I share your enthusiasm for the Cinerama Dome 100 %. And I understand your position regarding the Egyptian, since there are some who feel the same way as you do. However, in the case of the upcoming presentation of “Around the World…â€, I am willing to give them and America Cinematheque some slack. In my opinion, this is a rare opportunity to see this classic in Todd-AO. Unfortunately, in all likelihood we will see another installment of “Scary Movie†before “Around the World†is properly restored and presented at the Dome or the Ziegfeld.
Bill Huelbig,
I’m glad to see that someone is taking a stand on behalf of “Around the World”. Event though time has not been kind to some of its aspects, I think it is a wonderful picture. Shortly after this year’s Oscars, an article in the LA Times Calendar section declared it (and Ben-Hur) as some of the worst winners ever for Best Picture.
Gary,
To follow up on Chris’s response on Cinerama, see my Apr. 6 comment on this page.
Peter: I appreciate your response. Thank you! We agree, it is indeed a rare opportunity. I am going to skip work that day, certainly don’t want to miss it! If you wish, I’ll let you know how it turns out.
To the best of your knowledge, how good is that “Around the World” print? Until I read the Egyptian schedule at the in70mm website, I was not aware that a Todd-AO print was in existence!
In 1989, Big Newport presented the Director’s cut of “Lawrence of Arabia”. It was an amazing experience, and an excellent show: A beautiful 70 MM print, with great sound, an overture, intermission, no commercials, and no previews. A true class act!
HTWWW was shown in 3-strip format at the Cinerama Dome in LA as recently as last November. The next engagement is supposed to be in 2007. “This is Cinerama” may play this year. However, no official announcement has been made for either presentation.
Robert Harris: Yes, of course there is innocence in my comments. There is also hope, optimism and romanticism as well. With all that comes my ignorance relative to the subject matter, since I would not be able to tell which classic films are in condition to be screened properly. I am aware that many of our classic motion pictures are either in a state of disrepair or presently unavailable for proper widescreen presentation. However, I was not suggesting a program per se, but rather the concept of a large-scale classic revival taking place simultaneously in premier venues at LA and NYC. Logistically difficult? Yes. Risky? Absolutely. Obstacles on the way? More than we can imagine. Will it happen? Probably not. But if a) such an event would ever come to fruition and b) if sufficient financial returns are realized from such an event, maybe this could send a signal to the studios. And maybe, just maybe, instead of spending $ 100 million “adapting†another bad TV show for the screen, someone in the Hollywood executive suites could instead put an end to that insanity. Take that money, invest in the studio archives and budget funds for restoration and preservation with the intent of proper theatrical release.
Robert, I sincerely appreciate the work and effort that has been put into classic film restoration, and have a high sense of gratitude and respect towards everyone involved in that endeavor. And thank you for sharing your insight relative to MW, and the 35 & 70 mm issues. Seeing the restored “Lawrence of Arabia†on the big screen back in the late 80’s was indeed a remarkable and definitive cinematic experience, not only because of the spectacular presentation, but also because up to that time I thought that such an event would have been impossible.
Some of this may sound corny, but now that this Classics series is near its end, I would like to make some comments. Here at no-so sunny California (yes, it rains here from time to time), I just realized that, despite the setbacks encountered by the Ziegfeld and posted here in explicit detail, in many ways you guys had all the luck this time. While our “flagship†theaters were delighting audiences with “Underworld: Evolutionâ€, “Running Scaredâ€, the new “Pink Pantherâ€, and on and on, you guys had “Chinatownâ€, CE3K, “The Godfatherâ€, “Ben-Hurâ€, WSS, LOA and “2001â€. So, all in all, kudos to the Ziegfeld for doing this, and to all who showed up and supported the program. Not only do we all virtually love the same movies (well, I’m not too crazy about MFL, but that’s beside the point), but we all have the same high standards when it comes to proper film presentation. Hopefully the Ziegfeld will take to heart the recommendations posted by the various CT members and lessons learned during this series, and they will find their way to the next classics presentation. I for one would like to visit the Ziegfeld, the Lafayette and the Loew’s in Jersey in a not-so distant future.
For Craig and Clearview: In the spirit of “friendly†rivalry between the East and West Coast let me propose a challenge. Take note when there is a classic widescreen series at either the American Cinematheque, Cinerama Dome or at Cal State Long Beach. Schedule an “alternative†series at the same time. If we have “Cleopatraâ€, throw “Spartacus†at us. If they show “Agony and the Ecstasyâ€, proudly present “Lust for Lifeâ€. “The Great Raceâ€? No problem, here’s “Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machinesâ€. “Magnificent Seven†you say? Show off with “The Alamoâ€. “Dirty Harry†vs. “Bullittâ€. The possibilities are endless. Most important, we all win…
Lastly, I would like to pay my respects in this site to Richard Fleischer (20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Fantastic Voyage, Tora! Tora! Tora!, Soylent Green), who passed away last Saturday at the age of 89.
Just want to throw my two cents regarding the roadshow presentations: I have attended many classic film engagements in the LA and Orange County areas. It’s my experience that, with only one notable exception, intermissions and overtures are generally handled well. A minor discrepancy may be proper light fading during the overtures, but it’s not that big of a deal. I emphasize, “may be”. I’ll have to pay more attention to that next time. The notable exception was a presentation of “El Cid” in a theatre at Orange County, which shall remain nameless, to protect the guilty. I just barely had time to return to my seat from the restroom during the, er, “intermission”.
As far as CE3K, I’ll reiterate that the ‘77 version is much better in terms of story continuity. The '80 scenes with Neary inside the spaceship were, in my opinion, a waste of time. The Director’s Edition is not bad, and I try to catch it on the big screen when possible.
The Heights Theatre in Minneapolis is currently running a 70 mm DTS engagement of “Lawrence of Arabia”.
El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood has shown several Disney classics on the big screen for a limited time, prior to their DVD release. They’ve done it recently for “Lady and the Tramp”, and also for the 40th anniversary of “Mary Poppins”, among others. With all the resources that Disney has, I wonder why New York and other major cities are not included in these engagements. And, I can only speak for my 7 year old son, but yes he can sit through “Mary Poppins”!!! It’s one of his favorite films. I am a firm believer in the power and beauty of cinema, and try to pass on that appreciation to my kid. Last fall, he saw “Close Encounters” for the first time on the big screen, and he was in total awe, a jaw dropping experience for him.
Close Encounters: Some deletions from the 1977 version included a scene that takes place in the power station before Dreyfuss' first encounter. One Special Edition scene that made its way to the recent Definitive iteration is the Gobi Desert sequence. Over the years, mixed versions have been broadcast on TV, so who really knows how many permutations are out there? I still consider the original 1977 release the best, one of the finest American films of the 70’s. I failed to see what was so “Special” in the 1980 edition. The 2001 version is a good compromise.
Yes, Peter and Ed: I recently saw a presentation of “Close Encounters…” at California State University, Long Beach. The film was introduced by none other than cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, and he mentioned that the special effects sequences were shot in 70 mm, while the other dramatic scenes were shot in 35 mm. It would have been interesting to ask him Ed’s question! “Close Encounters…” is indeed a beautiful film, both visually and conceptually. A good 35 mm print will do justice to this important picture. But oh, that 70 mm/6-track…
Regarding Lawrence of Arabia’s ability to impact present-day audiences, my thoughts are that it will. By virtue of its powerful images and literate script, it will connect emotionally with anyone who’s passionate about film, regardless of political or social inclination.
Ed: you’re right, the MGM lion doesn’t roar on Ben-Hur. He did roar financially however, since Ben-Hur was the top grossing picture for 1959 & 1960. And the 11 Academy Awards didn’t hurt him.
I believe that for its 40th Anniversary, some 70 MM/DTS prints of “Lawrence†were made.
From what I can gather, there are probably only two 70 MM prints of “Ben-Hur†in existence. Hopefully someone can correct me.
The last time I heard of a 70 MM print of “West Side Story†was in 1993.
“Lawrence of Arabiaâ€â€¦ 70 mm… March 24… Director’s cut , I presume…humm… Jetblue has $ 119 each-way fare to JFK from Burbank… I wonder how I’m going to explain this one to the wife…
Craig: Good choices! Wish I could make it for the “Out of this World†week!
To HowardBHaas (and all those interested in Cinerama):
Regarding the screen required for Cinerama, check out the recent comment posted by haineshisway on the Cinerama Dome section. Technically he’s correct. However, I have seen “How The West Was Won” at the Dome, and it is a truly spectacular experience.
I got the above dates from the program that was handed during the engagements (I’ve been doing some spring cleaning!). I recall a later date for Columbia’s 75th Anniversary, but can’t exactly remember when. I just hope they bring back those films, right where they belong!
From May 20 until June 16 1994, The Cinerama Dome presented a “Columbia Classic Film Retrospectiveâ€, advertised as “The way they were made to be seenâ€. The films screened included “Bridge on the River Kwaiâ€, “Lawrence of Arabiaâ€, “The Guns of Navarone†and “Tommyâ€. I had the chance to see “Kwaiâ€and “Navaroneâ€. They sounded and looked majestic on the giant screen. I don’t believe that a retrospective such as this has been presented in recent years. The last one I recall was done right before the renovation.
It’s about time for the Dome to host another event like this…
I sincerely hope that your “classics†series is the beginning of a positive trend for New York City. In the spirit of constructive suggestions, I have a few brief comments. First, you may want to reconsider associating the term “classics†with films like “Chicagoâ€, “Lord of the Ringsâ€, “Gladiator†and so on. This is not to be taken as a negative comment on neither the movies themselves, nor on the management at the Ziegfeld. Those films do have a proper place in contemporary American popular culture, and no doubt they help bring around the “bottom lineâ€. Having said that, “Braveheart†is not in the same class as “Ben-Hurâ€, and “Chicago†is no “West Side Storyâ€. They have not passed that “oh so subjective†test of time. Some of the Cinema Treasures’ members have given very good suggestions as to what constitutes a “classic motion pictureâ€, so I will not repeat them. Hopefully your next revival festival will include proper 35 and 70 mm presentations of those true “classicsâ€.
And finally, someone with the resources, connections and vision may just notice someday that Cinerama is alive, well, and doing business in Seattle and Los Angeles. I’m not sure if the logistics will allow the Ziegfeld to go in that direction. But for New York, it may just be a matter of “when†it will happen, and not “if”. The clock is ticking…
I echo the sentiments expressed by Vincent and allanb: New York â€" or any other city in the US for that matter â€" does not need another multiplex. The city will be well served if this theatre is restored to its original condition, as much as economically and technically possible. A restored De Mille could not only showcase the latest independent films, but also host revivals of restored classics in their original formats, i.e. CinemaScope, Super Panavison, etc. In addition, may I also suggest that serious consideration be given to adding 3-strip Cinerama projection capability, as an integral part of the restoration. I am a resident of the Los Angeles area, and I do business frequently in Seattle. Both cities have Cinerama theatres, which in addition to running regular fare, 3-strip Cinerama films are successfully shown. It’s not fair that we in the West Coast have all the fun!
Catherine: I commend you for taking this very first important step towards a noble cause. Restoring, preserving and enhancing our nation’s cultural artifacts deserve praise, encouragement and support. Regardless of the final outcome, I only wish success for the project.
Thanks!!! As soon as I figure out my scanner, I’ll send you some “goodies” from the recent Dome presentaion of “How the West was Won”. We gave our son the King Kong Special Edtion DVD for Christmas, but I have not yet seen the special features. Will check it out!
It’s also too bad that they did not do the scene comparison as in the “Oklahoma!” AMC presentation for the “Around the World…” DVD.
It is interesting that you mention “Around the World in 80 Days” and the stereo soundtrack. I vaguely remember someone in the mid or early 80’s complaining in El Nuevo Dia about the poor “quality” of sound in some of the theatres (which shall remain un-named!) back then. He then went on raving about the Metropolitan and specifically mentioned two movies: “Around the World…” and “The Longest Day” as having a superior stereo sound. I know how terrific the Metropolitan sound was, because I saw “Tora! Tora! Tora!” there, and as young
child, both the images and sound caused an incredible impression in me, second only to “2001” at the Metro.
PS: Are there any plans to restore Cinerama in NYC? The Dome here at LA screened a 3-strip “How the West was Won” in November. Although some “purists” complained a bit, I thought that it was a great experience, with some of the sharpest color images I have ever seen on screen.
Before I get corrected, let me do it first! Did not mean to imply that I saw “The Ten Commandments” or “The Bible” at the Music Hall. During grade school, they would take us once in a while to different theatres in the Santurce area, for special screenings during school hours. We usually went to the Cinerama, the Grand (which was near my school) or the Music Hall.
“Ben-Hur” premiered at the Metropolitan years before I was born!!! I was a Third Grader in the early 70’s. Could it have been a 35 mm print? (I’m not sure if they even made 35 mm prints of this movie… have to check that out) Or, could they have installed 70 mm equipment by then? I also remember that this film was shown at the Cinema 4 sometime in the mid to late 70’s. A few years ago, “Ben-Hur” was screened at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood (my residence is in the Los Angeles area), and I had the chance to see it in a large screen again. This film is totally “un-watchable” on TV, no matter the format. Also, I used the term “70 mm Biblical spectacles” in a metaphoric sense, since all the movies they took us to see during Holy Week were the Biblical epics, such as “The Ten Commandments” (in VistaVision), “The Bible” (in D-150), and so on. As you know, these movies were at the time (and to this day) huge, and bigger than their own Director’s ego!
Regardless, thanks for the historical information! I always thought that the Metropolitan was the first theatre in PR equiped with CinemaScope! I have been searching, as a kind of hobby, information relative to the theatres in PR. Things like projection, sound system, screen size, what movie premiered were, etc. Outside of this web-site, I have found very, very little.
Chris,
I share your enthusiasm for the Cinerama Dome 100 %. And I understand your position regarding the Egyptian, since there are some who feel the same way as you do. However, in the case of the upcoming presentation of “Around the World…â€, I am willing to give them and America Cinematheque some slack. In my opinion, this is a rare opportunity to see this classic in Todd-AO. Unfortunately, in all likelihood we will see another installment of “Scary Movie†before “Around the World†is properly restored and presented at the Dome or the Ziegfeld.
Bill Huelbig,
I’m glad to see that someone is taking a stand on behalf of “Around the World”. Event though time has not been kind to some of its aspects, I think it is a wonderful picture. Shortly after this year’s Oscars, an article in the LA Times Calendar section declared it (and Ben-Hur) as some of the worst winners ever for Best Picture.
Gary,
To follow up on Chris’s response on Cinerama, see my Apr. 6 comment on this page.
Regards to all,
JSA
Peter: I appreciate your response. Thank you! We agree, it is indeed a rare opportunity. I am going to skip work that day, certainly don’t want to miss it! If you wish, I’ll let you know how it turns out.
Regards,
JSA
Peter:
To the best of your knowledge, how good is that “Around the World” print? Until I read the Egyptian schedule at the in70mm website, I was not aware that a Todd-AO print was in existence!
Regards,
JSA
In 1989, Big Newport presented the Director’s cut of “Lawrence of Arabia”. It was an amazing experience, and an excellent show: A beautiful 70 MM print, with great sound, an overture, intermission, no commercials, and no previews. A true class act!
JSA
Hello Gary,
HTWWW was shown in 3-strip format at the Cinerama Dome in LA as recently as last November. The next engagement is supposed to be in 2007. “This is Cinerama” may play this year. However, no official announcement has been made for either presentation.
JSA
Robert,
Thank you for your response. It has completely changed the way I feel and think about the subject. Can’t wait to see your next project.
Regards,
JSA
Robert Harris: Yes, of course there is innocence in my comments. There is also hope, optimism and romanticism as well. With all that comes my ignorance relative to the subject matter, since I would not be able to tell which classic films are in condition to be screened properly. I am aware that many of our classic motion pictures are either in a state of disrepair or presently unavailable for proper widescreen presentation. However, I was not suggesting a program per se, but rather the concept of a large-scale classic revival taking place simultaneously in premier venues at LA and NYC. Logistically difficult? Yes. Risky? Absolutely. Obstacles on the way? More than we can imagine. Will it happen? Probably not. But if a) such an event would ever come to fruition and b) if sufficient financial returns are realized from such an event, maybe this could send a signal to the studios. And maybe, just maybe, instead of spending $ 100 million “adapting†another bad TV show for the screen, someone in the Hollywood executive suites could instead put an end to that insanity. Take that money, invest in the studio archives and budget funds for restoration and preservation with the intent of proper theatrical release.
Robert, I sincerely appreciate the work and effort that has been put into classic film restoration, and have a high sense of gratitude and respect towards everyone involved in that endeavor. And thank you for sharing your insight relative to MW, and the 35 & 70 mm issues. Seeing the restored “Lawrence of Arabia†on the big screen back in the late 80’s was indeed a remarkable and definitive cinematic experience, not only because of the spectacular presentation, but also because up to that time I thought that such an event would have been impossible.
Much regards,
JSA
To all CT NYC colleagues:
Some of this may sound corny, but now that this Classics series is near its end, I would like to make some comments. Here at no-so sunny California (yes, it rains here from time to time), I just realized that, despite the setbacks encountered by the Ziegfeld and posted here in explicit detail, in many ways you guys had all the luck this time. While our “flagship†theaters were delighting audiences with “Underworld: Evolutionâ€, “Running Scaredâ€, the new “Pink Pantherâ€, and on and on, you guys had “Chinatownâ€, CE3K, “The Godfatherâ€, “Ben-Hurâ€, WSS, LOA and “2001â€. So, all in all, kudos to the Ziegfeld for doing this, and to all who showed up and supported the program. Not only do we all virtually love the same movies (well, I’m not too crazy about MFL, but that’s beside the point), but we all have the same high standards when it comes to proper film presentation. Hopefully the Ziegfeld will take to heart the recommendations posted by the various CT members and lessons learned during this series, and they will find their way to the next classics presentation. I for one would like to visit the Ziegfeld, the Lafayette and the Loew’s in Jersey in a not-so distant future.
For Craig and Clearview: In the spirit of “friendly†rivalry between the East and West Coast let me propose a challenge. Take note when there is a classic widescreen series at either the American Cinematheque, Cinerama Dome or at Cal State Long Beach. Schedule an “alternative†series at the same time. If we have “Cleopatraâ€, throw “Spartacus†at us. If they show “Agony and the Ecstasyâ€, proudly present “Lust for Lifeâ€. “The Great Raceâ€? No problem, here’s “Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machinesâ€. “Magnificent Seven†you say? Show off with “The Alamoâ€. “Dirty Harry†vs. “Bullittâ€. The possibilities are endless. Most important, we all win…
Lastly, I would like to pay my respects in this site to Richard Fleischer (20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Fantastic Voyage, Tora! Tora! Tora!, Soylent Green), who passed away last Saturday at the age of 89.
Regards to all
JSA
Hello to all,
Just want to throw my two cents regarding the roadshow presentations: I have attended many classic film engagements in the LA and Orange County areas. It’s my experience that, with only one notable exception, intermissions and overtures are generally handled well. A minor discrepancy may be proper light fading during the overtures, but it’s not that big of a deal. I emphasize, “may be”. I’ll have to pay more attention to that next time. The notable exception was a presentation of “El Cid” in a theatre at Orange County, which shall remain nameless, to protect the guilty. I just barely had time to return to my seat from the restroom during the, er, “intermission”.
As far as CE3K, I’ll reiterate that the ‘77 version is much better in terms of story continuity. The '80 scenes with Neary inside the spaceship were, in my opinion, a waste of time. The Director’s Edition is not bad, and I try to catch it on the big screen when possible.
The Heights Theatre in Minneapolis is currently running a 70 mm DTS engagement of “Lawrence of Arabia”.
JSA
Michael,
Thank you for the Columbia Pictures 75th Anniversary info.
JSA
El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood has shown several Disney classics on the big screen for a limited time, prior to their DVD release. They’ve done it recently for “Lady and the Tramp”, and also for the 40th anniversary of “Mary Poppins”, among others. With all the resources that Disney has, I wonder why New York and other major cities are not included in these engagements. And, I can only speak for my 7 year old son, but yes he can sit through “Mary Poppins”!!! It’s one of his favorite films. I am a firm believer in the power and beauty of cinema, and try to pass on that appreciation to my kid. Last fall, he saw “Close Encounters” for the first time on the big screen, and he was in total awe, a jaw dropping experience for him.
I have hope for the future!
Regards,
JSA
Close Encounters: Some deletions from the 1977 version included a scene that takes place in the power station before Dreyfuss' first encounter. One Special Edition scene that made its way to the recent Definitive iteration is the Gobi Desert sequence. Over the years, mixed versions have been broadcast on TV, so who really knows how many permutations are out there? I still consider the original 1977 release the best, one of the finest American films of the 70’s. I failed to see what was so “Special” in the 1980 edition. The 2001 version is a good compromise.
JSA
Yes, Peter and Ed: I recently saw a presentation of “Close Encounters…” at California State University, Long Beach. The film was introduced by none other than cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, and he mentioned that the special effects sequences were shot in 70 mm, while the other dramatic scenes were shot in 35 mm. It would have been interesting to ask him Ed’s question! “Close Encounters…” is indeed a beautiful film, both visually and conceptually. A good 35 mm print will do justice to this important picture. But oh, that 70 mm/6-track…
JSA
Regarding Lawrence of Arabia’s ability to impact present-day audiences, my thoughts are that it will. By virtue of its powerful images and literate script, it will connect emotionally with anyone who’s passionate about film, regardless of political or social inclination.
Ed: you’re right, the MGM lion doesn’t roar on Ben-Hur. He did roar financially however, since Ben-Hur was the top grossing picture for 1959 & 1960. And the 11 Academy Awards didn’t hurt him.
I believe that for its 40th Anniversary, some 70 MM/DTS prints of “Lawrence†were made.
From what I can gather, there are probably only two 70 MM prints of “Ben-Hur†in existence. Hopefully someone can correct me.
The last time I heard of a 70 MM print of “West Side Story†was in 1993.
Regards,
JSA
“Lawrence of Arabiaâ€â€¦ 70 mm… March 24… Director’s cut , I presume…humm… Jetblue has $ 119 each-way fare to JFK from Burbank… I wonder how I’m going to explain this one to the wife…
Craig: Good choices! Wish I could make it for the “Out of this World†week!
Regards,
JSA
Re Andreco’s Feb. 15 comment:
You are quite welcome! I only wish the best to all back East!
JSA
To HowardBHaas (and all those interested in Cinerama):
Regarding the screen required for Cinerama, check out the recent comment posted by haineshisway on the Cinerama Dome section. Technically he’s correct. However, I have seen “How The West Was Won” at the Dome, and it is a truly spectacular experience.
JSA
I got the above dates from the program that was handed during the engagements (I’ve been doing some spring cleaning!). I recall a later date for Columbia’s 75th Anniversary, but can’t exactly remember when. I just hope they bring back those films, right where they belong!
JSA
From May 20 until June 16 1994, The Cinerama Dome presented a “Columbia Classic Film Retrospectiveâ€, advertised as “The way they were made to be seenâ€. The films screened included “Bridge on the River Kwaiâ€, “Lawrence of Arabiaâ€, “The Guns of Navarone†and “Tommyâ€. I had the chance to see “Kwaiâ€and “Navaroneâ€. They sounded and looked majestic on the giant screen. I don’t believe that a retrospective such as this has been presented in recent years. The last one I recall was done right before the renovation.
It’s about time for the Dome to host another event like this…
JSA
To Craig,
I sincerely hope that your “classics†series is the beginning of a positive trend for New York City. In the spirit of constructive suggestions, I have a few brief comments. First, you may want to reconsider associating the term “classics†with films like “Chicagoâ€, “Lord of the Ringsâ€, “Gladiator†and so on. This is not to be taken as a negative comment on neither the movies themselves, nor on the management at the Ziegfeld. Those films do have a proper place in contemporary American popular culture, and no doubt they help bring around the “bottom lineâ€. Having said that, “Braveheart†is not in the same class as “Ben-Hurâ€, and “Chicago†is no “West Side Storyâ€. They have not passed that “oh so subjective†test of time. Some of the Cinema Treasures’ members have given very good suggestions as to what constitutes a “classic motion pictureâ€, so I will not repeat them. Hopefully your next revival festival will include proper 35 and 70 mm presentations of those true “classicsâ€.
And finally, someone with the resources, connections and vision may just notice someday that Cinerama is alive, well, and doing business in Seattle and Los Angeles. I’m not sure if the logistics will allow the Ziegfeld to go in that direction. But for New York, it may just be a matter of “when†it will happen, and not “if”. The clock is ticking…
Regards,
JSA
I echo the sentiments expressed by Vincent and allanb: New York â€" or any other city in the US for that matter â€" does not need another multiplex. The city will be well served if this theatre is restored to its original condition, as much as economically and technically possible. A restored De Mille could not only showcase the latest independent films, but also host revivals of restored classics in their original formats, i.e. CinemaScope, Super Panavison, etc. In addition, may I also suggest that serious consideration be given to adding 3-strip Cinerama projection capability, as an integral part of the restoration. I am a resident of the Los Angeles area, and I do business frequently in Seattle. Both cities have Cinerama theatres, which in addition to running regular fare, 3-strip Cinerama films are successfully shown. It’s not fair that we in the West Coast have all the fun!
Catherine: I commend you for taking this very first important step towards a noble cause. Restoring, preserving and enhancing our nation’s cultural artifacts deserve praise, encouragement and support. Regardless of the final outcome, I only wish success for the project.
Regards and best of luck,
JSA
Hello Andres,
Thanks!!! As soon as I figure out my scanner, I’ll send you some “goodies” from the recent Dome presentaion of “How the West was Won”. We gave our son the King Kong Special Edtion DVD for Christmas, but I have not yet seen the special features. Will check it out!
It’s also too bad that they did not do the scene comparison as in the “Oklahoma!” AMC presentation for the “Around the World…” DVD.
Regards,
JSA
Andres,
It is interesting that you mention “Around the World in 80 Days” and the stereo soundtrack. I vaguely remember someone in the mid or early 80’s complaining in El Nuevo Dia about the poor “quality” of sound in some of the theatres (which shall remain un-named!) back then. He then went on raving about the Metropolitan and specifically mentioned two movies: “Around the World…” and “The Longest Day” as having a superior stereo sound. I know how terrific the Metropolitan sound was, because I saw “Tora! Tora! Tora!” there, and as young
child, both the images and sound caused an incredible impression in me, second only to “2001” at the Metro.
PS: Are there any plans to restore Cinerama in NYC? The Dome here at LA screened a 3-strip “How the West was Won” in November. Although some “purists” complained a bit, I thought that it was a great experience, with some of the sharpest color images I have ever seen on screen.
Regards,
JSA
Hello again,
Before I get corrected, let me do it first! Did not mean to imply that I saw “The Ten Commandments” or “The Bible” at the Music Hall. During grade school, they would take us once in a while to different theatres in the Santurce area, for special screenings during school hours. We usually went to the Cinerama, the Grand (which was near my school) or the Music Hall.
Regards,
JSA
Hello Andres (and Happy New Year!):
“Ben-Hur” premiered at the Metropolitan years before I was born!!! I was a Third Grader in the early 70’s. Could it have been a 35 mm print? (I’m not sure if they even made 35 mm prints of this movie… have to check that out) Or, could they have installed 70 mm equipment by then? I also remember that this film was shown at the Cinema 4 sometime in the mid to late 70’s. A few years ago, “Ben-Hur” was screened at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood (my residence is in the Los Angeles area), and I had the chance to see it in a large screen again. This film is totally “un-watchable” on TV, no matter the format. Also, I used the term “70 mm Biblical spectacles” in a metaphoric sense, since all the movies they took us to see during Holy Week were the Biblical epics, such as “The Ten Commandments” (in VistaVision), “The Bible” (in D-150), and so on. As you know, these movies were at the time (and to this day) huge, and bigger than their own Director’s ego!
Regardless, thanks for the historical information! I always thought that the Metropolitan was the first theatre in PR equiped with CinemaScope! I have been searching, as a kind of hobby, information relative to the theatres in PR. Things like projection, sound system, screen size, what movie premiered were, etc. Outside of this web-site, I have found very, very little.
Regards,
JSA