The Neptune looms large in my memories of late childhood and early teens (1954-59). I spent a significant number of Saturdays attending the matinees that allowed one the freedom to escape into the worlds on the screen. Later on, it was part of the teen age cruise path along with the Vegas Smoke Shop and the Foster’s Freeze.
I remember that it was a typical neighborhood theatre of the time with a cramped lobby that was dominated by the snack bar. It seems to me that seating included smoking lodges and a balcony.
The Unicorn holds a special place in my heart. My first visit was in early 1965 and my last just before moving back to the Bay Area in 1978. I still have a number of their program brochures including an amazing booklet prepared by the Green Tiger Press.
Some random thoughts:
I purchased by first Edward Gorey piece in the bookstore. It was the original The Owl Press edition of the Fantod Pack.
Their selection of Japanese films was always exceptional. KWAIDAN in particular was a favorite of mine.
The snack bar was one of the first places in the area that served Italian sodas which were made out of Torani Syrups and club soda: Tamarind was the best flavor. Common place now but not then.
Finally, I am surprised that no one has mentioned the remarkable floor in the bookstore. It was a giant decoupage of vintage movie posters that slowly wore down over the years.
The Neptune looms large in my memories of late childhood and early teens (1954-59). I spent a significant number of Saturdays attending the matinees that allowed one the freedom to escape into the worlds on the screen. Later on, it was part of the teen age cruise path along with the Vegas Smoke Shop and the Foster’s Freeze.
I remember that it was a typical neighborhood theatre of the time with a cramped lobby that was dominated by the snack bar. It seems to me that seating included smoking lodges and a balcony.
The Unicorn holds a special place in my heart. My first visit was in early 1965 and my last just before moving back to the Bay Area in 1978. I still have a number of their program brochures including an amazing booklet prepared by the Green Tiger Press.
Some random thoughts:
I purchased by first Edward Gorey piece in the bookstore. It was the original The Owl Press edition of the Fantod Pack.
Their selection of Japanese films was always exceptional. KWAIDAN in particular was a favorite of mine.
The snack bar was one of the first places in the area that served Italian sodas which were made out of Torani Syrups and club soda: Tamarind was the best flavor. Common place now but not then.
Finally, I am surprised that no one has mentioned the remarkable floor in the bookstore. It was a giant decoupage of vintage movie posters that slowly wore down over the years.