Boxoffice-September.05.1977

I
I
SEPTEMBER 5, 1977
The Extraordinary Adventures of
CffieMofuse
L
and ^^^^
• ana ^mm _
HisGad
'Starring the voices of
Peter Ustinov
Cloris Leachman
Sally Kellerman
Andy Devine
Copyright

.
RETURN
THAT
"RAILFR
OR ELSE...
No, this is not a notification of a trailer price increase.
It is, however, a notification of the facts as they exist today regarding
trailers — and what we are doing in order to see that
you, the exhibitor, get your prints on time to properly exploit
your film, with the "best selling tool" any movie ever had — the
trailer.
The facts are these:
1. The cost of making trailer prints has skyrocketed over 20%
in the past few years, and is continuing to accelerate.
2. The present pattern of feature film saturation bookings requires
an investment in huge numbers of trailer prints, increasing
our total print cost in 1976 by almost $200,000, in spite of
less feature production.
3. EXHIBITORS' FAILURE TO RETURN PRIMTS OIN TIME
(AMD IN MANY CASES, FAILURE TO RETURN PRINTS AT
ALL) RESULTS IN LOSS OF ADVANCE SCREEN SELLING
TIME TO OTHER EXHIBITORS!
4. This is a matter of great concern to all of us. You are the one
who loses out, when your fellow exhibitor fails to return his
trailer print to NSS promptly
Because of the above facts, we are forced to state categorically
that as of September 12, 1977, for each trailer print not returned
to NSS immediately after use, the exhibitor will
billed for the full replacement cost of that print.
In
order to properly police this problem, we have installed an
electronic computerized system called AUTEX which will establish
control over the NSS trailer inventory nationally on a
daily basis, enabling us to have more efficient distribution,
and to keep track of trailers and trailer returns. This will scientifically
pinpoint those exhibitors who have not returned their
trailers on time.
We regret that the actions of some exhibitors have forced us
into this position but we would like to remind you that if you
return your trailer prints promptly, you will not be penalized . .
and you will be assisting your fellow exhibitor in exploiting his
film properly, with the "best selling tool" any movie ever had:
a trailer.
The thrust of this is to collect not one cent, but rather every
print immediately after its use.
NsS
Norman Robbins
Executive Vice President
NATIONAL SCREEN SERVICE 1600 BROADWAY. NEW YORK,
AND BRANCHES THROUGHOUT THE U S
be

' Ottawa:
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Publication No. 062260.
SEPTEMBER 5, 1977
Vol.
—
STRAIGHT FROM THE SHOULDER
Address of Marvin Goldman, NATO President,
to Theatre Owners of New England
August 31, 1977, at Rockport, Maine
THANK YOU so much for your
generous invitation to spend
some time with you. It gives me the
opportunity to renew some old
friendships and make some new
ones.
Despite all you've read in the
tradepapers, the job of NATO
president has a few compensations,
the best of which is the chance to
travel this beautiful country of ours.
In the past few months I've been in
such diverse places as New Orleans
— Biloxi Columbus, Ohio Miami,
Fla. — Lexington, Ky. — New
York — Philadelphia — Chicago —
and, last week, Seattle, Wash. Each
different, yet in its own way, interesting
and beautiful. Oh yes, I forgot
one —The newly annexed suburb of
Plains, Ga.; Washington, D.C.
You'll notice I didn't mention California.
For some reason, I'm not too
popular out there. In fact, I think
I may be barred from entering the
state. I thought of crossing the border
as an illegal alien, but decided
against that when I found the penalty
was picking lettuce in the Salinas
Valley for the rest of my term.
Upon reflection, that might be the
better choice.
It really is not a matter for jokes.
The defection of two large California-based
circuits has hurt NATO
We can't deny that. I'm sorry that
some action, or lack of action, on my
part caused them to leave the ranks
of exhibitors. I only hope they prosper
in their endeavors, for I tell you
now that NATO will prosper and
grow with or without them. But, in
these times of turmoil, chaos and
confusion, surely, we're all better
off staying and working together
for the common good. Need I remind
anyone of the old westerns?
When the settlers were under attack,
they drew their wagons together
to fight off the danger. Those
who rode off on their own, suffered
a most grievous fate. This is the way
it always has been and this is the
way it always will be.
This is not the time for petty
bickering among us. Conditions are
far too crucial for indulging in our
prejudices and forsaking our brother
exhibitors. The threats to exhibition
are everywhere. No longer can anyone
claim immunity from danger.
Small independent, large national
circuit—no one is safe. We are all in
a precarious position, threatened by
external forces beyond our control,
but, most significantly, threatened
by trying to do business in the same
old way— by maintaining rugged independence—
by grabbing for everything
in sight—by agreeing to the
most outrageous demands—and by
splintering rather than unifying. If
we continue in this manner, we
shall surely be sealing our own destruction.
Already the prophets of
doom have forecast the disappearance
of the motion picture theatre
by 1985. I tell you now that, unless
we make significant changes in our
methods, we will all be as extinct as
the blacksmith—an item of curiosity
for museum curators and students
of Americana.
I do not mean to suggest that, if
every exhibitor joins NATO, his
problems will be automatically solved.
None of the challenges facing us
are so simple that we can, collectively,
wish them away. But no one can
deny that, speaking with one voice,
we can demand (NOT ASK FOR,
BUT DEMAND) our rights from the
suppliers. We can demand the right
to see our own product before we are
forced to buy it. We can demand
that deals be fair and equitable to
both parties. We should demand
that they, once again, accept the
legitimate function of financing
their own productions rather than
pass this onerous burden on to us.
We can demand to get our fair share
of the millions being made by them
from our boxoffices. Yes, my friends,
we can insist and demand our inalienable
rights! I do not, in any
manner, advocate any illegal actions
on the part of exhibition—no boycotts—no
collusion—no conspiracies.
These things are patently illegal.
But there are legal remedies
and avenues united exhibition can
use to alter the shape of the business.
There are those on the other side
of the fence who say that all exhibitors
are cheats and liars. They're
crying wolf again. We don't believe
their stories of hard times. And even
(Continued on next page)

'
, , , ,
straight From the Shoulder
(Continued from page 3)
u i.s fll true, they did it to us for
yer.rs—turnabout is fair play ... to
those sliort-siglited gentlemen m
their corporate ivory towers, let me
simply state: Exhibition (your boxoffice)
is in serious trouble. If the
present trend continues, more and
more small independent circuits will
disappear. They will be consumed by
the giant, nationwide circuits, till
the inevitable conclusion occurs:
there will be six to eight major producer/distributors
and an equal
number of theatrical circuits. Just
imagine the havoc that will prevail
then It will make today look like a
picnic The entire U.S. will become
one large split. I submit that you
gentlemen in New York and Los Angeles
consider this a very real possibility.
You must know that a continuance
of present-day business
conditions will bring all of us to the
gates of Armageddon.
The answers to these problems are
complex and require great study,
but, surely, men of goodwill and intelligence
can find solutions. A united
exhibition, cooperating in this
task, can accomplish what we, as in-
service them. But there is a third
sector—exhibitors who are "loners"
—willing to take the results of
NATO's efforts, but not willing to
share the costs. These exhibitors
have received millions of dollars as
results of NATO's fight in the states
against bad taxes. They've received
the benefits of delaying pay TV, of
the defeat of repressive legislationyet
they sit aside taking—contributing
nothing to the overall good.
These men, whatever their reasons,
by their absence do harm to the
cause of all exhibitors. If they don't
like the policies of NATO, join and
work to change them. If they don't
like the leadership, they should offer
themselves or other candidates
to provide guidance and direction to
the fraternity of exhibition. Now
more than ever the talents, imaginations,
energies and, yes, dollars
that our non-members could supply
to all of us for our mutual benefit,
is needed.
NATO IS accused by some of only
representing the large circuits—being
controlled by the Eastern establishment.
It has been said that the
small exhibitor has been neglected
in favor of the big boys. Perhaps, at
one time, this was true—but I can
dividuals, can never hope to. Therefore,
it is abundantly clear for all to true today. I'm a small independent,
personally assure you that it is not
see that exhibition must pull to-
competing in a tough market. I am
p'ether join shoulders and work as not a tool of, or a spokesman for the
Sne for the common good. 'What bet- large circuits. In fact, the great ma-
Albert Green Tabbed
For SMPTE's Award
HOLLYWOOD—Albert P. Green, postproduction
sound director at the Burbank
Studios, will be presented with the Samuel
L. Warner Memorial Award of the Society
of Motion Picture and Television Engineers
at the October 6 industry luncheon, which
will honor Jack L. Warner and the men and
women who pioneered talking pictures.
The luncheon at the Hollywood Palladium
will be preceded by ceremonies at TV
station KTLA in which a commemorative
postage stamp marking 50 years of talking
pictures will be issued. The luncheon and
the stamp ceremony will be sponsored by
the Motion Picture Ass'n of America.
The award to Green will be presented by
Waldon O. Watson, chairman of the Samuel
L. Warner Memorial Award committee and
himself a winner of the SMPTE award in
1974. when it was established by the
SMPTE to recognize "meritorious achievement
in sound motion picture engineering."
Green began his motion picture career in
sound at Warner Bros, in 1947. Before that,
he had spent seven years at the Naval Research
Laboratory in Washington, D.C.,
where he became head of the communications
section for the radio division.
ter 'vehicle is there than NATO? If jority of our membership consists ot
this association did not exist, exhibi- exhibitors with less than ten thetnrq
all nvpr this country would be atres Our average member theatre production, in association with Run Run
"Meteor," a Sandy Howard-Gabriel Katzka
.
. • , u .„„
meltfng tTestablish sucl a group ^lys $31.48 per |ear for dues, less ^h-- -hed^'^;'^,
/^^^^^^^^
to represent them in all matters of fh^n ten cents per day. This is a ri- raphy October 31 m Los Angeles.
mutual concern.
diculously low price for membership. Ronald Neame will direct the screenplay
about a worldwide emergency that develops
Now, I'll be the first to admit that ^g ^^ national, want to do more when a comet strikes a meteor, sending a
NATO is not perfect. It's far from
^^^. ^^ earnestly want your lothat.
It suffers from a lack of leader- ^^^ association to do more for you. nery will play a scientist trying to cope
shower of fragments toward the earth. Con-
with
ship; a lack of continuity of that
^^ ^^^^^ ^j^^ need NATO to be a
leadership; a definite lack of compjui-aiistic
type of organization—
munication with its members; and gj^j.Q^g local units performing localvices
for their members, sup-
many other faults. But, gentlemen,
it's the best we've got today.
Instead of debating whether we
should be spending pennies a day
per theatre for membership, we
should be working to strengthen the
organization. Instead of resigning,
because you don't like the president
or some other member, you should
be guiding the work of the association.
Nothing is accomplished by disparaging
statements in the tradepress
or dramatic telegrams of withdrawal.
This is the easy way out.
Some psychiatrists would call it a
manifestation of the martyr complex.
It behooves all of us to stay
and fight to make NATO v;hat we
believe it should be. Nothing takes
the place of dedication, work, intellect,
cooperation and money. We
have some members who give more
than their share. There are others
who give nothing but criticism.
NATO, like any other group, can
ized ser
plying leadership and guidance to
national, complemented by a strong
national professional staff of ex
perts ready to assist locally when
distribute in the
High-Budgeted 'Meteor'
Set for Oct. 31 Start
HOLLYWOOD—Sean Connery and Natalie
Wood will star in the $15.8 million
needed, and lead on the national ^^^rner Bros, in
level. The states are the source of
Shaw will distribute in Southeast Asia,
NATO's strength. There is no wish Stockholm Films in Scandinavia and Nippon
Herald in to diminish that strength. On the
Japan.
contrary, it is my hope to make each
of our local or regional units more
representative and responsive to its
membership.
With the support of units like
TONE (Theatre Owners of New England)
and individual exhibitors
around the country, NATO can be
the effective voice of exhibition,
speaking and acting forcefully for
all of us to restore sanity and equity
to a troubled industry. Given your
support, I pledge whatever talent
and energy I possess to achieve that
goal.
the emergency and Ms. Wood will be a
member of the Russian team working with
him.
Filming will be at the MGM Studios and
on locations throughout the world, with
Arnold Orgolini and Ted Parvin as producprs
American International Pictures will
U. S. and Canada and
most foreign territories.
Riverbend Films Options
Popular Pirsig Novel
LOS ANGELES—"Zen and the Art of
Motorcycle Maintenance," the best-selling
autobiographical novel by Robert Pirsig.
has been optioned by producer John T.
Parker for his Riverbend Films.
The book deals with a cross-country
motorcycle trip during which the narrator
grapples with the mental illness of his past
and the search for an elusive ideal he calls
Quality. Parker has set Howard Rayfiel to
write the screenplay.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5, 1977

Crown Showmanship
Contests Extended
By RALPH KAMINSKY
HOLLYWOOD—With many new pla
dates crowding in upon the Thursday (1
showmanship competition deadline for tv
Marilyn J. Tenser, i"\i'iii(i\o producer
of Crown InternalioMiil's " I lu' \ an,"
closely checks campaigns submitted as
entries in Crown's $5,000 promotional
contests on "The Van" and "The Crater
Lake Monster."
of its
productions. Crown International Pictures
has extended its $5,000 promotional
contests on "The Van" and "The Crater
Lake Monster" to October 15. This move
was made to give theatre managers who yet
have to play the features time in which to
submit their entries.
Thus far, the competition has produced a
30 per cent return from all the playdates,
according to Spence Steinhurst, Crown's director
of advertising and publicity. Each
contest offers substantial prizes of $1,250
for first place. $750 for second and $500 for
third.
'Old Truths Still Work'
The gratifying volume of entries is giving
Crown officials an interesting indication of
what makes promotional efforts a success
and it also is "providing evidence that the
old truths still work." Steinhurst said.
"An aggressive promotional campaign
and ballyhoo clearly is reflected at the boxoffice,"
Steinhurst declared, adding, "I can
see the pattern every time I compare boxoffice
receipts. The theatres that had big campaigns
show it at the boxoffice with bigger
ticket sales. The campaigns really are working."
Also emerging from the contest entries is
an indication that the most appealing campaigns
to the public are those in which giveaways
are the main feature, Steinhurst observed.
Mini-van giveaways are especially
popular, as evidenced by the contest entries,
Texas Awaits Tax Ruling,
TV Network Ads Flayed
DALLAS—NATO of Texas announced
in mid-August that it is still awaiting a decision
from the Third Court of Civil Appeals
in connection with a May 4 court
hearing regarding a refund of sales tax paid
imder protest on film rentals since October
1975. While the decision was expected by
July 1, the exhibitor organization said it
appeared that "the wheels of justice move
very slowly."
In other action, NATO of Texas has
lodged a formal complaint with the Federal
Communications Commission alleging that
ABC and other video networks have allotted
too much free advertising air time on upcoming
movies to be shown on TV. Cited
were such attractions as "Roots," "Breakout"
and "Big Country."
Texas NATO declared that the networks
have shown 20 or more free advertising
spots, while theatre owners must pay as
much as $60,000 per TV spot for advertising
films slated for theatrical showings. The
association stressed that TV networks
should buy time on a competing network to
advertise their motion picture attractions or
be prepared to allot equal free advertising
time to films shown in theatres, much like
the rule applied to political opponents.
Boxoffice Int'l
Four Features in Sept.
HOLLYWOOD— Boxoffice
to Open
International
Films is planning massive saturation bookings
of four films in September, with openings
scheduled in five major territories, according
to president Harry Novak.
The company will open "The Child" and
"Axe" Wednesday (14) in Detroit. "Frankenstein's
Castle of Freaks" will unspool in
the Virginia territory Friday (16) and on
the same day in Atlanta "Kidnapped Coed"
is set to debut.
Following these openings, "The Child"
and "Axe" will open in Denver Wednesday
(21), followed by a Wednesday (28) opening
in St. Louis of "The Child." "Axe" bows in
Virginia Friday (30).
NITE Slates 3-Day
he noted. Closely related to that is the giveaway
of various types of van accessories
such as refrigerators and the like.
Huddle in St. Louis
Spearheading promotional tie-ins, Steinhurst
disclosed, are van shops, van customizers
.ST. LOULS—The National Independent
and van clubs. Sometimes whole groups Theatre Exhibitors Ass'n. headquartered in
of van fans show up at ozoners. Most frequently,
Atlanta, announced that a national conference
when van owners park to watch the
they back of small circuits and independent buy-
ers will be held here Monday (26) through
film, into their slots instead of
parking in the customary forward position, Wednesday (28). The first day will be devoted
to registration and a reception party
it was found. With the rear of the van facing
the screen, the doors are opened and a
to be held at the Hilton Airport (the Hilton
carload of people arc able to watch the
has a courtesy car on duty 24 hours with a
full
picture through the double-door opening.
The decision to prolong the contest was
paging phone in the airport).
A NITE board meeting, with committee
made after it became clear that many openings
reports, will be held Tuesday morning (27),
to be followed by cocktails and luncheon.
for each of the pictures still arc to
come. Some of these are in important centers
such as Cleveland and Washington.
Afternoon
business
hours will be highlighted by
new
a
session dealing with product
D. C. where the pictures have widespread sources, independent producers' liaison with
bookings.
small circuits and independent buyers and
the mechanics of communication. A 7:30
p.m. panel discussion on "Problems of Buying"
will follow the 6 p.m. dinner.
Two subjects. "Financing Films Through
Advertising" and "Discussion of Position on
Splits," will be weighed Wednesday morning
(28). That afternoon a two-hour session
will focus on "Association Strategy—With
NITE—With NATO." An optional informal
discussion period is scheduled from 3 p.m.
to 5 p.m.
Registration fees are $10. NITE board
meeting only: $35. small circuit conference
only, or $45 for the entire conclave.
'Silent Partner' Is Under
Way in Toronto, Canada
NEW YORK—"The Silent Partner," a
suspense thriller starring Elliott Gould,
Christopher Plummer and Susannah York,
began filming August 29 on location in
Toronto, Canada. Daryl Duke is directing
from Curtis Hanson's screenplay, which is
based on "Think of a Number," a novel by
Anders Bodelson.
It is the ironic tale of bank teller Gould
who discovers untapped resources of larceny,
ingenuity and courage within himself.
Garth H. Drabinsky is serving as executive
producer of the independently financed
project, which is being co-produced by Joel
B. Michaels and Stephen Young. Director
of photography is Billy Williams and production
designer is Trevor Williams. The
is film scheduled for worldwide release next
summer, with sales in all territories excluding
Canada to be handled by Carolco.
S. A., whose principals are Mario Kassar
and Andrew Vajna.
'Shadow of a Killer' Now
Is Retitled 'Death Rage'
NEW YORK—"Death Rage" is the new
title for Raymond R. Homer's "Shadow
of a Killer." to be released by SJ International
Pictures this fall.
An espionage thriller starring Yiil Brynner,
Martin Balsam and Barbara Bouchet.
it was directed by Anthony Dawson on locations
in New York and Italy.
BOXOFFICE Showmandi! .Sept 1977

A/ -^. Grayeagle'
As Christmas Release
r.EVERLY HILLS—American Internalionsl
will release Charles B. Pierce's "Grayeagie."
it was announced by Samuel Z.
Arkoff. chairman of the board and president
of AIP.
Ben Johnson. Alex Cord. Lana Wood.
Iron Eyes Cody. Jack Elam. Paul Fix and
Jacob Daniels head the cast of the panoramic
outdoor drama, which is based on a
Cheyenne Indian legend. The film tells
about the seizing of a settler's daughter by
the Cheyennes. who believe their chief is
the young woman's real father.
"Grayeagle" was produced, directed and
written by Charles B. Pierce. Jim Roberson
was the cinematographer and the associate
producer was Tommy Clark. Pierce also
produced and directed AIP's recent release.
"The Town That Dreaded Sundown," and
he produced, directed and wrote the highly
successful "Winterhawk."
American International will distribute
"Grayeagle" worldwide. The feature will be
AIP's Christmas attraction in the U.S. and
Canada.
Director of Texas NATO
Raps 'Blasphemous' Films
DALLAS—T. A. Collins of Odessa. Tex.,
member of the hoard of directors of N,'\TO
of Texas, recently issued a warning to exhib-tors
in
the Lone Star State against playing
"highly controversial sacrilegeous films
now coming into the U.S. market."
Collins cited a group of ministers and lay
persons who have banded together to "educate
the public against these blasphemous
films which are being distributed in the
U.S." Collins said that NBC-TV recently
aired a program which featured leaders of
major California churches, a group designated
as the Interfaith Committee .\gainst
Blasphemy. Spokesmen for this organizations
alleged that some films "portray Jesus
Christ as a fake and a homosexual."
Collins urged that exhibitors should look
at films of this genre carefully before booking
them or "be prepared to bring the wrath
of society and ultimately censorship down
upon the motion picture business if
exhibit them."
they do
Paramount's 'Bears' Take
In $13 Million, 25 Days
NLW ^•ORK. - The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training" has grossed $13,286,-
988 for Paramount Pictures in its first 2.'^
days of domestic engagements, according to
Frank Mancuso, vice-president for domestic
distribution. The number of situations for
the film has increased from the original 39S
to the current 550.
In New York City alone, the film grossed
5655,902 in four days at 79 theatres. The
second in a series featuring the young baseball
team, "The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Training" was produced by Leonard
' 'iiJherg and directed bv Michael Press-
'Hard Candy' Is Reporting
'Extremely Good' Grosses
HOLLYWOOD—"The Lollipop Girls in
Hard Candy," described by Debonair Films
as a 3-D adult comedy, has recorded "extremely
good" grosses in various summer
bookings, including a one-week record for
a drive-in in Dayton, Ohio, according to
Jack Gilbert, national sales manager.
The feature scored a total gross of $29.-
866 in the following playdates, Gilbert said:
Chakeres' Skyborne Drive-In, Dayton,
Ohio, one week; San Jose Drive-In, San
Jose, Calif,, six days (one day of that booking
was lost because of a power failure).
and the SeaView Theatre, Blaine, Wash.,
ten days.
Other strong
engagements were reported
in a hardtop and an ozoner in Portland,
Ore,, as well as a month's run at Tom Moyer's
Springfield Quad in Springfield, Ore.
"The Lollipop Girls in Hard Candy" has
been booked into more than 225 hardtops
and underskyers for the months of September,
October and November. Gilbert disclosed.
A Baltimore area saturation is scheduled
to begin Wednesday (14).
Three Homer Productions
Slated to Bow This Fall
NEW YORK — Producer Raymond R.
Homer will have three productions opening
this fall, starting with "The Swiss Conspiracy,"
starring David Janssen, Senta Berger,
Ray Milland, Elke Sommer, John Saxon
and John Ireland, in Denver Friday (2) at
five area theatres. Two Thanksgiving openings
will follow, for "Death Rage." starring
Yul Brynner in an espionage thriller, and
"The Inheritance," with Anthony Quinn
and Dominque Sanda heading the cast in the
story of a young woman's sensitive relationship
wtih a family.
Presently, Homer is completing filming
on "Sharpies," which has moved from
South African to New York locales and
which stars David Broadnax and Stella
Stevens. He also is scouting New Jersey
sites for his next project. "Crown of
Thorns."
'Orca'
Over $3 Million
In NYC Flagship Date
New York— "Orca," the Dino Dc
Laiircntiis presentation for Paramount
Pictures release, grossed $3,086,995
during a five-week engagement at 74
Flagship theatres in the Greater New
York area and is continuing its New
York run in 110 Showcase theatres, it
was announced by Frank Mancuso,
V i c e-president domestic distribution,
Paramount Pictures Corp.
Richard Harris and Charlotte Ranipling
star in "Orca." drama about a
killer whale's revenge. Will Sampson
and Bo Derek co-star in the film which
was directed by Michael Anderson
from a .screenplay written by Luciano
Vincenzoni and Sergio Donati.
Student-Made Feature
Seeks a Distributor
HOLLYWOOD—Two young filmmakers
who made thier first feature on the campus
of the University of Tennessee are in Hollywood
seeking a distributor for the film,
which they modestly are certain will have
an appeal to the youthful audience that is
interested in knowing what college life is all
about.
Glenn Morgan and Eric Levvald handled
all the principal production chores on "Incoming
Freshman." writing the script, directing,
producing, editing and serving as
cinematographers. To get the project off
the ground financially, they formed Hi Test
Films. Inc., and raised funds by selling stock
in the corporation. Thus, it was local, Knoxville,
Tenn.. money that put them into the
movie business.
The picture was their first try at a feature
film. Morgan says he had turned out a
variety of student films, a 25-minute narrative
detective story and a variety of TV
commercials and other videotape productions.
Lewald previously had worked with
film animation.
To cast the film about a young girl's first
experiences on a large college campus, the
two producers ran an advertisement in the
university paper and had their pick of the
150 aspiring thespians who responded.
Many of those finally chosen were drama
students and others were found capable of
filling
the roles.
Like so many first efforts. "Incoming
Freshman" reflects the experiences of the
filmmakers and consequently has a strong
Southern orientation. Morgan said, and also
reflects the Southern university atmosphere.
The two young men are lining up interviews
with numerous distributors to discuss
possible deals. They also will screen the film
for distributors, with the thought in mind
that their original plans for an R-rated film
may be modified if opinions indicated such
a need.
"We made it with an R rating in mind
but we shot it so it could be cut to a PG."
Morgan explained.
IRC's 'Bare Knuckles' Set
To Bow in 200 Situations
HOLLYWOOD — Intercontinental Releasing
Corp. has set up 200 situations for
the Wednesday (7) release of the Don Edmonds'
action adventure film. "Bare
Knuckles." Edmonds, who produced, wrote
and directed the picture, began a tour August
29 to help kick off the national campaign.
WB Gets 'Bodyguard'
BURBANK—"The Bodyguard," an original
screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan, has
been acquried by Warner Bros, for development
as a theatrical feature, it was announced
by John Calley, vice-chairman of
the board of Warners.
BOXOFHCE :: September 5. 1977

Rights to 'Melting Man'
Are Acquired by AIP
HOLLYWOOD—American
International
Pictures has acquired the domestic and Ca-
Max J. Rosenberg Sam Gelfman
nadian rights to "The Incredible Melting
Man." a space shocker produced by Max
J. Rosenberg and Sam Gelfman.
"The Incredible Melting Man" follows the
terrifying exploits of an astronaut whose
space-contracted disease causes his flesh to
liquefy—and depicts its equally chilling
remedy. The film features the extraordinary
special effects of Rick Baker, whose creations
for "The Exorcist" and "King Kong"
electrified audiences around the world.
The screenplay was written and directed
by William Sachs.
"The Incredible Melting Man" marks the
49th feature film produced by Max J. Rosenberg.
His most recent pictures include
"At the Earth's Core," "The Land That
Time Forgot" and "The People That Time
Forgot." Rosenberg, whose productions are
not confined to horror-fantasy, is noted as
a master of the genre. Previous pictures
bearing the Rosenberg imprimatur are
"From Beyond the Grave," "Vault of Horror,"
"Tales From the Crypt," "The House
That Dripped Blood." "They Came From
Outer Space" and "The Deadly Bees." The
vast majority of his films were highly successful
at the boxoffice.
Sam Gelfman, whose first independent
production was the boxoffice smash "Cannonball,"
was associated with Artists Entertainment
Complex and was a top production
executive at United Artists.
Alex Rebar plays the title role in "The
Incredible Melting Man," which will be released
nationally in early 1978.
Richard Blanco Appointed
Director of Technicolor
HOLLYWOOD — Richard M. Blanco
has been appointed a director of Technicolor,
Inc.. it was announced by Morton
Kamerman. chairman of the board.
Blanco has been associated with Technicolor
more than 40 years and also is chairman
of the board and chief executive
officer of the company's subsidiary Technicolor
Graphic Services, Inc., which provides
photographic support services for the
U.S. military, NASA, the Department of
the Interior and the Department of Justice.
The new director is a member of the Society
of Motion Picture and Television Engineers,
the Academy of Motion Picture
Arts and Sciences and the National Academy
of Television Arts and Sciences.
C0//0 Brofhers Want Best Possible
Distributor for 'Oily
By RALPH KAMINSK.Y
HOLLYWOOD—When veteran film
buyers, who come to see a new picture, begin
applauding in the middle of the screening,
it is reasonable for those who made the
film to begin hoping that they have produced
a genuine hit.
That's the condition of mind of two
brothers, Richard Colla and James CoUa,
who are working with well-known film consultant
Max Youngstein in shopping around
for a distributor who will convince them
that he can do justice to their production.
The feature is "Oily Oily Oxen Free,"
starring Katharine Hepburn in an offbeat
role which should win her an Oscar nomination,
in the opinion of producer-director
Richard Colla.
The brothers say they already have received
"one good offer" for the film but are
continuing on their round of screenings to
reach every potential distributor. As word
about the picture's qualities get around, distributors
call them to ask to see the film,
James Colla said. And even more optimism
was built when an agent, who heard the
word, carried on a series of telephone offers
to buy a piece of the action, he added.
Keep Promise to Father
"Oily Oily Oxen Free" features two
young boys, Kevin McKenzie and Dennis
Dimster, who attempt to reconstruct and
fly a hot-air balloon and thus keep a promise
they had made to their father "The
Great Sandusky," an itinerant balloonist.
The youngsters end up in a junkyard
seeking parts for their balloon and meet
Katharine Hepburn, the cantankerous operator
of the establishment, who has become
a recluse. Their story lifts her out of her
mental slump—and she joins them in their
adventure.
The picture ends when the trio flies the
balloon from San Francisco to Los Angeles
and makes a spectacular landing in the Hollywood
Bowl. That scene was shot with a
crowd of 8,000 spectators gathered for a
"concert" by the Los Angeles Philharmonic
Orchestra playing Tchaikovsky's "1812
Overture," as Ms. Hepburn and the boys
sailed majestically into view and landed in
front of the orchestra shell.
"She was magnificent," Richard Colla
said of his experience with Ms. Hepburn
during the making of the picture.
"She did her own stunts and she was so
wonderful on the set," he explained. "She
even bicycled around delivering messages
during breaks. We were working shorthanded,
so she just decided to help out."
Besides the balloon flight over the Hollywood
Bowl, Ms. Hepburn insisted on going
aloft in another scene for which a stuntman
had been hired. After watching a rehearsal,
she decreed that: "He doesn't look like me.
He doesn't act like me. Nobody will believe
that it is me."
So, Ms. Hepburn got into the balloon's
Production
gondola and did her scene 200 feet in the
air. Although the balloon was securely anchored,
hearts were in throats for the whole
crew until the actress came safely back to
the ground, Colla declared.
It is obvious, as he talks, that for Richard
Colla "Oily Oily Oxen Free" was a labor of
love. A veteran of 12 years in TV producing
and directing, he left that field because of a
growing conviction that "you have to be in
a position to take the final responsibility for
what your picture says and does."
His last TV project was for Universal,
directing and producing "The UFO Incident,"
with James Earl Jones and Estelle
Parsons. Before that he had done numerous
TV pilots for the "Bold Ones" series, including
"McCloud," "Tenafly," "The Lawyers"
and "The Doctors."
Made 2 MGM Films
Colla also had made two pictures. MGM's
"Zigzag," with George Kennedy, and United
Artists' "Fuzz," starring Burt Reynolds.
"Fuzz," he said, brought home to him dramatically
his growing feeling that the man
who makes the film must face up to personal
responsibility for his actions. The movie
had a scene in which Reynolds is set on
fire by two hoodlums.
"I objected to using the scene but they
overruled me. Then, just weeks after the
movie opened, some kids in Boston set fire
to a man," Colla related. He is convinced,
he said, that movies and TV shows do have
an impact on the public mind.
"And, if that is so, then I want to be responsible
for what I do," he declared.
The two brothers have a compatible
working arrangement within their Rico-
Lion film organization. James Colla. whose
background has been in the insurance and
securities businesses, handles all the finances
and business affairs, while Richard goes
ahead on the artistic side.
Pondered Story 15 Years
"Oily Oily Oxen Free" had lingered in
Richard's life 15 years before it got onto
film. The story was written by Richard,
Maria L. de Ossio and Eugene Poinc. Over
the years. Richard Colla said, he periodically
would take out the screenplay written by
Poinc and contemplate his chances of doing
the picture. "But it never jelled," he commented.
"Finally, about a year ago, everything
fell into place almost automatically." James
Colla told Boxoffice. "We had the money
for another project that didn't work out."
Ms. Hepburn liked the script and agreed
to take a "reasonable" salary and a percentage
of the picture. Her only stipulation was
that her part in the film be completed in
time for her stage commitment in "A Matter
of Gravity."
After a hectic four weeks for preproduclion,
in
lensing began and ended 60 days later
the Hollywood Bowl on Friday the 13th.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

; . Grayeagle'
istmas Release
'tvt.KLY HILLS—American International
will release Charles B. Pierce's "Grayeagle,"
it was announced by Samuel Z.
Arkoff. chairman of the board and president
of AIP.
Ben Johnson. Alex Cord, Lana Wood,
Iron Eyes Cody. Jack Elam, Paul Fix and
Jacob Daniels head the cast of the panoramic
outdoor drama, which is based on a
Cheyenne Indian legend. The film tells
about the seizing of a settler's daughter by
the Cheyennes. who believe their chief is
the young woman's real father.
"Grayeagle" was produced, directed and
written by Charles B. Pierce. Jim Roberson
was the cinematographer and the associate
producer was Tommy Clark. Pierce also
produced and directed AIP's recent release.
"The Town That Dreaded Sundown," and
he produced, directed and wrote the highly
successful "Wintcrhawk."
American International will distribute
"Grayeagle" worldwide. The feature will be
AIP's Christmas attraction in the U.S. and
Canada.
Director of Texas NATO
Raps 'Blasphemous' Films
DALLAS—T. A. Collins of Odessa. Tex.,
member of the board of directors of NATO
of Texas, recently issued a warning to exhib'tors
in the Lone Star State against playing
"highly controversial sacrilegeous films
now coming into the U.S. market."
Collins cited a group of ministers and lay
persons who have banded together to "educate
the public against these blasphemous
films which are being distributed in the
U.S." Collins said that NBC-TV recently
aired a program which featured leaders of
major California churches, a group designated
as the Interfaith Committee Against
Blasphemy. Spokesmen for this organizations
alleged that some films "portray Jesus
Christ as a fake and a homosexual."
Collins urged that exhibitors should look
at films of this genre carefully before booking
them or "be prepared to bring the wrath
of society and ultimately censorship down
upon the motion picture business if they do
exhibit them."
Paramount's 'Bears' Take
In $13 Million. 25 Days
NEW YORK— The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training" has grossed $13,286.-
988 for Paramount Pictures in its first 25
days of domestic engagements, according to
Frank Mancuso. vice-president for domestic
distribution. The number of situations for
ihe film has increased from the original .398
to the current .'J.^O.
In New York City alone, the film grossed
S6.5.'5,902 in four days at 79 theatres. The
second in a series featuring the young baseball
team. "The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Training" was produced by Leonard
'
oUibcrg and directed by Michael Prcss-
'Hard Candy' Is Reporting
'Extremely Good' Grosses
HOLLYWOOD—"The Lollipop Girls in
Hard Candy," described by Debonair Films
as a 3-D adult comedy, has recorded "extremely
good" grosses in various summer
bookings, including a one-week record for
a drive-in in Dayton, Ohio, according to
Jack Gilbert, national sales manager.
The feature scored a total gross of $29,-
866 in the following playdates. Gilbert said:
Chakeres' Skyborne Drive-In, Dayton.
Ohio, one week; San Jose Drive-In, San
Jose, Calif., six days (one day of that booking
was lost because of a power failure),
and the SeaView Theatre, Blaine. Wash.,
ten days.
Other strong engagements were reported
in a hardtop and an ozoner in Portland.
Ore., as well as a month's run at Tom Moyer's
Springfield Quad in Springfield, Ore.
"The Lollipop Girls in Hard Candy" has
been booked into more than 225 hardtops
and underskyers for the months of September.
October and November, Gilbert disclosed.
A Baltimore area saturation is scheduled
to begin Wednesday (14).
Three Homer Productions
Slated to Bow This Fall
NEW YORK — Producer Raymond R.
Homer will have three productions opening
this fall, starting with "The Swiss Conspiracy,"
starring David Janssen. Senta Berger,
Ray Milland, EIke Sommer, John Saxon
and John Ireland, in Denver Friday (2) at
five area theatres. Two Thanksgiving openings
will follow, for "Death Rage," starring
Yul Brynner in an espionage thriller, and
"The Inheritance," with Anthony Quinn
and Dominque Sanda heading the cast in the
story of a young woman's sensitive relationship
wtih a family.
Presently, Homer is completing filming
on "Sharpies," which has moved from
South African to New York locales and
which stars David Broadnax and Stella
Stevens. He also is scouting New Jersey
sites for his next project. "Crown of
Thorns."
'Orca'
Over $3 Million
In NYC Flagship Date
New York—"Orca," the Dino Dc
Laiirentiis presentation for Paramount
Pictures release, grossed $3,086,995
during a five-week engagement at 74
Flagship theatres in the Greater New
York area and is continuing its New
York run in 110 Showcase theatres, it
was announced by Frank Mancuso,
V i c e-president/ domestic di.slribution,
Paramount Pictures Corp.
Richard Harris and Charlotte Rumpling
star in "Orca," drama about a
killer whale's revenge. Will Sampson
and Bo Derek co-star in the film which
was directed by Michael Anderson
from a screenplay written by Luciano
Vincenzoni and Sergio Donati.
Student-Made Feature
Seeks a Distributor
HOLLYWOOD—Two young filmmakers
who made thier first feature on the campus
of the University of Tennessee are in Hollywood
seeking a distributor for the film,
which they modestly are certain will have
an appeal to the youthful audience that is
interested in knowing what college life is all
about.
Glenn Morgan and Eric
Lewald handled
all the principal production chores on "Incoming
Freshman," writing the script, directing,
producing, editing and serving as
cinematographers. To get the project off
the ground financially, they formed Hi Test
Films, Inc.. and raised funds by selling stock
in the corporation. Thus, it was local, Knoxville,
Tenn., money that put them into the
movie business.
The picture was their first try at a feature
film. Morgan says he had turned out a
variety of student films, a 25-minute narrative
detective story and a variety of TV
commercials and other videotape productions.
Lewald previously had worked with
film animation.
To cast the film about a young girl's first
experiences on a large college campus, the
two producers ran an advertisement in the
university paper and had their pick of the
150 aspiring thespians who responded.
Many of those finally chosen were drama
students and others were found capable of
filling
the roles.
Like so many first efforts, "Incoming
Freshman" reflects the experiences of the
filmmakers and consequently has a strong
Southern orientation, Morgan said, and also
reflects the Southern imiversity atmosphere.
The two young men are lining up interviews
with nimierous distributors to discuss
possible deals. They also will screen the film
for distributors, with the thought in mind
that their original plans for an R-rated film
may be modified if opinions indicated such
a need.
"We made it with an R rating in mind
but we shot it so it could be cut to a PG."
Morgan explained.
IRC's 'Bare Knuckles' Set
To Bow in 200 Situations
HOLLYWOOD — Intercontinental Releasing
Corp. has set up 200 situations for
the Wednesday (7) release of the Don Edmonds'
action adventure film. "Bare
Knuckles." Edmonds, who produced, wrote
and directed the picture, began a tour August
29 to help kick off the national campaign.
WB Gets 'Bodyguard'
BURBANK—"The Bodyguard." an original
screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan. has
been acquried by Warner Bros, for development
as a theatrical feature, it was announced
by John Calley, vice-chairman of
the board of Warners.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

Rights to 'Melting Man'
Are Acquired by AIP
HOLLYWOOD—American
International
Pictures has acquired the domestic and Ca-
Max J. Rosenberg Sam Gelfman
nadian rights to "The Incredible Melting
Man," a space shocker produced by Max
J. Rosenberg and Sam Gelfman.
"The Incredible Melting Man" follows the
terrifying exploits of an astronaut whose
bearing the Rosenberg imprimatur are
"From Beyond the Grave," "Vault of Horror,"
"Tales From the Crypt," "The House
That Dripped Blood," "They Came From
Outer Space" and "The Deadly Bees." The
vast majority of his films were highly successful
at the boxoffice.
Sam Gelfman, whose first independent
production was the boxoffice smash "Cannonball."
was associated with Artists Entertainment
Complex and was a top production
executive at United Artists.
Alex Rebar plays the title role in "The
Incredible Melting Man," which will be released
nationally in early 1978.
Richard Blanco Appointed
Director of Technicolor
HOLLYWOOD — Richard M. Blanco
has been appointed a director of Technicolor,
Inc., it was announced by Morton
Kamerman, chairman of the board.
Blanco has been associated with Technicolor
more than 40 years and also is chairman
of the board and chief executive
officer of the company's subsidiary Technicolor
Graphic Services, Inc., which provides
photographic support services for the
U.S. military, NASA, the Department of
the Interior and the Department of Justice.
The new director is a member of the Society
of Motion Picture and Television Engineers,
the Academy of Motion Picture
Arts and Sciences and the National Academy
of Television Arts and Sciences.
Colla Brothers Want Best Possible
Distributor for 'Oily'
By RALPH KAMINSKY
HOLLYWOOD—When veteran film
buyers, who come to see a new picture, begin
applauding in the middle of the screening,
it is reasonable for those who made the
film to begin hoping that they have produced
a genuine hit.
That's the condition of mind of two
brothers, Richard Colla and James Colla,
who are working with well-known film consultant
Max Youngstein in shopping around
for a distributor who will convince them
that he can do justice to their production.
The feature is "Oily Oily Oxen Free,"
fly a hot-air balloon and thus keep a promise
they had made to their father "The
Great Sandusky," an itinerant balloonist.
The youngsters end up in a junkyard
seeking parts for their balloon and meet
Katharine Hepburn, the cantankerous operator
of the establishment, who has become
a recluse. Their story lifts her out of her
mental slump—and she joins them in their
adventure.
The picture ends when the trio flies the
balloon from San Francisco to Los Angeles
and makes a spectacular landing in the Hollywood
Bowl. That scene was shot with a
crowd of 8,000 spectators gathered for a
"concert" by the Los Angeles Philharmonic
Orchestra playing Tchaikovsky's "1812
Overture," as Ms. Hepburn and the boys
sailed majestically into view and landed in
front of the orchestra shell.
"She was magnificent," Richard Colla
said of his experience with Ms. Hepburn
during the making of the picture.
"She did her own stunts and she was so
wonderful on the set," he explained. "She
even bicycled around delivering messages
during breaks. We were working shorthanded,
so she just decided to help out."
Besides the balloon flight over the Hollywood
Bowl, Ms. Hepburn insisted on going
aloft in another scene for which a stuntman
had been hired. After watching a rehearsal,
she decreed that: "He doesn't look like me.
He doesn't act like me. Nobody will believe
that it is me."
So, Ms. Hepburn got into the balloon's
Production
gondola and did her scene 200 feet in the
air. Although the balloon was securely anchored,
hearts were in throats for the whole
crew until the actress came safely back to
the ground, Colla declared.
It is obvious, as he talks, that for Richard
Colla "Oily Oily Oxen Free" was a labor of
love. A veteran of 12 years in TV producing
and directing, he left that field because of a
growing conviction that "you have to be in
a position to take the final responsibility for
what your picture says and does."
His last TV project was for Universal,
directing and producing "The UFO Incident,"
with James Earl Jones and Estelle
Parsons. Before that he had done numerous
TV pilots for the "Bold Ones" series, including
"McCIoud," "Tenafly," "The Law-
starring Katharine Hepburn in an offbeat
role which should win her an Oscar nomination,
in the opinion of producer-director
space-contracted disease causes his flesh to Richard Colla.
liquefy—and depicts its equally chilling The brothers say they already have received
"one good offer" for the film but are
Made 2 MGM Films
yers" and "The Doctors."
remedy. The film features the extraordinary
special effects of Rick Baker, whose creations
for "The Exorcist" and "King Kong" reach every potential distributor. As word continuing on their round of screenings to
Colla also had made two pictures, MGM's
electrified audiences around the world.
The screenplay was written and directed
about the picture's qualities get around, distributors
call them to ask to see the film,
"Zigzag," with George Kennedy, and United
Artists' "Fuzz," starring Burt Reynolds.
by William Sachs.
James Colla said. And even more optimism "Fuzz," he said, brought home to him dramatically
"The Incredible Melting Man" marks the was built when an agent, who heard the
his growing feeling that the man
49th feature film produced by Max J. Rosenberg.
word, carried on a series of telephone offers who makes the film must face up to personal
responsibility for his actions. The movie
His most recent pictures include to buy a piece of the action, he added.
"At the Earth's Core," "The Land That
had a scene in which Reynolds is set on
Keep Promise to Father
Time Forgot" and "The People That Time
fire by two hoodlums.
Forgot." Rosenberg, whose productions are "Oily Oily Oxen Free" features two "I objected to using the scene but they
young boys, Kevin McKenzie and Dennis overruled me. Then, just weeks after the
not confined to horror-fantasy, is noted as
a master of the genre. Previous pictures Dimster, who attempt to reconstruct and movie opened, some kids in Boston set fire
to a man," Colla related. He is convinced,
he said, that movies and TV shows do have
an impact on the public mind.
"And, if that is so, then I want to be responsible
for what I do," he declared.
The two brothers have a compatible
working arrangement within their Rico-
Lion film organization. James Colla. whose
background has been in the insurance and
securities businesses, handles all the finances
and business affairs, while Richard goes
ahead on the artistic side.
Pondered Story 15 Years
"Oily Oily Oxen Free" had lingered in
Richard's life 15 years before it got onto
film. The story was written by Richard,
Maria L. de Ossio and Eugene Poinc. Over
the years. Richard Colla said, he periodically
would take out the screenplay written by
Poinc and contemplate his chances of doing
the picture. "But it never jelled," he commented.
"Finally, about a year ago, everything
fell into place almost automatically." James
Colla told Boxoffice. "We had the money
for another project that didn't work out."
Ms. Hepburn liked the script and agreed
to take a "reasonable" salary and a percentage
of the picture. Her only stipulation was
that her part in the film be completed in
time for her stage commitment in "A Matter
of Gravity."
four weeks for preproduction,
in
After a hectic
lensing began and ended 60 days later
the Hollywood Bowl on Friday the 13th.
BOXOFFICE .September 5, 1977

feskei, Eisenman Promote
''-lerowork' in Carolinas
JIiVKLOTTE. N.C.—Paul Yeskel who.
CALENDARofEVENTS
SEPTEMBER
M W
of In-
- ^ \Iorne Eisenman, is a director
11. 1 Harmony Productions" field
S T T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
Paul Yeskel. left, and Morrie Eisenman,
directors of International Harmony
Productions' field force, have
been setting up promotions for "Herowork"
in the Carolinas.
force, visited Cfiarlottc to worlc with Stewart
& Everett Advertising Agency topper
Ed Marks to prepare for the opening of
the NBS Films release "'Herowork."
Yeskel also set up promotions throughout
North and South Carolina for "Fantastic
Animation Festival." This Crest Films
release opened in both states in late August
and other debuts are set for September.
International Harmony's field force creates
it
a promotion for each picture repre-
sents, then custom-tailors it for each market
with heavy emphasis on FM radio.
Omni Pictures Planning
'Hooch' Multiple Break
NEW YORK— "Hooch." a Prudhomme
Productions film starring Gil Gerard. Erika
Fox and Melody Rogers, has been acquired
by Omni Pictures Corp. for distribution in
the U.S. and Canada this fall. Omni, an
Atlanta-based distributor, plans a multipletheatre
break for the comedy.
Directed by Ed Mann, who also wrote
the screenplay, "Hooch" currently is in
post-production stages after recently completing
principal photography on locations
in Shelby, N.C. Produced by Thierry Pathe
with Joel Goldstein as executive producer,
the film has music by H. M. Saffer and
Paul Solovay. It tells of three gangsters who
try to take over a moonshine operation run
by Gerard, a debonair North Carolina
moonshiner.
Technicolor Dividend Set
H(M_I YWOOD— Icchnicolor announced
that its ho.ud of directors has declared a
quarterly dividend of ten cents per share
payable Oct. 3. 1977, to stockholders
of record at the close of business Wednesday
(14). Technicolor reinstituted the payment
of dividends on a quarterly basis at
an annual rate of 40 cents per share at
the May 5, 1977, meeting of its board after

d-Amer
Mirror Releasing Names
Caplan Sales Consultant
HOLLYWOOD—With plans to produce
at least four youth-oriented tihns per year.
Mirror Releasing Co. has named Steve Caplan
as its sales consultant and launched its
campaign on its newest picture, "Sweater
Girls—A Tribute to the '50s."
Caplan has held executive positions with
United Artists, New World Pictures and
other companies. His first official act with
Mirror was to helm a national sales conference
August 26 in Beverly Hills to complete
plans for a number of key indoor playdates
for "Sweater Girls."
Subdistributors at the conference were
Harry Clark, Jacksonville; Terry Levine,
New York; Ron Pabst, New Orleans; John
Shipp, Kansas City; Morrie Zryl, Cleveland;
Jeff Ruff, Cincinnati; Dennis Glen.
Jeff Begun, Chicago; Bob McPher-
Detroit;
son, Boston, and Alan Elrod, representing
Los Angeles and 11 Western states.
Mirror's chief operating officer, Gary
Gibbs, said the company "is raising its
Stock and Cash Dividends
Are Declared by MCA, Inc.
sights to larger budgets, bigger productions
and top creative and advertising campaigns."
UNIVERSAL CITY — Lew R. Wasserman,
chairman of the board of MCA, Inc.,
announced at a meeting August 25 that the
board of directors had approved a 3 per
cent stock dividend on the company's common
stock outstanding to stockholders at
the close of business Tuesday (20). It is contemplated
that the transfer agent. Chase
Manhattan Bank, will mail, on approximately
October 24, the additional stock certificates
representing such stock dividend, together
with the buy-and-sell order forms for
fractional share interests.
Wasserman further announced that the
board of directors declared a quarterly cash
dividend of 25 cents per share on the MCA,
Inc., common stock payable Oct. 11, 1977,
to stockholders of record at the close of business
Tuesday (20).
This cash dividend will not be payable on
the aforesaid stock dividend.
'Sinbad' Sets Records
In Scotland, England
London— "Sinbad and Ihe Eye of
the Tiger" continues to rack up high
grosses at boxoft'iccs worldwide, with
the latest outstanding success a oneweek
gross of $356,319 in 69 situation.s
in the Scotland and north England
area, it was announced by Patrick M.
Williamson, executive vice-president of
Columbia Pictures.
This figure is more than three times
the amount recorded by "The Golden
Voyage of Sinbad" in the same situations
three years ago.
In addition, every one of the 15
Rank circuit cinemas involved in the
exhibition of the film established new
all-time house records.
'Almost Summer' Is New
Title for Univ. Film
UNIVERSAL CITY — "Almost Summer"
is the new title for Universal's "Senior
Prom," a Motown production scheduled for
release later this year.
The youthful comedy about high school
youngsters seeking love and acceptance was
produced by Rob Cohen and directed by
Martin Davidson. Starring are Bruno Kirby,
Lee Purcell, Tim Matheson, John Friedrich,
Didi Conn, Thomas Carter, Petronia Paley,
David Wilson and Sherry Hursey.
ST. LOUIS
ONE THEATRE
$23,000
jff^j
about
Carole Schwartz Is Named
Assistant to Mel Moron
Ni;W VOKK— .Mel Maron, preside
the Ihealrical division o\ Cinema Shan
In-
ternalional Distribution Corp., has announced
the appointment of Carole
Schwartz as his executive assistant. She has
been associated with Maron for the past 12
years, joining Cinema Shares in '75.
With the recent restructuring of CSID as
an autonomous profit center of the Cinema
Shares group of entertainment companies,
Maron's area of responsibility and activity
has broadened, calling for a more comprehensive
administrative backup in the home
office. Schwartz will work directly with
CSID's subdistributors and exhibitors.
Kelly Miller to 20th-Fox
As Ad Production Mgr.
BEVERLY HILLS—Kelly Miller, 43,
has been named advertising production
manager of 20th Century-Fox, it was announced
by David A. Weitzner, vice-president,
advertising.
Miller joins 20th-Fox immediately, reporting
to Tim Deegan, national advertising
director.
Miller's background in advertising production
is extensive. It includes more than
26 years in a number of diversified advertising
companies. He joins 20th-Fox from
his own company. Pyramid Communications,
immediately to begin work on a series
of the company's films.
a beautiful film
lust,
Crest
Los Angeles, Cal
213-733-1100
Mid-West
Overland Park,
913-e5'i-6752
M I
J
ca
Oakpark, Mich
313-968-1601
UA Expands Its Bookings
Of 'Pink Panther' Combo
NEW YORK—Encouraged by the enormous
success of the double-feature composed
of "The Return of the Pink Panther"
and "The Pink Panther Strikes Again" in
New England, United Artists booked the
comedy program into more than 200 theatres
in
the Pittsburgh, Detroit, Chicago. St.
Louis, Cleveland, Denver and Albany territories
August 31, Wednesday (7) and
Wednesday (14).
The combo proved its popularity with a
one-week run in the New England area
where it opened early last month at approximately
160 theatres and grossed more than
$650,000 in seven days.
Peter Sellers stars in both Blake Edwards
films.
kansas city
$5,762
one theatre
WICKED
WET
WILD
TimE TO 3niELL
TBE FL0H?ER3
[go
ntarnQtlonol clnamo ltd.
ITWOOD. ST LOUIS, MO (
Front ier
Buffalo, i^lY
7l6-85't-6752
Ml d-Amer ica
Rodemont, ILL
312-593-fi33'<
Selected Pictures
Lyndhurst, Ohio
2l6-Ji6l-q770
Simpson Dist
Charlotte, NC
70't-333-5193
BOXOFFICE :: .September 1977

'
MetroColor.
Giiy-Con Enterprises Adds
F-isina's 33 Theatres
KANSAS CITY— Harold Guyett. president
of GuY-Con Enterprises, Inc.. already
based Frisina circuit.
With the addition of 33 theatres by Overland
Park, Kas.-headquartered Guy-Con,
the firm has passed the 100-screen mark for
buving. booking and. in some cases, complete
unit management of independent and
theatres. Guy-Con's buying,
small-circuit
hooking and management contracts cover
eight Midwest states, booking out of four
tilm exchange centers. Guyett noted.
Barbara Eden Set to Star
In 'Harper Valley PTA'
HOI I YWOOD— Barbara Eden will star
in "Harper Valley PTA,- based on the hit
record by Jeannie C. Riley, with principal
photography set to begin October 3 in Lebanon.
Ohio, according to executive producer
Phil Borack, president of April Fools Productions.
.
, ,
Ms. Eden's role will follow closely the
"Harper Valley PTA" lyrics which tell the
story of a swinging young mother who decides
to challenge the sanctimonious members
of the Harper Valley PTA after her
daughter brings home a note from school
accusing the mother of not being a "fit
parent."
George Edwards will produce the film tor
which he wrote the screenplay with Barry
.Schneider.
April Fools Productions is a subsidiary ot
April Fools Films, distribution firm.
Cloris Leachman to Star
In Disney's 'Irregulars'
BURBANK— Cloris Leachman has been
signed to star in Walt Disney Productions'
"North Avenue Irregulars," according to
producers Ron Miller and Tom Leetch.
Lensing is set to begin at the studio in Burbank
Monday (19).
In color by Technicolor, "North Avenue
Irregulars" will
be directed by Bruce Bilson.
MOTION PICTURES RATED
BY THE CODE & RATING
ADMINISTRATION
tin- largest booking-buying and theatre management
company in the Midwest, announced
.\ugust 31 that an agreement had tures have been reviewed and rated by the
The following feature-length motion pic-
been reached to buy and book for the 3itheatre
Code and Rating Administration pursuant
to the Motion Picture Code and Rating
Frisina Enterprises circuit.
The contract was negotiated with Rose Program.
Marie Bell, president, and Mike Stephens, Title
DiBlributot
general manager of the TaylorviUe, lU.-
Bad(*) (New World)
"°°°9
®
Candleshoe (BV)
Dina Dong (Pro Int'l)
m
W
Jailbait Babysitter (Empire Releasing) [RJ
Marianne (First American) PG
New Country (Crimson Releasing)
^ m
^^
m
Nurse Sherri (Independent-Int'l)
Record City (AIP)
Sandakan 8 (Peppercorn-Wormser)
Shadow of a Killer (Durham-Bavaria) \R\
n^ersedes X rating listed ,n Bulltin No, 442.
Actress Jean Hagen, 52,
Dies of Cancer in LA
LOS ANGELES—Jean Hagen, Chicagoborn
film and TV actress, died Tuesday,
August 30 at the age of 52. She had been
a victim of throat cancer for two years before
her death at the Motion Picture and
Television Country House and Hospital in
Woodland Hills. Surgery, radiation therapy
and Laetrile had failed to arrest the disease.
Miss Hagen had worked in radio serials
and the legitimate theatre before beginning
a film career in 1949 in MGM's "Side
Street." She subsequently appeared in
"Adam's Rib." "Singin in the Rain," "Dead
Ringer" and many others. She was a regular
in the ABC-TV Danny Thomas series
"Make Room for Daddy."
TTFL, Lighting Symposium
Rescheduled for Nov. 2-5
MIAMI—The Illuminating Engineering
Society has rescheduled "Make It Light."
1977 symposium of the Theatre-TV-Film
Lighting Committee, in Miami. New dates
for the confab are November 2-5.
The focus of the symposium will be on
developments in luminaries, light sources
and control. As usual, the program material
will be integrated with tours to various sites
of interest, including TV studios, theatres
and other lighting facilities.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN SELLING FILMS IN THE
MIDDLE FA^T CONTACT: AHMAD GULCHIN
PHARS FILMCO
MOmm PICTURE DISTRIBUTION COMPANY
POST BOX NO. 1186 - TEL: 22498
CABLE: PHARSFIIM
COMM. REGISTRATION TSS-DEIRA-DUBAI
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Telex: 6533
FILMCO DB
TV Special to Be Aired
On Making of 'The Deep'
NEW YORK—"The Making of The
'
Deep.' " an hour-long special about the
production of Columbia's popular underwater
adventure, will be broadcast on the
CBS-TV Network Sunday (11) (8-9 p.m.,
EDT). with star Robert Shaw as host and
narrator.
Shaw stars in "The Deep" with Jacqueline
Bisset, Nick Nolte, Eli Wallach and
Lou Gossett and will describe how Peter
Benchley's best-selling novel was translated
into a hit motion picture. Peter Lake, production
executive on the feature, shot most
of the footage for the special and actual
scenes from the film also will be shown.
Among the highlights will be interviews
with the stars on location in Bermuda and
the British Virgin Islands; the crew mem-
accomplishment of filming 30 hungry
bers'
sharks without becoming bait themselves;
the construction of BUS—the Biggest Underwater
Set—an above-ground duplication
of the ocean floor, capable of holding
1,000,000 gallons of seawater, and a look
at Percy, a mechanical seven-foot moray
eel, capable of biting off a head (not necessarily
human).
Lake is executive producer and writer ot
the special, which was directed by Chuck
Workman. It is a Casablanca Records and
FilmWorks production for Columbia Pictures
Television. "The Deep" is a Columbia/EMI
presentation of a Casablanca
FilmWorks production, in Panavision and
Peter Yates directed for producer
Peter Guber, with a screenplay by
Benchley and Tracy Keenan Wynn. Music
is by John Barry.
'Midnight Express' Slated
For Coliimbia Production
BURBANK—Daniel Melnick, in charge
of worldwide production for Columbia Pictures,
announced recently that Peter Guber.
of chairman Casablanca Record and
FilmWorks, has acquired the motion picture
rights to "Midnight Express," a book
by Billy Hayes with William Hoffer, a
Thomas Congdom Books publication by
E. P. Dutton.
The motion picture version of "Midnight
Express," to be released worldwide by Columbia
Pictures, details the true and engrossing
account of Hayes' confinement and
daring escape from a Turkish prison.
The film will be directed, from an Oliver
Stone screen adaptation, by British writerdirector
Alan Parker, winner of this year's
British Oscar for his screenplay of "Bugsy
Malone," on which he also made his feature-film
directing bow.
David Puttnam. whose films include
"Mahler," "Performance," "Stardust" and
"Bugsy Malone." will produce. Peter Guber
will act as executive producer.
"Midnight Express" has been characterized
as "an American Papillon" and was "
Book of the Month Club selection and
Playboy Book Club selection. Productior
on the picture is scheduled to begin in Sep|
tember on location in Malta and Greece.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 197"

ATTENTION
EXHIBITORS

OPTION
A
THE CONCEP

: irected
•
I
THE FILM
CORPSE
CORPSE
Produced by ROBERT L. LEVINE
\ssociale Producers BILL STEARNS and ALLAN SANDS1
tICHARD WILSON- Based on the Novel by JOHN R. Fl
by NICHOLAS CO
A CHALLENGE PICTURE
• EASTMAN CO
Dr.
Jerry Leatherman was a burned-out
case. He was tired of being Tampa General's
most celebrated 'body butcher,' sick of his
status as a nationally known pathologist,
and ready to pickle his razor-sharp brain in
90 proof alcohol.
But there was just one more case to
handle.
And suddenly Leatherman is plunged into
a maze of murder, suicide, high-level fraud,
kinky sex, and the kind of merciless soulsearching
he thought he no longer believed
in.
A dead Tycoon, all the evidence pointing
to suicide— A developing legal battle over
millions— A too-curious rookie cop silenced
by a strange 'heart attack'— An achingly
suspenseful, illegal, midnight autopsy, and
another, riddle-solving autopsy the next day
—A search through the shadow-world of
strip joints, massage parlors, pimps, and
dice-rolling hustlers for the most bizarre
killer in movie history— the growing, sickening
suspicion that the prime suspect is
the woman Leatherman is falling in love
with, the tycoon's widow— And the final,
face-to-face confrontation with the one
person Jerry Leatherman has avoided for a
long, long time— Himself!
Did Leatherman hate his work— really
—or did he love it too much?
You'll discover the gut-wrenching
answer in— CORPSE.
Diert Levine will produce CORPSE. Discussions have been held with Ben Gazzara, who has
tressed interest in the leading role. Only the highest caliber actors will be cast. CORPSE will
by Richard Wilson Producer-Director INVITATION TO A GUNFIGHTER with
jBrynner; Director AL CAPONE with Rod Steiger; Producer-Director THREE IN THE
riC (AIP).
lie truth is, we are as interested in profits as anybody. While you, as a subscribing Exhibitor, are being presented
[cture. Comnriercial pictures are the kind we intend to produce.
concept not only benefits you, the Exhibitor, but the filmmaker as well. He has a/so suffered from the present
iroviding you, the Exhibitor, with a flow of product— 8 to 10 first-run pirtures a year.
FIRST, first-run picture, CORPSE.
"Ilenge's

I
FUTURE
COMPLETED SCREENPLAYS
IN PREPARATION
The most controversial love story
you will ever see.
About three people you will never forget.
THE REBELLION OF YALE MARRATT
FROM ROBERT RIMMERS NOVEL —
3,000,000 COPIES SOLD
AUTHOR OF "THE HARRAD EXPERIMENT"—
$9,000,000 BOX OFFICE GROSS.
The many faces of love are explored in this explosive
story. Can two women married to the same husband share
his love and live in harmony? Can one man, married to two
beautiful wives, shed the stallion instinct and let love flow
freely? Can father and son rivalry or a mother's infidelity,
destroy it forever?
Intertwined is a fascinating story of a young man's financial
wizardry— of doubling and redoubling each stake he
gambles in the cut-throat business world till he's richer
than his rich father. It is the story of the no-holds-barred
conflict with that father who turns the town against him,
using his son's
"^rlnrntl
bigamous household as the lever to strip
him of economic
ProduceiJ by ROBERT L LEUINE and RICHARD WILSON
power just as he incited an unruly mob to
Associate Producers BILL STEARNS and ALLAN SANOSTROM
strip his son's wives naked in the shopping mall.
Directed by RICHARD WILSON- Based on the Novel by ROBERT H RHVUVIER
Screenplay by ELIZABETH WILSON- A CHALLENGE PICTURE EASTMAN COLOR -
But the young lovers fight back— all of it is THE REBELLION
OF YALE MARRAK
POPPA SAL
A comedy-drama in which the outrageously colortui central character takes on the local Matia in order to hold on to his tamily, his business,
and his own peculiar sense of honor
PORTRAIT OF DEATH
The true story of
how an ambitious Assistant DA. and a hardened, cynical cop unravel a bizarre murder mystery — discovering how two
young girls were frightened into killing their own father by a diabolically insane mother
THE MOTHA'S
A charcoal-grey comedy— a drama— an incredible love triangle story as well. It has tenderness in the toughest setting imaginable— a U.S. Marine
Base. In the tradition of "The Longest Yard," this unusual story has plenty of laughs and plenty of action from wonderfully drawn characters.
LOVE LIFE
A brief, poignant love affair between a strangely behaving beautiful woman and a boy-man of twenty Falling in love with her, he almost loses his
life in the process of learning she is schizophrenic. Loving her no less, he is forced to grow up suddenly and painfully
knowing that,
for her sake, they must part.
BUSINESS REPLY MAIL
N'o Po.stage Stamp Necessary if mailed in the L'nited States.
POSTAGE WILL BK PAID BY
CHALLENGE PICTURES CORPORATION
9399 Wilshire Blvd.
Beverly Hills, Calif. 90210
am interested in your concept. Mail my CORPSE contract to:
Name
Address
Telephone ( )
AREA

. . . "The
. . . Producer
. .
. .
M ^J^oltiiwood i^epoA mi
f
M
Alonzo to Make Directorial
Debut on Universal's TM'
Universal Pictures will film "FM." which
will be executive-produced by Irving Azoff
from an original screenplay by Ezra Sacks.
John Alonzo will make his directorial debut
on the theatrical motion picture concerning
contemporary radio. Executive in charge of
the project is Universal vice-president Verna
Fields. Rand Holston will produce and
Robert Larson will co-produce. Azoff's first
film venture (he's the president of Front
Line Management), the film is set for an
October 17 start and it will be photographed
in Los Angeles and at Universal Studios . . .
"Mary Fields," a Richard Pryor production,
will have Pam Grier starring in the title role
about the legendary black woman who operated
the first government stagecoach concession
in Cascade, Mont., in the 1880s .
Titan Films has set a December start on locations
in central California and Florida on
"Monster Midway," a contemporary drama
about carnival life to be directed by Sparky
Greene, who also will co-produce and write
the script . . . Lily Tomlin, signed by Universal
to make two films over a period of
three years will produce and star in "The
Incredible Shrinking Woman" as the first
feature. The film will be based on Universal's
"The Incredible Shrinking Man" (1952)
Silent Partner." a psychological
thriller, began filming August 22 on location
in Toronto, Canada, with Elliott Gould,
Christopher Plummer and Susannah York
starring. Executive producer is Garth H.
Drabinsky and Joel B. Michaels and Stephen
Yoimg are producers.
Robert Rosenthal to Direct
'Sue Anne' for Crown Int'l
Crown International Pictures has set a
Wednesday (14) starting date on "Sue
Anne." to be directed by Robert Rosenthal,
who wrote the script with Celia Susan Coiclo
. . . Walt Disney Productions plans to
begin lensing Tuesday (6) on "The North
A\cnue Irregulars." a story about a smallimvn
preacher who urges townswomen to
liLihi organized crime. Don Tait wrote the
SLiccnplay based on the book by the Rev.
Albert Fay Hill. Bruce Bilson will direct
Elmo Williams will film
James A. Michener's novel "Caravans" in
Iran, the first major motion picture to be
HKide in that country, .'\nthony Quinn has
til begin in early 1978 on location in Boslon,
with Gabe Katzka as executive pro-
Jiiclt . . . Dino De Laurentiis has acquired
tilm and TV rights to "Flash Gordon" and
will announce production plans at a later
date . . . Universal Pictures has annoimced
the acquisition of Alice Hoffman's novel.
"Property Of." which will be filmed as a
theatrical motion picture. Beverly Sawyer
has been signed to write the screenplay
based on Ms. Hoffman's novel about street
gangs in New York City and a girl who
comes of age in that environment. The contemporary
feature will be produced by
Renscc Missell and Howard Rosenman.
Gonzales Will Portray Lover
In United Artists' The End'
Peter Gonzales will portray Joanne
Woodward's Latin lover in the Lawrence
Gordon-Burt Reynolds production of "The
End," for United Artists release . . . Marius
Manzmanian has been cast in Adell Entertainment's
"Mafia on the Bounty." which
got under way July 25. Robert Adell is
executive producer and Sidney H. Levine is
producer, with Joe Van Winkle directing a
cast which includes Jackie Vernon, Frank de
K-Ova, Joe E. Ross, Gerald Nelson. Richard
Stuart, Janet Wood, Rudy Diaz and Lionel
Decker . . . For a dancing class sequence in
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's "Coma," seven girls
have been set to hoof with Genevieve Bujold
and Lois Chiles. The dancers are Renata
Vaselle. Rita O'Connor. Kay Cole, Joanna
Kernes. Lynn Eriks, Susan Mclver and
Helen Lockwood. Michael Crichton, who
scripted, also directs "Coma," with Martin
Eriichman producing. Also starred are Michael
Douglas, Elizabeth Ashley, Rip Torn
and Richard Widmark. And Dr. Gerard
Benston has taken a respite from his work
as an anesthesiologist at Los Angeles' New
Hospital to make his motion picture debut
in "Coma." He will portray, appropriately,
an anesthesiologist. Dr. Benston will form
a surgical team with Richard Widmark in
performing an appendectomy on Ms. Bujold
during hospital sequence of the exciting
mystery drama.
Lee Grant Is Added to Cast
Of Irwin Allen's The Swarm'
Lee Grant has joined the cast of prodiicer
Irwin Allen's "The Swarm," which began
filming on location in Southern California
August 22 for Warner Bros, release. Ms.
Grant also has signed for a role in 20th
Century-Fox's "Damien—Omen II." slated
to begin filming in Chicago October 12 . . .
Wimbledon champion Bjorn Borg has been
signed to make his film debut in "Racquet."
the Cal-Am/ Harlequin production dealing
Hills-Bel Air circuit . . .
been signed to star in the $10,000,000 production
with the world of tennis on the Beverly
Ronald Shedio and Marion
Danny Bonaduce
. . .
Rosenberg will produce "The Search for and Albert Insinnia have been inked for
roles Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's "Stingray."
in loscph Tully." based on the novel by Willi.im
S. Hallahan. for 20th Century-Fox.
Others added to the "Stringray" cast
(ai\ A. Sherman will adapt the psychologicdl
are Broadway actor Harry Gold, who appeared
in "Oliver!" for two and a half years;
thriller for the screen. Filming is
slated
Patrick Burns, production assistant-turnedactor,
who recently completed a role in
"The Driver" for 20th Century-Fox, and
Brion James, who most recently appeared in
"Bound for Glory." "Stingray" is being produced
by Hal Barwood and directed by
Matthew Robbins from their original
screenplay, a romantic comedy adventure
which focuses on a triangle involving a boy,
a girl and a car . . . Alain Delon will star
in "The Children Are Watching," a psychological
thriller to be filmed by his Adele
Productions for release by United Artists.
Norbert Saada will produce and Serge Leroy
will direct from a screenplay by Christopher
Franck based on a novel by Laird
Kocnig . . . Kim Milford has been inked
by producer Charles Band for the starring
role in "Laser Blast," sci-fier which began
principal photography in late August under
the Charles Band Productions banner .
Karen Black will star in the independent Canadian
production "In Praise of Older
Women," from a screenplay by Paul Gotlieb
based on the best-selling book by Steven
Vizinczey. Production begins Monday (12)
for one month on location in Canada and
Europe with George Kaczender directing,
Robert Lantos serving as producer and Harold
Greenberg and Steven Roth as executive
producers. An RSL Productions-Astral Belvuc
Pathe co-production, the film is slated
for release in March 1978.
Michael Rae Is Inked to Meg
'Laser Blast' for Chas. Band
Michael Rae has been signed to direct
producer Charles Band's "Laser Blast."
which started shooting August 22 . . Rudi
.
Fehr will supervise the foreign-language
dubbing of "Bobby Deerfield," the Warner
Bros. /Columbia Pictures release
starring Al
Pacino and Marthe Keller. Fehr has departed
for Europe to spend eight to ten weeks
as dubbing consultant in France. Germany,
Spain and Italy . . . Stunt
car driver Carey
Loftin will coordinate the auto action in
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's "Stingray" . .
.
Three of the world foremost horsemen, including
American Olympic Gold Medalist
William Steinkraus, will serve as consultants
on MGM's 'Tntemational Velvet," starring
Tatum O'Neal, Christopher Plimimer,
Anthony Hopkins and Nanette Newman.
Also signed were two of England's top
riders. Maj. Laurence Rook, winner of the
1956 Olympic Gold Medal in "Three-Day
Events" at Stockholm, and Cmdr. John
Oram, who also rode in "Three-Day Events"
and was the English team manager. Production
began Thursday (1) in England.
Warners Acquires Rights
To 'War of the Aliens'
HOLLYWOOD—Warner Bros, has acquired
distribution rights to the Hal Roach
Studios production of "War of the Aliens,"
starring Robert Vaughn and Christopher
Lee in a story of the invasion of earth by
outer-space beings. The film was produced
by Norman Glick. with Ed Hunt directing.
Norman Glick and Earl \. Glick arc principals
in Hal Roach Studios. Inc., a wholly
owned subsidiary of the Stampede International
Resources. Ltd.. Group, headquartered
in Toronto.
The film's spectacular technical effects
and the presentation of alien beings are
based on studies and interviews with persons
who have claimed sighting UFOs.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977 15

. . The
. . This
—
. .
. . The
—
. . . "The
. . One
NATION
^ SCREEN
ir
COUNCIL^Comment
Tn 3 season notable for quality family entertainment.
Mulberry Square's 'For the
Love of Benji" stood out as the June Blue
Ribbon Award winner according to members
of the National Screen Council. A very
close second, however, was Buena Vista's
22nd animated feature from Walt Disney
Productions, "The Rescuers." The "huggable
hero" edged out the cartoon mice by
fess than a dozen votes. The mice may take
comfort, however, in their boxoffice suc-
Rutherford, The Entertainer, Huntington,
W.V. . best Disney cartoon feature
decades. Towers over the competition.
in
Andrew Sarris, Village Voice, New York
City . . . This is the real, the incomparable,
the legendary Disney-type production, put
together by the real wizards of entertainment.—Howard
Pearson, The Deseret
News, Salt Lake City.
The best animated feature since the
golden days of "Snow White," "Fantasia."
etc.—Keith Williams, WBRC-TV, Birmingham,
.'Ma. . . . "The Rescuers" is beguiling.
a bewitching animation that must charm all
ages. The comedy of the albatross, the flaming
vitality of the Geraldine Page character.
the non-sticky sweetness supplied by Bob
Newhart and Eva Gabor as Bernard and
Bianca, all add up to top-notch entertainment.
Whole families enjoy it together
and that's the exception, not the rule today.
—Carole Kass, Richmond (Va.) Times-Dispatch
. . . This has to be Disney's best animation
effort in a long time. I enjoyed it
as much as the kids. A real family treat.
James R. Hughes, lATSE, Laconia, N. H.
. . . It's been a long lime. Too long. But
this is the film to bring an entire new' skeptical
generation to Disney, and retrieve
those who were becoming disappointed with
the company's inconsisTent product. The
voices, the color, the movement are all mesmerizing
in "The Rescuers."—Wm. D.
Kerns.
"A Bridge Too Far"
A well-made picture that is damaged a
little by its compulsion to cast big-name stars
in roles that they do not believably fit. Almost
half of the big names should not truthfully
be there. Otherwise, a laudable effort
cess (grossing 35.^ per cent of average business,
'while "Benji trots along carrying 223
with a grim statement on war.—Jerry Fitzgerald,
Tyler (Tex.) TV-Star . . . This is
per cent); perhaps the canine superstar is
not the way the people who fought it saw
holding out for the final lap.
the Second World War, however, I grudgingly
give it the nod for special effects.
Clustered at third and fourth with nearly
equal numbers of votes were "One on One"
Joe A. Ortega. Bank of Calif., Seattle.
and "A Bridge Too Far." Many NSC members
were pleased by the overall quality
"A Bridge Too Far" is an impressive
film. It presents some compelling war history
as only the screen can do—by re-cre-
of the Jime list, as reflected in the comments
below:
ating the awesome displays of power and
massed humanity, charging them with vignettes
and examples of individual courage
"For the Love of Benji"
No contest.—Jim Schrader, Amherst
Bee, Williamsville, N. Y. .
film and stupidity, and capably showing what
should give entertainment and joy to both happens when mankind tries to go "a bridge
children and parents who love dogs.—Mrs. too far."—Charles Oestreich, Rock Island
Wayne Shaw. USD of 1812, Lawrence, Kas. (III.) Argus . greatest movie of all
... As always, a very fine picture for young time! (Bar none!)—Walter Waldman, Westchester
Gazette, N. Y.
and old.—Mrs. John A. Smith, Federation
of Motion Picture Councils. Pittsburgh . "One on One"
This has been one of the brightest films of Robbie Benson has come a long way since
the summer and I fully expect to have it on "Jeremy."—John Crittenden, The Bergen
my Ten Best list at the end of the year.
(N.J.) Record ... A little different—Teen-
Good family product is always a rarity, we
know. But rarely does there come a film
gacklash:
which not only fascinates the children and
Although many NSC members
commented on the multiplic-
adults, but the film buffs as well. Bless Mulberry
Square—and give them my Blue Rib-
of excellent family films included
ity
bon vote as well.—Wm. D. Kerns. Avalanche-Journal,
Lubbock. Tex.
hiser of the Kansas City Film Critics
on the June ballot (Dr. James Loulzen-
Circle called it the "best ballot ever"),
"The Rescuers"
some members took a rather dimmer
No need for the Disney organization to view.
wish upon stars any more, this one explodes Jerry Krupnick of the Newark
with the wonderment and magic for which (N. J.) Times-Ledger wrote: "A weak
Walt built his reputation. Lm sure wherever
his spirit is now, it's mighty proud!—Tony
list. *A Bridge Too Far' is the biggest
bomb of the year. 'Beau Geste' is funny,
but just for one joke. 'One on
One' could be another 'Rocky' for the
Pepsi Generation."
"The question to me is, why does a
brilliant man such as Marty Feldman
so concern himself with sick humor?"
wrote Doug Smith of the Buffalo
Courier-Express. "When I came out
of this movie I expected it was about
8 o'clock. A nearby digital clock corrected
this estimate to 7:32. Time sure
crawls when you're not havin' fun."
Smith continued, addressing himself
to "One on One": "This is a movie with
a message. The message is, round pegs
do fit into square holes, and if they
don't fit, force them. The film's device
of playing the young man straight and
the coach as a slavering caricature is
just cheap politics. Foul on 'One on
One'!" Of the same picture, Wendeslaus
Schuiz of the Star Theatre in Bay
St. Louis, Miss, wrote somewhat uncharitably,
"Robbie Benson acts as if he
is retarded. His 'dumb act' has to go."
While "A Bridge Too Far" had its
agers will enjoy—No star value; this makes
"One on One" better.— Leon Averitt, Don
Theatre, Rolla, Mo. . . . Robbie Benson is
superb.—Nancy Nelson, WTCN-TV, Minneapolis
. . . Competent and unpretentious
filmmaking.—Alvin Easter, Cinema Magazine,
Minneapolis . of the best sports
movies in years.—Emery Wister, Charlotte
(N.C.) News.
Miscellanous
{Listed in order of voles received)
The Last Remake of Beau Geste: When
Marty Feldman rolls those eyes, he rolls me
in the aisle.—Art Pinansky, teacher, Portland,
Me. . . . Outrageous, excessive, incredible,
and perfectly marvelous entertainment.
Long live Marty Feldman!—James L. Limbacher,
Henry Ford Centennial Library,
Dearborn, Mich.
The Island of Dr. Moreau: The only one
of these films that I enjoyed was "The
Island of Dr. Moreau." The animal/human ;
transformations were exceptional.—Maria I
Moore, Greater Detroit MP & TV Council I
Island of Dr. Moreau" is an ex-
'
citing story and is beautifully filmed. It is
excellent entertainment.—Kim Larsen, Billings
(Mont.) Gazette.
Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger: The
handsome, sensuously attired young actors
add zest to the special Dynarama effects
to create a visual entertainment package for
adults and children.—Ann Ward, San Angelo
(Tex.) Standard-Times ... A good
family film for the kids, if you catch my
drift. The plots of the Schneer-Harryhausen
films have limited their audience groups
always, but Ray's special effects were always
brilliant enough to attract the true
film buffs.—Wm. D. Kerns.
staunch devotees, Kim Larsen wrote
it "should have been called 'A Bridge
Too Long.' It's a terribly dull film."
William D. Kerns concurred, saying
"Everyone who saw this movie should
have been issued an honorable discharge
at the door as they left. This
movie offers a very realistic look at
war. But then, so do documentaries.
The movies also serve to entertain, and
in this respect this film is an utter
failure. Indeed, 'A Bridge Too Far' is
the perfect movie for anyone who enjoys
watching closeups of tank treads
for three hours."
Finally, exhibitor W. E. Fletcher, of
Seward, Ak., wrote this comment (in
emphatic capitals): "The overwhelming
response to pictures like 'Star Wars,'
'Rocky,' the new Bond film and of
course Disney's all-time greats ('The
Rescuers' no exception) proves there is
an eager audience just waiting for this
type of production ... As an exhibitor
for almost 30 years now, get so frus-
I
trated sometinies because we have it,
and the public is waiting to see it, and
do, when we produce for them! Time
and again it's being proven with record
crowds . . . What's holding us back
from developing our full
potential?"
A question for Seward (or for any
other NSC member): Just what is the
industry's "full potential?" Is this a
question of profit? or of pleasure?
What opportunities to educate are inherent
in the entertainment of children?
what responsibilities? What criteria do
each of you employ in voting for a Blue
Ribbon Award?
16
BOXOFFICE :: September 5, 1977

• ADURES * EXFLOITIPS
• ALPHABETICAL INDEX
• EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
• FEATURE RELEASE CHART
• FEATURE REVIEW DIGEST
• SHORTS RELEASE CHART
• SHORT SUBJECT REVIEWS
• REVIEWS OF FEATURES
• SHOWMANDISING IDEAS
THE GUIDE TO m BETTER BOOKING AND B U S I N E S S - B U I L D I N 6
Classic Van Giveaway, Mammoth Dance Marathon
Create High Profile for 'The Van in Augusta, Ga.
Georgia Theatre Co. city manager Curt
Harris arranged a two-track campaign to
kick off the successful engagement of
Crown International Pictures" "The Van" at
the Masters 4 cinemas and Skyview Drivein
in Augusta, Ga., where the hit feature
opened June 17. Achieving spectacular
hoopla for the playdate was a van giveaway
contest held in conjunction with WGUS
Radio, Augusta.
Approximately 4,000 entries were received
in this competition, in which patrons
had only to observe simple ground rules:
guess the combined weight of the van (nicknamed
"The Big Gus Van") and the WGUS
Radio deejays. The prize was a "59 VW
van valued at $1,500.
The contest was laimched one week prior
to the opening of "The Van"" and the entire
campaign cost for the theatre was only
$57.83. This sum represented the expense
of making lobby and other signs to publicize
the giveaway and the preparation of entry
blanks.
Besides providing the prize van, WGUS
aired 210 promotion spots ballyhooing the
giveaway, the registration and the motion
picture one week prior to the opening and
during the run of "The Van"' at the Masters
4 cinemas and the Skyview Drive-In. According
to a notarized statement by station
general manager Casey Jenkins, the free airtime
on WGUS was valued at over $1,000!
The total weight of the van and the deejays
was 3,060 pounds and winner Janet
Hobbs came within 35 pounds of the exact
figure. As a matter of fact, 15 other entries
came within 40 pounds of the correct
weight.
The second contest was held via a tie-in
with 102-G Radio, which sponsored an annual
dance marathon that was attended by
over 5.000 youngsters. A total of 100 passes
to see "The Van"" were passed out as door
prizes at the marathon, held the weekend
prior to the opening of the picture.
In addition
to these freebies, the stereo FM station
donated hundreds of dollars in free radio
time promoting "The Van" and the 60-hour
marathon, which represented a far-reaching
hypo for the picture's playdate.
s^\%
THIS BIG GUS
VAN
r m' FLiir, 4 ym^ Fm
"The Big Gus Van" furnished by WGUS Radio as a gi\
playdate at GTC theatres.
iway to f>lug "The Van"
I
THE VAN
orENING FR1.-JUNE-I7'-
Poster which announced "The Van'
>nlcsl rules at two GTC units it>
.Sonw of the >.(H)0 young
promoting "The Van."
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: Sept. 5, 1977 — 30 —
GTC city manager Curt Harris, left.
and IVGUS general manager Casey
Jenkins present keys to Miss Janet
Hohhs. winner of the van.

BOXOFFICE
BAROMETER
This chart records the performance of current attractions in the opening week of their first runs in
cities the Pictures five 20 key checked. with fewer than engagements are not listed. As new runs
are reported, ratings are added and overages revised. Computation is in terms of percentage in
to relation average grosses as determined by the theatre managers. With 100 per cent as average,
the figures show the gross ratings above or below that mark. (Asterisk * denotes combination bills.)
Aguiire, the Wrath of God (New Yorker)

—
New York's Film Festival
Set for Sept. 23 Opening
NEW YORK—The Film Society of Lincoln
Center will open the 15th New York
Film Festival with French director Agnes
Varda's latest feature "One Sings, the Other
Doesn't," according to the society's president.
Martin E. Segal. The festival runs
from Friday (23) through October 9 with
the opening and closing shows planned for
Avery Fisher Hall. Ticket prices for those
two evenings would range from $4 to $10
and from $2.50 to $5.50 on the other
nights.
Joanne Koch, the film society's executive
director, announced that there would be an
animation festival Monday-Friday (26-30)
and a retrospective of ten major films from
American Archives October 3-7.
Richard Roud, festival director and program
committee chairman, said that more
than half of the program had been decided
upon and includes the following films, in
addition to the leadoff feature, from the
countries listed: "Roseland," America; "Citizens
Band," America; "Hot Tomorrows,"
America; "Padre Padrone," Italy; "The
Devil, Probably," France; "The Truck,"
France; "The American Friend," Germany;
"Bollwiser," Germany; "Heart of Glass."
Germany; '"Omar Gatlato," Algeria and
"L'Enfant de Paris," France.
The boxoffice for the festival opens Simday
(ID at Alice Tully Hall.
Majestic News Operations
Investigated by Grand Jury
PITTSBURGH—The federal grand jury
continues to hold secret sessions in its investigation
into the operation of Majestic
News. Allegations are that the owners and
employees of the company have engaged in
the interstate transportation of purported
pornographic materials.
Annette Martin, 25,
adult film queen better
known as Annette Haven, was granted
immunity and testified on the production
and distribution of the adult material for
several days.
The investigation is related to an FBI
raid on the Majestic warehouse February
17. during which 2,000 films and other
alleged pornographic material was confiscated
along with company records. No arrests
were made but the strike uncovered
the fact that seven police officers were
"moonlighting" for Majestic as guards, although
no record of their part-time employment
was noted on police records as
required by the law.
Various agencies are seeking the indictment
of Greg Kocan and ten other people
connected with Majestic News. The FBI
described Kocan as the manager. Already
indicted on five counts in a related case in
West Virginia is Richard Torch, a truck
driver for Majestic. Several of Pennsylvania's
neighbor states are also pursuing investigations
into the alleged interstate traffic of
supposed pornographic materials.
U.S. District Judge Hubert I. Teitelbaum
is presiding at the closed-door sessions with
assistant U.S. Attorneys Henry Barr and
David K. .Shapira leading the prosecution.
Star witness Haven vehemently denied
that she is
a criminal stating that she strongly
objects to the government's implication
that her livelihood violates the law. A director
and producer as well as a star in adult
pictures, she has worked on a number o(
unreleased films including one in which she
performed all three functions. "Time and
Time Againl"
Attorney Barr believes that criminal
charges might be lodged against a number
of Californians in the Majestic case and he
added that it is his opinion that a series of
indictments may well be forthcoming.
nance. Although the bill is still unsigned, a
nimiber of municipalities have been getting
signatures on petitions to place the pornography
question on the November ballot. The
petitions are being circulated by a citizens'
group called "Stamp Out Smut" (SOS),
which is also pressuring the governor to
sign the bill.
Pressure to sign is also coming from a
coalition of religious leaders from a number
of South Jersey commimities, headed
by the Rev. Daniel R. Schieber, pastor of
the Calvary Baptist Church in West Collingswood
Heights.
Black Pickets in Boycott
Of Two Milgram Theatres
PHILADELPHIA—The first-run Fox
and Milgram theatres in the adjoining building,
operated by the Milgram circuit based
here are being picketed by black street vendors.
Both houses specialize in black oriented
films. The pickets, armed with bullhorns
are urging filmgoers not to enter the
theatres. The action was sparked by moves
against the street vendors parked on the side
of the theatre building by the city's Department
of Licenses and Inspection.
Milton Street, who heads the Street Vendors
Ass'n said they were boycotting the
two Milgram theatres because the management
had lodged a complaint against them
resulting in at least two vendors' tables being
confiscated by city inspectors. According
to inspectors, the vendors were blocking
fire exits on the side of the Fox Theatre as
well as the street's footway. No attempt has
been made by the Milgram management for
any court relief to limit or restrain the
pickets.
NYC Top Spot Goes
To Canadian Comedy
NEW YORK— "Outrageous!", the sensational
Canadian comedy, jumped from
fifth to first place in its fourth outing at
Cinema II. with a big 510 average again.
Second was "Inside Jennifer Welles," a still
potent 470 for the sixth round at the World.
Third place was a 350 title for two sexers,
last week's winner "Hard Candy," second
time at Rialto II, and "Heat Wave," third
last time, second roimd at Rialto I.
"Suspiria" stayed in fourth place, earning
330 for the second week at the Criterion.
"Barbara Broadcast." another adult pic, was
back in fifth spot with a 275 seventh round
at the Eastworld. Also back, in sixth, was
"I Never Promised You a Rose Garden,"
improving with 205 in the seventh installment
at Cinema I.
Showcase winners, following the perennial
"Star Wars," were "One On One,"
"Kentucky Fried Movie," "Sinbad and the
Eye of the Tiger," "The Bad New Bears
in Breaking Training," "Orca," the Disney
NJ Obscenity Legislation
Focal Point of Disputes
JRENION. N.J. —Religious and commimity
groups throughout the state are increasing
their pressure on Governor Brendan
T. Byrne to sign the obscenity bill
passed by the state legislature which has
been on his desk since July 1 1. The measure
would make municipal judges, instead of
county judges, the arbiters of what is obscene
in their towns and the governor believes
the bill may be both imconstitutional bill "Cinderella" and "The Boatniks" (both
and impractical.
reissues), "The Spy Who Loved Me" and
The bill, sponsored by Senator Joseph "A Bridge Too Far."
A. Maressa. Democrat from Camden County,
would allow each of the state's 567 mu-
(Av Is !00)
Baronel—Pardon Mon Allaire (Fi
10th wk
nicipalities to adopt its own obscenity ordi-
Beekman—La Grande Bourgeois
(Atlantic R
9th wk
Rialto I— He. Wav
2nd wk
Rialto 11—The LoUypop Girls m Hard Candy
(Debonair), 2nd iv k
68th Street Playhouse—The First Nudie Mu ical
(Northal), 5th wk
World— Inside Jenniler Welles (Lvati
i ih .vk
'Cinderella,' 'Animation'
Hand in Hand in Baltimore
BALTIMORE—"Cinderella 2000" has yet
to have her coach turn back into a pumpkin.
The "Fantastic Animation Festival" put
on a fantastically animated performance.
The pair tied for top spot in Baltimore with
350 averages. The latter is in its initial appearance.
"Star Wars" managed a 245 average
at three houses while the balance of the
first runs were basically ho-hum! It may be
the end of summer, the beginning of school,
whatever the reason an astonishingly profitable
summer for the industry, here, is about
to bid a fond farewell to the Bay area.
Cinema I—New York, New York (UA), 8th wk, 100
Cinema II, Liberty I—Final Chapter—Walking
Tall (AIP), 2nd wk 50
Glen Burnie Mall, Westview IV-MacArthur
(Univ), 3rd wk 70
Mini-Flick I—Cinderella 2000 (SR), 2nd wk 350
I^ini-Flick II—Fantastic Animation Festival (SR) 350
Wes:view 1—The Bad News Bears in Breal
Troining (Para), 4th wk
Westview III—The Other Side ol Midnight
(20th-Fox), 9th wk
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

^
RO ADy\f Ay
15TH NEW YORK FILM Festival
re
pester has been designed by artist Jim
Dine, a longtime festival
enthusiast who has
don.ited his work to the Film Society of
Lincoln Center, it was announced by Joanne
Koch, executive director of the society. This
\ear"s festival will be held at Alice Tully
Hall in IJncoln Center Friday (23) through
October 9. The poster will be seen at the
festival and in various window displays
around town prior to it.
Dine, a native of Cincinnati who lives
and works in Putney, Vt., has been exhibiting
his work for over 20 years. He has
had one-man shows at New York's Museum
of Modern Art and the Whitney
Museum, as well as in almost every major
city in the U.S. and Europe, from Honolulu
to Helsinki.
The poster is one of Dine's "bathrobe"
self-portraits, to be issued in a limited edition
of 200 and expected to be one of the
most sought-after of the festival pieces.
The distinguished list of festival poster
artists also includes Frank Stella, Larry
Rivers, Saul Bass, Bruce Conner, Roy Lichtenstein,
Andy Warhol, Henry Person, Marisol,
James Rosenquist, Josef Albres, Niki
de Saint Phalle, Jean Tinguely, Corol Simimers
and Allan D'Archangelo.
•
Neil Hellman. president of HeUmaii Enterprises,
is hack home at 700 Western Ave.
in Albany after a recuperative stay at the
Albany Medical Center there for four
weeks. He also owns and operates the Lincoln.
Andalusia and Lawrence drive-ins in
the Philadelphia exchange area and is
known in racing circles as an owner and
breeder of thoroughbred race horses.
He expects to be hack at work within
the next few weeks.
•
Harriet Stein, foreign
press representative
for United Artists Corp., wsa married to
Michael Stotter, creative director for RCA
Records, August 20 in Manhattan.
•
The American Museum a/ Natural His-
COLOR or Black and White I
FOR
INDOOR AND
DRIVE-INS
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS • TRAILERETTES
NO SMOKING > VANDALISM • DATERS
COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Filmaok
.^3 tudios
series. "The Rescuers" and "Herbie Goes
to Monte Carlo," both of which oddly
enough are new films.
Also playing: "Star Wars," "One on One,"
tory will hold an anthropological film festival
in lionor of Margaret Mead Wednes-
"The Deep" (in its last two days on .shosvcase),
"A Bridge Too Far." "The Bad News
day (14) through Simday (18). The series
will feature the works of dozens of filmmakers
and informal talks by film experts,
workshops, exhibits and a student screening
area. Over 80 hours of continuous .screenings
will be held in eight museum halls, all
as part of a year-long tribute to Dr. Mead
on the occasion of her 75-year association
with the museum, as well as her pioneering
work in film ethnography.
A three-evening retrospective of the work
of French film ethnographer Jean Roiicli
will be presented. Acclaimed as a man who
combines the expertise of the anthropologist
with the creative and technical skills of the
professional filmmaker, Rouch will introduce
and discuss his films on modern Africa.
Among the classics to he shown are "Nanook
of the North" (Robert Flaherty. 1922).
"The Wedding of Palo" (F. Dalsheim-Kmid
Rasmussen, 1937), "Land Without Bread"
(Lids Bunuel, 1932) "Song of Ceylon" (John
Grierson-Basil Wright, 1934) and "Grass"
(Merian Cooper-Ernest Schoedsack, 1925).
Such recent works as "The Pedestrian"
(Maximilian Schell, 1973) and excerpts
from TV's "Roots" will be seen, along with
such oddities as "Hitlerjunge Quex" (Hains
Steinhoff, 1933), a Nazi Youth propagatuia
film; "The Ax Fight" (Timothy-Asch-Napoleon
Chagnon, 1975), a violent outburst
in a Venezuelan village as .seen in
four versions; "Holy Ghost People" (Peter
Adair, 1967), a religious group in Appalachia
that involves poisonous snakes, and
"In the Land of the War Canoes" (Edward
S. Curtis, 1914), on the Kwakiull Indians
of British Columbia.
Dr. Mead will discuss several films in
which she took part; e.g.. "Bathing Babies
in Three Cultures" (1936-38). "Four Families"
(1959) and "Margaret Mead's New
Guinea Journal" (1968), .stressing family life
in
various cultures.
•
The office of the Variety Club of New
York August 29 relocated to 1600 Broadway,
New York, N.Y. 10019, Room 605.
The phone number will remain the same:
(212) 247-5588.
•
Showcases for Wednesday. August 31.
included American International's last word
on the late lawman Buford Pusser. "Final
Chapter— Walking Tall," starring Bo Svenson,
with Forrest Tucker. Columbia's sleeper
"You Light Up My Life," a Joseph
Brooks film starring Didi Conn, bowed. 1 lie
Walt Disney Summer Festival began its
final program with a repeat of the two
most popular films in the summer-long
BUX-MONT
Marquees—Signs
LEASING
Horsham, Pennsylvania 19044
Coll (215) 676-4444 or 675-1040
Bears in Breaking Training," "The Spy
Who Loved Me," "Kentucky Fried Movie,"
"The Other Side of Midnight," "Star War.s"
and, on new tracks, "New York, New York"
and "Sinhad and the Eye of the Tiger."
WASHINGTON
prank Mankiewicz, nephew of directorscreenwriter
Joseph Mankiewicz and
formerly an attorney with a major Hollywood
law firm, has been appointed president
of locally based National Public Radio
(NPR), a network of 175 public radio stations.
NPR partly is financed by the Congress
through the Corp. for Public Broadcasting.
The new NPR president is married to the
former Holly Jolley. who was a classmate
at UCLA. His mother Nora is a resident of
Los Angeles. Mankiewicz formerly was press
secretary to the late Sen. Robert Kennedy.
A "moderately moneyed journalist," he is
well known in this city's political and media
circles.
The American Film Institute had press
screenings of new Indian films August 31
and Thursday (1), including "The Forest,"
"Two Faces: Indecision," "The Golden Fortress"
and "27 Down." Indian cinema will
be featured at the AFI Theatre through
Thursday (29). The films, presented in the
original language with English subtitles, depict
the country's varied culture. The entire
series of 1 1 films will be shown later in
New York, San Francisco and other cities.
The AFI Theatre's September program
also includes eight features and animated
shorts from the Bulgarian cinema. Alfred
Hitchcock classics will be shown in the
AFI "Rediscovery" series. Also scheduled
for the fall program are films in the sciencefiction
genre.
AFl's tenth anniversary TV special will be
aired November 21. CBS' 90-minute telecast
will highlight a ten-day festival of film and
TV to celebrate API's first decade. The network
program will announce the ten "greatest
American films" as selected by 35,000
AFI members, whose voting deadline was
Monday (5). Participating in the TV pro-
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E-2 .September 5. 1977

REET
gram will be film stars and other personalities
commending AFl's decade of service.
Universal branch manager Alex Schimcl
and thj K.-B Iheatrcs sneaked "Which Way
Is Up?", starring Richard Pryor. at the K-B
Cinema August 25. The tryout screening
was for audience reaction. The nc.\t evening
Schimel tradescreened "9/30/53" at the
K-B Cinema.
The star of the Warner Bros, release 1 he
Pack," a four-legged actor named Josh and
his trainer Karl Miller, stopped off for promotional
reasons as the film debuted in 47
area theatres. Josh is the leader of 34
pooches in "The Pack," which, according
to the Post's Henry Mitchell, is "one of the
more horrifying films of the year, in which
savage dogs claw through the convertible
tops of cars, get blown to smithereens by
elephant guns and so forth. But they're just
actors."
Columbia's release "March or Die" seemed
to please the local critics, in a leflhanded
way: the Star's Tom Dowling exclaimed,
"Sir Lew Grade, the unstoppable British
film magnate, has given me some big laughs
this year. They come right from the belly.
Sir Lew's latest gasser is a Foreign Legion
epic titled 'March or Die." " The Post's Gary
Arnold wrote that " 'March or Die' provokes
merriment of a more spontaneous and
satisfying kind" and that "the only way to
enjoy the film is to take it as unintentional
farce."
Harrisburg Houses Hypo
Summer Fare Various Ways
HARRISBURG, PA.—The AMC East 5
theatres here have been finding interesting
promotional angles for summer releases.
Assistant manager Rob Copeland decorated
the front of the complex in red, white and
blue for the sub-run engagement of "Rocky"
and two large posters announced the "heavyweight
championship fight." All ushers,
cashiers and management wore "Uncle
Sam" hats.
A cross-plug arrangement was made with
a neighboring bookstore for "Orca" and
Mulberry Square's "For the Love of Benji."
Columbia's 'You Light Up'
Is Launched in NYC Area
NEW YORK—Columbia Pictures' "You
Light Up My Life," written, produced and
directed by Joseph Brooks, opened August
3 1 at the Loews' Tower East and Guild
theatres in Manhattan and Columbia Premiere
Showcase theatres throughout the
metropolitan area.
A contemporary story, set against the
world of pop music and TV commercials.
"You Light Up My Life" stars Didi Conn.
The original music in "You Light Up My
Life," which will be released shortly on
Warner Bros. Records, was composed, arranged
and conducted by Brooks. Nick Grippo
and Edwin Morgan served as associate
producers.
Major Legal Battle Looms
Over Local Police Action
ASBURY PARK. N.J.—A major legal
battle looms here as a result of police confiscating
the print of "Desires Within Young
Girls" at the New Baronet Theatre on July
II. At a hearing before Superior Court
Judge Patrick J. McGann, Jr., in Freehold,
Anvar Patel and Holly Spinaport, operators
of the theatre, where indicted on charges of
showing an obscene motion picture.
The New Baronet Theatre operates under
a policy of showing only X-rated films, a
policy which was continued despite the seizure
of the film. Patel and Spinaport also
operate the Ruby Theatre where action and
horror films are shown. The New Baronet
and Ruby theatres are the only two motion
picture houses operating in the resort
proper since the Walter Reade organization
closed down after going into bankruptcy at
the beginning of the year.
Harry Margolis Retires
After a 55-Year Career
NEW YORK—Harry Margolis. 73, New
York metropolitan salesman with Avco
Embassy Pictures, retired Thursday (1) after
55 years in the motion picture industry.
He joined Embassy Pictures in 1962 as
New York branch manager. Previously he
was with MGM 34 years.
Margolis will be succeeded by Joe Finn,
who worked as a booker with United Artists.
Roth Theatres needed a gimmick (a gizmo)
to promote audience attendance after
booking, you guessed it, "Gizmo." So, opening
day at every Roth theatre, the price of
admission was only $1.50 all day, all seats,
to celebrate the film's exclusive Maryland
engagement at Roth's College Park and its
exclusive Virginia engagement at Roth's
Tysons Corner. Howard Smith, a Village
Voice columnist and co-director of "Margo,"
wrote and directed the Key Enterprises
release, which is "filled with visual delights,
quirky, crabbed vignettes and an imaginative
voiceover soundtrack."
NJ Museum Holds Festival
TRENTON, N.J.—A daytime continuous
running, from 10 p.m. to 4 p.m. on
weekdays and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday
and Sunday, has been scheduled for a
weeklong film festival at the New Jersey
State Museum here to finish out the summer
season. The continuous screenings,
shown free, will showcase the 48 films selected
as winners in the 19th annual American
Film Festival conducted this past spring
by the
Educational Film Library Ass'n.
CINERAMA IS IM
SHOW BUSINESS IN
HAWAII TOO.
When you come to Waikiki
don't miss the famous
(jlljrfjUUUl
n.-_ Li_

"
BUFFALO
Jiyjore than 600 people aged 16-23 were on
ihe stage of the Century Theatre Aii-
:;ii>i 19 auditioning for small roles in the up-
Ci'nii.;g Paramount movie version of
"Grease." Free tickets were available at all
Hengerer department stores.
An Academy Award dinner and dance
was scheduled for Sunday (4) in the Derby
Club. Old film was fashioned into centerpieces.
Movie posters decorated the clubhouse
and music from Academy Award
motion pictures during the past 30 years
was played.
Critic Alan Williams spoke on "The Spectator
as Part of the Cinematographic Machinery"
August 20 in the University of
Buffalo's O'Brian Hall. Amherst campus.
Kennedy Films were the subject of a lecture
presentation August 23 in the State
a documentary portrait of two eccentric
kinswomen of Jackie Onassis, opened August
24 at the Valu Cinema. "Grand Theft
Auto." marking the directorial debut of
Ron Howard, opened at Valu Two and
three drive-ins.
The city of Lockport is hosting one of
its own this week, paying tribute to Lillian
Bronson, veteran Hollywood actress
born there in 1902. Best known for her role
as Arthur Fonzarelli's grandmother. Miss
Bronson is being honored also as Clark
Gable's secretary. Henry Fonda's mother.
Claudelte Colbert's sister. James Whitniore's
aunt and one of the presiding judges
in
Perry Mason's lengthy TV law career.
Miss bronson's grandfather founded the
Bronson Carriage Works in Lockport and
operated it on the site of the old Park Hotel,
building horse and buggy carriages and
racing sulkies,
some of which were exhibited
in the world exposition in Paris in the
lH90s, and the first fire engines built in
I.Oikport. Her father continued to run the
business in
later years.
After graduating from Lockport High
•School in 1921, an English teacher convinced
her to go into acting, and she was
on her way. This is her first visit to Lockport
since arriving in Hollywood in 1943.
[here is already a 30-foot mural of Miss
Bronson painted along the freeway in Los
Angeles. A young artist hit on the idea for
a mural honoring the spirit of the old several
years ago. Kent Twitchell was familiar
•'iih Miss Bronson's work and chose her as
;ii> model for the huge work.
He obtained endowments from national
and local art associations and created the
mural which is entitled "Portrait of Lillian
Bronson: A Monument to Old Age." The
plaque below it quotes from "King Lear":
"The oldest hath borne most. We that are
young shall never see so much or live as
long."
Hit by recent roadwork near the theatre
the Holiday Six theatres took newspaper
ad space to announce: Note: . . . Union
Road from Genessee to Walden is "FREE
OF CONSTRUCTION.
Rock Hudson starred in the musical
Camelot" on the stage of the Melody
Fair the week of August 29.
The National Endowment for the Arts
announced award of two grants for Buffalo
programs. They are: Studio Theatre School
Corp., $30,000 for support of administrative
staff development: Arts Development
Services, Inc., $3,000 for support of multi-
special guest Melissa Manchester, appeared
on the stage of the new Century Theatre
August 31. Jazzman Roy Ayers played pi-
University of Buffalo's Diefendorf Hall. ple programs for regional artists.
The lecture title was "Moving Images in
American Political Life" with films on John British singer-songwriter Leo Sayer, plus
and Robert Kennedy being shown by Gerald
O'Grady. As part of the program hj
screened "Report, Jingle Bells and Kennedy
Campaign Film."
ano and vibraphone at Shea's Buffalo Theatre
August 27. Special guest Phyllis Hyman
Filmmaker Thom Anderson screened and also performed.
discussed his film "Eadweard Muybridge.
Zoopra.xographer" (19) in UB"s Fillmore It was pouring rain and for many, a long
Collegiate Center. Amherst campus.
and anxious trip; and yet 1,100 staunch
and soaked music lovers made their sloppy
The Maysles brothers' "Grey Gardens," way to Artpark Theatre August 21 for the
Buffalo Philharmonic's concert under Mitch
Miller. Even the maestro himself couldn't
believe it. In paying tribute to the audience,
Mitch said, "I know I wouldn't come out
on a night like this, to see me."
Harvey & Corky Productions will move
the live-theatre portion of their operations
into Shea's Buffalo Theatre for 1977-78
with an eight-play schedule opening October
8 with "Cabaret."
Mini-Reviews in the Courier-Express:
"Outlaw Blues" is something different, a
chase movie with a statement and a lot of
subtle touches. Rated PG but not really fit
for children. At the Como, Colvin and a
few drive-ins. "Scent of a Woman," a fine,
sensitive picture by the late Vittoria Gassman.
at the Valu 5 Cinema.
Director Tony Conrad screened and discussed
his films "Outside the Dream Syndicate"
and "Articulation in Boolean Algebra
by Film Opticals" in O'Brian Hall, State
University of Buffalo, Amherst campus.
A triple film bill of recent film hits was
presented at the Century Theatre August 26,
with proceeds benefiting the Muscular Dystrophy
Ass'n. The films: Woody Allen's
"Play It Again, Sam," Roman Polanski's
"Chinatown" and the comedy "Harold and
Maude."
Hal Crowther, reviewing "Scent of a
Woman" in the Buffalo Evening News.
wrote: " "Scent' the latest a siring of winners
in
at the Valu Cinema's invaluable
Foreign
Film Festival, took two years to get
here even after it won Vittorio Gassman
the Best Actor award at Cannes. But at the
end of one of the worst summers of cinema
ever suffered in Buffalo, it stands out like
the scent of jasmine in a stockyard."
Thomas Mule, 87. owner and operator of
what was believed to be the first portable
merry-go-round in this city, died August 22.
Mule, who ran the merry-go-round from
1925 to 1957, also entertained residents of
virtually every Buffalo neighborhood with
a hand organ. He charged two cents for a
ride on the merry-go-round, which he pumped
himself.
The North Tonawanda Common Council
may award a cable TV franchise by the
end of next month. The council heard
service proposals from Courier Cable, Inc.,
International Cable TV, Inc.. Twin City
Cable, Inc., and Lumberjack Cable, Inc.
Mary Beth Lawton, manager of the I-
290 Drive-In. is very promotion minded.
As a part of her ballyhoo for "The Bad
News Bears in Breaking Training" Mary
Beth arranged for a baseball game between
1-290 employees, known as "The Bad News
Bears" and the Club 17 "Flyers," a girls'
Softball team from North Tonawanda. The
contest was played in the same zany manner
as a Globetrotter game. The "Bears"
held their bats upside down, actually stole
the bases, removed the opposing team's first
basemen, ran the bases clockwise, pitched
with water, balloons and sat on the opposing
team's catcher.
The promotion was carried by radio
WISL-WPHD, with 30 radio spots.
stations
Harv Moore, station DJ. sponsored (referecd)
the events. The mayors of both
Tonawanda and North Tonawanda acted
as imipircs (but finally gave up). Among
the spectators was Bill Hebert, booker for
Frontier Amusement Corp. and a North
Tonawanda resident; Winslow, the mascot
from Fun 'n' Games Amusement Park,
which is adjacent to the drive-in, and a
good crowd.
During the run of the picture, Lawton
arranged to have 400 balloons tossed out
nightly from the roof of the snack bar, to
all children 1 1 years old and under. Fifty of
the balloons were numbered, and were redeemable
for prizes such as skateboards,
baseball bats, gloves, hats, socks, shirts,
passes to ball games, all of which were
donated by merchants.
WCI Directors Approve
Proposed Bank Merger
NEW YORK— At a special meeting August
15 of the board of directors of Warner
Communications, Inc., the board agreed
to vote WCI's shares of Garden State National
Bank in favor of the proposed merger
of Garden State with the National State
Bank, Elizabeth, N.J.
The terms of the merger were set forth
in the joint press release issued earlier by
W. Emien Roosevelt, president of the National
State Bank, and Charles A. Agemian,
chairman of the Garden State National
Bank.
E-4 BOXOFFICE :: September 5, 1977

I
Roy Rogers, Cowboy King,
Back in the Saddle Again
By JOHN COCCHl
NEW YORK—Roy Rogers, still -King ol
the Cowboys." starred at a press conterencc
ai the Essex House here on August 26 to
bring the press up to date on his current
activities. Son Dusty, also known as Roy
Rogers jr., was present as the cowboy star
spoke of his new film, "Macintosh &
T. J.," the string of Roy Rogers Family
restaurants, his IV series and personal appearances.
His first leading role in a theatrical film
since Bob Hope's "Son of Paleface" (1952),
not counting a guest bit in Hope's "Alias
Jesse James" (1959), "Macintosh & T. J."
casts Rogers as a drifting ranch hand in
Texas. He meets Clay O'Brien, a teenager
named T. J., and they team up at the famed
6666 Ranch. Co-starring Joan Hackett, Billy
Green Bush, Andrew Robinson and rodeo
champion Larry Mahan, the film was produced
by Tim Penland and directed by Marvin
Chomsky, with a theme song sung by
Weylon Jennings.
Local Debut Pending
A New York-New Jersey area opening is
being arranged for the film, which already
has played in such states as California,
Texas and Oklahoma. May 10. Rogers appeared
in Denver. Colo., for the film's premiere,
a benefit for the Denver Children's
Hospital, and the mayor proclaimed "Roy
Rogers Week." The film opened in 140 theatres
in the Rocky Mountain, Wyoming and
Utah areas.
There are now more than 200 Roy Rogers
Family restaurants in existence, with
some 300 to 400 the total amount hoped
for within the next few years. Twenty-five
are in the metropolitan area, one of which
is located in West Caldwell, N.J.. where
Roy. Dusty and the Sons of the Pioneers
(a new group, not the originals) performed
the afternoon following the press conference.
"Good Morning America"
Early Friday morning, August 26, Roy
and Dusty were guests on "Good Morning
America," ABC-TV's daily program, and
were interviewed by host David Hartman.
While Dusty was unable to play the guitar
as scheduled, due to time limitations, a clip
from "Macintosh" was shown. The same
clip, in an expanded form, also was presented
at the press conference. The difference
in the two versions was crucial: IV
;wcrs saw Rogers being thrown by a
bucking bronc (actually a stuntman who suffered
a broken neck but later recovered) as
the scene ended, while those attending the
conference saw the scene conclude with
Rogers trying again and succeeding.
The long-running Roy Rogers-Dale Evans
TV half-hour series is being resyndicated,
through UPA Productions of America.
Meanwhile, a new TV show with Roy as
host will debut shortly. In this new hour
format, Rogers will introduce old westerns
with such stars as John Wayne and Buck
Jones, as well as himself. The openings, closings
and intermissions, all in color, will feature
Rogers speaking of western lore, telling
ol the western stars' careers and filling in
other details. The old films will be tinted in
sepia to heighten the feeling of color. Locally,
the new program will be seen Saturday
mornings on WOR-TV. Channel 9.
Aside from their TV. record and book
activites, Roy and Dale planned to appear
in person at Knott's Berry Farm. Buena
Park. Calif.. Friday (2) through Sunday (4):
at the AK-.SAR-BEN Rodeo. Omaha. Neb.,
Friday (23) through October 1. and at the
National Ass'n of Insurance Commissioners'
annual meeting, Miami, December 5-7.
Pair Reopens The Strand
As Family Film Theatre
BANGOR, PA.—Motion pictures have
returned to this "Slate Belt" area with the
reopening on August 24 of the 60-year-old
Strand Theatre. The two-story, 537-seat
landmark has been closed for several months.
Owned by Robert A. Lobb. he put it up for
sale in June because, he said, he did not
have time to devote to operating the house.
The theatre was leased, with option to
buy. to two young men from nearby Phillipsburg.
N.J., who decided to go into business
for themselves. James Takaos, a real
estate agent, and David Carhart, a physical
education teacher, both said the theatre offered
a new enterprise for them while satisfying
the need for an entertainment center
in the Bangor area where families can go to
enjoy things together.
Opening with "Exorcist II: the Heretic,"
the Strand Theatre will screen shows at 7
and 9 P.M. Wednesday through Sunday.
Admission will be $1.25. The pair plan
double features that will take a $2 admission
and special children's prices for kiddie
film matinees. A double feature opening
August 31 paired "Black Sunday" with "Maathon
Man."
The partners plan to show first-run and
family-oriented films as well as occasional
nostalgic film classics. The theatre will be
closed on Monday and Tuesday for maintenance.
The partners renovated the hardtop
and plan to build dressing rooms as well as
remodel the stage for future live concerts
and special stage shows.
Scranton Bank May Sell
Center to Fred Krause
SCRANTON. PA.—With finalization ol
plans between the Scranton National Bank
and Fred Krause, the Center Theatre here
will be reopened as a motion picture house
after Labor Day. Krause. who operates
Dairy Queen ice cream stores in neighboring
Kingston and Wilkes-Barre, is negotiating
for the purchase of the theatre, according to
a business associate, Henry Sipple.
The bank purchased the Center Theatre
in May for $40,000 from Sportservice Theatre,
of Buffalo, N.Y. The theatre circuit
has been closing and selling off most of its
theatres in northeastern Pennsylvania. A
successful area businessman, Krause is a
newcomer to exhibition. His associate sees
no problems arising in the negotiations with
the bank.
Promotions for "Herowork"
Discussed in Cleveland
CLEVELAND— Paul Yeskel of International
Harmony Productions traveled here
to meet with Morrie Zryl of Selected Pictures
to design a campaign for "Herowork,"
which IHP is promoting.
Yeskel also met with Mike Mooney of
Academy Advertising regarding the "Fantastic
Animation Festival."
Late Shows at Walnut Mall
PHILADHl.PHIA — General Cinema
Ctuporation's Walnut Mall Cinema, located
in an area that houses the campuses of the
University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University,
has come up with a midnight program
that is sure to attract the college
crowd. Starting Friday (9) at midnight.
Cinema I in the Walnut Mall triplex will
kick off the showing of a series of 100 of
the greatest film classics to be shown every
Friday and Saturday night at midnight
throughout the year. Admission to the midnight
show will be $1 and each program
will include newsreels and cartoons from
the era of each picture. Walnut Mall Cinema
I will continue to operate daily as a
repertory film house, taking a $1.50 admission
at all times.
Richard Markovitz to New York
PHILADELPHIA— Richard H. Markovitz,
for the past year publicity and promotion
director for Universal Pictures in this
area and in the New England territory, left
his post this week to join Grey Advertising,
Inc., in New York City, where he will be
assigned to work on the national advertising
programs of Warner Bros. He was previously
account executive at the Kalish &
Rice advertising agency here, where he handled
publicity and promotion for Columbia
and Paramount in this area. Before that,
he was with Columbia Pictures here for
publicity and exploitation.
FINER PROJECTION-SUPER ECONOMY
J m
Hurley
ji Screens K
Ask Your Supply Dealer or Write .,
HURLEY SCREEN COMPANY, Inc.
26 Soroh Pfjyc Formingdolc. L. I., N. Y., 1173S
[Sound and
Projection Service
Nationwide — on all brands.
RCA Service Company. A Division of RCA
43 Edward J Han Hd Liberty Industrial Park
Jersey Cily, N J 07305. Phone (201 1 451-2222
BOXOFFICE :: Septembe 1977 E-5

:
. . "Teenage
. . Ruth
. . With
. . Cinema
. . The
T S B U R G H
: om Wright, Christian Broadcasting Network,
recently got Roy Rogers' autograph
on a photo the "King of the Cowlioys"'
had given him 35 years ago . . . Vivian
Leigh's autobiography is interesting and
should do a brisk business . . . The U.S. will
issue a commerative postage stamp marking
50 years of talking motion pictures October
6 in Hollywood. General sales of the stamp
nationwide will begin the next day.
Larry Cohen, who wrote, produced and
directed "The Private Life of J. Edgar
Hoover," is seeking a distributor for the
film which, according to our sources, is
a fascinating, in-depth history lesson and
stands a good chance of becoming a major
hit if a deal can be made. The word is that
Broderick Crawford is outstanding in the
title
role.
Su.san Peterson, CBS News, exploited
Carter Stevens' X-rated film "Punk Rock"
and HLT Distributing immediately obtained
a sub-franchise deal for this area.
"HLT" is NATO of Western Pennsylvania
board member Helen Louise Trautman, an
active exhibitor, booker, distributor, theatrical
agent and advertising manager.
The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is sponsoring
the local premiere of "The Turning
.
Point" with Mikhail Baryshnikov, at the
Chatham Theatre November 21 . . Garden
.
feature was "Visions" . . . Penthouse
Burlesque used a $2 newspaper discount
admission coupon ... the Italian film "Suspiria"
is on screen at the Stanley and Showcase
cinemas Deviate" was
the the top Art Cinema feature.
District theatres are showing "Rollercoaster."
"The Spy Who Loved Me," "Barbara
Broadcast," "Pamela Mann," "Logan's
Run," "The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Training," "One on One," "Smokey and
the Bandit," "Bobby Jo and the Outlaw,"
"The Other Side of Midnight," "The Deep"
and "Orca."
Relived old memories in a meeting with
Irene Polen Freed of the Mort and Art England
office in the Van Building on the old
Filmrow. We discussed the industry in the
'20s and '30s, the days of theatre give-aways
and games. We also chatted about old
equipment and good product. The England
brothers, both deceased, lived in Florida
after leaving the business here. She spoke
of Jerry Wechsler, salesman and later WBP
branch manager, among others in the trade
during those bygone days. She told me Mrs.
Morris A. Rosenberg, wife of the late independent
exhibitor, is well and living in Squirrel
Hill. Among those she inquired about
were Mathilda Kiel of the former MPTO
i>rfice, who left the film business to join
Levinson Steel as an executive secretary, and
Max and Martha Shulgold, retired and enjoying
life in Florida.
The Cinema Follies Club was very sucv-tMl
with a recent four-feature program
mother "marathon" is being planned
and licensed. A newspaper ad offered a $2
discount on a $5 admission at the CFC and
the coupon is good on Sundays ... A rare
tinted print of Charlie Chaplin's 1915 hit
The Champion" will be exhibited at the
Carnegie Institute Lecture Hall Sunday
(25) at 7:30 p.m. The bill will include other
old-time silent comedies and the admission
tec is only $1.
The film section of the Carnegie Institute
Museum of Art had an active volunteer
program last season with Robert Pest making
scholarly contributions as did Karen
Delgado and Claire Piroli, who completed
a national survey of museum film programs
as well as a filing project designed to aid
research in the film section. Cherriney Wilson
also was active assisting William Judson.
curator of film. Tickets for the 48 film
events on the autumn schedule, which ends
November 30, will be $1 unless otherwise
noted in the Carnegie Institute bulletins.
Nine programs will be free to the public.
The schedule for visiting filmmakers includes
three shows by Stan Brakhage, two
by Paul Sharits and single appearances by
Kenneth Anger, Larry Jordan, George Kuchar,
David Larcher. Bruce Conner. Oscar
Fischinger, James Broughton and Sidney Peterson.
Bank Cinema 1 and 2 has really gained
the attention of the broad segment of the
theatre audience that patronizes downtown
entertainment programs. Interest has succeeded
months of apathy as the two new
houses on the upper level of the Bank property
in the "Golden Triangle" have been
offering "Star Wars" on both screens after
a record attendance mark was established at
the Showcase Cinema on the highway in
Wilkins Township. The big hit of 1977,
"Star Wars" is continuing at the Showcase
with all-time high
:
This city's nevt-est adult film star. Jayson
MacBride, will be seen here on screen
for the first time in "Harley's Angels" due
at the Cinema Follies Club. His first picture.
"Catching Up," hasn't appeared on
local marquees yet. He has several other
films of this caliber coming up including
"Sex Magic."
While reading Sheilah Graham's 1969
"Confessions of a Hollywood Columnist"
we noted with interest her references to an
old friend, the late Ben Kalmenson, who got
his start here as a salesman for the late Roy
Haines, First National Pictures, in the silent
film era and rose to become Warner Bros.'
Hollywood production chief.
Bob Hope will do a 90-minute benefit
show tor the research programs of Magee-
Women's Hospital in the Hilton Ballroom
Thursday (29). Tickets are $80 per couple
and include dinner .
no product
available the Chatham Cinema took on a
return of "Voyage of the Damned."
Laboratory Theatre opened its season August
26 . Pivirotto resigned her
PR post with CLO . Follies
Club with theatres in Washington, Baltimore,
Atlantic City and our town, will
soon add Philadelphia to its roster.
Wheeler Film is handling EMC's "Naked
Rider" locally . . . Jack Russo, directing his
new feature, "The Majorettes," in nearby
suburbs, reports his local production "The
Booby Hatch," which registered a resounding
thud when titled "The Liberation of
Cherry Jankowski," is now paying off.
The first shot in the battle to have the
city council halt the too-long-lived, non-uniform,
10 per cent amusement tax which has
had such a negative effect on the industry,
was the proposed closing of several downtown
Cinemette theatres. The shortage of
product also has a bearing on the proposal
. . . SJ International's "Catherine & Co." is
distributed locally via Morris Zryl out of
Cleveland.
Art Cinema has licensed for early showing
"Sweet Cakes" and "Through the
Looking Glass" and is now showing "Underage."
which stars Wade Nichols . . .
"Make Mine Milk" and "Mania" were Liberty
features ... At the end of "The Spy
Who Loved Me" is an announcement that
the next James Bond epic will be "For Your
Eyes Only."
Sylvester Stallone's "Official Rocky'
Scrapbook" is on sale at news stands and
the "Doris Day Scrapbook" also is now
available at the stands .
. . Jennifer Welles
says she is bowing out as an adult film star
but will stick to directing them. The 35-
year-old actress-director is retiring on top
as "Inside Jennifer Welles" which she directed
was a big hit.
The Hi-Way Drive-in, Avenue Theatre
and five other DuBois properties owned by
Marlin Way were listed for sale to pay
county and city taxes. The Avenue has been
closed for its failure to meet safety standards
. . . "Raw Country" is advertised as
coming to the Cinema Follies Club.
Julius R. Silverman, 74, formerly of this
city, died in Hollywood where, for years, he
had done contracting work for Warner
Bros.' studio . Guild in Squirrel
is Hill featuring five weeks of famous Warner
Bros.' pictures . . . Quality X adult film
"Barbara Broadcast," by Henry Paris, was
featured in the area first runs but will show
up downtown at an early date . . . Charlie
Funk, formerly in the business here, resigned
as general manager of the Tom Moycr
circuit in Portland. Ore. He lives in
Vancouver. Wash., at present.
Ernst Lubitsch brought European comedy
with all its charm, decadence and frivolity
to American theatre audiences. This sophistication
will be on view here October 9
at the Carnegie Lecture Hall, when his 1924
opus "The Marriage Circle" will be shown
at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $1.
Ghost Hunters Gamble at Granada
MALDEN, MASS.—The Granada Twin,
in a change-of-pacc booking, scheduled the
Warrens, billed as "ghost hunters," for a
"live" 9 p.m. show on a recent Wednesday,
charging $2.50 for adults.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

BALTIMORE
^^ayne Anderson, Maryland and Pennsylvania
district supervisor for R/C Theatres,
his wife Faye and their three daughters
have moved from Clifton Forge, Va.,
to a home on this state's eastern shore
. Francis Simpson and her spouse Bill
left for a ten-day vacation in North Carolina
with the accent on boating and camping.
She is the R/C office manager iti
in Cherry Hill, N.J. His family and household
goods will be joining him shortly. Tom,
who was R/C's head booker the past four
years, left August 26 and started his new
assignment, officially, August 29. His R/C
buddies gave him a gala sendoff with a
party at Danny Dickman's Restaurant attended
by 25 coworkers, relatives and
friends.
Preston Fray returned to the fray at
R/C August 22 taking up at his former
post as assistant booker . . . The last half
of August was made more pleasurable for
youngsters under 12 by the Security Square
Mall merchants (6901 Security Blvd.. Bellway
E\it 17) who sponsored free movies
for the tykes on Wednesdays at the Security
Square I and II. The hoopla began at U)
a.m. with free prizes for the moppets.
Morning Sun drama critic R. H. Gardner
reviewed "Thieves'" and made the following
comments: "Herb Gardner, who was responsible
for both the screenplay and the
play upon which (it) was based is a writer
of distinctive talents. His specialty is the individual
at odds with his environment . . .
handled by Gardner it comes across as
more amusing than depressing and the performances
by Mario Thomas and Charles
Grodin are first-rate." He went on to praise
the work of Irwin Corey, Mercedes Mc-
Cambridge. Gary Merrill and Bob Fosse,
concluding by lauding the humor and originality
of the film.
Sophie Avgerinas, secretary to Richard
Harrison, Randy Pfeiffer and Ronnee
Greenberg at the Ad-Venture Group Advertising
Agency, back at her desk after a
five day vacation in Wildwood, N.J. with
her husband Bill ... 30 members of the
Women of Variety Tent 19 attended a
luncheon and board of directors meeting
August 17 at the home of Pearl Higger.
where they set up committees for the coming
year. The Jewish holidays caused the
ladies to reschedule the first fall luncheonmeeting.
It will be held Wednesday (7).
After thai, however, it will revert to the
regular schedule, the second Wednesday of
each month, according to Rosa Schevker.
treasurer.
Dancer Susan Avery and her partner I.eroy
Smith are suing the police and commissioners
of the adjacent town of Aberdeen
for $35,000 after the tcrpsichorean tandem
was acquitted on charges arising from an
October 1976 incident when they refused to
let the lawmen enter their nude dancing
palace unless they paid admission.
. . . "Outlaw
Patrice Munsel, Metropolitan Opera diva,
appeared here August 25
Blues" is currently showing at Movies I,
Ritchie Cinema, Super 1-70 Drive-In, Fdmondson
Drive-In, Joppatown Cinema and
Liberty . . . "Race For Your IJfe, Charlie
Brown!" started August 24 at the Cinema
Harundale, Cinema Perring Plaza, Cinema
Security Square Mall, Harford Mall Cinema.
Northpoint Plaza and Village.
Fredericksburg. Va.
Peter O'Toole, British actor well known
Tom Sherak is now with the General for his work in such films as "Lawrence of
Cinema Corp. and has taken up residence Arabia," will appear in this city ne.xt May
in Noel Coward's "Present Laughter," his
first American stage role. The revival will
play here as a Mechanic subscription show
prior to its scheduled Broadway run. The
producer will be Alexander H. Cohen, who
holds that title at the Mechanic Theatre.
Cohen stated that no director has been selected
yet.
The Spy Who Loved Me'
Tops $1.1 in New York
New York — "The Spy Who
Loved Me" starring Roger Moore as
James Bond 007 has rolled up a tremendous
$1,166,744 during the first
19 days of its multi-theatre engagement
at Loews' State 1, Loews' Cine
and Columbia 1 and 2, Manhattan;
Century's Five Towns, Woodmere;
United Artists' Meadowbrook, East
Meadow, L. L, UA Cinema 46, Totowa,
and UA's Middletown, Middletown,
N.J.
Meanwhile, "The Spy Who Loved
Me" is setting a torrid pace across the
country and in Canada having grossed
more than $12,000,000 during its first
month of domestic release.
Roy Urbach to 20th-Fox
As Ad Film Supervisor
NEW YORK—Roy Urbach has joined
20th Century-Fo.\ as advertising film supervisor,
succeeding Ben Fuglsby, who resigned
recently to join Cinema Research
Corp.. it was announced by David Weitzner.
20th Century-Fox's advertising vice-president.
Urbach was with Warner Bros. 23 years,
beginning as a messenger, then moving up
to editorial apprentice. His final eight years
at Warners were spent as head trailer editor,
working on numerous TV shows and tea-
Bigger Meal Tax Bite Planned
HARTFORD—The possibility of new
taxes on meals of less than $1, a move
expected to generate $15-million annual
state revenue, has been recommended for
Connecticut state legislative attention.
State Rep. Gardner E. Wright (D-Bristol).
chairman of the finance committee, would
apply the existing 7-per cent sales tax to
meals under $1.
PHILADELPHIA
"YLA Cinema, the most successful film repertory
commercial operation here,
wound up its "101 Nights of Summer Films"
Labor Day weekend. The festival, which
finished the summer with "Marathon Man,"
"The Passenger" and "All About Eve," also
included a "Late Show" series at 1 1 P.M.
on Sundays through Thursdays, presented
in cooperation with Station WMMR. local
radio rock station;
"Musical Matinees" with
film musicals on Saturday and Sunday afternoons;
and "The Rocky Horror Picture
Show" at midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
The summer Playhouse in the Park winds
up the theatrical season on Saturday (10)
with the last two weeks offering Sandy Dennis
in "The Royal Family" and Tony Perkins
in
"Equus."
Dr. Gerald C. Hamm, who has been
teaching the history of film at Central high
school for the past 42 years, has filed suit
in U.S. District Court here against the
Board of Education. He is challenging a
state law that allows public employees who
pass the age of 66 to be discharged. The
film expert is 69.
Sameric Theatres, largest independent
area circuit based here, has applied for certificates
of incorporation for two more of
its operations. The Sameric Pacific III Corporation
of Lancaster and Sameric Corporation
of King of Prussia.
Borough officials in Camp Hill, just outside
of Harrisburg, have announced that the
owner of the Hill Theatre, the only fourwaller
in Cumberland County featuring X-
rated films, is considering closing the theatre
and converting it into a two-story minishopping
mart.
Film director Joan Micklin Silver is in
town for interviews with film and feature
writers at the area newspapers in behalf of
"Between the Lines," which opened at Budco's
Regency II in center city.
Nu-Image Films Sponsors
Free Screening of 'Chac'
MIAMI—Nu-Image Films in association
with the Miami Department of Parks and
Recreation presented a free public screening
of "Chac" in Peacock Park on Wednesday
(10).
In an unprecedented procedure "Chac."
which details how a Mayan chief searches
for a sorcerer to end a severe drought, was
shown in other open-air screenings throughout
the country on the same date.
The film, which is G-rated and in a
Mayan dialect with English subtitles, won
the Silver Venus award for best feature,
the Americas award for best Latin American
film, the Best Director award for Rolando
Klein and the Special Jury award at
the 1975 Festival of the Americas held in
the Virgin Islands.
BOXOFFICE :: .September E-7

i
1

. il'li F'..iv i
M'h
Variety of New Films
Debut in Denver Area
DENVER— Newcomers to llic ,iro.i this
report week debuted to a variety ol' grosses
that ranged from a hefty 300 to a timid 75.
For the 14th week "Star Wars" hovered at
the top of the list with a mark of 500 at the
Cooper Theatre. Newcomer "I Never Promi.sed
you a Rose Garden" packed a Colorado
Four Theatre and finished the week with
grosses of 300 while fellow newcomer
"Greased Lightning" hit seven area screens
and earned an average of 200.
(Average Is 100)
Century 21—Holtercoaster (Univ). 12th wk 50
Cherry Creek, Villa ltd. a—The Other Side of
Midnight (20th-Fox). ll'h wk 135
Colorado Four—The Last Remake oi Beau Gesle
(Umv). 7th wk 115
Colorado Four— I Never Promised You a Ro=e
Garden (New World) 30(3
Continental—MocArlhur (''n,..-! tti; At; 135
Cooper—Star Wars
i
v. k 500
Eight theatres— The People Thai Time Forgot
(AIP) 100
Five theatres— One on One iWR). 2nd -.vk 150
Four theatres— Herbie Goes to Monle Carlo
(BV). 4th wk l-^O
Seven theatres—Greased Lightning (WB) 200
Seven theatres—Smokey and the Bandit (Umv),
5th
Six—New York, New Yd
Denver Finances Study
On Auto Emissions
DENVER—This city appropriated $72.-
594 for a study to determine the amount of
air pollution in the downtown area that is
caused by auto emissions. The study is expected
to be completed this year by Camp.
Dresser & McKee, Inc.. an engineering firm.
Some sources have suggested that a limit
be put on the number of cars that are allowed
access to the downtown area while
others have suggested less stringent measures
such as hourly restrictions on the number
of cars. If these measures were accepted and
put into effect they would influence the
future of the theatres that remain in the
downtown area.
The study is divided into four phases:
• An examination of what other states
have done to reduce auto emissions.
• The impact of applying such programs
in this area.
• A sociological study of public attitudes
toward a range of strategies to combat air
pollution.
175
• Presentation of recommendations along
with estimates of the probability of success
for various control programs including legislative
action that would be needed.
Seymour Borde Acquires
Rights to 'Guillotines'
HOLLYWOOD— Mark Borde. vice-president
of Seymour Borde & Associates, announced
the acquisition of national distribution
rights to the new action/ adventure
movie "Master of the Guillotines."
Borde plans an early October release
around the country.
LA Times Wipes Out Adult Film Ads
Sets Up Own 'Guide
By RALPH KAMINSKY
LOS ANGELES— In an article by-lined
by its publisher, Otis Chandler, the Los
Angeles Times Tuesday (23) announced its
new policy and procedures for advertising
films currently playing in the area. In the
same article the Times reported that it had
decided both to establish a "Family Film
Guide," which would list and provide a capsule
evaluation of movies currently playing,
and to reject advertisements for X-rated
films.
The "Family Film Guide" was created.
Chandler said, "to assess explicitly the content
of individual movies suitable for family
viewing." He said that he hoped the
guide would provide more assistance in
film
selection than is available through the industry's
rating system.
Three Categories
Listed
The guide is broken down into three categories:
family, mature and adult. The Times
reported that the mature label would be
assigned to films that "may be too intense
in terms of themes, language, violence and
sexuality for immature or younger teenagers,
while the adult label would be for pictures
deemed "likely to be too intense for
all but very mature teenagers." In addition
to the Times" rating, the list also includes
the MPAA ratings.
The elimination of all advertisements for
X-rated films took effect immediately. Previously,
the Los Angeles Times had separated
the advertisements for X-rated films
from all other categories by listing them
under an "Adult Film" heading on an inside
page of the entertainment section.
The announcement provoked an immediate
response from the adult-film segment
of the motion picture industry. "Everyone
is in a mild state of shock," said David
Friedman, chairman of the board of the
Adult Film Ass'n of America. "It was done
so abruptly. There was no advance warning
of any sort. It was like an overnight decision."
Adult Ad Options
After absorbing the initial shock of the
announcement. Friedman stated, adult-film
exhibitors immediately began to center their
attention on the need to find other media
to carry their advertising and to increase
the volume of advertising done in newspapers
in surrounding communities.
"There will be plenty of meetings coming
up in a day or so," Friedman predicted, "as
exhibitors try to clarify possible options.
It's a shock and certainly unexpected but
it's not a total disaster, despite the massive
circulation of the Times."
He named a number of community papers
in Los Angeles and Orange counties
that have been accepting advertising for
X-rated films.
Friedman declared that the elimination
of advertising in the Times would have
for Pictures
little or no effect on pictures already playing.
"The word-of-mouth publicity is out
on these and people know all about them.
If they're inclined to go to sec them they
will go," he explained.
The real test, according to Friedman,
comes when new pictures open. He did
concede that the drawing power of advertising
in the Times is well-established. A
survey taken by one of the adult-theatre
circuits showed that 60 per cent of those
questioned indicated that they find out
about adult pictures they sec from advertisements
in the Los Angeles Times.
In response to the survey Friedman retorted,
"We have 150,000 steady customers
in this area. By eliminating adult film ads,
the newspaper is cutting itself off from
150,000 readers and I wonder if that's a
reasonable thing to do."
In response to the Times statement, which
read. "The truth is. we have been dealing
with an indefensible product, one with absolutely
no redeeming values, and this phenomenon
shows no sign of leaving the contemporary
social scene," Friedman retaliated
with the following: "Ours is a business
that has one disaster after another and we
always survive, mainly because people want
to see what we have to offer and they will
find out about it somehow."
Some Sample Evaluations
The following is an example of the Times'
film evaluations. In the family category it
placed: "For the Love of Benji," (G) fine
family fare; "Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo,"
(G) silly but innocuous Disney comedy,
and "Star Wars" (PG) and "Sinbad and the
Eye of the Tiger," (G), some violence, but
make-believe.
Among the films deemed mature were:
"The Deep," (PG) violent with touches of
sadism; "Outlaw Blues," (PG) amoral, crude
disrespect for the law. some sex, and "One
on One," (PG) some salty language.
Adult pictures were: "A Bridge Too Far."
(PG) war recreated with gruesome fidelity;
"I Never Promised 'You a Rose Garden,"
(R) harrowing portrayal of mental illness;
"Sorcerer," (PG) violent and grueling, and
"Welcome to L.A.". (R) heavily sexual.
Edmund Penney Joins
Ccaneo Productions
HOLLYWOOD—Edmund F. Penney has
joined Cameo as production/direction instructor,
according to Phyllis R. Michael.
Cameo president.
Penney has vast experience in both on
and off-camera posts. He has done over 75
on-camera commercials including DuPont,
U.S. Steel. Pillsbury Products. Chevrolet.
Eastman Kodak and Purina. He also has
lectured on his craft at such colleges as
UCLA and University of Oregon.
Cameo, a theatrical association, has facilities
at the Sunset-Gower Independent
Studios in Hollywood.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977
W-1

. PROFESSIONAL
TUCSON
The Catalina Theatre and Radio KCUB presented
an '"Elvis on Tour" program
Friday (19). MGM"s "A Tribute to the
K-ing" was shown at 10 p.m. and midnight
both
nights.
Mark Hundahl Productions, Dallas, has
scoirted locations in the state for the feature
"Lost in the Wilderness." They found pine
forests, lakes and rugged mountains that
were called for in the script.
The stale'.s film office has sent pictures
and texts about the San Carlos and Tucson
areas to Solar First Artists Productions,
Burbank. for their film "I, Tom Horn."
which stars Steve McQueen, and is directed
by Don Siegcl and produced by Phil Parslow.
PETERSON
THEATRE
455 Bearcat Drive
Times Square Park
SUPPLY
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
801-466-7642
shooting "Wanda Nevada" is to begin in
the middle of September by Second Street
Films, Santa Monica, in the Grand Canyon
and Prescott areas.
Tickets are now on sale for a film series,
which consists of 16 classic films from the
30s and '40s, that will be presented at the
main auditorium in the Health Sciences
Center at the University of Arizona.
SALT LAKE CITY
I^onnie Clyde of the Villa Theatre was
named "Woman of the Year" by the
local chapter of the American Business
Women's Ass'n. The ABWA chapters select
one member each year to receive the award.
The selection process is based on the member's
achievement in her field of business,
education and community activity. The
award also means that Nonnie is eligible to
be selected as one of the top ten national
business women of the ABWA for the 1977-
78 term. The national award recipient will
be announced at the ABWA national con-
The northern part of the state was chosen
as the location for the two films "A Burning
Time" and "Wanda Nevada." Pezasz
Productions is producing "A Burning
Time," which will start filming September
10 for 28 days in the Kingman. Oatman and vention, which will be held here October
Colorado River areas. Seven weeks of 20-23.
Glen Peterborg. owner of the Grand Theatre,
Preston, Ida., made a business trip
through the area recently.
The Motion Picture Club's third annual
golf tournament was held August 26 at the
Park City golf course. Following the tournament
a cocktail hour and dinner were held
THE SIGHTS g SOUNDS OF SUCCESS ^^
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Arizona Theatre Equipment P.O. Box 20522 Phoenix
DENVER
^he Fiesta Theatre, Cortez, Colo., is to be
closed this month in order to complete
renovation work. The theatre is scheduled
to reopen in early November as the Fiesta
Twin Cinema, which will seat approximately
270 on one side and 230 in the adjoining
auditorium. The theatre is owned by Allen
Theatres, which is headquartered in Farmington,
N. M.
In the area recently to visit distributors
were: Bernie Newman of Gem Theatre.
Wash.: Ike Ross of Capitol Theatre, Springfield,
and Danny Marks and Don Harris of
the American Multi Cinema Corp.
Tim Warner, a booker and buyer for Theatre
Operators, Inc., found a way to get
away from it all. Warner departed for a
backpacking expedition to one of the wilderness
areas in Montana.
Film Company Expeditures
Increased in Arizona
PHOENIX — Expenditures by film
production
companies increased by 15 per cent
during 1976, according to a report released
by William MacCallum who is the
head of the Arizona Office of Motion Picture
Development.
MacCallum made the following comments
about the increase. "This amount
represents direct spending by the companies
and does not include funds spent by individuals
for personal expenses such as
beverages, souvenirs and in the Garden Room at the Park City resort.
food, travel, gifts.
expected upsurge business
The tournament committee was com-
It is that the in
posed of Marty Martindale, Jim Rogers and
will continue throughout next year.
Norm Chesler. This year the club also encouraged
women to play. Swimming, tennis making in the state is due to the coopera-
"Much of the credit for increased film-
and even cabana facilities were available
tion and interest at all levels of state and
the Three Kings condominium.
at
local government and the state film industry.
We can't accomplish this without
the whole-hearted cooperation of people
throughout the state. Our increase in filmmaking
is a tribute to the efforts of hundreds
of people who recognize the benefits
it
offers."
MacCallum further explained. "The increase
in advertising funds will be used to
increase the number of advertisements
placed and to start advertising in a wider
range of film industry publications.
"Our experience is that once a production
company films in the state, they want
to return. Our major effort is to get them
into the state for the first time and help
them resolve any problem they encounter
once they are here."
According to MacCallum, "Arizona has
caught the interest of Hollywood executives
in terms of making films with contemporary
settings.
Salt Lake • Boston • Dollos • New York
NIVERSAL THEATRE SUPPLY
- HOME OFFICE -
264 East lir South, Salt Lake City, Utah 8411
W-2 BOXOFTICE ;: Scptcmhcr

Freddy Martin to Provide
Music at Pioneers' Fete
l.OS ANGELHS—The -big
band" sound
annual Motion
will he heard at the 39th
I'lLiiirj Pioneers' "Pioneer of the Year"
(.linncr gala Monday evening. November 14.
Ill ihc International Ballroom of the Beverl\
llilion Hotel. Beverly Hills.
M. J. Frankovich, general chairman, announced
that Freddy Martin and his orchestra
have been engaged to play at the affair
and that dancing will be an integral part of
the evening's entertainment. That added element
will be a "first" for any Pioneers' dinner.
Frankovich noted.
This year's event will honor Los Angeles
industry veteran Sherrill C. Corwin. chairman
of the board of Metropolitan Theatres,
who will be marking his 50th year in show
business.
Martin, a big band pioneer, has had his
own orchestra since 1931 and played to an
estimated 5.000.000 guests in the swank
Cocoanut Grove of the Ambassador Hotel.
Los Angeles, during engagements that began
in 1938 and continued for many years.
His theme song, "Tonight We Love." adapted
from Tchaikovsky's "Piano Concerto in
B Flat Minor," became an instant recording
sma.sh and stayed on the best seller list for
years.
San Diego Paper Changes
Advertising Policy
SAN DIEGO—The Union and Evening
Tribune announced a revised X-rated film
advertising policy. Advertisements now will
only contain the name of the attraction, cast
members, time schedule and the address and
phone number of the cinema.
Neither illustrations nor descriptive copy
will be permitted.
COLOR or
Black and White i
FOR
INDOOR AND
DRIVE-INS
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS • TRAILERETTES
NO SMOKING • VANDALISM • DATERS
COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Filmacic
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Sound and
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RCA Service Company, A Division of RCA
Hollywood
J^ANCY ELAINE BEDFORD was mar
ried August 28 to Jon Frederick Myers
at the Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga
Canyon. The bride is an art student at
Pierce College. The groom is the son of
Ruth S. Myers, formerly a secretary at Cokimbia
and 20th-Fox studios, and of Julian
F. Myers, publicist at American International
Pictures. He also is the brother of
publicist Eric Myers.
•
Classic films that illuminate the political
and cultural environment of Weimar, Germany
in the 1920s will be featured in
UCLA Extension's "Between Revolt and
Submission," beginning Wednesday (28).
Among films to be screened are "The Cabinet
of Dr. Caligari." "M." "Metropolis" and
"The White Hell of Pitz Palu."
•
Roy Urbach has joined 20th Century-
Fox as advertising film supervisor, succeeding
Ben Fuglsby. who resigned recently to
join Cinema Research Corp. Urbach was
with Warner Bros. 23 years, starting as a
messenger and moving up to editorial apprentice.
During his last eight years with
Warners he was head trailer editor, working
on many TV shows and features.
•
Morrie Eisenman is in Atlanta for International
Harmony Productions setting up
radio schedules and priss showings for
"Herowork." which opens Friday (23) in
seven locations. "Herowork." an NBS Films
release, was written and directed by Michael
Adrian and stars Rod Browning. Robert
Chapel. Tabi Cooper and Nancy Kandal.
with special guest stars Milt Kogan and
Hugh Gillin. Dirk Petersmann and Adrian
produced.
*
Marcy Elias Rothman has been named
director. West Coast TV, it was announced
by Warren J.
Cowan, president of the international
public relations firm. Ms. Rothman,
who joined the firm in October 1976
as manager of the division, assumes responsibility
for all West Coast-based TV operations.
Her journalistic background includes
15 years as a feature writer, editor and
GOO
i^mm^
(think back. .
.)
WHEN WAS
THE LAST TIME
YOU DID SOMETHING
TO IMPROVE
YOUR THEATRE?
Happenings
critic lor the New York Post and ten years,
from 1957 to 1967. as Hollywood correspondent
for that paf>er. More recently, Ms.
Rothman has been an account executive
with Hanson & .Schwam; a partner in Rothman-Kleiner
Public Relations, and account
executive for the Alfred E.F. Stern Co.. in
which capacity she was in charge of the
.VICiM
auction.
Nine Scholarships Given
By Variety Club Tent 25
HOLLYWOOD—Variety Club Tent 25
awarded William H. Thedford scholarships
to nine students who will enter college this
fall, it was announced by Nat Fellnian.
chairmen of the William H. Thedford Scholarship
committee and tent president Murray
Propper.
One of the scholarships, which was
awarded to Alan Tsuyuki, is in memory of
Norman Weitman, past president of the
New York Variety Club and the vice-president
of Paramount Pictures. Two of the recipients,
Daniel Martinez and Reynaldo
Rangel, will receive two-for-one matching
grants from the Mexican-American Alumni
Ass'n at the University of Southern California.
The other recipients are: Alfonso
Barba. Martin Guerena, Daniel Hernandez.
Ray Rodriguez, Javier Valenzuela and Richard
Vasquez.
All scholarship recipients, including 25
who are continuing their collegiate studies,
will receive an additional .$100 before
Christmas. The 1977 awards bring the total
number of scholarships awarded to date to
38.
CINERAMA IS IN
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HAVXAII TOO.
When you come to Waikiki,
^°"'' "T^'ss the famous
3l'*fi3lCA'
'hawaiiI Don Ho Show. . . at
le?^ Cinerama's Reef Towers Hotel.
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BOXOFFICE :: September W-3

Jim
Houston Equipment
Marks Anniversary
HOUSTON—Hdppy ihird ;inniversary
!o Jim Mustard and Jcannie Graham!
No. it's not a marital or natal observance,
but rather a celebration for their business.
Houston Cinema & Sound Equipment Co..
.1732 North Shepherd Dr. It is a time wh;n
they can bask in the rosy glow of their pa t
achievements and lock forward to the future
with unbridled optimism, as the cl chcs
would have it.
Prior to forming their present enterprise,
the duo worked for National Theatre Supply
in Dallas. Thus, both were alreadv well
known throughout the Southwest and had
acquired a feel for the problems and needs
of the industry in this region. As a result,
they have worked hard to help enhance the
cinema image with the best available projection
and sound equipment.
Jeannic pointed out that thev ". . . will
continue to keep abreast of the innovations
in the theatre equipment industry. We deal
in all the major lines, maintaining an inventory
of equipment and parts that provide
for immediate installation or renovation.
We always have a good stock of spare parts
and supplies for theatre and sound equipment
on hand."
The pair also stressed the fact that their
past success and future hopes are very much
related to the outstanding support they rer"ivc
from their customers—a fact they are
deeply cognizant of and sincerely appreciate.
As an anniversary special, they are offering
their Guillotine M2/35mm. straight cut
only, splicer kit which consists of the splicer,
marking crayons, gloves and three rolls
of clear splicine tape. (See their anniversary
ad in this week's issue of Boxoffice.)
In reviewing the highlights of the past
year, the tandem noted the following new
theatres for which they supplied equipment:
Judson 4 Driv^-ln. San Antonio; the Picture
Show, Liv'ng'tnn: Northwood 6. Houston;
Southmorc .S & 6, Houston; American
Star, El Paso and the Texas Department of
Correction, Huntsville.
They also played a maior role in a number
of important renovation projects at the
Jefferson Drive-In. Dallas; Manor East.
Bryan; Mission Drive-In, San Antonio; New
laurel, San Antonio; Broadway. Galveston;
Tower Drive-In, Seminole, Evelyn, Dumas;
Hall Industries, Bceville; Alvin Gusgcnhc'ni
& Associates Theatres, Houston; Universal
Amusements Theatres. Houston; EPI. Houston
and Texas National Theatres of Dallas
and Houston.
Altogether an enviable record, justifyina
Jim and Jeannie's pride in their record and
optim'sm for the future.
'People That Time Forgot'
Held Over in Honolulu
HONOLULU— American
International's
Ihe People That Time Forgot" is getting
v:.rm welcome in Honolulu, with excellent
; iwo-wcek grosses at the Marin;i 2.
Radio Talk Show Provokes
Interest in 'MacArthur'
SALT LAKE CITY—A radio talk show
became a valuable promotional tool for
Universal's "MacArthur" as its moderator
played excerpts from MacArthur's famous
last speech to Congress and invited listener
comment. The picture is playing exclusively
at Plitt's Regency Theatre, with healthy
grosses and favorable comments from many
patrons.
Rick Setner, KSXX Radio, announced on
the air that he would see the movie and
report the following week and stated that
if anyone had seen the film they were welcome
to call in with their comments. One
listener commented that she felt Gregory
Pe.k deserved an Oscar for his performance.
Many listeners called in with a variety
of comments about the controversial
general. The program was aired live Sunday
(14) from 12 noon to 3 p.m.
European Business Trip
Begun by Shel Haims
HOLLYWOOD — Shel Haims, president
of Films International, embarked on an extended
European buying and selling trip.
Haims will be scouting for product to distribute
in the U.S. and throughout the world
and will be obtaining pictures set for European
release.
Haims' first scheduled stop is London
where he will stay at the Hotel Royal
Horseguards Tuesday (6) through Saturday
(10), His next scheduled stop is Paris,
where he plans to stay at the Hotel Concorde
la Fayette Saturday (10) through
Wednesday (14) before departing for Rome,
where he will lodge at the Hotel Visconte
Palace Saturday (17) through Thursday
(22). Madrid is the final scheduled stop,
where Haims plans to stay at the Hotel Mindanao
Thursday (22) through Monday (26).
®
3732
Variety Club Tent 25
Sets Tourney Dale
HOLLYWOOD— Variety Club Tent 25
will hold its sixth annual William H. Thedford
Memorial golf and tennis tournaments
and awards dinner October 3 at the El Caballero
Country Club in Tarzana. it was annoimced
by president Murray Propper.
Propper named Eugene Cofsky and Sanford
Wilk as co-chairmen of the event,
which annually raises funds to support the
Tent's scholarship program for members of
the Variety Boys Club.
The committee for the tournament is
composed of: Paul Cassidy, Maurice Coggan,
Louis Diaz, Duke Douglyn, Nat Fellman,
Jules Gerelick, Don Gillin. Richard
Graff, Dick Grafman, Al Lapidus, Stan
Lefcourt, Bill Mitchell, Ralph Portner,
Irwin Promisel, Stan Rosenfield, Neal Salisian.
Gene Shefrin. Jack Sherriff. Eli Sverdloff
and Jeff Williams.
Rushing 'Hollywood Man'
Post-Production Work
HOLLYWOOD— Post-production work
is being rushed on the recently completed
"Hollywood Man." to make the film available
for early September openings in foreign
markets by Intercontinental Releasing
Corp., which is distributing the picture
worldwide.
"Hollywood Man" has brought the highest
foreign advances in the company's history,
a spokesman reported.
The film stars Don Stroud. William
Smith and Jennifer Billingsley and was directed
by Jack Starrett.
The domestic premiere is scheduled for
mid-October in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where
Smith, who also produced the feature, is
arranging a benefit premiere.
N. Shepherd
Houston, Texas 77018
H0USO1 CTi^M^^souriD e^mpneiT ooMMny mc,
We look forward to hearing from
you . & Joannie
Order your splicer now fo
tofol price ot $150.
(Check or money order mus
HC & S
ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL
Order now and toke odvantage of this sovings!
Guillotine M2/35mm Straight Cut Only splicer kit
consisting of splicer, marking crayons, gloves and
three rolls of clear splicing tape,—All for the
obove price! Extra rolls of tape also reduced for
our Anniversary Special. White tope, $1.65 per
roll. Clear tape, $1.45 per roll. Your choice of
3/4 or 1" width.
(713) 691-4379 24hrs — 7days Jeannie Grahatn Jim Mustard
W-4 BOXOFFICE :: September

Several KC Holdovers
Earn Hefiy Grosses
KANSAS CH\— Scvcr.il holdovers finished
this report weeic with substantial
grosses while the area's two newcomers
hovered around the average mark. "Star
Wars" orbited at the top of the list with
an average of 795 at two theatres. "Smokey
and the Bandit" finished the race in second
place with grosses of 330 at five theatres
while "I Never Promised You a Rose Garden"
trailed slightly with a mark of 325.
TAverage Is 100)
Antioch, Glenwood— Star Wars (2ath-Fox),
13th wk 795
Fine Arts—Blaclt and White in Color (AA),
4th wk 85
Five theatres—Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo
(BV), 4th wk 165
Five theatres—Smokey and the Bandit lUniv),
4th wk 330
Four theatres—Fire Sale iXi. }''>' . -: 1 .vk 85
Glenwood—The Last Remake oi Beau Gesle
(Univ), 2nd wk, 250
Independerce, Metro Ncrlh Outlaw Blues
(WB), Tnd v.-k 95
Plaza—MacArthur ("mvi 3- J ...;. 210
Ranchma:: A Bridge Too For ,IA! lOth v.-k 50
Seven th---: -: Rabid :: a ,',
M) 110
Seville— I Ne
Rose Garden
(Ne
Six theatres—The Bad News Beo
Training (Para), 4th wk
Three theatres—March or Die iCol) 100
Three theatres—The Other Side of Midnight
(20lh-Fox). 10th wk UO
Chicago Holdovers Earn High Marks
During Absence of New Products
CHICAGO— Although no new films debuted
in the area this report week, the patrons
appeared to be satisfied with the selection
of holdovers they had to choose from
as several substantial grosses were earned.
"I Never Promised You a Rose Garden"
earned a place at the top of the list with
grosses of 375 in its second week at the
Water Tower 1 and 2. "Suspiria" earned
the second place position with a mark of
300 in its third week at the State Lake while
"Greased Lightning" finished third with a
mark of 275 in its tourih week.
Chicago— Greased Lightning (WB), 4th wk 275
Cinema—Black and White in Color (AA)
9th wk 200
Eight theatres—One on One (WB), 2nd wk 240
Five theatres—The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Training (Para), 4th wk 225
Five theatres-Star Wars (20th-Fox), 13'h wk 225
Five theatres—The Last Remake oi Beau Geste
(Univ), 3rd wk
Golf Mill 2—Smokey
200
and the Bandit I'Jriiv)
4th
Highland Park 1, Wili Rogers— Herbie Goes
4th Monte Carlo (BV), wk
Oakbrook, Woodiield 2—The Other Side of
Midnight (2ath-Fox), 10th wk
Seven theatres—The Spy Who Loved Me (U/
2nd wk
Learning Corp. to Handle
'Disc Jockey' Documentary
CHICAGO — "Studio A—Profile of a
Disc Jockey," a documentary film written
and directed by James R. Martin, filmmaker
and professor at Columbia College, and featuring
John "Records" Landecker, will be
distributed worldwide by Learning Corp. of
America. The documentary was filmed at
ABC's WLS studios in Chicago. It is in
color and is 30 minutes in length.
A 35mm featurette version of the film
will be available for theatrical release in
the 42 states in which Landecker is heard.
Cinemavision Ad Plan for
Theatres
Gets Metropolitan Press Coverage
CHICAGO—Talk of national commercial
advertising on theatre screens is in the
news again. An announcement in the Chicago
Tribune stated that, by the end of this
year, millions of American moviegoers will
be seeing up to three minutes of commercials
for nationally advertised products each
time Ihey attend their local showhouses.
Audiences 'Won't Mind'
According to Myron Kandel and Philip
Greer, who reported on the topic, backers
of theatre advertising say the concept involved
is "a major new advertising medium
that can reach a younger and free-spending
market in a relaxed atmosphere that's conducive
to concentrating on the message being
presented." Backers reportedly contend
that the audience "won't mind the commercials"
because they will be "tastefully, even
entertainingly done, and the income they
produce for theatre owners will keep high
admission costs from rising even higher."
Leading the drive to bring national ads
to the movie screen is William Woosley,
a 33-year-old Nashville, Tenn., advertising
and marketing man, who claims his company,
Cinemavision, Inc., already has agreements
with 3,000 theatres to carry the ads
and expects to sign 3,000 more within the
next few months.
20,000 Patrons a Week
A survey prepared in connection with
Cinemavision's plan shows that there are
about 15.000 movie theatres in the U.S.,
with 20,000 screens, and they attract an
average total audience of 20,000 patrons a
week.
Woosley indicated that he is not ready to
disclose the names of the advertisers who
NEW FROM ASC!
he claims will participate but he said "several
are in the bag and the first one-minute
spot will be shown in two test markets at
the beginning of September." It was noted
that full-fledged distribution of the commercials
is due to start in December.
According to Woosley, theatre advertising
has a potential revenue of $1 12,000,000
a year, based on a cost-per-thousand similar
to rates national advertisers pav for primetime
TV.
Two Compensation Methods
Woosley told Kandel and Greer that theatre
owners will be compensated in two
ways: they will receive approximately 5.4
cents for each patron, which they can either
take in cash or contribute to a film-financing
fund that will invest in the production
of new movies. When the movies produced
with the help of the fund are released the
participating theatres will receive "first
crack" at them in their area and also will
pay a much smaller percentage of their
gross receipts—a maximum of 35 per cent
—to show them.
Owners, Circuits Participate
According to Woosley, the financing
fund will be administered by one or both
of the two principal organizations representing
theatre owners. But individual owners
and circuits will participate.
At this early stage, only a minimal number
of theatre owners have been asked for
their thinking about the Cinemavision plan:
but exhibitor reaction at this point provides
no comment one way or the other. The
harsh singing commercials which now flood
TV programs give reason for some hard
thinking.
(Continued on page C-4)
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.September 5, 1977 C-1

Tucker,
. . Barron
NT A
I'Jcw fiinis on the marquees: "The Naked
Rider," Broadview. Westgate. Lakewood
Twin and four drive-ins; "You Light
ijp My Life." Tara. National Triple. Akers
Miil. Northlake and Perimeter Mail: "Cinderella,"
Buford Hiway Twin, Mableton
Triple. Old Dixie Twin and Tower Place 6:
"End of the World," Georgia Twin, Suburban
Plaza and four drive-ins: "La Grande
Bourgeoise," Rhodes; "Sinbad and the Eye
of the Tiger," Cobb Center, Greenbrier,
Norlhlake, South DcKalb and Parkaire;
"Rabid," Baronet: "Ruby." Coronet: "The
Happy Hooker Goes to Washington." Belmont.
Penthouse and Stonemont 1: "Suspiria."
12 Oaks and Atlanta: "The Island of
Dr. Moreau." Belvedere; "Outlaw Blues."
Belvedere, National Triple 6, Omni 6 and
Tower Place; "Fraternity Row," 12 Oaks;
"The Bodyguard" and "Goodbye Bruce
Rialto, and "The Sting"' Toco Hill and
Lee,'"
North Springs.
Omar Sharif, an actor with many credits.
is scheduled to visit the area in November
as a guest player in the National Bridge
Championship. The tournament is scheduled
for November 18-27 at the Hilton and
I COLOR
Marriott hotels. More than 5,000 bridge
or Black and White
FOR
INDOOR AND
DRIVE-INS
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS • TRAIIERETTES
.
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COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Filma^
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players are expected to invade the area for
the tournament.
Elizabeth Taylor recently visited the area
amid conjectures that her career is winding
down. Liz's fans hoped that "'A Little Night
Music," which was made in Europe, would
ignite a spark of success; however, the report
from Europe is that the film lacks commercial
appeal. Also, there are rumors that
the film may not be released theatrically
in the U.S.. which is what happened to her
previous movie ""Identikit." The last word
received is that the producer has not been
able to convince any American distributors
to handle the feature. Another rumor is that
Elliott Kastner has been thinking about
making a sale directly to TV, but even the
networks seem to be dubious despite the fact
that
the stage version has been a major success
everywhere and has generated a great
deal of publicity.
The many friends of Doris McDonald,
wife of Walter McDonald who is the office
manager and booker at United Artists, were
pleased to learn that she is recuperating at
home now after a long stay in the hospital.
Walter is taking his vacation to make sure
ihat shi minds her doctor's orders.
Marjoe Gortner talked about the one
time in his life when he sought a role and
was rejected during a recent trip through
the area to promote "Sidewinder 1." Gortner
said it occurred in connection with
"Macon County Line," which was filmed
around Forsyth on a very low budget. The
picture turned out to be the biggest moneymaker
in history for American International
Pictures and put Max Baer on the map as a
moviemaker. Gortner recalled. "Actually,
ihey felt my name was too well known.
They wanted unknowns."
Trade and press screenings at Century
Cinema Corp.'s facility included: "Martin."
distributed by Clark Film Releasing Co.;
""Vou Light Up My Life," Columbia Pictures:
"Kentucky Fried Movie." distributed
by Wayne Chappell Releasing Co. . . . Columbia
Pictures' employees were treated to
a screening of "You Light Up My Life" at
a special evening gathering in the CCC
room.
DeKalb County court solicitors and legal
eagles spent seven hours August 22 in the
Century Cinema screening room viewing
pictures that were seized in pornography
raids. The screening room at the Peachtree
West, which was formerly the Film Building,
is being utilized by federal officials for
the same purpose, according to Cliff Craddock.
. . . Lew
Roger Harvey, president of Century Cinema
Corp.. and his wife Susan returned
from a visit with friends and relatives in
Pennsylvania and New York
O'Neill, a salesman for United Artists, and
his wife Ann returned from a delightful vacation
at Nag's Head. N.C. . Godbee
jr. was seen mingling with friends here
and bemoaning the fact that "the exchanges,
agencies and branches are so scattered that
a person may have to spend a week in Atlanta
to cover the area."
A PG rating has been given to the film
""The Polk County Pot Plane," which was
filmed in Georgia and is now being shown
in this area.
The Silver Screen, which is located in the
Peachtree Battle Shopping Center, specializes
in "oldies, but goodies film fare." Recently
it drew packed houses for two Alfred
Hitchcock ""oldies." "Rebecca." which featured
Joan Fontaine and Judith Anderson,
and "Spellbound," which starred Gregory
Peck. Another winner at the Silver Screen
was "The Ruling Class," which is a comedy
with a cast that includes Peter O'Toole,
Harry Andres and a host of other outstanding
British actors. The film seems to be
taking en a cult following, although in its
initial engagement in th; area it did not
make many waves at the boxoffice.
Cooperative Advertising
Used to Promote 'Herbie'
NASHVILLE — Joe Daniel and Kirby
Jeffreys, the managers of Loews' Melrose
and Madison theatres, joined with area
Lowrey dealers to promote Buena Vista's
"Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo." The dealers
ran a 300-line cooperative advertisement
that invited newspaper readers to enjoy a
demonstration of the organ at the theatres
prior to the show times.
In addition, Daniel and Jeffreys invited
readers to obtain "Herbie" games free by
visiting dealer showrooms and hearing a
demonstration. "Herbie" posters were also
displayed at area Baskin-Robbins ice cream
stores.
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COXOFFICE :: September .S. 1977

. The
I
. . Frank
MIAMI
Jl^mong the stars scheduled to visit
the area
this month are Art Carney. Jane Keane
and Telly Savalas. Carney and Keane will
be on hand for the filming of "The Honeymooners."
a long-lived TV favorite, and
Savalas is expected to appear at a bald men's
fashion show at the new Omni facility . . .
Omni is sponsoring a cocktail dance to celebrate
the opening of its new shops, hotel
and theatre complex. Nine groups have
been selected to benefit from the activities
Jordan Marsh Department Store,
one of the stores in the facility, and Womctco
have teamed up to offer a dinner for
two at one of the restaurants and an evening
at the theatre for the special price of $10.95.
They are advertising it through posters lo-
:ated throughout the store and in the theatre
lobby.
Tickets to only one of the two Jackie
Gleason "Honeymooners" specials, which
will be taned at Gusman Hall, will be
available to the public. People who have
volunteered their services to a variety of
civic causes will be invited to the first show
on Friday (16). according to Lew Price, the
city's publicity director. Approximately 500
tickets will be distributed for the second
show, which will be taped Thursday (29). to
individuals who request them by mail.
The Hialeah John F. Kennedy Library is
offering a free film series for young persons.
Some of the films are: "Karate: Art or
Sport." "Movie Stuntmen," "Vicious Cycles."
"The Unexplained." "Famous Movie
Monsters" and "Wonderful World of
Wheels."
Gary Grant was in the area recently to
promote Brut Productions . . . Mystery writer
Mickey Spillane was also in the area to
buy toys for his terrier at Animal Talk on
liscayne Boulevard.
National Film Day, which was held on
August 22, was a day to honor the industry
that has given us many heroines and heroes,
outstanding directors and others who have
been given American Film Institute Life
Achievement awards. Besides handing out
plaques and awards, the AFI also serves as
a training ground for new filmmakers and
as a museum for the preservation of memorabilia
for movie scholars. These efforts require
funds—more funds than are available
from the National Endowment for the arts
and from other matching private and individual
sources—and that is a main reason
for the initiat'on of Film Day. Two local
theatre chains. Wometco and Loews, donated
50 per cent of all proceeds from the
day to the AFL Also. Wometco recently
offered a special showing of a .37-minute
feature "In the Region of Ice," which was
produced as a second-year work project by
two AFI fellows, Andre Guttfreund and
Peter Werner.
A new Latin shopping mall to be named
La Galleria International is lo be constructed
while the city loses two theatres— the old
Paramount and Town. The theatres, which
were elegant throughout the 1940s, began
showing adult movies in recent years.
Slorcr Broadcustin); Co. has agreed lo
buy Radio WL.AK-FM in Chicago from
Sudbrink Broadcasting Co. for $4.25 million
in cash.
"Our Fair Ladies Day" has been ottered
al the Palm Springs Twin Theatre. 419
Palm Springs Mile, for the last eight years.
Women and preschool-age children were
invited to a free movie. A "lady of the day"
was chosen and presented a $25 merchandise
certificate, a corsage, lunch for two,
theatre tickets and the chance to he the
subject of a radio interview.
NEW ORLEANS
J^ews from the Byrne Watts Storey Agency:
Mary Steenburgen will make her
film debut when she co-stars with Jack
Nicholson in Paramount's "Coin' South."
She got the word that she landed the role
while on duty as a waitress in New York's
Magic Pan . . . "The Bad News Bears." victorious
in their baseball game with the cast
of Broadway's "Annie." will play a re-match
game with the little orphan girls when they
return from the Orient after filming their
third movie. "The Bad News Bears Go To
Japan." . . . Richard Brooks, who once
jolted movie soundtracks with his use of an
established rock hit— "Rock Around the
Clock" in "The Blackboard Jungle"— is doing
the same thing for his upcoming "Looking
for Mr. Goodbar." The score will consist
ent'rely of hit recordings from 1975.
Columbia Records will release the soundtrack
album and Paramount Pictures will
distribute the film in the U.S. and Canada.
Eve Arden and Dody Goodman, who are
currently portraying a high school principal
and her secretary respectively in Paramount's
"Grease." are proving to be such a
laugh-getting combo that offers for TV
series for the duo are pouring in . The
co-stars with Warren Beatty for the third
time in Paramount's "Heaven Can Wait."
The former two occasions were "McCabe
and Mrs. Miller." for which she received an
Oscar nominat'on for best actress, and
"Shampoo."
Tangerine Dream's soundtrack album for
"Sorcerer." the William Friedkin film, is
climb'ng the best selling charts in Billboard.
Cashbox and Record World . . . Julie Christie
Connecticut Cinema Shuttered
SUFFIELD, CONN.—Independent Connecticut
exhibitor Murry Levine shut down
the Jerry Lewis Cinema in the Suffield Village
Shopping Center, with no indication
any reopening plans.
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CHARLOTTE
Jljews from American International Pic-
tures' personnel: Ruth Collins, secretary,
is a new grandmother. Mellanie Leah
was born July 14 Savage and
his family vacationed in Long Beach, N.C.,
in order to enjoy the nice ocean breeze . . .
Barbara McGillicuddy. cashier, departed for
a cruise to the Bahamas. Lynda Speight,
booking clerk, took a week off to relax and
do some chores at home . . . Baria Baker.
assistant cashier, has an extra sparkle in her
eyes these days. Just mention a certain young
man and she is all smiles . . . Melvin Cook,
assistant branch manager, has been making
some long weekend visits to Manteo and
Morehead with the Charlotte Power Squadron.
Melvin is commander of the unit . . .
Ron Hinds, head booker, is still getting in
his round of golf every weekend. We get
all
kinds of reports on his scores.
Charlie Hunsuck's wife Doris is back
home after spending a week at Memorial
Twentieth Century-Fox conducted a
Hospital. Charlies is a United Ailists' staffer
.. . Deepest sympathy to Mrs. Frank
Lowery on the death of her 92-year-old
father. Her husband Frank is with the Carolina
Booking Agency.
special
screening of "Suspiria" at the Capri
Theatre August 30. The film is a macabre
tale with a soundtrack that is an essential
part of the picture, which was enhanced by
the theatre's new Dolby system.
New films on area marquees: "The Last
Remake of Beau Geste," South Park;
"Grand Theft Auto," Viking and Thunderbird,
and "Godzilla on Monster Island."
Capri and Village.
Top grosses of the week: "Star Wars."
Charlottetown Mall; "The Spy Who Loved
Me." Tryon Mall; "The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training," Eastland Mall, and
"MacArthur," Park Terrace.
Kermit High booked two Elvis Presley
films, "Live a Little, Love a Little" and
"Follow That Dream," at his Visulite Theatre.
He reported that business was excellent.
Lois Kiser, formerly of Metro Films and
Variety Films, is now employed at Columbia
Pictures . . . Marjorie Thomas of Queen
City Amusement & Advertising Co.. returned
from a two-week vacation in New
Orleans . . . Pamela Smith, a newcomer to
Filmrow, is working as a secretary at United
Artists.
"Doppio Delitto" will be distributed
worldwide outside the U.S., Canada and
Japan by Warner Bros.
r-

Gastonia Officials Claim
New Law Not Oppressive
GASTONIA. N.C.—Local officials say
ihore is nothing oppressive about a strict
city aniipornography law that soitie believe
coLild force movie theatres and adult bookstores
out of business.
"There's nothing oppressive about this
ihitig," City Atty. Henry Whitesides said
August 16' after' city officials enacted the
law. "Our purpose is not to put everybody
in jail. It's to rid the community of a blight."
The law, which went into effect August
31, bans the possession of obscene movies
and obscene books and magazines.
The measure defines obscene material
as: "any material that the average person,
applying community standards, would find
when considered as a whole appeals to prurient
interests; and depicts or describes sexual
conduct by patently offensive representations
of various sex acts."
The material also must lack "serious literary,
artistic, political or scientific value."
The ordinance also bans obscene performances,
dances or films.
Gastonia's new law is similar to one approved
at the state level recently, but city
officials said they felt the local law was
more stringent.
Joe Johnson Fatally Shot
By Stray Bullet Aug. 20
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Joe Johnson, a
consolidated Theatres executive, was fatally
shot by a siray bullet August 20 while visiting
at the home of friends. The shot was
apparently fired by someone in a nearby
wooded area.
Johnson entered the film industry shortly
after graduating from Davidson College. He
was associated'' with the Wilby-Kincey circuit
before joining Consolidated Theatres.
Peter Guber has acquired the motion picture
rights to "Midnight Express."
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J
'MacArlhur' in Charge
Of Memphis Area List
MEMPHIS— Despite ihe tough competition
provided by both newcomers and holdovers.
"MacArthur" arrived on the scene
this week and took command of the list
with a strong mark of 855. Fellow newcomer
"One on One" occupied the second place
slot with an average of 585 at three theatres
while "The Spy Who Loved Me," which
finished its third week at three theatres,
captured the third place position with
grosses of 390.
Malco Quartet 4, Soulhbrook 2—The Island of
Dr. Moreau (AlP)
, ^
Memphian, Paramount 1—Star Wars (20'h-rox),
3^0
^^^
Paramount 2—Orca^CParal'.lnd -^'k 90
Plasa 1, Whitehaven Cinema 2-The Bad News
Bears in Breoking Training (Para) ^J5
Plaza 2—Jabberwocky (SR) lO-J
-
Raleigh Springs 1, Whitehaven Cinoma 1--Tha
Rescuers (BV). 3rd v.k ^20
Ridgeway 4—MacAithur (Univ)
, ^?5
Southbrook 1—A Bridge Too Far (UA), 8lh v/k 65
Three theatres—One on One (WB) 585
_
Three theatres—The Spy Who Loved Me (UA)
3rd
John Thomas Dies at 83;
Career Spans 45 Years
J.'\CK.SONVILLE — John Thomas, a
prominent show business figure here for
many decades, died recently at the age of
390
83.
Thomas began his 45-year career as a
projectionist at the Alcazar Theatre in Chattanooga.
Tenn. He then served as a theatre
manager and booker in Atlanta, Oklahoma
City and Columbus. Ga.. before moving
here in 1926 to open a district booking
office for Paramount Pictures, which was
the first film distribution office on Jacksonville's
Filmrow.
Other theatres that he managed during
his lengthy career include the old Riverside,
Empress. Arcade and the former Duval.
Thomas was eulogized by Harvey Garland,
president of American Broadcasting
Co. theatres, which is headquartered in the
Florida Theatre Building. Garland started
in the business in 1935 when Thomas hired
him as an usher at the Imperial Theatre and
eventually promoted him to an assistant position.
Garland said, "John Thomas was without
any doubt the number one promotion man
in Jacksonville. He was not content just to
bring in first-line vaudeville, he would get
out and redecorate the entire front of the
theatre. You"d never know what the front
of the theatre would look like and the Journal
in those days often gave editorial notice
of John's work in making dramatic fronts
for the Palace.
"It is very sad that John would die and
be cremated without his old friends ev
knowing it," added Garland. Thomas died
in almost total obscurity as he had lived
since May 1960 when he retired from ABC
FST.
"Big Wednesday" is directed by John
Milius'from an original screenplay by Milius
and Dennis Aaberg.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

. . . Steve
Dallas Film Ratings
Confusing to Many
DALLAS—Texas has long boasted of
having the biggest, whatever it was one was
discussing. Despite the addition of Alaska.
Lcxans still abide by that old and hoary
tradition, witness the following story from
the Dallas Times Herald which, with some
misgivings, we quote in
part.
" "Have you seen any of the soap operas
kids can sit at home and watch this summer
by simply flipping on the TV set? People
popping pills, raping and killing, sleeping
with each other, doing everything in the
world. Who is rating that and who is having
to police that?' grumbled one local
movie theater official this week juggling the
complexities of not only having to deal with
the national MPAA movie ratings system,
but also having to satisfy the dictates of the
Dallas Motion Picture Classification Board.
Exceptions to Code
"All of this, for a starter, involves juggling
a mind boggling assortment of letters
in the alphabet. In addition to the national
X,R,PG and G ratings, the Dallas board has
some letters of their own for movie theaters
to play with. It can be as simple as adding a
single letter to a movie ad or poster. Probably
an S (for Sex). Or maybe an S and an
L (for Language). In certain cases, however,
those ads and posters could conceivably resemble
a
bowl of alphabet soup— having to
squeeze in not only an S and an L but also
a V (Violence) and a D (Drugs) plus an N
(Nudity) and maybe even a P (ahh. now
what's that one? Oh yes. Perversion). It
would look like this: Suitable except for
S,L,V,D,N and P. The local board has only
two ratings. Unsuitable or Suitable. The latter
can carry some exceptions to it, however.
"Most people, local theater operators say,
do have at least a vague grasp of the national
movie rating system—the familiar
X,R,PG and G—whether they always agree
with those ratings or not. When you start
adding Ns and Ps and Ds and Ls to all of
that, confusion can run rampant. Hostility
often emerges.
Discrimination Is Cliarged
"More than one local movie theater operator
argues his business is being singled out
for discrimination. The city has no boards
to rate those TV soap operas. Or any TV
for that matter. Or books and magazines.
Nor radio shows or record lyrics. No legitimate
(live) theatre or opera or ballet or art
show falls under such official scrutiny. Only
the movies are subject to such concern.
"The Dallas movie rating board has its
fans as well as critics, however. There are
pressures from both sides. 'I would say we
talk to as many people who think we should
ban, or censor, or keep kids totally out of
movie theatres, as people who think w.-
should not be functioning at all, who find
us an embarrassment to the community
image,' said Stephen Hunt this week. Hunt
is the administration assistant of the C'oni-
(Continued on page SW-4)
HOUSTON
picit Baiter, special makeup man. the man
inside "King Kong," was in Houston
attending the Southwestern Spectrum Con
II at the Shamrock Hilton Hotel. Baker also
collaborated on the makeup for "The Exorcist"
and "Star Wars" . . . Other credits
include an Emmy for "The Autobiography
of Miss Jane Pittman," "Live and Let Die,"
"It's
Alive." "Flesh Gordon" and ".Schlock"
Neal, another makeup expert
was also in attendance. Neal did work on
"Kingdom of the Spiders."
Eric Gerber, Houston Post
film writer reports
that he has received three new film
schedules, from the River Oaks, the Museum
of Fine Arts and the Rice Media
Center. The River Oaks will premiere the
new Alain Resnais film "Providence" October
7-8. That's the one in which John
Gielgud is a dying novelist and Ellen Burstyn,
David Warner and Dirk Bogarde are
his children. Also making its first Houston
appearance (I believe) is Louis Malle's
"Black Moon" on a double bill with his
"Lacombe, Lucien," "Black Moon" stars Joe
Dallesandro (of "Trash" notoriety) in a
story about a civil war between men and
women. Other noteworthy offerings: "Creature
from the Black Lagoon" and "It Came
from Outer Space." both in 3-D; "Leadbelly"
and the Woody Guthrie biopic "Bound
for Glory"; Roman Polanski's overlooked
thriller "The Tenant" and "Chinatown";
"The Man Who Fell to Earth" and "Zardoz";
the two David Essex rockers, "That'll
Be the Day" and "Stardust" and Kurosawa's
"Dodes 'Ka-Den," its first time in Houston,
I think, with "Rashomon."
Gerber reported that at the Museum of
Fine Arts, they continue their drift toward
the "precious," with nearly two-thirds of
this season's 26 film programs devoted to
foreign films. The new German filmmaking
is presented by Herzog's "Even Dwarfs
Started Small" and Fassbinder's "Ali: Fear
Eiits the Soul," both of which have been
making the rounds with frequency. There
are five Japanese offerings (including Kurosawa's
contemporary suspenscr "High and
Low" and Josef van Sternberg's "Anathan")
three Spanish (among them, Carlos Saura's
"Cousin Angelica"), one Russian, "Shadows
of Forgotten Ancestors" and one Polish
titled "Ashes and Diamonds." Also notable:
Polanski's "Macbeth" also at the River Oaks
and Luis Bunuel's "The Milky Way." Precious,
yes. but what are museums for?
On the Rice Media Center. Gerber reports
that it has released an abbreviated
schedule just covering September and it is
pretty much standard, academic fare like
John Ford's "My Darling Clementine."
"Grapes of Wrath" and "The Informer."
Griffith's "Intolerance" and "The Birth of a
Nation." "Greed," "Jules and Jim" etc. The
only novel selections (in September anyway)
are the 1974 Spanish production "The Spirit
of the Beehive" at the Museum again and
the old Don Siegel horror show "Invasion
of the Body Snatchers." What's so novel
about "Invasion?" True, it's on TV regularly
and is a war horse at repertory theatres.
But did you know it's been playing all these
years with an ending that the studio tacked
on against Siegel's wishes? The "Invasion"
(Continued on page SW-3)
Pinkston Sales & Service |

. JIM
3iy Club's Bash
Sei for Sept. 18-19
DALLAS— Lhe annual Variety Club of
Texas Golf Tournament and Calcutta dates
arc Sunday and Monday (18. 19). with several
changes in the program of events this
year as announced by co-chairmen Jim
Crump and Terry Graham.
.As in the past, the Calcutta will be held
in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton Inn on
North Central Expressway at 6:30 p.m.
Sunday (18).
However, the shotgun start will be at
11:30 a.m. Monday morning preceded by
a Continental breakfast at the Glen Lakes
Country Club at 10:30 a.m.
At 4:30 p.m. there will be a putting contest
(on the putting green, naturally) for all
the sharp-shooters (No Gimmies).
At .'5:30 p.m., at Glen Lakes, there will be
a Happy Hour, hot and cold hors d'oeuvres.
free booze, beer, and soft drinks.
At 6:30 p.m.. still at Glen Lakes, there
will be the awards presentations, and the
drawing for their golf club raffle.
Reservations will be accepted through
Tuesday (6). Members" applications will be
accepted on a first-come, first-served basis
after that
date.
Hite Ncaned Warner Bros.
Chicago Branch Manager
CHICAGO—Terry Semel. executive vicepresident,
general sales manager for Warner
Bros.. Burbank, Calif., announced the
appointment of Seymour Hite as Chicago
branch manager, effective July 18. Hite
previously served as sales manager in the
Windy City.
HOUSlOn Clh^M^^SOUMD €QUIPM6rfT COMMMV IMC.
^ '^^^
Houston Equipment
Marks Anniversary
HOUSTON — Happy third
anniversary
to Jim Mustard and Jeannie Graham!
No. it's not a marital or natal observance,
but rather a celebration for their business,
Houston Cinema & Sound Equipment
Co.. 3732 North Shepherd Dr. It is
a time when they can bask in the rosy glow
of their past achievements and look forward
to the future with unbridled optimism, as
the cliches would have it.
Prior to forming their present enterprise,
the duo worked for National Theatre Supply
in Dallas. Thus, both were already well
known throughout the Southwest and had
acquired a feel for the problems and needs
. .
Semel said, "We feel Seymour Hite is an of the industry in this region. As a result,
they have worked hard to help enhance the
excellent executive and are pleased to have
him in the key position he has assumed." cinema image with the best available projection
Hite joined Warner Bros, in November
and sound equipment.
1973.
Jeannie pointed out that they ". will
continue to keep abreast of the innovations
in the theatre equipment industry. We deal
in all the major lines, maintaining an inventory
of equipment and parts that provide for
immediate installation or renovation. We
always have a good stock of spare parts and
supplies for theatre and sound equipment
on hand."
The pair also stressed the fact that their
past success and future hopes are very much
related to the outstanding support they receive
from their customers— a fact they are
deeply cognizant of and sincerely appreciate.
As an anniversary special, they are offering
their Guillotine M2/35mm, straight cut
HC&S ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL) ORDER NOW AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS SAVINGS
GUILLOTINE M2/35mm STRAIGHT CUT ONLY SPLICER KIT CONSISTING OF THE SPLICER, CRAY
ONS FOR MARKING, GLOVES, AND THREE ROLLS OF CLEAR SPLICING TAPE ALL FOR THE ABOVE
P«1CE EXTRA ROLLS OF TAPE ALSO AT A SAVINGS FOR OUR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL FOR ONLY
JI.65 per roll, WHITE TAPE and $l.-!5 per roll, CLEAR TAPE, IN YOUR CHOICE OF 3/4" or 1" WIDTH
W£ LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU .
SHEPHERD OR
,
& JEANNIE
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77018 (713) 691-)379
only, splicer kit which consists of the splicer,
marking crayons, gloves and three rolls
of clear splicing tape. (See their anniversary
ad in this week's issue of Boxoffice.)
In reviewing the highlights of the past
year, the tandem noted the following new
theatres for which they supplied equipment:
Judion 4 Drive-In. San Antonio; the Picture
Show, Livingston; Northwood 6. Houston;
Southmore 5 & 6, Houston; American
Star, El Paso and the Texas Department of
Corrections. Huntsville.
They also played a major role in a number
of important renovation projects at the
Jefferson Drive-In, Dallas; Manor East,
Bryan; Mission Drive-In. San Antonio; New
Laurel, San Antonio; Broadway, Galveston;
Tower Drive-In. Seminole. Evelyn, Dumas;
Hall Industries, Beeville; Alvin Guggenheim
& Associates Theatres, Houston; Universal
Amusements Theatres, Houston; EPI, Houston
and Texas National Theatres of Dallas
and Houston.
Altogether an enviable record, justifying
Jim and Jeannie's pride in their record and
optimism for the future.
Stones Launch Summer
Midnight Film Series
HOUSTON—American Multi Cinema's
Almcda S theatres began a summer midnight
scries with the Rolling Stones' feature
'Clinimc
Shelter."
BOXOFFICE :: .September

.
—
Tucker
I
'
en
Ortman's Farewell Salute
Rendered Elvis Presley
HENNESSEY, OK.LA.—Came Orlman,
Ortman Theatre, was in the midst of planning
what she termed "... our usual birthday
bash for our icids at the Ortman .
."'
v\hcn the news of Elvis Presley's untimely
death arrived, shocking everyone here as it
did across the nation.
In the face of this grim nous, ihc part\
plans were scratched and the theatre lobbs
turned into a memorial for the singer. Roses,
and photos gathered from among the Ortman's
memorabilia, were worked into an
impressive tribute. The Ortmans went one
step further with a four-column, full-page
ad in the Hennessey Clipper dedicated to
Presley.
The reaction of the Ortmans demonstrates
the legendary star's appeal to ihc
very "grass roots" of America.
Political Era in Chicago
Subject of New Film
CHICAGO — The first feature-length
spoof of big-city politics to hit the screen
in 25 years will take form this fall when
the movie version of "The Election
Chicago Style" is filmed in the Windy City
for national distribution.
Chicago Talking Pictures has acquired
motion picture rights to the paperback of
the same name written by a judge who took
shelter under the alias of "Ward Heeler."
The book has sold over 30,000 copies.
The entire film will be shot in this area
and a predominantly local cast with two
stars will be used according to Alan Davis.
who will serve as director, and Ray Saeger.
company president. The production budiici
is $1,250,000.
HOUSTON
(Continued from page SW-I)
you've seen concludes with Kevin McCarthy
finally convincing the authorities that
the people in his town are, in fact, being
replaced by clones growing from alien
pods.
Well, there's a re-cut version of "Invasion"
out now (haven't seen it, but I think it ends
with the pods triimiphant and McCarthy's
warnings ignored? That's the one Rice will
be screening.) Complete schedules are available
at
the respective theatres.
"Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" with
Ellen Burstyn and Kris Kristofferson opens
here at the Northwood, Southmore, Almeda
9, Town & Country Six, Northwest 4, Park
III, Greenway Plaza, Southway Six, Northshore,
Briargrove 3, Ciulfway, Champion
Village and Shamrock and at the following
area theatres: Plaza at Wharton. Twin City
Drive-In at Rosenberg, Cine at Huntsville.
Brazos Drive-In at Angleton, Deauville at
Aldine, Bayou at Texas City, Bay Plaza at
Baytown and Texas Theatre at Cleveland
and a multiple opening for "March or Die "
in Houston . . . "Holiday" was screened at
the Kaplan Theatre in the Jewish Commimity
Center and the Museum of Fine Arts
showed kiddies films.
OKLAHOMA CITY
Kath.v Bell is the new staffer at United
Artists. Not only is she new at UA, but
she is a novice in the motion picture industry.
W; welcome her gladly and wish her
success . . . John Buffo, Liberty Theatre.
Hartshorne, is in St. Anthony Hospital here,
but not for long if he has his way. He had
open heart surgery, recuperated quickly and
now tells one and all he is ready to go home.
Roger Rice, Video publicity, was taken ill
while vacationing in Estes Park, Colo., with
his wife Fern, also of Video's Home office.
He was hospitalized there for a week before
being returned here and placed in St. Anthony's.
Get well soon, is the message from
all his friends and associates.
Buyers and bookers included "Andy"
Anderson, Riverside Drive-In, Norman and
Mike Brewer, Royal Theatre and Brewer's
Drive-In, Pauls Valley . . . Bill and Virginia
Slepka, owners of the Okemah theatres, sent
a card advising us of the various countries
they are touring with their daughter
and her family. Recently they were in Mallorca,
Spain where they attended a bullfight.
Funeral services were held here recently
for "Jack" Keeler. He was the husband of
Nina Keeler who retired from American
International Pictures. Our sincere condolences
to Nina at this time ... J. A. "Smitty"
Smith, bouncing back from a seige of
ill health, was in to visit old friends in the
lOSfN&fOODSALeS
\70R£STAUfiANm,.
bwng'em in.make "em happy,
WITH DaiCIOUS, PROFITABLE
JIFFY
FRANKS
LIGHT£DIMPULSCSM£SSIGN,Ff(tt!
husiness. pr(Kl,iiniiiig how nice it is to be
back up and about.
'
Recent trade screenings: A IP's 'Trapped'
and 20th Century-Fox's "Turning Point"
at the Tower and United Artists' "Semi-
Tough" at the Continental.
Jerry Brewster Ends Run
That Began Back in 1936
OKLAHOMA CITY — Jerry
Brewster,
veteran salesman for United Artists, ended
a "run" that began as an usher for Robb
and Rowley at the old Texas Theatre in
Dallas, in 1936. With stops at Columbia
Pictures, the Texas Theatre Service and
W.B. in Dallas, he signed on with UA in
1961.
Jerry, who retired Friday (2), was the star
of a party at the Lincoln Plaza Dinner theatre
which had a supporting cast that included
(all from UA, of course) Jerry Solowitz,
home oMice Playdate Department;
Fred Mound, assistant general sales manager:
Gen; Goodman, Southern division
manager; Jerry Malone, who will succeed
Brewster as sales manager (do they have a
thing for "Jerry's?"); local staffers Denise
Hardy, Peggy Dillard and Eddie Greggs.
The retiring "star" made his debut in
Cane Hill. Ark., and is an alumnus of the
University of Arkansas.
THEATRE
"Go Modern...For All Your Theatre Needs"
'
i « iM^r ^^PF|-!h»1 ^^
nciii
DRIVE-IN
SCREENS
^'The Qiinlily Totver that never
has had to he replaced."
GENE TAYLOR
D & D Fabrication
and Erection Co.
Post Office Box 3524
Shownee, Kansas 66203
913-631-9695
^
SALES & SERVICE, INC.
'WE OFFER YOU"
2200 YOUNG STREET • DALLAS, TEXAS, 75201 • TELEPHONE 747^191
Sound and
Projection Service
Nationwide — on all brands.
RCA Service Company, A Division of RCA
4508 Bibb Blvd , Ga 30084
Phone (404) 934-9333
oily the finest merchandise the market
to offer."
"Ycur Complete Equipment House"
OKLAHOMA THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
6'>S West Grand Oklahoma City
BOXOFFICE :: September 5, 1977

.
DALLAS
Joy Surratt and Dale Swann exchanged
vows August 13 at the Munger Place
Lriited Methodist church. Joy's parents
came in from Milwaukee for the wedding,
.loy is a staffer for AlP. her employers for
the past 15 years. All of us extend our hest
wishes to the newlyweds.
.Mary Crump, WOMPI finance chairman,
is glowing over the success of yet another
prcUitable cake raffle. Eric and Maud
deNeve helped by selling tickets throughout
their building to employees of Columbia,
Warner Bros, and their own Eric Distributing
Co. Betty McDaniel and Penny
.\mell drew the winning ticket which belonged
to Beverly Kimball of Warner Bros.
Wayne Lewellen, Royce Brimage, Ethel
Hodge and Floyd Carter will attend a Paramount
accoimting seminar in Atlanta
Thursday and Friday (8-9) . Claudia
. .
Patterson, WOMPI president and key-cog
at Te.xas Films Inc.. is back from Austin
where she helped her two daughters get
"settled in" at the University of Texas.
Her eldest daughter Pennic just graduated
with majors in finance and business administration
and is currently looking for work
in
Austin.
Mai Carper warrants congratulations on
her promotion to booker at United Artists
the other day. Jerry Brand, head biiyer
made (he announcement. Mai came here
from Memphis where she had worked in
the industry for several years and headed
WOMPI in 1976. She is currently corresponding
secretary of the local WOMPI
Club.
:
COLOR
CINERAMA IS IN
SHOW BUSINESS IN
HAWAII TOO.
When you come to Waikiki,
'-'°"'' "^'55 *^^ famous
BiMS/CA'
[hawamI Don Ho Show. .
IS^TELs. Cinerama's Reef Towers Hotel.
REEF REEF TOWERS .
or Black and White
Dallas Film Rating Code
Confusing to Moviegoers
(Continued from page SW-1)
munity Affairs department for the city and
works with the local classification board.
" I do find the latter group more understanding
than the first,
however," Hunt continued.
"When I explain the board is not a
censorship body, only one trying to provide
guidelines, they Lisually accept that explanation.
You can tell the first group the Supreme
Court does not allow you to ban or
censor films and it doesn't seem to make
any impression. They still want them
banned or censored.'
"Critics argue that at least some limited
censorship is involved. If the board classifies
a movie as Unsuitable no one under 16 is
allowed in a theater without their parents.
That is restricting. It is also often infuriating
to parents wanting to drop their kids
off at a PG movie while they go do something
else, say theatre operators (With the
national system those under 17 can go into
a PG rated movie alone).
" 'Yes, we do get complaints about that.'
Hunt admits. 'People say they thought it was
all right for their kids to see a PG movie. A
PG signifies parental guidance. That means
the parent should be familiar,
or preferably
see a film first themselves to know if its
content is all right for their kids. It is a gray
area. I personally find there is a general misunderstanding
of the national ratings— as. I
guess, there is of ours. I talk to people who
think if a movie is G-rated it will not interest
anyone over 21 years old. They think
PG is only a little higher, when PG has a
great latitude. That has caused movie people
to steer away from G ratings. I saw where
"Star Wars" originally had a G rating and
asked for that to be changed to a PG. I can
understand their reasoning from the people
who call here (actually that widely reported
item is being refuted by MPAA officials
who say "Star Wars" had a PG all along).'
"The Dallas board was established because
of, and for, that gray PG area of
films. They do not even consider X. R or G
rated films. Movie theater operators tend to
say the public is so unaware and/or indifferent
to the ratings system of the Dallas
board it is useless. But they are also the
ones who have to accept, implement and
(most nagging of all) police the local board's
FOR
INDOOR AND
DRIVE-INS
NATIONAL
Changeable
Letters
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS • TRAILERETTES
NO SMOKING • VANDALISM • DATERS
COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Rilmac"

F:--t
3id
. .
I
. , Nora
Profitable Summer
Ends in Minneapolis
MINNEAPOLIS ~ The end-of-siimmer
screen scene found only two fresh arrivals
in town, both well up on the pkis side of
the scale. Meanwhile. '"Star Wars" in the
13th week of its first-run engagement at
the Park Theatre found fresh strength,
probably a last burst of younger fans before
they trudge back to the scholastic salt mines
so proceeded to climb to a lusty 370
from the previous reading of 310. "Pardon
Mon Affaire" set up shop at the Edina II
and clicked with a zesty 225. And the Richard
Pryor picture, "Greased Lightning,"
struck with a 150 in a 10-screen spread.
Considering the fact that the key summer
release season now is over and that a couple
of long months face exhibitors before
product flow stirs again, the other gross
readings didn't seem particularly robust .
the kind that can leg it through the upcoming
"thin" period. The product flow this
summer has been varied—and there have
been enough films of the "The Other Side
of Midnight" stripe (steady grosses week
after week) to carry exhibitors through the
season in generally comfortable style. But
now things slow down on the release front.
(Average Is 100)
Academy—Suspiria (Internanonal Classics),
3rd wk 50
Cooper—MacArlhur (Un;v), 3rd wk 190
Cooper Camec—A Bridge Too Far (UA),
10th wk 125
Edina I— labberwocky (C:n.--;:i VI -St!" .•'k 100
'
Edina 11— Pardon Mon Allaire Ar':-,') 225
pier-Walking Tall
!s to Monle Carlo
(BV)
le ..'.?; I
Fou
wk .
Four Ih.
nd Ihe Bandit (Uni-
4th wk 85
Park— Star Wars i.:::!hF" .: I:!;; wk 370
•
Skyway 1—The Other Side of Midnight
(20th-Fox), ICth wk 100
Skyway 111—New York, New York (UA)
8th wk 110
Three theatrps—The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training ipr:nl 2r;d ,vk IPO
Three thea- - The Spy Who Loved Me (UA)
6th wk 95
Ten theatr.3— Greased Ughtning (Univ) 150
World—The Last Remake oi Beau Geste
(Univ), 5th wk 55
THEATRE
DRIVE-IN
SCREENS
'The Quality Toirer that never
has had to be replaced"
* • *
GENE TAYLOR
D & D Fabrication
and Erection Co.
Post Office Box 3524
Shownee, Kansos 66203
913-631-9695
Wisconsin Site is Chosen
For William Holden Film
MlLW.'MJKEE— Last year's surprise
blockbuster film, "The Omen," starring
Gregory Peck and Lee Remick. is to have
a sequel called "Omen II," a major scquencc
ol which will be shot at Eagle River. I he
filming will be in November and Dccemlui
at private estates on the Eagle Chain of
Lakes, Chicago and Israel. A $5 million
budget film, "Omen 11" will star William
Holden and a major female star as yet un
named. This information was supplied h>
Lee F. Rafner, production manager, who
along with other principals in the undertaking
have been in Eagle River viewing private
estates and sizing up the area. Rafner
said he also needed to find additional housing
for a crew of workers and actors totalling
between 60 and 70,
The script calls for filming a millionaire's
estate at the time of the lake ice freeze-up
which is why, Rafner explained, the Eagle
River locations in northern Wisconsin had
been selected. He said a major scene will
show an ice-skating party in which someone
falls through the ice. This incident will be
filmed from below the water as well as
above and will require underwater cameras,
stunt men and professional scuba divers.
Directing the production will be Michael
Hodges from Dorsett. England.
A part-time office for 20th Century-Fox
is being set up in Eagle River and will expand
to fulltime in October. It will work on
such matters as arranging an aerial courier
service to rush films to Los Angeles for
processing and synchronizing with the
sound, arranging an outdoor heating for
cameras and personnel, assembling needed
vehicles, hiring as many as 20 extras from
the community, working out arrangements
with the proper authorities and taking care
of other business and technical matters.
Rafner said the role of Damien, a devilish
youngster is to be played by a 13-year
old English child star. In addition to having
been assistant director for the movie,
"Chinatown," Rafner had worked in that
capacity for "The Drowning Pool" starring
Paul Newman, also "The Trial of Billv
Jack."
Ingersoll Will be Eatery
DES MOINES~The Ingersoll Theatre,
part of the Dubinsky Bros." circuit until it
closed June 28, is being converted into a
Christian restaurant according to new owner
Gene Toulouse, To be called The Lighthouse,
it is scheduled to start serving food
and gospel music in mid-October, On August
25, Toulouse signed a 22-year lease for
the property.
Stuart Theatre manager Al Schulter,
right, presents prizes to Al Williams,
who was patron No. 76,637 to purchase
a ticket to "Star Wars," 20th-
Fox hlockbuster playing at the showhouse.
DES MOINES
trio of J^ United Artists' staffers were bitten
by the "wander bug" recently . . .
Eleanor Jackson, office manager, took two
of her vacation days and headed for Kansas
. City, Mo. Kruzich, temporary
branch manager's secretary, left for two
weeks in Montana. August 28
Olson, division
, , , Carl
manager from New York,
arrived for a visit to the Des Moines exchange
this past week.
Steve Blank of Central States took a week
off and headed for North Carolina where
he is training for his commercial balloon
pilot's license , , . Frank Rash, Theatre
booking in Omaha, was our sole visitor this
week.
SOUND PROJECTION
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
"TROUTS SOUND AND PROIECTION
MANUAL," Simphiied service data on
Leading makes oi projectors, Step-by-
Step Service instructions on Sound equipment,
xenon lamps, screens, lenses, iilm
transport equipment (platter), motors
soundheads, speakers, etc. Schematics en
sound equipment and drawings. This helpful
Service Manual endorsed by the industry.
Authentic maintenance data for
the projectionist, the exhibitor. Simplified
data. You should have this Manual and
save on repair work and obtain better
proj. and sound. Send TODAY. Special
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Projection Service
on all brands.
RCA Service Company, A Division of RCA
7620 Gross Poinl Road Shokie III 60076
Phone (312) 478-6591
CINERAMA IS IN
SHOW BUSINESS IN
HAWAII TOO.
When you come to Waikiki,
'^°"'* "^'^^ ^^^ famous
BlCfiiilCA'
[havvaii] '-^°'^ '^o Show, . at
,
Cinerama's Reef Towers Hotel.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5, 1977 NC-1

i
SPECIAL
—
EAPOLIS
garbara Rosen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Joe Rosen, was married July 28 to
Sh.ine Korman in ceremonies conducted
here. After a short honeymoon, they have
settkd in Winnipeg, Man., the groom's home
town. Rosen is a salesman at the Paramount
branch here.
The annual Tentilino Enterprises Golf
Tourney was held August 18 in Alexandria,
Minn., Tentilino's home base. And
once again, there was an enthusiastic turnout
with six foursomes in competition for
an array of awards. Among the winners
was Paramount branch manager Forrie Myers,
who won for having his ball closest to
the cup on a
par-3 hole.
The Star and the Morning Tribune have
combined their Saturday editions into a
single newspaper, issued on Saturday mornings.
The move took effect August 27.
The St. Paul Pioneer Press and the Dispatch
also are pairing their Saturday editions into
a single morning publication to bow Saturday
(10).
Filmrow visitor: Mel Edclstein, Hibbing
Drive-ln . . . Paramount's "The Bad News
Bears in Breaking Training" has met with
several downbeat reviews but is making a
lot of noise at both the local boxoffices in
the Twin Cities and in outstate engagements.
And Universal branch chief Frank
Zanotti is equally pleased with the performance
of "Smokey and the Bandit."
On the road: Don Dalrymple, owner of
the booking service that bears his name,
journeyed to North Dakota to visit with his
accounts there. Irving Braverman of Northwest
Theatre Corp. was in Omaha, where
Northwest operates a pair of theatres. And
Martin Pinkstaff of Midcontinent Theatres,
where he is assistant general manager to
Harry Greene, was in Bismarck, N.D., to
go over circuit procedures with managers
in the city, where Midcontinent operates
all five theatres.
COLOR or
Black and White I
FOR
INDOOR AND
DRIVE-INS
PROMOTIONS • TRAILERETTES
NO SMOKING • VANDALISM • DATERS
COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Pilmaok
-^^ tudioS
The Minneapolis-St. Paul school vacation
schedule this year favors theatre business
but is a hit in the head for stores, which
prefer kids to be out of school for the week
prior to Christmas. This December, the
students don't break for the Yuletide vacation
until December 23. returning Jan. 6,
1978. That means no pre-Christmas vacation
shopping time for youngsters—but it
means that they will have two full weeks
to spend Christmas loot on motion pictures.
Frank Zanotti, Universal branch chief,
is getting ready to announce the exclusive
runs in Minneapolis ard St. Paul for
"Heroes." the upcoming Henry Winkler
film set to bow November 4 . . . And Avco
Embassy's Dean Lutz set 18 Twin Cities
dates for the new Michael Parks picture,
"Sidewinder 1," which opened Friday (2).
And all of the Minneapolis Filmrow
gang bid Steve Felperin, Warner Bros,
branch manager, a fond farewell and good
luck at his new post as Warners branch
chief in Denver. The energetic, dynamic
young Felperin wound up his duties here
and headed for the Colorado base. He will
be communting for a time, however, since
his fiancee, Daryl Neimark, lives in Minneapolis,
where they will be wed November
27. Felperin will be succeeded by Dick Malek.
returning to his former post here after
do'rg similar duty for Warners in Kansas
City.
Cinemobile Display Set
As Feature of Festival
TORONTO— Parked at Harbourfront
and showing films which will include National
Film Board shorts and some fulllength
features, a; well as films by independent
Canadian filmmakers and some animation
and classic films, will be the Cinemobile.
The Cinemobile is a van with an inflatable
theatre coming out of its back. It
looks like a giant carrot and has to be seen
to be believed!
This "inflatable" mobile theatre was devised
by Martin Heath, director of projects,
and Chriss Clifford, design engineer, of
Mobile Cinema Systems. It seats approximately
75. The balloon environment creates
excitement among adults and children,
creating a delightful new way to view film.
The Cinemobile is an all-weather yearround
mobile cinema with continuous projection
and a self-contained generating system.
In the environment created by the inflatable
auditorium, people become enthusiastic
about viewing film and in the process
seem to enjoy themselves and find that the
person next to them also is "getting off" on
the experience.
The Cinemobile will be at Harbourfront
the weekends of the festival, September 10-
11 and September 17-18. All of the films
are free and part of the festival's Harbourfront
activities.
Richard Pryor and Warner Bros, have
igned an agreement under which Pryor will
tar in a minimum of four films in four
Capitol Theatre to Reopen
Under New Management
FLINT. MICH.—The Capitol Theatre,
which has been closed since last fall, is to
reopen under the direction of its new manager
George S. Farah who recently purchased
the theatre and the building that
houses it and ab.iul 30 other stores and
offices.
Farah said that through offering firstrun
films and live entertainment that is
suitable for the entire family he hopes to
make the theatre a focal point that will
instigate the revitalization of the downtown
area.
Farah bid on undisclosed first-run features
for fall showings and is considering
offering ethnic films in their native languages.
He also may add international foods
to the menu at the concession stand. Plans
to convert the bowling alley in the building
into a night club are also underway.
Frank Marzonic will act as the "entertainment
counselor" and Farah will manage the
theatre and continue to rent out the other
stores and offices. Farah feels that there will
be a great potential for the entertainment
business in the downtown area when the
University of Michigan riverfront campus
and other projects are completed.
Farah has hired the former Capitol employees
and cleaned the theatre. The stage
has been refinished and the lighting and
projection equipment have been overhauled.
The theatre was built in 1927 by the
Capitol Theatre Building Co. who eventually
leased it to Butterfield Theatres. Inc.. who
operated it until last fall.
Lucky Sci-Fi Fan Breaks
Lincoln Audience Record
LINCOLN— A! Schultcr. manager of the
Stuart Theatre, presented Al Williams of
Route 3, Lincoln, with a number of prizes
August 16 for being the 76,637th customer
to purchase a ticket to "Star Wars," currently
playing at the Stuart. What is so magical
about the number 76.637? As any dyed-inthe-wool
NU Big Red football fan can attest,
that figure is one more than the largest
attendance ever recorded for a Cornhusker
football game (the 1974 confrontation between
Oklahoma and Nebraska at Lincoln's
Memorial Stadium).
Thus, the 76,637th "Star Wars" customer
broke the record and gave the film the.
largest attendance record for any entertain-'
ment event in Lincoln. Williams' prizes included
a weekend for two at the Villager
Motel and Convention Center here, which
also volunteered dinner and Sunday breakfast.
Williams also received tickets for the
Nebraska-Baylor football game to be played
at Memorial Stadium Saturday (24), tickc
to the Stuart Theatre's coming attraction
"Survival Run," a transistor radio and a
"Star Wars" souvenir poster.
Williams said it was the third time he had
been back to view the 20th Century-Fox
smash.
Production on "Midnight Express" is sei
for September.
NC-2
.September 5. 197";

Cash Flow;
In 1803, America found hcrsolt up the ri\-er.
The Mississippi, that is.
Valuable goods were being produced in the
Midwest, and the might>' Mississippi was our cmiIv
link to the sea. But the outlet in New Orleans
belonged to France.
So President Jefferson sent agents to Paris to
negotiate for the addition of New Orleans.
Surprisingly, Napoleon offered to sell th
entire Louisiana Territory tor only
$15,000,000.
Thanks to Americans taking
stock in their new country by
buying over $11,000,000 in
gowrnment securities, we made
Stock
the ptirchase. And doubled our size overnight.
Today, Americans still take stock in their
country' by buying U.S. Savings Boncis through
the Payroll Savings Plan.
They know there's no safer way to sa\e \or an
education, \'acation or retirement. And they know
that while they're helping themsehes, they're
helping America, ttxi.
So buy L'.S. Sa\'ings Bonds.
And help vtnir cash flow into savings.
E Bonds pay 6",', inturi'st when
held to maturity of 5 years (4'/4% the
first year) . Interest is not subject to stati
or local income taxes, and federal tax
may be deferred until redemption.
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977 NC-3

j
I
1
I
I
MILWAUKEE
J^aj Nichols' Rivoli Theatre in Cedarburg
sponsored a "Back to School Matinee"
August 22-26, at 1 and 3:30 p.m. Tickets
were distributed to local merchants permitting
the bearer to attend the matinee for
only 50 cents. Nichols reported "We had to
turn folks away on the final day for lack of
seating." The on-screen attraction was "Super
Bug." Incidentally, when "Star Wars"
finally closed out during the waning days
of August, it had been on for more than
H'ne weeks, shattering the fiv;-week record
held by "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest."
Neil Diamond, singer-guitarist-composer,
whose work has been heard in various mot'on
pictures, drew audiences of 20,000 to
the new Alpine Valley Music Theatre. East
Troy, during two successive, evening performances
in mid-.August. With tickets priced
at SIO and $15. the concert grossed about
$225,000 each night. The Alpine is about
30 miles west of this city.
"The Other Side of Midnight" is in its
"exclusive tenth week at Northtown Cinema
I on the city's far north side . . . Also "exclusive"
here is
the Dolby, four-track-stereo
soimd. "Star Wars" presentation at both
Mill Road and Spring Mall triplexes.
Tom Schaffner of Jack Wodell Associates.
Chicago-based publicity agency for
Columbia Pictures, was on hand to greet
auests at a special screening of "You Light
Up My Life." August 24. at the Centre
Screening Room. Starring newcomer Didi
Conn, the 90-minute. PG-rated film began
its run on August 26 at Movies Northridge.
Prospect Mall. Skyway Cinemas. Spring
Mall Triplex. United Artists' Mayfair. Starlite
Twins and Giant 41 Twins.
James Earl Jones, the actor who received
an Oscar nomination for his work in the
film "The Great White Hope." will be in
town in November to star in the play "Paul
Robeson." It will run for eight performances
at the Pabst. Jones' most recent assignment
was as the voice of Lord Darth
Vadcr, the evil force in "Star Wars."
LINCOLN
^ouglas Theatre Corp. president Russell
Brehm returned to a local hospital
during the week of August 15 for the followup
surgery in connection with a condition
which had necessitated a surgical procedure
in late July. Dave Livingston, vicepresident
of Douglas Theatre Corp.. said.
"All the feedback concerning Brehm's condition
is positive and good."
Plaza 4 theatres announced the addition
of two new staff members recently. Mark
Benjamin will start as manager trainee at
the Plaza after being granted an honorable
discharge from the Marine Corps. Benjamin.
20. had worked at the Plaza 4 as a
doorman before joining the service . . .
Larry Forsgren journeys to the Plaza from
Cooper-Highland's Omaha Indian Hills
Theatre. Forsgren. who will be attending
the University of Nebraska-Lincoln this
fall, will join the Plaza staff as a doorman.
He had worked at the Indian Hills two
years.
The most recent "sanitation ratings" given
motion picture theatres in this city by the
Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department
all ranked in the top two classifications
except one. Heading the list with a
"superior" rating was the Cooper/ Lincoln
Theatre, the Douglas 3 theatres and the
Stuart Theatre. In the "superior-good" classification
were the Cinema X Theatre, the
Cinema 1 and 2. the Embassy Theatre,
Plaza 4 theatres, the Starview Outdoor Theatre
and the 84th and O Drive-In. The West
O Drive-In finished last in the theatre
competition, ranking only in the "good"
category.
The ratings for food establishments, in
this case motion picture theatres, are determined
through unannounced sanitation
inspections made twice a year. The sanitation
inspection covers 17 items of sanitation:
food supply; food protection; personnel
cleanliness; health and disease control;
sanitary design, construction and installation
of equipment and utensils; cleanliness
of equipment and utensils; water supply;
sewage disposal; plumbing; toilet facilities;
hand-washing facilities; garbage and
trash disposal; vermin control; floors, walls
and ceilings; lighting; ventilation; dressing
rooms and lockers, and housekeeping.
A rating of "superior" means that a high
level of sanitation is practiced routinely and
maintained at all times. "Superior-good"
means that a high level of sanitation generally
is practiced. Sanitation deficiencies are
corrected promptly whenever identified by
the sanitarian. A rating of "good" means
that sanitation is practiced to a level well
above minimum sanitation standards but
short of meriting a "superior-good" rating.
Deficiencies are corrected in the time allowed
by the health department following
inspection.
Hookers in a Frail Tale
Of Goodnight-Loving Trail
WACO—ESI Films of Waco has just
completed location filming on a comedy
western entitled "The Hooker Bunch." The
film was shot entirely on location in southern
Montana.
Co-producers of the film, Zack and Mary
Belcher, said it is a rollicking story of an old
con artist and his three female companions
as they work their way up the Goodnight-
Loving cattle trail in 1885.
The picture stars veteran actor Dub Taylor
as Dr. Isiah Beauregard Hooker. He is
supported in the picture by Buck Taylor,
formerly Newly on "Gunsmoke." Also starring
in the film is Otis Sistrunk. defensive
lineman for the Oakland Raiders.
Dr. Hooker's three companions on the
trail are Gaetana Campbell. Danielle Hibbard
and Linda Mann, all
of Dallas.
At one point in the film, "The Hooker
Bunch" is ambushed by a group of drunk,
inexperienced bandits led by Hollywood
character actors John Chandler and John
Furlong.
"The Hooker Bunch" has the use of a
traveling "entertainment center" while they
work their way up the trail. A trick wagon
was constructed for the picture which includes
a dance stage complete with piano, a
complete bar and a gambling casino.
La Belle Theatre, Oconomowoc. had a
"Merchants Movie-a-Month" tie-in for
Maxwell Stre;t Day last month, with seats
going for 50 cents when fans presented a
coupon available at eight business locations.
The film feature was "A Boy Named Charlie
Brown."
MERCHANT ADSSPECIAl TRAILERS
Tr:iil.-..H'.s-Dateis
(Oion— Hl,.i i & WHITE
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BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

—
Huron Theatre Celebrates
Its 35th Anniversary
PONTIAC, MICH. — The Huron [ hcatr.'.
which has ^hown lamily-oricnicd I'ihns
for the last 25 years, recently celebrated
its 35th anniversary with events planned b\
its owner Arnold Simmons.
Simmons, who bought the theatre in 1976
and who formerly owned the Oxford Theatre.
Oxford, imtil it was destroyed by fire
in
1972, said he plans to carry on the tradition
of presenting family entertainment.
During the anniversary period, which was
celebrated from July 15 through August
20. the two Disney classics "The Rescuers"
and "Hcrbie Goes to Monte Carlo"
were featured. Julie Sommars. one of the
stars of "Hcrbie Goes to Monte Carlo" also
visited the theatre during the celebration.
Simmons arranged her visit by writing to
Disney Studios and informing them that
the theatre was showing Disney films during
its
anniversary celebrations.
The theatre also gave awa> numerous
prizes during the period that included: a
gasoline-powered mini-Herbie. five season
passes to the theatre, two Lions football
tickets, two tickets to Pine Knob, a Brew
coffeemaker. three Norelco Shape 'n Dry
hair dryers and numerous other items.
The Huron, which opened in 1942. has
had a turbulent history. In 1950 it was on
the brink of closing when Wayne Smith,
manager of the Butterfield theatre circuit,
saved it by introducing family entertainment,
which attracted consistent crowds.
'Trumpet in the Land' Was
Directed by Charles Kray
NEW PHII.DEl PHIA, OHIO—Charles
Kray, a film and TV actor, writer and director,
served as the guest director of
"Trumpet in the Land," an outdoor drama
here that depicts the first Ohio settlement
in the Ruscarawas River Valley.
With the aid of several associates. Kray
took the Paul Green script and changed the
historical pageant into a more entertaining
play.
David Gibson. Los Angeles musician and
composer, wrote the musical score and Robert
Thomas, a choreographer from Dayton,
served as the choreographer and lead dancer.
Jon Drury played the lead role of the
Moravian missionary, David Zeisberger, and
Eddy Halas, a Cleveland TV producer,
commuted 100 miles to play the key role of
Simon Kirty.
The play is an annual stmimer evonl at
the Schoenbrimn Amphitheatre.
Heights Books Admirable
'Celebration of Film'
CLEVELAND— i he Heights I heatre
here is running a summer series featuring
memorable recent films, some foreign, many
double-billed, aimed at the imiversity film
hull audience. Films already screened include
a double shot of Lina Wertmuller,
\ui;ust 17-20 with "Swept Away (bv an
I nuMuil Destiny in the Blue .Sea ol' Au-
gust)" and "Seven Beauties"; the romantic
"Elvira Madigan" unexpectedly teamed with
WR: Mysteries of the Organism," August
21-22: Robert Downey's 1972 "Greaser's
Palace" with "Ihe Hellstrom Chronicle,"
.August 23-24; Herzog's "Every Man for
Himself and God Against All" stood alone
August 25-27; ClaiPde Berri's "The Two
of Us" with Karel Reisz' 1966 black comedy
"Morgan!", August 28-29, and a
pairing
of "The Garden of the Finzi-Conlinis" and
Satyajit Ray's "Distant Thunder" cK)sed the
month.
September at the Heighls opened wilh
this year's "Pumping Iron" billed with
French comedy 'The Tall Blond Man with
One Black Shoe," playing through Saturday
(3). Costa-Gavras' "Z" plays alone Simday
(4) through Tuesday (6) and the series continues
with "Annie Hall" opening Wednesday
(7), "Network" Wednesday (14). and
the "Celebration of Film" closes with von
Sternberg's restored "Anathan" on its own
Sunday (18) through Tuesday (20).
The Ohio Theatre Called
'Pride of Columbus'
COLUMBUS—The Ohio Theatre here,
a restored downtown theatre that has become
the pride of the city, was recently
named Ohio's official theatre.
In ceremonies held recently between
showings of "National Velvet," the film
which made Elizabeth Taylor a star. Sen.
Robert O'Shaughnessy presented a plaque
to Lawrence L. Fisher, one of the original
incorporators of the Columbus Ass'n for
the Performing Arts, which was responsible
for the restoration of the auditorium. Sen.
O'Shaughnessy also gave a state flag for
the theatre to Donald R. Streibig, executive
director of the performing arts group.
A resolution adopted by the 112th state
legislature noted that the Ohio is the only
precisely preserved theatre of its kind in the
slate.
Evander 'Sonny' Farabee
Dies After Heart Surgery
COLUMBUS, OHIO— Evander
"Sonny"
Farabee, a 50-year-old theatre advertising
accoimt executive for the Columbus Dispatch,
died August 8 after emergency heart
surgery at the Good Samaritan Hospital,
Zanesville, where he and his family were
vacationing.
Farabee joined the Dispatch in 1948. He
is survived by his wife Elizabeth, three sons
and a daughter.
'Final Chapter' Is a Hit
In Its Louisville Debut
LOUISVILLE— "Final Chapter— Walking
Tall, " a Bing Crosby production starring
Bo Svenson, grossed $29,343 in its first week
in Louisville in four theatres, according to
James Whiteside. BCP's vice-president in
charge of sales and marketing.
AIP is releasing the feature which deals
with the saua of the late Sheriff Butord
I'usser.
New Films Light Up
Cleveland Marquees
CLEVELAND- A variety ol new films
appeared on area marquees this report week.
Newcomer "Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo,"
with grosses of 635. was able to capture the
first-place slot away from "Star Wars."
However, the space fantasy retained enough
stamina to hold onto the second-place
position wilh an average of 535 while newcomer
"The Bad News Bears in Breaking
I raining" baited 440 at five theatres to finish
in the third-place slot.
(Avercq-:. Is IOC!
five Iheairt, March or Die iC 70
Five thealie, Herbie Goes lo Monle Carlo
(BV) 635
..
Five Iheaire:,- Final Chapler— Walking Tall
(AIP)
ISO
Five theatres- The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Trainiog (Pjr i) 440
Five theatres- The Spy Who Loved I^e "A
3rd wk. 175
Five theatres- Star Wars
I
. Oir.-roy, i
hth .vv. 535
Four theatres- The Last Remake oi Beau Geste
(Univ), 4:i: .-.,, 135
Four theatres- Smokey and the Bandit (Univ)
theatres MacArlhur >,./), 2nd vk
heatres- Greased Lightning CJVB)
! theat:. The Other Side ol Midnight
"Star Wars' Twinkles at 900 Mark
After 12 Weeks in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI— -Star Wars' continued
to orbit at the top of Ihe list for a 12lh
week with grosses of 900. "Smokey and the
Bandit" completed a second strong week
with an average of 800 while "The Bad
News Bears in Breaking Training" scored
200 in its ninth week,
lowcQse Springdale, S^ Erlanger Slur
Wars (20th-Fox), 12th
-900
lowcase Springdale, Showcase Erlanger—
Smokey and the Bandit (Univ), 2nd wk 800
lowcase Springdale. Showcase Erlanger—The
Bad News Bears in Breaking Training (Para)
3rd wk _ 500
lowcase Springdale, Showcase Erlanger The
Other Side of Midnight (20th-Fox), 9lh wk 200
lowcase Springdale, Showcase Erlanger
Rollercoaster (Univ), llth wk 175
Xenia Cinema Destroyed
By Fire August 15
XENIA, OHIO—The Xenia Cinema was
destroyed by a fire that also leveled four
other businesses on Greene Street and
caused more than $550,000 worth of damage
August 15.
The city commission has alreads laid the
groundwork for rebuilding the destroyed
businesses at the same sites. Three emergency
ordinances were passed exempting the
properties from acquisition by the city even
though they are situated within the urban
renewal area. The theatre is owned by the
Chakeres circuit.
Gary Spreeman Becomes
Sales Manager at Eprad
TOLEDO. OHIO — Gary K. Spreeman
joined Eprad, Inc., a theatre equipment
manufacturer, as the Western regional sales
manager it was announced by Barry Zadigian,
vice-president of marketing.
Spreeman will provide sales and service
support to Eprad dealers west of the Mississippi
River.
200
BOXOFFICE :: September 5, 1977
ME-1

2
The only handicap to hiring us
is not linowing where to find us.
You won't find guys like us selling
pencils on street corners. We're
skilled, able-bodied workers. We're
Industrial designers. Salespeople,
Secretaries. Managers. Account
ants. Technicians. Blue collar and
white collar.
Unfortunately, though, too many
of us are unemployed.
And the irony of it is, it's not that
men and women like yourself don't
want to hire us. It's simply that you
don't know how to go about it.
Every state in this country has a
Department of Vocational Rehabi,,
tation. Its function is not only to
evaluate a person's disabilities and
to help him rehabilitate himself.
But to help place him in a job that
allows him to fulfill his capabilities.
If you are interested in tapping
your state's supply of hard-working,
capable men and women, write to
your State Director of Vocational
Rehabilitation. His office is located
in your state capital.
Tell him what kind of business
you're in. What job openings need
to be filled. The background, experience
and skills required.
He'll be more than happy to put
you in touch with the right people
for your company or organization.
People who will appreciate the opportunity
to help your company
grow. Who wfll work to their fullest
potential. And help your company
— and our nation — prosper.
Write: Director, State Department
of Vocational Rehabilitation at your
state capitol.
ME-
September 5, 1977

. . M.
. .
I
. . . Lynda
. . Shane
. . Rena
^1
DETROIT
^ed Goldberg is the new branch manager
for Avco Embassy Pictures here, slicceeding
Tom Duane, who had held the post
since the company's offices opened in this
city. Ted started in the industry with United
Artists" foreign sales department in New
York, where he worlced four and a half
years. He then moved to Paramount and
worked in sales four and a half years before
becoming affiliated with Key Theatre Enterprises
in Washington. D.C., in an advisory
position. Also in Washington, Goldberg
held the post of Central division manager
for Cinemation and thereafter worked
in sales with American International Pictures
and National General Pictures .
Mrs. Goldberg was employed by Key as
office manager and later was a secretary
and general manager for WWDC Radio,
Washington. She also worked in National
General Theatres" printing department at
one time . . . Mr. and Mrs. Goldberg are
the proud parents of a son, Jonathan Cooper
Goldberg, born August 12 at Sinai Hospital
in this city.
Cooperative Theatres ot Michigan will be
doing the bcxjking and buying for R&R
Theatre Co,"s Parkway and theatres.
I 2
.S232 Twelve Mile Rd., Warren 4S063.
A spokesman for Clark Theatre announced
that Forrest W. Haskell is
the new owner of the Clinton Theatre, Clinton
. Barrigar has disposed of his interest
and is no longer connected with the
Clarkston Cinema and Clarkston Cinema.
Inc. All correspondence is now handled by
Ron Heracki, Warren.
Mark Bladd, a public relations man for
United Artists, made a trip to Cleveland to
do a radio promotion for "New York, New
York.""
The management of Radio City Theatre
in Ferndale, at the last minute, canceled
the showing of the Japanese film, "In the
Realm of the Senses,"" and changed the marquee
to read "Rocky."" It was reported that
no pressure was put on the management, although
some residents and police officials
were deeply concerned. The Ferndale city
manager said. "The owners of the theatre
have always had a good attitude toward the
community and we are appreciative that
they decided not to run the film."" Several
hundred people showed up to see the film
and many left in anger when told that the
film had been canceled. Radio City Theatre
is located across from the Studio North
Theatre, which shows X-rated films.
The Palace Theatre in neighboring Windn|tftt
^BSound and
mV^ivl Projection Service
Nationwide — on all brands.
RCA Service Company, A Division of RCA
;'0338 Progress Dr SIronqsvdIe Ohio 44136
onone (216) 238-9555
sor closed due to the uncertain future of the
downtown building and a cutback in mo\ie
production, according to the president ol
Famous Players Theatres, which is head
quartered in Toronto. F'P also operates the
Devonshire, Centre, Vanity, Capitol, Twin
East and the Twin West theatres in Windsor.
"We have enough outlets in Windsor
now to more than accommodate the product
we have,"" said Geo. Destounis, "and,
furthermore, they are not making enough
movies today to keep all theatres busy.
Years ago there were more small features
but today everything is a blockbuster and
you do not have the smaller pictures in between."
There are no plans to relocate the
theatre or build another one in Windsor.
A case involving "Deep Throat"" was
scheduled for Thursday (1). The defendants
in the case were Stanley Marks of San Francisco
and Harry Mohney and Guy Weir of
Durand. The firm Michigan Corps., which
was one of two companies indicted in the
case, was found guilty. The other company
was the American News Co.
Magnetic Video Corp.. a small Farmington
Hills company, may be the first company
to produce theatrical films on videotape
cassettes for individual purchases. The
cassettes are similar to eight-track stereo cassettes.
The units may be attached to late
model TV sets and then played back at the
viewer"s convenience. Over 100,000 Sony
units have already been sold and it is anticipated
that sales will surpass 1.000,000 by
the end of 1978.
Sack's Home Office Moves
To New Quarters in Hub
BOSTON—Sack Theatres headquarters,
here, is moving into posh new facilities with
7,500 square feet of space in a new building
at Tremont and Temple streets. The
circuit"s executive offices and accounting
department, now in the Music Hall building,
will be consolidated in the newly-leased
quarters.
William J. Moscarelli, corporate development
director for Sack"s negotiated the
transaction with Robert Cunningham, vicepresident
of Ryan, Elliott & Co.
COLOR or
Black and White
FOR :
INDOOR AND :
DRIVE-INS =
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS • TRAIIEREHES
I
NO SMOKING < VANDALISM • DATERS
COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Filmdck
-^3 tudloS
CINCINNATI
j^anc} Sander, I'ai.inunml assistant cashier,
gave birth u^ Jamie Marie August 10.
Nancy is on ,i leave of absence.
Terry Lundin is the new booker at Bucna
Vista for the Cleveland territory. Mary
Smith, the former booker for the area, is
moving back to Colorado.
Lou Ann Winters of I ri-State returned
from her vacation . Schroeder of
United Artists toured Japan for two weeks,
and when she returned it was Christmas in
August . Timbers of Pacific International
departed for a two-week vacation,
Allan Hoelge ol 20th Century-Fox"s
booking department was married .August
19, He then departed on a combined vacation
and honeymoon.
Congratulations to Mary Ferring, United
Artists staffer, on her engagement to Jeffery
Sheckels. Wedding plans are in the works
Metzev is a new face at United
Artists.
Over 100 people attended the second annual
Filmrow picnic August 16 at Winlon
Woods.
Jay Goldberg's granddaughters Rebecca
and Elisabeth recently toured the JMG Film
Co. While receiving their first lesson in
film distribution, Rebecca showed a flair
for advertising and Elisabeth was obviously
enthralled by the booking department. The
State to observe the busy and complex world
of theatrical booking.
Palace Theatre Offered
Comedy Film Series
MARION, OHIO— Ihe historical
Palace
Theatre offered a series of comedy films
during August.
The lineup of films included: "A Night
Bros,,
at the Opera,"" starring the Marx
'"Harold and Maude,"" which starred Ruth
young ladies also visited the offices of Tri-
Gordon, Bob Cort and Vivian Pickle s, and
"Bringing Up Baby."" with Katharine Hepburn
and Carv Grant.
CINERAMAISIN
SHOW BUSINESS IN
HAWAII TOO.
When you come to Waikiki,
*^°'^^ "^'55 ^^^ fainous
BlMSuM
[hawaTi] '-'o" Ho Show. .
.
at
JHOTasJ Cinerama's Reef Towers Hotel.
IN UIAIKIKI: REEF REEF TOWERS . EDGEWATER
We can handle it!
MOORE THEATRE
EQUIPMENT CO.
Coil:
®
(304) 344-4413
213 Delaware Ave.
P.O. Box 782
Charleston, W. Va.
25323
BOXOFFICE :: September .S, 1977 ME-3

.
.
Who reads Boxoffice?
'^ple you know...
and want to reach
Key people in Exhibition:
1 1,778* theatre owners and managers, circuit
executives, film buyers and bookers, and
projectionists
Key people in Distribution:
1,151* distributors and sales executives, home office
managers, bookers and publicity people
Key people in Equipment:
449* supply dealers, sales agents and executives
Key people in Production:
350* producers, directors, studio executives,
cameramen, actors and writers
Key People in the Media:
193* newspaper, magazine editors and writers and
radio-TV broadcasters
Recognize your soles prospect?
You should because more key
people in the film industry rely on
BOXOFFICE for its complete and
accurate information than any other
film industry publication with ABC
audited circulation.*
Take one small step today toward
big sales tomorrow . . . deliver your
advertising message to the BOX-
OmCE Reader: someone who is
integral to the film industry . .
someone who makes the big
^decisions . .
>omeone like
you.
• Audit Hureau of Circulation,
Publisher's Statement for 6 mos. ending Dec. 31, 1975
ME- BOXOFFICE :; September 5. 197'3

—
-Herbie
^
'.'.
Hub's Xombat Zone'
May Change to DMZ
BOSTON—A move to shrink the -combat
zone." home of adult films, with a row
of a dozen theatres and peep shows showing
such fare, is underway by its creators, the
Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA).
Spokesmen said that after studying several
ways of solving the problems of the adult
entertainment area, which has proven an
embarrassment, plans now are to contain
and gradually shrink the district with major
new building developments.
Instead of eliminating or moving the 6.5
acre strip of adult film houses, nude dance
parlors, adult bookstores, options which
were considered, officials hope that mullimillion
dollar public and private developments
to be built on the edges of the "zone"
will bring conventional businesses into the
area. Among the proposed developments is
a $100 million Federal courthouse, which
the General Services Administration is considering
placing on the northern border of
the "zone." BRA spokesman Ralph I. Memolo
said the courthouse, if it is built on
the northern edge of the "zone." fits right
into BRA plans.
Expan.sion on Borders
Jordan Marsh Co. department store.
plans to open its new building Thursday
(15) at Washington and Summer streets
and plans are continuing toward building
a retail business complex. Lafayette Place,
on the northern side of the "zone," which
would have an amusement park type area
for children. On the southern border. Tufts
University wants to expand its dental center
by adding a veterinary school and a pediartic
clinic. South of the "zone." private investors
are now raising S3' 2 million to renovate
the 4.400-seat Music Hall and to ex-
Many Vacant Buildings
Many of the buildings in the area are vacant
above the first few floors, because few
businessmen want their clients to have to
walk through adult stores on the first floors.
David Trietch. director of planning for the
theatre district, said. "It seems like a poor
use of available land space," Memolo said.
"We would obviouslv like to find more desirable
uses for such prime development
land in
the heart of downtown." John Sloan,
director of urban design, said the BRA, also
dissatisfied with the rising crime rate and
deteriorating buildings in the area, undertook
and recently completed a preliminary
study of the "combat zone." Several options
were considered and rejected.
Under consideration was an option to
move the "combat zone" and all its enterprises
to another location out of the high
value downtown area; plans were to move
it to North Station, to the leather district,
and to Fort Point channel, but all were rejected.
They also discussed creating a "wild
sort of Coney Island" in Boston Harbor by
moving all of the adult businesses to
one of the harbor islands, Sloan said. All
proposals to move the the zone were rejected.
"That's not eliminating the problem
of the "combat zore,' that's just moving it
somewhere else." he said.
Solid Btrsiness Sought
The BRA hopes the planned developments
along the outskirts of the "zone" will
become anchors from which other private
developers can extend further into the zone.
"We'd like to see more solid tax productive
business supplant some of the businesses alleady
in the area." Memolo said. BRA
planners also took a closer look at Detroit's
method of handling adult entertainment
films. Such theatres and businesses are prohibited
from zoned residential areas in Detroit
and each one much be no closer than
1.000 feet from another. "That just
wouldn't work for Boston." Sloan said, explaining
why the BRA also rejected this proposal.
"It would be a worse disaster than
we already have. Boston has too many residential
areas to allow such an ordinance and
the practical problems would be considerable."
The planners have settled for the moment
on a third option, which involves re-
"Foreign Correspondent' Showing
SOMERVILLE. MASS.— Alfred Hitchcock's
1940 drama. "Foreign Correspondent."
was shown as free attraction, open
a
to the public, in the West Branch Library
on a recent Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m.
New Haven Welcomes
'Greased Lightning'
NEW HAVEN—A four-theatre
bow of
Warners' "Greased Lightning" (downtown
RKO-Stanley Warner Roger Sherman,
Spodick Bros.' Whitney, independent Bowl
and Redstone Milford drive-ins (doublebill)
registered a brisk 225, and Warner
Bros.' "One on One," auditorium one, Redstone
Showcase 5, hit 185, to comprise only
two new attractions in town. Holdoverwise,
again it was 20th Century-Fox's "Star
Wars," well ahead of everything else; the
record-shattering, sci-fi release, hit 375 for
its seventh week.
(Average Is 100)
Cine II, North Haven—Smolcey and the Bandit
(Univ), 3rd wk
I, Milford
2nd
Cmemart II—Orca (I . : .125
,
;
Four theatres—Greased Lightning
Showcase 1—One on One (WB)
Showcase II—MacArthur (Univ). 2nd
Showcase 111—The Bad News Bears
Training (Para). 4th f.-'r. £0
Showcase IV- The Spy Who Loved Me (U.'\),
3rd wk 300
Showcase V- Star Wars :•.,:;. •., v.k 375
Three theaT- . Goes to Monte Carlo
(BV), 3rd V.,. 285
Hartford Roster Lists Two
New Releases on Marquees
HARTFORD — Pointing up the strong
staying power of a plenitude of extended
engagements, there were only two new attractions,
both from the states rights field.
National-American's ""Can I Do It Til I
Need Glasses?" rang up a brisk 275, at the
Menschell Berlin and Vernon Cinemas 2
and SBC Cinema City 4. States rights' ""Bel
Ami" (double-bill) hit 250 at the Ernest A.
Grecula Art Cinema. For its sixth week,
20th Century-Fox's ""Star Wars" (multiple)
registered an excellent 400, chalking up, for
the sixth consecutive week, record-shattering
figures.
- -
'
,
,.
Three
tend its stage back to Stuart St.. also on the
Art Cinema—Bel Ami (SR) Every Inch a Lady
border of the "zone."
(SR) 250
taining the zoning ordinance that created
wk 50
On the western border of the "zone." the
Atheneum Cinema—Crial (SH), 4th
Cinema City III, Cinema III—Smokey and the
the area. "We said we would keep it in the
.100
city council is now considering whether to
Bandit (Univ), 3rd v. k
Four theatres-Star Wars
location it is now in, but try to plan and
.400
approve the first stage of the Park Plaza coordinate development in the area around
Showcase I—Herbie Goes to Mont-; Carlo
.275
complex, which will start with a state transportation
(BV). 2nd wk
Showcase Il-The Spy Who Lovpd Mc
it, on its borders," Sloan said.
3rd wk .300
building.
Showcase III—The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Boston's "combat zone" was established
New Theatre Planned at Plaza
by a 1974 city zoning regulation as the first
SPRINGFIELD,
formal
MASS.—Development
adult entertainment zone in the
new
Training (Para), 4; ..:
Showcase IV-MacArthur ,Vi..
Showcase V—The Other Side of
(20th-Fox), 10th v.-k
90
. .225
Midnight
85
Six theatres Greased 165
United States where adult films could be
of a motion picture theatre in a shopping
Lightning I'.'.'r
theatres-Can 1 Do It Til I Need
center to adjoin the present
shown. It was created to keep
Winchester
adult entertainment
from
Square Plaza is recommended in a newlyreleased
spreading to other parts of
Glasses? (SR) 275
Three theatres—March or Die tCoij, ^no wic 200
Three theatres—One on One (WB), 2nd wk 150
joint study by the city's planning
the city. Hailed as the first breaJcthrough in
department and community development office.
Just what interests
establishing a zoned area for adult entertainment,
other cities established their own
would operate the 'Spellbound' at Chatham High
cinema,
adult entertainment
however, is yet to
areas using the Boston
be determined. CHATHAM. MASS.— Alfred Hitchcock's
"Spellbound" was shown on a recent
zone as a model. However. BRA planners
say the concept is not working as thev would
Monday night (8 p.m.) at the Chatham
like.
High School, proceeds from the $2 admission
charged going to the Chatham chapter
Feature Show First at Wellfleet
WFLI.FLEET, MASS.—The Wellfleet
Drive-ln screens its main feature first every
nisht.
of AFS International Scholarships.
'See The Big Ones at Riverdale'
WEST SPRINGFIELD, MASS.—E.M.
Loew's Riverdale Drive-In runs institutional
copy above its daily newspaper ad logo,
typical lines reading, ""See The Big Ones At
Riverdale!"
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977 NE-

. .
BOSTON
•Oob Rancalore, Avco Embassy's branch
manaacr. reported that his publicity
dcpartmem had covered the area in and
around Boston with advertising for the
opening of "Final Chapter—Walking Tall.'"
which debuted August 24 in 70 local the-
bert Laurie, among this city's most prominent
and beloved couples. Services at the
Levine Chapel in Brookline were attended
by industry members from the executive
level on down, in addition to the many,
many friends of the bereaved pair,
Alain Tanner, noted Swiss director, will
visit the Orson Welles Cinema Saturday (3)
to talk to the audience following a screening
of his film "Jonah Who Will be 25 in the
Year 2000." The picture, which premiered
at the Orson Welles last December and ran
for 18 months, is scheduled for a rerun this
year.
Ben Cammaek, Universal branch manager,
held a trade screening of "Checkered
Flag or Die" starring Joe Don Baker and
Susan Sarandon. The word from the screening
room audience was that the film is an
. . .
exciting, action-packed product Joe
.iiBiniiHiiiiiHiiim
mm iiiiiHIIIllHIIUiaillllBIIIIIBIIIIlN
Rathaeb, branch manager at Paramount,
hosted a tradescreening of the new Claude
Lelouche French film, "Good and Bad"
at the Parker Screening Room August 30.
It was favorably received by the media representatives
in attendance.
The Exeter Street Theatre, the Hub's
original fine arts cinema with a history
dating back to the 20's, has been completely
atres includinc the Sack circuit's Gary Cinema
and a multitude of shopping center tacked on for good measure. The Exeter
renovated and an added attraction was
units. Highliahting the campaign was the will now have a glass-enclosed extension
posting of 24 sheet posters on 55 Donelly which will serve as a 180-seat restaurant
Co. billboards throughout the area.
built on the Newbury Street side of the theatre.
The eatery will be called the Newbury
Lillian Bennett, well known in the district
St. Friday Restaurant and serve lunch and
for her warmth and charm, was warmed
supper. It will be located on the first floor
and charmed in turn by the reception tendered
her by the staff at Judd Parker Films
of the 90-year-old house which has its auditorium
on the second floor.
upon her arrival to take over the billing department.
Lillian was formerly associated Lynne Nelson, diligent and enterprising
with Cinema Film Buying.
booker at Dave Titleman's Allied Artists'
Boston's motion picture community was office is all excited over the reception
saddened by the tragic news of the death
-Black and White in Color" has received
of Nancy Levine, daughter of Ruth and Al-
from local critics, creating quite a demand
for the picture among the theatre bookers
I
OUTDOOR
SCREEN
41 ft. Height
91 ft. Width
EXCELLENT
CONDITION
I (Cost $25,000)
I
NE-2
Make an offer
in the area. Lynne has been kept busy trying
to cadge prints from other branch
offices.
Filmrow has had two "old-timers" sottball
games for the benefit of former "oldtimerV'
and for ex-team members who
Ts left to draw his or her own conclusions.
Davis Brothers. Paramount. Needham.
have had Stan's son Jon acting as house
manager this summer during his vacation
(?). Jon heads back to the University of
Rochester shortly to begin his senior year.
He is majoring in dentistry. He also found
time to manage a team in the local Lou
Gehrig boy's baseball league.
VERMONT
NEW HAVEN
The Spodick Bros, adopted a 99-cents admission
policy, in effect for all patrons
at all performances, at the Whalley
.
The Whalley Avenue Business and Professional
Ass'n has finally had success with
continuing complaints to the New Haven
Police Department over crime in the area.
A police spokesman said that the department
would implement an immediate and
vigorous attack on crime, with increased
use of motorcycle patrols and police teams
in unmarked cars. And, for good measure,
the Whalley Theatre is to be used for a
benefit film show, proceeds to be used for
various improvement projects , . . The Yale
Center for British Art concluded a summerlong
"Hitchcock in England" Film Series
with 2:30 p.m. showings on a recent Saturday
and Sunday of "Jamaica Inn." All
screenings were free and open to the public.
Harold Bone, editor-emeritus of New
Haven Info, the entertainment-information
monthly publication, has been a patient at
the Veterans Administration Hospital, West
Haven; drop him a line at Veterans Administration
Hospital, Building 2, 6W, West
Haven 06516.
Connecticut State Senate Majority Leader
Joseph Lieberman (D-New Haven) is talk-
needed the exercise. Among the hearty and
ing about proposing a measure in the January
hefty galumphing around the diamond were
legislative session at Hartford to
Roger "Tiny" Mintz. Jim "One in One" Engle,
Tim "Swifty" Flynn, Craig "Dusty"
state
prevent criminals from earning money from
sale of accounts of their deeds. Under the
Rand, John "Rocky" Gallagher, Jay "Slider"
Sands and Dave "Dynamite" O'Hara. Both
Lieberman
pictures, stories
proposal
or
money
books
from
about
motion
crime
a
games wound up "zip" to "zip," The reader would first go to the victims. He wants to
see such legislation approved in Connecticut
in light of accounts that attorneys for David
Berkowitz had sought to sell taped conver-
This summer has seen excellent audience
response to youth-oriented product
across Vermont, most especially with Buena
Vista's "Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo" and
Paramount's "The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training." Holdovers have been
reported" in town after town.
New titles on Vermont marquees: Peter
Perry Pictures' "Hollywood High," Paramount's
"Orca,"
Vermont'.s insured jobless rate has
dropped to 3.9 per cent, the lowest in
nearly three years, according to the State
I
Employment Security Department. Rutland
was the only area among the state's
1 I
I Route 9. Hadley. Mass. | 12 employment regions to post an increase
in
I (413) 665-2518
the insured jobless rate. In that central
| Vermont city, joblessness increased from
3.7 per cent to 3.9 per cent.
liiiaiiniaiiuiBiniiBiiiiiBiiwHiiiiiBiiiiiB biiiiibiiiiibiiiibiiiibiiiiibI
sations with New York's alleged "Son of
Sam" killer.
EVERETT, MASS.—The Parlin
An Errol Flynn "Oldie' Shown
Memorial
Library hosted a free public showing of
Warners' vintage release, "The Prince and
the Pauper," starring the late Errol Flynn,
COLOR or
rNNOUN
iSSi^
Black and White
FOR
INDOOR AND
DRIVE-INS
, SPECIAL PROMOTIONS • TRAILERETTES
, NO SMOKING • VANDAUSM • DATERS
COLOR MERCHANT ADS
Filmack -"y^ii"ir.rr.z\
^ tudloi
BOXOFFICE :; September 5. 1977

. .
. . The
Liberty
MAINE
openings: Universal's MacArthiii,"
jyj^ainc
New World Pictures" "Rabid." Warners
Bros.' "One on One," 20tli Century-
Fox's "Thunder and Lightning" and "Moving
Violation." Paramount's "The Bad
News Bears in Breaking Training" (the
Mali Cinema, Orono, had a 50-cent "special"
price for youngsters wearing a complete
baseball uniform and accompanied by
parent or guardian), among others.
The Lincoln Cinema, playing Buena Vis-
.
ta's "The Littlest Horse Thieves" (on doublebill
with same distributor's rerun. "The
Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh"),
charged youngsters 50 cents at 1:30 p.m.
Saturday matinee . . Double-billing Paramount's
"King Kong" and "Lifeguard." the
Windham Drive-In. Rte. 302. advertised:
Your Best Movie Buy! One Adult. $2.50:
Two Thru Six Adults. $5 (83-Cents Each):
Under 12. Free!" . . . Sandy Dennis and
Gale Sondergaard co-starred in "The Royal
Family" for a week at the Ogunquit Playhouse.
The Movies, Portland, brought back the
Mar.x Bros.' "Animal Crackers," with 2 and
4 p.m. matinee showings on Saturday . . .
Auditorium two. E.M. Loew's Fine Arts
Twin Cinemas. Portland, ran a "Salute to
Elvis Presley Week!" comprised of "Elvis
on Tour," "Tickle Me" and "Spinout,"
slotted at various days, with a $1 admission
in effect. Ironically, the "salute" had been
slotted as prelude to the entertainer's Cumberland
County Civic Center appearance:
no one knew that Presley would be dead
August 16.
The Magic Lantern Theatre. Bridgton.
which bills itself as "Maine's Newest Most
Unique Old Movie House," played a doublebill
comprised of "Modern Times" and "City
Lights," both starring Charlie Chaplin .
Efforts by five Maine filmmakers were
screened on a recent Sunday and Tuesday
at the Performing Arts Center in Bath.
Same auditorium played the classic. "Nanook
of the North." on a Monday at 8 p.m.
. . . Abbott & Costello classic. "Buck Privates
Come Home." and Laurel & Hardy's
equally-famous. "Sons of the Desert." were
shown at the Hancock County Auditorium.
Ellsworth.
Maine State Economist Edgar Miller says
the Pine Tree slate's economy is in a fairly
healthy period of post-recession gains,
marked by optimism and increases in consumer
purchases which have outstripped
income sains. He adds that an evaluation
of sales tax data indicates statewide sales
through the first quarter of 1977 were 13.4
per cent ahead of 1976. As for potatoes, a
major component of Maine's agriculture,
the State Department of Agriculture notes
that prospects for a good crop are good,
with prices expected to be depressed.
SPRINGFIELD
^^estcrn Massachusetts opening: Universal's
"MacArthur," Warners Bros.'
"Greased Lightning," states-rights' "Varsity
Playthings" . Air-Line Drive-In,
Chicopee, slotted its umpteenth "Dusk to
Dawn" show, a program of four features,
for a Wednesday through Sunday, titles including
Paramount's "King Kong," "Murder
on the Orient Express," "Play It Again,
Sam," and, uniquely enough, five "Pink
Panther" cartoons . . . The Sundown Drive-
In, Westfield, advertised a "3 Great Walt
Disney Hits" program, comprised of "The
Rescuers," "No Deposit—No Return," and
"Donald & His Duckling Gang." Admission
was $2. adults: 50 cents, children age
six through 1 1. (Normally, area underskyers
admit youngsters imder 12 free).
The Pleasant Street Theatre, Northampton,
booked New England premiere of "The
Last Resort and More Nuclear Power Stations"
over a recent Sunday through Tuesday,
proceeds (admission was $2.50) benefitting
the Hampshire-Franklin (Counties)
Alternate Energy Coalition. Green Mountain
Post Films, an area alternative group
of filmmakers, was responsible for the 60-
minute documentary pointing up pro and
anti-nuclear forces. The same theatre, incidentally,
ran a number of double-feature
classics in the past month— "Sylvia Scarlett"
and "Mary of Scotland" (both with Katharine
Hepburn); "Shall We Dance" and
"Swingtime" (Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers),
among other titles.
Long-time Hollywood actor Dana Andrews
was in the area on a rare visit, starring
in a reprise of William Inge's "Come
Back Little Sheba" at the Berkshire Playhouse.
Stockbridae.
WORCESTER
Mew titles on mid-Massachusetts marquees:
Warners' "One on One." Universal's
"The Last Remake of Beau Gcste." UA's
"The Spy Who Loved Me." and Universal's
"MacArthur."
HARTFORD
^ames, stars, personalities—call them what
you will—continue to trek dutifully
into Connecticut's capital city beating the
drums for major and independent product.
Latest in town were writer-producer Mike
Callie and executive producer Edward Colarik
of National-American's "Can I Do It
Til I Need Glasses?" Pointing up the perils
and pitfalls of independent financing—especially
for somebody with no previous production
credits—Callie told the Hartford
press: "There's only one miracle in Hollywood.
That's the day the camera rolls."
Hartford's Asylum Hill Congregational
Church hosted a free program comprised of
"Duck Soup." with the Marx Bros., and
"The Dentist," starring W.C. Fields.
Ted Knight, alumnus of the Randall
School of Dramatic Arts, Hartford, some
30 years ago. met with considerable success
with CBS-TV's "The Mary Tyler Moore
Show." but has yet to make his impact on
the screen. Apparently Knight is seeking to
do just that, with planning announced for
an October 25 Broadway bow in "Some of
My Best Friends." Stanley Hart's new comedy.
Those in town who know Knight feel
that once he has the experience of a (hopefully)
successful Broadway show behind
him. the screen will be inevitable. Knight
grew up in Terryville.
The possibility of a twin cinema across
Asylum Street from the Hartford Hilton
still glimmers. Har Hil Inc.. the hotel operator,
is seeking a $2-million federal loan
from the Economic Development Agency.
much of that sum. according to legal counsel.
Attorney David Kotkin. to be used for
needed refurbishing of the 16-story building.
After that point, it may well be that
Har Hil will again get around to discussing
prospects for a cinema building— a subject
that has come up time and again through
the years. It must be emphasized, at this
point in 1977, the cinema development is
in the realm of tradepaper conjecturing:
there has been no pronouncement from
spokespersons for the hotel proper.
Bob Harrington, venerable Northern Connecticut
Bazaar columnist, happened to
catch a WTNH-TV 3:45 a.m. airing on a
recent Sunday morning of 1929's "The Man
I Love." starring Mary Brian and Richard
Arlen. "Imagine!", exclaimed Harrington.
"A movie on TV almost a half-century old.
What next?"
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September 5. 1977

a
I
Children's Oasis Thrives
At Off the Wall Theatre
BOSTON—While deploring the lack of
suitable films for children, the column Children's
Corner, in the Herald-American,
praised the Off the Wall Theatre on Main
Street in Cambridge. The article read, in
part:
'"Sending the kids to the weekend movie
matinee was as American as apple-pie.
"That was in the good old days.
"However, a quick check of the movie
ads reveals that only one new film currently
playing in Boston is rated 'G'—suitable for
all
audiences.
"Even the film about the sandlot baseball
team, 'The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Training," suggests parental guidance.
'off
""There is an alternative. And it's literally
the wall.'
" "Off the Wall" is a place, located at 861
Main St., in Cambridge. It's a combination
screening room and coffee house. At night
it serves as a mini-restaurant for adults and
features short films and documentaries that
don't play the larger theater houses.
"But for youngsters, it offers an alternative
in more ways than one.
"Each Saturday and Sunday 'Off the
Wall' presents a selection of short films
chosen with children in mind. And the films
are truly extraordinary.
"Larry Silverman who is responsible for
the selection, explains, 'we present films
which do not exclude older children but
which are sensitive to the interests and attention-span
of younger children. The program
runs for one hour and includes several
short films that run anywhere from two
minutes to twenty-minutes in length.'
"The films are drawn from an international
catalog and represent some of the
best short films in the world.
"Special attention is paid the consideration
that these films be non-violent and
non-sexist.
"This week for example four short films
are being shown, which are typical of 'Off
the Wall' children's fare.
'Jazzoo.' a film without words, shows
zoo animals waking up to the day and
primping for the influx of visitors. All synchronized
to the syncopated beat of a jazz
score.
" 'Thunderstorm.' another selection, depicts
life in the fields and forest before,
during and after a storm. Truly beautiful,
the film was shot in exquisite color. More
than that, however, it's a drama of the effect
of a gathering and breaking storm on a
community of small woodland creatures—
view of life and its forces that is seldom
"The final selection is an animated version
of the fairy-tale, Thumbelina. It is
first-quality animation and a tale, as most
know, of the tiny, thumb-sized girl, whose
adventures have long been beloved by children.
"Parents will
be particularly delighted by
the alternative in price. Admission is T.'Sc
per person, adult or child.
•"Off-the-Wall. also is non-trad'tional in
its choice of refreshments. There is no popcorn.
Instead there are choices of fruit
juices, milk, lemonade, pastries and frozen
yogurt on a stick.
"The summer schedule offers films at
1:30 and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
"For more information call."
Basilicato, DeGross Cited
By Projectionists' Union
NEW HAVEN—Unlike the modern-day
theatre management ranks, projectionist
rosters in the New Haven area have reflected
a traditionalist atmosphere. Men
join the booth staff of a theatre and continue
in their niche for decades, contributing
individualistic expertise in one of the
most sensitive components of exhibition.
It is not so surprising, then, that Local
?73, International Alliance of Theatrical
Stage Employee (lATSE) and Moving Picture
Machine Operators (MPMO) of the
U.S. and Canada (AFL/CIO). is looking
forward to fitting and proper testimonial
ceremonies at two golden anniversary observances.
Anthony N. Basilicato sr., president,
and Ernest V. DeGross, business
agent, have marked 50 years in local booths.
Local 273 is to appoint a testimonial committee
in October, with the awards to be
presented shortly thereafter.
Both Basilicato and DeGross, Local 273
incumbents, along with Anthony E. Basilicato
jr., vice-president, will be continuing
in office for the 1977-78 year. Newly-elected
are Tom Kinsella, treasurer, and Andrew
Carrano, recording/ corresponding secretary.
They were installed by International
Representative Joseph Caplan, New England
District No. 3, lATSE.
The officers are delegates to the International
lATSE; New England District No. 3,
lATSE: plus Connecticut State Ass'n.
lATSE; Connecticut State Labor Council,
AFL/CIO; and New Haven Labor Council.
The agenda for 1977-78, according to
Basilicato, will encompass a License 273
School (electronics, et al) for members and
a symposium to be held (sometime in November).
Significantly indicating the strong ties between
projectionist labor ranks and theatre
seen.
iiianagcmenls. the president proudly told
Boxon ICE that all managers in the Local
" 'The String Bean' is a film in the slriclest
sense about an old woman and her string 273 area arc categorized as "honorary members."
bean
plant.
"What's imusual about this film is the "We have a continuing, perfect relationship,"
for his other films, "The Red Balloon' and
man who made it, Fdmund Sechan, famous
he added, "pointing up harmony and
cooperation in management-labor relations.
'The Goldfish.'
This is in the best interest of exhibition and
he lATSE."
" 'String Bean" hns the same delicate
touch and exccplHinal feeling for mood and "As exhibition prospers, so does Libm."
atmosphere.
he went on. "We men in the booths in New
Haven and elsewhere across these burgeoning
United States seek to serve as best we
can at the job we have been trained for.
We want to hear of excellent business at
the boxoffice. for only with excellent boxoffice
trade can all elements of this still
mighty industry pro?p;r—and continue to
prosper.
"When we. as projectionists, come into
contact with the public, we make a point,
a continuing point, of in-put on a quality
level as far as ingredients of motion pictures
are concerned. We are proud of the continuing
relationship characterized by harmony
between management and Local
273."
RHODE ISLAND
plantation state premieres: Buena Vista's
""Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo," 20th
Century-Fox's ""Thunder and Lightning,"
Universal's "MacArthur," Columbia's
"March or Die," Whittaker Films' "The
Way of the Wind" (leading man Charles
Tobias was subject of sizable media attention
on a Providence visit), and Warners
Bros.' "One on One."
Playdales for 20th-Fox's "Star Wars '
are
emphasizing no-pass policy in effect. The
Campus Cinema. Wakefield, advertises,
"Pass List Suspended!" while the Redstone
Showcase 5. Seekonk, uses the words, "No
Passes Accepted."
The one-time Loews State, downtown
Providence, now known as the Ocean State
Theatre, and under the Dario ownership,
had an unprecedented change-of-pacc.
schedule-wise, with a 10-hour-long revival
session sponsored by "We Would See Jesus,"
a non-denominational Christian ministry.
There was a donation of $l-per-person
in effect.
Library Shows 'Citizen Kane'
NORTH CAMBRIDGE, MASS—RKO
Radio's "Citizen Kane," starring Orson
Welles, was shown at the North Cambridge
Branch Library on a recent Thursday night
at 6 p.m., with admission free and open to
the
public.
Cinemas 2 Admission Is Now $1.25
STONEHAM, MASS. — The General
Cinema Corp., Stoneham Cinemas 2 are now
charging $1,25 admission for all seats.
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ITiCHI ITECHNIKOTE CORP. 63 Seobring sr.. B-klyn 31
Jj^-
NE-4
September 5. 1977

MPTA Against Ontario's
Proposed Film Policy
TORONTO—Tho following Icllcr written
to the Hon. John Roberts, secretary ol state,
Ottawa, by C. Posen, president of the Motion
Picture Theatres Ass'n of Ontario, has
been forwarded by the writer to Boxoffice
for publication:
'"As an independent motion picture theatre
owner and the president of the MPIA of
Ontario, 1 am concerned about reports that
you plan to introduce a Canadian film policy
in September which will include some
form of boxoffice levy designed to support
the Canadian feature-film production industry.
"While 1 am wholeheartedly in support
of the creation of a strong and distinctly
Canadian motion picture industry, I am
opposed to a bo.xoffice levy that would extract
funds from theatres and channel these
to producers who have not yet proven they
can make a film of commercial value.
Canadian Film Outlook Good
funds are available from private sources
for film investment and there is no valid
reason for a tax at this time.
"My theatre has played a number of
Canadian films and considerable amounts
of money were spent promoting each film.
However, most of the Canadian films did
not have sufficient appeal to allow me to
cover my expenses. If government is to be
involved in the film business, it should encourage
our filmmakers to address themselves
more knowledgeably to overall market
trends and public demand.
Industry on Right Road
"The Canadian production industry can
be successful if we produce films that can
compete for international markets. I am
told that we already arc on the right road.
The tax incentives offered to Canadian investors
and the encouragement of co-productions
are positive actions in support of
the industry (and this type of positive action
should be extended to theatre owners).
There is an increase in activity—and restrictive
measures would prove to be a step
backward for the entire industry.
"A boxoffice levy would force theatres
to raise admission, thus causing a further
decline in theatre attendance and would
lead to more theatres being forced to close.
The closure of theatres damages the economy
and leads to 'ghost towns.'
"The members of the MPPTPA of Ontario
oppose the introduction of a
boxoffice
levy or quota system or any other restrictive
measures on the grounds that these are unnecessary
and would prove detrimental to
the economy."
CALGARY
pii-niniin^ Nielsen of the Plaza, newcomer
to the local theatre scene, and family
have just returned from a brief vacation in
Red Deer. The time was spent with friends
—just relaxing and enjoying the company
of each other . . . Dropping in for a visit
here was Bill Himchak of the Lux Theatre
in Rocky Mountain House.
Saul Stone, well-known throughout this
territory as an exhibitor as well as an operator,
died in this city August 16. Stone had
a 16mm circuit for a number of years and,
before his retirement several years ago, he
also operated Stone's Screening Service. He
leaves his wife Ann; a son, Archie Stone of
Winnipeg; a daughter, Mrs. Ron (Judy) Katzin
of Auburn, Wash, and four grandchildren.
Services and burial were in Winnipeg.
Condolences from his many industry friends
go to Mrs. Stone and the family at this sad
time.
The death of Elvis Presley did not go unnoticed
in this city. Several theatres arranged
various "tributes" to the entertainer
and record sales skyrocketed, as elsewhere.
The first local house to set up an Elvis program
was the Canadian Group-owned
Brentwood, which opened with "Viva Las
Vegas" and "The Trouble With Giris" August
19. Famous Players' Parkland One in
Edmonton followed a week later with "Elvis
on Tour" and "Stay Away Joe." Several
radio programs were dedicated to the singer
as well.
Theatreman Pete Campbell of the Tower
Theatre in Taber has been a patient in the
Foothills Hospital here recuperating from
surgery. At first thought to be a pinched
nerve along the spine, Pete's problem eventually
was diagnosed as an aneurysm of a
blood vessel along the spine and he underwent
extensive surgery to correct the condition.
After a number of days in the intensive-care
unit, he was transferred to a
surgical unit. His wife Virginia reported
him to be on the road to recovery. It has
been a very anxious time for his family and
Virginia has been commuting between this
city and Taber. Industryites here send best
wishes to Pete for a quick and complete
recovery.
The National Film Theatre in Edmonton
showed the perennial classic "Kidnapped"
August 19 in the Public Library Theatre
. . . August 21 the film "The Living Arctic"
was screened in the Provincial Museum.
Back from a two-week honeymoon is
Dave Oram of Victoria Film Services. July
30 Dave married Shirley Paugh. local girl,
and they left for the West Coast. The happy
couple spent some time on Vancouver
Island, with a side trip to Powell River.
Congratulations and best wishes to the newlyweds.
Absent from duties on well-earned holidays
are Stan Phillips of Bellevue Films;
Vern May of Victoria Film Services, and
Ethel Kitchen, also of Victoria.
The Motion Picture Corp. of Alberta is
in the process of casting a feature-length,
historical film which will be made in Alberta.
Bilingual, native and other actors are
being sought for the picture.
The National Film Board of Canada (i.e.,
the taxpayers) hosted a free screening of its
film "Games of the XXI Olympiad" at Borden
Park in Edmonton. It was an open-air
presentation on a giant screen for two eveninss.
"According to information published
Yet another change of ownership in
in our
the newspapers and area; this
various trade publications,
there has been
time the Airport Drive-In, Grimshaw,
Mutual Gets Distribution
a substantial increase
has been sold. The new owner is Ed
in the number of Canadian pictures and
Rosko of Peace River, who took over the Of 'The Golden Rendezvous'
official co-productions currently under way.
operation effective August 1. Business will MONTREAL—One of the most important
films of the coming year, the ac-
I am hopeful that this new wave of activity
be conducted under the name of Airport
will produce product that can play an important
role in the programing of our the-
and best wishes for the future to Rosko. presented in Quebec by Mutual Film in
Drive-In Peace River, Ltd. Congratulations tioner "The Golden Rendezvous," will be
atres. 1 further understand that substantial
both French and English versions. The distribution
agreement has been confirmed by
Andre Pieterse, producer of the film for
Film Trust, Ltd., and Pierre David, president
of Mutual Films.
An adaptation of Alistair MacLean's successful
best seller of the same name, "The
Golden Rendezvous" has just completed
principal photography. It was directed by
English director Ashley Lazarus and stars
Richard Harris, Ann Turkel, John Vernon,
Robert Flemyng, David Janssen. Burgess
Meredith, Dorothy Malone and John
Carradine.
While important negotiations still are in
progress concerning North American distribution
of the film by a major American
company. Mutual Films is proud to have
acquired the exclusive rights for Quebec.
McLuhan Filming in NS
HALIF.AX. N.S. — Producer-directorwriter
Terri McLuhan is starting production
in Cape Breton of a full-length motion
picture about three brothers and the people
they love. Principal roles are assigned to
Colleen Dewhurst. William Shatner and
Monique Mercure. Ms. McLuhan is daughter
of Canadian author Marshall McLuhan.
'Chapter' Scores in Canada
TORONTO — "Final Chapter—Walking
Tall," a Bing Crosby production starring
Bo Svcnson, grossed $70,792 in six theatres
in Toronto in its first week, according to
James Whiteside, BCP's vice-president in
charge of sales and marketing. Charles A.
Pratt produced the film which was directed
by Jack Starrett.
BOXOFFICE :: .September 5. 1977
K-1

:
'
Majority of Films on Calgary List
Enjoy Booming Boxoffice
CALGARY—Calgary patrons were able
to select from a variety of new films this
report week. "MacArthur" and "The Rescuers"
both took command over the newcomers
with "excellent" grosses while "Outlaw
Blues." "Ruby" and "The Island of Dr.
Moreau" trailed closely behind with "very
good" grosses. "Viva Knievel!" encountered
the most difficulty at the boxoffice and finished
its debut week with "poor" grosses.
Ten films, which includes both newcomers
and holdovers, earned "excellent" grosses.
Calgary Place 2—Outlaw Blues (WB) Very Good
Chinook—A Bridge Too Far (UA),
8th wk. ..._ Excel ent
Grand 1—MacArthur (Univ) Excellent
Market Mall 1—One on One (WB).
2nd wk Excellent
Market Mall 4, 5 & 6—The Spy Who Loved Me
(UA), 3rd wk
yc?llent
Marlborough Square 1—Grand The!l Aulo
(IFD), 2nd wk Good
Marlborough Square 2—Ruhy (brii v. ry Good
North Hill, Uptown 1—Star Wars (BVFD),
7th wk. ... Excellent
^
Odeon 1, Towne Blue—The Other Side of
Midnight (BVFD), 7th wk. ..- Good
Odeon 2—Slap Shot (Univ), 20th wk Good
Palace—The Rescuers (BV) Excellent
Palliser Square 1—The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training (Para), 2nd wk Excellent
Palliser Square 2—Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo
(BVFD), 6th wk. Excellent
.
Towne Red—Smokey and the Bandit !M:.:v:
2nd wk rxrellenl
Uptown 2—The Last Remake ol Beau Geste
(Univ), 2nd wk. Excellent
Westbrook 1—Viva Knievel! iWB) Poor
Westbrook 3—The Island of Dr. Moreau
(ATD) Very Good
Ottawa Area Newcomers
Debut to Mixed Grosses
OTTAWA—A variety of grosses were
earned by this week's newcomers. While
"Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo" ended up at
one side of the gamut with "excellent"
grosses, "Outlaw Blues" finished towards
the opposite end with "fair" grosses. "The
Bad News Bears in Breaking Training" and
"Orca" ended up between the other two
marks of "good." Holdovers that earned
hefty grosses were "The Spy Who Loved
Me" and "Smokey and the Bandit."
Airport, Nelson—Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo
(BV)
Excellent
Britannia-Orca (Para)
Good
Britannia, Place de V i;. — The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training (F i :
Goci
Britannia, Elgin—The Spy Who Loved Me
(UA), 5th wk. Excellent
Britannia—Rocky (UA), /ih wk Good
Britannia-Annie Hall (UA), 7_th wk Poor
Britannia, Capitol Squ 2—One on One (WB),
7th
Elg -New York, :w Yo
wi
Go
Place de Ville—A Bridge Too Far (UA),
8lh wk Good
Rideau—Outlaw Blues (WB) Fair
St. Laurent
—Smokey 1 and the Bandit (Univ),
2nd wk Excellent
Three theatres—Star Wars (BVFD),
3rd wk Very Good
Newcomers Gel Warm Reception
From Residents of Toronto
TORONIO— For the second straight
week all films at area theatres netted high
grosses. Newcomer "MacArthur" was
greeted with a warm reception that enabled
it to earn "excellent" grosses while
"The Bad News Bears in Breaking Training"
and "The Island of Dr. Moreau"
Business
checked in with a score of "very good."
The remaining newcomer "Outlaw Blues"
ended the week with "good" grosses.
Four theatres-Star Wars (BVFD), 7th wk Excellent
Hollywood—The Rescuers (BVFD1
3rd wk V-iy Good
Hyland—MacArthur (Univ)
Hyland—The Deep (Astral)
Good
I
Hollywood-The Bad News Bea: In
Imperial,
Good
Breaking Training
e'\
(P:ir:3
ol Imperial—The Island Dr Moreau
(Astra!) Very Good
Imperial—The Spy Who Loved Me lUA)
3rd wk.
Excellent
Imperial. Uptown-Orca (Para) nd wk Good
Sorcerer 6th Imperial—The (Para) wk Good
Imperial—Outlaw Blues (WB) Good
14th Plaza-Annie Hall (UA), wk Ver/ Good
Seven theatres—Smokey and the Bandit (Univ)
3rd wk
Excellent
University—A Bridge Too Far (UA),
8th wk Very Good
Uptown, Park—One on One (WB), 3rd wk Good
Uptown—New York, New York (UA), 6th wk Good
York-The Last Remake of Beau Geste (Univ),
4th wk Very Good
York—The Other Side of Midnight (BVFD),
8th wk Very Good
Newcomers Pack Edmonton Theatres
And Earn 'Excellent' Grosses
EDMONTON—Boxoffice personnel were
kept busy at area theatres this report week
as "good" was the lowest rating earned.
Seven of the 11 films including the three
newcomers— "The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training," "Smokey and the Bandit"
and "MacArthur"—earned "excellent"
grosses.
Capitol Square 2—The Bad News Bears in
Breaking Training (Para) Excellent
Garneau—New York, New York (UA), 6th wk Good
Jasper Red, Towne Cinoma—Smokey and the
Bandit (Univ) Excellent
Londonderry A—Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo
(BV), 5th wk, Exellent
Meadowlark, Odeon—Star Wars iByF:;
7th wk Excellent
Odeon 2—The Other Side of Midnight (BVFD)
7th wk Good
Paramount— The Spy Who Loved Me (UA),
4lh wk Excellent
Rialto I—The Last Remake of Beau Geste
(Univ), 2nd wk Very Good
Rialto 2—MacArthur (Univ) Excellent
Strand-Grand Theft Auto (IFD), 2nd wk Good
Westmount B—One on One (WB),
2nd wk -- Excellent
Four Winnipeg Newcomers
Earn 'Excellent' Grosses
WINNIPEG— Boxoffice business was
booming at almost all area theatres this report
week. All the newcomers— "The Rescuers,"
"MacArthur," "Outlaw Blues" and
"One on One"—all finished the week with
"excellent" grosses. Holdovers "The Spy
Who Loved Me," "Smokey and the Bandit,"
"The Bad News Bears in Breaking Training"
and "Star Wars" were able to keep up their
momentum and also earn "excellent"
grosses.
Capitol—The Rescuers (BV) Fxc llent
Colony—The Rescuers (BV) Fvc--ll n
Colony—Grand Theft Auto (IFD)
3rd wk \ / Gj i
Convention C i MacArthur ( In v ) E c-1 r
Garden Ct, -The Spy Who Loved Me lUAi
5th w^ t r^, ri
Garrick 1 Smokey and the Bandit (Ilni I
4th w) Ev -11 nt
Garrick F The Other Side of Midnight (I iH'l
Outlaw
rthst"' The Nev
Training
Northstar II— One on One (WB) ...
Polo Park—Orca (Para), 5th wk, .
Three the al;e.=— Star Wars (BVFD)
8th wk
Four New Films Light Up
Vancouver Area Marquees
VANCOUVER—Disney fans turned out
to greet "Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo,"
which enabled it to earn "excellent" grosses
during its debut week. All of the other newcomers—
"Final Chapter—Walking Tall,"
"Can I Do It Til I Need Glasses?" and
"Greased Lightning" earned "good" grosses.
Holdovers in the area that continued to pack
theatres and earn "excellent" grosses included:
"One on One," "The Spy Who
Loved Me." "The Last Remake of Beau
Geste" and "Smokey and the Bandit."
Capitol—One on One (WB), 2nd wk Excellent
Capitol— Final Chapter—Walking Tall (AFD) Good
Capitol—The Bad News Bears in Breaking
Training (Para), 3rd wk Good
Cacitol—The Spy Who Loved Me (UA),
5th wk Excellent
Capitol—The Island of Dr. Moreau (Astral),
4th
Poo
Coronet 1—The Last Remake of Beau Geste
(Univ), 2nd wk Exoell-T.-
Downtown—Can I Do It Til I Need Glasses
(Astral)
Gocd
Odeon—Smokey and the Bandit (Univ),
3rd wk Excellen*
Park—MacArthur (Univ), 2nd wk Good
Stanley—A Bridge Too Far (UA), 9th wk Fair
Vancouver Centre—Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo
(BV)
Excellent
Vancouver Centre—Greased Lightning (WB) ...Good
Vogue—Star Wars (BVFD), 10th wk. Very Goct
Vancouver Fete in Honor
Of Retiring Vi Yates
VANCOUVER—A group of old and notso-old
friends, veterans and comparative
newcomers to the industry, united in their
desire to wish the retiring Vi Yates (Mrs.
Nellist) bon voyage following her retirement,
gathered at the Eraser Arms August 9 to
partake of a sumptuous smorgasbord, cooling
drinks, short speeches, and to present
Vi and Rex with a crystal bowl. The sentimental
fete was organized and chaired h\
Dawson Exiey, manager of Bellevue.
Joining the group were Mr. and Mrs.
Bryan Rudston-Brown (Univ); Larry Strick
and Elsie Katz (Col); Chris Sullivan (Para);
Mable Grant, retired; Loraine Wheatlc\
(General Sound); Paulette Kind (UA); Ron
Keillor (Odeon); Vi Hosford and Camellia
Gauthier (Hosford Theatres); George Hislop;
Jimmy Davie, retired, and Margaret
Davie (Hosford Equipment).
Also present were Doug Isman; Charles
Ross Backus; Nora Ross of Canfilms; M\-
ron MacLeod; Barbara Gray of Famous
Players; Ross Dower; Earle Dalglcish (retired
from Warners); Nat Levant (retired
from Columbia); Roly Rickard (Warners);
Ms. Ellen Sawchuk, and Ms. Josie Wu of
Bellevue.
Vi replied for the family, thanking all for
the lovely gift and for the party. It was
genuinely a surprise, she said, which made
it just that much more enjoyable. It was a
sentiment echoed by all.
CINERAMA IS IN
SHOW BUSINESS IN
HAWAII TOO.
When you come to Waikiki,

. . Despite
. . Approval
. . Total
VANCOUVER
Josephine Wu of Bellcviic k'll lor summer
holidays. Diminutive Josie, who emigrated
here from the Philippines via the
eastern U.S.. looks on our mild climate and
soft, lush, green vegetation as a bit of
heaven!
Not so easy to pry away from home was
Bryan Rudston-Brown of Universal, who
lives in our Mediterranean belt at Tswassen,
just north of the U.S. border, where it is
either spring or summer virtually all yeararound,
making it well worth the 50-mile
daily round trip to work. So, Theo Ross
moved from Astral/ Columbia, where he
was sitting in for Elsie Katz, walked across
the hall and minded the store for Bryan,
who planned to return Labor Day.
The Varsity International Film Festival
was moved, virtually intact, to the Counting
House, Victoria, where it bucked the worst
heat wave Victoria has had in years during
the period August 5-11.
A trio of sizzlers in the lower mainland,
on top of a week which had seen local
records smashed daily, was led by "Star
Wars," which received two unsolicited and
powerful plugs. One, aired by CHQM
Radio, was repeated twice daily for four
days. It featured Herbert O'Driscoll. dean
of Christ Church Cathedral, renowned as a
patron of the worthwhile arts, whose family
of four (led by his 19-year-old who already
had seen the picture several times and
conned ma and pa into going) reported a
delightful evening with "Star Wars." The
observation from the dean was that "the
movies, entertainment and life could do with
more of this wholesome, intelligent approach."
He had to rush off after his broadcast,
leaving no tapes, so the station used
the interview four days. The other plug
came from a NASA technician being interviewed
over CKVU.
The Abbotsford Air Show August 12-14
again broke all previous records. The attendance
of 147,200 was far ahead of the
142,000 tallied in 1976. The tariff of $12
a carload made for speedy gate handling
but there still were long lineups on both
sides of the border. The sizzling heat led to
more sunburn and heat prostration problems
than ever before and there were many
heart attacks. But, there still were enough
people trying to escape from the lower
mainland to create long lineups at Blaine
and to fill the beaches at Cultus. Harrison,
Allouette and all the minor lower mainland
lakes.
Gordon Kit Thome, one of this city's
oldest,
multitalented artists, spent his Slst
birthday August 21 moving a couple of
truckloads of paintings from his west end
apartment to White Rock, where a friend
will look after them. Kit now is down to
roughly 2,350 plus the two he will paint
every day, as he has for years. Now that he
doesn't sell, he has a steady market for all
he will sell—and when he does choose to
make a deal, the price is low. Painting as an
art is his love. Painting murals for beer
parlors, restaurants or theatre fronts, even
a decorative house job, is his livelihood.
Thorne has been painting commercially
since early in World War I. On his return
from a stint in France, he went into the art
shop of the old Strand with a couple of
friends. One of his prewar buddies, Tip
Sinclair, had migrated to Hollywood and
later became North America's highest-paid
portrait painter. Your correspondent once
saw him turn out six studies of a farmhouse
on Lulu Island in less than three hours (and
they all sold). He's a true professional!
OTT A\N A
Qentral Canada Exhibition opened here
August 18 for its annual ten-day run:
however, the launching was marred by
damp, cool weather. It was calculated that
if such climatic conditions continued
throughout the CCE, theatres wouldn't have
much to worry about. Bobby Vinton and
Mel Tillis were among the performers
scheduled to perform at the grandstand
show, with the Wintario Lottery drawing
set for Friday night, August 19.
As a tribute to the late superstar, the Rideau
booked a special three-film showing of
Elvis Presley features, including "Spinout,"
"Girl Happy" and "Elvis on Tour," the latter
a documentary . poor attendance
at both situations, the Rideau and the Britannia
Drive-In held over "For the Love
of
Benji."
"Final Chapter—Walking Tall" was set to
bow at Capitol Square 1 . . . The Somerset,
in conjunction with CHEZ-FM, held a costume
party and midnight showing of "Star
Wars" Friday, August 12. Approximately
50 sci-fi freaks showed up in very original
and well-designed costumes. Those judged
to be the most outstanding received passes
for the show. Peter Emmerson of CJOH-TV
and Mike O'Reilly of CHEZ were present
to assist manager Brian lones.
•~
Place de Ville received some unexpected
free advertising from CERA Radio recently.
It appears that one of that station's staffers
dropped by to catch one of the features and
was so impressed by the theatre and its
operation that it mentioned it on the air the
next day!
Forewarning: If news—and first-run reports—from
this city tend to become garbled
and out of sequence, don't blame the
writer—blame the post office. When the air
traffic controllers walked off the job in mid-
.-Xugust. postal service was slowed. Now
there's rumblings from the post office department
employees that a strike appears
imminent (within a month)—and that's just
what we need: another two months without
mail service!
Sean Kevin Fitzpatrick was named creative
director of advertising for the
division of Columbia Pictures.
features
TORONTO
Yariely Club ol Ontario Tent 2S has given
$5,000 to the Star Fresh Air Fund,
which assists in sending some 14,000 children
to various summer camps. Last year,
the tent gave $4,500 to this fund. As well.
Tent 28 has given $9,500 to Kamp Kuriou
as part-payment for a bus . . . Chief barker
Bob Lester explained to the press that while
Variety once assisted physically handicapped
children almost exclusively the emphasis
now has changed. "We're part of the
largest children's charity in the world," Lester
said, "and we ought to be helping needy
and underprivileged children, too."
Location filming began in late August
here on "The Silent Partner," a psychological
thriller, starring Elliott Gould, Christopher
Plummer and Susannah York.
Variety Club Tent 28 planned to honor
jazz "great" Trump Davidson at its luncheon-meeting
August 31, slated to be held
at the Royal York Hotel. Trump's great
Dixieland band also was scheduled to be
present
to entertain.
Opening its 99th annual stint here August
17. the Canadian National Exhibition was
to continue through Labor Day (5).
Variety Club notes:
Variety Club of Ontario
Tent 28 was honored at the recent
Variety Clubs International convention in
Monte Carlo, receiving an award for the
fifth overall annual increase in membership
for 1976 . has been given, in
principle, to the relocation of the clubrooms
in the King Edward Hotel . . . Tent
28 has approved financial assistance for the
Credit Valley Ass'n for Handicapped Children,
Adventure Place, the Lakeshore Kiwanis
Club of Sault Ste. Marie. Pearson
World College, the Canadian National Institute
for the Blind, the Toronto East General
Hospital, the Tim Horton Camp, Camp
Kurea, Camp Illahee, Project Whitewater
and the Star Fresh Air Fund . receipts
of Tent 28's fifth annual Bike-A-
Thon are expected to exceed $1,000,000 . . .
Top honors at Variety Club Tent 28"s annual
golf tournament went to A. Pellegrin,
D. Menzies, D. Wylie, D. Crombie and B.
Lyon.
August 22, several Variety Women members
were at the Toronto International Airport
to welcome Jean Cauzer and her mother
from Dublin. Jean was to be fitted with
a lower limb from the Variety limb bank.
During their stay here. Variety Women
members endeavored to acquaint Jean's
mother with this city's many beautiful features,
as well as to offer assistance whenever
needed.
Star to Make Horse Show Awards
WENHAM. MASS. — Actress Tatum
O'Neal and actor Anthony Hopkins, who
have been on location in England for MGM-
United Artists' "International Velvet," are
to participate in the Ledyard Farms International
Horse Trials here in October. The
players are to award trophies.
BOXOFFICE :: .September 5. 1977
:-3

...i^rnationol Flavor Is
Melzack Goal in Canada
MONTREAL—The Windsor Star recenl-
!> .an ihc following feature on filmmaker
Julian Melzack, by Joan Fraser of the
Southam News Service; it is abridged below:
Nobody in the Canadian film industry
has ever seen anything quite like Julian
Melzack and a lot of people are still not
quite sure what to think of him.
The whiz-kid (he's 36) has hit the Canadian
film world like a tornado. By the
end of the year he will have financed eight
full-length feature films in 15 months, many
boasting top-flight international stars. "Angela."
a $3,000,000 feature filmed last year
mainly in Montreal and to be released this
fall, stars Sophia Lorcn and John Huston
as well as Canadian John Vernon. "Blood
Relatives," now being filmed in Montreal,
is
directed by Claude Chabrol.
New Financing Formulas
Melzack also has devised new financing
formulas that even the industry has trouble
understanding, but that are expected to have
brought in $19,000,000 by the end of 1977
—colossal riches, in the Canadian industry's
eyes.
"At first, there was a great deal of enthusiasm
in the industry at his debut." says
John Trent, a Toronto producer. "He was
looked on as the next godfather of Canadian
films. But there's been a turning away at
the moment: people believe he's selling out
to foreign talent."
But another industry
insider speaks more
kindly: "I'm not totally clear as to how it
works but he puts up the money when he
says it's going to be put up and the films
get made. He's been good for the industry
because he has brought in money and he
gives work to people."
Melzack himself admits that his film career
sounds like the plot for "an improbable
grade B movie."
Two Other Careers
The eldest son of Louis Melzack, owner
of the 70-store Classic Books, Ltd., chain,
Julian already has had two careers in fields
quite unrelated to film.
First came academe: he became an Oxford
University don at the tender age of
26. Then, using his 20 per cent share of
Classic Books as a financial base, he got
into the then-booming British real estate
market and by his own accounting made
close to $8,000,000 in three years and escaped
before the market slumped.
Yet between his careers runs a basic
thread of inguenuity, the ability to create
legal but very complicated and unusual
packages; that is how he says he made his
real estate money and it is certainly how he
has tackled the film business.
... He is proud of the work he has given
Canadians—an estimated 142.000 manhours
in 1976—but speaks heatedly of the
nationalist school of film production.
"I want to make major motion pictures
of international standard and I don't want
the label 'Canadian" stamped all over them,"
he says. "In the long run the nationalists are
going to screw themselves because people
like me are going to say 'I don't need this'
and make their pictures somewhere else."
There is more than a touch of arrogance
mixed in with this antinationalist feeling.
For example, this fall shooting will start in
London of an Anglo-Canadian co-production,
"Mad Dogs and Englishmen," with
Rex Harrison, Peter Ustinov and Kenneth
More the stars Melzack expects to sign,
along with Canadian actor Barry Morse,
who "doesn't know about it yet; but Canadians
are easy to get."
But the arrogance is mixed with a certain
shyness and simplicity. Melzack speaks often
and eloquently of his second wife, a
medical doctor with a practice in London,
and says that the day he has to choose between
films (and the travel they involve)
and has home life, the home life will win.
NC Pornography Law
Challenged in Suit
CHARLOTTE, N.C.—A suit challenging
the constitutionality of North Carolina's
new pornography law has been filed in federal
court here, presenting what is thought
to be the first test of the statute.
John G. Newitt jr., a local lawyer, filed
the papers in the U.S. District Court here.
Newitt represents Jolar Cinema which
operates several peep shows, and W&S Enterprises,
which operates theatres and adult
bookstores in Greensboro and High Point,
NC.
Newitt said he was challenging the new
law on "grounds of the First Amendment
freedom of speech and freedom of the press,
and second, on taking of property without
just compensation and without due process
of law."
Under the law, which took effect Monday
(1), an attorney general or district attorney
can seek to have firms such as X-
ratcd theatres and adult bookstores closed
as public nuisances. When the bill passed
the state Senate on June 30, state Atty.
Gen. Rufus L. Edmisten said he was concerned
about the bill's constitutionality and
was reluctant to become "a censor."
Edmisten was named as a defendant in
Newitt's suit along with local Dist. Atty.
Peter Gilchrist and Greensboro Dist. Atty.
E. Raymond Alexander jr.
Newitt said he hoped U.S. District Judge
James B. McMillan jr. would hold a hearing
on the suit within two weeks.
"It (the law) is the first of its kind that
I've seen in the U.S.," Newitt said.
NFB Is Filming Canadian
Black History Docu-Drama
MONTREAL—They have been here since
1605 and they have taken part in building
this country; yet. in the official pages of
Canadian history, they are invisible.
The National Film Board has just finished
filming a documentary on the history
of blacks in Canada. It's the most ambitious
project undertaken to date by the NFB's
j
I
1
;
Ontario regional production center, which
began operation last year.
The idea for the "Black History" project,
which is the film's working title, originated
with OECA, the Ontario Educational Communications
Authority. The one-hour docu- !
drama is a NFB-OECA co-production, according
to Nick Ketchum, who is the OECA
producer on the project.
"The purpose is to bridge an enormous
j
gap—for both whites and blacks—on an ]
aspect of Canadian history that has been so
absolutely and totally ignored and really
to show, for the first time, the foundations
of today's black community," said Sylvia
Searles, associate producer and liaison with ,,
the Ontario black community.
The story opens with the arrival of the
first black man in Canada; Mathieu
j
D'Acosta, translator for Samuel de Cham- j
plain and the Mic Mac Indians.
Following sequences look at slavery in
18th century New France and the most
.spectacular crime of that time: black slave
Marie Joseph Angelique set fire to her mistress'
house on Rue St.-Paul to cover her
escape—and burned down 47 houses, the
Hotel-Dieu, the Convent and Notre-Dame
Cathedral. She was caught and hanged.
Much of the film is shot on location to
show the founding of communities. Loyalist
emigres in Nova Scotia in the 1780s, the arrival
of black fugitives in Ontario via the
"Underground Railroad," the migration of
blacks to Vancouver Island in 1858, the
black homesteaders in Albsrta and black
military heroes such as William Hall, the
first black Canadian to win the Victoria
Cross.
Montreal actor Errol Slue is the oncamera
narrator, the black "everyman" who
is a guide through the centuries, the bridge
between the film's dramatic scenes and
documentary sequences. Assistant director
is Jennifer Hodge, who also did oral research.
Producer-director is Terrence Macartney-Filgate.
The NFB film is scheduled for release
in early 1978.
Giveaways and Displays
Highlight AMC Promos
GREENSBORO, N.
C—Ron Anderson,
assistant manager of the Carolina Circle 6
theatres here, arranged a motorcycle giveaway
in conjunction with the Harley-Davidson
dealer here to promote "Viva Knievel!"
The drawing was advertised over three local
radio stations.
A display of health club posters and stills
of the facilities of the Greensboro Health
Clubs was arranged by manager Don Emmert
of the same AMC multiplex to promote
Cinema 5"s "Pumping Iron."
BOXOFFICE :: September 5. 1977

BOXOFFiCE BOOKINCUEDE
nd tradepress reviews. Running
ches°(BFc'" ?o'\is
\\\ films are in color except those
lindor 17 not admitted. National Catholic Olfice lor Mo
nable for general patronage; A2— unobjectionable for ac
adults;
C—condemned.
A4—morally
Broadcasting
unobjectionable
and Film
lor
Commission.
adults, with
Nati
company, see FEATURE CHART.
/Review digest
AND ALPHABETICAL INDEX
Very Good; + Good; - Fair; - Poor; = Very Poor. ++ is roted 2 pluses, - as 2 minuses.

.ViSW DIGEST
i^ AlPHASETiCAL INDEX - very Good; ' Poor; = Very Poor rated 2 pluses, - Oi 2
1
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•11

. .
.
By
. . . D
, Aug
.Sept
Apr
.
. . .F-D
.Dec
.
.
.
i
'
'
.
.
Rtl.
Date
APACHE FILMS
AniTitan Tickler (78) ..C. Apr 77
lA Swclram Films picture)
Wizard o( Gore (80) ..Ho.. May 77
Ths Best of Laurel & Hardy (90)
ATHENA FILMS,
Impossible Love (90)
JOSEPH
BRENNER
The Cheaters . .
Autopsy .
Cry of a Prostitu
BURBANK INT'L
LTD.
PICTURES
Between the Covers Auo 76
Secrets of Sweet Sixteen ....Auj^e
Suoerknighl Sept 76
Journey Into the Beyond . . . .Jan 77
The Holes (Lcs Gaspards) ...Jan 77
14 and Under Feb 77
2069, a Sex Odyscy May 77
MISCELLANEOUS
The Booby Hatch (86) Jan 77
Sliarnn Joy Miller, Kiidy Rlccl
The Groove Room (83) Feb 77
Ollie SoUoft. Sue Longhurst
The Fabulous Fanny (87) ...Feb/7
Ahin Spllz. Diane SunrmerMeld
Crazy House (89) Mar 77
Frankle Ilowerd, Ray MUl.ind
Lucifer's Women (88) Mar 77
y llankin, Jane Brunei-Cohen
Ninht of the Howling Beast ..Mar 77
Nnschv. Snvla Solar
COUGAR PRODUCTIONS
BEEHIVE PRODUCTIONS
sin (82)
The Raw Report (70) Sex C. Aug 77 nendry
Bay (156)
lish Prom. Raid Shantar
The SIcy Is Falling (91) ....
Carnal's Cuties (80) Sex C. Dec 77 Richard Todd. Pennis Hopper,
Miifrin Maclntn

I
Technicolor
Symbol Q denotes color; £: CinemaScope; ;^ Panavision; (j,! Technii For story synopsis
'
Opinions on Current Productions Feature rbviews
OUTRAGEOUS! S ^-^-v^""-
Steinmaim-Baxter/Cinema 5 100 Minutes Rel. Aug. '77
For those who think Canadian films seldom get their
due, here is at least one picture which appears headed
for as much success in dollar figuies as critical response.
Written and directed by Richard Benner, a documentary
maker in his feature debut, the plot is based on a story
in the prize-winning work, "Butterfly Ward" by Margaret
Gibson, and is a combination of "A Taste of Honey" and
the cm-rent "I Never Promised You a Rose Garden." As
in "Honey," an important plot element deals with a
homosexual's caring for a pregnant girl, whose madness
takes the form of imaginary demons. Any other similarities
are absolutely nonessential, because the playing
of stars Craig Russell and HoUis McLaren is so good that
the more absurd plot elements can be dismissed. As a
certified crazy, McLaren is extremely winning in her alternately
shy and aggressive way. The real find is Russell,
a Canadian-born club entertainer whose star impersonations
are hilarious and so letter-perfect that they border
on genius. Produced by William Marshall and Hendrick
J. Van der Kolk for Film Consortium of Canada, in Eastman
Color. By any name, it's a gem. Steinmann-Baxter
is releasing through Cinema 5.
Craiff Russell, HoUis McLaren, Richert Easley, Allan
Moyle, David Mcllwraith, Helen Shaver.
LET JOY REIGN SUPREME
rich
Enjhsh
Comedy-Drama:
Titles 0)
Specialty Films 120 Minutes Rel.
Fi-ench history is examined with a jaundiced eye by
filmmaker Bertrand Tavernier, who followed up his fhst
film— "The Clockmaker"—with this award-wimiing piece.
As director and co-scripter with Jean Am-enche, the
young (36 1 Tavernier recreates a good portion of some
of the events which led to the French Revolution and
manages to be informative, highly dramatic and amusing
in tui-n. There are endless barbs directed at the church
and a fair amount of frontal nudity. Three of the leads
are played by Philippe Noiret, Jean Rochefort and Jean
Pierre Marielle, who are among their country's finest
actors and whose faces will be instantly recognized by
foreign film buffs. Yet, because either the film is overlong
or fails to sufficiently explain what is transpiring,
it tends to lose interest before the end. Perhaps the shift
from sly comedy to serious drama is not convincing enough
to survive the mood changes intact. No one can fault the
actors, with Noiret 'star of "The Clockmaker") and his
fellow artists in such good form. The Eastman Color photogi'aphy
and the decor are sumptuous without being
gaudy. Michelle de Broca produced the film in 1974. Acceptance
here will depend more on the reputation of director
and players than the story.
Philippe Noiret, Jean Rochefort, Jean Pierre Marielle,
Marina Vlady, Christine Pascal, Gerard Desarthe.
Horror Drama
SUSPIRIA
m
International Classics 92 Minutes Rel. Aug. '77
Stylized horror is the stock in trade of writer-director
Dario Aigento, whose films are usually murder mysteries
spiced with gore. His latest is being released here by
International Classics, a subsidiary of 20th Century-Fox,
and has English dubbing for the Italian-speaking actors.
American actress Jessica Harper has the lead, with veteran
performers Joan Bennett and Alida Valli in support.
The horror touches are not for weak stomachs, but the
overall result is disappointing when matched up against
previous efforts. Some of the elements in the new film
aren't explained, although hypnotism obviously plays a
part. An ear-splitting soundtrack features an almost
constant music score by a group called The Goblins, with
the collaboration of Argento, in Stereophonic Sound.
Most impressive ingredients are the carefully-planned
color camera setups and the interiors of a ballet academy
and hotel, vividly photographed in Eastman Color
is also credited) and Technovision by Luciano
Tovoli. The acting leaves something to be desired,
although an amount of suspense is generated. The Salvatore
Ai'gento presentation, produced by Claudio Argento,
has dazzling decors to overcome the plot deficiencies.
Should perform satisfactorily.
Jessica Harper. Stefania Casini, Alida Valli, Joan
Bennett, Flavio Bucci, Miguel Bose, Udo Kier.
'.!|'
THE AMERICAN FRIEND
'^z:Z^'^!^^o'
New Yorker Films 127 Minutes Rel. Sept. '77
Writer-director Wim Wenders and actor Bruno Ganz
are intrigued by the crime novels of Patricia Highsmith
and have collaborated on a film version of her "Ripley's
Game." Filmed in Hambui'g, Paris and New York City,
the melodrama emerges as "The American Friend" iDer
Amerikanische Pi-eundJ, the title role played by U.S.
actor Dennis Hopper. Amidst the carefully plotted character
study is a great deal of local color and movement
combined with violence and a few fascinating bits of business
to make this one of the methodical Wenders' best
works. From a feeling of total indifference upon meeting
both Hopper and Ganz's characters, the viewer will gradually
be swept along by the plot to the point where he
cares what happens to each man. Relationships are complex,
as a decent man's involvement in mm'der is explored
in detail. Aside from the locales and the plot turns,
the acting is on a high level. Wenders has cast such wellknown
directors as Nicholas Ray and Sam Fuller, among
others, as criminal types. Film is largely in English, with
English titles translating the German language whenever
necessary. In good color with a score by Jurgen
Knieper. Has enough offbeat elements to do really well
commercially.
Dennis Hopper, Bruno Ganz, Nicholas Ray, Gerard Blain,
Lisa Kreuzer, Samuel Fuller, Lou Castel.
BLUE JEANS
Peter Miller 80 Minutes Rel.
Adolescence is a time of first love for the Pi-ench and
English youngsters portrayed in this import. Directed and
written by Hugues Bm'in des Roziers, the film was shot
in both Prance and England, with dialog in both languages
and English titles for the foreign tongue. Literary
and film agent Peter Miller discovered the pictm'e at
Cannes and bought the U. S. and Canadian rights as a
first step in becoming a producer and expects to enter
into a co-venture deal with a distributor. For the most
part, the young actors have a lot of charisma and seem
natural. As the leading character, Gilles Budin steals top
w^ honors as the lad who discovers a friendship more meaningful
than anything else in his life. He has to be both
comic and di-amatic and rises to the occasion beautifully.
The boys of "Blue Jeans" are preoccupied with sex and.
while nothing is ever shown, the constant use of a fom--
letter word could result in an R-rating. The Eastman
Color photography and the music and songs by David
McNeil are pleasing aspects of the Chloee'Shott co-production,
produced by Jean-Pierre Pougea. Considering
the track record of recent French innports, this could be
a real winner.
Gilles Budin, Michel Gibet, Gerard Croce. Gabriel
Cattand, Maria Baker, Marthe Mercadier.
SUGAR COOKIES
Sex
Melodrama
Troma, Inc. 92 Minutes ReL Aug. '77
Many films deserve a second chance, but few ever get
it; one which has obtained reprieve is "Sugar Cookies,"
originally distributed in January, 1973 by General Film
Corp. After a limited run, it picked up an audience among
college and art theatre pati'ons. Executive producer Lloyd
Kaufman is now distributing through his Troma, Inc.
The original X-rated version of 96 minutes has been
trimmed for an R. As written by Kaufman and Theodore
Gershuny. with the latter as director, the New York-made
feature has an offbeat plot, good performances and a
professional quality to it. It tells of a bizarre sex-death
ritual as practiced by a porno filmmaker and the revenge
devised by the victim's friend. Lynn Lowry has angelic
looks which contrast with her sex goddess character.
Virtually all of the leading actors strip down, except
for Monique Van Vooren. Current porn queen Jennifer
Welles has a running bit as George Shannon's sexy secretary.
Ami Ai-tzi produced the Armor Films production,
which looks right in step with today's market; a gag
about President Nixon is one of the few giveaways to the
film's age. Songs are by Gershon Kingsley and Gershuny.
'"^ Color by Movielab. This time, there should be sweet returns.
Lynn LowTy, Mary Woronov, George Shannon, Monique
Van Vooren, Jennifer Welles, Maureen BjTnes.
4972
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BOXOFFICE BookinGuide
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Aug US

. . Sugar
FEATURE REVIEWS Story Synopsis; Exploitips; Adiines for Newspapers and Programs
THE STORY: "The American Friend" (New Yorker)
THE STORY: "Outrageous!" (Cinema 5)
American Dennis Hopper regularly travels from New
Tf ronto girl Hollis McLaren leaves a mental institution
York to Hamburg to sell the paintings of Nicholas Ray,
wh-re she has been a voluntary patient for eight years
who pretends to be dead in order to boost prices. He
ard arrives at the apartment of friend Ci-aig Russell, a
meets and befriends framemaker Bruno Ganz, who
'.\y hairdresser. To Russell, the only important things
suffers from a supposedly incurable blood disease. Ganz
,re "sex, movies and my career," as he struggles to become
a nightclub entertainer with his take-offs on
lives with wife Lisa Ki'euzer and young son Andi-eas
Dedecke. A stranger, Gerard Blain, approaches Ganz with
famed female stars. Although the two are close friends
an offer to pay for an operation and to provide for his
with a genuine fondness for each other, McLaren's
family, in exchange for the murder of Frenchman Daniel
mother Helen Hughes, her doctor (Jonah Royston) and
Schmid. After being told by doctors that he has a short
friends think that Russell can only hinder her recovery.
time to live, Ganz proceeds with the killing. Hopper tm-ns
Actually, he helps her in his unique off-beat way. When
up on a train when Ganz is to kill a Mafioso, American
boss Gerry Salzberg fires him, Russell is persuaded to
porno maker Samuel Puller. Hopper participates in the
become a performer in earnest. McLaren gets pregnant
elimination of two bodyguards. Blain, who had asked
as a means of proving that she can cope, while Russell
Hopper to become involved initially, is kidnapped by
journeys to New York for an engagement at a gay bar.
Poller but escapes as Ganz and Hopper finish off the
While he meets with success, McLaren's baby is born
gang. After diiving to a beach to dispose of the bodies.
dead. Russell retmns to Toronto to take her back to New
Hopper is stranded by Ganz. Driving wildly with Kreuzer
York with him. He revives her spirits by saying that
by his side, Ganz dies suddenly.
they're both crazy, so why not make the most of it.
EXPLOITIPS:
EXPLOITIPS:
The Wenders name and those of Hopper and Ganz
Russell is well-known on the nightclub circuit and
plus the directors-as-actors should count for much. Arrange
bookstore tie-ins with the novel.
the original songs by Paul and Brenda Hoffert.
mention should be made of his impersonations. Mention
CATCHLINES:
CATCHLINES:
From the Pascinatmg Novel by Patricia Highsmith, an
It Isn't Outrageous, It's a Masterpiece . . . The Funniest,
Most Touching Comedy About Insanity You'll
Even More Fascinating Film by the Remarkable Wim
Wenders.
Ever See.
THE STORY:
"Blue Jeans" (Peter Miller)
THE STORY: "Let Joy Reign Supreme" (Specialty)
French schoolboy Gilles Budin is bold enough to speak
In 1720, France is ruled in name only by five-year-old
to prostitutes, but too inhibited to go further. He and his
King Louis XV. Duke Philippe Noiret, his uncle, is appointed
regent and is the actual power. A man of culture
classmates embark on a summer holiday at the English
seashore, accompanied by teacher Gabriel Cattand. Although
they are required to follow a schedule, the boys
the marquis, Jean Pierre Marielle, a rebel from Brittany
and common tastes, the complex Noiret tries to ignore
enjoy much free time to spend then- allowances, meet
who attempts to raise an army to fight tyranny. Many
new people and get into mischief. The boys are intent
peasants are conscripted to sail to Louisiana as virtual
upon making love with girls and one or two succeed.
slaves; Marielle just misses that fate. Abbe Jean Rochefort,
a pimp and friend of Noiret, aspires to be an arch-
Gilles, who speaks English fluently, meets British Maria
Baker. The teenagers begin dating, Gilles thinking he's
bishop, solely for the power of the office: he loathes the
in love. Suddenly, Maria introduces an older French boy,
church and knows nothing of religion. Spain is friendly
Michel Gibet, whom she is seeing. As his ardor for Maria
to Brittany and Rochefort realizes that England could
cools, Gilles finds a warm relationship developing with
be persuaded to aid France in the event of a revolution.
his rival. He trades a pair of Mickey Mouse socks for coa
To appease England, Rochefort forces a reluctant Noiret
Michel's mod blue jeans and bears the accusations of the Hr
to sign the order for Marielle's execution. Noiret's convent-educated
god-daughter had pleaded for Marielle's
"'
his classmates that he's becoming a homosexual. Finding
Michel with Maria on the beach, the frustrated Gilles
life. Returning to Rochefort's brothel, Noiret reveals that
slaps Michel for not meeting him as planned. Back home.
he no longer is friendly. When Noiret's coach kills a
Gilles corresponds with Michel, who remains friendly but
young peasant boy, the seeds for an uprising are sown.
not overly responsive.
EXPLOITIPS:
EXPLOITIPS:
Mention the film's French Academy Awards: Best Director,
Tie in with Ta vernier: Best Supporting Actor, Rochefort: Best
blue jeans dealers. Play up the freshness
of the locales and
Screenplay, Ta vernier and Aurenche; and Best Art Direction,
Pierre Guffroy.
the bilingual soundtrack.
CATCHLINES:
CATCHLINES:
It's About the Droll Yet Ci'uel Innocence of 13-Year-
The Award-Winner From Prance Shows That Supreme
Olds. Then- Imagination, Emotion and Thirst for Life.
Rule Is Not Always Absolute.
THE STORY: "Sugar Cookies" (Troma, Inc.)
THE STORY: "Suspiria" (Int'l Classics)
New York porno moviemaker George Shannon grieves
American dancer Jessica Harper flies to Freiburg. Germany,
to further her ballet studies at the Tanz Akademie.
over the loss of his star Alta Lee iLvnn Lowryi, when
actually he had her shoot herself in a sex ritual as part
As she arrives, student Eva Axen is fleeing and Harper
of his perverse tastes. Mary 'Woronov, Shannon's rich
is refused admittance. Axen and Susanna Javicoli, a girlfriend,
are savagely killed by an unknown force. Finally
associate and sometime mistress, provides an alibi for him
while plotting revenge— she was also Alta's lover. After
gaining entrance to the school. Harper meets acting
interviewing many women, including a transvestite (Cleo
headmistress
Young),
Joan Bennett, teacher Alida Valli and students
including Stefania Casini,
'Woronov finds Julie Kendall (Lynn Lowry), a
quiet young actress who
whom she befriends.
resembles Alta greatly While
coachmg
Harper becomes ill
her
and worms force the student body
to fit Alta's mold, Woronov has Lowry
to sleep in
fall in love with
the ballroom. Casini knowns that the missing
her. Meanwhile, Shannon abuses secretary
Jennifer
headmistress is near and later decides to investigate just
Welles, annoys estranged wife Monique
Van Vooren and
what is happening in the school
has some
when blind pianist
laughs at the expense of his
fat young
Flavio Bucci is killed
brother-in-law,
by his own guide dog. When Casini's
Daniel Sadur. Latter goes to
prostitute Maureen
throat is slit, her disappearance
Byrnes, who
prompts Harper
throws him out bottomless
upon learning
to see psychiatrist Udo Kier and professor Rudolf Schundlernov
prepares Lowry to make
of his connection with Shannon. Woro-
who tell her that the school was founded as a
love to Shannon, rather
than star
witches'
in his next
coven.
porno
Uncovering the truth. Harper is nearly
as agreed on. This time
Lowry kills Shannon. Woronov
murdered by the resurrected Casini, but the killing of
walks out, her alibi being
provided by Byrnes.
the
Lowry headmistress
waits
causes the entire academy to collapse.
for police.
Harper escapes.
EXPLOITIPS:
EXPLOITIPS:
Mention the film's history and the bizarre sex ritual
Mention the score
Some
by The Goblins and some of the
of the better-known players should be of interest
actors in the cast. Refer to Ai-gento's other horror pix.
CATCHLINES:
Use the beating heart motif as a gimmick.
Meet the Beautiful People Who Live and Die in a
CATCHLINES:
Pi-eaky, Try-Anything World .
Cookies—Soft-
The Only Thing More Terrifying Than the Last 12
Sweet—^Satisfying. Minutes of This Film Are the First 80.
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: August

"
Erwin,
; I'omation
t
.
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ilowed. CLOSING DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy and answers
Box Numbers to BOXOFFICE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City, Mo. 64124.
HELP WANTED
THEATRE MANAGER lor Alaska theatre,
jst have experience in theatre managj,
promotion, concession sales and worker'
knowledge of operating projectors.
ilorv negotiable. Send resume. Indicate
lary desired and include photograph,
nd to Boxollice, 3943
OUTDOOR THEATRE MANAGERS. Ken-
:ky and Ohio. Must be experienced,
lary negotiable. Reply with complete
in strict to ,5ume confidence P. O. Box
151, Lexington, KY 40512.
ASST. TO GENERAL MANAGER, small
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shore, Virginia, Maryland. Send
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3955.
TOP MIDWEST CIRCUIT has excellent
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Boxoffice, 3958.
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Bill Warren, President, American Enter-
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msas 67218.
ge multi-complex theatre
the New England area. All employee
nefits. Please send complete resume
'th recent photo to BOXOFFICE, 3962.
THE MANUAL OF THEATRE MANAGE-
INT Professional hardcover edition
^- $20 check or money order to
Publisher, Box 1982, La-
:'xas 78040.
FILMS FOR SALE
ilSmm CLASSICS, Illustrated Catalog
'c. Monbeck Pictures, 3621-B Wokonda
ive, Des Moines, Iowa 50321.
BUSINESS STIMULATORS
THEATKE GAMES, Bingo, Banko $6.75
sekly. Novelty Gomes, R.D. 2, Port Jer-
J, N.Y. I277I.
BUILD ATTENDANCE with real Hawai
1 orchids Few cents each. Write Flow-
5 of Hawaii, 670 S. Lafayette Place. Los
igeles, Calif. 90005.
THEATRE MONTHLY CALENDARS, week
programs, heralds, bumper strips, daily
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
ECONOMY MINDED EXHIBITORSl USED
EQUIPMENT AND SEATS SINCE 1960
MIDWEST. (816) 523-2699. Boxoflice, 3913.
xoffice reports, time schedules, passes
oels, etc Write for samples, prices Dixie
ho. Box 882, Atlanta, Ga. 30301.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE CONSTRUCTION
BINGO CARDS DIE CUT: 1-75, 1500 com
lotion 16.00 per thousand and in color SCREEN TOWERS INTERNATIONAL: Ten
EMIUM PRODUCTS, 339 West 44th St. Day Screen Installation, (817) 542-3591
w York, NY. 10036 (212) 245-4972. Drawer P. Rogers. Texas 76569
bull
HERE'S A BUYI Complete equipment foi
twin cinema—new in 1975^04 American
2 Desk chairs, Simplex PR 1014 projectors
lens turrents. Simplex soundheads LL7,
pedestals, large reel arms, 2 PAS1500
Sound systems, 2 Simplex platters, maki
up table, 2 Gemini automalions, 2 inte
mission music programmers, ORC Xenon
Magnacom lenses, ticket machine, etc. All
for $29,500.00. STAR CINEMA SUPPLY, 217
West 21st Street, New York 10011.
CLOSING DHIVE-IN. Must sell 60'x80'
Shawnee steel frame tower, 60' picture
surface, excellent condition. Also, 500 RCA
speakers with posts, used only one season.
Priced lor quick sole. Contact R. E.
Farley. 2909 South Sheridan, Tulsa, Oklahoma
74129 or call (918) 627-4363.
ANTIQUE OPTIGRAPH PROJECTOR designed
by Alvah Roebuck of Sears, Roebuck
and Co. Make offer to Joe W. Aspley.
945 John Anderson Drive, Ormond Beach,
Fla. 32074.
30% DISCOUNT—lamp parts in inventory—Strong,
Ashcroft, Brenkert, Peerless.
Roy Smith Co., Box 2646, Jacksonville,
na. 32203.
XETRON MAXI 7, Xetron V711, and Mini
Pak automation systems, Xetrol HI dimmers,
24" and 26-' Goldberg reels. Ultra
rewind table, 6000' film cabinet, and lets
of lenses at reasonable prices. Bud Rifkin,
(617) 482-3410.
EQUIPMENT WANTED
POPCORN MACHINES
ALL MAKES OF POPPERS. Brand i
:ounter Model, all Electric $399.50. Kr:
orn, 120 S. Hoisted, Chicago 60606.
MISCELLANEOUS
slides,
quantity—older the better). Martinez, 7057
Lexingon Ave., Log Angeles, Co. 90038
(213) 452-5790.
CL{flRIII6 HOUS(
THEATRES FOR SALE THEATRE SEATING
WORLD'S LARGEST THEATRE broker,
lOE ICSEPH, Box 31406, Dallas 75231.
214) 363-2724.
INDOOR THEATRE, 350 seats. Only
black theatre in county over 50.000
ol
people, 40% black populcrtion. Located in
South Carolina. Building and real estate
included. Everything in excellent condition.
Write Boxoffice, 3948.
HISTORIC HERMANN. MO.-420
modeled theatre, (314) 486-2380
2641.
FANTASTIC BARGAINSl Indoor & On
ins, Dallas. 500 seats, Lubbock, Texas.
Powers, (214) 341-8825, 341-0240.
ONLY THEATRE in city of T'hree Rivers
MI (pop. 7,500-f), 450 seats, automate:
booth, concessions; also includes 2 offici
rentals with space for third. Contact Ar
rowheod Real Estote, 1103 W. Michjga.i
Three Rivers, MI 49093. (616) 279-5184.
AUTOMATED TWIN theatre, 18 months
jld. bid seats. In shopping center near
vietro Houston, Texas. Favorable lease
:all George Marules, (713) 529-6157.
THEATRES FOR SALE in Huntington
Beach, Colifornio. ALSO Anniston, Alabama.
The following in TEXAS: Pans,
Memphis, Hurst, Andrews, Monohans, Denison,
Seagroves, Yoakum. Many, many
more over the U.S. JOE JOSEPH, "The
World's Lorgest Theatre Broker." (214)
If in, 363-2724. I'm not please leave message
I'll with Phone Mote, return your
1,050 AMEBJCAN STELLAR chairs, good
condition. One pair of 35/70 Norelco
equipment, complete. Several pair DeVry. coll.
Harry Melcher Enterprises, P. O. Bo:
232
16528, Mil WI
SEAT indoor theatre. 16mm projection.
Lease on 150 car outdoor theatre with
53216.
option to purchase. Low down payment
Located in northern B. C. community. AH
replies in confidence to ChaT-Lo Holdings
Ltd., Box 686, McBride, B. C. VOJ 2EO.
INDOOR THEATRE, Central
nty of 6,000. 340 push back seats. Building
lew 1970. Excellent family-semi-retired
operation. Sell land contract. $20,000 down
Jo brokers. Write: Resident, 5118 Holida
Dr., Madison, Wl 53711.
INDOOR THEATRE, 186 seats. Southern
California mountain resort area, population
approximately 12,000. Only theatre
Real estate included. Complete
within 30 miles.
snackbar. Two man operation $69.-
500, principles only please. Write: 110 S
St., Green Tehachapi, CA 93561.
THEATRES WANTED
OLD THEATRE ORGAN PIPES. McNeely
'ipe Organ Company, P. O. Box 223, Waerford,
CT 06385.
MANAGEMENT PARTNERSHIP CONSID-
ERED. Small town, northeast or southeast
Showman. Boxoifice, 3959.
WANTED TO BUY indoor and/or drive
theatre in Western United States. Wr
Boxoffice, 3961.
HAVE
SOMETHING
TO SELL ? THEN LET
PEOPLE KNOW! USE
THE
"CLEARING HOUSE"
WANT TO BUY? THEN
LET PEOPLE KNOW!
USE THE
"CLEARING HOUSE"
TOPS IN THEATRE SEATING upholster-
— finest materials-low prices— we buy and
sell theatre chairs Chicago Used Choir
Mart, 1320 S. Wabash Ave. (312) 939-
4518. Chicago, III. 60605.
UNIVERSAL SEATING 4 CONST. CO..
INC. Reconditioned used chairs. On-location
refurbishing, installation and staggering.
Sewn seal covers, all mokes. We
buy used seoling anywhere. Entire
theatre equipment available. Call (617)
298-7070. 1157 Adams St., Boston, Moss.
SPECIALISTS IN THEATRE SEATING.
New and rebuilt theatre chairs for sale.
We buy and sell old choirs. Trovel from
coost to coast. Seating Corporation of
New York, 247 Water Street, Brooklyn,
N. Y. 11201. Tel. (212) 875-5433 (reverse
THEATRE CHAIRS New-rebuilt-used-rockers
and late model chairs. Choir recovering.
Seat covers and fabrics. New and
used theotre equipment. Hayes Seating
Co., Inc., 6600 Joy Rood, East Syracuse,
N. Y. 13057. (315) 432-1901.
RECOVERING MIDWEST and BORDER-
ING STATES. Complete seat ufholsterlr.g
spacing and pointing. Your seats v;iil lo';;
and feel new. Free estimates. Call todav
Commerciol Repair Co., (812) 379-948-
1815 Vinewood Dr., Columbus, Ind. 472C1
FOR SALE OR LEASE
TWO THEATRES: Capitol Theatre, 1077
Payne Ave., St. Paul, MN; also Franklin
Theatre, 1035 East Fronklin, Minneapolis,
MN. Write or call Mr. Ferris, (612) 824-
5024 or 20 North 4th St., Minneapolis, MN
55401.
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