
broadcast of the Ohio State-Michigan
Ethel Miles
game in Ohio Stadium .
has installed Cinemascope equipment in the
Drexel, Bexley suburban, and J. Real Neth
has installed Cinemascope screens in the
Clinton and Lincoln.
Screen star Burgess Meredith will be here
at the Hartman in "Teahouse of the August
Moon" starting December 16 . . . Doubt has
been cast on the financial soundness of a
proposed municipal parking garage at Town
and Third streets. City officials are considering
an alternate suggestion for a combined
parking garage and city market on the site of
the present antiquated Central market at
Town and Fourth streets. The latter site
would be within walking distance of all
downtown theatres.
80 BOXOFFICE :
: December 4, 1954

a
. . Sam
. . Joe
Grand Prize Handling
23 German Features
NEW YORK—Moritz Hamburger, president
of Grand Prize Films of New York, and a
pioneer circuit operator in Berlin and Hanover,
Germany, has returned from a trip to
his native country with plans for the most
ambitious effort in 20 years to present
German films in the U. S. and Canada.
Hambui'ger, now an American citizen,
has
contracts covering a large number of the
German pictures in current release, he said.
He also reports a great "upsurge in production
in the centers of such activity in all
zones in
Germany."
Starting with "Desires," which has already
had iNevv York first runs at the World Theatre
and Fifth Avenue Playhouse, Hamburger's
Grand Prize company will distribute seven
otner pictm'es with Enghsh titles, five features
m English-language versions and ten
in tne original German without English
titles. The latter, of coui-se, are for German
language audiences only in theatres such as
the Casino in the Yorkville section of Manhattan
and the Wagner Theatre in Brooklyn.
The pictures with English titles will be;
"Diary of a Lover," a K. J. Fritzsche-Magna
production, starring Maria Schell and O. W.
rischer; "Melody Beyond Love," a Capitol
production, starrmg Willy Bu-gel and Inge
iigger; "Pertiay, ' George Win proaucuon,
starring O. W. Fischer, Kuth Leuwerik and
(jarl Wery; "Make Way for Do," a Capitol
production, starring Paola Loew; "Fountain
of Life," a Karl-Hartl Helios production, starrmg
Gustav Fi'ohlich and Cornell Borchers;
"Don't Forget Love," a Standard production,
starring Luise UUi'ich and Paul Dahlke, and
"Noblesse Oblige," a Fama-Mainz production,
in Eastman uoior, starring Hans Sohnker and
Aiinemaii'e Blanc.
The features for German audiences only
will be: "Chaplain of San Lorenzo," a Neue-
Kmelka-Zeyn production; "Two Lives," a
Minerva production; "Olivia," a Central
Europa production; "Seven Sinners," a Konig-
Capitol production; "Ann of Tharau," an
Apollo production; "Pension Schiller," a K. J.
pTitsche-Magna production; "Liesel, Sharpshooter,"
a Central-Eui'opa production; "The
Uncle Fi-om America," a Carl Boese-CCC
production; "Private Secretary," a CCC production,
and "The Miller's Wife," an Algefa
film. In addition, "Angelika," starring Maria
Schell, which has played a New York first
run and is being distributed by Joseph Brenner
Associates in an English-language version,
will be handled in its original German
version by Grand Prize for the German
language houses.
The Grand Prize features to be shown in
English language versions will be: "Hanga
Parbat." an Agfacolor picture, based on the
joint German-Austrian Himalaya expedition
of 1953; "My Name Is Toxi," Fonofilm production
starring Elfie Fiegert in the story of
the little Negro child of an American GI,
which will open in New York in November;
"Dangerous Border," a CCC production dealing
with juvenile delinquency: "The Queen's
Cavalier." made by Tobis in Berlin 1940, starring
Hans Albers and Kaethe Dorsch, and
"FBI Does Not Answer," a reissue of the
1933 UFA classic starring Conrad Veidt, by
arrangement of the alien property custodian
of the Department of Justice.
CLEVELAND
The Fere Essicks of Modern Theatres followed
their usual custom of holding a
two-day celebration, one at the home of each
of their sons Jack and Ray . Rembrandt
of the Center-Mayfield here and the
Ellet in Akron suffered a couple of broken
ribs as result of an automobile accident
Thursday night (25 1 ... A group of industry
members journeyed to Toledo Wednesday
(24) to attend an invitational preview of the
new 1.500-car Miracle Mile Drive-In. which
opened to the public the following day. Invitations
were issued by Berlo 'Vending Co. and
the owners of the new ozoner. Among those
who attended were Tom McCleaster, I. J.
Schmertz, Nat Barach, Harry Buxbaum, Dan
Rosenthal, Ernest Sands. Jud Spiegle and
Mr. and Mrs. Lou Ratener. The theatre will
remain open all w'inter, according to Al
Boudouris who is in charge of operations.
. . .
Word was received here that Mrs. Fair, wife
of one of the owners of the Kenton Theatre.
Kenton, died . Shia, owner of the
Old TraU Theatre, St. Clairsville, has installed
optical sound Cinemascope. The installation
was made by Frank Masek, National
Theatre Supply manager George Delis
of Canton, general manager of the Interstate
Theatre circuit, wrote from Greece that he
and his wife are enjoying their vacation trip
to their homeland . . . Jerome Safron. Columbia
manager, relays enthusiastic reports of
the pictures he saw at the company's recent
sales meeting in Chicago.
. . .
Nate Schultz of Allied Aj-tists is reportedly
negotiating for another drive-in in this territory.
Recently he took over Horace Shock's
three drive-ins at Lima . . . Jack Share, UA
salesman, will spend Christmas with his
family in Florida Edward Shulman's
new art policy at the Heights Theatre has
caught on with the public with the result
that its opening picture, "Bread, Love and
Dreams," was held over for a three-week
run.
CBS 9-Month Sales, Profits
Set New Company Records
NEW YORK— Sales and net earnings of the
Columbia Broadcasting System, Inc., hit new
highs for the first nine months of this year.
Gross sales were $263.(?46,543, an increase
of 18 per cent over the same period for 1953.
The net earnings were $7,299,130,
an Increase
of 14 per cent over the $6,411,343 for the first
nine months of 1953.
Cash dividends have been voted by the
directors of 30 cents on the Class A and
Class B shares, both payable December 10
to stockholders of record November 26. A
stock dividend of 2 per cent also has been
voted on the Class A and Class B shares.
Theatre Shift in Antwerp
ANTWERP, OHIO—The Antwerp Theatre
is now under the management of Allen
Sehlmeyer and Ralph Ti-avis who plan to
operate the house on a nightly schedule with
a Sunday matinee.
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 81

. . Murray
20
CINCINNATI
polloiving a free buffet dinner Monday evening
(6) in the clubrooms, the local
Variety tent will elect 11 new members of the
crew. The Variety auxiliary will hold its election
on Wednesday afternoon, December 8
William Onie, local theatre circuit owner,
. . .
underwent sui-gery last week. He operates
theatres in Cincinnati, Mariemont, Elmwood
Place and Oxford. His Miami Western Theatre
in Oxford, which is a college town, has
been converted to an art house.
. . .
Local Filmrow folk received postcards from
Lester Rosenfeld of Charleston and St.
Albans, W. Va., postmarked Yokohama,
Japan, which is on his itinerary in the Far
East . . . Good progress is being reported by
Mark Cummins on construction of his new
Circle 25 Drive-In at Lexington, Ky., which
he hopes to have open by Christmas. This
will be a deluxer equipped for year around
operation James Booze and his partner
Harold Ball, Skyline Drive-In, Verda, Ky.,
have leased the Ronnie Drive-In at London,
Ky., from Jimmy Minnix.
Joe Marshall of Danville, Ky., who operates
a conventional as well as a drive-in in that
town, attended the National Allied convention
in Chicago . Baker, salesman
for Italian Films Exporting Co. in the Cincinnati
and Indianapolis territories, is currently
looking for suitable space on Filmrow,
RCA STEREOSCOPE SOUND I
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Priced Theatre Packi.
—
to open an exchange here. He reports recent
openings of "Bread, Love and Dreams," starring
Gina Lollobrigida, the Italian actress,
at the Esquire in Cincinnati, Bexley in Columbus,
the Heights in Cleveland and Keiths
in Indianapolis. At the Esquire here, the
picture was in its second week. Bernard
Jacon, vice-president and general sales manager
of IFE, recently visited here, meeting
exhibitors.
Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, not many
out-of-town exhibitors made appearances on
the Row. Among those who did were Fred
Krimm, John Gregory, Roy Wells, Alan
Warth and Lou Wetzel, all of Dayton: Harry
Wheeler, Gallipolis: Ray Young, South Shore,
Ky.; Ml-, and Mrs. Paul Orebaugh, New
Vienna; Walter Wyrick, New Carlisle, Ky.;
William Clegg, Vandalla; J. H. Davidson,
Lynchburg; Jim Howe, Carrollton, Ky., and
D. D. Brakefield, Sabina.
The auxiliary of the Variety Club recently
entertained patients at the new Cincinnati
Veterans Hospital. Chairman of the committee
was Mrs. Morris Dennis, and assisting
her were Mesdames Sam Weiss, president;
Stuart Jacobson, Abe Maiua, Phil Pox, James
Abrose and Harry Pollms. The boys received
Helen Cirin, manager's
birthday gifts . . .
secretary at U-I, is convalescing at home
after a back operation.
Randy Matteson, Ohio and Kentucky salesman
for Republic, resigned to open a business
of his own . . . Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Booth
(he is MGM manager! spent Thanksgiving
in Indianapolis with their son-in-law.
'White Christmas' Rated
Family Entertainment
NEW YORK—"White Christmas" (Para)
is the only film rated for family audiences in
the November 15 listing of joint estimates
prepared by the Film Estimate Board of National
Organizations.
Seven are rated for adults and young
people. They are: "Black Widow" i20th-Fox)
and "Carmen Jones" (20th-Pox), both classified
as outstanding films: "The Adventures
of Hajji Baba" (20th-Fox), "The Black
Knight" (Coll, "The Sign of the Pagan"
(U-I), "Fire Over Africa" (Col) and "The
Golden Mistress" (UA).
One film is rated for adults. It is "This Is
My Love" (RKO).
Mrs. A. S. Kany Is Killed
DAYTON—Mrs. Arthur S. Kany, wife of
the veteran motion picture-drama editor of
the Dayton Journal-Herald, was killed in an
automobile accident Saturday (20). Kany,
who was seriously injured, is in the Dayton
Good Samaritan Hospital. Howard Kany, a
son, is attached to the CBS News Bureau,
New York.
Hazen P. Thorn Dead
DETROIT—Hazen P. Thorn, 53,
projectionist
at the Ecorse Drive-In, died of a heart
attack recently while deer hunting. A member
of Local lATSE 199 since 1943, he had
been working here as an operator since 1929.
He was formerly at Campau. Hamtramck.
He is survived by his wife, four daughters
and a son.
Seat Service Co. Offering
Two-Year Payment Plan
From Southeast Edition
NASHVILLE—A new long-term payment
plan, enabling theatre owners to rehabilitate
their seating facilities immediately and extend
their payments up to two years, is now
offered by the Theatre Seat Service Co. here.
"This convenient plan," Fred Massey, president,
declared, "will enable theatre owners
to do a complete repair or renovation job on
wornout and outmoded seating at once, without
feeling the strain of cash outlays. This
is especially important to those owners who
may be experiencing slight business slumps
partially due to unattractive, uncomfortable
seating."
Theatre Seat Service, known throughout
the country as leading "servicers" to exhibitors,
has attained its reputation solely
through its facilities for complete reconditioning.
These include tightening of l(X>se
or strained parts, repair of broken parts, replacement
of wornout seats, backs or complete
units, and recovering with finest upholstering
fabrics from a wide selection of
patterns and colors.
According to Massey, "Theatre Seat Service
does a guaranteed, inexpensive job on any
chair, regardless of its style or make. The
entire rehabilitation will be performed without
the slightest interruption or interference
with the show."
BOWLING
DETROIT—Altec Sound rolled up a point
and a half lead in the Nightingale Club
Bowling League. Team standings for the
week are;
Team Won Lost Team Won Lost
Altec 181/2 131/2 Amuse. Sup 17 15
Ernie Forbes. 17 15 Not'l Carbon 14 18
Local 199 17 15 NTS I21/2 I91/2
Individual high scores rolled were: Jack
Colwell 246-193, total 611; Roy Thompson
233, 575; Carl Mingione 204, 532; Francis
Light 200-200, 525; Ralph Haskin 246, 502;
Nick Forest 202. 520, and Edgar Douville 521,
RKO Radio is holding a one-game lead in
the Film Bowling League. New standings are;
Team Won Lost Teom Won Lost
RKO 27 17 Theotricol 20 24
Allied Film 26 18 Allied Artists . 24
Republic 22 22 United Artists. 17 27
High team scores rolled for three games
for the season to date are: Allied Film, 2,547;
RKO Radio. 2,519; Theatrical, 2,447. Single
games: Allied Film, 936; Allied Artist's, 901;
Theatrical, 879.
Individual high scores for three games:
Hogg, 618; England, 591; Kozaren. 569. For
single games; Baran, 243; Hogg. 241; S. Malinowski,
230.
Theatre to Basle-Laskey
MORGANTOWN, W. VA.—The Basle-
Laskey Theatres, Inc., has purchased the
Westover Drive-In here from the Bell Brothers,
wholesale grocers here.
Youth Center in Theatre
LANSING, OHIO—A youth center, the first
of its kind in the Lansing valley area, will
be opened soon in the converted Lansing
Theatre. The building was leased jointly to
St. Joseph's Church of Wolfhurst and the
All Saints Church of Blaine. The theatre
went dark in October 1953.
82 BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
'Christmas' Remains
On Top in Boston
BOSTON—Despite being held for the fourth
consecutive week, "White Christmas" stUl
led the field in attendance and gross, and the
management is holding it a fifth week. This
picture made a new record for business at
the twin theatres, the Paramount and Fenway,
which will be difficult to top. Also
strong was "Suddenly" at the State and
Orpheum which warranted a holdover but
could not be actuated, due to commitments.
"The Last Time I Saw Paris" started off well
in its first week.
(Average Is 100)
Astor The Last Time I Sow Poris (MGM) 180
Beacon Hill Hobson's Choice (UA), 4th wk 105
Boston This Is Cineromo iCinerama), 47th v/k. . . 95
Exeter Street High and Dry (U-l), 6th wk 95
Memorial Block Widow (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 110
Metropolitan A Star Is Born (WB), 5th wk 90
Paramount and Fenway White Christmos [Para),
4th wk 225
Pilgrim Block Knight (Col); Convicted (Coll,
2nd wk 115
State and Orpheum Suddenly (UA); Her Twelve
Men (MGM) 1 75
'Christmas' Continues on Top
In Strong Hartford Week
HARTFORD—Business is on the upgrade,
despite seasonal closings of drive-ins. Typical
of revitalized trade is the third week
holdover of "White Christmas" at the Allyn,
marking the first three-week attraction in
five years at the Paramount outlet.
Allyn—White Christmas (Para), 3rd wk 240
Art—Mr. Hulofs Holidoy (GBD) 115
E. M. Loew Phtttt! (Col); Cannibal Attack (Col). .120
Poll The Lost Time I Sow Poris (MGM); Challenge
the Wild (UA) 1 50
Palace— Desiree (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 110
Strand Drum Beat (WB); Deadly Gome (LP).... 105
New Haven Grosses
Continue Strong
NEW HAVEN—Downtown New Haven continued
to enjoy exceptionally good business.
"The Barefoot Contessa" and "Desiree" did
200 and 140 per cent respectively, in their
initial stanzas, while "White Christmas" had
a strong 185 for its second week.
College Block Widow (20th-Fox); Block 13
(20th-Fox), 2nd wk 1 00
Paramount White Christmas (Para), 2nd wk....l85
Poll Desiree (20th-Fox) 140
Roger Sherman The Barefoot Contessa (UA). . . .200
RKO Counsel Says Censor Laws Let
Officials 'Get Away With Murder
Floodlights and Orchids
For 'Star' in Providence
PROVIDENCE—Willard Mathews, Majestic
manager, staged one of the most auspicious
motion picture premieres seen in this area
in a long time for "A Star Is Born." He
distributed 300 orchids to the first 300 feminine
patrons at a 6 p.m. opening and again
at 9 p.m.
Sending out beautifully designed invitations
to state and city officials, press, radio and
television representatives, the Majestic manager
welcomed the invited guests and other
patrons with a display of lighting arrangements
and decorations that rivaled any Hollywood
or New York premiere. The entii'e
front of the Washington street house was
bathed in brilliant floodlights.
Mathews received excellent support from
several stores which featured records and
albums containing songs from the picture.
Brattle Theatre Attack
On Sunday Ban Stalled
BOSTON—An attack by Cyi'us Harvey jr.
and Bryant Holiday, operators of the Brattle
Theatre in Cambridge, on the constitutionality
of the Sunday film licensing law was
stalled in Middlesex superior com-t last week.
Judge Cahill sustained a demurrer submitted
by George Fingold, attorney general,
holding that the Harvey-Holiday petition
asking the court to set aside the state licensing
law and permit the showing of "Miss Julie"
at the Brattle on Sundays was legally in.sufficient.
The judge, however, gave the Bi'attle
operators time to file amendments to the
petition.
The Swedish film has been turned down
twice by Otis M. Whitney, commissioner
of public safety.
BOSTON— "Massachusetts has motion picture
censorship in its most painful form,"
Joseph R. Welch, counsel for RKO Pictures,
told a thi-ee-judge federal court hearing
RKO's petition for an injunction against city
officials in Boston and Lynn from enforcing
a seven-day ban on "The French Line," and
against the state commissioner of public
safety from banning the film on Sundays
throughout the state.
Massachusetts state censorship law restricts
the commissioner to Sundays.
RKO is not asking for damages, only an
injunction. On the bench were judges Calvert
Magruder, William McCarthy and
Charles Wyzanski. The defendants are trying
t3 change the trial to state courts.
Welch asserted he had never seen "The
French Line." "But I am interested in whether
or not I have the right to see it," he said.
"It has been shown all over the United States
and I am not aware of any injurious impact
on our civilization. I don't know whether the
film is a comedy, a tragedy, a religious picture
or a naughty one. It seems in this state
that only a whisper by an official in command
is necessary to ban a film. Word goes
out to an exhibitor, 'Look out, or we'll suspend
your license.' In Lynn, the film was shown on
July 23 and after the first day's showing the
mayor halted it. He had just to make known
his displeasure to the theatre manager and
the picture was withdrawn. As I see it, these
officials are getting away with murder here."
Through counsel, the mayor of Lynn insisted
that no censorship is practiced in his
city. The commissioner of public safety explained
he had banned the film for Sunday
showings when RKO officials refused to
delete a dance sequence featuring Jane Russell.
Judge Magruder called for a stipulation of
facts in the case.
Everson Talks on Westerns
SPRINGFIELD. MASS.—William K. Everson,
international publicity manager for
.Allied Artists, addressed the Springfield Motion
Picture Council on "The History of the
Western" at the Museum of Fine Arts Friday
(19). Everson stressed the pioneer work of
D. W. Griffith and Thomas H. Inc? and
dwelt on the importance of William S. Hart
as both actor and director, the establishment
of an epic school with "The Covered Wagon"
and "The Iron Horse," the application of
wide-screen techniques to westerns, the postwar
injections of sex, neuroses and racial
themes into westerns, and the current almost
total demise of the B western.
Airer Opposition Quelled
HARTFORD—Efforts were defeated by a
vote of six to three to have the city council
oppose the construction of a 2,010-car capacity
drive-in by Jack Bronstein interests.
Bronstein, who also heads the East Hartford
Family Drive-In Theatre Corp.. plans an
expenditure of over $500,000 for the proposed
opening
Meadows Drive-In. with a tentative
earmarked for next spring.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954
DISPLAY FROM PLYMOUTH— Ihis 1 li.nik -n .n:, wvvk display, obtained from
Plymouth, Mass., the city of the Pilgrims, was featured in the lounge of the Cinema
Theatre in Framingham by Manager Loyd Ellis. The display was created by the
Chamber of Commerce. In the display are an antique flax wheel and reel; a spinning
wheel; Governor Bradford's chair, and a water pail, bench and dining table with
wooden dishes and utensils used by the Pilgrims. On a backdrop is a painting of the
original Plymouth fort. 20x100 feet. The figures are manikins dressed in copies of
original Pilgrim costumes.
NE 83

. . . Saturday
. . Joseph
. . Al
BOSTON
TVA-rs. Richard Cody, wife of the exhibitor
from Montpelier, Vt., entered Eaton Hospital.
Cody and his sons Robert and Raymond
operate the Moonlight Drive-In at
Montpelier and the Twin City Drivc-In at
Berlin, as well as the Moonlight and Strand
theatres in Montpelier and the St:ong in
Burlington Don McNally is putting in
single-track
. . .
optical Cinemascope equipment
in his Derbyport Drive-In at Derby and his
Morrisville Drive-In, both in Vermont.
.\aron Shindler, who recently purchased
the block of stores in East Milton which
houses the State Theatre, has placed Mauj-ice
Sidman as theatre manager. The house was
operated for years by American Theatres
Corp. from whom Shindler purchased the
property. The State, which opened Wednes-
was equipped with Cinemascope and
day (1),
optical sound. The buying and booking is
handled by Joseph G- Cohen.
At the press reception for Producer Julian
Blaustein and Daniel Taradash, screen writer,
both of "Desiree," Blaustein revealed that he
has plans for three forthcoming productions
—•A Many Splendored Thing" from the novel
by Han Suyin; "The View From Pompey's
Head," and "Good Morning, Miss Dove." The
latter two are from the best-selling lists.
Taradash said he is working on the screenplay
from the stage play "Picnic" as his next
venture.
. . . Martin MuUin, presi-
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Carter are receiving
congratulations on the birth of a son Gary
at Brockton Hospital. Mrs. Carter is the
former Adeline Struzzerio, who was secretary
at Independent Exhibitors for five years before
her marriage
dent of New England Theatres, and Hy Fine,
district manager, celebrated November 23 as
then- birthday. Both offices were bedecked
with flowers for the occasion.
Three Promotions by SW
At Connecticut Houses
HARTFORD—Three promotions were announced
by Stanley Warner Theatres Zone
Manager Harry Fenstein, following the naming
of Nick E. Brickates, New London, as
Connecticut district manager.
John E. Petroski, manager of the Palace in
Norwich, goes to the Garde Theatre in New
London and Jack Simons, formerly at the
Palace at Norwalk, will replace Petroski in
Norwich. Phil Allare, assistant at the local
Strand, is new manager of the Palace in
Norwalk.
Petroski some years ago assisted Brickates
at the Garde, New London. Simons was with
Loew's Theatres for many years, at one time
handling Loew's Poll here. In recent years, he
had been working in the Pittsburgh territory.
GET ALL YOUR SPECIAL
jMjJI|m3
1327 S. WABASH
CHICAGO 5. ILL.
1630 NINTH AVENUE]
NEW YORK 36. N. Y,
Jury Visits Theatres
In Antitrust Trial
BOSTON—The jury sitting on the antitrust
suit of the Victoria Amusement Corp.
was driven to Lawrence to view the locations
and types of theatres involved in the case.
The trip was made at the suggestion of some
of the defendant distributors and agreed to
by all litigants.
The suit for $3,000,000 damages was brought
by Victoria Amusement Corp., headed by
Samuel Richmond, operator of the State
Theatre in Lawrence, against a group of
exhibitors and the major distributors. It
opened before Judge Sweeney and a jury
in the federal district court here. The defendants
are Warner Bros. Circuit Management
Co., Warner Bros. Theatres, Massachusetts
Amusement Corp., Warner Bros. Pictures.
Paramount, Loew's, Inc., 20th-Fox,
RKO, United Artists, Universal, Columbia,
Republic, Monogram and Eagle-Lion of Ohio.
The complaint alleges that prior to 1947 the
defendants conspired to maintain a uniform
system of runs, clearances and admission
prices for motion picture theatres throughout
the United States and particularly near
the cities of Boston and Lawrence and have
declined to contract for or to deliver films
to the plaintiff except in accordance with
that system. The plaintiff also alleges that
the defendants, with the exception of United
Ai'tists have engaged in block booking, bUnd
buying and blind selUng, and have discriminated
against the plaintiff in favor of
the defendant exhibitors. The complaint
states that the plaintiff has been required
to contract for and pay for films it was unable
to use and that such films were unpopular
and offensive to the good taste and
moral standards of its patrons.
The $3,000,000 is three times the amount
of actual damages.
George S. Ryan is the attorney for the
plaintiff.
Boston Cinerama House
Aims for R. I. Patronage
PROVIDENCE—The Boston (Mass.) Theatre
is continuously making an extensive
play for Rhode Island business in exploiting
Cinerama through local newspapers. Now in
its 11th month. Cinerama is being featured
in large display advertisements. The New
Haven railroad has been running special
excursion trains at reduced fares between
Providence, Pawtucket, Central Palls and
several other Rhode Island communities, and
the Massachusetts city. Patronage from this
area, as based on written and telephone
reservations, has been extremely gratifying.
Xmas Dates for 'Hansel'
NEW HAVEN—Fourteen Christmas week
dates for RKO's "Hansel and Gretel" were
reported by Manager Barney Pitkin, who
said the number of bookings is comparable to
those for "Pinocchio" and "Snow White."
The release will play the Sherman here; the
Strand, Hartford; Stamford Theatre; Hi-Way
and Beverly, Bridgeport: Garde, New London;
Embassy, New Britain: Gem, Willimantic;
Empress, Danbury; Cameo, Bristol;
State, Manchester; Warner. Torrington: Capitol,
Ansonia, and the Lord Theatre, Norwich.
HARTFORD
Tack Sanson, Stanley Warner Strand manager,
entered Manchester Memorial Hos-
. .
.
pital for surgical treatment. Phil Allare
Wide
is
handling the house in his absence .
screen facilities have been installed at the
Princess, Hartford, and the Palace, Rockville
L. Shepheard, 84, who
played the drums for 24 years during the
stage era of the Lyceum Theatre, now the
Embassy, New Britain, died after a short
illness.
. . Art Moger,
Jack Scanlon sr., manager of the SW Warner,
Torrington, arranged radio station
WLCR's fifth annual Community Christmas
party for children. Last yeai-, some 1,200
youngsters attended the festivities, with numerous
gifts and prizes distributed by the
radio station ... A new encyclopedia giveaway
has started at the independent Park,
Thomaston. Books are available with the
purchase of an adult admission ticket, plus a
Warner
50-cent service charge .
Bros, exploiteer, was in the
territory.
Lou Cohen, Loew's Poll, and assistant Norm
Levinson screened "Carmen Jones" at the
Palace for a midnight crowd of newspaper
writers and other critics . . . The 1,800-seat
Star, a Community Amusement Corp. unit,
is continuing a temporary policy of Spanish
films on Wednesdays, according to Bob
Maurello, manager . Lessow, assistant
to Matt L. Saunders, Loew's Poll, Bridgeport,
was in town one night. He formerly
was assistant to Fred R. Greenway at the
downtown Palace ... At Meriden, "A Star
Is Born" was booked day-and-date into Leo
Ricci's Capitol and Kounaris-Tolis circuit's
Meriden.
PROVIDENCE
. . . Following
ns the days become shorter and darkness
falls sooner, the Bay State Drive-In has
come up with a novel idea for early bird
shows Saturdays and Sundays. The doors
open at 4:30 p.m. and the show starts at 5.
By doing this, the popular airer squeezes in
a few extra hundred patrons before the customary
evening performance
the lead recently set by the Quonset Drive-
In, the Boro Drive-In, North Attleboro, has
been experimenting with triple feature shows.
The Rhode Island premiere of "The Holly
and the Ivy" took place at the Avon Cinema
afternoon bargain matinees
are being promoted at the Community, a
Centerdale neighborhood house. For 25 cents,
adults and children alike are treated to a
solid hour of cartoons, a serial and a feature
presentation The Uptown, Broadway
. . .
neighborhood house, is offering the new 1955
edition of the Encyclopedia-Dictionary-History
book to all patrons purchasing adult admission
tickets, plus a 50-cent service charge,
at all Thursday and Friday shows.
IMAGE & SOUND SERVICE CORP.
The Best Value In Sound Service"
Honeock 6-7984 445 Statler Building
Boston, Massachusetts
84
BOXOFFICE December 4. 1954

.
. . . Mrs.
. . The
. . Mrs.
NEW HAVEN
TJepublic's "The She Wolf will have its Connecticut
premiere at Loew's Majestic,
Bridgeport. Friday (10 1 . . . Gloria Ziaks,
MGM booker who resigned to await the stork,
was surprised by twins, boy a and a girl . . .
Roger Mahan of the CaiToll and Tower theatres,
Waterbury, was a Filmrow visitor . . .
Also on the street was Tiny Rogovin, Columbia
eastern district manager, who was in
town to confer with Manager Walter Silverman.
. .
. . .
Phil Gravitz, MGM manager, was in New
York to meet with Jack Byrne, eastern sales
manager, on a new shipment drive to be held
December 31 to April 28. The local exchange
ranked fourth in the nation in a similar campaign
earlier this year . Sheldon Tromberg,
a Republic trainee, is learning the business at
the local exchange The wife of Harry
Rose, manager of Loew's Majestic, Bridgeport,
is Ul.
Joe Boyle, manager of Loew's Poll, Norwich,
fractured his arm in a fall while leaving
church. Assistant Manager TiUie Pyskyk is
running things in his absence . . . Twentieth-
Fox Manager Herman Hirschorn and his wife
went to Philadelphia on Thanksgiving.
Newly Weds at Home
HARTFORD—Mr. and Mi's.
Ozzie Levison,
son-in-law and daughter of Ted Harris, State
Theatre managing director, have returned
from a Bermuda honeymoon. The couple has
moved into a new home in West Hartford.
Joe Cronin to Succeed
Lockwood as Fund Head
BOSTON—Joe Cronin, general manager
and vice-president of the Boston Red Sox,
has been elected chairman of the executive
committee of the Children's Cancer Research
Foundation for the coming year.
Cronin, co-chairman of the 1953-54 Jimmy
fund drive, succeeds Arthur Lockwood, who
recently was elected president of the foundation.
Lockwood is treasurer of the Lockwood
& Gordon Enterprises and a former president
of TOA.
Other members of the executive committee
are Dr. Sidney F'arber, scientific director;
Martin J. MuUin. past president and honorary
life trustee, who is president of New England
Theatres: Thomas A. Yawkey, president
of the Red Sox and co-sponsor of the Jimmy
fund: Rudolph King, state registrar of motor
vehicles, who is treasurer; Louis R. Perini,
owner of the Milwaukee Braves; Walter A.
Brown, chief barker of the Variety Club of
New England and co-sponsor of the Jimmy
fund; Carl Haffenreffer, Narragansett Brewing
Co.; Herman A. Mintz. secretary, and
William Koster, executive director of the
Jimmy fund and of the Variety Club of New
EIngland.
Al Schuman in Hartford
HARTFORD—Al
Schuman, former general
manager of Hartford Theatres, has returned
to his Daytona Beach home, following a brief
visit here. Mrs. Schuman has been recuperating
from illness in a hospital there.
FALL RIVER
TTaudeville, absent from theatrical stages of
the area for several years, was revived recently
at William Purcell's Embassy with the
appearance of Dr. Rexford L. North in a
hypnotism and comedy act. A woman put
to sleep in a downtown furniture store window
by North was later transferred to the
Embassy where she was awakened in the
presence of an overflow audience.
Mrs. Hazel Robertshaw has returned to the
Durfee Theatre boxoffice on a temporary
basis during the absence of Maureen Murphy
who has resumed her studies. New on the
theatre staff are Mildred Sullivan and Jean
Paul, boxoffice, and Jean Costa, candy, replacing
Eileen Hammer.
Cinemascope equipment is awaited by William
Purcell for his Embassy. It is expected
productions will be presented on the new wide
screen early in January . Capitol, Park
and Strand theatres increased their pre-
Thanksgiving attendance by offering dressed
turkeys as attendance awards . June
Zeitz, wife of Academy Manager Carl Zeitz,
with a three-string total of 406, defeated
several prominent men bowlers and placed
fifth in the sweepstakes at the Durfee alleys
Lawrence Anderson, sister of Carl
Zeitz, won the women's golf championship at
the Fall River Country Club in Class B.
Charlie Lane to Build Airer
HARTFORD — A Branford drive-in is
planned by Charlie Lane of the New Haven
Drive-In, North Haven.
Join the Widening Circle
Send in your reports to BOXOFFICE
on response of patrons to pictures
you show. Be one of the many who
report to—
THE EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
A Widely Read Weekly Feature oi Special Interest
Address your letters to Editor, 1
"Exhibitor Has His Say," 825 I
Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 24, f
Mo.
BOXOFFICE
Al'ways in the Forefront With the Ne'ws
BOXOFFICE :
: December
4, 1954 85

: December
Make it the Biggest Bonus ever—
Give it in U. S, Savings Bonds
If your company is one of the more than 4S,000 companies
thaf have the Payroll Savings Plan you know what your
employees think of Savings Bonds— they spell it out for
you every month in their Savings Bond allotments.
If you don't have the Payroll Savings Plan, and are wondering
whether your people would like to receive their
bonus in Bonds, here are a few significant facts:
—every month, before they get their pay checks or
envelopes — 8 fiOO.OOO men and women enrolled in
the Payroll Savings Plan invest $160,000,000 in
U. S. Savings Bonds,
—the ranks qf Payroll Savers are growing: On June
30th sales of $25 and $50 Savings Bonds, the sizes
purchased chiefly by Payroll Savers, were 6% and
9% higher than in the corresponding period of
1952.
—Payroll Savers hold their Bonds: 75% of the
$7,400,000,000 Series E Bonds which had matured
up to June 30. 1953, were being retained by their
owners beyond maturity under the automatic extension
program.
—on June 30, 1953, the cash value of Series E and H
Bonds— the kind sold only to individuals— totaled
$36,048,000,000. a new high.
It costs no more to give your Christmas Bonus in Savings
Bonds. To the Payroll Saver, and to the man who buys his
Bonds at a bank (because his company does not provide
the Payroll Savings Plan) a One Hundred Dollar Savings
Bond looks bigger and better than a check for $75. Make
this a merrier Christmas for every employee. Give the gift
that keeps on giving.
the United States Government does not pay for this advertising. The Treasury Department
thanks, for their patriotic donation, the Advertising Council and
BOXOFFICE
8G BOXOFFICE :
4, 1954

Jack Arthur Honored
By Canadian Pioneers
TORONTO—Over 465 industryites and their
wives assembled in the Crystal ballroom of
the King Edward Hotel Thursday (25) for
the annual awards banquet of the Canadian
Picture Pioneers to pay honor to three outstanding
veterans.
Chief tribute was paid Jack Arthur as the
Pioneer of the Year, with the award being
presented to him by his boss for many
years, J. J. Pitzgibbons, president of Famous
Players Canadian Corp., who had been similarly
honored, himself, a year ago. Pitzgibbons
declared that the evening'? chief
guest of honor had brought nothing but goodwill
to the industry, both by his career and
his private life.
The honor to Arthur represented, he observed,
the applause of the entire entertainment
industry "for a fine performance by a
great trouper," and was in recognition of
the happiness he had brought to untold numbers
of people over the years as well as the
inspu-ation he had given young persons in
the industry.
Jack Arthur's eyes glistened when, after a
standing ovation, he started to reply to the
heart warming tribute. He was also deeply
moved when, through arrangements by committee
chairman Tom S. Daley and associates,
his daughter Helen, now Mrs. William Mc-
Clintock of New York, suddenly appeared in
the banquet hall to join the rest of the
family.
Among those who joined in the tributes
was Dana Porter, representing Ontario Premier
Leslie M. Frost, who told of the esteem
in which Arthur was held by theatre patrons
everywhere.
Two other veterans to receive formal recognition
for long and valued service were
Charlie Stephenson, who was introduced as
a "showman extraordinary" by Osrar R.
Hanson, sui-viving founder of the Canadian
Picture Pioneers, and Will McLaughlin, film
editor of the Ottawa Joui'nal, credited with
be-ng the oldest film reviewer in Canada.
McLaughlin was introduced by Nat Taylor,
president of the Canadian Pioneers and master
of ceremonies for the banquet. Stephenson
made his start in 1897 in Toronto.
Theatre Supports Usher
In High School Election
PRINCE ALBERT. SASK.—While mixing
politics with business isn't
generally regarded
as good business practice. Jack Mahon of the
Orpheum recently combined the two with
excellent results in both fields. When one of
Mahon's ushers ran for mayor in the junior
elections held at the high school, similar to
the civic elections held at the same time,
Mahon suggested the theatre back its "candidate"
with throwaways and other publicity.
The night before election day, Mahon put up
"Vote for Tom Mooney for Junior Mayor" in
the center of the theatre marquee. The
throwaways were imprinted with the same
slogan on one side, and with copy plugging
"Phantom of the Rue Morgue" on the reverse.
When the happy results of the election were
announced, Mahon again used the marquee to
herald "Tom Mooney Is Junior Mayor." The
publicity on the film served to inspire several
teenagers, who appeared at the school's Halloween
dance as "phantoms" from the Rue
Morgue.
Ontario Assn Showmen
Advised to Modernize
TORONTO— J. D. Mcculloch, president of
the Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n of Ontario
in his opening remarks to the 13th
annual meeting Thursday (25 > at the King
Edward Hotel, advised members to give their
theatres a new look through renovations and
other improvements as a means of meeting
increased competition.
As an example, he cited the case of his
own Iroquois Theatre in Petrolia which was
completely renovated last August and which
has already resulted in a patronage increase
of 10 per cent.
Morris Stein reviewed the sessions of the
National Committee of Motion Picture Exhibitors
Ass'ns saying that the chief concern
of delegates was for the small-town and
neighborhood theatre owners. He pointed out
that 1,086 tlieatres across Canada had been
represented at his committee meeting:.
STRESSES
SHOWMANSHIP
Stein, who is a headoffice executive with
Famous Players, referred to the continuing
necessity of showmanship. Old fashioned
methods were gone, he asserted, but, regardless
of new techniques, theatremen had to
apply themselves to operations, using their
own judgment.
H. C. D. Main gave a report on the convention
of the Motion Picture Industry
Council of Canada in which he revealed the
makeup of the new and special public relations
committee of the council which had
stemmed from the original proposal of Nat
A. Taylor for a Canadian motion picture
institute. Taylor was named a director for
the project which would be given a two-year
test, the first task being to secure support
pledges.
Lionel Lester of Toronto, membership chairman,
told the Ontario meeting that 14 theatres
on the roster had closed but memberships
totaled 349. of which 172 were independent
theatres. Lester also reported excellent
response to the request for data to be
used by the Ontario Exhibitors Committee
for Admission Tax Relief of which he is also
chairman. The information is to be used for
a submission to the Ontario government.
DOUG MILLER 'IMPRESSED'
Doug MUler of Taber, Alta., a new delegate
to the Toronto conventions, said he had been
greatly impressed by the work in hand. Committee
reports were received fi'om Treasurer
Jack Clarke on the subjects of budget and
finance which showed the Ontario as.sociation
to be in a highly satisfactory position.
For once in his long career as executive
secretary. Arch H. Jolley did not present his
annual review of the year's activities, but
announcement was made that the comprehensive
statement would be mailed to all
members.
All 12 directors of the past board occupied
places at the headtable for the business discussions
and one of them, Floyd Rumford of
Forest, a veteran of the association, was sitting
for the last time because of his decision
to retu'e from office.
The voting for the new board resulted in
the election of Morris Berlin, Ottawa: Jack
Clarke, Toronto Loew's: Loui.s Consky, Haliburton;
E. G. Forsyth, Odeon Theatres; Angus
Jewell, Cannington; Lionel Lester, Studio,
Toronto; H. C. D. Main, Sutton; Harry S. Mandell,
20th Century Theatres; J. D. McCulloch,
Petrolia; Russell Simpson, Renfrew; Morris
Stem, Famous Players, and William Summerville,
B. & F. Theatres, Toronto.
The Ontario exhibitors immediately joined
representatives of the film exchanges and
other branches of the industry for the annual
association luncheon which featured an
address by Arthur L. Mayer, noted New
York veteran of the motion picture industry.
Mayer drew extensively on his wealth of
experience, recounted many anecdotes, paid
tribute to J. J. Fitzgibbons, spoke solemnly
of the industry's esteem for the late Ray
Lewis of Toronto and warned exhibitors
against complacency because of recent success
and developments.
Outstanding figures of the film industry
and prominent government officials graced
the headtable at the 13th annual luncheon
of the association in the Crystal Ballroom of
the King Edward Hotel to hear Mayer's talk.
Flanking Chairman McCulloch were Peter
S. Myers, president of the Canadian Motion
Pictiu-e Distributors A.ss'n; Dave Griesdorf,
newly-elected chairman of the Motion Picture
Industry Council of Canada; H. S. Mandell,
chief barker. Toronto Variety Tent;
Chan-man O. J. Silverthorne of the Ontario
censor board; Hugh E, Brown, deputy provincial
treasurer; W. K. Scott, Ontario fire
marshal! and Stein.
Others present included Joseph Waterman,
Toronto fire chief; L. M. Bleackley of Montreal,
president of the Equipment Dealers
Ass'n of Canada; Deputy Police Chief Moses
Mulholland of Toronto; J. J. Chisholm, Montreal,
vice-president, Ass'n of Motion Picture
Producers and Laboratories of Canada; William
Lester, Montreal, president of Quebec
Allied Theatrical Industries; S. R. Miles, Winnipeg,
president, Manitoba Exhibitors A.ss'n;
A. J. Mason, president. Maritime Exhibitors
Ass'n; J. J. Fitzibbons, president of Famous
Players; L. M. Johnson, Vancouver, president,
British Columbia Exhibitors Ass'n; Roy
Chown, Calgary, Alberta Exhibitors Ass'n;
Ford Brand, acting mayor of Toronto; Nat
A. Taylor, president of Canadian Picture Pioneers
and J. D. McKenzie, Estevan, Saskatchewan
Exhibitors Ass'n.
FPC's Ontario District
In Showmanship Drive
TORONTO—Dan E. Krendel. that ebullient
editor of Ballyhoo, the very Interesting
and informative monthly publication distributed
to managers of Famous Players Theatres
in the B district of Ontario, recently
announced the title and details of a new
contest for the group of energetic Canadian
showmen. It's to be called "Ballyhoo S.O.S.."
the three letters standing for Spotlight on
Showmanship, and for 26 weeks two groups
of theatres in the district will vie for worthwhile
cash prizes.
Prize awards will be based on a point system
with participants sending in details of
their promotional activities each week, as
consistency will be an important factor.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 E 87

'
. . The
. . Latest
. . With
. . An
ONTREAL
Tltrilliam Lester, general manager of United
Amusement Corp.; John Ganctakos,
head of Confederation Amusement; B. Salamis,
owner of the Laval Enterprises, and
Charles Bourassa, representing Quebec Allied
Theatrical Interests, attended the conventions
of the National Motion Picture Council of
Canada and other trade groups held at Toronto
last week . UAC art department
headed by Lome Etienne, is preparing
special displays for pictures to be shown soon
at some of the big company's theatres.
Jack Kroll, salesman for Warners became
father of a baby girl, his sixth child . . .
Harold Greenberg, m.anager of the Snowdon
Theatre, a UAC theatre, also recently became
the father of a baby girl named Karen
. . . H. Greenblatt, RKO domestic sales
manager; H. Gettleson, executive assistant,
both of New York City, and J. Labow, Canadian
district manager, Toronto, conferred
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here with Harry Cohen, local RKO m.anager
. . . R. P. Hagen, Warner home office, conferred
with Archie Cohen, local manager
Tom Dowbiggin, former Paramount manager,
called on friends along Filmrow.
Steven Doane, chairman of the Film Board
of Censors of Halifax, mourned the death
The father of Pierre Dansereau,
of his wife . . .
D. St. Jacques,
booker at RKO, died . . .
owner of the Capitol at Thurso, has resigned
his civil service position at Ottawa in order
to open the Ottawa Valley Agencies, Reg'd,
an importing and wholesale distribution firm
handling toilet articles and patent medicines.
Exhibitors in town included D. St. Jacques
of the Capitol of Thurso; Gerard Langevin,
the Ti'acy at Tracy, near Sorel, Que.; Maurice
Phaneuf, manager of the Granada, Sherbrooke:
Lucien Lusignan of the Rex, Contrecoeur;
Octave Bisson of the Royal, St. Andre
Avellin; Edgar Dufour, the St. Jovite, St.
Jovite; and J. R. Beauchesne, the Genty of
Gentilly.
Ron Bailey, Canadian Repertory Theatre's
young character actor, wUl leave around
Christmas for Britain where he will appear
in Michael Sadlier's filmed series for television,
written by Carl Foreman, who wrote
"High Noon" . . . When Charles Ti-enet, internationally
known French smger, wa; served
with writ issued by Justice Antonio Garneau
in superior court, he could not raise the
$25,000 bail and was lodged in jail. Trenet
is being sued for $141,000 damages by a New
York entertainment agency called Hello Paree
Inc., which charges Ti-enet with breach of
contract. The famed singer said that the
action is to "intimidate me into making appearances,"
and that he would start countersuit
for $250,000 damages.
'River' Show of the Week
TORONTO—Famous Players Show of the
Week at seven representative Toronto units
was "River of No Return," the theatres being
the Bloor, Beach, College, Palace, Parkdale.
Runnymede and Oakwood. The Odeon group
of three, including the Fairlawn, Humber and
Danforth, combined for a week's run of
"Woman's World."
J. M. RICE & CO., Ltd.
202 Canada Bldg.
Telephone 93-5486
Winnipeg, Manitoba
10029 Jasper Ave.
Telephone 28502
Edmonton, Alberta
35mm and 16mm Motion Picture and Sound Equipment
EXPERT REPAIR DEPARTMENT
Sole agents in Western Canada for Ballantyne Sound, Projectors,
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g Lamps D Tickets
Electrical Supplies H] Batteries
—
WINNIPEG
pormer Empire-Universal booker Jack Mc-
Cann has been appointed manager of
the Royal, Moose Jaw, one of the key houses
Harry Saifeer has
in the Phillet circuit . . .
renovated the screening room and histalled
Cinemascope. In addition, the last two rows
of seats have been raised and the second
last row of seats has been staggered to
afford better visibility . . . Most of the Filmrow
offices are holding Christmas staff par-
ties at the Rancho Don Carlos this year . . .
Paragon associates going into Cinemascope
include the Roblin, Roblin: Roxy. Melville,
and the Roxy, Canora
Joe Harris reports the latest addition to the
group is Steve Zaparaniuk's Midway, Meadow
Lake.
A recent visitor on Filmrow was Steve Kozoriz,
the Roxy, Canora . subscriber
to BOXOFFICE is Ml-. Perrault of St. Brieux,
Sask. Should you wish to renew your BOX-
OFFICE subscription, just notify Ben Sommers
at the State, Winnipeg . the
Northmain Drive-In closed for the season,
Mort Calof and Dave Kaufman are supervising
construction work involved in extending
the tower for Cinemascope. Mr. and Mrs.
Mort Calof will soon leave for a short holiday
in New York.
Capitol Manager Bill Novak managed to get
considerable space in both dailies with a story
on his showing of the short '"VistaVision
Visits Norway." Mrs. C. Warden, a Winnipeg
woman, was actually transported all the way
to a wedding in Norway where her niece was
the bride. According to the press story, she
said, "I had some excitement. There was my
sister (the bride's mother) dancing and her
husband." The scene was Voss, Norway. And
of course she could see all her relatives who
were guests at the wedding. Mrs. Warden
had pictures of the actual wedding and Novak
borrowed them for the run of the short.
The most up-to-date motion picture house
in Manitoba, in terms of exhibition equipment,
is now the theatre of the provincial
censor. Technicians recently finished equipping
the theatre to exhibit every type of film
on the market, including standard. Cinema-
Scope and Vista Vision. M. V. B. Newton,
Manitoba censor board chairman, said the
legislative building's theatre was the only one
in the province able to handle evei-y type of
film now being produced.
Rialto Manager Ernie Diamond opens his
doors every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. and
has ten big S. S. Kresge-sponsored prizes for
lucky ticket holders at 1 p.m. . "antistay-homeitis"
campaign, originally suggested
by public relations chau-man Harold A. Bishop
and adopted by the Manitoba Motion Picture
Exhibitors Ass'n, is in process now and should
shortly appear in Winnipeg's dailies.
'The Fallen Idol' Makes
Toronto Art House Bow
TORONTO — The International
Cinema
opened "The Fallen Idol" for its art film fans
while the Studio came out with another
Italian picture, "II Canto della Vita," and
the Pylon offered "Flamma Che Non Si
Spegne."
The Savoy featured the Canadian premiere
of "The Little World of Don Camillo." Other
art pictures included "Rainbow Jacket" at the
Hollywood and "Altri Tempi," St. CJair.
BOXOFFICE
:; December 4. 1954

—
—
. . Harry
. . Duncan
—
. . Flying
. . Samuel
. .
'Paris' Tops Toronto
As Only Newcomer
TORONTO—As the Christmas shopping
drive started to hit full stride, film fans had
the choice of exactly one new first run picture
with holdovers at all other key units.
The new attraction, which suddenly replaced
"Suddenly" at Loew's, was "The Last Time
I Saw Paris" which became top grosser of
the week.
(Average Is 100)
Eglinton, University Block Widow (20th-Fox)
3rd wk 100
Hyland Father Brown, Detective (Col), 2nd wk...l20
Imperial—White Christmas (Para), 4th wk 105
Loew's—The Last Time I Saw Poris (MGM) 125
Nortown—Seven Brides tor Seven Brothers
(MGM), 2nd wk 100
Odeon—The Boretoot Contesso (UA), 2nd wk....l20
Shea's— Rear Window (Para), 4th wk 100
Tivoli—We Wont o Child (IFD), 3rd wk 100
Towne—Modern Times (UA), reissue, 3rd wk 105
Uptown— Beau Brummell (MGM), 2nd wk 110
Record Rainfall Hurts
Vancouver Grosses
VANCOUVER—Heavy rainfall in Vancouver,
breaking a 53-year record, has seriously
affected first run grosses. Tops for the week
was "White Christmas" in its third dov,-ntown
week. "Suddenly" was above average dayand-date
at the Plaza and Pi'aser.
Capito:—Srigadoon (MGM), 2nd wk Fair
Cinema—Rondom Harvest (MGM), revival Good
Paradise— Forbidden Cargo (JARO), Overland
Pacific (UA) Fair
Plaza-Froser Suddenly (UA); Challenge the
Wild (UA) Good
Strand White Christmas (Para), 3rd wk. on a
moveover
Very Good
Studio Father Brown Detective (Col), 3rd
wk
Average
Vogue Woman's World (20th-Fox), 2nd wk....Good
MARITIMES
TXrilliam and Harry Richards, owners of the
Uptown Theatre and the Opera House at
Newcastle, N. B., were on the Row buying
and booking . Adkins, man.iger of
the Roxy Theatre at Richibucto, N. B., was
in St. John for two reasons: booking and
dental work . McDonald. Maritimes
manager for General Theatre Supply
of Toronto, has been touring the territory
installing Cinemascope lenses . . . Mr. and
Mrs. Joseph M. Franklin, president of F&H
circuit, are leaving for their winter home at
Miami Beach, Fla., to spend the winter.
David Griesdorf Replaces Arch Mason
As Industry Council Chairman
TORONTO—After two terms in office. Arch
J. Mason, prominent independent exhibitor
of Springhill, N. S., stepped out as chairman
of the Motion Picture Industry Council of
Canada at the conclusion of its annual convention
and was replaced by David Griesdorf,
general manager and a director of Odeon
Theatres.
The vice-chairmen are R. W. Bolstad, vicepresident
and treasurer of Famous Players,
and Charles S. Chaplin, Canadian general
manager of United Artists. Replacing Bolstad
in the office of secretary-treasurer is
William Lester of Montreal, general manager
of the United Amusement and president of
the Quebec Allied Theatrical Industries. Arch
H. Jolley of Toronto continues as executive
secretary.
HONORARY PRESIDENT
Arch Mason is the honorary president of
the Canadian Federation of Mayors a:.d Municipalities,
former mayor of Springhill, former
member of the Nova Scotia legislature
and the president of the Maritime Motion
Picture Exhibitors Ass'n.
The organizer and first chairman of the
Industry Council, J. J. Fitzgibbons. is the
honorary chairman.
Delegates at the meeting from the Canadian
Motion Picture Distributors Ass'n were President
Peter S. Myers. Vice-president C. S.
Chaplin, past president Frank H. Fi.^her and
executive director Clare J. Appel. Th^' Theatre
Equipment Dealers Ass'n w'as represented
by L. M. Bleackley of Montreal.
The group from the Ass'n of Motion Picture
Producers and Laboratories of Canada comprised
President W. J. Singleton, Montreal:
J. J. Chisholm,, Montreal, and S. Dean Peterson,
Toronto.
F3?OM NATIONAL COMMITTEE
Observer representatives from the National
Committee Motion Picture Exhibitors Ass'ns
of Canada included Lloyd Mason, Springhill;
Doug Miller. Taber, Alta.: Ken Leach and
F H. Kershaw. Calgary; Robert Eves, Dave
Griesdorf, Nat Taylor, Harry S. Mandell,
Toronto, and Robert Hurwitz and Dave Carr,
Winnipeg. Roy Chown of Calgary again
served as secretary of the meeting.
Province exhibitor delegates included:
Quebec: William Lester, B. C. Salamis,
John Ganetakos and Charles Bourassa, all
01 Montreal.
Ontario: Morris Stein, J. D. McCulloch of
Petrolia, H. C. D. Main and Jack Clarke,
Toronto.
Manitoba: Dave Rothstein and Richard
Miles, Wimiipeg.
Saskatchewan: J. D. McKenzie, Estevan.
J. Lundholme. Swift Current, and William
Winterton, Saskatoon.
British Columbia: L. B. Johnson, Vancouver.
Maritime Provinces: A. J. Mason.
Alberta: Mayor A. W. Shackleford, Lethbridge,
and Roy Chown, Calgary.
COUP D'OEIL 69
presente
Des jeunes qui se corrigent de leurs defauts de
langue Des canards qui ont des bagues aux pattes.
EN AVANT CANADA
presente
UN MILLIARD D'ANNeES
Fascinantes images de revolution
du continent americain a travers
les
millenaires.
Miss Flora Thurston, chief booker and
office manager of the Warner Bros, exchange,
is on a holiday . Officer Reid of the
RCAF base at Greenwood, N. S., has been
doing hi.s winter booking at St. John. Flying
Officer Marsden of the Summerside RCAF
base on Prince Edward Island has aljo been
booking out of St. John . Babb.
chief booker for the F&H circuit, was active
in the $100,000 stamp exhibit at St. John .
Les Sprague has installed Cinemascope equipment
at his Gaiety Theatre at Lancaster.
N. B.
Moncton, N. B., will have two new theatres
in 1955. Debris is being removed from the
fire-scarred Kent Theatre preparatory to
renovation and reopening and a building permit
has been issued to the Franklin & Herschorn
circuit to erect a conventional theatre
Lloyd Pollock of the Corner Theatre
.. . at Petitcodiac, N. B., was a recent caller
in St. John.
HOLLYWOOD VISITORS — G o r d o n
Simmons, owner of the North Star Drive-
In at .Aldergrove, near Vancouver, n. C,
and wife are greeted by Diana Lynn on
the set of Paramount's "You're Never Too
Young." Miss Lynn stars with Dean Martin
and Jerry Lewis in the comedy. Simmons,
formerly with Warners in Canada,
is a member of the Canadian Motion Picture
Pioneers.
Retenez cheque mo/s
EN AVANT CANADA et
COUP D'OEIL
Reah'sation: OFFICE NATIONAL DU FILM
Distribution:
COLUMBIA PICTURES
• Everything for the theatre !
EXPERT REPAIRS
for All
Makes of Projectors
We Sell
and Service
Theatre Choirs, Rectifiers, Arc Lamps,
Sound Equipment, 1 6mm and 35mm Projectors
SHARP'S THEATRE SUPPLIES, Ltd.
Phones: 2-4076 and 2-7266
Film Exchange BIdg. Calgary, Alta.
BOXOFFICE December 4. 1954
89

. .
Annual Tradeshow
Includes 29 Exhibits
TORONTO—The second annual trade exhibition,
sponsored by the Motion Picture Industry
Council of Canada and presented for
three days at the King Edward Hotel,
was larger and much more comprehensive
than the first display a year ago. All
types of equipment and furnishings, accessories,
confectionery Unes, premiums, food
supplies and staff uniforms, as well as displays
of film distributors, were featured in
colorful fashion.
All told, there were 29 exhibits in the exposition
organized by Gerald C. Fitzgerald of
Toronto.
Those who had displays in the show included
Associated Screen News. Sainthill-Levine.
Anglo-Canadian Mercantile Co.. Rogers-
Majestic Electronics, General Theatre Supply,
Theatre Poster Service. Theatre Premiums,
Dominion Sound Equipments, O. H.
Evans & Sons, Canadian Theatre Chair Co.,
Perkins Electric, Silverwood Dairies, Orange
Crush. Super Pufft Popcorn. Coca-Cola, R. W.
Bunting Nut Co., Pepsi-Cola, Shoppsy's Foods,
Alliance Films, Peerless Films, Film Art.
Trailers, International Theatrical Distributing
Co., Wilson Laidlaw Distributing Co., J.
Arthur Rank, Pan-American Advertising
Corp.. Carlton Vendors, Villa Laboratories.
N. Friedlander Sales Co. and BOXOFFICE.
Stage Actress in 'Strange Lady'
Stage actress Louise Lorimer has been cast
for the Warner picture. "Strange Lady in
Town."
IMMEDIATE
VANCOUVER
. . . Ivan
.
prank Kershaw of Western Drive-In Theatres,
Calgary, and Max Chechick of Mayer
Enterprises attended the theatre equipment
Charlie Doctor,
tradeshow held in Chicago . . .
Capitol manager, arranged a tieup with
the Vancouver Herald for a contest on local
unsolved crimes with a $100 prize for the
engagement of "Ring of Fear"
Ackery, manager of the Orpheum, tied in
with a local sewing machine center for a
know-your-facts contest on "Dragnet"
The new Midale, Sask., theatre built by Jack
King opened recently.
The Orpheum interrupted its film showings
for a week for the stage showing of the
London's Festival Ballet which was a sellout
. . . FPMA held a stag night at Peter Pan
cafe, with the proceeds going to its summer
camp for boys.
. . .
The Kerrisdale, Kingsway, Ridge and Park
theatres have installed wide screens
Dave Fairley, manager of Dominion Theatre
Equipment Co., was on a selling trip to as
far east as Saskatchewan.
Wally Hamilton, production manager of
Trans-Canada Films, reports business top
M. M.
with TV and commercial films . . .
Nikoloynk has started construction of a 300-
seat theatre at Wildwood, Alta., the first
in that town The Wouters family is
. . .
building a second theatre in Unity, Sask. The
closing of the Savoy Theatre by K. Walshaw
leaves the town of Wolseley, Sask., without a
showplace. It was a 200-seater operated by
K. Walshaw.
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BRANCHES AT; Halifax, Saint John, Quebec, Montreal, Ottawo,
Toronto, Hamilton, London, North Boy, Winnipeg,
Regina, Calgary, Edmonton, Voncouver.
FPC Extra Dividend
Makes $1.60 for '54
MONTREAL—Directors of Famous Players
Canadian Corp. have declared an extra dividend
of 10 cents per share, along with regular
quarterly of 37^- cents, both payable December
25, as of record December 3.
Shares of the company, listed on Montreal
Stock Exchange, showed a gain following
announcement of the extra dividend.
In 1953 Famous Players paid quarterly payments
of 35 cents plus an extra of 20 cents,
making a total of $1.60, the same as this
year.
Of the 1,737,072 FPC shares outstanding
11.800,000 authorized!, some 51 per cent are
held by subsidiary of Paramount Pictures, Inc.
Latest annual report of the company indicated
that it directly and through associates
operated 419 theatres in Canada, including
27 drive-ins, in 1954. It has a 50 per cent
interest in television stations in Kitchener,
Ont., and Quebec City and holds rights to
Chromatic Television Laboratories inventions.
Canadian motion pictui-e chains have been
doing well this year, despite stiff competition.
A few days ago. United Amusement Corp.,
Montreal, also announced an extra dividend
on top of regular disbursements.
Theatre boxoffice returns in Canada
showed no letup in 1953 latest period for
which official figures are known. The Bureau
of Statistics reported that Canadian movie
ticket sales went over the $100,000,000 mark
in 1953 for the first time.
The Bureau also reported that there were
160 more theatres operating in Canada dui-ing
1953 than the 1,746 in the previous year.
There were also 174 drive-in theatres in
Canada in 1953 compared to 104 in 1952. It
was indicated that many country dwellers
are still beyond the range.
Average admission price to a Canadian
movie, including amusement tax, is about
47 cents, the report indicated. Admissions have
jumped 100 to 120 per cent in big cities in
the last 15 years, the report said, but the
increase has been only 30 to 40 per cent in
the rural areas.
Montreal Police Rout
Perverts in Midtown
MONTREAL—Since the advent of cold
weather, motion picture theatres in the midtown
section, particularly the lower-priced
Midway, Hollywood and Crystal, have been
bothered by perverts, routed earlier in the
year by the police morality squad from
Mount Royal, long a hangout for this ilk.
Managers of the midtown theatres are
cooperating with a special ten-man "shadow
detail." assigned by T. O. Leggett, who took
over as temporary chief of police following
the departure of J. Albert Langlois as a
result of exposure of vice conditions. In addition,
the higher class theatres are exercising
special vigilance.
In the last few weeks police have aiTested
some 100 on perversion chargas.
"We are determined to stamp out vice,"
Chief Leggett said, "especially the resui-gence
of homosexuals along St. Lawrence boulevard."
The shadow detail have conducted a number
of raids rounding up the perverts in the
boulevard theatres.
One pervert was arrested and sentenced on
complaint of the Midway manager.
90
BOXOFFICE December 4. 1954

HOLIDAY TICKET SELLING
XMAS PROMOTIONS PROVIDE CHALLENGE
Limitless Variety of Exploitation and Tie-In Activities Possible in Fighting
Usual Holiday Boxoffice Doldrums and in Creating Goodwill
By JULIAN LEE
The Christmas season often proves the
most challenging from a showmanship
standpoint and, in the long run, can be
encouragingly productive. It offers the
alert manager and operator an opportunity
to build both goodwill and boxoffice
through virtually unlimited promotional
activities.
Holiday Show Time is what Everett
Seibel, advertising director for Minnesota
Amusement Co. in Minneapolis, terms that
circuit's promotional campaign which runs
from Thanksgiving Day through a New
Year's Eve midnight show.
"The thought behind the campaign," according
to Seibel, "is to get the public to
believe that it consists of 38 days of wonderful
entertainment: that the theatre then
brings joyous programs at special shows,
has special events, surprises and extra
entertainment. We also point out that
Holiday Show Time comes to them just
when they need it most—it's relaxing entertainment
to refresh them during the
helter-skelter rush, work and shopping
worries of the period."
A SIX-POINT PROGRAM
Spearheading their attack on the seasonal
boxoffice doldrums, the MAC managers
follow a six-point program.
1. Merchants Holiday Greeting Trailers.
In line with the idea advocated by
National Screen, Filmack and others, the
manager sells merchants at so much per
head to join the theatre in a screen greeting
trailer.
2. Chamber of Commerce Shows. The
Chamber, Retail Merchants Ass'n or other
such groups rent the theatre for morning
and afternoon shows, inviting all children
in the trade area to be their guests while
parents are Christmas shopping. Such
shows help the merchants, and the theatre
gets a good rental in addition to a good concession
business.
3. Individual Merchants Shows. A store
rents the theatre for a special children's
show or buys a large block of tickets. It is
a goodwill gesture in appreciation of its
customers' past patronage.
4. Service Club Shows. The Elks, Moose,
American Legion or other civic organizations
rent the theatre for special kiddy
shows.
PLAN CARTOON FESTIVALS
5. Pre - Christmas Cartoon Festivals.
Matinees December 23 or 24 consisting of
an all-cartoon program. In some cases, a
matinee and evening performance the
same day.
6. New Year's Eve Kiddy Show. On the
theory that kiddies are also entitled to celebrate
the New Year, special programs are
presented the afternoon of December 31.
Packoged food and toys collected at a kiddy matinee were displayed in the lobby of the Rose Theatre,
Morton, Tex., as an incentive for more contributions. Children were admitted free with each donation
and a sufficient quantity of food stuff wos gathered to make up 19 baskets for needy families. The
various toys were also distributed to underprivileged youngsters.
giving the kids hats, free popcorn and
candy as well as a few other trinkets. Some
theatres arrange stage shows.
A general survey of the type of merchantrental
shows promoted around the country
in recent years reveals no set pattern as
to the type of business most interested in
such presentations. Department stores,
dairies, grocery stores, banks and electric
utility companies are but a few of the
fields represented. Almost without exception,
however, the individual merchant's
reason for giving his customers a free show
is appreciation of past patronage.
V^^^
^W^
PARKING
PROBLEMS?
Park Your
Child With us
While You
Christmas
Shop - 8 Hours
86c—Liberty
Theatre
.->'
A reminder to parents that it's a simple matter
for them to park the kids at the Liberty Theatre
while they Christmas shop was the theme of
an ad run by Manager Jack Weber at Herkimer,
N. Y.
The appreciation angle is one of the
strongest selling points in promoting such
shows with local business firms. The manager
should also stress the simplicity of
such a goodwill advertising stunt to the
interested businessman. For just the rental
fee, the cost of a certain number of
tickets, everything is handled by the manager
for the merchant other than the distribution
of tickets. In short, the manager
is offering the businessman a packaged
show.
SPONSOR TAKES ACTIVE ROLE
The sponsor should take an active role
in the proceedings, such as greeting his
patrons at the theatre doors. This adds
that personal touch which enhances the
merchant's goodwill gesture. For example,
a dairyman, who rented Schine's Van
Wert Theatre at Van Wert, Ohio, last year
from Manager Clarence Cropper, personally
greeted all his customers and handed
candy treats to the kids. He was so pleased
with the reaction that he immediately
signed up for another rental this year, a
lull year in advance.
In some instances, where the merchant
has uniformed workers which identify
his concern, he can have his employes greet
patrons at the door with gifts and candy.
An important thought to keep in mind
is that merchant promotions can produce
important financial returns to help off-set
the usual seasonal boxoffice decrease.
W. R. Anderson, for example, once added
$1,600 to his gross at Dunlake's Tivoli in
Michigan City, Ind., in an advertising deal
that cost him only $300. He supplied cooperating
merchants three weeks of screen
384 BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Dec. 4, 1954

D
advertising, a listing on a lobby display
and in the house program, in addition to
banners and window cards for the stores,
and 500 kiddy tickets. Merchants purchased
additional tickets at $9 a hundred.
Included in Anderson's advertising expenses
was a page newspaper ad naming
cooperating merchants who were offering
free children's tickets.
Another manager who augmented his receipts
was Elmer DeWitt of the Valentine
Theatre, Defiance, Ohio. DeWitt made
up a merchant greeting trailer and promoted
15 business firms to subscribe $15
each. Others which have reported successful
trailer promotions in the past include
Nate Krevitz of the Pittsburg (Calif.)
Theatres, as well as Chuck Keeling of the
Tower Theatre, Oklahoma City, who reported
a profit of $150 after deducting the
cost of the trailer, some compensation for
holiday boxoffice inertia.
HERRT ClISMS^HiPPV NEW VI
FRDH JFFF AND UAUDE
««##'-
k
>
MERCHANT CO-OPS POSSIBLE
In addition to rental shows, merchant
co-ops offer numerous possibilities, particularly
with giveaways. Premium promotions,
though practical throughout the
year, gain added importance during the
holiday season because of the direct tie-in
with Christmas giving. The Pontiac Theatre
at Saranac Lake, N. Y., ran giveaways
throughout the entire month of December
one year. One merchant offered dolls while
others offered a bicycle, dishwasher, vacuum
cleaner and a clock radio.
Kiddy matinees with premiums promoted
from local merchants are among the most
popular of pre-Christmas co-op activities.
A good gestui-e here is for the theatre to
offer candy to each child while the merchant-donated
toys are given as door
prizes.
SHOW BUSINESS WITH A HEART
No time of the year offers the theatreman
such a tailor-made opportunity for
creating goodwill and improving public
relations as the Christmas season. Showmen
like to say that their business is a
business with a heart—and with good reason
for in no other industry is so much
effort and time given to helping those in
need. The theatreman also has a much
closer contact with the general public than
other businesses and, therefore, is in a
more advantageous position for taking the
lead in welfare work, either as an individual
or in cooperation with other organizations.
Typical of the individual approach was
the Christmas gesture of Harold Stern of
the 'Vogue Theatre in the Bronx. N. Y.
Stern collected toys and the names of
needy children from his own patrons. His
staff repaired and painted the toys, which
were then distributed to the children, the
names of which were kept confidential.
Prior to the distribution, the toys were displayed
in the lobby to encourage further
donations.
Another individual effort was a foodstuff
matinee arranged by Martha J. Lucas of
the Glenn Theatre. Georgetown, Ky.
Youngsters were admitted upon the presentation
of canned or packaged foods which
then went into Christmas baskets for
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :
: Dec.
With the R in place, Jeff and Maude Jefteris were able to offer the season's greetings to all who
passed their Pine Hill Drive-In at Piedmont, Mo. This particular photograph wos used as their
Christmas cards and attracted much favorable comment. Operators whose drive-ins are closed
for the season can take a note from the Jefferis publicity book and also put their attraction
boards to clever use.
needy families. Incidently, although no
admission was charged, concession sales
boomed for the day.
Collection shows are universal in appeal.
In Glasgow, Scotland, for example, Lily
Watt, manager of the Florida Theatre,
Kings Park, gathered gifts and toys for
patients at the Elder Park Children's Hospital.
Patrons hung their contributed gifts
on a lobby Christmas tree. At Berks, England,
Manager Frank Hudson of the Regal
Cinema, Newbury, also used a lobby Christ-
K-\-l-e-n(li-n-Ji
/^NW^
Always a
..... «v .c Good Movie'
Manager W. S. Samuels hod his staff write their
signatures for the front page of the weekly program
which extended a holiday greeting to patrons
of the Rita Theotre, Longview, Tex. The handwriting
added a personal, intimate and friendly
touch to the solutation and resulted in many favorable
comments from patrons.
4. 1954 — 385 —
mas tree for collecting toys for hospitalized
youngsters.
More common are joint efforts with
service clubs and civic organizations such
as Lions clubs and police and fire departments
as such groups are usually better
prepared to handle distribution and repairs,
when necessary, of toys. An example
of such a joint charity effort was once
arranged by Dick Peffley of the Paramount.
Fremont, Ohio. The Lions sponsored the
.show, underwriting most of its costs. The
toys, gathered from the children who were
admitted free, were then turned over to
the fire department which handled all repairs
and distribution.
SHRINERS AID COLLECTION SHOW
In Hamilton, Ont., such a Christmas
show resulted in the distribution of over
1,000 dolls to underprivileged youngsters.
Manager Mel Jolley persuaded the Shriners
to sponsor the show at which youngsters
were admitted upon the presentation of a
doll. The Shriners mailed notices to members
urging help, which a number of them
did by inserting notices in their newspaper
ads. Jolley also put up ten theatre gift
books as prizes for the best dolls contributed.
In the opinion of many managers, the
most important holiday activity is the
merchandising of Christmas gift books because
this is the most direct method of
adding to theatre revenues and, at the
same time, each sale represents a number
of pre-sold seats for future showings.
F^'om the theatreman's viewpoint, gift
(Continued on following page)
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LIDAY TICKET SELLING
Cont'd
—
Christmas Nuggets Through the Years
Many stunts and gimmicks have been used through the years for holiday promofrom
the Showmandiser files which have
tions. Here are a few such nuggets taken
proved successful. Many can be adapted by most managers to fit their particular situa-
tions.
A presentation of Hempstead High School
and Hofstra CoUege student groups was promoted
by Edwin Enke at the Calderone Theatre,
Hempstead, N. Y., as a community service,
gaining much goodwill for the theatre.
One evening, the college choir performed portions
of Handel's Messiah while, on another
evening, the highschool group with its band
presented a Christmas show of carols and
familiar songs.
Fred Reeth created a unique Santa
Claus lobby display for the Capitol
Theatre in Madison, Wis., which featured
an oversized container shaped
like a stocking, with a glass front.
Coins, dropped into the container-like
stocking would fall against a series of
pegs to deflect the coins from a
straight line. If the coins fell into one
of two small cups placed about half
way down the stocking, Reeth gave the
lucky contributor a pass. Money collected
went to a Christmas charity.
Ralph Russell used a gift ticket promotion
to boost the advance take for the holiday
week. He prepared pasteboard tickets in
appropriate yuletide colors, each good for
two admissions. A hole punched at one end
made the ticket convenient for hanging on
Christmas trees. The gimmick was then advertised
and, according to Russell, many business
executives bought large blocks of tickets
as gifts for employes.
Gertrude Tracy Reynolds, realizing
how difficult it was for mothers to take
their children into downtown Cleveland
to see Santa Claus, arranged to
have Santa present at the suburban
Parma Theatre each evening for the
ten days preceding Christmas. Local
merchants paid all campaign expenses
as Santa spent the daytime hours visiting
participating stores. Each evening,
from 6:30 to 9 p.m., youngsters visiting
him at the theatre were given free
lollipops.
To spark his New Year's eve show
with added gaiety, Elmer DeWitt,
manager of the Mailer Bros. Valentine
Theatre, Defiance, Ohio, held a balloon
shower of theatre passes. His advertising
for the stunt also noted the distribution
of free hats and horns.
A retail tie-in, arranged by Bill Schrum of
DIT-MCO
con convert your present screen tower with
STEEL SCREEN EXTENSIONS
For populor wide screen pictures. Priced low . . .
Eosy to install. Complete foundation and erection
plans furnished.
WRITE TODAY FOR QUOTATIONS
DRIVMN THEATRE MFG. CO. 'Jin'taf ciw^mo**
WANTED
Mtn to bring hoppinest to their
fomilies ond friends on Christmot
morning. They will get o
REWARD
of sotisfoction by giving booki of
ENID THEATRE COUPON BAOKS
$2.75 value $2.25—$5.50 value >er ii
NOW ON SALE
AT ALL ENID THEATRES
This novel opprooch was used by Video
Theatres' Enid at Enid, OIka., in its newspaper
ads promoting the sale of Christmas
gift books.
the Carolina Theatre, Hickory, N. C, stimulated
the boxoffice take and, according to
participating merchants, improved retail
business as well. Schrum, advertising the
stunt as a giveaway of $25,000 in merchants
gift certificates, distributed tickets for a $1
discount on purchases of a specified amount
at each store. The cost of advertising was
shared equally by the merchants and the
theatre.
R. H. Spencer created much goodwill
for the Uptown and Strand theatres,
Creston, Iowa, by offering patrons a
chance to send free recordings of
Christmas greetings to relatives in the
armed forces. Recordings were made
on mailable paper disks and were
mailed, by the theatre as an extra
courtesy.
John Arnold solved the problem of where
to place the Christmas tree in the relatively
small lobby of the Kirby Theatre in Houston
by actually hanging the tree upsidedown from
the ceiling, and then decorating it in that
position. The result was not only effective
but provoked a wealth of comment from
amused patrons.
A tieup with the Newark Star-Ledger
proved helpful in promoting a Christmas
cartoon party arranged by
Thomas P. Arrants of the Ritz, Elizabeth,
N. J. The newspaper made up
inserts which were placed in papers
and distributed throughout the city
two weeks before the show. In addition,
they also supplied back issues of
comic sections which were given to
children attending matinees prior to
the cartoon party.
Myron Streizant invited two high school art
students to paint yuletide decorations in the
lobby of the Plaza Theatre, Englewood, N. J.
The students painted two murals on opposite
sides of the lobby which attracted many
friends and other students and resulted in a
writeup in the local paper.
Christmas
Merchandising
(Continued from preceding page)
book sales have the added advantage of
being relatively simple to promote. As
compared to the exploiting of a particular
picture or special event where the purpose
is to interest potential patrons sufficiently
to purchase tickets, selling gift
books basically utilizes the reminder technique.
Most patrons are fully aware of
gift books. It is up to the showman to
remind them of their availability and their
value.
SOME OFFER COMMISSION
The most simple and most obvious reminder
technique is the use of the screen
trailer, but other sales stimulant ideas
should not be overlooked. Lobby displays
can be very effective, as well as special inside
boxoffices.
A number of theatres and circuits offer
a commission on all sales. For example.
Bob Gardner, director of gift book sales
for the Odeon circuit in Canada, suggested
that managers approach such organizations
as the Boy Scouts, Kiwanis, Rotary,
church groups and others and offer them
10 per cent commission as a fund raising
stunt. Business firms and factories can
also be approached with the idea that the
commission could be used for either charity
work or employe benefit. Business
firms can also be approached with the idea
of giving books to employes as gifts. Other
showmen have offered commissions and
bonuses to theatre employes for sales, creating
a competitive spirit among staff
members.
USED DIRECT MAIL
Direct mail is also an effective method
of building sales. Such an appeal was utilized
successfully one year in Tifton, Gra.,
by Matt Whitman, city manager for Martin
Theatres, who obtained the names and
addresses of the parents of local junior
college students and wrote letters explaining
how valuable the gift tickets would be
to students on their return to school.
Although most emphasis on holiday promotions
concentrates on Christmas, New
Year's should not be overlooked. Here,
most of the campaigns and merchant tieins,
such as rental shows and appreciation
trailers, are really considered as one promotion.
But the promotion of New Year's
Eve shows does require some separate attention,
though not necessarily any different
approach than used for Christmas. In
addition to night showings, many showmen
recommend a kiddy matinee with gifts,
candy and noisemakers. However, managers
experienced with such matinees in
the past warn not to hand out the noisemakers
until the children exit.
— 386 — BOXOFFICE Showmandiser : : Dec. 4, 1954

HOLIDAY TICKET SELLING . . . Cont'd
Yuletide Offers Field
^HERE is no limit to the ingenuity revealed by managers
all over the country promoting Christmas
Day On Displays
showtime, special matinees and gift books. Here are illustrated
some outstanding displays utilized in previous
campaigns, many of which are practical for most situations.
•0
J. M. Heaps, manager of the Metropolitan
Theatre in Regina, Sask., used a large clocktype
display to remind patrons on the number
of shopping days till Christmas as part of
his lobby pitch for the sale of theatre ticket
gift books. Numbers on the outer rim ran
from 32 to Christmas Eve and o pointer
labeled. Shopping Days Left, was moved each
day.
BOXOFFICE Showmancliser Dec. 4, 1954
Brick patterned corrugated paper provided rhc colorful
background for this lobby setpiece conceived by Manager
W. J. Trambukis and erected in the lobby of the Regent
Theatre, ffarrisburg. Pa. Coming attractions were odvertised
in the windows of the display and a small figure
held a holiday greetings cord from the management and
staff. The brick paper was also used for a wishing well
spotted in the outer lobby, with a request for contributions
to the Will Rogers Memorial Hospital.
— 387—
Manager Lester Pollack rigged up this effective
display for the front of the Rochester
(N. Y.) Theatre for last year's Christmas
celebration. Strings of lights from a point
on the roof of the building were strung to
the top of the marquee, and with the large
lighted star at the top resembled a Christmas
tree from a distance. The decorotion can be
used annually.

K:SSS:?*S#S^!S^^
ifmmmm
MORE XMAS POINTERS
Manager John Smith of the River Oaks Theatre
in suburban Houston used a Christmas motif on a
postcard to announce the ploydate of a coming
attraction.
Xmas Lights Safety Rules
1. Use flameproofed trees and noncombustible
materials for decofations,
such as metal, glass, or asbestos. If tree
has not been treated, set base in pan of
water.
2. Do not place tree near sources of
heat, such as radiators, or where it could
block exits.
3. Do not use candles on the tree or
near decorations. Electric lighting used
should be carefully checked for frayed
wires, loose connections and broken
sockets.
4. Check all firefighting equipment and
make sure extinguishers are near at hand.
5. Keep matches, lighters and candles
away from children and enforce no smoking
near decorations. Provide plenty of
safe ash trays.
6. Be prepared for a possible fire by
having exits
plainly marked and theatre
personnel instructed as to all safety
measures.
r~)rx-Tnnr~XT

BOXOFFICE
BAROMETER
This chort records the performance of current ottractions in the opening week of their first runs in
the 20 key cities checked. Pictures with fewer than five engagements are not listed. As new runs
are reported, ratings are added and overages revised. Computation is in terms of percentage in
relation to normal grosses as determined by the theotre managers. With 100 per cent as "normal,'
the figures show the gross rating above or below that mark.
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Cauij^me^it' • ConceSli&HA. • ^tLudctioMCe
DECEMBER 4. 1954
TMBAmi
SECTION OF BOXOFFICE

Customers come in 3-D. First, they buv tickets.
Profit for you. Second, they buy refreshment while
in your house. More profit for you. And in the
third dimension, they come back if lliey hke w lial
they get. Theater patrons enjoy the combination
oi entertainment and refreshment when you se
dehcious Coca-Cola . . . and
satisfied customers
come back. For the money-making details on a variety
of vending equipment, write The Coca-Cola
Company, P. O. Bo.\ 1734, Atlanta, Georgia.
COPYRIGHT 1954. THECOCA-COLA COMPANY
for extra
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\\Vft'J-^hvv\\\vm\VUvV\/\^vv\vw'

BOXOFFICE :: December 4, 1954
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CinemaScope and all wide-screen systems, 3-D,
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C RAFT
SUPER POWJR
NOW OPERATING IN THE
LARGEST THEATRES USING
GIANT SCREENS
70-128 FEET WIDE^
Recent tests have definitely proved that the Ashcraft Super-
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light and of a better quality then other lomps using from
135 to 180 amperes— (the complete Super-Power ronge is
85 to 135 amperes).
There is no film buckle with the Super-Power—equipped
with the Ashcraft Air-Cooled Heot Deflector.
The Super-Power is especially engineered and constructed
to meet the present-doy requirements of the lorgest and
widest screens or for large screen 3-D—whether for Indoor
or Drive-In projection.
-^The Super-Power is in daily operation in indoor theotres
projecting 70 ft. pictures.
Drive-ln theatres, with 128 ft. screens, are in year around
operation using the Super-Power.
ASHCRAFT HYDRO-ARC° 75-85 AMPS
PRODUCES MORE LIGHT
THAN NEEDED FOR 30-
45 FOOT WIDE SCREENS
USED IN SMALLER THEATRES
The Ashcraft Hydro-Arc is of the same high quality
and efficiency as the Super-Power, yet is specifically
designed for those theatres not adaptable fo
enormously large screens.
The Hydro-Arc supplants and is far more powerful
than the outmoded Suprex type lamp which
used short copper coated carbons. Suprex is not
adaptable to present-day wide screen projection
standards yet costs more to operate than the powerful
Hydro-Arc.
The first cost and operating expense
of the Hydro-Arc is low
and well within the reach of
exhibitors who demond highpowered,
economical projection
Hydro-Arcs ore ideal for lorge
screen 3-D (long burning over
one hour) or .for Drive-ln theotre
screens up to 50 ft. wide.
The Ashcraft Hydro-Arc uses 9 m/m x 20" uncoated
High-Intensity Carbons (which do not require
rotation
due to double magnetic arc stabilization).
The long 20" carbon costs substantially
the same as the Suprex 14" copper-coated carbon
yet burns more than twice as long.
A genuine Bausch & Lomb High-Speed Reflector
assures maximum light efficiency.
Distributed U.S.A.: Tlirough Independent Theatre Supply Dealers • Foreign: Westrex Corp, • Canada: Dominion Sound Equipments, Ltd
C. S. ASHCRAFT MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.
36-32 THIRTY-EIGHTH STREET • LONG ISLAND CITY 1, N. Y.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

p-r
Bigger screens, faster optics, the latest in sound systems
— all these are important, audience-building additions. But
no one can reasonably expect them to
do more than embellish
and support the picture — which is
light.
Make sure your presentations give the full
value that's
on the film by using a "National" carbon trim best suited
to your screen requirements.
See your supply-house representative or write to National
Carbon Company for advice. Either one will be more than
glad to help.
THE PICTURE IS LIGHT...
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with "NATIONAL" CARBONS
The lerm "National" is a rogisfererf trade-mark of Union Carbida and Carbon Corporation
NATIONAL CARBON COMPANY
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Sales Offices: Atlanta. Chicago. Dallas. Kansas City, New York. i*iltsburgh. San hranciscu
IN CANADA: Union Carbide Canada Limited, Torontu
BOXOFFICE
;
: December
4, 1954

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The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

DECEMBER 4, 1954
o n I n t
Modern Theatre Goes to TESMA-TEDA-TOA-IPA Tradeshow 8
Choosing the "Right" Color Combinations Barclay Adams 16
Conversation Corner 20
Planned for Comfort and Convenience Richard Bullock 22
Resilient Flooring Climbs the Wall 26
New Lamp Features Greater Power and More
Economical Operation Clarence S. Ashcraft 28
How to Select and Use Cup Venders for
Plus Sales
Per Person Melville B. Rapp 31
IPA Elects Officers, Plans 1955 Program 34
USDA Official Predicts Popcorn Crop of Near 200
Million Pounds in 1954 37
Step-by-Step Servicing of Sound Systems Wesley Trout 38
Steps in the Evolution of a Projector 44
Theatre Maintenance Questions and Answers Dave E. Smalley 45
Extra Depth Between Ramps for Easier Turns J. W. Agnew 46
Unique Design for Drive-In Attraction Board 48
DEPARTMENTS:
Refreshment Service 31 Drive-In Theatres 46
Readers' Service Bureau 35 New Equipment and
Developments 49
Advertising Index 36 Literature 51
Projection and Sound 38 About People and Product 52
ON THE COVER
Luxurious comfort and beauty were provided in all areas of the
remodeled and redecorated Shaker Theatre. Cleveland. Ohio.
Typical is this convenience corner, featuring a telephone, off the
patio lounge. Smart furniture, cypress paneled xoalls. extensive
mirrors, and a specially woven carpet by Hardwick & Magee contribute
to its charm.
w,lITH exhibitors enjoying the
greatest boxoffice since the war years,
it appears certain that 1955 will continue
the strong trend established in
the past 12 months toward extensive
remodeling, refurnishing and redecoration
of theatres.
Indeed, such renovation may well
exceed the past year, for the movement
was naturally initiated by larger houses
which could afford the "gamble" that
new beauty, comfort and convenience,
plus good product in the exciting new
techniques, would revitalize the moviegoing
habit. Theatre attendance records,
reported from all over the country,
have confirmed the theory which activated
the wave of modernization by
the larger houses, and the coming
year will undoubtedly find hundreds
of smaller exhibitors remodeling.
Evidence of exhibitor interest, not
only in new projection and sound
equipment for the new processes, but
also in every item of theatre furnishings
and decoration was strikingly apparent
at the recent TESMA-TEDA-TOA-rPA
conventions and tradeshow. There was
never a dull moment in the open forum
sessions when new equipment and new
techniques were under discussion, with
exhibitors eagerly asking questions
about conversions. Likewise, the display
booths of the manufacturers and
suppliers were well patronized at all
times, and it was reported that a brisk
business was enjoyed.
Several of the feature articles in this
issue will be of particular help to exhibitors
in planning new color schemes,
new decorative treatments and special
conveniences and comforts for patrons.
The trend in theatre decor veers toward
the informal, homelike setting, the
dramatic aura retained nevertheless by
the skillful use of colors, rich fabrics
and luxurious appointments.
I. L. THATCHER, Managing Editor
The MODERN THEATRE Section of BOXOFFICE is included in the first issue of each month.
Editorial or generol business correspondence should be addressed to Associated Publications,
825 Von Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 24, Mo. Eastern Representative: A. J. Stocker, 9 Rockefeller
Plaza, New York 20, N. Y.; Central Representotives: Ewing Hutchison and E. E. Yeck, 35
East Wocker Drive, Chicago I, III.; Western Representative: Bob Wettstein, 672 South
Lafayette Pork Ploce, Los Angeles 5, Calif.

MODERN THEATRE GOES TO
Fred Matthews, second from right, president of TESMA during
1954, expressed himself as highly pleased with the splendid
tradeshow presented in Chicago last month. Here, in his
company's booth, he is talking with, from left, Ben Agron,
Ohio Theatre Supply, Cleveland; Charles Vonesh, with Motiograph,
Chicago; Doug Matthews, treasurer of the company,
and, at right, Frank Riffle, also with the firm.
Three tiappy gentlemen saw much to please them at the recent Chicago tradeshow. Shown
beaming from left to right ore, Leonard Sotz of Raytone Screen Corp. in Brooklyn; Wes
Thompson of Raytone-Thompson in Sun Valley, Calif., and Sol Sfiurpin, president of Raytone.
Shown discussing American's Bodiform chairs are
(left to right) Jerry Evans, Atlanta, Ga., representative;
Ralph H. Zimmercan, Los Angeles, Calif.,
representative; R. J. Hemkes, field sales manager.
A. E. Stephens and J. J. Munk of Superior Electric
Co. took time out, while exhibitors were in convention
session, to go over some of the system's
features by themselves.
The Robin-Arc selenium rectifiers were shown in
the Robin booth. Harry Miele, a drive-in theatre
exhibitor from Williamsport, Pa., left, is listening
with much interest to Emil A. Kern of Robin.

CfESMA-TEDA-TOA-lPA TRADESHOW
Representatiyes of the Hires Root Beer Co. were on
hand to visit with TOA delegates while they refreshed
themselves with a cold drink. Shown here,
from left to right, are R. G. Steizer, F. Lupa, A. L.
Klein, f . T. Powers and Betty Fairchild.
John Shelton, Geraldine Naples and Robert Greenblatt
of the Vidoscope organization came from New
York City to attend the TOA convention ... to be
sure the hordes attending the convention would
know that "Even a baby can focus it!"
HP^^-J 5o

MODERN THEATRE
GOES TO THE TRADESHOW
Discussing new theatre equipment in the First-
American Products, Inc., booth were, from left,
Harold Foster, with the company; Richard Wiles,
co-owner; Louis Gasparini, Albuquerque Exhibitors,
Inc., Albuquerque, N. M.; Miles L. Hurley,
Hurley Theatres, Tucumcari, N. M.; and Brooks
Noah, co-owner of First-American.
Topic of discussion among A. H. Hosier (left) of
St. Louis Theatre Supply Co., St. Louis, Mo.; R. T.
Van Niman of Stelmo, Inc., Stamford, Conn.; S. R
Langwith, Western Service & Supply, Inc., Denver,
concerns the Stelma Perspecta stereophonic sound
integrator, which the manufacturing company had
on display at the tradeshow.
John Clark of the Tiffin Theatre, Chicago, seems
perfectly happy as Cindy Jewell, Canada Dry
representative, asks him to try Canada Dry's
orange flavored beverage. The attractive booth
was a popular one with exhibitors in attendance
at the big show and many gallons of syrups were
consumed by thirsty theatremen.
Cole Products Corp., Chicago, went all out to set
up an interesting display at the TOA convention.
Shown talking in the booth are (left to right)
Albert Cole, president; Follin K. Stonebrook, theatre
sales manager for Cole Products; Augie J.
Schmitt, Houston Popcorn & Supply Co., Houston,
Tex.; Roy Smith, Roy Smith Co., Jacksonville, Fla.
Several of the Cole Spa venders were exhibited
in the company's booth, and ice cold drinks were
available to exhibitors at all times.
Herbert Knechtel (left) of DeMet Candy Co.,
Chicago; Miss Mary A. Sonley, DeMet Candy Co.;
John H. Rebstock, Big Ten Soles Co., Chicago
(right), stopped in to talk with Hilding Karlson
(second from left). General Register Corp., Long
Island, N. Y. This was the first visit to the TOA
convention for DeMet representatives who were
investigating the possibilities of entering the theatre
concessions market during the coming year
with their unusual line of candies.
Clarence S. Ashcraft sr. and his son, C. S. Ashcroft
jr., discuss the new equipment developed
especially for new screen techniques with J. B.
Barron, exhibitor from Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Seated at the right are Mrs. C. S. Ashcraft jr.
and Mrs. Clarence Ashcraft sr. Mr. Barron operates
two theatres in Calgary. The Ashcraft company
display featured the new Cinex 170 projection
lamp, particularly adopted to wide-aperture
projection.
With popcorn such a big item in theatre lobby
concessions, popping oil products on display in the
Simonins booth received considerable attention.
Giving special attention to Popsit Plus are (left
to right) H. M. Alber, Premiere Popcorn Co. of
Watseka, III ; George K. Brown, Wyandot Popcorn
Co., Marion, Ohio; J. A. Ryan of C. S. Simonin's
Sons, Inc.; Robert Pelton, Pelton Popcorn Co.,
Bloomdale, Ohio.
Dorothy Matson (left) of Matson Theatres, Rockdale,
Tex., laughed gleefully when she told George
Waddell (second from left) of Hollywood Brands
that she felt she was entitled to some samples.
Meanwhile, B. C. Umbach of Tyson-Gafley Corp.,
Wayne, Pa., grabbed some bars for Mrs. C. W.
Matson who preferred just to "stand by." The
candy booth attracted many exhibitors and was
particularly popular with children.
J. A. Jackson (left) of the Clanton Drive-In Theatre,
Clanton, Ala., was asking plenty of questions
when he looked into products on display by Protective
Coatings, Inc. Mrs. Valma Baldwin and
Joseph C. Morse were in charge of the Protective
company's booth at the time of Jackson's visit.
The new screen coating produced by the company
has recently been taken on by RCA dealers
for distribution to exhibitors.
10 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

\junw nnu kkujcu i lurt cwurKMCN i
PROJECTION ROOM
rN ONE PACKAGE
SDISTIHCTiON
riNEVIOL
The chummy group meeting in the Lorraine Carbons
TOA booth are, (left to right), Stanley
Pratt, Teotro Del Logo Theatre; Addie Klein,
Kayline Candy Co ; Sam Myers, Normandy Drivein,
Jacksonville, Fla.; Edward Lachman, Lorraine
Carbons; Myer Axler, Inter Theatre Services,
Ltd , Toronto, Canada.
Meeting for a chat in the Ballantyne booth are
(left to right). Rex Carr. Y. & W. Circuit, Indianapolis,
Ind.; Harry Melcher, Unity Theatre, Milwaukee,
Wis.; R. S. Ballantyne; Charles Benianti,
Benianti Theatres, Carlyle, III.; Ray H. Goryer,
Carver Electric Co.; William Cain, Roxy Theatre,
Lockport,
III
rTusch^lombi-
I r. I. AUU TMB
^ c
i
k
Erwin Wagner was very much in evidence at the
TOA-TESMA-TEDA-IPA convention. Meeting in
the Wagner booth (left to right) are: Walter
Jacobson, Erwin Wagner, Dave Balch, Wagner
Sign Service; Dan Peterson and Sid Peterson,
State Theatre Co., Brookings, S. D ; Bob Clasby,
Wagner Sign Service.
When above photo was taken, little room was left
after Eprad and Phil-Kron
people got together for
a technical confab. Left to right are: 0. C. Wells,
Mrs. Frieda Blossom and O. M. LaVallee of
Eprad; Ken Phillips, Phil-Kron, Bloomington, III.;
Cliff Winger and Red Keelen, Phil-Kron, Sheffield;
W. B. Boudouris, Eprad. The new Eprad stereophonic
in-car speakers were the subject of much
interest to the group.
Rehashing theatre equipment business was an interesting
interlude for (left to right) A. E.
Neumer, Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, N. Y.; Alex
McKiniie, Southwestern Theatre Equipment Co.,
Houston, Tex.; Tom J. Mulroy, Bausch & Lomb;
Tom S. Vincent, Southwestern Theatre Equipment
Co.; Oakleigh Hill, Southwestern Theatre Equipment
Co., Dallas; M. H. Fritchle, Oliver Theatre
Supply Co., Cleveland, Ohio.
The Dad's root beer barrel was the focus of attention
when H. Goldschmidt, L. G. Refrigerator
Co., Chicago, left; J Barnholtz, Dad's Root Beer
Co., Chicago; Edward Bright, Dad's, Chicago;
Miss Nancy Jason, Chicago; Edward Bright, Dad's,
Chicago, seen in the rear, and H. R. Vogel, Theatre
Equipment & Supply, Milwaukee, Wis.,
gathered around for a cool drink of the refreshing
beverage.
That something new attracts everybody was certainly
true in the case of Drink Mist. Most of the
time extra attendants had to be borrowed from
neighboring display booths so curious crowds
could be served. The new drink is a non-carbonated
aerated fresh fruit flavor beverage of pleasing
smoothness.
Robert Hoffman (left) and John Musser were two
Curtiss Candy Co. representatives who helped to
replenish the table with Butterfinger and Baby
Ruth bars. The candy samples were enjoyed by
everyone, and Hoffman and Musser found exhibitors
most enthusiastic about their sale in
theatres.
Carbonic Dispenser, Inc., equipment was in for
some sound testing when (left to right) O. J.
Sponseller of Carbonic, Canfield, Ohio; Julian
Colby, Confection Cabinet Corp., Chicago; Bill
DuBeau, Confection Cabinet; Ernie Allison, Carbonic
national sales manager; Herbert Kraus and
Sidney Shapiro, Confection, sampled a drink.
An order for Automatic Devices Co. brought op
proving smiles from Lester Belaval of San Juan;
William Smith jr.. Automatic Devices Co., Allentown,
Pa.; Art E. Trotzig, American Theatre Supply
Co., Sioux Falls, S. D.
Beverage syrups and drink dispensing machines
were shown by Tone Products Co. In keeping
with the thrifty Scotch theme was the jauntily
dressed model who served sample drinks to exhibitors.
Edgar L. Love, shows a sample of Koiled Kord
to Mrs. Frances Hinternhoff of the Chicago Tribune,
explaining its use in drive-in theatres. He
also passed out miniature cords reduced to
watch chain size.

MODERN THEATRE GOES TO THE TRADESHOW
m
Don HIIke of Everfrost Sales, Inc., Gardeno, Calif.
(left), fiad a lone but very much interested visitor
as he talked about the merits of his company's
Soda Bar with Jack Harvey, who attended the TOA
convention as a representative of Oxford Blectric
Corp. The Everfrost Soda Bar offers three flavors
of drinks cooled by dry refrigeration. The company
claims that 720 drinks can be served from
just three gallons of syrup.
At

While Harold Brown (left) of the Strong Electric
Co. talked about the merits of his company's
product, John Hardin (center), Hardin Theatre
Supply Co., Dallas, Tex., and Cliff Callender
(right). Strong representative, gave on attentive
ear. The company's lamps were on display.
A short recess was declared by (left to right)
M. N. Wolf, Altec Lansing representative from
New York City; Bob Hilton, Altec, Chicago; Harry
Swin, Altec, Wichita, Kas.; Fred Dickley, Altec,
Chicago; Robert C. Carlson of Cincinnati, Ohio;
L. D. Netter, Altec, New York City.
From left: D. J. White, president, Magnasync;
H. R. Vogel, Theatre Equipment & Supply, Milwaukee;
Arch Samuelson, Stromberg-Carlson,
Rochester, N. Y.; Jack Mitchell, Tri-State Theatre
Supply, Memphis; William H. Stutz, executive vicepresident
»f Magnasync, and Gene McCarthy.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^M
S^^^^^l
Theatre candy sales were the concern of E. M.
Caswell with the Nestle Co., Mrs. Oscar Ratterman,
Skyway Drive-In, Louisville, Ky.; Mrs. Louis
Arru, Twilite Drive-ln Theatre, Louisville, and
H. E. Sullivan of the Nestle Co. Both of the
ladies reported good candy sales at their drive-ins.

MODERN THEATRE GOES TO THE TRADESHOW
iTIONAL CARBON COM
f fl
Representatives of Notional Carbon Co., were
on hand in the company's booth to greet exhibitors
and dealers. In this picture, lined up from
the left, are Sid Morley, Kansas City; Fred Sfovenour,
Dallas; F. J. Masek, National Theatre Supply,
Cleveland; J. R. Johnstone, New York City;
M. F. Williams, National Theatre Supply, Pittsburgh,
and Jim Naughton, Pittsburgh. A chance
to talk over the theatre business with others in
the trade is one of the high points of the show.
National Theatre Supply exhibits attracted many
theatremen at the tradeshow. Shown above, from
the left, are Mrs. and Mr. M. Skeffington, Twin
Drive-in Theatre, Chicago; John Currie, National
Theatre Supply, New York City; Clarence Williamson
and E. M. Studebaker, NTS, Detroit; A. T.
Crawmer, NTS, Minneapolis, and Roy Rosser,
NTS, Chicago. National Theatre Supply exhibits
occupied several booths in the main exhibition hall
of the Conrad Hilton Hotel.

A
GOOD
PROJECTION
LAMP
^^^^^^^
'^^^ on iv,^ screen
^^^
SHOULD DO
MORE
THAN JUST
DELIVER
LIGHT!
arX* ' eH"^' ,rv t" ,re-
BurninglOmm'-Hite.''..
bons at 135 •„ "'lex cat-
""n regular c^rE""' "' "
a m perls .r^"."^ ^* 12"
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«ithout"a"^^r'e"s •*?•"
crease "I^S'"^
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A stream of air
above direct
the are stah-.-
burning anT " '""*
-|Po^sit preve^Ttl,''
„, soof'^^^rn^e 'r'e!
Good projection olso requires
an arc o{ unvarying intensity,
unchanging color, economy
of current and carbons,
and ease of operation and
maintenance. These are the
important things that must
be combined in an arc — the
things experienced theatremen
and projectionists look
for in the lamps they buy.
Strong projection lamps
afford the new way of providing
all of them. That's
why good pictures are better
when projected with these
arcs. If you're on a merrygo-round
as to which lamps
to buy we believe you will
find the answer to your projection
lighting problems in
Strong lamps.
"mple?e"''wl?;r''' produced
•ory, IJrone 1," """ """
screen en°g7^ee?eTfor""
"'
-"". why efffcie'^clts'^Tha't";
more dealers "lore sp I f i
theatres made buy "HIA"" Strongamps
projection
«han any ar
other mal
tj>
"^ZlTrectifiers with a range of from 9°
st-"^--jno":rerore.--'^^^^"^^^^
135 amperes ton that's back
When "uyng P;°^^^^G
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^.,i.ncetot.eto. _
.,
11 CITY PARK AVENUE
TOLEDO 1, OHIO
'7^ Ti^atldi ^Ai^6^t TfCzttu^^nctutei a^ ^r

Luxury and patron comfort ore exemplified in the downstairs lounge of the
Fine Arts Theatre, one of New York's smart East Side art policy houses. Plate
glass mirrors increase the spaciousness of the room, a corner of which is
shown here. Terra cotta and green paint highlight the plaster walls, the
soundproof ceiling is rosy beige, and flooring is marbleized verde antique
Kentile asphalt tile, which is continued into the adjoining powder and restrooms.
Green, black and white accessories and Spanish brown tweed upholstered
furniture complete the boldly modern decorative plan.
CHOOSING THE
RIGHT COLOR COMBINATIONS
Each Type of Theafre Requires a
Different Color Treatment to Bring Out
Its Particular Characteristics-Trend Is to Dramatic Boldness
By
BARCLAY ADAMS
Wesign and decoration of the modern
motion picture theatre has changed
completely within the last decade. A more
intimate atmosphere and subtle charm,
carefully planned for maximum eye appeal
and patron enjoyment, have replaced the
huge, over-ornate houses of the past.
The bold use of colors is one of the outstanding
features of this revolutionary
about-face in theatre interior decor. Colors
of floor, walls, ceiling, draperies, seating
and lighting effects are correlated to create
a feeling of happiness and relaxation,
to induce a mood of enjoyment in the
audience, to offset the competition of other
forms of entertainment.
Each type of house—from the neighborhood
or suburban motion pictui-e theatre
and the mid-city first run house, to the
small, ultra-modern or conservative, art
policy theatre—requires a different color
treatment. By skillful use of color and
wisely chosen materials, an old theatre can
'Mr. Adams is executive director, American Society
of Interior Design.
be modernized at a fairly low cost and put
into step with modern architecture and
today's functional interior design.
Leading specialists in theatre design and
decoration agree that modern use of color
is bold but not jarring. Like modern art,
it is different, but in good taste, and entirely
stripped of unnecessary details.
Key color for a first run mid- town theatre
seeking to create a thrilling or exciting
setting for Technicolor, wide-screen presentations,
should be dynamic ruby or Chinese
red, they say.
RED KEYS THE MID-TOWN HOUSE
With red as a key color, these color
specialists advise, stimulating color combinations
for auditorium, inner and outer
lobby, loge, foyer and lounges can be developed;
for example: Bright Rouge
Acajou red, olive gray, silver gray, sand,
citron, pearl white and black; Rosso Di
Levanto red, terra cotta or Toledo red,
peach tan, silver gray, medium green, white
and russet brown; Chinese red, crisp white,
antique coral, ebony, lime green, gun-metal
and pastel green; Ruby red, warm beige,
soft or medium gray, Kerry green, brown,
chalk white and Sumac red.
For the conservative, dignified theatre
in traditional design, impressive color combinations
can be built around blue as a
key color. Specific suggestions are: Fleecy
Cerulean blue, aspen green-blue, peach,
gray, black, Cardinal red and white; Blue
Beige, white, pewter gray, smoky brown,
carnation pink, coral and forest green;
Bikini blue, blue-gray, desert sand tan,
terra cotta or Toledo red, white and ebony;
Capri blue, Wedgewood blue, Quaker gray,
black, oyster white, willow green and ruby
red.
To set the leisurely, more carefree mood
of a neighborhood or suburban theatre use
a plan built around nature's own color,
green, these noted color consultants suggest.
Color combinations keyed to gi-een
are: Cippolino green, willow green, gardenia
white, russet brown, yellow. Cardinal
red and black; Connemara green, Duporth
light green, sand beige, nasturtium orange,
putty gray, white, and citron yellow; Lime
green, ivy green, marigold yellow, old ivory,
eggshell white, Chinese red and ebony;
Kerry green, willow green, Quaker gray.
16 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

frosty white, black, ruby red and chocolate
brown.
Taking its color cue from modern art,
the ultra-modern intimate theatre can use
yellow as a key color. Sophisticated color
combinations prominently using yellow include:
Lamartine yellow, beig", rust brown,
white, carnelian red, gardenia green and
pebble gray; Sienna yellow, pinky beige,
Cardinal red, olive green, white, cocoa
brown, and sumac red; Marigold yellow,
nasturtium orange. Chinese red, white,
shamrock green, dark brown and matte
black; Jonquil yellow, deep citron, adobe
tan, Kerry green, pearl white, charcoal
black and ruby red.
ADAPTING COLOR TO DESIGN
As examples of the changing design in
today's modern motion picture theatre, here
are brief descriptions of three theatres,
each catering to the demands of a public
conditioned by television viewing in comfortable
home surroundings. Each house
employs new decorative media to provide
maximum comfort and beauty for its patrons,
many of whom prefer to wait until
a new show starts rather than be seated
in the auditorium during a performance.
All use colors with full consideration of
their emotional effect on members of an
audience, and each house is planned to
make every available foot of space serve
both a utilitarian and decorative function.
An outstanding example of how the bold
use of color, and the proper choice of materials
can give beauty and patron luxury
that function with a maximum of efficiency,
yet hold maintenance and replacement
costs at the lowest possible minimum,
is afforded by the Plaza Theatre, Stamford,
Conn.
The 1,134-seat Plaza, operated by the
Consolidated Theatres, Inc., New Rochelle,
N. Y., is a first run house situated on busy
Main street in the center of a sophisticated
business and residential community which
is less than an hour's commuting distance
from New York City.
A RESTFUL COLOR SCHEME
The interior decor of the Plaza is distinguished
by its modern functional design
and smart colors. Warm-toned shades of
terra cotta, green and russet are accented
by gold, brown, tan and cerulean blue, in
an inviting, relaxing and colorful decor.
Auditorium walls are acoustical plaster
painted terra cotta. The dome-shaped
acoustical plaster ceiling is finished in soft
gi'een. Seating is in two sections, a main
floor and a loge, and features the new
body contour type of seats. Orchestra seats
have dark brown mohair upholstered backs
and tan leatherette seats; the upholstery
of loge seats combines tan leatherette with
gray-striped, brown mohair upholstered
backs.
On the lower level is a spacious, inviting
lounge with powder and washrooms adjoining.
Here the dominating terra cotta and
green colors used in the auditorium are
continued. Furnishings and draperies are
in harmonizing shades of gold, light green
and tan. Floor covering here is Kentile
In this corner of the hospitable lower level lounge of the Plaza Theatre, Stamford, Conn., the flooring is
Kentile Languedo asphalt tile with an inset border of white Travertine tile which extends into the adjoining
powder and wash rooms. Smart Fleecy Cerulean blue Kentile used as a wall covering may be
seen through doorway at right. Harmonizing shades of gold, light green and tan are used for upholstery
and draperies, continuing the dominating terra cotta and green tones of the auditorium color scheme.
Languedo asphalt tile, a russet red shade
marbleized in white, dark brown and black,
which extends into the adjacent powder
and washrooms.
In the women's powder room and men's
washroom, a wall wainscoting matches the
russet-red floor tile, and Fleecy Cerulean
blue Kentile asphalt has been installed
above it in an attractive wall covering. In
addition to its durable, rich-colored beauty,
the Kentile flooring and wall covering is
semi-permanent, thus
reducing redecorating
costs. It is alkali-proof, and neither
floor nor wall surfaces can be damaged by
common stains. Harry Furst, manager of
the Plaza, enthusiastically recommends its
low-cost, easy upkeep. An occasional light
mopping and buffing keeps the surface
looking like new, he says.
Gay, gala colors are
featured in the decorative
plan of the
Hobart Theatre,
Woodside, Long Island,
a thriving New
York City suburb.
Here shown is one
end of the inner
lobby, facing the
auditorium
entrance
doors, with refreshment
center at right.
Colorful red plaster
walls and cream
colored
acoustical
plaster ceiling are
underscored by the
stunning KenRubber
tile floor in Rouge
Royal Red, Blue
Beige inset with directional
lines of
cream toned Pavona
z z KenRubber
marbleized in red
and yellow.
Clever planning, harmonious color combination
and careful choice of new functional
materials create a friendly atmosphere
without loss of prestige or importance
for the smaller suburban motion picture
house. An excellent example is the
600-seat Hobart Theatre, Woodside, Long
Island. Of the stadium type, it is one of
some 24 theatres in the Greater New York
area belonging to Interboro Theatres, Inc.
Of contemporary design the Hobart
facade is red brick. Entrance is past a
modern structural glass boxoffice into the
foyer, which is bright with both incandescent
and fluorescent lighting. Foyer
walls are green plaster and the ceiling is
cream-colored.
Mahogany doors lead to the inner lobby.
Continued on following page
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 17

The Difference Between
THIQ
r///5
mm
IS
Walking on top o{ a worry . . ,
or sitting on top of the world?
B.jx oflices bulge when your p^itrons looli (oiuard
to comforlabk'. relasing seals. Need help in
ihal
line?
'lliat's our specialty and we work while your
slioiv proceeds. We make every chair a THRONE
fit for a patron, yet the cost's a pitlance.
W:iiil Ihc price?
WRITE — WIRE or PHONE 42-1658
MANUFACTURERS— DISTRIBUTORS—
Foam iiubber &. _ I'pholstery fabrics and
Spring Cushions, back " general seating siipand
seat covers plies
Up to 2 years to pay on complete rehabilitalion
theatre seat
seruice co.
160 Hermitage Avenue
Nashville,
Tennessee
RIGHT
COLOR COMBINATIONS
Continued from preceding page
where colorful red plaster walls and creamcolored
ceiling are underscored with a Ken-
Rubber tile floor in Rouge Royal red, Blue
Beige, and Pavonazzo red-and-yellow marbleized
cream resilient rubber tile. The
sound-muffling qualities of the cushioned
flooring, and its lively pattern with directional
borders and inserts setting off the
refreshment stand, are much admired by
patrons. The gala colors create an air of
festivity, helping to put the audience into
a receptive mood for the entertainment
they are buying.
Shades of brown and orange-amber predominate
in the one-floor rectangular auditorium,
where the ceiling is cove lighted by
fluorescent lights. Walls and ceiling are
finished in brown and oi'ange-amber, and
the stage and screen are draped with Fiberglas
of a complimenting orange-amber
shade. Brown velour upholstery was used
for the backs and brown leather for the
seats of the 600 modern tilt-back seats.
AN AESTHETIC SHOWPLACE
An intimate theatre possessing many
features of unusual interest is the Fine
Arts Theatre, located on East 58th street in
New York's smart east side residential
neighborhood.
It is a unique and excellent
example of how the proper use of color
and modern, functional building and decorating
materials can produce a theatre that
is an architectural and an aesthetic showpiece.
Designed by Simon B. Zelnick in the
compact four-level structure formerly occupied
by a night club, the Fine Arts Theatre
is intimate in character, and sophisticated
in both inside and outside details. It has
a seating capacity of approximately 500
and is operated on an art policy, featuring
long run motion pictures.
The unusual is encountered first in the
simple modern facade of the Fine Arts
Theatre, where stainless steel, and large
expanses of plate glass windows backed by
yellow curtains, combine with weathered
orange brick in effective contemporary design.
Instead of a conventional boxoffice,
tickets are sold from a bubble-shaped enclosure
of glass and stainless steel, flanked
by boxes containing handsome green growing
plants.
The foyer walls are plaster painted in
soft yellow with black trimming and are
illuminated by recessed cove fluorescent
lights. Inside the rectangular auditorium
the mohair-upholstered Rocking Chair
seats impress patrons with their extra comfort.
Seats are mounted to provide three
and a halt feet between rows. The acoustical
plaster ceiling is a deep maroon, and
the gray walls are constructed to prevent
sound vibrations. There are amber cove
lights over the main auditorium and vertical
amber cove lights on each side of the
screen, which is undraped but features a
modern-lined, curved baffle of silver at
its
base.
WINDOWS INCREASE APPARENT SIZE
Roomy, luxurious lounge space is provided
both on the loge floor and below the
auditorium. Windows along one entire wall
of the mezzanine lounge make it seem
larger than it is, a feeling which is increased
by the modern colors used in its
decoration.
The acoustical tile ceiling is painted
black and has flush inset lights. Beige ceiling-to-floor
draperies of flamepr(xif asbestos
and cotton, boldly patterned in black
and terra cotta, cover the windows. The
room is floored in dove gray, echoing the
auditorium walls, foyer floor and stair covering.
Furnishings include numerous contour
chairs of black-painted or bleached
blond wood, and conveniently placed tables
with over-size ash trays.
The 15x36-foot lounge is reached by
descending shallow steps leading from the
entrance foyer. The wall opposite the lounge
entrance is mirrored with plate glass and
another large mirror is centered on a side
wall which is painted a restful, soft green.
Warm terra cotta paint was used on the
other two walls and to highlight the interior
of a telephone niche. The soundproof
ceiling is rosy beige plaster with
indirect flush lighting fixtures.
Marbleized verde antique Kentile asphalt
tile covers the floor and is continued into
Continued on page 21
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The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

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BOXOFTICE December 4. 1954 19

CconuerSuuon tii
corner
The informal setting in the lounge and foyer is gaining favor with the theatreman
who acknowledges that times ore changing, and the intimate living room
atmosphere may now replace the plush and rococo of the oldtime movie palaces.
There are many stylings in the modern decor which an exhibitor can find in the
furniture showrooms of his hometown, and transplant effectively into his own
theatre. Some of the modern chairs and tables come in inexpensive design.
Examples of this trend in smart, informal "conversation corners" are shown in
the accompanying photos.
When the Chicago Theatre was remodeled last year,
New Orleans touch was built into the lower
promenade. Wrought iron chairs and sand urns
were used to blend into the New Orleans atmosphere.
Wrought iron furniture is plentiful these
days, at all prices and in a wide variety of decorative
pieces. The remaining seating in the lounge
is custom-built to meet the specific requirements of
the theatre.
A wall of glass gave the Fairlawn Theatre in Toronto an opportunity to create this informal
grouping of chairs and contemporary-styled divan. Choirs of this type may be purchased in
furniture stores, but the divan is custom-built. The four- unit grouping of two chairs, a sofa
and table is the most popular treatment in theatres, and most appreciated by patrons.
When the Walter Reade circuit remodeled the Baronet
Theatre in- New York to create an art-type house, this
divided sofa was placed in the lounge, with a table and
lamp setting the sections apart. This is a standardstyle
sofa which exhibitors will find in a variety of
materials in furniture and interior decorating shops.
The baroque molded plaster
frames of the display cose
form a background for this
informal setting in Miami's
Paramount Theatre. The
armless chairs are covered
with yellow and green plastic.
This style chair comes
in a broad price range, at
most furniture stores, and
the exhibitor can select the
quality of construction
which best suits his budget.
Simplicity is the key to the "conversation corner" in the
swank Beekman Theatre in New York, Chairs are smart,
yet simple in design. The small table has a stainproof
top. Color scheme is in Chinese yellow and coral.
The divided sofa is used In
the new Sunset Theatre in
Wichita, with the informal
corner set against a seascape
mural. This is evidence
that the exhibitor
can, without too great an
outlay of cash, redo a
corner or two in his theatre
and give it that "we're
glad you came" look.
20

RIGHT'
COLOR COMBINATIONS
Continued from page 18
the adjoining powder and restrooms. This
resilient asphalt tile was laid directly on
the concrete floor, which is below grade.
It is alkali-proof, and resists common stains
Harold Spero, manager of the
of all kinds.
theatre, says an occasional mopping and
waxing maintain the high-style green,
black and white colors and brilliance of the
tiles, so they look as new as the day they
were laid, despite constant use.
A PLEASANT SPOT TO WAIT
Warm Spanish brown, tweed-upholstered
divans and several comfortable armchairs
provide a pleasant place for patrons to
wait for the begiiming of a picture. Interesting
black, white and rose beige accessories,
including a large round white
marble-topped coffee table, add to the
elegance of the decor. Aluminum urns and
large clear glass ash trays, a modern blacktiled
drinking fountain and numerous
plantings of flowers and leaves are among
the well-planned features of the lounge,
which, like the rest of the theatre, is air
conditioned.
The color usage and design of these
three theatres exemplify today's modern
motion picture theatre and the gradual
passing of the day of super-colossal, cavernlike
houses of garish decorations.
FLOORING IN
MANY COLORS
Choice of suitable flooring depends, of
coui'se, upon the activity in any given area
of the theatre as well as the desu-ed color
scheme, since most decor planning now
begins with the type and color of a floor
covering. In areas of heavy traffic, such
as an inner lobby, corridor and foyer, and
for installation in lounges and other rooms
below grade, asphalt tUe provides beauty
and utility, with low initial cost and minimum
upkeep. Cork is another resilient
tile notable for its cushioned elegance and
durable, acoustical properties. Rubber tile
is valued for its high resiliency, its soundabsorbent
quality, and its high-style colors.
Then, there is KenPlex, a vinyl and asbestos
resilient tile which is an excellent choice
for use either above or below grade, and
for its clean, crisp colors. KehFlor, new
vinyl flooring in 9x9-inch tiles and by-theyard
in 27, 45 and 54-inch widths, is an
especially fine choice for distinctive patterns
and large floor areas.
Management's problems, whether the
result of new construction or the modernization
of an old theatre, are greatly simplified
by many new and modern materials,
some of which were unknown less than a
score of years ago. Dramatic lighting,
skiUful acoustical treatment of walls and
ceilings, flame-proof upholstery, drapery
and curtain fabrics, and luxurious, restful
seating all contribute to the comfort and
mood of a theatre's patrons.
Every amplifier must be properly ventilated
since the internal parts heat with use.
EASY STEPS
...^nd t/oii'te
on yout mijl
The CINEMASCOPE, WIDE SCREEN
and VISTA VISION product is winning
greater favor every day. Knowing the multiple
equipment improvements they require,
National Theatre Supply has devised a simple
"5 Step" program whereby even the
smallest theatre can gradually progress along
the road to complete wide screen projection.
Your National man will be glad to advise
you on this new "5 Step" program. Being
familiar with theatres of every size, his judgement
will prove invaluable in guiding you
towards modern theatre
NATIONAL'S DEFERRED PAYMENT PLAN
. . . makes
improvement.
it easy-stepping, too! For if it's
terms you want to help in equipping your
theatre, National has a time-tested plan that
will meet your every need.
For details — contact
your nearest
NATIONAL THEATRE SUPPLY Branch todayl
ATIONAL
THEATRE SUPPLY
Divition of Notional • Simpln • Blud worth. I nc
BOXOFFICE ;
: December
4, 1954
21

1
An interesting, star-in-circle neen
lighting fixture is a focal point in
the lobby of the new Goodhand
Theatre, Kimball, Neb. Textured
plaster walls are an effective foil
for the richness of the handsome
Philippine mahogany used for
planters, panels, doors and facing
of the boxoffice and concessions
counter. The door to the left of
the ticket booth functions as entrance
to the concessions stand,
projection room, manager's office
and the cashier's booth. Photo at
left center shows an opposite
corner of the lobby, with entrance
to
cryroom and women's restroom.
PLANNED FOR COMFORT
AND CONVENIENCE
New House Reflects Exhibitor's Experience
niiiiiiijiiniii
""'*"'»""'""'|immnmritiii
AT«ii
Light-colored Roman brick forms
the front of the new theatre, which
is otherwise constructed of cement
blocks with poured concrete pilasters
on 14- foot centers. Glosspaneled,
aluminum-framed doors
are angled in from the street, and
the boxoffice has two windows, one
for street service and one for lobby
service. The theatre name is in
neon script letters, three feat high,
extending across the metaltrimmed
marquee for 22 feet.

tickets on the street side without interferring
with sidewalk traffic.
The 22x26-foot lobby is more than just
attractive; it is functional, especially from
the standpoint of Miss Goodhand. Pi'om
the manager's office at the corner of the
lobby, it is possible to go directly to the
concessions stand, the cashier, or upstairs
to the projection room. All of these
facilities are served by a single entrance.
Directly across the lobby is a storeroom
and at each end are the ladies' and men's
restrooms.
The ladies' restroom is entered through
a cryroom, which features a double-glazed
glass window, chairs and a speaker.
UNUSUAL LIGHTING FIXTURE
In the auditorium, textured plastic walls and acoustical tile ceiling and backwall n)ake for better sound.
There are 22 rows of staggered seats, with rows three feet apart, to provide for 418 patrons. The auditorium
floor features a reverse incline near the front of the theatre to provide excellent vision for patrons
occupying seats in that area
By
RICHARD BULLOCK
It IS SAID THAT a business operation
never stands still; it is either growing or
declining, going forward or backward.
Miss Marie Goodhand of Kimball, Neb.,
chose to go forward. She closed the American
Theatre which she had operated continuously
since 1923 and built a completely
modern and larger theatre, the Goodhand,
to bring her patrons the latest and best in
comfort and entertainment.
The new theatre looks like exactly what
It is: a downtown first run house in a
town of 4,000. The design of the house
reflects the knowledge Miss Goodhand has
acquired in her 36 years experience as a
theatre operator. It was planned to accommodate
both the management and the
patron.
A $55,000 INVESTMENT
Over-all cost of the project was $55,000.
Approximately $41,000 was spent for the
building and $14,000 went for equipment.
The dimensions for the 418-seat house
are a width of 40 feet and a length of 140
feet. Excepting the front of the house,
the construction is of cement blocks with
poured concrete pilasters spaced every 14 V2
feet and a poured concrete band 18 inches
high around the walls at ceiling level. The
roof was formed of laminated wood trusses
by Rilco and a 1%-inch decking.
Although modern in appearance, the
theatre front is not cold: it is eye-catching
and invites the patron. The light-colored
Roman brick warms the functional lines
of the facade which are balanced by an
abbreviated metal-trimmed marquee displaying
the theatre name in neon scriptletters
three feet high. The name measures
22 feet in length. At each end of the
marquee are two Bevelite changeboards
set at an angle readable from the sidewalk
as well as the street. Though small, the
changeboards are adequate for the theatre
policy of single features changed three
times weekly.
THREE DISPLAY CASES
Other display features on the front include
a display case for six sheets and two
other smaller ones on the opposite side
for the display of stills.
The cashier's booth has two faces set at
right angles to one another so that
tickets may be sold in the lobby or on the
street side. For convenience, the manager's
office is juxtaposed to the rear of the
cashier's
booth.
Easy ingress and egress is assured for
the patrons by the four glass-panel doors
on the front. The doors angle away from
the street to give the passerby psychological
encouragement toward the cashier. The
angle of the doors and the position of the
ticket stall also make it possible to buy
CREDITS: Acoustical material: Celotex • Air
conditioning: Arctic Washer and Blizzard Fan *
Architect: Wate Porter jr. • Carpeting: Alexander
Smith • Changeable letters; Bevelite • Decorator:
Andy Borjeson * Drink dispenser: Carbonaire *
Lamps: Brenkert High Intensity • Motor generator:
Robbins Imperial • Projectors: Simplex • Rewinds:
Nu-Mode • Seats: Americon • Sound equipment:
RCA.
Modernity is stressed in the appearance
of the lobby with its ceiling of swirled
plaster, Philippine mahogany panels and
textured plaster walls. The attractive
combination is accentuated by a large
star-in-circle neon light at the center of
the ceiling.
As an added touch, several potted plants
are situated in the lobby on wooden stands
and at the end of the concessions counter.
The concessions stand is paneled with
Philippine mahogany with a plastic top.
The comfort of the patron was the criterion
in equipping the auditorium. It features
22 rows set three feet apart to
allow movement and knee space. The scarlet
mohair seats are staggered to give each
patron an unobstructed view of the wide
screen.
In the 38x80-foot auditorium, the floor
slopes one inch to the foot for 57 feet, with
a reverse incline toward the front of
one-half-inch to the foot for 23 feet.
To assure better sound reproduction the
ceiling and backwall are of acoustical tile
arranged in a decorative pattern. The
plastic walls are also textured.
A feeling of luxury is effected in the
auditorium to help make theatre going a
pleasurable event for the patron. The
screen is cloaked with gold satin drapes
Continued on following page
At right, a corner of the powder room, and at left
the entrance to the cryroom which is furnished for
the comfort of babies and mothers. Note the
speaker on the upper wall which brings sound to
the glass-enclosed room.
BOXOFTICE :
: December
4, 1954 23

B
NO MATTER THE
POWER
REQUIREMENTS
HERTNER
HAS A
NEW HT135 TransVerter
(90 volts) for 115 to
135 ampere arcs to accommodate
all types of
wide screen projection.
• •
to fit EVERY
THEATRE NEED
FOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Continued from preceding page
and a traveling curtain. The aisles are
carpeted with red and gold carpeting in a
flowered pattern.
The latest and best in entertainment was
made possible by the installation of a
28xl3-foot curved panoramic screen and
projection equipment for the showing of
the new wide-screen processes, Cinema-
Scope, VistaVision and Superscope, with
dual-channel sound system.
Two additional rooms are situated behind
the screen: a single car garage and
space for the air conditioning and heating
units, of which the house has two each
to assure proper temperature regardless of
the elements.
Airtemp Opens Two Additions
To Plant on 20th Anniversary
Regardless of whether
your demands for DC arc
current for projection are small or large, there is a TransVerter
particularly well-suited for your installation. The latest methods
of manufacture, and new design features in Hertner Trans-
Verters give users a source of DC power that is remarkable
for its extreme steadiness, responsiveness, quietness and freedom
from excessive maintenance. Write today, so that we may
send you the interesting details of the TransVerter that
do the job for you— dependably and economically.
Mention Bulletin No. 301
will
Distributed by National Theatre Supply.
In Canada: General Theatre Supply Company
THE HERTNER ELECTRIC COMPANY
12690 ELMWOOD AVE. • CLEVELAND 11, OHIO
MOTORS • MOTOR GENERATORS • GENERATOR SETS
A SUBSIDIARY OF GENERAL PRECISION EQUIPMENT CORPORATION
MODERN THEATRE SEATING
IDFAL SEATING COMPANY
For
YOUR
BOXOFFICE
Engroved by
our exclusive
process on lu>
cite to your
spectficotlons.
LAMOLITE
ILLUMINATED PRICE ADMISSION SIGNS
Our enlarged plant facilities assure
OVERNGHT service from coast to coast.
Plastic Signs Engroved for the Entire Theatre
Send for Folder *Pot pend
Edgar S.
Bowman
682 Sixth Avanae N«w Ywt( 10, N. Y.
In observance of the 20th anniversary
of the founding of Airtemp, manufacturers
of heating and air conditioning equipment
and a division of the Chrysler Corp.,
an open house was held at the Dayton
plant November 13 and 14 under the direction
of C. E. Buchholzer, president.
The open house celebration also was the
occasion for the formal opening of two new
additions to the plant, part of the firm's
multi-million-dollar expansion program.
The first day of ceremonies offered an open
house for the press and employes and their
families. The second day the entire plant
was opened to all residents of the Dayton
area and special guests. Buchholzer said,
"Our entire facilities, including for the
first time our range finder production area,
were open for inspection. Our manufacturing
methods and wide variety of products,
I am certain, were of interest to all
visitors."
MOVED FROM DETROIT IN 1936
Airtemp moved from Detroit to the Maxwell
plant in Dayton during 1936. A new
plant was built in 1947 and since that
time several other additions have been
made to handle the increased demands.
Commenting on the growth of Airtemp
from an operation employing only a handful
of men and making a limited line of
air conditioning equipment, to one of the
leaders in the industry, Buchholzer said,
"I feel that the past two decades have been
only a preview. The main feature is yet
to come."
w"A-x-M-)€-K-K-K"x~ft-yTc-K-i^-ii-irTrToooc-K->r)rTr>->r-i

^
An Effit^iptU^ Dependahle Ponder Supply
for Your Projection Arcs
NATIONAL
EiCTlFI
There s a National Rectifier designed to match
the requirements of every type and rating of
angle trim or coaxial trim projection arc
lamp. All are built in single lamp units for
flexibility of electrical connection.
Poiver output adjustment to the arc, over a
icide range of values uhile the arc is burning, is
by means of an external, manually operated
hand wheel on the front. Transformer laps are
provided to compensate for changes in line
voltages from 200 to 250 volts and the complete
amperage range.
SELENIUM PLATE TYPE..
A Full
metallic, heavy duty equipment for converting
three-phase A.C. to D.C. For operating arcs oF From 60 to 1 35
amperes. Models in
Four capacities, adjustable From
60 to 75 amperes, 70 to 90 amperes, 80 to 110 amperes, and
90 to 1 35 amperes. Reliable operation in damp climates. Fan
ventilated. No warm-up period required.
—
TUBE TYPE...
Six models, For
use with high intensity arcs For
either three-phase or single-phase operation
on 230-volt, 60-cycle power service. Amperage
ratings: 40, 50, 60-70, 70-85, 75-90.
The housing assures ample draFt through the transFormer assembly and
past the rectiFier tubes to
maintain low
operating temperatures.
Dislrilmti'il hv
ATIONAL
THE AT RE
SUPPLY
Dt»i>ion 0* Notional •S'mplc»«Blijdwoft>i, I nc
'TlUiRF/S A BRANCH NEAR YOU'
BOXOFFICE :
: December 4, 1954 25

RESILIENT
CLIMBS THE
FLOORING
WALL
f/oof to ceiling in this theatre lobby is covered with Linowall, a light
gauge linoleum-Uke material. Giving added elegance to the wall covering
is the chrome molding set in the material. Non-fading, the material is
easily kept free from dirt and finger marks with a damp cloth.
Considered by many as tops in a luxurious wall covering for theatre lounges is o
light thickness of cork tile. Called Corkwall, this material provides an elegant
decorative touch to a theatre. In addition, it will last for years with little maintenance,
and never needs retinishing.
Exhibitors who are looking for practical
advantages as well as decorative distinction
when building or renovating a theatre
may well consider the application of
flooring materials to the wall sm-faces.
There is a growing trend to the use of
cork, plastic and linoleum-type floor coverings
for theatre walls because handsome
color effects may be achieved and maintenance
is reduced to a minimum.
(Illustrations of such treatments shown on this
page were furnished by Armstrong Cork Co.)
A striking combination of black and red Linowall has been used for the wainscoting in this
theatre foyer. The thin-gauge material con be polished to a high gloss.
Another example of Linowall as wainscoting in a theatre
foyer. The roll material can easily be wrapped around
corners without cracking.
Plastic-finish hardboard, with a hard,
lustrous surface, is an excellent material
for restroom walls.
Since a thin-gauge material such as Linowall can take a
lot of hora knocks and is easily cleaned, it is ideal as a
wainscoting material for theatre auditoriums, such as
shown here behind the seating. It is made in popular
swirl graining and also in streamlined, straight-grained
effect.
2G
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

Top Executive Promotions
Elevate Taylor to Board
Of Bausch & Lomb Co.
At the most recent meeting of the board
of directors of Bausch & Lomb Optical Co.,
Pi-esident Joseph F. Taylor was elevated to
chairmanship of the board and Executive
Vice-President Carl S. Hallauer was promoted
to the presidency of the firm. The
directors also made M. Herbert Eisenhart,
formerly board chairman, honorary chairman.
The new president, Hallauer, also will
continue as president of Bausch & Lxjmb
Optical Co.. Ltd., of Canada and the company's
South American subsidiary, Bausch
& Lomb do Brasil, Ltd. He has headed the
Canadian operation since it was formed
in 1935 and the Brazilian company for
four years.
ONCE A NEWSBOY
Hallauer, a onetime newsboy orphaned
at the age of nine, joined the optical company
in 1918 as director of its industrial
relations and developed one of the first
formal industrial recreation programs in
the nation. He was made vice-president
in charge of sales, industrial relations and
purchasing in 1935.
Aside from his successful business career.
C. S. Hallauer J. B. Taylor
Hallauer has been active in political, civic
and industrial groups. Among the many
posts he has held in outside fields are the
presidency of the Scientific Apparatus
Makers Ass'n, board chairman of the Associated
Industries of New York, presidency
of the Empire State Ordnance Ass'n,
trustee of Clarkson College and the
Rochester Institute of Technology and
delegate to the Republican national conventions.
The election of Taylor to chairman of
the board climaxes a career which began
with Bausch & Lomb in 1910, when he
joined the firm as an errand boy. He
progressed through various administrative
levels until he reached the presidency five
years ago. In 1938 he also organized and
became the first president of the Brazilian
subsidiary.
Away from his business responsibilities,
Taylor has taken an active part in the civic
and cultural life of Rochester, N. Y. He also
is on the board of trustees of several
Rochester banks.
Superior Names A. Stephens
J. S. Louden, sales manager of Superior
Electric Co. which manufactures a line of
variable transformers, automatic voltage
regulators, power supplies and light-control
equipment, has announced the appointment
of Ashby Stephens as assistant
to Ralph J. Caccavelli. district sales manager
for Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and
Wisconsin. Stephens attended the Illinois
Institute of Technology and the U. S. Navy
Electricians-Electronics schools. He gained
practical experience in electrical problems
during seven years general repair and
maintenance in the navy and later as
assistant service manager of Bodine Electric
Co.
If you use vacuum cleaners in the theatre,
do not dust the seats until this function
has been completed, since a certain
amount of dust escapes from the best of
vacuum cleaners.
BOXOFFICE :
: December
CORPORATION
4, 1954 27

—
New Lamp Features Greater Power
And More Economical
By CLARENCE S.
ASHCRAFT*
The new Ashcraft Cinex 170 projection
lamp derives its power through an ultra
high speed optical system in combination
with a new method of high current arc
operation which provides the maximum
of safety to the optical system and lamp
mechanism.
The operating economy of the Cinex
170 is accomplished by its ability to collect
from the arc and project to the
screen far more light than has heretofore
been possible. This means that with comparatively
low arc currents the light output
will be high but the carbon consumption
and power input will be relatively low.
It also means that with higher arc currents
more light can be projected on larger
screens than ever before.
USES AN 18-INCH REFLECTOR
The Cinex 170 utilizes an 18-inch reflector
which has the highest optical speed
we believe to be practical—f/1.64—which
is even higher than the highest speed of
any acceptable 35mm projection lens now
available.
The Cinex 170 is capable of operation
with every size of high intensity carbon,
9mm, 10mm, 11mm and 13.6mm. Therelore,
a wider range of arc currents is possible
than with any type of reflector arc
lamp ever used for motion picture projection:
80- 90 amps, with the 9mm standard
positive carbon
90-105 amps, with the 10mm standard
positive carbon
115-128 amps, with the 11mm standard
positive carbon
125-170 amps, vrith the 13.6mm standard
p&sitive carbon
The new lamp is
also capable of high current
operation with special carbons such
as Hitex, Ultrex and others.
LAMP IS AIR AND WATER COOLED
The Cinex 170 is completely "air conditioned"
by forcing cold air into the lamp
housing and up over the surface of the
large reflector. The heated air is then expelled
from the lamp housing by a second
blower, exhausting it into the regular projection
room exhaust ducts. Both injection
and exhaust blower are operated by
one motor and are in operation only when
the arc is burning.
The Cinex 170 is also intensively water
cooled. Both upper and lower silver carbon
contacts together with the bus bar
which conducts the current to the contacts,
have water continually forced through
them by means of an automatic water recirculating
and cooling device which is in
operation only when the arc is burning.
*Mr. Ashcraft is head of the C. S. Ashcraft Manufacturing
Co.
28
Operation
This water cooling method not only keeps
the contacts cool under heavy arc cui-rents
but maintains the positive carbon at a
highly efficient operating temperature.
A series of carefully conducted tests indicate
that when coordinated with suitable*
standard projectors and projection lenses,
the Cinex 170 will at a very moderate arc
current project an increase of up to 30
to 35 per cent more light to the screen than
the best reflector arcs available today and
50 to 60 per cent more than condenser type
lamps equipped with the highest speed and
best type of condensers even when operated
at their maximum current (170-180
amperes) . These tests were made with
standard apertures (.600X.825 inch* and
projectors with 50 per cent light transmiting
shutters.
The following table indicates the approximate
increase in light possible with
the Cinex 170 in comparison with present
projection lamps using 16 or 16y2-inch reflectors.
All tests were made with standard
10mm carbons at a current of 103
amperes.
Optical
Arc Optical Speed Speed Light Per Cent
Current Lamp Lens Lumens Increase
103 f/2 16" Ref. f/1.9 19,200
103 f/2 16" Ref. f/1.7 20,000 5%
103 Cinex f/1.64 Ref. f/1.9 22,500 15%
103 Cinex f/1.64 Ref. f/1.7 26,200 36%
Tests made with 11mm standard carbons
and with 10mm Hitex carbons, at
moderate currents (125 and 130 amperes*
indicate that 31,000 lumens are produced
an increase of 60 per cent.
*"suitoble" refers to projectors cleared for F 1.7
light beam and having a minimum of 50 per cent
light transmission. Suitable lenses ore true F 1.9,
F 1.8 and F 1,7 without excessive vignetting in lens
barrel or barrel extension.
New Seamless Screen Offered
At a Lower Price Has Extra
Weight for Added Strength
A new lower-priced screen, the Bodde
Seamless Single Weight screen, has been
announced by its manufacturers, Bodde
Screen Co. of Los Angeles. The company
says this screen is equal in base thickness
to competitive screens but that it
has a double weight for added strength.
The first and largest manufacturers of
seamless, cast plastic screens, Bodde also
has increased its perforating equipment to
bring its production to 4,200 square feet
per day, thus maintaining the company's
long history of service to the motion picture
industry.
Further experimentation is being carried
on under the direction of Bernie Bodde jr.,
with several types of cast seamless lenticu-
lated screens in various aluminimi white
and other highly reflective but nondirectional
finishes.
Bodde's first cast-plastic seamless screen
was delivered to the Los Angeles Theatre
in 1938, the second to Grauman's Chinese
that same year. Manufacturing costs prevented
quantity delivery until 1942.
In 1944, Air Force experimentation provided
the company with know-how for producing
a large-size matte white screen with
a gain factor as high as 11/2 to 1 and
smaller screens with a gain factor of 2 to 1,
still maintaining a matte white finish.
Neon and Plastic
Sign Letters
Developed in Europe Now
Available to Theatremen
Something of the tenacity and genius of
an Edison lies back of the Neviol sign
which has created much interest since its
mtroduction in the United States only a
few months ago.
The sign was developed and perfected by
a persistent Hollander, Leo Meijer, is now
patented in 48 countries by International
Neviol, Ltd., and only recently has been
licensed for manufacture by two companies
in the U. S. So it is that Europe, which
first gave us the neon sign, has now made
another remarkable contribution to America's
famous bright lights and brilliant advertising.
Wagner Sign Service of Chicago is
manufacturing Neviol changeable copy sign
letters, and Artkraft Sign Co., Lima, Ohio,
is making point-of-sale and outdoor display
signs. According to these companies
and the inventor, the advantages of
Neviol signs, compared with others, are
greater legibility, more distant visibiUty,
uniformity of brilliance over the entire sign
face, imperviousness to the elements, and
a wide range of brilliant colors. These
benefits came about from just the right
combination of neon's brilliance and plastic's
versatility.
STARTED NEAR END OF WAR
Meijer started his work in Holland just
prior to the end of the war when the only
light available in many Dutch homes came
from small oil lamps or from small fourvolt
lamps fed by current skillfully tapped
from German field telephone lines.
The first Neviol signs were cumbersome
handmade affairs, too large to be practicable,
and luminescence was too weak to
compete with surrounding light.
Mrst improvement was the development
of the fluorescent black light tube for
stepped up efficiency and more even
spreading of illumination. With true Dutch
tenacity, Meijer next tackled the problem
of developing an entirely new luminescent
weather-resistant powder to be incorporated
in almost every type of plastic. This
done, he converted the sign from a frontlighted
to a rear-lighted display, greatly
increasing the intensity of light.
The MODERN THEATRE SECnON

Illuminated Plastic Soffit in Marquee
iaj*^ moA \fm\ ^^Pf jjg
Rendering of the new front and marquee for t/ie State Theatre, a Shea house in Manchester, N. H. Architect:
Michael J. DeAngelis. Note the dramatic use of lighting.
A completely new front and marquee will
soon distinguish the State Theatre in Manchester,
N. H., a dramatic, modern departure
from the old facade typical of a
couple of decades ago.
The old rectangular marquee will be
replaced with one of unusual lines, designed
to make the most of contemporary
materials and equipment. The main feature
of the new marquee is the plastic
corrugated ceiling, illuminated with indirect
cold cathode lighting.
Gerald Shea, president of Shea Theatre
Corp., New York City, owner, commissioned
Michael J. DeAngelis as architect.
The marquee work was awarded to Empire
Outdoor Advertising Co., and will be
completed by the first of the year. All display
boards and letters will be by Wagner
Sign Service.
Two Executives Move Up at Eastman
Two executive-level promotions in the
color technology division of the Eastman
Kodak Co. were recently announced by
Ivar N. Hultman, vice-president and general
manager of Kodak Park. Harlow R.
Brigham, who joined the company in 1929,
This is the old State facade and marquee which
has become familiar to patrons, but which will soon
be replaced by the one shown above which says
"Come in," in a much more inviting way. The new
front is to be completed by the first of the year.
will now assist Director Ralph M. Evans
in the over-all supervision of the division
and will be acting director in the case of
Evan's absence. Dr. Lyle Brewer, section
supervisor for physical standards and
services, has been named assistant director
of the division.
Behind
this
man
The facilities of RCA Service Company
make available to thousands
of theatres tnroughout the country
the vast technical resources of the
Radio Corporation of America.
MORE
GRIGGS
CHAIRS
BEAUTY
in
Problems posed by optical or magnetic
sound, single or multiple
track, 2-D, 3-D or wide screen techniques
are minimized when RCA
Service Company is behind the vital,
operating heart of your house.
DENVEP.COLO.
SoM through Theatre Supply DeoUrs Excluthrelv
Their Beauty sparkles!
Comfort — the
they're
Superior
occupied!
minute
construction
gives years of service.
WRITE FOR CATALOG
nniGGS EQUirHE^T CO.
Belton, Texas
Tmks, \gl
RCA SERVICE COMPANY, Inc.
A Radio Corporation of .iinerica Subiidiary
Camden, N.J.
BOXOFFICE :
: December
4, 1954 29

f^'wm
< < o,
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ll^oi
TOP FLIGHT
CUP DRINK VENDOR
AT AN ECONOMY PRICE
most flexible for beverages
in any combination
cold
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Retains all the famous quality features
developed by Spacarb . . .with new and
exclusive additions. The least complicated
lafesf addition to the Rowe Spacarh line
of 8, 4 and 3 flavor cup drink dispensers
multi-flavored dispenser ever offered.
Simplified electrical and mechanical
components assure a minimum of service
and a maximum of performance,
economy and profit.
3-FLAVOR CUP DRINK DISPENSER
A practical, handsome, field tested vendor. .
designed to conform with all safety and
sanitation requirements. A joy to operate.
WILL BOOST PROFITS IN EVERY OPERATION
For details on the D-600 and other Rowe
Spacarb Cup Drink Dispensers —Write Todayl
PERFECT FOR INDOOR and DRIVE-IN THEATRES
'^
^
ROWE SPACARB, INC.
Factory and Sales OfRce: 375 Fairfield Avenue, Stamford, Conn.
DIVISION OF
MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.
America's / flRST j Automatic Merchandising Family
Member: National Automatic IVIerchandising Association • National Association Tobacco Distributors • Dairy Industries SuDoW Association • Internationat Popcorn Association
30 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

';
HOW TO SELECT AND USE
,,i«as^
CUP VENDERS FOR PLUS
SALES PER PERSON
Whaf to Look for in
'Eye-Appeal'
And Efficiency of Operation
By MELVILLE B. RAPP*
I certainly appreciate the opportunity of
discussing some new ideas in automatic
soft drink cup dispensing equipment—and
also to outline some of the very basic requirements
in connection with that type of
equipment.
To begin with, movie attendance figures
in our country are conservatively estimated
at better than 50 million people weekly;
and, if we accept a trade estimate that one
out of every five theatre patrons purchases
a soft drink, we then get a very graphic
picture of the vast potential that automatic
soft drink cup dispensers can tap.
IN
MOOD FOR REFRESHMENT
These drink venders have become a
cinema fixture because of their profitable
contribution to your concession earnings.
There is nothing unusual about this since
people who go out to be entertained are
in the mood for refreshment; and, a soft
drink adds that much more to their enjoyment.
Now, with these figures as evidence
of the vast market for the sale of soft
drinks which you have available—any
proven ideas and facts in connection with
this type of automatic vending equipment
which can increase your soft drink sales
volume should be of interest to all of you.
The modern soft drink cup dispenser can
increase your present sales volume from
20 to as high as 60 per cent, and more important,
along with this gain in volume
it can increase your average cents per
person from a normal 1.4 cents per patron
to as high as 2.6 cents and in some cases
as much as 3 cents per patron. While it is
difficult to pinpoint any one featui-e of
the modern dispenser as being the actual
Se/ect

TORONTO.
—
HOW TO SELECT AND USE CUP VENDERS
Continued from preceding page
bonated and non-carbonated versions of
the same drink. To add a note of showmanship
in merchandising, the non-carbonated
beverage is generally given a different
name. For example: the carbonated version
using grape syrup is called grape,
while the non-carbonated version (using
the same grape syrup) is called burgundy.
This method makes it possible to sell
INSIST ON
THE BEST!
THAT'S ANOTHER WAY
OF SAYING
INSIST ON
six different drinks in a machine using
only four actual syrup flavors or eight different
drinks using five syrup flavors. Both
cola and root beer can be vended in the
machine in addition to the complete line of
fruit flavors which are sold, both carbonated
and non-carbonated. The use of this
type of equipment wiU satisfy all of the
taste preferences of your customers and
assures you of not losing any of these
potential sales.
We now come to another proven and
sound idea—one which applies primarily
to the larger movie houses. It is estimated
that approximately 70 per cent of aU soft
drinks in the theatres are sold directly after
the picture "break." The modern soft
drink cup dispenser has a drink delivery
cycle of approximately five seconds after
the insertion of the coin. This time cycle
is geared to serve drinks fast enough to
take care of peak loads in the average-size
house.
However, in the larger theatres it has
been found that it is advantageous to be
able to serve two patrons at the same time.
Our industry has developed a soft drink
cup vender which is, in effect, two machines
in one, having two cup chambers,
two changemakers, two complete cup mechanisms.
Aside from the compressor and
syrup tanks, it more or less embodies two
complete units taking up much less floor
space than two machines would normally
occupy. It also presents a substantial saving
as compared to the cost of pui'chasing
two complete drink dispensers.
This dual station soft drink cup dispenser
can do more business in the same amount
of time than the single station unit. In
the larger theatres where the heavy peak
load at the picture "break" requires this
type of equipment, you can assure yourself
of not losing any business because of customers
having to wait too long to purchase
a drink. Until very recently, only one concession
firm furnished this type dual station
cup dispenser. Now it is available to
everyone of you folks, which, of course,
brings about a much healthier condition
in the industry.
During the past year our industry also
made available smaller capacity, selectivetype
soft drink cup dispensers which were
junior versions of the larger equipment;
and, these machines are priced well under
the cost of standard models. These smaller
and less expensive units have been used
very successfully in movie houses which,
because of their size, did not warrant a
larger capital investment in the bigger
venders.
Among some of the interesting cup vend-
Sodamasfer dispensers offer a higher degree
of carbonaflon, greater output, and
greater economy of operation than you
can find in any other equipment of Its
icind.
For dependable, economical and efficient
soft drink dispensing equipment. . . .
INSIST ON THE BEST. . .
INSIST ON SODAMASTER
See
the
ONLY SODAMASTER CAN GIVE YOU ALL THIS
The Identical beverages that you previously obtained
fom bottles— look the same, taste the same, are the same
—with carbonatlon equal or higher than that of bottled
dritilis.
As much as 65% savings on bottled flavors. 96% savings
on club soda.
A variety of flavors, instantaneously, at the finger tips
service to customers in a fraction of the time, avoiding
dissatisfaction and "walkouts."
Elimination of costly, troublesome, time-consuming bottle
handling.
No work and worry to assure uniform cold-
J^— ness and perfect proportions of beverages.
It's all done by Sodamaster, automatically,
surely.
I GET A REAL
CHARGE OUT OF THIS
MAIL THIS COUPON TODAY B ^« |T,l'|fJ D
Pteaje lend me full facts on the Sodamaster
n Mil Monitor Faucet 100 qallon-per-hour
Superctidrger Carbonators.
Firm
Address General Offices: Canfleld, Ohio, and
Name 185! Randolph St., Los Angeles, Calif.
IN CANADA: GENERAL EQUIPMENT CORP
. LTD
, ONT.

—
ing trends developing in the theatre is a
growing tendency to use more than one
machine in the larger houses. By placing
a second unit in the mezzanine or balcony,
patrons who might not otherwise walk
down stairs to the lobby machine, find
drink service readily available to them in
the balcony.
Soft drink cup dispensers also have
begun to put in their appearance at some
drive-in theatres. In these outdoor sites
they relieve congestion at the concession
counter during the "rush" intermission
periods, when most refreshments are sold.
VENDER MUST BE EFFICIENT
In speaking of any soft drink cup dispenser,
it must be emphasized that the
machine like any mechanical device, must
be efficient. It must be designed to serve
heavy traffic speedily during the picture
breaks. Since profit in automatic merchandising
is linked to efficient operation of the
vender, it is very important to remember
that an inoperative machine not only doesn't
do business, but it makes for a dissatisfied
customer who can't get a desired service
in the theatre.
For this reason, I have always said that
there are three important factors to look
for in any soft di-ink cup dispenser from
a mechanical standpoint. First, the drink
must be served well carbonated at approximately
3'/2 volumes of carbonation. In the
non-carbonated drink, the drink should
have approximately '/2 to one volume of
carbonation, the same as the non-carbonated
bottled beverages. Secondly, the
drink must be dispensed at the proper
temi>erature of between 38 and 40 degrees
and, finally, the unit must be as servicefree
and simple in operation as it is possible
to procure in a drink dispenser.
NEW MACHINE TO BE TESTED
Another very new and novel development,
which has not been location-tested
as yet, is the use of a combination coffee,
hot chocolate and soft drink dispenser.
This new piece of equipment now is available
in a small, compact, portable model
at a substantial savings as compared to the
cost of a coffee and soft drink dispenser.
It is a well-known fact that when moviegoers
leave a picture show, a great majority
will stop at a nearby snack shop for a cup
of coffee, hot chocolate, sandwich or some
sort of snack. If the theatre has a lounge
large enough for this purpose, isn't it reasonable
to assume that the moviegoer
would enjoy having a delicious hot chocolate,
or a cup of coffee—and possibly some
cookies or pastry or a sandwich made
available through vending machines
rather than having to stop off at some
snack shop and wait for table service
after leaving the theatre?
If this test, which is due to be made
within the next 30 to 45 days, proves successful,
you can appreciate the market
which would be opened up to you concessionaires
for an average sale of from 25
cents to as high as 50 cents per person
sales producing a profit which could very
easily amount to much more than your
present soft drink concession earnings.
Single-Level Production Line
In
New Food Equipment Plant
A new $500,000 plant at 7400 West Lawrence
Ave., Chicago, has been put into
operation by Helmco, Inc., manufacturers
Helmco's New $500,000 Plant
of fountain and restaurant food service
equipment.
The new facilities, which are located on
a five-acre tract, will utilize a single-level
production line to assure a continuous flow
of material from the receiving department
to the shipping area. The new system is
expected to substantially speed production
on the 50 different products manufactured
by Helmco, according to Col. Herman E.
Lacy, president. Provision for the development
of new items also has been included
in the new operation.
Approximately 600 dealers, suppUers,
customers and friends took part in the
opening ceremonies which included food
and refreshments plus a tour of the plant.
Now a Vending Machine
For Toothbrushes
The already large
number of items
handled by vending
machines has been
increased by one. The
Beady-Brush Corp. is
now manufacturing a
toothbrush vender
which is being distributed
by United
Sales & Service. The
vender is an eyecatching
and convenient wall model with
a capacity of 100 toothbrushes that sell for
a quarter each. Each brush comes sealed
in a transparent tube ready to use. Its
Du Pont Tynex bristles are coated with a
dentrifice and water is the only additional
requirement. The makers of the venders
say that the original investment can be
reclaimed within four fillings.
Preferably the concession building should
be at ground level.
My, that popcorn smel/s goocf....,
let's
go back and get some!"
WITH BUTTERLIKE FLAVOR AND AROMA
BRINGS 'EM BACK EVERY TIME!
Check the
plusses
of
Popsit Plus}
the only popping oil with a real butterlike
flavor
measures more accurately
pours readily in all kinds of weather
costs less per bag
produces fewer "duds"
Made of American Ingredients— Always Available!
Made by C. F. SlmOnln'S Sons Inc. Phlla. 34, Pa.
POPPING OIL SPECIALISTS TO THE NATION
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 33

.
WOULD YOU... IPA Elects Officers, Plans 1955 Program
drive a car like this?
THEN WHY...
be satisfied with this?
You wouldn't think of driving a 1908
model car. Your better judgment tells you
that it would be false economy. By the
same reasoning it is false economy to try
and operate an old popcorn machine. An
old machine will actually cost you money
to operate due to lost popping volume . . .
decrease your profits. A check on your
equipment will show you that you are
not getting full popping profits from an
outdated machine.
Here's your opportunity to trade your
old machine in on a new Manley Aristocrat
. . . and what a trade! Manley wants
to prove to you the way to greater popcorn
profits is a new machine. We'll give
you an exceptionally good trade-in on
your old machine . . . regardless of condition.
Now's the time to act! Write Manley
direct or contact your Manley representative
for full details.
The Modern New Manley Aristocrat
designed to give you
greater popping volume
. . . increased profits.
Get the whole story . . .
check into this trade-in
offer right now.
Address: Dept. BO -1254
MANLEY, INC.
1920 Wyandalle Si.,
Kantal City t, Mo. ..
iV
Newly elected officers and directors of lnterr\atior)al Popcorn Ass'n are, seated, left to rigtit: Thomas J.
Sullivan, executive yice-president and general legal counsel; A. J. Villiesse, Villiesse Sales Co., first vicepresident;
Bert Natlian, T/ieofre Popcorn Vending Corp., president; J. J. Fitzgibbons jr.. Theatre Confections,
Ltd., Toronto, chairman of the board of directors; S. T. Jacobson, Krispy Kist Korn Machine
Co., director; standing, left to right: Clarence Miller, Lansing Popcorn Co., director; John Katsalis, Mellos
Peanut Co., second vice-president; Lee Koken, RKO Theatres, New York City, director; Augie J. Schmitt,
retiring second vice-president; Harry Lazear, broker, and Robert Pelton, Pelton Popcorn Co., directors.
Bert Nathan of Theatre Popcorn Vending
Corp., Brooklyn, N. Y.. is the new president
of the International Popcorn Ass'n.
He was unanimously elected to the post at
the recent annual membership meeting of
popcorn and concession industries convention
and exhibition at the Conrad Hilton
Hotel, Chicago.
Nathan succeeds J. J. Fitzgibbons jr.
of Theatre Confections, Ltd., Canada, who
became chairman of the IPA board of
directors.
Other officers elected were: A. J.
Villiesse, Villiesse Sales Co., vice-president;
John Katsalis, Mellos Peanut Co., second
vice-president, and Allan W. Adams, Adams
Corp., treasurer. Thomas J. Sullivan was
PROFIT
From Being a Good Host
To Your Patrons In
D. I. T.
re-appointed executive vice-president and
general legal counsel.
Pi'ior to the convention, IPA members
had elected by mail seven junior segment
directors to serve a two-year term on the
board of directors. Nathan Buchman of
Theatre Supply Corp., Boston, Mass., is
the newly elected junior segment director
for theatre concessions. Senior member
of this segment is Lee Koken, RKO Theatres,
Inc., New York.
The new IPA board of directors, as one
of its initial actions, created an IPA Coordinating
Policy Committee for liaison
with the Popcorn Institute on industry
public relations, promotion and publicity.
President Nathan, A. J. Villiesse and Dave
C. Evans are the committee members.
the secret of the
art of
best
making the
popcorn
1,
Serve to your Patrons Hot Dogs . . .
HOT
Nationally
Advertised
34
NENRY HEIDE, INC. • NEW YORK, N. Y.
2
3
4
Serve to your Patrons Popcorn .
• HOT and CRISPY
Serve to your Patrons Cold Beverages
, ... ICE COLD
While the show is on, serve your
Potrons TO their cars.
C
'^*
In darkness, wind or rain, your Patrons
are enjoying your hospitality at its
best— in the privacy of their cors . . .
WALKY SERVICE CO.
401 Schweiter BIdg. ^''.?"*"*y"."..'*
.... ,
u
"Buffeterio"
Wichita, Kansas Movable concession
Phone: 4-5169 xsk for ntaratur*
I
AVAILABLE AT ALL ;
: GOOD POPCORN DEALERS I
• •
THE SAVOROL CO., POPCORN BLDG., NASHVILLE. TENN.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

For MORE INFORMATION on any Product Adrertised in this issue or
mentioned in the New Equipment and news pages or for copies
of Manufacturers' Literature listed herein — Use Postcards Below.
NEW EQUIPMENT
and DEVELOPMENTS
Briefed from the full description starting on page 49
Key
Number
CANDLE-LIKE LAMPS P-1275
The Candle Plame, a product of the North American Electric
Lamp Co., is said to offer more liglil and Increased
diffusion, plus a long life. These qualities are made possible
by a new-type carbon filament. Claimed to simulate real
candle light, the new lamps are being produced hi a variety
of colors in both 8 and 10-watt sizes. They may be ordered
with either standard or candelabra bases.
I
ACCURATE FILM TIMER P-1271
Accuracy is assured in determining the running time of
IGram sound films by the use of the Shc^timer developed by
the Neumade Produ«ts Corp. Instead of measuring feel, the
device, which conforms to SMPTE standards, actually measures
the hours, miimies and seconds to make precision programming
possible.
ADAPTABLE LIGHTING TROFFER P.1272
LlgiitiiiK Products, Inc.. has developed a uriety nr lighting
troffers which are adaptable to any form of ceiling. The unil.'=
may be installed glass to glass to achieve unbroken lines of
light, thanks to a system of hidden fioating hinges. The bo.\
construcliun of tlie units which are designed to handle from
one to four lights each eliminates light leakage and assures
true alignmeiits. Availabk In either plastic or metal louvers,
Ihey may be ordered in sizes of 2. 4. 6 and 8 feet and
ttidUis of one and two feet.
SECONDARY CIRCUIT BREAKER P.1276
Designed. to fit branch circuits of correspondliag 4, 4*-^, 5,
5\^, 6 and 7^/^ ampere ratings, the Mini-Breaker manufactured
by Meclianical Products, Inc., offers permanent secondary
circuit protection by thermal actuation, which prevents
short cireuits and excessive uvorloading. in the case of
shorts, the Mini-Breaker goes into action immediately, hut a
time-lag feature allows it to pass temporary starting loads
and line surges. In the case of an interruption, service can
he restored by simply pressing a shock-resi'itant reset button.
AUTOMATIC INSECT CONTROL P-1277
Operating from an AC current of frooi 110 to 125 volts,
tlie Aero^ap develui)cd by American Aerovap, Inc., a.^sures
constant automatic control of insect pests witlihi Indoor spaces
up to 15,U00 cu. tt. Developed with the aid of medical
authorities, the control device uses neither an oil base nor
toxic solvents and does not create noise, orders or stains.
LARGE NYLON APRONS P-1273
The ne-v nylon taffeta apion being produced by Angelica
Uniform Co. oifers several features that make it desirable for
use at concessions stands. Among its advantages over conventional
aprons is the incre.ised sue tor addi-d protection. The
large size Is cumpleraented by two outsize packets wliich are
convenient for the carrying of ordcrbooks, pencils and other
necessary Items. A removable pla.slic strip is nicorporated Into
the apron's waistband to prevent wrinkling.
PERFUME DISPENSER
•P-127S
The Jo-Lo Perfumatic, a perfume vending machine, is an
entirely new idea in the vending industry. The non-competitive
wall vender is said to offer the operator a profit of almost
1800 per cent on each filling. Tlie large capav-ity. from li.OOO
to 4,000 sprays of four ditierent perfumes, makes only one
servicing a month necessary. A one-year guarantee against
faulty workmanship or defects comes with each oi the 20-pound
units.
RACER FOR PLAYGROUNDS AND PROMOTION P-1274
The Uieyer ItacLng Equipment Co. is now nianufacturing a
midget racer that in.iy be used by both drive-ins and conventional
theatres as a major contest prize and, in the case nf
drive-ins, it may be used ;ui part of the playi;round equipment.
The Dreyerettc is operated by a 2i^-horsepfi.\er motor which
Is housed in a combination aluminum and plastic body which
is available in any combination of colors. Speeds of 5 to 35
miles per hour are possible with the "built to last" racers.
STILLWATER BEVERAGES AND DISPENSER P-1279
The Drink Mist Co. has developed five flavors from true
fruit drink basfs and a special dispensing machine for the
aerated Stillwater beverages. A smooth creamy drink is made
possible by the rajild agitating action of the machine as It
passes the beverage. An iUuraiuated revolving sign for the
top of the manually operated machine is available for each
of the flavors: pineapple, lemon, lime, orange and grape.
w to Use These
ADERS' BUREAU COUPONS
—
Fill out and complete a separate coupon
for each New Equipment item,
or Literature reference (above) which
interests you. Lilcewise for each Advertised
product (reverse side of this
sheet) about which you want more
information. Put only one key number
in
each square.

A
A
READERS' BUREAU
For literature on products advertised or mentioned in this issue, see other
side of this sheet and read how to use the postcard coupons below.
PRODUCTS ADVERTISED IN THIS ISSUE
ADMISSION SIGNS
Bowman, Edgar S 24-C
APERTURES,
PROJECTOR
LaVezji Machine Works 50-A
ATTRACTION BOARDS AND LETTERS
Adier Silhouette Letter Co. 52-B
Universal Corp 27-A
Waoner Sinn Service Co 51-C
CANDY
Henry Heide, Inc 34-B
Switzer Licorice Co 37-A
CANDY FLOSS MACHINES
Concession Supply Co 32-C
CARBON SAVERS
Call Products Co ISC
Phillips Electro Extensions 51-D
CONCESSION CARTS
Walky Service Co 34-0
CONCESSION EQUIPMENT, DRIVE-IN
Concession Supply Co 32-C
Walky Service Co 34-C
DISPLAY
FRAMES AND EASELS
Universal Corp 27-A
DRINKS.
SOFT
Coca-Cola Co 2-A
DRINK DISPENSERS
Rowe Mfj. Co 30-A
DRIVE-IN
PLANS
Ballantyne Co 45-A
EQUIPMENT LITERATURE MANUAL
First-American Products 43-D
FILM
REWINDER
Goldberg Bros 29-A
FOCUSING ATTACHMENTS
Wenzel Projector Co 43-C
FOUNTAINETTES
Carbonic Dispenser, Inc 32-A
Superior Refrigerator MfB- Co 37-C
LOBBY
FRAMES
Universal Corp 27-A
POPCORN BOXES AND SACKS
Concession Supply Co 32-C
POPCORN
MACHINES
Concession Supply Co . . 32-C
Crctors Corp 32-B
Manley, Inc 34-A
POPCORN
SCOOPS
Speed Scoop 37- B
POPCORN SEASONING
The Saicrol Co 34-D
POPCORN SEASONING OIL
Concession Supply Co 32-C
C. F. Simonin's Sons, Inc 33-A
POPCORN AND SUPPLIES
Manley, Inc 34-A
POPCORN WARMERS
Walky Service Co 34-C
POSTER
FRAMES AND EASELS
Universal Corp 27-A
PROJECTION
LENSES
Bausch & Lomb Optical Co 40-A
Merf Evans 24-D
Kollmorgen Optical Corp 42-A
Projection Optics Co., Inc 6-A
Raytone Screen Corp 3-A
PROJECTION
AND SOUND
Ballantyne Co 45-
International Projector Corp 1-BC
LaVczzi Machine Works 50-A
Motiograph, Inc 19-A
RCA Service 29-C
Wenzel Projector Co 43-C
PROJECTION
RECTIFIERS
National Excelite 25-A
PROJECTOR ARC LAMPS
Ashcraft Mfg. Co 4-A
Strong Electric Corp 15-A
PROJECTOR CABINETS, TABLES
Goldberg Bros 50-C
PROJECTOR
CARBONS
National Carbon Co 5-A
PROJECTOR
PARTS
LaVezzi Machine Works 50-A
REFLECTORS,
METAL
Heycr-Shultz, Inc 51-A
SCREENS FOR INDOOR THEATRES
Bodde Screen Co 41-
Raytone Screen Corp 3-A
S.O.S. Cinema Supply IS-B
Williams Screen Co 50-B
SEAT
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR
Theatre Seat Service Co 18-A
SEATING, CONVENTIONAL THEATRES
American Seating Co 43-B
Griggs Equipment Co 29-B
Heywood-Wakefield Co 51-B
Ideal Seating Co 24-B
SIGNS, DIRECTIONAL, ETC.
Bowman, Edgar S 24-C
SOFT DRINK DISPENSER
Carbonic Dispenser, Inc 32-A
SOUND
SYSTEMS
Altec Service Corp 41-6
SPEAKER CORDS
Koiled Kords 4S-A
SPEAKERS, IN-CAR FOR DRIVE-INS
Drive- In Theatre Mfg 52-A
EPRAD 48-B
First-American Products 43-D
International Projector 1-BC
SPEAKER
RECONDITIONING
Drive-ln Theatre Mfg 52-A
SPEAKERS, STEREOPHONIC
EPRAD 48-B
SPEAKING TUBE, CASHIER
Goldberj Bros 43-A
THEATRE
EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES
National Theatre Supply 21-A
S.O.S. Cinema Supply Co. 18-B
THEATRE OWNERS' MANUAL
First-American Products 43-D
TRANSVERTERS
Hertner Electric Co 24-A
NOTE: Tlie figures to \bt key Dumt)er thowD
for eacb advertlaer Indicate also the p«ge
on vhlcfa Lbe u}vertlaemeiit of ttut tlrm
vm be found Id ttils MODERN THKATKE
Issue. Tbe whole key number. Including the
capital letter, must be used when filling In
ihe postcard coupons below to obtain more
tntonnatloD about the advertised prodiit-i
ALPHABETICAL
INDEX
of Advertisers' Key Numbers
AdIer Silhouette Letter Co 52-B
Altec Service Co 41-B
American Seating Co 43-B
Ashcraft Mfg., C. S 4-A
Ballantyne Co., The 45-A
Bausch & Lomb Optical Co 40-A
Bodde Screen Co 41-A
Bowman, Edgar S. 24-C
Call Products Co. 18-C
Carbonic Dispenser 32-A
Coca-Cola Co 2-A
Concession Supply Co 32-C
Cretors Corp 32-B
Drive-ln Theatre Mfg 52-A
EPRAD 48-B
Evans, Merf 24-D
First-American Products 43-D
Goldberg Bros 43-A, 50-C, 29-A
Griggs Equipment Co 29-B
Henry Heide, Inc 34-B
Hertner Electric Co 24-A
PiMse Print"
Nome.-
Plainly
Write here the key number
of the item that interests you ^
Heyer-Shultz, Inc 51-A
Heywood-Wakefield Co 51-B
Ideal Seating Co 24-B
International Projector Corp. 1-BC
Q
<
o
>^
O "?
.2
oo
O
M
Theatre or Circuit
Street
City
No
State
The MODERN THEATRE Section of BOXOFFICE (Dec. 1954)
Please Print
Plainly
Theatre or Circuit
Street
City
No
Write here the Icey number |^ P
of the item that interests you ^ [_
Stote
The MODERN THEATRE Section of BOXOFFICE (Dec. 1954)
Please Print
Nome-
Name-
Plainly
'
Write here the key number A F
of the item thot interests you ff \_
Koiled Kords 48-A
Kollmorgen Optical Corp 42-A
LaVezzi Machine Works 50-A
Manley, Inc 34-A
Motiograph, Inc 19-A
National Carbon Co 5-A
National Excelite 25-A
National Theatre Supply 21-A
Phillips Electro Extensions Sl-D
Projection Optics Co 6-A
RCA Service Co 29-C
Raytone Screen Corp 3-A
Rowe Mfg. Co 30-A
Savorol Co., The 34-D
Simonin's Sons, C. F 33-A
Si
, - •
a
C3
0)
a
OQ
Theatre or Circuit
Street
City
No
Stote
The MODERN THEATRE Section of BOXOFFICE (Dec. 1954)
Please Print
Nome..
Plainly
Theatre or
Circuit
Write here the key number ^P
of the item thot interests youT L
S. 0. S. Cinema Supply IfrB
Speed Scoop S7-B
Strong Electric Corp 15-A
Superior Refrigerator Mfg. Co 37-C
Switzer Licorice Co 37-A
Theatre Seat Service 18-A
Universal Corp ZJ-A
Wagner Sign Service 51-C'
Walky Service Co 34-C
91
O
V
Street
City
No
State
Wenzel Projector Co 4J-C
Williams Screen Co 50-B
The MODERN THEATRE Section of BOXOFFICE (Dec. 1954)

—
USDA Official Predicts Popcorn Crop
Of Near 200 Million Pounds in 1954
Supply and demand of popcorn in 1954-55
should come out about even, with a minimum
of carry-over next fall, according to
estimates made by C. E. Burkhead, chief
of the field crop statistics branch of the
USDA Agricultuial Marketing Service.
Addressing the International Popcorn
Ass'n convention in Chicago recently,
Burkhead said that there are various estimates
of the 1954 crop floating around but
that his own personal unofficial estimate
of production is somewhere between 175
and 195 million pounds. This is based on
the 11 states for which the USDA makes
popcorn estimates.
Inclusion of the states where production
is not so heavy might run the 1954 outturn
from 185 to 200 million pounds.
AN UNUSUAL CROP YEAR
"1954 has been an unusual crop year for
all crops," the agriculture official said.
"Conditions have ranged from the best
one could expect to perhaps the poorest
that one could expect because of the
drought in large portions of this country.
"In some areas of the eastern Corn Belt,
particularly Ohio and Illinois, some popcorn
growers produced the best yields in
their lives, others in drought areas had
complete faUui'es."
Burkhead pointed out that such conditions
make it unusually difficult to size up
a crop like popcorn, which is grown over
widely scattered areas.
While a small carry-over of popcorn is
predicted for 1954, the opposite was true
in 1953.
"Fi-om the information we have, it appears
that most processors are carrying
much larger stocks of old popcorn than is
normally carried into a new crop season,"
Burkhead said. Estimates are that processors
are carrying an average of 20 to 30
per cent of the 1953 crop.
FORESEES TREMENDOUS CONSUMPTION
Tracing the supply and demand of popcorn
back to 1910, Burkhead said, "It
looks like the popcorn industry is going
to grow.
"I will stick my neck out and say that
if all goes weU, in about 1965 popcorn production
and popcorn consumption could
well be close to 400 million pounds. Right
now we are under the 300 million pound
level."
Burkhead said that a sharp increase in
popcorn production was noted along about
1935, which was about the time the popcorn
trade began to push its product. He
pointed out that while population from
1910 to 1935 increased about 35 million,
popcorn production had changed very little.
"By 1965, if you people continue your
vigorous campaigns, and allowing for increased
population, I estimate that the per
capita consumption of popcorn will be
2.1 pounds per man, woman and child.
That is an increase of well over a fifth
and I think it can be done."
Burkhead estimates that the present per
capita consumption of ear popcorn runs
about 1.7 pounds per person. He looks for
research on popcorn varieties and quality
to keep pace with the predicted demand.
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 37

FKUJti.iiUN
knu duunu
pickup
First
of a Series on Leading Sound Equipment
STEP-BY-STEP SERVICING OF SOUND SYSTEMS
1. Maintenance of Simplex Sound Heads, Speakers, Pre-Amplifiers, Power Supply
By WESLEY TROUT
W E ARE going
to present, starting in
this issue of Modern
Theatre, a series of
simplified, condensed
data on servicing all
the leading makes of
theatre sound systems.
We will endeavor
to explain how
to service equipment
Weiley Trout with a limited amount
of test equipment and
tools, and cover all the important points on
each equipment. These articles will be as
non-technical as possible, and most any intelligent
projectionist will be able to follow
and understand the instructions. Each
month we will do our best, as space permits
us to do so, to completely cover, briefly,
one type of sound system, moving on to
another in another issue. We may skip an
occasi07ial issue on sound, and present de-
tailed servicing of projectors, rectifiers,
motor-generator sets, and all the leading
makes of projection arc lamps—but for the
most part will concentrate on sound.
Let us talk a little about the Simplex
XL single-channel magnetic system. We
know many of you will be interested in
this type, particularly smaller theatres
wanting magnetic sound reproduction
without outlay of too much expense. This
system is very versatile for the reproduction
of magnetically recorded sound-onpicture
film through a single amplifier
channel. "Single film" or "regular" operation
( optic) is selected by simply depressing
a button. The film drive magnetic
sound head mounts between the projector
mechanism and upper magazine, same as
all other types of penthouse magnetic reproducers.
As with other makes, one can
easily change the head
i headi to
three or four-track magnetic reproduction.
Additional pre-amplifiers and power amplifiers,
etc., also would have to be included.
Simplex system is very versatile because
there are two methods of mixing whereby
three tracks can be mixed to two, or three
tracks can be mixed to one. This can be
accomplished on systems known as Series
ZL200 and XLlOl equipments. Space will
not permit us to go into detail about this
or publish the schematics, which are large.
However, to anyone interested and thinking
about installing this particular setup, we
will be glad to send the data.
EQUIPMENT IS
INTERCHANGEABLE
Before going further, we would like to
point out that if you have some other
make of amplifier and speakers, you can
still use Simplex magnetic (penthouse) reproducers,
changeovers, etc., with some
small modifications; and, you can use other
makes of magnetic reproducers if you have
Simplex sound system. However, my personal
opinion is that it is better to install
the same make as your present
equipment. Later, we will go into more
details about these various setups.
A plug-in type pre-amplifier for each
projector mounts compactly in individually
shielded compartments in an attractive,
wall mounting cabinet of minimum size.
Each amplifier has its individual balancing
control. An adjustable plug-in high frequency
equalizer is also included.
A small, wall mounting system selector
box selects "single" or "regular" operation
by the depressing of one of the push buttons
on the cabinet. The system volume
control is included. For "regular" operation,
the regular system pre-amplifier output
is connected to the power amplifier input.
For "single film" operation, the regular
pre-amplifier output is disconnected from,
and the single channel magnetic output
connected to the amplifier input.
This photograph of Sirrtplex SH-/026 mognetic sound
film threading from the upper magazine, through
adjustment knob is pointed out and the adjustment
magnetic sound heads, must be carefully aligned
film will run in a straight line. Pressure adjustment
ment and should be made as explained in this article,
lower stabilizer drums should be checked doily, and
with a tooth brush that has stiff bristles. Regardless
and free of any surplus oil. Other makes of sound
38
head clearly shows all the important components and
the sound head, and into the mechanism. Lateral
screw lock. This head, and all other makes of
with the upper magazine and the mechanism so the
shown in the pictures, is a very important adjustif
you want perfect sound reproduction. Upper and
all the guide rollers. Clean the sprocket every day
of the moke of sound head, it must be kept clean
heads will be taken up in future articles.
POWER SUPPLY IN
SEPARATE CABINET
The pre-amplifier power supply is in a
separate compact wall mounting cabinet.
Even if you already have Simplex sound
system, you will need this power supply.
This unit needs little attention except
cleaning and periodical checking of the
power supply tubes.
Once installed the magnetic sound head
requires very little maintenance. All parts
are readily accessible for inspection and
cleaning; the important parts that should
be kept clean are the sprockets, pad rollers
and stabilizer drum. Sprocket should be
examined every day and any foreign material
removed. There must be smooth operation
I this advice applies to all makes'
of the stabilizer drum; watch the pad rollers
for scoring and binding. Guide and pad
rollers should turn freely and should be
checked for any bind. Clean the interior of
the film compartment with a clean cloth
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

daily. We are presenting a picture showing
all the parts of a magnetic penthouse
reproducer.
The upper and lower pad rollers must be
adjusted very carefully to minimize the
possibility of film damage. We always
thread tioo thicknesses of film on the
sprocket and close the pad roller and adjust
the roller so it rotates freely. When
you have the pad roller adjusted, tighten
arm adjusting screw and locknut. In other
words, roller should never ride the film,
should rotate fi'eely, and be free of any
dirt accumulation.
The replacement of various components
is very simple, and we will be happy to send
special data on this for Simplex reproducers.
Parts should be replaced when
need is detected. Sprocket should be carefully
watched and checked for wear, under-
This view of Simplex SH-1026 magnetic sound head
shows the switch, right on the front, next to the
door, for single-track or for mixing several tracks.
Note data in article about single-channel and mixing
several channels on Simplex equipment. This
also can be accomplished on other systems, and we
will be telling you more about this in future articles.
cutting and looseness. Continued high
quality sound reproduction always depends
on penthouse reproducers being carefully
adjusted and new parts installed when
needed. This applies to your optic sound
head.
Briefly, at the time of installation, each
magnetic sound head is very carefully
adjusted, with the magnetic pickup head
precisely adjusted for perfect sound reproduction.
Bear in mind that precise adjustment
of each magnetic pickup head is absolutely
essential to obtain maximum uniform
output.
The gain of the pre-amplifier associated
with each machine must be adjusted so
that the level as measured at the output
of the power amplifier is the same for
each machine. This is a very important adjustment
and should be very carefully
done, and this should be checked by the
projectionist or engineer frequently after
the equipment has been in service.
In order to make proper adjustments
on penthouse reproducer and pre-amplifiers,
and to keep these adjustments correct
by frequent checking, every projection
room should be equipped with a good multi-meter
or DB meter and an 8,000 and
1,000 cycle test loop, for adjusting the single
track pickup head. Make adjustments in
the following sequences:
F^rst, be sure the two-position switch
in the magnetic sound head (Series XLlOli
is set on single track operation. Then, let
us thread a magnetic sound film in the
sound head. Next loosen the lateral adjustment
locking screw and turn the lateral
adjusting screw until track number one on
the film and on the magnetic pickup head
are in alignment visually. In order to go
ahead with the other adjustments and
make them correctly, this is a very important
procedure. Now you tighten the
lateral adjustment locking screw. This is
a visual preliminary adjustment of the
equipment.
Your next adjustment, and a very important
one, is the pressure adjustment.
We thread a 1 KC (4-track level balance'
test film in the sound head. We want to
keep in mind this film loop is threaded in
the normal manner except that it is routed
over (instead of under) the upper guide
rollers and around the upper feed sprocket
in the projector mechanism.
Check the running of the film by first
turning the motor manually, check the
running of the film carefully and then turn
the motor on if it tracks okay.
Here is a typical speaker setup for magnetic sound
if you want the best in sound quality. This is
Simplex XL Voice of the Theatre speaker equipment.
It shows two high frequency and four low
frequency units. Small theatres can get by with
only one high and two low frequency speakers, but
the writer strongly recommends this setup for any
theatre wanting quality in sound reproduction.
Other
systems use about the same number of speakers,
according to the size of the auditorium, and if
the theatre has a balcony. Best results can only be
had when you have quality speakers of the right
type for each situation.
Let US next loosen the pressure adjustment
locking screw approximately onehalf
turn. Now we rotate the pressure adjusting
screw so that the film runs smoothly
off the upper stabilizer drum without
any tendency to ride up on either of the
flanges. If okay, tighten the pressure adjustment
locking screw.
Your final lateral adjustment is one that
should be made with extreme care in order
to secure good results from your pent-
Continued on following page
Layouf of Simplex Single Channel Magnetic Sound System
This Is a Typical Arrangement of Components for Most Leading Makes of Single-Channel Systems
/. '^2-inch conduit; 2. ^j-inch conduit;
3. ^4-inch flexible conduit; 4.
{/ore
1-inch conduit; 5.
'2 -inch conduit;
6. 1-inch conduit; 7. ^4-inch conduit,
and 8. '2-inch conduit. Type
and size of wires according to
manufacturer's recommendation.
(A) PU-1012 power supply cabinet;
(AD PU-IOII preamplifier power
iOl2 OOkv^ff
-®
Suf=>f^Ly C^Q/S/ET
-®
supply; (A2 and A3) PU-1013
,^ ,,,.„,,,,,
dummy load. (B) and (C) are the io^o^^ "ot^ee suooly
magnetic penthouse reproducers.
(D) cabinet, housing two (2) AM-
1065 preamplifiers, and D3. AM-
1079 warping unit. (E) and (F)
AM-2II four-channel changeover
cabinet which is also used for
single-track system. (G) AM-207
system selector box.
®-
®-
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I
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T I Q
PB.e
aE&uLf^a
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nMPLIPlE R
BOXOFFICE :
: December
4, 1954 39

—
SERVICING SOUND SYSTEMS
Continued from preceding page
house reproducer, any make. First, terminate
the output of the power amplifier in a
matching resistive load. Next, connect an
AC voltmeter (1,000 ohms/volt sensitivity
or better) across the output of the power
amplifier feeding your stage speaker. Use
leads with alligator clip for attaching your
tester, but be sure they don't touch each
other. Start the 1 KC fUm loop running in
each projector successively, loosen the lateral
adjustment locking screw.
Turn the lateral adjusting screw to obtain
the maximum voltage reading on your
voltmeter or multimeter tester. The lat-
Clearest, brightest, truest-to-life screen
image means more paid admissions
audiences eager to come back again
and it all begins with the Bausch & Lomb
lens on your projector.
• Advance lens design—full, uniform
light; no blur, no fading at edges.
• AU-B&L manufacture, from specialformula
"white" glass ( for truer color,
richer contrast) to finished lens.
• Matched for finest rendition of movies
filmed with Academy-Award-winning
B&L Baltar Lenses.
• Anti-reflection Balcote—delivers
maximum light to screen, resulting
in crisper, brighter pictures.
• Complete line for all projectors—for
2-D, VistaVision, CinemaScope.
WRITE FOR LITERATURE
For your tree copy of Catalog
E-123, write Bausch & Lomb
Opticol Co., 7203G Si. Paul St.,
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BAUSCH & LOMB
America's only complete optical 60urce . . . from glass to finished product
The PU-1011 preamplifier power supply, shown
here, should be carefully installed. It is shipped
to be connected to the average line voltage 110-115.
Average line voltage is the average of the voltage
readings taken during operating hours. If the average
line voltage is above or below 120-130-115
AC, according to terminal connected for one of these
average voltages, you should seek the cooperation
of your local power company to bring the voltage
within the recommended 105-125 volt limits. This
is very necessary for operation of this power unit
so it will supply correct voltages for the preamplifiers.
The PU-1013 dummy load is generally
already strapped in for operation. These are three
resistors. The only maintenance of this unit is the
routine checking of the tubes and a check of
power supply (AC) once in awhile. See that tubes
fit tightly in sockets and all electrical connections
are firm. NOTE— With oil pre-amplifiers operating,
connect a 20,000 ohm/volt voltmeter across terminals
"—19V DC" and "-f /9V DC" and adjust, as
per schematic, R4 until reading is exactly 19 volts
DC. (This is heater supply voltage adjustment.)
Any more detailed information will be supplied by
mail on any of the units in this sound system.
eral and pressure adjustments are interacting.
In order to obtain perfect adjustment
of both, it may be necessary to repeat
first one and then the other of the above
adjustments, until the voltage readings are
exactly the same for both projector sound
heads. By very careful adjustment of both,
you should obtain maximum reading from
both penthouse reproducers. Once this adjustment
is correctly made, it need not be
disturbed for a long time, but an occasional
checkup with your test loop and meter is a
very good idea, so you will have quality
sound reproduction.
The next in importance in any make of
magnetic sound head reproducer is the
azimuth adjustment. Here again, care
40
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

..
should be exercised in making this delicate
adjustment as it plays a very important
part in quality sound reproduction. Of
course we know manufacturers carefully
adjust their equipment before it leaves the
factory, but we have found many cases
where it was necessary to make all the
above adjustments again; and the following
one, to be sure each one was right. After
the equipment has been in operation over
a period of time, it does no harm as we
stated before, to recheck these adjustments.
It takes only a few minutes and you are
assured, by frequent checkups, your equipment
is adjusted properly for peak performance.
Azimuth Adjustment — On the Series
XLlOl system the two-position switch
should still be on single track, THE
POWER AMPLIFIER TERMINATED and
the AC voltmeter connected as before.
Thread an 8 KG (8,000 c.p.s.)
azimuth test
film, in EACH PROJECTOR SUCCES-
SIVELY, in the same manner as explained
for the 1 KC test film. You are now ready
to make the adjustment, as needed.
Start film running, loosen the azimuth
adjustment locking screw approximattely
one-half turn. Noio turn the azimuth adjusting
screw to obtain the maximum on
either projector. Turn screw very slowly
as this is a very fine adjustment and should
be done with a very sensitive meter in order
to obtain accurate settings. After you have
afuuu€4tced
Continued on following page
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The above photo is of Simplex sound system, showing
AM-1031 system cabinet equipped with three
AM-1026 or AM-1027 amplifiers and AM-1054
monitor amplifier and control panel. In previous
issues of MODERN THIATRE, in this department,
we have presented considerable data on servicing all
types of audio and pre-amplifiers, such as checking
tubes first, in case of sound trouble, next using the
"circuit disturbance" test. A test is made of each
stage to find the defective stage. You can create
a disturbance by (a) pulling out a tube from its
socket and putting back in; (b) in some makes of
amplifiers, by touching the grid cap or control
grid of a screen grid tube, which will cause a
click or noise in the monitor, if the stage is okay,
but if it is defective or "dead," no click will be
heard, etc. This is a simple test when amplifier
is dead. It sometimes means an open circuit caused
by coupling condenser, poar connection, etc. Use
an orange stick if you wont to check for poor
connection, pushing the wiring and connection while
the amplifier is turned on. There are many, many
other causes of trouble within the amplifier, but we
suggest, in cose of a dead amplifier, check tubes
fIRST, next, the simple circuit disturbance check
of each stage, starting at the input tube and on
down the line. See if the power tube is okay. If
you have a multimeter, check voltages, etc. Be
careful when testing circuits as you are dealing
with high voltages at many points in the circuit.
In a future issue, we will cover this subject in more
detail.
See your Local Supply Dealer (or contact us direct for further information)
THE BODDE SCREEN COMPANY
8829 VENICE BOULEVARD • LOS ANGELES 34, CALIFORNIA
The Man For
If
You To See!
you're dissatisfied with the quality of your theatre sound—
if you have an equipment problem hard to solve — if you
wont peak sound performance at all times . . . there's just
one man for you to see! The ALTEC service man . . . alert,
skilled, experienced theatre sound engineer. He's your man!
161 Sixth Avenue
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Specialists in Motion Picture Sound
BOXOFFICE :
: December 4, 1954
41

SERVICING SOUND SYSTEMS
Continued from preceding page
finished adjustment on both projector
sound heads, be sure to tighten the
azimuth adjustment locking screw. TJiis
data is for servicing Simplex SH-1026 magnetic
sound head.
NOTE—Daily routine checking should
cover inspection for scoring_ and proper
stabilization action. If the film does not
stabilize very soon after it reaches normal
speed, it requires adjusting according to
manufacturer's instructions, or by a qualified
sound engineer with proper equipment.
But we think most any projectionist,
after studying the equipment and its
components, can make adjustment of
stabilizer, etc. Don't make any adjustment
unless you are sure your equipment needs
it. On the other hand, don't neglect checking
equipment and making necessary repairs,
replacements and adjustments.
Data on Adjusting All Makes of Magnetic
Sound Heads—Of course, the adjustment
of stabilizers, and some of the other
parts in other makes of sound heads, will
vary slightly, but the following adjustments
will be the same, as follows:
1. With most magnetic sound heads
the input cables only need to be
plugged into the pre-amplifier, but be
sure the plug fits snugly and oil is
kept off the cable.
Adjusting the magnetic head—First,
cai-efuUy thread in a loop of 8,000
f/1.7
and
f/1.7X
NOW .
(True speed of f/1 .7 in all sizes
where fast lenses are needed]
. . FINER LENSES FOR
FINER MOTION PICTURES
\ -
From Kollmorgen ... the rnewest, fastest projection
ROLLiUOILdi^
Plant: 347 King Street
Northampton, Massachusetts
NEW YORK OFFICE:
lenses you can buy. To give you the brightest, clearest,
sharpest, most uniform picture you have ever seen
on your screen. For better Boxoflfice, better patron
satisfaction, better all around filming, try the SUPER
SNAPLITE f/1.7. Where lens mount interferes and
vignetting is a problem, try the SUPER SNAPLITE f/1 .7X.
True speed of f/1 .7 in focal lengths from 2 inches
through 4 inches in y^ inch steps. Ask your Theatre
Supply Dealer about these fine lenses. For more
information ask your dealer or write for Bulletin 222.
i:OltPOKATIOK
30 CHURCH STREET, NEW YORK 7, N. Y.
The above photograph shows the front view of
plug-in pre-amplifier for use on either single or
four-channel installations. These units are very
ruggedly built and will give long service with only
a little maintenance required, such as periodical
checking of vacuum tubes and connections. An
extra preamplifier should be kept on hand in
case
of trouble, repairing the defective one in your
spare time. Although many installations do not
have an extra one and get along very nicely, the
writer strongly recommends a spare preamplifier
and dual channel power amplifier installation.
cycle magnetic track film, for either
single or four-channel adjustment.
Adjust head in and out for peak, using
a voltmeter or very high quality DB
meter for very close adjustment. Don't
try to set by guess—use a good test
meter for perfect results.
2. Lock head in horizontal position.
You now carefully rotate clockwise and
counter-clockwise, slowly, until peak is
reached. On many installations, during
this adjustment, more than one
peak position can be found. Set at
maximum peak and lock.
3. Now thread a 1,000 cycle test loop
film and balance speaker outputs to
same level by means of adjustment of
individual volume controls on the amplifiers
(four-channel magnetic systems>
. On single-channel systems you
adjust the pre-amplifier, of course, for
equal output. Once the outputs of each
projector are carefully balanced, the
auditorium level is then controlled by
master volume control. We do suggest
you check the output balance, both
optic and magnetic sound, at least
every two or three months.
4. Once you have the magnetic
pickup head adjusted for peak performance,
it will not need any further
attention for many months, on any
make of equipment.
PLEASE NOTE—After adjusting any
42 The MODERN THEATRE SECHON

—
—
part or parts on penthouse reproducers, be
sure and thoroughly demagnetize (Degausse)
the magnetic reproducer with the
demagnetizer. Before any film, having
magnetically recorded sound tracks, is run
in the projection equipment, all iron or
steel parts in or near the path of magnetic
film should be thoroughly demagnetized.
This also must be done if you have worked
with screw driver or other tools on the
penthouse or optic reproducer or mechanism.
Care should be exercised in handling
of magnetic film.
On all makes of penthouse reproducers
pad rollers should be adjusted to two thicknesses
of film. Place a drop of oil on
sprocket pad rollers about every ten hours
run, removing with a clean rag excess oil.
We cannot overstress the value of systematic
daily maintenance of all your
equipment, with particular emphasis on
cleanliness and replacement of worn parts.
It is very essential to high quality sou7id
reproduction.
Threading Magnetic Sound Heads—This
should be done exactly right in order to
secure proper timing of speech or music.
The sound-start mark on the film should
be at the magnetic pickup head. There are
28 frames between the picture-start and
sound-start marks.
Space Requirements for Sound Head
Simplex magnetic sound heads, and other
makes, which are mounted above the projector
mechanism, raise the upper magazine
4V2 inches. It should be kept in mind
there must be sufficient head room for
the installation, etc.
NOTE — Simplex penthouse reproducer
can be used on other makes of projectors
with some modifications, of course.
Nonmagnetic magazine rollers are substituted
for certain of the magnetic rollers
used. New non-magnetic nylon pad rollers
replace the magnetic rollers currently used
in mechanisms. Upper, lower and intermittent
sprockets are replaced with new
sprockets which conform to the narrower
perforations on the film for Cinemascope.
I This change is necessary for either single
or four-channel magnetic sound reproduction.)
Each company supplies a complete
kit of necessary replacement parts when
equipping for magnetic sound.
When replacing parts on Simplex, or any
r^O^»l:i=^;Ti
D'wUI^V
other make, sound systems, we will be glad
to furnish data if you have any trouble.
Too, your supply dealer will be happy to
give you details on replacement of certain
parts, such as alignment of sprockets,
rollers, stabilizers, etc. They must be
assembled right in order to secure good
results. If instructions are carefully followed,
excellent performance will be
realized at all times.
Maintenance data given in this article
cover the most important components, and
are condensed, due to our space limitations.
SERVICING PRE-AMPLIFIERS — Simplex
pre-amplifier is very easy to service
because it does not have too many components
to check for trouble. It is a plug-in
type for each projector and mounts compactly
in individually shielded compartments
in an attractive, wall mounting cabinet.
Each pre-amplifier has its individual
balancing control. The vacuum tubes
should be checked every three months in a
good tube checker; wiring should be inspected
at regular intervals, and make sure
the tubes fit snugly in sockets. Preamplifier
and power amplifier cabinets
should be cleaned out at least once a week
with a small paint brush. Clean out any
dust or carbon soot that may have accumulated
in the interior of the cabinet and on
the chassis, etc.
The plug-in type pre-amplifiers should
be removed and checked about every two
or three months, carefully cleaning the
prongs on the plugs so as to remove any
foreign material that sometimes accumulates
In the receptacles, preventing good
contact in many cases. Systematic maintenance
of equipment will prevent sudden
breakdowns. Cleanliness is important, of
course, if continued high quality sound reproduction
is desired.
It is a very good idea to keep on hand
a spare pre-amplifier for emergency in
case of trouble with this unit. The extra
one can be installed in a few minutes and
the defective one repaired in spare time.
We find, out in the field, on new installations,
many theatres are purchasing an
extra pre-amplifier, and we are glad to note
many install an emergency power amplifier.
If you don't have regular sound service,
this is a good idea in order to prevent an
unnecessary shut-down until a service man
American
Continued on following page
Bodiform
Chairs
PRO 47
Front
•
Lens
Focusing
Attachment
For use with Weniel Pro 4, Boliantyne "W",
Regular Rear Shutter Simplex and similar
types of Projectors.
A iocusing attachment on the FRONT of the
projector, where the PROJECTIONIST wants It.
Strong enough to act also as a small Anamorphic
Lens support and placed lovr enough
to allo^v free use of any type of Anomorphic
Lens. Ask for descriptive oircular from your
Theatre Supply Dealer or write direct to:
WENZEL PROJECTOR CO.
2509-19 S. State St., Chicago 16, III.
Send For YOUR COPY Of
This VALUABLE PORTFOLIO
9 Expandable
Pockets
Cover
An Subjects Off
Theatre
And
Operation
Equipment
$150
I Value
Yours
FREE!
Tlie Theatre Owner's Manual enables you to
keep clippings, equipment literature and other
information on theatre operation neatly filed,
always handy for instant reference. You'll
find it just the thing you've needed for years
to keep such material all together in one
place in an easy-to-find, orderly arrangement!
Fits in correspondence drawer file, stands on
bookshelf or lies on desk.
Any theatre owner, manager or circuit executive
is eligible to receive this useful portfolio
absolutely FREE! Just clip this ad to your
letterhead, or write asking for
"THEATRE OWNER'S tvlANUAL",
Be sure to state your name and
position. Address your request
to
$600 — 214" to 4Vi" openiRg
$8.00 — 2Va" to 5W opening
Sold through Theatre Supply Deolcrs Exclusively
AMERICAN SEATING COMPANY
Grand Ripids 2. Michiiin
Bisnch Otfices and Distiibutois in Principal Cities
first 'American jjWucfe.i
1717 WyandoHe St., Kaniai City S, Mo.
BOXOFFICE : : December 4, 1954
43

STEPS IN THE EVOLUTION OF A PROJECTOR
The first experimental 35mm projector,
bearing the trademark of Optigraph,
was produced by Enterprise
Optical Manufacturing Co., forerunner
of Motiograph, Inc., in early 1896.
From that time forward until 1899
the company manufactured Optigraph
projectors.
The third model Optigraph had advanced
to the point that it had a
lower magazine. Formerly, film came
through the projector into a gunny
sack for ultimate rewinding.
One of the earliest projectors to bear
the name Motiograph. This probably
was the most popular of the many
Motiograph models issued during
1908-09.
The last of the silent projectors manufactured
by Motiograph was the Model
F. It had a front disk-type shutter.
This model was the first with the
mechanism enclosed.
In the Modgl H projector, brought out with the
advent of sound, the disk-type shutter was replaced
by the barrel shutter which was moved to the rear
of the machine.
The Motiograph Model K was a greatly improved
version of the Model H. The one-piece shutter was
a feature, as were the improved mechanism and
base.
The current Motiograph AAA. Its chief feature
is the fact that both conventional and CinemaScope
prints may be run through this projector without
any interchange of sprockets, shoes or tracks.
(These models were on display at the recent TBSMA-
TEDA-TOA-IPA tradeshow in Chicago.)
SERVICING SOUND SYSTEMS
Continued from preceding page
arrives. If you do have regular sound service,
it is still a good precautionary measure.
Voltages should be checlied periodically
as correct voltages are very essential at
various points in your pre-amplifier and
your power amplifier. Too, the power
supply for these amplifiers requires routine
checking every month.
COMMENTS—In a future article, we will
present data on servicing power supply and
power amplifiers, for magnetic and optic
sound reproduction. The data in this
article pretty well covers maintenance of
Simplex penthouse reproducer. Some of the
instructions also apply to all other makes,
so we will not repeat these particular adjustments
when writing about servicing
other makes. We shall cover only high
points about some particular adjustment
of a part or parts covering that type of
magnetic reproducer.
In the modern type penthouse reproducer,
the adjustments are rapidly made
and the utmost in simplicity of replacements
has been attained by quickly removable
units and components. Practically
all the adjustments, and replacement of
any component, may be made by qualified
projection room personnel. Expert checkup,
and some major tests of the equipment,
may be required, after the equipment has
been in operation quite awhile, by a qualified
service engineer, in some situations,
because he has the training and experience,
also special service data, special test
equipment. If the projectionist has some
radio and audio background experience.
he should be able, with instructions given
in this department over a period of years,
to keep any modern sound equipment in
tip-top operating condition, provided he
has test loops, good multimeter, DB meter,
and schematics with voltages.
Don't adjust the pickup head unless you
are sure it requires it. A good idea is to
first check balance between projectors
with a test loop running in each projector;
next, check for "peak" output of each
pickup head with proper test loop, as outlined
elsewhere in this article. But be sure
to check stabilizers as they must operate
correctly. If good quality output is desired.
Use a set of good headphones for listening
test in addition to auditorium listening
checkup. The headphones should have
long leads and be the high resistance type.
Any noise in the system can be detected
quickly with headphones.
44 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

f V V^. ^ y- ^wws«!^ w~^^^^.•v¥>^j^^ «N -^ >'VW«^''^SW*!vW:Jf'lf* tftsirffif^ys^ijffKiSKftctfigfftimist'.f^ ; '-'«W«>XS?w«« ^'^ •!k»^''* ^
"^Jieai^e MamtefMMce
. . Questions
and Answers
This regular Modern Theatre feature is conducted by Dave E. Smalley, contributor to many
important magazines on maintenance and editor of Better Maintenance Magazine. Questions from
exhibitors ore welcomed. Address them to Theatre Maintenance, The Modern Theatre, 825 Van
Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 24, Mo. Enclose stamped, self-addressed envelope for personal reply.
Q DUSTING THE SEATS
We have recently taken over the management
of a movie theatre which has
been in operation for a number of years
and the janitor who has cleaned the theatre
during most of that time is still with us.
He insists upon using old-fashioned feather
dusters each morning on the seats. Maybe
he knows more about it than we do, but we
think soft cotton dusters would be better.
What do you think?
^ In our opinion the old type feather
duster belongs to the "horse-andbuggy"
days. As it was commonly used, it
brushed the dust off one object to let it
settle on another. In other words, it
simply stirs up the dust. You are right in
favoring soft cotton or similar dusters, or
even soft cloths serve well. The idea is, of
course, to rub the dust off rather than
sweep it off. Certain wax-treated cloths
also are very effective.
p
TOILET SCALE PROBLEM
We use a prepared toilet scale remover
but it is not very effective, especially on
the urinals. Have you any recommendations
for doing this
j!^
chore?
It may be that you do not give the
prepared scale remover time to dissolve
the scale. We suggest you let it set
on the surface for a minute before rubbing
it. Naturally, it wUl not set very long
on a vertical surface so you may have
to apply it several times or spray it on a
time or two. Then rub with steel wool. A
good scale remover can be made with 50-50
muriatic acid and water, but rubber gloves
should be worn while using the solution.
Do not, however, use these strong acid
cleaners on enameled ware, such as lavatories.
p
JELLY SOAP OR LIQUID SOAP
Our custodians have been using a
liquid soap cleaner for the floors and other
cleaning operations. I am of the opinion
we are just paying for a lot of water when
we could get a concentrated "jelly" soap
and supply our own water. They contend
the liquid soap is just as cheap in the
long run. Are they right or is it just a
notion?
J^ This is not just a notion with your
custodians. If the jelly soap were carefully
weighed each time it is used, the exact
quantity used in the water and the soap
completely mixed with the water, it would
be cheaper than liquid soap—not accounting
for the extra time expended in weighing.
However, our experience has been that
worlcers never weigh or exactly measure
the jelly soap because it is too much
trouble. They pick up a handful, guessing
at the quantity and usually get more than
is necessary. Jelly soap is comparatively
slow about dissolving in water so a portion
of it is wasted since the worlcer does not
wait for thorough mixing. Considering the
greater probability of wastage through the
use of jelly soap we believe the liquid soap,
which is easily measured and which quickly
dissolves in the water, is the more economical.
p
SWEEPING COMPOUNDS
We have been told that sweeping compounds
should not be used on our asphalt
floor.
What do you consider the best way
to keep down the dust and aid in sweeping
these floors?
f^ Oily sweeping compounds will ruin an
asphalt floor, but there also are wax
treated sweeping compounds which are safe
to use. We suggest you ask your suppliers
about such a product.
p
TYPES OF FLOOR MACHINE
r MOTORS
We are thinking of buying a floor
polishing and scrubbing machine and wish
some information about the motors. One
supplier tells us a motor of the capacitor
type is better, while another insisted the
induction-repulsion kind is best. We don't
really know what they are talking about.
What do you advise?
J^ As to which type is better is a matter
of opinion and we would advise you
not to let either type influence your decision.
Other factors are more important.
The types in question relate to the starting
method, since a floor machine motor
must start at full speed with a full load.
The motor cannot develop speed as it
progresses like other applications of
motors. The capacitor motor is provided
with two separate windings, one of which
first receives the energy for starting. The
other winding then takes over the load
after sufficient momentum has been
gained.
The repulsion-induction motor is fitted
with a starting device, not unlike the
starter on an automobile. As soon as the
motor gains the proper speed, the starting
device swings free and the load is transferred
to the winding.
your New
Drive-ln NOW
and let us
HELP
When it comes to drive-ins The Ballantyne
Company has always taken pride
in being more than just a manufacturer
of sound and projection equipment.
We feel that countless owners and
operators want help and advice on how
to build a better, more economical
drive-in.
That's why we offer these services.
If you have purchased land for a new
drive-in, just send us the general plan
and elevations. Without cost to you we
will lay out the entire theatre. If you
need plans for a projection booth, a
refreshment area or ticket entrance, as
illustrated above, we'll be glad to furnish
them without charge. And of
course, we furnish you with complete
wiring diagrams as well.
Now is
not too soon to plan for next
season. Take just two minutes and
drop us a line if you're planning a new
drive-in. We'd like to help.
Originators of the comp/efe package
for the OrivC'ln Theatres
^Ballaiiti/ne(j&
1712 Jackson Street Omaha, Nebraska
BOXOFFICE :
: December 4, 1954 45

EXTRA DEPTH BETWEEN RAMPS FOR EASIER TURNS
New Canadian Drive-In Also Has Twin Exits to Facilitate Emptying Theatre
And Features Six Lanes Leading to the Dual-Service Boxoffices
Pennants flying from the screen
tower and flags above the theatre
entrance create a fitting atmosphere
of gayety at the new 400
Drive-in Theatre just north of
Toronto, Ont. Uniformed attendants
make a smart appearance.
The mammoth screen,
110x88 feet,
will be used for all new processes,
including CinemaScope, and the
theatre will be wired for stereophonic
sound.
By J.
W. AGNEW
I HE 400 Drive-In Theatre, recently
opened four miles north of Toronto, Ont.,
capitalizes on the great amount of transit
traffic on Highway 400, the new super fourlane
road for which it was named. Strategically
located to attract customers from
Highway 400, which runs north from the
city to Canadian vacation resorts, the 400
is also easily accessible from all sections
of the metropolitan area.
This theatre is the central link in Twentieth
Centui-y's chain of three drive-ins
north of the city and is more elaborate
than the two other drive-ins, the Northwest
and the Northeast. Manager of the
400 is Maurice Weldon.
Arrangements have been made to wire
the theatre for stereophonic sound.
Spaciousness is another feature of this
new 1,050-car installation. The drive-in is
located on a 20-acre site, which includes a
playground area immediately in front of
the screen between the wing walls. This
area is completely fenced in to insure the
children's safety from cars and is equipped
with a variety of swings and slides.
Extra spaciousness has been provided between
the speaker posts and extra depth
between each ramp, allowing easier turns.
Twenty feet were allowed between each
speaker post and a minimum of 45 feet between
ramps. The first three ramps nearest
the screen have a depth of about 50
feet.
Down the center of the big enclosure
is an illuminated walkway which leads
to the latest-type refreshment structure.
Spaciousness marks the long refreshment
booth, too, where a staff of 16 is employed.
The concessions and the projection
booth are housed in the same brick building
designed by Twentieth Century Theatres
engineering department. This 40x92-
foot area, situated at the center of ramps
six, seven and eight, is completely roofed
in and is attractively illuminated.
A two-lane cafeteria style of serving is
operated. Railings lead customers along
the counter area, which has a tiled front
and linoleum counter tops. Asphalt tile
floors make for easy cleaning. The cafe-
THEATRE COST $250,000
The new $250,000 drive-in incorporates
many outstanding featiu'es. The screen, in
fact, was advertised by Myer Axler, operations
manager of the Nat Taylor circuit, as
Canada's largest surface, bar none. At
present a 96x60-foot picture is being used:
however, the screen is 110x88 feet and will
take all processes, including Cinemascope.
The screen faces the main thoroughfare,
although the theatre is located at the
junction of Highway 400 and a cross highway
and the entrance is on the secondary
road.
The screen tower is 400 feet from the
projection booth and is made of steel with
a one-fourth inch asbestos surface, caulked
and coated with one application of sealer
and three coats of Raytone screen paint.
This picture shows the extra width provided between speaker posts and extra depth between ramps at the
400. Speaker posts are 20 feet apart. The first three ramps near the screen have a depth of approximately
50 feet, and there is a minimum of 45 feet for the other ramps.
46 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

The 40x92 loot bnck building, situated in the center of rompi six, seven and
eight, houses the booth, restrooms, and a spacious refreshment area. An illuminated
walkway down the center of the theatre leads to the concessions.
Swings, chair swings, slides and climbing towers are provided for the youngsters
in the playground in front of the screen. The playground is completely fenced
in to insure the greatest safety for the children.
Patrons of the 1,050-car drive-in are speedily served by a staff of 16 in this handsome, two-lane cafeteria
operation. They enter the lanes at the center of the counter, going either to left or right. Note
the attractive design of the counter and the special enclosures for the cashiers; also the awning-type
valance beneath the illuminated canopy.
teria is complete with all of the latest
equipment.
Twin exits facilitate emptying of the theatre.
Ramps one to nine leave through one
exit, and ramps ten to 15 through the other.
"Glow" signs illuminate the exits.
The theatre area itself is attractively
fenced in, with six lanes leading to the
boxoffices.
The 400 does not always play the same
programs as the other two Twentieth Century
Toronto area drive-ins, but the three
theatres are grouped together in the chain's
newspaper listings. Launching the opening
of the drive-in was a fireworks display.
CREDITS: Chongcable letters: Dufferin • Concessions
equipment: drink dispensers, Coco-Cola and
Vernors; hot dog warmers. Roller Grill and Star
Steamro; French fry units, Moffatts; ice cream
venders, Taylor Frostie-Freeze; popcorn warmers,
Creton • Playground equipment: Game Time, Ltd.,
ond Paris Ployground Equipment, Ltd. • Projection
and sound: Simplex • Speakers: Hammond.
Data on Photography
The Eastman Kodak Co. is now distributing
free of charge through its sales service
division the fall issue of its Books and
Guides, a listing of the various handbooks,
texts and other informative material published
by the company.
The 20-page pamphlet is illustrated and
fully describes each of the publicatiorLS
listed. The Eastman publications which
are designed for both amatem- and professional
use have been prepared by experts
in the various fields of photography.
The listings are gi'ouped into several
categories: Advanced black-and-white
booklets, ranging from professional motion
picture films to filters and lens attachments;
advanced color booklets; professional
data books; industrial and applied
photography data books; graphic arts
photography; elementary booklets on both
color and black-and-white.
14-Column Cigaret Venders
Introduced at
Recent Show
Highlighting the Rowe Manufacturing
Co.'s display at the recent convention of
the National Automatic Merchandising
Ass'n in Washington D. C, was the introduction
of the firm's new 14-column Ambassador
cigaret vender.
The Ambassador, one of more than 25
machines exhibited by Rowe, has incorporated
a new feature in cigaret venders
in its design; a point-of-purchase display
called the Showcase. The advertising display
consists of a recessed shadow-box
which contains four different leading
brand cigaret packs in velvet cases under
fluorescent lights. The Showcase is also
available at no cost for use in Rowe's
smaller 11-column vender, the Commander.
The 14 columns of the Ambassador have
a capacity of 510 packs and are designed
to handle a variety of sizes including regular,
king-size and boxed cigarets. The new
unit will also sell cigarets at three different
prices: 25, 30 and 35 cents.
Another product featured at the display
was the D-600, which is a four-flavor dispenser
with a 600-cup capacity. The D-600
is designed to allow the patron to mix
flavors and choose the amount of carbonation
he desires in his drink.
Porthole Blower Protects Lenses
A special blower mounted at the projection
porthole to protect projector lenses
from dust, lint, and bugs is now considered
by many exhibitors and projectionists to
be essential equipment for both drive-ins
and indoor houses.
Booth equipment is subject to more
rapid depreciation and damage due to
unknowing neglect than anything else in
the theatre. Among its worst enemies are
air-borne dust particles, greasy lint from
women's handkerchiefs or cleansing tissues,
flying insects and atmospheric moisture.
BOXOFTICE December 4, 1954 47

Unique Design for Drive-In Attraction Board
A s/iac/owbox h featured in the Sundown's attraction board design.
KOILED KORDS, retractile
speaker
cords, minimize replacements because
they last longer. KOILED KORDS do not
catch in door handles, bumpers and other
car accessories so speaker losses too,
ore reduced.
KOILED KORDS, retractile
speaker
cords, extend to six times their retracted
length then return to their neat out-of-theway
coil against the standard when not
in use.
KOILED KORDS add that touch of neatness
and order that all good drive-ins
strive for. KOILED KORDS are jacketed in
neoprene and withstand the weather no
matter how extreme.
Specify neoprene-jackefed KOILED
KORDS for all your new speakers and
use them always for replacements. Your
theatre equipment dealer can supply you.
©1954
Koi/edKorJs
Incorporated
.y^I*
Box K, New Haven 14, Connecticut
* KOILED KORDS Is a trademark of
KOILED KORDS, INC.
Hugh Bruen's new Sundown Drive-In
Theatre, Whittier, Calif., has many unusual
features, one of them being a double-
THE FINEST IN-THE-CAR
STEREOPHONIC SOUND!
UNSURPASSED EPRAD
"STEREO 3 "-Only $1475
Only with the "Stereo 3" can true Stereophonic
Sound be prodticed. Three driver units, each connected
with the proper channel amplifier, bring
sound from the left side of the screen through
the left speaker, from the right through the right
speaker and that from the center through the
center speaker, giving full, rounded tones.
A "MUST" FOR WIDE SCREEN
Wide-screen, multi-channel sound needs "Stereo
3" for the glorious, awe-inspiring dynamic range
of Stereophonic sound production.
Also available: "The Star" $5.50; "Universol"
$7.60; "Stereo 2" $12.00, and the famous "Glow-
Top" illuminated junction box.
EPRAD
1206 Cherry Street Toledo 4, Ohio
"Ask The Man Who Owns Some"
reader board attraction sign of exceptionally
smart design. Constructed of metal,
stone and wood, it is topped by a triangular
shadowbox forming a roof over the theatre's
name sign which is superimposed on
the rays of a setting sun. Visible from
both sides, the name plaque is illuminated
from below by lights behind the board.
Each reader board is 35 feet long and the
changeable copy equipment was furnished
by Wagner.
Traffic is controlled at the 1,000-car
theatre by traffic directors at entrance
and boxoffice points, with four ushers
with well-developed flashlight signals
handling placement of cars in the auditorium
field. There is an additional attendant
stationed at exit control point. The assistant
manager supervises entire traffic at all
points with the use of an Autoette, bearing
theatre name and attractively painted for
exploitation purposes.
Hug/i Bruen, right, in Autoette used for potroling
auditorium field, with Don O'Herlihy, screen star.
48 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

EQUIPMENT & DEVELOPMENTS
Device Measures Actual
Running Time of Film
P-1271
FOR MORE
INFORMATION
Midget Racer for
Or Theatre Promotions
Playgrounds
P-1274
USE Readers'
Bureau Coupons, Pase 35
To eliminate errors in the determining
of the total running time of 16mm sound
Neumade Products Corp. has devel-
films,
oped the Showtimer. The measuring device
unlike old systems does not count feet
which are then converted into time but
actually measures hours, minutes and seconds
to the fraction, making precision programming
possible. A large sprocket hub
with synchronous tension arms makes it
possible to thread films without damage.
The unit may be put into operation with
a flip of the finger. The device conforms
to SMPTE standards.
Lighting
To Any Kind of
Troffers Adoptable
Ceiling
P-1272
position with a hidden, floating hinge,
eliminating the need for devices that mar
the outer appearance. A unified box construction
prevents light leakage and guarantees
perfect alignments. The units come
in standard lengths of 2, 4, 6 and 8 feet
and in widths of one or two feet. Installation
requires less than eight inches clearance
above the ceiling surface. The troffers
are designed to handle from one to
four lamps each.
Larger Apron Offers
Extra
Protection
P-1273
The Dreyerette, a new midget racer being
manufactured by the Dreyer Racing
Equipment Co., is suited for the promotions
of conventional theatres and drive-ins. At
indoor houses it can be used as a contest
premium and at outdoor operations it can
be used as a premium or as part of the
playground equipment. The midget racers
are both safe and economical in their operation.
They are designed to eliminate
shifting and will travel 70 miles per gallon
of gasoline, at speeds from 5 to 35 miles
per hour. The Dreyer racers are "built to
last" with aluminum and plastic bodies and
a compact 2 V2 -horsepower Continental
motor. Colors may be specified and special
discounts are given on orders of five or
more racers.
Decorative
Real Candle Flame
Lamp Simulates
P-1275
A new troffer, which is adaptable to any
form of ceiling is now being produced by
Lighting Pi'oducts, Inc. It is possible to
effect a Une of unbroken light by installing
the troffers glass to glass unbroken by
dividers. They are available in a wide
variety of shielding media, including metal
and plastic louvers, and are said to be installed
easily. Each unit is fastened into
Added clothes protection for concessions
workers is possible with Angelica Uniform
Co.'s new nylon taffeta apron, which is
larger than conventional ones. As an added
feature, the aprons come with two outsize
pockets which are convenient for the carrying
of pencils, check books, handkerchiefs
and other items used by waitresses. Like
all Angelica aprons, the new large ones
have a removable plastic strip inside the
waistband to keep them smooth and prevent
creasing.
Claims made for preducts described editoriolly
on this and other pages are token from the
manufacturers'
statements.
More light, better
diffusion and long
life are features
claimed for the new
type carbon filament
lamp, the Candle
Flame, introduced by
the North American
Electric Lamp Co.
The new lamp, which
is only one of North
American's complete
line of decorative
lamps is available in
a variety of tints and
is said to have all
of the charm of real
candle light. The 8
and 10-watt bulbs
are made with two
bases; standard and
candelabra.
BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 49

Breaker Designed to Protect P-1276
Secondary
Circuits
A permanent secondary circuit protection
for electrical motors is now possible with
the Mini-Breaker developed by Mechanical
Products, Inc. It is designed to fit branch
circuits of corresponding 4, 4V2, 5, 5'/2. 6
and 7V2 ampere ratings and will safely
stop short circuits and prevent excessive
overloads by thermal actuation within its
insulated case. Although the protector
goes into action immediately in the case
of shorts, it has a time-lag feature which
handles temporary, starting loads and line
surges. After an interruption, service can
be restored within ten seconds by pressing
a shock-resistant reset button.
TT
Electrical Instrument Controls
Insect Pests in Indoor Houses
Constant automatic indoor control of
such insect pests as flies, silverfish, spiders,
carpet beetles and others is now possible
with the electrical Aerovap patented by
American Aerovap, Inc. The new insect
control which operates on a 110 to 125-volt
AC current will effectively fight insects
in indoor spaces up to 15,000 cu. ft. depending
on air cm-rents. The Aerovap was
developed under medical supervision and
is completely safe to operate. It uses no
oil base or toxic solvents. While in operation,
the Aerovap is silent, odorless and
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with two wood screws.
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Extra large profits are claimed to be
possible with the Jo-Lo Perfumatic, perfume
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said to be non-competitive and an entirely
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pound wall cabinet units come in a choice
of pink rose or turquoise and, due to a new
method of attachment, they will not mar
the walls when installed. A total of from
3,000 to 4,000 sprays of four different perfumes
are possible from one refill. Because
of the large capacity, only one servicing a
month is required. The Perfumatic becomes
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against defects or faulty workmanship and
the profit return of close to 1,800 per cent.
Aerated Stillwater Beverage P-1279
Dispenser and Fruit
A brand new, aerated,
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especially designed
for the theatre
trade is being offered
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pineapple, lime,
lemon, orange and
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from true fruit drink
bases which are made
to patented formulas.
The company also
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Expert Service for Theatre TV
Theatre television will yield maximum
benefits to the exhibitor who sees that it
is kept trouble-free by expert service, and
that can be provided only by specialists
thoroughly grounded in the technical knowledge
of this field and aided by the specialized,
high-quality test and servicing equipment
that has been developed.
50 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

—
—
The following concerns have recently
filed copies of interesting descriptive literature
with the Modern Theatre Information
Bureau. Readers who wish copies may
obtain them promptly by v^ing the Readers'
Bureau postcard in this issue of The Modern
Theatre.
L-1682
The complete line of equipment
of Everfiost Sales, Inc., manufacturers of
soda fountain and drink dispensing equipment,
is described in a new catalog being
distributed by the company. The catalog
lists many new additions to the Everfrost
line of equipment: a one-piece soda fountain
top; three-temperatui'e control for
storage units, and water cooling equipment.
A variety of other new lines are also listed
including an entirely new line of drink dispensing
heads in models supplying two or
three syrup drinks.
L-1683 Fly and insect protection is the
subject of a folder published by the Gardner
Manufactm-ing Co., makers of Durobar
electric insect screens. Not only does the
folder contain information on why flies are
undesirable but the many ways the Gardner
screens can be used to eliminate them.
The screens, which are effective and economical
to operate, ai'e available in several
different types. The electric screens, which
are called Insectocutors, come in an open
type unit suited for semi-outdoor operations
such as concessions stands at driveins,
a portable unit and door or window
units. The screens attract flies with black
light fluorescent tubes.
L-1684: The Cee Kay Manufacturing
Corp. has introduced its two new coin
changers with an attractively illustrated
pamphlet. The two coin changers which
are designed for use by cashiers are the
Dual Feature, which disposes single coins
and stores coins in exact units of ten, and
the Space Saver requiring only a 4' 2-inch
shelf for use. The Dual Feature, which
is emphasized, is said to be weather-proof
thanks to its alloy composition and easy
to maintain because there are no screws
or bolted parts. The Dual Feature will
handle up to $125 in assorted coins.
Advantages of the Hatke
L-1685
changeable letters for marquees and theatre
fronts are described in a pamphlet
issued by the manufacturer, the Reversible
Sign Co., a subsidiary of Hatke Manufacturing
Co. The advantages are said to include
low cost, weather resistance and a
choice of size, color and finishes. The
method of installation also is described
and illustrated. The letters are attached to
the tracks by galvanized non-rusting hooks
and held in place by a non-sliding bronze
spring. The information is completed by
a price list and instructions on ordering.
L-1686 The exploitation frames of the
Romar-Vide Co. are the subject of a colorful
little pamphlet published recently.
Three frames, the Ace, the Duplex and the
"500," are illustrated and fully described
as to size and usage. The "500" is an allplastic
unit designed for indoor locations
and will hold llxl4-inch inserts. Both the
Duplex and the Ace are designed for outdoor
use with fully guaranteed doublestrength
glass and steel frames. The Ace
handles a 14x22 window card plus a 4x14
date strip and the Duplex displays a 2x14
dater plus two 11x14 inserts.
L-1687 An information-packed folder
describing the Sola Electric Co.'s harmonicneutralized
constant voltage transformers
now is available. By means of charts and
diagrams, it is shown why sinusoidal output
stabilizers are suited for applications
requiring a minimum of harmonic distortion
in the output voltage wave. The
Sola Constant Voltage Transformers offer
a -1 per cent voltage regulation with less
than 3 per cent harmonic distortion.
L-1688 The Kollmorgen Optical Corp.
has published a catalog containing detailed
information on its Super Snaplite projection
lenses as well as valuable lens data of
a general natui-e. Five different lenses are
described: the f/1.9; f/1.7X, an extended
barrel lens; f/1.9, an anastigmat projection
lens, the four-inch f/1.9 for long-throw
projection, and the f/2.0, an economy lens.
Each description covers a full page and
offers, along with illustrations, details such
as the order number, size and uses for each
type. Another page of the catalog is devoted
to information in the form of a chart
and diagrams on the ordering of fittings. A
handy screen chart on the figuring of
proper focal lengths for all types of installations
also is contained.
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BOXOFFICE December 4, 1954 51

Wot News Items to
Drive-In
Theatre Owners!
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that New Look and New Sound
RECONDITION
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ADLER

—
—
—
I
OMFIcPDDi^JJIi'^iiJD^
The EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY about PICTURES
ALLIED ARTISTS
Bowery Boys Meet the Monsters, The (AA)
—Leo Gorcey, Huntz Hall, Bernard Gorcey.
Satisfied the "corn" fans. One of the better
popcorn and candy shows. Played Sat. Weather:
O. K.— D. W. Trisko, Runge Theatre,
Runge, Texas. Small-town and rural patronage.
Wagons West (AA)—Rod Cameron, Noah
Berry jr., Peggie Castle. Rod Cameron is fast
becoming the most popular western .star here.
He really does a nice job in this color film.
Double billed with "Bandits of the West"
(Rept to our best Saturday crowd of the
season. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Cool.—
Norman Merkel, Time Theatre, Albort City,
Iowa. Small-town and rural patronage.
COLUMBIA
Conquest of Cochise (Col)—John Hodiak,
Robert Stack, Joy Page. A good Indian show
which drew about average and showed a nice
profit. My public likes this type picture
and so does my boxoffice. Played Fri., Sat.
Weather: Good.—W. L. Stratton, Lync Theatre,
Challis, Idaho. Small-town and rural
patronage.
Human Desire (Col)—Glenn Ford, Broder-
Ick Crawford, Gloria Grahame. This has
great suspense and a train trip that will
leave your patrons gasping and wondering
what will happen next. Played Thurs.—J. C.
Balkcom, Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Smalltown
and rural patronage.
Massacre Canyon (Col)—Phil Carey, Audrey
Totter, Douglas Kennedy. Average western
which pleased fair business. Is in sepiatone
and only 66 minutes long. Played Fri., Sat.
Weather: Good.— E. M. Freiburger, Dewey
Theatre, Dewey, Okla. Small-town and rural
patronage.
LIPPERT PRODUCTIONS
Hellgate (LP)—Sterling Hayden, Joan Leslie,
Ward Bond. Sterling Hayden and Ward
Bond gave excellent performances In this
western with prison background. Only complaint
was too many dark scenes but guess
that helped set the mood. Business was average
on Wednesday and slow, as usual, on
Thursday. Weather: Rain.—Norman Merkel,
Time Theatre, Albert City, Iowa. Small-town
and rural patronage.
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
(MGM)—Clark Gable, Lana Tur-
Betrayed
ner, Victor Mature. Didn't do very well. The
last half was much too talky for our patrons,
and after a start that promised an exciting
film. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.
Mrs. Elaine S. George, Star Theatre, Heppner,
Ore. Small-town and rural patronage.
Great Diamond Robbery, The (MGM)—Red
Skelton, Cara Williams, James Whitmore.
What a stinking think this is! Even the fouryear-old
patrons squawked. I played this on
a double bill with "Give a Girl a Break."
Give an exhibitor a break and leave these
Gives Credit Where
Credit Is Due
/-•hallenge the Wild (UA)—Real Life Adventure.
Frank. Edna, George and Sheilali
Graham. This is the first report I
have ever sent in on a picture but I believe
th's company is worthy of praise
Inasmuch as they arc keeping many a
small theatre operating.
We played this Saturday only and received
more praise on it than any picture
we have played for a long time. If your
audience likes animal pictures, play this
one by all means. You can't go wrong.
—Floyd E. Hill, Early Theatre, Early,
Iowa. Small-town and rural patronage.
both in the exchange. Why can't the film
companies make a comedy once in a while
instead of these "arty" things. Our patrons
don't give a d .... for dancing any how!
Let's not have "class" or "art," just good
old pies-in-the-face and kicks in the pants!
Red used to be meat on the table—now it's
leftovers. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Cool.
Ray S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile, Minn.
Small-town and rural patronage.
Gypsy Colt (MGM) — Donna Corcoran,
Frances Dee, Ward Bond. Certainly one of
the year's best small-town pictures. It's heartwarming,
with such emotions of love and devotion,
it should be classed as excellent entertainment
for all the family. Push it for all
you're v;orth. Played Fri., Sat.—J. C. Balkcom,
Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small-town
and rural patronage.
Men of the Fighting Lady (MGM)—'Van
Johnson, Walter Pidgeon, Louis Caihern. A
story built around the life of a carrier crew
in combat in the Korean War. Suspense
was terrific when a crippled plane was guided
back to the carrier and brought down safely.
Pleased very well and drew an average
crowd. Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather:
O. K.—D. W. Trisko, Runge Theatre, Runge,
Texas. Small-town and rural patronage.
Small Town Girl (MGM)—Jane Powell, Farley
Granger, Ann Miller—and a few more
of the big ones. Boys, this picture k okay.
It is classed as a musical but could easily
be called a musical comedy. It had good
music and plenty of comedy, plus Technicolor.
Your patrons will enjoy every minute of this
picture. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair.
Roads poor.—F. L. Murray, Strand Theatre,
Spiritwood, Sask. Small-town and rural patronage.
Trader Horn (MGM) — Reissue
starring
Harry Carey. This should never have been
reissued. It may have been okay when it
was made but after seeing all the wonderful
colored pictures of Africa made since, it
didn't have any appeal at all and the story
seemed silly. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather:
Fair.—Evelyn Burgess, Roxy Theatre,
McClusky, N. D. Small-town and riu-al patronage.
VaUey of the Kings (MGM)—Robert Taylor.
Eleanor Parker, Carlos Thompson. 'Very
good. Those who came enjoyed this different
picture. Filmed in Egypt and in beautiful
color. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Fair.
George Kelloff, Ute Theatre, Aguilar, Colo.
Small-town and rural patronage.
PARAMOUNT
Carrie (Para)—Laurence Olivier, Jennifer
Jones, Miriam Hopkins. Here's an oldie that
we kept kicking around hoping it would wear
out with age so we would, not have to play
it. But no luck—we got it! Small towns, don't
let 'em get you— this is city business. Playeji
Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Cool.—
Harold Bell, Opera House Theatre, Coaticook,
Que. Small-town and rural patronage.
Casanova's Big Night (Para)—Bob Hope,
Arlene Dahl, Tony Martin. Goodbye, Bob.
That is, if Paramount keeps putting you in
shows like this. Poor draw for a poor picture.
Paramount got top rental so I lost.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.—W. L.
Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Idaho.
Small-town and rural patronage.
Elephant Walk (Para)—Elizabeth Taylor,
Dana Andrews, Peter Finch. The elephants
started to get a little decrepit by the time
we got this, as is the case with most of the
Paramount product in our situation. The
show did a fair business despite the fact we
were the last in the ring here to show it.
Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather: O. K.—
D. W. Trisko, Runge Theatre, Runge, Texas.
Small-town and rural patronage.'
Just for You (Para)—Bing Crosby, Jane
Wyman, Ethel Barrymore. Played this late
but it was still 'good for our midweek change.
Jane Wyman is very popular here especially
since they saw her in "Magnificent Obsession"
which we played a few weeks ago. Crosby
sings some good songs in this one. Business
a little above average. Played Wed., Thurs.
Weather: Cool.—Michael Chiaventone, Valley
Theatre, Spring Valley, 111. Small-town second
run patronage.
Knock on Wood (Para)—Danny Kaye, Mai
Zetterling, David Burns. Excellent musical
comedy. Danny Kaye is a marvel at both the
subtle touches and the broadest slapstick.
It pleased our customers and did normal
business for us. Played Sun., Mon., Tues.
Weather: Fine.—Don Risch, Reno Theatre,
Appleton, Minn. Small-town and rural patronage.
Money From Home (Para)—Dean Martin,
Jerry Lewis, Marjie Millar. Martin and Lewis
are very inconsistent here. "The Caddy" did
very well but this one was down again. Technicolor
is added too, but it just doesn't ring
the bell at the boxoffice. Pat Crowley is a
cute newcomer. Sunday night business just
fair. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Rain.
Norman Merkel, Time Theatre, Albert City,
Iowa. Small-town and rural patronage.
RKO RADIO
Badman's Territory (RKO)—Reissue with
Randolph Scott. This reissue had better draw
than some of the new ones. Played Wed.,
Thurs. Weather: O.K.—D. W. Trisko, Runge
Theatre, Runge, Tex. Small-town and rural
patronage.
(Continued on following page)
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide Dec. 4, 1954 1

—
—
The EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
(Continued from preceding page)
Tarzan and the She-DevU (RK01 — Lex
Barker, Joyce MacKenzie, Raymond Burr.
Poor old Tarzan has swung on his last vine
as far as I'm concerned. He is just no draw
any more although a few kids still like him.
Business was below average as it has been
for the past few weeks. Played Sat. Weather:
Warm.—Norman Merkel, Time Theatre, Albert
City, Iowa. Small-town and rui-al patronage.
Thing From Another World, The (RKO)—
Reissue. Kenneth Tobey, Margaret Sheridan,
James Young. The kids scream, clap their
hands and hide their eyes. I saw it twice and
it still scared me. We were satisfied. Another
reissue that will do okay for itself. Played
Sun., Mon. Weather: Hot Sunday, rain Monday.—James
Wiggs jr.. Tar Theatre, Tarboro,
N. C. Small-town and rural patronage.
REPUBLIC
Crazylegs (Rep)—Elroy Hirsch, Joan Vohs,
Lloyd Nolan. I played this at the fir.st of the
football season and filled the house. It :. more
than a football picture and if you e:4ploit it
from more than one angle, you'll do okay.
Played Thurs.—J. C. Balkcom, Gray Theatre,
Gray, Ga. Small-town and rural patronage.
Johnny Guitar (Rep) — Joan Crawford,
Sterling Hayden, Scott Brady. Excellent. The
new Trucolor is the best I've seen yet. This
Is as good or better than Technicolor. A good
picture, good color and a good crowd. Need
I say more? Played Sun., Mon. Weather:
Fair.—George Kelloff, Ute Theatre, Aguilar,
Colo. Small-town and rural patronage.
Manhunt In the African Jungles (Rep)—
Needless to say, running con-
Reissue Serial.
secutive chapters every Thursday, Friday and
Saturday and skipping one weekend between
serials, has won over for us quite a few
regular customers—kids and grownups, too.
This is one that all of them really seem to
follow and go along with. If you go for serials,
this one isn't bad at all—and there's a fight
In darn near every other scene.—Lew Bray
jr.. Queen Theatre, McAllen, Texas. Medium
small-town English-Spanish speaking patronage.
- 20th (3ENTURY-FOX
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (20th-Fox)—
Jane Russell, Marilyn Monroe, Charles Coburn.
This is a swell picture that reaily went
over big. It should be called a musical comedy
because it had as much comedy as music.
Everybody got a real good laugh. The cast
did a wonderful job of acting. Comments
were of the highest and everybody was happy
except yours truly—I lost my shirt on a
good picture because it had been raming for
a week and still IS. Played Fri., Sat.—F. L.
Murray, Strand Theatre, Spiritwood, Sask.
Small-town and rural patronage.
Orchestra Wives (20th - Fox) — Reissue.
George Montgomery, Carole Landis, Cesar
Romero. After the plus business of "The
Glenn MUler Story" I am disappointed to
see the lack of patronage for this "in person"
show. I was amazed when the kids asked
who the orchestra leader was. They didn't
seem to believe it was the late Glenn Miller
and his wonderful music. Many didn't recognize
the bit player, Jackie Gleason. as the
TV star he is now. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat.
Weather: Good.—Nate Oglesbee, Ramona
Theatre, Ramona, Calif. Small-town and
rural patronage.
Raid, The (20th-Fox)—Van Heflin, Anne
Bancroft, Richard Boone. A Civil War story.
About southern army prisoner of war escapees
who raid a northern city. Not too
strong at the boxoffice. Played Sun., Mon.,
2
Tues. Weather: O. K.—D. W. Trisko, Runge
Theatre, Runge, Texas. Small-town and rural
patronage.
Robe, The (20th-Fox)—Richard Burton,
Jean Simmons, Victor Mature. No sellout any
night played but had good steady business.
I guess a lot of people had already seen it.
However, a fine show and well received.
Showed some profit even at heavy terms.
Played Sun. through Wed. Weather: Fine.—
W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Idaho.
Small-town and rural patronage.
UNITED ARTISTS
Apache (UA)—Burt Lancaster, Jean Peters,
John Mclntyre. Although the Indian routine
has been overdone, this has a different twist
that your fans will love. Burt Lancaster
certainly added 60 per cent to the boxoffice.
Played Sun., Mon.—J. C. Balkcom, Gray
Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small-town and rural
patronage.
Heidi (UA)—Elsbeth Sigmund, Heinrich
Gettler, Thomas Klamath. Played this with
"White Mane" although normally we never
run double features. The program w.is sponsored
by the American Legion Auxiliary who
He Was Surpiised— But
It Was Woith the Piice
To EHHS:
Being chief projectionist tonight,
thought I'd get out a few more reports
on pictures.
Business is picking up since I installed
'Scope. Running seven days now.
The Superscope lens advertised at $700
is misleading—the exhibitor has to buy
a pair of Definition Intensifiers to go on
the front in order to secure a sharp picture.
Of course that is $75 more. But,
they do the job in fine shape then.
Lyric Theatre
Challte, Idaho
W. L. STRATTON
sold tickets in advance and arranged a children's
matinee during school hours. We made
money and so did the ladies and the show
was delightful. Played Wed., Thurs. Weather:
Good.—Don Risch, Reno Theatre, Appleton,
Minn. Small-town and rural patronage.
Joe Louis Story, The (UA)—Coley Wallace,
Hilda Simms, Paul Stewart. Customers liked
it. Had to do extra advertising to get them
in, but it paid off. Better than average business.
Played Tues., Wed. Weather: O. K.
Frank Sabin, Majestic Theatre, Eureka, Mont.
Small-town and rural patronage.
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL
God's Country (U-D—Rock Hud-
Back to
son, Marcia Henderson, Steve Cochran. Very
good. Just the kind of title and picture that
really clicks in a small town. Above average
business. Top rental but showed a profit.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.—W. L.
Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Idaho. Smalltown
and rural patronage.
Egg and I, The (U-D—Reissue. Claudette
Colbert, Fred MacMurray, Marjorie Main. I
am laying off of nearly all reissues. This one
was a complete flop with me. Played Tues.,
Wed.—J. C Balkcom, Gray Theatre, Gray,
Ga. Small-town and rural patronage.
Glenn Miller Story, The (U-D—James
Stewait. June AUyson, Henry Morgan. Why
can't a picture like this win the Academy
Award instead of a picture loaded with sex,
brutality and murder? Truly a great picture.
EX-erybody loved it—and so did we. For a
musical it stood up quite well at the boxoffice.
Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather:
Fair.—Ken Christianson, Roxy Theatre,
Washburn, N. D. Small-town and rural patronage.
Ma and Pa Kettle at Home (U-D—Marjorie
Main, Percy Kilbride, Alice KeP.ey. Although
running 25 per cent less than the
last Kettle film, we still did 128 per cent to
show a fair profit. A local PTA meeting could
account for the smaller gross. I didn't see any
of this, but from what I heard they Iked
it. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.—James
H. Hamilton, Pine Hill Drive-In Theatre,
Picayune, Miss. Small-town and rural patronage.
Magnificent Obsession (U-D—Jane Wyman,
Rock Hudson, Barbara Rush. When they pass
out the Oscars this one should get a few,
even if it was a remake. This did above average
business which was absorbed by the high
percentage asked for it. So, you see, in spite
of what looked like a full house it w.is actually
only average in $$$$$. Played_Fri„ Sat.
Michael Chiaventone, Valley Theatre, Spring
Valley, 111. Small-town and rural patronage.
WARNER BROS.
Bell Hoppy (WB)—Cartoon Short. Sylvester,
the cat, left Tweety at home this time
for a baby kangaroo, which all the members
of the Brotherhood of Alley Cats' Mousin'
and Chowder Ass'n mistake for a "mouse
as big as a moose." The kangaroo cau.ses quite
a rhubarb and even makes Sylvester popular
temporarily. But, alas, Sylvester is blackballed
in the end. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Decent.—Lew
Bray jr.. Queen Theatre, McAllen,
Texas. Medium small-town English-Spanish
speaking patronage.
Charge at Feather River, The (WB)—Guy
Madison, F*rank Lovejoy, Helen Westcott,
Played this in 2-D. Not much of a picture
too many Indians! Why can't producers make
pictures unless they are like something that
has been made before? No wonder 3-D is
dead! Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Nice.—Ray
S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile, Minn. Smalltown
and rural patronage.
Dial M for Murder (WB)—Ray Milland,
Grace Kelly, Robert Cummings. Another top
mystery that did nice business. Very nice
color and was played in the 2-D version.
Played Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather:
Rain and snow.—Harold Bell, Opera House
Theatre, Coaticook, Que. Small-town and
rural patronage.
Duffy of San Quentin (WB)—Louis Hayward,
Joanne Dru, Paul Kelly. Story of a
prison guard who becomes warden, cleans up
corruption and introduces reforms. The WB
trailer was good; boxoffice a bit slow. Played
Thurs. Weather: Hot and fair.—James Wiggs
jr.. Tar Theatre, Tarboro, N. C. Small-town
and rural patronage.
Eddie Cantor Story, The (WB)—Keefe
Brasselle, Marilyn Erskine, Aline MacMahon.
I don't do business on musical shows any
more. This is a fine picture in good color
and has length but it has an unknown star
and the customers complained about "too
many old songs." I took a loss on it probably
because it was so old when I was finally able
to obtain it. Played Wed., Thurs. Weather:
Good.—E. M. Freiburger, Dewey Theatre,
Dewey, Okla. Small-town and rural patronage.
Hondo (WB) — John Wayne, Geraldlne
Page, Ward Bond. This is John Wayne's
meat! Similar—in spots—to "Shane." Tension
continues to mount and that's what you
need for good audience reaction. Played Sun.,
Mon.—J. C. Balkcom, Gray Theatre, Gray,
Ga. Small-town and rural patronage.
BOXOFnCE BookinGuide : : Dec. 4, 1954

A
I^n interpretive onolysis of lay and tradepress reviews. The plus and minus signs Indlcafo degree of
flerif only; audience classification is not rated. Listings cover current reviews, brought up to dote regularly.
Fhis deportment serves also as an ALPHABETICAL INDEX to feoture releases. Numeral preceding title
S Picture Guide Review page number. For listings by company, in the order of releose, see Feature Chart. BfViliy DIMM
Very Good; + Good; * Fair; — Poor; — Very Poor. In the summary ++ is rated 2 pluses, — os 2 minuses.
''
s.-
+ + + + ± ± 7+1-
:t + ± ± + 6+3-
+ :t ff * + + U+ts
>IS77 About Mrs. Leslie (104) Drama Para 5- 1-54 ±
iS46Act of Love (105) Drama UA 1- 2-54 If
Ifi34 Adventures of Hajji Baba, The
Drama (93) 20th-Fox 10-16-54 ±
+ ± ± + 7+4-
+ + + 7+
- + ± ± 5+4-
1587 Adventures of Robinson Crusoe (90) Drama UA 6- S-54 -H- * + + -H H + lt+1-
1488 Affairs of Messalina, The (lOS) Drama... Col 6-27-53 + - +
1+1-
1623 Africa Adventure (63) Documentary RKO 9-25-54 + ± ± + + :t + 7+3-
1602 Aida (110) Musical I.F.E. 7-31-54 -f + 4+ +f tt e+
1555 Alaska Seas (78) Drama Para 2- 6-54 — + - + 4
1524 All the Brothers Were Valiant (101)
Adv-Drama
MGM 10-17-53 ^ ± + + + t+Ii:
6+1-
1588 Always a Bride (83) Comedy U-l 6-5-54 +
+
1555 Annaourna (58) Documentary. .Mayer-Kingsley 2- 6-54 +
»+
1595 Apache (90) Drama U 7- 3-54 + +f + + 1»+
1573 Arrow in the Dust (80) Drama AA 4-17-54 +
db * K-B-
1647 Athena (96) Musical MGM 11- 6-54 -H + ±
5+1-
B
1544 Bad for Each Other (83) Drami Col 12-26-53 ±
1562 Bait (79) Drama Col 2-27-54 ±
1627 Barefoot Contessa, The (128) Drams UA 10- 9-54 ff
1562 Battle of Rogue River (71) Drama Col 2-27-54 ±
Beachcomber. The (..) Drama UA
1553 Beachhead (89) Drama UA 1-30-54 +
1564 Beat the Devil (89) Drama UA 3-6-54 —
-I-
± +
-I-
1625 Beau Brummell (107) Drama MGM 10- 9-54 -ff ± -f-
1573 Beauties of the Night (84) Comedy UA 4-17-54 +f
1542 Beneath the 12- Mile Reef (102)' Drama
(Cinemascope)
20th-Fox 12-19-53 H H +
± +
± ±
1566 Bitter Creek (74) Western AA 313-54 + +
1615 Black Dakotas, The (65) Western Col 9-U-54 + ± +
Black Glove (84) Drama LP
1584 Black Horse Canvon (82) Western U-l 5-22-54 +
1640 Bengal Brigade (87) Drama U-l 10-23-54 ±
leOOBetrayed (108) Drama MGM 7-24-54 —
1528 Bigamist, The (78) Drama.. ..Filmakers 10-31-53 —
Big Chase, The (60) Drama LP
L643 Black Knioht, The (85) Drama Col 10-30-54 +
L576 Blackout (87) Drama LP 4-24-54 ±
1603 Black Shield of Falworth, The
(100) Drama U-l 8-7-54 +
1659 Black 13 (75) Drama 20th-Fox 11-27-54 —
1642 Black Widow (95) Drama 20th-Fox 10-30-54 ff
11630 Bob Mathias Story, The (80) Drama AA 10- 9-54 +
l547Border River (81) Western U-l 1- 9-54 ±
1520 Botany Bay (94) Drama Para 10- 3-53 +
1551 Both Sides of the Uw (94) Drama U-l
1608 Bounty Hunter, The (88) Western WB
1-23-54 +
8-28-54 +
1598 Bowery Boys Meet the Monsters (66)
Comedy AA 7-17-54 ±
1550 Boy From Oklahoma, Tlie (88) Drama WB 1-16-54 +
1637 Bread, Love and Dreams (90) Drama. .I.F.E. 10-23-54 +
.606 Brigadoon (108) Musical MGM 8-14-54 ff
.604 Broken Lance (96) Western 20th-Fox 8- 7-54 ff
1607 Bullet Is Waiting, A (82) Drama Col 8-21-54-
+
dt —
+ +
^
+ +
+ *
- +
+ +
± ±
+ -
+ +
»+5-
+ 7+S-
+ 7+3-
1+
* »f-lff
ft ff + U+1-
+ ± + »+l-
+ ff + + luff
++ + 8+3-
+ + + + *+3-
I ±
+ + *f
tt * * 7+3-
+
+ + ± 5+1-
+ - + 6+2-
tt -H-
-t- ±
-If+
±
+
+
tt
+
+
H-
-1-
-I-
# + +
-I- it
+t ±
•f
4- ±
»+
2+S-
7+
H-1-
7-K-
7+1-
*fl-
«+l-
M-3-
+ +
-t- «
H
W H 11+
- -t- -f 5+3-
+ 7+ ,
+ 9+t-^
1592 Cair: Mutiny (125) Drama Col 6-19-54 ff
1615 Cangaceiro (The Bandit) (92) Drama Col 9-11-54 +
;652 Cannibal Attack (68) Drama Col 11-13-54 +
iSSS Captain Kidd and the Slave Girl
(83) Drama UA 5-29-54 +
530 Captain's Paradise. The (77) Comedy UA 11- 7-53 ff
635 Carmen Jones (105) Musical 20th-Fox 10-16-54 ff
570 Carnival Story, The (95) Drama RKO 3-27-54 +
563 Casanova's Big Night (85) Comedy Para 3-6-54 +
.658 Cattle Queen of Montana (88) Western. RKO 11-27-54 +
574 Cat Women of the Moon (64) Drama.. Astoi 4-17-54 d:
.583 Cavalleria Rusticana (114) Opera Astor 5-22-54 +
535 Cease Fire! (75) Documentary Para U-28-53 ff
589Challenge the Wild (72) Documentary UA 6-12-54 +
^544 Charge of the Lancers (74) Drama Col 12-26-53 ±
City Stands Trial (..) Drama I.F.E.
552 Command, The (94) Drama (CinemaScope) .WB 1-23-54 ff
542 Conquest of Everest. The (78) Doc UA 12-19-53 +
548 Cowboy. The (69) Documentary LP 1-9-54 +
520 Crajyiegs (88) Drama Rep 10- 3-53 +
558 Creature From the Black Lagoon
(89) Drama (Three-dimension) U-l 2-13-54 +
451 Crest of the Wave (91) Drama MGM 11-13-54 +
ICrlBi Wax (74) Drama WB l-]j6-54 +
JOXOFnCE BookinGuicJe : : Dec. 4. 1954
H H ft ff H tH4+
± ±
:t: d: S+1-
± 4+3-
±
+
+
ff
+
+ + + H
± +
± ± + *
+ + H H
H- +t
+ ± + +
+ + +f +
+ » *+y-
+ U+1-
:t J4-3-
3+2-
± 1+1-
1+
+ 1*+
3+3-
1+
+ 1»+
+ n-
+ K-1-
+ »+

xoffice
rrison's
REVIEW DIGEST ^ very Good,- + Good,- ± Fair,- Poor,- = very Poor In the summary +t is rated 2 pluses, — as 2 minuses.
ports

H Very Good; + Good; * Fair; — Poor; — Very Poor. In the summary # is roted 2 pluses, = os 2 minuses.
REVIEW DIGEST
H
: I-
571 Prince Valiant (100) Drama
(Cinemascope) 20th-F(n 4-10-54
591 Princess of the Nile (73) Drama. .20th-Fo)i e-li3-54
569 Prisoner of War (81) Drama MGM 3-27-54
528 Prisoners of the Casbah (78) Drama Col 10-31-53
Private Eyes (64) Comedy AA
614 Private Hell 36 (SI) Drama Fllmakers 9-11-54
S41 Project M-7 (86) Drama U-l 12-19-53
Purple Plain, The (..) Drama l)A
999 Pushover (88) Drama Col 7-24-54
o
X
CQ
u
Q
541 Queen of Sheba (99) Drama LP 12-19-53 +
"
567 Queen's Royal Tour, A (84) Documentvy. .UA 3-20-54 -f
S-;

1
Bob
1
©Black
.
'
^•|]i*U]]l tlJiJIlT
.
.
,
.
time is in parentheses. Letters ond combinations thereof indicote story type os follows: (C) Comedy; (D)
Drama; (AD) Adventure-Drama; (CD) Comedy-Drama; (F) Fontasy; (M) Musical; (W) Western; (SW) Superwestern.
Releose number follows. ^ denotes BOXOFFICE Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Photography:
© Color; ^ 3-D; Wide Screen. For review dates and Picture Guide page numbers, see Review Digest.
.
.
ALLIED
ARTISTS
m Paris Playboys (62) C. .5418
Leo Onrrt-y, llunlz Hall, VloU Vorai
55 Mr. Potts Goes to Moscow (93) C. .5400
0,^car Ilomolka. Nailia Gray, George Cole
gj] Dragonfly Squadron (83) D..S-2
John IliKllak. Barbara Brltton, Bruce Bennett
gi Loophole (79) D. .5414
Barry Sullivan. Porothy Malone, C. McGraw
] e Pride of the Blue Grosi (70) . . D . . 54 1
Lloyd Bridges, Vera Miles, M. Sberldao
a ©Arrow In the Dust (80) D . . 5404
Sterling Hayden, Coleen Gray. Keith Larsm
Forty-Nlncrs, The (70V2) W. .5424
Wild- BUI EUlott, VlTBlnla Grey, Deorer Pyle
IS Bowery Boyi Meet the Monsters
(66) C..5419
Leo Gorcey, Hunt2 Ball. Laura Mason
I
Desperado, The (81) W. .5426
Wayne Morris,

.
.D.
.
2
.
.
5
^-
PARAA/iOUNT
©Noked Jungle, The (93) D..5315
Cbarlton Hi'ston. Eleanor Parker, W. Conrad
©Red Gorters (90) M..5314
Bo&emary Cluoney, Jack Carson, Guy Milcbell
RKO RADIO
[g O^Dongerous Mission (75) D. .410
Victor .Mature, Piper Laurie. WilUam Bendli
REPUBLIC
a Flight Nurse (90) 0. .5301
Joan Leslie, Forrest Tucker, Jeff Donuell
FEATURE
CHART
20TH CENTURY-FOX g i
©New foces (9B) M..
TO
h
OEIephont Wolk (103) AD.. 5317
Ellzabetb Taylor, Onna Andrews. Peter Finch
OSecret of the Incos (101 )... D. .5318
Charltui lleston, Qubert Young, Yma Sumac
i ©Carnival Story, The (95) D .
Anne Baxter, Steve Cochran, Lyle Bettger
. 4 1
H ©Silver Lode (80) SW..413
Jolin Payne, Lizabeth Scott, Dan Duryea
in ©Jubilee Trail (103) W. .5303
Vera Ralston, Forrest Tucker, Joan Leslie
Q] Hell's Half Acre (91) D. .5304
Wendell Corey, Evelyn Keyea, E. Lanchester
©^Gorilla at Large (83) D. .406
Anne Bancroft, Cameron Mitchell, Lee J. Cobb
©River of No Return (90) D. .405
iMarilyn .Monroe, Robert Mltchum, B. Calhoun
©Siege at Red River, The
(86) D. .404
Van Johnson, Joanne Dru, Richard Boone
^©Three Coins In the Fountain
(101) D..413
Clifton Webb, Dorothy McGulre, Jean Peters
©oDemetrius and the
Gladiators (101) AD.. 41
Victor .Mature, Susan Ilayward, M. Rennle
©Princess of the Nile (73) D. .414
Debra Paget, Jeffrey Hunter, Doni Drake
Sins of Rome (75) D. .414
LudmiUa Xchcrlna, Massimo Glrottl
QKnock on Wood (103) MC. .5319
Danny Kaie, Mai Zftterllng. David Burns
OLiYing It Up (95) C. .5320
Dean Martin, Jerry Lewli, Janet Lelgb
[U QQHons Christian Andersen
(112) M..55I
Danny Kaye, Jeanmalre, Farley Granger
S ©Susan Slept Here (98) C. .501
Dick Powell, Debbie Reynolds. Clenda Farrell
a ©Laughing Anne (91) D. .5305
Wendell Corey. Margaret Lockwood, F. Tucker
©Garden of Evil (100) AD.. 416
Susan Hayward, Gary Cooper, B. Wldmark
©Gambler From Natchez,
The (89) AD. .417
Dale Robertson, Debra Paget
About Mrs. Leslie (104) D..S321
blrley Buotb, Hubert Ryan, Alex Nlcol
OReor Window (112) D. .5401
lunes Stewart, Grace Kelly. Thelma liltter
©Africa Adventure (63) Doc. .502
m Make Hoste to Live (90) D. .5306
Dorothy McGulrc, Stephen McNally, M. Murphy
63 ©Outcast, The (90) D. .5308
John Derek. Joan Evans, Harry Carey jr.
m ©Johnny Guitar (110) W. .5307
Jo.iri Crawford. Sterling Uaydon, Scott Brady
gl Roogie's Bump (71) CD.. 5310
ItLith ^Var^i ck. R. Marlottl, Brooklyn Dodgers
m Shanghai Story (90^ D. .5311
Edmond O'lirien. Ruth Roman, R. Jaeckol
[H Tobor the Greot (77) D..5309
diaries Drake, Karin Booth, Arthur Shields
a ©Broken Lonce (96) W. .419
Spencer Tracy, Jean Peters, Robert Wagner
©Roid, The (82) AD.. 408
Van Heflin, Anne Bancroft, Lee llarvln
©KziEgyption, The (140) D. .420
Edmund Purdom, Gene Tlerney, Jean Simmons
>
c:
tobrino (113) CD.. 5402
Humplirey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn. \V. Ilolden
B ©Passion (84) D . . 503
Cornel Wilde. Yvonne De Carlo, Lon Chaney
'.
©This Is My Lore (90) .504
Linda Darnell. Dan Duryea, Faith Domergue
©Adventures of Hojli Bobo,
The (93) D. .424
John Derek, Elaine Stewart. Thomas Gomez
E ©oWomon's World, A (94). . . .CD. .421
Clifton Webb, June Allyson, C«rncl Wilde
)..S
. 5403
BoWhite Chrlstmos ( 1 20) M .
ling Crgsby, U. Kaye. B. Oooncy, Vera-Ellen
©Cottle Queen of Montana
(88) W..505
Barbara Slanuyck, lionild Reagan, Lance Fuller
She-Wolf, The (91)
Kerima. Eitore ManiU, SUy Brltt
Blapk 13 (75) D. .428
Peter Reynold-;. Rona Anderson. Ijina Morrl:
©Block Widow (95) D . . 423
Van lleflin. Ginger Rogers, Gene Tlerney
D..425
Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons. Merle Oberon
©Outlaw's Daughter, The (75). .W. .427
Bill Williams, Jim Davis, Kelly Hyaa
^©Desiree (110)
oc:
o <
o
•oThree-Ring Clreisjl 10). . . .C. .5404
irtln and Lcviis, Z:^ Zsa Gabor
©tDllnderwaterl (. .) D. .
Jane Russell, Gilbert Roland, lUdiard Egan
©Carmen Jones (105) M..422
llarrv Bclafonte. Pearl Bailey, D. Dandridge
Devil's Harbor . . ) D . .
(
Richard Arleii. Greta Gynt. Mary Gerraalne
Other Woman, The (. .) D.
Hugo llaas, Cleo Moore
m ©Honsel ond Grefel (75) F. .
Electronic I'uppets
tftffl
«Bridges o» Toko-RI, The D..
Ullam Ihilden. Fredric Marcb, Mickey Rooncy
^Conquest of Space AD. .
Walter Brooke. William Redtleld, G. Johnson
Country Girl, The D . .
Ung Crosby. Grace Kelly, Williaa Holden
gaLove Is a Weapon D. .
Mombo D .
SBvana JIangano, Shelley Winters. M. Rennle
SoRua for Cover D.
ftmes Casney, V. Lindfors, J. Derek
BoStrotegie Air Command. .. .D. .
Jtmes Steuart, June .Mlyson
fipTwo Captains West D. .
Ottrlton Ueston, F. MacJIurray, Donna Beed
BUIysses D . .
Kirk Douglai, Sllvana Mangano, A. Qulnn
3We're No Angels CD. .
mphrey Bogart, Joan Bennett, Aldo Ray
©Americano, The D .
Glenn Tord, Cesar Romero, Ursula Tlieiss
©tiDConqueror, The ( . . ) D .
John Wayne, Susan llayward, Pedro Arraendarlz
©=]Escape to Burma D. .
Barbara Stanwyck, Robert Ryan. David Farrar
Heavy Woter
Doc.
©Jet Pilot (119) D..229
John Wayne, Janet Lelch. J. C. Fllppen
©Quest for a Lost City Doc.
Dana and GIncer I,amb
©=Scven Bad Men W. .
Randoliih Scott, Mala Powers, ForrtJ'Son of Sinbod *D . .
Dale Robertson. Sally Forrest, Lill St. Cyt
Tarzan's Hidden Jungle. ...;.. .D. .
Gordon Scott, Vera MUea. P. Van Eyck
Admiral Hoskin's Story D. .
Sterling Ilayden. Ale.vls Smitb, Dean Jagger
African Manhunt AD. .
Karin IJonlh. John Kellogg
Atomic Kid CD. .
Mickey Roonoy, Robert Strauss, Elaine Davis
©Carolina Cannonball C. .
Judy Canova, Ross Elliot, Andy CTyde
©Doctor In the House C. .
Dirk Bngardc. Muriel Pavlov, Donald Sinden
Hell's Outpost D. .
Rod Cameron. Joan Leslie. Chill Wills
©Magic Fire D . .
Yvonne lie Carlo. Carlos Thompson, Rita Gam
©Santa Fe Passage W. .
John Payne, Faith Dnmergue. Bod Cameron
©Trouble In the Glen D. .
•Margaret Lockwood, F. Tucker. V. ItfcLaglen
©Timberjack D . .
Vera Ralston. Sterling Ilayden. A. Menioa
©Daddy Long Legs M. . . .
Fred .\stalre. Leslie Caron. Terry Moore
Life in the Balance, A D. .
Ricardo ilontalhan, Anne Bancroft. J. Marvin
©Man Colled Peter, A D. .
Richard Todd, Jean Peters, Marjorie Rambcau
©Prince of Players D. .
Richard Burton, .Maggie McNamara, John Derek
©Rocers, The D . .
Kirk Huiiglas, B. Darvl, Gilbert Roland
©Seven Year Itch, The C. .
Marilyn Monroe, Tom Ewell, Evelyn Keyes
©That Lady D . .
Olivia Dellaillland. Gilbert Roland
©There's No Business Like
Show Business ( . . ) M .
Ethii Merman, Dan Dalley, Marilyn Monroe
©Untamed D. .
Tyrone Power. Susan Hayward, Richard Egan
©White Feother D.
o

45
W.
.
3
1
©Ring
j
©Bounty
j
©Track
i'odcsia.
.
—rr
'
^
FEATURE
X
<
UNITED
ARTISTS
CHART
Act of Love (105) D..5406
Kirk Douglas, ll;uiy Uobin, Robert SIrauss
Beat the Devil (89) D..5347
Hin?iplirey Bngart, Jennifer Jones, B. Morley
©Golden Mosk, The (88) D. .5412
Van Htllin, Wanda Iknclri-x, Eric Porlman
©Scarlet Spear, The (78) D . . 54 11
Martha Hyer, John Bentley, Morasl
Heidi (97) D..5405
Elsbcth Siemund, lleinrich Gretler, T. KJameth
©Lone Gun, The (73) D..5416
George Munttjomery, Dorothy Malone
©NjSouthwest Passoge (82) . . . . D. .541
Kod Cameron, Joanne Dru, John Ireland
Queen's Royol Tour, A (84). .Doc. .5413
. 5420
Witness to Murder (83) D .
Barbara Stanwyck, Gary Merrill, G. Sanders
©Captain Kidd and the Slave
Girl (83) D..54I8
B-a Gahor, Anthony Dexter, Alan Hale jr.
a ©Yellow Tomahawk, The (82) . . D . .541
Rory Calhoun, Peggie Castle, Noah Beery
Long Wait, The (93) D. .5421
Anthony Qulnn, Cliarles Cobum, Qcne Evans
©Challenge" the Wild (72). . .Doc. .5422
Frank
Gratiam
Hobson's Choice (107) C. .
Charles Laughton, John mills, Brenda De Banzie
©Gog (85) D..5423
Ricli.iril E^an. Constance Dovvling, H. Marshall
©Man With o Million (90) C.
Gregory I'eck, Jane Grltritbs. A. E. Matthews
©Adventures of Robinson
Crusoe (90) D. .
Dan (illtrlihy. Janes Fernandez, C. Lopej
©Apache (90) W. .5427
Burt Lancaster. Jean Peters
Lowless Rider, The (62) W. .5431
Johnny Carpenter, Frankie Darro
©Return to Treasure Island (75) D. .5417
Tab Hunter, Dawn Addams, James Seay
©Crossed Swords (85) D. .5334
Errol Flynn, Gina Lollobriglda
Diamond Wizard, The (83) D..5432
DennLs O'Kecfe. M.irg;irct Sheridan
Down Three Dark Streets
(85) D. .5433
Broderick Crawford. Ruth Roman, Martha Hyer
Malta Story, The (103) D..5429
Alec Guinness. Jack Hawkins, Flora Kobson
Victory at Sea (97) Doc.
©Jesse Jomes' Women (83). . .W. .5435
Don Barry, Peggie Castle, Jack Beutel
©Golden Mistress, The (82) D. .5437
John Agar, Rosemarle l',owe, Kikl
©Khyber Patrol (71) D..5419
Iticliirrl Egan, Dawn Addams, Patric Knowles
Suddenly (77) D. .5436
Frank Sinatra, Sterling Hayden, Nancy Gates
Borefoot Contessa, The (128). D. .5440
Humplirev Bogart, Ava Gardner, E. O'Brien
Little Kidnappers, The (93) D. .5439
Adricnne Corrie. J. Whiteley, V. Winter
Operation Mmhunt (77) D..5441
Harry Townes. Irja*^ Jensen, J. Aubuchon
©Sitting Bull (105) W. .5434
Dale Robertson, J. Carrol Nalsb
Shield for Murder (82) D. .
Edmond O'Brien, Maria English
Snow Creature (70) D . . 5447
Paul l.aiigton. Leslie Denlson
Twist of Fate (89) D..5446
Gin'.;cr Rogers, Jacques Bergerac, Herbert Lorn
©White Orchid, The (. .) D. .
William Lundigan. Peggie Castle
©You Know Whot Soilors Are
(89) . . C..5445
©Beachcomber, The D. .
Robert Newton. Glynis Johns, Donald Slnden
Good Die Young, The D . .
*Iolir) Ireland. Gloria Grahame. L. Harvey
©Kentuckion, The D . .
Burt Lancaster, Kiana Lynn, Una Merkel
Lilacs in the Spring M. .
Othello D. .
Orson Welles, Suzanne Cloutler, Fay Compton
©Purple Ploin, The D. .
Gregory Peck, B. De Banzie, Win Mln Tha
©Romeo and Juliet D..
Lawrence Harvey. Flora Robinson
©Star of India D. .
Cornel Wilde. Jean Wallace, Herbert Lom
Steel Cage, The (80) D. .5443
Paul Kelly. M. O'Sullivan, W. Slezak
©Summertime CD. .
©Vcro Cruz D . .
Gary Cooper. Burt l.,anc.aster. Denlse Darcel
UNIVERSAL-INT L
g jg
>^Creature From the Black
Lagoon (89) D..415
Richard Carlson, Julia Adams, Richard Denning
©Genevieve (86) C..481
Dinali Sheridan, John Gregson, Kay Kendall
©Ride Cleor of Diablo (80) D . . 4 1
Audle Murpliy, Dan Duryea, Susan Cabot
©Saskatchewan (88) D..414
Alan Ladd, Shelley Winters, J. Carrol Nalsh
C . . 4 1 8
Ma and Pa Kettle at Home (8 ) .
Marjorie Main, Percy Ivilbnde,
1
Alan Mowbray
©Rails Into Loromie (82) D..419
Joiin Payne, -Marl Blanchard, Dan Duryea
©Yankee Pasha (84) D..417
Jeff Chandler, Rhonda Fleming, Lee J. Cobb
Fireman Save My Child (80) C..421
Buddy Hackett, Hugh O'Brian, Adele Jergcns
Ploygirl (85) D..420
Shelley Winters, Barry Sullivan, G. Palmer
Block Horse Canyon (82) D..423
Joel McCrea, Marl Blanchard. Murvyn Eye
©Drums Across the River (78).SW..422
Audie Murphy. Lisa Gaje, Walter Brennan
Always a Bride (83) C..485
Peggy Cummhis, Terence Morgan, Ronald Squire
©Johnny Dork (85) D..424
Tony Curtis. Piper Laurie, Ilka Chase
©Tonganyiko (81) AD.. 425
Van Heflin, Ruth Roman, Howard Duff
Froncis Joins the WACs (95) . . . C. .427
Donald O'Connor. Julia Ad.iras. Za-sii Pitts
^©Magnificent Obsession (108).D..428
Jane Wyman, Uock Hudson, Otto Kruger
©oBlock Shield of Falworth,
The (100) D. .430
Tony Curl is, Janet Leigh
©Down ot Socorro (80) D..431
Rory Calhoun, i'i|HT Laurie, David Brian
High end Dry (93) C . . 486
Paul Douglas, Alex MacKenzie, J, Ccpcland
Noked Alibi, The (86) D. .431
Sterling Hayden. Gloria Grahame, Gene Barry
©West of Zonzibor (..) D. .
Anthony Steel, Sheila Sim
©Bengal Brigade (87) D..434
Rock Hudson. Arlerie Dalil, llrsula Thelss
©Four Guns to the Border (87). . .502
Rory Calhoun. Colleen Miller, G. Nader
Ricochet Romonce (80) C..504
Marjorie Main, Chill Wills, Rudy Vallee
©Sign of the Pagan (92) D..505
Jeff Cbandler. .lane Russell, iian Duryea
©Yellow Mountain, The (78). . . .W. .510
Lex Marker, Mala Powers. Howard Duff
©Captain LIghtfoot
D..
Rock liuilson. Bailjaia Rush, Jeff Morrow
©Chief Croiy Horse D..
Victor .M.iture. .Su/.tu B.ill. John Lund
©For Country, The D . .
James Stewart. Ruth Roman
©Foxfire D. .
Jeff Cli.indler, Jane Russell, Dan l)ur>ea
©Land of Fury D..
.lack Hawkins. Gtvnis Johns
Ma and Pa Kettle Go to Waikiki C. .
Mariorle Main, Percy Klllirlde, Lurl Nelson
\; Revenge of the Creature D. .
Joliti A^ar. Lori .Nelson
Six Bridges to Cross D. .
Tony funis, Julia Ailams, George N.ider
©So This Is Paris (96) MC..507
Tony Curtis, Corinne Calvet, Gene Nelson
©This Islond Earth D .
Bart Roberts. Faith Dnmeririie. Jeff Morrmv
WARNER BROS.
m Crime Wove (74) D . . 308
Sterling Hayden. Gene Nelson. P. Kirk
53 Duffy of Son Quentin (78) D. .321
Louis Hayward, Joaiiue Dru, Paul Kelly
113 ©'^Phantom of the Rue
Morgue (84) D..322
Karl Maiden, Claude Dauphin, P. Medina
H ©Riding Shotgun (75) W. .323
Randolph Scott, Jo.an Weidon, Wayne Morris
!©oLucky Me (100) M..324
Doris Day, Phil Severs, Robert Cummlngs
!©Diol M for Murder (105) D. .327
Ray Milland, Grace Kelly, Robert Cummlngs
(III Them! (94) D. .328
James Wliitmore, Joan Weidon, Edmund Gwenn
a 4i©aHigh ond the Mighty,
The (147) D.
John Wayne, Claire Trevor, Laraine Day
329
of Fear (93) D . . 330
Pat O'Brien, Clyde Beatty, Mickey Spillane
H ©nKing Richard and the
Crusaders (113) D,,331
Virginia -Mayo. Rex Harrison, Laurence Harvey
131 ©Duel in the Jungle (102) D. .332
Dana Andrews, Jeanne Crain, David Farrar
a ©Dragnet (90) ..D..401
Jack Webb, Ben Alexander, Ann Robinson
Hunter, The (79) SW. .402
Radolph Scott, Marie Windsor, D. Horn
SS ©oStor Is Born, A (182) MD. .403
Judy Garland, James Mason, Jack Carson
H ©Drum Beat (111) W ,
Alan Ladd, Audrey Dalton, Marlsa
. 404
Pavan
of the Cot (102) AD . . 405
Robert -Mitchum, Diana Lynn, Teresa Wright
©Battle Cry D . .
Van Hfflin. Aldo Ray. Tab Hunter
©East of Eden D. .
Jul'p li.irris. .l.inies Dean, Raymond Massey
©tuHclcn of Troy D..
Roseau.
I .I.icuups Rernas, C. liardwicke
©Land of the Phoraohs D..
Jack ll.iwklns, Dewey Martin
©Mr. Roberts C .
Henry Fonda, .lames Cagney, William Powell
©Moby Dick
D..
Grc^jiiry I'eck. R. Biisebart, Orson Welles
©Sep Chose, The D . .
John Wayne. Lina iurner. Tab Hunter
©Strange Lady in Town, A...D..
Greer Garsini. liana Andrews, Cameron Mitchell
©Toll Mon Riding W . .
. 409
llanrlolpli Scott. Dorothy
©Young at Heort
Peggie
M .
Malone, Castle
Doris Day. Frank Sinatra. E. Barrymore
MISCELLANEOUS
^
AMERICAN RELEASING CORP.
Fast and Furious (74) AD
John Ireland, Durutby Malone, Bruce Carlisle
ASTOR
Sleeping Tiger, The (89) D. .
Ale.us Smith, Alexander Knox, D. Bogarde
BUENA VISTA
©Living Desert, The (72) Doc
©Vanishing Prairie (71) Doc
CARROLL
©Out of This World (75). Doc. .Sept.-!
Lowell T'homas, Lowell Thomas jr.
FILMAKERS
Private Hell 36 (81) D..Sept.-^
Ste\e Cochran, Ida Lupino, Howard Duff
HALLMARK
a
Holfwoy to Hell (61) Doc. .Jul. 2-S
Narration by Quentin Reynolds i
©Karamoja (63) Doc... Jul. 2-Sg
. Oct
LF.E.
(American Dialog)
Aida (110)
^
M..Oct.-Sl
Sopliia Loren, Lois Max^rell, Afro PoU '
A Husband for Anna (105). .D. .Aug.-54
Sihana Pampanini
Breod, Love ond Dreams (90) D. ,Sept-i
Vitiorio de Sica, Gina Lollobriglda
City Stands Trial ( . ) D
. . .Sept,
Silvana Pampanhii, Amedeo Nazzari
Girls Morked Danger (75).. D.. Aug
EU'onora Rossi Drago, Vlttorio G;issman
©Golden Coach, The (1 05) . . D . .Sept
Anna .Magnani, Duncan Lament, Paul Campbd
Hell Raiders of the Deep
(93) D,.Aug.-*
Elconora Rossi Drago, Pierre Cressoy
Love in the City (1 10) . . , D. .Sept,
,
Sensuolito (74) D. .Juni
Elconora Rossi Dragn, Pierre Cressoy
©Theodora, Slave Empress (88).. D.,
G.aruii. .Maria Canale, George Marchal
Too Young for Love (..).... D .
Marin Vlady. P. M. Beck, Aldo KabrUI
Voice of Silence ( . ) D . . Nov.-
.
Rosaiuta Podesla, Aldo Fabrlzl, C. Greco
ASTOR
REISSUES
Dangerous Visitor (formerly A
Kiss for Corliss) (88) . . . C . .Oct.-5
.
David Niven. Shirley Temple, Tom Tully
Intruder, The (formerly Cover
Up) (83) D. .Oct.-5
William Bcndix, Dennis O'Keefe. B. BrlttOB
Under Suspicion (formerly Don't
Trust Your Husbond) (90) . C. .Oct.^
Fred MacMurray. .Maiicltine Carroll
Women Accused (formerly
Without Honor) (69) D..Oct.-
Laraine Day, Dane Clark, Franchot Tone
CARROLL
©Down Memory Lane (72). Doc. . July-5j
Bins; Crosby. \V. C. Fields, Gloria Swanson
©Tulsa (90) W.. July-
Susan llayward, Robert Preston
COLUMBIA
a
Coroner Creek (90) W. .Aug.-i
Ruidnlph Scott. Marguerite Chapman
Gunfighters (87) W..Aug, J.fl
"'
lian.loliih Scott, Barbara Britton
Miss Grant Takes Richmond
(87) C. .Oct,
Lucille Ball, WlUiam Holdeo
MGM
Uli;
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
kid
(..) D..Oct/!!
Spencer Tracy, Ingrld Bergman
©Gone With the Wind (..) D..Julv^5 ji,..
Clarice Gable, Vivien Leigh, 0. DeHavllland
Torzon Escapes (..) D..Nov.-5|i
Johnny Weissmuller. Maureen O'Sullivan i ;
'Torzon, the Ape Mon (..).. D .. NoVj^ Ikii
Jolinnv Weissmuller. Maureen O'Sullivan :
Women's Foce, A (..) D..0ctw4 i
Joan Crawford, Melvyn Douglas
PARAMOUNT
©Reap the Wild Wind (1 24). D. .Nov.
John Wayne, Susan Hayward, Ray MilL lla^
RKO RADIO
Every Girl Should Be Married
(85)
.C. .Sept.J
C.-irv Grant. Betsy Drake, Franchot Tone
©She Wore o Yellow Ribbon
(103) D..Oct.-
Henrv Fonda. Joanne Dru
Window, The (73) D..Septo
Arthur Kennedy. Ruth Rom.in, Barbara Uall
20th CENTURY-FOX
Orchestra Wives (98) M..M
Glenn Miller & Orch., George Monlgomi
Sun Valley Serenade (86).. M. Mai
%
Sonja lli'iile, John Payne. Glenn Miller
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL S
Egg and I, The (108) C, ,JuIy-
Claudcite Colbert, Fred MacMurray, M. M
WARNER BROS.
Big Sleep, The (114) D . . Dei
Huniphrev Bogart. Lauren Bacall
Sorotoga Trunk (135) D..D:
Ingrid Bergman, Gary Cooper
!" 'Wi
lilt),
Bliji^
UlelV.
fefiji
»trll
i^li.
i
'OFHc

.
.
FShort sublects, listed by company. In order of release. Running time follows title. First Is notlonol
elease, second the dote of review In BOXOFFICE. Symbol between dotes is roting from BOXOFFICE
review. H Very good. + Good. =t Foir. — Poor. = Very Poor. © Indicates color photogrophy.
i>}.JDiiri)
lilJililT
M
la
Columbia
>rod. Na Title Rel Date Rating Rn'd
ALL-STAR COMEDIES
!415 Tootino Tooters (17) . . . 5- 13-54 ± 6-19
!416Two April Fools (IS'/j) 6-17-54
'411 Fire Chaser, The (16).. 9-30-54 + 11-27
'412 Kids Will Be Kids (16> 12- 9-54
.ASSORTED FAVORFTES
(Reissues)
424 Oh, Baby! (I81/2) 2-11-54
i425Two Nuts in a Rut (IS) 3-11-54
426 She Snoops to Conquer
(17'/j) 4-29-54
'412 His Hotel Sweet (I71/2) 9-16-54
'422 Billie Gets Her Man
(17) 10-14-54
'423 Cupid Goes Nuts (15).. 12- 2-54
CANDID MICROPHONE
(One-Reel Specials)
553 Subject No. 3 (10)
554 Subject No. 4 (10)
2-1S-54 ±
3-18-54 ±
|S55 Subject No. 5 (10) 5-20-54
551 Subject No. 1 (11)
reissue 9-23-54
552 Subject No. 2 UO'/i)
reissue 12- 2-54
COLOR FAVORITES
(Technicolor Reissues)
607 Way Down Yonder in the Corn
(7) 2-11-54
60S Dog, Cat and Canary (6) 2-2S-54
609 The Egg Yegg (71/2) . . . 3-31-54
610 The V.ay of All Pests
(71/2) 5-13-54
611 Amoozin' But Confoozin'
(8) 5-27-54
612 A C,it, a Mouse and a Bell
(7) 6-17-54
613 The Disillusioned Bluebird
(7) 6-24-54
514 Mr. Moocher (7) 7- 8-54
515 Hprriiig Murder Mystery
(7) 7-22-54
601 Imagination (8) 9- 2-54
602 Red Riding Hood Rides Again -
(7) 10- 7-54
603 A'hunting We Won't Go
(7) 11- 4-54
604 Gifts From the Air
(71/2) 11-25-54
605 Mysto Fox (7) 12- 9-54
COMEDY FAVORITES
(Reissues)
434 Get Along Little Nubby
(19) 2-25-54
435 Slarpily Married (I61/2) 3- 4-54
436 Fiddling Around (I71/2). 7- g-54
431 Wedding Belle (17) 10-21-54
432 Rolling Down to Reno
(161/2) 11-18-54
433 The Good Bad Egg (17) 12-16-54
ONE REEL SPECIALS
999 Autumn in Rome (9) . . 9- 2-54
MR. MAGOO
(Technicolor)
702 Maooo Goes Skiing (7) . . 3-11-54 ff
703 Kangaroo Courting (7).. 7-22-54
704 Destination Magoo (..) 12-16-54
SCREEN SNAPSHOTS
356 Hollywood Stars to Remember
(10) 2-25-54
357 Hollywood Goes to Mexico
+
3-20
5- 8
4-10
4-10
Ira (I01/2) 7-15-54+ 9- IS
358 Hula From Hollywood
(IO1/2) : 5- 6-54 It 5-29
959 Hollywood's Invisible Man
(9 ) 6-10-54 ± 10-16
360 Hollywood Grows Up
(101/2) 7-15-54 + 9-18
3S1 Hollywood Marches On
(8) 9-23-54 + 10- 9
152 Hoi ywood Stars on Parade
(91 2) 10-21-54
.
553 Hollywood Cowboy Stars
( .) 11-18-54
J54 Hollywood Life ( . ) 12-16-54
SERIALS
(15 Chapters)
160 Gunfighters of the
Northwest 4-15-54 -t- 4-24
180 Batman (reissue) 7-29-54 ....
t20 Riding with Buffalo Bill. 11-11-54 -f- 11-20
STOOGE COMEDIES
104 Income Tax Sappy
(I6I/2) 2- 4-54 ±
105 Spooks; (16), 2-0
Version 3-18-54
106 Parilon My Backfire (16) 4-15-54
107 Musty Musketeers (16).. 5-13-54 +
108 Pals and Gals (17).... 6- 3-54 -|-
101 Knutzy Knights (I71/2). 9- 2-54 -j-
102 Shot in the Frontier
(16) 10- 7-54
2-27
6-19
7- 3
10-16
7403 Scotched in Scotland
(I5/2) 11- 4-54
THRILLS OF MUSIC
(Reissues)
6954 Machito & Orch. (lO^b) 2- 4-54
6955 Charlie Barnet & Orch.
(101/2) 4- 1-54
6956Skitch Henderson & Orch.
(10) : 6- 3-54
7951 Ted Weems & Orch.
(IO1/2) 9- 9-54
7952 Gene Krupa & Orch.
(10) 11-11-54
7953 Lecuona Cuban Boys
(lO/a) 12-23-54
TOPNOTCHERS
6901 Canine Crimebustcrs (10) 4-15-54 +
6902 Push Back the Edge
(10) 5-27-54 +
UPA ASSORTED
2-11-54 ^
4- S-54 #
6-17-54
(Technicolor)
6502 Ballet-Oop (71/2)..,
6503 The Man on the Flying
Trapeze (7)
6504 Fudgefs Budget (7)
7501 How Now Boing Boing
(71/2)
5-29
7- 3
3-20
5- 8
9- 9-54 (+ 9-25
WORLD OF SPORTS
6805 Gauchos Down Uruguay Way
(10) 2-18-54 -f 3-20
6806 Tee Magic (9) 3-25-54-1- 4-17
6807 Racquet Wizards (9)... 4-22-54 ± 5-29
6808 World Soccer Champions
(10) 5-20-54 + 6-19
6809 Diving Cavalcade (9)... 6-24-54
6810 Target Tricksters (9) . . . 7.29-54 ± 10-16
7801 Argentine Athletes (10)9-10-54
7802 Hunting Thrills (9) 10-14-54
7803 Skiing the Andes (10) .11-11-54
Metro-Goldwyn-Moyer
Prod. No.
Rel Date Rating Rev'd
CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
W-53S Drag-along Droopy (8) 2-20-54
W-539 The Impossible Possum
(7) 3-20-54
W-540 Hic-Cup Pup (6) 4-17-54 +
W-541 Billy Boy (6) 5- 8-54
W.542 Little School Mouse (6) 5-29-54
W-543 Sleepy Time Squirrel
(7) 6-19-54 +
W-544 Homesteader Droopy
(8) 7-10-54 +
W-545 Bird-Brain Bird Dog
(7) 7-31-54 +
W-546 Baby Butch (7) 8-14-54 +
W-632 Mice Follies (7) 9- 4-54 ff
W-634 Farm of Tomorrow (7) 9-18-54 +f
W.636 Neapolitan Mouse (7).. 10- 2-54
W-638The Flea Circus (7).. 11- 6-54
CINEMASCOPE SPECIALS
(Technicolor)
K-572 Poet and Peasant ( .
K-573MGM Jubilee (10) 6-25-54
K-674 The Thieving Magpie (9) 9- 1-54
FITZPATRICE
. )
TRAVELTALKS
(Technicolor)
9- 4
9- 4
8-14
9-18
9-18
9-25
11-20
T-514 Glimpses of Western
Germany (9) 2-13-54 ff 3-20
T-611 Yosemite, the Magnificent
(9) 9-11-54
T-612 Grand Canyon. Pride of
Creation (9) 10-16-54
GOLD MEDAL REPRINTS
(Technicolor Reissues)
W-565The Milky Waif (7)... 1- 9-54
W-566 Uncle Tom's Cabana (8) 2- 6-54
W-567 Trap Happy (7) 3- 6-54
W.568 Solid Serenade (7)... 4-3-54
W-661 Cat Fishin' (S) 10-30-54
PETE
SMITH SPECIALTIES
S-555Film Antics (8) 1- 2-54
S-556 Ain't It Aggravatin' (8) 2- 6-54
S-557 Fish Tales (8) 3-13-54 + 3-20
S-55S Do Someone a Favor
(9) 4-10-54 +5-8
S-559 Out for Fun (10) 5- 8-54 ± 6-26
S-560 Safe at Home (8) 6-12-54 + 6-14
Paramount
Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rev'd
CALLING SCOTLAND YARD
(English. made)
5351 Javanese Dagger (27) Mar.-54 +
5352 Falstaff's Fur Coat (27) Mar.-54 -f
5353 The Missing Passenger
(27) Mar.-54
5354 The Final Twist (27) Apr. -54
5355 The Sable Scarf (27) . . . .Apr.-54 +
4- 3
4-10
4-10
4- 3
4-10
5356 Present for a Bride (27).Apr.-54 +4-3
CARTOON CHAMPION
(Technicolor Reissues)
S14-1 We're in the Honey (7). 10- 1-54
S14-2 Butterscotch and Soda
(7) 10- 1-54
S14-3 Sudden Fried Chicken
(7) 10- 1-54
S14-4 The Friendly Ghost (9) . 10- 1-54
S14-5 The Bored Cuckoo (8). 10- 1-54
S14-6 Santa's Surprise (9)... 10- 1-54
CASPER CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
B13-3 Boo Moon (8), 2-D
version 3- 5-54 ....
B13-4 Zero the Hero (7) 3-26-54 +5-8
B13-5 Casper Genii (7) 5-28-54 + 5-15
B13-6 Puss'n Boos (7) 7-16-54+ 7-10
B14-1 Boos and Arrows (6) . .10-15-54 + 11-6
B14-2 Boo Ribbon Winner
(6) 12- 3-54
GRANTLAND RICE SPORTLIGHTS
R13-7 Kids on a Springboard
(9) 2-26,54 + 3-20
R13-S Riding the Glades (9) 3-12-54 + 4-17
R13-9 Rough and Tumble Stick
Games (10) 4-30-54 +5-8
R13-10 Bahamas to Windward
(9)
R13-11 Wild Pets for
6-18-54 +9-4
Play (9) 7-23-54 +8-7
R13-12 One Hundred Unusual
Boys (9) S- 6-54 -1+9-4
Riding
(10) 10-
R14-lTwin Champs
1-54 + 10-30
R14-2 Hot and Cold Glides,
Slides and Rides (10) .10-22.54 + 11-20
R14-3 Where Everybody Rides
(..) 11- 5-54
HEADLINER CHAMPION
(Reissues)
A14-1 Speaking of Animals and
Their Families (9)... 10- 1-54
A14-2 Speaking of Animals in
a Musical Way (8)... 10- 1-54
A14-3 Stork Crazy (9) 10-1-54
A14-4 The Lonesome Stranger
(10) 10- 1-54
A14-5 Calling All Animals
(9) 10- 1-54
A14-6 Video Hounds (9) 10- 1-54
HERMAN & KATNIP
(Technicolor Cartoons)
H13-2Surf and Sound (7)... 3- 5-54 + 3-20
H13-3 Of Mice and Menace
(7) 6-25-54 + 6-19
H13-4Ship-A-Hooey (7) 8-20-54 ±9-4
H14-1 Rail Rodents (7) 11-26-54
NOVELTOONS
(Technicolor)
P13-3 Crazy Town (6). 2-12-54 ff 4-17
P13-4 Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
(7) 4-16-54 + 3-20
P13-5 Candy Cabaret (7) 6-11-54 -j- 6-19
P13.6The Oily Bird (7) 7-30-54 ±8-7
P14-lFido Beta Kappa (7) . .10-29-54 + 11- 6
PACEMAKERS
K13-3 The Room That Flies
(10) 3-26-54 +5-8
K13-4 What's Wrong Here!
(10) 4-30-54 + 5-15
K13-5 Million Dollar Playground
(10) 5- 7-54 + 5-15
K13-6 Touchdown Highlights
(10) 8-20-54 + 9-25
K14-1 Drilling for Girls in Texas
(9) 10- 8-54 + 10-23
POPEYE CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
E13-4 Popeye's 20th Anniversary
(8) 4- 2-54 +5-8
E13-5 Taxi Turvy (6) 6- 4-54 -)- 6-19
E13-6 Bride and Gloom (6).. 7- 2-54 + 7-10
E13-7 Greek Mirthology (7).. 8-13-54+ 8- 7
E13.8 Fright to the Finish (6) 8-27-54 + 9-18
E14-1 Private Eye Popcye
(7) 11-12-54
E14-2Gopher Spinach (6). ..12-10-54
TOPPER
M13-3 Wings to the North
(10) 2-19-54 3-27
M13-4 Bear Jam (10)..:... 3-19-54 + 4-17
M13-5 Three Wishes (10) 4- 9-54 ++5-8
M13.6 In Darkest Florida (10) 7- 9-54 +8-7
M14-1 The Nerve of Some People
(..) 11-19-54
Republic
Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rev'd
SERIALS
5383 Trader Tom of the China
Seas 1-11-54
12 Chapters
5384 Manhunt in the African Jungle
(reissue) 4 7-54
15 Chapters
THIS WORLD OF OURS
(Trucolor)
9225 Honff Kong (9)
9226 Formosa (9) .
RKO Radio
1- 1-54
5-10-54
Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rev'd
COLOR SPECIALS
43,601 Pecos Bill (23) 2-19-54 ++ 2-27
DISNEY CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
44.107 Donald's Diary (7) 3- 5-54 ++ 5-15
44.108 The Lone Chipmunks
(7) 4- 7-54 ++ 5-22
44.109 Pigs Is Pigs (10) 5-21-54 ++ 6-19
44.110 Casey Bats Again (8) 6-1S-54 + 6-19
44.111 Dragon Around (7)... 7-16-54 + 6-19
44.112 Grin and Bear It (7).. 8-13-54 f+ 9- 4
44.113 The Social Lion (7) + 11-20
DISNEY MARQUEE MUSICALS
(Technicolor Reissues)
44.001 Two for the Record
(8) 4-23-54
44.002 Johnny Fedora and Alice
Blue Bonnet (S) 5-21-54++ 5-29
44.003 The Martins and the
Coys (8) 6-18-54
44.004 Casey at the Bat (9) 7-16-54 ++ 7-24
44.005 Little Toot (9) 8-13-54 +9-4
44.006 Once Upon a Wintertime
(9) 9-17-54 ++ 9-11
SCREENLINERS
44.207 Golden Gate (8)
3- 5-54 +
44.208 Mission Ship (10)
44.209 Black Power (9)
44.210 Untroubled Border (9)
44.211 Long Time No See (8).
44.212 Riding the Wind (8)
44.213 The Big Port (8) 8-20-54
SPECIALS
43,104 Taming the Crippler
OXOFFICE BookinGuide :
: Dec.
4, 1954

.
..
.Anton
.Margaret
.
.Maria
Ferriicclo
.Marline
"^
SHORTS
CHART
J402 Dizzy Diving (8) July-54 + 8-14
9403 Sporty Simians (K) Sept.-54 + 10-30
TERRYTOONS
(Technicolor)
5407 Miglity Mouse in the Helpless
Hippo (7) Mar.-54 + 3-20
540S Terry Bears in Pet Problems
(7) Mar.-54 + 3-27
5409 The Froj and the Princess
(7) (reissue) Mar.-54 ...
5410 Little Roquefort in Prescription
for Percy (7) Apr.-54 + 4-3
5411 The Talking Magpies in
Satisfied Customers (7) Apr. -54
5412 Mighty Mouse in the Wreck of the
Hesperus (7) (reissue) Apr.-54 ....
5413 Phony Baloney in the Tall
Tale Teller (7) May-54
5414 Willie the Walrus in Arctic
Rivals (7) May-54
5415 Gandy Goose in the Ghost
Town (7) (reissue) ... .May-54 ....
5416 Terry Bears in a Howlino
Success (7) June-54 + 7-17
5417 A Day in June (7) June-54 ....
5418 Pcrcival Sleuthhound in Pride
of the Yard (7) July-54 -f 8-14
5419 Gandy (^oose in Fisherman's
Luck (7) July-54
5420 Little Roquefort in the
Cat's Revenge (7) Auo.-54 ....
5421 Ants in Your Pantry (7) Aug. -54
5422 The Reformed Wolf (7) . .Sept.-54
6423 A Wicky Wacky Romance
(7) (reissue) 0ct.-54
5424 Heckle and Jeckle in Blue
Plate Symphony (7). . .N0V.-54 ....
5425 Torrid Toreador, A (7)
(reissue)
DCC.-54
United Artists
Prod. No. Title Rel Dale Rating Rev'd
UAl The Royal Symphony (26) -f 3-27
Universal-International
Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rev'd
COLOR PARADE
1953-54 SEASON
9382 Royal Mid-Ocean Voyage
(9) 3- 1-54 -f 3-20
9383 Rolling in Style (9)... 4-12-54 -i- 5-22
9384 Fair Today (91/2) 5-10-54 +8-7
9385 Talent Scout (9) 6-14.54 -f 7-10
9386 Star Studded Ride (9) . 7-19-54 +8-7
MUSICAL FEATURETTE
1953-54 SEASON
9304 Jimmy Wakely's Jamboree
(15!/j) 2-26-54 +3-6
9305 Rhythm and Rhyme (15) 4-23-54 — 4-10
9306 Four Aces Sing- (15) . . 5-28-54
9307 Corral Cuties (15) 6-21-54 + 7-17
9308 Birth of a Band (15) . 7-26-54 +9-4
SPECIALS
9201 Perils of the Forest (17) 2-14-54 ±3-6
9202 The Hottest 500 (16).. 6-13-54 4+ 6-12
VARIETY VIEWS
1953-54 SEASON
9343 Brooklyn Goes to Chicago
(91/2) 2-22-54 + 2-13
9344 Moving Through Space
(9) 4-12-54 ± 5-22
9345 Stallions on Parade
(9/2) 7-26-54
WALTER LANTZ CARTUNES
(Technicolor)
1953-54 SEASON
9323 A Horse's Tale (6) 2-15-54 +3-6
9324 Alley in Bali (6) 3-15-54 + 4-10
9325 Under the Counter Spy
(6) 4-10-54 + 6-12
9326 Dig That Dog (6) 4-12-54 + 4-10
8327 Hay Rube (6) 6- 7-54 + 6-12
9328 Hot Rod Huckster (6) . . 7- 5-54 + 7-17
9329 Broadway Bow Wows (6) 8- 2-54 +8-7
WOODY WOODPECKER
(Technicolor Reissues)
9351 Smoked Hams (6) 2-22-54
9352 Coo Coo Birds (6) 3-29-54
9353 Well Oiled (7) 4-26-54
9354 Overture to William Tell
(6) 5-30-54
9355 Solid Ivory (7) 6-28-54
8356 Woody the Giant Killer
(7) 7-26-54
Warner Bros.
Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rev'd
BLUE RIBBON HIT PARADE
(Technicolor Reissues)
1306 Of Fox and Hounds (7). 2- 6-54
1307 Roughly Squeaking (7).. 2-27-54
130S Hobo Bobo (8) 4- 3-54
1309 Gay Antics (7) 4-24-54
1310 The Cat Came Back (7) 6- 5-54
1311 One Meat Brawl (7)... 7-10-54
1312 Along Came Daffy (7).. 7-24-54
1313 Mouse Klenace (7) 8-14-54
BUGS BUNNY SPECIALS
(Technicolor)
1726 Bugs and Thugs (7)... 3-13-54+ 4-24
1727 No Parking Hare (7)... 5- 1-54 +f 5-15
i;29 De.il May Hare (7)... 6-19-54
1728 Bewitched Bunny (7) . . . 7-24-54 +9-4
1740 Lumber Jack-Rabbit (7) (3-D)
1730 Yankee Doodle Bugs (7) 8-28-54 + 9-25
CLASSICS OF THE SCREEN
1104 This Wonderful World
(20) 3-27-54
1105 Ca'ifornia Junior
Symohony (16) 5-29-54
1106 This Was Yesterday (20) 7-31-54 +f 9- 4
JOE McDOAKES COMEDIES
1404 So You Want to Be Your
Own Boss (10) 3-13-54 + 4-24
1405 So You Want to Go to a
Night Club (10) 5- 1-54
140S So You Want to Be a
Banker (10) 7- 3-54 + 8-14
MELODY MASTER BANDS
(Reissue)
1804 Songs of the Range (9) 2-27-54
1805 Jammin' the Blues (10) 4-17-54
1S06 Cavalcade of Dance (10) 7- 3-54
MERRIE MELODIES
(Technicolor)
1710 Feline Framc-Up (7)... 2-13-54 +
1711 Wild Wife (7) 2-20-54+1
1712 No Barking (7) 2-27-54*
1713 Design for Leaving (7).. 3-27-54 +
1714 The Cat's Bah (7) 4- 3-54 ±
1715 Bell- Happy (7) 4-17-54 +
1715 Dr. Jerkyl's Hide (8)... 5- 8-54 --
1717 Claws for Alarm (7) ... .5-22-54 --
1718 Little Boy Boo (7)... 6- 5-54--
1719 Muzzle Tough (7) 6-26-54--
1720 The Oily American (7). 7-10-54
1721 Satan's Waitin' (7) 8- 7-54
1722 Stop. Look and Hasten
(7) 8-14-54 +
SPORTS PARADE
(Technicolor)
1506 Heart of a Champion (10) 3-20-54
+
1507 Carnival in Rio (10)... 4-24-54 -f
1510 Hunting Dogs at Work
(10) 5-22-54
1508 Off to the Races (10).. 6-28-54 +
1509 G.I. Holiday (10) 7-24-54 +
TECHNICOLOR SPECIALS
1007 Monroe Doctrine (20)
(reissue) 3- 6-54
1008 Conlinciital Holiday (20) 4-10-54 +
1009 Declaration of Independence
(IS) (reissue) 5-15-54
1011 Frontier Days (20) 6-12-54
1010 Silver Lighting (20) 7-17-54 +
1012 Who's Who in the Zoo
(17) 8-21-54 +
VITAPHONE NOVELTIES
1604 I Remember When (10). 3-20-54 +
1605 Thrills From the Past
(10) 5- 8-54 +
1606 When Sports Were King
(10) 6-19-54 ++
1607 Wild Boar Hunt (9).... 8-28-54
WARNERCOLOR SPECIALS
Black Fury (32) 0cl.-54
Independents
4-24
4-24
5- 8
4-24
4-24
5-15
7-10
7- 3
7-24
B-14
9-25
4-24
5-15
7- 3
9-11
5-15
8-i4
9-18
4-24
6-26
7-24
Prod. No. Title Rel Date Rating Rev'd
White Mane (40) Snyder +f 1-16
Crucifixion (14) Noel Meadow + 3-27
Martin and Gaston (II1/2)
George K. Arthur ++ 3-27
Return to Glennascaul (26)
Maycr-Kingsley ++ 3-27
Sunday by the Sea (14) Noel Meadow +4 3-27
Willie, the Operatic Whalt
(18) Buena VisU 4+ 8-14
FOREIGN FEATURES
Foreign-language productions by nofive country, listed alphabetically
by title, followed by running time. Dote shown Is Issue of BOXOFFtCE
In which review oppeared. Nome of distributor Is In porcntheses.
AUSTRALIA
Reviewed
Wherever She Goes (80) 10-31-53
(M-K) . .Suzanne Parrctt, Eileen Joyce
AUSTRIA
Moriko (81) 4-11-53
(RakiT-Brill) . .Marlka Rotf, Henry Fuss
Singing Angels (98) 12- 6-52
(Casino) . .Cusuv Waldau, Kaetbe Dorscb
BRITAIN
Angels One Five (98) 6-12-54
(Str:itrorfl) . ..lark Hawkins, Mlcliael Dcnlsnn
Angel Street (80) 12-13-52
(Ciimcnerclal) . .Anton \Valbronk. D, Wynward
Brave Don't Cry, The (90) 2-14-53
John Grcgson, M. Buchanan
(Mayer-Kingslcy) . .
Costle in the Air (90) 2- 7-53
(StralforrI) . .Marenret Rutherford, H. Cherry
Curtoin Up (82) 2-21-53
(Fine Arf^l . .Marsnret Rutherford, J. Rice
Double Confession (80) 6- 6-53
(Stratford) . Derek Farr. Joan Hopkins
Edge of Divorce (83) 7-17-54
(Kingsley) . .Valerie Hobson, Philip Friend
Egypt by Three (79) ; 4-1 1-53
(Film.tkers) . .Ann Slanville. Jackie Craven
Fighting Pimpernel, The (88).. 5- 8-54
(Carrnll) .. David Ni\en. Marcaret Lelj:hton
Final Test, The (84) 2-27-54
(Cimtinental) . . Rfibert Warner
Morley, Jack
Folly to Be Wise (91) 2-20-54
(Fine Arts) . .Alastalr Sim, Martlta Hunt
Frightened Bride, The (75) 12-12-53
(Beverly) .F. Robson, M. Denlson, M. Zetterling
Glory ot Seo (88) 9-1 1-54
(Roi;ers & Ungerl - .Trevor Howard, Sonny Tufts
Guilt Is My Shadow (86) 5-8-54
(Stratford) . .Patrick Holt, Elizabeth Sellars
Holly ond the Ivy, The (80) 3-20-54
(Pacemaker)
-Ralph Richardson, Cella Johnson
Horse's Mouth, The (77) 1-23-54
(Mayer-KlnKSley) . .Robert Beatt;, M, Johns
Londfoll (88) 8-29-53
(Stratford) . .Michael Denlson, Patricia Plunkett
Lovers, Happy Lovers (103). ... 10-13-54
(A. F.E) . .Gerard rhillpe. Valerie Hobson
Miss Robin Hood (75) 1- 9-54
(Union) . Rutherford. J. R. Justice
Mr. Denning Drives North (95). .10-10-53
(Carroll) . .John Mills. Phyllis Calvert
Murder on Monday (85) 12-26-53
(Mayer-Klngsley) . R. Richardson, M. Leighton
Murder Will Out (83) 5-16-53
(Kramer-Hyams) . .V. Hobson, E. Underdown
Passionate Sentry, The (85). .. 12-12-53
(Fine Arts) . .V. Hobson. N. Patricli, P. C^immina
Pickwick Papers, The (109) 4-17-54
(Maver-Kingsley) . .James Hayter, Nlge! Patrick
Scotch on the Rocks (77) 7-31-54
(KIngsley) . .Ronald Snulre, K. Ryan, 8. Shaw
3 Stops to Murder (76) 7-17-54
(Astor)..Tom Conway. Naomi, (fiance
Time, Gentlemen, Please (79).. 1-21-53
(M-K) . . Edille Byrne. Hermione Baddeley
Tonight at 8:30 (81) 8- 1-53
(Continental) . .Valerie Hobson, Nigel Patrick
Welcome the Queen (50) 9-11-54
(BIS).. Queen Elhalicth. Duke of Edinburgh
Women's Angle, The (87) 9-18-54
(Stratford! Cathy 0' I lonnell. Edward Underdown
Young Wives' Tale (74) 11 -29-52
(Stratford) . .Joan Greenwood, N. Patrick
FRANCE
Beauties of the Night (84) 4-17-54
(UA-I.npert) . .Gerard I'lillipe, Glna Lollobrlglda
Caroline Cherie (118) 8-14-54
(Davis).. M- Carol. P. Cressny, J. Daetimlne
Companions of the Night (104) 8-28-54
(Arlan) . .Francolse Arnotil, Raymond I'ellegrln
Daughters of Destiny (104),... 8-21-54
(Arlan) . .Claiidetle Culhert. Mlchelc Morgan
Diary of a Country Priest (95) 7-31-54
(Brandon) . .C. La>dii. N. .Maiirey, A. Gulbert
Earrings of Madame De, The
(105) 8- 7-54
(Arlan).. C. Bnyer, D. Darrieui, V. di 8lca
Fonfon the Tulip (96) 8-22-53
(United Artists).. C. I'hlllpe, Glna Lollobrlglda
Forbidden Gomes (89) 1-31-53
(Times) . .Brlglite Fnssey, C. Poujouly
French Touch, The (84) 9-25-54
(Times) . .l'"crnandel. Kenee Devlllcrs
Justice Is Done (95) 4-25-53
(Joseiih Bursijn) . .Claude NoUler, M. Auclair
La Ronde (85) 3-27-54
(Hakim) . Walbrook, Simone Simon
Le Ploisir (90) 7-31-54
(KIngsley) . .Danielle Parrleni. Jean Caliln
Life Begins Tomorrow (86).... 8-29-53
(Mayer-Kinesley) .J. I'. Aiimont, Andre Lfibarthe
Mr. Hulot's Holiday (85) 10-30-54
(GBD Infli . .J,iei|in-s Tali, Nathalie I'ascaiid
Moment of Truth (87) 6-19-54
(Arlan) . .MIrhele Morgan. Jean Gabin
Night Is My Kingdom, The (109) 8-29-53
(DavLs) . .Jean GabIn, Simone Valere
Revlevyet
Pit of Loneliness (84) 5-1 5-5-
(Davis) . .Ed"lce Feulllere, Simone Blmon
Red Inn, The (100) 9-4-5.
(Davis) . .Fernandel, F. Rosay, Lud Germain
Savage Triangle (128) 11-15-5:
(Joseiih Burftyn)..M. Robinson, F. Villard
Seven Deadly Sins, The (1 24)
3
. . . 1 1-21
(Arlan) . .MIrhele Morgan, Gerard Pliilipe
Sextette (90) 8-29.
(Arlan) . Carol, Frank Villard
Spice of Life, The (71) 2-20^(i
(^la>er-Klng^ley) . .Noel-Noel, Bernard Bller'
Sfronge Ones (98) 1 2-20-5!
(Fine Arts) . .Nicole Stephane, E. DerniUhe
Strollers, The (90) 1-31 j;
(Discina) . .Henri Vidal, Maria Uauban
GERMANY
Ange'ico (99) .11 -274
(Brenner) Maria Schell, Dieter Borsdl
Berliner, The (80) . 1 2-27^
(Joieph Burstjn) . . Gert Frnbe. Cte Siellsc*'.
Keepers of the Night (109) 2-204
(Casino) .. Liiise Ullrich. Hans Nielsen
Merry Wives of Windsor (93). . . 9-204!
(Central Cinema) . .Sonja Zlemann, C. Bplri
GREECE
Barefoot Balollion (89) 6-264
(Brandt) . .Maria Costl, Nlcos Fermas
HUNGARY
Trio, The (76) 3-29.«
(Classic)
. Ernest Deutsch, Gustav Diesel >
IRELAND
Spell of Ireland, The (77) 5-22-*
(Celtic) . .Travel Feature. English dialog.
(Color).
ITALY
Aids (110) 7-31-5
(I F E.) .8. Loren, L. MaiweU, L. Delia Man
.
Anita Garibaldi (95) 2-64
(I F.E.) . .Anna MagnanI, Raf Vallone
Bellissima (108) 3-28-5
(I.F.E.) . .Anna MagnanI, A. Blaseltl
Bread, Love and Dreams (90).. 10-234
(I.F.E.) . .Glna Lollobrlglda, Vittorlo de M
Devotion (92)
(IF E). .Coldano Lupl, C. Demlnques
Doomed (89)
(I.F.E.). .Barbara Florlan, Otello Toao
Duel Without Honor (108)
f.
(I.F.E.) . .Annette Bach. Massimo Glrottl
Girls Marked Danger (75) 7-1741
(IF E.) . .Eleonora Rossi Draco. V. GassmlD H
Grapes Are Ripe, The (92) 7- 34|
(Casino) . .Gustav Knuth, (imllla Splra I
High Time (91)
9-'2-5|
(IFA) . .Patrlzia Mangano. Pcpplno Spadaro
His Lost 12 Hours (89) 6-264!
(I.FE.IJcan Gabin, Marlella Lottl
Journey to Love (95) 3- 64
(I.F.E.) . .Umbreto Spadaro, Vera Carml
Man With the Grey Gloves (102)
(l.F E.) . .Marin Del Monace, Annette BaA
My rfeort Sings (99) 5-84
. (l.F E.) Tagllavlnl, Vera Carol
Of Love and Bandits (98)
(I.F.E ). .Amadeo Nazzari, Marl Mauban
Paolo & Francesco (98)
(IF E.) . .Andrea Cliecchl, Odlle Versols
Rome, 11 O'clock (92) 8-1S4
(Times) . .Carta Del Pocglo, M.issImo Glrottl
Strange Deception (96) 9-54
(Casino) . .Raf Vallone. Elena Vani
Tarontello Napoleotona (86).. 6-124
(l.F E) . Paris. Gabrlele Vannrlo
Theodora, Slave Empress (88).. 11 -204
(I.F.E. ). .Gianna Maria Canale. Georges March
Three Forbidden Stories (105).. 9-124
(Ellis) . .Eleonora Rossi Drago, Antonella LulM
Times Gone By (106) 8-154
(I.F.E.) . .Vittorlo DeSIca, Aldo Fabrlzi
Tormento (100)
(I F El . .Yvonne Sanson, A. Nazzari
Verginita (97)
(IF E.) . .Eleonora Rossi Draco. L. Cortes*
What Price Innocence (100). .. .
(I.F.E). .Lyda Baarova, Otello Tos»
JAPAN
Devil's Pitchfolk, The (Reviewed
OS Amo-To-Hon) (92) 5- 8r6
(Arias) . .Akeml Neglshl, Suganuma
Ugetsu (96) 9-21
(Harrison) . .Machiko Kyo, Masayukl Uorl
SWEDEN
Caged Womon (93) 7- 5-S
(Arthur Davis).. Eta Dablbeck, Ceclle Oaatit
Miss Julie (90) 4-26^5
(Trans-Global). .Anita Bjork, UU Falna
'
10 BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :
: Dec.
4. I

. . Made
essays
..
—
Opinions on Current Productions
i=£}lTmii J]£!/Jli!JiJ
Deep in My Heart
MGM (512)
132 Minutes
F
Ratio:
Musical
1.85-1 (Tedinicolor)
Rel. Dec. '54
Be it that of the aesthetic nibbler, the fastidious gourmet
or the quantity-craving glutton, certainly there is no appetite
for motion picture fare that will not be completely sated by
this thoroughly delightful film biography of the late, great
Sigmund Romberg. When consideration is given to the
munificence and magnificence of the elements that enter
into this widely diversified appeal, to the precedential number
of stars that ventured its delineation, and to the virtually
limitless exploitation potentialities made available thereby,
only one conclusion is possible: "Deep in My Heart" cannot
escape being one of the most loudly acclaimed and generously
patronized features of the season.
So multitudinous are the delectable tidbits that constitute
the film feast that it is difficult to single out any one or any
grouping thereof for first consideration in doling out the
superlative praise due them. Viewing them from a firstthings-first
approach, there's the screenplay by Leonard
Spigelgass, from the book by Elliott Arnold, which chronicles
the life, love, ambitions, extravagances, frustrations and
triumphs of Romberg from the time when he was a struggling
immigrant composer to the zenith of his colorful career.
Adroitly woven into this biographical scrivening are masterful
touches of romance, comedy and pathos and, most
importantly, the chronological interpolation of scenes from
Romberg's more popular musicals, which device permits the
logical presentation of the outstanding song hits of each— •-
21 songs from 10 Romberg operettas. These tune.'ul interludes,
some of them accented by strikingly staged choreography,
are presented by an aggregation of guest stars the
like and length of which the screen has seldom boasted, and
including Cyd Charisse, Rosemary Clooney, Jane Pov/ell, Vic
Damone, Howard Keel, Tony Martin, Tamara Toumanova,
Gene Kelly, Fred Kelly, Ann Miller, Joan Weldon, Russ
Tamblyn, James Mitchell and William Olvis. Which of these
stellar guests is the most effective is a matter of individual
spectators' preferences in personalities, styles and music.
Simultaneously, such dual construction of the script accords
natural situations for the inclusion of several production
numbers, some lavish, others of the more modern school.
It is in this facet that the production by Roger Edens, superb
throughout, attains its high point of excellence.
As to the cast itself, and remembering that those already
listed are but visiting luminaries, it is impossible to conceive
of a wiser selection of troupers to portray' the photoplay's
constant characters. Heading the list in both billing and
acting honors—and, of course, portraying Romberg—is Jose
Ferrer, whose apparently limitless versatility is again irrefutably
demonstrated. He projects drama, comedy, song and
even dance with a talent and patently effortless change of
pace which is the gift of tew actors. Further illustrative of
the hang-the-costs meticulousness that entered into the choice
of topliners is Helen Traubel, celebrated Wagnerian soprano
of the Metropolitan Opera company, who . a heartwarming,
human role as Romberg's life-long friend and
confidante.
In limited space only a mere word can be devoted to the
offering's innumerable additional assets, all of which contribute
their fair share to the flawless ensemble and impluding
the skilled, sensitive direction of Stanley Donen; brilliant
Technicolor; music supervision by Adolph Deutsch; art direction;
sets; costumes and other sterling technical contributions.
lose Ferrer, Merle Oberon, Helen Traubel, Doe Avedon,
Walter Pidgeon, Paul HenreidL Paul Stewart, Isobel Elsom.
CATCHLINES:
.
Sing-Sational Music . . . Flaming
A Star-Sparkled Cast . . .
Color ... In the Year's Most Spectacular Entertainment
Package for All Those Who Love the Music of
Sigmund Romberg.
.\rka-
In oi
$12 '
1682 BOXOFFICE
•idi'
330
Th .ales h
811.
theatr(
•1. !
The Country Girl
Paramount ( ) 103 Minutes
F
Ratio:
1.85-1
Rel. -
Drama
Periodically, Hollywood film fabricators, in a comm.endable
effort to bring adult articulateness to the screen, have poked
a venturesome thumb into an involved and hazardous
psychiatric pudding. On this excursion, the production team
of William Perlberg and George Seaton came up with as
plump and complex a plum as has ever been uncovered
through such probing; and, at the same time, a trio of performances
so engrossing that they alone should assure the
picture's success in situations where theatregoers have any
appreciation whatsoever of motion picture artistry and finesse.
It is probable that upon those three sterling delineations
and the marquee magnetism of the ranking stars who deliver
them—will hang the offering's chances for the top grosses
its quality merits. And certainly those stellar names are the
merchandising approach upon which theatres must concentrate.
•
Nonetheless, there are other ingredients that are worthy
of the exploiteers' attention, which can materially aid in
attracting run-o'-mill ticket buyers and should make them
overlook the fact that the story is definitely of the downbeat
variety. Principally they are the alluring musical interludes
—with Bing Crosby carrying the ball in that department;
touches of subtle humor; and production numbers made
logically possible because of the play-within-a-play structure
of the script. That scrivening was undertaken by Seaton and
based on a stage play by Clifford Odets. Seaton also
directed and it is undoubtedly due to his masterful accomplishment
of the dual assignment that there is refreshing
mitigation of the inherent depressiveness of the soul-searching
and character analysis which constitute the plot's basic
framework.
Which of the three toplining performances by Crosby, William
Holden and Grace Kelly is the most praiseworthy is a
matter of individual tastes. To term the race for acting
honors a three-way tie would give none the worst or best
of it. Each is an exacting role, a characterization that is
inviting of sympathy at times and, at others, comparably
inducive of audience dislike. The expertness entering into
such challenging interpretations of complicated, often confused,
lives further strengthens the respective holds that each
of the trio has on the top rungs of popular stardom's ladder.
Directing a Broadway musical play, Holden casts Crosby
as the lead therein, despite the fact that because of his
drinking the latter's career is fading. Crosby had hit the
alcoholic trail after the death of his young son in a traffic
accident. A weak, pathological liar, Crosby blames his wife.
Miss Kelly, for meddling with his attempted comeback, but
finally finds himself, turns in a smash performance and wins
back his wife after she has decided to leave him. Holden,
who hds also fallen in love with her, bows out of the
situation.
Contributing sterling support is a wisely selected aggregation
of competent troupers, although all other part.5 are of
comparative insignificance. The fact that the picture is in
black-and-white at a. time when most so-called big attractions
boast color photography should not detract from its
appeal. It's the kind of photoplay that could benefit but
little from tints. Perlberg produced unstintingly and in the
best of
taste.
Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, William Holden, Anthony Ross.
Gene Reynolds, Jacqueline Fontaine, Eddie Ryder.
CATCHLINES:
. . A Smash Hit on the Broadway Stage . Now a Must-See
Movie Milestone ... A Love Story as Startling as Any You
Have Ever Seen ... It Strips Human Emotions to ilie Raw
... To Bring to the Screen a Compelling, Unforgettable
Man-and-Woman Drama.
December 4, 1954 1663

. . When
. .
REVIEWS
Adiines for Newspaper and Programs
I
Trouble in the Glen
Republic (5313) 91 Minutes
F
Ratio:
Comedy-Drama
1.66-1 (Trucolor)
Rel. Dec. "54
BeautiiuUy photographed in Trucolor in Scottish Highlands
locations and highlighted by a rich character portrayal by
Orson Welles, this should have a strong appeal to class
patrons, but may seem talky and slow-moving to average
audiences. With Forrest Tucker and Victor McLaglen cs other
marquee names, it virill do well enough on most duol bills.
While Republic's "The Quiet Man," which was photographed
in Ireland, was a boxoliice winner, this Herbert
Wilcox production has a more coniused story line and most
oi the action is conlined to the climactic scenes. It has charm
and atmosphere aplenty, but Wilcox, who also directed, might
have strengthened the romantic interest, made secondary
to the hero's devotion to his little crippled daughter.
In addition to Welles' portrayal ol a stubborn old Laird,
expert perlormances are also turned in by Tucker as the
American hero, Margaret Lockwood, as the Laird's spirited
daughter, and John McCallum, as a lighting young gypsy.
McLaglen is his old blustering sell in a smaller role and
Margaret McCourt makes an engaging crippled youngster.
Welles, a man ol wealth but little tact, introduces the story,
which starts with his arrival in Scotland, to set hii.isell up
as Laird oi his ancestral castle. Annoyed at the belligerent
attitude of the villagers, Welles closes the road^ that runs
through his land. Forrest Tucker, an American who comes
to Scotland to see his little motherless daughter, becomes
friendly with John McCallum, a local tinker (gyp-v/) and,
when he protests to Welles, he also incurs the enmity ol the
latler's daughter, Margaret Lockwood. Later Margaret learns
about Tucker's daughter, who longs to see the road, which
she can see from her bedroom window, become active again.
Alter a pitched battle between the tinkers and the local men,
Welles admits his stubborness and Tucker makes Margaret
his wife as the little daughter looks forward to walking again.
Orson Welles, Margaret Lockwood, Forrest Tucker. Victor
McLaglen, John McCallum, Margaret McCourt.
CATCHLINES:
Actually iilmed in the Scottish Highlands . . .
Another
Colorful Romance From the Author ol "The Quiet Man" . . .
The American War Hero Was a "Knight in Shining Armor"
to His Motherless Daughter . Americans Clash with
Glen.
Scotsmen There's Trouble in the
The White Orchid
United Artists (5414)
81 Minutes
F
Ratio:
Drama
1.85-1 (Eastman Color)
ReL Nov. 54
Engrossing lor its geographical and historical ramilications
and its scenic backgrounds is this drama, produced, written
and directed by Reginald LeBorg. In average situations it
can serve as satislactory supporting fare; while in showcases
that stress sensational exploitation, its booking might be
parlayed into something more than that, although there isn't
much of the sin and sex indicated by the title and advance
buildup lor the feature. The picture was photographed in
Eastman Color in Papantila, Mexico, and surrounding jungles.
LeBorg took lull advantage of the verdant exteriors and the
nearby Toltec ruins of El Tajin to endow the film with production
values which strikingly transcend its comparatively
modest budgetary classilication.
Heading a competent cast are two reasonably well established
Hollywood names, which are worthy of additional
merchandising consideration. Their respective performances
are satisfactory, but are paralleled by those contributed by
the Mexican troupers, among whom Armando Silvestre is a
promising standout. Another noteworthy below-the-border
factor is a praiseworthy musical score, featuring a haunting
theme song that is certairi to please American movie patrons.
But it is the accurate photographing of native dances, costumes
and religious ceremonies that probably will prove to
be the ollbeat lilm's best asset.
William Lundigan, an archeologist in Mexico, learns of a
people whose way of life is similar to the ancient Toltecs.
To gather documentary evidence, he requests his editor to
send a photographer, who turns out to be a woman, Peggie
Castle. Silvestre, a native guide, escorts them on a dangerfreighted
trip through the jungle, during which both ir.en fall
in love with Miss Castle. Reaching their goal, they ore caplured
by members of the mysterious race, and Silvestre
sacriiices his life so that Lundigan and the girl can escape.
William Lundigan, Peggie Castle, Armando Silvestre,
Rosenda Monteros, lorge Trevino, Miguel A. Gallardo.
. . . Baring
. . Where
. . Evil . . . Exotic . . . Enticing . . Arousing
CATCHLINES:
Adventure Plunges Into Mexico's Lost Jungle
the Terror-Rites ol a Forgotten, Primitive Kingdom .
Lived Xtabay .
Fierce Emotions.
-54
1-54
54
54^
'-54
,t Rat.
1664 BoxorncE
Day of Triumph
F
Ratio: Biblical Drama
1.66-1 (Eastman Color)
ReL
Selected Pictures Corp. 110 Minutes
Inasmuch as literary source material drawn from the Bible
is replete in the -sound dramatic qualities, spectacle and
scope which the motion picture camera is so proficient in
recording, lengthy is the list ol profitable and popular film
ventures in the category. Meritorious Irom every viewpoint
is this leature-length entry, a story ol Christ Ircm his
emergence as a spiritual leader to his Crucifixion. His lile,
unlolded against a background of political intrigue in ancient
Judea, is related in such a way that it intelligently v/elds
religious motivation with action and panoramic movement,
and the film thus appears qualilied to provide engrossing
entertainment capable ol appealing to audiences atiove and
beyond the more devout among the churchgoing public.
Although not too strong as concerns top marquee names,
the picture was lavishly mounted and has many obvious
merchandising possibilities— the alorementioned religious
theme and striking Eastman (iolor photography among .hem.
Produced under the banner ol Century Films by Dr. James
K. Friedrich, an Episcopalian minister, who hereto'ore has
confined his manufacture ol Biblical subjects to celluloid lor
church distribution, the venture is noteworthy lor its painstaking
atlenlicn to details of costuming, settings end historical
accuracy. Arthur T. Horman wrote the screenplay,
which was co-directed by John T. Coyle and the late Irving
Pichel.
Perlormances throughout are excellent. Robert Wilson
brings to the role of Jesus exactly the right mixture of
magnetism and humbleness, particularly in his delivery ol
the Sermon on the Mount. James Griffith offers an interesting
portrayal ol Judas Iscariot, and Joanne D-u is a
convincing Mary Magdalene. Forceful is the charocterization
undertaken by Lee J. Cobb, that of the leader ol the
Zealots, patriotic underground dedicated to the overthrow
of the oppressive Roman regime, while Lowell Gilrnore is
authoritative as Pontius Pilate.
Lee J. Cobb, Joanne Dru, Robert Wilson, Lo^vell Gilrnore,
Ralph Freud, Tyler McVey, Touch Connors, Toni Gerry.
CATCHLINES:
Here Is the Greatest Story Ever Told . . . Bringing Again
the Immortal Message of Faith and Goodwill ... A Mighty
Motion Picture Masterpiece That Will Live Forever
That You Will Want to
. . . The
See Again and
One Film ol All . . .
Again.
Masterson oi Kansas F ^^[ (.r^or)
Columbia ( ) 73 Minutes Rel. Jan. '55
Above-average western lore, mainly because ol its semifactual
plot. Technicolor photography and fine portrayals
by a cast headed by the ruggedly handsome George Montgomery,
it's made-to-order for the action enthusia'sts and
will satisfy as supporting feature in almost any dual spot.
As directed by William Castle, the story carries conviction
and its three legendary figures of Masterson, Doc Holliday
and Wyatt Earp give it an authenticity not usually found
in a western. The climax, as Masterson and Holliday face
each other in a deserted town square, has much of the suspense
of "High Noon." Montgomery makes a handsome
fighting Masterson and Nancy Gates adds a touch of romantic
interest. However, if is James Griffith as the sickly
gambler. Doc Holliday, who contributes the outstanding
acting job. William Henry and David Bruce, both formerly
young leading men, have matured and now play villainous
roles. Technicolor photography is another- asset. Produced
by Sam Katzman.
In the late 1800s, Dodge City's sheriff is Bat Masterson
(George Montgomery) who is working to help Nancy Gates
prove her father's innocence in a murder charge brought
against him by William Henry, cattleman. Because the
father (John Maxwell) was negotiating a land grant to nearby
Indians, an Indian war threatens if he is hanged. Masterson
enlists the aid of Doc Holliday (James Griffith), who
knows the whereabouts of the real killer. When he gets the
killer's confession, Masterson hurries to Dodge City just in
time to prevent Maxwell being lynched by an angry mob
incited by Henry. Montgomery is forced to face both Holliday
and Wyatt Earp before he can smash Henry and his gang.
With Maxwell free the threat of an Indian war is dissolved.
George Montgomery, Nancy Gates, James Griffith, William
Henry, David Bruce, Jean Willes, Bruce Cowling.
CATCHLINES:
Meet Bat Masterson—Gunman Turned Lawman . . . Bat
Masterson Was All Dodge City Had—and All It Needed . . .
Your Gun Or Your Body—Something's Going to Drop .
The Toughest Lawman That Ever Went Against a Lynch
Mob.
December 4, 1954 1661

'
arttEd:
.
I
I
rompt
jjFES: 15c per word, minimum S1.50, cash with copy. Four consecutive insertions for price
> three. CLOSING DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy an
• answers to Box Numbers to BOXOFFICE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 24, Mo.
HELP WANTED
AssUt;inl m;in;igcr and operator, mid-
1* Kansas. Slate salary and reference. Job now
1)1 Open 7 days a week, 2 matinees. Boxoffice,
'LutstanditiB drive-in opportunity! Leading driveiroiiil
upi'iiitin^; in imsI ;tnii middle west roes
Jill
expei it-need di^liicl man.iger. Booking
buying experience prtf erred. Must be willing
ra^el. Excellent income, security and incentives
tbe right man. Write for personal interview,
uig experience and (pialifications in full,
ose photo. All replies will be treated as
idential. Address: Smith Management Co..
,
Tersonnel Dept., 82 Newbury St., Boston
Mass.
DP-notch manaaer. Top salary. Aggressive, exling
All Star Values! Series 11 lenses. 5" up. from
$37.50 pair; lowest prices in the industry on new
iiiid\M'st circuit. Want able, responsible
man who can work with minimum home office lenses. Ananiorphics and screens: booth equipment
rvision. Ueply in longhand to Durwood Thea- at bargain prices! Contact us! Star Cinema Supply,
Inc, 1806 Baltimore, Kansas City 8, Mo.
447 W. 52nd St.. New York 19.
neatre manager, should know projection. For
1 e.vclnsivi' inv\n near large city. Stale experi-
, salary expected and references. Moffitt
itres, 108 N. McOoiioiigli St.. Montgomery, Ala.
POSITIONS WANTED
jl^eDistered professional engineer, engaged all
llies theatre engineering since 1930. First hand
ll-iedge all recent developments. Designed and
ijjtructed several very successful drive-ins and
lEor theatres. Open to engagement near future
li really progressive organization. Boxoffice,
>!'
weral manager, or assistant to executive, now
|[loyed in the south. Desire change. Years exiice
in all phases of theatre management.
bfflce, 5689.
lanafler, permanent opportunity. Thoroughly ex-
•need, age 33. Boxoffice, 5694.
anager at liberty. Competent, experienced in
tjpes uf operation including drive-in. A-1
rd in metmpolitan, de luxe or neighborhood
tres. Will go anywhere for lop olfer. Boxe.
5695.
[apa^le manaQer. Theatre executive, buyer,
jer, publicist. No.v available. Independent or
(lit uperalion. Prefer participation deal. Perancy
desired. Experienced all types of operaincluding
driu'-in. Boxoffice, 561'6.
POPCORN MACHINES
pcorn machines, all makes and styles, lle-
Jement kettles for all poppers. Complete rejleinent
unit fits most machines. $185. 120 So.
iP.ted, Chicago, III.
SIGNS
IJasy Way to Paint Signs. Use letter patterns.
Ifcd sloppy «ork and wasted lime. No experience
Ift ti for expert work. ^Write for free samples.
St,
B-1329
New York 19.
IJ'. Itahn. Cenlrfl^Ave., Cliicago 51. III.
THEATRE TICKETS
service. Special printed roll tickets.
IJ iiUO, $28.75; 10,000. $8.95; 2.000, $4.95.
IE change in adnii.ssion price, including change
1
'h iilur. $3,50 extra. Double numbering extra.
'F it Kansas City. Mo. Cash with order. Kans
City Ticket Co., 109 W. 18th St., Kansas
I Mo.
STUDIO AND PRODUCTION
EQUIPMENT
ridgamatic 16/35mm developing machine.
i*5; rolling stand multiple floodlit es holding
liulhs. $1SU value. $29.50; Cinetlex 35mm
\ camera, magazines, lenses, motor. $695;
iiiwell 35mm foot splicers. $595: Moviola
m composite sound/picture. $495. Dept. CC.
s Cinema Supply Corp. 602 W. 52nd St..
Vnrk 19.
EQUIPMENT WANTED
'uriitzer organ. Four keyboards, 20 or more
of pipes. Check your theatre. Fred Hermes,
or. 6th and Grand Ave., Racine, Wis.
j anted: Used equipment for drive-in, complete
h and field. Boxoffice, 5647.
IXOFFICE
December 4, 1954
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED
Values unsurpassed! DeVry dual sound projectors
w/amplitier, speaker, excellent, $595. Available
on time. Holmes L25N amplifiers, rebuilt.
$95; used rewinds, $6.95 set; automatic enclosed
rewinds, excellent, $45. Dept. CC. S.O.S. Cinema
Supply Corp., G02 \V. 52nd St.. New York 19.
Two Simplex heads; two Simplex stands, RCA
sound; Walker high intensity screen, 14^^x18%.
Collins Theatre. De Soto, Mo.
Complete 45 amp booth equipment for sale.
RCA rectifiers. Simplex rear shutter (std) heads
and sound heads. Peerless (14-inch reflectors)
lamps, To-watt output RCA amplifier. Make offer.
Phone: Itichwood, W. Va., 5547.
For sale: Matched set of RCA speakers consisting
of two KCA high frequency speaker units; 13 volt
D.C field in 26" horn baffles; two 14" low
frequency units with low frequency baffle. System
includes transformers and cross-over network.
Priced to sell. Avalon Theatre, Jeanerette. La.
For sale: Bargain. New floating charger and
generator K.W. 1.29 serial No. 0-9559 R.P.M.
1.750 continuous rating volts, 51.6 amp 25 H.P.
2. volts 230, phase 3, cycle 60 amps 5.8 with
reostat and s.\iteh box. M. Lipstiz & Co., Box
1175. Waco. Texas.
4-five ton packaged unit air conditioning with
cooling tower large enough to take care of entire
20 tons cooling. Bargain at $5,000. Box 312,
O.^ensboro. Ky.
One pair Holmes 35mm projectors, complete in
excellent condition. E. D. Blackorby, Xovinger,
Mo.
Peerless, Strong and Ashcraft suprex lamps and
generators 70. 8 amp, A-1 condition. Removing
from de luxe theatres in large easlein circuit.
Write: P. 0. Box 136, West Albany. New York.
Two Walker hi screens. One, 18' 4" x 14' and
one. 21' 9" x 16' 2". Used less than year. One
new American "Venturafin" heater, size 89-H.
1140 R.P.M. . single phase 110 or 220. One var.
speed 5 H.P. motor with control. Two 24", 220
volt exhaust type fans. Complete set 3-D equipment.
Selsyn motors, 24" mag. Filters IM pair
perm type glasses. Two pair Weaver elec. dousers.
Wrile for prices on any or all of above. Delft
J'lieatre. Bscanaba. Mich.
Good gold colored curtain, 22 x 17 x 16 feet,
with extra fullness; 5' shovcase; bottle cooler,
open type. Wiite for particulars. Oak Park
Theatre, 3935 Prospect, Kansas City. Mo.
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—NEW
Everyone's buying 'em! Masonite marquee letters,
fit Wagner. Adler, Bevelite signs: 4" —35c;
8"_50c: 10"— 00c: 12"— 85c; 14"— $1.25;
16"— $1.50; 17"— $1.75; 24"— $2.50. Dept.
CC, S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp., 602 W 52nd
Present CinemaScope with adjustable anamorphic
lenses, $695 pair. Mirroclaric metalized seamless
screens, $1 sq. ft. Prompt shipments, lowest
prices all sizes projection lenses. Depl. CC, S.O.S.
Cinema Supply Corp., 602 W. 52nd St.. New
York 19.
Now you can afford to go S'cope. Anamorphic
cylindrical lens, adjust^ible to any throw, no extras
to buy. screws into any series two lens, special
discount price. $299.50 each. Try in one projector
against any other make on a full refund basis. Forward
$50 deposit on each S'cope lens. Big discount
on regu:ar lens. Free instructions for
enlarging your present screen. Send stamped envelope.
Dodge Equipment Co., 2324 Beechniont
Ave., Cincinnati 30, Ohio.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE EQUIPMENT
Go W-l-D-E screen and CinemaScope for bigger
grosses. Adjustable anamorphic lenses, $695,
promptly available. Dept. CC, S.O.S. Cinema Supply
Corp., 602 W. 52nd St.. New York 19.
Drive-in theatre speakers with straight cords,
$6.50. Car-side speakers. $8.15, R^-placement
speaker cones, $2.25. Dawo Corp., 145 N. Erie,
Toledo. Ohio.
Drive-in theatre tickets. Send for samples of our
special printed stub rod tickets for drive-ins.
Safe, distinctive, easy to check. Kansiis City Ticket
Co.. Dept. 10, 109 W. 18th St., "Fiim Row,"
Kansas Cit; S. Mo.
LCLteRinG HoysE
THEATRES WANTED
Theatre, Nebraska, western Iowa, northern Kansas.
No brokers. Over 400 seats. Town of 1,800
po|Mdation or over. Confidential. Experienced. L.
J. Burkitt, Sparta. Wis.
Best drive-in $40,000 down handles. Must be
jouihwest. Profitable. Boxollice. 5673.
Theatre sales handled privately. Ralph Erwin,
Broker, Box 811. Tulsa.
Theatres. Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri,
alph Erwin, Broker. Box 811, Tulsa, Okla.
THEATRICAL PRINTING
Window cards, programs, heralds. Photo-Offset
priming. Cato Show Printing Co., Cato, N. Y.
THEATRES FOR SALE
Non-comtetitive Texas city over 5,000, unusual
growth. Excellent CinemaScope, film availability.
.Modern fireproof building perleclly located. Ideal
diive-in condition. Owner seeking arid climate.
$33,500, $16.a00 down. Boxoffice, 5671.
Two theatres non-competitive southwest town,
selling $85,000 including both good buildings.
(Less than 1953 gross), $34,000 down. Cinema-
6coped. Excellent prolits. Retirement. Similar
situation, same down payment. Others. Arthur
Leak. 3305 Caruth, Dallas.
New Mexico. $11,500 down handles, either one.
One city, one small county seat. Both profitable
operations. Selling separately. Boxoffice, 5672.
Only Logan county drive-in, 300 cars. RusselviUe
Drive-In, Russelville, Ky.
Drive-In Theatre. Located in southern Oregon,
on Highway 99. 400 speakers, double ramp layout.
80' X 40' screen. All new projection and concession
equipment. Price $62,500. one-half down,
balance on terms. Theatre Exchange Co., 5724
S. E. Monroe St., Portland 22, Oregon Phones;
Evergreen 1-7100, EVergreen 1-1606.
For sale: Modern theatre, concession, parking
lot. Family operation, Indiana. Boxoffice. 5681.
Two money making theatres in good small
Arkansas towns. Air conditioning and CinemaScope
in one house. Does not include real estate.
$12,500 cash, balance on easy terms. Ltases can
be given with nominal monthly rent. Contact,
P. 0. Box 2454, De Soto Station, Memphis, Tenn.
Established west Texas drive-in. Best city in
best section. Substantial year-round operation.
Absentee owner olfers $18,500 down, reliable purchaser.
Cannot trade or lease. Boxoffice, 5683.
250-car, 70 amp 2 blast horns and 188 indoor
seats. Drive-in operating year round, doing thirtyfive
thousand yearly. For sale at twenty-live thousand,
half cash. Living quarters free with natural
gas. Phone Kichwood, W. Va.. 5547. mornings
till
noon.
Suburban theatre in central Oklahoma, latest
equipment. Family can operate. Boxoffice, 5690.
Trade 220-seat theatre, western Oklahoma county
seat, for farm or small ranch, in Oklahoma or
Texas. Write Box 391. Woodward, Okla.
First Texas town this size (over 9.000) available
in yeais. De lu.\e "A,'" 55' wide fireproof 1949
building with parklot. Everything finest, Bodiforms,
K&L Cinem;tScope, 3 stereophonic speakers,
fifty tons relrigeration. Soda shop, concession bar.
Plus adequate second theatre. Controls first run
huge area, many "feeder" towns. Certified high
earnings, under hired management. $105,000.
$35,000 down. Balance ten years. Retirement.
Boxoffice. 5682.
Southern California, two well-located small town
theatres. Priced under year's gross. Growing
area. No competition. Ureal opportunity. Boxoffice.
5692.
500-seat modern theatre in town 2.000 centr;]
Indiana. Budding and eipiipment. Price $12,00(1,
Building alone worth more than price. The
Premium Co.. Box 312. Owensboro, Ky.
Exclusive. Metropolitan Oklahoma suburban.
Long record successful operation. Completely modern.
Retrigeralfon. Requires $20,000 cash. Ralph
Erwin. Broker. Box 811, Tu.sa.
330-seat theatre, county seal, non-compettlive,
wide -screened, gond business. E-xcellent terms.
H. B. Skellun, Biix 4SS, Panhandle. Te.xns.
Theatre for sale, town 1.700, 300 seats. All
modern building and equipment. Low c&st operation.
Boxoffice, 5697.
TIIEATRE SEATING
Chair supplies, parts for all chairs, Fensin Seating,
CTiicago 5.
Repairing and reupholstering in your theatre.
Fensin Seating, Chicago 5.
New spring seats for all chairs, Fensin Seating,
Cliicago 5.
Patch-o-seat cement, permastone anchor cement.
Fensin Sealing, Chicago 5.
Seat coverings, sewed combinations, all styles.
Fensin Seating, Chicago 5.
Plastic leatherette, all colors, send sample.
Fensin Sealing, Chicago 5.
Upholstery fabrics, all types, send sample.
Fensin Seating, Chicago 5.
Need chairs? S.O.S. has 'em! Send for chair
bulletin sho^ving our tremendous stock at knockdown
prices. Dept. CC, S.O.S. Cinema Sui>plj
Corp.. 602 W. 52nd St., New York 19.
New and used rebuilt opera chairs. Wiite for
photos, state incline and quality. Paris for all
chairs, send sample for quotation, I*atch-A-Seat
to repair torn seats. $6 complete kit, specify color.
Firmastone to anchor loose chairs, $5 carton.
F.O.B. Chicago. General Chair Co.. 1308 Elston
Ave., Chicago 22, 111. Phone ARmitage 6-0022.
Several lots good used chairs. Late models.
Write for exact photo. Plastic leatherette,
25" x 26", 55c each, good quality. We specialize
in rebuilding chairs in your theatre. Send us
sample. Chicago Used Chair Mart, 820 S. Slate
St.. Chicago 5. 111.
Any needed seat repair, recovering, reanchoring
standards, etc., done in your theatre without loss
of seat use. Seat covers made to order. Good used
theatre seats. Eaker. the Seat Man, Nicoma Park.
Okla.. P. 0. Box 335.
1,100 late model theatre chairs, screens, leatherette.
Lone Star Seating Co.. Box 1734, Dallas,
Texas.
BUSINESS STIMULATORS
BINGO: More action; Belter cards; Die-cut;
r5 Number $4.50.M- 100 Number and Other theatre
james. Off or On the Screen. Novelty Games Co.,
106 Rogers Ave.. Brooklyn 16, N. Y.
Build attendance with real Hawaiian orchids.
Few cents each. Write Flowers of Hawaii. 070
g. Lafayette Park Place, Los Angeles 5. Calif.
BINGO-DIE-CUT CARDS. Increase your bofiiffice.
75 or 100 numbers. $4.50 per M, Best
Cards. Premium Products, 339 West 44th St..
Vew York 36. N. Y.
10c comic books for all age groups. All types.
World's largest inventory and greatest variety.
$30 per thousand. 2,500 copies prepaid. The
Premium Co.. Box 312. Owensboro. Ky.
ABOUT NOT USING A BOX
NUMBER ON THAT AD YOU
RAN IN BOXOFHCE!"

~ ~
. With more and more of today's top products
being released with directional sound, no exhibitor can
afford to sentence himself to the "ball
and chain" of obsolete
sound techniques!
Now, for as little
as four admissions per day,
you can own the finest
stereophonic sound system made!
Yes, at a cost that is unbelievably low, your theatre can
play the big-drawing directional sound pictures — and
play them with the most modern, most popular sound
equipment in the industry. . .
F
STEREOPHONIC SOUND
MANUFACTURED BY INTERNATIONAL PROJECTOR CORPORATION • DISTRIBUTED BY NATIONAL THEATRE SUPPLY
SUBSIDIARIES OF GENERAL PRECISION EQUIPMENT CORPORATION
^