Boxoffice-April.16.1979

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• APRIL 16, \rn
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE EDITION
liiiluihiig tht Stclisnal Ntxi P

'
lONAL RELEASE DATE: FRIDAY, JUNE 29th, 1979!
Contact your local
ALSTON/ZANITSCH
INTL FILMS, INC. 3
Sub-Distributor I
An En^ertainmenl Event Destined
\o Make Motion Picture History!
m WERNER BRANDT PRESENTS
CLEVELAND
1r. Jay Goldberg .
)13) 851-9933
GEORGIA/ALABAMA
ARKANSAS
FLORIDA/LOUISIANA
MISSISSIPPI/TENNESSEE
DENVER/OMAHA-
DES MOI
SALT LAKE CITY
"r. Pat Halloran
NORTH CAROUNA
SOUTH CAROLINA
Mr. Bill Simpson
(704) 333-5193
1LADELPHIA
Mr. Terry Levene
(212) 787-6208
NEW ENGLAND Territory
Mr. Harvey Appell
(617) 482-4442
BUFFALO
Upper NEW YORK Stai
Mr. Ike Ehrllchman
(716) 854-6752 .
or (716) 852-0076
PORTLAND/SEATTLE
Mr. Gary Gibbs
(213) 467-9459
WASHINGTON, D.C.
MARYLAr"""""
Mr. Ross Wheeler
(202) 244-1500
TEXAS/OKLAHOMA
KFVJ MFYinn
am
WILLIE NELSON • WAYLON JENNINGS • LEON RUSSELL
AND A SUPPORTING CAST OF THOUSANDS
RESTRICTED €
rOUtRES ACCOMPANYING
RENT OR ADULT
^LfTON/ZiiMiTSCH liniiWiiTioiiiiLhLMt,lHC. Release
or contact JERRY ZANITSCH and EMMETT ALSTON: (213) 846-5594
and see them at Showarama, Crown Center Hotel, Kansas City, Mo.
-*^ APRIL 23-26
iflinON/ZilNITtCH iHTERMiiriOHilLhLMtjMC.

VEER HUNTER' BEST PICTURE;
FONDA. VOIGHT CLAIM OSCARS
RON SCHAUMBURG
By
Associate Editor
'The Deer Hunter," EMI-Universal's
devastating story of war's effect on a closely-knit
group of blue-collar workers, was
voted the best picture of 1978 during the
51st annual Academy Awards ceremony
April 9.
Michael Cimino. director of the film,
and Christopher Walken, who played the
supporting role of a young man driven to
suicide by the futility of war, also won
the Oscars in their respective categories.
In addition, "The Deer Hunter" was recognized
for its achievement in sound and
editing.
A film with a similar theme, "Coming
Home," earned top acting honors for its
stars Jane Fonda and Jon Voight. It also
garnered the Oscar for best screenplay written
directly for the screen.
Before the ceremonies, demonstrators outside
the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los
Angeles carried signs denouncing "The Deer
Hunter's" allegedly racist attitudes toward
the people of Vietnam. Thirteen arrests were
made after a thiown bottle disrupted the
otherwise peaceful protest. Five injuries
were reported.
"Heaven Can Wait." from Paramount,
which had been nominated for nine awards,
was cited for best art direction. Warren
Beatty, who had been nominated in three
categories— best director, best actor and
best screenplay—went home empty-handed.
Columbia's "Midnight Express" collected
two of the gold statuettes, one for Giorgio
Moroder's score and one for Oliver Stone's
screenplay adapted from another medium.
Columbia, distributors of Casablanca
Records, will profit by awards given to the
"Midnight Express" score and to the song
"Last Dance" from "Thank God It's Friday."
Woody Allen, whose somber "Interiors"
had been nominated in five categories, including
best director and best original
screenplay, failed to repeat the success of
last year's "Annie Hall."
The ceremony was noticeably smoother
and more restrained than in recent years.
Johnny Carson, in his first appearance as
emcee, handled his lines with finesse, displaying
the comic timing and delivery for
which he is famous.
Introduced by Howard Koch as "a national
treasure," Carson quickly pulled the
rug from under potentially politically minded
recipients
by taking a stand on every issue
from nationalism to seal-hunting.
The ceremonies, in fact, were remarkably
(Continued on page 5)
Published weekly, except one Issue at year-end, by
Vance Publishing Corp.. 825 Van Brunt Blvd.. Kansas
City, .Missouri 64124. Subscription rates: Sectional
Edition, J1500 per year, foreign. $25.00. National
Bjecutlve Edition: $26.00, foreign, $30.00. Single
'-'opy, 75c. Second class postage paid at Kansas City.
Mo. BOXOFFICE Publication No. (USPS 062-260).
Robert DeNiro, second from right, heads the cast of the award-winning "Deer
Hunter," an EMI films/ Universal release.
Winners of Academy Awards for 1978
Best picture: "The Deer Hunter, an EMI
"
Films/ Michael Cimino Film Production,
Universal. Barry Spikings, Michael Deeley,
Michael Cimino and John Peverall, producers.
Best directing: Michael Cimino for "The
Deer Hunter,"
Best actor: Jon Voight in "Coming
Home."
Best actress: Jane Fonda in "Coming
Home."
Best supporting actor: Christopher Walken
in "The Deer Hunter."
Best supporting actress: Maggie Smith in
"California Suite."
Best foreign-language film: "Get Out
Your Handkerchiefs" (France).
Best original screenplay—written directly
for the screen: "Coming Home," story by
Nancy Dowd, screenplay by Waldo Salt and
Robert C. Jones.
Best screenplay—^based on material from
another medium: "Midnight Express."
screenplay by Oliver Stone.
Best cinematography: Nestor Almendros
for "Days of Heaven."
Best sound: Richard Portman, William
McCaughey, Aaron Rochin and Darrin
Kinight for "The Deer Hunter."
Best film editing: Peter Zinner for "The
Deer Hunter."
Best art direction: Paul Sylbert and Edwin
O'Donovan for "Heaven Can Wait," set
decoration by George Gains.
Best costume design: Anthony Powell for
"Death on the Nile."
Best original dramatic score: Giorgio
Moroder for "Midnight Express."
Best original song score/adaptation: Joe
Renzetti for "The Buddy Holly Story."
Best original song: "Last Dance," from
"Thank God It's Friday," music and lyrics
by Paul Jabara.
Best documentary feature: "Scared
Straight!", .\rnold Shapiro, producer.
Best documentary short: "The Flight of
the Gossamer Condor." Jacqueline Phillips
Shedd and Ben Shcdd. producers.
"
Best live-action short: "Teenage Father,
Taylor Hackford, producer.
Best animated short: "Special Delivery, "
Eunice Macaulay and John Weldon, producers.
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT:
VISUAL EFFECTS
"Superman," a Richard Donner film, produced
by Pierre Spengler.
SPECIAL TECHNICAL AWARDS
Stephen Kodalsky, for special achievement
in sound, in the development of Nagra
recorders: Robert Gottschalk, for de-
(Continued on page 5)
April

THE NATIONAL FILM WEEKLY
Published in Fi»e Sectional Editions
WILLIAM C. VANCE
Publisher
JOHN F. BERRY
Assoc. Publisher/National Sales Manager
CHARLES F. ROUSE III
Editor
BEN SHLYEN Executive Editor
MORRIS SCHLOZMAN Business Manaoer
HARVEY SHARP Circulation Director
GARY BURCH Equipment Editor
JONNA JEFFERIS Associate Editor
STU GOLDSTEIN Associate Editor
RON SCHAUMBUBG Associate Editor
G. GREGORY TOBIN Associate Editor
JIMMY SUMMERS Assistant Editor
RALPH KAMINSKY West Coast Editor
JOHN COCCHI East Coast Editor
ADMINISTRATIVE
VANCE HERBERT A. Chairman
B. JOHN ONEIL President
J. JAMES STAUDT Vice-President
Executive
C. WILLIAM VANCE Vice-President
Publication Offices: 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas
City Mo. 64124. (816) 241-7777.
Western Offices: 1800 N. Highland, Suite 707. Hollywood,
Ua. »0028. (213) 465-1186.
Advertising sales: Glea Vernon
Eastern Offices: 1270 Sixth Ave., Suite 2403. EocktfeUer
CenUr. New York, 10020, (212) 265-6370.
Advertising sales: Jim Young
THE MODERN TUEATllE Section Is Included hi
one issue each month.
Atlanta: Genevieve (iunp. 166 Undbergh Drive. N.E.
30305.
Balthnore: Kate Savage, 3607 Sprmgdale, 21216.
Boston: Ernest Warren, 1 (>)lgate Road. Needham,
Mass. 02192. Tele. (617) 444-1657.
Buffalo: Edward h\ Meade. 760 Mahi St., 14202.
Tele. (716) g64-15SS.
tharlolte: Chas. J. Leonard Sr.. 319 Queens Rd.,
28204. Tele. (704) 333-0444.
Chicago: Frances B. Clow. 175 North Kenllworth,
Oak Park, lU. 60302. Tele. (312) 383-8343.
CmchmaU: Tony B. Rutherford. Box 362. Huntington,
W. V». 1510&. Tele. (304) 525-3837.
Cleveland: Elain* Fried, 3255 Grenway Rd. 44122.
Tele. (216) 981-3797.
UaUaa: Mahle Gutoan, 5927 Winton. 76206.
Denver: Bruce MarshaU. 2881 S. Cherry Way, 80222.
Ues Mohies: Chidy Vlers. 4024 E. Maple. 50317.
Tele. 266-9811.
Hartford: Allen M. Wldem, 30 Pioneer Drive. W.
Hartford 06117. Tele. 232-3101.
Indianapolis: Itobert V. Jones. 6385 N. Park. 4Br20.
Teie. (317) 251-5070.
Jacksonville: Robert Ckirnviall. 3233 College St..
32205. Teie. (004) 389-6144.
Louisviiie: Susan D. Todd. 8409 Old Boundary Rd.,
40291.
Memphis: Bill Miokus. 1188 Perkins Rd 38117. Tele.
(901) 683-8182.
Miami: Martha Lumraus. 622 N B. 98 St. 33138.
MUwaukee: Wally L. Meyer. 301 Heather Lane. Fredonla.
Wis. 63021. Tele: (414) 692-2763.
Mhineapolis: BUI Dlehi. St. Paul Dispatch. 63 E.
4th St.. SU Paul. Minn. 56101
New Orleans: Mary Oreenbaum. 2303 Mendez St.
70122.
Oklahoma City: Eddie L. Greggs. 410 South Bldg..
2000 Classen Center. 73106.
Pahn Beach: Lois Baumoel. 2860 S. Ocean Blvd., No.
316, 33480, Tele. (305) 588-6786.
Philadelphia: Maurie H. Orodenker, 312 W. Park
Towne Place, 18130. Tele. (215) 667-4748.
Pittsburgh; R. F. KHngensmlth, P16 Jeanette, WUktasburg
15221. Tele. (412) 241-2809.
Portland, Ore.: Robt. Olds, 1120 N.E. 61sl, 97213.
St. Louis: Kan R. Krause, 818A Longacre Drive,
63132. Tele. (314) 891-4746.
Salt Lake City: Keith Perry, 264 E. 1st South, 84111.
Tele. (801) 328-1641.
San Antonio: Gladys Candy. 619 Ctachmatl Ave. Tele.
(512) 734-5527. 78201.
San Francisco: David Van. UATC. 172 Golden Gate
Ave.. 94102. Teie: &28-3200.
Seattle: Stu Goldman. Apt. 404. 101 N. 46th St.,
98103. Tele. 782-5833.
Toledo: Anna Klhie. 4330 Willys Pkwy.. 43612.
Tucson: Gib Clark. 433 N. Grande. Apt. 5. 86705.
Washington: Virglnhi R. CoUler. 5112 Connecticut
Ave.. N.W. 20008. Tele. (202) 362-0892.
IN CANADA
Calgary: Maxine McBean. 420 40th St.. S.W., F3C
iWl. Tele. (403) 249-6039.
Montreal: Tom Cleary. Association des Proprletaires
de Chiema du Quebec. 3720 Van Home. Suite 4-6,
1138 1B8.
Ottawa: Garfield "WUlle" WUson, 768 Kahisford Ave.,
KJK 2K1. Tele. 746-6680.
Tiironto: J. W. Agnew, 274 St. John's Rd., M6P 1V6.
Vancouver: Jimmy Davie. 3245 W. 12, V6K 2R8.
Robert Hucal, 600-232 Portage Ave., R3C
OBI.
'/4e "Julie
e^'me mei&n. 7^otuA& SneluA
SHOWMANSHIP LIVES!
In the April 9 issue, we carriecd an article announcing the
names of three exhibitors who will be honored at Show-A-Rama
22 as winners in the Boxoffice/Show-A-Ramo Honored Showman
Competition,
It is unfortunate that, when all was said and done, there
could only be one winner chosen in each of three categories: print,
radio-TV and off-site promotion. For in truth there were no real
losers among the 'nearly 60 entrants who submitted promotional
campaign material for award consideration.
The lengthy selection process was made even more difficult
by the surprising strength of the competition that prevailed in all
three contest categories. But it was a welcome challenge for the
panel of judges saddled with the responsibility of singling out just
three winners from so many deserving entries.
As a member of the selection committee, we found it exciting
and refreshing that, during a growing period of economic uncertainty
in our society, exhibitors are meeting head on the financial
adversity that threatens to wound if not cripple the entertainment
industry. It would be very easy for exhibition to flirt with
complacency, particularly in the wake of all the advance publicity
and national notoriety associated with the release of such film
extravaganzas as "Star Wars," "Superman," and others. Conversely,
it would be difficult, if not foolish, to pass up an opportunity
to capitalize on the potential profit of films of this genre
by planning and executing a local merchandising angle to tie in
with all the free national publicity.
Which brings us to the point. As exhibitors at the local level
are all too well aware, the vast majority of all film fare in release
today is dispatched to the first-run markets without all the advance
publicity and merchandising ideas that we commonly associate
with major releases. It is i'n situations like this where an
exhibitor's showmanship instinct bridges the gap between a picture's
prospects for failure and its potential for becoming one
of those talked-about boxoffice success stories. All three winners
in the Honored Showman Competition successfully bridged the
gap, appealing to the interest of their local patronage by building
timely and productive promotional campaigns around films that
from the outset were not expected to set the world afire.
The winning campaigns will be on display for all to see during
the entire week of Show-A-Rama, April 23-26.
The Honored Showman Competition is further proof that
showmanship not only lives but is still a viable source of fun and
profit in our industry.

'Deer Hunler/ Fonda,
Voighl Win Oscars
(Continued from Page 3)
hoc from the political grandstanding thai
has become so common in recent years. Recipients
of awards showed restraint, especially
considering the emotionally charged
subject matter of the top films.
Nancy Dowd. author of the story of
Coming Home," wished to share her award
with the women "for whom the war still
goes on." Jane Fonda, who has been an
activist
for a number of cau,ses over the past
decade, used sign language for part of her
acceptance speech to call attention to the
problems of the handicapped.
Fonda and Voight in "Coming Home."
There were no spectacular production
numbers this year, a factor which helped in
keeping the three-and-a-half hour telecast
from stretching out interminably.
Steve Lawrence and Sammy Davis Jr.
performed a medley of classic songs that
were never nominated for awards, and a
group of studio musicians called The Orchestra
offered an overture of themes from
the top nominated films.
A vast contrast in ages was apparent
throughout the ceremony. The youngest presenter
in Oscar history was Ricky Schroder,
8, star of MGM's current release "The
Champ." George Burns, 83, appeared with
lanky Brooke Shields, 14, to present Maggie
Smith with her award for best supporting
actress in "California Suite."
Robin Williams, meteoric young star of
"Mork and Mindy" who was recently signed
to play the title role in Robert Altman's
"Popeye," presented an honorary award to
animator Walter Lantz, who has worked
in the industry for over 60 years. Williams
exchanged one-liners with an animated
Woody Woodpecker, Lantz's hallmark creation.
Ray Bolger and Jack Haley, the Scarecrow
and the Tin Man from the 1939 version
of "The Wizard of Oz," danced onto
the stage to music from the film. As they
presented the award for best costume to
Anthony Powell for "Death on the Nile,"
they drew applause by referring to Universal's
recent remake, "The Wiz."
The telecast was dotted with surrealistic
touches. A man read one of Carson's jokes
111 Chinese, underscoring the global impact
ol the broadcast. Steve Martin, wearing his
trademark arrow-lhrough-the-skull, donned
a mask which made his head invisible to
viewers. And a clip from the Mu,seuni of
Modern Art's film archives showed eerily
distorted busses and cars driving along New
York streets.
Leo Jaffe, who has spent 50 years with
Columbia Pictures, was presented with the
Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
Audrey Hepburn presented an honorary
award to veteran director King Vidor, who
was nominated during the first Oscar presentations
in 1928.
A brief montage of film clips was a highlight
of the tribute to the 50-year career of
Laurence Olivier, who was presented with
his second honorary award from the academy.
Olivier, who was nominated this year
for his performance in "The Boys From
Brazil," also won an acting Oscar for
"Hamlet" in 1948. His acceptance speech
visibly moved Jon Voight, who mounted
year-old actor had surgery earlier this year
to remove his stomach and gall bladder.
Prior to that he had lost a lung to cancer
and had undergone open-heart surgery.
Wayne, who waved cheerily to the audience
as he ambled down tTie stairs, commented,
"Oscar and I both have something
in common. Oscar came on the scene in
1928. So did I. We're both a little weatherbeaten,
but we're still arouind and plan to be
around a lot longer."
Host of Honorary Awcnrds
Highlight Oscar Show
(Continued from Page 3)
\elopment of Panaflex film equipment;
Eastman Kodak, for technical achievement
in research and development of Eastman
color film.
SPECIAL HONORARY AWARD
WALTER LANTZ
Best known for his creation of the animated
film character Woody Woodpecker,
for over 60 years of service to the motion
picture industry as a film animator.
SPECIAL HONORARY AWARD:
MUSEUM OF MODERN ART,
DEPARTMENT OF FILM
For "e.xhibiting, cataloging and preservina"
the industry's film heritacie.
SPECIAL HONORARY AWARD:
KING VIDOR
For outstanding film achievement and
contributions to the motion picture industry
over the past half-century.
SPECIAL HONORARY AWARD:
LAURENCE OLIVIER
For "gracing the industry" with his work
and extraordinary achievements durimg the
past
50 years.
JEAN HERSHOLT
HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Leo Jaffe, chairman of the board of Columbia
Pictures, for 50 dedicated years of
service to the industry.
Allied Artists Ind.
Files for Bankruptcy
NEW YORK—Citing financial troubles
associated with one of its films, "The Betsy,"
as a cause. Allied Artists Industries filed
a voluntary court petition here April 4 to
rcoiganize under Chapter XI of the Federal
Bankruptcy Act.
Under the terms of the petition. Allied
Artists Pictures, a wholly owned subsidiary
of the parent company, will be allowed to
remain in business, with court protection
against creditors, while a successful reorganization
plan is developed, according to Jay
Feldman, group vice-president for consumer
affairs for Allied Artists Industries.
The parent company had previously reported
a net loss of $3.2 million for the 39
weeks ended Dec. 29, attributing $2.6 million
to Allied Artists Pictures. AA Industries
reported that the picture company had
the dais shortly thereafter to accept the best
actor award.
approximately $14.3 in liabilities as of Dec.
29, of which $5.4 million had been due.
John Wayne's appearance to present the
award immediate
According
Artists Industries
to the
entered
court petition.
into production
Allied
best film received an
standing ovation from the crowd. The 71- and financing agreements on the "The Betsy"
because of the financial difficulties being
experienced by its motion picture subsidiary.
As a result, the parent company reports
it incurred substantial obligations, re
suiting in
cash-flow problems.
In its court petition, AA Industries said
"that its business and properties continue to
be valuable and that it is necessary that the
company continue as a viable entity without
interruption! in order that it may realize the
full value of its assets and business."
Allied's major film productions have included
"Cabaret" with Liza Minnelli, "Papillon"
with Steve McQueen and Dustin
Hoffman, "The Man Who Would Be King"
with Sean Connery and Michael Caine and
"The Betsv" with Laurence Olivier.
ABC Declares Dividend
NEW YORK—The board of directors
of American Broadcasting Companies Inc.
recently declared a cash dividend of 30
cents per share on ABC common stock, payable
June 15, 1979.
COMING SOON...
A
BIGGER
and
BETTER
BOXOFFICE
BOXOFTICE April 16, 1979

has the
Flhnsthat
COISTACT
GEORGE ORPHANAKIS
Texas Area /Ohio Area 714-481-1266
SAM OETinGER
West Coast/Alaska/Hawaii 714- 481-1206
SKIP FEIHTECH
South 714-481-1206
BRUCE QUACREINBDSH
northeast 617-542-0227
JOHN INAL
Southeast 404-329-9003
ROGER MILLER
Midwest 816-931-2912
INORMAPi RATZ, ANDREW PFEFFER
Foreign Sales 714-481-1206
mt, AMERICAN CINEMA RELEASING

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GOOD
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TOIAL GROSS in 50% of U.S.
OATKS AKtA

Variety Conclave Is
Set for May 19-24
NEW YORK—The 52nd annual convention
of Variety Clubs International will be
held at the Fairmont Hotel in New Orleans
from May 19 to May 24, it was announced
by Eric D. Morley, president of the global
show business organization.
More than 1.000 delegates, representing
Variety Clubs in the United States, Australia,
Canada, England, France, Ireland,
Mexico. Puerto Rico, Israel and the Channel
Islands, will attend the convention.
Para, UA Enter Home Videocassette
Market; Rental System Is
Planned
CLEARING HOUSE

'
I
I
Henry G. Plitt
Overwhelming Choice
As Motion Picture Pioneer of 1979
The Foundation of the Motion Picture
onecrs selected Henry G. Plitt, nationally
known exhibitor
and circuit head, as
its Annual Pioneer of
the Year for 1979, it
was announced by B.
V. Sturdivant, president
of the charitable
organization.
The decision to
honor Plitt at the 41st
annual dinner was
unanimously approved
Henry G, PUtt
[,y the board of directors
at its meeting held recently in New
York.
Plitt was the overwhelming choice of the
search committee that was appointed by
Sturdivant to submit a candidate to the
board for the prestigious award. Sherrill
Corwin, who chaired the committee, praised
Plitt for his contributions to the motion
picture industry, and characterized him as
being eminently qualified for this honor.
On January 1, 1974, Henry G. Plitt, after
28 years of devoted service to the American
Broadcasting Companies, along with a
group of prestigious Chicagoans, purchased
the Northern Group of the American
Broadcasting Companies' Theatres which extended
from Michigan to California. At that
time he became its president and chief
executive officer.
of the spheres, according to Mel Richmond,
Under Plitt's leadership his circuit purchased
national promotion-exploitation director.
the remaining 258 ABC screens He said the "VisuaRama" sphere is flying
in eleven Southern states on October 27, around in several initial playdates in California
1978. latest This acquisition brings to a
and Texas. It was "highly effective"
total of over 400 screens, making the Plitt when unleased in a special sneak preview in
organization reportedly the largest independent
a theatre in the Westwood section of Los
theatre circuit in the country.
Plitt's civic interests are many. He served
Angeles.
as president of the United Cerebral Palsy
Assn. of Greater Chicago for three years
and initiated, organized and ran the Chicago
New Mexico 10th State
Telethons for UCP. He is a member of the
To Pass Bidding Law
executive committee of the State Street
Council; area chairman of the Amusement NEW YORK—New Mexico has become
Division of the City of Chicago's annual
the tenth state to pass the anti-
"Reach Out" program; instiumental in the
organization and first chairman of the Joseph
Jefferson Awards Fellowship of Chicago;
blind bidding measure.
Gov. Bruce King signed the bill into
law on April 3.
past chairman of the amusement diviblind
Fund; chairman
The bill, which becomes
House by
effective
a vote of
sion of the United Jewish
of the amusement division for Israel Bonds
July 2, passed the
and the 1969 amusement division honoree.
His many other interests include service
on the board of directors of the Will Rogers
Memorial Hospital. He also received the
Will Rogers Memorial statue for exceptional
personal endeavor of 1970-71. In 1972
Henry Plitt was honored as E.xhibitor of the
Year of the International Film Importers
and Distributors of America. (IFIDA) Plitt
served as chairman of the Metropolitan Crusade
of Mercy and the National Conference
of Christian and Jews for the amusement
division. He also has served on the executive
committees of the Girl Scouts USA.
Plitt is also a member of the Motion
Picture Academy of Arts and Sciences, the
Friars Club, the Television Academy of Arts
and Sciences, the National Association of
Broadcasters, the Chicago Press Club, present
vice-president and life member of the
Variety Clubs International; co-chairman of
the Sunshine Coach committee (Western
hemisphere) and he was instrumental in
forming the VIP panel for the Variety
Club's telethon in Los Angeles.
He is also on the board of directors of
the Foundation of the Motion Picture Pioneers.
Avco Adds Dimension
To Horror Film Promo
HOLLYWOOD—Avco Embassy Pictures
has copyrighted a "VisuaRama" process
which it plans to use in theatres where it
shows "Phantasm," a camp-horror film in
which a flying silver sphere equipped with
deadly sharp daggers plays a dramatic role.
Avco figures on adding a "real-life" dimension
to the horror build up in the movie
by having one of the silver spheres suddenly
"fly" over the audience at the conclusion
of the picture.
A major special effects designer-manufacturer
in Hollywood will build a number
64-2 March 14. The senate passed it
34-1 March 6.
In Ohio, the trial testing of the blind
bidding law has been postponed because
the MPAA failed to provide
documents requested by the attorney
general of Ohio. A new trial date will
be set after a pre-trial conference
scheduled for April 19.
Governor's signatures are expected
soon In Tennessee, where the blind
bidding bill passed the House 84-4
March 29, and in Arkansas, where the
bill passed the house 70-15 March 29.
GREfiT
FILMS
FORfiLL
OF YOUR
CMiLDREN'S
MflTiNEE
PROGRfiMMiNG
At a flat price your
ttieater can afford.
In great profit
building plans.
Clioose from proven film
successes including . .
"OLIVER"
"TOM SAWYER"
"CHmY CHITTY BANG BANG"
"JACK AND THE BEANSTALK"
"HUCKLEBERRY FINN
"GODSPELL"
"1776"
"MAN AND BOY"
"MAN OF [A MANCHA"
"RUMPLESTILTSKIN"
"SHOEMAKER AND THE ELVES
"HEIDI"
"HEIDI AND PETER"
"ALICE IN A NEW WONDERLAND
"INHERIT THE WIND"
"WEST SIDE STORY"
"MIRACLE WORKER"
"VISIT TO A CHIEF'S SON"
Bring the children back into
your theater.
Call Roger Doria collect.
Phone (215) 563-4415 or
write for free brochure.
He'll be glad to help you
plan your matinee schedule
Now.
CONSOLIDATED
PRODUCTIONS
INCORPORATED
1511 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19102
1979

Henry Winkler, Alan Manings Merge; LETTERS
Plan 5 f/7ms With $20 Mil Budget
HOLLYWOOD—Actor Henry Winkler
has merged his Fair Dinkum company with
writer-producer Alan Manings' Aiiwhit firm
with plans to produce at least five feature
pictures with overall budgets reaching toward
$20 million. The first film tabbed for a
shooting start in November.
Winkler, who also has feature fihii commitments
at Universal and 20th Century-
Fox, plans to star in three of the Fair Dinkum/
AUwhit releases. The two principals
will be executive producers on all of the
company projects.
In addition to the feature committment,
Fair Dinkum/ Allwhit also is eyeing television
projects that will run into the $4 to $5
million bracket.
'Stokes' First Feature
First feature to go before the cameras,
with a November start contemplated, is
"Stokes." A major star will be signed the
title role of a detective in an unconventional
police story to be filmed on Los Angeles
locations. No budget has been set for the
original screenplay by Norman Liebman.
The first feature with Winkler starring
will be "My Brother's Keeper," budgeted at
$6 to $8 million and slated for a start in the
spring of 1980. Winkler will portray a psychiatrist
in the feature scripted by Larry
Cohen to be shot on locations in Washington,
D. C, Pennsylvania and New York
City.
His next one will be a still untitled project
budgeted at $3 to $4 million to be written
by Carol Rober and directed by Jeff Bleckner
and set to shoot late in 1980.
His third feature will be "Animal Factory,"
budgeted at $5 million and set to
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begin shooting early in 1981 with a script
by Edward Bunker who will adapt his own
novel about an upper middle class youth
who is unable to cope when sent to prison,
and his relationship with an older inmate.
"Hellhound on My Tail," a screenplay by
Doug DeSoto. will deal with the life of
black blues singer and composer Robert
Johnson. Shooting on the $3-million project
is planned for the spring of 1980. Filming
will be in Alabama, Georgia, Nashville and
Chicago.
Celebs, Industry Leaders
Attend 'Champ' Premiere
NEW YORK—An audience of celebrities
and film industry leaders attended the invitational
preview of MGM's "The Champ"
at Loew's New York No. 1 April 1
The guests included the film's stars, Jon
Voight and Ricky Schroder, director Franco
Zeffirelli and producer Dyson Lovell.
"The Champ" began its regular engagement
in the New York area April 4 at
Loew's New York No. 1, the Astor Plaza
and 16 additional theatres.
Among the other preview guests were
Theoni V. Aldredge, Mikhail Baryshnikov,
Leonard Bernstein, Rudolph Bing, Claudette
Colbert, Diane von Furstenberg, Paul Mazursky,
Jan Miner, Allan Parker, Eric Pleskow.
Lady Maria St. Just, Preston Tisch,
Laurence Tisch and Emanuel L. Wolf.
MOM was represented by a contingent
of senior executives headed by Frank
Rosenfelt, president, and Richard Shepherd,
senior vice-president and worldwide head of
theatrical production.
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Jo the Editor:
Your articles on advertising problems
(
"Exhibs Hot About Ad Problems," March
12) brought to the fore many of the problems
with which the industry is faced.
However, there is one point which I
seldom see brought out, one that faces
practically every house around and one
which I feel should also be mentioned.
That problem is one of size—distributors
making available only six- and eight-column
newspaper ads.
Robert Cort states that studios "agonize"
over each ad, and many of the print ads we
see today are extremely well done. But Mr.
Cort should also realize that his painstaking
ads are going to be butchered up and
cut down due to the soaring newspaper
rates the exhibitors are also forced to pay.
Surely Mr. Cort and the others in his
industry are smart enough to realize that
exhibitors are not going to run full, threequarter
or even half-page ads on every
picture—and a small two- or three-column
ad with just the movie title and rating alone
won't properly "sell" a picture.
There are a few companies which prepare
cut-down versions of major feature
ads while trying to retain the quality factor
they agonized over. Our company relies
heavily on these slicks, not just for calendars
but for opening-day ads.
Perhaps if the distributors would start
preparing attractive, small ads they would
find more and more exhibitors willing to
put out that little bit extra— that push, that
money, that showmanship—for a first-class
local newspaper campaign.
And along the same line, the exhibitor is
not going to spend a lot of local newspaper
money to advertise three inches of credits
screenplay by, produced by, executive producers,
executive directors, etc., etc.
Three cheers for companies such as Universal
and Buena Vista. They are making
a good attempt to supply small ads which
retain creativity and quality.
Lately there have been few pictures that
really merit large local newspaper expenditures.
And as long as all we have is a title
and rating, why bother I'm still one of
those die-hards that will attempt to cut
down the size of large ads and still retain
the illustrations, the copy, the dramatics
the "zest" of motion picture advertising.
But the added cost of doing this is fastly
making this approach economically questionable.
Perhaps if the distribution companies
would supply smaller-sized, quality advertising
they would realize that exhibitors will
use good material when they get it.
Advertising Director
Allen Theatres, Inc.
KEITH F. JOHNSON
April 16, 1979

te.,
""^^H
fOR THE
RECORD
Alvin A, Weinroth has been appointed lo
the new position of personnel director for
National Screen Service.
United Artists has appointed Stuart Salter
to manage the Venezuela office, Bertrand
Devort to manage the Peru office and Richard
Guardian to manage the Dominican
Republic office.
James A. Sweeney has been named executive
vice-president and general manager
of the Standard Manufacturing operation of
Technicolor Inc. in West Springfield, Mass.
Joseph A. Fisher has been appointed executive
vice-president of Columbia Pictures
Industries.
Victor Kaufman was promoted to
J
senior
vice-president of Columbia Pictures Industries.
He retains his title of general counsel
and secretary.
Martin Grasgreen has resigned as director
for Quartet Films here and is now operating
theatres in Fort Myers. Fla. Succeeding
him at Quartet is Jeff Lewine.
Georg Eriksson, continental Europe sales
manager in London for Warner Bros., has
been named a vice-president of Warner
Bros. (Transatlantic) Inc.
Digby Davidson, Warner Bros.' Far East
supervisor based in Tokyo, has been named
a vice-president for the company.
James Gentilcore has been named vicepresident
and treasurer of Associate Film
Distribution.
George Justin has taken over as executive
production manager at Orion Pictures.
International Creative Management has
named David Raphael president of ICM
Film Marketing and Zeev Birger has been
promoted to director general of the Paris
office. Joseph Graham joins the division as
executive vice-president.
Robert S. Ferguson has rejoined Columbia
Pictures as a special consultant to Francis
T. Vincent, president and chief executive
officer.
Leanna Johnson Heath has joined the legal
affairs department of 20lh Century-Fox
as an associate production counsel, reporting
to Walter Swanson, senior production
counsel.
Giovanni Gentili F. has been named general
manager of Screen Gems-Columbia
Pictures of Brazil Inc., succeeding the late
William Hummel.
Alston/Zanilsch Plan
3-4 Films Per Year
BURBANK, CALIF.—Emmett Alston
and Jerry Zanitsch have announced the formation
of Alston/Zanitsch International
Films Inc. The company will produce three
to four films a year and will distribute them
as well as product from other independent
producers.
Alston, formerly with Four-Wall Distributors
and Taylor-Laughlin Film Distributors,
has designed ad campaigns for Paramount
and Universal as well as several independent
producers.
Zantisch, president and general sales manager,
formerly was director of advertising
for Mid-States Theatres in Cincinnati. Prior
to that he was general sales manager and
publicity director for Phil Borack's April
Fools Productions.
The company has four films ready for
release: "A Whale of a Tale," a deep sea
adventure starring William Shatner and rated
PC; "The Treasure of Emerald Cave,"
rated G; "The Beast & the Vixens," an R-
rated spoof of the Bigfoot myth, and "Willie
Nelson's 4th of July Celebration," a concert
presentation featuring music stars and filmed
in Dolby stereo.
Later this summer "The Devil's Mistress,"
horror-suspense picture starring Cesar Romero,
will be ready for release.
Alston/Zanitsch has completed its first
production, "Three Way Weekend," and
this summer will start shooting "Beaver
Fever," a satire on the disco craze.
Titles & Takes
Columbia's "California Suite" grossed
$43,653 in the first three days of release
in Austria and Italy. The Neil Simon hit
took in $25,541 at three houses in Vienna
and $17,112, a house record, at the Fiamma
Theatre in Rome.
"Superman" has passed the $110 million
mark in domestic boxoffice gross. As of
April 6, the film was being seen in 1,000
domestic engagements. Included in the
Easter season breakout arc 800 new bookings,
including a number of drive-ins.
Warner Bros.'"Boulevard Nights" posted
a seven-day opening week gross of $1,157,-
885 in 101 theatres. The Los Angeles
branch reported $599,732 in 39 theatres,
paced by the $83,148 in the State Theatre
downtown and $42,274 in the Vogue in
Hollywood. The film picked up $326,732
in 34 San Francisco theatres, including
$43,534 from San Jose's Capitol ozoner
and the Century 25A Theatre. In Dallas,
the film earned $157,798 in 21 theatres,
including figures of $16,748 in the Cinema
Park Drive-In and $7,897 in the Montwood.
"Carnivorous" and "Raw Meat" (United
Producers Distribution Organization) has
taken in $48,644 in one week. Total includes
$19,264 from three spots in Phoenix,
$6,804 in Bakersfield, Calif., $5,483 in St.
Petersburg. $6,333 in Fort Myers and $10,-
760 in two Tampa spots.
"Piranha" (New World), distributed overseas
by United Artists, pulled in $250,041
in Spain, including $74,509 from one theatre
in Madrid, and $175,532 from five
theatres in three weeks in Barcelona.
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^ ^_/4oliuu/ood f^eport m
f
FILM PROJECTS
Universals In God We Trust (or Gimme
That Prime Time Religion) will begin shooting
in Los Angeles April 16. Marty Feldman
is directing and starring in the script he cowrote
with Chris Allen. Louise Lasser. Peter
Boyle and Andy Kaufman also star in the
story about an innocent's initiation into
worldly ways. The Howard West-George
Shapiro production has West and Shapiro
as producers. Norman Herman is executive
producer.
Producer Pat Russell plans to produce,
write, direct and join in the financing of
Awakening. Story concerns a 16-year-old
who is in the process of becoming a woman.
SF Film Productions has announced the
title of its first theatrical feature: Starlog's
Intergalactic Picture Show. Picture is slated
for completion this spring. No distribution
commitments have yet been made.
Production got under way April 2 on
20th Century-Fox's comedy. Fatso. Dom
DeLuise, Anne Bancroft, Candy Azzara and
Ron Carey topline. Picture is the first time
since July 1978 that filming has taken place
at Fox's Century City lot.
The First Deadly Sin has been reactivated
on Columbia's production schedule. Columbia
has finalized a producing deal with Elliot
Kastner to bring the Lawrence Sanders
novel to the screen. Mann Rubin has been
signed by Kastner to write a new screenplay,
to be tailored for Marlon Brando.
Norman Jewison and Patrick Palmer will
co-produce Best Friends. Story concerns a
young couple who live together before eventually
deciding to marry. Jewison is also
directing. Joe Wizan and Barry Levinson
will be executive producers.
Universal has begun filming Mehin and
Howard. Jason Robards stars as Howard
Hughes. Paul LeMat is Dummar, a man
who claimed he gave Howard Hughes a
dime and a ride home.
Principal photography on Variety International's
Oil will commence July 30. Robert
Dillon is writing the screenplay from a
novel by Jonathan Black. Jack Poplin has
been set as art director.
A film comedy titled Jaws 3— People
will be produced by the Zamick Brown company
and National Lampoon, Inc. Picture
will be a spoof of the successful "Jaws" and
its sequel "Jaws 2." Richard D. Zanuck and
David Brown, who produced "Jaws," will be
executive producers. National Lampoon
chief Matty Simmons, who co-produced
"Animal House" with Ivan Reitman, will
be the producer. Production is scheduled for
fall.
After more than a year of preparation,
production will start late this year on Al-
12
ways Elvis. Picture is result of collaboration
between Jerry Weintraub, Col. Tom Parker
and the Presley estate. Filming will take
place at the Graceland mansion, and at the
Las Vegas Hilton and other key concert
sites.
Lorimar Films and literary agent Alain
Bernheim have reached an agreement
whereby Bernheim will function as executive
producer of theatrical film productions
that he will develop with Lorimar. First
Lorimar-Bernheim project will be The Good
Leviathan, story of the world's largest nuclear-powered
supertanker.
New World Pictures has dropped plans
to distribute Swim Team. The comedy has
no new distributor presently lined up.
Filming will begin in New York May 17
on the new Paul Mazursky romantic comedy-drama,
Willie & Phil. John Heard, Ray
Sharkey and Margot Kidder star.
Gary Busey, together with Jodie Foster
and Robbie Robertson, will star in Lorimar's
Carny. The dramatic feature will be set
against a background of a modern-day carnival.
United Artists will distribute.
Principal photography began March 26
on UA's A Small Circle of Friends. Brad
Davis, Daren Allen and Jameson Parker
star. Tim Zinneman is producing with Rob
Cohen as director.
Charlie Chan's Curse, a comedic look at
the famed detective and his number one
son, will be produced by Jerry Sherlock.
Production will begin in summer.
The Island will be made as a Zanuck-
Brown production for Universal with Michael
Caine starring. Film is based on a
novel by Peter Benchley, who will write the
screenplay. Filming will begin May 14.
ACQUISITIONS
Huddleston Co.: Rights to Dexter, written
by David Peckinpah. Burt Kennedy will direct.
Alive Enterprises: Original script of
Sykes and the Woman that Made Him.
Story concerns a teller of dirty jokes, written
by Paul Golding and Zalman King.
Carolyn Pfeiffer will produce.
Cinema Shares International: Rights to
Hollywood Man, for theatrical and TV markets.
Story concerns a filmmaker whose picture
is backed by the mob.
Salzburg Enterprises, Inc.; Non-theatrical
rights to Attack of the Killer Tomatoes. SEI
will also handle sales of the picture in
overseas markets.
Paramount: Motion picture rights to
Dre.ss Gray current novel by Lucian Truscott
IV. Richard Roth will produce. Gore
Vidal will script the screenplay. Plot concerns
a West Point cadet and his investigation
into the murder of a fellow cadet-
FEATURE
CASTING
Playwright-screenwriter Adolph Green
will debut in films in Warner's Simon.
Lensing is under way in New York.
Lee Grant will play the judge in Universal's
Little Miss Marker. Picture is now
shooting with Walter Bernston directing.
Six children from Appalachia have roles
as Loretta Lynn's brothers and sisters in
Coal Miner's Daughter. Film is now shooting
in Nashville after four weeks of production
in Kentucky.
Director Samuel Fuller will play the
commander of the Armed Forces Defense
Control Center in Los Angeles in 1941.
is Picture a Universal-Columbia co-production.
Angle Dickinson, Lome Green, Jeff East
and Barry Morse are in the cast of Klondike
Fever. Shooting began last month on
location in British Columbia.
Rod Hasse will play the title role of
Captain Avenger. The Captain is a fictional
TV hero who is never seen in the picture
except on a TV set as part of a commercial.
The film-within-a-film is an MGM-United
Artists comedy.
Marlene Tracy has been signed for an
important role in The Woman Inside. Filming
is now under way in Los Angeles. Joan
Blondell and Dane Clark star. Joe Van
Winkle is directing from his own screenplay.
Sid Levine is producing.
Scatman Crothers has taken a role in
Scavenger Hunt, The Melvin Simon production
is being directed by Michael Schultz.
Gary Parker, Royce Clark, David Gray
and William Sanderson are in the cast of
Universals Coal Miner's Daughter.
Matt Clark, Everett McGill, William
Newman, Emmett Walsh and Barry Corbin
have been cast in Brubaker. Filming began
April 9.
Don Porter is co-starring in The Last
Resort. Cash Baxter is directing.
Tybee Brascia has signed for a role in
The Baltimore Bullet. Robert Ellis Miller is
directing.
Lee Anthony has been cast in a co-starring
role in Vision Associates' Waiting
Room. Lee Bobker is directing.
TECHNICAL
ASSIGNMENTS
Robert Altman has signed to direct Paramount's
Popeye. Robin Williams will star
the Robert Evans production.
in
Alfredo Diaz and Ignacio Mendez will
write the musical score for Guyana, Crime
of the Century. Shooting is under way in
Mexico City.
Carol Connors, whose "Gonna Fly Now"
was the hit song from "Rocky," has been
signed to write the title song for Rocky 11.
Bill Conti is writing the score.
Dave Grusin will write the score for Norman
Jcwison's . . . And Justice For All.
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

THE PROMOTION AND MERCHANDISING
Send news of adyertlsing campaigns and publicity to STU GOLDSTEIN, MERCHANDISING EDITOR
General Cinema Corp.
Enlists Amtrak's Aid
To tub-thump "The Great Train Robbery,"
General Cinema Corp.'s Thomas
Mall in Phoenix arranged a natural tie-in.
Manager Ray Gibbs called the director of
promotion for Amtrak in San Francisco
and told him of his plan: He would advertise
their railroad in a promotion if Amtrak
would give away two tickets from Phoenix
to San Francisco, round trip. Amtrak
agreed.
Free Room, Too
Gibbs also contacted Holiday Inn in San
Francisco, and they agreed to supply the
winner with a room for three days and
nights. General Cinema's Division Mgr. arrainged
for a free pass to the circuit's San
Francisco theatre.
In addition, radio KOPA was utilized to
handle "Train Robbery" advertising and
also furnished a safe to display in the theatre
lobby. A key to the safe was given to
anyone who came to the station and asked
for one. The winner with the lucky key
won the trip to San Francisco, courtesy of
General Cmema and Amtrak
FRLL "RIVALS" VACATION— Trolley
Square Theatres in Salt Lake City
awards their free trip to Hollywood as
part of a "Rivals" campaign. Stewart
Petersen, star of "Rivals" also will accompany
the winners on their trip. Pictured
are the prize winners, along with
Stewart Peterson. World Entertainment
Corp. vice-president Howell Malham is
iecond from right.
GUIDE
Free-Throws and Rim Shots at Ogden-Perry
Santa Rosa Cinema manager and employees ready to shootout for "Fast Break."
"The Great Basketball Shootout" proved to be a real success in Ft. Walton Beach.
To promote Columbia's "Fast Break,"
Ogden-Perry initiated a "Great Basketball
Shootout" at the Santa Rosa Cinema in Fort
Walton Beach, FJa. Manager Tony Bruguiere
first contacted Athletic Attic in Samta
Rosa Mall and arranged for a donation of
"Fast Break" T-shirts. The shirts were silk
screened by Athletic Attic with "Santa Rosa
Cinema presents" over the "Fast Break" art.
Athletic Attic gave 45 of these shirts to Santa
Rosa Cinema at no charge. Cinema employees
started wearing the shirts two weeks
prior to opening day and continued through-
a basketball. Newspaper ads for "Fast
Break" included an invitation to come out
to Santa Rosa on Friday and Saturday
nights to compete in the "Great Basketball
Shootout" and win passes to "Fast Break."
Five in a row proved too difficult so the requirement
to win a pass was finally reduced
to two out of three. Even at two out of three
not very many passes were won but a lot of
people tried and it provided a great deal of
promotion for "Fast Break."
Boosting 'Norma Rae'
Northeast Theatre Corp.'s promotion director
Gary Goldstein initiated ad campaigns
for "Norma Rae" in three markets.
Ini Worcester, Mass., the Showcase Cinema
ran a
Ladies' Matinee. This included a contest
on station WORC, which ran hourly.
Twenty-five actual giveaways took place for
two days, as female listeners were asked to
call in and "tell what they would fight for."
The winner received two tickets to the La-
out the engagement. The remaining shirts
dies' showing a "Nomia Rae" T-shirt.
were used in a radio promotion.
Total spot value: $720.
Santa Rosa continued to generate excitement
"Extra"
for "Fast Break" with the "Great Bas-
ketball Shootout" on opening weekend. Cinema
In Cincinnati, WKRC-TV's
show, a noontime interview program, also
employees made a basketball back-
promoted a "Ladies' matinee." For five days
board complete with rim and net. The backboard
was set up on the outside of the the-
Rae" and were asked to identify a selected
viewers were shown a film clip of "Norma
atre and a nine inch nerfball was used for
star. The first ten callers with the correct
answer received two tickets to the showing.
The total value of this campaign exceeded
$1600.
In Pittsburgh, Showcase Cinema East received
$1800 worth of advertising with a
"Kix Pax" giveaway. Station WXKK awarded
a "Norma Rae" T-shirt as part of the
prize package on an hourly basis. Each giveaway
resulted in two mentions for the film,
with the Showcase Cinemas East and West
included in all promos.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: April 16, 1979
13

BOXOFFICE
BAROMETER
This chart records the performance ot current attractions in the opening week of their first runs in
five listed. the 20 key cities checked. Pictures with fewer than engagements are not As new runs
are reported, ratings are added and averages revised. Computation is in terms of percentoge in
relation to 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.)

BOSTON
Dartmouth College is sponsoring the annual
Dartmouth Film Award, with the
main attraction being Lillian Gish.
The Brattle Cinema's silent film festival
will run from April 15 through May 12
with ten programs spotted throughout the
period.
Dave Titleman has been named district
manager for Associated Film Distribution,
covering Boston, New Haven, Buffalo
and Albany.
The first four pictures scheduled are
Firepower." "Escape to Athens," "The
Muppet Movie," and "Love and Bullets."
Ben Cammack. Universal branch manager,
sponsored a screening of "The Senator"
at the Motion Picture Screening Room
April 11.
Pike Productions Boston, with studios in
Watertown, has been signed by Damon International
Pictures to create the American
theatrical trailer for Nino Manfredi's new
film "In Between Miracles."
John Markle, Columbia Pictures publicity
director, welcomed Randall Kleiser, director,
upon his arrival in Boston. Kleiser held
auditions and tests for boys and girls 16
years old and under, for parts in his new
picture, "The Blue Lagoon."
Barker Roger Lockwood was pleased to
announce that 24 new members have become
members of Vaiiety Club during the
past month.
United Artists public relations duo Ellen
Lewis and Mark Rosenthal teamed up with
Sack Theatres' Chris Lamonte and The
Real Papers' lohn Hanc for a dynamite promotion
coinciding with the opening of United
Artists' " The Great Traim Robbery." A
"robbery" movie quiz appeared in the paper
and entrants were eligible to win a trip to
Florida via the "Auto-Train" and hotel accommodations
at Disneyworld, four dinners
at Victoria Station Restaurant and one
of 30 passes to "The Great Train Robbery."
Public response was "terrific."
WASHINGTON
Tames Pierce, Buena Vista newly appointed
branch manager, was transferred here
from Buena Vista's Cherry Hill, Mass.
office where he was serving as salesman.
J.J. Pugh, owner-operator of the Coswcll
Drive-In at Appomattox, Va., has signed
up Harley Davidson's Independent Theatres
for the booking-buying servicing of his
drive-in.
Dan McClafferty, former manager of the
Molitch Film Service, has been promoted
to terminal manager of the Molitch Highway
Film DeHvery. John Hinners was
named manager of the Molitch Film Service
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979
and Timony Teagan, who has been manager
of Highway Film Delivery, will return
to the home office at Burlington, N.J.
Howell Owens, Roth Theatres bookkeeper,
retired April 6.
Franco Zeffirelli,
"The Champ," visited the city on his promotional
tour for the remake of the King
Vidor classic. This was the Italian director's
first trip to the U. S.
director of MGM-UA's
capital.
Variety Tent 11 and WOMPI of Washington
will cooperate in a major fundraising
activity for charity, according to Dick Dacey,
assistant chief barker, and Jane Klutz,
president of WOMPI.
Universal's "Buck Rogers in the 25th
Century" opened in nine area theatres
March 30. The KB management scheduled
for the same playdate a revival of the 1939
original "Buck Rogers," starring Buster
Crabbe, at the KB Rosslyn in Rosslyn, Va.
Charles T. Jordan, Warner Bros, branch
chief, set up a screening of "Boulevard
Nights" at the MPAA April 5.
BALTIMORE
JJext year may be the last for the Maryland
Board of Censors since, under "sunset
statutes," it must show state lawmakers it
is worth its $95,000 annua! budget. State
Sen. Howard Denis of Montgomery County
calls
the board a "dinosaur" which has outlived
its usefulness ... In a related story,
Mrs. Barbara G. Gamse of Mount Royal
was named to the censor board by the governor.
She replaces Charles J. Harrison of
Baltimore in the $4,500-a-year post.
Several promotional screenings of Avco
Embassy's "Murder by Decree" were held
in the Tape-Ability screening room. James
Mason, who plays Dr. Watson in the film,
was in town working on "Faith Healer" at
the Mechanic Theatre but was unable to attend
any of the showings.
Variety Tent 19 held its annual oyster
roast April 8. The affair benefitted the pediatric
wing at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Lou Cedrone, film critic for the Evening
Sun, writes: "The power people may not
be happy about it, but Columbia is ecstatic
with the reception their 'China Syndrome'
has leceived. The film is an airtight thriller,
one of the best you will see this or any other
year. It moves without sag and when it is
over you feel sapped, zapped and maybe a
little uneasy because the film is decidedly
anti-nuclear power."
Opening April 6 were "The Promise" at
the Perring Plaza, Security Mall and Jumpers
cinemas and "The Champ" at the Campus
Hills, Cinema, The Movies, Pikes and
Ritchie theatres.
"Get Out Your Handkerchiefs" premiered
March 21 at the Playhouse in
Charles Village.
Sumner Redstone Hurl
In Arsonist's Blaze
By AVERY MASON
(Special
Correspondf-nt)
BOSTON, MASS.—An arsonist torched
two luxury hotels, the Copley Plaza, and
the Sheraton Boston early March 29.
A Boston film chain head and a Warner
Bros, branch manager were in critical condition
at City Hospital with burns, while
actor Brad Davis and crew shooting "Circle
of Friends" in the city, escaped.
An 18-year-old former bus-boy, Julio
Valentin Rodrigues, told police he set fire
to the two hotels because the Copley refused
to hire him after he quit.
Sumner Redstone, who heads the Northeast
Theatre Corp.'s 130 theatres, was
plucked from a ledge on the third floor of
the Copley plaza by fire-fighters and was
treated for severe burns of both legs and
right arm. Doctors said Redstone suffered
burns on 35 percent of his body.
Also in critical condition with burns over
60 percent of his body was Roger Hill,
branch manager of Warner Bros. Boston
office.
Randall Kleiser, director of "Grease" in
Boston on a talent search for Columbia's
"Blue Lagoon," escaped uninjured.
The fires created what fire commissioner
George Paul said was potentially "the most
tragic fire situation in Boston since the
Coacanut Grove fire" in which Buck Jones
lost his life.
Actor Brad Davis, in for shooting of
"Circle of Friends" in Boston, escaped from
the Copley Plaza.
Edward Lider Acquires
Seekonk Twin Drive-In
By ALLEN M. WIDEM
Regional Correspondent
FALL RIVER. MASS.—Edward Lider
has acquired the Seekonk Twin Drive-In,
Seekonk, Mass.. for undisclosed terms from
Northern Entertainment Inc., a TMS operation.
Lider, whose interests include the Fall
River Center Twin Cinemas as well as the
Eddys Theatres, Boston, and New Hampshire
underskyers, has assigned David Silva,
who has been helming the local plex, to
supervise the latest corporate acquisition.
Initial double-bill at the Seekonk under
the Lider banner was 20th Century-Fox's
"Magic" and "Legend of Hell House."
The Seekonk is now offering radio sound,
replacing the previous in-car speakers.
Meanwhile TMS has shifted Robert Rand,
who had been manager at the Seekonk Twin
Drive-In, to managership of the company's
newly-reopened Elizabeth Theatre, Falmouth.
MOVIE PROGRAMS
^.llJJ.IlJ.lill^i'Ml^ll.lililli
E-1

CLEVELAND
^he Homestead Theatre reopened April 3
as the Landmark Theatre. Dennis Berman
is the new owner-manager of the completely
renovated building. WZZP Radio
celebrated by treating
to the film '•Roiierball."
1,000 of their listeners
The Cleveland International Film Festival
announces that Peter Falk will appear at the
Cedar Lee Theatre May 3. His film, "A
Woman Under the Influence," will be
screened at 7:30 and will be followed by
a question-and-answer session.
Frank Capra will be in the audience for
the screening of his own "Ifs a Wonderful
Life" May 10. Following the movie, Capra
will be introduced by Dr. Louis Giannetti,
professor of English and film at Case Western
Reserve, for a question-and-answer session.
Excerpts from critics: Emerson Batdorff
said of "The Passage"; "Bad as it is, it
does not incite Anthony Quinn to fits of
ham. Usually when Quinn is mired in a
movie like this, he overacts ferociously in
self-defense."
The Variety Theatre has been leased for
rock shows and movies by Dan Frano and
Jon Baruth. The first film was Led Zeppelin's
"The Song Remains the Same" and
next will
be "The Pink Floyd Movie."
Learn the MOVI€ AD
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and why leading circuits and Independent theatres across the
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are using our service.
WE SUPPLY:
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CINCINNATI
^any of the area drive-ins have reopened,
and to "celebrate" the Enquirer's
Tom McElfresh unveiled a tongue-in-check
article detailing eight rules for underskier
patrons. His article began with ". , .
drive-ins, you see, don't like me. When I
took girls to the drive-in they wanted to
watch the movie. When, later, I took my
kids to the drive-in, they didn't." Among
his
rules:
"If at all possible, go in the daytime.
There's a certain peace and quiet then.
"Learn to lip-read and take earplugs,
since there's an even-money chance the
speaker you choose to park near will produce
sound at inaudible or painful levels.
"Do not plan on the kids sleeping through
the gory and/ or sexy parts. They will sleep
through the cartoons, previews, and in fact,
everything e.\cept the gory and/or sexy
parts.
"Take money. Don't plan on this as a
cheap date,' One dollar a carload days aie
gone, and the concession stands operate on
the railroad dining car principle: You're a
captive audience.
"Don't plan on getting home before the
small hours. The movie the kids want to
sec, but sleep through, will be first. The
intermission will be endless, and the movie
you want to see, but can't stay awake
through (though the kids do) will not start
before midnight.
"Do not take ficldglasses and park in one
of the darker back rows. A discreet periscope
is a better choice, if that's what you
go to the drive-in to see.
"Pack a very special first-aid kit, which
includes snacks, wine, a long novel (for
intermission), a backgammon board, some
citronella, and someone to talk to.
"If God had meant for people to go to
drive-ins he wouldn't have invented cheap
motel rooms."
Trade screenings: Universal's "Walk
Proud." a contemporary love story set
against the background of a street gang,
starring Robby Benson, was screened at the
Studio. Same company also showed "The
Senator," starring Alan Alda and Barbara
Harris, along with a 13-minute promo reel
for "Dracula."
MADDEN -^
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E-2 BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

FIRST RUN REPORT
New York
The Boll Jar i
\\lvi). C iik'Mki 1 (10.400),
3rd wk 7,000
The Champ (MGM-UA), IS theatres,
1st wk 295,000
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Coronet
(9,650). 9th wk 37,165
The French Detective (Quartet), 68th
Street Playhouse, 4th wk 14,295
Get Out Your Handkerchiefs
(New Line), Paris (9,000), 6th wk. 12.000
Hair (UA), Ziegfeld (19,000),
4th wk 83.000
The Innocent (Analysis), Plaza (8,400),
8th wk 18,465
Cinema (5,000), 6th wk 10,340
Picnic at Hanging Rock (Atlantic),
Little Carnegie (7,500), 6th wk. . . 10,000
The Promise (Univ), Radio City Music
Hall (156,000), 5th wk 335,000
Real Life (Para), Cinema 2 (6,000),
5th wk 10,000
Remember My Name (Lagoon), Cinema
Studio I (5.000), 4th wk 5,000
Your Turn, My Turn (Gaumont/New
Yorker), Cinema Sutdio 2,
10th wk 2,000
Boston
Agatha (WB), Cheri IL 5th wk 125
The Bell Jar (Avco), Paris, 1st wk 200
Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (Univ),
Cinema 57 U, Circle I 600
The China Syndrome (Col), Chestnut
Hill I, Cinema 57 1, 3rd wk 1,000
The Deer Hunter (Univ). Charles L
Hardticket, 8th wk 800
Get Out Your Handkerchiefs (New
Line), Orson Welles L 3rd wk 250
Hair (UA). Cheri L 2nd wk 500
Halloween (Compass), 5th wk 400
The Innocent (Analysis), Exeter,
3rd wk 800
Murder by Decree (Avco), Circle L
Charles IH, 2nd wk 150
Max Havelaar (Atlantic), Orson Welles
III, 1st wk 100
Norma Rae (20th-Fox), Pi Alley,
4th wk 135
The Psychic (SR), Pi Alley U, Circle III,
1st wk 200
The Warriors (Para), Saxon, 9th wk. . . 130
Buffalo
Agatha (WB). 1 theatre, 3rd wk 50
Buck Rogers in the 25th Century
(Univ), 2 theatres, 1st wk 130
The China Syndrome (Col), 3 theatres,
2nd wk 190
The Deer Hunter (Univ). 1 theatre.
5th wk 300
Fast Break (Col). 4 theatres, 1st wk. ... 100
Hair (UA), 3 theatres, 1st wk 100
Halloween (Compass), 1 theatre,
8th wk 225
Heaven Can Wait (Col), 1 theatre,
5th wk 100
Norma Rae (20th-Fox). 2 theatres.
3rd wk 175
i ht North A>ciiiie Irregulars (BV),
2 Ihcalics, 7tli wk 100
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert (SEE),
1 theatre, 4th wk 160
Same Time, Next Year (Univ), 1 theatre.
7th wk 100
Superman (WB), 2 theatres, 15th wk. . . 100
Take Down (BV), 2 theatres, 1st wk. . . 75
The Warriors (Para), 1 theatre, 7th wk. 100
Cincinnati
Agatha (WB), Showcase, 4th wk 150
The Brink's Job (Univ). Showcase,
6th wk 150
California Suite (Col), Carousel,
I4th wk 200
The China Syndrome (Col), 4 theatres,
2nd wk 600
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Tri County,
5th wk 900
Every Which Way But Loose (WB).
4 theatres, 15th wk. 275
Fast Break (Col), 4 theatres, 2nd wk. . .600
Hardcore (Col), Showcase, 7th wk 225
Ice Castles (Col), Kenwood, 7th wk. . . .250
It's Not the Size That Counts (SR),
2 theatres, 5th wk 50
Murder by Decree (Avco), 3 theatres,
1st wk 450
National Lampoon's Animal House
(Univ), Showcase. 35th wk 225
Norma Rae (20th-Fox), Showcase,
2nd wk 475
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV).
4 theatres. 6th wk 350
Quintet (20th-Fox), Studio, 2nd wk. ... 150
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert (SEE).
2 theatres. 6th wk 300
Same Time, Next Year (Univ).
Showcase. 7th wk 225
Superman (WB), 3 theatres, I5th wk. . .800
The Warriors (Para), Showcase,
7th wk 275
Cleveland
Agatha (WB). 2 theatres, 4th wk 90
The China Syndrome (Col), 6 theatres,
2nd wk 375
The Deer Hunter (Univ), World East,
World West, 5th wk 500
FILMACK IS
1st CHOICE
WITH
SHOWMEN
EVERYWHERE
Fast Break (Col), 6 theatres, 1st wk. . .220
Get Out Your Handkerchiefs (SR),
Cedar Lee, 2nd wk 135
Halloween (Compa.ss), 7 theatres,
3rd wk 370
Hardcore (Col), 1 theatre, 5th wk 80
The Last Wave (Northal), 2 theatres,
2nd wk 80
The Last Wave (Northal), 2 theatres,
2nd wk 60
The North Avenue irregulars (BV).
6 theatres. 6th wk 135
The Passage (UA). 6 theatres, 1st wk. . . 55
Same Time, Next Year (Univ),
4 theatres, 7th wk 1
Superman (WB), 5 theatres, 15th wk. .
00
. 185
Columbus
Agatha (WB), Continent. 4th wk. 175
The China Syndrome (Col). 4 theatres.
2nd wk 495
The Deer Hunter (Univ). Northland.
5th wk 570
Fast Break (Col), 4 theatres, 1st wk. . . .340
Halloween (SR), Raintrce, 8th wk 120
In Praise of Older Women (Avco),
Raintrce. 2nd wk 80
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV),
3 theatres, 4th wk 410
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert (SR),
Continent, 5th wk 500
Same Time Next Year (Univ),
Continent, 5th wk 350
Superman (WB), 3 theatres, 15th wk. . .240
They Went That-a-Way and Thata-Way
(SR), 1st wk 180
New Haven
Bread and Chocolate (World Northal),
York Square Cinema. 3rd wk 200
Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (Univ).
Cinemart I. Milford Cinema II.
1st wk 500
The China Syndrome (Col). Cinemart II,
Milford Cinema I, 3rd wk 235
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Showcase II,
4th wk 315
Drive-In Massacre (SR), Milford Twin
Drive-In 1. 1 st wk 200
Halloween (Compass), Showcase IV,
3rd wk 250
Hair (UA), Showcase I, 1st wk 750
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert (SEE),
Showcase 111. 3rd wk 285
Same Time. Next Year (Univ).
Showcase V. 8th wk 65
THE NAME OF FILMACK
IS SYNONYMOUS WITH
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SPECIAL FILMS
DATE STRIPS,
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FILMACK STUDIOS, INC.
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979
E-3

Spotlight on New England
HARTFORD
pitman's "A Perfect Couple" was sneak
previewed at the SBC Management
Corp. Cinema City 4 and Perokos Elm 2.
MGM's "The Champ" was sneak-previewed
at the Redstone Showcase Cinemas 6.
NEW BRITAIN
Qolumbia's "The China Syndrome" drew
this response from critic Peter R. Holroyd:
" 'The China Syndrome' is suspenseful,
and holds the attention throughout its
length,
and. of course, because of the foundation
of its subject matter, it inevitably
raises some questions."
NEW HAMPSHIRE
'[he addition of two screens to the General
Cinema Corp. Nashua Mall Cinemas 2
has been completed. The circuit implemented
a daily matinee policy, charging $1.50
for first shows.
Cable Co. of Manchester has disclosed
plans to introduce Home Box Office
movies to Queen City cable antenna television
customers later in the year.
NEW HAVEN
^ave Brown lined up local League of Women
Voters-sponsored showings of "Swiss
Family Robinson" at the Edmond Town
Hall Theatre, Newtown.
General Cinema Corp.'s Milford Cimemas
2 had a WPLR-Radio promotion tie-up for
midnight showings of UA's "The Last
Waltz." Same plex is pitching sale of discount
VIP tickets for business firms.
RHODE ISLAND
^he Cranston Drive-In, Cranston, was first
in the state to resume operations for
the 1979 season. The underskyer doublebilled
Paramount reprises, "Foul Play" and
"American Hot Wax," charging $6-per-carload.
20th Century-Fox's "Norma Rae." the
new Sally Field starrer, had Friday night
sneak previews before start of regular schedules
at the Mann Theatres" Warwick Cinema,
General Cinema Corp.'s Lincoln Mall
Cinema and American Multi Cinema's
Swansea 4.
SPRINGFIELD
gpringficid Mayor Theodore E. Dimauro is
expected to appoint an advisory committee
to determine the need for cable antenna
television for the largest municipality
in western Massachusetts.
Radio spot advertising for the Springfield
Plaza and Agawam Twin Cinema got an
honorable mention in the airinual merit
awards competition sponsored by the Advertising
Club of of Western Massachusetts.
VERMONT
Qanmett News Service's Bernard L. Drew
had little regard for "Fast Break":
"The film could have been titled 'The Bad
News Bears Grow Up and Become Ethnic
and Reach for the Net.' You've seen it all
before ... It has been directed by lack
Smight with little distinction and written
by Sandor Stern with no distinction at all."
The Jarvis circuit said that if a patron
did not like "The Brink's lob" after he or
she had seen the first 25 minutes, the Showcase
3 would refund admission money in
full with no questions asked. Not one refund
was given after the first 25 minutes.
NEW
YORK
THE MOTION PICTURE BOOKERS
CLUB held a luncheon April 5 at Rosoff's
to honor the retirement of Ettie Ritterman.
A booker with Warner Bros, for
the past 25 years, Ettie is also the sister of
Max Fried of the Bookers Club.
Jeanne Moieau arrives here April 16 for
Ihe opening of a week of French Film Previews
presented at Carnegie Hall Cinema,
April 16-24. by the French Film Office/
Unifrance Film. She will appear at the theatre
that night at 8 p.m. to introduce her
second film as a director. "L'Adolescente"
("The Adolescent"), which she also co-produced
and which stars Simone Signoret.
Edith Clever. Francis Huster and Laetitia
Chauveau.
Also arriving will be Alain Jessua, director
and co-producer of "Les Chiens" ("The
Dogs") and Etienne Perier. director and coproducer
of "Un Si Joli Village" ("Such a
Lovely Village"), both films to be shown
April 19.
•
Count Vladimir Dracula, in the person
of George Hamilton, appeared in daylight,
belying all legends to the contrary, in front
of the Plaza Hotel's Pulitzer Fountain. Accordiing
to the plot of the new "Love at
First Bite," Dracula and manservant Renfield
(Arte Johnson) are staying at the Plaza
while the count searches for his love, fashion
model Cindy Sondheim (Susan Saint
James). The American International comedy
opened on Friday the Hth, naturally, at
showcase houses.
Horror of a more serious kind. George
A. Romero's "Dawn of the Dead." creeps
into 60 Flagship houses April 20. Written
and directed by Romero and produced by
Richard P. Rubinstein, the film— now
breaking boxoffice records in both Italy and
Japan under the title "Zombie"— /,v a sequel
to the classic "Night of the Livint; Dead"
(1969).
GCC Expects $650 Million
In Revenues During 1979
BOSTON — General Cinema's president
Richard A. Smith expects revenues to exceed
$650,000,000 in 1979. the sixth consecutive
year of higher earnings.
First quarter revenues of $150,814,000
and net earnings of $4,908,000, or 90 cents
per share, were reported against revenue for
the same period last year of $130,014,000
and net income of $3,658,000, or .66
cents per share.
There is a good chance the board will
consider a dividend increase in September,
he said.
BUFFALO
publicity resulting from the crippled Three
Mile Island nuclear power plant in
Harrisburg, Pa. resulted in renewed interest
in Columbia's "The China Syndrome," at
the Boulevard Mall, Thruway Mall and
Seneca Mall cinemas. A group of about 45
students from the Buffalo Anti-Nuclear
Group demonstrated April 1 near the nuclear
reactor at the University of Buffalo's
Main Street campus, and flyers warning of
nuclear dangers were distributed by the
group's members at the theatres showing
the film.
Blatt Bros.' Park Drive-In was opened
for the season by general manager Bob
Kowal with "Sasquatch," "Beyond Atlantis"
and "Creature With Blue Hands."
Goaded by the demolition of the Century
Theatre, a State Univeisity of Buffalo architecture
student is beginning an effort to
establish a historic preservation district in
downtown Buffalo. "We're beginning to put
together information now," said Mark
O'Connor, who is adding to data compiled
earlier by architect John D. Randall, one
of the major forces behind the saving of
the Prudential Building. "I
got so upset that
they tore down the Century Theatre. I
could see it happening to all sorts of buildings,"
said O'Connor.
PHILADELPHIA
The first 100 patrons attending the opening
of "The Bell Jar" at the suburban Budco's
Bryn Mawr (Pa.) Theatre, received free
copies of Sylvia Plath's novel.
Music Makers Theatres reopened its
Eatontown (N.J.) Drive-In for the new season
with "Buck Rogers in the 25th Century"
plus "Heroes."
Hamilton Township's cable television
franchise was awarded this week to Hamilton
Cablevision Inc.
Lee Bruer, director of the
Mabou Mimes
theatre company, conducted a lecture/
screening of "B-Beaver Animation" at the
Walnut Street Theatre Film Center here.
E-4 BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

Son Francisco MmkUi \n Dum i
\ ,,,i : n,^ ,1,^,
(Avcr.igc UL-ckl\ grosses) "'111 "Is 70
The Bell Jar (Avco), Surl (3,300) . . 4,07y
^orina Rac (20ili-lo\) 2 iIk.uios
Boulevard Nights (WB), "iid 2nd wk. wk 250
Scrra (1 1,500) 7,977
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV)
Geneva DI 3 (5,400) 6,547
"* 'h«^atres 7th wk 120
Buck Roger in the 25th Century Ihe Pavsage (UA) Mheatics Istwk 90
(Univ), 1st wk.
^'»"'"e lime. Next Year (Univ), Cooper,
Coliseum (7,400) 12,797 ^^^ "^^ 140
Stonestown 1 (4,050) 14,743 Superman (WB), Century 21, 16th wk. 270
St. Francis 2 (5,200) 10,718
Geneva DI 2 (5,400) 5,335
'r.SS'"r»r '""': ':"°"" 5, 700
Days of Heaven (Para), Regency 11
^ake Down (BV), 5 theatres, 5th wk. . . 90
JT^
^>'^*" ^^""."^
^"'O 1 WO-Doy SpectaCUlOT
(7.200), 6th wk 5,594 HOLLYWOOD—Tent 25 of Variety
The Deer Hunter (Univ). Alexandria Club of Southern California will expand
I (10,800), 6th wk 22,936 i's annual fund-raising telethon into a two-
Despair (New Line), Lumiere

Hollywood
Happenings
gCREENWRITER-PRODUCER Ernest
Lehman will meet with film criticism
and film history classes at Dartmouth College
April 23-24 to screen two films he
wrote and participate in discussions with
student screenwi iters. His visit will be part
of the Visiting Artists Program of the Motion
Picture Academy. Screened will be
"Somebody Up There Likes Me" and "Sweet
Smell of Success."
•
Screenwriter-director Richard Brooks will
be the featured speaker at the annual Marvin
Borowsky memorial lecture in writing
for the screen at 8 p.m. April 23 at the
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
He will speak on "Original Writing,
Adaptation Writing, Rewriting, and Rewriting
for the Screen."
Robert L. Lippert Opens
Offices at Historic Pier
SAN FRANCISCO—Robert L. Lippert
Theatres recently established mew offices at
Pier 32, the only Embarcadero pier designated
as an historical landmark by the State
of California. The 1 0.000-square-foot space
has been completely remodeled in early
1900's motif with much wood and period
furniture in keeping with the site's history.
Robert L. Lippert Jr., company president,
says 'he has placed the emphasis in "people
space."
In other Lippert developments, Morton
Dyksterhuis, former UA branch mainager in
San Francisco, was appointed head film
buyer for Northern California. Carmen Bonacci,
formerly city manager for Lippert in
Denver, was named head film buyer for
Southern California and is based in newly
refurbished offices at the circuit's Americama
Six cinemas in Panorama City.
Guy Ford, Mordecai Schreiber and Sarah
Radclyffe are producing "The Tempest."
PETERSON
THEATRE
SUPPLY
455 Bearcat Drive
Times Square Park
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
801-466-7642
NEW EQUIPMENT—Herbert Farmer
(right), a professor of cinema
at use, stands beside the new ORC
V4500 Xenon consoles, complete with
70mm optics, that will operate in conjunction
with Century 70/ 35mm projectors
at the Norris Theatre on campus.
John Wilmers (left), director of
technical services at the Filbert Co.,
supervised the installation of the new
equipment. The console features optical
system combined with a xenon bulb
that operates in a vertical position,
which greatly increases bulb life.
HONOLULU
Qonsolidated Amusement Co.'s long-time
theatre organist Johnny De Mello, 75.
died after a lingering illness. Famed
throughout Hawaii as the dean of theatre
organists, he was a theatre mainager, a musician
and composer and was one of the
artists who started The Organ Society of
Honolulu.
Beginning in the eariy silent movie days
when De Mello played the accompanying
music at the Empire Theatre on Hotel
Street, he became the regular theatre organist
for such places as the Palace Theatre in
Hilo, the Princess, downtown Honolulu and
Waikiki No. 3. As he said once, the pipe
organi and music were his greatest pleasures
of life. He composed "Hilo After Sundown,"
which became his theme song, was the host
of a radio show and recorded an album
some years back.
A promotional evening performance of
United Artists' "Hair" at Royal Marina
Theatre No. 2, where it opened recently,
was handled by one of Honolulu's popular
radio stations.
KKUA.
EMC Films' "The Silent Partner" was
previewed at Varsity Theatre March 31.
Golden Harvest has given up releasing its
films at Queen Theatre, where lu-Clan Theatres
has reverted to films for adults only.
Chinese films from Golden Harvest are still
being shown in their mid-town outlet.
Aca

I
having
. "Superman"
. . "The
April 3 'Champ Day'
In Palm Springs, Ca.
PALM SPRINGS, CALIF.— Mayor Russell
J. Bcirich declared Tuesday, April 3 as
"Champ Day" here, in honor of the West
Coast benefit premiere of MGM's "The
Champ," the Franco Zeffirelli film starring
Jon Voight. Faye Dunaway and Ricky
Schroder.
Funds from the premiere at the desert
city's Camelot Theatre will go toward the
construction of a St. Francis of Assissi
Church in the Catholic parish of Indian
Wells. Zeffirelli, an architect as well as a
filmmaker, has also designed the replica of
a 13th century church in San Damiano,
Italy. Until it is completed, Father Raymond
Bluett will continue to conduct services in
the Crocker National Bank, using a deposit
table as an altar.
Motion picture stars and celebrities, as
well as Palm Springs social leaders, attended
the sold-out premiere and the reception
that followed.
LOS ANGELES
JJewly created Movie Time Films, formed
by Richard Ellman and Miles Spector,
has acquired worldwide distribution ot
"Blood and Guns," starring Orson Welles
and Thomas MiHan, from executive producer
Edward S. Shaw. The film deals with
the Mexican revolution and was shot on
locations in Spain and Italy with Giulio
Petroni directing.
Actors and other film fclli who are members
of the Pasadena Playhouse Alumni and
Associates will hold their annual brunch
June 3 at the Sportsman's Lodge in Studio
City, according to president Tony di Milo.
DENVER
ind Radioparallax
Theatre Systems Inc. of Los Angeles
is taking over the Flick Theatre in
Denver from Commonwealth Theatres. The
Flick was first opened by Bill Pence in the
Laramer Square section of the city and was
transferred by Pence to Highland Theatres
several years ago.
Following the funeral services for Emma
Jenefor of Warner Bros, it was determined
that there were some extremely heavy financial
burdens left to Emma's family.
Members of the industry arc trying to help
in meeting those financial obligations and
are asking that anyone so inclined send a
check made payable to Charles Thompson
and mail to Warner Bros., Suite #302, 88
Steele St., Denver, Colo. 80206.
Mr. and Mrs. George Hyde are taking
over the Range Theatre, Saratoga, Wyo.
from Mr. and Mrs. Art Zeiger. Hyde has
been in exhibition for a number of years,
managed theatres in the Denver area
and in Laramie, Wyo. tor a number of
years. The Zeigcr's will devote their time
to other business interests which they have
in
the town of Saratoga.
Rocky Mountain News reviewer William
Gallo refers to "The Champ" as a superior
tear-jerker. Gallo goes on to say "This is,
in fact, a superior weeper, a good old-fashioned,
three-hanky movie about loyalty, sell
sacrifice and redemption."
Visiting the exchanges to set datings were
Mike Fade of Plitt Theatres in Los Angeles;
Don Swales, Playhouse Theatre, Aspen,
Colo.; Neal Lloyd. Westland Theatres, Colorado
Springs, and Dominic Linza, Isis Theatre
in Aspen.
'Fox' Runs Strong in Colo.
DENVER — According to Sherman
Woods, president of Film Brokers, "The
Glacier Fox" grossed over $400,000 during
the first four weeks of its Denver area run.
_
TUCSON
projectionists for Syufy's Tucson 5 Drivc-
In are in a hassle over non-union, inexperienced
employees being hired.
Round One of "The Champ" belled April
6 at Oracle View quad .
Deer Hunter"
also bowed April at Buona Vista 2
6
swooped into DeAnza
Drive-In and Park Mall 4 on the same day.
Bringer-baclter: "National Lampoon's
Animal House" at Showcase and Tucson 5
Drive-In. Holdovers include "Boulevard
Nights," "Same Time, Next Year" and
"Phantasm."
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BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

Personal Conviction, Energy Bring
Special Spirit to WECs 'Rivals
OAKLAND—The World Entertainment
Corp. release "Rivals" began with promising
basics: a screenplay by Kieth Merrill
and direction by Lyman' Dayton, whose
name is synonymous with family em'tertainment.
Executive producer of the film and World
Entertainment Corp. president J. Louis
Dalli Gatti brings to the project a personal
conviction and energy matching that of the
film's young hero.
"We have a responsibility to do more
than entertain." Delli Gatti declares. "A
World Entertainment release will give
moviegoers something solid to take away
from the film when the house lights go up."
"I believe I can bring audiences exciting
films that have both color and substance."
Delli Gatti. the father of six, said.
With a vibrant approach to today's youth
in mind, casting director Ben Lokey chose
veteran aotor Stewart Peterson for the starring
role. Peterson, known for his roles in
"Pony Express Rider," "Seven Alone,"
Film Critic Bill O'Reilly
To Address the RMMPA
DENVER—Herman Hallberg will preside
at the Rocky Mountain Motion Picture
Assn. luncheon April
17. at the Continental
liiokcr.
I he speaker will be
~.^m
l^ill O'Reilly, movie
I*;* ^ HV critic of Channel 7,
'^;y
^^^^ ^^^
^^T,."*^^ ..^^^
Bill O'Re.lly
with a title. "I Call
'Em Like I See 'Em."
United Artists is be-
ing honored, and with
John Dobson and Ron
^.^^^^^^ ^^ ^^^ ^.^^
Reservations may be made by calling
Mann Theatres, (303) 321-3737.
WOMPI Committee Action
LOS ANGELES—WOMPI International
has announced the members of the 1979-80
nominating committee. They are: Gladys
Nelson, Kansas City (chairman); Amalie
Gantt, Charlotte; Dorothy Reeves, New
York; Anne Dillon, Jacksonville, and Elsie
Parish, Dallas.
session is an intensive four-month course of
The organization also announced its com-
study in film and video production designed
mittee chairmen for the year, as follows:
Anna Power, Louisiana, membership; Tillie
Spadaro, San Francisco, finance; Dorothy
Reeves, Missouri, by-laws; Myrtle Parker,
North Carolina, Will Rogers; Romayne
Hoffman, Los Angeles, publicity; Lois Ann
Boyd, Memphis, extension; Mary Brannon,
Georgia, industry; Adelaide Guggenheim,
Los Angeles, bulletin; Mary Hayslip,
Kansas City, historian, and Lee Nickolaus,
caring and sharing.
"Where the Red Fern Grows" and "Against
a Crooked Sky," has led a life parallel to
the film's protagonist, adding rare credibility
to the part.
"The role was really written for me," Peterson
says, referring to Academy Awardwinner
Kieth Merrill's script. "We both
grew up on a ranch, both love hard work
and the out-of-doors, and both have a strong
family feeling," Peterson noted.
Most of his film earnings have gone into
his parents' home in Wyoming.
Screen newcomer Dana Kimmell plays
Brook, the love interest, and acting veteran
Philip Brown is the slick city rival.
Production on "Rivals" went smoothly.
Though several night sections were filmed
ini a part of Los Angeles that had erupted
recently in street violence, the necessary
scenes were carried off without a hitch.
Peterson did his own bareback stunt-'riding
in the film. Having grown up on a ranch,
he learned the skill, which he also demonstrated
in "Pony Express Rider."
SAN FRANCISCO
'\A^oody Townsend, 20th-Fox branch manager,
was in St. Louis April 5-6 for a
district and division managers meeting.
John Coombs, for the past couple of years
local film buyer/ booker for Cinerama/ Blumenfeld
theatres, has been transferred to the
Cinerama home office iin Los Angeles.
Cinema West Services, Dan Tocchini.
Florence McCann and Richard A. Gambogi.
have a new address: 199 Petaluma
Blvd. North, Petaluma, Calif., 94952.
The S. F. Examiner's Stanley Eichelbaum,
dean of local theatre and movie critics, has
announced he's taking a year's leave of absence
in June.
3 Scholarships Available
For Denver Film Institute
DENVER—The Western States Film Institute,
1629 York St., Denver, announces
the availability of three scholarships for
an upcoming apprenticeship session. This
Marshall Brickman is directing "Simon"
from his own screenplay.
to provide the serious student with those
skills needed for advancement in a media
career.
The scholarships are valued at $625 with
two other grants of $250 to be awarded
on the basis of financial need.
An open meeting for those interested in
the program will be held at the institute
April 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Richard Gere and Lauren Hutton head
the cast of "American Gigolo," a Freddie
Fields production directed by Paul Schrad-
WESTWARD
DOUGH!
OR
howDOgou
COVERA
Wagon
The wild, wild West. Land of
hope and opportunity to thousands
of courageous settlers. But. if it
weren't for the dollars of thousands
more Americans taking stock in their
country, there might never have
been a West to go west to.
You see, money raised from the
sale of government securities
helped us purchase the Louisiana
Territory from the French. Other
securities helped buy the states of
California. Nevada. Utah, western
Colorado and most of New Mexico
and Arizona from Mexico. Even
settlement of the Oregon Territory
was made possible through the
issuance of United States securities.
Today, you can still take stock
in your country's growth by buying
U. S. Savings Bonds.
Just sign up for the Payroll
Savings Plan where you work.
There's no easier, safer way to save
or help your country. After all,
U. S. Savings Bonds are still a great
way for you to go West. Or East,
North and South.
Now E Bonds pay 6% interest when held
to maturity of 5 years (4'^% the first
year). Interest is not subject to state or
local income taxes, and federal tax may be
deferred until redemption.
Take .
.stock
in^^erica.
W-4 BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

Martin Theatres Appoints
Three New Vice-Presidents
C H A R L O T T E
Quinton Green
COLUMBUS. GA—Three new vicepivsidents
have been appointed to the executive
roster of the
Martin Theatre Companies,
according to
an announcement by
Frant; L. Brady, president
of the Columbus,
Georgia - based
corporation. The three
men are Quinton
Green, John McKin-
Icy and Mike Patrick.
Quinton Green, 47,
^as been with Martin
since 1948 and has served in the capacity of
theatre manager in various cities in Georgia
and Alabama. He has worked in the
film booking office in Atlanta and was a
district manager in Virginia for eight years.
Green was transferred to Columbus in 1977
and named concession advisor for the Martin
circuit.
John
McKinley,
52, entered the theatre
business in 1948
with Wil-Kin, Inc,, a
theatre equipment and
supply house in Atlanta,
He is a native
of Greenville, S,C.
and attended Clemson
College at nearby
Clemson. McKinley
joined Martin Theatres
in 1972 as concession
supervisor and then shifted to his
present position of technical and construction
supervisor.
^^
^&)m, |H
L- ^ C
Mike Patrick
Mike Patrick, the
youngest of the trio
28, began work for
at
Martin Theatres in
1969 while attending
Georgia State Univcrsity
in Atlanta. He
''-'>' transferred to
olumbus Col lege
where he graduated
with a degree in economics.
His duties
with Martin included
managing theatres, work in the home oftice
accounting department, city manager of all
Columbus theatres and district manager for
four years. His present title is diiector of
special projects.
John McKinley
Piano's Theatre Reopens
PLANO, TEX.—The Cameo Theatre
was reopened here by Plitt Southern Theatres.
The opening feature is "The Deer
Hunter." the Oscar-winning Vietnam
drama starring Robert De Niro.
The Cameo is located in the Dallas Shopping
Center. The 800-seat theatre was
originaUy opened in December of 1970 and
closed after a few years when a Piano
population explosion did not materialize.
In the ensuing nine years, the predicted
boom offured, and Plitt officials now anticipate
a greater turnover at the theatre.
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979
John R. McClure and personnel, of Charlotte
Film Company, held a tradescreening
of ••Tourist Trap," which stars
Chuck Connors and Jocelyn Jones, before
a very receptive audience, Charlotte Film
had much success distributing ••Halloween"
in this area, aind intends to use the same
format of exploitation—extensive TV, radio
and newspaper advertising.
Top grosses of the week: •The China Syndrome"
at the Charlottetown Mall aind Eastland
Mall, ••Buck Rogers in the 25th Century"
at Charlotte Mall, '•Richard Pryor—
Live in Concert" at the Village, ••The Deer
Hunter" at Eastland Mall and "The Exorcist"
at Tryon Mall,
Screenings at Car-Mel: 'Tourist Trap"
from Charlotte Film. "Walk Proud" and
•'The Senator" from Universal and ••Old
Boyfriends" from Avco Embassy,
Doris Grimsley has severed her connections
with Plitt Southern Theatres, previously
ABC, and is now working for Eddie
Marks of Stewart and Everett Theatres as
his ••girl Friday,"
New pictures on the marquees: ••Ruck
Rogers of the 25th Century" at Charlottetown
Mall, •'Hair" at Southpark. '•Beyond
the Door, Part 2" at Capri and Thunderbird
Drive-In, ••The Champ" at Eastland Mall,
•Watership Down" at the Manor and ••The
Promise" at Eastland Mall.
Catherine Chapin, Charlotte Observer
movie critic, reviewed ••Hair" and wrote,
••Replacing the stage version's pounding
rhythm is a very slick, inventively staged
movie. With the free-foim choreography
of Twyla Tharp and the disarming charm
704.333.9651
^^
[ I ^ 229 S, Church Street
of Lreat Williams as tribe-leader Berger.
the film has something to recommend."
"Jeff" Wayne, son of Faye and Harry
Wayne of Wilkin Inc., is the new booker at
American International,
Frank Jones, bearded disciple of Southern
Booking, was tendered a cocktail party by
••Erv" Melton in the Car-Mel screening
room before a group of 40 invited guests
The occasion was Frank's recording of his
popular "Preacherman" dialogue, which will
be used in a new movie in which the ••bearded
disciple" will appear. The film is still in
the blueprint stage.
"Richard Pryor— Live in Concert" is really
getting bread in the boxoffice everywhere
it plays, according to Eddie Marks of
Stewart and Everett Theatres. It is the same
blue routine used by comedian Pryor on; his
records and tapes, and the scads of adults
are flocking to see it, knowing exactly what
they are coming to see. They are also enjoying
the film immensely and leaving the
theatre feeling they got their money's
worth.
Eddie Marks also sends along this tip to
theatres: ••The Rocky Horror Picture Show"
played three late shows in Stewart and Everett
Theatres, and did a tremendous business.
But theatres should beware, because the
money is in the picture if the crowd can
be controlled and absolute bedlam is avoided
to some degree, while still allowing the
patrons to have a good time with their antics
of mimicking what they see on the
screen. After two weeks of SRO business
and near chaos, Stewart and Everett's Wilmington,
N.C., management threw in the
towel.
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S-1

NEW ORLEANS
Hs usual, the Academy Awards prompts
return of features which have been
the
nominated. "Coming Home," with eight
nominations, opened for an exclusive showing
at the Lakeside Theatre; "Midnight Express,"
six nominations, at the Joy's Cinema
City, and "The Buddy Holly Story," three
nominations, at the Joy's Cinema.
"National Lampoon's Animal House" after
a run of 34 weeks at the Lakeside Theatre
has moved over to the Joy's Cinema
City.
Ned Tannen, president of Universal Pictures;
Walter Mirisch, producer of "Dracula,"
and Kevin Gunthcr, head of publicity,
flew into town March 23 for a special
screening at Gulf States Theatres of a 12-
minute promotional reel of the feature
"Dracula."
The Southeastern NATO Convention will
be held at Mobile, Ala. May 5-7. The Louisiana-Mississippi
NATO has been invited
and WOMPl will handle registration of
these guests and will
receive a percentage of
all advance registrations. WOMPI will also
assist the Ladies of Variety at the forthcoming
International Convention to be held
at the Fairmont Hotel, May 19-24.
Specially Designed for Drive-in Tiieatres
HARMLESS* PICASAMT
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OVER 50 MILLION SOLD YEARLY - WHY
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2. Only one with Aluminum Coil Holder.
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5. Free Freight on orders over $200.
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ORDER CARACOL NOW
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Phone: (305) 681-2021
FIRST RUN
REPORT
1
(Average Is 100)
New Orleans
Agatha (WB), Lakeside, 3rd wk 275
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Robt. E. Lee,
5th wk 600
HaUoween (PR), Loews State,
2nd wk 300
National Lampoon's Animal House
(Univ), Lakeside, 33rd wk 100
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert (SEE),
Orpheum, 4th wk 900
Same Time, Next Year (Univ), Lakeside,
7th wk 150
Superman (WB), Lakeside, 9th wk 450
The Warriors (Para), Loews State,
1st wk 175
ATLANTA
Qeorgia Theatre Co., the Atlanta-based
film circuit, has announced additions to
locations in Atlanta, Gadsden, Ala., and
Brunswick, Ga. The two existing Lenox
Square Theatres will become a quad and a
part of the extension to the existing Lenox
compound this summer. Gus Gallant is the
manager of the theatres. The Gadsden Mall
Twin, managed by city manager T.J. Presley,
is scheduled to become a triple. The
Atlanta Twins, managed by Betty Black in
Brunswick, is scheduled to become a triplex.
Women in Films and the Atlanta Arts
and Crafts Guild will sponsor a series of
three films April 25-28 entitled "Films by
Women of the South." The series will be
held at
the Chastain Arts and Crafts Center,
135 W. Wleuca Rd. N.W,, at 8 each evening.
A variety of films, ranging from documentaries
to theatrical, will be shown.
Doug Ouderkirk, 20th-Fox's Southeastern
PR director, has returned from an extensive
Florida tour beating the drums for Robert
Altman's "Health," a comedy starring Carol
Burnett, Lauren Bacall, James Garner and
Glcnda Jackson, and three other releases,
"A Perfect Couple," "Nosferatu" and
"Dreamer." Doug is also impatiently waiting
for the baseball season to open so the
Filmrow athletes can get on with their practice.
Michael Parver Associates issued invitations
to Phipps Plaza I for a special showing
of Dino de Laurentiis' "Hurricane"
April 1 1 . Starring
in the Famous Films Production
are Jason Robards, Mia Farrow,
Max von Sydow, Trevor Howard and Timothy
Bottoms and introducing Dayton Kane.
Norm Levinson, executive vice-president
of Cobb Theatres, has aninounced that Joe
Lee has been promoted to vice-president and
film buyer for the circuit. He replaces Joe
Harper, who has advanced with the company
as vice-president in charge of the company's
Caribbean operations.
S-2
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

of
ARK^yv^
Majestic Hotel
Hot Springs, Ark
April 29 - May 1
Golf
Product Showings
Barbecue & Dance
Cocktail Parties
Bingo
Prizes
w Diamond
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Color TV
Many More
COUPLES $40.00
SINGLES 25.00
SUNDAY
CALCUTTA
6:00 P.M.
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

TILT PREVIEW—Attending the invitational preview of Rudy Durand's
"Tilt" in Houston March 30 were (left to right) Ken Mj^rshM, an actor in the f.to;
Melvin Simon, the producer; Brooke Shields, star of ''Tdt"; Rudy Durand, the
SwrtTr-d^rector producer, and Bill Wray, the composer. The regular engagement
of "Tilt" started April 13 at the Meyerland. Northline, Greenspomt, Almeda
and Town & Country
HOUSTON
theatres.
it is difficult for them to absorb boxoffice
losses from unpopular movies for which
they are forced to pay large rentals months
in advance.
grooke Shields and Charles Durning, stars theme of the film is blunt: "Children can
of "Tilt," were on hand for the world be a drag. The film's fairly courageous m
invitational preview of the film at the Woodlake
III. "Tilt" is the story of a 14-year-old and director Francois Leterrier treats it in
tackling such a potentially touchy DALLAS
subject
pinball wizard, played by Shields, who takes a refreshingly off stride manner."
gill Baxter, accountant for United Artists
on the champ, played by Durning. It opened Marquee changes include: "The Champ." Theatre Circuit's Rowley division,
its regular rum April 13. Bill Wray, who "Fiiepower." "A Perfect Couple." "The closed the ledger on his work at UA April 6
wrote several of the film's songs, performed Plague," "The Promise," "Wifemistress," after 35 years and 7 months in the same
with his band at a party after the screening, "Buck Rogers in the 25th Century," "Evictors,"
"Hair." "Movie Movie" and "The ready to enjoy a little of that relaxed feel-
firm. It hardly seems true, but Baxter is
and the stars and writer-director Rudy Durand
stayed on hand for the press interview. Passage."
ing he has heard so much about from former
co-workers. 'We extend best wishes to
The two-day premiere was sponsored by
Paramount's "Urban Cowboy," starring
Jack Valenti, president of the Motion Picture
Assn. of America.
Bill in his retirement.
John Travolta, aims to begin shooting June
4 at Gilley's Club, a country-western bistro Bob O'DonneU and Sara Murray have
in nearby Pasadena . . . Stage director moved their offices from 6060 N. Central
Eric Gerber of the Houston Post in his
review of "Hair" said, "Just a hunch, but
I think the good reviews that 'Hair' has
been eliciting spring from a sense of relief
that the film isn't the embarrassment everybody
half expected it to be." Concerning
"Your Turn, My Turn," Gerber said the
"Go Modern...For AH Your Theatre Needs"
Adiran Hall screened his film "The Feasting
of Panthers" at the University of Houston
drama department, then discussed the production
with the invited audience.
"Rituals" has been receiving extra promotion
pushes by producer James Drury.
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Tex. Legislative Committee
Approves Blind Bidding Bill
AUSTIN. TEX.—The Senate Economic
Development Committee April 2 approved
the blind bidding bill of Bexar County Sen.
John Traeger by a vote of 5-0. Traeger's
bill. SB820. would outlaw blind bidding in
which movie distributors require theatre
owners to bid on rental rights to new movies
months before the pictures are ready for re-
The bill passed with a minimum of discussion
and before Jack Valenti. president
of Motion Picture Assn. of America, had
an opportunity to speak.
Traeger told the committee that more
than 75" percent of the state's movie theatres
are independently owned, and most are
small town operations. The lawmaker told
the committee that blind bidding works an
economic hardship on these businesses, since
to 5641 Yale Blvd.. Suite 125. Dallas,
75206. The telephone number, 691-6375,
remains the same.
Word was just received of the April 4
death of Joe Hackney, long-time owner of
the Plaza Theatre in Canton. Before gomg
into business for himself in Canton. Joe
was with Jefferson Amusement Co. He is
survived by his wife and two sons, Don
Hackney and Dr. Michael Hackney.
Dorothy Barbosa has retired from Plitt
Southern Theatres after three years of temporary
work and 15 years as a permanent
employee. She leaves with no regrets, only
with anticipation of more time to onjoy life
with her husband, children and grandchildren.
"Murder by Decree," playing at the Esquire,
was reviewed by Philip Wuntch of
the Dallas Morning News, and he said.
Murder by Decree' is " good, well-polished
fuin that handily combines several Victorian
legends. In a word: Strong footsteps in the
fog, with Dr Watson almost out-racing Mr.
Holmes."
Marquee changes: "The Champ" at Inwood.
Promenade II and Northtown 6, and
"Firepower" at Valley View Cinema, Irving
Mall Cinema. Town East Cinema and Highkind
Park Village. Both films opened April
6.
S-4
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

.200
Minnea|>olis
(Average is 100)
AgaJha (WB), Park. 5th wk 125
The Bell Jar (Avco), Skyway III,
1st wk 150
The Brink's Job (Univ), Hopkins,
7tii wk 55
Buck Rogers in the 25th Century
(Univ), four theatres, 1st wk 345
The China Syndrome (Col), Cooper,
Southdalc, 3id wk 380
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Mann,
6th wk 260
Every Which Way But Loose (WB),
Northtown, Southdale, 15th wk. .... 110
Fast Break (Col), three theatres,
4th wk 120
The Glacier Fox (Sanrio).
FIRST RUN REPORT
five theatres,
5th wk 45
The Great Train Robhery (UA), Cameo,
8th wk 120
Hair (UA), Skyway II, 1st wk 290
Halloween (Compass). Brookdale East,
Edina II, 9th wk 135
Murder by Decree (Avco), four
theatres, 5th wk 90
Mustang (Cannon), Suburban World,
Varsity, 1st wk 80
Norma Rae (20th-Fox). Edina I,
3rd wk 310
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV),
Northtown. Shelard Park. 7th wk. ... 100
The Passage (UA), three theatres,
1st wk 85
Same Time, Next Year (Univ).
Skyway I, 8th wk 80
Superman (WB), Brookdale,
Southtown. 16th wk 210
Take Down (BV), The Movies at
Eden Prairie, 5th wk. 35
Kansas City
The Bell Jar (Avco), Embassy,
1st wk 200
The Brink's Job (Univ). Antioch,
Mctcalf, 7th wk 70
Buck Rogers in the 25th Century
(Univ), 6 theatres. 1st wk 395
The China Syndrome (Col), 3 theatres.
3rd wk 355
Circle of Iron (Avco), 5 theatres,
2nd wk 85
Days of Heaven (Para), Fiir.e Arts.
6th wk 130
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Ranchmart.
5th wk 370
Every Which Way But Loose (WB),
3 theatres. 1 5th wk 200
Fast Break (Col). 5 theatres. 5th wk. ... 1 35
The Glacier Fox (SR), 6 theatres,
3rd wk 90
The Great Train Robbery (UA),
Seville, 8th wk 1 20
Hair (UA). Midland. Oak Park,
1st wk 100
Hardcore (Col). Valley View.
8th wk 75
BOXOFFICE April 16, 1979
Rushmore 3 Opening
A Rapid City Event
RAPID CITY, S.D. — A tremendous
amount of publicity was given to the open-
Inside Jennifer Welles (SIO, laiiyland,
j„g ^f the new Rushmore 3 Cinema here
1 St wk 125
operated by Commonwealth Theatres.
The Last Wave (SR), 8 theatres,
j^g Commonwealth group who traveled
1st wk 105
f^Qj^ Kansas City were Dale Stewart, presi-
Mag Wheels (SR). 3 theatres, jgnt: Dick Orear, chairman of the board;
1st wk 120 Doug Lightner, vice-chairman, and Jack
Murder by Decree (Avco). 7 theatres,
Poessinger, director of advertising.
2nd wk 140
Traveling in from Denver were Marvin
Norma Rae (20th-Fox), 3 theatres, Goldfarb of Commonwealth, Ronnie Gise-
3rd wk 175
^urt and John Dobson of United Artists,
The North Avenue irregulars (BV),
gj^erm Wood of Film Brokers and Bruce
Young, senior district manager of Common-
5 theatres, 7th wk 175
The Passage (UA), 6 theatres,
wealth.
1st wk 75 'Y\\c theme for the opening was "Your
The Psychic (SR). Midland. Touch of Hollywood." The theatre was
completely blacked out with the doors bc-
3rd wk
1 50
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert (SEE),
j^g protected by a goldribbon made up from
Empire, 8th wk 50 70mm film which had been painted gold.
Same Time, Next Year (Univ), dj^i^^ Qrear and the mayor of Rapid City
Glonwood. 6tih wk 165
^^^^ jj^g ribbon with gigantic scissors five
Take Down (BV), 6 theatres,
fggj jr, length. The cutting of the ribbon
1st wk 115
illuminated the theatre both inside and out.
The Warriors (Para), 3 theatres, ^^ (^e crowd filed into the lobby a 50-
8th wk 90 piece band came marching from the auditorium
into the lobby. They played, of
course, "There's No Business Like Show
Chicago Business." Three beauty queens, one from
Agatha (WB). 4 theatres, 5th wk 225 each of the Rapid City high schools, led
Autumn Sonata (NW), Biograph, the procession followed by 16 baton twirl-
^.
16th wk
200 ers.
Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (Univ). Champagne was served the 800 VIPs in
13 theatres. 1st wk 350 the lobby while the band serenaded with
The China Syndrome (Col). 11 theatres. themes from Hollywood hits in the past.
3rd wk 350 The Hollywood theme was carried out
The Deer Hunter (Univ). Esquire. with a display of spotlights, director's chairs
4th wk 500 and a plat-board spelling out "Rushmore
Fast Break (Col). 5 theatres, 6th wk. . .150 Mall—Scene 1." A huge cake which fea-
Hair (UA). 1 1 theatres. 2nd wk 350 lured the Commonwealth Theatres logo was
Hardcore (Col). 6 theatres, 6th wk 150 served to the group by the Rapid City beau-
Murder by Decree (Avco), 4 theatres.
ty queens. A brochure was distributed listmg
4fh wk 150 all of the attractions booked into the triplex
Norma Rae (20th-Fox). 6 theatres, for the summer season.
175 Additional publicity was generated by
5,h wl;
Richard Pryor—Live in Concert, a police escort that was granted to each VIP
Roosevelt, 9th wk 200 on the way from the hotel quarters to the
Same TimcNext Year (Univ). theatre. The media was well represented
3 theatres Sth wk 1 25 with live TV and radio coverage. Each of
Superman (WB). 8 theatres, 15th wk. .
the Rapid City newspapers devoted a full
The Warriors (Para). 3 theatres. 8th wk. 225 page to covering the event.
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MW-I

CHICAGO
^^hen Jack Lemmon, Jane Fonda and
Michael Douglas were in Chicago recently
to promote "The China Syndrome,"
they mentioned to Chicago Tribune columnist
Aaron Gold that while this movie is an
entertaining thriller, it also serves as a warning
to the American public of what could
happen. Now, with the nuclear plant leak
in Pennsylvania, there are profuse comments
everywhere in the area. But Jack
Brodsky, a Columbia Pictures vice-president,
told the Tribune, "The events at Harrisburg
are so serious that it would be inappropriate
for anyone involved with the film to
comment on it." It is interesting to recall
that on July 29. 1976. the Tower Ticker
column in the Tribune reported in connection
with "The China Syndrome": "Several
government agencies are pulling strings like
ciazy to keep Mike Gray's new screenplay
from becoming a movie. It's about a nuclear
power plant that's about to explode."
Columbia Pictures' lineup for 1979 shows
an almost orchestrated bit of organization.
"The Fifth Musketeer" is the big number
for April. "Hanover Street" and "The Ravagcrs"
highlight May. And, looking ahead
into June, there will be openings of "Lost
and Found," "Nightwing," a suspense/mystery
movie based on Martin Ciuz's best
seller, and "Game of Death," Bruce Lee's
last film. ^
Tlie "invasion" of cable television into
suburban Oak Park appears to be becoming
stronger. The Oak Park Village Board
of Trustees asked the village attorney to
begin contract negotiations with Cablevision,
a New York-based firm. The indications
at this time point to approval of a
contract giving Cablevision a non-exclusive
franchise for up to 30 years. When cable
television first became a topic for consideration,
a number of exhibitors felt strongly
about opposing it. Now the response is
rather tepid and a random poll finds most
exhibitors with the feeling that cable TV
will be injurious primarily to television.
They believe that the over abundance of
noisy, musical commercials which mar programming
on TV will prompt many people
to uphold cable television.
MADDEN Z^
THEATRE SUPPLY COMPANY
DRIVE IN
RADIO SYSTEMS
THE ONLY DEALER
WITH EXPERIENCED,
24 HOUR MAINTENANCE IN THE
KENTUCKY/ INDIANA AREA
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3709 HUGHES ROAD, LOUISVILLE, KY. 40207
Now that Paramount Pictures' arrangements
for the launching of "Hurricane"
have been completely finalized, basic campaign
plans are in work for four new films.
Set for June breaks are "Players," "Escape
From Alcatraz" with Clint Eastwood as
the star, "Prophecy" with Talia Shire and
Robert Foxworth, and "Bloodline," which
is based on the novel which has been on
the bestseller list.
Virgil Jones, who heads up the Chicago
area office for The International Picture
Show Co., is working on plans for an early
opening of "The Visitor." He is also working
on "Soldier of Orange," which made an
unusually good showing in its first openings
in Seattle, Wash, theatres.
John Bischof, general manager of the
Kohlberg Theatre Circuit properties, said
"Buck Rogers in the 25th Century" deserves
special mention as a spring success based
on big business done at their Brighton,
Meadows and Lawrencewood theatres.
Dave Schatz, president of Chicago Used
Chair Mart, and his crew just returned
from Louisville, Ky., where they completed
extensive chair work for Monarch Theatres,
headed by H. Switow. Chicago Used Chair
Mart has been working rather extensively
in Southern territory, and especially in Florida.
This was actually a stroke of luck in
view of the especially bad winter weather
in the Midwest. It seems rather apparent
that Schatz is casting a favorable eye on
headquartering in the Florida area.
"The Champ," a new United Artists film,
opened with early patron interest. And advance
screenings of scheduled arrivals promise
a sound spring season for UA. Optimism
seems to run rather high for a new Woody
Allen film, "Manhattan." The film is logically
set in New York City, and the stars
are Allen and Diane Keaton. Due here next
is "Last Embrace" with Roy Scheider, who
was a star in "Jaws" (I and 2), and Janet
Margolis, last seen in "Annie Hall." Late
May brings "Voices," which stars two people
in their first starring roles. Michael
Ontkean and Amy Irving.
Avco Embassy's name has been prominent
in many marquees recently with such
films as "Murder by Decree," "The Bell
Jar" and "Watership Down." Now spots on
radio and TV, and prominent ads in newspapers
are bombarding movie-goers. April
and May arrivals include "Old Boyfriends"
and "Phantasm." "Old Boyfriends" is categorized
as one of Avco Embassy's most important
films this season. As a special note
of interest, Alan Stem was the producer.
THEWTRE EQUIPMENT
Evervlhing for the Theatre"
339 No. CAPITOL AVI., INDIANAPOLIS, IND
He is the son of Mike Stern, a prominent,
veteran exhibitor in this territory. April 6
marked the opening of Avco Embassy's
"Circle of Iron." The film, directed by
Richard Moore from an original story by
Bruce Lee and James Coburn, stars David
Carradine, Jeff Cooper, Roddy McDowell,
Eli Wallach and Christopher Lee.
"Autumn Sonata" business exceeded the
expert opinion of Biograph Theatre owner
Larry Edwards in its exclusive 16-week run.
Now this movie, which has been nominated
for two Academy Awards, has moved for
an extended run into the 400, Davis, Hinsdale,
Homewood, Wilmette and Town theatres.
"Autumn Sonata" marks the first time
Ingmar Bergman, director, and Ingrid Berman,
the star, have worked together. The
film is released through New World Pictures.
Larry Edwards has now booked "The
Duellists" for an exclusive showing at his
Biograph. "The Duellists" made its local
debut in 1977 at the Chicago International
Film Festival. It has had a brief run in
Los Angeles and New York City before reappearing
here.
It is noted that because of the long run
of "Autumn Sonata" at the Biograph, this
movie house is now recognized as a "prime
first-run movie house." According to initial
plans, the Biograph was to be operated as a
revival theatre. After "The Duellists" the
Biograph will present another first-run film,
the latest feature by Francois Trauffaut.
Word of the death of Sidney C. Goltz on
April 2 was received. Goltz was a member
of Local 110.
Members of the Women's Variety Club
were fortunate in having an opportunity to
sponsor a horse show as a benefit for Variety
Club charities. The show, which was
organized and staged by Jan Peterson of
Abbott Theatre Equipment Co.. was a fourday
event which took place in the Yorktown
Shopping Center.
The world premiere of "Good Luck, Miss
Wyckoff" was held April 13 at the Near
North Carnegie. This will be an exclusive
first
run.
"The Innocent." which ofwned for a first
exclusive run at the Near North Cinema,
was called a "tremendous" success in the
first week by Barbara Sapstein of the Brotman
Theatres organization. This was a
cheerful note to pass on to owner Oscar
Brotman. who underwent surgery at Northwestern
Memorial Hospital.
W. N. Drive-In Theatre Co. has leased
the Crystle Lake Drive-In from th; Kohlberg
Theatre Circuit. Bill Jones is manager,
and Jerry KuehnI of the Griever organization
will he doing the booking.
Rod Stewart's May 1 and 2 concerts are
booked into the Uptown Theatre here. It is
noted that it's the only "small" auditorium
Stewart is playing on his American tour.
The Uptown, now owned and operated by
Rabiela Enterprises, operators of Spanish
language movie houses, has 2,500 seats.
BOXOFFICE April 16, 1979

EPRAD
MINNEAPOLIS
JJed Tanen, picsident of Universal Studios,
and producer Walter Mirisch were in
Minneapolis March 30 to host personally a
screening of a ten-minute "Dracula" promotional
reel. A question-and-answer period
followed the screening, held in the Plitt
Skyway Screening Room. The event was
well-attended by local exhibitors and the
reel was warmly received. "Diacula" breaks
nationwide on Friday, July 13.
ing they intended to boycott not only involved
theatres but the soft drink as well.
As March ended, word came from the UA
circuit's home office in New York: Remove
the commercial from all our Minnesota
screens.
"The China Syndrome" heie—as just
about everywhere else— plainly profited
from the hubbub involving the Harrisburg,
Pa. nuclear power plant. Pickets appeared
at local power company offices,
many carrying signs proclaiming "No
China Syndrome Here." Grosses for the
picture held firm in the Twin Cities in its
third week. At the Plitt Palace Theatre,
Superior, Wis., grosses jumped $1,000 over
the preceding week, and at the Cine 2 in
Mankato, Minn., the third-week figure was
$700 ahead of the second stanza. Local
newscasts and news stories made constant
reference to the " 'China Syndrome'-like
Ray Vonderhaar, Tentilino Enterprises,
Alexandria, Minn., was in town to line up
product for the circuit's drive-in in Worthington.
Minn. But on the night of April 1,
Worthington had three and a half inches of
snow! Opening was delayed, but Minneapolis-St.
Paul area drive-ins reopened April
6. Even though temperatures were only in
the 20s and 30s.
the reopening was dictated
by area schools' weeklong vacation period,
April 8-14.
Tom Viste, American International
branch manager here, announced that Frank
White has joined the AI branch crew as
salesman. White, from Omaha, has been in
the business eight years. He began at the
United Artists branch in Des Moines.
A bill prohibiting the showing of obscene
movies at Minnesota outdoor theatres is
winding its way through the legislative
process. In a letter to the Minneapolis
Tribune, Pastor Jonathan Law of the United
Methodist Church in Thief River Falls,
Minn., urged a version of such a law that
would make exhibitors strictly enforce age
limits prescribed by the movie code. The
code would require that a barrier be placed
around the theatre making it impossible to
see the screen from anywhere outside the
theatre itself, "except from an airplane or
helicopter." Pastor Law added: "I can already
hear theatre owners complaining that
Early in March, the United Artists Theatres
houses in the Twin Cities began run-
to erect such barriers is impossible or too
expensive. Well, I've just seen such a barrier
around an outdoor theatre in Indiana,
ning a big-screen commercial for Dr Pepper.
The result was howls of protest from
so I know it can be done."
many cash customers plus scorching comment
in the local press. The St. Paul Dispatch
printed letters from moviegoers say-
Filmrow visitors: Sid Heath, Flame Theatre,
Wells, Minn.; Dave and Bob Ross,
Ross circuit, St. Cloud, Minn.
Tom Viste, American International branch
chief, has set a May 4 territorywide saturation
for "California Dreaming." with 50
prints working. And Dean Lutz, Avco Embassy
branch boss, has a trio of films on
tap: "Old Boyfriends," breaking in late
April; "Phantasm," May 11, and "Winter
Kills." May 18.
Meanwhile, Viste decided to hire a new
secretary at the AI branch. He placed an
ad in the Minneapolis morning and evening
and Sunday papers. He contacted five different
employment agencies. He contacted
the Minnesota School of Business. He contacted
the Minnesota State Employment
Service. Then he sat back, waiting for an
array of hopefuls from whom he could pick
and choose. How many applicants showed
up Not one!
Engler Theatres Inc., Hopkins, Minn., is
making available to all of its employees a
way to quit smoking. The Twin Cities
circuit is giving Water-Pic One-Step at a
Time cigarette filters to any employee who
requests it. And why The Englers respond:
"Simple. We're concerned about our employees'
health."
The Country Cinema Drive-In, Gettysburg.
S.D., previously owned by Ben
Fowler, is now being run by Mrs. Don
Bowden.
I
I
I
WURlTf^
Potts 3 and 5
Stack Platters
Lynn Kulbeik is the "new face" at the
Paramount branch here. She's actually doing
an encore. Lynn previously worked at
the Paramount branch, leaving there in
December of 1972. Now she's back as a
biller Filmrow visitors: Dan Peterson,
. . .
State Theatre, Brookings, S.D.; Gene
Grengs, Hollywood, Eau Claire, Wis.; Ray
Vonderhaar, Tentilino Enterprises, Alexandria,
Minn.
ST.
LOUIS
The Japanese-made documentary "The Glacier
Fox," aided by a TV campaign,
opened Friday, April 13, at Halls Ferry,
Des Peres, Ronnie's, Cinerama 4, Avalon,
South Twin and Webster Groves. In Illinois,
it is playing at Petite, Collinsville, BAC's
Plaza Twin, E. St. Louis and their houses
in Roxana and Centralia.
Crown's answer to "American Graffiti,"
"Van Nuys Blvd.," begins a wide multiple
Wednesday, April 18. Aimed at the youngei^
set, it proclaims that "the greatest cruisin'
in the land takes place on the street where
it all began." Filmed of course in sunny
California, its cast includes Bill Adier,
Cynthia Wood, Dennis Bowen and Melissa
Prophet.
Neil Blatt is the new branch manager at
20th-Fox, succeeding Luis Benavides who
was transferred to the Atlanta office.
Mid-America Theatres is presenting a
"one for the money, two for the show" offer
during the month of April at 12 of their
houses, in designated a special newspaper
coupon good for one admission with the
purchase of one paid adult admission Monday
through Thursday when presented at
the
boxoffice.
Cinema-Art Classics Shown
From South Edition
SAN ANTONIO—St. Mary's University
will present programs of cinema-arts world
classics during April which are open to
the public at no charge. Each program begins
at 7:30 p.m. in the St. Mary's Continuing
Education Center auditorium with brief
comments by an educator specializing in
the film's material. The Minnie Stevens Piper
Foundation is funding the cinema-arts
seminars.
Cl l
STEREO IQ
Christie Lamphouscs & Consoles
Ballantyne-Strong-Hanovia
Replacement Package Plan
For the best at less, contact John or Mike.
Ringold Cinema Equipment Co.
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•
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BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979
MW-3

LINCOLN
por the past several weeks Commonwealth
Theatre's Plaza in Lincoln has been
capitalizing oni the rapidly growing cult classic.
the "Hair" opening, and moving three
"The Rocky Horror Picture Show."
blocks over to the Cinema for an additional
Dean Zieltlow of Commonwealth in Lin-
week's run. Smith hosted a sneak preview
coln anticipates an indefinite stay for the
film which lights up the silver screen every
Friday and Saturday evening at midnight.
The phenomenon warranted a story in the
entertainment section of the Lincoln Journal,
complete with photographs of the patrons
in costume as they attend the film.
"Superman" has moved from the Cooper/Lincoln
to the Plaza 1 for an indefimdte
stay, while Clint Eastwood's "Every Which
Way But Loose" is still continuing its
Christmas run.
Replacing "Superman" at the Cooper/
Lincoln is "The China Syndrome" which is
doing great. Academy Award contender
"The Deer Hunter" opens at the Plaza on
Cinema 1 & 2 is closing out "National
Lampoon's Animal House" again! The ever
popular campus spoof ran 18 weeks from
last year and was brought back again for its
current run which is nine weeks. Gabe Kaplan's
"Fast Break" is leaving the State for
WINDOW CARDS
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THEATRES COAST TO COAST
SINCE 1955
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OR WRITE
of "The Champ" March 30. Opening date
was April 6.
Commonwealth Theatre district manager
Darrel Maness has been promoted to Eastern
division manager, with Web Meredith
now taking over the district.
At the Dubinsky Brother's Stuart Theatre,
"Ice Castles" is currently in its sixth
run week with the end looming sometime
in April. Its replacement will be "Richard
Pryor— Live in Concert" followed by the
animated full-length film, "The Roadrunner."
TOR^^^^^ """'-
BOX 626 C/
OMAHA, NE 68101
HIB
KAHSAS CITY
Linda Ryan, who worked at Warner Bros.'
Kansas City branch a year ago or fo ago,
and who left to return to her home in California,
has now returned here to work for
the Associated Film Distributors who are
new in town. Laurie (Hansen) Mulcahy, who
foimerly worked at New World Pictures until
they closed their Kansas City office, is
also to be found at Associated Film Distributors.
Susie Higgins, formerly of United
Artists here, has also acceptsd a position
there effective April 9.
Chester Smith, manager of Commonwealth's
Twin Lakes Theatres Wichita,
in
Kan. visited the home office of Commonwealth
Amusement Corp. recently. "Smitty"
plans to retire in the near future.
Earl Douglass of Commonwealth spent
April 4-5 in Denver on business.
WOMPl members please remember your
d;mes for Dimes for Will Rogers and turn
ADS-SPECIAL TRAILERS
Icrfttes-Oaic-..-
(OI.OK—BLACK & WHITE
PHONE (515) 288-1122
your money in to Virginia Kelly of Dickinson
Theatres, chairman of the Will Rogers
committee.
Variety Club International Tent #8 will
not have an April meeting due to the Show-
A-Rama convention this month. The May
meeting will be announced later.
Carla Wilson, formerly of American International,
has accepted a position with
the United Artists office here. Her spot at
American International is being filled by
Dorothy Collins, formerly of American Multi
Cinema's Midwest division.
MILWAUKEE
attending the conference on cinema and
language held the last week in March
at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
were two European filmmakers. Chantel
Akerman and Babette Mangote.
April 6. replacing "The Glacier Fox" after
Some strong competition has been given
a highly successful run.
to local movie houses by Movie Systems
& 2 and
cooperation
Inc.. 1200 E. Capitol Dr., Milwaukee. The
^uring the recent national sales meeting in company has begun to advertise its film
Bruce Smith of the Cinema 1
the State theatres, working in
with Lincoln's radio station KIMS and Godfather's
Puerto Rico, Jay Peckos, branch man-
offerings in the local press. "Take your fam-
was
Pizza, gave away 750 tickets to conager
of Columbia Pictures' Kansas City ily to the movies for 38 cents," the
branch office, was the winner of an unusual
headline over a display ad which stated:
prize. Miss Hotstuff came riding in "Over 40 movie specials and sports events
test winners to see the gala premiere showing
of "Hair" the evening preceding the
scheduled opening.
on a Moto Becane Mo-Ped Bike and was are going to be broadcast by Home Box
month. you're subscriber,
presented to Jay as a door prize. Jay was Office this If a
jubilant until he was told the bike was the each would cost you less than 38 cents to
biing into your homo for the whole family
prize. Seriously, he was delighted with the
bike, which is now being shipped to Kansas
enjoy. If you don't subscribe, take a look
to
at the list and see what you're missing this
City from Puerto Rico. When it arrives
Jay is warning everyone to stay off Broadway
weekend alone."
until he has had some practice riding
In Beertown recently to promote "Murder
the new bike.
by Decree" was the director. Bob Clark, 37.
Clark, who now resides in Toronto, said
he was on a tour throughout the Midwest
to make an inspection of theatres where the
movie was playing. The director of a previous
horror-thriller, "Black Christmas,"
Clark pointed out that four of the movie's
principals, Christopher Plummer, Donald
Sutherland, Susan Clark and Genevieve Bujold,
are all of Canadian origin. The movie
was filmed in Canada and Britain.
Capitol Court Cinema had a tie-in with
the Capitol Court Merchants Assn. April
3 for a "special one-day showing for Senior
Citizens and Ladies" of the feature film,
"That's Entertainment." Admission was
50 cents with a special coupon that was
available at all Capitol Court stores.
Mid-America Releasing Co., headed by
Rick Rice, is setting up an advertising budget
approximating $.50,000 for the launchfng
of "The Silenl Partner." This means the
news media, radio and TV will be alerting
people to the Chicagoland opening on May
4. "Silent Partner" is the winner of six
Canadian film awards, including best feature
film. "Winter months, including
March, are generally our slow months. But
bids are, coming in at a rapid pace for 'Silent
Partner." said Rice. Meanwhile, subruns of
"Halloween" are still keping this movie ac-
April 16, 1979

. . and
Canada's Third Art House
Opens Doors in Edmonton
EDMONTON—Edmonton is now only
Ihc third city in Canada, after Montreal
and Toronto, to have a full-time art movie
theatre, according to Linda Bcath, who
along with partner Bob Hiiber operate New
Cinema Enterprises" Varscona Theatre.
They first opened Canada's first fulltime
art movie house in Toroireto and began
to distribute foreign, Canadian and older
films to film societies. Now they have leased
the Varscona and. with the permission of
owner Canadian Odeon. painted the candy
coimter salmon pink, put bamboo curtains
in the washrooms and started a policy of
showing art movies exclusively.
The one-year experiment is a radical departure
from "the American dream," says
Beath. She estimates only I percent of the
population that goes to movies at all go to
so-called art films.
"Everyone else wants to show 'Star
Wars,' " she says. "The level of film literacy
is terribly low in Canada."
She prefers going totally with an art theatre
experiment because experience has
shown commercial theatres do not generally
hold a loyal following when they try to
sandwich Walt Disney between Max Ophuls
and Wernor Herzog.
The new Varscona Fine Arts Theatre
opened its doors March 16 with a showing
of Ingmar Bergman's "Autumn Sonata."
But it was not an entirely new departure for
the Varscona. Located near the University
of Alberta campus, the old Varscona once
had a policy of showing an occasional foreign
film.
Hassling Off the Screen
Is as Bad as That on It
From Middlewest Edition
ST. PAUL—For "The Warriors," Paramount's
gang-war action-adventure, there's
been as much hassling, tussling and suspense
off the .screen as on it. And in St. Paul,
the picture got caught up in a case of nowyou-see-it,
now-you-don't . nowyou-see-it-again.
"The Warriors" opened Feb. 16 at The
Movies at Maplewood and The Movies at
Cottage Grove, and in Minneapolis at the
Skyway Theatre. The Maplewood and Cottage
Grove multi-screen complexes are
operated by United Artists Theatre Corp.
The Skyway is part of the Plitt theatre circuit.
Grosses Through the Roof
In each city, boxoffice action went right
through the roof. And the Twin Cities
weren't exceptions. Grosses at almost all of
the picture's openings were dynamite. But
then came explosive action of a different
sort.
Violence was reported in connection with
the showing in Boston, a shooting was reported
at a Palm .Springs, Calif., drive-in
playing "The Warriors," and in Oxnard,
Calif., a knifing death occurred.
Paramount, going through the ritual of
denying the movie was the cause of these
outbursts, nevertheless moved quickly to
(Continued on following page)
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979
put
CALGARY
prices in both Calgary and l:dmonton theatres
were raised from S.^.V.*! to $4..'i0
for the film "The Deer Hunter," although
just who instigated Ihc move is somewhat
hazy. Barty Carnon. publicity manager for
Universal Pictures of Canada, was in Edmonton
and said there were two reasons
for the admission increase. "The first is that
the exhibitor feels the film warrants a higher
price because of its high caliber. The
second is the running time of the film. Due
to the three-hour running time, the staff
must come in for an earlier start and stay
later for the last show, which means paying
overtime." Carnon also said the decision to
increase prices for the film was left up to
each individual theatre showing it. Advertising
director for the Towne Cinema in Edmonton.
Bob Corless, said the increase was
requested by Universal Studios because of
the length of the film. It is a sad fact of life
that the majority of films being shown in
Canada are from the U.S.. and consequently
the sagging Canadian dollar has a big bearing
on film exhibition here.
The Saskatchewan Film Classification
Services reviewed a total of 30 films during
the month of February. There were two in
the General category, 16 in the Adult group,
four classified as Restricted Adult and the
remaining eight were in the Special X class.
Almost half of the features, 14, were tagged
with warnings. Several films have the warning
"not suitable for children": "Aguire,
Wrath of God," "Avalanche," "Conversation
Piece" and "Same Time, Next Year."
Two movies have "language warning": "Providence"
and "The Brink's Job." "Violence
warning" must be carried by "Murder by
Decree" and "Jack the Ripper." Two
warnings were put on "The Warriors":
"language and violence warning" and "not
suitable for children." "The Deer Hunter"
has "language and violence warning." Four
features carry "scenes warning": "Party
Swappers." "Last Survivor," "Girls Who
Do" and "Blue Ecstasy." Four films are also
listed as "no drive-in theatre": "Party Swapper,"
"Giris Who Do," "Blue Ecstasy" and
"Bathhouse Girls."
The last in the Shirley Temple film series
was shown at the Edmonton Provincial
Museum March 25 under the auspices of
the Department of Alberta Culture. The
feature was "Dimples," made in 1936 and
co-starring Frank Morgan,
A federal election has been called by
Prime Minister Trudeau for May 22. With
so much talk of restraints by the other political
parties, the outcome of the election
could have some effect on the motion picture
industry, both in the field of exhibition
and production.
Andy Russell, Alberta naturalist and
author, showed his film "Grizzly Country"
to Calgarians March 22 in the Jubilee Auditorium.
The screening was sponsored by the
Alberta Wilderness Assn., the National and
Provincial Parks Assn. of Canada and the
Sierra Club of Alberta.
April is a very busy month for the National
Film Theatre in Edmonton's Citadel
Theatre, with some unusual films booked in
to the first two weeks. Included in the array
are "Der Hauptdarstellcr/The Main Actor,"
made in Germany in 1978 under the direction
of Reinhard Hauff and starring Mario
Adorf and Vadim Flowna. It was in German
with English subtitles. In the masterpieces
of Japan series a double feature is
being screened: "Musuko No Seishun/
Youth of a Son" produced in Japan in 1952
under the direction of Masaki Kobayashi,
and "Seppuku/Harakiri" made by the same
director in 1962. Both features run with
English subtitles. The "best of world cinema"
series is showing two films: "La Notte/
The Night" directed by Michelangelo Antonioni,
produced in Italy in 1960 and
starring Jeanne Moreau and Marcello Mastroianni.
and "Zorba the Greek" produced
in Greece and U.S. in 1964 under the direction
of Michael Cacoyanis and starring
Anthony Quinn and Irene Pappas. The series
on childhood and aging is showing "Goodbye
Mr. Chips," starring Greer Garson and
Robert Donat and directed by Sam Wood
in Great Britain in 1939. Another British
film to be offered is in the "artists in conflict
with society" series. It is "Isadora," directed
by Karel Reisz in 1968 and starring
Vanessa Redgrave and Jason Robards. With
selections like these it's no wonder the National
Film Theatre is so successful.
In keeping with the religious atmosphere
of Lent, the Pleiades Theatre in Calgary's
Planetarium screened "The Song of Bemadette"
March 25. And a Calgary clergyman
is offering a series of ten films to be shown
during Lent in the downtown W.R. Castell
Central Library. The Rev. William McColley,
pastor of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church, feels that screening the religious
movies in the library during the noon hours
will attract a number of people who might
not make the effort to go to a church. The
films were produced in Switzerland in 1955
by Dr. Francis Schaeffer. a philosopher and
theologian.
Guy Thorne Dead at 83
From Middlewest Edition
SANDSTONE. MINN.—Guy Thorne,
83. an exhibitor for 51 years at the Vogue
Theatre, died March 10.
During his career Thorne played violin
in many pit orchestras in many theatres
throughout the Midwest. Later he formed
his own orchestra, but was forced to discontinue
playing professionally following an
ear operation.
Thorne and his wife Dorothy supplied
violin and piano background music to silent
films playing in the Vogue.
Filming began Feb. 5 in Atlanta on
"Gorp." a comedy about far-out antics at
a summer camp.

. .Very
Calgary
Agatha (WB), Calgary Place.
2nd wk.
Vjr\ Ciood
Autumn Sonata (PR), Uptown.
1st wk Fair
The Brink's Job (Univ). Westbrook.
4th wk
Fair
FIRST RUN REPORT
The Buddy Holly Story (Astral).
Marlboro Square. Odeon,
2nd wk
Very Good
Day.s of Heaven (Para). Towne Blue.
2nd wk
Fair
Every Which Way But Loose (WB).
Towne Red. 12th wk Excellent
The Great Train Robbery (UA).
Chinook. 4th wk
Excellent
Hardcore (Astral). Grand.
Westbiook. 2nd wk
Excellent
The Lord of the Rings (UA).
Market Mall. 12th wk Fair
Midnight Express (Astral). Grand,
Westbrook. 2nd wk
Murder by Decree (Amb),
Very Good
Palliser Square. 5th wk Excellent
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV).
Palace. 1st wk Excellent
Same Time, Next Year (Univ).
North Hill. 5th wk Excellent
Sasquatch (PR), Marlboro Square,
Odeon. 3rd wk.
Fair
Superman (WB). Calgary Place.
13th wk.
Excellent
Watership Down (PR). Brentwood.
6th wk
Good
The Warriors (Para). Palliser Square,
5th wk
Excellent
Edmonton
Agatha (WB). Wesfmount.
2nd wk Excellent
The Brink's Job (Univ), Odeon,
Plaza. 3id wk Very Good
The Great Train Robbery (UA),
Capitol Square. 4th wk Excellent
Hardcore (Astral). Capilano. Rialto.
2nd wk Excellent
Murder by Decree (Amb). Garneau,
5th wk.
Excellent
Sasquatch (PR), Avenue, 2nd wk Good
Superman (WB), Paramount,
1 3th wk Excellent
Winnipeg
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Garrick,
2nd wk
Excellent
Every Which Way But Loose (WB).
Northstar, 14th wk Very Good
Fast Break (Astral). Convention
Centre, 2nd wk.
Good Guys Wear Black (PR).
Excellent
3 theatres. 1st wk Excellent
The Great Train Robbery (UA),
Metropolitan, 3rd wk Excellent
Halloween (Astral). Odeon,
5th wk Excellent
Hardcore (Astral), Garrick,
3rd wk
Excellent
K-2
ih : "KJ ()t iIk K3I1«>. il \i ( o\o\\\
7lh uk V-iv G>uk1
The Marquise of O (PR) Festival
Kt v\k
Good
Murder by Decree (Amb). Northstar.
7th wk Very Good
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV),
Garden City. 2nd wk Very Good
Same Time, Next Year (Univ).
Grant Park. 6th wk Excellent
The Warriors (Para). Polo Park.
7th wk Very Good
Vancouver
Abba the Movie (WB), Stanley,
1st wk Good
Agatha (WB), Capitol 6,
4th wk Very Good
The China Syndrome (Astral),
Odeon, 1st wk. Excellent
The Deer Hunter (Univ), Vogue.
2nd wk. Excellent
Every Which Way But Loose (WB).
Downtown. 14th wk Very Good
Fast Break (Astral). Coronet,
2nd wk
Good
The Great Train Robbery (UA),
Capitol 6, 6th wk Very Good
Murder by Decree (PR),
Vancouver Centre, 8th wk Good
National Lampoon's Animal House
(Univ), Coronet,
30th wk
Above Average
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV).
Park Royal. 1st wk Very Good
Same Time, Next Year (Univ).
Park. 8th wk
Superman (WB), Capitol 6,
14th wk
The Warriors (Para), Capitol 6,
7th wk
Ottawa
Good
Good
Good
Agatha (WB), Little Elgin,
4th wk
Very Good
The China Syndrome (Astral),
St. Laurent, 1st wk. Excellent
The Deer Hunter (Univ). Elmdale.
2nd wk Excellent
The Great Train Robbery (UA).
Elgin, Cinema 6. 6th wk. Good
.
Hardcore (Astral), Somerset,
4th wk
Good
Murder by Decree (Amb),
Capitol Square. 7th wk Good
Norma Rae (BVFD). Place dc Ville.
2nd wk
Excellent
The North Avenue Irregulars (BV).
Rideau. 2nd wk Very Good
Same Time, Next Year (Univ).
St. Laurent, 5th wk Good
Superman (WB), Nelson.
Cinema 6. 15th wk Good
Joseph Ruben is directing "Gorp" from
a script by producer-screenwriter Jerry
Konvitz.
Hassling Off the Screen
Is as Bad as That on It
(Continued from preceding page)
itself at arm's length from the film, which
it is distributing (though it did not produce
it). Paramount informed theatres that the
studio would pay salaries of security guards
it urged be posted in movie houses during
tract terms for many movies, the studios
;
take a healthy bile of the boxoffice money {
—but also agree to pay anywhere from 50
to 70 per cent of advertising for the film.)
UATC Was Angered
This move apparently angered the United
Artists circuit, even though there were clear
indications that contract terms for "Warriors"
would be adjusted to compensate for
the advertising pull-out. It was plain that
Paramount was trying to divorce itself from
its own picture, putting all responsibility
for its showing on individual theatres.
The UA home office flashed the word
to its chain of theatres: Paramount has
broken the contract, so yank the movie.
Both The Movies at Maplewood and The
Movies at Cottage Grove immediately did
so . . . after the showings for Friday, Feb.
23. the start of the movie's second rousing
week. Large ads appeared in the St. Paul
papers that day. proclaiming "start of a
second week!"
But those arriving the next day at the
Maplewood found "Warriors" gone. In its
place, customers found the Clint Eastwood
film. "Every Which Way But Loose." At
Cottage Grove, the replacement picture was
"Death on the Nile."
Meanwhile, the Skyway in Minneapolis
continued to play "The Warriors" to lusty
ticket action. There had been no incidents
of violence in either city. Maplewood manager
Jim Madvig said: "We had no trouble
at all. We did sensational business. But when
instructions came from our home office,
we immediately replaced 'Warriors.'
A few days later, new instructions came
from UA to Madvig: You can put "Warriors"
back on the screen at Maplewood.
So the movie reappeared locally. But on
instructions from Paramount, ads were altered
considerably. The original ads carried
such lines as "they outnumbered the
cops five to one." Current toned-downed
ads merely announce the presence of the
movie.
Grosses Surprised Many
Grosses posted by "The Warriors" surprised
almost all in the industry. Rated R
and populated with a no-name cast, "The
Warriors" was viewed by most in the film
industry as "a piece of cnid." a flick aimed
solely at what used to be called "the leatherjacket
crowd."
Though most theatres reported audiences
"on the weird side," incidents of violence
were isolated. Ed Gulberg. Plitt Theatres
representative, said: "No. we've had no unusual
incidents. And we never for a moment
considered yanking the picture."
BOXOFFICE :: April 16. 1979
the run of "Warriors."
And it also informed theatres it would
no longer participate in what's called "co-
op advertising" for the movie. (Under con-
y

Buller's 'Hair' Grows
On Chicago Film Fans
Middlewe
CHICAGO — "Hair" was the big news for
the week. United Artists' publicist Ellen
Davis and her assistant Dennis Kuczajda did
an effective job on advance promotion for
the Midwest premiere at the McClurg Court
Theatre.
According to early figures following initial
openings, "Hair" business will be substantial.
Michael Butler, a scion of one of Chicago's
most affluent families, nurtured the
stage production of "Hair" when he was
considered a middle-aged hippie.
Ten years later, as a mature hippie, he
was present at the opening to witness audience
reaction; the audience was noisily responsive
and applause was generous.
Milos Forman, Czech-born director, was
especially satisfied with audience response.
He said here that there had been some opposition
to his doing "Hair."
Forman paid special tribute to Chicago.
He noted that his first American success,
"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," drew
its initial important acclaim at the Chicago
International Film Festival.
Gene Siskel. Chicago Tribune movie critic,
gave the film version of "Hair" four
stars. He wrote, "It's much better than the
original play. The film version is much better
because it's a more artful experience."
Siskel said also, "Forman's 'Hair' is a
declarative statement that there are not two
sides to the issue of personal freedom."
Exhibitors generally agree that the film
is a winner. But there are some exhibitors
in this group who expressed the opinion
that the raucous segments of the film could
result in a reversal of the irresponsible existence
which took place in
the '60s.
But if there is widespread agreement with
a youthful cashier in one of the theatres, a
turn to a "revolution" more to the right is
questionable. Her enthusiastic statement:
" 'Hair' is the greatest movie I've ever seen.
I hope that type of existence goes on and
on!"
One more note about opening night:
When the audience exited the theatre, the
floors and aisles were littered with empty
popcorn cartons and pop cans and cups
just like the park which was the habitat of
the "Hair" group.
Associated Film Network
Of Ad-Pub Agencies Set
From East Edition
NEW YORK—Don Barrett, director of
marketing for Associated Film Distribution,
announced today the appointment of
Terr Korban to the post of director of
media planning and cooperative advertising
for the newly formed film distribution company.
Korban comes to AFD from AIP
where she worked for three and a half years
in the media co-op department.
At the same time Barrett and Korban
jointly announced a network of 22 ad-pub
agencies who will be servicing the AFD
account.
V A N C O U V E R
Qrahani Adams and Roberr Gibson of noon and Cable 12 in the evening, fealLired
Canfilms planed in from Calgary to attend
an audio-visual convention at Robson entirely to the picture. As a consequence
all four leads in a 90-miniUe show devoted
Square which was sponsored by the University
of British Columbia. They also visited were ringing off the hook the next day.
phones at the Odeon office and the theatre
The
the local Canfilms office to discuss operations
of the company with the staff.
Theo Ross has added yet another account
to his booking and buying chores. The latest
is the Sliammon Drive-In, a native Indianowned
and operated project in Powell River
which has been counseled by Liomel Courchene
since opening several years ago. It
opened for the 1979 season April 1.
Fred Izon of the Cassidy Drive-In reportedly
broke a leg while -holidaying in Honolulu,
but is mobile enoiigh to get the
ozoner open on schedule.
Several of the attendees to the Motion
Picture Theatre Assn. of British Columbia
convention took the opportumity to combine
business with pleasure and stayed over for
several days. Dr. Lyon Appleby was busy
setting up playdates for his 100-Mile House
Theatre and visiting with old friends in
Vancouver's suburbs. Hy Seely and daughter
Laurie of the Yukon Theatre in Whitehorse
spent several days just enjoying the
beautiful spring weather and the profusion
of early spring flowers.
Vintage film buffs were happy to see the
reopening of the MacMillan Planetarium
museum and entertainment complex in Kitsilano.
The theatre reopened with screenings
of "Queen Christina," followed by
"Elizabeth and Essex," with programs set to
run through to early summer.
As the newspaper strike commences its
sixth month several important picture openings
had to resort to reliance upon TV and
radio campaigns.
"The Deer Hunter," the first film to ever
play Vancouver at a $5 admission fee,
opened at the Vogue March 16 after an intensive
radio and TV campaign. There was
some slight opposition to the price at the
boxoffice and the opening as a consequence
was a little soft. Audience reaction and consequent
word-of-mouth was cxceptioinally
good and the picture built steadily. The second
week received a terrific push via a
radio review and commendation by Les
Wcdman over CHQM. He summed up the
film by saying "this picture far surpasses
"The Best Years of Our Lives' . . . which
received nine Academy Awards, the same
rumber 'The Deer Hunter' is nominated
for." It was left to Pia Shandel of CKVU-
TV to give it the best in-depth review, however.
In a 15-minute trailerized look at the
picture she summarized it with the words
"incredible, magnificent, awe-inspiring."
Unplanned, but nevertheless the best
placed preopening promo that any picture
has received locally preceded the opening
of "The China Syndrome." which opened
March 23 in the Odeon. The Merv Griffin
show, which plays over Cable 4 in the after-
film opened in Vancouver at the Odeon,
Dunbar, Eraser, Westminster Mall, West
Vancouver Odeon, Haida, Victoria and Hillcrest
Drive-In im Langley, all in areas
reached by the broadcast. Grosses were excellent
in every situation, the picture was
held throughout and it looks set for a long
run in the keys.
Council Fears Domination
Of Canadian Films by U.S.
TORONTO—Canadian film production
is high but concern is being expressed that
U.S. interests are gaining control of Canadian
films.
"The government capitulated to American
interests by stripping the (Federal Film)
Policy of measures aimed at controlling
American market domination, and caused
an exhilaration among the American distributors
which couldn't have been equalled
if the policy had been written at head offices
in New York," said Sandra Gathercole,
past chairman of the Canadian Council
of Filmmakers.
One Canadian co-production, "Running,"
has been sold to a U.S. distributor and the
agreement includes the rights to Canadian
distribution.
A U.S. film producer says there is one
main reason why an increasing number of
films are being made in Canada; Money.
"Americans are not co-producing Canadian
films because they love Canada," he
said. "It's cheap to work here. Keep it that
way, and the money will stay. Change it,
and goodbye, Canuck."
The Canadian Film Development Corp.
says it hopes international productions will
help the Canadian film industry flourish,
allowing it to produce films at a lower cost
for the Canadian market.
Producer William Marshall says that a
film financed for more than $350,000 must
gi-oss $1.5 million to break even.
Other Canadian producers say that even
if there were funds to make films for only
the Canadian market, they could not define
how to make such films reflect the country's
culture.
SEE's Sargent Files Suit
From East Edition
NEW YORK—Bill Sargent has filed suit
against Steve Blauner. executive producer
of the Special Event Entertainment (SEE)
network's production "Richard Pryor—Live
in Concert," charging breach of contract.
The suit was filed in response to a complaint
filed by Blauner, who sued SEE
for failing to pay $50,000 allegedly due him
after completion of the filming.
Sargent's suit "denies specifically" owing
the amount to Blauner and charges that the
filmmaker disrupted business relationships
with Pryor.
BOXOFFICE :: April 16, 1979

Sell . . . and
Sell
Scores of busy little messages
go out every week to a tremendous
audience-and they get a tremendous
response!
Every exhibitor is
busy—buying,
selling, renting, hiring. All this is
made easier and more profitable
with the classified ads in Clearing
House each week.
READ • USE • PROFIT BY—
Classified
Ads
in
BOXOFFICE
Greatest Coverage in the Field—Most Readers for Your Money
Four Insertions for Price of
Three
BOXOFFICE :: April 16. 197

BOXOFFMCE BOOKINCUiDE
JONNA JEFFERIS, Bookinguide Editor
An interpretive analysis of lay and Iradepress reviews. Running time is in parentheses. The plus and
minus signs indicate degree ol merit. Listings cover current reviews regularly. Symbol O denotes
BOXOFFICE Blue Ribbon Award. All films are in color except those indicated by (bdw) for black &
white or (0 and b«Sw) for color and black & white. Motion Picture Ass'n (MPAA) ratings: [g —general
audiences; PG— all ages admitted (parental guidance suggested); [Rj— restricted, with persons under
17 not admitted unless accompanied by parent or adult guardian; iX.i— persons under 17 not admitted.
R«Tiewa assignad **N" page numbers will be found in the Notional (front) aection o! BOXOFFICE.
H Very Good; + Good; ± Fair; -
I^EVIEW DIGEST
AND ALPHABETICAL INDEX

REVIEW DIGEST
AND ALPHABETICAL INDEX ++ Very Good; ^ Good; ± Foir; - Poor; = Very Poor.
5085 4^lce Castles (113) D Col 1- S-79 PG
5091 If It Fits (60)
"i": Marshall/Erdcr 2- 5-79
5091 In Praise of Older Women
'108) A«co 2- 5-79 E
5094 Quintet (117) F-D
5090 Innocent, The
+

o
Ji
I

•I'M {S 1,
i
111
III
1^
ml
an
m
ijii
111!
iM
m

. . Sex
Mar
ALLIED ARTISTS
Stuntrock
Grant Pasc Moniqu
Margaret Gerard
MISCELLANEOUS
HOLLYWOOD INT'L
Come Under My Spell
Date
(84) Sex D.. Dec 78
Lusty Princess (S2) ..Sex C. Jan 79
The Ne« Erotic Adventures of
Casanova Part 2 ..Sex D.-feb79
.
m Always Ready 0. 79
.
QUARTET FILMS
Wifemistress (101) ..
Marcello Mastroiaruil.
AntonclU
Rel,
Date
D. .Jan 79
ANALYSIS FILM RELEASING
ATLANTIC RELEASING
Max Havelaar (165) ..Hi-C
La Jument Vaoeur
Picnic at Hanging Rock
(110) Sus-C
BACKSTREET-BEEHIVE-
HOLLYWOOD INT'L
Lust Flight 200O
(78) Sex C-t
Vlrkl Cllrk. Pat Mannine
FRED BAKER FILMS, LTD.
Just Crazy About Horses
(93) Doc.Di
The Black Goddess Jan 79
INDEPENDENT ARTISTS
When the Screaming Stops
.
(94) Ho*r
The Black Six (90) ..Ac-D.
Viiices: .lohn BeliLshi.
WeissmuUer jr.
he Night, the Prowler
(90)
Kerry W
Ruth Cracknel
Men Forever (90) ..CM ay 79
INT'L PICTURE SHOW
The Billion Dollar Hobo
(96)
Land of
No Return
Mel Torme, Willi;
Where Time Began
(90)
.SF.. Sept 78
ROCHELLE FILMS, INC
Drive-ln Massacre
D. .June 78
(88) .......
Ada
(85) CB Hustlers C..June7S
Tiffany Jones. John Aldertnan
iona (82) C-D..July78
Steele.
Fiona Itichmond, Anthony
Victor Splnettl , . „
Thirsty Dead (96) Sept 78
Rock Fever (98) ..Apr 79
Wade Nichols, Jeanle Sanders
Ir. Jeckyll's Dungeon of Dcath^
^^
(91)
Saint
SANRIO FILM DISTRIBUTION
The Great Balloon Adventure
(89) C-Ad..Feb79
Katharine Hepburn
The Glacier Fox
(90)
.Feb 79
Winds of Change
(87)
Nutcracker (100)
BEEHIVE PRODUCTIONS
Carnal's Cuties
(76) Sex C. Apr 79
Pat Manning. Janet Sands,
Frisco King. \Yilllani Margold
Curves Ahead!
(78)
Sex C. .June 79
The Lady Wants
Sex C July 79
CAPRICAN THREE, INC
Vampire Hookers
(83) Sex C-
Jnhn Carradlne. linice Pi
Sex C. Oct 79
Kenneth More ^ ,,. .
They Went That-a-Way and Thata-Way
(100) C. Oct 78
Tim Conway. Chuck McCann
The Magic of Lassie
(100) DW..0ct78
James Stewart. Mickey Rooney.
Pernell Roberts, Stephanl "' Zlmballst
JAGUAR-BEEHIVE
Disco Dolls in Hot Skir
(95) Se
Serena. Leslie Bovee
KEY INT'L FILM
Sweet Creek County War
(98) ,--;,TS
lilrbard F^'an, Albert Salmi
Three Way Weekend
(85) .^Sex C.
Don Illego. Jody Olhava
Bar Maid
My Swedish Cousins
Lip Service
Love Thy Neighbor .
Pleasure Cruise . .
Girls Prison
The Pro Shop
Wall Street Walker .
Turned-On Girl ...
Sweet Taste of Joy
Secretaries Spread
Sex Freedom in
Marriage
Sex
CARIBBEAN FILMS WEST
Made
Up the Chastity Belt C
Our Miss Fred C.
So Sad Ahout Gloria . ..Ac-Sus.
Teenage Pony Girls Sex.
Moonshine Girls Sex.
Gail Palmer's Hot Summer in the
City
Sex.
Carol Connors. Georclna RpplOn
Gall Palmer's Candy Goes to
Hollywood Sex C. Dec
Carol Connors. I'lhn l.'-slle
CINEMA 5
Viva Itallal (87) C July 78
Vlttorlo Ca^wman. Topnazzl
Ugn
COUGAR RELEASING, LTD.
loe Panther (93) .... Ad. Sept 78
Prlan Keilh. Ulrardo Monlalban
Legend of Sea Wolf
(90) Ad..Sept78
Chuck Connnr!. Barbara Rach
Astral Factor (93) . . . Sus. Nov 78
Bike Sommcr, Robert Foxwnrlh
Poopsie (95) C,.Dk78
Rrrfihla l/oren. Marcello MMtn.lannl
FIRST ARTISTS RELEASING
Sterie (102) B-D..Seot78
(Jlenda Jackson. Mona Wa-shboii
FIRST INT'L PICTURES
Dracula Sucks
(108) Sex-Ho-C-D..Fcb 79
Jamie Glllls, Annette Haven

Opinions on Current Productions ^EATUkE REVIEWS
od here are in color, unless otherwifie specilied as black and white (bdw). For story synopsis on each picture,
seo reverse side.
„ Romantic
A PERFECT COUPLE PG co.edy-^Dr.,.
20th Century-Fox 107 Minutes Rel. Apr. '79
1
The coui-se of true love never runs smoothly, of coui'se, 1
especially in the movies. When you make a comedy about
a plain "Marty"-Uke couple, who seem to be mismatched
from the very beginning, there are ample opportunities
for complications. Producer-director Robert Altman and
his co-scripter Allan NichoUs have taken some ordinary
incidents and given them a modern twist, added generous
portions of rock and classical music (even creating a new
gi-oup for the former) and come up with a most appealing
film. Marta Heflin appears to be out of her element
as an inhibited young woman who is one of the singers,
the others being rather far out. As her would-be sweetheart,
Paul Dooley has an easier task of creating a member
of a large Greek family under the thumb of its
patriarch. Blending of the two cultm-es forms a nice balance
thi-oughout. The Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra
is seen mider the direction of Tom Pierson. NichoUs
has a small role as a computer date. Standout work is
contributed by most of the cast. Language, situations and
a brief nude shot account for the PG rating. The Lion's
Gate film is in Lion's Gate 8-Track Sound and DeLuxe
Color, with Panavision lenses. Could be a sleeper.—John
Cocchi.
Paul Dooley, Marta HefUn, Ted Neeley, Titos Vandis,
Belita Moreno. Henry Gibson, Heather MacRae.
c.
}Y°

. . It's
FEATURE REVIEWS Story Synopsis; Exploitips; Adiines for Newspapers and Programs
THE STORY: "Buck Rogers in the 25th Century" (Univ)
In 1987. NASA space pilot captain Gil Gerard is frozen
into a state of suspended animation by a sliower of
meteorites. He awakens 504 years later aboard the flagship
of the Di-aconian Dynasty, which is controlled by
king Joseph Wiseman. Unaware of Earth's fate, Gerard
is questioned by princess Pamela Hensley and evil aide
Henry Silva. On Earth, Gerard discovers that a holocaust
ended civilization as he knew it and a new generation
lives in a Federal Dii-ectorate, near what was once
Chicago. Colonel Erin Gray, commander of the city's
defenses, doesn't like Gerard, but he is befriended by
scientist Tim O'Connor, di-one Felix Silla and a computer,
Theo (voices of Mel Blanc for the latter two).
Although he's thought to be a spy, Gerard attempts to
convince Earth that the Draconian peace mission is a
prelude to an invasion of the planet. At a ball, he teaches
Hensley to do a 20th Century boogie. Hensley falls under
Gerard's spell and even Gray melts. Gerard sabotages
the Draconian space fleet and saves Earth, winning
Gray's love as well. Silva and Hensley escape.
EXPLOITIPS:
The camp approach would be best for adults. For kids,
just let them know when it's playing.
CATCHLINES:
The Original Space Man. Buck Rogers Swings Back
to Earth and Lays It on the 25th Century.
THE STORY: "Firepower" (Associated Fitai)
Research chemist Richard Roberts is blown to bits,
prompting brother Paul Garcia to take revenge on the
Mafia don he believes responsible. Roberts' beautiful
widow Sophia Loren thinks wealthy and powerful George
Touliatos is guilty. The govermnent wants the latter for
tax evasion and other crimes and persuades racketeer Eli
Wallach to help in retm-n for immunity from prosecution.
Wallach contacts bounty hunter-florist James Cobm-n
to do the job, he in turn enlisting the aid of bank
robber O. J. Simpson. On Antigua, Cobm-n makes contact
with Loren, an old flame, who has accepted an offer of
protection from Touliatos. Loren, however, is playing
along with secm-ity chief George Grizzard, who allows
'
Touliatos to be caught by Cobui-n. Simpson is killed m
the process. When Touliatos is assassinated, Cobm-n realizes
that someone else is really the millionaii-e—doctor
Anthony Fi-anciosa. He manages to snare Franciosa with
the help of the latter's mistress, Loren. Latter, Loren
meets yet another rich man, Victor Mature, charming
him with her respect and love of wealth.
EXPLOITIPS:
Forget the plot. It's the action, stars and scenery which
will sell. Tie-ins with stores for a simulated fireworks
display could help.
CATCHLINES:
The Caribbean Is the Setting for a Star-Studded
Thriller . Firepower—Starpower—Actionpower
Adventmepower—Lovepower.
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THE STORY: "A Perfect Couple" (20th-Fox)
Through a computer dating service, Paul Dooley and
Marta Heflin get together. Their common interest is music:
she's a singer with Ted Neeley's rock outfit, Keepin'
em Off the Streets, and he's from a large Greek family
which appreciates the classics. His sister Belita Moreno
is a cellist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.
Dooley's father Titos Vandis runs the family with a
strict hand, while Heflin lives in a freewheeling atmosphere
in a converted loft with the group. Singers Heather
MacRae and Tomi-Lee Bradley are lesbians and Steven
Sharp is gay. although he has impregnated Bradley.
Neeley rules them in a non-restrictive way. Complications
drive the couple apart. Heflin has a date with Allan
Nicholls but Dooley breaks it up and gets hurt in the
process. Dooley's family discovers him in bed with Heflin
and they again break up. After a strange encomiter with
kinky Ann Ryerson, Dooley joins Heflin's gi'oup on tom\
After retui'ning home, he learns that Moreno—who had
wanted to move in with pianist Mona Golabek—has died.
Disowned, Dooley finally gets back with Heflin as the
Philhai-monic and Streets perform in concert.
EXPLOITIPS:
Tie in with the Capitol Records albiun.
CATCHLLNES:
What Do You Do When Everything Between the Two
of You Seems Wrong Fall in Love.
THE STORY: "Phantasm" (Avco)
In the cemetery adjacent to Morningside Mortuary in
Oregon. Bill Cone is making love to lavender-clad Kathy
Lester when she stabs him to death. She is actually the
alter ego of Angus Scrimni, a tall and sinister-looking
demon who occupies the premises. Cone's brother Bill
Thornbm'y attends the funeral with ice cream man Reggie
Bannister. Another brother, Michael Baldwin, watching
nearby, observes Scrimm's incredible strength.
Strange events occur and Baldwin is pursued by dwarf
demons when he investigates the mortuary and encounters
caretaker Ken Jones, into whose skull a silver
sphere imbeds itself to drain out his blood. Cone is
reincarnated but dies again during a chase. Thornbury
is almost stabbed to death by Lester before he, too, penetrates
the secrets of the mortuary. The brothers and
Bannister discover another dimension, in which the
dwarves are held as slaves. Using weapons and cunning,
the brothers Im'e Scrimm to a deep shaft which is sealed
up with the demon in it. Later, Baldwin is told by Bannister
that Thornbm-y died in an auto accident and what
he encountered was a dream. But Scrinmi has Baldwin
attacked.
EXPLOITIPS:
Mention the Special Jury Prize won at the 7th Festival
Internationale D'Avoriaz-Du Film Pantastique in France.
CATCHLINES:
If This One Doesn't Scare You, You're Already Dead.
THE STORY: 'Robin" (Starbeam)
Maryland lawyer Lee Dorsey tells of his affair with
allm'ing Monica Tidwell, a nude model he happens upon
in Bob Donatelli's art class. Dorsey is enjoying his freedom,
since his wife is away caring for her ill mother.
Unknown to him, Tidwell is running from pimp Ronald
Hibbard, who mistreats the girls he has working for him.
The affair starts casually, but soon Dorsey and Tidwell
are making love. She has to put off student Louis Senesi,
who makes a face mask of her and keeps in his room a
dummy in her image. Dorsey plans to desert his wife and
childi-en and take off with Tidwell. She indicates that
this might be a good idea, mi til Hibbard shows up to
demand her return to his table of girls. In departing,
she winds up dead in a cemetery. A flashback reveals
that her death was caused by crazed antique dealer J.
Wesley Clark. Dorsey, saddened over her death but relieved
of the responsibility of a new life, tm'ns down an
invitation from bar waitress Janney Lee.
EXPLOITIPS:
Mention the original music while playing up the new
star angle.
CATCHLINES:
A Love Story With a Gothic Ending.
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: April I

6750
'
Gh,
lATES- 50c per word, minimum S5.0O CASH WITH COPY. Four conseculiv insertions for price of three.
additional to cover cost of
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Vhen
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replies. Display Classified, $38.00 per Column Inch
preceding publication dale. Send copyy an-' and — answers
CLOSING DATE:
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to Box Numbers to
H „ y i-^.. „_ ,.,24 NOTE: be
Bulky
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HELP WANTED
EXPERIENCED MANAGEH/OPEHATOR BURLAP WALL COVERING DRAPES.
elded by Luxury Theatres, Portland, $1.10 per yd.. Home retardant. Quantity
Oregon. Salary commensurate with ex- discounts. Nurse & Co.. Millbury Rd., Oxlord,
Mass. 01540. Tel (617) 832-4295.
.Tience No limit to opportunity ior admcement.
Send resume and references
, Luxury Theatres, 919 S.W. Taylor 35/70 CENTURY 11 heads, soundheads,
tc. Altec A-4 and A-7 speakers. TECO,
ireet, Portland, Oregon 97205.
ox 706, Matthews, NC. (704) 847-4455.
"StTN: MGRS. & ASSTS. in New England,
edslone's Showcase Cinemas in Worcesr
& W. Springield need management vice, reasonable rates. Your old ticket
TICKET MACHINES repaired. Fast ser-
^ho want to grow to join the nation's — 1 machine worth money. We trade, buy and
ircuil' Top salary— company-paid penions—major
medical & dental—talk to about our rebuilts. Save money. J.E.D
sell ticket machines. Try us first. Ask
jhn Lowe, (413) 733-5134
Service Co., 10 Woodside Dr., Grafton,
NEED MORE MONEY Why n
Massachusetts. (517) 839-4058.
ilents and know-how to sell screen ads SPECIALS: Slero surround sound
1 vour local banker, auto ctealer and $4696.00; New Westrex projector and
usiness friends $200.00 minimum comiission
paid per sale. We'll show you
dhead; $3245.00; Plotter Film Trans-
$2995.00; Xenon Lamp console, from
ow and handle all details (ad maieup. $2300.00. Other Fantastic bargains. Buy or
Im production, billing, etc.). Write; Theae
Time Clock, P. O, Box 597, Sarasota,
lease. RANGER THEATRE SUPPLY, 1801
North 69th Streot, Scoltsdale, Az. 85257.
33578. 30 years In the business.
la. J.JJ/0. ju jc-ito .ii L..g ^.^.^...www.
(602) 945-0503.
SERVICE ENGINEER with Altec or RCA
xperience needed lor the Philadelphia RADIO SOUND ior DRIVE-IN THEATRES
nd surrounding areas. Send resume to ncludes transmitter and backup unit,
$1,995.00. Available from manufacturer.
oxolfice, 4244.
Call for further information. In Florida.
EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES available
(813) 748-1717; out ol stcte, (800) 237-9457
ir assistants and manager-trainees. North
arolina. South Carolina and Georgia. ONE ONLY new 6500 watt X-Cel
me of nation's leading theatre circuits. xenon bulb with warranty. 1/2 pric
ompetiUve salaries offered, excellent $990 00. Call (704) 933-3153
inge benelits. Written resumes only. Dlision
Office, General Cinema Theatres, ENTIRE CONTENTS of former Jerry Lew-
;.
•167 Cobb Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30339. Curtains, chairs. Simplex booth, conession.
$30K. Negotiable. (203) 423-1274.
A FEW GOOD theatre managers needi:
to meet demands of rapid expansion. SIMPLEX SUPERS and E7's, rebuilt, $750;
lUst have heavy experience in advertisig
and promotion. Excellent concession relco and Cinemecconica 35/70 machines,
RCA and Simplex soundheads, $800; No-
nd miscellaneous income commissions. Xenons, carbons, lamphouses, lenses,
)in a progressive company. Send resume bases, parts you won't find elsewhere.
.: Kurt Noack, Operations Manager, Cinelex
Corporation, P. O. Box 1207, Marshall, Equipment Co., 6750 N.E. 4th Ct., Miami,
One year warranty. International Cinema
exas 75670.
FL 33138 (305) 756-0699.
35MM PORTABLE SALE — Norelco FP3,
$1,995; DeVry XD, $1,695; Holmes type 8,
$995; Tokiwa T-60, $2,150. All in stock now
:gh volume unit in Suburban Detroi'
riion. Advancement opportunity, e>
nt salary benelits. in and Apply o
ence to: Cloy Reed, General Cin
leatres, 29584 W. Seven Mile Rd.,
onia, Mich. 48152. (313) 476-8814.
quel opportunity employer.
POSITIONS WANTED
MISCELLANEOUS
CASH for one-sheets, posters, lobby card
•ts, stills, pressbooks, trade magazines,
jming attraction slides, annuals, trailers,
c, etc. (any quantity—older the better!)
artinez, 7057 Lexington Ave., Los An-
!l6s, CA 90038.
CASH PAID for one sheets, 22c each
bbies, 5c per set; stills, 7c each. Poster
"
udio of Nyack, Box 838, I Terrace D
facie, NY 10960. (914) 358-5406.
Calif 91609, Pho
WANT TO BUY 1-sheets, bulk lots only
—520,00, 100—$45. Send C.O.D. io:
5ller, 752 Murray, Elgin, IL 60120. Nc
SERVICES
INDOOR THEATRE MUSIC programming
today's
^ audiences, today's movies and
y's theatres. C & C Music Service,
BOOKS
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Manual. $10.50 prepaid, check or
-der. Wesley Trout, Box
Editor.
m

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