Boxoffice-January.24.1948

yilmt Ixjdu/ui
D of J Files Its Brief:
DIVORCEMENT, NO BIDDING,
BAN ON
CROSS-LICENSING
IS ASKED BY GOVERNMENT
Page 8
COVER STORY: 'Everybody's Going
Western, Including the Big Stars'
>

(com
MAY WE LET DOWN
OUR HAIR AND TALK
FRANKLY!
M-G-M has more current
pictures in the box-office
headlines than any other
company. For instance:
GREEN DOLPHIN
w I KEE I spectacular audience
hit is hold-over champ.
(Lana Turner, Van Heflin, Donna Reed, Richard Hart)

CASS TIMBERLANE
positively sensational in all early dates.
For instance, it's
in
Tulsa!
M-G-M's 5-year high
I
i
HIGH WALL
(Spencer Tracy, Lana Turner, Zachary Scott)
GOOD NEWS
spreads Technicolor joy across the
nation.
is hair-raising! Audiences
thrilled
at Capitol, N. Y. World
Premiere and all first bookings.
(Robert Taylor, Audrey Totter, Herbert Marshall)
Good news everywhere!
(June Allyson, Peter Lawford)
KILLER McCOY
s a socko entertainment delighting
ict
the folks from coast to
coast.
(Mickey Rooney, Brian Donlevy, Ann Blyth)
lei
ly
Yes, the bald facts are that with these fine current
entertainments and a terrific line-up of Big Ones
.coming, here's the new industry slogan
[
Hanft
M^G M GREAT
IN
m
Afljaail?!?^!^ o onnno „ O.Q^S«S^a^A5.^£ ^^.* 2R&S^.9^^

NEW GOLD STRIKE IN CALIFORNIA! BJ

j^flBONANZA 3THEATRE WORLD PREMIERE UNDER WAY IN LOS ANGELES NOW!

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ATLANTA-163 Walton, N. W., P. H. Savin.
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ST. LOUIS-5149 Rosa, David Barrett, FL-3727
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IN
CANADA
CALGARY—The Albertan, Wm. Campbell.
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Walnut 5519.
ST. lOHN— 115 Prince Edward St., Wm. J. McNulty.
TORONTO—242 Milwood, Milton Galbraith.
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Member Audit Bureau op Circulations
OXOFFICE
STATE OF DOUBT
fj ' I OW that the government, in its bifl
on the antitrust case, has set forth its views, opposition to >m
bidding feature of the New York statutory court's decreej
unanimous. Not only the plaintiff and the defendants jl
those "sideline," yet affected groups of exhibitor intere^
have cited the unworkability of competitive bidding tand tit
its requirement would defeat the very purpose it was intenc d
to
serve.
It was to be expected that the Department of Justice wo d
come out strongly in favor of divorcement of exhibition fir.
distribution. Support of this measure is given by all but i
exhibition group. In addition the Society of Independent I
lion Picture Producers has declared for such action.
In several exhibition quarters odds have been offe c
that the supreme court will rule against the defendants, the
by creating the free and open competition which the govci
ment declares will result. But, with the 1940 consent dec e
and abolition of block booking having "gone wrong," th e
is room for some doubt. Those aligned with this view hte
made clear their feeling that competition from independent r-
cuits that will acquire, or be formed to acquire, affiliated i
terests will be more severe than that which now exists.
It will be some weeks after the February 9 hearing tn
the supreme court decision will be handed down. Some !
pect it to come as early as May or June. In any event e
edict may be expected to be effective with the fall seasi
though it may apply retroactively to some parts of the stcitory
court's decree.
Even though little change from this decree should be e
result of the supreme court's ruling, the modus operandi)!
the motion picture business will be of a different order tic
in the past. The question is: how far different will it be? A'i
too, will it actually result in benefit to the "oppressed" mnbers
of the industry? We express these doubts because j'
viously-rend^ed supreme court decisions applying to mol r
picture and other industry cases have not provided the re;
sought. There seems always to be a loophole in any lei
decision thus merely creating new violations rather tl:
stopping the old ones.
Legal decisions in themselves are worthless without p
five means for their enforcement. And there is no stron'-
means than a sincere willingness on the part of plaintiff

1 'reasury
'
i
The
'
Mr.
Pfdae^eaU
I ime for a Showdown
The British tax situation seems to be getting worse instead
f better. Harold Wilson, president of the British Board of
rade, tossed some highly-charged shafts at the American moon
picture industry, in his address before Parliament at
lidweek, in which there was contained the threat that more
irastic measures were yet to be taken by the British.
Wilson plumped for the "barter" deal which recently
as been advocated in other quarters. And, while he bettled
the proffers made by representatives of the American
udustry, he must be aware that the industry has been fully
ognizant of Britain's problem and has endeavored to be thorlUghly
helpful. In fact, as was pointed out in this department
/hen the confiscatory tax was first announced by Britain, it
ras through the splendid support given by leaders of the
American industry to which belongs considerable credit for
ha\ three-and-three-quarter billion dollar loan which the U.S.
made to England.
And now the industry, turning the other cheek, as it were,
gain has extended a helping hand by backing the Marshall
4an, which in large measure is designed to give England
,iuch-needed economic relief. England is to get the lion's
hare of the six-odd billion dollars to be appropriated for
luropean relief.
British memory seems to be short, when its officials
let forth that the government "still is prepared to make reaonable
arrangements to permit extra earnings to be taken
«ut of the country equal to the British film earnings in the
Jnited States." Apparently they have forgotten that when J.
Arthur Rank was over here last summer he was assured playhg
time in U.S. theatres which he said would earn approxioately
$12,000,000 for British films. There has been no action,
iven in retaliation for the British tax impost, to renege on the
inderstondings reached with Mr. Rank. If British pictures are
o make the progress desired for them by Britain and by the
tritish industry, it will best be made on the basis of merit.
The backlog of new American pictures available to British
ixhibitors when the 75 per cent tax measure went into effect
ast August, is near the point of exhaustion. The supply of
eissues also has been drained perilously close to its limit. The
Jrifish industry needs American product and the American
Industry needs the British market. While Mr. Wilson has accused
the American industry of making a "squeeze" play
through its ban of American film imports, the shoe actually is
on the other foot.
Well, it's time for a showdown. So let's see the cards, face
'ip on the table, and have done with charges and counter-
:harges of unfair play.
Film Dividends for 1947
9 Per Cent Over '46
Department of Commerce reports publicly
reported dividend payments totaled $50,718,-
000 during the year just ended, compared to
$46,714,000 in preceding year.
*
CEA May Take Tax Issue
To Public Via Screens
Cinematograpli Exhibitors Ass'n in Britain
is ready to propagandize its fight for revision
of the 75 per cent film levy to the British
populace.
MOD Audience Collections
Are Set in 5.100 Theatres
Many exhibitors participating during the
week of January 24-30; affiliates are cooperating
on a local basis; compares with 6,000
theatres allowing collections last year.
Trial Dates for 10 Cited
In Red Probe Postponed
John Howard Lawson leads list of Hollywood
personalities with hearing set for February
24; others during February, March and
April; defense counsel has until January 30
to file motions.
Ted Gamble Denies Seeking
Control of Butterfield Chain
Says there is no basis to report that he and
Henry Morgenthau jr.
have been negotiating
to buy Michigan circuit, upon his return from
a coast visit.
Hal Roach Is Negotiating
Release Through MGM
Deal under way for MGM to distribute a
series of comedy features, both in color and
black and white, to be made independently
by Roach at his Culver City Studios.
*
Robert Mochrie Heads MPAA
Sales Managers Committee
Vice-president in charge of distribution for
RKO succeeds Tom Connors for one-year
term; group plans participation in Motion
Picture Foundation and American Brotherhood
week.
Petrillo Hints at Peace
In Ban of Recordings
His attorney tells house committee music
czar may call off "strike" if granted restoration
of union's welfare fund gained through
record royalties.
Ralph Cramblet to Head
UA's Midwest District
Former Minneapolis branch manager to
cover Chicago. Indianapolis, Milwaukee,
Kansas City, Omaha and St. Louis; Edward
StoUer succeeds Cramblet in Minneapolis.

"
The Department of Justice Asks:
DIVORCEMENT. NO BIDDING.
A BAN ON CROSS-LICENSING
Require Theatre-Owning
Majors to Sell Out to
Partners, Brief Says
By WALTER WALDMAN
NEW YORK—Divorcement of the Big
Five theatre holdings is the only way to
bring competition into domestic exhibition,
distribution and production. This is the
crux of the argument presented by the
Department of Justice in its appeal brief
on the antitrust decree. The government
maintains that competition will not be
stimulated by competitive bidding so long
as the majors hold their theatres. It says
competitive bidding is unenforceable and
favors affiliated theatres.
The government also asserts that the decree
should have banned cross-licensing
among Big Five theatres for ten years beginning
Jan. 1, 1947.
Another point made by the government is
that the decree should have placed an absolute
ban on the acquisition of new theacres
by the five majors. The government
asks that in situations where the affiliates
and independents are partners, the affiliates
should be ordered to sell out.
As it now stands the antitrust decree is
"inadequate." according to the Department
of Justice.
Here are some highlights of the 136-page
brief prepared for the supreme court by
Department of Justice attorneys:
ON DIVORCEMENT
The government contends that the eight
defendants conspired to restrict competition
through clearance agreements, price fixing,
pools and fixed runs. It also holds that restriction
of competition was made possible
by the control of first run theatres by the
Bib Five, and that these companies control
70 per cent of all first runs in 92 cities
having a population of 100,000 or over.
The district court could have prevented
future restrictions of trade by ordering divorcement,
the government maintains, declaring
there is legal precedent for divorcement.
The Lehigh Valley railroad, it was
pointed out, was forced to get rid of coal
mines, and Swift & Co. was forced to get
out of the retail meat marketing and grocery
business.
The brief then states:
"So long as the five majors retain their
theatres, and the eight distributor defendants
are allowed to enter into license agreements
with them, the defendants can continue
to use these noncompetitive theatre
outlets to bring about a uniformity of restrictive
provisions in their film licenses."
Divorcement, therefore, the government
contends, is the only way to eliminate these
restrictive provisions and restore competition,
saying:
"The required divorcement can, in part, be
accomplished by the compulsory sale to independents
of the major defendants' interest
in those theatres owned jointly with independents."
ON JOINT OWNERSHIP
The government says these joint interests
were found to be illegal (more than five
but less than 95 per cent interest by the
i
Another Chicago Suit;
For 900Gs This Time
CHICAGO—Two Chicago northwest
side theatres are asking $900,000 in
treble damages against 16 major motion
picture producing and distributing firms
in suits filed in U.S. district court here.
Both charged they were damaged by
booking and pricing practices outlawed
recently by the supreme court in a legal
action brought by the Jackson Park
Theatre.
The new suits were filed for Saul
Meltzer, owner of the Rivoli and Rockne
theatres. Meltzer asks $600,000 in the
Rivoli case and $300,000 in that involving
the Rockne. Meltzer charged the defendant
companies have precedence to films
in theatres owned or controlled by them
and allowed neighborhood houses to exhibit
outstanding motion pictures only
after lengthy profitable Loop runs.
New York court. The court, however, erred,
the government says, in permitting the defendants
to buy out their independent partners.
This, the brief states, will permit the
defendants to complete the process of eliminating
independent operators from the exhibition
field and allow the majors to increase
their power.
The government also maintains that the
optional natm-e of this provision will produce
a deadlock where neither party wants
to sell out, leaving tire outcome to litigation.
These problems, therefore, can be solved
by forcing the majors to sell out, the brief
says.
ON CROSS-LICENSING
In asking for this ban the government
points out that cross-licensing has the same
competitive effect as pooling, which has been
declared illegal by the decree.
A ban will help open the film market to
independent exhibitors and distributors, it
is contended, and may bring these results:
(1) It might force some of tire Big Five to
sell those of its theatres it does not wish to
operate with its own product, product of
the Little Three or independents; and (2i In
towns where one defendant owns all the
theatres, the ban might force the company
to sell one of its houses to an independent,
or encourage an independent to build a new
theatre.
The ban on cross-licensing would be a
temporary measure to be in effect for ten
years. "It must be supplemented by complete
divorcement to secm-e effective, permanent
relief from trade restrictions and
abuses," the government adds.
ON COMPETITIVE BIDDING
The government says it never sought the
kind of industry regulation set up by the
court in its provisions for competitive bidding.
The court is told that competitive
bidding is opposed by the very members of
the industry it was .supposed to benefit
independent exhibitors and producers.
It is called wholly inadequate because "it
can be no more than an empty gesture in
an industry which must be noncompetitive
while distributors own theatres."
The government also declares that the
bidding provision is unenforceable because
the defendants have considerable room for
arbitrary exercise of discretion in determining
the highest bidder. It also is pointed
out that disputes could only be settled in
the southern district court of New York by
way of contempt proceedings filed by the
Department of Justice, and that the number
of cases would overload both the court
and the Department of Justice.
Although the court recommended the voluntary
organization of an arbitration system
to handle disputes, the government holds
little hope for the establishment of such
system. The brief points out that Universal,
United Artists and Columbia failed to go
along with arbitration set up by the consent 'A
decree of 1940. The government also says
|
it is pessimistic about settling disputes by
consent.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS
As a finale, the government states: 1
dependents are now in such a weakened bid- d
ding position due in large part to the defendants'
long continued unlawful conduct,
that they cannot successfully compete with i
the major defendants for films."
The government contends that there is
no economic justification for the ownership
of theatres by producer-distributors: that
the distributor does not need its own theatres
to sell its pictures, and that patrons
are attracted by stars, stories, directors and
national advertising.
The quality of the theatre is important,
the government admits, but there is no reason
why the independents cannot operate
as good theatres as the affiliated distributors.
On this point the government takes
issue with the New York com-t that the interest
of the public would suffer by divorcement
because theatres might fall into the
hands of inexperienced operators. This is
not necessarily so, the brief says.
The government assumes the opposite point
of view, namely, that the public would suffer
by the continued ownership of theatres by
distributors.
ATA Presents Arguments
Against Bidding
WASHINGTON — The American Theatres
Ass'n, now merged into TOA, which has retained
corporate existence in order to file
an intervention plea in the antitrust cnse.
submitted its brief to the supreme court 'h's
week.
The brief condemned competitive bidding
and asks for permission to intervene on the
gromids that "the mterests of exhibitois has
not been adequately represented in the case
The ATA has been granted 45 minutes ii.
which to argue orally before the court. The
brief also was filed in behalf of the Sou'h^rr
California Theatre Owners Ass'n and "a number
of other exhibitors of motion pictures."
The brief lis'ed four major reasons why
ATA believed the decree would fail to accomplish
its stated purposes:
1. It compels the buyers in the market for
films to submit to market regulations formulated
by the court and enforced by the concerted
action of sellers who control the major
part of the supply.
2. It takes away from exhibitors their former
right to enjoin such concerted action
on the part of the defendants.
3. It takes away from exhibirors thenformer
rights to recover damages under the
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, IS

I
:
January
antitrust laws on a showing that the operation
of the plan has caused them injury.
4. It authorizes and compels major distributors
to break off established relationships
with independents which have no Lamt
lof illegality whatsoever.
The brief points out that while the concept
!of competitive bidding is not new, it has
always been used a? a device to protest the
IC recipient of the bids against the bidder;
whereas in this case "the proposal is the first
iwhich has come to our knowledge which attempts
to protect a weaker party by requicin^'
the weak to bid against the weak for the
favor of the strong.'
Court Holds Exhibitor
Cannot Intervene
NEW YORK—Only parties to the antitrust
decree can ask the U.S. district court here to
issue contempt orders for violations of the
decree, according to a ruling made January
civil contempt actions against six distributors
20 bv Judge John Bright.
circuits 15 of and and their of-
Judge Bright, one of the three U.S. judges
who wrote the decree, upheld the contention ficials for allegedly violating provisions of
of 20th-Fox that the New Salinas Theatre
Corp. of California was not qualified to ask
the Chicago clearance decree, which went
weeks into effect six ago.
for a contempt citation against 20th-Fox and
National Theatres. New Salinas charged last The brief cites 15 instances of alleged
August that these companies violated the violations of the injunctive measure, and
decree by opening a theatre in Salinas, Calif., contends that the defendants have devised
the decree ban against expansion went
a variety of schemes with which to
after into effect. They also had started excavation
work for another theatre in nearby Watsonevade
the spirit and letter of the decree.
\ille. New Salinas Theatre Corp. operates the COMPLAINTS ARE LISTED
Vogue, Salinas.
Among the complaints are these;
The judge said it was unnecessai-y to pass
on the questions of alleged violations in view
1. A zoning system has been established
of the fact that New Salinas Theatre Corp.
did not have the right to file the charges
which forces the Jackson Park Theatre to bid
against the buying power of affiliated circuits.
and ask for the contempt citation. He explained
that the corporation was not a party The brief points out that 20th-Fox, together
with RKO and Loew's, Inc., have sectioned
to the decree and has never petitioned to
uitervene in the case.
the Chicago area into zones, and that
Judge Bright referred to section VIII of 20rh-Fox has advised the Jackson Park Thea-
the decree which states; that any of the
parties to the judgment and no others can
.ipply to the court at any time for such orders
Ml- direction "as may be necessary for carrying
out. modifying, enforcing compliance with,
i>r punishing violations of the decree."
iMundt Bill Is Expected
To Get Truman Okay
WASHINGTON—The White House received
Mundt bill this week amid every indicajn
of satisfaction from the executive manjSion
and every expectation President Truman
would sign it into law speedily. Also known
as the Voice of America bill, the legislation
authorizes a permanent American information
-pvvice, but the size of the program is to de-
'nd upon annual appropriations from Confess.
For a starter, Rep. Karl Mundt
R.. S. D.) author of the bill suggested the
-ate department request $50,000,000.
Jackson Park Petitions
For Contempt Citation
BULLETIN
Chicago—Hearing on the Jackson Park
Theatre petition, scheduled, in court
Thursday, was continued until February
20 to give defendants time to file written
opinions and subpoena witnesses.
CHICAGO—The Jackson Park case was
back in court again this week. Owners of
the south side theatre filed a petition in
U.S. district court asking criminal and
tre that it can buy pictures only by bidding
against Balaban & Katz and Warner theatres
for run and clearance in Zone 11, "to
which plaintiffs have arbitrarily been assigned."
This method of release, it was contended,
makes it impossible for the theatre
to buy first run pictures at a fair and reasonable
rental, and thereby violates that section
of the decree which enjoins defendants
from devising any uniform system of release
and clearance to accomplish any of the acts
enjoined in the decree.
Big Five to Maintain
Arbitration System
NEW YORK—The 31 motion picture arbitration
boards and the film appeal board
jf the American Arbitration Ass'n will continue
operating on a month-to-month ap-
2. Product is being denied that Jackson
Park Theatre by 20th-Fox and Paramount.
propriation of $25,000 until the supreme
The plaintiffs informed the court that
court decision in the antitrust appeal.
The five theatre-owning defendants have
when an attempt was made to obtain "Daisy
Kenyon." 20th-Fox film, the Jackson Park
been voluntarily supporting the film arbination
system since last spring, when the
Theatre was informed it could buy it in accordance
with the zoning plan, and on 14
New York statutory com't orier throwing
days clearance; and that the same requirements
Milt the arbitration system set up under the
was by the supreme
would be in effect for "Captain From
1940 consent decree stayed Castile."
court.
Although the New York court eliminated CITE THEIR DIFFICULTIES
the consent decree arbitration system on the Difficulties with Paramount were brought
-rounds that it had no power to order its to the attention of the court. The plaintiffs
said the company refused to license pictures
continuation, it did recommend that the defendants
set up a reasonable arbitration sys- to them except upon "excessive rental, excessive
,tem, possibly using existing arbitration ma-
•chinery.
terms as to guaranty and except upon
clearance of seven days in subsequent runs."
When an effort was made to buy "Where
There's Life" and "Golden Earrings," the
30X0FFICE ;
24, 1948
plaintiffs alleged, they were arbitrarily placed
in a zone which included the Avalon, a Warner
house, and the Tower, a B&K theatre,
were permitted to bid only against these theatres,
"were refused the right to buy against
Balaban & Katz. and were only permitted to
bargain against the combined buying power
of Warner Bros, circuit and the Balaban
& Katz circuit."
This, the plaintiffs held, was "coercing
by the use of chain buying power" to accomplish
some of the practices enjoined
by the court.
3. The defendants are violating provisions
which eliminate "dead or waiting time" between
Loop playdates and neighborhood availability.
This allegation was illustrated by the case
of "Unconquered," for which the Jackson
Park Theatre asked a week's run, starting
December 4. Paramount refused to release
the picture "until some future indefinite
date," and the court was told that, because
the picture already had played a Loop date
of more than two weeks, the decree required
its release for the next succeeding run without
"creating dead or waiting time."
4. The provision limiting Loop runs to two
weeks has been violated.
The brief points out that "Nightmare
Alley," a 20th-Fox production, played the
Statie-Lake Theatre for 20 days after entry
of the decree.
5. Affiliated circuit houses are obtaining
product at lower rentals than the Jackson
Park Theatre.
In maintaining that since the decree has
gone into effect, the plaintiffs have been
able to obtain films only at exces.sive rentals,
the brief charges that theatres owned
by B&K and Warner Bros, have paid Ices
rental than has the Jackson Park Theatre
for the same run of picture. It also is
charged that, in some instances, the Maryland
Theatre (B&Ki has played pictures
as double features which Jackson Park licensed
as single features and that the Maryland
has paid less film rental for two features
than Jackson Park has for one.
SAY DOUBLE FEATURES PLAYED
6. Affiliated theatres are playing double
features in violation of the decree.
The brief cites 13 instances where double
features have been booked into the Tivoli,
Southtown, Tower, Avalon and Capitol theatres,
and maintains that under the decree
the defendants are enjoined from doubling
up on features as a means of preventing the
Jackson Park from obtaining product which
has not heretofore been played by competing
theatres owned or operated by defendants.
7. Loew's, Inc., has boycotted and embargoed
the Chicago exchange territory.
The brief alleges that Loew's, Inc., since
the decree went into effect, has not placed
new issues into release in the Chicago area.
Despite the fact that MGM has in national
release such pictures as "This Time for
Keeps," "Green Dolphin Street." "Killer Mc-
Coy." "Good News." "Tenth Avenue Angel,"
"Cass Timberlane" been withheld from Chicago.
This, the court was told, is in violation
of the section of the decree which enjoins the
defendants from preventing the Jackson Park
"from securing in the course of interstate
trade and commerce any motion picture film
or films suitable for first run exhibition on
the south side of Chicago."
8. Retaliatory action has been threatened
nondefendant distributors if they license first
run films to the Jackson Park Theatre.
The plaintiffs charged that Warner Bros.
Theatres, Inc., notified Eagle Lion that if
pictures produced by that company were sold
to the Jackson Park Theatre, no theatre
operated by Warners would play that product.
It is alleged that, subsequently. Eagle Lion
licensed "Lost Honeymoon" to the Jackson
Park Theatre, and Warners canceled out a
playdate for the film at the Avalon Theatre.
It also is charged that Balaban & Katz
has refused to exhibit in its theatres "certain
pictures which plaintiffs have prevailed
upon a distributor to exhibit in their Jackson
Park Theatre," and that certain pictures
which played the Jackson Park have not been
played in the larger houses owned by the
affiliated circuits.

By
U.S. 'Squeeze on Tax
Charged in Parliament
BULLETIN
Washington—Eric Johnston, answering
Harold Wilson's charges, declared, "Mr.
Wilson is right when he talks about a
'squeeze', but he is in error in saying
who is doing the 'squeezing.' Through
this confiscatory tax, the British government
is squeezing American films out of
Britain because American companies
could operate in Britain only at a heavy
loss. It is misleading to say that the
choice is between food and films for Britain.
Actually the choice is between this
prohibitive tax and a workable alternative.
Britain's expenditure for American films
is a tiny percentage of its total import
cost."
Johnston said nothing can be gained by
a trans-Atlantic controversy, but added,
that he could not permit Wilson's statement
to go unanswered. He suggested
that the sensible way was to sit down and
reach a settlement. The door remains
wide open to work out an alternative, he
said.
By JOHN SULUVAN
London Bureau, Boxoffice
I
LONDON Cable i—Harold Wilson,
president of the board of trade, told parliament
Wednesday i21) that if Hollywood
thinks it can "squeeze" the government
into modifying the 75 per cent tax by continuing
the ban on film shipments, it is
"backing a loser."
In an address moving for a second reading
and passage of the new film quota bill.
Wilson said Hollywood would be the first
to agree that if the choice for Britain is
food or films, dollars must be reserved for
films.
He admitted that the U.S. film shipment
ban would have a considerable effect on boxoffice
earnings and entertainment of British
filmgoers, but said the film shortage has
hardly begun to be felt. He pointed out that
new quota arrangements in the bill before
parliament would aid the British industry to
stand on its own feet if negotiations witli the
U.S. finally broke down. Conservative elements
in parliament support the government
on this.
NO 'REAL UNDERSTANDING'
Wilson charged that proposals received
from the American film industry for a settlement
of the tax problem "do not seem
to be founded on a real imderstanding of the
situation." He declared Hollywood appears
to be using the film shipment ban to create
an artificial film shortage in the hopes that
this will force a revision of the duty.
Wilson said the British government still
is prepared to make reasonable arrangements
to permit extra earnings for foreign films to
be taken out of the country equal to British
film earnings in the U.S. The government
cannot contemplate any scheme providing
for a lower import duty coupled with a
freeze on U.S. film revenue here, he added.
Spyros P. Skouras. president of 20th-Fox,
arrived in London from the U.S. on the same
day that Wilson delivered his talk in parliament.
Skouras has flatly denied that he intends
to discuss a possible tax settlement wi-h
any government official. Wilson told the
house of commons that he has arranged to
meet American producers in London "^o dis-
CU.SS the deadlock.
Export Assn Is Called
To Emergency Session
WASHINGTON—Eric Johnston, president
of the Motion Picture Ass'n of America,
has called an emergency meeting of
company heads, directors of the Motion
Picture Export Ass'n and representatives
of the Society of Independent Motion Picture
Producers for January 27 to discuss
the British tax impasse and the foreign
situation. They will meet in New York.
Payette Allport. MPAA European manager,
and Frank McCarthy, MPAA representative
in France, were to leave by
plane Saturday (24i to attend the meeting.
The day-long meeting will consist of
an MPEA executive committee session
during the day and MPEA dinner and
meeting of the board of directors at
night. MPAA officials declined to give
any further details of the agenda other
than that "a number of other problems"
will be discussed. However, it is believed
that the Mundt bill and the possibility
of recovering foreign funds through govenrment
aid will come up for discussion
In Hollywood, the SIMPP executive
committee, acting as a governing body
pending selection of a successor to Donald
M. Nelson, stated, "There can be no just
or legal solution to the British tax problem
without full consideration of the
rights of independent producers. There
can be no adequate solution unless it
is implemented by the full weight of
the people of the United States through
the State department."
SRO Heads Discuss Policy
On 'The Paradine Case'
NEV/ YORK—National sales policy on
"The Paradine Case," David O. Selznick production,
was discussed at a two-day meeting
of SRO home office executives and
division heads at the Warwick hotel, Thursday
and Friday (22,23). Neil Agnew, president
of SRO, presided.
The picture will be booked for long rmi
dates in ten key spots at advanced admissions,
Agnew said. The film currently is
showing at seven theatres in the Los Angeles
area and at the Radio City Music
Hall here at advanced prices.
Those attending included Milton S. Kusell,
vice-president in charge of domestic and
Canadian sales; Sidney Deneau, assistant
general sales manager: Leonard Case, assistant
treasurer: Robert M. Gillham7 eastern
publicity and advertising director; Hem-y
Krumm, southern division head; Sam Horowitz,
midwest division manager, and J. E.
Fontaine, eastern division head.
Selznick studios and Fox West Coast
Theatres are preparing 45 special teaser
trailers on "The Paradine Case."
RKO to Tradeshow 'Susie'
NEW YORK—RKO will tradeshow "If You
Knew Susie," starring Eddie Cantor and Joan
Davis, in all exchange centers Thursday,
January 29. "Western Heritage" also will
be tradeshown in New York the same day.
UA in a Deal to
Make
Five a Year in Britain
NEW YORK iHMS Queen Elizabeth via
ship-to-shore telephone) —United Artists will
cooperate in the production
of approximately
35 features to
be made in England
over the next seven
years. Arthur W. Kelly,
executive vice-president
of UA, who was
en route to New York
from Great Britain,
told BOXOFFICE that
this program calls for
the expenditure of
about $6,000,000 annually
for five pictures
a year. UA will distribute
the films.
Arthur W. Kelly
Kelly refused to discuss the financial details
of the plan, which will be submitted
for approval to the United Artists board of
directors by January 31. He did say that a
group of British business men "who are at
present unknown to the fOm industry" will
have an interest in the company which is to
produce the pictures.
This production program will not require
approval by the British treasury department.
Kelly pointed out he made this statement Ir
reference to the fact that the British treasury
vetoed a production scheme he had worked
out in England last fall. Treasury officials
objected on the grounds that the plan woulc
have violated the exchange control act.
The new program calls for participatior
of American stars, producers, story material;
and directors to be provided by UA. The
British interests also will fm'nish stars, stories
producers and directors.
Kelly then discussed current UA distribu
tion in Great Britain. He said the compan;
still had four unplayed films shipped t.her(
prior to the August tax crisis. These will bi
shown over the Gaumont-British circuit ii
accordance with arrangements made with J
Arthur Rank last year.
UA Not to Roadshow 'Arch
But Get Advanced Prices
NEW YORK—"Arch of Triumph" will b
shown at advanced admission prices but no
for two-a-day runs, according to Georg'
Schaefer, Enterprise vice-president in charge
of sales, and Gradwell L. Sears, president o
United Artists, which will distribute the filir
The decision not to roadshow the film wa
made foUowins a poll conducted by Audienc
Research, Inc., proving that "Arch" has th
highest "want-to-see" audience potential o
any film ever made since "Gone With th
Wind." Polls taken at sneak previews of th
film in the east and west confirmed the find
ings of Audience Research, Inc., accordin
to United Artists executives.
Although several important pictures wer
tentatively planned for roadshowing by majo
companies at the start of the 1947-48 sellin:
season, only RKO's "Mourning Becomes Elec
tra" is currently being shown on a two-a-da
advanced admissions basis. "Henry V" is sti
being shown for two-a-day runs in varior
parts of the U.S., but recently played a con
tinuous-run at the Park Avenue Theatre hen;
Manhardt's 'Open House'
MILWAUKEE—Ralph Heacock, RCA Serv
ice Co. engineer, delivered a talk on projectoi
before a group of 130 projectionists attend
ing the "open house" party given by V:
Manhardt Co., Inc.. at this RCA dealer's ne
store on January 14. An open discussion o
the subject followed. Both the host an
guests called the event highly successful.
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 19

: January
500 THEATRES ADDED IN 7947,
INVESTMENT OVER 40 MILLION
New Seating Is Estimated
At a Quarter Million,
Excluding Drive-Ins
Approximately 500 new theatres and well
over a quarter of a million seats were added
to the motion picture theatre facilities of
the U. S. in 1947. The investment in new
properties runs to well over $40,000,000.
This is exclusive of drive-in theatres,
which enjoyed their greatest growth last
year. About 100 of these were opened,
ijringing screen fare to an audience potentially
as large as that which can be accommodated
by the 500 new orthodox
houses.
All this construction, perhaps the greatest
theatre expansion since the boom years of
the 20s, was accomplished in the face of
labor and materials shortages, slow delivery
of equipment, and government regulations
which frowned on any new amusement enterprise
except where it was demonstrated to
be a community need.
Had there been no government restraints.
it is likely the new construction would have
been dou'bled or trebled. BOXOFFICE correspondents
around the nation reported innumerable
cases in which prospective builders
announced they had acquired theatre
sites and drawn plans and were holding up
their projects only because they could not
yet government approval or because costs
were too high.
TWO unique theatres were included in the
year's new construction. The Fox West
Coast chain opened the Crest Theatre, in
San Diego, Calif., in January—the first prefashioned
theatre of its type. Many unusual
features were included in this structure, which
was heralded as establishing a trend toward
use of pre-fabricated construction. In Miami,
the Wometco circuit opened the Miami theatre,
in which a restaurant plays an integral
part of the operation. The restaurant can be
entered from any one of three levels in the
theatre and shows how dining and entertainment
can be accomplished in motion picture
exhibition, without one detracting from the
other—but. rather, each adding something
to the other.
Except in small towns, the cost of opening
a new theatre during 1947 ranged from $150
to $200 per seat, depending on the costs of
land and labor and the type of construction.
The man who could build a de luxe, air conditioned
house in a large town for less than
$200 a seat could count himself lucky. The
cost of building and equipping a new theatre
was just about double what it was before
the war.
Steel and lumber, if you could get it, was
up 400 per cent. So was millwork. Masonry
cost 100 per cent more than before the war,
and .so did labor, taking into account today's
efficiency. Air conditioning costs were about
150 per cent more, due in a large part to
the higher cost of sheet metal work accompanying
such installation.
The cost of equipment was greater than
prewar by anywhere from 20 to 100 per cent.
By year's end most items were available for
almost immediate delivery, but it still took
60 to 90 days to get chairs, and carpeting
was still being allocated.
The bottleneck in equipment started breaking
about midway through the year. Even
HIGHLIGHTS
Of 1947 Construction
Texas topped all states in new
construction in 1947, with more
than 60 new houses opened during
the year.
Building costs in 1947 ran from
$150 to $200 per seat, as an average,
with the costs dropping in
smaller communities.
Costs were way up. Steel and
lumber were 400 per cent above
the prewar figures.
Most publicized theatre of the
year was the Crest, prefashioned
de luxe house, opened by Fox West
Coast in San Diego, Calif., on January
23, 1947.
First theatre restaurant, in which
the restaurant was designed as an
integral part of the theatre, was
opened by Wometco—the Miami,
in Miami, Fla.
so, it was not unusual for someone to have
a theatre completely built and ready to
operate, except for seats.
Use of the quonset hut, particularly in
the small towns, spread considerably. Theatres
of this type generally could be put up
for much less than an ordinary house and
could be built faster, too.
A great part of the year's construction was
in small towns, many of which found themselves
with a "picture show" for the first
time. Boys from the crossroads towns who
got used to seeing pictures regularly while
they were in service set up theatres in many
a liome town. There was a growing awareness
of the value of a theatre as a drawingpower
for a community's other businesses
and. where other capital feared to venture,
businessmen sometimes organized stock companies
to build a theatre because they wanted
its indirect benefits.
These small-town theatres sprouted especially
in the rural towns of the south and
middlewest. where the farmer was earning
more and spending more than ever before.
They ranged from the $125,000, 590-seat
Chai-ve Theatre which R. T, Priest and H. L.
Kruse opened in Edgerton, Ohio (population
1,100), down to the 170-seat Cozy Theatre
opened by Hollis Buzbee in Tupelo, Okla.
(population 450 >.
Texas was the most active state, buildingwise.
This booming southwest empire
found itself with 60 new theatres on which
BOXOFFICE received reports. Building was
slowest in the New England states and the
east. In the New England territory only
four new theatres were reported in the year,
the Garbose Bros.' Orange, a 635-seater in
Orange, Mass.; Ray A. Smith's 630-seater in
East Walpole. Mass.: William Purcell's 900-
seater in Fall River. Mass.. and the 375-seat
Scenic built in Enfield. N. H.. by Maurice
LeBlanc and Paul Archambault.
In the greater New York area the only new
theatres were the Malverne and Hyde Park
on Long Island.
Largest builder in the nation was the huge
Interstate circuit of Texas, which spent
somewhere in the neighborhood of a million
dollars on three de luxe neighborhood houses
in Dallas, three others in Houston, and others
in Amarillo and Eastland. The house in
Eastland seats 875 and the others from 1,000
to 1,200 each. Another swank neighborhood
house, the 1.500-seat Delman. was opened in
Dallas by I. B. Adelman. G. L. Griffin and
E. W. Conrad gave that city a new 500-seat
Negro theatre.
Expansion at Port Arthur, Tex., included
the 1,500-seat Village and the $100,000 Hollywood
Theatre for colored patronage. Beaumont
also added two theatres, and so did
San Antonio. Altogether Texas added more
than 35.000 seats to its theatre capacity. It
was an active field for drive-in expansion,
too.
California added about 20,000 seats in 28
new theatres, 15,000 seats were added to
Ohio's capacity in 20 new theatres, and between
12,000 and 13,000 seats were added in
Louisiana and Alabama. California and Ohio
also were experiencing drive-in booms.
Most of the new theatres in California
went into the smaller towns surrounding San
Francisco and Los Angeles. The Del Mar.
a completely rebuilt house, opened late in
the year by San Francisco Theatres, was the
only new theatre in San Francisco proper.
The Culver Theatre in Culver City was added
to the first run setup of Fox West Coast
Theatres in Los Angeles.
TN Ohio the biggest boom was experienced
in Columbus, where Leo Yas.senoff opened
the l,000-.seat Esquire and the 1.000-seat University
and Fred Rowlands added the 1.056-
seat Livingston to his string. Dayton got
the 980-seat Da-Bel. 1.000-seat Belmont and
700-seat Westa, and Cleveland added Warners'
1.565-seat Shaker Heights and Associated
circuit's
1.789-seat Pairview. both de
luxe neighborhood situations. In Akron. Guy
A. Spavn's 1 800-seat Lyn and Ed Rabb's
900-seat Copley opened. The Associated circuit,
which put up the Fairview in Cleveland
also opened on the 1.250-seat Clinton
in Port Clinton, Ohio. Theatre additions in
Cincinnati included Charles Ackerman's
Covedale in Price Hill and William Bien's
Ambassador in the Oakley .section.
First run houses opened in only a few
the major cities. Among the oUishier.
of
» first run theatres opened were the 1,250-seat
Joy Theatre. New Orleans, nut up bv Joy
Houck and Claire Hilgers and associates, the
Crescent city's first new A house in more
than 20 years: Wometco circuit's 1.860-seat
Miami Theatre in Miami, which ooened in
Aoril: Ed Claughton's Embassy, which was
added to the Miami first run lineuo last
month: and the Center Theatre, 1.600-seat
showcase opened in Oklahoma City last
month bv the State Theatres Co.
In Baltimore, circuit operator Isador Rapnaport
rebuilt the Town Theatre from the
shell of the old Palace, which had been
dark for years, and added it to the first run
lineuD. He opened it last January 22,
In Memphis. Chalmers and Ed Cullins and
Nate Evans launched a swank 1.100-seat
house for Negroes, the W. C. Handy, and in
Detroit an outstanding theatre for colored
natronage was opened by the Wisper & Wetsman
circuit. It is the 1.400-seat Duke.
The onlv new newsreel theatre in the nation,
the Telenews. was opened in Milwaukee
by Telenews Theatres circuit.
BOXOFFICE :
24, 1948
II

Myers Says Ascap Claims ^evlcM^ > >
njOOO 'Public Items < < 9^^^^^
WASHINGTON — An estimate that Ascap list, then Ascap is asserting the right to license
over 13,000 uncopyrighted compositions.
may be asserting rights over 13.000 compositions
over which it has no claim was made this Included on the list of "fraudulent" claims
week by Abram F. Myers, board chairman were works by Chopin and Beethoven, said
and general counsel of Allied States Ass'n Myers Any copyrights on their material have
of Motion Picture Exhibitors, in an interview
with BOXOPFICE.
rights last only 28 years, although they may
long since become public property as copy-
The estimate was made in connection with be extended for another 28, but rarely longer.
Myers' new demand to the Department of "One more example will suffice." he said.
Justice for a "thorough going investigation" "This happens to be the first card pulled
of the "pretensions" of the society.
Those whose tear ducts have been unloosed
The facts of the trial in the supreme court at funerals by the sad strains of 'Abide With
of the state of Washington, Myers said, contain
enough evidence to warrant the full-
rights to it. But as the court points out,
Me' will be amazed that Ascap also claimed
•Abide With Me' has long since entered the
scale inquiry.
In that state, Ascap was asked to file a public domain and is a part of the cultural
list of its claimed copyrights, and responded heri age of all English-speaking people.
by lodging with the secretary of state "about
80,000 cards," each bearing the name of a
musical composition.
When a deputy sought to test the validity
of the claims, he pulled out 60 cards at random
and the supreme court subsequently
found that ten of these cards showed on their
face that the compositions were not copyrighted—that
they were in the public domain,
Myers asserted.
"This may seem like meager sampling,"
Myers explained, "but it is no more so than
most public opinion polls. The point is ihat
if
the percentage holds good throughout the
Allied of lo'wa-Nebraska
Issues Own Ascap Plan
ELDORA, lA.—The board of Allied Independent
Theatre Owners of Iowa and Nebraska
has recommended to members that
they not sign any Ascap application calling
for an increase in rates, and that prior to
the expiration date of their present Ascap
license, exhibitors mail the music organization
a check for six or 12 months' license at
the old rates. The board opposed the National
Allied Ascap plan.
Televises the Fights in Lobby
To Get Back the Sports Crowd
By SARA CARLETON
MEWARK—David Kane, manager of
the Rivoli, was in a dilemma. Only
that afternoon he encountered a woman
from Newark's Ironbound section
in the lobby and inquired casually for
her husband. "I can't get him to come
to the movies with me on Fridays," she
confessed. "He doesn't go in for that
sort of thing. What he likes is the
fights."
The complaint was but one of many
of a similar nature that had been reaching
the manager. To Ferry street residents,
Friday means one thing—pay day.
The male population ch'ifts into the
taverns and wives are left to attend
the performances of Van Johnson or
Robert Taylor unescorted.
Seeking a remedy, Kane consulted
with Lou and George Gold, owners of
the theatre. More than once they have
been called upon to cope with community
problems, so a solution was
forthcoming. By January 15, a combined
television and radio set had been
installed in the lounge of the theatre.
An announcement on the marquee
showed Ferry street husbands that they
no longer had an alibi.
Firm believers in leaving no stone
unturned, the Golds purchased the
largest DuMont set available, 15 feet
long by 16 feet wide. As bait they advertised
that the fight in Madison
Square Garden would be shown at the
Rivoli at 10 p. m. at no extra charge.
The television set, first to be installed
in any theatre in Essex county, occupies
a prominent position in the lounge. The
atmosphere is one of comfort and repose.
There is a gas fireplace dimly
hghted. On cold winter evenings,
particularly on those of the type that
have hit Newark within the past few
weeks, it is difficult to imagine a
pleasanter place.
Response was immediate. Over 250
patrons crowded into the lounge on
the of night the 15th. There was also
an influx from surrounding neighborhoods.
Telephones were busy with calls
from people wanting to know what
time the television would commence.
Off to a good start, the plan is proving
a success. The Golds will rim television
every evening at no boost in
price. Worldwide news events, ball
games and other features will be advertised
by the theatre.
Manager Kane believes that television
helps strengthen the bond between exhibitors
and their patrons. Many who
do not like to go into a theatre in the
middle of a picture can bide their time
in the lounge. When there is no television,
radio programs fill the gap.
The sound does not interfere with the
showing of the picture.
Ferry street wives are satisfied now.
Their " husbands are imbibing Coca-
Cola in the theatre lounge instead of
alcoholic beverages at their favorite
hangouts. The coke machine is conveniently
located and the candy and
popcorn stands are in close proximity
to the lounge. If the wife prefers Robert
Taylor, she can have him while her
husband satisfies lais pugilistic tastes.
Pay day pays off at the Rivoli.
BLACK HILLS (ED—The action is
fast and
the chases are many as Eddie Dean brings
the villains to justice. Western fans and
juvenile audiences will be satisfied with the
lively pace of the picture. Eddie Dean,
Roscoe Ates, Shirley Patterson. Ray Taylor
directed.
MARY LOU (Col)—Light entertainment
vehicle for dual houses starting out in the
air several thousand feet, with the hostess
calming nerves of passengers by her vocallizing.
Mildly effective. Robert Lowery,
Glenda Farrell, Frank Jenks, Frankie Carle
and orchestra. Arthur Dreifuss directed.
NAKED CITY (U-D—Those who decry the
paucity of new ideas in the making of
American motion pictures should lie
especially loud in singing the praises of the
late Mark Hellinger's last film. In it the
producer with consummate skill and rare
understanding contrived to blend an exciting,
suspenseful murder mystery with a
documentary analysis of the soul, heart,
tempo and aura of modern New York, with
Bellinger himself doing the narraii>n.
masterfully directed by Jules Dassin. Barry
Fitzgerald, Howard Duff, Dorothy Hart.
PANHANDLE (AA-Mono)—Considering it is
the initial effort of Independent Producers
John C. Champion and Blake Edwards and
giving a further thought to the budget,
here is a praiseworthy job of picture-making.
Rod Cameron, Cathy Downs. Lesley
Selander directed.
These reviews will appear in full in
a forthcoming issue of Boxoffice.
Drive-In Exhibitors Form
Nucleus of U.S. Ass'n
AUSTIN, TEX.—The nucleus of a national
organization of independent drive-in theatre
owners was formed here recently by a group
of southwest open-air exhibitors. The new
association. Independent Drive-In Theatre
Owners, has received a Texas charter and
elected Eddie Joseph, Austin, president. Other
officers are C. A. Richter, Corpus Christi, and
William Morrow, Longview, vice-presidents;
Arthur Landsman, San Antonio, secretarytreasurer,
and W. E. Syers, Austin, executive
secretary.
According to the charter, "drive-in theatres
are the fastest growing medium of entertainment
in the country today." The association
was formed to fill the need for cooperation
among the increasing number of independent
drive-in owners who feel that they have
many problems and interests not shared by
theatre owners in general.
The charter states the purpose of the group
as follows:
1. Constantly to endeavor to obtain better
entertainment and more comfortable facilities
for the patrons of drive-in theatres.
2. To conduct such research as is nece.ssury
improve methods of operation and the
to
equipment used in the operation of drivt'-in
theatres.
3. To make available the results of .'

'
ommittee
"'
1 o
iti
^KO
1 MICHIGAN
J
I
rOA to Present Survey
in Taxes to Congress
tjk NEW YORK—The TOA will back its fight
M br a 10 per cent reduction in the present 20
er cent U.S. admission tax with a doculented
survey to be presented to Congress.
Evidence will be submitted to members of
lie house of representatives ways and means
and tlie senate finance committee
'lowing that the continuation of the present
ix has been responsible for reducing theatre
endance.
The report will be based on data forwprded
Herman Levy. TOA general counsel, by
'OA regional vice-presidents. Levy expects
II present the report in Washington within
he next month.
The survey will be an elaboration of the
i^uments presented to the ways and means
ommittee last May and June by Ted R.
1. iamble, who was at that time chairman of
tie board of the ATA, and A. Julian Brylawki,
vice-president of the MPTOA.
It will back up their arguments that the
,i\ hits the low income groups and children,
ho are the principal filmgoers; that it disiiminates
against the film industry: that it
Kis reduced film attendance.
rOA Will Discuss ISmm
/Vith RKO, Films, Inc.
NEW YORK—Robert Coyne, executive di-
L'ctor of Theatre Owners of America, will dis-
I,, uss the 16mm film situation at a meeting
K, o be held shortly with representatives of
and Films, Inc., the 16mm agent for
!Oth-Fox product.
,i"
Adult Admissions Reduced
"*
To Offset Business Drop
CITY, IND.—To offset a 20
ler cent drop in theatre attendance, adult
jrices have been reduced 10 cents at the
rivoli and Uptown theatres here. The houses
ire operated by the Manta & Rose circuit
if Chicago. Night prices at the Tivoli were
•WOMEN IN THE NIGHT' DATA
O^lTo BOXOFFICE:
ti,si:|:
dtt:" It has come to our attention that the moi:
tion picture, "Women in the Night," distributed
by Film Classics, is being publicized
and advertised as "based on the official files
of the United Nations" and that it will have
lecial screenings for various United Nations
1 oups.
hx no time was the United Nations consulted
in the production of this picture.
Neither the finished film, nor any part of it,
has been seen or approved by the United
Nations or any official connected with the
United Nations. No arrangements whatsoever
have been made through the United
Nations for screening the film for any groups
inside or outside the United Nations. The
reference to the United Nations is com.pletely
unauthorized.
We would appreciate it if you would bring
this to the attention of your readers.
Thanking you, we remain,
Jean Benoit-Levy,
Director of
Films and Visual Information
For United Nations.
Lake Success, N. Y.
Ex-PRC Head Forms Equity Pictures
^ ThomOS Will Ptoduce
22 Films for EL Release
HOLLYWOOD—Harrj
president of PRC, this
mation of Equity Pictures
with himself as
president and witli a
<
production schediuo i
22 pictures during ;ts
first year. The pictures
will be released
through Eagle Lion.
Associated wit/li
Thomas will be Howard
Welsch, former
producer at Univer.sal,
who will be vice-president,
and Jack
Schwartz and Sid „ „ „.
Justman who have a
"^"•'^ "• Thomas
financial interest in the Motion Picture Centre
studio where Equity Pictures will headquarter
and produce. Jerry Thomas will join
the organization in a production capacity.
Thomas, in announcing his new association,
revealed that six of the year's releases
will be in color, and that the 22 scheduled for
production, two are already completed. The
pair of finished pictures includes "The Enchanted
Valley," in color, with Alan Cm'tis,
Anne Gwynne and Donn Gift, and "Heading
For Heaven," with Stuart Erwin and Glenda
Farrell. Both were produced by Schwartz.
"Jungle Girl," to be filmed in color, is slated
Large-Scale Film Making in
to go before the cameras in mid-February.
Thomas has been in the industry for 40
years. He started as an exhibitor in 1007,
stepped into distribution in 1913 with the
Greater New York Film Co. Since he has orsanized
and headed several independent production
companies. He joined PRC as vicepresiden'
in charge of distribution and general
sales manager in the spring of 1945 and was
elevated to the presidency late the same year.
He resigned as PRC chief last year, when the
company was taken over by Eagle Lion and
that time it was revealed that Thomas would
produce a considerable slate of films for EL
release.
Independent Artists Sets
Four Films During Year
HOLLYWOOD—In sharp contrast to current
production curtailment and economies,-
Independent Artists, Inc., the independent
recently organized by Rosalind Rus,sell, Dudley
Nichols and Frederick Brisson, will double
its originally-scheduled program of two
pictures for this year. For RKO Radio release,
the unit has already completed "The Velvet
Touch," starring Miss Russell. This will be
followed by an untitled comedy drama to be
produced and directed by Nichols; a comedy,
"Madly in Love," which John Gage will direct;
"New Model," to star Miss Russell, and one
other vehicle, as yet unselected.
Canada
Not Practical, Says Mary Pickford
nit from 50 to 40 cents and matinee prices
from 40 to 30 cents. These prices prevail
in anly on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. OTTAWA—At a time when Canada is taking
giant strides to produce motion pic ures
At the Uptown, the price at night was cut.
irom 40 to 30 cents and in the afternoon from to offset its dollar shortage, Mai-y Pickford
ill to 20 cents. The Tivoli is a first run house. told the nation last week that full-fledged
motion picture making in the Dominion is not
practical.
LETTERS
Here for the world premiere of her Triangle
Productions pictiu"e, "Sleep, My Love,"
the Toronto-born producer and former actress
said, "I suppose I should do the diplomatic
thing and say yes, Canada should have
movie studios, but my Canadian conscience
will not let me do that. I think you can
produce a good many pictures on location
bu', in my opinion, you would have to have
the studios in Hollywood. They know howthings
should be done. does not seem
It
feasible that we could produce pictures on a
large scale in Canada, much though I should
like to see it done."
At the time she was speaking, J. J. Fitzgibbons,
president of Famous Players Canadian,
was meeting with government officials
on a proposal for the making of short subjects
and parts of feature pictures in Canada
in an effort to cut t;he volume of payments
to Hollywood.
And in the same week. Audio Pictures
and Dominion Film Industries opened a huge
new studio in Toronto and Al Rogell, independent
producer for Eagle Lion, announced
he was planning to make more pictures in
western Canada, probably near Calgary. He
filmed much of "Northwest Stampede" at
Calgary last summer.
Opening of the Audio Studio drew all of
the toil film men of the Dominion and from
the U.S. came Andrew W. Smith jr. and
William C. Gehring of 20th-Fox, Ben Kal-
Tom Daly, left, producer of the National
Film Board-UNESCO production,
"Hungry Minds," is introduced to Mary
Pickford and Their Excellencies, Viscount
and Lady Alexander, by Ernest Warren,
right, manager of the Dual Elgin Theatre,
Ottawa, where Miss Pickford made a plea
for the Canadian Appeal for Children at
the world premiere of her Triangle production,
"Sleep, My Love."
menson and Wolfe Cohen of Warner Bros,,
Gradwell Sears of United Artists, Jack Cohn
and Bert Kelly of Coliunbia Pictures, Hal
Wallis of Paramount Pictures, James Mulvey
of Samuel Goldwyn Pioductlons. Joseph
Bernhard of Film Classics and Eddie Golden
of Golden Productions.
tOXOFFICE January 24, 1948

By Acclamation! .
"GENTLEMAN'S
AGREEMENT"
is The Best Of The Year!
m73Tiiirm7rn
ny Starr
'Best picture of
—Earl Wilson
Best movie this y
Sheilah Graham
Best movie of the yea.
'Best drama of the
'Best picture of the ye
\Telegram
rothy Kilgallen
Best picture in years
icture o
3 t;^ "m^ '^ ',
rrn ]
•in Life, Cosmopolitan, Liberty,
IMovieland, Redbooli, Cliristian Herald,
N.Y. Morning Telegraph.
'Most exciting drai
Angeles Tit
.In
"Greatest picture t
•^Harrison Carroll, L A. Herald-Express
Special Award of Merit!
—^cnoiasiic imgaziiK
^^
f,;,^Hft£II^HHj
Dart7l F. Zanuck Presents GREGORY PECK, DOROTHY McGUIRE, JOHN GARFIELD in Laura Z.
Hobson's "GENTLEMAN'S AGREEMENT" with Celeste Holm, Anne Revere, June Havoc, Albert Dekker,
Jane Wyatt, Dean Stockv/ell, Sam Jaffe • Produced by DARRYL F. ZANUCK • Screen, Play by
MOSS HART • Directed by ELIA KAZAN
11th WEEK, MAYFAIR, NEW YORK . 11th WEEK, APOLLO, CHICAGO

1 GREATEST ACW FOR ANY COMPANY!
20th Century-Fox Had MORE Pictures
On MORE Best 10 Lists MORE Times
Than Any Company In The Industry!
MIRACLE ON 34th STREET'
"BOOMERANG!"
~ "KISS OF DEATH"
THE LATE GEORGE APLEY
RGIE
MOTHI
RE TIGHTS
Compiled From The "Best 10" Lists Of The National Board of Review, Time
Magazine, N. Y. Times, N. Y. Post, N. Y. Daily News, N. Y. Herald Tribune,
N. Y. World-Telegram, Country Gentleman, Christian Herald, Bill Leonard, CBS.

Everybody's Going Western,
Including the Big Stars
Gone are the days when top
salaried stars were disdainful
of six shooter and saddle
dramas; for today, the
western has acquired an
air of distinction.
By IVAN SPEAR
j/g^ ONE are the days when a western star
vim ^^^' P®*^ ^^' ^ player who starred in
^*J" westerns.
The triumphant march of civilization and
the talking picture has reached the point
where, ludicrous as it may seem at first blush,
it is entirely within the realm of possibility
that one of these days a be-spurred and bechapped
Charles (perhaps billed as "Chuck")
Boyer may fling himself into the saddle and
ride thataway—with a French accent; or a
menacing James Mason (courtesy of J.
Arthur Rank) may portray the heavy in a
story of psychopathic rustlers on the rangeland.
A quick gander at upcoming product
tion that they might portray the lead in a
boots-and-saddles entry would have been
downright abhorrent.
To employ a timeworn phrase, however,
them days is gone forever. Rare indeed is
the top player in Hollywood today who has
not either already appeared, or plans to star,
in a western. Far from being a mark of
inferiority, the business of twirling a Colt .45
and besting the crooked town marshal has
about it, these days, an air of distinction.
And, of course, it must be pointed out that
from the standpoint of production trappings,
photography, supporting casts, story lines and
budgets the top sagebrushers of today leave
little to be desired as showcases for the acting
talents of their stars. What's more, westerns
continue to make money.
As a sidelight, it might be recalled that
several of Hollywood's present-day stellar
personalities cut their cinematic eye-teeth on
sagebrush fare. Gary Cooper scored his first
big hit in "The Winning of Barbara Worth"
and, in a long and varied career since then,
has essayed numerous western parts in addition
to his dramatic and comedy portrayals.
is
Cooper's progress closely paralleled by that
of John Wayne. Into the same category falls
Joel McCrea.
Nowadays when thundering hooves are
\ shotgun wedding seems in the offing (left) as Marjorie Main menaces Lou
Costello and Bud Abbott in U-Is current "The Wistful Widow of Wagon Gap,"
one of the many big budget westerns in release or soon to be available. Center is
Victor Mature, back in the saddle for his second sagebrush opus, "The Ballad of
Furnace Creek," for 20th-Fox. His first cowpoke role was in "My Darling Clementine."
At the right, Alan Ladd goes western in "Whispering Smith." a Paramount
production.
indicates that never before in screen history
have so many erstwhile film sophisticates exhibited
their eagerness to undertake the leading
role in a slambang saga of the west that
used to be.
There was a time—back in the days when
Tom Mix, Hoot Gibson and Buck Jones were
in their stride—when heroes of sagebrush
celluloid turned out footage strictly in the
bread-and-butter category. They headed 'em
off at the pass, rescued willing damsels from
runaway stagecoaches, and brought six-gun
justice to lawless frontier towns in modestlybudgeted
offerings— vei-y few of which, parenthetically,
ever recorded a loss in revenue
when the final returns were in.
More affluent members of the industry—
and, indeed, the public itself—were prone to
subject these cowpokes and their cactus epics
to good-natured ridicule, even though Mix,
Gibson, Jones, Ken Maynard and others
listed their faithful fans among the millions
and accumulated very tidy bank balances as
a result of their heroics. A great share of
the chaff came from plushier fellow-Thespians
who specialized in drama, swashbuckling
romance, or at the worst, comedy—but
to whom (with few exceptions) the suggesheard
on the sound track and galloping
steeds burst from behind the canyon wall,
the stalwart rider is liable to be anybody from
Robert Young or Ray MUland to Alan Ladd,
Dennis Morgan, Spencer' Tracy or—believe
it or not—Frank Sinatra. It might be Glenn
Ford, Dan Duryea, Humphrey Bogart or Bob
Hope. Chances are it could be Victor Mature
or (on separate horses, of course) Abbott and
--'
Costello.
On the distaff side, too. the trend is evident.
Veronica Lake, speciaUst in sophistication;
demure Joan Leslie; sultry Yvonne
De Carlo; Jane Russell, Susan Hav^vard. Barbara
Stanwyck, Marlene Dietrich, Irene
Dunne, Jean Arthur, Constance Bennett and
other statuesque leading ladies all have either
ridden down the cactus trail or have their feet
in the stirrups, ready to get under way.
Such interest in westerns is not entirely
new, of course. The slapstick comedy team of
Laurel and Hardy, for example, did "Way
Out West" for Metro more than a decade ago.
James Stewart was a buckaroo and Marlene
Dietrich was the dance-hall queen in Universal's
"Destry Rides Again." Dermis
Morgan, erstwhile singer, was one of the "Bad
Men of Missouri" at Warners and re-
Twirling the six shooters is none other
than Jane Russell, who had some experience
with the west in "The Outlaw."
This, however, is a scene from "The Paleface,"
Paramount's forthcoming Bob
Hope comedy. Miss Russell plays the
part of "Calamity Jane."
cently portrayed another gun-slinging role in
the same company's "Cheyenne."
Robert Taylor tried his hand, with fair success,
at "Billy the Kid" for Metro, and Tyrone
Power scored outstandingly in 20th Century-
Fox's "Jesse James," while Hemy Fonda did
all right for himself in that studio's "The
Return of Frank James." One of Irene
Dunne's biggest hits was "Cimarron," at RKO
Radio, and Jean Arthur went western in Columbia's
"Arizona." Dana Andrews was a
rugged pioneer, and Susan Hayward was b'.s
gal, in the Walter Wanger production for
Universal, "Canyon Passage." while Constance
Bennett doffed her svelte attire for
buckskins in Warners' "Wild Bill Hiokok
Rides." Larry Parks, who recently hit
his stride as "Jolson" in Columbia's "The
Jolson Story," appeared previously in a frontier
epic. "Renegades," produced by that company.
Yvonne De Carlo, soon to be seen in
U-I's "Black Bart, Highwayman," made her
initial appearance as a western heroine in
the same studio's "Frontier Gal." Victor
("Gorgeous Hunk of Man"i Mature—who
was "Doc Halliday" In 20th Century-Fox's
"My Darling Clementine"—has another twogmi
role in the Westwood film plant's "The
Ballad of Furnace Creek."
More recently, Ray Milland abandoned his
cinematic alcoholic tendencies, as displayed
in Paramount's "The Lost Weekend," to undertake
the role of a rugged, days-of-'fortynine
character in the same studio's "California,"
in which Barry Fitzgerald, the Iri.sh
actor who gained fame as a priest in "Going
My Way," and Barbara Stanwyck, expert
delineator of sophisticated comedy roles, also
rode in the wagon train. Abbott and Costello
got themselves involved with Marjorie Main
and a tough Montana cowtown in U-I's "The
Wistful Widow of Wagon Gap." Spencer
Tracy—with Katharine Hepburn at his side
—was a fighting cattleman in the Metro
entry, "Sea of Grass." Veronica Lake rode
the range in Enterprise's "Ramrod," made for
United Artists release. Errol Plynn, specialist
in action fare, scored in Warners' "San
Antonio," and wUl shortly be on view, again
as a western stalwart, in the same studio's
"Silver River." Joseph Gotten, Jennifer
Jones, Gregory Peck, Lilhan Gish and Herbert
Marshall were prominent in the cast of David
O. Selznick's costly "Duel in the Sun."
Of interest as an off-the-beaten-path casting
is the soon-to-be-released Dick Powell
starrer for RKO Radio, "Station West."
24 BOXOFFICE ;: January 24, 1948

Powell, who fought his way out of the rut of
college musicals when he portrayed a hardbitten
private eye in "Murder, My Sweet,"
rides, clubs and shoots his way through a tale
uprisings in the '608. Equally
Films in Business and Industry, by Henry
of Indian
novel is Robert Young's role as a wandering Clay Gipson (McGraw-Hill Book Company,
cowhand, accused of murder, in his first independent
cavalier production. "Relentless." commercial fields is treated in a nontechnical
Inc.i—Use of nontheatrical and slideflims in
manner in this manual, and advertising and
to be released by Columbia.
sales managers particularly will find it a
Glenn Ford and Alan Ladd, bobbysox idols
both, do sagebrush stints in. respectively, Columbia's
"The Man From Colorado" and Paramount
's "Whispering Smith." Bob Hope,
convenient source of information concerning
production of such pictures.
Tracing the development of the motion picture
from the earliest recorded experiments
as an itinerant dentist in a rough-and-ready by Dr. Eadweard Buybridge in 1872 at Palo
western outpost, teams with Jane Russell, of
Alto, Calif., the author then chronicles the
The Outlaw" fame, in "The Paleface." aniither
progress of the commercial film from its introduction
in 1897. The first sponsors of such
upcoming Paramount entry. In it
Hope becomes involved in an Indian war and pictures, incidentally, were Haig and Haig
finds himself knee-deep in bad men. Douglas
'Whiskey and Milwaukee Beer.
Fairbanks jr. has one in preparation called
Several chapters of the book are devoted
The Caballero." a story of early California,
for U-I. Barry Sulhvan will do some fancy
ridin' and shootin' in "The Last of the Bad
Men," which the King Brothers will turn
out for Monogram-Allied Artists. Joan
Leslie,
heretofore noted for her portrayals of
tjTJical young American gals, gets herself all
mixed up with a wild horse in Eagle-Lion's
"Northwest Stampede." Humphrey Bogart
goes silver mining in 'Warner Bros.' current
"Treasure of the Sierra Madre." and Dan
Duryea. who has etched many an unsavory
character on celluloid, turns road-agent in
U-I's "Black Bart, Highwayman."
PLANS AT REPUBLIC
Out Republic way an erstwhile leading man,
John Carroll, got together with 'William (formally
"'Wild Bill"! Elliott in "The Fabulous
Texan," gun-slinging story of lawless days in
the Lone Star state, and accounted for himself
so adeptly as a manipulator of broncos
and firearms that he and Elliott were
promptly teamed again in another outdoor
opus, "Old Los Angeles." He will also costar
with Elliott in "Monterey" and "The
Saga of the Texas Rangers." and will go it
alone as a swashbuckler in "Don Careless."
Leading lady in the same "Fabulous Texan"
was Catherine McLeod. another newcomer to
the buckskins-and-buUets category of film
fare. Miss McLeod, who appeared previously
in "I've Always Loved You" and "That's My
Man." respectively a dramatic musical and a
romantic comedy, appears to have become
well-established in western fare, since she costars
with Elliott and Carroll in "Old Los
Angeles."
Reversing the Thespic drift toward sagebrushers
was Jim Davis, who had a comparatively
minor role as Sam Bass, notorious gunman,
in "The Fabulous Texan." Subsequently
he was spotted and signed by 'Warners,
where his first assignment was as Bette
Davis' leading man in "'Winter Meeting." a
romantic comedy with nary a horse or a sixgtm
in sight.
Considered the topper to date, however, by
the now-I've-seen-everything brigade, is
the disclosure that Frank Sinatra portrays a
bold but very romantic bad man in "The
Kissing Bandit." being produced by Metro—
a triumph of unique casting that very likely
will not be equalled for months to come, if
ever.
BOOK REVIEW
to the technique of film production, from the
writing of the script to the exhibition of the
finished prints, including all phases of animation
and sound.
The use of motion pictures in television
broadcasting is discussed in the final chapter
by the author, who predicts that competition
between video and the theatrical film screen
is destined to become intense. Television, he
declares, must win and hold audiences on
its merit alone, since novelty wears off
quickly.
An appendix includes a glossary of film
terminology, a list of commercial motion picture
producers, and other material of interest
to potential users of such pictures.—E. E. H.
mmmmpmrfmSi
ofMmwmm
ON THE COVER:
Scenes from some of the westerns being
readied for release. Upper left, Jeffrey Lynn
and Yvonne de Carlo in "Black Bart, Highwayman,"
forthcoming from Universal-International.
Lower left, Dick Powell as he
appears in "Station West," for RKO. Upper
Joan Leslie turns cowgirl in Eagle Lion's
right,
"Northwest Stampede," and shown here with
James Craig, Lower right, none other than
Frankie Sinatra, as he rides hard in MGM's
"The Kissing Bandit." And, center, Bob Hope,
as a frontiersman in "The Paleface," being
readied by Paramount, His partner is Iris
Adrian
hA
national release
fftrv
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

^(mdcM ^c^iont
ns FORECAST by your correspondent in
"• this column the Boulting brothers
seem to have pulled off a boxoffice winner
this time—at least for the London trade.
"Brighton Rock" opened on Friday night
with a fashionable premiere and went on
over the weekend to smash every existing
record for Saturday and Sunday business
since the Warner opened ten years ago. That
means business in a house that normally
plays topline Warners product. The world
premiere was held at Brighton the night
before the London opening and similar business
was done at the Savoy Theatre there.
The customers stood in waiting hnes for five
hours before the theatre opened.
A certain amount of the credit, if that is
the right word, for this result can be taken
by the London critics who unanimously berated
the picture after its press show, but
gave the picture a great deal of space in the
process. This goes to prove the repeated
assertion by film executives that the critics
of the lay press cannot break a film, but
that they can make it. The classic example
of this was Margaret Lockwood's picture,
"The Wicked Lady," which was ridiculed by
almost every newspaper on its opening in
London, but went on to establish an all-time
record for boxoffice in England for a British
picture—$1,500,000 so far.
ANOTHER CRIME PICTURE opened last
week at MGM's Empire Theatre rather to
the .surprise of everybody. The pictures
actually booked for this week's show were
"The Assassin" and a revival of "A Yank
at Eton" (the latter presumably to tie in
with Mickey Rooney's current visit to London),
but on arrival at the press show critics
were told that a last-minute switch had been
made and the British Lion picture, "Night
Beat," would open instead. This is a picture
with a certain amount of mystery surrounding
it from the start, for it was made by
Harold Huth at Korda's Isleworth Studio
nearly a year ago and nothing further had
been heard of it in the meantime, although
many i-umors had been circulating through
the grapevine.
Viewed dispassionately and without benefit
of rumor, "Night Beat" emerges as a fair
thriller, well made and with no lack of production
values, but slightly dated in its story.
The plot tells of two young commandos who
join the police on their discharge from the
army and how one of them becomes involved
with a shady night club owner. The slight
story is redeemed by some exceptionally good
dialog by Guy Morgan, who wrote "The
Captive Heart."
One thing that stands out after viewing
is that Christine Norden, the Korda starlet,
who is cast as a night club singer, supplies
what British films urgently need, a star with
sex appeal. Far too many of our young women
are more concerned with their art than
with their appearance and Christine Norden.
when she has experience, will pay big dividends
to her employer.
If "Night Beat" is ever shown in the U.S.,
it certainly will be without many of its more
telling scenes, for much of the action and
dialog violates the production code.
HARSH WORDS WERE SPOKEN at the
Cinematograph Exhibitors Ass'n conference
last week by some independents about the
policy for the extended playing time. Richard
Dooner, who runs a small circuit in Wales,
said that every effort had been made by
By JOHN SULLIVAN
distributors to force exhibitors in his territory
to play a picture for a week or even
two weeks instead of the customary three
days. Theo Pligelstone, another veteran exhibitor,
asserted that there were certain
American firms who, realizing how short the
supply of American films was, were putting
undue pressure on exhibitors to increase
their playing time.
SAM ECKMAN has been arousing a
great
deal of controversy here with his forthright
criticisms of the policy of making up a
double bill with two major reissues together.
In an article in the Kinematograph Weekly
he states that this is sheer madness and a
complete waste of film "rations." At the
present rate with double feature bills of
reissues out, going distributors will have run
through their stock of old pictures in a very
short time and exhibitors will then find themselves
with neither old nor new films to play.
This is sound common sense at a time like
this when the shortage of product is being
felt. The sort of common sense, in fact,
that one would expect from a man with Sam
Eckman's standing in the industry.
ONE RESULT of the film shortage has
been a big boom here in second features on
the assumption, presumably, that theatre
owners will use evei-y means of keeping the
double bill for as long as possible.
Every week a new production company
formed to make these pictures and the
is
smaller distributing houses are taking them
eagerly to eke out their reissue product. One
distributor gave it as his opinion that there
is nearly $4,000,000 available in small sums
for the production of these shoe-string epics.
Business men disposed to take a flyer in
films would sooner invest half-a-million dollars
in ten second features and take a chance
on half of them making a profit than put
the whole into one picture with a problematical
return. There is no doubt that if these
small films can be made for around the
$50,000 mark they can show a good return.
JOSEPH CALLEIA, the Hollywood character
actor, arrived in England this week to
work witli Carole Landis and Derek Parr on
Edward Di-yhurst's production of "Noose."
Dryhurst reopened the Warner studio with
this production and has already got three
weeks work completed. He also reopened the
MGM studios with his production of "While
I Live," which is in its release this week.
WHAT PROMISES TO BE a new venue
for film people w^s begun recently when the
Screenwriters Ass'n opened its club premises
on Deanery street, just behind tlie Dorchester
hotel in Park Lane. Membership of
the club is not confined to .screenwriters, but
is open to anyone employed in the creative
side of the industry and Guy Morgan, who
'William Riley Is Backer
For del Giudice Films
London—The financial backer for Filippo
del Giudjce's recently organized Pilgrim
Pictures is William Grimshaw Riley,
Birming:ham glass manufacturer. Riley
is a director of Pilgrim and has agreed
to put up $130,000 for production. His
identity has been kept secret for some
time. Del Giudice is now in the U.S.
Riley said his reason for offering to
back del Giudice is that he is anxious to
insure a high standard of British film
production. "The Guinea Pig" will be the
first picture to be produced by Pilgrim.
Pathe News Cameraman
Threatened by Arabs
London—Pathe News staff cameraman,
K. R. Rickard, covering Palestine, experienced
more
than his fair share
of excitement.
Following the
news that the
Semiramus hotel,
Jerusalem, Arab
H.Q., had been
blown up, the
Pathe News editor
received a cable
from Rickard
saying that, while
covering the story,
he was held up by
K. R. Rickard armed Arabs.
At gunpoint Rickard was forced into a
car and driven to a quiet street where
he was told he would be shot. Protesting,
and, with a revolver still in his back,
he was taken to the Arab higher committee.
Subsequently he was told he
would be shot on sight if seen near the
Arabian quarter again.
Rickard, a wartime commando who
was wounded twice in the Norway raids
in 1941, arrived in Palestine just before
Christmas.
is honorary secretary, has already received
applications from several Hollywood personalities.
Many Hollywood ex-GIs will remember
the premises in Deanery street as those of
the old Deanery club, a favorite haunt of
U.S. air force officers during the war years.
THE ABC CIRCUIT reversed a previous
'
decision to downgrade managers' salaries in
accordance with an agreement with the managers'
organization. This agreement specified
that the salaries should be based on
weekly takings and a great deal of ill will
was caused when ABC cut salaries in some
halls where managers had been receiving
more than the agreement called for. Their
change of mind will be welcomed by managers
all over the country.
Korda's London Studio
Starts 'Winslow Boy'
i
LONDON—The screen version of the sue-
cessful London and Broadway stage hit, "The
Winslow Boy," went into production at the
London Films studios January 19. Robert
Donat and Margaret Leighton have the leading
roles with Anthony Asquith directing.
Anatole de Grunwald is producing for Alexander
Korda and 20th-Fox will release the
film in America.
Rank Picture Set for N. Y.
NEW YORK—J. Arthur Rank's "Holiday
Camp," starring Flora Robson, Dennis Price,
Hazel Court and Jack Warner, opened at the
Park Avenue Theatre January 22 following
the six-week run of "Henry V." "Holiday
Camp" is a Gainsborough picture produced
by idney Box and distributed in America by
Universal-International.
'Daughters' in London
LONDON — "Daughter of Darkness," Paramount,
film produced by Alliance Films at
the Riverside studio, opened at the Carlton
Theatre January 23. The picture stars Anne
Crawford.
26 BOXOFFICE :: January 24.

7V€U^£H^to*t ^eft/int
THE REAL REASON BEHIND the administration's
all-out drive for continued hefty
corporate taxes is the belief that business is
going to remain good through 1948.
The warnings of depression are what the
officials talk about publicly, and there are
many reasons for this, including the political
maneuvering for next November, and the desire
to hand each income tax payer a $40 gift.
Privately, however, members of the cabinet
and other key officials will admit that they
foresee business and the general economy going
along at a brisk and healthy clip during
the year.
As a result, they feel the pump-priming of
reduced business taxes is unnecessary at this
time. The budget bureau, thus, has just
asked Congress to tax away from corporations
a total of more than ten billion dollars
in fiscal 1949. The previous year, the estimated
take of the government was only nine
and one-half billion in direct income and
excess-profit taxes.
A real indication of the attitude of the
government was contained in the budget.
There, it was estimated the admissions tax,
chiefly paid by film patrons, would take
away $380,000,000 from the pockets of citizens
in fiscal 1948. For the subsequent year, the
estimate was the same.
The White House sounded the call for high
corporate taxes, and at once cabinet members
leaped out to do battle on Capitol hill. Secretaries
Harriman of Commerce and Snyder
of the Treasury faced the house ways and
means committee and warned that the administration's
ideas must be carried out.
"Cut the taxes for individuals." they said in
effect, "but make up the difference by higher
corporate levies."
The inflation theme of the administration
Is being hammered out constantly in the
tax talk. Government officials insist that
only the administration's tax program will
meet this. However, the real question of
whether or not corporate taxes are themselves
inflationary has not been explained by any
cabinet member.
Many of the soimdest economists in the
country axe advocates of lower corporate
taxes as the way to meet inflation. Their
argument is that "a business has to earn the
taxes first of all."
THE BLUM-BYRNES agreement on importation
of American films into France
apparently is satisfactory to the French goverimient,
according to officials of the Department
of Commerce.
The pact which changes the basis for film
imports from a quota to a screening system,
has been severely criticized in the French
press. However, a Commerce official
"The French government has shown no evidence
that it contemplates evoking the renegotiation
clauses of the accord."
The agreement became effective July 1946,
and Immediately the Motion Picture Ass'n
America made allocations among members for
the sending to France of 124 films annually.
COMMERCE DEPARTMENT sources
revealed
this week that from now on individually
validated licenses will be required of
all shipments of films and film equipment
to Europe.
In an effort to insure more integrated
tunneling of essential goods to foreign areas
of greatest need, the government decided
on the new policy regarding the licenses. No
interpretation, that an embargo is placed on
any goods, should be made said the department.
The principal purposes is to limit the
shipment of commodities which make no
contribution to world recovery, the department
announcement added.
Affected by the regulation will be all na-
BOXOFFICE : : January 24, 1948
By LEE GARLING
tions of continental Europe, the British Isles,
Iceland, Turkey, Ru.ssia, all Asiatic possessions
of the USSR and Mediterranean Islands.
The Par East was not included.
TWO NAZI STATUTES designed to give
film censorship powers to the ministry of
propaganda have been knocked down by action
of the Allied Control Council in the U.S.
zone of Germany. This is the first step in
the move of the Film Producers Ass'n in the
U.S. zone to break loose from German government
censorship.
Cl

'
I
CLEVELAND
j
NEW
I
NEW
^oUcfww^d ^efoodway
230 PM
ATLANTA
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 154 Walton St., N.W 230 P.M.
BOSTON
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 58 Berkeley Street 230 P M
BUFFALO
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 464 Franklin Street II A.M.
CHARLOTTE PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 305 So. Church Street 10 AM
CHICAGO
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1306 So. Michigan Ave II AM
CINCINNATI PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1214 Central Parkway 2:30 P M
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1735 E. 23rd Street 3 15 P M
• i DALLAS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 412 So. Harwood Street 1030 A.M
m DENVER PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 2100 Stout Street 3 P.M.
\M DES MOINES PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1125 High Street 2r30 P M
\d DETROIT PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 479 Ledyard Avenue 10 A.M
» INDIANAPOLIS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 116 W. Michigan Street I( A.M
JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA THEATRES SCREEN ROOM, 128 Forsyth St 8 P.M
KANSAS CITY PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1800 WySndotte St 10:30 A.M.
LOS ANGELES BOULEVARD THEATRE, Wash ington & Vermont Sts II A.M.
MEMPHIS
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 362 So. Second Street 2 30PM
MILWAUKEE PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1121 N. Eighth Street U AM
MINNEAPOLIS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1201 Currie Avenue 1030 AM
HAVEN PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 82 State Street )0:30 AM
ORLEAN.. PARAMOJ^IT PROJ. ROOM, 215 So. Liberty St 10 A.M.
•i NEW YORK CITY FOX PROJ. ROOM, 345 We St 44th Street 10:30 A.M.
OKLAHOMA CITY. ..PARAMOUNT PROJ, ROOM, 701 W. Grand Ave 10:30 A.M
OMAHA
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1704 Davenport St 10:30 AM.
PHILADELPHIA PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 248 No. 12th Street 2 P.M.
PITTSBURGH PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1727 Blvd. of Allies II A.M.
PORTLAND PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 909 No. West t9th Ave 2 P.M.
ST. LOUIS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 2949 Olive St 10:30 A.M.
if SALT LAKE CITY PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 270 E. 1st South St 3:3Q P.M.
r SAN FRANCISCO PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 205 Golden Gate Ave 10:30 A.M.
U SEATTLE PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 2330 First Avenue 2 P.M.
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 306 H Street, N.W 2:30 P.M.
LWASHINGTON
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

that their storage vaults are bursting with
comple ed but as yet unreleased product.
The same situation prevails as concerns celluloid
backlogs stored up by most of the other
major companies, although actual statistics
are not available.
Paramount, for example, lists 15 feature.'*
awaiting release, among them such subjects
as two Bing Crosby starrers. "The Emperor
Waltz" and "A Connecticut Yankee in King
Arthur's Court"; "The Paleface," with Bob
Hope; a pair with Alan Ladd. "Saigon" and
"The Long Gray Line": and "Dream Girl,"
starring Betty Hutton.
On the RKO roster are 18 completed subjects,
including one each from sharecropping
units headed by John Ford, Samuel Goldwyn,
Leo McCarey. Jesse Lasky-Walter MacEwen.
Independent Artists. Sol Lesser and Walt Disney,
as well as RKO Radio's own "I
Remember
Mama." starring Irene Dunne: the Eddie
Cantor comedy. "If You Knew Susie," and
nine others.
Presnell to Make 5 for Film Classics
NEW YORK—Robert Presnell. producer,
and John Reinhardt, director, of "For You I
Die." for Film Classics release, will produce
five more features for FC release during 1948.
The first, "Sofia," will be made in Cinecolor
at the RKO Studios in Mexico. The third is
tentatively titled "Ambush." Both will be
made on $200,000 budgets, according to Presnell.
Mischa Auer, who is associated with
Presnell and Reinhardt in their producing
unit, Arpi Productions., will play a straight
(noncomedy) role in "Sofia."
Claiming that Hollywood production costs
have risen from 35 to 40 per cent in the past
year to reach "prohibitive" heights, Presnell
said that the huge studio overhead prevents
the majors from lowering these costs. Independent
producers, like himself and Reinhardt,
are content with lesser name players
and making the story the thing. An increasing
number of writers are going into the
making of Independent pictures in Hollywood,
according to Presnell.
Film Classics, which has become a national
distributing organization in the past year, has
hned up several other independent productions
for release. Bro-Rog Productions, which
produced Film Classics' first new release.
"The Spirit of West Point," will make "Middle
East." Abarbanel Associates will make "The
Argyle Secrets." Billy Wilder and Phil
Krasne are producing a series of Falcon pictures
starting with "Devil's Cargo," and Lou
Ansell has made "Women in the Night" and
will produce a series of exploitation pictures.
Four Story Transactions;
Two Are Sagebrushers
Sagebrush fare was tops in popularity in
the story market during the period, the sale
of two properties having been recorded out
of an unpromising total of only four transactions.
Gene Autry Productions acquired "Sons of
New Mexico" from Paul Gangelin and added
it to the unit's slate for Columbia release.
Autry plans to film it in Cinecolor on location
in New Mexico, using the Militai"y Institute
at Roswell as one of the principal
backgrounds. It will follow "Hideaway" and
"Wings Westward" as the third of five to be
filmed during 1948 . . Earl Snell's "Carson
City Raider" went to Republic as one of the
Famous Western series starring Allan "Rocky"
Lane. Gordon Kay will produce . . . Columbia
purchased a radio serial. "Deadline Mystery,"
from Robert Raisbeck and assigned
Wallace MacDonald to produce the film version
. . . Eronel Productions, new independent,
bought "Quicksand" from Paul Radin. William
Gargan will be stan-ed and the picture
will be made for Film Classics release.
Wood Drops O'wn Studio;
Returns to MGM Fold
In an era when independent production
activity is mushrooming, there is a manliites-dog
connotation to the disclosure that
an established independent is abandoning his
own company and returning to contractual
status with a major studio. Such is the step
taken by Sam Wood, who has dissolved his
Interwood Pi-oductions (which had a Universal-International
release) and is moving
back to MGM on a
three-year ticket as a director.
Wood, whose last for U-I was "Ivy,"
has not drawn an assignment as yet on his
return to the Culver City lot, where he was
a fixture for many years.
Wood follows an example set in the recent
past by Leo McCarey. who disposed of his
Rainbow Productions to Paramount and rejoined
that studio as a producer-director.
it Previously, will be recalled. Liberty Films
also was absorbed by Paramount and its
founders, George Stevens, Frank Capra, William
Wyler and Sam Briskin, went back on
major studio payrolls.
Harry Sherman to Make
Western in Hawaii
Producer Harry Sherman, veteran maker of
sagebrush fare, is going just about as far
west as one can travel to make his next
boots-and-saddles epic. Now vacationing in
Hawaii, he is planning a western to be made
in that tropical locale, based on the story
of the Parker family, which built a cattle
empire there. Joel McCrea will head the cast
and Sherman will turn out the feature for
Enterprise.
Boost Screen Profits
with
Alexander Films
North, South, East and West . . . thousands of smart showmen are doing it. 1947
was another record year in the field of screen advertising. Alexander Theatre
Partners shared TWO MILLION DOLLARS screen advertising revenue.
Alexander screen ads are quality productions
ing, professional casts.
good color.
Nearly 22,000 advertisers are using Alexander theatre screen service, including
many national advertisers such as Keepsake Diamonds, Purina Feed Mills.
Kelvinator Corporation.
RCA sound record-
Nash-
If you want to increase your screen profits let us tell you about our Theatre
Partner Plan. There's no obligation. Drop us a card today.
500 Fifth Ave.
New York City
Colorado Springs,
ISil BOXOFFICE :: January 24. 1948

if
Newfoundland Theatres Expanding;
GIs Spurred Interest on Island
ST. JOHN, N. F.—With five theatres of the
projected 12-house B. D. Parsons circuit already
open, theatre expansion in Newfoundland
is well on its way.
Newfoundlanders caught the theatregoing
habit from the thousands of U.S. and Canadian
servicemen and merchant sailors who
were on the big island during the recent war.
Up to that time, picture exhibition was almost
nonexistent outside of St. John's. Piccosts
you
'W8Q
per bag of
popcorn!
—and Popsit Plus
sells more com for
you . . . because
only Popsit Plus
gives popcorn that
golden yellow color
and that better
tastel
, SinoninofFhiladeljliia
BBSBSeBaEBH
tures have brightened the life of the islanders
materially, particularly during the long winter
period when the cold and the wind and the
isolation make life ordinarily dreary.
B. D. Parsons, who heads the United Movie
Houses, Ltd., and Newfoundland Amusements,
is building his string of theatres with materials
salvaged from dismantled army, navy
and air force installations. Each theatre will
seat 297 persons and will be in a small town
heretofore without motion pictiu-es. He has
finished construction of houses in Spaniard's
Bay, Manuels, Placentia, Carbonear and Long
Pond.
Local interests are reported to be planning
theatres in Grand Falls and Corner Brook,
both growing pulp and paper towns. King
Bros, has opened a combination house In
Fortune, a shore town about 15 miles from
the islands of St. Pierre and Mlquelon, French
possessions in the mouth of the St. Lawrence.
The Kings' theatre has removable seats, making
the place available for dancing, basketball
games and stage shows as well as motion
pictures. St. Pierre also acquired a theatre
recently.
In St. John's. Parsons' Newfoundland
Amusements is now building a theatre in a
section of town still without water and sewage
connections. Parsons is discussing with the
city council extension of the utilities. The
theatre will seat about 1,000.
The Total Abstinence society will build a
1,000-seater here to replace the Capitol, which
was destroyed by fire in 1946 The society
plans to lease the house, probably to Famous
Players Canadian, for ten years. FPC now
operates the Paramount, originally built by
Parsons.
The United States military maintains theatres
at Ft. Pepperell and McAndrew, Harmon
field, and the naval base at Argentla, and
both the U.S. and Canadian military have
theatres at Goose Bay. Labrador, which is an
affiliate of Newfoundland. All these outposts
have been leased by the U.S. for 99 years.
Newfoundland is in the throes of a prereferendum
discussion which will determine
its form of government. The voters will have
the choice of continuing to be governed by a
commission named by the British government
(a system that has prevailed for 14 years),
restoration of home rule government, or union
with Canada as it tenth province. Efforts to
give the islanders a choice of annexation to
the U.S. failed.
FROM THE FILES OF
JOSEPH BRANDT, president of Columbia
' Pictures Corp., declares that producers
and exhibitors alike are suffering from a
flood of poorly made films. Says Brandt:
"Money alone doesn't make pictures. It takes
brain power. When you drive that brain
power to working overtime, there can be but
one result—mediocrity . . . Theatre owners
would willingly pay more for fewer good
pictures."
Carl Laemmle, now celebrating his 20th
year in the motion picture business, came to
America in 1884 with $50 in his pocket. It was
22 years before the sight of his first motion
picture theatre inspired in him the desire and
determination to make that his life work.
So strong was his conviction that he took his
entire life savings, less than $4,000, resigned
from the management of the Continental
Clothing store in Oshkosh, Wis., and embarked
in the industry. Today he is president
of Universal, one of the most active producers
of motion picture films.
VA Patients Saw Average
Of 8 Films in November
WASHINGTON—The Veterans Administration
reports that patients in VA hospitals saw
an average of eight films each during November
of last year in hospital auditoriums and
wards.
Total attendance at the screenings for the
month was estimated at 844,000. Close to 13,-
000 films were shown during November. The
pictures were mainly first run features supplied
free of charge by the film companies.
Change Warner Film Title
HOLLYWOOD—Warners has changed the
title of Bette Davis' new picture from "Winter
Meeting" to "Strange Meeting." The picture
features Janis Paige, Jim Davis and John
Hoyt. It will be released in the spring.
Complete 4th Pacemaker
NEW YORK — Paramount has finished
shooting its fourth Pacemaker short subject
for the 1947-48 season at the Film Craft
studio here. The short will be released in
March.
o ^^
SUFtKMLM presents
IN THE COMIC ^OPERA
SCREEN VERSION OF
(L'ELISIR
D'AMORE)
By GAETANO DONIZETTI
MILTON CROSS
-^.v
'C^^
.^\5
NOW AVAILABLE ior Worid Rights
Opening Soon at
the
Little Carnegie. N. Y.
SUPERFILM DIST. CORF
52 VanderbiU Ave., N. Y. C
BOXOFFICE :: January 24. 1948,

A THOUGHT OR TWO FROM HYGIENIC CORNER

WARNING EXHIBITORS
Check the stars and titles listed
below.
We own U.S. Distributor Rights to
these westerns.
All contracts have expired—any
exhibitions will be an infringement
upon our copyrights.
UN Completes Five Films During 1947
xrv.- YORK—Fv.e doc-.i:i:en:iry iilnii -srere
complered in 1W7 and contracts were signed
for 14 additional documentaries to be produced
in ten separate countries by the United
Nations film and tele\-ision section. In a yearend
report, the UN section said that three
films on family health and welfare are being
produced in India, and independent producers
are sponsoring three more films to be produced
in the U.S.. and France-
Films completed during the year were "1116
Peoples' Charter." ""SearcIUight on the Nations,"
"Maps We Live By." "Cleanng the
Way/' -Firs: Steps' and i tieatnc^l trailer
produced by the VJS. film industry for the
UN Appeal for Children.
"The Peoples' Charter" is beitig released
English. French. Spanish ana Portuguese
versions to 12 countries and the German cc
cupacion zones.
The UN section reports that newsreel cov
age of the meetings at Lake Success are being lag
televised in the U^S. and Britain. During the
year the UN film committees for national
production and distaribution problems were
set up in France, the U.S. and England.
Save this ad for future use.
KEN MAYNARD WESTERNS
Alias the Bad Man
Fighting
Thru
Sunset Trail
Whistlin' Dan
Arizona Terror
Pocalello
Kid
Texas Gunfighter
Branded Men
Range Law
Two Gun Men
BOB STEELE WESTERNS
Nevada Buckoroo
Near the Rainbow's End
Sunrise
Trail
Headin' North
Oklahoma Cyclone
Land of Missing Men
Ridin' Fool
Near the Trail s End
BILL CODY WESTERNS
Blazing Justice
Lawless Border
Texas Rambler
Cyclone Rcmger
Outlaws of the Range
Frontier Days
Six Gun Justice
Vanishing Riders
FRED SCOTT WESTERNS
Rangers Roundup
Two Gun Troubador
Songs and Bullets
Knight of the Plains
Range
Romance Rides the
Singing Buckoreo
Fighting Deputy
Moonlight on the Range
Roaming Cowboy
Code of the Fearless
In Old Montane
THEATRE SEATKG ;Coat,
5-; ::.^,
.CLfflfilllGHOUSf.
Now available on State Rights
market. Immediate delivery of all
subjects.
New prints. We employ no agents.
For further information write direct
to
ALBERT DEZEL
PRODUCTIONS, Inc.
2310 Cass Ave. Detroit 1. Mi

CHESTER FRIEDMAN
HUGHE.FRAZE
iHZEsms
jjsiEnmsELnm
.
ProJ,UCUl 9
Its bcf-n a Ion; time since ihe
has been reminded thai the
price of admission to a motion pict^
theatre sires all the adTantares
•f a real-life mine caj-pet.
Far a few dimes the patron is
ftcd eat of eommonpla^e existence
ato a worid of fantasy, or trans-
^Mled berond his ^T^acal environment
to disUat pbees rf faet and
fiction.
Majbe that is why we were so
imivessed by the method itsed by
Watson Davis, manaser of the Kitz
Theatre in West Potnt. Miss- to sen
a iHt»sram consisting of -slave
Gni." the Lonis-Walcoti fiiht fOms
aai the sport feamrette- -Tooihall
Hizhlirhls of IMT ."
Above the stock mats. Davis ran
a boi in which he informed readers:
"Do yon kzxow that the motion pictare
scr««n can take you on a trip
iata the Arabian Nights, give yon
a SS* ringside seat at the world
championship fight, and a seat on
the 5«-yard line at all the big football
games of the year? . . . Today,
i^ht in the Eiti Theatre, for the
rie« of one ticket."
Ken Garbig. one of last month's
BOXOmCE Bonns winners, apparently
lost httle time after arrrring
p an
in Lindsay. Onl-.
acquaintanceship
in birildiTtr
with the
citizens of that commtinity. The
acquaintanceship obvionsly ripened
mte deep respect and admiration
far the Kent Theatre manager dnri^
tbe 18 Baraths he has lived there.
A few w«fa ago he decided to test
and annonnced bis
for the town cotmefl. He
who think that the
hypo is a giveaway
Bskt obserre the technique used
leccBUv by Bndy Kontnit manager
ml tbe Modjeska in MHwaiikee. to
t_=z;-=-rs
Metro Theatres in India
Use American Technique
Iz:r.-:^iu:ral insnrnied a poUry of plartn ;
' ~-- : :z' ^^p-n as assisianis zo branch mani^ers
abrsad. The plan >ias met Tiiii marksd
suDcs^. Tbe.a'a-gnen raVrng lo their exchange
dTlces siti ease, and grring the
r-xnpanv's theatre inierests in those connzries"
the large henefiis of good management
and ssnloitauon
Soon'after his rerom from serrice. Lee
Kamem. former manager of the Astor on
Broad'srav. -53= assigned to T'nrna in the ca-
TjadiT of a^asiant branch manager in charge
a: theatre operations. He has indoctrinated
theatre Tna-na^ fr~, both in Calmrta and Bom-
DET. TTith all ihe prtncipls of aggresfive
=-e.
A pirLoiiaZ report of the extensrre camtjaign
put on at the Metro Theatre in Bombay"
to esploit -Tne Tearhng" is ret-orded
on' this page. TTnoer Katnems sapenlsion.
Manager Hami HTderaaadirala employed aH
the usual facets of promotiDn and publicity.
A prrTirsr for the press, sihool heads.
clergy =^^^ prominent citizens of Bombay
resolied in a general opinion that the picture
Tas panirQlarly snited to children and
aro'snins. Window displays and a tienp Tcith
the Parisian cairr -were some of the highlights
of the faTnpaip-n
A grmiiaT caxoxjaign 'sras pnt an by L. A.
Hafesjie Metro. Calcima.
apparently believes that
his first line tt
appeal. He cashed in on the popabrity
of the -Civilization" song by
boobn; a couple of oldies titled
-Xabongo" and -"White Pongo" fw
a special midnight show.
In his advertising campaign he
nrged: "Save your cot-oanuis and
attend onr BONGO BONGO party."
They did.
sc-iic
r=.-
—35S—

. . . "Ninotchka
. . . What
'
Comedy Angles Stressed
In 'Ninotchka Campaign
Sports Shop Provides
Herald Contest on
WesiPoini
A clever tieup with a local sporting goods
company netted 10,000 free circulars for
Sam Pierce, manager of the Capitol, Macon,
Ga.. plugging "Spirit of West Point."
The spoiling goods store sponsored a "Spirit
of West Point" contest in which p?rticipants
were asked to guess the probable score of
five important football games which coincided
with the opening date of the picture. The
rules of the contest were imprinted on one
side of the herald, the other side of which
carried the merchant's ad and a strong plug
Lobby display created by Lester Pollock, manager of Loew's Rocheste
blowups and balloon captions.
Selling the reissue of "Ninotchka" as a
picture whlcli kids the pants off the commissars
in Russia has resulted in extra business
at theatres where the picture has previously
played.
In Indianapolis, Boyd Sparrow, manager of
Loew's, u-sed special newspaper ads built
around quotes from local theatregoers who
had seen the picture, giving strong emphasis
to the comedy angles.
Patrons leaving a preview performance
were invited to act as movie critics on a
special broadcast over WIBC. Each person
who appeared on the lobby program received
a pair of guest ticket.s. with the three best
"reviewers" getting cash prizes. The title
and playdates were mentioned frequently.
Newspapers devoted special stories to the
preview the following day.
Teaser ads caught the public's eye in the
Street ballyhoo for "Ninotchka" in Indianapolis
with boy and girl dressed as Russians,
using the walkie-talkie verbal pilch.
classified columns of the Star. News and
Times for five days prior to opening. Copy
was: "Greta is home: all is forgiven: call
(theatre phone number i has more
kick than vodka? Ninotclika! Call i
is looking for three commi.s-
.sars: call ... Do commissars wear
( >
silk underwear. Call ( >."
Three hundred Indianapolis taxis carried
biunper strips a week in advance, and 200
screen processed cards were hung on city
light poles and windows, and used as tack
cards. Copy and catchlines were similar to
those used in the teaser ads and featured
ahead of Garbo. Five thousand telegram
style heralds were imprinted with humorous
copy and distributed on Indianapolis streets.
Two days before opening a boy and girl
dressed as Russians with a walkie-talkie set
covered entrances to department stores and
delivered a spiel on "Ninotchka" to Christmas
shoppers. They used comedy gag lines
exclusively.
A tieup with the Kay jewelry shop got
extra plugs for the picture on the store's
Man-on-the-Street program over WISH.
Guest tickets were awarded daily to interviewees
with the most infectious laugh. In
spite of the scarcity of window space due
to the Christmas season. Sparrow was successful
in lining up several prominent locations
for displays of art.
In Rochester, N. Y., Lester Pollock, ssranager
of Loew's, also capitalized on the comedy
angles in "Ninotchka." An advance lobby
.setpiece 15 feet long featured blow-ups of the
stars with gag copy in balloon style, and
the punch line, "Don't pronounce it, enjoy
it. Ninotchka."
Doorknobs were hung throughout the
downtown area and 600 lamp-post cards were
put up in the shopping area. Radio promotion
included a Man-on-the-Street plug over
WVET and saturation spot announcements.
Newspaper publicity was extensive, with
stories and art breaking both local dailies
in advance and on opening day.
Two hundred local dignitaries attended a
preview and filled out comment cards which
were later used to exploit the program. \
total of 15 window tieups was promoted.
—356—
for the Capitol attraction. The stunt was .
set up at no cost to the theatre, distribution
included.
Two weeks prior to opening, local high
school students turned out in pregame parade.
Pierce obtained permission to place a display
in the parade plugging the picture.
Ushers were dressed in football uniforms
a week before opening. The uniforms were
borrow'ed from the same sports shop which
paid for the heralds.
An attractive theatre front was built with
the over-all scheme giving the appearance
of a huge football and players in action.
Pennants hung from the roof of the marquee,
;ind football cutouts suspended from the
- iffit provided an extra flash.
Dolores and Chest Drive
Help 'Christmas Eve'
Taking advantage of the personal appear
ance of Dolores Moran who is featured in
|
"Christmas Eve," Ken Means, manager of
the United Artists Theatre in San Francisco, t
obtained special newspaper publicity by hav- ,m
t.
ing the star participate in a Community
Chest drive.
Miss Moran posed for photographs ana
>
interviewed at a broadcast the
was during
ceremonies staged in connection with the
drive. "Christmas Eve" came in for prominent
mention. The actress made five radio
appearances. Drama editors of the Examiner,
Call Bulletin and the News ran interviews
based on her role in the picture.
Lobby decorations came in for extra attention,
getting complete holiday treatment.
Fifty six-sheets were posted and 225 car
cards were placed in trolleys and buses.
'Husband's Affairs' Ads
Stress Thrifty Theme
To help promote "Her Husband's Affairs"
at the Majestic, Bridgeport, Conn., Manager
Harry A. Rose arranged cooperative newspaper
ads with Read's department store and
'
the Washington market. M
Both merchants used the title with play- V
dates in their regular ads, pointing up the t.'l
fact that " 'Her Husband's Affairs' are in
thrifty hands when she shops at etc., etc."
The ads broke both the Bridgeport Telegram
and Bridgeport Post the day before
opening an,1 on opening day.
Blowups of Musical Stars
Light Up 'Hair Window
A striking window display in Gregory's ^
music shop was arranged by John Kohler, '
manager of the Paramount in Plainfield, N. J..
to help exploit "Carnegie Hall." Life-size
blowup cutouts of Lily Pons, Rise Stevens.
Martha 0'Dri.scoll and Harry James with his
trumpet made an attractive group in the
window, along with record albums, stills and
playdates mention. The display was on view
for a week before opening and stayed through !
the entire run of the film.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: Jan. 24, 1948 y^
i

I
on
Pictorial Newspaper
Acts as Harbinger
Of 'Good News'
A tabloid size newspaper herald was used
to convey a double message advertising "Good
to News" and "Killer McCoy" as successive holiday
attractions at the Colonial in Reading, Pa.
Manager Larry Levy prepared 5.000 of the
aft
m
tabloids, which carried an abundance of art
and selling copy for his Christmas and New
Year shows, and distributed them house-tohouse
and as inserts at newspaper and magazine
stands.
He obtained a broken-down jalopy, such as
is seen in "Good News," loaded it with teenagers
and had it driven tlirough the streets
with banners announcing the playdates.
A tieup was made with Western Union
in which messengers distributed cards reading.
"Good News one side, and theatre
'
dates on the other, with every telegram conveying
holiday greetings. This was done on
the day prior to and on opening day.
A series of newspaper teaser ads was used
to inform people that "Good News" was coming
to Reading and referred readers to the
amusements page.
Interview records made by June Allyson
and Peter Lawford, stars of the picture, were
aired over stations WRAW and WEEU. The
Zeswitz music store featured a full window
display and paid for a large co-op ad plugging
the music score from the film, with
theatre mention. Levy promoted two additional
co-ops and placed displays in downtown
hotels and 35 window locations.
Crown Cola and Dairy Firm
Help Sell 'Walter Mitty'
Ballyhoo and general merchandising tieups
were the highlights of Manager Leonard
Utecht's campaign on "The Secret Life of
Walter Mitty" at the Lake, Oak Park, III.
Utecht tied up with Royal Crown Cola which
bannered all trucks with theatre announcements.
The trucks reached into nine communities
in the area.
Another tieup was consummated with the
Borden Dairy Co. whereby a miniature milk
wagon drawn by a pony was bannered and
toured local villages in the west side of Chicago,
attracting attention wherever it appeared.
Window displays were set with 31 stores
in Oak Park, all tied in with the catchline.
"Don't be a Mitty. Buy, etc.. etc." Record
and music .sliops helped to plug the music
score from the film, with theatre credits
and local newspapers devoted free space to
the opening of the picture. Utecht used spot
announcements on the Cicero radio station
and cross plugs at the affihated Lamar to
boost the playdates.
Concentrated Promotion
For Anniversary Drive
Aggressive exploitation
mark the Manta
efforts
& Rose
continue to
15th anniversary
drive by Leo Haney, manager of the Lido
Theatre, Maywood, 111.
One hundred window cards. Judiciously
placed in windows in prominent locations,
serve as constant reminders to neighborhood
residents of coming and current attractions
at the Lido. Haney uses a weekly program
to list feature bookings and special attractions,
and to center attention on added featurettes,
novelty reels and short subjects.
Window displays are garnered thi-ough use
of star stills mounted on 22x28 cards. Newspaper
readers are planted regularly with
weekly publications and in the local high
school paper.
Manager Wins Community Recognition
111 recognition for cuiiistructive woriv in the promotion of special children*
-hows at the Hillard Square Theatre, Cleveland's largest residential suburb has
named .Manager Fred Holzworth to the Lakewood recreational plaiming committee.
The organization's program is aimed at providing wholesome entertainment
fur its young people. Holzworth was one of the first theatre managers in the
cit> of recognize the need of special children's programs. He earned the cooperation
of the Lakewood board of education, whose members help select the
programs shown on Saturday and supervise the audience at these shows.
Holzworth recently responded to an invitation to addiess the graduating
class of Lakewood Junior high school. He selected as his subject, '"Vandalism in
the Theatre."
In a half hour prepared talk, Holzworth explained what vandalism means
in dollars and cents as well as operational hazards.
"This isn't a game to see whether or not you can outsmart the manager."
he said. "Operating a theatre is a business proposition. We operate for a profit
When you destroy property, you can turn profit into loss. With continued
loss, you jeopardize the jobs of many employes.
"As for youngsters who sneak into the theatre without paying, this is as
much stealing as if you took an article from a store counter without paying for
it. When you sneak into the theatre, you are actually stealing the admission
price."
Direct Notices Mailed
For Children's Shows
John Misavice, city manager for Manta
& Rose theatres. Forest Park, 111., addre.ssed
personal letters to more than 900 children
on the birthday list at the Forest Theatre,
informing them and their parents that selected
features from the Children's Film library
are being screened on Satiu-day mornings.
Parents are also urged to attend the.se
fine programs.
These children shows are built up through
means of a special message in the weekly
house program, window displays and newspaper
advertisements, Misavice also planted
advance stories and readers with the local
press to create further interest.
To exploit "Kiss of Death" at the Strand in
Vancouver, B. C. manager lack Randall had
his doorman, attired as the figure of death,
cover the downtown streets at peak hours.
Teaser envelopes containing candy kisses
were hanc'ed out, with copy: "Here's a kiss
for you. You'll thrill to the 'Kiss oi Death.' "
The stunt created quite an impression.
\it BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Jar 24, 1948 -357-
Rotarians Host Kids
At Kent in Lindsay
Measuring the value of goodwill by dollars
and cents is not always practical, vvTites
Ken Garbig, manager of the Kent Theatre,
Lindsay, Ont., but we do feel that working
with local organizations helps immeasurably
in keeping the theatre prestige at high point.
Garbig offered the Rotary club of Lindsay,
of which he is a member, the use of the
Kent to stage a free Christmas show for
children. Santa Claus attended, bringing a
gift for each child.
Because the Kent capacity is under 300,
Garbig staged two performances on Saturday
and two more on Monday prior to the
hohday in order to accommodate the 1.200
youngsters.
Front page breaks in both daily and weekly
newspapers, personal commendation from his
brother Rotarians, plus the personal gratitude
of the children and their parents all
constituted ample reward in the opinion of
Garbig.
Newspaper Gives Short
Story on Front Page
Most theatremen are aware that news
editors do not readily succumb to a sales
pitch for first page publicity. H. J. Brown,
city manager for Malco Theatre in Fulton.
Ky., also realized he had nothing sensational
to offer with Bob Hope scheduled in
'Where There's Life."
But BrowTi observed that with the feature,
he had the short subject, "A Voice Is Born,"
booked, a story of the Hungarian tenor with
an unusual voice who spent a good part of
the war in a concentration camp. Miklos
Gafni, the tenor, was also a fanner's son
with ambitions like many sons of American
farmers.
That was an angle which the newspapers
might go for. They did. The short subject
rated a two-column feature on page one of
the Fulton Daily Leader, thus proving that
Brown is not satisfied to let Hope's strong
popularity carry a campaign. Obviously, he
believes that his entire program deserves
selling
effort.

Cat Nap Provides Catnip
For 'Cat Creeps Date
If your official iiouse mascot has a favorite
resting place, this information may come in
handy some day.
Consider the case of the house cat Darkie,
who besides being the terror of the rodents
at the Florida Cinema In the Kings Park
section of Glasgow, Scotland, likes to take
her catnap atop the radiator cover in the
lobby.
When Lily Watt, manager, observed that
"The Cat Creeps" was listed among her future
bookings, she decided to present Darkie
as the central figure of a promotional stunt.
A display was erected just above and behind
Darkie's favorite haunt, with illustrations
from the pictui-e. Every time Darkie
decided to catch 40 winks, she provided unconscious
animation for the display.
It didn't matter whether "The Cat Creeps"
or sleeps—patrons were highly amused.
The accompanying photograph shows
Darkie standing on top the radiator cover in
the Florida lobby deciding on a spot to take
her nap.
Name Band in Opelika
Receives Store Co-Op
It is not often that a big time name act
makes a personal appearance in Opelika,
Ala., but when the Johnny Long orchestra
was booked at the Martin Theatre there.
Manager Duke Stalcup displayed exploitation
tactics creditable for any urban appearance.
Stalcup arranged for the popular band
leader to appear between performances at
the Montgomery Fair store to autograph records.
The department store advertised the
appearance and the theatre presentation in
newspaper display ads, windows and counter
cards. Stalcup also arranged for an interview
of himself and the star from the store
through his local radio station and reached
the listening audience.
The editor and publisher of the Opelika
Eagle made mention in his column of the
display Stalcup set up to promote the engagement
and stated that the stunt was an
attractive bit of tiein advertising for the
theatre and Johnny Long.
New, New Look
A window skirt, latest innovation to
enhance the new look, was devised by
Roy A. McLeod, manager of the Vogue
in Vancouver, B. C, to attract extra attention
to the engagement of "Body and
Soul."
McLeod designed the skirt with a short
hemline, to which a transparent attachment
was added to achieve the new
length. The garment served to satisfy
the fashionable well-dressed woman. For
the practical male, offered a lush eye-
it
ful of leg through the transparent skirting.
An attractive young woman wore the
skirt through the city's main shopping
center. The Vancouver press relayed the
information to citizens who missed the
late fashion hint, with a plug for the
Vogue screen attraction.
'Love' Circulars Reach
College Point Pupils
James Pisapia, manager of the Interboro
College Theatre, College Point. N. Y., distributed
4,000 heralds listing the music selections
heard in "Song of Love" in public
and parochial schools during Music Appreciation
week. The heralds were addressed
specifically to the students at each school
and were handed out in the class rooms by
cooperative teachers.
For "Cxone With the Wind," Pisapia had
2,000 die-cut door hangers placed in private
and apartment dwellings stressing the fact
that the picture was being shown complete
and intact. The regular admission scale was
underscored as well as the starting times of
the feature.
For "Dear Ruth," pasteboard tickets were
imprinted emphasizing the fact that people
paid $6.60 to see the stage play. The film
hit was offered at the usual College admission
price.
Cyril Mee Made Chairman
Of Local Food Committee
Another indication that community officials
believe in the executive and organizing abilities
of local theatremen may be seen in the
fact that Cyril Mee, manager of the State
and Strand theatres, Harrisonburg, Va., has
been named chairman of the citizens' food
committee. The appointment followed the
recommendation of Mayor Bernard T. Denton
to the state food committee. Mee has tjje
responsibility of mobilizing the citizens of
Harrisonburg in the job of helping to feed
the hungry peoples of Europe.
Watches Picture Casts
For All Local Angles
Ken Rockwell, manager of the New Babcock
Theatre, WellsviUe, N. Y., finds it worth
the effort to check carefully on stars and
featured players who appear in his attractions.
Whenever he observes that someone
with a local background is in the cast of
a picture which is dated, he informs the
editor of the WellsviUe paper. Rarely does
that individual fail to come up with special
stories and mention of the theatre's booking.
—358—
Car Giveaway Brings
Maximum Results
AsCooperaiive
When a tieup accounts for $300,000 worth
of business for a group of merchants, a theatre
boosts its average attendance during
December, and a deserving war veteran wins
an automobile, you have all the results of
a highly successful promotion.
That is exactly what happened when Frank
Cost, manager of the Shore in Euclid, a
suburb of Cleveland, enlisted the cooperation
of 45 merchants in a new car giveaway, the
first one reported in that area in several
years.
The merchants issued coupons with each
purchase of $1 over a five-week period ending
December 30. Coupons were dropped into
a hopper located in the theatre lobby. The
theatre also issued coupons with each sale
of tickets amomiting to $1. When the contest
closed, there were over 300,000 c0upon.s
to testify to the fact that they accounted for
gross sales of $300,000.
Cost arranged to have "Miss Ohio of 1947'
draw the lucky coupon and had a police
squad car go to the home of the winner and
bring him to the stage for the presentation.
A capacity audience cheered the winner, an
ex-marine, married and earless.
Two-Horse-Power Vehicle
Beats Storm for 'Fun'
An example of ingenuity is offered in this
bit of exploitation by Sabie Conti, manager
of the Oxford in Plainfield, N. J.
To promote "Fun and Fancy Free." Conti
had prepared a 6x9 display board, using a
three-sheet and cutouts from a 24-sheet
which he had planned to mount on a truck
and send around town. With the advent of
the recent snowstorm, however, he made a
quick change, mounted the board on a hay
wagon and had two horses pull it around
Plainfield and vicinity prior to the opening
of the show.
Not only was the hay rig able to surmount
the snowdrifts, but the unusual means
of locomotion proved a remarkable attentiongetter.
Merchant Group Sponsors
Kiddy Morning Shows
Thirty merchants were tied up by Manager
Charlie Call to sponsor six kiddy morning
shows, at a cost of $1.50 a show, at the
Bliss Theatre, Long Island City, N. Y. The
show will be spaced over a one-year period.
They will Include special program bookings
as well as toys, candy, comic books and other
giveaways for the youngsters.
On Meatless Tuesday
Even more attractive than cash giveaways.
Ham Night has proven very successful
for Henry Bowers, manager of the
Paramount, Casa Grande, Ariz.
Nowadays, according to Bowers, a tenpound
ham has ten times the drawing
power of SIO in cash. Three weeks ago,
when he started giving away 15 to 20-
pound cured hams on Tuesday nights, he
found that it created the main topic of
every day talk in these days of high food
prices.
Bowers used a screen slide to announce
the weekly giveaway plus a card
in the boxoffice. On the night of the
drawing, a ham is placed on display in
the boxoffice where everyone can see it.
BOXOFnCE Showmondiser :: Jan. 24. 1948

Lobby
Ideas
A tieup with a local music
dealer supplemented
Manager Elmer Hecht's
campaign for "Carnegie
Hall" at the Park in
Tampa, Fla. A week in
advance, the display
shown at left was set up,
with the girl playing musical
selections featured in
the film. On opening day,
the cooperating merchant
paid for a half-page co-op
ad, playing up the music
score.
At left, cm unusual efiect developed
by Eugene Van Norman,
manager of the Palace in
Milwaukee, to exploit "Nightmare
Alley." The three-dimensional
lobby device depicted a
scene from the picture, placing
characters and model furniture
into a realistic setting. It drew
unusual comment from theatre
patrons, with notable results at
the boxoffice.
Right: In Long Island. "Nightmare
Alley" was sold through
a modernistic touch by means
oi this nightmarish lobby dis
play dreamed up by Gerry
Pratt, assistant manager of
Century's Grove in Freeport
N. Y.
^ if. "^
Norman Lofthus, manager of the California Theatre, Santa Barbara, Large setpiece with life-size cutouts ol the stars was designed by Ted
drew admiring glances from patrons and extra business when he Barker, publicity director for Loews Theatres in Cleveland, to exploit
used this novel method to exploit coming hits prior to Christmas. the opening at the State. The display was over 20 feet in length.
BOXOFFICE Sbowmandiser Jan. 34. 1948 —359—

Top Hats and Bobbysox Point
Bachelor Promotion in Halifax
Tof hat and bobbyac
Capitol, Haliiax, N. S.
Up
ed design on lobby floor (left) and on marquee ol the
Tiff Cook, assistant manager of the Capitol, the idea of gifts for bachelors and bobbysoxers,
SKIRTS ONCE AGAl'
and by arrangement with the mer-
Halifax, N. S., made the most of cooperative
tieups exploiting "The Bachelor and the
Bobby-Soxer." On the lobby's flagstone
chants the windows stayed illuminated until
11 o'clock each night.
floor, a design was painted, the theme of
which was a black top hat to represent the
Again using the theme of the black top hat
and the yellow bobbysox. Cook had the sign
bachelor, and yellow bobbysox to identify the shop make cutouts of these with clamps
rest of the title.
A mailing piece was made up from pressbook
which were set on either end of the marquee
in place of the usual title. The stunt excited
clippings, on one side of which was a a great deal of curiosity from passersby.
picture of Cary Gi-ant captioned "bachelor"
and on
A rubber stamp was used to
the other
place
side
a sales
a photo of Shirley
Temple
message
captioned
on several thousand
"bobbysoxer. ' Five thousand
paper napkms
and on record
of these were mailed to suburban areas
and an equal number to residential city districts.
in restaurants
music shops.
envelopes in
Cook worked up considerable interest in
They were also attached to menus in
several prominent restaurants.
Cook managed a front page break in the
Saturday edition of the Halifax Star prior
connection with the engagement of "Mother
Wore Tights" by placing a card in the lobby
addressed to the Di-essmaker"s Guild stating:
Wore why to opening. This was in the Inquiring Reporter
"If 'Mother Tights' can't we wear
short skirts once again?" Women were Invited
column and cost the theatre ten
passes, with interviewed persons expressing
to affix their signatures to the giant
themselves on a question pertinent to bachelors
and bobbysoxers.
card which later was forwarded to receive
extra publicity breaks.
At a British war bride dance preceding For a street ballyhoo. Cook had two of the
the opening, a spot dance was featured with
three winning couples receiving guest tickets
The
candy clerks carry signs urging women to
come down and sign the card as a protest
against the "new look." These girls also distributed
to the Capitol. picture was plugged
4,000 small "Ladies Only" leaflets
several times during the evening.
Window displays were arranged, based on carrying a similar message.
HERES
TO
MONTREAL
DRESS GUILD.
'VR.V;SAPERA.
SUMMER BLDG..
MONTREAL.QUE,
liMEN OF mmMS.
Girl signs giant protest card in lobby on "Mother Wore Tights."
6«m
2?"^ NAME II, ,
PROTEST-IFMinfflt
W0RET16HTSYW
CAN WEAR
SHORT SKIRTS!
PS-BETTtaiUBltWODffl
DSiLE

High Allentown Tax
Opposed by 25,000
PHILADELPHIA — The amusement tax
fight is still being waged in this trade area
with unabated enthusiasm. Allentown theatre
operators fought an eleventh-hour battle
against the passage of the proposed 8 per
cent tax. with the public definitely behind
them. Bangor borough is trying to put
through a similar measure. Siu-prise move in
the current battle came from Ocean City.
N. J., where citizens actually are asking for
a theatre tax.
In Allentown, exhibitors expressed surprise
and disappointment at city council's action
in approving an ordinance on first reading
which would assess an 8 per cent tax on
amusements. Operators of the 14 theatres in
Allentown pointed out that their opposition
to the tax was backed by more than 25,000
patrons, who voiced their objections to city
officials by maihng signed cards to city
hall.
TOO MUCH AT 28%
An 8 per cent tax on top of the 20 per cent
federal tax, is too much, the theatremen said,
pointing out that the only diversion and entertainment
enjoyed by thousands of persons
in the area is supplied by theatres.
A number of conferences were held between
the theatremen and members of the
council, but the only concession gained was
a tax on a sliding basis instead of a flat two
cents on every 25 cents or fraction thereof,
which was called for in the original plan.
In a communication to the council, attorneys
representing the exhibitors stated:
"We take this last opportunity to impress
upon you the sincere feelings of our clients
that the rate of taxation set forth in the
proposed ordinance is one that will be oppressive
to those who attend the movies, and
one that we feel will be injurious to the industry.
Surely the number of communications
you liave received during the past few weeks
must at least make you feel that those who
hold to this same opinion are legion Indeed."
City council was to consider the ordinance
at second and third readings January 21.
It becomes effective in 30 days. The measure
is expected to yield $265,000 in revenue this
year.
EIGHT AT BANGOR, TOO
The Bangor borough council last week
J. solicitor, authorized Lawi-ence Davis, and
the law committee to draw up an ordinance
to estabhsh an 8 per cent tax on all forms of
amusement and entertainment in the community
where admission is charged. According
to council, revenue is expected to be about
$5,000 armually.
More than 400 residents of Ocean City last
week requested the city commission to put
the luxury sales tax question on a public
referendum. At a special town meeting, the
residents unanimously approved such a
referendum being placed on the June primary.
Twenty-five persons in the audience, who
spoke on the question, urged that Ocean City
follow Atlantic City's lead in imposing a sales
tax on amusements, cigarets, and hotel room
rentals. By a show of hands, the audience
was 25 to 1 in favor of such a tax.
"Miracle' to Warner House
NEW YORK—"A Miracle Can Happen"
(UAi, produced by Benedict Bogeaus and
Burgess Meredith, will open at the Warner
Theatre, Tuesday, February 3. It will be
the first picture from another company to
play the house in five and a half years. The
Warner, formerly the Hollywood, has been
playing Warner product exclusively since
Oct. 22, 1942.
«« BOXOFHCE :
GREET ITALIAN BEAUTY— Valli, the
Italian actress who is making her American
debut in "The Paradine Case," is
greeted by G. S. Eyssell, (left) president
and managing director of the Radio City
Music Hall, where the picture is current,
and Leo G. Carroll, who plays the prosecutor
in the David O. Selznick-Alfred
Hitchcock film.
Color Line Dropped
For MOD Premiere
BALTIMORE — The Town Theatre was
turned over to the local March of Dimes campaign
for a special premiere of "The Roosevelt
Story," January 14 at $3.00 per ticket. The
organization sold tickets to everyone, lowering
Baltimore's traditional color bar for
that one performance.
This action was in part the result of pressure
brought by the Maryland chapter of the
Progressive Citizens of America, which
threatened to throw a mass picket line around
the theatre unless it changed it's policy for
the premiere showing. Speaking for PCA,
Henry Beitscher, state director, said, "we
consider this a major victory, but it does
not mark the end of Jim Crow at the Town
Theatre."
A statement released by various groups
said, "we are determined to take all necessary
steps to open the doors of the Town
Theatre to all citizens, regardless, of race,
color or creed."
A PCA letter to the Town management said
in part: "What a shameful commentary it is
that such an institution in honor of FDR can
exist in the backward state of Georgia, while
yoiu- theatre insists on barring colored citizens
in Baltimore." The letter was signed by
Beitscher and Mrs. Marcella Avnet, chairman
of PCA's anti-discrimination committee.
The Town is directly opposite Ford's Theatre,
v.'here picketing in protest to it's seating
arrangements has been under way for
two seasons.
When regular showings of "The Roosevelt
Story" were resumed, the Town was picketed
by a mass line handing out circulars asking
people not to cross the picket line. Picketing
is still going on at this writing.
Bugie Transferred by EL
To Albany Territory
NEW YORK—W. Gordon Bugie,
salesman
at the Eagle Lion Buffalo exchange, has been
transferred to the Albany branch by A. W.
Schwalberg, vice-president and general sales
manager. Bugie will work under Harry S.
Alexander. Buffalo branch manager.
Johnston to Address Meet
NEW YORK—Eric
Johnston, MPAA president,
will address the annual luncheon award
meeting of the Protestant Motion Picture
council at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel, Tuesday,
January 27. The council will present
its first award for the top entertainment
picture of the year.
: January 24, 1948 N
Clearance Suit Filed
By Eagle in Albany
ALBANY—Relief from alleged "double and
unreasonable" clearance was asked in a complaint
filed with the American Arbitration
Ass'n here Wednesday by the Capital City
Theatre Corp., operator of the Eagle Theatre.
The complaint names Paramount Pictures,
Warners' Delaware Theatre and Freedman
& Orson's Colonial Theatre. The complaint
lists Hellman's Paramount and Royal
as theatres possibly affected.
The Delaware and Colonial have seven
days over the Eagle. At present the Colonial
is playing first run foreign product but in
the past it has been a third-run situation.
Leonard Rosenthal, counsel for Upstate
Theatres, Inc., of which the Eagle is a member,
is counsel for owner Joe Grand. Paramount
Pictures has seven days to answer the
complaint, after which the arbitrator will be
selected. Louis Phillips is the Paramount
attorney.
The complaint is the first recorded with
Gordon Stedman, AAA regional manager,
since Ernie Dodd of the Palace in Lake
Placid complained last year over the clearance
given the Schine circuit's Pontiac Theatre
in Saranac Lake. A compromise settlement
was made in that case.
Theatre Planner Hurt
In Boston Air Crash
BOSTON—Herbert J. Freezer, New York
shirt manufacturer, who is planning to build
a 3,000-seat theatre on Broadway and 51st
St., was injured when he and 24 other passengers
and crew members jumped 15 feet
from the Eastern Airlines plane that crashed
and burned January 21.
The plane had left Miami and was bound
for Newark, but was forced to land at the
Logan Intern ation Airport here because of
weather conditions.
Barbara Aaron Is Engaged
NEW YORK—Edwin W. Aaron, assistant
general sales manager for MGM, and Mrs.
Aaron have announced the engagement of
their daughter, Barbara Anne, to Herbert
S. Nusbaum, attorney. Miss Aaron is employed
at the Eagle Lion home office publicity
department. She attended Barnard
School for Girls and was graduated from
Mt. Holyoke college. Nusbaum at various
times was a member of the MGM home office
legal department and the Monogram
studio legal staff.
'Amber' Plays in Jersey
PHILADELPHIA—The nrovocative "Forever
Amber" made a comeback in this trade
area last week when the fi'm was scheduled
for several houses in snu^h Jer^ev. There
seemed to be little untoward reaction to the
film there as compared to the storm it aroused
here. It opened at the Towers in Camden
Wednesday for a two-dav run. The film then
made the rounds of the Centu'-v in Audubon,
the Ritz in Oaklvn. the Poxv in Manle Shade,
and wound up at the Walt Whitman in Camden.
Sheldon on Sales Trip
NEW YORK—William Sheldon, general
sales manager of Siritzky International Pictures,
left Januarv 23 on a four-week trip
to complete circuit deals for Siritzky foreign
product throughout the south, the west
coast and in Texas. Sheldon recently closed
circuit deals with Skouras. Randforce and
Century circuit in the east.

Along New York's Film
By WALTER WALDMAN
On February 6 there will be another social
event for Filmrowers—the First Annual Entertainment
and Dance of the Motion Picture
Theatre Operating Managers and Assistant
Managers Guild ... It will be held
in the Belvedere room of the Hotel Astor
. . . George Dunn, president of the Guild,
will be the host.
Seven new members have joined the Motion
Picture Bookers club. They are: Al
Trilling and Jerry Frankel of Paramount:
Arnold Michelson and Arnold Jordan of
Warner Theatres; Herman Berger of Columbia,
and Morty Lightstone and Norma
Smith of the Island circuit.
Louis Weinzimer, service supervisor for
NSS, died suddenly last Monday, January 19
... He was taken ill while he was on his
way to work, and passed away two hours
The funeral was held
on Tuesday . . . Weinzimer and his brother-in-law,
later. He was 52 . . .
Henry Egert, operated the Pro-
it gressive Poster Co. until was absorbed
by NSS in 1940 ... A widow and three
children survive.
Ralph Plelow, New York branch manager:
Jack Bowen, metropolitan district manager,
and Jack Byrne, eastern sales manager, were
busy attending several meetings of MGM
George Emmot of the Newbury circuit has
been laid up with arthritis . . . Herb Pickman,
WB fieldman, is touring his New York
and New Jersey territory . . . Gus Solomon,
WB sales supervisor, had a bad case of bronchitis
and was away from his desk for one
week . . . Sam Lefkowitz, WB district manager,
is in Florida. He will probably run
into Murray Schoen of the Gem and Beason,
Brooklyn, who is also spending his vacation
there.
sales executives headed by William F. Rodgers
. . . Bowen and Ben Abner, the New
Jersey branch manager, recently spent a cold
but enjoyable weekend at Lake Placid where
they were the guests of Fred J. Schwartz,
vice-president of Century Theatres.
Employment items: Lll Bloomberg resigned
from the 20th-Fox booking department
to join Movies En Route, Sherman
. . .
Rutter's steamship booking company
Lll has been replaced by Ann Bucheahl . . .
Irving Baron has left Screen Guild where
he had been a booker and salesman . . .
Hannah Rosenberg will take over his booking
duties . . . Agnes Blasius has left the
MGM billing department.
THE IDEAL THEATRE CHAIRS
JOE HORNSTEIN has them
Row
sales manager, presided at a two-day district
managers sales meeting at the home office
January 15, 16. In addition to discussing
product and sales policies, those attending
saw advance screenings of two Enterprise
productions, "Arch of Triumph" and "They
Passed This Way," and Benedict Bogeaus' "A
Miracle Can Happen."
Others who attended from the home office
were: Edward M. Schnitzer, eastern and
Canadian sales manager: Maury Orr, western
sales manager: Paul N. Lazarus sr., contract
manager; Paul N. Lazarus jr., advertising and
publicity manager, and Abe Dicksteln and
Jack Wrege from home office sales.
District managers present were: W. E. Callaway,
western; Mark N. Silver, Pennsylvania-
Washington; Mce Dudelson, central: Fred M.
Jack, southern; Charles S. Chaplin, Canadian,
and Jack Ellis, New York. Two branch managers,
Nat Nathanson, Chicago, and Ralph
Cramblet, Minneapolis, also attended.
N. Y. Film Critics Present
13th Annual Awards
NEW YORK—The New York Film Critics
presented their 13th annual awards honoring
the best actor, actress, director. American
fUm and foreign language picture of 1947
at a dinner at Leone's Restaurant January 19.
Elia Kazan was present to accept his award
for the year's best direction of two 20th-Fox
pictures, "Gentleman's Agreement" and
"Boomerang." John Garfield, featured in
"Gentleman's Agreement," which was voted
the best American feature of the year, accepted
the award for Spyros P. Skouras, 20th-
Fox president, and Darryl F. Zanuck, producer.
"GENTLEMAN'S" A\VA1!I>—.Idhn (iarfield,
left, ol accepts the scroll honor
awarded to Darryl F. Zanuck for "Gentleman's
Agreement" from Otis L. Guernsey,
chairman of the New York Film
Critics Circle. The gentlemen of the
press named the picture the best of 1947.
The presentation was made in New York
January 19, with Garfield representing
Zanuck.
New York Holds Up
New Building Code
ALBANY—A further delay, possibly until
•THE big event of the week is the Ninth Phil Levine says that he is now booking
spring, in the official adoption of the revised
Annual Installation Dinner and Dance of
the Motion Picture Bookers club . . . The
first run Italian films for his Burke Theatre,
the Bronx . . . The Itahan films are
standard building code for theatres and
other places of public amusement in the
shown two days a week. The rest of the
Restaurant
. . . More than 250 bookers, salesmen,
exhibitors and other industry members tures . . . Dacey, salesman, re-
standards and appeals.
bought tickets . . . The program calls for cently was operated on at the French hospital
. . . Charles Penser, also of the RKO posed code, plus recommendations made at
The board has been considering the pro-
a minimum of speech-making and a maximum
of dining, dancing and floor show entertainment
... In case you've forgotten, liefs at the ACA Galleries on 57th street tions of John Coggeshall, state labor de-
sales staff, will exhibit his bronze bas re-
public hearings last summer and sugges-
Alex Answalder of 20th-Fox is being installed
as the new president Alex is also
Because of the complexity of the problems
February
partment code expert, for some weeks.
15-22.
time Phil uses subsequent run domestic pic-
John RKO
state is certain, according to the board of
date, January 26. The place, Iceland
. . .
on the dinner committee which includes
involved and the large number of people
Harold Klein of the J. J. circuit; Eddie Richter
of MGM and Lee Kaye of the U.S. navy.
with great care and deliberation, a spokes-
UA Holds 2-Day Meeting whom it will effect, the board is proceeding
Of District Managers
man said. The board seeks not only a code
NEW YORK—Gradwell L. Sears, United that will provide the public with the highest
Artists president, and J. J. Unger, general degree of safety, but one that is practically
enforceable.
MPF Program Committee
To Meet on January 27
NEW YORK—The program and scope committee
of the Motion Picture Foundation will
hold its first meeting here Januai-y 27 at the
Hotel Astor.
This committee was organized by the trustees
of the Foundation to work out plans of
organization and fund disbursement procedures
to can-y out the welfare work.
The committee is headed by Ned E. Depinet,
chairman, and Ted R. Gamble, vice-chairman.
The other members are: Dr. Jacob
Fishman, Charles "Chick" Le\ns, Max A.
Cohen, Barney Balaban. Jay Emanuel, William
K. Jenkins, Max Yellen, Leopold Friedman
and E. V. Richards jr.
Meanwhile proposals for financing the
foundation are being discussed by the sales
executives who make up the MPF distributors
committee. These proposals had been
submitted by the MPF finance committee,
which met here January 14.
The distributors committee, headed by Tom
Connors, former vice-president in charge of
sales for 20th-Fox, went over these recommendations
last Wednesday (211.
Questions of pohcy have been referred to
a sub-committee consisting of Robert
Mochrie of RKO, Abe Montague of Columbia,
H. M. Richey, representing William F.
Rodgers of MGM. This sub-committee will
meet within the next ten days for fm-ther
discussions.
The sales chiefs of all other companies
have been invited to attend this meeting.
According to one MPF official, plans for
financing the MPF, which hopes to raise
about $10,000,000, will require the active cooperation
of the film company distribution
departments. This ties in with the report
that some of the money will come from
rentals of a film to be produced and distributed
under foundation sponsorship.
Incorporations
ALBANY
Hollywood Calling; To conduct an advertising
and promotion business; 200 shares, no
par.
Science Pictures; To produce and distribute
scientific, educational and industrial motion
pictures; Joseph F. Romano, Rosalie Seaber,
Converse Murdoch, 60 E. 42nd St.
Cinemedia; To produce and deal in visual
forms of entertainment; 200 shares, no par;
Myron Budd Mittleman, 470 Pelham Rd.,
Alvin Sisk, 350% W. 24th St., New Rochelle;
Franklin E. Loew, 2160 Caton Ave., Brooklyn.
BOXOFHCE :: January 24, 1848

. . Donald
. . . George
Big New York Coin
On 'Paradine Case'
NEW YORK—"The Paiadine Case" proved
to be the top grosser here in an otherwise
slow week. The lines outside the Music Hall
formed early and were long. Second and
third positions were held respectively by
"Gentleman's Agreement" in its 10th week
at the Mayfair and "The Bishop's Wife" in
Its sixth week at the Astor.
Five new filnis opened during the week,
"I Walk Alone" at the Paramount, "If Winter
Comes" at the Capitol, "T-Men" at the
Criterion, "Treasure of Sierra Madre" at the
Strand, and "Fui-ia," an Italian film, at the
Rial to.
(Average Is 100)
Astor—The Bishop's WUe (RKO), 6th wk _...113
Capitol—High Wall (MGM), plus stage show,
4lh wk 85
Criterion—The Senator Was Indiscreet (U-I),
4th wk 86
Globe—Body and Soul lUA), Uth wk 95
Golden—Mourning Becomes Electra (RKO),
9th 90
Gotham—Women in the Night (FC), 2nd wk
Mayfair—Gentleman's Agreement (20th-Fox),
10th wk. - 115
4th _ 80
Palace—Tycoon (RKO), wk
Paramount—Where There's Liie (Para), plus stage
show, 4th wk 80
Radio City Music Hall—The Paradine Case (SRO),
plus stage show, 2nd wk
Rialto—Ponic (Tricolore), 8th wk _
118
90
Rivoli—Coptain From Castile (20th-Fox), 4th wk 90
Roxy—An Ideal Husband (20th-Fox), plus stage
shov^ 96
Strand—My Wild Irish Rose (WB), plus stage
show, 4th wk HI
Victoria—The Fugitive (RKO), 4th wk 92
Warner—Voice of the Turtle (WB), 4th wk 62
Winter Garden—Secret Beyond the Door (U-I) 100
"Magic Town,' 'Indiscreet'
Take Honors in Buffalo
BUFFALO — Zero weather didn't hamper
grosses. "Magic Town" was a hit at the Century
and "The Senator Was Indiscreet" was
strong at the Lafayette.
Bulialo—Daisy Zenyon (20th-Fox); Roses Are Red
(20h-Fox)
Great Lakes—Captain From Castile
116
(20th-Fox)
Hippodrome—Road to Hio (Para), 3rd d. t. wk
107
100
Lafayette—The Senotor Was Indiscreet (U-I);
Devil Ship (Col)
Teck—Cass Timberlane (MGM), 3rd d. t. wk
120
100
20th Century—Mogic Town (RKO); Desperate
(RKO) ...._.. _ 118
Youngstein Is Nominated
As President of Ampa
NEW YORK—Max Youngstein, director of
advertising, publicity and exploitation for
Eagle Lion, was nominated as president of the
Associated Motion Picture Advertisers, Inc.
for the coming year at a closed committee
meeting at Headquarters restaurant January
23. Youngstein, whose nomination by the
committee is tantamount to election, will
succeed Arnold Stolz, who will leave shortly
for an extended stay on the west coast.
Other officers nominated to serve during
the coming year were: David Blum, Loew's
International advertising and publicity director,
as vice-president; Harry McWilliams,
exploitation director of Columbia Pictures, as
treasurer, and Evelyn Koleman, publicity director
of Republic Pictures, as secretary. On
January 19, Phil Williams, Ampa vice-president
for 1946 and 1947, resigned "because of
duties which would take him out of the city"
in his Fortune magazine post.
Youngstein announced Ampa's plans for
the coming year with emphasis on the excellent
welfare work being carried on by the
Industry organization.
Tfaked City' for Capitol
NEW YORK—"The Naked City" (U-I)
will open at the Capitol March 4. The film,
produced by the late Mark Hellinger, was
originally scheduled to open at the Criterion,
following "T-Men." Instead, Loew's
win run "Killer McCoy" after "T-Men."
BOXOFnCE :: January 24. 1948
BROADWAY
. . .
Arthur M. Loew, head of Loew's International,
and Henry F. Krecks, also of the
department,
studios
are back from a visit to the
Audrey Totter is in town to make
a series of personal appearances in Loew's
eastern theatres. She is accompanied by
Dorothy Blanchard of the studio publicity
department
, Hyde, vice-president
of U.S. Pictures, is in town to confer with
Warner Bros, home office executives in connection
with the release of "My Girl Tisa."
While here, Hyde will also confer with
writers and publishers on stories for 1948-49
production . . . Jay Richard Kennedy, author
of "To the Ends of the Earth," to be released
by Columbia, is in New York.
Mary Hatcher, who has been singing the
feminine lead in "Oklahoma!" on Broadway
for the past season, has left for Hollywood
to commence work in her role in the Paramount
production, "It's Always Spring" . . .
William R. Ferguson, MGM exploitation head,
was in Cincinnati and Chicago during the
week . . . Lilli Palmer and her husband. Rex
Harrison, sailed from London on the (^ueen
Elizabeth Sunday (18i. Before returning to
the coast Miss Palmer will confer with Milton
Sperling, president of U.S. Pictures, on
her next film, "The Long Way Home."
Si F. Seadler, MGM advertising manager,
expects to leave shortly for the coast on his
annual vacation and visit to the studio . . ,
DeWitt Bodeen, RKO screen writer who
came east in connection with the Broadway
presentation of his play, "Harvest of Years,"
is back on the coast . . . A. L. Pratchett,
Latin American division manager for Paramount
International, is in Mexico City: S. E.
Pierpont, district manager for Brazil, Argentina,
Uruguay, Paraguay and Chile, who
has been at the home office for an extended
stay, has returned to his headquarters in Rio
de Janeiro, and Roger Williams, manager for
Puerto Rico, is back at Ms post in San Juan.
Edwin W. Aaron, assistant general sales
manager for MGM, plans to visit the coast
and tour a number of MGM western exchanges
early in February . . . William B.
Levy, world-wide sales supervisor of Walt
Disney Prod., is on the coast for conferences
with Disney studio executives regarding the
RKO release and distribution of the forthcoming
"Melody Time."
Bernard G. Kranze, new vice-president in
charge of world-wide sales for Film Classics,
has taken over his new duties following a
vacation in Florida. Kranze formerly was
with U-I, where he was assistant general
sales manager in charge of J. Arthur Rank
product . . . Charles Schlaifer,
Eddie
director of
Albert is at the Waldorf . . . Charles
advertising and publicity for 20th-Fox,
C, Moskowitz,
and
Loew's vice-president and Sid Blumenstock, assistant exploitation
treasurer, is back
manager,
are back at their
from a visit to the coast
. . . Harry Michalson, RKO home office desks
short subject
following a trip to Chicago to set
sales manager and
up plans
president of RKO Pathe, for the operring of "Call Northside 777."
is in Hollywood to confer with George Bilson
with reference to casting the next "My Max E. Youngstein, director
Pal"
of
release
advertising,
publicity
and future Leon Errol and
Edgar Kennedy
and exploitation for Eagle Lion,
pictures. He will also visit
is back
the Walt
from Chicago
Disney
where he conferred
studios to meet with J. H.
with Balaban
Maclntyre, RKO & Katz officials on
western
"T-Men"
division manager.
Smith, western division manager
for Paramount, has started a swing of his
territory following a division managers' meeting
in New York called by Charles M. Reagan,
vice-president in charge of
distribution.
William McClure, Warner Pathe News
cameraman, is in Paris where he will Join
William Murray, European manager, Mc-
Clure and Murray will operate there under
Alfred Butterfield, editor-in-chief, and Edward
Buddy, foreign editor . . . John Murphy
and Ernie Emerling of Loew's are back at
their desks after a visit to Loew's theatres
in Norfolk, Richmond and Washington . . .
Milton Kramer, chairman of the board of
the Selznick Releasing Org., flew to London
and Paris during the week on a short business
trip. He expects to return here February
Danny Kaye will appear at a
5 , . . hospital benefit in Dublin, Ireland, during
the first week of March as a result of negotiations
completed between Msgr. Fulton
J. Sheen and the Very Rev. Walter McDonald
in Dublin. The performance will benefit
the Bon Secours hospital. Kaye left New
York Friday (23) for a month's engagement
at the London Palladium, and will then begin
an entertainment tour of U.S. army bases
in Germany.
ATTEND NOTED RECEPTION — Theatre owners in the District of Columbia
area were among those attending a reception last week in honor of Mayor Israel
Rokach of Tel-Aviv, Palestine, given by the commissioners of the district. Posing with
the mayor are: Commissioner John Russell Young; Charles Stofberg, Young's special
assistant; Sen. Alben Barkley (D-Ky.); Fred S. Kogod, president of the K-B Theatres
and president of the Jewish Community Center; Mayor Rokach; unidentified
man; Commissioner Guy Mason; Joseph Cherner, owner of the Shirlington apartment
and shopping development and president of the Louis Brandeis Zionist Group; Commissioner
Brig. Gen. Gordon R. Young; Abraham S. Kay, owner of the Kaywood Theatre;
and Hymen Goldman, president of the Jewish Community Council.

Four Firms Dropped
In Bordonaro Case
BUFFALO—Federal Judge Harold P. Burke
has dismissed as defendants four of the 12
motion picture companies named in a $300,-
000 damage suit filed by Bordonaro Bros.
Theatres, Inc., of Olean. The Bordonaros,
operators of the Palace in Olean, charged
that the defendants conspired to prevent
them from getting enough films to carry on
business.
Burke ordered that the Radio-Keith-Orpheum
Corp. and Universal Corp. be removed
as defendants because tliey are parent corporations
of RKO Radio Pictures, Inc., and
Universal Film Exchanges, Inc., and were not
shown by the evidence to have had any part
in the alleged conspiracy.
He removed Warner Bros. Pictures Distributing
Corp. and its predecessor, Vitagraph,
Inc., on grounds that the evidence showed
that at no time had vhe Bordonaros attempted
to purchase Warner Bros, pictures.
SEVEN DEFENDANTS REMAIN
The suit against a fifth company. Big U
Film Exchange, Inc., was dismissed earlier
by stipulation.
The remaining defendants are Paramount
Pictures, Inc., Loew's, Inc., RKO Radio Pictures,
Inc., 20th Century-Fox Film Corp.,
United Artists Corp., Universal Films and
Circuit Management Corp.
Defense witnesses testified that their companies
have been unbiased in their treatment
of the Palace. The Bordonaros charged that
the companies conspired to deprive them of
first run product in an attempt to force sale
of the theatre to Warners, which owns the
Haven, another first run house in Olean.
John J. Scully, eastern sales manager for
Universal, described in detail the way his
company's pictures were divided between the
Palace and Haven.
"Four times a year we made a list of all
feature pictures to be released in the coming
three months," he said. "That list was then
split in half, quantity-wise and quality-wise,
and sent to one of the theatres, which chose
the side of the split it wanted. The other
theatre got the other side. To make everything
fair, the Palace was given first choice
one time, the Haven the next."
SAYS UA SOLD SEPARATELY
Matthew Sullivan, former manager for UA
here, testified that UA sold its pictures individually
and that each was a matter of
separate negotiation.
The subject of classification of pictures re-
Experienced Builders of Auto
OUTDOOR THEATRES
• Can Be Ready for Season Ahead •
MOSE SMITH
Union Trust Bldg. Pittsburgh 22, Pa.
NEW MIRROPHONIC SOUND
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CLASS DISTRIBUTION FOR
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J (JOHN) Q T3

. . The
. . Jimmy
Kiddy Shows Urged
By Philadelphians
PHILADELPHIA—Special kiddy shows to
replace the gangster films that are the principal
fare of moviegoing youngsters on Saturday
afternoons were urged at last week's
forum of the Parents Film council here. The
proposal came from Mrs. Harry B. Miller,
secretary of the Pennsylvania board of censors,
who also is motion picture chairman of
the Federation of Women's clubs.
-''There are entirely too many gangster pict!^
shown," she said. "The westerns are
okay-»-that is, most of the cowboy shows are.
1 belled a solution to the problem would be
to tiave kiddie shows exclusively on Saturday
afternoons from 2 to 4:30."
Mrs. Robert Carlen, council president,
called for concerted action by all parents organizations
to "correct this unfortunte situation."
Mrs. Marjorie Dawson, representative
of the Motion Picture Ass'n of America and
chairman of the Children's Film Library committee,
said the library was ready to supply
exhibitors with films suitable for children
at low cost.
Harry Goldberg, national advertising director
Warner Bros Theatres, placed the
for responsibility on parents "who send their
boys and girls out every Saturday just to get
rid of them for a couple of hours." Parents
should keep their children away from pictures
they consider improper for youngsters,
he said. The film industry wUl not produce
a type of film that is not patronized, he
pointed out.
ALBANY
^layton Eastman, former Paramount manager
here and now UA district manager
In Boston, was a visitor . . . Herman L. Ripps,
assistant division manager for Metro, is
spending four weeks at the home office under
a plan adopted last year to familiarize field
executives with operations at the main base.
Exchange callers on the coldest Monday
In recent years included Neil Hellman, Hellman
Theatres; Sylvan Leff of the Highland,
Utica; Morris Slotnick, operating theatres in
Utica. Oriskany Falls and Waterville; Leon
Duva of Morrisville. and Frank Wieting of
the Park, Cobleskill.
Ted Rosen, son of Leo Rosen of the Fabian-
Hellman drive-ins, will graduate soon from
St. Lawrence university and enter Albany
Law school here in September . New
York motion picture and radio bureaus, in
cooperation with the state bonus commission,
have made a one-minute television trailer
showing how a veteran should apply for the
state bonus. The short has been televised by
WRGB. the General Electric station at
Schenectady, and by the NBC, CBS and Du-
Mont stations in New York City.
The Variety Club met Monday night following
a dinner at Keeler's restaurant. Discussion
centered on Denial day suggestions
for the 1948-49 drive, and reports of committee
chairmen on plans for the coming
A preliminary report was made on the
year.
benefit performance of "The Glass Menagerie"
at the Strand the night of February
Dan Honlihan, 20th-Fox manager, hopped
"Veie* of Th««tr» Sp««k«rt"
JOE HORNSTElk has th»m!
to Saratoga for a conference at Bentoti circuit
headquarters and to Cooperation for a
huddle at Smalley Theatres offices . . . Floyd
Fitz.simons, Metro exploiteer, went to Oleo
Falls to work with Charles Daniels, new manager
of the Paramount, on "If Winter Comes"
and "Killer McCoy." Daniels, who had managed
a Paramount-Publix house in Newburgh,
succeeded John Ettlinger, who has been
transferred to San Francisco as advertising
and publicity man.
Dorothy Major, attractive member of the
Metro secretarial staff, is married to a teacher
of quantitative analysis at the College of
Pharmacy . Moore, former Warner
salesman, has succeeded Dick Hayes as salesman
at Paramount. Moore had been with
Warners for about 12 years. Hayes, who has
retired from the industry will enter the hotel
business at Tupper Lake, had been with Para-
Increase your "take" in
moimt for 20 years. A farewell dinner for him
will be given by the Variety Club February
16. Hayes served two years as an officer of
the tent.
Charles A. Smakwitz, WB assistant zone
manager, was so enthusiastic about a screening
of the Columbia short "A Voice Is Born,"
that he had the reel run again to hear the
He
voice of Miklos Gafni, feature of the reel.
called Edgar Van Olinda of station WOKO
for another screening and the latter arranged
for Gafni to give a concert here for the Civic
Music Ass'n at the Strand.
"I Know Where I'm Going" made a nice
start at the Colonial. The J. Arthur Rank
picture brought local press and radio critic
raves. Manager William Mansbacher put
aimouncements on Betty Campbell's Show
Business program over station WOKO.
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, . . Norman
. . Robert
. . Robert
. . Joe
. . Condolences
. . . "The
PHILADELPHIA
IliTotion Picture Associates has announced
the following committees to direct its
affairs during 1948: Constitution and bylaws,
Albert M. Cohen, Lester H. Wurtele, Joe
Suskin, and Ralph Pries; entertainment, William
Doyle, Ben Bache, Ben Biben, John J.
McFadden jr., and Charles Beilan; finance,
Earle W. Sweigert, Robert Lynch, James P.
Clark, Jack Beresin, Meyer Adelman and Jay
Etoanuel; historian, James Dalton; membership,
Mitchell Pantzer, Frank Sculli, Ben
Stern; publicity, Mike Weiss. Milt Young,
Brooker, James M. Ashcraft, Ed Rosenbaum,
Bill
George Fishman, and Doug Beck;
sergeant at arms, David Rosen; welfare,
Joseph Engel, Jack Bergin, and Jack Greenberg.
Samuel Palan is president.
The irrepressible Ed Rosenbaum has come
up with a lulu for publicizing the current
film at the Boyd. He wants to award trophies
to a few losers by knockouts at local prize
fights. The cups are to be engraved with
the film's title, "Sleep, My Love" ... If the
Pennsylvania censors pass it, the Palestine
underground documentary, "Last Night We
Attacked," currently being distributed by the
American League for a Free Palestine, will be
shown at the Popular Theatre late this month
Silverman, former Republic
salesman, has joined Selznick Releasing Organization
as branch manager, it was announced
by SRO District Manager Saul
Krugman.
Claude Rains, who is a gentleman farmer
hereabouts when he isn't being a Hollywood
character actor, sails for England March 7
to make two films there, both for J. Arthur
Rank. Rains' first will be for Ronald Meame,
producer of "Great Expectations," and will
also .star Ann Todd . Alda, film
star, was in town for the Menorah relief show
at the Broadwood. Alda, who used to be
straight man in a burlesque comedy team,
filled that role in the show here.
The Variety Club gave a testimonial dinner
for retiring Chief Barker Al J. Davis last week
at the Bellevue-Stratford. The affair was
a sellout. Michael Felt is the new chief
barker . Nisenson of the Roxy and
Boro theatres became a grandfather again
when his daughter and son-in-law had their
second boy.
Earle W. Sweigert heads Section H of
the
local Red Cross drive . . . D. A. McHugh is
now managing Henry Friedman's Lavmdale
. . . Joe Farrow is now managing the Locust.
He had been with MGM for more than 20
years, and after that was at the Rialto for
the Affiliated circuit . . . Charley Goldfine
Is the new house chairman at the Variety
Club. Sam Diamond resigned due to the press
of duties at 20th-Fox . . . Marilyn Schlanger,
daughter of Ted, who heads the Warner chain
here, will announce her engagement to
Michael Rittenhouse soon . Sapsis,
manager of Henry Rosinsky's Eureka, said
the house has discontinued matinees tem-
TELL US YOUR IDEA!
WE'LL WRITE THE COPY
|
FREE FOR YOUR
porarily and will close entirely for about a
month soon to allow for extensive renovations.
Frank A. Litle sr., 54, for 10 years chief
electrician and stage manager of the Towers
Theatre, Camden vaudefilmer, died last week
after a heart attack. He had been employed
earlier in his career at the Temple, Stanley,
Broadway and Lyric theatres in Camden.
Surviving are his wife, a son, and a daughter.
Alphonsus D. O'Kane, former assistant general
manager of the Erlanger Theatre Co.,
died suddenly at his home near here. He was
54. Surviving are his wife, a son and thi-ee
daughters . are extended to
Stanley Goldberg, National Screen Service
branch manager, and Whitey Molitch on the
death of their fathers, and to Anthony Pisantino,
Paramoimt shipper, on the death of
his
mother.
The Star Theatre in Camden started recently
to give away pieces of a luncheon set
to lady patrons.
Walter Reade Wins Appeal
To Break RKO Contract
ALBANY—The New York circuit of appeals
has upheld its con.ention that the 1942 contract
between Long Park, Inc., one of Walter
Reade's parent theatre companies, and RKO
Service Corp. was "illegal, void and unenforceable."
Reade, who is director and part
owner of the 12 theatres involved in Trenton
and New Brunswick, N. J., appealed from a
decision rendered last July by the appelate
division.
Justice Thatcher reversed the lower court
decision and assessed costs in all courts to
RKO. The decision will effect the management
of the theatres immediately, but does
not in any way alter the holdings of either
Reade or RKO.
Loew's Parkchester House
Holds Children's Shows
NEW YORK—Loew's American, in Parkchester,
is presenting an experimental series
of Saturday morning children shows during
the month of January. The film selected
from the Children's Film library are endorsed
by the Parent-Teacher associations of the
Bronx pubhc schools No. 36, 102, 106 and 119.
The films selected are: "Buffalo Bill,"
which was shown January 17; "Smoky," to
be shown January 24, and "Tom Brown's
School Days," January 31. Selected novelties,
cartoons and shorts supplement the programs.
Gulistan Wilton Theatre Carpet
JOE HORNSTEIN has it!
Coyne, Levy !o Talk
At Richmond Meet
RICHMOND, VA.—Robert Coyne, TOA
executive director, and Herman Levy, TOA
counsel, are scheduled for speeches before
themidwinter convention of the 'Virginia Motion
Picture Ass'n Thm-sday (29) at the John
Marshall hotel.
Harold Wood, secretary for the association,
also says that Dave Palfryman of the MPA.
\
H. M. Richey and Leon Bamberger, public !
relations men for MGM and RKO, respecj
tively, are scheduled for brief talks. Gov. 1
William F. Tuck and members of the gen-
^
eral assembly now in session In Richmond
have been invited to the dinner and dance
which will conclude the one-day meeting. ,
RICHMOND
Oympathy to Ober and Elvira Boyd in the
death of their infant son Kenneth Wayne
Boyd January 12 . . . Claude Tliornhill and
his orchestra will appear at the WR'VA
Tlieatre for two performances February 2
. . . "Annie Get Your Gun," with Mary
Martin in the principle role, has been booked
for a week at the Mosque following its
Chicago engagement.
"My Wild Irish Rose" is at the Colonial
after a three-week rim of "Road to Rio."
"Daisy Kenyon" opened at the Byrd and
State while "The Senator Was Indiscreet"
moved from those theatres to the Capitol.
"Unconquered" completed two weeks at the
National and gave way to "Always Together."
"Sleep My Love" is at Loew's.
Allen Brown, Brookland manager, has been
nursing the sick in his home as well as
keeping the usual eye on his theatre. His
wife Dot and daughter Dottle have both
been ill. Both are on the road to recovery
. . . John Zenner, Westhampton manager,
is all smiles now that he has foimd an
attractive apartment for his family. He
hopes to move in early In February.
The resignation of Carl Lanier as assistant
at the Capitol resulted in a few changes
in the Neighborhood circuit relief arrangement.
Jimmy Heslep, relief at the Bellevue
and Brookland, takes over the relief
work at the Westhampton and Bill Michaux
moves to the Capitol to assist Ober Boyd.
New employes at the Grand include Robert
Garber and Marvin Holmes who alternate
between popcorn and candy concessions.
These two replace John Jenkins, resigned,
and Earl Grady, who was promoted to doorman.
Jack Day, manager of the Lee, has been
transferred to another Fabian theatre In
U-I Screens 'Naked City'; Altoona, Pa. Walter Tliompson, assistant to
Bob Eagan at the National, has been transferred
to the Lee and promoted to manager
Mayor O'Dwyer Attends
NEW YORK—Universal International held
Glass Menagerie" will play at
a private screening of "The Naked Ciiy," the WRVA Theatre February 4 for matinee
Mark Hellinger production, at the Park and evening performances. The Ginter Park
Avenue Theatre, Thursday (22). Mayor William
O'Dwyer, city officials and members of nee and share in a con.siderable portion of
Junior Woman's club will sponsor the mati-
the police force who cooperated in the filming
of the picture attended along with close
the matinee receipts.
The premiere of the second MGM Fitzfriends
of the late Hellinger.
Patrick Traveltalk on 'Virginia, "The Cradle
The picture was filmed almost entirely in
of a Nation," was held at the Williamsburg
New York. It will open at the Criterion
Theatre in Williamsburg January 21. The
Theatre in February. It stars Barry Fitzgerald.
premiere was sponsored by the Chamber
of Commerce of Williamsburg in cooperation
with the management of the Williamsburg
Theatre . . . Lily Pons will appear in concert
at the Mosque January 30.
All Richmond theatres are showing the
March of Dimes appeal trailer and have set
up barrels for contributions in their lobbies.
44
BOXOFnCE :: January 24. 1948

i
'
Turner,
i
;i
Mam-ice
,i
Baltimore
,;
last
at
B(
i'
or-
'
salesman
i
is
'
Warner
. . . The
. . . Charlie
: January
. . Jeanette
. . The
. .
MAX
WASHINGTON
tJoward Savitz is back at National Screen as
in the Baltimore territory, re-
placing Milton Lindner who has resigned that
position.
Charley Hurley, RKO salesman, is out of
the hospital and convalescing at home .
. . Agnes
! \
i
Marsha Parnell had a birthday .
RKO cashier, made a trip to Wil-
^
liamsburg, Va., this week and was successful
in organizing a Soroptimist club there. She
regional chairman of extension in the
Lou Carroll, fori
South Atlantic region . . .
mer publicity man here, made a visit to the
• . . . local RKO office Terry Turner, director
of publicity for RKO, was in town this week
bookers went to the Elks Minstrel
show to see their booker George Sullivan
perform as a Russian ballerina dancer.
The Paramount exchange reports several
cases of flu. Lillian Lee and Jean Brownley
were out several days with it . . . Joe Grant,
Hendricks, and I. Makover were
exhibitors visiting the exchanges
Monday . . . Evelyn Feirmian, cashier's
clerk at 20th-Fox, has become engaged. No
- date has been set for the wedding bells.
I Fred Rohrs, Eagle Lion branch manager,
I went to Baltimore to call on Izzy Rappaport
... Eagle Lion is celebrating its first an-
I
-f niversary this week . . . Morey Goldstein,
general sales manager at Monogi-am, is in
town this week . Samaniego is
taking her first trip to New York.
Bandit Shot as He Flees
From Philadelphia House
PHILADELPHIA~A policeman shot and
wounded one of four men he chased from
the rear of the Towne Theatre Saturday
morning. Detectives later found the theatre
has been broken into by robbers who carried
tools to crack its safe. They said the wounded
man admitted he and his companions were
frightened off from the Towne, their third
theatre safe job of the morning, when a
policeman merely shook the front door to see
if it was locked. In the car used by the robbers,
detectives found a total of $719, which
had been taken from the safes of the Benner
and Regal theatres earlier. The gang is believed
responsible for the recent epidemic of
theatre robberies in Philadelphia.
Fifth Movie Ball to Be Held
By Variety Club lanuary 25
ALBANY—The fifth annual "Movie Ball"
dinner dance of the Variety Club will be held
in the Ci-j'stal ballroom of the DeWitt Clinton
hotel Saturday evening, January 25. Neil
Hellman, retiring chief, will be honored and
the new crew, headed by Harry Lamont, will
be installed. Music for dancing will be furnished
by Francis Murphy's orchestra. The
affair, infonnal, will cost $7.50 a person. Starting
time is 7:30.
Charles A. Smakwitz and Leo Rosen are cochairmen
of a committee that includes Si
Fabian, C. J. Latta, Saul Ullman, Sam Rosen,
Herman L. Ripps, Ed Ruff, Gene Lowe, Arthur
Newman, Alton Mendelson, J. Myer Schine,
Louis W. Schine, Leonard Rosenthal, Ray
Smith, Dr. Bejamin M. Volk and Lamont.
'; Ross Wheeler, branch manager at Screen
Guild, was in Richmond calling on exhibitors
Mendelson, salesman for Film
a Classics, is making the tobacco belt territory,
ij
and Harold Levy, salesman, is in Baltimore.
Ross Wheeler and wife Sally took a trip to
i New York last week . . . L. E. Jones, Mount
:; Airy, Me., visited the exchanges, also H. M.
J Rosin, Rio Theatre, Chesapeake City, Me.
Theatres: John J. Payette, Washington
zone manager, conducted the annual
, meeting of Warner Bros, managers in the
Washington zone at the Statler hotel, Washington,
January 15. Managers from the 45
Warner Bros. Theatres in the District of Columbia,
Maryland and Virginia attended.
Speakers included George Crouch, assistant
zone manager; Frank La Palce, director of
advertising and publicity: Julian Brylawski,
er, chief of the realty department, and District
13 Zone Managers Harry Lohmeyer, Nat Glas-
E ser and Charles Grimes. The business meeting
((1| of the morning was followed by a lunch-
eon.
js White, manager, Morgan Baer's orchestra:
and the following associate members, elected
,;. by the board of governors on January 5: Al-
',; bert D, Blitz, president. Modern Displays,
I
Inc.; and Morris Kraft, president. District
Hotel Supply.
Arnold Fine, columnist for the Daily News,
devoted his column on January 21 to the
Variety Club. Frank Boucher, chief barker
of Variety Club, and Mrs. Boucher entertained
the board of governors in their lovely
home on Sunday evening . Princess
Theatre, which is a landmark in northeast
Washington, being 60 years old. will be dis-
-- mantled after January 31 . . . Several mem-
» bers of the Variety Club attended the Touch
down
-IS
club dinner Saturday night.
m BOXOrnCE :
24, 194S
WB to Try Foreign Films
In Downtown Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA — Another theatre will
take a shot at the foreign field when the
Capitol, Warner Bros, house at Eighth and
Market streets, presents the Italian film,
"Shoe-Shine," starting February 4. The house
will embark on a policy of nothing but foreign
films. Center city houses have not been
too successful with foreign films in the past.
The old Europa, now the Siudio, and the
Pix, both were foreign film houses at one
time but now show only an occasional foreign
film, depending on domestic product for their
bigger boxoffice returns.
Thief Steals Big Container
Full of Polio Donations
BUFFALO—Manager Lloyd M. Mills of the
Midtown Theatre is offering as his candidate
for the city's meanest character the unidentified
person who made away with one of the
Sister Kenny Foundation collection cans from
the theatre's candy stand. "And it was the
gl Variety Club news: The first "open house"
heaviest can of the three which we had for
date of the year was held on January 17, with
;'
another scheduled for January 31. New memr;.
donations to the fund to help infantile paralysis
He Club Harry
victims," said Mills. said he did
not know the value of the contents, "but the
bers of the Variety are: A.
WINX;
Simons, traveling auditor. Loew's, Inc.;
,f
can was almost full."
RCA Film Recording Head
Speaks at SMPE Meeting
NEW YORK — Everett Miller, technical
supervisor, RCA film recording section, was
guest speaker at the Atlantic Coast section
meeting of the Society of Motion Picture
Engineers held at the RCA Film Recording
studios January 21.
Heads Radio Events, Inc.
NEW YORK — Julienne Dupuy, former
editor of Televiser, has been elected president
of Radio Events, Inc., radio script syndicate.
Miss Dupuy plans to start a new division to
syndicate television script material.
^H^^^m
AT THESE ASTOR EXCHANGES
NEW YORK - BELL - BERT KULICK
WASH., D. C. - EQUITY BERNIE MILLS
PITTSBURGH - Crown - SHULGOLD
PHILADELPHIA - CAPFIAL EDDIE
GABRIEL
BUFFALO - PAM O - ELEANOR M.
PARADEIS
45

Civil Liberties Union
Urges Divorcement
WASHINGTON—The American Civil
Liberties
Union filed its brief amicus curiae in
the appeal of the New York antitrus* decision
with the sunreme court Monday il9i.
In general the docimient upholds the views
of the Justice department which filed Its
brief two davs later. The union asked the
hiffh tribunal to compel Paramount and the
other majors to give up their ownership of
theatres on the grounds that this limits the
access of independent oroducers to the screen.
The signers were Harold J. Sherman and
H. William Pitelson of counsel, and Wendell
Berge, formerly of the justice department:
James Lawrence Fly, former FCC chairman:
Prof. George H. Dession of the Yale Law
school, and C. Dickerman Williams, New York
attorney.
The union compared the screen with the
press, and declared that freedom is equally
important in the one medium as in the other.
The brief said that the movies are part of
the nation's press at least by implication.
Ferguson Holding Meets
With Field Sales Heads
NEW YORK—William R. Ferguson, exploitation
head for MGM, is holding a series
of five two-day meetings with field sales
executives and promotion men under his
supervision. The first was at the Netherlands
Plaza, Cincinnati. January 20-21 for the men
in the central division. The second was at the
Blackstone hotel, Chicago, January 22-23
for the mldwestern division. Ferguson will
return here Saturday (January 24> to set up
the remaining three sessions.
The meetings center around departmental
activities, policy and discussion of a new approach
for promoting and publizing next
season's product. Ferguson is al.so making a
theatre .survey in each of the five territories
and holding get-together meetings with newspaner
and radio contacts.
Those who attended the Cincinnati meet
were: John J. Maloney, central sales manager
with headnuarters in Pittsburgh: Frank
C. Hensler, assistant sales manager, Detroit:
Edwin Bnnth. Cincinnati branch manager.
and the following explolte^rs: J. E. Watson,
covering Cincinnati and Pittshnro-h: Harold
Marshall. Indiananolis: Charles Diet/. Detroit:
Charles C. Deardourf, Cleveland and Bernie
Evans. Kansas CUv and St.. Louis.
Attending the Chicago ses.sinn were: BuT-tus
Bi.shon ir.. sales manaeer for the area : Walter
E. Banford. district manacrpr: Ra]n>i w Maw.
a.ssistant sales manager. Minneanolis: William
G. Devanev. Chicaen manager, and the following
Pxnloiteere
broadcast and inductriol se^tlnn of the RCA
enfineerin" r>»-oduc's denartmpnt.
E'Hott. who fo>-morIv sunervised ex""rt salps
of B'-oadcast audio equinment for the RCA
inteTiational division, will now direct the
national sales.
Korda Forming New Firm
LONDON—Sir Alexander Korda is organizing
a French production company to be
headed by Sir Alfred Duff Cooper, former
British ambassador to France.
Screen Directors
Turn Attention
To Productions for Television
Televiser's Film Meeting
Sets Television Talks
NEW YORK— Chester W. Kulesza,
conference
chairman for the all-day closed film
conference conducted under the auspices of
Televiser magazine at the Hotel Commodore
January 26. will speak on "Film Commercials
for Video" during the morning session. Kulesza
is film and television production supervisor
at BaHen, Barton, Durstine & Osborne.
Other speakers on the morning program
are: Thomas A. Wright, research director
of the Batten. Barton, Durstine & Osborne
motion picture and television department,
who will speak on "Video's 25 U,ses for Film";
Dave Grudebroh, head of the motion picture
bureau, and Don McClure, head of the television
bureau of N. W. Ayer Sons, who will
speak on "What About Costs?" and Charles
A. Durban, assistant advertising manager,
U.S. Rubber Co., who will ipeak on "How We
Have Used Video Films."
Afternoon speakers will include David A.
Bader, editor, 16mm Reporter, who will speak
on "Video Clearance Rights": Irwin A. Shane,
publisher. The Televiser, who will give a report
on "Getting Business Now": Paul Alley,
director of film programs. NBC Television,
who will speak on "Filming News and Special
Events": C. D. Ford, development section of
the photo products department, E. I. Du Pont
de Nemours & Co.. who will speak on "Raw
Stock for Television." and Rudy Bretz, fihn
department WCBS-TV. who will speak on
"Film Standards for Television."
Later in the afternoon an open discussion
will be held followed by screenings of films
for prospective soonsors and film bookers
from television stations throughout the country.
First INS-Telenews Reel
Is Telecast by Du Mont
NEW YORK—The first of the newsreels for
television broadcasting produced join'ly bv
Telenews Productions, Inc., and the International
News Service, was shown Tuesday
night (201 over the Du Mont station WABD
It runs 20 minutes.
The newsreel also will be shown over
WWJTV, Detroit, and WBKB, Chicago
Chevrolet sponsors the newsreel on all three
stations. In addition, the film is being shown
in the newsreel theatres operated bv Telenews.
Future plans call for the expansion of the
weekly newsreel to 30 minutes and the production
of a daily five-minute newsreel. The
daily newsreel will be shown Monday through
Friday, the weekly film weekends.
The present Telenews-INS newsreel develooed
out of the weekly news'-eel of foreien
affairs which was first produced by Telenews
about nine months ago. This film had been
u.sed in Telenews theatres and also in feature
houses, especially art and forsignlanguage
outlets.
It was also used for television shows sponsored
by Chevrolet in Detroit and Chicago.
Under the terms of the deal signed December
24 with INS, the news service sales force
will solicit sponsorship in all cities with television
stations.
Special local coverage will be included for
the different cities at the expense of the
sponsor.
U-I Film Set for B'way
NEW YORK—Universal-International's "A
Woman's Vengeance," starring Charles Boyer,
with Ann Blyth and Jessica Tandy, will open
at the Winter Garden January 29 following
the current "Secret Beyond the Door."
NEW YORK—"A bad nontheatrical picture
is just as detrimental to the movie business
as a bad entertainment film," according to
Gene Martel, newly-elected president of the
Screen Directors Guild, Martel, former treasurer
of the Guild, took over the reins of'
office from Bud Pollard, president of the I
guild for past two years, January 19, following
the election of officers at the third annual
convention at the Hotel Astor January
17.
"Here in the east, we produce about 90 per
cent of the nontheatrical films, about 5 per i
cent of the entertainment films and most of J
the films for television," Martel said. Pointing
]
out that there is room for vast improvement t
in the quality of these films, he said that the
|[
nontheatrical film business will expand only f
as the quality of its films improve.
"This impi-ovement can be brought about i^
when producers realize that good direction i
by established directors utilizing ever- [.
advancing production techniques is, in many^
respects, even more important for commercial
films than for so-called entertainment films,"
according to Martel.
In addition to continuing its efforts to
raise the standards of entertainment, commercial,
industrial, educational and documentary
film production in the east, the guild will
focus its special attention during 1948 on
"the rapidly growing activity in the field of
films for television," Martel said.
In addition to Martel, who is eastern test
director for Paramount, other Screen Guild
officers elected at the convention were: Willard
Van Dyke, first vice-president: Leslie
Roush, second vice-president: Jack Glenn, recording
secretary: Sidney Kaufman, corresponding
secretary, and Emerson Yorke,
'Volpone' Is Condemned
By Legion of Decency
NEW YORK—The Catholic Legion of
treasurer. Pollard was named honorarypresident
and a director. Also named as directors
were the elected officers and Al Altman,
Boris Kaplan, Leo Seltzer and Marvin Rothenberg.
Decency
has given "Volpone," the French-language
feature released in the U.S. by Siritzky
International Pictures, a Class C or condemned
rating. The Roman Catholic reviewing
group condemned the picture because
"despite pretense of moral purposes, this film
portrays vice attractively and ridicules virtue.
It contains blasphemous references to religious
practices and indecent and suggestive
scenes."
A spokesman for Siritzky International said
that the company would not make any
changes in the picture and that "it would
remain as it is currently being shown on the
screen of the Ambassador Theatre.
Hungary Bans Films of 5
Who Testified at Probe
BUDAPEST—The Hungarian ministery ol
the interior has banned showing of films of
five stars who testified before the house com-i
mittee on un-American activities inquiry of
alleged communism in Hollywood. The ban
went into effect January 22.
Actors affected by the order are: Robert
Taylor, Gary Cooper, Adolphe Menjou. George
Murphy and Robert Montgomery. Allan Jones,
who did not testify at the Washington hearings,
also is affected. This is the first Hungarian
action against Hollywood product!
since the war. Left wing elements in the
country have been agitating against alleged
American imperialism.
BOXOmCE :
: January 24, im

. . was
MEWS AND VIEWS OF THE PRODUCTION CENTER
iHoUywood OtHce—Suite 219 at 6404 HoUV woua Hiva.; Ivan Hvear. W
Goldwyn Seeks Grip
On Studio Property
HOLLYWOOD—Samuel Goldwyn doesn't
want to be included out in the event further
difficulties should arise out of his continued
occupation of the studios bearing his name,
attorneys for the producer contended in a
suit filed in superior court calling for the sale
of the property so there can be a "partition
of interests."
The lot's ownership is cut up thi-ee ways.
Goldwyn's Formosa Corp. holds 19/80ths,
Mary Pickford 41/80ths and Lady Sylvia
Stanley, former wife of the late Douglas Pairbanks
sr., 20/30ths. Goldwyn leases Lady
Stanley's share and has signed a new fiveyear
lease with her, effective in November.
He has no agreement with Miss Pickford,
however.
Some months ago Goldwyn and Miss Pickford
engaged in a dispute as to who actually
held a controlling interest in the property,
which was never satisfactorily settled. Goldwyn's
new court action apparently is designed
to answer that question through his petition
to have the studio offered for sale, although
it was not brought out by his legal representatives
as to whether Goldwyn would be a prospective
purchaser. He contends he has made
"valuable additions" to the property since he
has been occupying it and that such additions
would be jeopardized if the other owners
decided to look aroimd for a new tenant.
Sam Wood Back to MGM;
Folds Independent Firm
HOLLYWOOD—Sam Wood has abandoned
his independent production setup at Universal-International
and is returning to Metro
on a three-vear directorial commitment. As
a result of the switch his Interwood Productions
has been dissolved. Wood's first assignment
under his new Metro ticket will be
announced shortly. His last for U-I was
"Ivy."
Danny Kaye to Dublin
LONDON — Following completion of a
month's personal engagement at the Palladium
here early in February, Danny Kaye
will head for Dublin to star in a benefit to
raise funds for a new hospital. Bon Secours.
Klaye's Irish concert was arranged at the request
of the Very Rev. Walter McDonald of
Dublin.
Alsop Joins A6tS Lyons
HOLL-srwoOD—As part of recently announced
expansion plans, the A&S Lyons
agency concluded negotiations whereby Carleton
Alsop joins the organization in an executive
capacity. Alsop has been prominent in
radio for many years and recently held a
producer's berth at Metro.
SIMPP Confutes Critics.
Pushes 'Monopoly Fight
HOLLYWOOD—In vigorous rebuttal to reports
circulated locally that membership in
the Society of Independent Motion Picture
Producers was dwindling almost to the vanishing
point, the organization's executive
committee affirmed in a lengthy statement
that the SIMPP not only lists 23 producer
members in the early days of 1948 but
that it is embarking on long-range plans for:
1. Restoring "complete freedom of enterprise
to the motion picture Industry" and
gaining "a rightful share of boxoffice income
for the independent."
2. Participating in forthcoming industry
conferences anent the British tax problem
"as soon as it receives a formal invitation."
The committee said it had been notified
"only informally" that such conferences
would be held in Washington Januai-y 29,30.
The SIMPP's first named campaign was
in reference to its position as an amicus
curiae in the government suit charging major
production companies with monopoly and violation
of the Sherman antitrust act. The independent
picture-maker, said the SIMPP
statement, "stands as squarely today as he
INDIANS HONOR BROIDY — Steve
Broidy, presid.ent of Monogram and Allied
Artists, is now officially the pal of 192
Indian tribes represented in the National
Congress of American Indians. The
Monogram-AA executive (center) receives
the first "recognition award" ever given
a film figure by the Congress, handed
him by Nipo Strongheart, field representative.
The tribute was to AA's "Black
Gold." which the tribesmen declared was
the first film to "truthfully portray" the
red men. Adding decorative interest to
this scene is Elyse Knox, one of the stars
of the picture.
did in the past for full freedom of enterprise
and against monopolistic cartels . . .
That the law of the nation is behind the
members of the SIMPP . demonstrated
by the New York federal court when it found
the theatre combines represented by the majors
guilty of conspiracy to violate the Sherman
antitrust laws."
As the statement was released, word came
from Washington that the Justice department
had asked the supreme court to rule
that a monopoly does exist and had filed a
brief contending ownership of theatres by
production companies constitutes an illegal
curb on competition. Oral arguments are
slated to begin February 9.
As concerns the British film levy, the
SIMPP executive group contended there can
be "no just or legal solution . . . without full
consideration for the rights of independent
producers . . . This has been our position
from the start. We wish to affirm that position
now."
The executive committee is functioning as
the SIMPP's governing body pending the
election of a new president to succeed Donald
M. Nelson, who will retire from the post
February 1. The committee includes George
Bagnall, vice-president of United Artists
(repre.":enting Mary Pickford), Sol Lesser,
Roy Disnev. Marvin A. E^ell (representing
Samuel Goldwyn), Daniel T. O'Shea (representing
David O. Selznick), Earl Rettig (Leo
McCarey's Rainbow Productions), and Edward
Small.
Other SIMPP members currently on the
roster include Constance Bennett, Benedict
Bogeaus, William Caeney, Charles Chaplin,
Edward Golden, Hal Roach, Charles R. Rogers,
Andrew Stone, Hunt Stromberg, Walter
Wanger, Story Productions, Seymour Nebenzal.
Bins Crosby Enterprises, Howard Hughes,
Sidney Buchman and Federal Films.
Runyon's Son to Advise
On Story of Dad's Life
HOLL'YWOOD—Damon Runyon jr. has
been signed as technical adviser and assistant
to Charles Haas, writer-producer, on
"Runyon of Broadway." proposed film based
on the life of his father, to be filmed by
Marshall Grant Productions. A portion of
the picture's proceeds will be donated to
the Runyon Cancer fund. The Runyon opus
will be the second undertaking for the
Grant unit, which is currently associated with
the Charles K. Feldman grouo in the filming
of "Moonrise" for Republic release. No
distribution arrangements have been made
as yet for "Runyon of Broadway."
1* BOXOFHCE :: January 24, 1948 47

" '
<
'
,
Blurbers
STUDIO PERSONNEUTIES
Independent
Four former studio publicists are handling the lirsl
annual Hot Rod Show, slated to be held January
23-25 inclusive under sponsorship of the Southern
California Timing Ass'n organization of amateur
racing enthusiasts. Blurbers in charge of LEE RYAN,
BOB BARSKY, PETE PETERSON and PHIL KENT,
functioning as Hollywood Associates, Inc
Brieiies
Columbia
Latest
series of Gus SchiUing-Richard Lane
;s, as yet untitled, has gone betore
ith Dorothy Grainger and Diane
Foutelle supporting the two principals. Jules White
produces and directs.
Cleffers
Metro
The musical score for "B. F.'s Daughter" is being
composed by BRONISLAU KAPER, The production
toplines Barbara Stanwyck, Van Heflin and Keenan
Wynn.
Warners
MAX STEINER has begun scoring the Bette Davis
starrer, "Winter Meeting " Henry Blanke produced
the film and Bretaigne Windust directed.
Loanouts
RKO
VICTOR MATURE was borrowed from 20th-Fox to
play the top spot in "Mr. Whiskers," an original
story by Erwin Gelsey, which offers Mature the
role of a foreign-bom gambler who learns what it
means be an American Rogell Sid to citizen. will
produce from Allen Rivkin's screenplay.
Meggers
Monogram
Producer-director WILL JASON has added "Land
O'PIenty" to his production schedule. Based on the
activities of the 4-H clubs throughout the country,
the story is being written by Monte Collins
Republic
The directorial reins on the forthcoming serial,
"Adventures of Frank and Jesse James," were handed
FRED BRANNON. Franklin Adreon will produce.
STEPHEN AUER drew the producer's post on
"Ringside," which tel's the story of an ex-champion
who comes back in order to save his former manager.
Al Demond has been assigned to write the
screenplay.
YAKIMA CANUTT drew the directorial assignment
on "Carson City Raiders," starring Allan "Rocky-
Lane. Gordon Kay is the producer.
Warners
ALEX GOTTLIEB has been set to produce "Tw6
Guys from the Mounties," which will reunite Dennis
Morgan and Jack Carson. They will be joined by
Doris Day in the which being film, scripted
is
by Allen Boretz. Songsters Sammy Cahn and Jule
Styne will compose an original score for the opus.
Options
Columbia
I-rom the New York stage comes JOHN BARAGREY
to portray the role of Lucas, the bullfighter, in
"The Loves ol Carmen." He will make his film
debut in a cost which includes Rita Hayworth. Glenn
Ford and Luther Adler with Charles Vidor directing
Character actor PIERRE WATKIN was signed to
portray a featured role in "Superman." Sam Katzman's
forthcoming serial based on the comic strip
and radio show.
Film Classics
The leods in "The Easy Way," which Sig Neufeld
wiM produce, were awarded to FRANCES RAF-
FERTY and HUGH BEAUMONT, Peter Stewart is
directing.
Metro
PETER LAWFORD will join Greer Garson, Walter
Pidooon and Elizabeth Taylor in "Julia Misbehaves "
which Jack Conwiv will dir»-t lor PrAducer Everett
"'^ES FAIRFAX, JAMES S-jX'S,, AUBREY and CYRIL
THORNTON were also added to the cost.
Monogram
The feminine leoH opposite Jrrkie Cooper and
l'" C^Ao^n ii "Kilrov on Deck" was drawn by
PENEE GODEREY. Frank McDonald is directino for
ProHnr-'-r Sid Lufl. CA>:tjms inch'do ROBIN
fig'NDLER, RALPH STANFORD and CHARLES LA
Paramount
Featured parts In "Sorry, Wrong Number" have
been assigned to ex-Broadwoyites HAROLD VER-
MILYEA and ED BEGLEY. Barbara Stanwyck and
Burt Lancaster are starred in the film version ol
Lucille Fletcher's radio drama, which Hal Wallis
is producing. YOLA D'AVRIL and HOLMES HERBERT
joined the cast.
GEORGIA BACKUS checked in for a featured role
in "Abigail, Dear Heart." which Mitchell Leisen is
directing with Claude Rains. Macdonald Carey and
Wanda Hendrix starred. EVA GABOR drew a top
supporting role.
RKO
"The Boy With Green Hair.
O'Brien and Barbara Hale, who topllne the cast
which Joseph Losey will direct.
PRIMO CARNERA, MAURICE "THE ANGEL" TIL-
LET and FRANK "MAN MOUNTAIN" DEAN have
been pacted by Argosy Pictures for roles in "Mr.
Joseph Young ol Africa." The wrestlers will ploy
In themselves the John Ford-Merian C. Cooper film.
Republic
A veteron actor from silent films, FRANCIS FORD,
was handed a top role in the Monte Hale musical
western, "The Timber Trail " NEAL HART drew a
featured spot in the production, which Phil Ford
HAL TALIAFERRO. MARSHALL REED. STEVE
DRAKE, AUGIE GOMEZ and MERRILL McCORMICK
were added to the cast of the William Elliott starrer,
"The Gallant Legion."
20th-rox
ANNE BAXTER has been held lor another year
and is currently preparing for her role with Tyrone
Power in the tentatively titled "For Fear of Little
Men"
ROLAND WINTERS and WALTER BALDWIN were
signed for featured palls in "The Chair lor Martin
Pome," which Director Robert Slodmak and Producer
So! Siegel ore filming with Victor Mature and Richard
Conte In tfie top roles.
ReODtion^d 'or another term were newcomer COL-
LEN TOWNSEND ond BOB ARTHUR, featured player.
CECIL KELLAWAY was inked for a spot in an
uocoming. untitled picture which will star Tyrone
Power and Ida Luplno The original story is by
Guy and Constance Jones.
United Artists
JANE WYATT was set lor one of two lemme leads
opDosite Dick Powell in Samuel Bischoll's production,
"The Pitlall " Lizabeth Scott has the other lemme
topline
Golden Productions sioned LIONEL STANDER lor
a role in "Texas, Broot-lyn and Heaven," which
William Castle directs wi'h Guv Madionn and Diana
Lvnn in the top soots. FLORENCE BATES will portray
a chartfcter role in the Robert S. Golden's production.
WILLIAM FRA'WLEY drew a top supporting
rORTUNIO BONANOVA will play a key role in
of "The Adventures Don Juan." strtrring Errol Flvnn
and Viveca Lindfors with Vincent Sherman directing
for Producer Jerry Wald
Trnndway character actress KATHERINE ALEX-
ANDER joins the "John Loves Marv" ra=t Dovid
Butler directing lor Producer I»rrv Wald. A top
is
comedy role was handed PAUL HARVEY
Seventeen-year-old PATRICIA NORTHROP was
placed under term contract, the agreement be to
"
'
effective
. -
when she graduati
high school next
ALRERT MORIN joins the "Kev Largo" cast, which
inc'udes Hunphrev Booart, Edward G. Rohl«son,
Lauren Bacall ond Lionel Barrymore John Huston
is direclina and Jerry W-I^J i>; tv,= -^-odu^er Veteran
characte'r actor WILLIAM HAADE checks in
for a featured role
GORDEN MacRAE joins Wayne Morris, Lois Maxwell
in
and Marv Stuart Saul Elkins' production,
"The Fightirig Terror." Sherry Shourds is directing
Scripters
Columbia
DOROTHY YOST and DWIGHT CUMMINS were
signed to develop an original slated for a Gene
Autry starrer, "The Cowbov and the Indians "
Eagle Lion
A 'actual story which deals with the illegal entry
of ali»ns into the U-i-ed

Flags will fly. , .
jstory will be made again
'
In
Albuquerque
as these gala events launch
IIAforld Premiere Fiesta Week
X
^
OF PARAMOUNTS
^CINECOLOR EPIC
'
February 2 is
Albuquerque Day
by Official
G
Proclamation
Billy De Wolfe and
Russell Hayden added
to the Hollywood stars*
to be officially welcomed
by the
Honorable
Thomas Mabry,
Gov. of New Mexico
Premiere news coast-tocoast
over 300 Mutual
stations. Queen For A Day
program Jan. 26 thru
Jan. 30—ErsKine Johnson
program Feb. 2 and 3
Stars greeting whole
Southwest on radio
broadcasts
^m^II
Stage Coach Parade
of Stars to Premiere
-15.1^
Premiere
Ceremonies
at the theatres
RANDOLPH SCOTT
Barbara George "Gabby' Lon
filTTON- HAYES -CHANEY
.aUSSELL HAYDEN . CATHERINE CRAIG • GEORGE CLEVELAND
Directed by RAY ENRIGHT
^
Screenplay by Gene Lewis and Clarence Upson Young
A Clarion Production
And numerous other
events— to be duplicated
Feb. 4 in Houston:
Feb. 5 in San Antonio:
Feb. 6 in Dallas and
Feb. 7 in Fort Worth
*Also Appearing
IN PERSON
RANDOLPH SCOTT • GEORGE
A "GABBY" HAYES • WILLIAM
/ DEMAREST* CATHERINE CRAIG
^
LON CHANEV
Jffl^
V-r
^'

i
Trial Dates Postponed
For 10 Hollywoodians
WASHINGTON—The trial dates of ten
Hollywood personalities accused of contempt
of Congress were postponed about two weeks.
Justice Richmond B. Keech of the district
court granted the defense counsel an extension
to January 30 to file motions.
The ten refused to tell the house un-American
activities committee whether they were
members of the Communist party. The trial
date for John Howard Lawson, set for February
9, has been postponed to February 24.
Trial dates for the others now are as follows:
Dalton T:-umbo, March 3; Albert Maltz,
March 10; Alvah Bessie, March 15; Samuel
Ornitz, March 17; Herbert Biberman, March
22; Edward Dmytryk, March 24; Adrian Scott,
March 29; Ring Lardner, jr.. March 31. and
Lester Cole, April 5.
20th-Fox and Penguin, Inc.,
Face $125,000 Lawsuit
HOLLYWOOD—A $125,000 damage action
was filed in superior court by Lawrence
Bachman, novelist and screen writer, against
20th-Fox and Penguin Books, Inc. The
author charged the defendants with unfair
competition and the unauthorized use of the
title, "The Kiss of Death," on a motion picture
produced in 1947 and a subsequent novelization
of that film. Bachman contends he
wrote and published a novel of that name in
1946, and that the story content of the 20th-
Fox film and the Penguin book was not the
same as his work. His ownership of the title,
Bachman contends, was therefore rendered
valueless.
Guide 'Blood on Moon'
HOLLYWOOD—Theron Warth will produce
and Robert Wise will direct "Blood on
the Moon," high-budget western to star Robert
Mitchum, which is slated for a February
start at RKO. Lillie Hayward has completed
the script, adapted from a story by
Luke Short.
New Marquee in Veronia
VERONIA, ORE.—A new marquee and attraction
board has been installed at the Joy
Theatre here. Mrs. Zelma Dow, wife of the
owner, said neon lights soon would be added
to the front.
PERSONNELITIES
I
Continued from preceding news page i
sectors; RALPH DAWSON, film editor, and ROBERT
aOYLE, art director.
Producer NurmaLy Johnson has completed his staii
Peabody and the Mermaid" with assignand
FRED FRANK,
'
Crew assignments on 'One Touch o, Venus -
elude HOWARD CHRISTIE, unit manager; V(lLL.,,i.l
HOLLAND, first assistant director; and RICHA _
TOWERS, camera operator
Title Changes
CAMPUS SLEUTH
the Teen-Agers mus:
Film Classics
Monogram
'
on the Downbea
20th-Fox
"Summer Lightning" returns to its origin
the title of the novel from which it was
SCUDDA HOO, SCUDDA HAY
Universal-International
"The Art of Murder" has reverted to i1
tag, THE [UDGE S WIFE.
MONEY MAD-
Reorganize Colorfilm Lab;
Clyde A. Warne President
HOLLYWOOD—A complete
reorganization
of Hollywood Colorfilm has been effected,
and the company has begmi an expansion
and development program. It is equipped for
reduction of color film from 35iiun to 16nmi
and enlargement from 16mm to 35mm, as
well as the processing of 16mm Kodachrome
and recording for 16mm sound. Colorfilm
works in the shorts, cartoon and featurette
field as well as in feature film production.
New president of the company is Clyde A.
Warne, who claims Colorfilm's Vitacolor
process, printing with a black-and-white silver
sound track, is a process used by only one
color firm. It is a three-color process.
Goldwyn Signs Writer
HOLLYWOOD—Samuel Goldwyn has
signed Budd Schulberg, novelist and scenarist,
to script "Rosanna McCoy," from a
novel by Alberta Hannum. Vehicle is slated
for production this year for RKO release
with Cathy O'Donnell and Farley Granger
in the leads.
Walsh in Hollywood;
Scans Labor Scene
HOLLYWOOD—The arrival of Richard
Walsh, president of the lATSE. for a week's
stay here was viewed as a possible indication
that further attempts may be made to
reach an amicable settlement of the 15-
month-old studio strike, following earlier
word from the east that the lATSE was
willing to make peace with the striking Conference
of Studio Unions. Walsh was expected
to confer locally with Roy Brewer. Uie
lA's studio representative, before leaving for
Miami to attend a ses.sion of the Ai'L's
executive council.
It had previously been reported the lA
had offered peace terms to the carpenters
and painters' brotherhoods, calling for dissolution
of the Conference of Studio Unions,
of which they are members, and which is
the leader in the studio walkout.
A petition has been filed with the National
Labor Relations board by the Screen Extras
Guild, seeking approval to conduct an election
to determine its legitimacy as a bargaining
agent for extra players before negotiating
a new union contract. Such procedure
is necessitated under teiTns of the
Taft-Hartley law.
Dennis Morgan Narrates
Nontheatrical 16mm
HOLLYWOOD—Dennis Morgan. Warner ij
star, appeared in and did the narration for
"Music From the Mountains." nontheatrical
narrow-guage subject filmed in the new Eastman
color process and produced by the
cinema workshop at the University of Southem
California. A story of the Idyllwild School
of Music and the Arts, the footage was
screened at USC's Hancock auditorium. The
original score was a product of students
working under Miklos Rozsa of the college of
music.
John Ford and Merian C. Cooper, head men it
of Argosy Pictures, have purchased additional
commercial time on television programs following
their acquisition of video time to plug
"The Fugitive" before and after Pasadena's
Rose Bowl game on New Year's day. The
producers went for three two-minute spots
on WBKB, Chicago, and weekly two-minute
spots on KTLA, Los Angeles. The commercials
are specially produced by Ai-gosy on
celluloid, utilizing stills, titles and dialog.
To iron out details of the pact, just signed.
Producer Jerry Fairbanks headed for New
York for conferences with Frank E. Mullen,
vice-president of the National Broadcasting
Co., which handed Fairbanks an exclusive
commitment to produce the network's entire
output of video films for the next five years.
While east Fairbanks will also supervise expansion
of his eastern offices and acquisition
of additional studio space in New York. Before
his departure he purchased two more
original television scripts: "The Family Affair,"
by Arthur Hoerl, and "Double Clue,"
mystery drama by Will Gould.
TELEVISION PREVIEW—Video broadcasters and television tnthusiasts got an
advance peek at George Pal's forthcoming feature-length film for United .\rtists
"Tom Thumb" when Station KTLA made a video tour of the Pal studios in Hollywood.
Pal, second from left, describes one of the sets for his combination liveaction
and puppetoon feature for Stew Wilson, left, KTLA announcer, as Carolyn
Burke Adler, Buster Keaton, who will have a comedy role in the picture, and Ernst
Fegte, art director, look on.
As Aide to Charles Boren
HOLLYWOOD — Alfred T. Chamie has
joined the Association of Motion Picture Pi-oducers
as assistant to Charles S. Boren, vicepresident
in charge of labor relations. Chamie
simultaneously announced his resignation as
assistant U.S. attorney in Los Angeles. A
graduate of Harvard law school. Chamie has
served in the U.S. attorney's office since his
discharge from the army.
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

Selznick in Charge
Of Freedom Train
HOLLYWOOD—David O. Selznick has been
appointed chairman of the Los Angeles reception
committee which will arrange a welcome
for the Freedom train when that traveling
collection of the original docimients of
American freedom and hberties arrives here
February 23 for a three-day visit. The Selznick
appointment was made by Mayor
Fletcher Bowi-on.
For their services during World War II
Director Anatole Litvak and Burt Lancaster
were presented the army's Victory medals in
ceremonies at Paramount. Litvak served in
the signal corps during the war, wliile Lancaster
was in the special services division,
attached to the Fifth ai-my. Both saw duty
overseas.
Linda Darnell and Dana Andi-ews, both
natives of Texas, donated their services and
20th-Fox contributed its production facilities
to the making of a short for exhibition in
theatres in the Lone Star state as part of a
drive to raise $225,000 to bring the battleship
Texas to a permanent berthing in Houston,
where it will become a state shrine. Karl
Hoblitzelle, president of the Interstate circuit,
is general manager of the campaign and
Ray Beal, circuit executive, functioned as
liaison in the making of the short.
Hollywood's official representative was
actress Joan Leslie when the California Goodwill
Milk ship loaded its cargo at Long Beach
prior to departure for Europe, where the
condensed and powedered milk will be distributed
to undernourished children. In
ceremoines at the pier. Miss Leslie presented
Gov. Earl Warren with the last case of canned
milk given by the fiUn colony.
Robert Taylor planed from Washington,
where he was slated to participate in the annual
Navy Relief ball January 22. A wartime
navy flyer, Taylor was scheduled to speak at
the event.
Barbara Britton Demands
'Albuquerque' Star Billing
HOLLYWOOD—The status of her advertising
billing in "Albuquerque," made by Pine-
Thomas Productions for Paramount, occasioned
a superior court action against the
producers and the distributor by Barbara
Britton, who seeks damages of $100,000 and an
injunction against showings of the film. The
actress maintains she was pronused equal
star billing with Randolph Scott but that she
was relegated to the featured category in advertising,
press books and the film's main
title.
Bendix to Play Bambino
In 'The Babe Ruth Story'
HOLLYWOOD—Title role of the home run
specialist in "The Babe Ruth Story" goes to
William Bendix, borrowed from Hal Roach by
Producer-Director Roy Del Ruth. Picture
will roll in March for Monogram-Allied
Artists release.
Jules Buck to Horizon
HOLLYWOOD—Jules Buck, formerly associated
with the late Mark Hellinger, has
joined the newly formed Horizon Pictures as
talent executive and supervisor of advertising
and publicity. Horizon is headed by John and
Sam Spiegel.
BOXOFFICE :
BLUE RIBBON BEAUTY AND SCRIVENER—It took the cameraman a whUe
to get around to it, but he finally caught up with two of the winners of the BOX-
OFFICE Blue Ribbon award, presented when Samuel Goldwin's "The Secret Life of
Walter Mitty" was voted by the National Screen Council as the best picture released
in November 1947. Left is shown Virginia Mayo, starred with Danny Kaye
in the comedy opus released through RKO. At right. Ken Englund, who wrote the
screenplay, poses with the award.
Plans Picture on Mounties;
To Film Part in Canada
HOLLYWOOD—A semidocumentary based
on the activities of the Royal Canadian
Mounted Police has been added to Producer
Sam Engel's schedule at 20th-Fox. Engel left
for Ottawa to study the organization's files
and present plans are to film the subject,
largely on location in Canada. Screen treatment
will be similar to that utilized by the
company in the making of "The House on
92nd Street," "Call Northside 777" and other
pictures based on actual happenings.
Lana Recants on Picture;
Metro Lifts Suspension
HOLLYWOOD—Metro lifted its suspension
on Lana 'Turner when the actress reconsidered
and informed the studio she will do
her originally slated role in "The Thi-ee
Musketeers." Camera work is now slated to
start early next week. The studio said in
a statement that after discussions between
Miss Turner and E. J. Mannix, general manager,
"it was mutually decided she would
continue in the part."
Form Trinity Films
HOLLYWOOD—Release through United
Artists is being negotiated by Ti'inity Films,
organized by William Bacher, former 20th-
Fox producer, and James Nasser, president
of General Service studios. Nasser is listed
as president and Bacher as executive producer.
Trinity's initialer will be "If This
Be My Harvest," based on an original by
Margaret Lee and Violet Atkins. It is slated
to roll in May.
Paramount Adds 'Gate'
HOLLYWOOD — Paramount has added
"Golden Gate," based on a play by Charles
Bennett, to its 1948 schedule as a Robert
Fellows production. Bennett will write the
script, which has a San Francisco background.
Plush and Fanfare
For 'Timberlane'
HOLLYWOOD—Metro's "Cass Timberlane"
was given its west coast premiere, replete with
multicolored searchlights, a long list of attending
notables, bleachers for the fans and
a studio orchestra in the foyer at the Egyptian
Theatre January 19. Proceeds from the
debut were turned over to the John Tracy
clinic, foimded by Mrs. Spencer Tracy, wife
of the picture's star. More than 200 patinets
from nearby veterans hospitals were guests
through blocks of tickets purchased by Bob
Topping, Lana Turner and Atwater Kent.
A special short sponsored by Walt Disney,
produced with the aid of the University of
Southern California and narrated by Tracy,
preceded the "Timberlane" showing. The
shorts' cast included parents, children and
staff of the Ti-acy chnic, which devotes its
efforts to the aid and education of deaf and
hard-of-hearing childen.
RKO staged the western premiere of "Night
Song," starring Merle Oberon and Dana Andrews,
at the Golden Gate Theatre in San
Francisco January 20. A contingent of studio
players headed by Robert Ryan, Gloria Grahame
and Frances Langford made the trip
north to attend the opening.
By order of New Mexico's Gov. Thomas J.
Mabry, a Fiesta week will be staged throughout
the state beginning February 2 in conjunction
with the world premiere of "Albuquerque,"
produced for Paramount release
by Pine-Thomas, at the Kimo and Sunshine
theatres in that city. A private car full of
Hollywood stars will participate in the festivities,
which will include a frontier costume
party and street parade. Randoloh Scott,
Barbara Britton, George "Gabby" Hayes and
Lon Chaney head the cast.
Universal-International's "A Double Life"
will begin a prerelease, popular-price run
at the Chinese, State, Loyola and Uptown
theatres here January 30. The Ronald Colman
starrer recently completed an advanced-price
booking at the Guild in Hollywood to qualify
it for the forthcoming Academy awards nominations.
: January 24, 1948 51

j
Native Critic Claims
Films 'Murder' India
NEW DELHI, INDIA — American and
British film producers continue to "murder"
India in their pictures, and their latest, "The
Razor's Edge" and "Black Narcissus," are
no exceptions, according to the well-known
Indian columnist, author and film critic K.
Ahmad Abbas. Writing in the popular weekend
journal Sport and Pastime, Abbas declares
that these two films underline the
"abysmal" ignorance of U. S. and British
producers about India and the Orient.
"Hollywood has told the story of China in
'The Good Earth' and of Mexico in 'Juarez.'
When will it get rid of its sham notions of
'mysterious India' and depict us as we really
are?" he asks.
MAUGHAM FOLLOWS ILLUSION
Commenting on "The Razor's Edge," Abbas
says: "India is supposed to have provided
Black Narcissus' Is a major triumph of the
British cinema and a thing of pure visual
beauty."
Abbas suggests that the producers of "Black
Narcissus" could have easily got a dozen
Indian film stars, better-looking and more
suitable for the respective roles, than Sabu
and Jean Simmons, "but they wouldn't take
the trouble."
Concluding, Abbas says: "India has so
often been 'murdered' in British and American
films— all the way from 'Gunga Din' and
•Drums' to 'Calcutta' and 'They Met in
Bombay'—that one hopes 'The Razor's Edge'
and 'Black Narcissus' are the last of the line,
and that we shall be treated hereafter as
normal human beings and not exotic barbarians,
useful only to lend a touch of quaintness
and color to an otherwise dull and drab
cinema material."
Nonprofit Society Formed
To See Foreign Pictures
LOS ALAMOS, N. M.—When residents of
the inspiration both for the author in writing
this book and the main character (played this atomic research base decided they
Switzerland.
with a measure of sincerity by 'Tyrone Power) wanted to see some of the much-discussed
in determining the course of his life. But to foreign pictures that were not commercially
the exotic mind of Mr. Maugham India means
West: Dr. George Gallup, president of
feasible, they organized a nonprofit subscription
society to bring the pictures here.
Audience Research, Inc., from New York for
a hermitage in the Himalayas, a philosophersaint
who looks and dresses like Tagore and
conferences with iiis coast office and meetings »i
speaks like the Lama of 'Lost Horizon.' "
Committees were set up to select films, with motion picture and radio cUents.
handle finances and soUcit memberships.
"With all his good intentions and genuine
Books of tickets worth $5 were sold to cover
Interest in Indian philosophy, Maugham
East: Neil Agnew, president of SRO, and I
a guaranteed five-picture program. Members
are permitted to buy $1 guest tickets for
only helps to confirm and strengthen the
Milton S. Kuseil, domestic sales manager, to i
conventional Hollywood conception of India
their eastern headquarters following a fiveday
conference concerning forthcoming SRO )
single pictures, but no ticket sales are
and the Orient as exotic, mysterious and handled at the boxoffice. Only adults may product. They held discussions with David «
bizarre."
buy tickets.
The Hollywood scenarist Lamarr Trotti,
O. Selznick, Daniel T. O'Shea, Paul MacNa-
\
First picture to
Abbas reports, is said to have prepared no
be shown was the Frenchmade
"The Baker's Wife." It was presented
mara and Ernest Scanlon.
less than eight or ten versions of his script
in Theatre 2. This week "Brief Encounter,"
before it was approved by the producer.
West: Norman H. Moray, Warner short
"Still one cannot be impressed with the
a British product, was shown m the high
result.
The first half of the film has become
subjects sales manager and president of the
school auditoriiun. Beginning in February, Warner-Pathe newsreel unit, due early next
dull and boring in the extreme. It is only
the society directing the venture will use the month from New York for studio huddles
Theatres Enterprises' Hill Theatre to present
towards the end, after the reappearance of
with Jack L. Warner and Gordon Hollingshead,
shorts producer, anent the program of
Sophie, that the film acquires any
one picture monthly. Arrangements were
pace—or,
for that matter, any point. The
made with the manager, B. J. Edwards, to
furiously
briefies for 1948-49.
feminine Isabell-Sophie feud is handled with
use the house on a Wednesday night, about
the middle of the month, beginning at 9 p. m.
remarkable finesse and dramatic punch. Indeed
the film is worth seeing mainly for this Holders of subscription tickets vote from a advertising director for Metro, for studio con-
West: Howard Dietz, national publicity-
part."
list of available pictures for those they wish ferences and a look at product completed
to see.
and scheduled for early release.
NARCISSUS' VISUAL BEAUTY
The British film "Black Narcissus," produced
by one of J. Arthur Rank's major out-
West: Lewis Milestone, Enterprise producer-director,
from a five-week eastern stay.
Funeral for Maury Nunes,
fits, also conforms to the Hollywood pattern,
He plans to launch an untitled opus next
as regards the picture of India that emerges
month as the second on his four-pictm-e deal
Screen Guild Producer
from it, according to the columnist Abbas.
with the company.
He makes pointed reference to "the Maharaja HOLLYWOOD — Funeral services were
and his nephew who live in the Himalayas, scheduled to be held in Lynn, Mass., for Maury East: Herbert Yates, Republic president,
but dress like the desert princess of Rajputana,
and the British political agent who goes of films made by Robert L. Lippert for Screen Gotham on an extended business jimket.
Nunes, 49, executive producer on a number and his executive aide, William Saal, to
about displaying his Clark Gable masculinity Guild release. Nunes died here of bronchial
In abbreviated shorts and buttonless shirt pneumonia, which followed a heart attack. West: William Levy, sales chief for Walt
and thereby disturbs the peace of mind and He is survived by his wife, a son and brother. Disney Productions, from Manhattan for
oaths of celibacy of a party of rather glamorous
nuns who come to educate, civilize, disin-
months ago from the New England states, duction plans for the next two years. He is
Nunes came to the film capital about 18 conferences with studio executives on profect
and convert the heathen natives, but where he had been an exhibitor in Boston, huddling with Walt and Roy Disney and
are defeated by the unseen, uncanny and Mass., Providence, R. I., and other states. He Jack Reeder, general manager.
weird power of the oriental landscape!" was associated with Lippert in a financial
Abbas, however, agrees that "pictorially and supervisory capacity.
East: Joseph H. Seidelman, president of
^ AND MODERN ^m-
New Styling, Nev Comfort and Durability
COMPLETELY NEW aiAl^-Si^ NOW
SHOWING
HEYWOOD-WAKEFIELD THEATRE CHAIRS
—^=—~=—==— Pacific Coail Dislribtilon =^^^„__„_^^=^_
B.F. SHEARER COMPANY
RKO
West: Harry Michalson, president of
Pathe and short subjects sales chief for RKO
Radio, arrived from New York for discussions
with studio executives uicluding George
Bilson, shorts supervisor, concerning output
of one and two-reelers for the balance of
the year. Also coming in from the east was
Paul Hollister, national publicity director for
RKO, who is huddling with Walter Wanger
on the blurb campaign for the upcoming
"Joan of Arc."
1
si
East: Arthur Loew, president of Loew'
International, to his Manhattan headquar-
14
ters after screening Lagar Wechslers latest
European production, tentatively titled
"Marked," for studio executives at Metro.
The subject was directed by Fred Zinneman
on actual locations in Germany, Austria and
Universal-International's foreign distribution
company, to New York following two weeks
of discussions with studio executives on
forthcoming product.
Form Studio Service Corps
At Request of U.S. Army
HOLLYWOOD—Service corps units such as
were in operation during World War II are
to be reactivated, under sponsorship of the
Ass'n of Motion Picture Producers, at the
request of the defense department. At an
AMPP board meeting plans were approved
calling for the establishment of such units at
each studio, covering such phases of activity
as commimicatlons, camouflage and
photography. Each studio will select a man
from its persormel to head the unit on the lot.
BOXOFHCE :: January 24, 1948

'
HOLLYWOOD—Sparking
'-:
iis
. starrer
i HOLLYWOOD
I
team
j
'Bill and Coo' Will Hit
Screens at Easier
HOLLYWOOI>-"Bill and Coo," Trucolor
subject filmed by Ken Murray for Republic
and featuring an all-bird cast, will be nationally
released during Easter week, according
to James R. Grainger, distribution chief,
and plans are being made to rerelease the
picture each year at that time.
Booldngs will be tied in with a concentrated
campaign of commercial tieups, radio
plugs and national advertising. Only playdate
for the feature so far was at the two local
Paramount showcases, during Christmas
week, to make it eligible for Academy award
consideration.
Scripts of Eight Shorts
On Filmdom Approved
HOLLYWOOD—Script developments of
eight additional industry short subjects have
been approved by the Academy committee
sponsoring the manufacture of the behtndthe-scenes-ln-Hollywood
series. They will be
turned out by Grant Leenhouts, coordinatorproducer.
Working titles of the new subjects
are "You. the Audience," "The Stylist," "Production
Problems," "Moments in Music," "The
Art Director," "Still Photography," "The
Sound Men" and "The Motion Picture Camera
Man."
; Gregory Peck Will Star
In Short for Red Cross
the annual Red
Cross appeal for funds in the 1948 campaign
a will be a special short subject to star Gregory
:- Peck, with David O. Selznick contributing
i" production facilities.
ii Working with Peck and Selznick will be
Joe Weil, chief of the motion picture section
of the American Red Cross. The short is
l;f slated for exhibition in 13 000 theatres dur-
£• Ing March, when the Red Cross drive will get
under way.
Alf SjobercT, Swede, Signed
To Direct 'Doll's House'
HOLLYWOOD—Divid O. Selznick has
signed Alf Sjoberg. Swedish director, to pilot
"A Doll's House." first of the English-lan-
'-i guaee features which Selznick will film en-
1 tlrely in Europe. The Dorothy McGulre
will go before the cameras in April,
with exteriors to be filmed In Norway and
* studio work in Sweden.
J^
"
Will Film 'Rimrock'
— The producer-director
of Leonard Goldstein and George
Shprm?n has been asslened to "The Wonderful
Race at Rimrock," based on a maga-
.. zlne yarn by D. D. Beauchamn. to star Donald
O'Connor, Marjorie Main and Percy
Kilbride. It is a comedy with a western
background. Aaron Rosenberg, former grid
star and for several years an assistant director.
Is upped to associate producer status
on the tJ-I film.
Milton Krims Moves Up
HOLLYWOOD—Milton Krims has been
UDDed from scenarist to writer-director at
20th-Pox. Others in the dual-canacity
bracket on the Westwood are George
lot
Seaton. Jc^enh Mankiewicz and F. Hugh
Herbert. Krims' last scripting assignment
was "The Iron Curtain," now before the
cameras.
FOR CARSON'S VILLA—Greer Garson,
MGM star, is presented with a
"Shan-Greer-La" plaqne by Frank Whitbeck
of MGM studios on behalf of SUas
Seadler, advertising manager, who coined
the name for Miss Garson's villa in
Monterey, Calif. Miss Garson soon will
start on her new pictnre, "Julia Misbehaves."
Joan Fontaine Withdraws
From 'Mayerling' Cast
HOLLYWOOI>—Joan Fontaine has withdrawn
from the cast of "Mayerling," to be
produced for Metro by Robert and Raymond
Hakim. The actress bowed out under terms
of a clause in her commitment whereby the
picture was to have gotten under way not later
than January 15, with which the producers
were unable to comply. The subject is slated
to go into work in March.
New Cutting Room Method
HOLLYWOOD—A new method for keeping
cutting room records has been submitted
to the scientific and technical awards division
of the Academy for consideration in the upcoming
Oscars sweepstakes by David O. Selznick.
Used by Alfred Hitchcock in filming
"The Paradine Case," the technique was developed
by Hal Kern, Selznick's editorial
supervisor. The simplified editing device
makes new use of the Kardex system and permits
cutting decisions to be made right from
the book, without run-offs. Kern described
the new index as a "tremendous labor and
time-saver."
No Video for Awards
HOLLYWOOD—Reports that the forthcoming
Academy awards ceremonies might
be televised were quashed by Jean Hersholt,
Academy president, who notified video applicants
that the Academy board of governors
had turned down the idea. Technical problems
involved, Hersholt said, "make it impossible
to handle television this year"—an
indication that video transmission may be
employed in future Oscar presentations.
Steve Sekely to Direct
HOLLYWOOD — Steve Sekely has been
signed to direct Eagle Lion's "Hollow Triumph."
which will star Joan Bennett and
Paul Heni-eid. Daniel Fuchs scripted from
the Murray Forbes novel. Casting of Miss
Bennett postpones "The Blank Wall," for
which she had previously been announced
by her husband, Walter Wanger, who will
produce "Wall" as his first for EL release.
Chore to Norman McLeod
HOLLYWOOD—Piloting assignment on
Paramount's "It's Always Spring" goes to
Norman Z. McLeod. The Daniel Dare production
will topline Veronica Lake, Mona
Freeman and Mary Hatcher.
Roberts and Garfield
Slate Four Films
HOLLYWOOEV—A program of four pictures
during the next two years, two of them
to star John Garfield, has been drafted by
R. B. Roberts Productions, in which Roberts
and Garfield are partners. Their initialer,
"Body and Soul," was made for Enterprise
and United Artists release. No distribution
arrangements have been set for the upcoming
quartet, which includes "Tucker's People,"
"The World and Linie Willie" (both to star
Garfield), "The Great Indoors" and 'T)eborah."
RKO's Production Staff
For 1948 Announced
HOLLYWOOD — RKO's 1948 production
program will be in the hands of 13 producers,
three producer-directors, two producer-writers
and nine directors, according to a breakdown
of assignments at the studio. Three pictures
are slated to start in February and
another trio in March.
Producers include Frederic Ullman jr.,
Stephen Ames, William Pereira, Robert
Sparks. Richard Berger, Herman Mankiewicz,
Richard Goldstone. Theron Warth, Sid
Rogell, Herman Sohlom. Harriet Parsons,
Bert Granet and George Bilson. Producerdirectors
are Don Hartman, Dudley Nichols
and Leo McCarey, who is slated to turn out
one for the company apart from his Paramount
commitment.
Norman Panama and Melvin Frank are
the producer-writer bracket, while directors
in
include John Cromwell. Joseph Losey,
Nicholas Ray, Shepard Traube, Robert Wise,
Richard Fleischer, Ted Tetzlaff, Jacques
Tourneur and Richard Wallace.
Enterprise Will Produce
Academy 'Premiere' Short
HOLLYWOOD — Enterprise will handle
production of "World Premiere," a short
subject, as a companion piece to other featurettes
being turned out under Academy
sponsorship and telling the "inside" story on
various phases of the industry. "Premiere"
will be turned out by Joseph C. Gilpin from a
script now being written by Abraham Polonsky.
It will trace the work which goes into
the staging of a spectacular film debut.
Screen Guild toTResume
Production Next Month
HOLLYWOOD—Screen Guild's production
lull will be broken in February when Robert
L. Lippert plans to gun "The Return of Wildfire"
as the first of a trio to be made for release
through that company. It will be followed
by "Kazan," based on a James Oliver
Curwood story, and "Last of the Wild Horses."
All are scheduled for release by July.
Goldwyn in Hawaii
HOLLYWOOD—Producer Samuel Goldwyn
planed to Hawaii, accompanied by Mrs. Goldwyn,
for a three-week vacation before embarking
on his 1948 production slate for RKO
release.
have the
^^ THEATRE
Count oD us lor Quick Action!
'"' assure you of flolisfactory
THEATRE EXCHANGE CO.
201 Fine Arts Bide. Portland 5. Oregon]
id BOXOFHCE January 24, 1948 53

Advertising as Well as Film Covered
By Western Australia Censorship Bill
By WILLIAM BEECHAM,
Australian Bureau, Boxoffice
PERTH, W. A.—The censorship bill now
going through the Western Australia legislative
assembly provides that a person shall
not exhibit any film, except some specially
exempted, in any picture theatre until it
has been approved by the censor (exempted
films are those showing topical events in
Australia virhich are exhibited within 14 days
of the event, and films—except trailers
used solely for advertising purposes) ; that
the censor shall be given power to approve the age of 16 years to enter a theatre unless
Intrease your "take" in
a film as suitable for general exhibition, as
not suitable for children under 16 years of
age, or approved under any such condition
as he may impose; that film advertising matter
may also be censored; that all such advertising
matter must show the film's grading;
and that a film declared to be unsuitable
for exhibition before children must
not be shown before 5:30 p. m. on any Saturday,
public holiday or weekday during school
term holidays. A further clause providing
that it should be an offense for any exhibitor
to permit a child apparently under
'48 with
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accompanied by an adult If a film "not
suitable for children" was being screened was
removed when it was pointed out that such a
clause would place too severe an onus upon
exhibitors.
The cut In newsprint, which affects major
daily newspapers to the extent of some 57
per cent, means that city and suburban
cinemas will have to reduce newspaper advertising
by half. Recent drop In business
in many quarters has led executives to trv
checking up on the results of their various
advertising plans.
When the secretary of the Theatre Managers
Ass'n, R. A. Cleland, recently defended
a new award in the Melbourne court
of industrial appeals, he said that picture
theatre managers, under present conditions,
were social outcasts. "Theatre managers
should have one night off a week in addition
to three weeks' holiday each year," he
said, "and there should be double time on
public holidays together with overtime rates.
Without a night off we have no home or
social life. Discontent has been caused in
many homes by wives having to stay home
night after night by themselves." In reply,
the secretary of the Cinematograph Exhibitors
Ass'n, J. Graham, said he was prepared
to grant an annual holiday of three weeks,
but not the night off each week as well.
"Even in large organizations it would be
difficult to provide a relief," he said, "but
weekday afternoons off might solve the
problem. I do not agree with the other proposals
because they would give the managers
advantages not enjoyed by the other
unions in the theatre industry." Appeal i.^
not yet concluded.
Reginald Baker, managing director of
Ealing Studios, London, is expected in Sydney
shortly, and it is said that behind this visit
are plans for the expansion of the Australian
film industry. Baker will confer with Norman
B. Rydge, managing director of Greater
Union Theatres, on all angles of the busi-
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John Evans has been jointly nominated to
the board of Greater Union Theatres by the
four holding companies, and he will take
his seat to represent the interests of Greater
J. D. Williams, Spencer's, West's and Amalgamated
Pictures in place of the late Robert
Hill.
Alan J. Williamson was recently honored
in Sydney by being tendered a "banquet of
congratulation" on the celebration of his
."iOth year in the industry.
Air Commodore West, director of Eagle
Lion, London, who is at present touring
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British Dominions Films reported a net
profit of $41,775 for the year ended June 30,
1947, against the $47,745 of the previous 12
months. Dividend remains steady at 7%
per cent.
It Is reported that the lease of the Palace
Theatre, Sydney, is being renewed to film
Interests for another five years, but that
the Mayfair's film lease, which expires at
the end of March 1948, will not be renewed
as the theatre is required for flesh attractions.
When the Reelers club gave Its annual
Christmas dinner at the Palace hotel. Perth,
every seat was occupied, the guest of honor
beins J. Joel, manager in Australia for Columbia
Pictures Pty. Cvril Norton, general
manager of the Grand Theatre Co.. presided.
A gift was presented 'to Bert Watts, late of
the Capitol Theatre, who recently left the
industry after over 40 years service.
BOXOFHCE : : January 24, 1948

,
rith
I
I
'
'
our
;
roadshow.
1
(Average
I
The
: (20th-Fox),
,
-n^-s-
'
is^e
Los Angeles Leaders
i^re 'Sierra' and 'Me'
LOS ANGELES—Five new programs made
heir appearance in first run spots, but only
wo of them. "Treasure of the Sierra Madre"
! lui "You Were Meant for Me," were able to
:irve out exceptionally strong ratings. The
lis disappointment of the week was "The
Jwordsman," coupled with "Mary Lou" at two
Iiouses, which managed only a weak 85 per
lent in the first seven days of its run.
LOS ANGELES
Is 100)
ilpollo. Belmont. Culver, El Rey, Orpheum^
Prince of Thieves (Col); Shepherd of the
VoUey (20lh-Fox)
Hi
'teverly Fox Palace—Gentleman s Agreement
roadshow, 4th vjk 140
ilruin, Vogue—The Paradine Case (SRO),
roadshow. 3rd wk 125
Torihay—The Bishop's Wife (RKO), rcadshow.
12-''
4th wk
Lovola. Stale, Uptown-You Were Meant
lor Me (20th-Fox) 150
,7:!own, Hollvwood Poramounls—The Rood to
Rio (Para). 3rd wk 125
iiptian. Los Angeles. Wilshire— Killer McCoy
(MGM). 2nd wk 115
Star—Mourning Becomes Eleclra (RKO),
4th wk, 100
•our Music Hnlls—The Roosevelt Story (UA).
Dragnet (SG) 100
,. Guild. Rilz. Studio City, United Artists—
The Senator Was Indiscn
t—The Swordsman (Col)
Mary Lou (Col) ,
Downtown, Hollvwood, Wiltern-
Treasure ol the Sierra Madre (WB)
85
:hird Week of "Rio" Takes
fif Top San Francisco Honors
SAN FRANCISCO — The third week of
Road to Rio" nabbed top honors for the week
160 per cent. The second week of
" Tycoon" at Golden Gate and "The Senator
Vas Indiscreet" at Orpheum rated 150.
Isquire—Sundown (Masie.-piece) ; Kansan

. . Gloria
. . Al
. .
. . . Robert
. . . The
. . Charles
. . Don
. . Ardyce
SAN FRANCISCO
T^on Cornish is the new assistant manager
at the Telenews theatres in San Francisco.
He was formerly at the Oakland Telenews
. . . Jerry Zlgmond of Paramount Theatres
flew to Los Angeles to attend the
funeral of his father.
Ray Kalislii, formerly with Screen Guild,
is now managing the Temple Theatre here
for his father . . . Eddie Resnick, formerly
with Warner Bros, in Denver, is the new
salesman at the Screen Guild . . . Gordon
Allan was busy on the Row booking and
buying for his drive-in. He says his Screeno
is going full blast . . . Herb Jacks was in
from Los Angeles for a few days.
Jack Ryan came in from his theatre in
Vallejo to book . . . Al Adolph, Monogram
salesman, is mighty proud of his new convertible
. . . New stenographer at Monogram
is Rose Fell, formerly of MGM . . . LiUan
Clarke, secretary to branch manager C. K.
Olson at United Artists, resigned. Mary
Ellen Knight, who was Olson's secretary in
Denver for five years, has taken over the job
. . . Mrs. Ida Hunnicutt, a North Carolinian,
is the new biller at United Artists.
Janet Hayner, formerly with Warners exchange,
has a baby . . . Anita Lewis, secretary
to A. S. Smitken, WB bossman. was
married recently to Johnny Martinez of Paramount
. Cantwell. former secretary
to Morris Rosenberg at Golden State Theatres,
has a baby . . . George Stribling, Republic
booker, had his car stolen for four
days and was lost without it.
^^C E N T U R V
THE MODERN PROJECTOR

. . Other
. . Otto
. . Joseph
. . Members
. .
SALT LAKE CITY
Trying Gillman and his United Intermountaln
Theatres, the buying and booking circuit
in this area, have expanded to include four
Utah theatres. Gillman now reports he is
booking for William McFarlane of Manti,
Alvin Peterson of Monroe, Gene Wadsworth,
Hurricane, and Jay C. Christensen, manager
of the Arcade here. This increases the United
Intermountaln fold to 26 houses. The others
are in Montana . L. Sorgensen of
Rigby is the new manager at the Melba in
Firtli.
AI Schmidt, assistant to C. Clare Woods at
the Center, has turned a hobby into a lobby
attraction. Al became interested in tropical
fish some time ago and talked Clare into
putting a tank of the finny creatures in the
spacious Center lobby. Patrons Invariably
stop and watch the antics of the fish. Wood
reports. Some people even come to the theatre
just to see the tropical fish, he says.
Buddy Rogers will be here next week to
work for naval recruiting and for his picture
"Sleep, My Love." which will open at the
Center . stars are exp»ected during
the month, but engagements have not been
officially confirmed . F. Schow will
open the Park Theatre at Springville before
February 1 ... A new theatre also will open
at Enterprise.
Foster Blake, U-I district manager, and
Louis Blumberg of Prestige Pictures were
Hugh Braly, Paramount district
.
manager,
.
and assistant Harold Wirthwein
visitors
conducted a meeting of salesmen here . . .
Bob Quinn, Paramount tub-thumper in this
area, was in. Likewise T. Bidwell McCormlck
of RKO and Bill Pjass of Metro.
John W. Hinton has been transferred here
from Seattle to handle the operations of the
Manley, Inc., in Utah, Idaho and Montana.
His boss, Arlie E. Beery, came over from Denver
and introduced John around town .
Frank Larson jr., 20th-Fox salesman, is in
the hospital after an eye operation and other
illness . . . Elmer Jackson of Plentywood,
Mont., was a visitor on Filmrow last week.
Giff Davison, RKO manager, made a routine
call on exhibtiors in Montana . . . C. R. "Buck"
Wade will lead a delegation of his salesmen
to a company district meeting in San Francisco
February 1 . . . "The Secret Life of
Walter Mitty" ran two week's at the Uptown
and one at the Rialto . of the
Motion Picture club frolicked at a spaghetti
dinner this weekend. Their next big event
will be a Valentine dance February 14 at a
place yet to be determined.
Attempt Lovington Robbery
LOVINGTON, N. M.—Thieves pried loose
the top and knocked the handle off the door
-of the safe at the Mesa Theatre here, but
were unable to break Into the strongbox.
Empire Theatrical Consulfants
Exclusive distributors tor Pobloc-bi k Sons Predesigned
ITieatres. Fronts, Boxoffices. Poster
Cases, etc. 323 to 689 seat liouses. Immediate
925 2l8f Sf. TAbor 4962 Denver, Colo.
EXPLOITATION OVERDONE — Plans
for a nationwide exploitation stunt
to publicize Philip N. Krasne's new "Falcon"
picture. "Devil's Cargo," had to be
cancelled abruptly when John Calvert,
star of the new series for Film Classics
release, made a crash landing on an empty
lot in Burbank, Calif. Calvert and his
mechanic, Linton Banling, were both
seriously injured as the ship went out of
control with both engines dead. Viewing
the wreckage Is Rochelle Hudson, leading
lad.y in "Devtl's Cargo, ' who was to have
christened the plane the next day.
Luft Sells Theatre
To Follow Hobby
SPOKANE. WASH.—Hany C. Luft has sold
his Rainbo Theatre here and is devoting all
his time to his hobby, repairing guns.
He sold the neighborhood house, which
he has operated for 13 years, to Mis. Lillian
K. McEachern and her son Neil of Portland
and Eugene, Ore. They took over early
this month. Sale price was reported as
$60,000.
Luft is said to be one of the best gunsmiths
in the northwest. He and his brother
Carl have an elaborate shop in the basement
of their home at E307 Rockwell where
they work on guns. Both men are bachelors.
Their mother died about a year ago.
"Twenty-three years, working seven days
and nights a week, is long enough," said
Luft, who operated a theatre in Ritzville
before coming to Spokane. "I'm tired. I
have a hobby I en.iov and after resting
awhile I'm going to follow it."
To Build Fowler House
FOWLER, CALIF.—A federal permit has
been received and construction of the new
Fowler Theatre will begin in a few weeks, according
to Prank Panero, president of the
Panero Theatre Co.. which will do the building.
The theatre will have a capacity of 540
persons. The building will contain two store
spaces. The Fowler Chamber of Commerce
gave active support to Panero's bid for a
federal building permit.
DENVER
GUARANTEED POPCORN
AND SUPPLIES
W. H. TUHPIE. Western Division Manager
1914 So. Vermont. RE 7528 Los Angeles 7, Calil.

Oakland Showcase
Contract Awarded
OAKLAND—Contract has been awarded to
Cahill Bros., San Francisco contractors, for
construction of a new theatre building on the
east side of Broadway between Twelfth and
Thirteenth streets for Louis Kaliski and D. B.
Levin. The structure was designed by architects
A. A. Cantin and A. MacKenzie Cantin
of San Francisco and will cost approximately
$1,000,000.
Block T&D Jr. Bid to Build
Drive-In at Santa Clara
SANTA CLARA, CALIF.—The bid of the
T&D Jr. Enterprises for permission to build
a million-dollar drive-in development west
of the Santa Clara city limits was lost recently
when the county planning commission
rezoned the area where T&D Jr. intended to
build. The board voted to allowd commercial
construction up to a depth of only 200 feet
from the highway and limited the remainder
of the land along the San Francisco highway
between Santa Clara and Lawrence Station
road to residential and agricultural purposes.
The planning commission had previously rejected
the application of T&D Jr. to go ahead
with its development of a drive-in theatre,
motel and recreation area and the San Francisco
theatre circuit had appealed to the
board of supervisors.
Ameche Supplants Lynn
In Dorothy Lamour Film
HOLLYWWOD—Don Ameche has replaced
Jeffrey Lynn in the male lead of Columbia's
Dorothy Lamour musical. "Let's Fall in Love."
Lynn came down with an attack of flu and
bowed out of the cast rather than hold up
production. The tunefilm is being produced
by Irving Starr and directed by Douglas Sirk.
Coslow Ready to Shoot
'Music Center' for UA
HOLLYWOOD—"Music Center," tunefilm
with a Hollywood background, is being readied
by Sam Coslow as his second production for
United Artists release. Recording stars Perry
Como and Margaret Whiting have been set
for featured roles.
Audio Signs Ed Finney
HOLLYWOOD— Audio Pictures
has signed
Edward Finney to function as production
supervisor on its semidocumentary, "Children
of the Sun," which will have an all-
Indian cast.
To Direct 'Red Witch'
HOLLYWOOD— Republic ticketed Edward
Ludwig to direct the upcoming John Wayne
starrer, "Wake of the Red Witch." to oe
produced by Edmimd Grainger. It will roll
early next month.
Richard Wallace to Direct
HOLLYWOOD^Richard Wallace will direct
"Let's Live a Little." Robert Cummings-
Hedy Labarr vehicle which United California
Productions will turn out for Eagle Lion
release.
Former Manager Goes Into Radio
DELTA, COLO.—Ross Campbell, who resigned
as manager of the Fox Egyptian Theatre,
has become studio manager of station
KUBC. Keith May has taken his place.
Lions Club Gives Up
Operation of Theatre
Sumas, Wash.—After operating the
Rose Theatre here for four years, the
Sumas Lions club has abandoned the project
and cancelled all its bookings. The
club took over the theatre during the war
years and members volunteered their services
to keep it manned. In recent months
interest in the project has flagged considerably
and the costs of hiring help have
been rising. Bruno HoUenbeck of Seattle,
owner of the property, said he hoped to
have the theatre reopened under a new
local management.
Adult Price Up to 70 Cents
At Glenwood, Colo.
GLENWOOD, CALIF.-The adult price of
admission was increased to 70 cents and the
student price to 50 cents in new rates put into
effect at the Glen Theatre January 11 by
Gibraltar Theatres. The children's price is
unchanged at 20 cents.
C. H. Chidley, executive vice-president, explained
in a four-column, 15-inch ad in the
Post that increasing costs of operation and
heavy taxes made the increase necessary.
"Since April 1, 1944. when the second or
revised excise tax (war tax) went into effect.
Gibraltar Theatres in Colorado have increased
adult admissions in the evening 4 cents on
each ticket," Chidley said. "Matinee admissions,
student admissions and children's admissions
have not been changed.
"Increasing costs on every item of overhead,
such as feature pictures, .short subjects,
film transporation. wages, salaries, advertising,
supplies, repairs, public utilities, rents,
insurance, music royalties, property taxes,
building upkeep and a variety of miscellaneous
expense make our condition similar to
other industries caught in the vicious spiral
of higher costs.
"We had hoped that by this time some relief
would be forthcoming on the excise tax
(which amounts to about 30 cents of every
dollar received at the boxoffice) but according
to the best tax authorities, none will be
granted in the foreseeable future. We have
tried to hold the line against higher prices
and we believe that, with one other exception,
ours is the only business that has not raised
the price of the commodity sold in the past
two years."
S. I. Gregorv Takes Over
Drive-In at Walla Walla
WALLA WALLA, WASH.— S. J. Gregory
vice-president and operating head of the Midstate
Amusement Corp.. annnunf-ed the purchase
here of the I'-is Dvive-In Theatre near
the ci'y limits. Midstate also onerates the
three downtown theatres in Walla Walla.
TTie circuit also is building a drive-in in the
Kennewick Highlands area and expects to
have it in operation in the spring.
Gregory is also head of the Alhance ciif^
cuit. which operates a large circuit of houses
in Illinois and Indiana. His headquarters
are in Chicago.
The Iris Drive-In was opened in May last
year by Gaylor C. Ransom, Fred Hair, Fred
Boewer and E. D. Taylor. It accommodates
400 automobiles. Gregory said the layout
would be landscaped and be given
. jection equipment.
Two Hollywood Holdups
HOLLYWOOD—A bandit held un the boxoffice
of the Filmarte Theatre, 1222 North
Vine, on the nieht of January 15 and escaped
on foot with $75. Less than an hour
later the Marcal Theatre, 6021 Hollywood
Blvd.. was held up and robbed of $45.
Video in Salt Lake
Starts Next Month
SALT LAKE CITY—Television will come to
the intermountain area next month, when
broadcasting will begin over station KDYL
in Salt Lake City.
S. S. Fox, KDYL president, said experimental
telecasts will begin in February on
a basis of two half hours a week, half film
and half live studio productions. Telecasting
of outdoor sports events is expected to begin
in June. On-the-spot news coverage is expected
at the same time. The station has a
playhouse equipped for television. The transmitter
tower is located atop the 20-story
Walker Bank Bldg., 330 feet above the
heart of downtown Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake will be the only city between
St. Louis and Los Angeles with television.
Pox said.
Cooper Shifts Managers
In Three Colorado Cities
new pro-
GRAND JUNCTION. COLO—Changes in
managers at Cooper Foundation theatres in
Grand Junction. Greeley and !Pueblo were
announced here by Ralph H. Tj-er. assistant
general manager of the circuit.
The changes were occasioned by the resignation
of 'Vern Austin, city manager here for
five years, who resigned to enter business for
himself, and Kenneth Mead, who resigned as
city manager in Pueblo. Austin was replaced
by Harvey Traylor, former manager of the
Uptown in Pueblo, and Mead by Jack Bruno,
who had been city manager in Greeley. John
Schafluetzel. former manager of the Lincoln
in Lincoln, Neb., was made city manager in
Greeley in succession to Bruno and Robert
W. Buchanan was shifted from Lincoln to
Pueblo as successor to Traylor.
Clara Lee Thornton, former cashier at the
Joy, has been named assistant to Traylor
and Nathan M. Sparks, doorman at the old
Avalon, has been made house manager of
the Joy.
Blumenfeld Returns Guild
To Lippert Management
SAN FRANCISCO — Operation of the
Guild Theatre was passed back to the owner,
Robert L. Lippert, January 14 by the Blumenfeld
circuit, which took over the house last
mon'h. Under the new setup, the Guild becomes
a second and third run operation.
Blumenfeld used it as a first rtm moveover
R. E. McNamara Launches
320-Seater in Orich, Calif.
ORICH, CALIF—R. E. McNamara has
opened a 320-seat theatre in a newly constructed
building here. National Theatre
Supply of San Francisco furnished American
seats and Simplex projection and sound
equipment.
Inland Company Acquires
Lafayette, Colo.. House
DEN'VER—Inland Amusement Corp. of
Denver has purchased the La Fay Theatre in
Lafayette from Walter M. Houser. Donald J.
Hart is managing. The new owners are planning
to remodel and redecorate.
Form Theatre Acoustics
LOS ANGELES—Theatre Acou.stics, Inc.,
has been formed here by A. D. Hoppe. Charles
A. Strutt and P. H. Thomason.
54^D
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

. Born
: January
Fred Wagoner Buys
Theatre in Indiana
PLYMOUTH. IND.—Fred Wagoner, former
salesman for Paramount in northern Indiana
who resigned recently, has acquired the
Gem Theatre here from E. C. Ries. Wagoner
at one time was the Indianapolis branch manager
for Paramount, and also served as Gauinont
British exchange manager in Indianapolis.
John Bergant, Milwaukee,
Dies in Veterans Hospital
MILWAUKEE^ohn J. Bergant, 48, wellknown
in the motion picture industi-y here,
died January 16 at Veterans Administration
hospital. Wood, Wis., after a long illness,
Bergant was employed by Monogram, Midwest
Film, Universal and Fox Wisconsin during
many years in show business.
in Austria, he was brought to America
by his parents w*en he was 4 years of age.
He served in the marines for two years after
World War I. He also served in the marines
in World War II. His wife Alice died in 1941.
Survivors are two brothers, Anton L. and
Rudolph, both of West Allis.
Fox Wisconsin Shuffles
Managers in Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE — Managers of several Fox
Fond du Lac Defers Action
On Midnight Show Ban
FOND DU LAC, WIS.—Action on a proposed
city ordinance banning midnight shows
was deferred by the commission council a
second time January 13 after State Senator
Louis J. Fellenz charged that such an act
would "pimish adults more than children,"
"There is a curfew law: enforce it," Fellenz
told the council. "You are going to penalize
adults just to get children."
The ordinance had been requested by
Police Chief James D. Cahill, who said late
shows were contributing to juvenile delinquency.
The ordinance would set 12:30 a. m.
as the closing time for movie houses.
Theatre Interests Contest
St. Louis Admission Tax
ST. LOUIS—The suit filed by owners and
operators of some 50 local theatres to test
the recently effective 5 per cent levy on admissions
probably can go in its campaign to
exact higher taxes. The present suit is the
first legal action against the tax program
that went into effect January 1. Plaintiffs
charge that the city has no power to impose
and collect such a tax. and that the ordinance
violates .several provisions of the new state
constitution.
Directed against the city and its license
collector, the petition asks the court to declare
the ordinance invalid and to issue an
yet under the 5 per cent tax they will be
paying a tax substantially equal to the taxes
paid by all of the merchants of the city.
The tax is excessive and confiscatory and will
cause irreparable damage to the business of
the plaintiffs and other persons similarly
situated."
Meanwhile opposition to a proposal in the
state legislature to get a large slice of the
state income tax receipts for St. Louis arose
when Senator Ja.sper Smith of Springfield,
Republican floor leader, said the bill, which
would provide about $2,500,000 annually for
the city, would establish an unwise precedent
for state aid to cities for their general operating
expenses. The bill provides for distribution
of half the annual state income
tax revenue to St. Louis and the 114 counties
on the basis of taxes collected therein and
the remaining 50 per cent to public schools,
also in proportion to taxes raised in their
districts.
Mayor Aloys P. Kaufman has indicated
that if the city succeeds in getting substantial
state relief, he would then repeal the 5 per
cent amusement tax and other new revenue
raising measures.
injunction to prevent collection of the tax.
It also asks that pending the outcome the
court order city officials to set aside the tax
money collected so that the amounts involved
may be refunded if the ordinance is held invalid.
Plaintiffs include the St. Louis Amusement
Co. and the Fanchon & Marco companies (St.
Louis Ambassador Theatre, Inc., St. Louis
Missouri Theatre. Inc., and Eden Theatre
Co.): Loew's State Theatre Corp., on behalf
of Loew's State and Loew's Orpheum: Anritz
Amusement Co.: Ansell Amusement Co.;
Clarence and Francis Kaiman, operators of
the O'Fallon and several other theatres: Arthur
Kalbfell and Marie K. Wimberly, oper-
East St. Louis Increases
ators of
Wisconsin houses here were moved around
the Pauline Theatre: Movie Enterprises,
Inc.,
again at the first of the year. Arthur Stanisch
and the Palm Theatre
License Fee 35 Per Cent
Co.
shifted from the Uptown to the Wisconsin. The petition points out that the total EAST ST. LOUIS, ILL.—License fees for
John Brunette from booking department to amount of taxes paid to the city by all merchants
during the last fiscal year was $746,885. taverns, have been increased 35 per cent
all local businesses, with the exception of
the Palace as manager, Joe Bouldin from the
Wisconsin to the Plaza, Eugene Van Norman The petition estimates the new ordinance through the passage of a new license ordinance.
made from the Palace to the Uptown, R. Honek would require local theatres to pay $700,000
This is the first increase by from the Plaza to the Princess. John Ford
from the Sherman to the Astor, William
a year. "The volume of business carried on
by motion picture theatres and other theatres,"
the
the city since 1908. It is expected to bring
$25,000 additional revenue into the city each
Westphal from the Pearl to the Tivoli. Joseph
petition states, "is but a small year. The former rates ranged from $15 to
Pecora from the Allis to the Riviera, Thomas fraction of the volume of business of merchants
$100 a year, depending on the classification
(estimated at less than 2 per centi. Cornfield from the Princess to the Garfield,
of the business.
and Carl Doty from the Venetian to the Allis.
Louis Arru Seeks Permit
For Greenfield Drive-In
GREENFIELD, IND.—Indiana Theatre
Corp of Louisville has filed a petition with
the Hancock county planning board for permission
to construct a $78,000 drive-in theatre
on U. S. 40, east of Cumberland, Ind. Louis
Arru, Louisville, is president of the corporation.
The corporation operates outdoor theatres
in Lafayette and Vincennes. Ind., and
Louisville, Ky.
'Electra' Booked at Pabst
MILWAUKEE—"Mourning Becomes Electra"
is booked at the Pabst Januai-y 30 for a
roadshow engagement at $2.50 tops.
BOXOFFICE
:
24, 1948 C
AT "T-MEN" SCREENING—Harry D. Anheier, left, supervising agent and district
coordinator for the U.S. secret service, discusses some of the highlights of
Eagle Lion's "T-Men" following a special press screening of the picture in Chicago.
With Anheier are, left to right, Sam Lesner. Chicago Daily News; Mayron Zylstra,
Chicago Tribune; Ann Nangle, Chicago Tribune, and Zachary Scott, actor.
55

St. Louis Distrid Has 575 Theatres
With Total of 336,2/5 Seats
NEW YORK—Latest of the statistical releases
by the Motion Picture Ass'n of America
on the theatres in each exchange area shows
t)hat there are 575 theatres in the St. Louis
territory with 336,215 seats. This brings to
22 the niunber of exchange areas covered in
the series. Nineteen remain to be released.
In the three largest cities of the St. Louis
territory—St. Louis, East St. Louis and
Springfield—there are 112 theatres with seats
Number
Theatres in operation* 575
Closed theatres'* 23
Totals
Seating capacity of
Population
theatres n^
Towns with
Theatres
1.000,000-500.001 1 (St. Loui;
100,000- 50,001 2 (East St.
50,000- 25,001 4
25,000- 10,C01 20
10,000- 5,001 39
5,000- 2,501 55
2,500 and under ....236
I598
Louis,
9,529
345,744
Springfield)
20th-Fox Pays Off Author
For Book Title Not Used
CHICAGO—After nearly three years of
litigation and two court defeats, 20th Century-
Fox studios has paid $26,203 to Stanley Johnston,
Chicago author and reporter for the
Chicago Tribune, and E, P, Dutton company,
publishers, for the title of Johnston's book
on sinking of the aircraft carrier Lexington,
"Queen of the Flat Tops,"
Comprising the sum was the original $20,-
000 for which the studio agreed to purchase
the title, $5,193 interest at 7 per cent from
March 14, 1944, to Dec. 29. 1947, and $1,010
in legal fees.
The case attracted considerable attention
because Johnston's victory was won on the
basis of establishing in court that oral contracts
such as usually are made between
studio representatives and agents for writers
and actors are as binding as though they were
written,
Superior Judge J, W, Vickers ruled that
even though the studio did not use the name
for a motion picture it must pay the sum
it had agreed upon in a verbal contract entered
into with Johnston's agent, Myron
Selzaiick, In April, 1944,
The studio appealed the ruling to the California
appellate court which heard the case
last October and November. The full bench
of three judges upheld the superior court
ruling. Before expiration of the 40-day period
in which an appeal could be taken to the California
supreme court, the studio paid the
judgment.
Latest in Coin Vendors
On Display in Chicago
CHICAGO—The world of coin machines
opened its 1948 bag of samples at the Sherman
hotel today and Chicagoans, including
many theatremen, were given a preview of
126 ingenious models that will swallow the
public's pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters.
It was the opening of the 20th show of the
Coin Machine Industries, Inc. Officials say
that their machines are patronized by 75,-
000,000 persons weekly.
On display was a popcorn machine that
for one dime takes a cup of kernels, pops
for 109,893. In St. Louis itself there are
94 houses in operation with seats for 93,588,
or an average of 996 seats a house.
In the territory there are 236 towns with
populations of 2,500 or under having 244 theatres.
The average in these towns is 324 seats
per house.
There are 274 theatres under circuit control
with 211,94 seats and 324 noncircuit houses
with 134,050
seats.
Number
l-operated theatres 274
rcuit theatres 324
Totals 593
according to population groupings
No. of Theatres
Number of
93,583
16,305
16,095
41,063
51,189
36,945
79,030
Seating
Capacity
211,694
134,050
them and serves them to you with butter and
salt, all within 60 seconds.
There were numerous models of soft drink
dispensers, but the gadget that fascinated
most vending fans was the one that provides
a cup of steaming hot coffee in any
one of four ways, depending on how skillful
the buyer is with the levers. He can have
it with sugar and cream; with sugar but
without cream: vice versa, or just plain black.
Seek Projectionists
INDIANAPOLIS—Volunteers to operate
16mm projection machines are needed by the
Red Cross, according to Bert McCammon,
chairman of the speakers bureau of the local
Red Cross unit. These volunteers operate
the machines used in conjunction with talks
made by volunteer speakers throughout the
city.
AT "SLEEP" S( KEENING — George
Kerasotes of the Kerasotes Theatres in
Springfield, Buddy Rogers, the producer,
and Charles Murray of Fox Midwest are
shown in the lobby of the Lincoln Theatre
there prior to the screening of Rogers'
new film, "Sleep, My Love," for members
of the United Theatre Owners of Illinois,
then holding a convention in the Illinois
capital city.
Harry Rubin of Indiana
Sells Interest in Dunelake
MICHIGAN CITY, IND.—Harry Rubin,
manager of the Tivoli here since 1935 and
a veteran of exhibition
here since 1924, has
sold his stock in the
Dunelake
Corp. and is taking a
short vacation with
Theatre
his family in Florida
before they settle down
Arizona. Rubin said
in
he was forced to leave
here because his 8-
year-old son Charles
suffers from asthma
and must seek another
climate.
In announcing Ru-
Harry Rubin bin's resignation, Maurice
Rubin, the corporation president, also
announced the appointment of new managers
for the three theatres here. William
Harding, a veteran of the Great States circuit,
was shifted here from LaSalle to become
manager of the Tivoli. His assistant
will be Al Tribbett. At the Lido, Bob Pilcher,
formerly of Marlon, is the manager, and at
the Uptown, Gerald O'Boyle jr., formerly of
Cassopolis, Mich., holds the reins.
Harry Rubin has long been active in civic
affairs in Michigan City. He is a past president
of the B'nai B'rith, former chairman
of the Red Cross and a director of the
Lions club. He was active in all Community
Chest campaigns and wartime bond sales
drives.
Stars-of-Week Promotion
Outlawed in Wisconsin
MADISON—A motion picture promotion
plan known as Stars of the Week is illegal
under Wisconsin law. Attorney General John
Martin ruled last week.
Martin's opinion had been asked by a
county district attorney, who said a theatre
in his county planned to operate the plan,
under which the theatre would distribute
the names of movie stars and contestants
would choose the three stars they believed
would receive the most publicity for tlie week.
The attorney general said the plan appeared
to be merely a variation of theatre
bank night, which has been declared illegal.
Y&W Corp. Takes Over
Grand in Louisville
INDIANAPOLIS—The Y&W Management
Corp., with offices in the Illinois Bldg. here,
has taken over the management of the Grand
Theatre, Louisville, formerly operated by
Vance Schwartz.
C. R. Gilliam to Albion
ALBION, ILL.—C. R. GOliam of Harrisburg
is acting as manager of the Hollywood and
Majestic theatres, units of the Turner-Farrar
circuit here, following the departure of Chester
Scott, manager since 1940. Following his
departure, Scott explained in the local press
that his salary, as well as those of ushers and
ticket sellers, was no more than it had been
four or five years before. The latter receive
30 cents an hour, he said.
Remodel Princeton House
PRINCETON. ILL. — The Apollo closed
briefly early this month to permit installation
of new seats and redecoration. Pictures
booked at the Apollo were shifted to the
it State until reopened.
56
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

^1
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An Adaptation from the Life of Our Savior
A DESCRIPTIVE TALKING VERSION WITH
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64 MINUTES-3 5mm PRINTS
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BOXOFHCE :: January 24, 1948

. . Ray
. . Ray
. . . The
. . Ray
. . Al
. . Two
j
|
CHICAGO
Independent Poster Exchanges of America
will meet here January 30, 31 at the Congress
hotel . . . Ken Stem, who went from
RKO here to PRC and EL m Milwaukee four
years ago. has returned here and is now
country salesman for Film Classics . .
Cleve Adams, long with 20th-Fox sales department
and recently with Film Classics,
has been appointed general .sales manager
for All American News.
Charles Schlaifer, 20th-Fox ad and publicity
director, and exploiteer Sid Blumenstock
came in from New York for a huddle
with Eddie Solomon, local ad-chief, and to
set up a campaign for the world premiere
of "Call Northside 777," which was filmed
entirely in Chicago . Carsky, head
of the B&K concession department who was
hospitalized for many months with a heart
ailment, is slowly getting back to normal
and hopes to be back on the job soon.
Tom Powers of the Gateway theatre staff,
came in second in a contest conducted by
radio station WGN for teen soloists. He
received a stack of prizes, including a steak
dinner at a local bistro, two ducats to "Annie
Get Your Gun," and many other gifts.
Abe Piatt, former B&K district manager,
now with Paramount International, writes
that he is on his way to South America to
assist in final preparation for the opening
of the Tacna Theatre in Lima, Peru. An
artist's drawing of the Tacna was shown on
the cover of the January 3 issue of BOX-
OFFICE ... Ed Sapier, recently of the
20th-Fox sales department joined Republic
in same capacity . Axelrod, EL salesman,
is all smiles because his tiny daughter
Barbara won a screen test in the baby contest
at the Civic Opera House January 12.
Al Dezel came in from Detroit for a huddle
with local executives Sam Kaplan and Sol
Cohen. Dezel and Cohen then went to Milwaukee,
Indianapolis and St. Louis on busi-
YOU'LL
GET THE BEST
RESULTS WITH OUR
SPECIAL
TRAILERS
9ilmack 1327 S.Wabash, Chicago 5
ness . Thompson, recently co-manager
of the Chicago Theatre, has moved over
to the State-Lake as manager . . . "My Wild
Irish Rose" is the second big picture to reach
the Chicago screen under Balaban & Katz's
recent change of policy . . . Jack Belasco says
there's no business like show business and
asks, "'What's the matter with win and
place?"
Irving Mack went to New York on business
National Broadcasting Co. announced
last week that its Chicago television
station, 'WNBY, would be operating by September
1, four months earlier than previously
planned . Bogatch, manager of the B&K
Terminal, chose the 13th for a visit to the
hospital to have a stone removed from a
salivary gland. The operation was performed
by Dr. Mam-ice Cottle, brother of District
Manager Charley Cottle, and Al is feeling
much better . . . The Henri Elman Enterprises
is again releasing for Lenten season
"The Passion Play."
Julius "Red" Edinson of the local EL publicity
department went to New York to publicize
"T-Men" . revivals. "The Mark
of Zorro" and "Drums Along the Mohawk,"
are now playing the Rialto Theatre and doing
fine . . . "Carnegie Hall," which got
plenty of good notices from the critics when
it played the RKO Grand, is doing great at
several
neighborhood houses.
Buddy Rogers, his press agent Mai Boyd,
and Harold "Chick" Evens, local UA exploiteer,
were guests at a cocktail party given
by UA in the Blackstone hotel. Rogers arrived
from Minneapolis on a tour in behalf
of "Sleep My Love," and army and navy recruiting.
Peggy Ann Garner, a guest at
the party, posed for pictures with Buddy to
boost the March of Dimes drive. Among
others who attended were Elmer Balaban,
Jack Rose, Al Raymer, Frank Smith, Norm
Kassel, Nat Nathanson and M. M. Rubens.
Clarence Phillips has been appointed acting
manager of Eagle Lion here, succeeding
Harry Mandel, resigned . . . Len Utecht of
the Lake Theatre, Oak Park, staged a children's
party last Saturday (17) and gave away
cataplanes and dog charms in a tieup with
Wilson's Ideal dog food.
Praises 'Carnegie Hall'
CHICAGO—Fred Hunt, state motion picture
chairman for the Illinois Federation
of Music Clubs, has approved "Carnegie
Hall," now playing here in the outlying areas.
"I am spreading word among members as
well as to music lovers everywhere to see
and hear this great film."
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THEATRE
STREET ADDRESS
TOWN
NAME
POSITION
STATE..
T-Men/ Xaplain' Big
As Winter Hits Loop
CHICAGO—Grosses improved last week de
spite the icy blast which sent the mercury
down around zero nearly all week. Loop
|
houses with strong new attractions did very
well. Thousands of visitors in for the annual
furniture show helped fill seats in a big way.
The Chicago opened its new first run
straight film policy with "Captain From
Castile" and had a bamier week. The State-
;
Lake got off to a fine start with the Mills
Bros, and "T-Men" to start the new stagescreen
policy. The Oriental did fine with
Donald O'Connor heading the stage show, plus
"Love From a Stranger" on the screen.
"Body and Soul" bowed out of the Woods
after ten strong weeks to make way for "The
Bishop's Wife," which was a holdout the first
three days. Other new entries. "The F^igitive"
at RKO Grand, "The Senator Was Indiscreet"
at the Palace and "The Fabulous Texan" at
the Roosevelt, all opened up strong. "Gentleman's
Agreement" is still a strong holdover,
going into a tenth week at the Apollo.
(Average Is 100)
Apollo—Gentleman's Agreement (20th-Fox),
10th wk 125
Chicago—Captain From Castile (20th-Fox) 130
Garrick—Adventure Island (Para) 100
Grand—The Fugitive (RKO) 120
Oriental—Love From a Stranger (EL), plus stage
show 130
Palace—The Senator Was Indiscreet (U-I) 120
Rialto—The Swordsman (Col), 3rd d. t. wk 100
Roosevelt—The Fabulous Texan (Rep). 110
State-Lake—T-Men (EL), plus stage shov.- 140
Studio—ffigh School Girl (Cap); WUd Youth
(Cap), reissues, 3rd wk IT
United Artists—Daisy Eenyon (20th-Fox), ...na -i:t. 90
Woods—The Bishop's WUo (RKO), 3 davs 150
World Playhouse—Barber ol Seville (Excelsior)
3rd wk _ 105
Four Milwaukee Pictures
In Third Week Downtown
MILWAUKEE — Below zero temperatures
kept Milwaukeeans pinned to the fireside last
week, but enough of them ventured out to
make for an average session at the first runs.
Neighborhood houses reported business was
off, except for the weekend. "Unconquered"
booked at the Warner and "Good News" at
the Wisconsin.
Alhambra—My Wild Irish Rose (WB); Blondie in
the Dough (Col), 3rd d t, wk 100
Palace Road lo Rio (Para); I Cover Big Town
Riverside—The Secret Lile of Walter Mitty (RKO),
3rd wk. ..
Strand—Captain From Castile (20th-Fox),
3rd d. t. wk
Towns Burning Cross ,.SG1 Unexpected Guest
(UA)
Warner—Unconquered (Para)
Wisconsin—Good News (MGM); Gas House Kids
in Hollywood (EL)
Indianapolis Holdovers,
Reissues Top Grossers
INDIANAPOLIS — The week closing last
Wednesday was one of holdovers or reissues.
All did good business. "My Wild Irish Rose"
at the Circle, "Road to Rio" at the Indiana,
and "Good News" at Loew's all had satisfactory
boxoffice and business showed an increase
in all first runs,
Circle—My Wild Irish Ros (WB), 2nd wk 110
Indiana—Road to Rio (Pa
Keith's—The Spoilers (FC)
Loews—Good News (MGN The Lone Wo
London (Col), 2nd wk
Lyric—The Lost Moment (U I); The Tawny Pipit
Carl Neitzel Preparing
Theatre in Juneau, Wis.
JUNEAU, WIS.—This city's first motion
picture theatre in many years will be opened
in a few weeks by Carl Neitzel. A building
purchased by Neitzel is beeing thoroughly remodeled
to provide a modem theatre with a
seating capacity of about 400.
BOXOFnCE :: January 24, 1948
10
10
35
]

. . Projection
. . . Marvin
. . "Stormy
. . Bernard
. . Exhibitors
ST.
LOUIS
Ourglars who broke into the Pauline Theatre
the night of January 11, escaped with $198
but overlooked $200 in the same safe, Arthur
Kalbrell, manager, reported to the police.
Kalbrell said that the money was in a wooden
box inside an office safe, which was closed
but not locked.
Howard Young is the new manager of the
Kaye and Lawford theatres, Kerasotes houses
in Havana, 111. He formerly was manager of
the Home in Rantoul, lU., and has been
succeeded in that post by Harry Fryer, who
managed the Mode Theatre in Onarga, 111.
equipment and funds for the
rental of films will go to the wimiers in the
current riverboat race between New Orleans
and St. Louis. The race is between the Kokoda,
a steam-powered vessel, and the Helena,
which is Diesel driven. The race began January
15 and will take about 11 days all told.
Both craft, pushing four barges carrying
9,785 tons of sulphm- and bauxite are owned
by Federal Barge Lines.
Clarence M. Turley, secretary-treasurer of
the St. Louis Amusement Co., and a pastpresident
of the St. Louis Real Estate board,
attended a special meeting of the National
Ass'n of Real Estate Boards In Washington,
January 19-21. Turley is a member of the
board of directors and executive committee
of the NAREB . Waters," a French
film, moved into tlie World, marking a return,
at least temporarily, to its previous
policy of presenting foreign films.
Charles Goldman and Tommy Tobin of the
Goldman-Leventhal-Tobin circuit, accompanied
by former state senator Lou Menges
of East St. Louis, left for Hot Springs, Ark.,
Januarj- 19 to spend about two or three weeks
at that famed spa. Tobin is resident manager
in East St. Louis for the Frisina Amusement
Co. He is a partner in the operation of the
Esquire aJid Roxy theatres . Temborious
of Lebanon, 111., has left on a vacation
trip that will include stops in New Orleans
and various points in Florida.
C. D. Hill, Columbia manager, was in
Springfield, 111., this week . of
this territory were pleased learn through
Fred Wehrenberg and the
to
TOA that the
Ascap deadline has been extended to March 15
Banks, who operates the King Bee,
has purchased the 400-seat Lyric in Farina,
111., from G. E. Bertch and his son Peter,
formerly of Wisconsin, who bought the house
from T. Robert HarroU last July.
A coroner's jury that investigated the
death of John H. Howard, fatally injured in
an automobile accident January 5, exonerated
James R. Johnston, motion picture projectionist
who was driving the automobile. Evidence
at the inquest revealed that Johnston
had to swerve to avoid striking another vehicle
that darted across Broadway without
warning and he hit Howard before he could
bring the car to a stop.
public sales staff by Nat Steinberg, prairie
district manager, who is in charge of the
local office while Johnny Houlihan is in
Cleveland carrying on for the manager there
who has been ill for some weeks. Mabel is a
newcomer to the business.
Exhibitors on Filmrow: C. H. Weeks jr.,
Dexter, Mo.; Bill Williams, Union, Mo.; Dean
Davis, Mountain Grove and Paul Musser and
Merrill "Shorty" Burdett, both of Casey, 111.,
just back from a vacation sojourn in California
and Mexico: Tom Baker, Bunker Hill,
111.; John Dickson, St. Elmo, 111.; Sam E. Pirtle.
Jersey ville. 111.; Elvin H. Wiecks, Staunton,
111.; Buck Lewis, general manager, Carney
circuit, RoUa, Mo.: John Giachet^o, short
subjects booker, and Rani Padrucci, feature
booker, Frisina Amusement Co., Springfield,
/ncrease your "take" in
111., and Lloyd Lenhart, Commonwealth circuit,
Kansas City.
Several local theatres were affected by a
power shutdown January 15 when a subsation
was forced to close following an explosion.
Theatres affected were the Tower,
Lindell. Norside, Salisbury, Bremen and Hi-
Way. Most of these were dark for about an
hour and a half. The Hi-Way, however, was
blacked out for only 20 minutes. In most cases
tickets good for another night were given
patrons.
Eldon DeSilva, manager of the Fox Midwest
Orpheum in Marion, 111., is home recuperating
from injuries sustained recently
in an automobile accident near Centralia, 111.
Mrs. DeSilva and their daughter Jody also
were injured when the DeSilva automobile
was struck by another machine. DeSilva had
been in St. Mary's hospital at Centralia for
about three weeks. His wife and daughter
have recovered from their injuries.
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with a 9-volt DeVRY Exciter
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replace any type or make
sound system used in
theatres today.
Negotiations for stage shows at the Fox
Theatre apparently have reached a stalemate
and it begins to appear that stage acts for
the house are still a long way off . . . Louis
and Joseph Ansell, officials of the Southern
California Pictiu-es and Ansell Amusement
Co., operators of the Empress, Ritz and Variety
theatres here, have been in New York
City with William Rowland for business conferences.
Sam Garber, a member of the Warner
sales staff, resigned January 17 and is entering
the meats and groceries retail field with
his brother at 22nd and Benton street . . .
William Feld of Eagle Lion returned from a
iales conference at the Blackstone hotel, Chicago,
with "T-Men" the chief topic . . .
Henry Mabel has been added to the local Re-
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NOW AT YOUR THEATRE SUPPLY DEALER
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1312 S. Michigan Avenue
Telephone: Webster 7268
CHICAGO 14. ILLINOIS
OeVry Corporation
1111 Armitage Avenue
Telephone: Lincoln 5200
For the Perfect S/iow-^^w^ Se^if
EVANSVILLE 11.
INDIANA
Evansville Theatre Supply
173S E. Delaware Street
Telephone: 3-75341 or 4-7486
ncl#DV
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BOXOFFICE : : January 24, 1948

. . Bob
. . Angle
. . Joe
. . Estelle
. . Jack
. .
. . Max
. . Eddie
, . Allen
. .
MILWAUKEE
Chowning Buys House
NEW WASHINGTON, IND.—Louis Chowning
of Madison, Ind., is the new owner of
the New Washington Theatre here.
Milwaukee's Board
Approves 'Outlaw'
Toe Calvelli, 20th-Fox office manager, has Lorraine Bruening has joined Eagle Lion
' been transferred to Chicago in the same as manager's secretary . . . Anne Buffington,
capacity. George Edgerton, salesman, assumed
Calvelli's duties here and also conager,
fouled things up for the gang by plac-
commission finally has placed its approval
secretai-y to Lou Elman, RKO branch man-
MILWAUKEE—The city motion picture
tinues in sales . Provinzano of Fox ing everyone's lunch in one basket. It turned for the showing of "The Outlaw" here.
Wisconsin's booking department is vacationing
in California.
hasn't found his peanut butter yet . . . Lou a brief showing at the Towne last February,
out to be quite a grab bag. Ed White, cashier, Banned in its unexpurgated version after
Orlove, MGM exploiteer, did a job here on "The Outlaw" was viewed in a cut version by
Red Edinson, Eagle Lion exploiteer, was in "Killer McCoy" before leaving for more of the commission at the Warner screen room
town wearing a large lapel button reading, the same in Minneapolis and the Dakotas. and this version can now be shown in local
"Red is back in town" .
Schlaifer, Orlove says North Dakota is so cold he's wearing
a fur-lined cap, coat and leggings .
theatres.
New York, director of Monogram sales, was
"The Outlaw" has played just about every
in for conferences with Charley Trampe, Milwaukee
manager . Strother of the town exploiting RKO's "The Fugitive," due to Milwaukee have shown it.
Carl Pollock and Wally Heim covered the situation in the state. Many theatres close
Marcus circuit has been seriously ill . . . The for an early Towne opening . Leser The version that played outside Milwaukee
is the one that was shown briefly at
Delft circuit is buying and booking for the was around expounding the merits of "Mourning
Becomes Electra," which will be road-
the Towne last February. The pictui'e was
theatres under the Lucile Forbes wing while
she vacations in Arizona ... Ed Irwin, Eagle shown at the Pabst.
pulled immediately after it opened when the
Lion home office representative, was in for
commission threatened revocation of the
a huddle with Joe Imhof, Milwaukee manager.
Dewey DeLorenzo, Film Service driver, is
Towne's license.
back at the wheel after an illness . . . Joseph
Imhof, Eagle Lion branch manager, attended
Bin Heiman, former Peerless operator now a weekend meeting in Chicago, in which plans
Kerasotes Bros, to Build
pinoh-hitting at the Colonial, was on the for the marketing of "T-Men" was the major
Row saying hello . . . Thieves pilfered every
business . Mazur, Film Classics branch
First Circuit Drive-In
piece of jewelry owned by Mrs. Winnie De manager, called on exhibitors in the Madison
Lorenzo, wife of the Independent Film exchange
operator, recently . . . Audrey Rom-
at Jimmie Fazio's Towne room was well at-
this month on the 1,000-car drive-in on a
territory . . . The Reel Fellows club luncheon DECATUR, ILL.—Construction will begin
berg has joined the 20th-Fox cashier's department
. . . Alice Zwolska joined RKO as
tended.
35-acre tract on North Jasper street near
Route 121. The ozoner will be owned and
Martin Thomas, Iron Mountain, Mich., exhibitor,
is vacationing in Arizona . . . Tom headed by George Kerasotes of Kerasotes
operated by the Decatur Drive-In Corp.,
mail and file clerk . . . Max Markowitz, State
manager, can double for Max Baer in anybody's
book.
Kuehn, Oshkosh, returned from a Florida Theatres, Springfield. Kerasotes hopes to
vacation in time to get in on the frigid have the theatre ready for opening by May.
weather holding forth in Wisconsin . . . Marjorie
Plans were prepared by William M. Weidemeyer,
local architect.
Most of the exchange managers attended
the opening of Lucile Forbes' Cosmo in Merrill,
Wis. . Hickey, RKO district ex-
Warren is the new hello gal at 20th-
Fox, replacing Rosemary Ward, who resigned The Kerasotes brothers presently own and
to take a position at the Patricia Stevens operate 12 theatres in various Illinois cities,
ploitation chief, was in from Chicago . . . Bill
modeling school.
but the local drive-in is the first of that type
Mattingly, MGM salesman, and his wife are
to be undertaken by the circuit.
getting their fill of Wisconsin's winter Johnny Mednikow, National Screen manager;
Joe Woodward, 20th-Fox manager, and
weather. Quite a change from what they are
used to in Dallas .
Stetnbach of Lou Elman, RKO manager, joined the Sidney
Fox Wisconsin's public relations department
Walter W. Bennin, 42, MGM
Hill Health club . Lipson, former
spoke on "The Power of the Movies" before Warner salesman, is toui-ing the west.
the Catholic Women's club in Wausau Office Manager, Succumbs
.
Jack Kelly, MGM short subject and reprint
MILWAUKEE—Walter W. Bennin, 42,
representative, was a stopover, en route to
Film Storage Law Unfair. MGM office manager here, died here January
16 at St. Joseph's hospital following
Los Angeles.
Booking on the Row: G. Compston, Wabeno
and Crandon; Leonard Dorece, Racine: CHICAGO—Hundreds of amateur film Barbara Ami, survive. Bennin was well
Chicago Dealer Contends
a brief illness. The funeral was in Chicago.
His wife Helen, a son, Billy, and a daughter,
Harold Hamley, Hartland; Mrs. Joseph Coyne, fans in Chicago would be affected if the city known in the industry both here and in Chicago.
Gays Mills; Walter Baier, Fort Atkinson; were to enforce a 1931 ordinance against
Max Krofta, Racine: Lon Heuston, East Troy: film storage, according to a suit filed here
P. J. McWilliams, Portage; Nick Johnson, in superior court. The suit seeks an injunction
to restrain the city from enforcing the Alger Seeks Particulars
Manitowoc; Floyd Albert, Mount Horeb: L. V.
Bergtold, Westby; Arnold Brumm, North Milwaukee:
Clem Kramer, Atlas and Milwaukee; This film, the type used by amatem-s, burns In Chicago Fraud Suit
law as it applies to so-called safety film.
Sid Goldberg, Wausau; Eric Brown, Plymouth; no faster than newsprint, the suit contends. CHICAGO — Attorney Seymour Simons,
F. J. McWilliams, Portage; George Panka, The law requires all persons who keep representing the LaSalle and Peru theatres
Prairie du Chien; Barney Sherman, Racine; more than 2,000 feet of film to have a license. of the Alger circuit, LaSalle, 111., filed a
Sid Margoles, Milwaukee; George Gonis, Milwaukee;
Erv Koenigsreiter, Greendale; Joe
It does not specify the type of film, the suit motion in federal court here for a bill of particulars
in each of the eight suits brought by
points out. Plaintiffs are Isaak Dobkin. a
McMahon, Eskin Theatres, Milwaukee; J.
dealer in amateur motion picture films, and major distributors on charges of false returns
on percentage pictures.
Juell, South Milwaukee, and Ed Johnson,
club of Chicago.
Milwaukee.
A city suit charging Dobkin with failure to
Vic Manhardt, who was recently appointed have such a license is pending in the license
RCA theatre supply dealer in Wisconsin and court.
Alliance Drive-In Set
upper Michigan, staged an open house for
KOKOMO, IND.—Construction of a 600-
projectionists that was a honey . . . Though
car drive-in theatre on U.S. highway 31 between
Kokomo and Peru, Ind., will be under-
Ray Smith, the equipment purveyor, is on the Dezel Productions Plans.
job, his voice is still just a whisper. Can you
taken soon by the Alhance circuit, it was
picture Ray whispering as he sells a piece of
Indianapolis Exchange
announced here by S. J. Gregory, circuit
equipment to W. C. Fischer of the Campo,
Campbellsport?
INDIANAPOLIS—Albert Dezel of Albert
general manager. He said the place will be
Dezel Productions, Inc., Chicago, and Sol
ready for operation about April 15. Alliance
Cohen, general manager of the company, were
operates houses in both Kokomo and Peru
in the city last week looking for a site on
which to build a film exchange. According Asks 4 Per Cent La Salle Tax
QuaJlWfflllli
fRAiimf
to Dezel the new exchange building would
LA SALLE, ILL.—Alderman Thomas F.
be equipped with special office rooms for the
Whitfield has introduced in the city councU
smaller producer and also a screening room.
an ordinance, similar to one recently pa
The site they desire would be on Filmrow.
in Bloomington, placing a tax of 4 per cent
on theatre admissions. Even as he Introduced
it, Whitfield admitted that the tax
mOTIOn PICTURE SEjnCE CO. seemed a bit high and perhaps ought to be
scaled down. Several other members of the
council spoke out against the proposal. The
Bloomington tax is facing a court test.
BOXOmCE
:
: January 24,
1

. . . Pe'er
: January
. . Barney
. . Tommie
. . Douglas
. .
INDIANAPOLIS
TXrilliam Bein, district manager of National
Screen Service, spent a week in the city
holding meetings with salesmen and making
a general inspection of the local branch .
Don S. MacLeod, booker and office manager
of Monogram, is suffering with a severe cold,
but not inactive . . . RKO exchange is now
in eighth place in the Ned Depinet drive.
Carl Kemp, manager of Eagle Lion, was in
Chicago last weekend for a sales meeting in
the Blackstone hotel . . . Mrs. Loraimie Toney
is the new secretary to Manager Guy Craig
of Columbia. Ruth Burnell, former manager's
secretary, is assisting and also doing
other office work . . . Joan Critchfield is the
new secretary to Herbert Boss, office manager
of Eagle Lion.
Robert Harned, who operates the Empire
Theatre, Sellersburg, Ind., and wife have
gone to visit relatives in the south, where
they expect to remain for six weeks. They will
visit points of interest in Florida and other
southern states . . . Mrs. Helen Haney, operator
of the Milan Theatre. Milan, Ind., is now
a grandmother, and very proud of it. Her
daughter gave birth to a baby girl December
13.
Earl Cunningham, manager of the Fountain
Square, Granada and Sanders theatres
here and Mrs. Cunningham returned from a
vacation in Florida . Brentlinger,
operator of the Idaho Theatre, Terre Haute,
is reported a very sick man . Goodman,
head booker at Paramount exchange,
has gone to Florida for a much needed rest
Rosian, district manager of Universal-International,
was a three-day visitor
here. He also called on exhibitors in Louisville
and Bloomington, Ind., accompanied by
Manager Ted Mendelssohn . Haney,
who formerly operated the Albion Theatre,
Albion, Ind., but retired from active life several
months ago because of poor health, is now
recuperating at home. He announces he will
be glad to have his friends visit him.
Jewel Theatre Opened
In Jamestown Jan. 16
JAMESTOWN, IND.—The Jewel Theatre
here, operated by Rueben Chambers and Gene
Miller, opened January 16. The new 304-seat
house was completely equipped by Ger-Bar
Theatre Equipment Co., with Motiograph
projectors, Ideal chairs, Da-Lite screen and
other
BbXOFFICE :
minor equipment.
Join the
MARCH
OF DIMES
JANUARY IS30
24, 1948
'HIGH WALL' STAR—Audrey Totter,
star of "High Wall," spent a full day in
St. Louis last Thursday under the guidance
of Russ Bovim, city manager for
Loew's Theatres. She arrived early in the
morning from Kansas City and started
right off on a crowded schedule of press
and radio interviews, sessions with photographers
and personal appearances on
the stage of Loew's State. In the picture
above, Miss Totter visits with Bovim a
few minutes before going on stage. (Pictorial
Press photo.)
Mossotti Case Defendants
Seek Dismissal of Suit
ST. LOUIS—Denying there is any basis for
the triple damages suit brought against them
charging they forced termination of a fiveyear
lease on the Shubert Theatre, the St.
Louis Ambassador Theatre, Inc.. and Eden
Theatre Co. (Foxi have filed a joint motion
with the U.S. district court seeking dismissal
of the antitrust damage suit brought Nov. 2,
1947, by Victor G. Mossotti, fonner lessee.
The suit was brought against Fanchon &
Marco Enterprises, the St. Louis Amusement
Co., and various film distributing companies
when Mossotti allegedly sustained a loss of
$100,000 when he was forced to give up the
lease Oct. 5, 1942.
Curfew on Youths May Be
Enforced at Chicago
CHICAGO—In a move to combat increasing
juvenile delinquency and crime. Alderman
Prank Keenan will urge the city council
to enforce a 25-year-old curfew ordinance
which bans children under 18 from the streets
or public places after 10 p. m. unless accompanied
by parents or other persons over
21. Enforcement of the law, Keenan said,
would keep children off the streets, out of
pool rooms, dance halls, motion picture theatres
and other gathering places and "out
of
mischief."
Wisconsin ITO Directors
Hold First 1948 Session
MILWAUKEE—The first meeting of the
new board of the Independent Theatre Owners
of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan was
held at the local offices last week. Directors
and other officials attending were: Sidney
Goldberg, Wausau: Mark Morgan, Cedarburg;
Harry Perlewitz, Milwaukee: Eric Brown,
Plymouth: Charles Trampe, Milwaukee: Floyd
Albert. Mount Horeb: George Panka, Pi-airie
du Chein: F. J. McWilliams, Madison; C. W.
Kramer and Arnold Brumm, Milwaukee, and
field man Harold Pearson.
St. Louis Screen Guild
Sold by Andy Dietz
ST. LOUIS—Andy Dietz reported he has
sold his entire stock interest in Screen Guild
Productions of St. Louis to George Phillips
and Herman Gorelick, both of whom have
been on the Eagle Lion sales staff here. The
deal, effective January 26, includes other
film products handled here by Dietz: namely,
Real Art, Favorite Films and Master Pictures.
Dietz will devote his time to his booking
and buying organization. Cooperative Theatres,
which serves a number of houses in
this territory, and to his new work as fieldman
for the local MPTO and the Theatre
Owners of America.
Dietz started in the motion picture business
in 1915, served as booker for Pathe
ten years, then was with Real Art, Columbia,
United Artists, buyer and booker for the
Skouras Theatres in New York City and Fox
Wisconsin in Milwaukee. He returned to St.
Louis in 1942 and organized Screen Guild
here about three years ago.
Phillips was a booker with Warner Bros,
for several years prior to his military service
during World War II. After his return to
civilian life he joined PRC and continued
with that organization when it merged with
Eagle Lion.
Gorelick was associated with RKO ten
years as a booker and salesman, then joined
PRC two years ago.
Johnny Walsh, manager of Screen Guild,
and Nick O'Brien, booker, resigned.
Booth Is Condemned
GLASFORD, ILL.—The Glasford was
closed early this month after state inspectors
condemned the booth. Management is looking
for a new location to open.
Ask Outdoor Permit
GREENFIELD, IND. — Indiana Theatre
Corp., Louisville, has filed a petition with the
Hancock county planning board for permission
to construct a $78,000 outdoor theatre
on Highway 40 east of Cumberland.
Traffic Violators Must
See 'Highway Mania'
Chicago^Trafflc violators are going to
l>e taken to the movies, whether they
or not, to see "Highway Mania."
like it
The 20-minute RKO reel vividly illustrates
the cause and effect of automobile
accidents on the highways.
Taking violators to the show is the idea
of Judge John J. Griffin of traffic court.
Judge Griffin said the film would be
kept ready for immediate showing in the
police headquarters at 1121 South State
St.
Capt. Timothy Lyne, head of the motion
picture censor board, called Judge
Griffin's attention to the film. Griffin
was so impressed with its educational
value and the moral lesson it portrays
he decided to try it out on offenders.
"I will continue the cases of certain
traffic violators," he said. "Then they
will be shown the movie. After its showing
they can come back into court and
tell me if they have learned their lesson.
Showing violators the motion picture will
have a much stronger effect on them
than sending them to view victims in the
county hospital."

Keep them coming bj^^
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SHOWMANDISER s^n*-
EVERY WEEK _ for EVERY EXHIBITOR
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

I
Winter Building Spurt
In Omaha Territory
OMAHA—Despite the wintry weather, this
territory seems to be in the middle of at least
a minor theatre building boom. Here are a
few samples:
Representatives of most Omaha film exchanges
were planning to attend the opening
of the new Iowa Theatre in Denison, Iowa,
during the week.
Valley, Neb.—John Fisher is constructing
a new lai-ger Gem Theatre to replace the
one recently burned. It will seat approximately
400.
Tripp, S. D.—Chris Schmidt opened a second
new theatre here, the Home.
Winner. S. D.—R. C. Metzger has begun
cons ruction of a 350-seat theatre. He already
operates the town's other theatre, the
Ritz.
Bellevue, Neb.—Nebraska's oldest town was
to open its first theatre during the week.
Byron Hopkins, who owns the Sidney at Sidney,
Iowa, and the Scribner at Scribner, Neb.,
is the builder. Bellevue now has a population
of more than 6,000 and Hopkins is trying to
give it a theatre its equal. New house features
include a cry room.
Sioux City, Iowa—A. M. Seff plans to
open his 610-seat Uptown in the north part
of town in March.
Lyons, Neb.—Glen McKenzie is opening the
new Star here, seating about 165.
A good deal of remodeling and new installations
also are being reported in the territory.
Colosseum in Kansas City
Will Meet February 7
KANSAS CITY—The first
local meeting of
the Colosseum of Motion Picture Salesmen
of America will be held at the Hotel Bellerive
here the evening of Pebioiary 7. Meeting will
consist of business sessions and a dinner.
Eddie Golden of MGM who, together with
Andy Anderson of Paramount, recently returned
from the national Colosseum meet in
Chicago, said this week that between 25 and
30 salesmen are expected to be present. According
to Golden, the Colosseum is virtually
100 per cent organized on the local FUmrow.
Iowa Charter Is Renewed
By Central States Chain
DES MOINES—The Central States Theatre
Corp. filed renewal of its charter with the
I secretary of state last week. The firm, the
Most Popular Man
PLATTSMOUTH, NEB.—G. G. Griffith,
owner of the Cass, should be the most popular
man in towTi. His record is probably
unmatched by any other local businessman.
In 14 years of operating the Cass, he hasn't
once raised prices.
Fire Damages Cambridge
CAMBRIDGE, IOWA—A fire in the projection
room of the Cambridge Theatre was
put out last Sunday night after several
Audrey Totter Visits Kansas City
Shown in Kansas City witli Audrey
Totter are, in tlie top photo, left to right,
Eddie Golden, MGM city salesman; Al
.•idler. MGM manager; Elmer Dillon of
the National Theatre, Kansas City; Alex
Schneiderman, Mary Lou, Kansas City,
and (seated) Glen Hall, Cassville, Mo.
In the adjacent picture are Mike CuUen,
Loew's district manager, St. Louis, and
Howard Burkhardt, manager of the Midland,
Kansas City.
KANSAS CITY—Audrey Toiler's personal
appearance on the stage of the Midland Theatre
Januai-y 14, the opening day of "High
Wall," showed her to be as glamorous as Hollywood
stars are supposed to be, but she has
had to submerge her glamor in many pictures.
Miss Totter's role in this film with
Robert Taylor was that of a lady psychiatrist
who falls in love with her patient and helps
him prove he is sane and not even an unconscious
murderer.
With Mrs. Dorothy Blanchard of the MGM
publicity department. Miss Totter arrived in
Kansas City by train at six in the morning.
After breakfast with the welcoming delegation
from the local Metro office and Howard
Burkhardt, Midland manager, her day became
a series of scheduled events which included
being interviewed by local newspaper and
magazine reporters, three appearances at the
theatre (2:30, 5:30, and 8:45), signing autographs
and meeting prominent local people.
Dick Smith of WHB introduced her on the
stage and interviewed her for the audiences.
Kansas City was Miss Totter's first stop In
a series of one-day appearances in theatres
capital stock of which is composed of 3,000
shares of no par value stock, deals in theatrical
enterprises. Officers are A. H. Blank,
Des Moines, president; Leonard H. Goldenson,
New York City, vice-president; Myron H.
hundred dollars in damage had resulted. The
Blank and J. N. Blank, both of Des Moines,
alarm was turned in by the manager who had
assistant secretaries; ino secretary listed)
heard a crackling noise in the theatre. During
the afternoon show some film leaders in
and L. McKechneay, Des Moines, treasurer.
the booth caught fire and it was thought the
blaze was not completely extinguished at the
BOXOFFICE :' January 24, 1948 MW
time.
Walter Lambader Resigns
KANSAS CITY—Walter Lambader, for
two years manager here for King Enterprises,
franchise holder for Screen Guild and
Favorite Films, has resigned, effective January
31. He plans to open a local branch for
Masterpiece Pi'oductions February 1. Before
joining King Enterprises, Lambader was with
the local MGM exchange for 13 years.
at St. Louis, Dayton. Columbus, New York,
Louisville, Memphis, Atlanta and Houston.
Returning to Hollywood she will start "Saxon
Charm" for Universal-International, playing
opposite Robert Montgomery, with whom
she played in "Lady in the Lake."
"But this time," said Audrey dreamily, like
a girl looking forward to her first formal
dance, "this time I get to play the part of a
glamor girl!"
Harry Wareham Honored
By Boaters in New York
MANHATTAN, KAS.—Harry Wareham.
owner of the Wareham Theatre and partner
in TEI operations here, was the guest of honor
at a reception in New York held by the Outboard
Boating club of America, of which he
is president. On February 27 Warham will officiate
at the opening of the International
Sports, Travel, and Boating show, jointly
sponsored by the OBC and the Chicago
Ti-ibune.
Records 'Hesperus' Score
The background score for "The Wreck of
the Hesperus" has been recorded for Columbia
under the baton of Mischa Bakaleinikoff.
63

he
Sfockyards Aroma Proves No Help
For Farmer Turning to Exhibition
Garansson built a $15,000 pavilion a few
hundred yards away, provided a huge parking
lot. and started the Pla-Mor club, famous
from Kansas City to Denver. "Best investment
I ever made," the nrooriptor says. The
organization has over 5 000 signed members
and a great number of them come to the
Wameso pavilion every Saturday night. "It
is nothing to see six or more states and over
a dozen Kansas counties represented by the
cars parked outside," Garansson said recently.
"My brother Art, an auctioneer in Manhattan,
is caller for the square dances and general
manager of the hall. We charge 55 cents a
couple and despite the bad weather we had
over 600 people attending New Year's eve," he
added.
Garansson went into farming before the
DULUTH—The Lakeside Theatre, neighborhood
house in the eastern section of Duluth,
its
has closed doors. John Hemmer-
ling, operator of the house, said that the
closing resulted from increasing costs and
a drop in natron" ee. A. Hedenberg & Co.,
owners of the building, have not announced
plans for use of the structure but rumor
is that the structure will be remodeled into
a store building.
Omega
Motion Pictures to
OMEGA, MINN.—Motion pictures are being
shown Saturdays and Sundays in the town
hall by Clyde Lund.
Tough Going for Fix,
Lyceum in Mill City
MINNEAPOLIS—The Lyceum, legitimate
KANSAS CITY— A. E. Garansson, rancher, first world war. In the early 1920s he went roadshow house, and the sure-seater Fix, are
salesman, trucker, dance hall proprietor of broke and started dealing in commercial encountering difficulties due to inability to
Wamego, Kas., came to building material. "I was coming back in a obtain proper product. As a result, the Lyceum
probably will abandon its policy of
- r ^ Kansas City with a small way," he says. In 1932 when things
fleet of trucks carrying really looked bad in that business, he sold trying to keep lighted continuously with pictures
between the infrequent legitimate at-
(Kr
^g|
$15,000 worth
most of the material for a $3,000,000 Veterans
of live-
Br stock. After winding
administration building at the Soldiers home tractions, and will play only occasional outstanding
or roadshow offerings. The Fix al-
P , up his stockyard sales
in Leavenworth. He made a deal with the
Mpl **" contractors to deliver all material to the job ready has abandoned a shortlived Loop second
'
drove up to Filmrow
^K 1 .
equipment dealers to
instead of FOB cars. To handle this job he run policy.
bought $6,000 worth of trucks on an lOU and
m^^ > start his entry into
The Lyceum has a high operating cost and
organized the Gara Trucking & Supply Co.
y£F^ the theatre business.
the type of screen attractions that it has been
In a short time the firm had a paid-up capital able to obtain, mostly dual reissues, haven't
JBhk^
His outward appearof
$50,000.
been bringing in the necessary grosses. The
^^^C^ pnce still had definite
Increasing his land holdings and his livestock
enterprise, Garansson quit the brick the picture policy, "Gone With the Wind,"
house did well with its initial attraction under
^^^A^ tinges of livestock.
',
^^^HM i "That didn't help me
^^^^^ **" "*"
and tile concern in 1939. By 1943 he had sold but since then the going has been tough. The
any," he recalls. He
th3 trucking business. Garansson had begun house recently tried to bring back "Best Years
first stopped to see L.
A. E. Garansson
buying and trading real estate around of Our Lives" as a roadshow for the tenth
J. Kimbriel of Missouri
Wamego and Manhattan and soon had obtained
30 tracts of land. He farmed about apparently has been milked, as far as $1.20
downtown week, but found that the picture
Theatre Supply. After hearing Garansson's
wish to open a theatre in Wamego, Kimbriel
2,200 acres during the war, using about 70 prices are concerned, but its previous engagements
at two other Loop theatres and it
took one look at the disheveled farmer and
German prisoners of war in addition to the
shook his head—no promise on delivery; no
regular help. It was on his large farm near was pulled after four days. Another roadshow
picture, "Duel in the Sun," spotted for
guarantee of price even then. When Gar?nsson
wished to insure a price by paying then
here that he held the free dance that provided
his eventual entry into exhibition. Recently the following week after having played four
and there, Kimbriel sluffed off the remark
he sold his smallest farm for $8,000 and his other downtown theatres, was hastily canceled.
with a tepid acceptance. When he looked at
largest for $60,000.
the check, marked paid in full, Kimbriel
Garansson intended to retire after the war A smaU seating capacity Is the handicap of
changed his tune.
but idleness he couldn't take. After looking
the Fix. formerly the Newsreel. A loop second
'BUSINESS IS SWELL'
into several business enterprises here he decided
that what the town needed was a good and the house now is back to dual reissues
run policy was dropped after several weeks
"That's that," said Garansson, and went theatre, a super grocery market and an office which, for the most part, like those spotted
over to see Jack Langan, manager of the Universal
exchange. He, too, shook his head as The theatre was the first of the threesome engagements. The theatre cannot afford high
bui'dine a'l combined.
into the Lyceum, have had previous downto\STi
he eyed the encrusted farmer. Garansson to be opened. Garansson manages it himself.
film rentals. The west coast Corwin interests
are the lessees, but the Bsnnie Berger
showed the manager his contrpct with Kimbriel.
A deal was closed at Universal post tenant and the office addition will be com-
circuit recently acquired a share and is han-
The grocery building soon will be ready for a
haste.
pleted by earlv soring.
dling the operation now. The house prospered
The Garansson Theatre opened in June of A man of few words but one who sometimes during the war as an out-and-out newsreel
last year. A 600-seat house built at a cost sneaks with a shrewd snarkle in his eve, theatre.
of $102,000, the theatre plays top first run Garansson said recpntly: "I enjoy the theatre
Another theatre, the Alvin, now devoted
product from most of the major producers. business very much."
burlesque, will ber-ome a straight film theatre
"Business is swell," says the owner.
later this year when the present Minnesota
"It pll poes to prove how toreh it is to eet
Amusement Co. lease expires. It was acquired
in the theatre business, es'-ecially for a farmer"
Garansson says. That he is an
'Good. Simple' Pictures
from the estate of the late W. A. Steffes
enterprising
showman was demonst'-ated at the
grouD headed by Ted Mann. The theatre is
Goal of Buddy Rogers
recent Allied convention here when he much more advantageously located than the
presented
from the floor his check as the first MINNEAPOLIS—The Mary Pickford-Buddy Lyceum and has a considerably larger seating
capacity than the Fix. Whether it will be use^
member of the new organization. "Money," Rogers Ti-iangle Pictures producing comoany
for first runs or be a second run downtown
house, Mann hasn't decided or, at least, an^
nounced yet.
in construction
ials. His first venture into show business began
with a goodwill dance he gave in his "We want to rut out good, simple movies
peoDle to see, not feel," asserted Providence Firm Making
barn in 1939. He expected
Video Bid in Kansas City
from 50 to 75 based on the real American scene."
couples. Nearly 2,000 persons danced on his Rogers said he will devote his entire time KANSAS CITY—A second application for
farm that night.
and attention to production. He hones to a local television station has been filed with
•
After this, a regular series of Saturday night land Lan-v Parks or Donald O'Connor for the the Federal Communications commission by
dances was held in the Garansson barn. They next Triani^le production to be based on the New England Television Co., headed and
kept up for three months. Then the insurance Hoagy Carmlchael's book, "Stardust Road." chiefly own=d by Alfred DeMaris, Providencegj
officials canceled the policy on the barn. Overcrowding,
they
pendine video reauests for stations
R. I., bus firm operator. The comoany
said.
and Fall River, Mass.
OPENS PLA-MOR CLUB
Lakeside, Neighborhood Only other television application in th
House in Duluth, Closes ^ area was made December 12 by the Sta
In all, four channels are available for greati
he said, "gets something like this going. will devote itself to "good, simnle films,"
Nothing else will do it." This was seven Rogers told the nress here during his visit in
months after the theptre opened.
connection with the local onening of the comoanv's
first A nicture. "S'eep. Mv Love."
Garansson has srent most of his career as
a rancher and dealer mate-
"Too many films are iust something for the
and Rogers.
Kansas City. The Providence appUcatlon
for channel No. 5 and the Star's for No.
Remaining channels are Nos. 2 and 9.
Exchanges Add Charge
MINNEAPOLIS—Numerous exhibitors are
irked because the film exchanges here are
adding a charge for delivering films to and
picking them up at the post office when
thev're mailed and returned parcel post. In
order to effect a saving these exhibitors recently
shifted from exnress to parcel post for
shipments of prints. Branch managers assert
the charge is made necessary because of the
additional expense Involved.
64
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

I
theatre
!U'i?BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948
1
. . Mr.
Des Moines Variety
Ups Nathan Sandler
DES MOINES—Nathan Sandler was named
chief barker of Variety Tent 15 at a luncheon
held at the Standard club here last Monday.
Sandler, former assistant barker, replaces
Gordon Halloran, 20th-Fox manager who has
been transferred to St. Louis.
Mayo Beatty, Monogram manager, is now
assistant barker, and L. E. Weggener, Central
States general manager, was appointed to fill
Beatty's former office of second assistant
barker.
The Variety Club plans give Halloran a
farewell dinner and stage party at the
Standard club, Monday (26).
Dave Dallas Profiled
MANHATTAN, KAS.—Dave Dallas, city
manager for TEI, was the subject of an illustrated
article in "Small Stock," a joiu'nal
devoted to the rabbit raising industry. Dallas,
whose hobby is raising pedigreed bunnies and
who is owner of the Kaw Valley Rabbitry, recently
put his pastime to exploitation uses
when the short subject "GI Hobbies" played
at one of his houses. The magazine article
recounts how he used a display of his prize
stock to illustrate the manner in which rabbit
raising might become a popular and profitable
hobby for ex-servicemen.
Remodel King in Albia
ALBIA, IOWA—The King Theatre here
canceled its matinee programs last week in
order to carry out remodeling work in the
auditorium. The theatre is managed
by Bill
Schleiger.
DES MOINES
tjach employe of the 20th-Fox exchange here,
w^hich won first place in the national sales
drive will receive a three-week salary bonus.
Evan Jacobs, veteran booker and office
manager at 20th-Fox, has resigned to enter
business in his former home town, Rockaway
Beach, N. Y. Jim McCann, former MGM
salesman here and recently in Milwaukee, has
been named to succeed Jacobs ... A farewell
party was given for Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs at
the Pastime club last week and the office employes
presented them with a Philco radio
and phonograph combination as a parting
gift.
Jack Harris, Warner salesman, has been
transferred to St. Louis . and Mrs. John
Schultz, exhibitors at State Center, and Barney
Brotman of Mollne were among the
visitors on the Row last week . . Filmrowers
.
were grieved to hear of the death of Doc
Tweed's father recently. Tweed is owner of
the theatres at Britt and Manley.
Fellow Universal employes are a bit jealous
at that new DeSoto which Barbara Bumgarner
and her husband are driving!
Thelma Washburn, RKO booker, is back at
the office . . . Nouvello Phillips, secretary for
Max Rosenblatt at RKO, has been removed
from Methodist hospital to her home where
she is recuperating from her recent operation
. . . And have you seen Sol Yeager's new
$10 tie?
Harold Sutphin, MGM booker, was absent
from his desk for the first time in 19 years
last week—all on account of the flu . . . Mr.
and Mrs. John Pilmaier and Mr. and Mrs.
Melvyn Butcher drove to Winterset recently
to see if former MGM booker Kenny Weldon's
food at Ken's grill is all that Kenny says it
is. Reports are that the meal was tops.
Phyllis Whistler, MGM bookkeeper is wearing
a TKE fraternity pin, hung by Dick
Reynolds, Drake university student . . . Herman
Coffman, Eagle Lion booker and office
manager, was another flu victim . . . Theresa
Henzo, Republic, resigned her job to care for
her mother who is ill . . . George Smith, division
manager, and R. C. Libeau, district manager,
were at Paramount for meetings.
Russ Fraser, Tri-States advertising man,
was suffering with a back injury . . . Horky
Smith, proprietor of the popular Horky's
cafe, has progressed from crutches to a cane
after his fall several weeks ago.
The Zearing, Iowa, theatre opened recently
with "Buck Privates Come Home." For the
present the management plans two changes
.
a week—Friday and Sunday Manager
. .
Marion Hesselink of the New Rialto in Adel
has announced that instead of continuous
shows on Sunday there will be two programs
on that day—a matinee and an evening performance.
Newsreels, shorts and previews
will be shown both before and after the feature.
COMPLETELY NEW
HORKY'S CAFE
Bigger and Better Than Ever
— Featuring "Delish" Steaks
I2lte High SI. Des Moines, Iowa
'Wnere Filmrow Friends Gather'
Open Daily at 4 p. m.
Don't Wait Till Your Projection Equipment Brealcs Down
. . . Send 9t ia 0u^ Made^*t, Well C

. . Don
. . . February
OMAHA
Tiralter Branson, drive captain from New
''' York, will be here February 5 for a midway
pep talk on the current RKO sales drive.
He will be accompanied by his assistant,
Harry Giitleson, and Ray Nolan, district
manager from St. Louis.
Mr. and Mrs. Carl White, Quality Theatre
Supply Co., have traveled more than 4,000
miles since and during the holidays. The
last trip was because of illness of relatives
at Newcastle, Wyo. . . . Marie Franksen, head
inspector at RKO, is home from the hospital
after two months.
D. J. Lockman, exhibitor at Stuart, Neb.,
and his family attended the National livestock
show at Denver . McLucas, UA
branch manager, now qualifies fully as an
expert on land cruisers . . . Leonard Bronson,
exhibitor at Elk Point, S. D., is on vacation
5 is anniversary day for Alice
Neal at Warner Bros., her 15;h year there.
One story has it that this explains the new-
Warner building going up—too bad the structure
couldn't be finished earlier or Alice's
anniversary delayed a little.
Gordon Anderson, RCA equipment expert,
died in Los Angeles. He was well known in
this terriory, having been a service man for
Tri-States and Central States circuits. Death
was due to a ruptured appendix . . . H. B.
Johnson, Universal manager, spent a few days
in Des Moines.
Jack Epstein, owner of the Spotlight which
burned, now has purchased the 'Viking bar
latrease your "take" in
'48 with
NEW DtVRY "High Fidelity"
fs
Sound Systems

. . Don
. . Bernie
. . Glen
. . . The
I Betty
KANSAS CITY
rohn L. V\Tiiting has reseated his Lido Theatre
in Downs with chairs from Stebbins
Theatre Equipment Co. It is a 400-seat house
. . . Mr£. Pearl Harborg of the Allied office
in Philadelphia was here last, week helping
Dorothy Murphy set up the new Allied office
here at 1719 Wyandotte . Evens,
MGM publicist, was in Cincinnati for a meeting.
M. G. Shackelford and Beverly Miller of the
local Eagle Lion exchange returned from a
regional meeting in Chicago last week. Miller
reports that Roscoe Ates, appearing in
many Eagle Lion westerns, was in an automobile
accident recently in which his car turned
over four times. Ates came out with a few
cuts and bruises . . . James McCann, northern
Missouri and northern Kansas salesman for
National Screen Service, has resigned to go
to Des Moines as office manager there for
20th-Fox. He had been with NSS here for
four months.
Eddie Mansfield's Regentaires are still leading
the Fox Midwest bowling league ... In
last week for a district Warner Bros, meeting
at the local exchange were Roy H. Haines,
western sales manager: Hall Walsh prairie
district manager; Lester Bona, St. Louis manager:
FYank Hannon, Omaha manager, and
Paul Weston. Des Moines manager ... Ed
Weaver, Commonwealth manager of the
Plaza at Linsborg, was in last Friday to take
care of some booth repairs. He announced to
anyone interested in the home office that his
three-month-old son has his first tooth.
Ted Irwin, Commonwealth manager at the
Royal in Hoisington, reports that his coworker,
Howard Morgenstern of the Barton
there, was chosen "best dressed boy" by the
local high school. Dorothy Deines. cashier at
the Royal, was "best dressed girl" . . . Doyle
Branscimi of the Lyric in Harrison, Ark., had
a Color week recently in which every picture
at the house was in color.
Jack Schlaiffer, sales director for Monogram,
was in the local exchange over the
weekend conferring with Harry Gaffney, local
manager . "Hi Pi" Davis of RCA returned
last week from Denver and was off
again, this time for St. Louis . Dickinson
jr. returned last week from two weeks
in Florida, during which time he watched his
alma mater play in the Orange Bowl game
Durwood circuit is making collections
in all its towns, with the exception of Kansas
City, for the March of Dimes.
dolences . . .
Mrs. A. F. McClannahan, mother-in-law
Bill Bradfield of the Roxy in Carthage,
of
died in Topeka Monday. Both Mr. and Mrs.
I Bradfield are well known on Filmrow.
Many Rowites expressed their con-
Jay Means of the Oak Park
is a partner in a coffee-vending machine
venture. A local machinist and his partner
have patented a coffee dispenser which, for
a five-cent coin, pours coffee, black or
brown, with or without sugar lin single or
double doses
I
into a paper cup. The brew
is fresh and hot and is made by the drip
method.
Visiting Filmrow were Ken Winklemeyer
of the Casino. Boonville: Dale Danielson,
Dream, Russell: H. V. Eheret. Star, Clay
Center: Roy Wilson, Ace, Grenola: Everett
Buchanan, Stars, Longton: J. R. Crocker,
Rialto, Linden: Fred Eberwein, Iris, Clifton:
Fred Stainbrook, Royal, Norborne: Mr. and
Mrs. Bob Egender. Waverly: Frank
Weary, Richmond: Joe Ghosen, Clinton and
Sedalia: Robert Rogers, Buckner: F. F.
Chenoweth, Bethany, and Andrew Wilkins,
operator at the Farris, Richmond.
Bill Briscoe, assistant manager at the Orpheimr,
has resigned and probably will retire
from the theatre business. His duties
will be absorbed by Lawrence Lehman, manager,
and Jack Tiernan. publicist . . . Ray
Green, office manager at National Theatre
Supply, is suffering from arthritis in his
Fox Midwest city managers
left foot . . .
in town were Ray McLain of Joplin and Tom
Steele of Pittsburg. Lawrence Breuninger.
city manager in Topeka. is on vacation in
Arizona.
Build at Three Rivers
THREE RIVERS. TEX.—Hall Industries of
Beeville has a new theatre under construction
here, which will be known as the Rialto.
BUY DeVRY
You Can't Go Wrong!
The new 12000 Series theatre and
drive-in projection equipment
coupled with
Strong IKW or Mogul Arc Lamps and Rectifiers
Color-Coaled Lenses
Vocalite Sound Screen
IDEAL SUde-Back Chairs
(It's all new and simple — not a lot
of old models redesigned)
For the Best Always See
STEBBINS THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO.
1804 Wyandotte St.
Clyde Badger, Manager
'In Your Service Since 1899'
GRand 0134
Catch Vandal at Work
DAVENPORT. IOWA — A 15-year-old
Davenport boy was taken into custody here
last week after he had ben caught in the
act of cutting a seat in the Esquire Theatre
with a pocketknife. He was turned over to
Scott county juvenile probation authorities.
Church Women Like New Code
DES MOINES—The Des Moines Council of
Church Women, at a meeting here last week,
voted approval of the motion picture code
amendment prohibiting pictures based on the
life of a criminal or using titles of criminal
implication.
TALKING TRAILERS, LOBBY PAPER
AND MATS
Write. Wire or Phone
PENNINGTON POSTER SERVICE
130 West 18th Phone: GRand 862S
Kansas City 8, Mo.
Satisfaction — Always
Missouri Theatre Supply Co.
L. J. KIMBRIEL. Manage
Phone GRand 2864
CitT e. Mo. =
THEATRE INSURANCE Spetio/isf
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
TRAILERS
16nim — Motion Pictures — 3Smm
Sound Recording — Talkies
HAL PARKER STUDIOS
1719 Wyandotte — Suite 208
Telephone GR. 53G5 Kansas City. Mo.
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
Your Deal Handled Personally
27 years experience
We Cover the U. S. Market
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 Kinmore Dallas 10. Texas
Phone T3-2026
POP
CORN BOXES
10c Size
ATTRACTIVE DESIGN
IMMEDIATE SHIPMENT
Paper Supply Co.
505 Delaware Street
KANSAS CITY 6. MO.
BOXOFHCE :
: January 24, 1948 67

. . Condolences
, . M.
Hays Aide Explains
Best Seller Changes
KANSAS CITY—•When a film made from
a best seller is very much like the book, it is
a miracle rather than a coincidence," said
Mrs. Whitney Tustin in a talk made January
13 to the Woman's City club forum
group. Mi's. Tustin, who is the wife of a
musician with the PhUharmonic orchestra
here, spoke from her experience of 15 years
in the Will Hays office as secretary to Pat
Casey. She was the second employe hired by
that office and lived for several years with
Hazel Plate, Joseph Breen's secretary.
Mrs. Tustin explained some of the reasons
for changes having to be made in the average
best seller in order to film it, particularly the
changes made to conform to the Production
code which the industry has set up for itself.
"We have the Roman Catholic church to
thank for the aggressive attitude taken to
induce this self-censorship," she said. "Prom
1923 to 1929 we analyzed letters from the public.
After this analysis the producers formulated
a list of 'don'ts' and 'be carefuls.'
Mrs. Tustin urged her listeners to make
themselves articulate as motion picture patrons.
"I often hear criticism of drinking scenes in
films, but I believe that they only portray
American life today," she commented. "I attend
many parties where liquor is served and
find those who take liquor act much like
those who only take tea."
Diu-ing the question period, Mrs. Tustin
said, in answer to a question about the Hollywood
divorce rate, that she did not believe it
was larger than for the rest of the country.
She defended high salaries for stars on
the groimds that often they covered a comparatively
short period and that a star's expenses
were high enough to justify them. During
the war she was a club director for the
Red Cross, stationed in London, so answered
a question concerning the influence American
films had in other countries from that experience.
She felt they gave a picture of luxury
in the average American life which might
be responsible for the casual requests from
European countries for insistent financial
assistance. "They think we are all rich over
here," she added.
Another Exhibitor Asks
Twin City Building Okay
MINNEAPOLIS—Roy Secrest, who is
losing
his lease on the Princess, a neighborhood
house, has asked the city council for a construction
permit to enable him to convert an
abandoned school near his present theatre into
a 1,200-seat showhouse.
North Central Allied annoimced its intention
to make a last-ditch fight against the
move, just as it is now fighting the application
of H. D. Griffith and will oppose all
others.
Even though there has been no theatre construction
during the last 12 years inside the
city, NAC contends that Minneapolis is still
overseated.
1327 S. Wabash, Chicago 5
MINNEAPOLIS
'M'orthwest Variety Club will resiune bingo
parties January 31 and continue every
Saturday night with valuable cash prizes.
Joe Loeffler and Ted Bolnick are in charge of
arrangements . to "Hy" Chapman,
Columbia manager, whose mother died
in Milwaukee.
The University of Minnesota Film society
is offering on the campus the first showings
here of the Russian picture "Russian Ballerina,"
January 28; the French "Star Without
Light," February 9; the Italian "Synchromy
No. 9" and "I Live As I Please."
February 11, and the French "Zero de Conduite"
and British "School for Danger,"
February 18.
Clem Jaunich, Delano, Minn., exhibitor, is
in a hospital here for a checkup . . . The Spike
Jones orchestra drew a 7,000 capacity crowd
last Sunday afternoon at the Auditorium . . .
Tallulah Bankhead will appear here in person
at the Lyceum February 2-4 .. . Republic's
"Fabulous Texan" will go into the Gopher
January 29.
Gertrude Guimont, Warner head booker,
who was in the hospital with a fractured
ankle, will be back on the job shortly ... J.
Stratton, new owner of the theatre at Barnesville,
Minn., was a Filmrow visitor . . . Bennie
Berger, North Central AUied president, will
vacation in Miami Beach for six weeks.
"With the admission scale boosted to $1.50
last Sunday night, the Orpheum was completely
sold out well in advance despite the
subzero weather. The magnet was the Horace
Heidt show broadcasting over a national
radio hookup.
Temperatures ranging to 40 below played
hob with business in the territory last week.
The mercury sank to 18 below here . . . Don
Swartz, Independent Poster owner here and
in Milwaukee, will attend a convention of
owners in Chicago next weekend . A,
Levy, 20th-Fox district manager, favors a
flexible clearance plan calling for competitive
negotiations for runs in Minneapolis, he says.
Employes apprehended a youth who threw a
bottle through the new screen at the Auditorium,
Stillwater, and had him arrested. He
received a straight 30-day jail sentence.
William Flieder, owner and operator of the
theatre in Canby, Minn., has purchased the
Bank of Candy Bldg. in his home town. The
transaction was one of the biggest real estate
deals ever made in Canby.
Lost Articles Department
Bulks Larger and Larger
CARROLL, IOWA—W. C. Aits, manager of
the Carroll Theatre, is calling for help these
days. His lost and found department is bre^Hing
out at the seams.
Since last fall, the theatre has collected
about 40 billfolds and the same number of
prayer books. Arts says. "We sent out 24
cards to the persons whose names we found
on the billfolds, and only got two replies," he
added.
Among the items now eating up space in
the theatre is a pair of women's glasses,
strong ones, too, Art says. "You'll think a
person would become alarmed at losing a pair
of glasses."
But, persons who lose sizable amounts of
money are quick to report the loss. Arts says.
Lost items now held at the theatre will be
turned over to charitable organizations if
not called for within two months.
Heidt Show Hypoes
Twin City Orpheum
MINNEAPOLIS—The Horace Heidt stage
show put the Orpheum far out in front last
week. Temperatures running as low as 20
below zero hurt the boxoffice plenty, but
good business also was chalked up by "Sleep,
My Love," the only other major newcomer.
Holdovers again were much in evidence. It
was the fourth week for the high-stepping
"My Wild Irish Rose," the third for "Road
to Rio" and "Tycoon," and the second for
"Killer McCoy."
(Average is 100)
Aster—Big Town Ailer Dark (Para); Dragnet (SG) SO
Century—Hoad to Rio (Para), 3rd wk 125
Gopher—Louisiana (Mono) _ _ _ 80
Lyceum Jesse James (20th-Fox); Return oi
Jesse James (20th-Fox), reissues _ 70
Lyric—My Wild Irish Rose (20th-Fox), 4th wk 90
Radio City—Sleep. My Love (UA) _ li;5
RKO-Orpheum—Crime Doctor's Gamble (Col),
stage show 175
RKO-Pan—Arizona (Col); Texas (Col), reissues 100
State- Killer McCoy (MGM), 2nd wk 115
Viforld-Tycoon (RKO). 3rd wk 90
'Irish Rose' Kansas City Topper;
'High Wall' Business Is Good
KANSAS CITY—"My Wild Irish Rose" was
far and away the best drawing card on first
run biUs this week. According to Manager
Babe Cohn, it is the best Warner picture to
play the house in 18 months and looked like
a three-to-four-week engagement.
The Midland scored second place with
"High Wall" and "Mary Lou." Audrey Totter,
star of "Wall." made three personal appearances
at the house the first day.
Other first run business was average.
Neighborhoods continued to do good weekend
business but poorly during the week. Weather
was cold with a little snow Simday.
Esquire Louisiana (Mono); The Roo::evell Story
(UA)
_....10O
Midland—High Wall (MGM); Mary Lou (Col),
8 days 115
Orpheum—Out oi the Past (RKO) 8b
Paramount—My Wild Irish Rose C.VB 160
Roxy—Road to Hollywood (As:::i Second Chorus
(Astor), reissue . _. 100
Tower, Uptown, Fairway—The Senator Was
Indiscreet (U-1) _ „ —.100
'Irish Rose' and Tycoon'
Pace Setters in Omaha
OMAHA—Returns generally fell off here
after the bmnper opening week of the year.
Best comparative business was done by two
bills in their second week: "My Wild Irish
Rose" and "The Crimson Key" at the Omaha,
and Tycoon" and "Two Blondes and a Redhead"
at the RKO Brandeis.
Weather was mild during most of the week
with a colder closing.
Omaha—My Wild Irish Rose (WB); The Crimson
d- _ Key (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 110
t,
Orpheum—Kiss ol Death (20th-Fox) . 90
Paramount—Desire Me (MGM) 90
RKO Brandeis—Tycoon (RKO) Two Blondes and
a Redhead (Col), 2nd wk 105
State-It Had to Be You (Col) 2nd w'< 95
Town-Red Stallion (EL), 2nd run King ol the
Bandits (Mono); spht with For the Love of Rusty
(Col), Znd run; Our Hearts Were Growing Up
Two Des Moines Houses
Exceed Average for Week
DES MOINES—Two downtown houses
reported
be ter-than-average business. Competing
with theatres was a week-long run of
the "Passion Play" at the KRNT Radio Theatre.
"Cass Timberlane," showing at the Des
Moines Theatre, drew good crowds, as did the
double bill at the Orpheum—"The Swords- \
man" and "The Lone Wolf in London." Falling
far below par was the Paramount program
of "Song of Love" and "Campus Honeyj
moon."
Des Moines—Cass Timberlane (MGM) 110 ^
Orpheum—The Swordsman (Col); The Lone Woll
in London (Col) 110
Paramount—Song of Love (MGM); Campus
Honeymoon (Rep) - 90
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

! NORWICH.
: January
Theatre Deals
New Owners Acquire
Theatres in 4 States
WELLMAN, IOWA — Boyd Roberts of
Lincoln, Ark., has bought the Grand Theatre
here. Mrs. Vic Rampelberg will continue as
manager of the house. Roberts announced.
Roberts owned and operated a theatre at
Lincoln, Ark., until selling out a short while
ago.
In discussing plans for the operation of the
theatre, Roberts said, "Later on we plan to
operate every evening of the week. This will
enable us to change pictures three times a
week."
The theatre has been owned the past several
years by Slater O'Hare, who purchased it
m Marvis Poss.
KNOXVILLE. IOWA—Mr. and Mrs. A. M,
the Grand and Marion the-
Black have sold
atres to Earl Kerr, formerly of Des Moines.
who owns a number of houses in this part of
the country. Mr. and Mrs. Black will continue
to operate both houses for the time being.
They formerly were operated by Mrs. Black's
mother, Mrs. C. S. Hoffman, who came here
about 14 years ago. The Hoffman family has
been in the theatre business for the last 36
years.
HARDTNER, KAS.—The De Luxe Theatre
here has been purchased by the State Line
post of the American Legion. Legionnaires
will operate the house four nights a week on
a volunteer basis. The building and equipment
were purchased from Mrs. Nellie Achenbach
and Loren Mitchell, manager of the theatre
for the last year. Operation of the house
will be supervised by a committee headed by
Floyd Clark.
MILTON, IOWA—Richard Brown has sold
the Roxy Theatre here to William Kemp of
Madison, Wis. Kemp took possession January
14. Brown now will devote his entire
time to his furniture and undertaking business
in Milton.
LINDEN, KAS.—G. C. Crocker is the new
owner of the Rialto Theatre here. The sale
becomes effective February 1. H. C. Johnson
was the former owner. Croker recently sold
the Burden Theatre in Burden to H. L.
Evans.
PILGER, NEB.—Emll Heller, local banker.
has sold the 250-seat Pilger to E. W. Lundgren.
who is associated with a brokerage firm
in Omaha. The theatre will be operated temporarily
from Omaha.
LONE TREE, IOWA—The Lone Tree Theatre
was sold last week by G. H. Kirchner of
Clear Lake, who has owned it for several
years, to T. O. Maraven of Atalissa.
BATTLE LAKE, MINN.—Earl Askeroth has
bought the Rex here. He will operate the
house himself.
AT 'TENDER YEARS' PREMIERE—
Attending the world premiere of "The
Tender Years" at the Plaza Theatre in
Kansas City recently were Joe E. Brown,
star of the show, and Eddie Alperson, its
producer. Admission for the performance
was 75 cents and all proceeds were turned
over to Brown's charity fund in honor of
his son who was killed during: the war.
Shown above is Mayor William E. Kemp,
who presented a check for the night's
receipts to Brown. Alperson looks on at
left.
Hollywood Critic Favors
Film Pressure Groups
OMAHA—William H. Mooring, Hollywood
film critic and writer, advocated creation of
local pressiu-e groups as a means of combatting
morally and politically offensive motion
pictures in a speech here. He talked before
the Te Deum forum at Technical high
school.
Theatre owners should be given "firm notice
of public intention to boycott unacceptable
pictures and to withdraw all patronage from
such theatres when such films are deliberately
and habitually shown," he asserted.
Mooring suggested a system similar to that
used in England. There each film is graded
by a board of censors. For example: U—universal,
for adults and children; A—adults, and
H—horrific, no child may see them under
any circumstances.
Tentative Dates Set
MINNEAPOLIS — March 22, 23 are the
tentative dates of the North Central Allied
annual convention at the Hotel Nicollet here.
They were chosen by a special committee on
arrangements and S. D. Kane, executive
counsel, but are -subject to approval by Pi-esident
Bennie Berger, who is vacationing at
Miami Beach.
About 30 members of the southeastern Minnesota
unit of Allied convened at the Hotel
Nicollet here this week to discuss the proper
method of using Caravan service.
Role in 'John Loves Mary'
Ernest Cossart has been handed a character
role In "John Loves Mary," Warners'
picturization of Norman Krasna's Broadway
play being produced by Jerry Wald.
All Iowa Shows Interest
In Sioux Center Vote
DES MOINES—Seldom has an issue concerning
the theatre caused as much statewide
interest as the recent vote in Sioux Center,
in which the residents voted. 488 to 427,
against the licensing of a motion picture theatre
there.
Here are some comments on the outcome
gleaned from the editorial pages of three
Iowa newspapers:
The Press. Charles City—"It is difficult to
understand the Sioux Center vote. We
wouldn't argue that all movies are worthwhile,
but they are not all available as the
'moral spiritual detriment' charged by opponents
in the Sioux Center election."
The — Daily lowan, Iowa City "In this day
of canned entertainment, it is refreshing to
learn there are Americans who can resist
the blandishments and super-huckstering of
Hollywood. We congratulate them for their
spirit of true independence. However, what
are the Sioux Center parents going to do with
their children on Saturday afternoons? Perhaps
they have a new method of entertaining
their children—a method which the rest of
America seems to have outgrown since the
advent of moving pictures. Could it be possible
that the good citizens of Sioux Center
believe that American children can be entertained
at home and have as good a time
as at a movie theatre?"
The — Sun, Sheldon "It seems incredible to
us that a northwest Iowa town of 1,700 could
become so dramatically split over an issue.
More votes were cast on this issue than were
A very large vote was recorded."
ZaSu Pitts Argues in Vain
She's Not a Pittsburger
KANSAS CITY—ZaSu Pitts had to try to
convince a backstage visitor after Saturday
afternoon's matinee here in the Municipal
Auditorium of "The Late Chi-istopher Bean,"
that she had not been a fellow schoolmate at
Pittsburg, Kas. The visitor had arrived with
her three grown daughters to remind Miss
Pitts of this purported early event in their
lives.
"I'm so sorry, but you see I never did go
to school in Pittsburg," Miss Pitts said tactfully
to the eager Pittsburg alumna. "I was
born in Parsons but my mother took me to
California when I was a year old. And I had
my 48th birthday January 3. if that will help
you any to fix the time when you thought I
was the little Pitts girl you knew.
"It's funny the things like this which come
up," the actress went on to explain. "Once
story came out that some woman believed
a
she knew me in Joplin—that I had been a
telephone operator there. I never did live
in Joplin, but of course Pitts is a common
name in this part of the country. I had two
sisters and several aunts."
The visitor left with a still-unconvinced
look in her eyes, and Miss Pitts moved her
hands eloquently in resigned fashion.
PDEIITMPTCDM
STAGE EQUIPMENT COMPANY
BARNESVILLE. MINN.—W. B. Stratton is
the new owner of the Bijou here. He bought
the house from W. L. Lakie.
Opens House in Norwich
KAS.—Lloyd M. Jenkins jr.
has opened a theatre here. The former house
in this town was destroyed by fire some time
ago.
BOXOFFICE :
24, 1948

. . The
. . K.
New Snack Bar at Manhattan State
From the boxoffice nies
(Twenty Years Ago)
Theatre patrons in Manhattan. Kas.. Hocking to the new refreshment bar in the
State Theatre. The bar is done in golden leatherette, with a gold glass and metal
trim, and extends the full length of the theatre's lobby. The counter surface is dark
maroon. The bar provides space for coke and root beer dispensers and nut and popcorn
machines. Below e.ve level is a four compartmented stainless steel sink. Beside the
popcorn machine is a steel cabinet to house bags, sacks, salt, seasoning, and a night's
supply of unpopped corn. On the wall behind the bar is a closed rack for glasses. The
bar was designed and built by Frank Bayles of the Kansas City office of TEI. In the
picture are, left to right: In front of counter, Melvin Thompson, projectionist. State
Theatre; Jim Albright, Carlton Theatre, and William MarshaU, house manager. Wareham
Theatre. Serving them are Dorothy Eichman; J. R. Keller, assistant to the city
manager; Gladys Albright, and Ted Fitzgerald, SEtate Theatre house manager.
Theatre Helps New Film
ANITA, IOWA—The Anita Theatre here
goes along with the theory that new business
in town means new business at the
boxoffice. When a new implement firm
opened its doors here, the Anita helped the
celebration along by showing a motion picture
free.
yi^T E. TRUOG, Kansas City, for several
.
years assistant sales director and district
manager for Universal, resigned H.
Milligan has bought a partnership in the
Miiwest Advertising Co., makers of theatre
banners, window cards and advertising accessories.
Milligan will be associated with
Royal Salnon. who formerly managed the
business exclusively.
C. S. Hilgers, former Paramount manager
m Memphis, has been appointed manager of
the Kansas City Fox exchange. He succeeds
H. Bradley Fish, who resigned . Main-
.street in Kansas City, the junior Orpheum
house, will dispense with its stage show during
a week in mid-February, during the showing
of "The Patent Leather Kid," First National
picture starring Richard Barthelmess.
Admission prices will be advanced.
A. Allan Karf of Kansas City has been sent
by the Midland circuit to Sedalia to take
charge of the Liberty and Strand theatres,
recently acquired from the Universal chain
. . . Filizola, owner of the Empress in Fort
Scott. Kas., visited Kansas City's Filmrow.
Filizola's theatre was damaged by fire just
before Christmas and he plans to reopen the
house in the near futm-e. Other Row visitors:
Ensley Barbour, Springfield; Hugh Gardner,
Neosho: T. D. Block of Odessa: Ed Wilhoit.
Springfield: C. M. Pates, Lawrence.
Ore City Theatre Burned
ORE CITY. TEX.—Shipp's Theatre was
destroyed by a fire which also burned several
stores here and caused damage estimated at
$45,000. The theatre was owned by Gerald
Shipp.
If It's Good Promotion .
. .
some one will
report it in BOXOFFICE
.
Fresh from the scenes of the activities each -week come constant
reports of merchandising of films. Most of these are ideas you
can use for your own promotion. All of them ore interesting and
most of them are profitable in other similar circumstances. Make
full use of these practical ideas by practical showmen, many of
whom you may know.
Motion pictures lend themselves ideally to good advertising. The public interest is
high.
Capitalize on the interest that already exists and increase your attendance
-with proved ideas.
70 BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

Stagehands in Detroit
Celebrate 40th Year
DETROIT—Celebration of the 40th anniversary
of lATSE Local 38 January 14 drew
perhaps the most representative gathering
of every branch of the show world in Detroit
seen lii many years, despite the late hour.
The party started at midnight.
Jerry J. Brie, business agent, was toastmaster,
and the moving .spirit of the party,
which was distinguished by exceptionally
fine management. John Reid, secretary of
le Michigan Federation of Labor, brought
Bfficial greetings and Frank X. Martel, presiflent
of the Detroit and Wayne County Fedration
of Labor, talked on the history of
(leatrical crafts in Detroit.
Richard F. Walsh, president of the lATSE.
ggested in his talk that decorators might
taken into the union. He pointed out
briefly the occasions of conflict which have
sen between stagehands and decorators,
and indicated that this problem might be
jIved by taking the decorators, at present
not included in an organized labor jui-isliction,
into his own group.
An honorary life membership in the local
ras presented to Watson Barratt, designer
the decorations in the Arabian room of
he Hotel Tuller, where the party was held.
Others on the dais included Walter Craig,
president of the local; Frank Stickling, St.
lATSE representative; Roger M. Kenedy,
lATSE vice-president; Leo J. Fitz-
Patrick. president, and Barrie O'Daniels,
^managing director, of the Detroit Civic Light
f Opera: Charles Edgecomb, Detroit city councilman,
and Thomas Shea, assistant president
of the lATSE.
Committees for the event: Tickets and reservations,
Walter Craig, Lester B. Hamilton
and Lew McAllister jr.: an-angements, A. K.
Dear, A. Finley, T. Greiner, E. C. Adler, F.
Eano and R. Douglas; program, Jerry Brie,
Roland Douglas, William Allen sr. and George
Glenwallis; reception, Jerry Brie, Walter
Craig, L. B. Hamilton. A. Finley, E. C. Adler,
C. Apgar, C. Deal, and L. McAllister jr.; decorations,
Charles Deal, James O'Dea, L. B.
Hamilton, Jerry Brie, Earl Day, Tom Davis,
Edgar McMillen and Watson Barratt.
Huge Ohio State Center
May Hurt Film Trade
COLUMBUS — Central Ohio theatremen,
who have been facing a rising tide of opposition
since the end of the war, have in
prospect bucking the multiple attractions of
a new huge student union entertainment
center at Ohio State university within two
years.
A report of a student-faculty-alumni advisory
committee on the long-discussed project
included the following suggestions: A
little theatre to seat 500: dancing facilities for
4,000 couples; a rathskeller in which 3.2 beer
would be served, first time that alcoholic
beverages would be served on the campus; a
cafeteria seating 1,000, with banquet space
for 2,000: private dining rooms and a combined
coffee shop and soda bar; scores of
special meeting and games rooms; basement
garage for 400 cars.
The multimillion-dollar student union
would be located on North High street at
Twelfth avenue, opposite J. Real Neth's
State Theatre and near the Academy circuit's
University Theatre. Construction is expected
to start early in 1949.
Propose 3 Per Cent Tax
WOODVILLE, OHIO—The village council
is planning to levy a 3 per cent admission tax,
with no exemption for any events.
Construction of Drive-Ins
Continues in Mideast
WASHINGTON, PA.—Basle-Laskey Theatres
Corp. will open a 1,100-car drive-in
theatre on Route 19 and Manifold road,
three miles from here. Twenty acres of land
was purchased for the site and Bulazo &
Co, were given the contract. The drive-in
here. It also will be managed by the Basle-
Laskey Theatres Corp. This project, practically
completed, has been named the Starlite.
MARBLEHEAD, OHIO—Work is under way
on the Marblehead Drive-In Theatre on
Marblehead peninsula, it was announced by
Lock Marshall, head of the project. The
property is located on Route 163 near the
new state park. According to Marshall, who
operates the Marshall Inn, the drive-in will
be one of the most beautiful and well
equipped drive-in theatres in this section
of the country. It will be situated close to
the lakeside, among the apple and cherry
blossoms.
HICKORY, PA.—The new Hickory Theatre
Auto Drive-In is completed and ready
for opening. Only electrical work is to be
finished. Mose Smith, Pittsburgh contractor,
is responsible for this project, which is located
on Route 62 near Route 18 in Mercer
county. Peter L. Patti, Youngstown, is owner-manager
of the Hickory. Motiograph
equipment with in-a-car speakers will be installed
at this 1,000-car capacity outdoor
theatre.
GREENFIELD, IND.—Indiana Theatre
Corp. of Louisville has filed a petition with
will be ready to open early in next season. the Hancock county planning board for permission
to construct a $78,000 drive-in theatre
RCA equipment with in-a-car speakers will
be installed by Alexander Theatre Supply. on U.S. 40, east of Cumberland, Ind. Louis
The Laskey Theatre Corp. is opening a Arru, Louisville, is president of the corporation.
The corporation operates outdoor drive-in at Uniontown exactly like the one
the-
Bedfast Veterans Shown
Pictures by Local 171
PITTSBURGH—In addition to free projection
service in the auditorium of the Veterans
hospital, Aspinwall, lATSE Local 171,
in cooperation with Variety post 589, American
Legion, has inaugurated a Monday and
Friday evening 16mm entertainment for bedfa.st
patients in the wards.
Local 171 officers, Paul L. Ferry, president:
Luther W. Thompson, vice-president; Paul
P. Mach, secretary-treasurer, and William H.
Thompson, business representative, asked
members to volunteer their services and the
response was immediate and double requirement.
Variety post is represented by Perry
Nathan, commander, and JeiTy Roth. The
Ladies Theatrical club will stage a style show
next month in Schenley hotel for its veterans
fund.
'Citizen Saint' in Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH—"Citizen Saint" has been
dated for exhibition in the Carnegie Music
Hall here April 26, 27. The picture, produced
at the RKO Pathe studio in New York, tells
the story of Mother Prances Cabrini, only
American citizen canonized by the Catholic
Church. Production of the picture was made
possible by local exhibitors under the direction
of Andrew Battiston. who will distribute it
in this area. "The Vatican Singers," special
short subject also produced at RKO Pathe,
also will be shown.
atres in Lafayette and Vincennes, Ind., and
Louisville, Ky.
CELINA, OHIO—Construction and grading
work have started for a drive-in planned between
Celina and St. Marys by the Chakeres-
Dwyer Theatre Co. Thirteen acres have been
purchased across from the Country club for
the theatre, which will accommodate 750 cars,
and will open in early spring. Estimated cost
is $100,000.
LANSING, MICH.—Construction has started
on a drive-in theatre in Delhi township
in the 3300 block of Cedar road, U.S. 127.
The theatre is being built by a Jackson county
group at a cost of about $75,000. The building
permit was issued to Lawrence Aubry, representative
of the building firm.
McKEESPORT, PA.—Versailles Amusement
Co. will open a new drive-in theatre here at
Rainbow Gardens early in the new season.
L. R. Ti-avis heads the outdoor theatre company.
RCA equipment will include 350 in-acar
speakers.
Wm. Fairgraves Dies;
First Erie Exhibitor
ERIE, PA.—The original nickelodeon
operator in Erie was removed from the scene
January 12 when death took Wilham Fairgraves,
80, father of Fi-ank A. Fairgraves,
owner-manager of the Regent.
Known as "Whitey," Fairgraves was a
newspaper printer before he opened the
Grand, first motion picture theatre here,
more than 40 years ago on the east side of
State street between 11th and 12th. Later
he operated three nickelodeons on this block.
Mrs. Anna Smiley Fairgraves, who survives,
was cashier at the Grand and her husband
was projectionist, manager, and occasionally
ticket taker. Fairgraves retired about
15 years ago. Before then he had started a
number of theatres in the downtown area,
including the Grand, Princess, Nixon, Regent,
State, the old State which was located south
of the present building, and another theatre
in the old Herald Bldg.
Surviving, in addition to his wife and son,
are a brother, two sisters and two grandchildren.
New Sylvania Equipment
SYLVANIA, OHIO—Ei-nie Walters of North
Baltimore, who operates the Sylvan here, has
puchased new booth and sound equipment for
the local house, to be installed by February
1. This includes Century projectors, sound
system, Altec-Lansing speakers, Kollmorgen
lenses, and Strong lamps, all purchased from
Theatre Equipment Co., Toledo.
-BOXOFFICE :
: January 24, 1948 ME
71

. . Louis
. .
. .
. .
. . Frank
. .
. .
. . . John
. . . Walter
. . . John
. . Walter
. .
Resume of 1947 Theatre Highlights at Columbus
circuit, 1 . . .
.
APRIL
Al Sugarman and Lee Hofheimer announced
that the Olentangy would be remodeled
and opened soon as the World, first
foreign language and British film house in
central Ohio. The two men also announced
they would take over the Champion, Miles
June Leo F. Dwyer, Lake,
Celina, died J. Velas has opened
the former Cambridge, and renamed
Ohio,"
it the Liberty.
Freddie Bartholomew and his wife, ap-
.
ity fund . . . Charles W. Harper, in Columbus
COLUMBUS—Following is a resume of pearing at the Palace, were hospitalized with
flu . . . Bing Crosby appeared at exhibition
1947 happenings in the Columbus area:
ball game between Columbus Red Birds and
JANTJARY
Paul Murphy named
Pittsbmgh Pirates . . .
Mayor James A. Rhodes announced that manager of the Northern Yassenoff
the city-made Technicolor film, "This Is
and Harold Schwartz plan three ad-
Columbus," had been shown to more than ditional auto theatres to augment their Riverside
and Eastside drive-ins.
125,000 persons during 1946 . . . Joe Sloan, who had been acting as relief manager in
Loew's central division, returned to New
York for reassignment . . . Michael J. Cullen,
MAY
Harry Keller, U-I field representative, here
Loew's western division manager, in town for the five-theatre opening in the Academy
. . . . circuit of "Stairway to Heaven" Leo Yassenoff
to visit his mother, Mrs. Fannie Cullen
held an invitational preview of the
Neth's Eastern received new silhouette mar-
quee letters.
new Esquire of the Academy circuit . . . Robert
Little named Esquire manager . . . World
Cecil Sansbury, former publicity representative
for the Jackson-Murphy Theatres, opened with Charles Radow as manager .
Floyd Gooding appointed chairman of the
married Anne Baxter Harter . . . Liberty,
Zanesville, was acquired by Shea Theatres Variety Club committee in charge of the char-
Arthur Weaver received CPA approval
theatres for 45 years, died. For the past
to rebuild the Grand, Paulding, which
Corp. . . .
was destroyed by fire last Labor day ten years he was treasurer of the Hartman
.
. . . Charles Richards, assistant manager.
Prances, Mechanicsburg, was sold to the
Chakeres
University, married Geneva Hinkle .
circuit.
Bobby Jones, past chief barker of Tent 2,
FEBRUARY
returned from Central America where he
Fi-ed Oestreioher, Loew's publicity ni^nager,
on sick list . . . Hilltop Community
council condemned practice of dualing
"blood-curdling murder mysteries" with cartoon
features and other films of special appeal
to children . . . Martin C. Burnett named
Loew's central division manager . . . Lawrence
Tierney made several personal appearances
here in connection with opening
of his new picture, "San Quentin."
MARCH
Roger Garrett named manager and organist
of the new University of the Academy
circuit . . . Stage show policy at the Palace
was resumed with the King Cole Trio . . .
Fire caused $100 000 damage to the State.
Uhrichsville . . . Kingdom, Grove City, closed
for renovation . . . Leo Haenlein presented
the Mark Hellinger "Swell Guy" award .
Conrad Nagel was guest of honor at party
given by the Variety Club . . . World premiere
of Eagle Lion's "Repeat Performance"
set for May 22 in Zanesville, home town of
Richard Basehart, co-star in the picture.
was a featured night club attraction . . .
Cleve, Academy circuit, was redecorated.
JUNE
RKO Grand has installed a new $40,000 air
conditioning plant . . .
Variety Club . . .
James C. Piatt, le.ider
in Mount Vernon theatre circles for 25 years,
died . . . Mr. and Mrs. Milton Yassenoff became
parents of a daughter, their first child
. . . Otis Gordinier, new steward of the
Twentieth-Fox sent cast and
crew of the Technicolor racing spectacle,
"The Green Grass of Wyoming" to Lancaster
for racing scenes at Fairfield county
fairgrounds . . . Carl Rogers and Harry
Simons became fathers on Father's day . . .
Excavation begun for National Auto Theatre
on West Broad street . . . Kenneth Hill purchased
134-seat Kingdom, Grove City, Ohio,
and extended its operation to seven nights a
week . . . Harry Schreiber returned as RKO
city manager after several years spent in the
RKO division office, Chicago, and as Cleveland
RKO city manager.
JULY
Lloyd Goad, former local theatre manager,
is now exhibitor relations representative for
Screen Guild in southern California and
Arizona . . . Col. William McCraw outlined
plans for Heart fund premieres of "Variety
Girl" . . . George E. Rappold, Ideal, reported
to police that a thief hid in the theatre and
stole a radio, money and candy to the value
of $48 . . . Walter Kessler, manager, Ohio,
married to Rosemarie Stanton, Akron.
AUGUST
Wedding of Larry Caplane, manager of
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COMPAM
AL BOUDOUKIS
Manager
RKO Grand, and Marilyn Judith Rose of
Toronto, Canada, set for September 6 . . .
Contour cm-tain, believed to be the only one
west of Philadelphia, installed by J. Real
Neth in Markham ... P. J. Wood ill at
Grand Hospital.
SEPTEMBER
State, Clinton and Eastern of Neth circuit
undergoing extensive remodeliijg . . .
William Green named assistant manager of
Loew's Broad . . . Harold Goodin, Broad
student assistant, transferred to the Ohio
Murphy, son of John Murphy of
Jackson-Murphy Theatres, killed in auto accident
. . . Lou Holleb, Majestic, recovering
from an operation . . . Miles circuit planning
to open new drive-in on West Broad
street near new National Auto Theatre.
OCTOBER
John Hardgrove, supervisor of Academy
Theatres, directing benefit Firemen's minstrels
. . . John Barcroft confined to hospital
. . . New city 3 per cent admissions tax
goes into effect . . . Al Taylor, 92, believed
to be oldest theatre man in the country, died.
He was owner of the neighborhood Dixie . . .
Ray Ketchum named manager of the Skyline
Auto Theatre, Wooster, Ohio . . . Neth's
Clinton reopened after complete remodeling
. . . William A. Finney, Loew's western division
manager from 1928 to 1938 with headquarters
here, died in Daytona Beach .
J. Milt Jacobs, MGM salesman for past 18
years, resigned . Kessler of the
Ohio staged first football rally of season on
eve of Capital-Muskingum game.
NOVEMBER
Charles F. Clarke, chief engineer of Hartman,
died . . . State Street, local Rialto,
suddenly became quiet with removal of car
tracks and substitution of rubber-tired trolley
coaches . . . Milton Yassenoff has acquired
a new home in suburban Mayfair . . .
Dick Leathers, assistant manager. Palace,
named to similar post at Palace, Cleveland
Kessler awarded Lana Turner
trophy to Ohio State homecoming queen between
halves of Ohio State-Illinois game.
DECEMBER
Weekend downtown admissions raised to
70 cents . . . Virgil C. Jackson awarded
Legion of Merit for services as military attache
in Near East during war . . . Leo T.
Jones, Upper Sandusky, made member of
Picture Pioneers . . . Charles Sugarman, son
of Al Sugarman, named manager of World
Pekras, 70, former manager of old
Dreamland, died in Tucson, Ariz. He was
father of Ted Pekras and brother of George
Pekras of Ritz and Rivoli . . . Leo Haenlein
elected chief barker of Variety Tent 2 . . .
Twin daughters born to Jack Thomas, manager.
Beechwold, and Mrs. Thomas.
Wallace James Resigns
To Join Hygienic Group
JACKSON, MICH.—Wallace James, manager
of the Capitol Theatre here since November
1944, has resigned to join Hygiene
Productions of Wilmington, Ohio, distributors
of "Mom and Dad." Before coming to Jackson,
James was with the Butterfield circuit
in Lansing for three years. He will continue
to maintain his residence here where he is
a member of the Kiwanis club and active in
civic
affairs.
In 'Three Musketeers'
Vincent Price will portray Richelieu and
Gig Young is set for the part of Porthos in
Metro's "The Three Musketeers."
72
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948
I

•
The
: January
'Irish Rose' Holdover
Still Top in Cincinnati
Henderson Firm Elects
HENDERSON, KY.—Directors of the Citizens
Theatre Co., which owns the Kraver
Theatre, were re-elected at a recent meeting
here. They are J. A. Ballard, president;
X. R. Royster, vice-president; W. E. Mc-
CINCINNATI—With two exceptions, grosses Clure, secretary-treasurer; Louis Hayes, Leo
in tlie downtown liouses were satisfactory, in King, Ed Sapinsley, M. S. McCord, Dr. William
V. Neel and Leon Pickle. Ed Sapinsley
spite of adverse weather conditions. "My
Wild Irish Rose," although in its second week represents Malco Theatres of Memphis, which
at the Albee, headed the list with 140, and operates the house.
another holdover. "Road to Rio," was second
with 130. Both remained for additional runs.
(Average is 100)
Take Over McRoberls Hall
Albee-My Wild ih Rose (WB), 2nd wk 140
McROBERTS, KY.—James Hall and James
Capilol— H Wint< :oines (MGM), 8 days 120
Upti d Glass (U-1) bO Cassinelli have taken over the McRoberts
Ceith's—The Lo:l
(U-I) 110 Theatre and recreation hall They redecorated
before putting the theatre into opera-
Lyric—Road to Rio (Pi 41h d.
130
"alcrce—Intrigue (UA)
'
lubert—Daisy Kenyon (20th-Fo 2nd tion.
Altec Service Retains
Nightingale Pin Lead
DETROIT—Altec Sound Service remains in
first place, with National Theatre Supply
and McArthur Theatre Equiiiment tied for
second, in the Nightingale club bowling league.
STANDINGS
Won Lost
Altec Sound Service 30 18
National Theatre Supply 2S 22
McArthur Theatre Equipment 2S 22
Projectionistj Local 199 24 24
Ernie Forbes Theatre Supply 23 25
Lorenzen's Flower Shop 20 28
Brenkert Projectors 20 28
High scores: Joseph Michel, 236; Floyd
Akins, 212; John Lindenthal, 224, and Matt
Haskins, 200.
loldovers Pile Up at Cleveland;
f^Carmen Leads With 180
CLEVELAND—The w'eather was good but
too many holdovers hurt downtown business.
Of the eight houses now playing a first run
alicy, only one has a first run picture on
xhibition. This was "Killer McCoy," and
jely because of i;s isolated position in the
Seld of releases, it piled up a good take. Of
holdovers, honors went to "Carmen," dophenomenal
business in its second week
the Lower Mall. With a 260 per cent raiin
its first week, it hit a high 180 in its
cond week, "My Wild Irish Rose" just made
hurdle in its second week at the Hipporome,
with a score of 110, and "Good News"
its second week just cleared the wire.
Details for week ended January 14:
LUen—Tycoon (RKO), 3rd wk.. 80
[ippodrome—My Wild Irish Rose (WB), 2nd wk 110
jOke—More Than a Secretary (Col); She Couldn't
Toko It (Col),
Ma:i—Ca , (Sup
3hio—Good News (MGM), 2nd wk
Palace—Captam From Castile (20th-Fox
itage show, 3rd wk -
JIale—Killer McCoy fMGM)
Btillman—Road to Rio (Para), 3rd wk...
/alk Alone' Top Newcomer
Vs Detroit Business Drops
DETROIT—The general level of business
P*Tiras down again this w'eek, after a mild New
Year's spurt. In several cases grosses were
startlingly lower.
Adams—Green Dolphin Street (MGM 4th
Broadway Capitol— I Walk Alone (Para)
The Fabulous Joe (UA)
135
Cinema—Barber ol Seville (Excel
Downtown—Pirates of Monterey
Frieda (U-I'
/B) Curley
UA), 2nd
jlms-Stal^-Road to Rio (P Big Town
Alter Dark (Para), 4th wk
United Artists—Good News (MGM), The Son
oi Husty (Col), 2nd wk
ews' Is Good in Pittsburgh;
'Agreement' Starts Off Big
PITTSBURGH—"Gentleman's Agreement
got off to a good start in the J. P. Harris, also
opening at the same time for two days only
in the Senator. "Good News" was ano her
winner and "My Wild Irish Rose" was attractive
in a holdover week.
Fulton—Daisy Kenyon (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 80
Harris-Gentleman's Agreement (20th-Fox) 150
Penn— Good News (MGM) 110
Ritz-KiUer McCoy (MGM), 2nd d. t. wk fiO
Senator—Son ol Frankenstein (SR); Bride oi
Frankenstein (SR), reissues ICO
.f'anley—My WUd Irish Rose (WB), 2nd wk 100
Warner—Tycoon (RKO), 2nd wk 80
'airmont Local Elects
FAIRMONT, W. VA. — New officers of
iTSE Local 2391 have been elected as fol-
W. Claude Davis, president; John
Dudiak, vice-president; John W. Harless, secretary;
Bruce Vandergrift, treasurer; Huett
Nestor, business agent; George Hunter,
Charley Gibbs and Anthony Betonte, trustees;
Frank Urse, sergeant-at-arms.
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'
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Frequency range from 40 to 10,000 cycles. Built to give
year after year efficient, trouble-free operation.
80 Watt Amplifiers also available
-^ PRE -AMPLIFIERS
With each DeVRY 40 or 80
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upon request, two
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combination of the above
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replace any type or make
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Enjoy "Nature Reel" Sound with a DeVRY Exciter lamp Rectifier
With increased speaker system efficiency, it is vital that
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Unit supplies hum-free direct current to any type Exciter
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NOW AT YOUrt THEATRE SUPPLY DEALER
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA
Lovett & Company
323 W. Pike Street, P. 0. Box 1127
Telephone: 6360, After Hours: 5S66
LOUISVILLE 2,
KENTUCKY
Hadden Equipment Company
423 W. Liberty Street
Telephone: JA S41S
INDIANA -
PENNSYLVANIA
Sheldon Theatre Supply
1420 Canfield Avenue
Dayton 6, Ohio
Taylor 7511 or AD 9644
.For the Perfect Show ^om^^.^ I\z\IdV
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BOXOFFICE :
24, 1948

WHEELER
, . . H.
. . Nelson
. . Willard
. . Chakeres
^/l&S^i
f\'
RUGGED
RECKLESS
DAVE
fTtMj
OBRIEN
BUZZY
/V
X;
^&^^
AAV,
AT THESE ASTOR EXCHANGES
DETROIT - ALLIED - JACK ZIDE
CINCINNATI . - ED
WHEELER FILMS
CLEVELAND - IMPERIAL BERNIE
-
RUBIN
CINCINNATI
n rthur Schruble of Dunbar, W. Va., is opening
a new house in Sissonsville, W. Va.,
in June . Floyd of the Madison
Theatre. New Madison, has disposed of his
house to Wilson E. Dubbs, who assumes operation
February 1 . . . Pete Niland, city
sales representative for Columbia, received
the condolences of friends on the death of his
brother Stephen January 12 . . . Fred May
jr. and his sister, Mrs. Frances Wessel of the
Royal Theatre, CaiTollton, Ky., were on the
Row last week.
John Eifert, president of the local Cinema
club, called a special meeting January 17,
with Ross Williams presiding in Eifert's place
M. McHaffie of Marmet, W. Va., and
Lester Rosenfeld, Charleston, left for a twoweek
stay in Florida.
When Gene Autry appeared at the Municipal
auditorium in Charleston recently, among
the eager spectators were Charlie Palmer,
Ray Phelan, Lester Rosenfeld and Gene Custer,
who later had an interview with Autry
backstage. Bob Harrel of Cleves, Ohio, and
daughter, attended the Auti-y performance at
the Music Hall, Cincinnati.
Fred Helwig of Charleston. W. Va., and
Fred Clemens of Beckley, W. Va., have scheduled
the opening of their new drive-in at
Belpre for early in April. The drive-in will
have a capacity of 700 cars and will be equipped
with Motiograph equipment from Charleston
Theatre Supply.
The rumored deal of Chakeres Theatres
Theatres buying the theatres in Morehead,
Ky., from Warren Shafer, has been denied.
Shafer will continue the operation of the
Trail and Mills theatres in the town, and the
booking and buying for his Roxy and Westmor
theatres, Hunlington, will be handled by
P. Allred. who is located in Huntington.
A local real estate firm has purchased the
Orpheum Theatre Bldg. for an undisclosed
buyer, who operates entertainment enterprises
in some of the large cities throughout the
east. New plans Include a night club on the
fifth floor and ice shows and ice skating on
the sixth floor. The ice show will be televised
down to the night club. There will be
no change made in the operation of the
Orpheum.
Fred Rowlands, independent circuit exhibitor
in Columbus, made a trip to New York
refectly, combining business with social af-
Mr. and Mrs. Christian Pfister,
Troy, will spend February and March in
Wickenberg, Ariz. Pfister operates the Mayflower
and Jewel theatres in Troy and is a
member of Theatre Owners Corp.
.
Dolores Ritter, PBX operator at United
Artists, underwent an emei'gency appendectomy
last week. Her condition is reported
good Ward is now booking and
buying for the Glenn Theatre in Georgetown,
Ky., and the Trimble and Tabb in Mount
Sterling,
^^w
Ky. . Theatres will
lypi »,->h- mm
[lJ.IIJIiJlllilJ.IIJ.IILI
CobU Addratti Atloreic N. Y. C

, fire
1 here
: January
. . Vernon
. . Max
. . Mrs.
I
snow for three days, but the oniy necessary
improvement was a new paint job, which it
has now received.
.
Harold Moore and Sam J. Scheidler, who
erate a circuit in West Vu-ginia. spent a
last week. This was their first
iit in one and one-half years, and they
erienced driving difficulties due to the
aow and ice on the roads Gold-
Falmouth, Ky., has discarded his
-created car, which had an airplane body,
is now sporting a new Buick.
Fires and burglaries hit the local film instry
last weekend w'ith a bang! A fire at
Royal, grindspot on Vine street last Satay
morning resulted in considerable loss
closing of the house for necessary re-
The house is operated by F. W. Huss, jr.
scare was given employes of U-I, when
of the automatic inspecting machines bele
overheated, which has happened on a
iber of previous occasions.
iBnrglars broke into four of the offices in
film building: 20th-Fox, Republic, Film
ssics and National Film Service. The big-
Bt loss was suffered by Fox, with over $300
cash being taken. It consisted of dues
union members, party funds of the
club and some petty cash . Ed
leeler, wife of the head of Astor Pictures,
in the Jewish hospital for observation for
ikidney ailment.
icense Fees for Theatres
icreased in Springfield
i SPRINGFIELD—License fees for theatres
id public halls used for theatrical shows and
ibitions have been boosted by a city common
ordinance. It is the first change in
eatre and public halls licensing here since
'Under the former law an annual fee of $50
was charged. The new ordinance provides
that theatres with a seating capacity not exceeding
350 must pay a license fee of $75 annually;
those not exceeding 750, a fee of $100,
and those in excess of 750, a fee of $150.
Commissioners explained that higher license
fees were necessary because of the city's
deficit financing, increased requii-ements for
fire protection, police surveillance, building
operating regulations and other safety measures.
'Gratiot Bows Next Month
In Breckenridge, Mich.
BRECKENRIDGE. MICH.—The Gratiot
Manager's Assailant Fined
HAMILTON, OHIO—Clifford Downey, 33,
who allegedly kicked George Thurklos, manager
of the Rossville, when he asked Downey
to leave because of improper conduct, was
sent to jail
,,L totaling $102.
to serve out fines and court costs
First Theatre Outside N.Y. With Sound
Finally Replaces Original Equipment
Johnny Costello, shipper at RKO, is the
father of his sixth offspring and third son,
Michael Joseph, born January 13 at the Good
Samaritan hospital ... A visitor not seen at
the exchanges often was P. R. DeLong. of LOUISVILLE—After a long and faithful
the State Theatre at Ironton . C. service, the Western Electric sound system
Breese, manager of the New LaMax in Wilmington,
was also in town to arrange book-
ago has been removed from the booth and
installed in the Strand Theatre here 21 years
ings.
replaced by newer equipment.
Reported to be the first theatre sound system
purchased for use outside of New York
City, the original outfit was installed in the
Strand Jan. 15, 1927. With only slight changes
and modifications to the original equipment,
it has been in constant use until the present
day. Even now its removal is in no way
caused by any failure of the equipment, but
rather to utilize a new equipment incorporating
all the latest modifications obtain
to
the absolute best from the present day recordings.
It was during a lull in the silent days of
1926 that Fred J. DoUe and Dennis Long
of the Fom-th Avenue Amusement Co., owners
of the Strand, planned for improvements in
the theatre.
SOUND ON DISKS
About that time film with disk recordings
came into existence and they investigated
the possibilities of an immediate installation
in Louisville. The necessary equipment was
purchased after very little deliberation, but
due to numerous alterations which had to
be made in the Strand to accommodate the
new equipment, it was not imtil Jan. 15, 1927,
that the soimd equipment was actually installed,
and the talking pictures exhibited
to the general public.
The original installation consisted of a combination
of 8B, 9A, lOA and 1009 Western
Electric amplifiers of the old type formerly
used in broadcasting stations, which is said
to be the first type of theatre sound outfits
sold. The equipment was engineered by the
Bell Telephone Co., and in the initial stage
was furnished by Bell Telephone and Warners
under the trade name of Vitaphone. This
initial system utilized film, synchronized
with disk recordings. This system was in
use the better part of a year, when Pox
Movietone came out with sound on film.
Soundheads were immediately installed as
part of the equipment, so that both the new
sound on film, as well as the sound on disk
could be used. In running the sound on
disk programs, it was necessary to have two
prints of the subject, together with two recordings.
In the event there was a break
in the film it could not be spliced properly
to synchronize with the record, therefore a
new priJit had to be used. With the sound
on film, the print could be broken and
spliced, and synchronization could still be
maintained.
THE FIRST SOUND REELS
After a lapse of from three to four years
more equipment was added to the initial
setup, which took care of the wide range
recording.
Theatre, quonset-type structure being built
here by a group of businessmen for operation
by Jack McCluskey of Merrill, expected to
The first sound program run at the Strand
consisted of four short reels, commonly
is
known as acts. These were the New York
go into operation next month. McCluskey
operates the Central Theatre in Men-ill. The
theatre has been built at a cost of about
Philharmonic orchestra tmder the direction
Henry of Hadley, Mischa Elman, the Four
S70.000. It air conditioned, has a Aristocrats, and Martinelli. Every week four
is $5,000
marquee, lobby and modern rest rooms and acts in sound were presented in conjunction
with a regular silent featm-e. This procedure
a cry room. It will seat about 500 persons.
was followed until the regular full length
featm-es came into existence. The first fuU
length feature program run at the Strand
was "Lights of New York" featuring Helen
Costello.
Since the installation of the original equipment,
the Strand has carried the motto,
"Nationally known for sound."
The new equipment installed in the Strand,
which was purchased through the Falls City
John Flaherty, chief operator of the
Strand Theatre, LouisviUe, business
agent of the local lATSE and sound engineer
of the Fourth Avenue Amusement
C«., is shown inspecting new projectors
and sound equipment recently installed
in the Strand.
Theatre Equipment Co. in Louisville, is a
special custom built system designed for the
particular needs of the theatre. The grouping
and designing of the equipment was
worked out by John Flaherty, chief operator
of the Strand, and F. T. Van Nieman, engineer
of the Motiograph Co. of Chicago,
with the assistance of Frank Riffle, field
manager of the Altec Service Corp.
To Make Commercial Films
DETROIT—Neptune Pioductions, a new
commercial company to turn out sales and
personnel training, and promotional films,
has been formed in Detroit. The company
has studio space in a suburb but will shortly
open a downtown office, according to Robert
Rhein, one of the partners in the venture.
Rhein was formerly office manager of Wilding
studio here. The other partners are
Stephen Batory, formerly of Jam Handy and
Wilding; and Russell Lawson, former writer
and assistant director with various independent
Hollywood studios.
Mid-West Poster Exchange
OUR SERVICE ADVERTISES
Complete Poster Service
Economical and Excellent
124S South Wabash Ave. CHICAGO 5
Phone: WEBslei 4466
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'fMlliRI
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9s|bOX( IbOXOFFICE :
24, 1948

. . Sam
O'Keefe)
. . The
. .
.
. .
. . The
. . Ken
. . Sam
PITTSBURGH
•Pom Fordham, Warner circuit district manager,
underwent surgery at St. Vincent's
hospital, Erie . . . McKeesport will vote in
April on a $500,000 bond issue to be used
for the construction of a memorial building,
which will include an auditorium and arena
. . . Joe Harr, projectionist at the Lee in
Fairmont, has a new Pontiac.
Joe E. Brown in the comedy, "Harvey,"
will open a four-performance engagement
February at Shea's in Erie . . . J. E.
5
Huckleberry, Motiograph field engineer,
The 20th-Fox
stopped in to say hello . . .
gang sent a basket of fruit to C. C. Kellenberg,
who acknowledged the gift with a card
in which he stated that he is progressing
rapidly in Shadyside hospital.
Sid Soltz of the Rhumba was around snapping
pictures. He's wearing a mustache these
days . . . Alexander Theatre Supply furnished
complete new carpets for the Harris
Senator . . . 'Warners' Columbia, Erie, had
no pubhc performance January 14, the theatre
being rented for a Shrine ceremonial.
Jimmy Brownfield, former manager of the
Lee, Fairmont, Vf. Va., has entered the
real estate business there Variety
.
Club's family night parties were resumed
January 16 with the 1948 crew as hosts .
Yeggs smashed the combination off of the
safe in the office of -Warners' State, Wilkinsburg,
and made their exit with $280 . .
C. "W. Dickinson states that the Brownsville
council is trying to pass a 10 per cent admissions
tax.
Sympathy to Jimmie O'Keefe, veteran fUm
industry man, on the death of his brother,
Edward" McKenna
i of Knoxville .
Alan Wieder, RKO exploitation representative
here who has been busy arranging screenings
of "The Fugitive," also is working on the
multiple premiers in this area for "Miracle
of the Bells" . . . J. E. "Watty" Watson, MGM
exploiteer, was here from Cincimiati.
Mrs. Louis Michael of the Liberty is hospitalized
and very ill . . . Leo Wayne, Monogram
salesman, is regaining strength lost
while laid up with ulcers . . . Mark Silver,
UA district manager, has moved his headquarters
from Philadelphia to Washington
Seplowin, Republic district chief,
has returned to his former post as Detroit
Jim Alexander
Sam Fineberg
1705 Blvd. of the Allles|
prrrsBUHGH 19, pa.
Phone ATIanlic 6156
manager . . . Cresson E. Smith, veteran film
man of this city, is leaving his foreign executive
Job with RKO.
Jerry Castelli of the Park, Library, flew
to Chicago the other day to confer with
Clyde Elliott, producer of "Citizen Saint," in
which he and other local exhibitors -have
financial interests . . . George F. Marlier sr.,
father of the Harris circuit artist, celebrated
his 80th birthday anniversary with his family
at a dinner in the Keystone hotel.
Mrs. Martha Shulgold is sailing from New
York January 30 for a nine-day cruise to
Nassau and Havana. Husband Max Shulgold
will look after some of Martha's Crown Film
Co. duties while she's vacationing . . . Film
exchange managers and their wives wiU be
guests of Filmrow employes union, Fll, at the
annual installation dinner January 31.
Andy Battiston has been busy arranging a
dinner in honor of William S. Rahauser, district
attorney of Allegheny county, in the
WiUiam Penn hotel February 23. Some years
ago Andy, the veteran exhibitor and theatre
broker, was an investigator for the state
revenue department and Rahauser was the
directing head .
Notopoulos and Fabian
interests, now controlling the theatre field
in Altoona, are negotiating with the operators
union on wage scales and working conditions
. . . Abe Weiner, Monogram manager,
was in Boston last weekend The
. . .
Alpine circuit, operated from Kingwood, W.
Va., by Charlie Anderson, has enrolled with
Co-Op.
Bill Brooker, Pennsylvania manager of exploitation
for Paramount, was here on business
from Philadelphia . . . With Mike Winograd
in Florida for the winter, the Rochester,
Pa., exhibi.or's interests are being handled by
his manager, Leonard Winograd, a nephew
George Trilling, Fabian booker, was here
from New York. The circuit acquii'ed Jake
and Ike Silverman's Strand and Logan theatres
in Altoona January 1. Fabian's other
two houses in this area are the State. Altoona,
and the Embassy, Johnstown.
Joe Minsky, Eagle Lion district manager,
was here working with James Hendel, branch
manager . . . Bob Dunbar, Warners' Detroit
manager and former local film man who had
been hospitalized for several weeks with a
heart condition, has returned to his home
and is confined to a wheelchair.
.
Lou Hanna is booker-buyer for Stephen
Petnar, who recently opened the remodeled
Strand in St. Michael .
Fineberg of
Alexander Theatre Supply has returned from
Phoenix, where he spent more than a month
with his family Hoel, Harris publicity
director, was departing for the northwest
and a tour of Canada with the "Ice
Cycles."
LOUISVILLE
Experienced Builders of Auto
OUTDOOR THEATRES
• Can Be Ready for Season Ahead •
MOSE SMITH
Union Trust Bldg. Pittsburgh 22, Pa.
Weber Syncrofilm Equipment

. . . Max
. . Jerry
. . Jack
. . Art
. . Boots
. . Charles
. . Mrs.
. . Sympathy
. .
. .
1 POP
. . Dave
. . Carl
. . Buddy
. .
. .
. .
Censor Finds Parents Lax
In Film Fare of Children
PITTSBURGH—Parents should be more
selective in choosing the type of motion picture
they allow their children to attend, Mrs.
Edna Carroll, chairman of the Pennsylvania
Board of Motion Picture censors, said in an
interview here. She said she would like to
promote films for children 'from typical
children's stories," pointing out that pictures
suitable for adults "are not often for the
average child."
Too many people permit their children to
attend a show just to get the youngsters out
from under foot for a time, completely disunting
the possible deterimental effect of
tain films on a temperamental child, she
id.
As for persuading theatre managements to
ffer salutary entertainment to youngsters,
hey soon would if they were to lose money
through parents refusing to send children to
Shows unsuited to them," Mrs. Carroll said.
Among the factors with which the censors
are most concerned, she said, are methods
of crime, sabotage, propaganda, sacrilege,
cruelty to children and animals and sex.
They often insist, in the case of mystery
that crimes be pictured through sug-
stories,
gestion rather than acts.
New Sound for Bellefonte
BELLEFONTE, PA.—Mid-State Theatres'
local State Theatre has installed a new RCA
sound system.
Magazine Subscriptic
The Ideal Gift
For your friends, lamily and yoursell.
Complete periodical service—both trade
and general magazines.
J. NAZAR, 1009 Fox BIdg.
Detroit 1, Mich. RA 1100
EXHIBITORS — PARK FREE AT
McARTHUR!it«'
MOTIOORAPH SERVICE
Phone: CAdillac 5524
DETROIT
f^harles Shafer, son of Walter Shafer, Wayne
exliibitor, has been elected vice-president
of the Wayne Board of Commerce .
Robert Rothman was host to a group of
journalism students in the editorial department
at Jam Handy Thursday . . . Louis
Allegretti, formerly of the Midway, is now
running a restaurant near Cooley high school.
Art Zuelch, former MGM booker here, has
just become a fa'her in Minneapolis, where
he is now stationed . Peri-y of the
Adams and Downtown was a victim of laryngitis
. . . Gus Wandrei of the Adams is bringing
out a new permanent type flameproofing
. Brio is recovering from writer's
cramp as a result of his bout with autograph
fans . Zide was caught in that blizzard
in New York, too.
Bob Dunbar, Warner manager, is at home
convalescing . Scharun of Universal
Theatre Premiums is also at home after
his long and serious illness . . . Jack Stewart,
who is resigning as Allied general manager
here, is under consideration for the same post
by the Kansas-Missouri Allied, the grapevine
says.
Adolph W. Ochs of Cleveland Heights is incorporating
the Kalamazoo Drive-In Theatre
Co. with a capitalization of $50,000. Mrs.
John Heidt, wife of the Service Seating chief,
has returned from a southern vacation.
Paramount notes: Joseph Paruch, assistant
shipper, is being promoted to clerk in the
accounting department . Betty Fussner,
Paramount booking clerk, is expecting
a little sister for her son Gregory. Thelma
Mann of the picture report desk is planning
an informal wedding for June 12 . . . Margaret
Koch and Nora Angelescu are flashing
new engagement rings . . . Doris Fox, ledger
clerk, is rumored to be eyeing the altar.
Theatrical Post notes: Gil Lubin, senior
vice-commander, presided at the last meeting
. . . Bob Goldstaff of the Fox, the junior
vice-commander, takes over next time .
Bud Cusick was back on the job, fully recovered
. Horn came all the way from
Pontiac for the gathering . to
Wayne Roberts upon the loss of his mother
Kolin reports Dave Idzal helped
to cut the costs on the purchase of personal
kits for the veterans hospitals . . . Bill Fouchey
and Owen Blough are collecting Christmas
cards for the boys at St. Francis' home .
Harry Carson is back after being snowbound
down east.
Nightingale songs: Welber Haartge finally
made the 6-10-7 split . . . Eddie Waddell is
sporting a blister on his bowling thumb
which doesn't help his scores . . . Charles
McFarlane came up with a 481 score to hit
top place in his division . . . Roy Thompson
and Robert Andrews missed the bowling
session, but not their .sleep . Larsen
is proudly sporting the new bowling shirt
the missus gave him for Christmas.
Henry Sadlowski, formerly operator at the
Forest, has returned from Arizona, where he
went to convalesce from a chest ailment . . .
Manager Thomas Ward and cashier Emma
Farrington rate a nice citation for the way
they handled patrons during a basement fire
in the house . Idzal, Fox chief, is
now a grandfather. It's a girl, Paula Ann .
A. W. Tyler, who headed the reorientation
contact training school, is moving to Dayton
to handle training contacts for Jam Handy.
Harry Lewiston has taken over sole ownership
of the Monroe Theatre. Ai-chie Gayer,
who was formerly a partner with him, sold
out and went to San Francisco . . . Joseph
Oulihan and Eddie Fontaine of SRO were in
town for a couple of days . Rogers
was visiting in town in connection with his
new production, "Sleep, My Love" . . . Harry
McWilliams of Columbia was in town for special
exploitation . . . Manny Pearson of Cleveland
also came in to work on "Sleep" .
Ward Farrar was here to work with Leon
Brandt on "T-Men" . . . Harry McWilliams
was around beating the drums for CoUunbia
product.
A. C. Brown, Paramount home office auditor,
is in town for a protracted visit . . Mary
Jane Thompson, Paramount
.
picture report
clerk, resigned.
ERNIE
FORBES
214 W. Montcalm
Detroit 1. Mich.
Phone CAdillac 1122
FILM EXCHANGE DRUGS
riie Showmen's Drug Store
ituas Cosmetics .. Prasciiptioi
Personal Service from Two Showmen
MAX BERNBAUM JACK GAIXAGHEB
Pharmacist
Manager
Phoae CLiiiord 1527, CLiifoid 3694
PERYL'S
COSTUMES
UNIFORMS lor Entire Theatre Staff.
Special Costumes lor All Occasions. Acts and
Special Shows.
Peryl LaMarr. Prop. 3737 Woodward
Phone: TEmpie 2-3948 Detroit, 1. Mich.
SUPER
1
COi
TheatrpSign and Marquee Maintenance
/^^^
Our Specialty
^tforstman ^ Co.
fUSff
THEATRE
SEATS
RECOVERED — REPAIRED ANYWHERE.
BEST WORKMANSHIP. POSITIVELY LOWEST PRICE.
PROMPT SERVICE.
JOHN HEIDT, 1507 W. Kirhy, Detroit 8. Mich
Phone: TYIer 7-8015
m4
LONG SIGN CO
MARQUISE SIGNS
MAINTENANCE SERVICE
840 W. Baltimore, Detroit — TR 1-547
Distributors
lOJlUOJlHPJl) ,o, ,ho State of
Michigan
RINGOLD THEATRE EQUIPriENT CO.
106 Michigan St.. N. W., Grand Rapids 2. Mich.

. . Important
. . The
. . Jimmy
. . Robert
. . M.
. . William
. . Dues
CLEVELAND
JJarry Goldstein, Paramount district manager,
and Jim Levine, Paramount publicity
man, are owners of Chrysler sedans
same model, same color, and delivered on the
same day . people were Cleveland
Filmrow visitors last week. Among them
were Fred Meyer, U-I eastern division sales
manager; "Razz" Goldstein, Monogram general
sales manager, and Sam Galanty, Columbia
district manager. All of them were
here on sales propositions.
Eleanor Drapp, National Screen Service
booker, is flashing a diamond on her left
hand announcing her forthcoming marriage
to George Gulas . boys of Filmrow are
planning a benefit for Prank Kasher, head
shipper at Warners until he was stricken
with multiple sclerosis last year. Yarro Miller,
Warner office manager, is accepting contributions.
Kasher is married and has two
children.
Jerry Steel will be around Filmrow more
often "than he has been during the past two
years. He has resumed buying and booking
for his Apollo in Oberlin . . . "Road to Rio"
came close to establishing a house record at
the Stillman a few weeks ago, when it moved
over from the State . . . Joan Katz is Esther
Bender's new office mate in the Paramount
district office. She joined last week as typist
... J. Knox Strachan, Warner Theatres publicity
director, was in Pittsbui-gh on business
for a few days.
The MGM exchange will be a thing of
beauty when the painters and carpenters finish
with it . . . Shirley O'Grody has resigned
as MGM bookers clerk to join her family now
living in Fort Lauderdale. She will enroll as
a student at the University of Miami in
Miami.
Paul Ellis of Warren was the only out-oftown
exhibitor spotted at the Buddy Rogers
cocktail party attended by who's who in both
pictures and radio . . . Oliver Theatre Supply
Co. has on display a new RCA magnetic wire
recorder especially adapted for announcements
by both indoor and drive-in theatre
operators.
Dale Tysinger is now manager of Shea's
Auditorium in Newark. The theatre, located
in the Newark War Memorial Bldg., was
closed more than a year, but recently reopened
after having been entirely rebuilt.
Oliver Theatre Supply of Cleveland and Capitol
Theatre Supply of New York did the
equipping and furnishing Kalafat,
who still listens to the call of the sea
even after two years on land following his
extensive navy service, recently returned from
a 21-day cruise to Miami. He and a friend
made the roimd trip in a 45-foot yaoht.
Reissues of former boxoffice attractions are
doing better than average business in this
area, theatre managers report. As proof. Eagle
Lion's package program, "Man in the Iron
Mask" and "Gentleman After Dark," goes
into Loew's Park and Granada for a dayand-date
engagement, following its recent
successful week's run at Loew's Ohio.
Fred Holzworth, manager of the Hilliard
Square Theatre, has the mumps . . . Frank
Gross, independent circuit owner, was laid
up last week with a bad cold . . . Reel Film
OLIVER THEATRE
SUPPLY CO., INC.
M. H. FRITCHLE
Manager
23id and Payn* Avenua
Pbona: PRospecl 6934
CLEVELAND
Service, operated by John and Harry Urbansky,
are donating free 16nim programs each
week to an orphans home matinee sponsored
by the Toledo Variety Club. Bert Schoonmaker
of Toledo contributed his 16mm sound
projector for the club's use during the winter.
J. J. Houlihan, Republic manager, and
Jules Livingston, salesman, were out in the
territory calling on Ed Prinsen in Youngstown,
Paul Ellis in Warren and other exhibitors
. Stone, owner of the
Idol Theatre. Idol, got away to Florida ahead
of the winter's first cold spell in this part
of the country . B. Hoi-witz, general
manager of the Washington circuit, and Mrs.
Horwitz went to New York to celebrate their
25th wedding anniversary . Widmer.
well-known orchestra leader, is going
into the picture business. He is remodeling
a store room in Pioneer into a 200-seat theatre.
He expects to have it in full swing by
the first of February.
Charles Markus is now manager of the
Haltnorth, succeeding Henry Brenner, resigned
. . . George Stevens, who now lives
in Euclid, is busy fireproofing theatre interiors,
repairing theatre chairs and screens.
Instead of audience collections for the
March of Dimes, it was decided at a meeting
of the directors of the Cleveland Motion
Picture Exhibitors Ass'n la.st week to make
collections in the lobby or foyer. The local
MOD committee will provide properly-identified
attendants, who will have containers
for collections.
Bill Martin Promoted
HARLAN, KY.— Bill Martin has been made
assistant to Manager Fred Barthel at the
Margie Grand Theatre here. Pat Foley, former
assistant, was promoted to managership
of the Viv in Corbin.
SPRINGFIELD
llarry Elliott, manager of the Ohio, has
signed 12 merchants to contribute to a
new Lucky Bazaar staged every Thursday
night. In return for merchandise, they receive
film advertising. Prizes each week
total $225 in value, and include radios, clothing,
toasters, groceries, coupons good for oil
and gasoline, and photographs.
A "battle of the western stars" is planned
for the Majestic by Woody Owens, manager.
During this event. Gene Autry and Roy
Rogers pictures will be shown and patrons
will vote on their choice to determine which
is the most popular. Autographed photographs
of Autry and Rogers will be given to
the first 1,000 persons attending.
. . .
During the week's showing of "Unconquered"
at the State, student tickets were
distributed to all public and parochial students
in the junior and senior high schools.
Students exchanging the tickets at the State
boxoffice were admitted during matinees for
50 cents Police are checking fingerprints
on a .32 caliber revolver found in the wSstebasket
of a rest room at the Liberty Theatre.
A 14-year-old boy was turned over to juvenile
authorities following a fight with another
boy of the same age during a matinee
at the Majestic. James Edwards was treated
for a punctured left hip sustained when
knifed by the other boy.
Grand opening of the Chakeres new halfmillion-dollar
Fairborn at Fairfield, Ohio,
is scheduled for the night of January 27.
The theatre has been mider construction
during the last year and will be the most
modern in the Chakeres circuit. A press
party has been arranged by Frank Collins,
general manager, in connection with the
opening.
COLUMBUS
Jack Needham, 20th-Fox salesman for 27
' years, has retired . . . Jack and Milt Jacobs
were subjects of a laudatory column written
by Johnny Jones, Dispatch columnist and
former theatre manager . . . Hollywood stunt
man Bob Nolan was much in evidence at the
Ohio Fair Managers' convention here. He
showed convention delegates his choice collection
of stunt photographs . . . Walter Compton,
former publicity manager for Loew's, is
back in town after many years on the west
coast. He may settle here again, but confessed
that California is a fine place in which
to live.
Roger Garrett, University manager, is busy
this month promoting the drive for recruits
in the marine reserve. Garrett was a noncommissioned
officer with the Leathernecks
during the war . of the Variety Tent
2 have been upped from $24 a year to $48 in
order to meet operating costs . . . "Fantasia"
by going into a third week at the World, surprised
most local theatrenlen. It has demonstrated
that it is one of the most popular attractions
the foreign-language house has
presented since its opening last May.
Audrey Totter, starred with Robert Taylor
in "High Wall," made three personal appearances
at Loew's Ohio in connection with the
showing of the picture. Bill Corley, WBNS
announcer, interviewed Miss Totter both
the stage and over the air.
Mrs. Frances Ewing is new switchboard
operator for Loew's Ohio and Broad . . .
Case against two candy vendors at the Gayety,
accused of promoting a scheme of
chance, was dismissed by Judge John M.
Mathias in municipal court. The judge said
the charges were "improper." Sam Muddleman
and Mike Green were arrested for selling
candy bars which they said contained
prizes. Both pleaded not guilty.
Fred H. Seeliger, 66, retired co-owner of
the Service Photographic Co. and pioneer
local newsreel man. died of a heart ailment
after a long illness. Seeliger and his partner,
Roy Lawrence, organized the company in
1914. They had one of the most complete
of the early motion picture laboratories in
the state. Theatremen relied on them to:
take newsreel shots of local events before the
widespread use of national newsreels.
Sam Carver Opens Mecca
In Litchfield, Mich., Soon
LITCHFIELD, MICH.—Sam Carver, Detroit
theatre owner, expects to open his Mecca
Theatre here within the next few weeks.
The old Opera House building is being remodeled
completely. It has been given a
slanting floor, a new ceiling over the bal-l
cony, new stage, lighting equipment and
fireproof projection booth.
Fire Damages Rialto
GRAND RAPIDS, MICH.—Fire temporarily
closed the Rialto Theatre here. Damage was
confined pretty much to the basement where
flames did about $3,000 damage. Fire started
In a pile of rubbish, melted a gas meter
connection and burned escaping gas unti!
the gas line was shut off. Only damage in
the upper floors was from smoke. Manager
Thomas Ward was first to notice the smoke
He ordered the film stopped and over thf
loudspeaker system he asked the 75 patrons
to leave. They got out in good order. Firemen
said Ward probably had saved the theatre
from greater damage by closing th<
basement door, only opening that could hav«
created a draft and drawn the flames upstairs.
78
BOXOFnCE :: January 24, 194

Join J
Brockton Burly House
To Switch to Film
BROCKTON, MASS.—The City Theatre,
former stock and burlesque house, will reipen
as a motion picture theatre, according
to present plans of the new owners, the
lain Street Realty Corp. Attorney Harry
lergson sr. of Boston is president and treas-
!r of the company.
The theatre has been closed for the past
w years. II never has been used for picires
and has no projection booth. Bergson
id other Boston interests, including Morris
luzzner. purchased the property late in
:ember from City Realty Corp. of Brock-
Pouzzner is expected to operate tlit
,tre once it is open.
Bergson is assembling plans for the releling
of the building. Architects and
jlneers are already at work, but until the
(lans are completely drafted it is impossible
state when the work can start or how
;t it will proceed. Preliminary sketches
,11 for an extension of the east wall 25 feet
ito what is now a vacant lot. While the
ished theatre will be primarily a motion
licture house, it also will be available for
stage productions.
Charles Endler, who has been manager of
the building, will continue in that capacity.
according to Bergson. The sale took in three
parcels of land, one a large lot including
the buildings and the other two comprising
land only. The assessed valuation is about
$132,000 and the sale price was reported to
be in the vicinity of $140,000.
Nathan Goldstein Sues
WMT Candy Subsidiary
SPRINGFIELD— Suit for $75,000 was filed
in superior court by Nathan E. Goldstein
against the Wesmas Candy Corp., a subsidiary
of Western Massachusetts Theatres.
Inc.
Goldstein, owner of the Arcade Theatre,
formerly was president of the WMT chain,
now owned by his brother Samuel.
Nathan Goldstein alleges that the defendant
corporation owes him $52,200 in pay for
his services as president, general manager
and executive .supervisor from March 10,
1941, to March 18, 1946.
Several hearings have been held on the
case in equity court prior to entry of the
present suit. Among these was an attempt
by Western Mas.sachusetts Theatres, Inc.. to
have Goldstein permanently enjoined from
filing suits against either the theatrical concern
or any of its subsidiary companies.
Max M. Ginsburg, 57, Dies;
40-Year Hartford Veteran
HARTFORD—Max M. Ginsburg, 57, a
.showman for 40 years, died suddenly at his
home here last week.
Ginsburg was associated with Hartford
showplaces since he came to Hartford at the
age of 14. At that time he joined the staff
of the Parsons Theatre. He was advertising
agent for the house when it was torn down
about 12 years ago. Since then he had been
on the staff of the Bushnell Memorial Auditorium,
downtown legit house.
Bill Mortensen, managing director of the
Bushnell, declared, "More than any other
person Max Ginsburg personified .show business
in Hartford."
He was a member of the Bill Posters and
Billers Local 8. Among survivors are his
wife and a son.
Honorary pallbearers were, Charles F. T.
Seaverns, Bill Mortensen and Albert W.
Coote of the Bushnell; Lou Cohen, Loew's
Poll; Jim McCarthy, Warner Strand, and
Walter Lloyd. M&P Allyn.
Nellie Shea, Operator
Of 3 Theatres, Dies
EASTPORT, ME—Mrs. NeUie Shea, well
known theatre and civic leader here, died at
her home following a heart attack. She was
in her late eighties. An exhibitor for 30 years,
Mrs. Shea and her husband Wilbur operated
two theatres here, the Imperial and Shea's.
When her husband died 20 years ago, Mrs.
Shea continued to run the theatres, and
added the Lubec Theatre in nearby Lubec.
In 1941 Sheas burned to the ground but
the dauntless Mrs. Shea immediately designed
and built a new theatre, the Wilbur,
erected in her husband's memory. During
the war she headed the motion picture divi-
.sion in local band drives.
Fall Costs Theatre 750
PITTSFIELD, MASS.—Western Massachusetts
Theatres, Inc.. is to pay $750 damages
to Anna Landue of North Adams because
she fell on a stairway in the Paramount
Theatre there last February. The
agreement of parties has been filed in superior
court here. The woman declared she
fell on the front balcony steps because an
usher either turned off his flashlight or
switched it away so that she could not see.
She also said the premises were in an unsafe
condition.
Hearings Set on Bills
Affecting the Industry
BOSTON—Hearing dates have been set by
committees of the state legislature on bills
proposing a state censorship board and a
curb on racial discrimination in public places.
A hearing on bill 632, which would authorize
a six-man censorship board, appointed
by the governor, to control all motion
pictures shown in the state, will be held at
10 a. m. Wednesday, February 4, in room 423
of the state house. This bill is before the
state administration committee.
On Monday, February 9, a hearing on the
antidiscrimination measure will be held at
11 a. m. in room 249 of the state house. This
bill is before the committee on legal affairs.
Pastore Thanks Exhibitors
For Connecticut MOD Aid
PROVIDENCE—Theatre owners of the
state were invited to a luncheon at the Narragansett
hotel by Gov. John O. Pastore.
who is state chairman of the March of
Dimes. The governor extended his sincere
appreciation to the theatre owners and managers
for their efforts in theatre collections
for the March of Dimes in the past. He presented
a beautiful scroll from the Providence
chapter to Edward Fay, chairman of the
theatre division, for his untiring efforts in
coordinating the campaign in previous years.
This year Meyer Stanzler is chairman of the
campaign and he has asked every theatre
owner in the state to back the governor and
the March of Dimes to the best of his ability.
Rhode Island Allied Meets
PROVIDENCE—Independent Theatre
Owners of Rhode Island, affiliated with Independent
Exhibitors, Inc., of New England,
held its second winter meeting of the year
January 21 at the Narragansett hotel. A
luncheon preceded the business meeting
called by Meyer Stanzler, president.
Start Foreign Series
HARTFORD — The Lockwood & Gordon
circuit will start a series of two-day foreign
film first runs at its subiu-ban Webb Playhouse
Tuesday (27i, at 5 cents top. "Nicholas
Nickleby" will be the opening attraction.
Howard Johnson Chairman
HAMDEN, CONN.—Howard Johnson, manager
of Adolph Johnson's Strand, has been
named chairman of the local March of Dimes
campaign which began January 19. Johnson
is a member of the Pine Rock Civic Ass'n
and other civic movements. A member of the
all-American swimming teams in 1938 and
and a world record holder in the 100-yard
style, he served during the war as a
e
tenant in the navy. Since his discharge
has had active supervision of the neighhood
house.
Davis Is Republic Booker
BOSTON—Melvin Davis, a Boston univerty
graduate and a bombardier during the
:, is now the head booker at Republic,
lacing Stanley Farrington who resigned
book for Affiliated Theatres. Davis is the
of Jack Davis, district manager at Repubwho
died in 1945 while attending a Christ-
! Jiias party in the exchange here.
GIVE AWAY A CAR—Bill Koster, director of the Variety Club of New England,
turns over the title to a new sedan to Vincent DiOanzio of Stoneham, Mass., while
AI Rudenstein (third from left), operator of the Stoneham Theatre, and Joe Cifre,
chief barker, look on. Two cars were given away by the Variety Club in its campaign
for funds for the Cancer Research Foundation of the Children's hospital in Boston.
.Mrs. Norah Sharp, cashier of the Adams Theatre in Quincy, Mass., obtained the
other car.
jarrit'
BOXOFFICE January 24, 1948

. . "The
. .
'A
:id
l''f-'
, . . The
. . Sid
. . Anne
. . Harry
. . Carolyn
. . The
. .
BRIDGEPORT
John DiBennedetto, assistant at Loew s Poli,
is publicity cliairman for the New Haven
Disabled American Veterans . . .
Thomas
Donnelly, retired policeman, is the new doorman
at the Mayfair . . . Don Cossacks chorus
just about broke even at the Klein Memorial
for one night . . . Fred Cuneo is en route
to the west coast as company manager of a
concert troupe . . . "Pick-Up Girl" has been
di-opped from the legitimate bookings at the
Beatrice Sullivan is back in the boxoffice
Loew's Majestic after being ill with a
of
The name of the Cobweb
throat infection
Playhouse
. .
at Noroton Heights, being
used for winter stock, has been renamed the
Noroton Heights Playhouse Spector
of the Rose" did poor business at the
Klein, but the double bill of "Winged Victory"
and "Submarine Patrol Raiders" had
them standing during a two-day booking.
Loew's Poli, Majestic and Globe liave
switched from a Wednesday to a Thursday
opening. Warner and Men-itt, also first runs,
continue on a Wednesday schedule .
Mabel Stark, former local resident, is now
in Hollywood working tigers in films . . . The
Playhouse at Greenwich relighted for a week's
booking of "The Captive Heart."
Modernization is progressing at the Black
Rock Theatre where Jack Schwartz is installing
a new front, marble finish m the
imier lobby and streamlining the stage to
give it a rounded effect . . . Katherine Bard,
wife of Martin Manilus, general manager of
the Country Playhouse in Westport, will be
seen in Rose Franken's new play, "Hallam
Wives" . . . The heavy snowstorms to hit
this area since the first of the year have kept
the state police on the jump checking theatres
for removal of snow from roofs, marquees
and area ways.
Pearl Rosen, assistant at Loew's Globe, is
a surgical patient at Park City hospital.
Mabel Crowley of the Majestic office staff
is substituting and also handling Miss Rosen's
weekend assignment at the Lyric . . . Charles
Tomasetti, projectionist at Loew's Globe,
celebrated a birthday . . . Manager Matt L.
Saunders of Loew's Poli is planning a .swing
band contest on his stage.
Peter Benard, Warner projectionist, is
home from the hospital . Richard "Dick"
. .
'Winter Comes' Only
Boston Newcomer
BOSTON—Only new product to play downtown
Boston was "If Winter Comes" at Loew's
State and Orpheum. It did only average business.
The holdovers were satisfactory, considering
the bad weather. "Shoe-Shine" at
the Kenmore finished its third week and continued
for at least a fourth. The second
Italian film to play here, "Live in Peace," at
the Exeter Street, completed its second and
Lyric.
held for a third, after which it wOl be replaced
by "Black Narcissus," a British picture.
Manager Michael J. Carroll of the American
and his wife Marjorie were recent New "Gentleman's Agreement" opened on Wednesday
(141 to excellent reviews and had a big
York City visitors . . . Congratulations to
Manager Edwin Rika of the Merritt on a first day.
birthday . . . Quartets from all over the "Gentlemen's Agreement" which opened on
country will hold a contest at Loew's Lyric Wednesday ( 14) at the Keith-Memorial, came
May 1. The event is being sponsored by the within $100 of breaking the house record for
Bridgeport chapter for the Encouragement an opening day picture, exclusive of holidays
and Pi-eservation of Barber Shop Quartet
Music of America, Inc.
Brownout Warning
HARTFORD—The governor's fuel oil advisory
committee warned this week that
Connecticut amusement places may undergo
a brownout if present oil shortages become
further aggravated.
and openings with personal appearances, according
to Frank Howard, manager. He also
reported an excellent forenoon and early
afternoon business. The showing starts at
9:05 a. m.
(Average Is 100)
Aslor—The Bishop's Wile (RKO), 3rd wk 160
Boston Captain From Castile (20th-Fox), plus
stage show, 3rd wk - IZO
Exeter Street—To Live in Peace (Times Films)
Znd wk. ...^
Kenmore—Shoe-Shine (Lopert), 3rd wk 130
Memorial—Tycoon (RKO); Dick Tracy Meets
Gruesome (RKO), Znd wk 90
Metropolitan—Road to Rio (Para), Dragnet (SG),
Znd wk 130
Paramount and Fenway—My Wild Irish Rose
(WB); The Chinese Ring (Mono), 2nd wk 120
State and Orpheum—If Winter Comes (MGM),
Murder in Reverse (Four Continents Films) 100
Hartford Grosses Normal;
New Cold Wave No Help
HARTFORD—Business was about
average
last week. A new cold wave was no help to
the theatres. The newcomers included "The
Wistful Widow of Wagon Gap" and "Sleep,
My Love." Charlie Barnet and orchestra and
singer Mel Torme were stage attractions at
the State.
Allyn—Carnegie Hall (UA) 100
E. M. Loew's—The Swordsman (Col): Sweet
Genevieve (Col), 3rd wk \0b
Loew's Poli—Sleep, My Love Heading ior
Heaven (EL) 120
Palace—Killer McCoy .;' Curlty "A).
Znd wk 90
Regal—Exile (U-Ii, Friedo J-! wk 95
State South ol Monterey (Mono), plus stage show. 110
Strand—The Wistlul Widow of Wagon Gap (U-I);
Slippy McGee (Rep)
US
Storms, Dangerous Roads
Cut New Haven Grosses
NEW HAVEN—Most of the downtown
houses had a good weekend, but treacherous
road conditions and stormy weather cut into
midweek business everywhere. "Road to Rio"
at the Paramount stayed on for a third week.
"Killer McCoy" and "Blondie's Anniversary"
moved from the Poli to the College for a
second week.
Bl)ou Love From a Stranger
Heaven (EL)
Colleae—Good News (MGM)
Docto
Gamble (Col), 2nd d, t, wk
Loew Poli— Killer McCoy fMGM' Blondie's
Armiversarv (Col) 1
Paramount—Road to Rio :- j[t;, Hal Box Mystery
(SG), 2nd wk -I
Roger Sherman—Hide the Pink Horse (U-I),
Something in the Wind (U-1)
Three Sales in Maine
AUGUSTA, ME.—Three theatres in
Maine
have changed hands, all of which include
sales of property. The Rialto in Westbrook
has been sold to Elizabeth Church by Alfred
LeHoullier. The Lakeside in Rangeley has
been taken over by Walter Esley from Harry
Welch. The Lisbon in Lisbon has been sold
to Norman Roy by Walter Brockett.
NEW HAVEN
T ucky vacationers from nasty weather in
these parts include the Barney Calechmans
of the Howard and the Harry Fishmans
of the Community, Fairfield, in Miami
Beach, and Sam Rosen of Rosen Film Delivery
who was deep sea fishing at Daytona
Beach after spending the first 11 hours of
his trip marooned in his car in the big storm
. . . Joel Hart, former student at 20th-Fox,
sends greetings from Chile.
Fireproofing of the Poli in Bridgeport is
completed and the Poli job here is nearing
completion . . . The governor's fuel oil advisory
boards say amusement advertising
signs may suffer brownout soon if fuel oil
shortage continues . . . Leonard Samson
and Robert Spodick of the Lincoln went to
New York on a buying tour.
Ray E. Moon, eastern sales manager for
20th-Fox, and assistant, Joseph V. St. Clair,
were in from New York for a few days .
Tom Donaldson, district manager of Eagle
Lion, was in from Boston . . . Bob Kaufmann.
Fox exploiteer, arranged a screening
of "You Were Meant for Me" for disk jockeys
of the state's radio stations.
Flora Cohn Marinoff is still booking for
the Pequot, but has given up the Stratford
. . . M. D. O'Brien and Chris Hermanson of
the Poli projection department were looking
things over in Hartford . . . Ken Prickett,
MGM exploitation man, was in to visit Jose
Iturbi after his New Haven concert. Also
present were Harry F. Shaw and Morris
Rosenthal of the Poli chain.
Pete Januska, assistant booker at RKO.
has resigned to join the staff of A. C. Gilbert
Co. here . Swirsky. former RKO
salesman, is now in the household credit business
. . . Phyllis Shelling of 20th-Fox will
be married to Marshall Lesser February 15
at the Hotel Taft . DeAngelo, formerly
with Warner Theatres, is now shipper
at the Warner exchange.
The Bushnell management screened "Song
of My Heart" for presentation soon . . . Morris
Weber again is working part time at
National Theatre Supply . Marra
of Republic is a steadfast bowler and plans
to start early on organizing a Meadow street
girls bowling team for entry in the league
operators union met January 15 at
Ti-ades Council hall with A. N. Frazier in
the chair. The meeting of Allied Theatres
of Connecticut is awaiting a break in the
weather.
.
Joe Mansfield, Eagle Lion exploiteer, was
in Bridgeport and Hartford . . Dave Kramer,
Columbia salesman,
.
unable to make Hot
Springs at the last minute because of blocked
roads, switched plans to an Atlantic City
vacation Kennedy. Columbia inspector,
resigned to be a wife and mother,
while Henrietta Innocenzi, formerly with
the company, has returned to its
staff.
The week of February 20-26 will be Bill
Canelli's Anniversary week in connection with
the Ned Depinet drive at RKO. It will celebrate
Bill's 20th anniversary with the company
. . . Morris Rosenthal, Poli manager,
has another trophy for his office, the Dollar
club cup.
Lou Brown, Loew Poli publicity chief, promoted
several dozen Coro lucky shoe pins in
connection with "The Secret Life of Walter
Mitty." Rosenthal used them as prizes for
dream song title-guessing contests on WNHC.
Runnersup received books entitled "How to
Dream the Mitty Way" .
costume
jewelry also will be used prizes in radio
as
contest,s in Bridgeport and Waterbury.
BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948!

, Irtf
. . East
. Newington
. Ed
.
held
; army
. . Dan
[ a New York visitor . . . The
. . Brookie
Tentative Dates Set
For Allied Conclave
BOSTON—The regional convention of Allied
units being planned by Independent Exhibitors,
Inc.. of New England has been
tentatively set for April 6 and and the
7
place will probably be the Copley-Plaza
hotel here.
Walter Mitchell and LesUe Bendslev, chairmen
for the convention, called their meeting
together last week to go over plans.
.'\lso meeting last week was the finance
lommittee. of which Walter Mitchell is chairman.
This group met to set up the 1948
budget, which will be submitted at the anruial
meeting February 10 in the Hotel Bradford.
HARTFORD
Tommy Grace of the Eastwood is planning
" to resume Saturday morning shows featuring
Children's Film Library product eaiU
In February. Grace tied up with WCCC t
broadcast its daily Riddle Rambler show tiou
the theatre front for a week in behalf of tin
Mile O' Dimes Infantile Paralysis campais-i
Hartford police salaries have bt 1
ooosted. affecting that town's film houst
vith house policemen.
The Lyric and Rialto, south end film
nouses, have new chinaware giveaways
.
Look for Hartford's Eddie Begley in 20th-
Pox's "Sitting Pretty" LeWltt
of Glackin & Le'Witt Theatres has purchased
new seats for the Strand, Sound 'View
. . . Jane Glackin is now teaching in New
Britain public schools.
A tip of the hat for Manager Joe Boyle
of Loew's Poli-Broadway, Norwich, who
rounds out 20 years with the Loew organization
February 1 . . . Faces around town:
Herbie Jennings, UA drum beater, in to work
on "Sleep, My Love"; Hy Levine jr.. Amalgamated
buying-booking; Joe Spivak, Connecticut
Theatre Candy Co., and Lew Ginsburg
Kelleher of the Princess was in Bos-
11 checking on a new theatre marquee.
Tom Alquist, formerly with several downtown
first runs, won $150 on a national slogan
iiromotion campaign ... An oil painting of
Manager Lou Cohen of Loew's Poll was done
by Mike 'Vann, local artist . . . Fi-ank Smulski
and Ladislaus Jachimowski have renovated
the booth in their Music Box Theatre in
New Britain.
The annual Warner club party for staffs
of the Strand and Embassy. New Britain,
at the Embassy, under supervision of
Miklos . Dorkin, formerly with
Warner Colonial, is home from overservice
. . . The Newington Theatre
has new lamphouses.
Kate Treske, Lenox manager, was in
on to hear her daughter Anne sing in a
liege production. Mrs. Treske was recent-
Ernie Greculas
Hartford took in the Bridgeport sights
a day off . . Isabelle Jacobs, Colonial
.
lier, is back on the job after a six-month
irion Foyda. cashier at Joe Boyle's
oadway, Norwich, is taking a short leave
absence to accompany hubby Stanley to
Norfolk, Va., while he awaits completion of
the ship which will take him to world ports.
Irene Wojcik is temporarily relieving . . . Ben
Bennett, Palace projectionist, vacationed,
I with Alton Hazel .subbing.
WORCESTER
The Better Films council members have
voted to sponsor a series of family films
at the Playhouse starting February 7. Alec
R. Davis, former manager of the Warner,
was named chairman of the committee to
choose the pictures . . . James Carter is back
at the Capitol after an illness.
Phil Loew, manager of the Family, is a
Latin scholar of considerable attainment.
Edward
His hobby is quoting Latin poetry Haley, manager of
. . .
the Fitchburg in
is Fitchburg. such a sports enthusiast that
when he screened the New Year's football
games, the sports editor of the hometown
paper made note of it.
Ernest Johnson of the Capitol reports seeing
a robin eating a leftover apple on a tree
during a recent heavy snowstorm . . . Ruth
Amos, formerly of the Playhouse, was with
"Strange Bedfellows" when it opened recently
at the Morosco in New York . . . The
Universal in Fitchburg is making weekly
giveaways of dinnerware.
Ray Koyce, Worcester vaudevillian appearing
on the coast, writes that he taught juggling
to Dan DaJley for the film, "Papa Was
a Juggler."
Herb Jennings, UA exploiteer, visited Loew
circuit houses in Worcester, Springfield and
Hartford, on campaigns for "Sleep, My Love."
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wall amplifier are furnished,
upon request, two
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combination of the above
with a 9-volt DeVRY Exciter
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replace any type or make
sound system used in
theatres today.
ai
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BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

. . . Eagle
. .
. . The
. . Empire
. .
BOSTON
•Pom Donaldson, district manager of Eagle
Lion, has completed his term of office as
president of the Boston Kiwanis club and
was given a pair of gold cuff links, suitably
inscribed, as a memento of his year's service
Lion had two important openings
first run here January 22. "T-Men" opened
at the Paramount and Fenway and "Headin'
for Heaven" playing as a co-feature at the
Metropolitan.
Harold Magovsky, head shipper in the
trailer room at National Screen, returned to
the Veterans hospital. Forest Hills, for observation
and fm-ther tests on his bad leg.
If he has to go under the knife again it will
be the ninth consecutive operation, but if
he is lucky enough to escape, he may have
to wear an iron brace. During his absence
his place is being taken by Peter Johnson.
Harold is the son of Max Magovsky, head of
the advertising department of National
Screen.
Herman Ripps, district manager of MGM,
was in town on routine business . . . Nathan
Yamins. who has been vacationing in Palm
Beach, where he has taken a house for the
winter for his family, is expected to fly home
February 2 . . . Bill Koster, director of the
Variety Club of New England, and Joe Cifre,
chief barker, are busy setting up the active
committees for 1948. Auditors are now work-
Afa4t/e^ POPCORN
MACHINES
Tops for all showmen!
Ask the theatre that has one!
SAM
HORENSTEIN
Senuine Manley Supplies
ing on the returns from the raffle drive for
the Cancer Research Foundation of the
Children's hospital and when the figures are
tallied it is expected that the amoimt taken
in this year will exceed that of last year
by a large margin.
Edward Fedeli, who has been operating
the Rialto, 'Worcester, since September, was
in town and told proudly of the birth of
his first child David Michael, born at the
City hospital, 'Worcester, December 28. The
Rialto is owned by Edward's father, Fred
Fideli. and his uncle, Joseph Fideli.
Irving M. Farber, president of Regal Pictures
Corp. of New England, has returned
from New 'Vork where he signed and secured
the franchise for the New England territory
of Masterpiece Productions, Inc. There are
23 reissues in the deal. Regal Pictures recently
added to its staff Marshall Bacherman
as booker and Sidney Shumsker as
salesman. Rosalyn Jaffe is the office manager.
The Astor Theatre has a new neon electric
sign, 33 feet wide and 20 feet high, which
is placed above the marquee, especially built
for "The Bishop's 'Wife." It will be used for
other feature pictures later. The sign has
an excellent vantage point for pedestrians
on Boston Common and the public garden,
as well as motorists driving into the city.
"Gentleman's Agreement" had one of the
largest spot radio campaigns ever put on in
Boston with four spot announcements broadcast
daily over four stations in four days.
They consumed only five seconds each, containing
only the bare essentials of the features
of the pictiwe. The announcements
were especially transcribed for Boston by the
nationally known announcer. Frank Gallup.
Al Fowler. 20th-Fox publicist, arranged for
a critics screening of the film at the Fox
Little Theatre prior to the opening at the
Keith-Memorial Theatre.
The Opera House. Dixfield. Me., has been
sold by Ralph Griffin to Al O'Neil of Rumford,
Me., who also operates the Open Air
Theatre at Saco, Maine's only drive-in .
Ed Pollard of the Mexico Theatre, Mexico.
Me., and the Community. Auburn, has relumed
from Florida but will go back to the
.south shortly. During his absence the houses
are managed by his nephew, Jim Pollard.
Award Contract in Nashua
To Rebuild Park Theatre
NASHUA. N. M.—A contract to renovate
and rebuild the Park Theatre Bldg.. which
was badly damaged by fire last September
28. has been awarded to the Davison Construction
Co. of Manchester, it has been announced
by the owner, 'Walter R. Peterson.
The work, which will involve no architectural
changes, is expected to be completed in three
months. Peterson said the block would contain
the same tenants as before, the Park
Theatre, Nashua Hardware Co. and Berg's
shoe store.
FALL RIVER
John J. McAvoy was transferred to man-
' age the Embassy and is replaced at the
Durfee, where Paul Slayer is manager, by
William Madden. McAvoy, who is doing considerable
public relations work for the Yamins
organization hei-e, was assistant at the
Empire before going to the Durfee.
.
"The Theatre of Today" was the topic
discussed by Manager McAvoy before the
Fall River Bridgewater club at a recent
meeting. He divided his talk into three parts,
motion pictures, the legitimate theatre in
America and the legitimate theatre in England,
which he visited while in the service
diu-ing the last war Manager
William S. Canning was master of ceremonies
at the recent installation of officers
of the Admiral Nelson Navy club.
Claud Shaw, assistant to Manager Carl
Zeitz at the Academy, is commuting weekly
to Boston where he is receiving treatment
at the Massachusetts General hospital for a
war-incurred disability . . . Barbara Dillon
is the new candy girl at the Academy, replacing
Dorothy Lapointe, resigned .
Seating and carpeting repairs are being made
at the Academy by the maintenance crew
of the Zeitz Theatres of New Bedford, headed
by Charles Legroux and Carl Johnson.
Giveaways have been resumed at the Capitol
Theatre following a five-year layoff.
Women patrons are getting oven and refrigerator
ware . . Double giveaways are
.
.
holding sway at both the Strand and Park,
Yamins houses truckdrivers' strike
in nearby Boston is affecting candy and
premiimi supplies of local theatres. Orders
are arriving late, causing considerable inconvenience
to theatre managers.
Enfield Scenic Open
ENFIELD, N. H.—The Scenic, built and
operated by Paul Archimbeault and Maurice
LeBlanc, was finished in time for opening
during the holiday season.
"RUST TULIP"
• BOX OFHCE BAIT!
• AUDIENCE ATTRACTION!
• PROHT PLENTY!
it uuit p

-
'''
,
'
'
(181.
Water Supply Fails;
Fire Guts Theatre
MAYSVILLE. OKLA.—Fire destroyed the
Granada Theatre, owned by Sam Ridgeway
and Robert Roller, January 20.
Maysville suffered a $50,000 loss for lack
of water. Ridgeway and Roller came to the
theatre at 6 p. m. to open for the nisht and
discovered the small blaze on the floor of
the room. A fire truck was on the scene at
the time, but when the fire hose was turned
on the blaze not a squirt of water came forth.
The town's water supply was gone.
Four hours later the fire was confined by
;ui oil field worker who poured 500 gallons
of drilling mud onto the spreading flames.
One hundred gallons of water would have
put out the fire.
'•
Fire departments from several nearby cities
rushed to MaysviUe to help and volunteers
poured in from Maysville as well as nearby
towns, but all w^ere stymied by lack of water.
'*'
An insurance adjuster estimated damage
at $50,000 but said none of the buildings was
; insured that heavily.
Fire Wipes Out Aggie
In Stillwater, Okla.
STILLWATER, OKLA.—The Aggie Theatre,
a Claude Leachman-Griffith Theatres oporation,
was gutted by fire early Sunday
The loss is expected to exceed $150,-
000. according to C. R. Guthrie, Griffith executive,
who came here to check the damage.
Claude Leachman, co-owner and manager,
"p" said expensive equipment was stored on the
"
'; .second floor of the building for use in a
new theatre he was planning to build here.
:
The blaze, discovered about 4:30 a. m., was
brought under control after a four-hour battle
by 36 firemen in subfreezing weather.
Fourteen of the firemen had to be treated
at the hospital for exposm-e.
The fire was one of the most costly in Stillwater's
history. Fire Chief Everett Hudiburg
,said it might equal the fire in 1927 which
^ '
'destroyed the Briggs Lumber Co.
"' Fii-efighters were able to prevent any great
P"^^ damage to buildings on either side of the
large thea^-e on Main street by pouring continuous
streams of water along the sides of
the structure. However, the Western Union
^ 'office on the north was forced to suspend
II operations temporarily because of heavy
water damage and cut cables.
The Aggie will be rebuilt on a larger scale
as soon as materials can be obtained. Guthrie
said Loss of plumbing fixtures stored
on the second floor of the building for use
•
in a theatre now under construction will
delay the new building.
Texas Stars Make Short
To Aid Battleship Drive
HOLLYWOOD—Linda Darnell and Dana
.\ndrews, both natives of Texas, donated their
•services and 20th-Fox contributed its production
facilities to the making of a short
.subject for exhibition in theatres in the Lone
Star state as part of a drive to raise $225,000
to bring the battleship Texas to a permanent
berthing in Houston, where it will become a
state shrine. Karl Hoblitzelle, president of
the Interstate circuit, is general manager of
the campaign and Ray Beal, circuit executive,
functioned as liaison in making the short.
Dallas Exhibitors Okay
MOD, Texas Collections
Oklahoma Group Advised
Of New Ascap Deadline
OKLAHOMA CITY—In view of the extension
to March 15 for the deadline on negotiations
between TOA and Ascap on new Ascap
licensing fees, theatre operators have been
urged by TOA executive Robert Coyne not
to sign licenses with Ascap before mid-
March.
The message was to Morris Loewenstein,
president of the Theatre Owners of Oklahoma,
who relayed the information to members
in a bulletin in which he also made a
renewed plea for payment of the 10-centsper-seat
assessment.
"In response to TOA's request," Coyne
wired, "Ascap's board of directors authorized
the extension of current Ascap rates from the
previous deadline of Februaiy 1 to March 15
to provide for additional time for negotiations.
Theatres should take no action concerning
new licenses other than to accept licenses
when offered for additional period at
current rates. We feel this development distinct
advantage to theatres and that your
membership should be advised."
State Reports Resurgence
In Population of Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY—Oklahoma is showing
a gain in population again, according to
Clarence Burch, chairman of the state planning
and resources board.
Bm-ch cited census figures showing the
state's population decreased a great deal during
the war years. However, the state has
gained back to where it is only 1.1 per cent
under the 1940 figures, he said. He attributed
the gain to Oklahomans drifting back from
other states, where they worked in factories
during the war; to veterans retm-ning to set
up small businesses, and to new industry
coming to Oklahoma.
Plan 'T-Men' Texas Dates
NEW YORK—Arthur Jeffrey, Eagle Lion
exploitation manager, left for Dallas conferences
wath Robert J. O'Donnell, vicepresident
of Interstate circuit, and Frank
Starrs, advertising and publicity head, on
Texas openings of "T-Men." They will work
out plans for local advertising and promotion.
EL and Interstate will split the cost on
all advertising over the normal house budget.
DALLAS—The Dallas Independent Theatre
members pres-
Owners Ass'n, with nearly all
ent, held its second meeting since organizing
in December. Phil Isley was chairman for
that one meeting, it being the policy to
rotate the chair among all members. Two
officers were elected for the year, Isley as
president and Lloyd Rust as vice-president
and .secretary-treasurer. Don Dickson of the
Haskell Theatre nominated Isley and Harry
Harris of the Fox nominated Rust, with the
choice in both cases being unanimous.
A committee of four men was appointed to
handle any problems that might arise with
the city or with other agencies. They were
R. D. Yowell of the Long Theatres, L. B.
Crow of the Sunset, Harry Sachs of the Delman,
and B. R. McLendon of the Casa Linda.
It was agreed that March of Dimes audience
collections would be taken un but that
this would not be binding on any of the theatres
if a negative decision by that exhibitor
was made later. It was unanimously agreed
that audience collections would be taken up
in the Texas exhibitors drive to raise funds
with winch to give the old battleship Texas
its final resting place in the ship channel
near Houston. Tlie meeting invited John
Adams, secretary of Interstate circuit, and
a drive official, to appear at its next session
February 3 to explain details of this statewide
patriotic move among theatres.
Consensus at the meeting was that the
new oi-ganization appeared to be getting
under way as a going concern with everyone
being satisfied with its annomiced aim of
fm'thering the independent cause here and
of full cooperation with the circuits on issues
that affect theatres as a whole.
Underwood, Ezell Rebuffed
In Suit Involving Patent
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEX.—An intervention
motion of W. G. Underwood and C. 0,
Ezell in the patent infringement suit of
Park-In Theatres of Camden. N. J., against
the Lone Star Theatres Co. was ruled out by
Judge Allen B. Hannay in federal court in
Houston. Underwood and Ezell hold the
Texas rights to the Park-In drive-in patents.
Lone Star Theatres, headed by C. A. Richter
and Leon Newman, operates the Texas and
Boulevard drive-in theatres here.
Sunday Shows Canceled
VILLA RICA, GA.—In accordance with a
lecommendation of the Carroll county grand
jury, the Villa Theatre on January 1 discontinued
the showing of motion pictures on
Sunday, Mrs. Nita Countryman, manager,
reported. The theatre has operated Sundays
for several years, turning over part of its
receipts to charity in return for the privilege.
.4STOR'S DALLAS PARTY—John Jenkins and O. K. Bourgeois of Astor Pic-
.Vr
tures entertained Evans Sprott of the Bijou Amusement Co., Nashville, at the Variety
in clubroonis Dallas. Left to right: Al Mertz, Dallas manager for Astor: Earl Elkins,
salesman; Jack Adams, State and Century theatres; Sprott, Jenkins, P. E. Wilson and
Bourgeois; Sam Lucchese. Adams' partner; True Thompson, producer and theatre
owner, and Harry Fletcher of Astor, Jenkins and Bourgeois announced that All
America's 'Killer Diller, " full-length picture featuring the King Cole Trio and Dusty
Fletcher will be released soon.
BOXOFFICE :
: January 24, 1948 sw

Daughter of Henry Reeve Aspires
To Career on Stage and Screen
MENARD. TEX.—Katherine Reeve, daughter
of the Henry Reeves, who own and operate
the Mission Theatre here, has decided on
a career which she hopes will lead her to a
place on the stage and screen with which
she grew up. Her father also is president of
the Texas Theatre Owners. Inc.
Katherine is a student at the Playhouse in
Cleveland, where both classwork and experience
in school productions are offered. A
newspaper syndicate article on the drama
.school recently mentioned Miss Reeve as an
example of the talent developed at the school.
Her interest in theatricals started early.
She majored in speech and drama at Texas
State College for Women in Denton, from
which she was graduated last year. She was
president of the senior class. One of the
high honors awarded at the Denton college
is the annual selection of the Red Bud queen
and princesses. Katherine was a princess three
years and was chosen queen in her senior
year, a record rarely equaled at the school.
Katherine and her sister Margaretta, now
Mrs. Holding, presented an original Texas
historical pageant before civic and patriotic
meetings in several cities over the state.
Henry Reeve moved to Texas from his home
in Philadelphia 25 years ago. He was educated
at one of the Quaker state universities
KATHERINE REEVE
and for a time was sports reporter on one
of the newspapers there.
O.K. Theatres to Build
7lh Houston House
HOUSTON—Plans are being made for
the
construction of a new neighborhood theatre
here by the OK circuit. This will be the seventh
theatre of this chain in the Houston
Jim Dezendorf. Houston representative of
OK Theatres, said the new theatre will be
loca'ed at the northwest corner of Lyo:is and
Gazin and will have a seating capacity of
800. The cost will be in excess of $100,000
and will include the best in materials and
the latest of equipment. Dezendorf said.
Clearing the land has already begun and
the contract is expected to be let shoi*lv.
The building si'e. 125x250 feet, was purchased
from thj-ee separate owners at a total cost
of S33.500.
Other OK Theatres in the Houston area
are the Avalon, Globe, Grand, Lindale. Midway
and Port.
REMODELING-DECORATING
II
THEATRE SEAT INSTALLATION |
LUPE ROMERO

A SIGN
OF OPPORTUNITY
Theatre operators

. . . Irving
. . The
. . Buddy
: Januar>-
. .
j
^^(*t4€t
M0(/6it
DALLAS
Tack Groves, former owner of the Queen in
' Houston for eight years, was here outfitting
a big game expedition which he will make
soon into the African jungles. He bought a
short wave radio to keep in touch with the
home front. Jack is an explorer and navigator
by nature. He knows all the bayous and
bays between Houston and the Gulf, as he
has been plying those waters in his own
motor craft for several years. He promises
to send BOXOPFICE a photo or so of his
exploits.
Roy King of the Alexander Film Co. office
at Colorado Springs, and Walter Feist, representative
in Missouri, were here to see
Justin Mclnaney, who is in charge of sales
for this region. Feist visited the home of
E. L. Harris, who is sales manager for the
Kansas and Missouri areas, but who has
been in Dallas for the past few days.
.lulius Schepps, chief barker of the Varie y
Club, has been in Gaston hospital with a
relatively minor ailment . Harris,
circuit owner and Variety director, was in
St. Paul's hospital for a checkup. He said
the only thing the doctors found was a little
dandruff and an ingrowing toenail . . . George
Likens, Alexander Film Co. representative,
also was in St. Paul's hospital but expects to
be back on the road in a few days.
I. B. Adelman and Harry Sachs were in
Houston to look in on their Delman Theatre
Pichel, director of a location party
that made imderwater scenes for a film in
Florida, made a brief stop at Love field on
the way to Hollywood by chartered plaire.
Alfred Sack has acquired rights in 14 southern
states to distribute the Italian film, "To
Live in Peace." He has released two other
Italian films. He played "Shoe-Shine" for an
off brand firsi run in the Fox Theatre on
lower Elm street. The neighborhood Delman
Theatre was showing it this week. Sack was
.successful in getting dates on this film from
Interstate circuit for the Queen in Galveston
and Austin and the River Oaks in Houston.
On (he afternoon program over station
WFAA, disk jockey Melvin Munn squee'^es
in a few quips about Hollywood and what's
playing at local theatres. At more length,
however, he told about Bob Hope's last picture.
"Where There's Lite," annexing the
coveted BOXOFFICE Blue Ribbon award for
being the best family picture released in December.
This station has 'op rank in north
Texas for its number of listeners . . . The
Hill, one of the fom- Gene Autry houses here,
is advertising for amateurs to comoete for
cash prizes each Pi'iday night on the stage.
Auditions are held for all applicants.
J. Don Alexander, president of the advertising
film company hat bears his name, was up
'
by train from Houston on a hurry-uo visit,
en route to his headquarters in Colorado
Springs. He had been on his yacht. Two
Smiles II, for several weeks, coming west from
Miami to New Orleans and up the ship channel
to Houston, docking her in the big turning
basin. He had Johnny Long, his brother
Louis and a number of exhibitors on board
at various times, as well as several adver ising
agents. Alexander said his company has
75 screens in the Houston area and that his
business is booming. His boat was taken by
his brother D. M. to New Orleans for entertainment
at the Mardi Gras.
Interstate's three north Dallas deluxers,
the Village, Inwood and Esquire, have started
Saturday midnight shows beginning at 11
o'clock, using the current attraction. The
circuit's two big downtown houses, the Majestic
and Palace, have been doing this for
some months . circuit has discontinued
short subjects programs for its Saturday
kid shows at the Varsity, Dal-Sec,
and Knox and has added the regular feature
and shorts bill suitable for juveniles. Its
other neighborhood houses are continuing to
show cartoons and comedies for the Saturday
matinee only.
Tex Ritter is bringing his cowboy revue
and his horse. White Flash, into northern
Texas to play a run of theatres. He is booked
at the Rialto on Elm street the first week
in February . . . Mrs. E. J. Rusche of the
Crown, Mount Enterprise, just north of Beaumont,
was in for a regular booking trip.
The Rusches own the town's big general
mercantile establishment and added their
show three years ago. She has been a BOX-
OFFICE reader since opening the show and
took steps this week to get the Guide and
Index, extra service features of the magazine.
Charles E. Darden left Thursday by plane
for Chicago to attend a meeting of the
National Popcorn Processors Ass'n .
Wallace Walthall returned from a business
trip to Oklahoma City and says Morris Lowenstein
is in process of streamlining his
Majestic. Wallace points out that Morris
is one of the Oklahoma 89ers club because
he was born there and because his father
before him was an original 89er because he
then staked a claim in what was then Indian
territory.
Mrs. Mabel Guinan, the former Mabel
Howlitt, has resigned from the Eagle Lion
exchange as booker, and will put in full
time at home making. Mabel was a Filmrow
personality for several years, working
for Jack Adams, PRC and then EL. She
has dons much charitable work for the deaf
through her activity in an organization known
as the Pilot club.
Westerns-Features-Serials
Tower Pictures Co.
HAROLD SCHWAHZ
3021/t S. Haiwood SI. C—7357
DALLAS 1. TEXAS
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
your Deal Handled Personally
27 years experience
We Cover Ihe U. S. Market
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 Kinmore Dallas 10, Texas
Phone T3-202S
IS
YOUR THEATRE FOR SALE?
We Have Buyers With Cash
"JOE" JOSEPH
THEATRES
Let "Joe" Sell Your Show
Theatres bought—sold—equipped—fire
inventories—consultant and equipment.
1003 Galloway St. Dallas, Tox.
Phono Yale 2-7650
f
BOXOFFICE
:
24, 1948

^ Flags ifill fly. .
vstory will re made again
/ In Albuquerque
as these gala events launch
reoruary z is
Albuquerque Day
by Official
Proclamation
Billy De Wolfe and
Russell Hayden added
to the Hollywood stars*
to be officially welcomed
by the
Honorable
Thomas Mabry,
Gov. of New Mexico
Premiere news coast-tocoast
over 300 Mutual
stations. Queen For A Day
program Jan.
26 thru
Jan. 30—Erskine Johnson
World Premiere Fiesta Week
program Feb. 2 and 3
X OF PARAMO UNTS
mm
Stars greeting whole
^ ^ CINECOLOR EPIC
Southwest on radio
broadcasts
n
Stage Coach Parade
of Stars to Premiere
Premiere
Ceremonies
at the theatres
Starring
RANDOLPH SCOTT
Barbara George "Gabby" Lon
RITTON- HAYES -CHANEY
(RUSSELL HAYDEN • CATHERINE CRAIG • GEORGE CLEVELAND
Directed by RAY ENRIGHT
Screenplay by Gene Lewis and Clarence Upson Young
A Clarion Produciion
*
And numerous other
events— to be duplicated
Feb.4 in Houston:
Feb. 5 in San Antonio:
Feb. 6 in Dallas and
Feb. 7 in Fort Worth
*Also Appearing
IN PERSON
RANDOLPH SCOTT • GEORGE
"GABBY" HAYES • WILLIAM
DEMAREST* CATHERINE CRAIG
LON CHANEY
'bf^
X^^f-

. . Ditto
. . Henry
. . Doing
.
.
.
. . and
; 528
. .
Walt
. . Hem-y
: January
nKLAHOMA CITY
Claude Thorp of Ryan has sold his Gem
Theatre in Rvan to R. N. Downing. Thorp,
who owned the Gem for 26 years, has another
house in CollinsviUe
. . . C. E. Norcross sold
the Washita in Cordell to F. Val Mercier
and Creal Black.
.
Morris Loewenstein, TOO president, reports
returns" on organization's first
the
letter of solicitation in to regard
•nice
the TOA
assessment Reeve, president of
Theatre Ovmers of Texas, has mvited the
Loewensteins and the Harry Lowens.ems
of Ardmore to the TOT convention February
3. 4. They plan to spend February 2, 3, 4
in Dallas.
Marie Lutz of Theatre Poster Service has
been ill with the flu . . . Also off from work
with flu has been Jack Box, booker at Paramount
for Jennie Mae Lund of
.
Paramounfs picture report department . .
Sally Dulanev. ledger clerk for Paramount,
entered Wesley hospital January 16 for sui-gery.
She has a two-week sick leave.
to National Theatre Supply were
Visitors
Maurice DeFord and Leroy Hodges, both of
Anadarko: J. H. Thomas. Kingfisher, and
Leonard White, Weatherford Henry
. . .
Brauchi is a new shipping clerk at NTS .
Sally Mabry, formerly with Columbia, is now
NTS.
secretary to Jake Watkins of
Capitol Hill Boy Scouts received a percentage
of the tickets they sold for some
shows at the Knob Hill this month. The
tickets were good only on Wednesday, Thursday
and Friday business in National
Screen's new home were Dudley Tucker,
.
Pauls Valley; Mrs. Elizabeth Tucker, Guthi-ie;
H H. Henderson, Medford; Wesley Hodges,
Anadarko: Herb Boehm, Watonga, and John
Gray, Chickasha.
Jimmie Hull, head shipper at National
Screen, also is serving the company as office
manager. Sammy Parsons is the assistant
head shipper in charge of accessories and
Doris Richardson has moved here from Dallas
to be assistant head shipper in chai-ge of
trailers. Miss Richardson was transferred
from the Dallas branch.
Leon Stokesberry, whose last day as rnanager
of the State was January !;? was honored
with a party the previous nigh Ushers
.
at the State and Center gave the pam^ About
40 attended, according to Phil Keough, Center
manager. Frankie Barnett is temporarily
.
replS Stokesberry Jancke o
Lincoln Neb., who relieved H. C. Federer at
the center for a few weeks while Federer vacationed,
reported "It Had to Be Jou did
a good business ... Mr. and Mrs. Federer
have returned from a trip to Phoenix.
The Leo Shupperts of Tulsa are parents of
a baby girl, born December 31. Shuppert is
houL manager of the Plaza Birthday
. . .
greetings to Glen Wilson, Griffiths assistant
manager in Ada; John Monroe, manager foi
Griffith in Cuero, Tex.; Calvin Council, another
of the circuit's managers, Frederick,
and C. R. Guthrie, director of finance for the
chain.
Tim Holt, wes.ern player and son of Jack
Holt, veteran film star, will appear here at
the Livestock show and rodeo March 6-13 . .
.
Word from Arthur Leak in Dallas reveals
that he was stranded here during the holidays
However, he got his auto fixed and
was 'able to spend part of the yule season
Lea slates that there seems to
be considerable increase in
at home.
the movement
of theatre properties in Oklahoma, and that
his December sales were an all-time high.
Amateur nights at the Vic Theatre, sponsored
by the Arthur Mrn'ray school of dance,
closed after a "very successful run oi several
months ... The Vic, a C&R opei-ation
managed by James Adams, re-established its
foreign picture policy January 23 with Notorious
Gentleman," a British production
Adan^ said only first run foreign films will
be shown, most of them English pictures.
Tickets to "Oklahoma!" the Broadway hit
which will play a return engagement February
16-21 at the Home Theatre, are selling
at $4.27 top for the evening performance and
$3.66 for the matinees.
L. C. Griffith of Griffith Consolidated Theatres
sold his home at 630 NW 15th for
Ask our trained repair men any question
regarding your theatre equipment
problems ... and they'll answer it
.
helpfully intelligently.
Not only do we have a complete line
of theatre necessities ... we have all
the important accessories that make
your equipment run smoothly. And, we have professional service
men who know all the answers and can correct any ditticulties
that you may have.
OKUHOinil
J. ELOON PEEI
T«E«fftWPlV
T.ltphone 7-8691
West Grand Avenue
Oklahoma City 2, Oklahoma
$36 000. Griffith and his wife are m San
Antonio, Tex., where they have been residmg
part of the time for many years. It is understood
that San Antonio will now be their
permanent residence S. Griffing,
.
executive vice-president of Griffith Theatres
and C R. Gu.hrie, Griffith executive, left
January 21 for San Antonio to spend a few
days with Griffith.
Arthur B. Leak, theatre broker of Dallas,
was a recent visitor to Filmrow. He was
completing details on the sale of several theatres,
including operations in Kaw City, Skiatook,
Marlow and Ryan. He said the worthwhile
situations are as scarce as ever although
there are a number of motion picture
houses for sale generally. He said buyers
are becoming much more selective.
Annie Louise Coleman of the Melrose at
Waco and Tom Kirkscey of the Gem at
Rosebud were visitors David F. Parker
. . .
longtime owner and operator of Educational
Equipment Co., handling 8mm and 16mm
equipment and supplies, died after a briet
illness. In earher years he worked for Whittle
Music Co., which sold pipe organs to exhibitors.
Parker twice was pronounced dead
earlier in his life, once after a car accident
and once after an alleged drowning. The
undertaker was about to embalm his body
when breathing restarted. Parker told about
this recently over the We the People radio
program.
J. P. Harrison, manager of three Interstate
theatres in Denton, was elected president
of the Chamber of Commerce there.
He long has been active in civic and public
duty He formerly was city manager of
theatres in Waco . . . A. M. "Buck" Morgan,
theatreman and trader, has decreased his
activities in the show business, although he
retains his interest in the Texas m Brady
and in other projects. He is now bmldmg a
group of new houses in his home town of
Grand Prairie.
Manager of the new Center Theatre is
Phil Keough. He left the advertising sales
staff of the Oklahoma Publishing Co. to accept
managerial post. Keough was formerly
the with the Liberty Theatre and has had
other show experience.
More about Griffithites: The needy children
in the Bartlesville area profited by the
vule party held for Griff employes on the
bsage stage ... The employes exchanged
toys then gave them to the Salvation Army
for distribution to needy kiddies. The employes
also played games, danced and enjoyed
a buffet supper prepared by the wives of
the staff projectionists. Manager William B.
Turk and assistant Woody Minor were
presented a table radio and platform rocker,
respectively.
Happv birthday to Mrs. I. G. Killough. Ada
Griffith partner . . . Ditto, for Paul Cornwell
who is moving here from Enid where he
managed the Griffith situation Birthday
. . .
greetings to Charlie Trego, manager of the
Oklahoma City Reno Theatre and Zelma
Plato, cashier at the Oklahoma City Redskm,
and Green Bond, accountant in the Griftitn
home office.
Orchestra Leader Role
David Street is a featured booking for Republic's
"Moonrise." playing the role of an
orchestra leader in the film directed by Frank
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
Your Deal Handled Personally
27 years experience
We Cover the U, S. Marke
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 Kinmore Dallas 10, Texas
Phone T3-2026
BOXOFFICE
:
24. 1948

: . . Oh
. . . The
. .
. .
. . Slim
. . The
J. F.Jones Is Winner
Of'Milly'Conlesl
DALLAS—For exceeding by the greatest
amount the quota set for his engagement of
"The Secret Lite of Walter Mit'y." J. F. Jones
sales.
Pullen. even though his was the last house
in the circuit to play "Mitty," won second
prize after starting out with a New Year's
eve preview. Bad weather killed much anticipated
business but a four-day engagement
following the preview brought him back
into the running. Pullen used 10.000 heralds,
teaser trailers and some extra newspaper
space. He also instructed his staff to "talk
like Mitty" to everyone, whether they listened
or not.
The winner of the merit award, not confined
to a percentage of the quota, was judged
for the most unique campaign. John Jones
used personalized heralds, extra newspaper
space and some outdoor advertising not
ordinarily employed. His winning- stunt, however,
was a preview for which he sold advance
tickets for $1, including tax. For the
added fee. patrons received five bars of candy
and a stage program featuring a dance band.
Jones promoted the candy and the orchestra
for the advertising they received from the
show. A thousand advance-price tickets were
sold before the engagement.
THIRD PRIZE TO A. E. McCLAIN
Third prize went to A. E. "Curly" McClain
of Hillsboro. For his engagement right after
Christmas he ran a two-column ad of a
perplexed Santa Claus with a string tied
around one finger and another finger to his
forehead as if in deep thought. Said the ad:
"Let's see ... I stayed over for something
yes! I didn't want to miss 'The Secret
Life of Walter Mitty' ."
. .
One of the more novel stunts was a Miss
Hush-type contest conducted by Cecil Cupp
and Robin Wightman. Cupp selected three
prominent local persons to read commercials
of three participating merchants who gave
prizes to the one who could properly identify
the three voices. The theatre gave the winner
and his party of 14 guests free admission
to the preview opening of "Mitty."
VFOR SPECIAL
SHOWS TRY
NEW ORLEANS
/^harles Reagan, vice-president in charge of the Palace. Jonesville: L. W. Watts of the
^^ sales for Paramount, and Hugh Owens, Watts, Oil City: Harold Wright of the Strand.
division manager, came here from New York Cotton Valley, and Charlie Lamantia of the
to discuss forthcoming product with executives
of the New Orleans exchange.
Ritz. Hammond.
of Palestine won first prize of $125 in the
Out-of-state exhibitors in the film mart
recent Robb fz Rowley "Mitty" contest. Second
prize of $75 went to Lloyd Pullen of the T U Theatre in Jeanerette. La., and the was here from Fort Walton, Pla.; C. T.
were James J. Tringas. who with Mrs. Tringas
local Texas. A merit award, given for the
Youngsville Theatre. Haynes of the Varsity, Ellisville. Miss.: L. E.
most outstanding exploitation job on the film,
Young.sville. La., announce
the engage-
Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Weems of the Patsy.
Downing of the Haven. Brookhaven, Miss.:
was won by John D. Jones of San Angelo.
Beginning with extensive use of personalized
heralds, Jones' campaign branched into
Patsy Ruth to John Picayune, Miss., and Ed Solomon of McComb,
ment of their daughter Osyka. Mi.ss.: W. L. Moseley of the Ritz,
radio spots and really hit his stride when
Patrick Elzey. son of Miss. Other visitors from afar were Jim
enlisting cooperation from local merchants.
Mr. and Mrs. John F. Cocke, RCA Manufacturing Co. representative
of Camden, N. J., and Louis K. Turner,
Asking the support of every Palestine merchant
and organization that had asked him
Delta Theatre Supply owner of the Scenic Drapery Co., Oklahoma
Elzey, owner of the
for aid in the last 20 years. Jones soon had
Co.. New Orleans. The City . Brewer, former exhibitor in
churches, schools and other civic organizations
selling advance tickets to the show.
for Easter Sunday and wood, Miss., also was on the Row.
wedding has been set Clarksdale, Miss., who now resides in Green-
DIVIDED WITH STAFF
will take place in
Youngsville . . . Invitations
were issued by Leesville. La.. January 17.
W. W. Page opened the Vemon Theatre in
Jones also told his theatre staff that if
the house won first prize, he would divide the
prize money among them according to who
Joy Theatres. Inc.. to
Patsy Broussard
sold the most tickets. Result was that 75 per
the opening of the new The mother of T. A. Pittman of the Delta
cent of his gross was represented by advance Joy in Magnolia. Ark.. January 15 . . . The Theatre here and the Rex in Baton Rouge
Teche in Breaux Bridge, La., has been closed
Mr. and Mrs. G. J. Broussard, owners of the
^
Rex in Provencal. La., will be closed
for the remainder of the winter season .
W. W. Page jr., who operates theatres in
De Ridder and Ferriday. La., has assumed
operation of the Miriam Theatre in Pleasant
Hill.
La.
Motoring: together to New Orleans to spend
a few days on the Row last week were E. J.
Pearre, former owner of the Pearre Theatre.
Jonestown. Miss.; Grady Green, owner of the
Union Theatre. Grenada. Miss., and N. Rossi,
owner of the Roxy Theatre. Clarksdale. Miss.
They were in the city for three days .
Louisiana exhibitors visiting the Row included
I. A. Funderbui-g ot the Palace. Jonesboro:
William Jenkins of the ReaLart. De Ridder:
O. J. Gaudet of the Magic. Port Allen: Ernest
Dclahaye of the Gwen. Maringouin; Truet
Scarbough of Ruston: Charles A. Phillips of
died at her home in Picayune, Miss. . . .
Doyle Maynard. general manager of the Don
George Coi-p., Shreveport, was a visitor as
was L. W. Watt of Oil City . . . Frank Jones,
manager of the Strand, is father of a baby
son, born Sunday (11).
Edward Jentz of Film Distributors Audit
Co.. New York, was on the Row several days
working at the Kay and Dixie Films exchanges
. new owner of the Mabon
Theatre in Pickens. Miss., is L. E. Ginn.
William Gargan in 'Secrets'
William Gargan has been handed the starring
in
spot Ei-onel Productions' "The Argle
Secrets." Cyril Endfield. who wrote the
vrill original screenplay, direct this Film
Classics picture.
»oaooooooeo:)
DISTRIBUTORS OF
STRONG LAMPS
SNAPLITE LENSES
VOCALITE SCREENS
GRIGGS OPERA CHAIRS
CENTURY PROJECTORS
BALLANTYNE SOUND EQUIPMENT
GREAT NAT'L AIR CONDITIONING
Expert Repairing Over 30 Years
Satisfaction Guaranteed •
JOHN HABDIN. SOLE OWNER
V^ardin

. . Two
SAN ANTONIO
Jorge Velez, Mexican film star, and his wife
* have purchased a house and property at
Port Isabel, Tex., and are making their home
in this bayside city, it was reported here.
Mrs. Velez is the widow of the late Maximino
Camacho, brother of ex-President
Avila Camacho of Mexico . of the
dailies have new dramatic reviewers. John
Peters is with the Morning Express and Lou
Bailey with the Evening News.
Joe M. Estes, former actor, film salesman
and press agent, is now promoting a girls
baseball team. Joe is now inviting epicures
out to his country place, known as the Last
Laff Ranchero, to take part in a hunt for
softshell armadillos. Estes vows they are
. .
tastier eating than chicken . A. C. Lyles.
Paramount exploiteer, is expected here to
'pifdrtdd^e^
Buying
WWa
'nited fheatres
S E II % I 1 E « O U P O R .\ T 1 O N
308 S. Harwood St.
put on a campaign for "Albuquerque," which
opens at the Majestic February 5 . . . Actress
Faye Emerson and her husband, Elliott
Roosevelt, were in town for a brief visit
with friends. They were en route to Hyde
Park after visiting relatives in Beaumont
and Fort Worth.
The National will be turned over to the
Mexican Chamber of Commerce for a midnight
show January 31 in behalf of the
March of Dimes . . . W. C. O'Hare, 56, manager
of the Texas here in the Publix days,
died at his residence. At the time of his
death he was owner of the American Freedom,
monthly publication.
Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Lucchese are on their
annual trip to Mexico City. The head of
the International Amusement Enterprise and
his wife will be away six weeks and will also
visit Acapulco and Guadalajara. They wiU
fly from Mexico to Guatemala and Yucatan
before retm-ning home about February 24.
Lucchese was recently re-elected a director
of Boysville.
Ernest Hauser, house manager of the Josephine,
was stricken with a heart attack
while serving on the jury here last week.
He told the court it came from lack of proper
rest and sleep . . . Maurice Gleaves, managing
director of the Texas, is one of the
chairmen for the March of Dimes drive. The
goal here has been set for $100,000. January
30 will be Interstate Theatres day, with all
theatres participating.
J. Tom Jackson, who has the Rogue and
Linda in Eden, was in town to contract for
Mexican pictures . . . Others here for the
same purpose were Mr. and Mrs. Miguel
Benitez and son, Weslaco; Ignacio Luna,
Crystal City; B. M. Silvas, Carrizo Springs;
Mr. and Mrs. Gustavo Lavenant and daughter,
Dilley; Ester R. Ruenes, San Benito;
Mr. and Mrs. David Young jr. and daughter,
Brownsville . . . Joe White, erstwhile manager
of the Wade, Dallas, is in the city with
his wife. He is seeking a connection with
either a theatre or night club as actor or
manager.
"Shebe" Woolsey and his stage attraction,
which just closed an engagement at the
Capitol, Austin, will play several other dates
in Texas for Interstate . . . Velos & Yolanda,
dancing stars, are booked for the Paramount,
Austin, February 3. They are scheduled for
appearances in other cities in the Lone Star
state at increased admission, reserved seat
prices.
CARPET
.
Clasa-Mohme is now distributing 16mm
Pedro Ai-mendariz, featured in
films . .
"The Fugitive," was back in the Alamo City
to make personal appearance at the Texas
Saturday and Sunday. The Mexican film
star is a native Texan . . . J. D. Trammell,
manager of the West in George West, had
as his weekend visitor, Roland Taylor, MGM
salesman from Dallas.
Juan R. Garza, 72, who was connected in
the operation of the Obrero, Pi-ogreso and
New Follies, passed away here recently . . .
Sympathy to Ernest "Frenchy" Biencourt.
who lost his wife here last month. She was
in her 60th year. "Frenchy" is head of the
local stagehands union.
. . . Lena Montes,
Gustavo Lavenant, who owns and operates
the Haydee in Dilley, recently remodeled his
house inside and out. Some of the improvements
include new Neon lighting system and
Hermanda Luedesma, Argentina
new seats . . .
and Mexican film star, is making
personal appearances in the Lower Rio
Grande valley theatres
We have a large stock on hand
ready for immediate delivery.
Several patterns from which to select.
All special theatre designs by Mohawk and Leedon Mills.
Samples on request.
Complele Theatre Equipment & Supplies
Modern Theatre Equipment Co.
214 South St. Paul St.
Phone R-5009
DALLAS (1), TEXAS
BOXOFFICE ;: January 24, 1948

. . Rin
. . San
whose latest Azteca Film release is "Ella."
is in Texas to do a series of stage engagements
with Pituka Tefornda, who also plays
in Latin American pictures. Both are reported
doing record business during their
circuitous journey through the southwest.
Red River Dave, Universal western star.
and his troupe, appeared on the stage of the
Palace, Fredericksburg . Antonio theatremen
have forbidden local youngsters
from bringing cap pistols into their theatres.
"Little Buckaroos" now have to check their
"shooting irons" at the door before entering.
H. Mitchell Co., was making inquiries as to
Clasa-Mohme's new 16mm Spanish language
Mexican films.
Pedro Armendariz, Mexican picture star
who recently completed a personal appearance
tour in the Rio Grande Valley, was
on the Aztec stage here recently in connection
with his latest RKO release, "The
Fugitive," which was filmed in Mexico by
Paramount's "Road to Rio"
. . John Ford
brought
.
long queues to the Majestic New
Year's day. The line, a half block long, extended
down the street as far as the Elmpire
Theatre Bldg.
Southerin Sales & Service Co. on Soledad
street recently put in a line of 16mm
films and projectors.
New seats, Neon marquee lights and other
improvements were installed in the Haydee
Theatre at Dilley . . . Recent visitors here
were Tom Bridge, Paramount exchange, San
Francisco; Joe Lopez, Lopez Hall, Charlotte,
and Art Huseman, Visual Aids. Harlingen.
To Create Musical Score
David Buttolph has been commissioned to
create the original musical score for Warners'
"To the Victor." Delmer Daves directed
and Jerry Wald produced.
HOUSTON
pedro Armendariz, Mexican star, will appear
in person at the Metropolitan on the
opening day of his la 'est picture, "The Fugitive"
. . . Audrey Totter, fast-rising Hollywood
star, will make a personal appearance at
Loew's State next week. She is making a
swing around the country in connection with
the showing of "High Wall." Houston wUl be
her last stop before she returns to the coast.
A short film showing how Jack Roach, big
game hunter, bagged the 1,800-pound bear on
display in Oshman's Outdoor store was
screened at the Music Hall January 21. plus
several other films, including an Alaska big
game hunt made by Jack Lamb . . . Charles
Rashall will be chief announcer of KLEE, new
5,000-wa't Houston .station. He comes from
Ogden, Utah.
Jeanette MacDonald will present a program
designed for her stage and screen admirers
at the city auditorium January 28. After five
years absence from the screen. Miss Mac-
Donald has just completed an MGM picture,
"Three Darling Daughters." She is on her
first American tour since 1945. This concert
is her third personal appearance in Houston.
Janie Ford, Houston songstress, recently
featured as the "red-headed sweetheart of
Broadway." will be heard on a series of NBC
shows at 9 p. m. Wednesdays and 2 p. m.
Sundays . Tin Tin III appeared on the
stage of the Kirby Theatre with his trainer,
Lee Duncan, for five performances. They are
making a tour all over the country with their
picture, "The Return of Rin Tin Tin."
Eddie Barr, former public relations man for
RKO in the midwest, has recently been appointed
to the staff of Ray Kornegay and
Associates, public relations agency.
BOXOFHCE :
: January 24, 1948 SW
Oklcdiomon's Story Bought
By Warner Bros. Studio
OKLAHOMA CITY— Bill Gulick, son of
Dr. and Mrs. G. C. Gulick, Oklahoma City,
has sold the picture rights to "Squaw Fever"
to Warner Bros. The story was published
last April in the Saturday Evening Post.
It was Gulick's first sale to that magazine.
It is also his first sale to a film company.
Gulick is a graduate of Oklahoma university
in Norman and now lives in Tacoma,
Wash.
Paul Ketchum Opens
Texarkana Oaklawn
TEXARKANA—The new Oaklawn Theatre
on highway 82 at Robison road opened here
recently. The theatre cost approximately
$140,000 and has a seating capacity
of 1.000. It is equipped with two cry rooms.
Paul Ketchum, is the owner and manager,
and Clyde Hannon, assistant manager.
Bryan Burns to Launch Gem Jake Sells Reopens Alamo
SNYDER, OKLA.—Bryan Burns is opening
the Gem Theatre February 1, making a second
house for this town. Burns was a showman
in Snyder many years ago and is reopening
a theatre that has been closed.
Intrease your "take" in
HIGGENS, TEX.—Jake Sells has reopened
the Alamo Theatre here. The house was
destroyed last spring when a tornado ripped
the town apart. Sells built a new structure
for his theatre. It seats 350 persons.
'48 with
HEW DlVRY "High Fidelity"
New DeVry ampliiiers incorporate all latest
proven electronic developments essential
lor true-to-lile. humless sound reproduction.
They are wired and mounted to
cabinets so that any unit can be easily,
quickly removed ior servicing or replacement
in a matter of seconds.
Sound Systems
IMMEDIATE DELIVERY
NO INCREASE IN PRICE
DeVRY dual channel
40 WATT AMPLIFIERS
Utilizes twro 200-wfatl power ampliiiers, supplying 20
wratls independently or 40 watts in conjunction.
Separate
high and 'ow frequency compensation controls
give corrections for all types of operating conditions.
Frequency range from 40 to 10,000 cycles. Built to give
year after year efficient, trouble-free operation.
80 Watt Amplifiers also available
PRE -AMPLIFIERS
With each DeVRY 40 or 80
watt amplifier are furnished,
upon request, two
matched Pre-Amplifiers. A
combination of the above
with a 9-volt DeVRY Exciter
Supply Rectifier will
replace any type or make
sound system used in
theatres today.
Enjoy "Nature Reel" Sound with a DeVRY Exciter Lamp Rectifier
With increased speaker system efficiency, it is vital that
hum-free direct current be supplied to the Exciter Lamp.
Unit supplies hum-free direct current to any type Exciter
Lamp where wattage does not exceed 45 waf.s.
NOW AT YOUR THEATRE SUPPLY DEALER
SHREVEPORT 72. LOUISIfl
Alon
Boyd
OALUS 1,
Associated
TEXAS
Industries
306 S. Pearl Street
Ri«erside 6110
for the Perfect Show ^c
1 I ^%..M. r
Indoors or Out " g«^^* DeYry

. . . Word
. . . The
. . H.
DRIVE-IN ASS'N OFFICERS—With the intention of expanding nationally, a
group of Texans organized the Drive-In Theatre Owners Ass'n at Austin recently. The
officers, left to right: Arthur Landsman. San Antonio, secretary -treasurer; Eddie
Joseph, Austin, president: C. A. Richter, Corpus Christi. and William Morrow, Longview,
vice-presidents.
Loewenstein's House
Marks Its 35lh Year
OKLAHOMA CITY—The Majestic Theatre,
owned by Morris Loewenstein. celebrated its
35th year in business January 17. The Majestic
Is probably the only piece of downtown
property that has been in continuous family
operation for so long.
The late Isaac Loewenstein, father of Morris,
purchased the property in May 1889. He
conducted a meat market there until about
1907. In 1909 he leased the property for theatre
purposes. It was an Inter-State vaudeville
house, an affiliate of the Texas circuit.
The Loewensteins took over the operation
Jan. 14, 1914, and have operated the house
ever since.
Isaac Loewenstein died in 1933 and Morris
has continued to operate the show.
Sam Landrum Is Elected
Jefferson Vice-President
DALLAS—Sam Landrum. in charge of
buying and booking here for the Jefferson
Amusement Co., was appointed vice-president
at a recent directors meeting at the
home office in Beaumont. Julius Gordon
and S. L. Oakley of Beaumont, president
and vice-president, respectively, were reelected.
Landrum was a fellow law student with
Gordon In the graduating class at Texas
university. Gordon w^ent to work for the
circuit and Landrum opened a law office in
his home town, Marlin. later joining the FBI
for five years, Gordon became president of
Jefferson on the death of his father, the
late Sol Gordon, and offered his former
classmate a job, which was accepted in 1939.
Landrum worked at the home office for a
time and was later transferred to Dallas.
PROJECTION and
SOUND EQUIPMENT
IS STANDARD THE WORLD OVER
for
DRIVE-INS as well as the REGULAR INDOOR
THEATRES
Roy Rogers Winds Up
Stay in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY—Roy Rogers and Dale
Evans left the city Sunday night (18 1 for
California after spending all but five days
of their honeymoon on the Flying L ranch
near Davis. The couple visited Dale's relatives
in Texas for five days last week.
Before their departure, Rogers purchased
a couple more coon dogs to take to his California
ranch. He named them after his
Oklahoma hosts, BUI and Alice Likins.
Governor and Mrs. Roy Turner entertained
the couple at dinner in the mansion Saturday
night to climax their honeymoon
which started New Year's eve after a western-style
nuptial service at the Flying L
ranch.
Rogers is to start work on a new picture
in March. Dale doesn't know anything about
her next picture.
More Oklahoma City
Items
Margaret Stricklin is the new availability
clerk and stenographer at Eagle Lion . . .
A. J. Lynn, EL booker, and Johnnie Hart,
office manager, flew a print to Cordell recently
in Cecil Wells' plant. Hart did the
piloting . . . Marcheta Pickney, Monogram
cashier, has t>een ill.
Houston Bums of Apache, a Row visitor,
was telling showpeople how much his mother-in-law,
Mrs. Lula Goff, Mena, Ark., enjoyed
her recent visit to the Row and the
Variety Club as his guest. She is 73. Mrs.
Goff is the aunt of Chester Goff who is
Abner of the Lum and Abner radio team.
Burns owns the Ritz at Fletcher, the Majestic
at Temple, the Opera House at Apache,
the Rio at Grandfleld and the Ritz at
Eldorado.
Coupons on the Manley popcorn machine
or one $1,000 bond, to be given away April 3
by the Oklahoma Variety Club, will cost
$1 each. All proceeds will go to the club's
charity fimd.
On the Row Monday were J. Rudolph
Smith, Mt. View; Waite Kerr, Sulphur: A. L.
Sigmund, Lexington; Mrs. Margaret Zimmerman,
Leedy; John Terry, Perry; Maurice
Hammons, Wister; Eugene Martin, Snyder,
and John Thomas, Kingfisher.
Mrs, Joan Olson is a new general clerk
and receptionist at the Warner exchange . . .
Mrs. Vi Skelton is back at work in the
Warner branch office after a week's illness
is that C. J. Travis has sold his
theatre in Hydro. No further information
is available . . . Paul Rice, Paramount booker,
has a new son, born January 19.
Mr. and Mrs. Eldon Peek of OTS are back
from Kansas City, where they spent a few
days visiting Jack O'Brien, sales manager
for the RCA theatre equipment section, and
Russ Little, head of the engineering products
department for RCA, both of Camden,
N. J.
SOUTHWESTERN THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO.
2010 Jackson St.
DALLAS 1, TEXAS
Tel: Central 8579
1416 Main St.
HOUSTON 2, TEXAS
Tel: Capitol 990G
Mrs. Helen Harrison is a new Independent
poster employe . C. Buck Weaver,
Paramount branch manager, was made a
Rotary club member January 20. At the
same time he joined the club's bowUng team
Paramount bowling squad is tied
with three other teams for first place in the
Merchants league. Paramount bowlers, all
employes of the branch, are Weaver, Paul
Rice, Eugene Jacobs, Berlin Parks, Slim Johnson
and George Freidel.
90-B BOXOFFICE :: January 24, 1948

: January
'Albuquerque' to Dot
Southwest After Bow
OKLAHOMA CITY—When the world premiere
of Albuquerque" is held in Albuquerque.
N. M., February 2. C. H. Buck
Weaver. Sam Brunk and Tom McKean, all
of Paramount here, will be in attendance.
This film will play day-and-date in numerous
situations in the southwest immediately following
the premiere.
Chicago Parents Using
Shows as Baby-Sitters
r-3m Cenlral Edition
CHICAGO—Chicago's motion picture theatres
rapidly are becoming substitutes for
baby-sitters, Mrs. Ruth Biedermann. supervisor
of the city's poUcewomen and matrons,
disclosed. She said there is an increase in
the number of complaints that youngsters
are attending motion pictures at late hours
without adult escorts. "Some parents take
their youngsters to a cinema in the early
afternoon and instruct them to remain there
all afternoon and evening." Mrs. Biedei-mami
said.
She reported that the citys 70 pohcewomen
have been instructed by her to exert every
precaution to apprehend young boys and girls
who are present in motion picture theatres
at late hours without proper adult escorts.
She said such vigilance is necessary to prevent
the youngsters from falling into the
company of undesirable persons. When policewomen
locate boys or girls who are alone
in a theatre late at night, the youngsters
are taken into custody and an attempt is
made to locate their parents. If the policewomen
cannot find the parents, the children
are taken to the juvenile home until
the parents are notified. No arrests are made
in connection with these cases. Mrs. Biedermann
said, but the parents are warned that
they should exercise closer supervi-sion over
their children.
Lawton Ritz Will Present
Bowl Films Full Week
LAWTON, OKLA.—A two-reeler of the
Little Rose Bowl football game between
Cameron Junior college of La-wton and
Chaffey college of Pasadena—filmed at the
jtmior college classic December 5 in California—will
be shown in the Ritz here a
full week, according to officials of Southwestern
Theatres Co.
Circuit officials, including H. R. Falls,
H. E. McKenna and E. L. Walker, have invited
the Cameron college president, the
coach and other dignitaries to attend the
showing. The print will be given to the
college library folio-wing its run in the Ritz.
The Ritz recently presented a free kiddy
morning show which lined 'em up for blocks.
The house seats 1,200 and 1,800 children
came and were admitted. Each child was
given a free bag of popcorn. Falls reported
that the show was packed to the rafters.
The children were lined up four blocks down
the street for the opening. A western film
and some shorts were shown.
National Screen to Hold
Regional Meet in Dallas
DALLAS-National Screen Service will
have a regional sales meeting here starting
February 22. using facilities of both the
Baker and Adolphus hotels. Representatives
from the Dallas. New Orleans, Memphis and
Oklahoma City as well as home office officials
will attend.
New 400-Seater Launched
In Anthony. Near El Paso
ANTHONY, TEX.-N. M.-James Dodd and
Helen Mitchell have opened their new 400-
seat Anthony Theatre in this border town.
They are also owners and operators of the
Mission Theatre in nearby El Paso.
HERBER
SOUND
with the quality of
"IN-PERSON PERFORMANCE"
FOR GREATER LISTENING PLEASURE
HARDIN THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
714 So. Hampton Rd. Dallaa, Texas
ALL KINDS OF THEATRE EQUIPMENT
PARTS FOR ALL MAKES OF PROJECTORS
WENZEL
PROJECTORS
ARE PROVEN
Install a Pair Now.
Price Is Moderate.
The
BROTHERS
"Fair Treatment and Adequate Service for 25 Years"
408 S. HAHWOOD DALLAS 1, TEXAS
LET
MANLEY
PUT YOU ON
VELVET
KL Wa'arner
Divisional Manager
>
302 S. Harwood St. Dallas, Texas C-7536
BOXOFFICE ;
24. 1948
90.C

« ^
U
Plec^sei
I
MARCH
OF DIMES
JANUARY 15-30
FIGHT
INFANTILE
PARALYSIS
THE NATIONAL FOUNDATION FOR INFANTILE PARALYSIS
FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, FOUNDER
90-D BOXOFFICE :: January 24. 19481]

?l«"j'_t'I'S^°^^uiid
1400-Seal Shoals
FLORENCE, ALA. — Louis Rosenbaum,
operator of Muscle Shoals Tlieatres, has announced
that he has received a CPA permit
for immediate construction of the Shoals Theatre,
a 1,400-seat house here. Approximate
cost of the theatre was given as $225,000 for
the building only, not including equipment.
Television facilities will be installed as soon
as available In this territory.
Rosenbaum also operates several other
theatres, including the Princess here, the
Colbert and Ritz in Sheffield, and the Strand
in Tuscumbla.
Foundation and basement of the new theatre
were completed under a permit granted
some time ago. The building will be the
largest in the state north of Birmingham. Of
brick construction, it will have stone, marble
and aluminum trim. It will be fireproof and
air conditioned.
The outer lobby will have a terrazzo floor
and Indirect fluorescent lighting, as will the
inner lobby and the auditorium. The inner
lobby will have an acoustical ceiling and the
auditorium will have acoustical walls and
ceiling.
A New York firm will decorate the auditorium.
Daniel Construction Co.. Birmingham,
has the general contract.
Jean Tarlow Goes North
On Booking Expedition
SAFETY HARBOR. FLA.—Jean Tarlow,
new owner-manager of the Harbor Theatre,
has returned from New York City and Atlanta,
where she has been negotiating for
better films for her theatre. Miss Tarlow
was formerly manager of three theatres in
Brooklyn. Six weeks ago she became manager,
having purchased the theatre from
Paul Rubenstein. Since becoming manager
Miss Tarlow has had considerable redecorating
done, and made arrangements for
adequate parking space. The present schedule
calls for one show each night. Later
she expects to add a Sunday matinee.
Myron Meyer, Malco Aide,
Dies of Heart Ailment
MEMPHIS—Myron Meyer, 32, one time
manager of the Malco Theatre and longtime
employe there, died at his home here Saturday
(17i. Meyer had had a chronic heart
ailment for many years but had continued
at his work most of the time. He had taken
part in numerous amateur theatricals in
Memphis and had a hot music recording collection
that is said to be the finest In this
section.
John D. Lowrv Now Owns
Bentonville Theatres
BENTONVILLE. ARK.—John D. Lowrjhas
purchased the Royal and Plaza theatres
here from Charles B. Craig, including buildings
and all equipment, at a reported price
of $78,000. Craig purchased the Plaza from
WiUiam F. Sonneman of Fayette, Ark., after
having operated it several years, and later
acquired the Royal.
Frederick M. Heaton Dies
MEMPHIS—Frederick Mortimer Heaton.
retired advertising and publicity man who
was well known in theatrical circles, died
January 13 at Kennedy hospital after a long
illness. He was 69. Heaton was advance
man for Ringling Bros.-Barnum & Bailey
circus for many years. He once worked for
General Outdoor Advertising Co. here.
]2 Drive-Ins, 5 Quonsets
Planned by Jenner-Ames
Tavares Washington Trip
Wins Approval for Theatre
TAVARES, FLA.—Local citizens did not sit
quietly by after the plan to have a modern
theatre in the town was balked by housing
authorities in Washington. The local chamber
of commerce appointed a committee to go
to Washington and see what firsthand pleading
would do.
This week Paul Shelley, secretary to Sen.
Holland in Washington, wired C. E. Duncan
here that the appUcation had been granted
and that a formal permit would be issued
within a short time.
Hugh G. Martin, manager of M&M Theatres,
who wanted to build the house some
time ago. has announced that construction
will be started within 90 days. Tavares, although
it is the Lake county seat and has a
trading area of more than 5.000 persons, does
not have a motion picture theatre. Residents
must go to Leesburg, Eustis or Mount
Dora to see a picture.
Howell Hopson has been appointed architect
for the 550-seater.
'State Inspector' Dupes
Birmingham Manager
BIRMINGHAM—A man identified as R. L.
Jones. 34. of Selma, has been arrested here
on complaint of Harry W. Roberts, Birmingham
Theatre manager, who charged that he
had impersonated an assistant deputy state
fire marshal. Roberts was quoted as saying
that Jones came to the theatre December 29
and introduced himself as a fire marshal.
The next day he returned, "Inspected" the
fheatre and borrowed $5 because he had run
.short of money. He is said to have returned
twice later, borrowing $30 on one occasion
and asking Roberts to cash a $25 check on
another. Police said Jones is not on the state
payroll.
Television Demonstrations
Create Interest in Atlanta
ATLANTA—First television demonstraMons
by Atlanta's WAGA started this week at
J. P. Allen's department store. A continuous
performance on the television screen from 9
a. m. to 4 p. m. stopped store traffic as sales
girls as well as customers watched the new
medium work. Television demonstrations will
continue at Allen's alpo and wi'l move to
Davidson-Paxon, Inc. Plans are being made
for program operations on WAGA's television
station to start wi'hin six or eight months.
Over-all cost of the prolect is estimated at
$500,000, which will include latest station and
studio equipment available.
200 in Savannah Theatre
When Fire Breaks Out
SAVANNAH—The historic Savannah Theatre,
built In 1818. was struck by a fire recently
which drove approximately 200 patrons
from the auditorium. The fire broke
out in the ceiling at a late show. There was
no panic, and the patrons filed out in pood
order. Although the Savannah was designed
for legitimate attractions, it has been playing
motion pictures for some years.
COLUMBUS, GA. — Jenner-Ames Enterprises
of Columbus, operators of a drive-in
theatre here, are planning construction of a
string of 12 drive-ins and five quonset-type
indoor theatres in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi
and Louisiana, it was announced here
by J. Edward Jenner.
Locations have been selected and lots
secured, and construction of the drive-ins will
start in the next several weeks, Jenner said.
He expects to have the theatres in operation
by spring. Each will cost from $50,000 to $100.-
000. Locations will be announced as construction
work starts, he said.
The quonset theatres will be built in Georgia
and Alabama and two of them will be for
Negro patronage, Jenner announced. He expects
construction to start in the late spring
so the theatres can be put into operation by
the fall of this year.
In addition, Jenner said, the Columbus
drive-in theatre will be completely remodeled
and enlarged and new equipment will be installed.
Seek Injunction to Stop
Drive-In at Knoxville
KNOXVILLE—An injunction restraining
Gene Monday, real estate operator, and
Drive-In Theatres, Inc., of Montgomery, Ala.,
from constructing an open air theatre near
Kingston pike is being sought in chancery
court here.
The injunction petition was filed bv a group
of neighborhood residents who complain that
noise and lights from the theatre would be
objectionable to them. The site, they contend,
heretofore has beon regarded as land
suitable for and intended to be residential
property.
Monday said he has no interest in the
proief^t beyond the lease to the comoany,
which provides that there will be no loudsneaker,
but onlv in-car sneakers which can
be heard only a few feet from the car.
"The place will be onen about May and can
ooerpte the year around because car windows
of natrons can be keot closed," Monday said.
"Grading has started for the bnwl of six or
seven acres and it will be asphalted, with the
bottom 12 to ?0 feet below the street level.
There will be 200 feet of shrubbery in front."
According to the petition, the project contemplates
parking space for 511 cars.
Seeks Tallahassee Site
For Drive-In Theatre
TALLAHASSEE. FLA.—Tallahassee will
pet a drive-in theatre if the nrospe'-tive
builder can find a suitable location. J. E.
Aaron of Orlando, who wants to build the
theatre, ao^eared before the county commission
to discuss zoning regulations on several
nrosneftive sites. He wants to check
carefully with the commissioners before purchasing.
Aaron said his nroiect would reouire
about 25 acres of land, well outside
the city, but on a paved road.
Acquires Vidalia Site
VTDALIA. OA—Drive-In Theatres. Inc.,
headed hv M F. B'-ice. has a'-aui'-ed nroner'y
on the Vidalia -Lvons •-oad for construction of
a drive-in theitre. The lavout will be desis-ned
and built by Roy Runyan of Dayton.
Ohio.
BOJtOFFlCE
: : January 24, 1948
SE
91

. . . Betty
. , Terry
. . Minnie
. . Harry
. . . Vaughn
. . McGrath
RUGGED
RECKLESS
DAVE
fT*Mf
iOBRIEN
tnt'
^^S/
MEMPHIS
phil Longdon of Dallas, 20th-Fox southwest
district manager, is making a tour of the
territory served by this exchange city with
Tom Young, local manager . . . R. V. Reagin,
RKO manager, was in Little Rock on business
. Turner, head of the RKO
publicity department, was here a few days.
Fred Ford, who handles the company's publicity
here and New Orleans, showed him
around.
N. B. Blount, Monarch Theatre Supply
Co. manager, was in Cleveland, Miss., on
bu.siness . . S. M. Perrin, salesman for
Monarch, stationed at Little Rock, was a
visitor
. . . Ditto Doak Roberts, Warner
manager.
district
Midsouth exhibitors booking and shopping
on Filmrow included Emma Cox, Gem and
Joy, Osceola: W. B. McFarland, Missouri,
Hornersville: J. C. Mohrstadt, Missouri at
Campbell, Palmer and Hayti and the Joy at
Hayti: P. E. Morris, Regent and Honey, Indianola:
C. J. Collier. Globe atf Drew and
Shaw and Delta at Ruleville.
Also Owen Burgiss, Gem at Brownsville
and Jackson: Moses Sliman, Lux, Luxora:
Jack Stegar, Palace, Tunica: Bill Kroeger,
Shannon and Maxon, Portageville: Gordon
Hutchins, State and Dixie, Corning: Horace
Stanley, Radio, Beebe: and Mrs. J. C. Noble,
Hollendale at Hollendale and Temple at
Leland.
Ellis auditorium has "Holiday on Ice
scheduled for January 27-February 4 . .
Audrey Totter, MGM star, was scheduled
for personal appearances at Loew's State
January 22 in connection with the opening
of her latest picture, "High Wall" . . .
Violinist Rubinoff will be presented at Ellis
March 3. Fred Ford, RKO publicist, who
handles New Orleans and Memphis, has just
returned from a business trip to Knoxville
and Chattanooga.
.
Charles A. McElravy, veteran showman
and manaeer of Ellis auditorium, reports
Tallulah Bankhead will appear at Ellis
Aoril 16. 17 in "Piivate Lives" . . Harlem
Theatre, Union City, Tenn., has been closed
for 60 days by Robert Kilgore, owner, for
remodeling Epting, air conditioning
engineer, Dallas, was at the local
office of National Theatre Supply Co.
Jimmy Rodgers, former Columbia manager,
who is now in the concrete block business
in Florida, was a visitor on Filmrow
. . . Shirley Uth, 20th-Fox assistant cashier,
has resigned to enter college at Oxford.
Miss., and has been succeeded by Mrs. Sue
Eubanks, who was promoted from' booking
stenographer.
Maxine Gaulding, RKO biller, has resigned
to move to California . . . Paramount's
manager L. W. McClintock announced trade
screenings of "Albuquerque" January 19, and
"Saigon" February 2 at the screening room
Monroe, the "moon song" maestro,
will bring his orchestra to Warner Theatre
for a one-day engagement February 16,
James McCarthy, manager, announced. It
will be Warners first stage show in many
years.
New house records were set at the Malco
with "Road to Rio." Manager Jack Tunstill
reported the first week of the picture
topped the first week of the previous recordholder,
"The Egg and I." Incidentally
a baby girl, Lynn Brice, has been born at
Methodist hospital to Jack and Mrs. Tunstill.
They have one other child, Jackie,
aged 3.
.
Joe Simon, city manager for Flexer TTieatres,
had a big week when three .old
friends of Ringling Bros.-Barnum & Bailey
circus— Bill McGrath, Joe Agree and Specks
Cauton—were visitors in town. All three are,
now with Gene Autry is in'
charge of tickets, Agree, trainer of Gene's
horse Champion, and Caut8n in charge of
concessions. Simon was with the circus for
20 years.
Harry Martin, amusements editor of the
Commercial Appeal and president of the
American Newspaper Guild, will be in New
York January 19 through February 5 as a
press adviser on freedom of the press for
United Nations.
New Seats Are Installed
In lasper, Fla., Theatre
JASPER, FLA.—After being closed for repairs
and the installation of new seats, the
Fay Theatre has again opened. Manaeer J.
Biddle said further improvements will be
made later, but that these will not interfere
with operation of the theatre.
To Dedicate UM Rooms
CORAL GABLES — The new memorial
classroom building on the main camnus of
the University of Miami is to be dedicated
this week. The building contains 56 class
rooms, most of which have been donated by
interested individuals. Sidney Meyer and
Mitchell Wolfson of the Wometco Theatre
chain are doners of one room.
Patricia Seruggs, telephone operator and
stenographer at 20th-Fox. has resigned to
work for her father, and Georgia Lewis,
stenographer for the compnny, also has resigned
. . . Mrs. Ann Williams, PeerWfes
Printing Co., is ill at St. Joseph's hospital
Hobart is the new receotionist
at RKO . Keel, head shipper.
Warner Bros., went to Covington. Tenn.. to
attend the funeral of her brother . . . 'Virginia
Redmond is the new booking stenographer
at Paramount.
Other midsouth exhibitors visiting Filmrow
included K. H. Kinney, Havs, Hughes:
J. W. Seay, Grand. Caldwell; Terry Axley,
New, England: J. F. Adams, Tate, Coldwater:
Dwight Blissard, Okolona, Okolona:
J. R. Adams, Von. Boon°ville: Mrs. L. B.
Helums. Delta, Lambert: W. L. Moxley. Mox.
Blytheville: Roy Cochran. Juroy, North Little
Rock: J. C. Bonds Jr.. Von, Hernando,
and Fitz Farris, Harlem, Clarksdale.
Tri-State Theatre Service & Supply
318 South Second Street
MEMPHIS 3. TENN.
EQUIPMENT — SUPPLIES
REPAIRS
92 BOXOFFICE

. . . Ben
. . . "Monsieur
. . The
. . Earl
BIRMINGHAM
Dill Coury, Temple manager, had to round up
a stage show in a hurry for the weekend
of January 15. Bastile, the magician, who was
to have provided the entire weekend show,
had much of his equipment destroyed wlien
his trailer caught fire near Concord, N. C.
Coui-y promptly booked Saul Grauman and
his "Stairway of Melody," which had scored
a hit on a holiday show here. The act had
completed an engagement at Hollywood
Country club here. Coury signed other acts
from as far away as Texas and New York.
USE BOXOFFICE ADS FOR RESULTS
The Temple, incidentally, has had little
luck in booking roadshow attractions this
season. "Song of Norway" had been booked
for March 15. 16 and "Private Lives" for April
14. Both have been canceled . Walker.
Alabama projectionist, enjoyed a reunion
with his brother Ralph when the Ballet Russe
troupe played here recently. Ralph Walker
is an electrician with the troupe. He was a
projectionist here at one time.
Abe Perlman, advance man for Edward
Small Productions, was here to arrange for
the showing of "T-Men" at the Melba January
29 . . . Other visitors were Nelson Toler
and H. M. Addison, both of EL. Addison also
was working on "T-Men" and on "Lost Honeymoon,"
which opened at the Melba January
22.
Russel Tyler, former opera,tor of the Highway
Theatre Co., has joined the staff of Queen
Feature Service. Tyler has had 14 year's experience
in the theatre business. His company
formerly operated theatres at Trussville,
Ashville and Springville. He has disposed of
his interest in these houses to J. A. Wilson,
of Dixiana. Ala.
Grady Johnson, a former Atlanta resident,
now publicist for Argosy Pictures, was here
helping Melba Manager Harry M. Curl on the
showing of "The Fugitive." Johnson went
from here to Miami to handle the campaign
at the Embassy and Variety theatres there,
and was scheduled to visit New Orleans later
Butler, MGM, was another visitor in
the city . . . "Golden Earrings," "Dishonored
Lady," and "Intrigue" are among the Ritz
Theatre bookings for February.
John W. Douglas, assistant general manager
of Acme Theatres, has recovered from
an attack of flu . . . Miriam Jackson, daughter
of J. A. Jackson, Empire manager, has been
graduated from Ensley high school and will
enter Alabama college, Montevallo . . .
"Tycoon" lived up to expectations and held
for a third week at the Empire. "The Other
Love" went into a second week at the Capitol
after a week at the Melba . roadshow-
Ing of "Unconquered" got off to a good first
week start at the Ritz despite a cold wave,
which saw the thermometer dip tij p above
Verdoux" also found a good
reception as it opened at the Bii-mingham.
Martel Brett, band booker, has left on a
tliree-week motor trip that will take him to
the west coast. He is accompanied by his
wife, daughter and son.
^

'
in a matter ol secon
i
. . "Green
. . There's
. . Betty
. . Rosita
. . The
MIAMI
Conny Shepherd and Ned Schuyler gave a
•^ cocktail party for press and celebrities at
the Beachcomber, followed by a preview of
"The Senator Was Indiscreet," which opens
at the Miami and Lincoln on the 25th. Universal
newsreels were made of the event.
George Schaefer of Enterprise Pictures
has been in town, and as a result the world
premiere of "Arch of Ti-iumph" may be held
here at the Lincoln, scene of so many premieres
in the past. Ingrid Bergman and
Charles Boyer, stars of the picture, if plans
materialize, will be present to top off what
would be one of the most imoortant theatrical
events of the season. When Schaefer
boarded the plane for New York, he was
escorting a flock of this area's most famed
delicacies, .stone crabs.
Increase your
NEW DeVRY
take' in
Ed Sullivan has returned to New York
where he will round up some name columnists
for a trip here in behalf of the Heart
Fund drive in February. Bill Corum, Bugs
Baer, Dan Parker, Louis Sobol, Earl Wilson
and Danton Walker are possibilities . . .
Jack Cole, who planned some of the choreography
for Columbia and MGM musicals,
is appearing locally.
.
"Gentleman's Agreement," a holiday opener
here, was still going strong with showings
at the Capitol and Cameo. It was headed
its for 300th performance and has played
to more than 112,150 Miamians . . "Cap-
tain From Castile" was to follow at the
Cameo and also open at the Miami and
Lincoln Dolphin Street" opened
at the Paramount and Beach. All of which
'48 with
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80 Watt Amplifiers also available
PRE -AMPLIFIERS
With each DeVRY 40 or 80
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upon request, two
matched PreAmpliliers. A
combination of the above
with a 9-volt DeVRY Exciter
Supply Rectilier will
replace any type or make
sound system used in
theatres today.
adds up to a very high-class fare for the
official starting week of this resort's winter
season.
.
.
Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Meyer (he is the
Wometco co-owner) attended the opening
of the Hialeah racing season Sidney
Meyers entertained with a large party
at the Colonial Inn, in honor of Mr. Meyer's
mother, Emma, who celebrated her 84th
birthday Smith, author of "A
Tree Grows in Brooklyn," is vacationing in
Miami Beach after selling her newest, "Tomorrow
Will Be Better," also with a Brooklyn
locale, to MGM.
George Bourke printed a notice in his
column to the effect that he would like
to notify the couple who came out of the
Paramount the other night, saying that the
tenor voice in "My Wild Irish Rose" was
wonderful but wasn't Dennis Morgan's, to
know that it is Morgan's. Morgan, who used
to be Stanley Morner, sang in production
musicals for MGM.
Martha Stewart, who is here with her husband,
Joe E. Lewis, felt so sad about leaving
to make a personal appearance in St. Louis
that she prevailed on her 20th-Pox bosses
to cancel the plan.
The Olympia's impresario, Al Weiss, is
justly proud of the lineup of stars he'll play,
beginning with John Boles and continuing
with Bert Wheeler, Robert Alda, Alan Carney
and Del Casino, the two latter on the
same show ... It is expected that Morton
Downey will broadcast from the Roney
Plaza the week of April 12 during Variety's
International convention.
.
In the motion pictures of Miami's Orange
Bowl parade, the pretty girl in the closeup,
seated on the hobbyhorse in the Hialeah
float, is Shirley Ward, a senior at Edison
High and, according to local opinion, more
than apt to catch the eye of a Hollywood
scout a touch of the "season"
in Paramount's and Wometco's lead-off ad
paragraphs: "Miamians Know, Visitors Soon
Learn, Paramount Theatres Play the Best!
Miamians Know and Visitors Learn That
the Best Entertainment Is at Wometco
Theatres" Fernandez, who once
.
worked in the Cuban consulate here as a
stenographer, returned as an actress in "The
Fugitive" at the Embassy and Variety.
Tyrone Power and Cesar Romero are reported
due here soon as guests of Jack
Rudy
retired
Vallee's
Hollywood
father was
producer
included
.
in
. .
the
last few performances Vallee gave at a
local club ... A Spanish film, "Las Cinco
Advertencias de Satanas," was shown at the
University of Miami at a nominal admission
ARKANSAS
Enjoy "Nature Reel" Sound with a DeVRY Exciter Lamp Rectifier
With increased speaker system efficiency, if is vitaljjiat
hum-free direct current be supplied to the Exciter Lamp.
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NOW AT YOUii THEATRE SUPPLY DEALER
TENNESSEE

BOXOFHCE
. . Nicholas
IJ
•
charge. If successful the experiment will
be
repeated.
A phone call to Lana Turner, made by
George Bomke of the Herald, was refused
at MGM with the information that she's
been suspended . Schenck and
William F. Rodgers, MGM officials, were in
town and mighty happy over the success of
"Good News," 'Cass Timberlane" and
The Parkway,
"Green Dolphin Street" . . .
a Wometco house, was robbed recently by
yeggmen who seemed to have more brawn
than brains. The safe was battered but
it. the thieves were unable to open Instead,
they ransacked the office and made oft
with $3.40 from a change box.
George C. Hoover, general manager of
Paramount Enterprises, was administered the
oath as chief barker of Variety Tent 33 by
Charles Lewis, national officer of Variety,
at the installation dinner in the Alcazar
club rooms.
Harvey Fleischman of Wometco Theatres
said that the "Old Guard" fishing trip was
a lot of fun for the entertainment committee
it
while lasted, but all goad things
come to an end, including this dream of a
weekend in the Everglades. "The announcement
of this trip," says Fleischman, "was
greeted with stupendous silence from most
of the Old Guard. A few hardy souls
thought they might like to brave the rigors
of a night amidst the mosquitoes of Collier
county, but many more felt that the costs
involved, even though the organization was
paying a substantial portion, were too great."
At least that was a good excuse.
Close Imperial in Charlotte
For Complete Remodeling
CHARLOTTE — The Imperial Theatre
closed January 19 for complete remodernization.
Manager Glenn Grove said the theatre
will be closed for four or five weeks.
New seats will be installed and will be
spaced more widely apart than the ones now
in the theatre. There will be slightly less
than the former 950 seats when the modernization
has been completed.
A new marquee will be installed and the
front of the theatre will be widened. The
boxoffice wall be moved back in the foyer
which will be shortened through a change
in position of doors leading to the auditorium
and street. This will eliminate the
present tunnel effect of the foyer. The entire
theatre will be redecorated. New lighting
fixtures to provide for special effects
wUl be installed in the lobby. Artistic neon
tubing will be placed in the "Spanish Garden"
windows in the auditorium.
New Amusements Builds
Knoxville Neighborhood
KNOXVILLE—New Amusements Corp. is
building a de luxe neighborhood theatre at
the intersection of Broadway and Jacksboro
(Tazewell) pike, according to Walter Morris,
president. The theatre, which was designed
by Fred Manley, is being constructed by
Daughtery & Waters. It will seat between
900 and 1,000. The theatre will serve principally
Fountain City, Beverly, Harrill Hills,
Smithwood, Dutch Valley road, Washington
pike and county residents beyond Sharp's
Ridge and Black Oak Ridge. Parking space
is will be provided. The location served by
two bus lines. Morris has asked the people
of Knoxville and Knox county to submit
names for the house.
Garson in Comedy Portrayal
Greer Garson has been slated for a comedy
portrayal in her next picture Metro's "The
Saintly Miss Peters." which Paul Jones is to
produce.
:
: January 24, 1948
GAVEL TO NEW HANDS—Charles D.
Durmeyer, general manager of the Southem
Automatic Candy Co. and past chief
barker of the Atlanta Variety Club, hands
the gavel to E. E. Whitaker (left), new
chief barker, at installation ceremonies
held in the Atlanta BUtmore hotel.
Whitaker is associated with Georgia
Theatres Co.
HEY! Youse Guys That
Ain't Got MANLEYS!
Now that you have figured up your
sales and profits on pop com for 1947,
and have seen what you have missed,
why don't you "get right" in 1948 . . .
with a new Manley!
Come and See Us!
Write, phone or wire, and we'll be
there in a jiffy!
Z. C. (Curt) Shreve
Southeastern District Manager
ORE Again Rejects
Permit at Quincy
QUINCY, FLA.—The last of four applications
submitted to the Office of the Housing
Expediter in Washington to cover construction
of the proposed new Leaf Theatre
has been denied. AppUcation was made by
Interstate Enterprises. H. C. Davidson, manager
of the Shaw, also an Interstate house,
said that every effort had been made since
the project was started in August of last
year. Now everything seems to be at a
.standstill until controls expire. They automatically
end February 29 unless new legislation
is enacted to extend them.
Plans have been revised and altered several
times and then resubmitted to Washington
authorities in an attempt to get
approval.
Davidson explained that the ratio of seats
to the population has been the big stumbling
block around which there appeared to be
no road. The census figures of 1940 were
taken as a basis to figure population, overlooking
the tremendous increase in population
since that time. Furthermore, the
trading area of the surrounding territory was
ignored by Washington authorities, he said.
102 Cain St., N. W. CYpress 5116 Atlanta 3, Ga.
HANDY SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM
BOXOFFICE:
Please enter my subscription to BOXOFFICE, 52 issues per year (13 ol which contain
The MODERN THEATRE Section), including the NEW BOXOFFICE PICTURE
GUIDE, DATE & RECORD BOOK.
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95

Variety Seeks $50,000
At Miami Benefit Show
MIAMI—A goal of $50,000 has been set for
the Variety heart fund show of February U
at the Beach, a Paramount house, according
to William Shayne, who was appointed chairman
for the event by George C. Hoover, chief
barker of Tent 33. The show, to which admission
will be by invitation only, will be
made up of all the top talent playing in the
area on that date.
Shayne appointed as committee chairmen:
Talent, Jerry Hirsch; invitation and special
donation, Harry Saffer and Sig Elisbm-g; invitation
booth, Mrs. Harry Saffer; transportation,
Sonny Shepherd; finance, Sidney Meyer;
publicity, Tom Jefferson; poster and art. Jack
Clem: presentation and show, Don Lanning;
police escort and protection, Phil Short and
Frank Mitchell: candy donation, Carl Jamroga.
Invitations for the show are available
thi-ough Arthur Schwartz, manager of the
Beach, or Irwin Warren of the Variety Club.
Alabama TOMA Board
Airs Current Problems
BIRMINGHAM—Amusement taxes, Ascap
rates, building restrictions and participation
in the March of Dimes were among the topics
discussed when the Alabama Theatre Owners
and Managers Ass'n board met here Tuesday,
January 13.
The meeting was called by William R. Griffin
of the Lyric, Cullman, president, and T.
E. Watson, of the Strand, Montevallo, secretary-treasurer.
Other board members attending the meeting
were N. H. Waters sr., Waters Theatre Co.,
Birmingham, vice-president, and the following
directors; R. M. Kennedy. Wilby-Kincey
Theatres, Birmingham; W. S. Thornton.
Pastime, Carbon Hill; T. E. Orr, Amusement
Enterprises, Inc., Albertville; William E.
Cooper, Lyric, Prattville; Lester Neely sr..
Neely Theatres, Marion, and E. F. Ingram,
Lineville, Lineville.
For Sale
BuciiJiAN nmu
BUCHANAN, GA.
Selling Land, Building and
Complete Equipment
For
$16,00000
Phone, Wire or Write
For Coviplete Details
Half Cash to responsible party
i C.
Exclusive
COWLES
Agent
416 Peachtree Arcade Atlanta
PRIZE FOR HER ESSAY—Nell Blonnt,
manager of Monarch Theatre Supply Co.
in Memphis, is shown above presenting
a WTist watch to Mary Janet Ball, 9, winner
of the Lions club essay contest. Blount
is chairman of the Lions club youth activities
committee.
Judge Boyd Signs Papers
Ending Suit in Memphis
MEMPHIS, TENN.—Federal Judge Marion
S. Boyd recently signed an out-of-court agreement
which ended the $3,378,000 suit against
M. A. Lightman. Paul and W. F. Zerllla and
their associates and eight major film companies.
The suit was dismissed with prejudice,
which means that it cannot be refUed.
The suit, filed in federal court under the
Sherman and Clayton antitrust acts by a
group of neighborhood theatres in August
1946, chai'ged the defendants with operating
a monopoly on film distribution in Memphis.
Walter Armstrong jr. said the suit was settled
for a "substantial" sum. He is an attorney
for the plaintiffs.
The court agreement gave no details of
the new distribution plan for second run pictures
in Memphis which was worked out
among attorneys as part of the settlement
agreement. The suit was said to have been
settled for $200,000.
Baseball Players on Stage
To Plug 'Series Highlights'
CARROLLTON, ALA.—Two major league
baseball stars made a personal appearance
at the Palace Theatre here January 22 in
conjunction with a showing of "World Series
Highlights." The guests, who discussed the
1947 world series, were Dixie Walker and
Harry Walker. Dixie played with the Dodgers
in the series. He has signed a 1948 contract
with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His brother
Harry was 1947 National league batting champion
with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Anniston's New 'Voice'
ANNISTON, ALA.—The Calhoun Theatre
here has completed installation of a Voice
of the Theatre sound system. The installation
was made by Elmer Dedels, Birmingham,
Altec
representative.
Argosy lo Take Crew
To Miami for Film
MIAMI—Argosy Pictures is about to bring
to reality the dream of scores of Miamians
who would like to be in pictures. Director
John Ford and Merian C. Cooper, formerly
of Jacksonville and now president of Argosy,
plan to shoot backgrounds here for a South
Sea island picture called "Revenge," and will
use more than 200 local people in the cast.
Miamians lucky enough to snare a part in
the production, even though they merely
walk in front of the camera, would get a
minimum of $18 a day. If someone were extraordinarily
lucky and had to say "hello,"
the r»tum would be $50 a day.
Grady Johnson, in Miami planning details
of "Revenge," said the same idea was employed
in the filming of the company's latest
picture, "The Fugitive," now playing here.
Set against a Mexican background, the picture
was made when Ford and Cooper took
their entire production crew to Mexico and
hired local people for nearly all roles except
those of the stars. Unfortunately for girls.
Ford Ukes his productions to center around
men, and "Revenge" is no exception. The
chief character will be a salty, old sea captain
who drives his crew with an iron hand. But,
as Johnson says, there never was a native
village without women—pretty ones at that.
Johnson did not know exactly when shooting
would start, but indicated it would be
some months, due to technical difficulties
and the time it takes to transport equipment.
Boyd Roberts of Arkansas
Buys in Wellman, Iowa
WELLMAN, IOWA—Boyd Roberts of
Lincoln,
Ark., has bought the Grand Theatre
here. Mrs. Vic Rampelberg will continue as
manager of the house, Roberts announced.
Roberts owned and operated a theatre at
Lincoln, Ark., until selling out a short while
ago.
In discussing plans for the operation of the
theatre, Roberts said. "Later on we plan to
operate every evening of the week. This will
enable us to change pictures three times a
week."
The theatre has been owned the past
several years by Slater O'Hare, who purchased
it from Marvis Foss.
Memphis Club Addressed
By Maurice N. Wolf
MEMPHIS—Maurice N.
Wolf, Boston, representing
the public relations department of
MGM, was scheduled to discuss httle known
facts and stories about the motion picture
business before the Civitan club this week.
"Motion Pictures Are My Business" was the
topic of his address. He was introduced to
the Memphis businessmen by Louis Ingram,
branch manager of MGM. Wolf told how he
established a service called "Movies for
Shutins" in Boston in 1934 and it is estimated
that 60,000 shutins have enjoyed entertainment
through this project. Variety Club of
Memphis gives picture shows regularly at
Memphis institutions.
Hold Burglary Suspect
JACKSON, MISS.—An escaped Tennessee i
convict was said by police to have admitted ;
more than a score of burglaries here, includj
ing that of the Joy Theatre. Police said they (
arrested the Negro a few minutes after he
had broken into the theatre, where he took $3, ;
a screw driver, flash light, a box of cough ;
drops and some postage stamps.
BOXOFnCE :; January 24, 1948
I

. . Dorcas
. . Bob
. . Jack
. .
ateii
Thealre Credit Union
Will Cut Turnover
MIAMI—The presence of a well-publicized
credit union in a theatre organization will
help cut down the normally high turnover
in the small salaried jobs, Walter Klements
emphasizes in an article in Contact, Wometco's
house oi-gan. He is a member of
the Wometco Credit union committee.
"Many of us do not realize it." wrote
Klements. "but the Credit union is second
in importance only to the hospitalization
plan of the company in the eyes of the lowsalaried
group. Few young people require
hospitalization but nearly every week sees
some young person trying to figure his way
out of some financial difficulty."
MANAGER'S RESPONSIBILITY
Part of the manager or assistant manager's
responsibility toward those under him,
therefore, is to make certain the new employe
is given firsthand information on the
workings of Credit union. Sooner or later,
Klements believes, it will become the agreeable
responsibility of each manager to help
some boy or girl start the first savings account
of his life. Once an employe has
been so guided, or perhaps has been helped
out of some money trouble, he is far more
apt to feel a part of the organizational
family. He is also more apt to stick with
that manager, rather than change jobs, unless
for some pretty strong reason.
A boy or girl who has not been instructed
m Credit union and is ineligible for assist-
,ince when applying in person to the committee,
has a difficult time understanding,
at that critical moment, why his or her request
cannot be granted. Nor can the committee
feel right about not helping when
the need is great. Careful instruction at
the beginning of each person's employment
avoids any such unpleasant situation.
INCLUDES SAVINGS PLAN
"You can join the Credit union," Klements
wrote, "by the payment of 25 cents to
cover part of the cost of records. You can
save as low as 25 cents a week if you like.
You are eligible for a loan when you have
saved as much as $5, and your past record
would seem to indicate to the Credit committee
that you are a good risk."
Klements urges manager and assistants.
"As soon as you have a chance, explain
Credit union to your employes. Please help
us make friends by approving every loan
sent to us. We are anxious to be of service."
Not Guilty Plea Entered
For Memphis Transit
MEMPHIS, TENN.—G. W. Simpson, general
manager of Film Ti-ansit Inc., here, entered
a plea of nolo contendere on behalf of
the firm in federal court January 19 to a
20-count criminal information charging
nolation of Interstate Commerce commission
regulations. Federal Judge Boyd fined the
company a total of S2.500.
A total fine of $1,000 was assessed on the
first 19 counts including two charging the
engaging of physically disqualified persons
as drivers: seven charging failure to have
on file doctors' certificates of physical examination
for drivers and ten charging the requiring
or permitting of drivers to be on duty
to excess of 60 hours weekly—a violation of
safety regulations.
He fined the firm SI,500 on the last count
which charged falsifying hour's of service reports.
Stephens Managing Loma
"'*''* GRIFFIN, GA.— E. M. Stephens has bees
named manager of the Loma Theatre, which
opened here last month.
BOXOFFICE : : January 24, 1948
CHARLOT T
Jnstallation of the 38th Nu-Screen, the seethe-picture-clearly-from-all-sides
screen
invented by Otto Hehn of Kings Mountain,
brought further att^ention and praise for his
invention. A St. Louis Globe-Democrat
writer devoted a column to the new invention
in connection with announcing its installation
at two larger St. Louis theatres.
One of the Hehn-lnvented screens, the third
to be installed, is in use at the Dixie Theatre
in Kings Mountain.
Charles M. Reagan, vice-president in charge
of distribution, and Hugh Owen, division
manager for Paramount, conferred here
Tuesday with local Manager Harry Haas .
Visitors on the Row: J. J. Booth, Palmetto,
Walnut Cove; T. K. Lee, State, Kershaw:
O. T. Kirby, Palace, Roxboro: Mr.s. Runa
Greenleaf, Curtis, Liberty: Mrs. B. B. Anderson
and Howard Anderson, Anderson circuit,
MulUns: J. B. Jones, Carohna, McCoU:
Pete Lassiter, Conway: Harold Armistead.
Lyric, Easley: H. E. Wessinger. Carolina.
Lexington: S. T. Stoker, Palace, Thomasvi'le;
Pin Lee, Duplin, V/arsaw.
In for the forthcoming TON&SC convention
here February 1-3 at the Hotel Ch^^rlotte
will be Ted Gamble, president of TOA:
Herman Levy, TOA general counsel, and
Robert W. Coyne, executive director of TOA.
Included in the plans are a special luncheon
for the ladies February 3 at 1:00 p. m. Hosting
will be William Johnson, president of
the Motion Picture Advertising Service Co.
of New Orleans, and Bob Simpson, divisional
manager for the firm. Luncheon will be at
the Mecklenburg hot€l.
.
.
Mrs. Ben L. Strozier was elected to the
city comicil of Ebenezer, suburb of Rock
Hill Theatres. Inc., has sold its
in the Lincoln at Concord, N. C.
interest
to W. C. Kiser & Son. operators of the
Roxv there Jeffress fell from a
.scaffold while working on his new drive-in
in Rock Hill and suffered a fractured vertebra.
He was brought to Memorial hospital
here.
lATSE Local F33 has elected these officers:
president, Harry Kerr: vice-president,
Virginia Porter: secretary, Mrs. Fay
Wayne: treasurer, Joseohine Donnelly: business
agent, Charlie Leonard, and .sergeant
at arms. James Wallace.
Bill Lawrence, Warner salesman, spent the
Christmas holidays in New Jersey . . . Manager
Ralph lannuzzi of Warners celebrated
the holidays in New York Citv . . . The
Warner office will be completely renovated
the end of this month . Kirbv, district
manager, and Norman Ayers, division
manager, conferred with Manager lannuzzi
of Warners.
H. D. Heam and Max Reinhardt will open
the new Paula in Mount Pleasant January
23 . . . John F. Wicker, architect of Greensboro,
is drawing the plans for enlargement
of Morris Littman's Sylvan in Rutherfordton.
N. C. Its capacity of 275 will be increased
to 500.
Fire Damages EdRay
MACCLENNY, FLA.—A fire in the new
EdRay Theatre was extinguished through
prompt action of the local fire department
before too much damage was done. The fire
broke out in the upper part of the building
between the ceiling and roof and burned
through the roof.
Take Negro Theatre
Plea to U.S. Court
BIRMINGHAM—Balked by the city commission
in efforts to convert the Birmingham
Theatre into an all-Negro house, operators of
the theatre have taken their case into U. S.
district court here.
The suit, filed on behalf of the Panta Corp.,
seeks an injunction against the city. The
petition was filed by attorney W. S. Pritchard
and charged that the city's action violates
Constitution and civil rights act.
H. E. Hagood, city building inspector, in
December issued a permit for enlarging of
the theatre's 17 street entrance for Negroes
and closing of the present white entrance on
Third avenue. Later, the city commission instructed
Hagood to revoke the permit and
less than two weeks ago declined to reconsider
the revocation. A number of surrounding
property owners had protested the conversion,
but the theatre management contends that
17 street is zoned for Negro business.
The theatre presently is used for both
whites and Negroes, with Negroes occupying
the upper balcony.
Tobacco-Chewing Habit
Leads to Thief's Arrest
MURFREESBORO, TENN.—A quick
solution
of a burglary of the Princess Theatre
here was brought about, according to police,
by a teen-age boy's relish for chewing tobacco.
Sanford Cox, Princess manager, found a
window of his office smashed one morning
and about $60 in small change missing.
Splotches of tobacco juice trailed all over
the theatre, with indications that the thief
had spent .an entire night ransacking the
theatre.
Less than an hour later, police said, they
arrested a 15-year-old paroled Negro convict,
his cheeks bulging with chewing tobacco. He
admitted the theatre burglary, they said.
Charles Denman Shifted
HAINES CITY, FLA.—Charles Denman
has been transferred from the Park Theatre
in Sebring to the Florida Theatre here.
Both are units in the Floyd Theatre chain.
Paul Lynch of Vermont will maiiage the
Park.
Heads Red Cross
TROY. ALA—The 1948 Red Cross fund
campaign is being directed by James W. Gaylard,
Enzor Theatre manager and chairman
of the Pike coimty chapter of the Red Cross.
m/i/(^ TO dUILd A
dRIVE'lU THEATRE?
First get in touch with us, we will give you
suggestions how to build or we will build it
complete ready to operate. You secure the
land and we do the rest under supervision
oi expert engineers and technicians.
YES WE HAVE
Sound and Projection Equipment for Drive-ins
and the speaker that is the sensation oi the
"AUTOCRAT" in-a-car SPEAKER
with "THE LIGHT THAT SELLS"
. . . patents pending . . .
DAYTON FILM, INC.
PERRY SPENCER
Southern Representative
193 Walton St., Atlanta, Ga.
Tel. Cyprus 5081 Res. Cyprus 6469

: January
25-Year Club Parly
Draws 150 in Toronto
TORONTO—About 150 men and women attended
the brilliant dinner in the King Edward
hotel to celebrate the foui-th birthday
of Famous Players' 25-Year club. Morris
Stein presided for the induction of 19 of
the 20 new members from eastern Canadian
points, the latest class having joined the
company in 1923. After the introduction of
associates and partners, who included Jule
Allen, Herb Allen, Sam Bloom and Sam Fine
of Toronto, Simon Meretsky of Windsor.
Clarence Markell of Cornwall and George
Georgas of Owen Sound. Stein paid tribute
to the loyalty of the club members who
had helped to make "a national institution"
of Famous Players.
Jule Allen, described as the dean of the
Canadian film industry, spoke in behalf of
the partners and associates and congratulated
the club members who had once worked
for the Allen circuit in days gone by.
Vice-president R. W. Bolstad read a letter
from Pres. J. J. Fitzgibbons,
of best wishes
who was absent in Ottawa, and commented
that Jule and Herb Allen must obtain a
great deal of satisfaction in seeing Famous
Players club members whom they had originally
selected for their own businss. Famous
Players started with 16 theatres in 1920
and now had a chain of more than 300 theatres
which entertains 4''2 million patrons
each week.
Ben Geldsaler, manager of the head office
booking department, replied in behalf of the
new members when they had been presented
with certificates, gold emblems and a watch
or savings bond. Harry Jarmain, operator at
the Runnymede in Toronto, spoke in behalf
of the projectionists who had entered the
charmed circle while Noel G. Barrow, company
secretary, said a few words for the old
members. The wives of new members received
sterling silver compacts as mementoes
and the other ladies were presented with
perfume.
Wired greetings were read from Barney
Balaban, president of Paramount Pictures;
Eddie Zorn, district manager at Winnipeg,
and Arthur Hirsch, a Montreal partner,
among others. Following the dinner, the couples
enjoyed dancing.
Youngest manager to qualify for the 25-
Year club was F. G. "Ted" Doney of the
Royal in Guelph. He is 39. He started as an
usher at the Toronto Parkdale when he was
14 years old. Others who were formally
initiated are W. A. Birchall, Runnymede,
Toronto; A. E. Cauley, Capitol, Petersboro;
T. S. Daley, Imperial, Toronto: R. L. Downey,
Beach, Toronto: H. H. Eckert. Capitol,
St. Catharines: A. Eraser, Capitol, Brantford;
Ben Geldsaler, head office Toronto;
T. Hoad, General Theatre Supply Co., Toronto;
Mrs. E. Holt, Beach, Toronto; N. L.
Jackson, head office; H. C. Jarmain, Runnymede:
F. L. Martin, head office; A. J. Massey,
Imperial, Toronto; J. R. McLennan.
Capitol, Brockville: George Monell, St
Clair, Toronto: E. O. Smithies, Capitol,
Kingston; J. V. Ward, Seneca, Niagara Falls,
and V. Zuana, Regent, Ottawa. H. Pervis,
Palace, Montreal, was imavoidably absent
from the ceremony.
First Runs in Vancouver
Raise Admission Prices
VANCOUVER—Most first run houses hero
have raised admission prices from five to ten
cents. Raised to meet increasing overhead,
circuit and Independent theatremen reported
that the cost of operation has increased
vastly in the last two years.
V\.\RRI('Kh NI-VV THKAFKE—This is
the facade of the now Warrick Theatre
in Warrick, Que The S15-

. . . Frank
. . Barbara
. . "The
. . Charles
. . Hymie
. . . Jack
. . . Mrs.
. . New
. . Snow,
. . Tommy
. .
.
VANCOUVER Van Home Theatre
Morman Duncan, manager of the new International
Cinema, is losing no time in
putting his house over. He is working with
schoolboy patrols, giving the home plenty
of publicity in the newspapers. He invited
the lads to be his guests at "Thief of Bagdad"
and shots of the Rose Bowl game, for
which he received many favorable comments
from the school board and in the newspapers.
Everything is going to be done m super
colossal manner at the Motion Picture Pioneers
ball to be held here February 3. Two
ballrooms at Hotel Vancouver and two orchestras
will be necessary to accommodate
the expected capacity crowd. Even the tickets
are out of the ordinary. They are printed
on rough pieces of birch bark and are
selling fast to show folk. A special trailer
is being shown on all theatre screens to
reach theatregoers.
George Clark, publicity director for Famous
Players in British Coliunbia, is making
a name for himself In show business on the
Pacific coast with his outstanding and novel
newspaper ads. They are creating quite a
bit of attention in these parts. His daughter
Beverly is his assistant in creating the
art work for the circuit theatres.
David Griesdorf, president and general
manager of International Film Distributors
of Canada, was a local visitor. He said he is
delighted with the way in which his product
has been received in the few months of
operation. Griesdorf is well known here and
was district manager for Odeon before going
to Toronto. Willard Adamson is in charge
of his interests in British Columbia.
The Odeon-Hastings Theatre, formerly the
Pantages, is now using an amateur talent
show on the stage, plus a treasure-chest
radio show sponsored by a local merchant.
Al Mitchell, former manager of the uptown
Plaza, is manager . Best Years of
Our Lives" has been playing FPC suburban
theatres and reports are that at roadshow
prices it is doing satisfactory business.
Walter Hopp has been appointed assistant
at the Capitol under Charlie Doctor . . . Don
Beisel is a new member of the Strand staff
McKenzie, assistant manager of
the Orpheum, returned to work after a spell
in the hospital . . . Joyce Thome, formerly
with Odeon, is now cashier at the Capitol
Shearer is a new member of
•he Capitol staff . . . Marion Morton, who
was for 12 years at the Strand, is now a.ssLstant
manager at the International Cinema.
Maud Smithe, manager of the Odeon at
Duncan, is pioneering in man-dominated
theatre management. She was for 15 years
cashier at the theatre and now is doing
a first class job as manager. She is very successful
with her Odeon Movie club and has
many Indian children from the nearby reservation
as members . Adam of
Terrace has been given the green light by
the inspector of theatres to convert his Terrace
into a 35mm situation from a 16mm
house. He will install two DeVry projectors
from Empire Agencies.
Harold Warren, who operates the three
itres in the Alberni district of Vancouver
ind, was a local visitor. His daughter had
been hospitalized here but is coming along
O. K. Warren was also doing his booking
and buying along Fllmj-ow . Singer
has inaugurated a foreign film policy at his
State here and the Rio in Victoria. He rethat
business is very good . . . Jack
ckson, MGM booker, has completed 27 years
^In the film business and is the dean of
bookers on Filmrow
BOXOFHCE :
Opens in Montreal
MONTREAL—George Ganetakos, president
of the United Amusement Corp., which owns
and operates approximately 40 theatres in
the province of Quebec, formally opened the
circuits latest addition, the Van Home, last
Saturday (17), saying that two of its many
outstanding features are the Kroehler pushback
chaii's and a specially engineered air
conditioning system.
The Van Home was the second theatre in
Canada to have a complete installation of
Kroehler chairs, the other being the Avenue.
One of the chief points in the air conditioning
system is an excess supply of cooUng and
heating coils in the air mixing chamber. This
permits an extra large quantity of fresh air
to enter and be distributed equally throughout
the theatre at the proper temperature and
correct hiunidity and not necessitating
the same air over and over again.
using
The front of the Van Home is built of stone
with an insert of black vitrolite. The doors
are of cast aluminum and the boxoffice is of
marble and stainless steel. A gayly decorated
lobby leads directly into a spacious foyer,
where there is an ultramodern candy bar
and cloak room. The theatre auditorium is
designed primarily for correct acoustics. This
has been achieved by avoiding parallel smooth
surfaces. The aisles are wide. The decoration
is simple and pleasing and the whole atmosphere
is one that invites complete relaxation.
Luke, Little & Mace were the architects
and Louis Donolo, Inc., builder.
Albert Rogell Considers
Western Canada Studio
CALGARY—Albert RogeU, Hollywood motion
picture executive with Eagle Lion Films,
said here that he was considering the establishment
of a motion picture studio in
western Canada. Rogell said his company was
interested in the former air force camp at
Shepard, Alberta, about five miles east of
Calgary. He said he would survey all possible
locations in western Canada, however,
before reaching a decision. He also announced
that Eagle Lion would make two full length
Technicolor pictures in the Calgary district
this summer at a cost of $2,500,000. Rogell
filmed "Northwest Stampede" here la.st year.
FORT WILLIAM
r^ Dilley has been elected president of the
Famous Players Managers Ass'n of the
lakehead cities of Fort William and Port
Arthur. Other officers are N. Novak, vicepresident;
L. Palmer, secretary, and F.
Ticket, chairman of publicity. The meeting
January 7 served as a forum for reviewing
the combined Christmas party held for all
theatre staffs of both cities, at which the
Famous Players managers were hosts. A review
also was held on Christmas gift book
.sales and New Year's eve .shows.
Arthur Silverthorne, new general manager
for 20th-Fox in Canada, has notified theatremen
here that he will visit this territory soon
Byron of the Capitol has taken a
three-month leave of absence due to illness.
His place on the door is being filled by M.
Novak . face among the Capitol
usherettes is that of Katherine Gammond
M. Smith, on the service staff of the
Orpheum. has resigned after eight years on
the job.
ST. JOHN
Two near sellouts at $1.30 to $3.25, which occurred
at the HaUfax Capitol for the Donald
Wolfit-Rosalind Iden Shakespearean rep
troupe from England, have inspired rumors
about a revival of rep and stock in connection
with the cun-ently closed Garrick.
For about a half century Halifax was keen
for the rep and stock, chiefly at the old
Academy-Majestic on the .site where the
Capitol now is located.
The new Community near Rothesay, N. B..
was the scene of a midnight dance. The
film show signed off at 11, and the terping
started at 11:30, closing at about 1 a. m. The
Commtmity is operated by Gerry Hoyt .
Hazel Walker, 3-year-old daughter of the
Malcolm Walkers, had her first taste of
microphonitis recently when she did a vocal
from a Halifax radio station.
When a policeman responded to a telephone
call from the Empire in Botwood.
N. F., that a drimk was annoying patrons,
he found the objectionable one at the theatre
entrance with his coat off challenging
all those entering and leaving the theatre
to trade punches with him. He lost in the
first round to the John Law, and pleaded
for leniency in court on the groimd he had
a wife and six offspring. A nominal fine was
imposed.
Adjoining a fountain bar at one of the top
eating places of Halifax is an ornate sign
which advertises the current and coming films
cold and rain
at the Capitol
menaced
.
numerous theatre fronts in the
maritimes. Clearing the ice away was risky
work for staffs. At the Family, Halifax,
Manager Pat Dwyer assembled all the male
.staffers and attacked the icy veneer on long
ladders with hatchets . O'Rourke.
Minto, N. B., supplied use of his Gaiety,
staff and shorts for a holiday party participated
in by about 600 boys and girls.
At the annual meeting of the district Trades
and Labor council here James A. Whitebone,
projectionist at the Capitol, was named
treasurer and William R. Steen, a former
shipper and booker for RKO, became sergeant
at arms. Whitebone has been business
agent of the lATSE Local 440 20 years.
Steen has been out of the distribution lineup
several years.
The efficacy of segregating parts of theatres
for campaigns against insects and
keeping the balance of auditoriums in use.
is being tested at a maritime theatre. Complaints
against insect pests are reported to
have been affecting patronage at some spots.
Some exhibitors maintain the best results
can only be achieved by suspending business
for a couple of days for a complete extermination
process against the itch and lump
provokers.
Members of the Odeon Movie club at the
Oxford, Halifax, are being urged to wear
their buttons all the time . . . Harry Mac-
Donald, doomian at the Mayfair, St. John.
is reported to be playing Cupid for what is
said to be a budding romance between a
girl usher and a projectionist there .
Monte Chase, a veteran projectionist at the
local Capitol and who operates an equipment
and film sales and rental service on
the side, says he is specializing in catering
to New Brunswick clergymen, promoting
use of the 16mm equipment and films in
churches, church halls, institutions, etc.
Chase reports he has been out exhibiting
on his own at one night stands in halls, etc..
lately, in St. John environs.
To Direct 'Sunset'
Lambert Hillyer will direct "Partners of the
Stmset," a Monogram picture which Louis
Gray will produce.
: January 24, 1948 101

. . Paul
. . Norman
. . There
. . Sam
. . The
. . Charles
. .
TORONTO French Island lo Get WINNIPEG
IJead table guests at the Famous Players
birthday party for the 25- Year club included
Sam Fine, Noel G. Barrow, Robert
Eves, Ben Geldsaler, Jack Arthur, James R.
Nairn, R. W. Bolstad. Norman Robertson,
Dan Krendel, Larry Bearg and Chaii-man
Morris Stein, with their wives. The toast to
the ladies was given by Norman Robertson,
a FPC director, and the response was by Ray
Lewis. Entertainment was provided by
Giselle, woman vocalist, the Barber Shop
quartet and a musical trio, one of whom was
Clarence Costain, who used to be first violin
in the orchestra at Shea's. Among the awards
to members of the 25-Year club is an extra
two-week vacation with pay each year.
Additional successful candidates in the 1948
civic elections in Ontario are Charlie Cashman,
manager of photoengraving firm which
specializes in film trade requirements, who
was re-elected to the council of Forest Hill
Village, and K. G. Garbig, manager of the
K^nt, who became a councillor at Lindsay.
When Mar.v Pickford was here she was
hoisted on the shoulders of two burly policemen
to look over the high fence at the site
of her birthplace on University avenue where
the Children's hospital is being constructed.
Although saddened by the disappearance of
her original home, she expressed pleasure
that the site was being converted to an institution
where young children could be cured.
The new manager of the Paradise, Odeon
unit here, is Clu-is Holmes, formerly a manager
with Famous Players . AUin,
former head office booker with Canadian
Odeon, left for a visit in Detroit and Chicago
. . . Harry Kaufman, former general
manager of Canadian Monogram, will make
his headquarters in Montreal as eastern division
manager of HaiTy Price's Cardinal
Pictures, Ltd. . Maynard has bought
the Kino here from Norman Clavir and plans
to change from a foreign-language film
policy.
James Swackhammer, former RCAF pilot
from Hamilton, will leave soon on what
Gaumont-British studio calls "one of the
most hazardous film-making expeditions
ever carried out" in filming a story of an
overland trip from Cairo to the Cape of
Good Hope. Swackhammer joined GB as a
writer-director at the end of the war.
A group of local merchants, a retired gentleman
and a high school teacher have
founded Pentanic, an organization designed
to furnish motion picture entertainment for
bedridden shutins. It canvasses doctors,
health agencies, churches, clubs and hospitals
to learn of patients who would appreciate
such service. No charge is made
for the films. A survey is being made to
find persons who could help by spending a
night for this work or by lending film
equipment.
British Columbia Censors
Forbid 'Walk Alone' Dates
VANCOUVER—The provincial censor
board has begun cracking down on gangster
films, following a pattern set up recently by
the Motion Picture Ass'n in the U.S. Paramount's
"I Walk Alone," which was due to
play at the Oi-pheum here, has been rejected
for showing in British Columbia. The decision
will be appealed.
Comedienne Joins Cast
Zamah Cmmingham, Broadway comedienne,
has joined the cast of Paramount's
Abigail, Dear Heart" for a supporting role.
Firsl Film Theatre
ST. JOHN—A keen demand for film entertainment
from the people of St. Pierre
and Miquelon islands has necessitated the
erection of a theatre in St. Pierre village
only a few feet from the Rink Renaissance,
which had been fimctioning as an ice skating
rink in the winter and picture house the
remainder of the year.
The new theatre is now being equipped.
It will offer French pictures, which will be
obtained in Canada. Emmanuel Ruaultis
Cazier the owner and manager of both
theatre and combination rink and dance hall.
At the latter, a wooden floor is laid after
the close of each ice season. In the past,
dancing and pictures were enjoyed there
simultaneously.
A 5kw diesel generator set has been installed
to supply power for the projection
and soimd equipment and to illuminate the
two buildings. DeVry 16mm equipment has
been Installed in the projection booth.
A bar which caters to dancers and skaters
with hard liquors, wine, beer and nonalcoholic
beverages will also deliver drinks to
patrons in the theatre.
The population of St. Pierre town is about
4,000 and there are about 700 people located
elsewhere in the French possession. Pishing
is the chief industry.
OTTAWA
•The rarest form of publicity for a motion
picture in this city—mentioned in an official
notice from Rideau Hall, the residence
of governor-general—was obtained in
connection with the Ottawa visit of Mary
Pickford who was guest at Rideau Hall at a
dinner. The formal notice said; "Their excellencies
gave a dinner party at Government
house prior to attending the premiere of
Mary Pickford's film. 'Sleep, My Love,' at the
Elgin Theatre on Monday evening."
Among those who attended the world premiere
of "Sleep, My Love" were Paul Lazarus
jr., publicity director, and Ralph Cohn of
United Artists, New York; C. S. Chaplin of
Toronto, Canadian general manager of
United Artists, and N. A. Taylor, Raoul Auerbach
and Myer Axler of 20th Century Theatres,
Toronto.
Ed J. Harris, general manager of Gaumont-
Kalee, Toronto, was here to get the lowdown
on the government's embargo regulations on
imports of theatre projectors and other equipment
. was a big turnout of diplomats
and government officials for a special
screening at the Centre by Manager Gord
Beavis of two subjects in Arthur Rank's This
Modern Age series, "Tomorrow by Air" and
"Home and Beauty," and a cmrent release
of the British Office of Information.
Harold Kay, Toronto, new manager -^or
the National Booking Co., was a visitor.
Among the theatres recently signed up for
booking service are the Imperial at Humberstone.
Queen at Hespeler, Rex at London,
Bancroft at Bancroft and the Vogue and Fox
at Toronto . Dublin Gate Players
played a stage engagement at the FPC Capitol
Monday il9i and on Thursday the film
policy there was again broken by the concert
of the Detroit Symphony orchestra.
The Ottawa theatre celebrity of the week
was Valentine Zuana, veteran doorman of
the Regent, who was initiated as a member
of the Famous Players 25-Year club at
Toronto . Hebscher of the Nola is
scheduled to take over the management of
the Odeon Savoy at Hamilton January 26.
pamous Players completed plans for the annual
meeting here of its 25-Year club. J.
J. Fitzgibbons, president; R. 'W. Bolstad, vicepresident;
and Jimmy Nairn, publicity ht^
all of the Toronto office, were due here for
the function.
Film star Belita was due here to take the
leading role in the Winnipeg Ice club's annual
skating carnival . . . Donald Wolfit,
leading English stage actor, and a company
headed by Rosalind Iden as co-star, will perform
here at the Playhouse early in February
under the auspices of Celebrity Conceit
series. Wolfit and his company will present
"Macbeth," "Much Ado About Nothing,"
"King Lear" and "Twelfth Night."
Stage performances bulk large m commg
entertainment events here. In addition to
the Wolfit company, there will be the Inter-
Varsity Play Parade, which will see the western
universities and British Columbia compete,
and there will also be the finals of the
Manitoba regional competition of the Dominion
drama festival.
Prof. C. J. Albrecht of Homewood, 111., wellknown
U.S. naturalist, is at the Pas, where
he is photographing freighting of mine equipment.
He is scheduled to film movement of
supplies to Hudson Bay Co. posts up north
and aircraft transport of fish to Flin Flon.
The shooting is for a large film collection
with which he illustrates his lectures.
"Abie's Irish Rose" had its ninth straight
week at Mesho Triller's Dominion and, apparently,
the end is not yet in sight . . . Dave
Safer of the Beacon is experimenting with
the pulling power of vaudeville stage shows
in addition to the double bills which that
house runs. Safer held for three weeks a
revue headed by Pat McCullough and Sandra
Britton, veteran entertainers, and has now
replaced it with a bill made up of local professional
talent.
The Valour has taken heavy newspaper
space to herald a giveaway of dinnerware in
conjunction with its double bills. The dishes
are to be given away Mondays, Tuesdays and
Wednesdays for an extra service charge of
ten cents.
MONTREAL
Wisitors to Filmrow included Leo Devaney,
Canadian general manager of RKO, and
H. Ginsler of Astral Films, Toronto .
hibitors included Mr. and Mrs. George Roy
of the Cinema, Beauceville: Raymond Goiu-ge,
owner of the Rialto, Quebec: Romeo Couillard,
owner of the Tache Theatre, Montmagny,
and Armand Champagne, proprietor
of the Asbestos, Que.. Athletic Ass'n Theatre.
On the sick list were Romeo Chevalier,
shipper for Warner Bros., and Jeanne Paquin,
manager in Montreal for Hanson 16mm.
Johnny Casey, salesman at Empire-Universal,
has resigned and has not yet announced
his new connection . . George Heiber, Montreal
manager for United Artists, attended the
world premiere of "Sleep, My Love" at the
Elgin Theatre, Ottawa and was also among
those who welcomed Mary Pickford on her arrival
here ... Ed English, Montreal manager
for 20th-Fox, president of the Canadian Picture
Pioneers, and Irving Sourkes, acting secretary,
attended the annual jamboree of the
Pioneers in Toronto.
Filmrow gave a welcome to Joan King, new
secretary to Irving Sourkes of Confidential
Reports . N. Weiner, general manager
of Selznick, was in town for a couple of
days conferring with the Montreal manager,^
Larry Druxerman.
102 BOXOFTICE :: Januai-y 24, 194

BOXOFFICE BAROMETER • EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
FEATURE CHART • REVIEW DIGEST • SHORTS CHART
SHORTS REVIEWS • FEATURE REVIEWS • EXPLOITIPS
Bookin(fuid€
BOXOFFICE
FIRST RUN REPORTS
This chart shows the records made by
pictures in five or more of the 21 key cities
checked. As new runs are reported^ ratings
are added and overages revised.
BAROMETER
TOP HIT OF THE WEEK
Killer McCoy-
Los Angeles 150
Minneapolis 150
Kansas City 140
iputed in terms of percentage in
lotion to normal grosses. With 100
cent OS "normal," the figures
bow the percentage above or below
Eihot mark.
Hirentare Island (Paia)

,
EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
ABOUT
PICTURES
Just as the Barometer page shows first run reports on current pictures, this
department is devoted for the most part to reports on subsequent runs, made by
exhibitors themselves. A one-star contributor is new, two stars mean the exhibitor
has been writing in for six months or longer, and a three-star contributor
is a regular of one year or more, who receives a token of our appreciation. All
exhibitors welcome.
COLUMBIA
Royse City, Tex.
C. Otts, Royse Theatre, J.
Small town patronage.
*
Bandit of Sherwood Forest, The (Col)—Cornel
Wilde, Anila Louise, Jill Esmond. This is
Song of the
Thin Man (MGM)—William
another oldie fronj Columbia which pleased Powell, Loy, Keenan Wynn. This didn't
Myrna
all in above average attendance. Nice col-'
ors and Cornel Wilde lent himself to hero
worship from our younger generation. Played
Tuesday. Weather:
— J. E. Rougeau, Club
Cold and
Theatre,
becoming
Seven
colder.
Sisters
Falls, Man. Small town and rural patronage.
Blondie's Big Moment (Col)—Penny Singleton,
Arthur Lake, Larry Simms. The best ever.
is This series plenty well liked here. Customers
on the way out would say, "When
you have a Blondie, I'm always coming."
This actually was one of their best pictures.
We did about 60 per cent on account of so
many roads being snow-blocked. Played
Wednesday. Weather: Cold.—W. H. Swan,
Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural patronage.
* * *
For the Love of Rusty (Col)—Ted Donaldson,
Tom Powers, Ann Doran. This is a pretty
fair "boy-dog" picture that .did fair for me,
but this type of picture is not quite so popular
doesn't look tough enough to play western
here as it was. Played Fri., Sat. Weather;
leads. Anyhow, whatever it is, after the first
Cold.—lim Mote, Gem Theatre, Sterling, Okla.
* one or two we played, he ceased to do business
for us on Saturday, so we will try him
Small town and rural patronage.
King of the Wild Horses (Col)—Preston Fos-
midweek. Weather: Good.—Abe H. Kaufman,
Fountain Theatre, Terre Haute, Ind. Family
action patronage. * * *
ter, Gail Patrick, Bill Sheffield. This is a fair
horse picture. Not much story nor enough action,
although the moral of the picture is very
good. "Mercy Plane" (Tower) is very poor
too many artificial scenes. Played on a double
bill Mon., Tues., Wed.—C. M. Garrett, Yandell
Theatre, El Paso, Tex. Family patronage. * *
EAGLE LION
naming Bullets (EL)—Tex Ritter, Dave
O'Brien. Tex Ritter is well liked here. This
picture is old but is a good western and
pleased. What has happened to Tex Ritter?
Why doesn't Monogram pick him up and use
him in some good westerns? Played Fri., Sat.
Weather: Fair.—James E. Davis, Rialto Theatre,
Bennington, Okla. Rural and small town
patronage. * *
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
Abbott and Costello in Hollywood (MGM)—
Bud Abbott, Lou Costello. In these days of
lower boxoffice receipts, I've often dreamed
of a full house for just one more time. Brother,
this old comedy did the trick—and then some.
If you haven't played it, do so at once and
you won't be sorry. It will go fine with a
short western. The print and sound were okay.
Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Cold and clear.—
I. Roche, Vernon Theatre, Vernon, Fla. Small
*
town and rural patronage.
Cynthia (MGM)—Elizabeth Taylor, George
Murphy, Mary Astor. We played this Christmas
day and Fri., Sat. The house was fine
the first night, better the next and splendid
the lastl This one sold itself and everyone
went out chuckling. It is the family kind
one the grownups smile at and the kids laugh
at. Weather: Cold.—R. E. Halstead, Tritown
Theatre, Lindstrom, Minn. Small town and
patronage.
*
rural
Hucksters. The (MGM)—Clark Gable, Deborah
Kerr, Sydney Greenstreet. Because of
unfavorable comment, I had postponed this,
but I need have had no misgivings. Clark
Gable is still boxoffice. Deborah Kerr is due
the buildup given by MGM. It's a good show
from a company that rates tops with me.
get over here. The price was fair but the
title and the story failed for us. Played Mon.,
Tues. Weather: Cold and snowy.—D. W.
Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining
patronage. * *
MONOGRAM
News Hounds (Mono)—Leo Gorcey, Huntz
Hall, Christine Mclntire. One of the best of
the Bowery pictures. Double billed with a
Jimmy Wakely western and it really packed
them in. The Bowery Boys and Blondie pictures
are our best drawing cards, and they
are sure life-savers for the small town theatre.
Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Cold.—E. C. Holt,
Freeburn Theatre, Freeburn, Ky. Mining patronage.
* *
Rainbow Over the Rockies (Mono)—Jimmy
Wakely, Lee "Lasses" White, Pat Starling.
The usual western thriller. However, Jimmy
Wakely "pulls his punches" too much, which
is quite noticeable on the screen. Maybe he
PARAMOUNT
Calcutta (Para)—Alan Ladd, Gail Russell,
William Bendix. Ladd's poorest draw for me
even though the picture was fair. The same
old story again though from Paramount—too
much film rental. Played Sun., Mon. Weather:
Good.—Terry Axley, New Theatre, England,
Ark. Rural and small town patronage. * * *
Jungle Flight (Para)—Robert Lowery, Ann
Savage, Barton MacLane. This is a good action
picture but did no business. It would have
helped a bit if Paramount had used a few
stock wild animal jungle scenes to pep it up
a bit. Played Tues., Wed. Weather: Good.
Abe H. Kaufman, Fountain Theatre, Terre
Haute, Ind. Family action patronage. * * *
Ladies' Man (Para)—Eddie Bracken, Cass
Wants More Sport Films
Of Feature Length
"\irE just showed 'The Kid From Brooklyn.'
In it was the story of a fighter
and that really brought the people to the
show. In all the years I have seen shows,
1 have only seen about two or three wit^
a sports story to it. One of these was
'The Great John L.,' the story of John
L. Sullivan. Why doesn't Hollyivood make
more pictures about famous sport figures?
I read they are going to make one about
Babe Ruth but they should make more
than one every few years. If Hollywood
made a film about some big-time hockey
star like Syl Apps, Maurice Richard, the
small town theatres would be full for
many nights at a time. There are enough
small town theatres to make a picture
like that pay. I have often wondered
about this and I guess I'll wonder for a
long time yet unless some film company
wakes up and finds this boxoffice attraction
right in front."—George MacKenzie,
York Theatre, Hantsport, N. S.
Columbia Customer 17 Yrs.
With No Regrets
JOLSON STORY, THE (Col) — Larry
Parks, Evelyn Keyes, WilUam Demarest.
The most pleasing picture we played in
1947. My patrons praised it more than
they did "Best Years" and "Duel in the
Sun." And best of all, at regular admission,
they came. I have bought Columbia
for 17 years and no regrets. Played Wed..
Thurs.—C. J. Otts, Royse Theatre, Roysi
City, Tex. Small town patronage. *
Daley, Virginia Welles. Here is a swell little
comedy but it failed to show a profit here,
due partly to the post-Christmas slump. Played
Mon., Tues. Weather: Cold.—Rahl and Hanson,
California Theatre, Kerman, Calif. Small
town and rural patronage. * *
Perils of Pauline (Para)—Betty Hutton, John
Lund, Billy De Wolfe. Beautiful Technicolor.
About the same kind of story you usually find
Betty Hutton playing—rags to riches and fame,
etc. Pleased all who came—few comments.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Fair.—Norman
T. Key, Joy 'Theatre, Bloomington, Tex. Rural
and small town patronage.
Strange Love of Martha Ivers, The (Para)
Barbara Stanwyck, Van Heflin, Lizabeth Scott.
This was liked by all and so many said, "This
one has something to it." All I could hear
after the show was: "What a show!'' 1 showed
it a bit late and the combined stage show
•
and dance just the night before, which grossed
a neat $609, certainly kept several from coming.
Played Sat., Sun. Weather: Good.—W.
H. Swan, Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe, S. D.
Rural patronage. * * *
Variety Girl (Para)—Mary Hatcher, Olga
San Juan, DeForest Kelley. This is a good
show that should go over given a
little
good break in weather, etc.
if
We had bad
weather and the Christmas slump to hold it
Fri., back. Played Sat. Weather: Okay.—
D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining
patronage. * *
Wild Harvest (Para)—Alan Ladd, Dorothy
Lamour, Robert Preston. This is truly a man's
picture, with rough, tough Alan Ladd at his
fighting best. Played Mon., Tues.—James C.
Balkcom jr.. Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small
town patronage.
Wild Harvest (Para)—Alan Ladd, Dorothy
Lamour, Robert Preston. This was a swell action
picture and the entire audience enjoyed
every scene. This contains fist fights, chases
and a terrific wheat fire thrown in for good
measure. Our town likes Alan Ladd and this
type of show. Dorothy Lamour is slipping in
our patrons' estimation. Good business
played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.—A. L.
Burke jr., Venita Theatre, Herculaneum, Mo.
*
Small town patronage.
RKO RADIO
Best Years of Our Lives, The (RKO)—Myrna
Loy, Fredric March, Dana Andrews. An excellent
picture but the admission kept many
people away. Too bad, because everyone
should see it. Played Fri., Sat. Weather:
Stormy.—J. E. Rougeau, Club Theatre, Seven
Sisters Falls, Man. Small town and rural
patronage. » * •
Long Night, The (RKO)—Henry Fonda, Barbara
Bel Geddes, Vincent Price. It was a
long night at the boxoffice. One of the poorer
grossers of this year. It was just too dull
for us here. Played Sun., Mon. Weather:
Good.—E. J. Petersen, Cozy Theatre, letters,
Minn. Rural and small town patronage. *
Show Business (RKO) — Eddie Cantor,!
George Murphy. A very good musical comedyj
and I hope Cantor does just as good a jobj
on "If You Knew Susie." Cantor and Davis.'
are very good. Played Tues., Wed. Weather:
Good.—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre, Rivesville,
W. Va. Rural patronage. • *
Tarzan and the Huntress (RKO)—Johnny'
BOXOFHCE BookinGuide

i second
./eissmuUer, Brenda Joyce, Johnny Sheffield.
A swell picture for the small town and business
was above average. Play it, as it has
plenty of wild animals and thrilling scenes.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.— E. M.
Freiburger, Paramount Theatre, Dewey, Okla.
Small town patronage. • * *
Thunder Mountajn'(RKO)—Tim Holt, Martha
Hyer, Richard Martin, A good action picture
that pleased on a weekend to satisfactory
business. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Good.
Harland Rankin, Plaza Theatre, Tilbury, Ont.
General patronage. * * *
REPUBUC
Angel and the Badman (Rep)—John Wayne,
il Russell, Harry Carey. Don't be alraid to
ly this one for the Sun., Mon. customers, or
will make a super-western for Fri., Sat.
sed everyone that saw it here. Played
Mon. Weather: Fair and cold.—Norman
'Key, Joy Theatre, Bloomington, Tex. Rural
*
small town patronage.
robulous Texan, The (Rep)—William Elliott,
Carroll, Catherine McLeod. This is a real
western and with a little push will pay
I think this is 6ne of the best westerns
3lic has made. It is good for small town
lage. Played Sat., Sun., Mon. Weather:
1.—O. Fomby, Paula Theatre, Homer, La.
*
jail town patronage.
f Outpost (Rep)—Nelson Eddy,
la Massey, Joseph Schildkraut. Too much
iy and not enough names to put it over.
A good show though. Played Mon., Tues.
Weather: Okay.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre,
Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
Sioux City Sue (Rep)—Gene Autry, Lynne
Roberts, Sterling HoUoway. We did extra
business with this just after Christmas, when
} were not expecting loo much business.
was pretty good western action, some
ases, no gun fighting, and one fist fight,
music and songs were enjoyed by our
skend patrons. Played Fri., Sat. Weather:
-Mayme P. Musselman, Roach Theatre,
Din. Kas. Small town patronage. * * *
20th CENTURY-FOX
r
Alexander's Ragtime Band (20th-Fox)—Re-
Tyrone Power, Alice Faye, Don Ameche.
his re-release was a stimulant to my Sunday
sde—pleased 100 per cent.—James C. Balkjr..
Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town
ronage. * * *
sadline for Murder (20th-Fox)—Paul Kelly,
3ila Ryan, Kent Taylor. Strictly a program
!ture—nothing to write home about. Okay
small towns on a double bill. Played Wed.,
purs. Weather: Cold.—Harland Rankin,
Theatre, Tilbury, Ont. General patron-
James (20th-Fox)—Reissue. Tyrone
Nancy Kelly, Henry Fonda. played
sr, I
feature some time ago but want to tell
blher small town showmen that if they haven't
played it they have lost a lot of money ,they
iioould have in their purses. We have never
)anged If He Can Find
Propaganda in Film
OUR VINES HAVE TENDER GRAPES
|(MGM)—Edward G. Robinson, Margaret
[O'Brien, James Craig. "Butch" Jenkins
|ttnd Margaret O'Brien really pulled them
I on this old one from MGM. It is a good
ory of rural family life. Some came back
time. The sound and print above
[average. Incidentally, this picture was
itten by Dalton Trumbo, so-called Comin
the recent Washington inquiry,
but dang me if I could find any propanda
in it. You small town exhibitors
I't go wrong on it. Played "Wed., Thurs.
fWeather: Cold and clear.—I. Roche, Veron
Theatre, Vernon, Fla. Small town
rural patronage. *
had such crowds in more than three years.
'The Jolson Story" didn't even come near it.
Played Fri., Sat., Mon. Weather: Good.—S.
N. Holmberg, Reagal Theatre, Sturgis, Sosk.
Small town patronage. *
Jewels of Brandenburg {20th-Fox)—Richard
Travis, Micheline Cheirel, Carol Thurston.
Everything quick but the price—and it didn't
do enough to buy the bus ticket home, if you
lived only a block from the theatre. Played
Wednesday. Weather: Okay.—D. W. Trisko,
Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage.
* *
UNITED ARTISTS
Fun on a Weekend (UA)—Eddie Bracken,
Priscilla Lane, Tom Conway. It was fun to
watch the people laugh at this one and they
surely did laugh. It was very amusing the
way two people, who only knew each other
for a few minutes, fooled all the big shots into
thinking they were big shots too. Great
for a small town crowd. Played Mon., Tues.
Weather: Blizzards.—George MacKenzie, York
Theatre, Hantsport, N. S. Small town patronage.
»
New Orleans (UA)—Arturo de Cordova,
Dorothy Patrick, Irene Rich. This one was
okay but not for Sun., Mon. in a small town.
It should be double billed as the stars won't
pull it. Woody Herman and Louis Armstrong
were the main drawing cards, as they drew
the high school kids and the Negroes. The
music is excellent but the story is pretty weak.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Rainy.—R. 'V.
Dinkle and W. W. LeMaster, Midway Theatre,
Midway, Ky. Rural and small town patronage.
* * »
Red House, The (UA)—Edward G. Robinson,
Lon McCallister, Judith Anderson. A good
drama w511 acted by Edward G. Robinson, but
Balkcom Says Titles
Draw 50 Per Cent
DARK DELUSION (MGM) — Lionel
Barrymore, James Craig, Lucille Bremer.
I believe titles draw 50 per cent of your
customers. If this feature had another
name, it would have been a good draw.
It drew average but pleased all who saw
it. Played Sunday.—James C. Balkcom
jr.. Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town
patronage. * * *
business was just average. Played Wed.,
Thurs. Weather: Good.—E. M. Freiburger,
Paramount, Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage.
* * *
Unexpected Guest (UA)—Bill Boyd, Randy
Brooks, Patricia Tate. Hoppy does not please
my patrons due to his age. How he can whip
four or five men at one time is most unreasonable,
even to the western fans. Age finally
gets us all. Played Fri., Sat.—James C. Balkcom
jr.. Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town
patronage. » * .
Young Widow (UA)—Jane Russell, Louis
Hayward, Faith Domergue. We followed
"The Outlaw" with this on successive Sundays,
and did a pretty good business. It is
a good little picture priced right and did
enough business to show a profit—without
percentage, and ain't that sumpin? Played
Sun., Mon. Weather: Cold.—Mayme P. Musselman,
Roach Theatre, Lincoln, Kas. Small
town patronage. » • »
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL
Buck Privates Come Home (U-I)—Bud Abbott,
Lou Costello, Joan Fulton. Bud and Lou
are still pretty well liked here. This brought
out a few who hadn't been in since I played
their last one. If they lika this team they'll
like them in this picture. Played Fri., Sat.
Weather: Fair.—Jim Mote, Gem Theatre,
Sterling, Okla. Rural and small town patronage.
*
Egg and I, The (UI-)—Claudette Colbert,
Fred MacMurray, Marjorie Main. A fine story
They Walked Out Smiling
When Show Was Over
PARDON MY PAST (Col)—Fred Mac-
Murray, Marguerite Chapman. We enjoyed
showing this one. It's good, even
though somewhat aged. Everyone walked
out smiling after the show was over, and
we had good attendance. Played Wednesday.
Weather: Good.—J. E. Rougcau,
Club Theatre, Seven Sisters Falls, Man.
Small town and rural patronage. * * *
that was well received, but as usual on a
Universal good one, they get the egg and
the exhibitor gets the shell. Played Sun
Mon., Tues. Weather: Fair.—Bill Leonard,'
Leonard Theatre, Cedarvale, Kas. Small town
and rural patronage. « « •
Magnificent Obsession (U-I)—Reissue. Irene
Dunne, Robert Taylor, Charles Butterworth.
expected to do business on this once famous
I
picture starring Robert Taylor and Irene
Dunne, but it failed to draw and business was
below average. The' public still wants action
here. Played Tuesday. Weather: Good.—
E. M. Freiburger, Paramount Theatre, Dewey,
Okla. Small town patronage. * *
Odd Man Out (U-I)—James Mason, Kathleen
Ryan, Robert Newton. James Mason is always
popular here with the college students.
This is not one of his best pictures, perhaps,
but a good crowd-getter and acting superb, as
is the case with many of the English pictures.
Played Sun., Mon,, Tues.—Ken Gorham, Town
Hall Theatre, Middlebury, Vt. College and
rural patronage. « »
Slave Girl (U-I)—Yvonne De Carlo, George
Brent, Broderick Crawford. This has very
nice color and was okay for Christmas, with
the chases and fights and the talking camel.
It did pre'tty fair business, but not the standout
business they tell you the pictures are
doing. Are you tired of that: "It's doing
business?" Played Thursday. Weather: Fine.
—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach Theatre,
Lincoln, Kas. Small town patronage. * * *
Smash-Up (U-I)—Susan Hayward, Lee Bowman,
Marsha Hunt. This is just fair boxoffice.
We have had better pictures from Universal
and lots worse ones. I guess it just isn't a
small town production. Played Sun., Mon.
Weather: Cold.—Marcella Smith, Vinton Theatre,
McArthur, Ohio. Small town patronage.
* * *
Vigilantes Return, The (U-I) — Jon Hall,
Margqfet Lindsay, Paula Drew. Like "Michigan
Kid," this did very well at our boxoffice,
and if you can buy it right you should do
above average on it like we did. Played
Tues., Wed.—Burris and Henly Smith, Imperial
Theatre, Pocahontas, Ark. Rural patronage.
• »
WARNER BROS.
Cloak and Dagger (WB)—Gary Cooper, Lilli
Palmer, Robert Alda. This nothing write
is to
home about. War pictures are not so popular.
Played Mon., Tues., Wed. Weather: Cold.—
Harland Ranirin, Beau Theatre, Belle River,
Ont. General patronage, * * *
Nora Prentiss (WB)—Ann Sherids:n, Kent
Smith, Bruce Bennett. Here is a new twist
to the respectable-man-meets-night-club-girl
stories. This picture got my patrons' approval
when the man got accused of jnurdering himself
after a strange twist of events. If any
of you are low In the boxoffice, play it and
you won't regret it. Played Mon., Tues.
Weather: Fair.—George MacKenzie, York Theatre,
Hantsport, N. S. Small town patronage.
*
Two Mrs. Carrolls, The (WB)—Humphrey
Bogart, Barbara Stanwyck, Alexis Smith. This
was a complete bust. Personally, I liked it
and the few other people who saw it liked it,
(Continued on page 14)
JXOFFICE BookinGuide :: Jan. 24, 1948

I
1
Randolph
.
29—
,r.
i
I
i
FEATURE CHART
release
date. Froauction numcer is at ngnt. iNuinDer m parenineses is running ume.
j
furnished by home office of distributor; checkup with local exchanges is recommends I
R—is review date. PG—is Picture Guide page number. Symbol U indicates BOXOFFIC
|
Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Symbol © indicates color photography.
I
MARCH 29
ra (57) Western 864
EST OF DODGE CITY
PO-806
ra (79) Outdr-Dr 809
•
NG OF THE WILD
HORSES
R— Mir 22— PO-8«3
ra (71) Drama 104
LOST HONEYMOON
inchot Tone
It—Mar. 15—PG-801
Reissue
b| (U4) Western 732
LAST OF THE
MOHICAliS
APRIL 5
[5] (64) Drama 715
REE ON A TICKET
gh Beaumont
Cheryl Walker
Paul Bryar
Ralph Dunn
B—Apr. 13—PO-809'
rj] (103) Musical 718
yiT HAPPENED IN
BROOKLYN
Frank Sinatra
Jimmy Durante
Kathryn Oraysoo
Peter Lawford
APRIL 12
(67) Comedy 808
ONDIE'S HOLIDAY
Penny Singleton
Arthur Lalie
Larry Slmms
B—Mar. 8—PO-788
ra (61) Western 746
WEST TO GLORY
Eddie Dean
R—May 3—Pa-816
i2] (62) Mystery 707
>HILO VANCE'S
GAMBLE
R—May 3—PO-816
u\ (92) Drama 719
LITTLE MR. JIM
Butch Jenkins
James Craig
Frances Oltford
R—June 16—PO-7J9
Rosalind Russell
Melvyn Douglas
Sid Caesar
R—Mar 8—PG-798
(63) Drama 702
THE BIG FIX
Bromi-Sheila Ryan
R—May 12—PO-817
Drama 834
)
FRAMED
Qlenn Ford-Janls Carter
^
APRIL 26
8—PG-798
(55) Western 867
LAW OF THE CANYON
Starrett-Burnette
i26| (38-39) Westeraa
SIX BRONCO
BUCKAROO REISSUES
with Buster Crabbe
and Fuzzy St. John
with Tex O'Brien and
Jim Newll)
(123) Drama 720
]
A OF GRASS
Spencer Tracy
Katharine Hepburn
Robert Walker
Vlelvyn Douglas
R—Feb. 16— PO-79*
jT] (69) Drama 812
FOR THE LOVE OF
RUSTY
Ted Donaldson
Tom Powers
R—June
MAY 3
28— PO-834
2] (91) Drama 721
IIGH BARBAREE
Van Johnson
Allyson
riaude Jarman Jr
Thomas Mitchell
R—Mar. 16—PO-801
MAY 10
\w\ (55) Western 752
BORDER FEUD
.\1 "Lash" La Bue
Fuzzy" St. John
R—May 24—PO-82a
MAY 17
I
ru Mysterj
BULLDOG DRUM*
AT BAY
Ron Randell
Pat O'Moore
R— May 12— PQ-J
M (58) Western 676
TRAILING DANGER
Icihnny Mack Brown
(73) Drama 4620
SEVEN WERE SAVED
Ulrlmrd Denning
Catherine Craig
iissell Hayden
R—Mar 1— PO-795
[5] (55) Western 684
SIX GUN SERENADE
Jimmy Wakely
Lee "tjuiaes" Wfclte
BRUNETTE
Bob Hope
Dorothy Lamour
Peter Lorre
Lon Chaney
R—Feb. 22—PO-791
Artists ^ (59) Western 671
ra (115) Comedy AAl CAND of THE UWLESS «] (73) Drama 617
IT HAPPENED ON lohnny Mark Brown QUEEN OF THE YUKON
FIFTH AVENUE Raymond Hatton
Charles Bickford
Don DeFore
Ine Mclnt?r»
Harding
Moore
R_Feb. 8—PO-788
p
Pine-Thomai Prod.
(72) Drama 4621
FEAR IN THE NIGHT
aul Kelly
Kay Scott
lieForest Kelley
Doran
lai 1—P0-r9S
^
M PERFECT
(97) Drama 4610
LADY
Ray Mllland
Teresa WrIghl
Virginia Field
Cedrlc Hardwlcke
R—Mar 15—PO-802
(91) Drama 4611
[Jj
BLAZE OF NOON
Anne Baxter —
William Holden
Sonny Tufts
io| (63) Melodrama 616
HARD BOILED
MAHONEY
.eo Gorcey
!l7| (63) Teen-Agi
SARGE GOES TO
COLLEGE
R—May
12— PO-8
Group 4
) Western 717
TRAIL STREET
Scott
Robert Ryan
ar
1— Pl}-r«4
7) Western 720
CODE OF THE WEST
Group 5
(72) Adventure 7:
TARZAN AND THE
HUNTRESS
lohnny Welssmullef
Srenda Joyce
lohn Shefrield
R—Mar. 29—PG-806
Group 5
(89) Comedy 724
A LIKELY STORY
Barbara Hale
Bill Williams
or 19—P0-81S
Group 5
(68) Musical 725
BANJO
Sharyn Moffett
.lacqueline White
Walter Reed
Una O'Connor
R—Apr. 26—PG-814
{^"m) Dromt
BORN TO KILL
Lawrence Tlernej
Claire Trevor
Walter Slezak
R— Apr 26—PO-I
m (71) West-Mus 683
TWILIGHT ON THE
RIO GRANDE
Adele Mara
Sterling HoUoway
R— Apr 19—PO-811
n] (68) Outdoor 664
HOMESTEADERS OF
PARADISE VALLEY
Allan Lane
R—Apr. 26—PO-813
m (71) Com-Dr 611
i|] (78) Mus-West 642
3BELLS OF SAN
ANGELO
Roy Rogers- Dale Evans
R—May 31—PO-824
,^ (66) Drama 6
SPOILERS OF THE
NORTH
l>aul Kelly
Adrian Booth
Evelyn Ankers
R—May 12—PO-817
[l5| (5S) Ould'r-r
OREGON TRAIL S
R—May 24—PO-!^
r^ (66) \lus-Coi»
©THAT'S MY G*
- -
mr 7— I'd-s
[a] (74) Outdr-Dr 4614
BELLS OF SAN
FERNANDO
Donald Woods
Gloria Warren
R—Apr. S—PO-807
|iU (69) Western HC08
TEXAS TRAIL
m Boyd
11 Hayden
George Hayes
ra (70) Outdr-Dr 4613
JUFFALO BILL RIDES
AGAIN
Richard
Jennifer
R_Apr
Arlen
Holt
6—PO-807
JS (71) Western HC09
PARTNERS OF THE
PLAINS
lllam Boyd
Harvey Clark
Russell Hayden
[3] (65) Horror-Dr 4608 rJ
©SCARED TO DEATH -^
Compton
iis Fowley
SHOOT TO
Russell n
Susan W.il
Douglas B
R—Apr 1
M (69) Western
UNEXPECTED GUEST
William Boyd
R— Dec. 14—PO-773
RICA
Dick Uaymes
Vera-Ellen
Cesar Romero
Celeste Holm
20—PO-806
89) Drama 712
THE LATE GEORGE
APLEY
Ronald Colman
I'eggy Cummins
Vanessa Brown
Richard Haydn
Charles Russell
R—Feb. 8— PO-788
76) Drama 7
SAN DEMETRIO,
LONDON
Walter Fitzgerald
Mervyn Johns
Ralph Michael
Robert Beatty
Charles Victor
R— Apr. 5—PG-808
i^ (98) Musical
NEW ORLEANS
Arturo de Cordova
Dorothy Patrick
R—May 3—PO-816
Veronica Lake
Don DeFore
Donald Crisp
R—Mar 1—
Tlerne)
Rex Harrison
ijeorge Sanders
'Mna Best
I'anessa Brown
R—May 24—PO-821
9] (65) Drama
3ADVENTURES OF
DON COYOTE
tichard Martin
Frances Bafterty
R—May 3— PO-816
(96) I'rsma :
©THE HOMESTflC
Cornel \Vli.l>
Maureen n ;
(7(1) Wesl-Dr
©MICHIGAN KID
Jon Hall
Victor McLaglen
i) Comedy 612
BUCK PRIVATES
COME HOME
Bud Abbott
Lou Costello
Tom Brown
Joan Fulton
R—Mar. 16—PO-802
73) Comedy 2793
YOU CAN'T CHEAT AN
HONEST MAN
W. C. Fields
Bdgar Bergen
Charlie McCarthy
(78) Drama 2794
STOLE A MILLION
deorge
Victor
Raft
Jory
(88) Drama 614
TIME OUT OF MIND
Phyllis Calvert
Robert Button
Raines
11—Mar 23— PO-894
(108) Cornel
rHE EGG ANn
red MacMurri :Murra9!
Claudette ColbeS
Marjotle Main I
Percy Kl bride f
Louise AllbrtttO
S— P0-'
(84) Cora-Dr 616
|9J
THAT WAY WITH
WOMEN
Dane Clark
Martha
Sydney
R—Feb
VIcken
Greenstreet
22—P0-T91
(97) Drama 617
STALLION ROAD
Ronald Reagan
Smith
Alexis
Zachary Bcott
3] (93) Comedy
(109) Dram 618
,26l
LOVE AND LEARN
THE SEA HAWK
lack Carson
Errol Fiynn-Claude Rains
Robert Hutton
|j) (87) Drama Martha
THE SEA WOLF
Edward 0. Robinson
Ida Lupino-John Oarfleldl
(67) Mus (New Rel)
BEWARE
Louis Jordan
CHEERS FOR MISS
BISHOP
M«rlha
Scott
(72) Comedy Reissue
FLYING DEUCES
(60) West Relssii'
GHOST TOWN
Barry
Carey
(67) Mus-Dr KeisM"
HOLLYWOOD BOUND
Betty Grahle
(70) Com (New Rel)
IT PAYS TO BE FUNNY
Bob Hope
MUton BerU
(67) Mus (New Rel)
REET. PETITE AND
GONE
Louis Jordan
June Richmond
(67) usical
ROAD TO HOLLYWOOD
Blng Crosby
B—Mar. 1—PO-796
(100) Drama Reissue
SCARFACE
Paul
Muni
(86) Mus-Dr BeU8»
SECOND CHORUS
Paulette Goddard
Fred Astalre
(55) M-Dr (New Rel)
STAIRWAY FOR A STAR
Cornel
Wilde
Comedy
Reiss
'
LI'L ABNER
Martha O'Driscoll
EtkM Kennedy
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide " Jan. 24, AS

I
^k
MAY 24
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
MAY 31
R -Junt 28—PG-834
g (54) Wcstfrn SI
JUNE 7
gn (87) Mjsltry 8
THE CORPSE CAME
C.0.0.
R—Sun
13— l'U-86a
JUNE 14
JUNE 21
[ls\ (es) Musical
LITTLE MISS
BROADWAY
JUNE 28
Hje] (68) Drama
SPORT OF KINGS
1!—June 21— l'(l-8
g
FEATURE CHART
JULY 5
(56, Western !
STRANGER FROM
PONCA CITY
Charles Starrett
Smiley Burnelte
Virginia Hunter
li—July 5—rG-836
JULY 12
Clorla Henry
Harry Davenport
It—July 6—Pa-835
I
til) llrama 733
SICAN BROTHERS
|;lli Fairbanks jr.
tnmirotl
Uraoia 716
y (801
MANY WINNERS
i
T—ro-S28
|Si] (ti3) rirama
[t] (70) Drama 703
REPEAT PERFORMANCE STEPCHILD
Lnuia Hiiyward
Brenda Joyce
K—May 31—PQ-82S lionald Woods
K—Junf 21—PO-83a
(63) Drama 717
dj]
MLLER AT LARGE
KiiDcrt Lowery
K—June 7—PU-828
[3i] (12S) Drama 717 (90) Melodrama 724
U]
WSTHE YEARLING DARK DELUSION
Gregory Peck
James Craig
Jane Wyman
Lucille Bremer
Claude Jarman 1r
Lionel Bsrrymnrt
R_Dec. 7—PG-770 11—Apr. 12—PG-809
(64) Mystery 70S
PHILO VANCE
RETURNS
|;il] (84) Drama 736
SOUTH OF PAGO PAGO
155] (103) Mus-Com 725
LIVING IN A BIG WAY
Gene Kelly
Marie McDonald
Charles Winnlnger
It—June 7—PG-821
(71) Comedy 71
fj8)
HEARTACHES
C. Wills-S. Ryan
H—July 12—rC-838
(28] (58) Outd'r-Dr 753
[J] (98) Drama 7
CYNTHIA
Elizabeth Taylor
Mary Astor
George Murphy
R—May 17—PQ-819
(64) Comedy 711
GAS HOUSE KIDS GO
WEST
Chill Williams
House Kids
Ham WrlKht
July 26—PO-841
Western 672
lesTo
tiry Brooke
Lo»«r>
hreb. aa—pa-791
^ (58) Western
SONG OF THE
WASTELAND
JImmv Wakely
Lee "Lasses" White
(30] (83) M-drama 4512
CALCUTTA
Alan Ladd
William Bendu
OaU RusseU
R— Apr. 19—P0-81I
Reissue
(61) Dt
WOLF GIRL
.lohn Carroll
Movlta
liH] (83) Drama 620
HIGH CONQUEST
Gilbert Roland
^
(66) M'drama 4623
DANGER STREET
Jane Withers
Robert Lowery
R—Mar. 1—PG-798
|28| (53) Western 677
CODE OF THE SADDLE
Johnny Mack Brown
Kay Morley
Hatton
|7| (80) Rom-Com 4614
THE TROUBLE WITH
WOMEN
Ray Mllland
Teresa Wright
Brian Donlevy
R—May 17—PO-819
Reissues
[F] (70) Drama
DlLLINGER
Lawrence Tierney
^ (83) Drama
MUTINY IN THE BIG
HOUSE
Charles
Blckford
[T] (96) Com-Dr 4615
©PERILS OF PAULINE
Betty Hut ton
John Lund
William Demarest
R—May 24—PG-822
Comedy 721
Group 6
(71) Drama 71
WOMAN ON THE
BEACH
Joan Bennett
Charles Blcktord
Robert Ryan
R—May 17—PG-820
Group 6
(73) Drama 728
DESPERATE
Steve Brodie
Audrey Long
R—May 17—PO-820
Don Ameche
Catherine McLeod
It—Apr. 12—PG-810
(CO) Olit-Dr. 4616
III
BUSH PItOT
llocbelle Hudson
lack LaRue
lo) (58) Drama 616
WEB OF DANGER
Adele Mara
BlU Kennedy
R—June 21—PO-831
[Ti] (68) Western HCll
HEART OF ARIZONA
William Boyd
George Hayes
Russell Hayden
[T|] (72) Western 6!
SADDLE PALS
Gene Autry
Lynne Roberts
R—June 21—PG-831
ilil] (72) Mus-Com 4701
HOLLYWOOD BARN
DANCE
Ernest Tubb
Lorl Talbott
Earl Hodglns
R—June 7—PG-827
(91) Drama 615
III]
NORTHWEST OUT-
POST
Nelson Eddy
R—May
17—PG-819
[T] (58) Western 666
RUSTLERS OF DEVIL'S
CANYON
Allan Lane
R—July 12—PG-837
[3] (71) Drama 6
THE TRESPASSER
R—July
12-PO-837
51]
(44) Mys-Com 4617
'- BOX MYSTERY
Tom Neal
Allen Jenkins
Pamela Blake
R—Jan. 3—PG-888
"°"
OF
DEN BURG
^ (91) Um\aS
COPACABANA
Groucho Marx
Carmen lAiranda
Andy BusseU
Gloria Jean
R—June SI— P0-8J1
eggy
Victor Mature
Ethel Barrymore
Price
Margo Woode
R—May 24—PG-8J1
(96) Drama 71S Re-release
MIRACLE ON 34TH (95) Drama 719
STREET
WESTERN UNION
Maureen O'Hara
Robert Young
Joh/i Payne
Randolph Scott
Edmund Gwenn
Dean Jagger
Gene Lockhart
Virginia Gllmore
Natalie Wood
John CarradUie
R—May 10—PG-818
(72) Comedv
STORK BITES MAN
.lackle Cooper
Gene Roberts
R—Aug. 23—PQ-849
9) Drama 72
MEET ME AT DAWN
William Eythe
Hazel Court
Margaret Rutherford
(84) Mus-I)r 279f
100 MEN AND A GIRL
Oeanna
Leopold
Adolnhe
Durbln
StokowskI
Menjou
(87)
THE WEB
Drams 6:
Sdmiind O'Brien
Raines
Ella
BendU
William
R—May 31—PO 823
loan Fontaine
Patric Knowles
R—June 14—PG-829
(118) Drama 619
GREAT EXPECTATIONS
John Mills
Valerie Hobson
R—April 5—PG-807
*l«r.
29—PO-808
in] (100) Drama a
CHEYENNE
9 Morgan
Jane Wyman
lanis Paige .
Bruce Bennett
R—Apr. 26—PG-81S
[5] (100) Drama 623
THE UNFAITHFUL
Ann Sheridan
Zachary Scott
Lew Ayres
R—May 31—PO-834
(90) Drama New Re) (77) Dram New Bel (83) Relsi
IQ DEVIL'S CARGO WOMEN IN THE NIGHT SPIRIT OF WEST THE GHOST GOES
Tala Blrell
POINT
WEST
Blanchard-Davls
Robert Donat
ii8
['G-891 B—Oct. 11—PO-863
(97) Drama Relssur
^(90) Urania
(80 1 Dra
Bel (95) Drama Reissue HENRY THE EIGHTH
FURIA
FOR YOU I DIE CATHERINETHE GREAT (Tharlee Laughtoo
(Italian)
Cathy Downs
Douglas Fairbanks Jr. Robert Donat
B—Oct 18— Pi R— Dec 27—PG-88B Elisabeth Bersner
Merle Oberon
XOFFICE BookinGuida :: Jan. 24. 1948
(82) Drama Reissue
THE MAN WHO COULD
WORK MIRACLES
Roland Young
(81) Drama Reissue
THE RETURN OF THE
SCARLET PIMPERNEL
(98) Drama Reissue
SCARLET PIMPERNEL
Merle
Leslie
Oberon
Howard
THAT HAMILTON
WOMAN
Vivien Leigh
Laurence Olivier
(92) Drama Rels
THINGS TO COME
Raymond Massey
Marearetta Scott

I
'.
FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
JULY 19 JULY 26 AUGUST 2 AUGUST 9 AUGUST 16 AUGUST 23 AUGUST 30 SEPTEMBEI
.87) Drama
©GUNFIGHTERS
lolph Scott
am Brltton
Bruce Cabot
It—June 14—I'C-
(77) Drama 837
|30J
©LAST OF THE
REDMEN
Jon llalL
Michael O'Shea
Evelyn Ankers
R—Aug. 2—PG-844
[7] (119) Drama 8i
THE SON OF RUSTY
Ted Donaldson
Stephen Dunne
(55) Western 870
RIDERS OF THE
LONE STAR
Charles Starrett
Smiley Burnette
Virginia Hunter
gi] (67) Mus-West 851
SMOKY RIVER
SERENADE
Hoosier Hotshots
I'aul Campbell
liuth Terry
R—Aug. 23—PG-850
[T| (65) M.v.^lery p
BULLDOG DRUM)
STRIKES BACK
lion liandell j
Gloria Henry 1
li— Aug. 23—I'n-8 i
(58) Western 75
GHOST TOWN RENE-
GADES
;;Lash"^^ LaRue
Al
Jennifer
K—Aug.
Holt
9—PG-845
lie] (81) Drama 107
RED STALLION
Robert Paige
Noreen Nash
It—July 26—PG-841
gs] (63) Comedy 712
GAS HOUSE KIDS "
HOLLYWOOD
Carl "Alfalfa" Sttltzt
Benny Bartlett
Hudy Wissler
Tommy Bond
i;—Sept. 6— PO-853
§o| (58) Mystery 709
PHILO VANCE'S
SECRET MISSION
Alan Curtis
Sheila liyan
(104) Mus-Dr 727
©FIESTA
r Williams THE GREAT WALTZ
do Monlalhan
(115) Drama 72
THE HUCKSTERS
Clark Gable
Deborah Kerr
ICcenan Wynn
Sydney Oreenstreet
U—June 28—PG-843
(106) Drama 7
ROMANCE OF ROSY
RIDGE
Van Johnson
Janet Leigh
Thomas Mitchell
It—July 5—PG-8;i6
George Murphy
I'rances Gilford
Feb. 15—PG-7t
[19) (68) Comedy 621 |6| (42) Docum

I
3XOFFICE BookinGuide :: Jan. 24, 1948
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
SSftPTEMBER 13 SEPTEMBER 20 SEPTEMBER 27 OCTOBER 4
-j (88) IDrama 622
lOUNDS
IK'"
Allied Artists
[l| (89) Oiitd'r Di AA2
BLACK GOLD
Anlhony duinn
It—June 23—rG-833
(59) Western 673
FLASHING GUNS
[27] (68) Miis-Com 82
WHEN A GIRL'S
BEAUTIFUL
Adele
Jcrgens
Plait
:1a White
Stephen Dunne
li-Sept. 27—PG-869
II—Oct.
_
18—PO-866
(92) Drama 4701
WILD HARVEST
Alan Ladd
Dorolhy Lamour
Robert Preston
Lloyd Nolan
It—AUB. 9—PG-845
[3] (118) Drama 802
©UNFINISHED DANCE
Margaret O'Brien
Cyd Charlsse
Karln Booth
II— Aug. 9—PO-846
[4] (53) Western 6
RIDIN' DOWN THE
TRAIL
llmmy Wakely
"Cannonbair'
Beverly Jotins
Taylor
OCTOBER 11
KEY WITNESS
.Inhn lie.il
Trudy Marshall
.limrny Lloyd
It—Sept. 6—PG-854
[^ (67) M'drama 4702
©ADVENTURE ISLAND
Rory Callioiin
Rhonda Fleming
Paul Kelly
R—Aug. 23—PG-850
OCTOBER
N

I
airis-Pin
I
FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
NOVEMBER 8 NOVEMBER 15 NOVEMBER 22 NOVEMBER 29 DECEMBER 6 DECEMBER 13 DECEMBER 20 DECEMBER
(88) Comedy
^ (68) Mystery 9:
(66) Mystery 915
[Isl (67) Comedy 91 (65) Miiir
HER HUSBANDS
AFFAIRS
. Ball-F. Tone
R—Julv 26—PO-841
g (TO) Musical 919
TWO BLONDES ANI
A REDHEAD
S—Dee. 27—PG-885
Reissues
[s] (110) Drama 735
m (76) Drama 7-!
GENTLEMAN AFTER
DARK
LONE WOLF IN
LONDON
Gerald Mohr
Nancy Saunders
R—Jan. 17—Pa-892
(89) Drama 805
(jH
WHISPERING CITY
aut Lukas
.Mary Anderson
R—Not. 22—PO-87e
(104) Musical
U
THIS TIME FOR
KEEPS
Esther Williams
Jimmy Durante
Laurltz Melchior
Johnny Johnston
R—Oct. 4—PC-861
g2] (62) Drama 80,
BLOND SAVAGE
L. Erlckson-G. Sherwood
R—Oct. 11—PG-864
ra (81) Drama 80(
LOVE FROM A
STRANGER
R—No?. 16—po-srs
DOCTORS
CRIME
GAMBLE
Warner Bauer
MIcliellne Cheirel
Roger Dann
Si even Geriy
Dec. 13—PO-881
g
(58) Western S52
SHADOW VALLEY
Eddie Dean
Dec. 6—PG 880
(98) Comedy 93
HAD TO BE YOU
Ginger Rogers
Cornel WUde
Percy Waratn
R—Oct. 26-PO-867
5] (103) Dram
KILLER McCOY
Mickey Eooney
Brian DoDlejy
Louise Campbell
iara Bishop
Dec. 6—PG-879
^
(58) Western !
CHEYENNE TAKES
OVER
Lash LaBue
M St. John
.Nancy Gates
BLOND ITS
ANNIVERSARY
Penny Singleton
Artbur Lake
i.arry Sims
R— Dec. 27—PG-885
110) Comedy 812
NINOTCHKA
Greta Garbo
Melvyn DouglM
ROSE OF SANTA I
Uoosier Hoisliut.
Patricia While
Edua#) Noriena
R—Jan. 3—PQ-8881
^ (95) Musical
GOOD NEWS
June Allysoo
Joan McCracken
R— Dec. 6- Pfl-878
(66) Drama
[U
ING OF THE
BANDITS
Gilbert Roland
Angela Greene
Martin
M (65) Com-Dr 625
BOWERY BUCKAROOS
L. Gorcey-Bowery Boys
Allied Artists
(86) Drama
THE GANGSTER
AA3
[e] (68) Drama 62
- CHINESE RING
Roiand Whiters
f Currlf
ec. 20—PO-884
oj (58) Western 674
UN TALK
27] (66) Drama
ihnny Mack Brown JETRAYED
irglnla Chrljtiae Kim Hunter
Raymond Hattoo
Jagger
Robert Mltchun
Belita-B.
R—Oct.
Sullivan
4—PG-862
(80) 4704
yWHERE THERE'S
LIFE
Bob Hope
Signe Hasso
William Bendix
R—Oct. 11—PG-864
[e] (69) Drama 4705
BIG TOWN AFTER
DARK
Philip Reed
ary Brooke
Nov. 22— PO-87B
lo] (101) Comedy 4707
ROAD TO RIO
ng Crosby
Special
(89) Comedy 8<
MAN ABOUT TOWN
Maurice Chevalier
Francois Perier
Marceile
H—Oct
Derrlen
25— P0-H«7
(104) Drama 8
THE FUGITIVE
Henry Fonda
Dolores Del Hlo
R_No». 15—PO-8T4
Group 2
(97) Drama
OUT OF THE PAST
Robert Mitchum
Jane Greer
Reissue
(60) Western
PAINTED DESERT
George O'Brien
Laraine Day
Ray Whitley
$pei:ial
(128) Dram
TYCOON
John Wayne
Laraine Bay
ov. 29— P(
[a] (77) Western HC13
THE FRONTIERSMAN
William Boyd
Gabby Hayes
Russell Haydm
[9] (95) Drama
THE FABULOUS TEXAN
William KUlott
John Carroll
Catherine McLeod
Albert Dekker
R—Not. 16—PG-87S
(103) Drama
THUNDER IN THE
VALLEY
Lon McCallister
Edmund Gwenn
Peggy Ann Garner
R—June 14—PG-830
(97) Drama 6
THE FLAME
John Carroll
Vera Ralston
Robert Paige
Broderlck Crawlorit
R—Jan. 17—PQ-891
|25] (69) Western HC14
SUNSET TRAIL
(99) Drama
DAISY KENYON
Joan Oawford
Dana Andrews
16] (65) Mus-West 6
SUNDER COLORADO
SKIES
R— Dec. 20—PG-883
T5| (59) Western 752
BANDITS OF DARK
CANYON
ft— Dec. 13—PO-881
(42) Outd'r-Dr 4707
m (80)
[13]
WHERE THE NORTH
HE PRAIRIE
Lenore Auhert
BEGINS
Russell Hayden
1^ (72) Drama 1
.lennlfer Holt
ROAD TO THE4I
HOUSE
John Sh«ltoo
R—Nov. 1—P0-8»Ll
(67) Mdraroa
ROSES ARE RED
Hon
Castle
(84) Drama
rOBACCO ROAD
iJene
Tierney
(128) Drama I
GRAPES OF WRAT
Henry Fonda
Jane DarweU
John Carradlne
180) Drama-Docum
THE ROOSEVELT
STORY
Kenneth Lynch
Ed Begley
Canada Lee
R—July 12—PO-837
(90) Drama
INTRIGUE
George Raft
June Havoc
B-^an. 3—PO-887
(86) Drama
THE UPTURNED GLASS
James Mason
Rosamund John
Pamela Kellino
Ann Stephens
R—Nov. 1—PG-869
(77H) Drama 63
©PIRATES OF
MONTEREY
Maria Montei
Rod Clameron
Philip Reed
Gale Sondergaard
R—Nov. 22—PG-876
Deborah Kerr
David Farrar
R—July 12—PO
^
(104) Drama 708
ESCAPE ME NEVER
Errol Flynn
Eleanor Parker
Reissues
53] (93) Drama
JEZEBEL
Betle
Davis
[I3] (88) Drama
SLIGHT CASE OF
MURDER
Edward 0. Rohlnson
ANTHONY ADVERSE
Fredrlc March
Olivia de Havllland
iVndrea King
Arlene Dahl
R—Doc. 13—PG-K
2 «
2J
(82) Drama
Hoffberi
THUNDER IN THE
HILLS
B—July 19—PG-84*
(9») Drama
Mage
SHOP-GIRLS OF PARIS
R—July 19— PO-84*
(76) Mus-Dr
Buperfllm
ANTHING FOR A SONG
Ferrucdo Tagllavlnl
B— Aug. 9—PO-846
(83) Mus-Dr
(93) Drama
SHOE SHINE
R—Sept. 6—PG-854
(105) Melodrama
Azteca
LO QUE VA DE AYER
A HOY
R—Sept. 13—PG-856
(81) Mus-Dr
Superdlm
I LIVE AS I PLEASE
Perrucclo Tagllavlnl
R—Sept. 13— PG-866
(97) Com-Dr
Dasa-Mohme
GUADALAJARA PUES
R—Sept. 13—PG-856
(105) Drama
Superfllm
THE DEVIL'S ENVOYS
Arletty
B—Sept. 20— PG-858
(1«1) Drama
Film Rts. Int'l
MARCO VISCONTI
B— Sent 20— Pn-«58
(93) Comedy
Azteca
NO BASTA SER
CHARRO
R—gCDt. 27—PG-861
(106) Drama
Aiteca
RAYANDO EL SOL
R—Oct 4—PO-889
(95) Drama
FUm Dls
SCHOOLGIRL DIA*
R—Oct. 11—PO-f
(100) Mus-Dr
Satumla
FAREWELL. MY|
BEAUTIFUL
B—act '" "
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide Jan. 24, 1948

KEVIEW UlUCdl
lontf Alphabetical Fidure Gvide fndex-
850 Adventure Island (67) Para 8-23-47 -f-
S15 Adventures of Don Coyote (65) UA. . 5- 3-47 -f
g55Alono the Oregon Trail (64) Rep... 9-13-47 +
884 Always Tonether (78) WB 12-20-47 ±
790Arnelo Affair. The (87) MGM 2-15-47 +
826 Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer (95)
B
RKO 6-7-47 ++
881 Bandits of Dark Canyon (59) Rep.. .12-13-47 +
814Banlo (68) RKO ^26-47 ±
769 Best Years of Our Lives. Tlie (172)
RKO 12- 7-46 4+
872 Beware of Pily (102) U-l 11-8-47 +
Bin (60) Para. 791 Town 2-22-47 ±
875 Bio Town After Dark (69) Para 11-22-47 =t
887 Bill and Coo (16) Rep 1-3-47 +
875 Bishops Wife, The (109) RKO. .. .11-22-47 ++
833 Black Gold (91) Allied Artists 6-28-47 -(-
838 Black Narcissus (91) U-l 7-12-47 +
847 Blackmail (67) Ren 8-16-47 ±
864 Blond Savaoe (62) EL 10-11-47 ±
859Blondie in the Dough (69) Col 9-27-47 ±
885 Blonitio's Anniversary (67) Col 12-27-47 ±
848 Body anrt Soul (104) UA 8-16-47 4+
Kill 814 Born to (92) RKO 4-26-47 ±
Bowery Buckaroos (66) Mono
833 Brute Force (98) U-l 6-28-47 -f
873 Buckaroo From Powder River (55)
Col 11-15-47 ±
818 Bulldoo Drummond at Bay (70) Col. 5-10-47 ±
850 Bulldog Drummond Strikes Back (65)
Col 8-23-47 ±
842Burninn Cross, The (77) SG 7-26-47 +
877 Bush Christmas (76) U-l 11-29-47 +
Bush Pilot (60) SG
864 Bury Mc Dead (66) EL 10-11-47 +
c
811 Calcutta (S3) Para 4-19-47 ±
880 Captain Boycott (..) U-l 12-6-47 +
880 Captain From Castile (141) 20-Fox 12- 6-47 ++
816 Captive Heart, The (87) U-l 5- 3-47 ±
853 Caravan (84) EL .9-6-47 +
Carnegie Hall 797 (136) UA 3-8-47 ±
Case of the Baby Sitter (40) SG
872Cass Timberlane (119) MGM 11-8-47 +f
877 Check Your Guns (55) £L 11-29-47 +
+ ± 7+ 3-
± 6+3-
± ±
±
5+2-
6+4-
± ± 7+ 3-
±
±
+ 5+3-
6+6-
4+ 3-
7+ 1-
-t- tt 11+
+4 8+ 1-
10+
4+
+
-H-
± 6+ 6-
4+ 4-
± - 3+ 4-
3+ 2-
+ ++ 11-1-
± ± 7+7-
± ± 5+ 5-
4+ ± 8+1-
± 2+ 2-
813 Cheye.me (100) WB 4-26-47 ff
886 Cheyenne Takes Over (58) EL 12-27-47 +
i;«ono 884 Chinese Ring, The (67) 12-20-47 ±
872 Christmas Eve (90) UA 11- 8-47 +
Code ol the Saddle (52) Mono
831 Copacabana (91) UA 6-21-47 +
855 Corpse Came C.O.D., The (78) Col... 9-13-47 ±
881 Crime Doctor's Gamble. The (66) Col 12-13-47 ±
838 Crimson Key (76) 20 Fox 7-12-47 :£
833 Crossfire (86) RKO 6-28-47 4+
837 Cry Wolf (83) WB 7-12-47 3:
819 Cynthia (98) MGM 5-17-47 +t
D
878 Daisy Kenyon (99) 11-29-47 tt
20-Fox
796 Danger Street (66) Para 3- 1-47 ±
793 Dangerous Venture (59) UA 3-1-47 ±
884 Dangerous Years (62) 20-Fox 12-20-47 +
809 Dark Delusion (90) MGM 4-12-47 -f
B54Dark Passage (106) WB 9-6-47 -|-
724 Dear Ruth (95) Para 5-31-47 -f
843 Deep Valley (106) WB 8- 2-47 -ff
844 Desert Fury (95) Para. g- 2-47 +
860 Desire Me (91) MGM 9-27-47 -f
820Dcsperate (73) RKO 5-17-47 +
879 Devil Ship (62) Col 12- 6-47 ±
861 Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (65) RKO 10- 4-47 -f
822 Dick Tracy's Dilemma (60) RKO... 5-24-47 4+
813 Dishonored Lady (85) UA 4-26-47 +
887 Double Life, A (103) U-l 1-3-48 -f-
844 Down to Earth (101) Col
838 Dragnet (71) SG
8- 2-47
7-12-47
44
+
874 Driftwood (90) Rep 11-15-47 *
780 Duel In the Sun (140) SHO 1-11-47 44
E
808 Eoo and I. The (108) U-l 4- 5-47 44
871 Escape Me Never (104) WB 11-8-47 -4-
868 Exile, The (92) U-l
857 Exposed (59) Rep
10-25-47
9-20-47
-f
—
F
873 Fabulous Texan, Hie (95) Rep 11-15-47 44

i
intarprMaiiTc analysis oi opinions aeauciaa iiom ine languag* ot lof
id trade press reviews. The plus and minus signs indicate the degree
or disfavor ol the review. This department serves also as an
LPHABETICAL DJDEX to feature releases. Numeral preceding title is
ciuie Guide Review page number. In parentheses aiter title is running
lime, uate loUowing distnbuhw is BOXOFFICE review date. Listings corar
current reviews. It is brought up to date regularly. The meaning of the
various signs and their combinations is as follows:
T+ Very Good; + Good; =t Fair; - Poor; = Very Poor.
In the summary +f is rated as 2 pluses; = as 2 i
6 Lost Moment, The (88) U-l....

SHORTS CHART
snon BUDjecis. usiea oy x^ompany, in oraer oi release, nunning nmo tollows
title. First date is National release, second the date of review in BOXOFFICE.
Symbol between dates is rating from the BOXOFFICE review: +f Very Good,
+ Good, - Fair, — Poor, = Very Poor. © Indicates color photography.
'.
Columbia
Prod. No. Title Rel. Date Ratir
ALL-STAR COMEDIES
8427 Training for TroubU
(Schillino & Lane)
(15'/2) 7-3 :t 7-19
8407 Hold That Lion (Stooges)
+ (le/j) 7-W 8-30
1947-48 SEASON
9401 Brideless Groom (Stoojes)
(18) 9-11 ± 10-18
9431 Rollinn Down to Reno
(Von Zell) (17) 9- 4 i 10-18
9432 Hectic Honeymoon (Holloway)
(17) 9-18 + 11- 8
9421 Wedding Belle (Schil- .
Lane) (17) -|-
& 10- 9 U-29
9402 Sing a Song of Six Pants
(Stooges) (17) 10-30 ± U-29
9403 All Gummed Uo
(Stooges) (IS) 12-U ^ ± „ .«.
12-20
9434 Wedlock Deadlock (De Rita)
(16) 12-18
9435 Radio Romeo (Von Zell)
(I71/2) 12-25
9404 Shivering Sherlocks (Stooges)
(17) 1-8
9436 Man or Mouse (Holloway)
(18) 1-15
9423 Silly Billie (Billie Burke)
(..) 1-29
COLOR FAVORITES
(Re-releases)
9601 Dreams on Ice (6) 10-30 ± 11-8
9602 Novelty Shop (61/2) ... 11-20 H 12-27
9fi03Br. Bluebird (7i/,) 12-18 ++ 12-20
9604 111 My Gondola (71/2) 1-22
COLOR PHANTASIES
8704 Leave Us Chase It 5-15
(6I/2)
8705 Tooth or Consequences
(6I/2) 6-5
1947-48 SEASON
9701 Kitty Caddy (6) 11-6 -f 11-29
COLOR RHAPSODIES
(Technicolor)
8504 Mother Hubba-Hubha
Hubbard (6) 5-29 * 6-14
Up'n (6) -f 8505 Atom 7-10 8-2
1947-48 SEASON
9501 Swiss Tease (6) 9-11 + 10-18
9502 Boston Beany (6) 12-4 ± 12-20
COMMUNITY SINGS
8660 No. 10 Managua, Nicaragua
(Baker) (91/2) 7-19 ± 8-2
1947-48 SEASON
„ „
9651 No. 1 Linda (Leibert)
(10)
„ .
9-4
,
+ 8-30
9652 No. 2 April Showers (Baker)
(10) 10- 2 -I- 11-1
,
(9) (Leibert) 11- 6 ±
, 1-3,
9653 3 Peo o' My Heart
No ^
9654 No 4 When You Were Sweet
Sixteen (Leibert & Baker)
(9/2) ,12- 4
No. 7 Ser. Carols
5657 8 Christmas
(10) (Re-release) 12- 6
9655Feudin' and Fightin' (..) 1- 8
FILM NOVELTIES
9901 Aren't We All? (Stoopnagle)
(10'/2) 11-27
SCREEN SNAPSHOTS
8860 No lOSo This Is 'Ollywood
(9) 6-12 ± 6-14
1947-48 SEASON
(91/2) 9851 Hollywood Cowboys 9- 4 * B-M
9852Laguna, USA. (91/2) .. .10- 9 + 12-27
9853 Out of This World Series
(9) 11-27 -f 1-3
OHM tiff the Air (9'/^) 1218
9855 Hawaii in Hollywood (10) 1-22
SPECIAL MUSICAL FEATURETTE
9451 A Voice Is Born (Miklos
Grafni) (201/2) 1-15 +f 10-25
THRaLS OF MUSIC
8958 Ray Anthony & Orch. (101 5-22 + 7-19
1947-48 SEASON
9951 Bovd Raeburn & Orch.
(10) 9-18 -f
9952 Claude Thornhill & Orch.
(10) 10-16 +
9953 Lecuona Cuban Boys (11) 11-13 ++
9954 Shitch Henderson & Orch.
(IOI/2) 12-11
9955 Charlie Barnet & Orch.
r.) -15
8809 . .
WORLD OF SPORTS
Grappling Groaners (9) 5-29 ±
1947-48 SEASON
8810 Volley-Oop (8) 7-26 H
9801 Cinderella Cagers (9).. 9-25 -f
9802 Ski Demons (9) 10-23 -4-
9803 Bowling Kings (10) . . . .11.13 ±
9804 Navy Crew Champions
(..) 12-25
9805 Rodeo (..) 1-29
SERIALS
9120 The Sea Hound 9- 4 ++
15 Chanters
9140 Brick Bradford ...12-18 -(-
15 Chapters
10-25
Metro-GoldwYn-Mayer
Prod. No. Title Rel. Date Rating Rev
FITZPATRICK TRAVELTALKS
(Technicolor)
T-812 Calling on Costa Rica
(10) 3-5 -f 3-
T-S13 Around the World in
California (9) 5-17 ± 7-5
T-814 On the Shores of Nova
Scotia (8) 6-28 ++ 7-5
T-815 Glimpses of New ,
Scotland (9) 8-30
1947-48 SEASON
+ T-911 Visiting Virginia (9)... 11-29 1-3
-1- of T-912 Cradle a Nation (9) 12-13 1-3
GOLD MEDAL REPRINTS
(Technicolor)
W-921 Goldilocks and the Three
Bears (11) 11-22 W-922The Fishing Bear (8).. 12-20 ± 1-3
MINIATURES
4-20
NEWS OF THE DAY
(Released Twice Weekly)
PASSING PARADE
775 Magic on a Stick (10). . 1- 9 ++
776 Our Old Car (10).... 5-11 ++
871 A Really Important Person
(10) 1-11 ±
872 Tennis in Rhythm (10) . . 8-23
873 Amazing Mr. Nordill
(10) 8-30
Vliracle in a Cornfield
(9) 12-20 tt
It 972 Can't Be Done (10).. 12-20
PETE SMITH SPECIALTIES
S-855 Athletiguiz (9) 1-11 +
S-856 Diamond Demon 2- 1 it
(9) .
S-857 Early Sports Quiz (9).. 3- 1 +f
S-858 I Love My Wife But (9) 4-15 ++
S-859 Neighbor Pests (9) .... 5- 3 ±
S-860 Pet Peeves (10) 7-5 ±
1947-48 SEASON
S-951 Football Thrills No. 10
(10) 9-10
S-952 Surfboard Rhythm (9).. 10-18 :
++
S-953What D'Ya Know (9).. 11- 8 -f
S-954 Have You Ever Wondered?
(9) 12-13 +
S-955 Bowling Tricks (10) 1-10
TOM & JERRY CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
W-832Cat Fishin' (8) 2-22 ++ 4-19
W-R33 Part Time Pal (8).... 3-15 # 5-3
835 Cat Concerto (7) 4-26 ++ 5-10
W-837 Dr. JekyI & Mr. Mouse
(8) 6-14 ± 5-10
Wg38Salt Water Tabby (7).. 7-12
S40 Mouse in the House (8) 8-30
1947-48 SEASON
932 TTie Invisible Mouse (7) 9-27 ++ 11- 8
Paramount
Prod. No. Title Rel. Date Rating Rev'd.
GEORGE PAL PUPPETOONS
(Technicolor)
Tuba (10) U6-2 Tubby the 7-11
U6-3 Date With Duke (8).... 10-31 ++ U- 1
in -|- U6-4 Rhapsody Wood (9).. 12-19 12-13
GRANTLAND RICE SPORTLIGHTS
R6- 9 Making the Varsity (10) 6-13
R6-10 Diamond Gals (10) 7-18 ± 8-2
1947-48 SEASON
R7- 1 Riding the Waves (10) 10- 3 -|- 11-15
R7. 2 Running the Hounds
(U) 10-31 + 12-13
R7- 3 Five Fathoms of Fun (10)11-23
R7- 4 Stop. Look and Guess Em
( .) 12- 5
R7- 5 Hobbies of Champions
' > 1-16
R7- 6 Double Barrelled Sport
(10) 2-20
LITTLE LULU
(Technicolor)
D6-2Cad and Caddie (8).... 7-18 ± 8-2
D6-3 A Bout With a Trout (8). 10-10 -H- 11- 1
06-4 Super Lulu (7) 11-21 -f 11-15
D6-5The Baby Sitter 11-28 4- 12-13
(7)....
D6-6 Dog Show Off (7) 1-30 + 1-10
MUSICAL PARADES
(Technicolor)
FF6-2 Champagne for Two (20) 6-13 4- 6-21
FF6-3 Smooth Sailing (20)... 8-8-1- 6-21
FF6-4 Paris the Spring (19) 9-26 9-20
-|- in
FF6-5 Midnight Serenade (IS) 11-21 ±11-1
FF6-6 Jingle Jangle Jingle
(19) 1-2 -f 1-10
1947-48 SEASON
FF7-1 Samba-Mania (..).... 2-27
FF7-2 Footlight Rhythm (..). 4-9
NOVELTOONS
(Technicolor)
P6-4 Madhattan Island (9)... 6-27 H 8-2
P6-5 Much Ado About Mutton
(8) 7-25 ± 8-2
P6-6The Wee Men (10) 8- 8 # 8-2
P6-7 The Mild West (7) 8-22 + 9-13
P6-S Naughty But Mice (7)... 10-10 -f U- 1
1947-48 SEASON
P7-1 Santa's Surrrise (9) 12-5 ....
P7-2Cat-0'.Niiic Ails (7) 1-9
P7.3 Flip Flap (..) 2-27
P7-4 We're in the Honey 3-19
(..)
P7-5The Bored Cuckoo (..).. 4- 9
P7-6 There's Good Boo's Tonight
(..) 4-23
PACEMAKERS
K6-6 Everybody Talks About It
(10) 8-1 ± 9-U
1947-48 SEASON
K7-1 It Could Happen to You
(11) 10- 3 (+ 11-1
K7-2 Babies, They're Wonderful
(U) 11-14 + 12-13
K7-3 Bundle From Brazil ( . . ) 1- 2
PARAMOUNT NEWS
(Released Twice Weekly)
POPEYE CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
E6-2ni Be Ski-ing Ya (8)... 6-13 -|- 6-21
E6-3 Popeye and the Pirates
(8) 9-12 9-20
E6-4 Royal Four Flusher (6).. 9-12
-f 11-15
E6-5Wotta Knight (7) 10-24 11-15
E6-6 Safari So Good (7).... 11- 7 + 11-29
1947-48 SEASON
E7-1 All's Fair at the Fair
(8) 12-17
E7-2 Olive Oyl for President
(7) 1-30
E7-3 Wigwam Whoopee (..)... 2-13
E7-4 Pre- Hysterical Man (..)3-26
POPULAR SCIENCE
J7-3 Streamlined Luxury (..).. 2-20
SCREEN SONGS
839 Uncle Tom's Cabana (8) 8-19
(Color)
X7-1 The Circus Comes to Clown
1947-48
Happy Lion (7) . 9-20 ±11-8
SEASON
(7) 12-26 # 1-10
X7-2Base Brawl (..) 123
.
W-933 King Size Canary (7).. 12- 6 ± 1-3 X7-3 Little Brown Jug (..).. 2-20
X7.4The Golden Slate (..).. 3-12
X7-5 Winter Draws On (..).. 3-19
SPEAKING OF ANIMALS
Y6-5 In Love (10) 5-30 -|- 6-21
y6-6 As Our Friends (10) .... 6-27 -f 8-2
1947-48 SEASON
Y7-1 Dog Crazy (11) 10-3 ± 11-1
V7.? Sin'l NMii-e Grand (10) 1114 ± 12-13
Y7-3 Monkey Shines (9) 12-12
UNUSUAL OCCUPATIONS
(Color)
L6-5 Arctic Artisan (11).... 7- 4 8-2
L6-6Film Tot Fairyland (11) 9- 5 ± 9-13
1947-48 SEASON
17 Hula Maoir (10> 11-7 11-7^
1
L7-2 Bagpipe Lassies (11).... 1- 2 ± 1-10
64.117
64.118
74,101
74,102
74.103
74.104
74,105
74.106
74,107
RKO Radio
Title Rel. Date Rating Rti
DISNEY CARTOONS
(Technicolor)
Straight Shooters (6) . . 4-18 +
Sleepy Time Donald (7) 5- 9 ±
Figaro and Frankie (7) 5-30
Clown of the Jungle (7) 6-20 ±
Donald's Dilemma (7). 7-11 ff
Crazy With the Heat (7) 8- 1
Bootle Beetle (7) 8-22
Wide Open Spaces (7).. 9-12
Mickey's Delayed Date
(7) 10- 3 Foul Hunting (7) 10-31 +
Mail Dog (7) 11-4 -|-
1947-48 SEASON
Holiday (reissue)
Hawaiian
(7) 10-17
Chip an' Dale (7)....U-28 ++
Clock Cleaners (reissue)
(7) 12-12
Pluto's 12-26 Blue Note (7) 4+
They're Off (7) 1-30
The Big Wash (7).... 2-28
EDGAR KENNEDY COMEDIES
73.403 Social Terrors (18) .... 4-11
73.404 Heading for Trouble
(18) 6-20 I
Host 7-18 73.405 to a Ghost (18) . .
73.406 Television Turmoil (18) 8-15 ±
t
S
1947-48 SEASON
± 83.401 Mind Over Mouse (19) 11-21 12
83.402 Brother Knows Best
'181 1-2
83.403 No More Relatives (IS) 2- 6
FLICKER FLASHBACKS
74.206 No. 6 (9) 4.II ± !
74.207 No. 7 (9) 5-23 ff S
1947-48 SEASON
+ U
84.201 No. 1 (8) 10-24
84.202 No. 2 (8) 12-5
JAMBOREES
(Reissues)
84.401 Enric Madriguera & Orch.
(18) 9-5 +
84.402 It's Tommy Tucker Time
(8) 10- 3
84.403 Johnny Long & Orch.
(8) 11- 7 ±
84.404 Jerry Wald & Orch. ( .
. ) 2- 6
LEON ERROL COMEDIES
73.703 In Room 303 (17).... 4-25 -|-
73.704 Hired Husband (19)... 5- 9 ±
73.705 Blondie's Away (17)... 7-11 ±
73.706 The Spook Speaks (17) 12- 5
1947-48 SEASON
83,701 Bet Your Life (18) . . 1-16
MUSICAL FEATURETTES
73.203 Let's Make Rhythm (18) 5-23
73.204 Carle Comes Calling
(16) 9-12 ++
PATHE SPORTSCOPES
74.308 Wild Turkey (8) 4-4 ±
74.309 Racing Sleuth (8) 5-2 +
74.310 A Summer's Tale (8).. 5-30
74.311 Ski Belles (8) 6-27
74.312 Chasing Rainbows (8).. 7 25 +
74.313 Reading and Riding (8) 8-22 -f-
1947-48 SEASON
84.301 Ski Holiday (8) 9-19
84.302 Golf Doctor (8)... .1017
H4 303 Quail Pointers (8).
(Color)
A.802 Give Us the Earth (21) 6-21
RAY WHITLEY WESTERN •ERN MUSICfl
J6-5 Moon Rockets (10) 6-6 ± 6-21
J6-6 Twentieth Century Vikings
(11) 7-25 ± 8-2
TECHNICOLOR CARTOONS
83,501 Molly Cures a Cowboy loy
I
1947-48-i«EAS0N
(19) ...
MM.ir.l Bandit
. . . 9- 5
(16)).. 10-10 ±
i
a
J7-1 Radar Fisherman (10) .1017 -|- 11-29 «3 i^n?
J7-2 Desert Destroyers (11).. 12-25
834 Hound Hunters 4-12 5-10
(7).... H 83,503 Corraling a School M
n .1 5
W-836Red Hot Rangers (8).. 5-31 ± 7-5
S
(16) ....
SPECIALS
l?3.2ni My Pal (221 . 10-31
83,202 Football Highlights of 1947
(•) 2- 6
THIS IS AMERICA
73.106 Forgotten Island (18).. 4- 4
73.107 Big Party (18) 5- 2
73.108 I Am an Alcoholic (18) 5-30
73.109 Passport to Nowhere
(19) 6-27
73.110 Whistle in the Night
(19) 7-30
73.111 Treasure House (16).. 8-22
73.112 The 49th State (16) . . . 9-19
73.113 Smoke Eaters (18) ... .10-24
1047.48 SEASON
83.101 Border Without Bayonets
(161 11-14
83.102 Switzerland Today
(18) 12-19 ^ ;
83.103 Children's Village (IS) 1-16
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide

'
: of
il Mighty Mouse in a Date 1
20th Century-Fox
SHORTS CHART
Universal-International Warner Bros. Miscellaneous
)(l. No. Title Rel. Date Ratinj Rev'd
DRIBBLE PUSS PARADE
1947-48 SEASON
OlAlbum of Animals (S).. 11-21 ± 9-27
FEMININE WORLD
OlSomcthiiio Old—Somethiiio New
(Ilka Cliase) (8) Feb. ....
I Fashioned (or Action
(Ilka Cliase) (8) Apr.
MARCH OF TIME
'1 No. 10 The Russians Nobody
Knows (19) 5-16 ;± 5-17
^
No. 11 Your Doctors
1947 (19) 6-13 -H- 6-14
No. 12 New
Trains
for Old? (IS) 7-U -H- 7-19
13. No. 13 Turkey's 100 Million
(181,'2) 8- 8 + S- 2
1947-48 SEASON
Everybody
itenino? (18)
0. 2T-Men in Action
••••
Ho. 3 End of an Enipir
10-31
)
.4 Public Relations
his Means You! (17)..,11-28
Ko. 5 The
(.•)
Presidential
9- 5
LO- 3
.12-26
3VIETONE ADVENTURES
(8) 6-6 ±
irdens of the Sea (8) 6-20 ± '
the Fjords
.; 6-27 +
of the Sea (9) 7- 4 +
. .
1947-48 SEASON
I 3 R's Go Modern (9) 11- 7 ±
llSlOHoliday in South Africa
(8) 8-22 +
iOl Horizons of Tomorrow (8) 9-12 -\-
SZCHome of the Danes (8) 10-17 4-
Jungle Closeups (8).... 12-12
Cocenhaoen
Pageantry
(9).
.Jan.
MOVIETONE NEWS
(Released Twice Weekly)
SPORTS
nbark Champions (8) . . 5-23 +
of the Wind (8)
. . 7-18 tt
1947-48 SEASON
01 Gridiron Greatness (9).. 8- 1 +
[51 ©Vacation Magic (8)... 9-26 +
|52©Aqua Capers (8) 1-16
lo2 Olympic Class (10) Feb.
|l53

SHORTS REVIEWS
'
Op/o/oDS 00 the Cerrenf Short Sob/«cfx-
Bundle From Brazil
Paramount (Pacemaker) 11 Minutes
Good. A novel short which will have a
strong appeal to the youngsters. Red Barber,
famed Brooklyn sports broadcaster, gets a
present of a coati-mundi or ant bear, from a
South American admirer. The nosy little
animal sticks his beak into everything about
the home Barber's until wife nearly goes
crazy. Then a lady coati-mundi arrives by
mail and, you guessed it, soon six tiny
animals are in the Barber household.
Cat O' Nine Ails
Paramount (Noveltoon) 7 Minutes
Good. Sam, the cat, is a pitiable hypochondriac
who swallows quantities of pills
every hour in the day. Buzzy, the blackbird,
sizes up the situation and disguises himself
as a doctor. His diagnosis includes pneumonia,
measles and bats in the belfry; Fuzzy
finally paints the cat's throat—with the Paramount
trademark.
Olive Oyl for President
Paramount (Popeye Cartoon) 7 Minutes
Good. Olive Oyl takes the spotlight from
Popeye in this novel cartoon. Dreaming that
she is president, she orders such innovations
as ten months of June for honeymooners, onecent
ice cream cones for children, private silkworms
to make stockings to order for all the
girls and a cabinet with Bing Crosby, Alan
Ladd, etc. Popeye is dubious about the
scheme.
Children's Village
REO Radio (This Is America) 8 Minutes
Very good. An absorbing and informative
two-reeler built around the famous Children's
Village where delinquent boys are turned into
good citizens. The film investigates typical
•cases and shows how boys react to a community
which is run by its young members but
supervised by adults. One bpy, used as an
example, is a petty thief who resents the
kindly supervision and runs away. On his
return, he is judged by a court of his equals
who curtail his privileges. Eventually, he becomes
a willing citizen of the village.
Clock Cleaners
at work cleaning the face of a huge clock.
Donald gets all tangled up in the mainspring
and Goofy makes some disastrous plunges
through space.
Drummer Man
Univ-Infl 15 Minutes
(Name Band Musical)
Entertaining. Gene Krupa's drum and cymbal
technique is highlighted in this short.
Carolyn Grey, attractive vocalist, adds interest
with a rendition of "Boogie Blues." The
Krupa Jazz Trio, featuring the band leader at
the drums, are filmed in silhouette playing
"Stompin' at the Savoy." Jeanne Blanche does
a tap-ballet number. The finale features
Krupa and the orchestra playing "Leave Us
Leap." The musical selections are best suited
for "jive" enthusiasts.
Carlos Molina & Orchestra
Univ-Int'l 15 Minutes
(Name Band Musical)
Good. Rhumbas, tangos and samba rhythms
spice this two-reeler. Carlos Molina's orchestra
is filmed against a plush nightclub
backdrop. Poggi and Dega contribute an ex-
cellent dance number to the tune of "Rhumba
Fantasy." The band accompanies Chinita
Marin, exotic Latin vocalist, in "Oye Negra"
and "Cae Cae." The film closes with a production
number featuring the Dave Gould
Dancers.
Alvino Rey & Orchestra
Univ-Int'l
15 Minutes
(Nome Bond Musical)
Good. A series of entertaining musical
sequences make lor popular appeal. Featured
in addition to Alvino Rey's band are
Curtis and Clare, talented dance team.v Judy
Clark, blond vocalist who signs in the Betty
Hutton manner, and the Starlighters, vocal
quintet. Miss Clark sings "I Need You" and
does a novelty number called "Ma Ma Blues"
with Rey's talking musical guitar.
Wind, Curves & Trap Door
Univ.-In'tl 8 Minutes
(Answer Man Series)
Interesting. Queries about trap door spiders,
the size of the Statue of Liberty and whether or
not a baseball actually curves are answered
pictorially. The spider is shown burrowing
a nest underground and spinning a trap door.
The narrator explains that a baseball does
not actually curve, but drops toward the end
of the throw. The film provides some statistics
on the size of the Statue of Liberty. Also
shown is the damage done by dust storms.
Woody the Giant Killer
Univ-Int'l (Lantz Cartune) 7 Minutes
Amusing, The mischievous woodpecker with
the infectious laugh is off on another Technicolor
adventure. This time he is searching
for a place to live. He buys some magic
beans, cultivates an oversized bean stalk and
climbs to the sky. He finds a castle inhabited
by a giant. Woody determines to rent a room
at the castle, but the giant has other ideas.
They fight, caid Woody eludes the giant. In
a rage, the big fellow causes the castle to fall
to earth. Woody takes advantage of the situation
and converts the castle into a hotel. The
giant serves as bellhop.
Exhibitor Has His Stiy
(Continued from page 3)
RKO Radio
7 Minutes
(Disney Cartoon Reissue)
but it certainly did not draw. Played Wed
Very good. A reissue of one of Walt Disney's
Thurs. Weather: Cold.—Marcella Smith, Vinton
Theatre, McArthur, Ohio. Small town patronage.
outstanding cartoons which stands the
test of time extremely well. The short has a
* * *
three-star value in that Mickey Mouse, Donald
Duck and Goofy all appear in it. High up in
a skyscraper in a big city, the three are hard
Unfaithful, The (WB)—Ann Sheridan, Lew
Ayres, Zachary Scott. This didn't do as well
as 1 figured on, but got by, so I guess it
was okay.
it
Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Okay.
—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz.
Mining patronage. * *
Wild Bill Hickok (WB)—Reissue. Bruce
Cabot, Constance Bennett, Warren William.
A honey for Fri., Sat., in a small town. The
rural fans sure go for these—and I kinda like
'em myself. Played against a free basketball
game but still did okay. Weather: FqjT.-
Bill Leonard, Leonard Theatre, Cedarvale,
Kas. Small town and rural patronage. • * •
MISCELLANEOUS
Bohemian Girl (FC)—Reissue. Stan laurel,
Oliver Hardy. The comedy was swell, but
it's a costume picture. Use it on a double bill
—it's worth it. Played Fri., Sat. Weather:
Good.—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre, Rivesville,
W. Va. Rural patronage. * * *
Come and Get It (FF)—Reissue. Edward
Arnold, Frances Farmer. Doubled with "Bohemian
Girl" and here is an excellent combination
for rural action situations. When
they come out on Mon., Tues., you've got
something. Weather: Cold.—Rahl and Hanson,
California Theatre, Kerman, Calif. Small
town and rural patronage. * *
In the Newsreels
Movietone News, No. 4: Senate com:
hears Marshall; General De Gaulle rallies hii
people; a day with Haile Selassie; Miami airj
show; Los Angeles open golf show; sled dog;
race; college ski meet in Sun Valley; futur
ski stars at Dartmouth college.
News of the Day, No. 238: Marshall warns,
"Aid Europe now, or else De Gaulle bids ";
for
power; Haile Selassie initimate films; Japan's
honor system telephones; fashions for mermaids;
intercollegiate ski meet; aquatic carnival.
Paramount News, No. 41: Hockey squad
sails for Olympics; high flying hickory aces;
Europe aid program debated; guerillas on
Klmitsa front; thrill-a-minute air show.
Universal News, No. 108: Marshall urges
passage of plan; French leftists protest importation
of U.S. films; Florida bathing suits
in hat fashion show; Aillege skiers compete in
blizzard of Sun Valley; thrilling air show at
Miami.
Warner Pathe News, No. 43: Explosives for
Palestine seized; Princess Anne ends trip to
Michael; Italy welcomes Friendship Food;
Marshall before senate committee; rescue
Soviet mystery ship; All-American air show
at Miami.
•
Movietone News, No. 5: U.S. senate probes
market trading by "insiders"; Burma-independent
state; subs for Turkey; Gen. Clare ^
Chennault weds; silver skates; March of Dimes
opens in Washington.
News of the Day, No. 239: Heroes' ship burns
at sea—crew rescued; General Chennault
finds romance in China; Stassen charges capital
"insiders" made millions in grain; silver
skates thriller; boy victim helps President open
March of Dimes drive.
Paramount News, No. 42: Silver skates classic
in New York; antiroyalist riot in Rome;
lime for dimes; General Chennault and bride;
Montgomery mission to Ethiopia; survival in
the air age.
Universal News, No. 109: Forty-six saved
from burning ship in mid-Atlantic; President
opens March of Dimes drive; subs ready for
transfer to Turkey; British airliner crash; General
Chennault and Chinese bride; new
sweater fashions modeled at Coral Gables;
wrestling in high gear in Madrid.
'
Warner Paths News. No. 44: Boy symbol
March of Dimes; sweater girls in Florida su:
Stassen and Graham and grain; Chennaull
weds Chinese girl; spinsters plan leap year'
traps; St. Louis vs. L.I.U.; Great Americans
Daniel Webster.
All American News, Vol. 6, No. 273: Crowds
of merrymakers welcome 1948; Jackie Ormes,
famed cartoonist, is a guest on television
program; Stonewall Lewis of JJashville, Tenn.,
solves housing shortage for his family;
Kentucky state college in Frankfort making
steady progress; Dr. R. J. Bunche is newly appointed
chief of the UN secretariat for Palestine;
Wilberforce beats Grambling in annual
Vulcan bowl in Birmingham.
•
All American News, Vol. 6, No. 274: I: C C. Bi
Robinson, principal ol Calvin Donaldi naldsojli
Junior High school, is called "Man of th4
Year" in Chattanooga; 33 Pi Beta Sigmoi
conclave held in Atlanta; Beatrice F. Evans,
Negro agent in Chicago, proves that Negroes
are good insurance risks; new Negro bank
makes strides in Kansas City, Kas.; Negro boy
is mayor of Boys Town, Neb.; stamp honoring
Dr. George Carver is issued.
Telenews Digest, No. 2: UN makes on-the4j
spot check of farm methods; the world re^
builds—France, Germany; ancient art treaa
ures found: contestants vie for beauty honors-
France, Belgium, Sweden; winter Olympii
stars tune up.
14
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: Jan. 24,

i/flf ons on Current Productions; Exploitips for Selling to the Public 1

. . . Lusty
. . Filmed
. . And
. . The
. . As
. . Hate—a
. . One
. . And
. . Barking
. . Danger
. . Then
. . Laden
. .
Fighting
. . Who
. . When
. . Death
. . And
. . And
. . Torn
. . See
. . And
. . She
. . Here
. . And
. .
. .
EXPLOITIPS Suggestions for Selling; Adiines for Newspaper and Progran
SELLING ANGLES: "Albuquerque"
Build up a compo-board map of the American southwest,
with Albuquerque as the focal point, and illustrate it with
action stills from the picture, for use as lobby centerpiece.
Stage a "New Mexico" night for former residents of tfiat
state. Launch a "Randolph Scott Junior Cowboy" club for
juvenile theatregoers. Conduct a contest for the longest
list of words which can be spelled, using the letters in the
picture's title. Stress that the film is in color.
CATCHLINES:
Flashing Hoofs Six-Guns Men
.
.
in Action in the Old Southwest ... As Randolph Scott Deals
Out Powdersmoke Justice ... In a Dangerous Game Where
the Loser Only Loses Once.
Here's a Hot-Headed, Hot-Blooded Saga of Brawling Fists
and Smoking Guns That Crackles with Gunfire
.
Outdoor Excitement in a Stampede of Adventure
Packed With Roaring Action .
With Rampaging
Thrills . in- Gorgeous Natural Color.
SELLING ANGLES: "My Girl Tisa"
Its concern with citizenship and immigration suggests you
hold special performances for students of civic and government
in local schools. Using stills depicting the costumes
and appurtenances in use in 1905, work out window displays
with clothing stores and other merchants. For mailing pieces
print up copies of the oath of allegiance to the flag, with copy
such as: "Do you, an American, remember this? Tisa did
and appreciated its full meaning."
CATCHLINES:
Torn From the Pages, of America's Hisfory ... In the Days
When Our Country Was Beginning to Be Great . . . Beginning
to Estimate Its Natural Resources . . . Beginning to Know It
Had a Destiny . Beginning to Blend All the Peoples
Who Come to Itg Shores . . . Into a New Nationality.
America Is a Place Filled With Little People and Big
People . Somehow They Get Around to Helping Each
Other . Here's a Heartwarming Story of the Lusty, Brawling,
. .
Nostalgic Days of
1900.
SELLING ANGLES: "Call Norlhside 777"
This is based on an actual story in police files. Stage a
special preview for city, court, police and newspaper representatives,
using their comments in publicity and advertising.
Run teaser ads as "personals," with the tagline: "Call
Northside 777— if no answer, call (theatre number)." In the
foyer erect a replica of a gallows with a placard: "See how
an innocent man barely escaped this." Stuff heralds in detective
magazines. Work out merchandise tieups such as:
"Call Northside 777 for thrills . . . Call (store number) for
outstanding bargains."
CATCHLINES:
Tense Drama . from the Police Blotter . . . Reaching
a Pitch of Emotional Excitement Seldom Seen on the Screen
... As a Mother's Sacrifice Saves the Life of Her Innocent
Son . Had Been Doomed to Die.
For Ten Weary Years He Was Kept Behind Prison Bars .
Convicted of a Crime He Didn't Commit . . . Little Knowing
That a Mother's Loyal, Unswerving Faith . . . Was Working,
Slowly, Slowly ... To Free Him.
SELLING ANGLES:
"You Were Meant for Me"
Dress your usherettes as mid-1920 "flappers" and park a
battered old jalopy, replete with typical collegiate wisecracks
chalked on the body, in front of the theatre. Use a
young man wearing a raccoon coat and waving a college
pennant, in street ballyhoo. Make music store tieups on
recordings of the old-time* songs in the picture, such as the
title number, "Good Night Sweetheart" and others. Title
could be used in a number of different merchandising tie-
CATCHLINES:
Out of the Days When Raccoon Coats, Bare Knees and the
Black Bottom Were Hot Stuff . . . When the World Went
Collegiate . Was Singing as It Worked . . . Here's
Jeanne Grain, that "Margie" Gal . Dan Dailey, That
"Mother Wore Tights" Guy ... In Another Great Hit.
Songs, Romance and Laughter ... In America's Hey-Hey
Era . Youth Was Flaming . Is a Picture
That's Loaded With the Songs You Sang . Will Want
to Sing Again.
SELLING ANGLES: "Open Secret" SELLING ANGLES: "To the Ends of the Earth"
While Sheldon Leonard, Jane Randolph and Roman Bohnen
will be recognized by film patrons, their names mean little
outside a theatre so the picture must be sold on its sensational
topical theme. Don't stress anti-Semitism, but use
advertising phrases such as "Hate Is Deadlier Than a Gun."
Civic groups and women's clubs will endorse the plea for
tolerance. Make a tieup with a camera shop to use stills of
the camera store sequences in the picture.
CATCHLINES:
A Dramatic Plea for Tolerance That Has the Impact of an
Atom Bomb Disease That Can Turn Friendly
.
Neighbors Into Bitter Enemies ... A Smashing Drama of
Murder and Intolerance.
Racial and Religious Hatred That Endangers the Democracy
Americans Fought For . . . Ignorance and Hatred Made Him
a Murderer . of Democracy's Burning Problems Is
Brought Out Into the Open With Heart-Rending Drama.
Dick Powell has gained new popularity through recent
portrayals of rough tough heroes. Bearing in mind that this
is not suited for juveniles, the film may be plugged as smashon
actual incidents. The picture may be compared with previous
documentary offerings, i. e., "T-Men," "Rue Madeleine,"
"Boomerang." Signe Hasso co-starred with Bob Hope in
"Where There's Life."
CATCHLINES:
Stark 'Violence . . . Smashing Story of an International
Opium Ring . the Men Behind the Fiendish Plot to
Rule the World . . . Savage Realism That Hits Home . . .
The
Inside Story of the Treasury Narcotics Bureau.
Loaded With Intrigue and Adventure . . . Story Behind the
United Nations Antinarcotics Code . Was Trapped in
a Web of International Intrigue . . . Men Bent on Ruling With
Opium . Was the Price of Failure.
SELLING ANGLES: "The Main Street Kid' SELLING ANGLES: "Angels' Alley"
Arrange for a local amateur magician to present a "mindreading"
act in the lobby or on the stage of your theatre. As
a lobby piece use a crystal ball on a pedestal, with copy
such as: "You don't need to look into the ball to know that
'The Main Street Kid' is prime entertainment." Tie your advertising
in to Al Pearce's reputation as a radio comedian
and stuff radio magazines ' with special heralds. If the
Pearce show is heard in your community, arrange for spot
announcements before or after the program.
CATCHLINES:
It's the Laugh Lift of the Year . . . And AI PearcS Will Have
the Whole Town Rocking With Mirth . . ; In a Rollicking
Comedy With Romance That Warms the Heart ... A Boisterous
Batch of Fun.
Young Enough to Laugh? . You're Old Enough to
Roar With Merriment ... At This Brand New, Grand New
Howleroo . Al Pearce Takes Off on a Mirth Spree . . .
That'll Be Heard Around the World . . . He's a Mind-Reader for
a Day . Funniest Day of Your Life.
Seek editorial comment and quotes from civic leaders, the
police and service clubs on the juvenile delinquency problem,
after representatives of these groups have attended a
special screening of the picture. If you have not already
done so, organize a "Bowery Boys Club" and tie the organization
in with community efforts to combat juvenile delinquency.
Secure police permission to change the name of the street
on which your theatre is located to "Angels' Alley."
CATCHLINES:
It's Fast, Furious and Funny ... As Those Riotous Rascals,
the Bowery Boys, Are on the Loose Again . . . They're Wild,
Wonderful and Wacky ... If It's Laughter You're After,
Don't Miss This Comedy Wow.
Entertainment That's Guaranteed to Please the Whole
Family . . . With an Abundance of Action and Comedy .
As Those Bowery Wildcats Bust an Auto-Theft Ring Wide
Open .
Smash a Rising Wave of Juvenile Delinquency.

I Powers
York 18. .
I. > s
1 ;
I
Ten
asBilied Ads 10c Per Word, Payable $1.00. Display Rate
ENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED GEN. EQUIP.—NEW (Cont.)
or about February 15. we vull be located in
11 s. building. 602 West 52nd Street,
minutes from Times Square.
THEATB
^i;uti«iiiy
Huust
niic drives, two and four speed motors
Immediate delivery. Dealers wanted.
^ineerine and Mlg. Co., 519 Wyan-
. Lisas Cily. Mo.
6B pin roller, adjustable
I- new. $90 (or the pair. PbUlip
Chase Ave., Cblcaeo 26. 111.
booth equipment. Pair rebuilt Simsliutter
projectors, double bearing
uJestals. maganines. ultra tone ssund-
:^ brand new amplifiers. Strong high
-mis. 30 amp. reetiliers. $1,000 talies
Worth $2,000. Phillip Bland, 1330
Chicago 26. HI
Ciplete booth equipment. Simples r
lechanisms. pedestals, magazines,
Ofuses, rectifiers, lenses. UCA soun
perfect condition. $1,005. Sta
Pl. 459 W. 4Gtli St.. Ne« York 19,
-F- Sale: Two Sonim Century heads, KCA
Bi two low inten.^iiy IVerlcss lamps with rec-
Equipment practically new. Best offer
wall. Boxoffice. A-2935. 835 Van Brunt
le
id 1. Kansas Cily M
We have plenty of used and rebuilt
nent at reasonable prices.
„il Tlieaire Equipment Co..
I'hones; superior 3912 or
THEATRES FOR SALE
ild double parking drive-m tbeaires undei
bise patent No. 2,102,718, reissue No. 22,70i
Improvements, patent pending. Up to oU
seating capacity with little additional cu,i
Louis Josserand, Architect. 628 M & ,M lildn
Houston. Tex.
We have theatres. Many theatres lor
irth Investigating. Contact us
loe" Joseph, 1003 Galloway. Phone Yale
2-7650. Dallas. Tesas.
For Sale: 650-seat downtown theatre in low
city of 85.000. Will take $05,000. all cash, to
handle. Contact Boxoffice. A-2936, 825 Van
Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 1. Mo.
plete
istigati
iveekly. First run product, all Ilo i. ''
e.\clusn9 listing requires personal ii,:r:.,i mil
Approximately 60% cash down. Arthur Leak,
Theatres Exclusively. 3422 Kinmore. Dallas.
Texas.
j HC\ M1-:hi.-,ii soundheads. $325; 50, 65
•6 ampere high intensity Hertner. Rolh.
;, Stabilarc Btneraturs. panel, ballasts, startnm
$395: complete rebuilt projection, sound
i"ts-. Powers. Simplex, Motiograph, Century
• lur all size theatres and drive-ins, $995
11 s Cinema Supply Corp., 449 W. 42nd

Another Signal Honor for a Very Wonderful Motion Picture
Universal -International is
extremely
happy to announce that
"A DOUBLE LIFE' will be the next attraction
at the Radio City Music Hall.
It is
another signal honor to add to
those already paid to this wonderful
motion picture by all who have seen it. |
"The greatest performance in
Ronald Colman's long career...
powerful, fascinating attraction."
— Motion Picture Daily
"Designed to hit wide and popular
appeal." — The Exhibitor
"A polished package of class
screen entertainment." — Variety
"Should win loud acclaim."
—Box Office
"Another high spot of the season."
'^ — The Film Daily
giving NEW greatness to the Screen m
% Bommm lif'e:"'
EDMOND O'BRIEN
SIGNE HASSO
•
SHELLEY WINTERS • RAY COLLINS • PHILIP LOEB
A Universal-International Rele
Written by RUTH GORDON and GARSON KANIN
Dmctcd hy GEORGE CUKOR • Produced by MICHAEL KANIN
>A^
-y^ -~k P^