GoEyiigfitl^?-
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Scanned from the collections of The Library of Congress
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AUDIO-VISUAL CONSER\\-\TION al The LIBRARY ;f CONGRLSS
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for Audio Visual Conservation
www.loc.gov/avconservation
Motion Picture and Television Reading Room \AAAAA/.loc.gov/rr/mopic
Recorded Sound Reference Center \AAAAA/.loc.gov/rr/record
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I
I
EXHIEITOM
THERE ARE 10,000 OTHERS FEELIN' LIKE MR. PHELAN!
A letter to lS/!S0'd-%)ldwyn'-Mayer —
Ydm^produc^ this year and last has been so consistently good that I just can't resist telling you (of course what you already know) that it is the best product on the market.
Your comedies are produced more lavishly than "features" of most companies and they are comedies, what I mean is "side splitters." The technicolor productions are beautiful and are well received by even small-town western fans.
Your Specials are works of art and are really specials — not so-called "specials". I have reference to the big ones.
Your service is the BEST of any of the various companies serving me.
Your salesmen seem so much like business men — instead of carnival promoters.
In all, I think you have the greatest organization in the industry. And I take this means of showing my apprecia- tion for good pictures and courteous service.
Yours very truly,
R. W. PHELAN, Star Theatre,
Clendenin, VV. Va.
WknUVnl 01 Ma 1 /V«l « NI« A\ Bntered as second-class matter, August 20. 1017, at the Post Ofice at Chicago, III., undfr thf act of March J.
nnoie vol. 91,1'NO. 1 ^VOI. j;>, INO.4; '«;9. published weekly at 407 South Dcaibom St., Chicago. SubscHption tS.OO a year. StHglt copies. 25 cents.
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^obcrtMorton Orga.n (3omp3Lny
N e Vk? Vo rk Chicag^o Los Angeles San Francisco 1560 Broadwa;y 6245o.Mi.chigan 19l4SoVermont 168 Golden Gate
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produced by the
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CORPORATION. A
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release
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AprU 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
r
Thousands Of Theatre Owners
Are waiting for the first issue of the new Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World
The Buyers
INDEX
Everything for the Theatre
Issued Semi-Annually
to guide them in their selection of pictures for the Summer months and early Fall.
Here is a market, the gross rentals from which exceed the gross rentals from the entire British Isles.
In the glamour of first run accounts, this impor' tant part of the Home Market is apt to be over' looked. Early in May, hundreds of these theatre owners will decide whether to keep their houses in operation during the warm months. If they know good pictures are available, their decision will be made easily.
The Buyers Index reaches the entire field at the psychological moment.
Advertising Copy will be accepted up to April 18.
r
Readers
The Buyer's Semi'Annual In- dex will be mailed to all paid subscribers of Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World at no additional charge.
Advertisers
Advertising will be accepted in this volume under the terms ot your Herald-World contract. More detailed information sent on request.
^e screen idol of (he hour in anoi
Directed by
HOWARD HIGGIN
RALPH BLOCK, Assoc. Producer
DeMILLE STUDIO PRODUCTION
with
ALAN HALE
SUE CAROL and ALBERTA VAUGHN
Adapted by Elliott Clawson and Tay Garnett from the story hy Dudley Murphy
Opening on Broadway
at the PARAMOUNT April 7
her Rathe BIO MONEY aitraction I
WILLIAM BOYD rises to new heights of stardom in this sensational offerings
ALAN HALE who registers emphatically in one of the greatest laugh roles of the year,
SUE CAROL, beautiful and talented, takes her place as one of the season^s new out- standing screen finds.
XJERFS one of the yearns BIGGEST— an unusual -*- ^ combination of side-splitting comedy and hair- raising thrills — a real box-office natural. "Quite differ- ent from the usual run of screen fare", says Film Mercury f "looks like a sure-fire attraction for almost any type of theatre, big or small." Ex. Herald and M. P. World says, " ^Skyscraper' is a rip-roaring comedy, with the serious business of building a steel office building as a back- ground; will not fail to stir up a houseful of laughs wherever shown."
F^fhe
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
April 7, 19:8
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
United artists
HEATRE LosAnaeles
•fc=
AW
|UWU\1BLW
From l^^story by a^
^Somersf^^Maugh^if
Directed by
RAOUL WALSH
Variety
One of the BIG OUTSTANDING box-office hits of the year.
ASK NEW YORK WASHINGTON LOS ANGELES PITTSBURGH TOLEDO
OMAHA
BOSTON
DENVER
CLEVELAND
BUFFALO
SAN FRANCISCO DES MOINES
BALTIMORE MINNEAPOLIS
SYRACUSE ROCHESTER
PHILADELPHIA
A tremendous Big Bet for April and May
UNITED ARTISTS 9th Anniversary Months
BOOKING RECORDS
SMASHED
IN STUPENDOUS EVERYWHERE!
JOSEPH P. KENNEDY
presents
AF^eft
with
RALPH INCE
RALPH INCE
PRODUCTION
BLASTED
AND BLOWN TO ATOMS ENGAGEMENTS
*^'^v
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First time in history of Boston, held over second ter' rific week at Washington St. Olympia . . . following smash at Scollay Square!
THEY DEMAND RED MEAT MELODRAMA!
GIVE IT TO THEM!
/
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^"
> £*M
X^
\.^^L.-^
^ATTENDANCE RECORDS^
MADE LINE H U RLOC K
DAPHNE POLLARD MADELINE HURLOCK
And The World's Famous Sennett Girls
DAPHNE POLLARD
Pathe
has the best comedies
One of 1;he series of sensational Mack Sennett two reel Girl Comedies now being released on the Pathe Program, featuring the world famous Sennett Bathing Beauties and a host of inimitable Sennett Funmakers. A Headline Attraction in Any Theatre.
1
THEY DIDNT BY NELL!
Ill
RIGHT
Do you realize that up to the time Metro- Qoldwyn-Mayer entered the Short Subject field, these important little attractions were the stepchildren of the industry-^-
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A nanon-u'ide survey revea/s the fact that within eight months M-G-M has climbed to leadership in distribution of Shorts and "News-reels. The period is from last August to March. M-G-M 's Uftd over this field is increasing daily.
IT took time and effort FOR M-G-M to prove TO exhibitors that Shorts COULD be made to mean REAL cash at the box-office INSTEAD of just filUng time ON a program— THE result is that
/N the executive offices of every important theatre circuit today this question is arising: ''Are we booking the right short product?^' Formerly little attention was given to this matter. But now theatre owners see what M-G-M has done in building Shorts into revenue-producing factors. They read about it in the trade press and see it happening before their eyes. No wonder that these men are now turning to M-G-M.
EXHIBITORS NOW LOOK TO M-G-M FOR THEIR SHORT PRODUCT TOO!
THE EDITOR of M, P. News
says: "Reviewers of short subjects are inclined to beblase in a projection room. It is a rare , occurrence when a peep is heard. It was most astound- ing, therefore, when at a showing of a trio of Roach M-G-M comedies the usuallysilent projection room was in a- continuous uproar. Laughs were as continuous and hearty as is heard from a whole theatreful at the usual comedy. The pictures were "Spook- spoofing" (Our Gang), "All For Nothing" (Chase), and "Pass the Gravy" (Davidson),
YOU cannot help but
MARVEL
AT the consistency WITH which M-G-M has DELIVERED Short Subjects SETTING a standard of
IbUR GANG' delivers happiness to every box-office. These rascals on your program draw like a feature Their latest is "Edison, Marconi & Co." A masterpiece of laughs. Your folks get the fun, you get the mon' M-G-M IS proud to-give its customers Hal Roach's world-famous joy artists.
QUALITY in production
THAT has never been approached
IN this field hitherto—
THE industry now realizes
THAT M-G-M has come into
SHORT Subjects
WITH the same intensity
AND enthusiasm with which
M-G-M revolutionized
FEATURE production
AND became
THE talk of the industry.
NO question now
BUT that M-G-M has become
THE new
SHORT Subject force
TO reckon with!
A PREDICTION FOR THE
FUTURE!
STA N LAUREL. OLIVER HARDY are the
new comedy tearh sensation whose hit after hit have made them a sure-fire draw.
CHARLEY CHASE
(above) is in. the de luxe class. He's got a great fol- lowing.
MAX DAVIDSON
(right) is unique in the comedy field. A master of laugh-getting.
M*Q-M NEWS swept into the newsreel field with typical Young Blood dash. Through its superior organization and more modem ideas it has won an amazing exhibitor following.
|
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hibitor approral as a most distinctl^^c |
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(Read next page carefully ^you'll agree!
M C-M ODDITIESdnr
showing on thousands of screens. These little life dramas caught by UFA the uorld oi«T, are fascinating The Rattle of Ocforusv audiences e\<eryu'here. and Lobster
1
2 3
10 POIN'FS
which from now on must necessarily influence all buyers of film service—
__THE NEW SHORT SUBJECT. M-G-M's aggressive and successful activities in Shorts have given Shorts a new money-value at the box-office.
IHE FUTURE OF SHORTS. Naturally the future of Shorts is in the hands
of M'G-M to whom exhibitors now look for continued profits in this field.
JHE IMPORTANCE OF SPECIALS. The effect on the public of M-G-M's five great Specials in one season is tremendous. "The Big Parade'*, '^Ben-Hur", 'T/ie Student Prince", ''The Enemy'\ *'Love" — they stamp M-G-M as the most im- portant name of all.
WEE K-TO- WEEK RELEASES. Exhibitors base their security on dependability of product. Again M-G-M averages higher in regular release than any other company.
STAR VALUES^. The past year has proven that star values are of increased im- portance in drawing patronage to box-offices.
THE LEADING STARS. M-G-M is better equipped with important star names than all others: John Gilbert, Greta Garho, Lon Chaney, William Haines, Marion Davies, Ramon Novarro, l<Jorma Shearer, Syd Chaplin, Buster Keaton, McCoy, Dane-Arthur^ etc.
IMPORTANCE OF SHOWMANSHIP. M-G-M is consistent in its promotional efforts. M-G-M's "Blonde-Brunette" emotional test tie-up with **Love*' was one of the year's publicity sensations.
FUTURE PROMOTION. Among future promotional activities for M-G-M is the forthcoming tour of Leo, the M-G-M lion.
SUCCESSFUL BUYING. Exhibitors who booked M-G-M Shorts together with M-G-M features report that their whole program quality standard was raised, with attendant profits.
NEXT SEASON. Word has already gone forth that the smart buying for next year will be a complete M-Q-M Quality Show.
4 5 6
7
8 9
10
METRO - GOLDWYrt^ivlAYER
The Top of the Industry
HAWK OF IHI HILLS
with ALLENE RAY and WALTER MILLER
Directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet Story and Scenario by George Arthur Gray
7Ae Masked Menace
with Larry Kent and ^^z.w Arthur
from the
Saturday Evening Post Story "STILL FACE "
by Clarence Budington Kelland
Directed by Scenario by
Arch Heath Paul Fairfax Fuller
THE MAN
WITHOUT A
FACE
hy A. M. WILLIAMSON
with Allene Ray and Walter Miller
Directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet
SUREFIRE BUSINESS BUILDERS
Pafhe Serials
SINCE the first great Pathe Serial flashed on the screen many years ago and literally coined money for exhibitors, Pathe's record for turning out a superior brand of serial entertainment has never been approached.
Pathe Serials represent the last word in this type of business boosting, seat-selling entertainment, because they are based on stories carefully selected from the very best fiction by the world's foremost writers, cunnmgly and cleverly adapted by experts and specialists in the art of serial construction, and finally transmitted to the screen by directors who are masters in the creation of this unique and sp>ecialized form of enter- tainment.
"Hawk of the Hills," "The Masked Menace," and "The Man Without a Face," current Pathe releases, fairly teem with baf- fling mystery, blood-tingling action, romance and breath- taking suspense. Released in 10 chapters of 2 reels each, they fit into any program, anywhere, and the gripping suspense developed at the end of each episode provides a powerful magnet to pack your theatre week after week.
boost your Business with these qreat money-makers
12
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
N
./
April 7, 1928
•«aF*
UrAi
national
Pictures
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CHiJlLIE MURRAY Louire l^azenda
Wl»at a <eam!...Wky didn't someone tkink of it before?... Burt as usual it's First National that does the bi^ thing by brinjiing thent together for the first time« so you can advertise "DOUBLE
Measure For Your
MoNEYI Two Great Comedy Stars in ONE Great Contedy Special !"
And a picture as great as the Players ... Hilarious farce plus lavish spec- tacle. And gIrU, Cirls, girls'
•-as"^!
Supported by
Tbclma Todd
Presented by
Richard A. Rowlaad
Directed by
Cddie Cline
A
l\xhK national
Special
ric« lnc~Wlll H.Hays Pmuu<
The
Independent
Film Trade
Paper
\^
EXHIBITORS
HERALD
ali:
i MOVING PICTURE
WORLD
Home
Office:
407 So. Dearborn St.
Chicago
IN THIS ISSUE
Star broadcasts injure theatre business, exhibitors declare; Majority of houses tying in with radio pro- gram oppose plan, "Herald- World" correspondents are told; Chicago managers say they'll use receiv- ing sets only for prizefights; Broadcasts called injurious to prestige of players participating; Attend- ance suffers at neighborhood houses in particular.
COMPLETE INDEX TO CONTENTS
NEWS
Paramount and Balaban & Katz both set new high figures in increase of net income, statements of year's business show. Suit is reported to be lone obstacle to completion of Fox deal for 140 theatres in Finkelstein & Ruben Circuit in Northwest. Union loses suit following Atlanta Metropolitan's reduction of orchestra on installation of Vitaphone; Ruling sets precedent. Amazing record of settlement of disputes without recourse to courts is traced in year's activities of Film Boards of Trade.
DEPARTMENTS
The Studio 26
Short Features 30
Presentation Acts 31
The Theatre 37
New Pictures 41
Classified Advertising 45
What the Picture Did for Me 47
Chicago Personalities, by Whit 54
FEATURES
Service Talks by T. O. Service 40
Los Angeles by Douglas Hodges 28
Pictorial Section ^'■
Letters from Readers **"
Broadway
Know Your Sales Leaders 24
ADVERTISEMENTS
FILM AND EQUIPMENT— M-G-M, Robert Morton Organ Com- pany, Paramount, Pathe, United Artists, F B O, First National, Eastman Kodak Company, Columbia, John Ford. Howard Green, Tom Tyler, Plaza Hotel, Mark Sandrich, Al Cohn. Automatic Ticket Register, Chalmers Publishing Company. Filmack.
PRESENTATION— Leo Feist, Inc., Villa Moret, Fred Kinsley. W. Remington Welch, Henry B. Murtagh, Joe Kay. Henri A. Keate-. Bernard Cowham, Leo Terry, Lew White, Koehler and Edith. Brooks Costumes, Dave Gould, Ransley Studios, .\rmin Hand.
CHICAGO
407 Sooth Daarborn St. Telephones HarrUom 0036-S7-S8
Cable Address : Quigpubco
EDWIN S. CLIFFORD, Ganeral Managar
JAY M. SHRECK, Managing Editar GEORGE CLIFFORD, Busineit Manager ERNEST A. ROVELSTAD, Neus Editor
LOS ANGELES
S617 HoUrwood Blvd. Telephone Cladalone 3751
RAY MURRAY, Manager
DOUGLAS aODCES, ^<ivarlisln( Managmr
SUBSCRIPTION RATES: United States and possession.— tS.OO per year. C«i:.il^— S4 .".O prr Ts.ir. Other point, of the -orU— $6.00 per yeer. 9ln(le fople.. SS ..■•..
AdTertislng rate eords and Audit Bureau of Cirrulations statemenla ramUhed upon npplUailon.
EDITORIAL
AND
ADVERTISING
OFFICES
.\£ir YORK
S63 Fifth ATsnue Telrphones Vaaderblll S613-SC1S
JAMES BEECROFT. >fono»er
JOHN S. SPARGO, Unc Vorfc >*f, Bdllar
Loyt>o\
THE BIOSCOPE
(J. Caboura. Edll»r)
Faraday House
B-IO diarlnc Cr«sa Rd.. W. C S
14
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS
HERALD
ani MOVING PICTURE
WORLD
Martin J. Quigley, Publisher 6^ Editor
Incorporating Exhibitors Herald, founded in 1915; Movino Pic- tube World, founded in 1907; Motography, founded in 1909; and The Film Index, founded in 1909
Published Erery Wednesday by Quigley Publishing Company Publication Office: 407 So. Dearborn St., CHICAGO, U. S. A. Martin J. Quigley, President Cdwin S. Clifford, Secretary George Clifford, Asst. Treasurer
Member Audit Bureau of Circulations Copyright, 1928, by Quigley Publishing Company All editorial and business correspondence should be addressed to the Chicago office Other Publications: The Chicagoan and Polo, class journals; and the follow- ing motion picture trade publications published as supplements to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World: Better Theatres, erery fourth week, and The Buyers Index, published semi-annually.
Whole Vol. 91. No. 1 (^'0L. 33, No. 4) April 7. 1928
One Serious Note
THE only serious note injected into the annual Naked Truth Dinner given by the Association of Motion Pic- ture Advertisers March 31 is a page in the program writ- ten by Mr. Bruce Gallup, president of the organization, under the caption "Wake Up!"
In every other respect, the Naked Truth this year re- turned to its original character, an evening of merriment. It perhaps was the most successful and enjoyable function the A. M. P. A. has yet staged.
With the eyes of the industry concentrated on the A. M. P. A., however, Mr. Gallup took the opportunity of dis- cussing the subject of publicity and advertising, and hit straight from the shoulder.
"People seem to think that all one needs to be success- ful in these lines is to have a gatling gun, wise-cracking brain and plenty of gall. If that were all that were re- quired this industry would have been in the soup long ago," Mr. Gallup says. He then traces the various qualifications need by successful advertising and publicity men.
"There is no department in any organization in the busi- ness that is any more important than where the printed merchandising ideas are created," he continues. "How would you dispose of your pictures if you didn't advertise or publicize them? Where would your distribution costs go to if you didn't use advertising and publicity to break the ice for your salesmen?"
It was probably inevitable that the advertising and pub- licity men. recognized from the start of the industry as one of the vital factors in distribution, would find appre- ciation of their efforts waning when the policy adopted a year ago in various quarters so curtailed their efforts as to reduce them in many instances almost to the routine and mechanical.
However, one of the most encouraging phases of the present situation is that most of the capable men in ad- vertising and publicity work are still in the motion picture industry, still efficient and still ready to go.
The new selling season, shortly to open, will disclose whether their best efforts are to be fully utilized.
Cheerful News from Broadway
THEATRE owners, who have been worrying about the quality of the product to be offered for the coming season, would be cheered by a glance at the crowds mill- ing about the motion picture theatres on and near Broad- way, New York.
While the so-called legitimate theatre seems to be hav- ing one of its worst seasons, the first of the new pictures from the West Coast studios are playing to tremendous
audiences.
-» -* -»
Importance and Relativity
THE growing tendency in distributing circles to refer to territories as 1 and 2 per cent territories, meaning that they produce only that percentage of the total gross rentals from the entire United States, is apt to create a false im- pression of the true value of certain states and groups of states in the economic structure of the motion picture market.
The territory served by Minneapolis, for instance, is relatively small when judged on a percentage basis. In sharp contrast to this method of valuation are the contin- ual reports during the past three years of this or that thea- tre chain or distributing company negotiating for the ownership or control of the Finkelstein and Ruben proper- ties.
There is always the danger in a market as big and as prosperous as these United States that a territory, big and important in its own right, is apt to be neglected because in the entire scheme of things it represents only a small percentage.
-» -s -»
Counting the Ballots
WORK on the compilation of "The Buyers' Index," which Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World will publish the latter part of the current month, is already underway. It should be one of the most valu- able reference books in the library of everyone in every branch of the motion picture industry.
Always interesting during the compilation is the gather- ing together of the various reports on pictures contributed by theatre owners to the "What the Picture Did for Me" department during the preceding six months.
As the reports are put together, it is like counting a ballot. In the end, the decision of the theatre owners is seldom unanimous but there is usually a heavy majority one way or the other. With apologies to the creator of the phrase "Forty thousand Frenchmen," it might be said "Five thousand theatre owners can't be wrong."
Golf Season Opens
SPRING turns the thoughts of golf enthusiasts to their favorite diversion. Golf has accomplished a great deal of good for a great many people, but it has served no in- dustry more effectively than the motion picture people. It is our golf tournaments that temper the spirit of com- petition and give us a chance to see that our efficient com- petitors are really human — really good fellows.
The season this year starts on the West Coast where the second annual Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World tournament will be staged at Los Angeles. Entries are already being received. An even more successful tour- nament than in 1927 is assured.
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
15
Star Broadcasts Hurt Theatre Attendance, Exhibitors Hold
Majority Oppose Programs
Even After Installing Sets
How Broadcast
Worked Out In Different Cities
ATLANTA — Loew's Grand: Audi- ence stamped in protest; Rialto: Kept picture running continuously; Metropolitan: A few walked out de- spite use of an ingenious trailer.
ALBANY — Albany and Regent theatres added to attendance by join- ing in broadcast; Leland business gained despite not receiving pro- gram; other houses, particularly in neighborhoods, reported 10 to 20 per cent attendance drop.
SCHENECTADY— Attendance de- clined.
TEXAS — In general, Texas thea- tre favors broadcasts by theatres, as do Loew's State in Houston, Palace in Dallas, Worth in Fort Worth, and Publix district manager; manager of Melba at Dallas believes radio a det- riment, as does Paramount's branch manager at San Antonio.
HOLLYWOOD— Theatre business fell off.
CHICAGO AND VICINITY— All managers interviewed reported the particular broadcast failed to please the patrons; stated in future will broadcast nothing but prizefights, as they believed the same type program would prove a detriment.
ST. LOUIS. — Believe prestige of participating stars weakened; Three first-runs in tieup — Loew's State, Skouras Brothers' Ambassador and Missouri; Doubt whether they took in dollar's extra business; Little ef- fect on neighborhood houses.
General Electric and R.C. A. Per feet New Talking Film Device
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Radio Corpora- tion of America, working with the General Electric Corporation, has perfected a new- talking motion picture process, it has been learned. Official announcement of the new device is planned soon, it is reported.
Knowledge of the new process caused stock in both companies to soar, Radio stock jumping 24^ points and General Electric, eight points. Both companies have been at work on the perfected appara- tus for many months, it is said.
Seattle Mayor on Tour
Mayor-Elect Frank Edwards of Seattle, former theatre owner, was a Chicago visitor last week. He is making a tour of 20 Eastern and Southern cities in a study of municipal
governments.
Hollywood Theatres' B, O. Reduced — Atlantans Say "Never Again" — Chicagoans Favor Prizefights Only
By ERNEST A. ROVELSTAD
Broadcasting of programs by motion picture stars during show hours is detri- mental to attendance at the theatres, according to the majority opinion of exhibi- tors in different part of the country as expressed to the Herald-World as a result of the Dodge all-star program of last Thursday.
Theatres with Sets Divided
Opinion was divided in the case of theatres which tied into the broadcast by installing receiving sets, though most of these were opposed as well. "Whit" was told by Chicago managers who joined in the broadcast that they would not do so again on anything^ except a prizefight. In the smaller towns sur- rounding Chicago, however, the publicity manager of the Great States chain predicted that with a different type of program a hook-up broadcast will in- crease attendance. At Albany theatres which carried the broadcast reported increased business whereas the neighborhood houses lost 10 to 20 per cent. At Atlanta all three theatre managers who used the program reported "Never again." Hollywood theatres' attendance decreased.
Following are reports from various sec- uting stars appeared. Even so, a few walked tions: out.
Public Walks Out
On Atlanta Shows
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
ATLANTA, April 3.— As an attraction for theatres. Dodge Brothers' star radio program has been tried and found wanting. Three down-town theatres elected to tie in — Loew's Grand, the Metropolitan and the Rialto.
At Loew's Grand the audience grew im- patient and began stamping the floor in pro- test. Manager Thos. H. James cut off the radio program after 40 minutes because the protest grew in volume.
Manager W. T. Murray at the Rialto an- ticipated that the radio program alone would never hold his audience, so he kept the pic- ture program on the screen continuously.
An average-sized audience at the Metro- politan sat through the greater part of the program. But interest was sustained by a rather clever bit of showmanship contrived by Manager Carter Barron, who supplemented the radio program with a trailer composed of excerpts from pictures in which the con trib-
Some Profit at Albany ; Others Lose Attendance
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
ALBANY, April 3.— WTiile some of the mo- tion picture theatres of Albany really profited in the way of attendance, others in Albanx- and Troy complained that the broadcasting had cut into their attendance figures to a considerable extent.
The Albany and Regent theatres in Albany installed receiving sets, ad\ertised, and swelled attendance as did others which already had receiving sets.
The Leland in Albany really gained, al- though there was no receiving set installed. Other houses reported a slump of anywhere from 10 to 20 per cent, this being particularly true with the neighborhood theatres.
In Schenectady there was a drop in at- tendance.
Most Texas Managers Favor Theatre Broadcast
"Hot" Film Thwarts This Censor Board
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Mo-'ing I'icturc World)
KANSAS CITY. April S.—The Kansas state censor board sat re- viewing films Monday in the usual manner. Suddenly a blaze started in the projection room. One-half reel of a picture was destroyed and Charles O. Smith, operator, was burned about the hands and arms, his quick work in breaking the film sav- ing a greater loss. Dense smoke filled the room and forced the board to discontinue its work several hours. Theatre men. inclined to mix a bit of irony with the incident, are suggest- ing that it must have been a "hot" film.
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
ill
SAN ANTONIO. April 3.— In Texas. majority of opinions on theatrical co-opera- tion with broadcasting stations arc that no little good is derived by the houses in puMicitx b\- remote control broadcasting. Some of the larger houses that have arranged for this medium of advertising are the Texas in San Antonio, the Loew's State in Houston, the Palace in Dallas, and the Worth in Ft. Worth.
Tames Owen Cherry, manager of the Melba, Dallas, is one manager who figures the radio as a detriment. His point is that when the radio fans hear a singer or instrumentalist on the air, they are satisfied. .Vnother of the same belief is Harold Pickett, manager of the San .'\ntonio branch of Paramount. Pickett sa\s that the popularity of radio has divcrteil former the.itre patrons in choosing their en- tertainment.
S. G. Abrams, new manager of the Princess theatre in San .\ntonio. says that he is in
16
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
9fnm
NEW YORK.— Some of the boys have been so busy watching Radio that they failed to notice that Paramount profits during 1927 amounted to a mere eight million. . "Zucker Shooting Menjou," says a headline, but Ad is tough and it ain't gonner hurt. . . . William "Bill" Steiner, one of the oldtimers, and prob- ably one of the best known figures in the picture industry, is about ready to launch a new set of pictures on the independent market. These pictures are being edited by Merritt Crawford. The first one is all ready for the market, and it is a humdinger! . . . Eugene Clifford has joined the Morning Telegraph as a news whippet. What's that? Why, the fastest thing on four feet. . . . Harry Thomas, Ray Johnson and /. Charles Davis III, had a jolly time at Tiajuana not so long ago, and made a cleanup. Harry Thomas brought the cleanup back to New York with him, and it proved to be a perfectly good horse's skull, very dry, and picked clean. However, it will make an attractive tobacco jar for Harry's desk. . . . /. Charles Davis III is the happy father of a bouncing baby boy, age six weeks, weight twelve and one- half, stripped, and it is to be named /. Charles Davis IV instead of Henry the Eighth as was first suggested. . . . Cressott E. Smith, assistant sales manager of United Artists, has returned to New York after a successful midwestern trip. Cresson is feeling fine and business was good so what more could he wish for? . . . Trem Carr, produc- tion manager of Rayart Pictures, arrived in New York on the same train as the President Ray Johnston. . . . The oldtime sideshow barker is still doing his stuff in front of the Paramount theatre, and that's not the worst of it; his uniform, as well as the uniforms of the gladiators in the theatre, seems to be much in want of a good laundering. . . . Hy Daab, he of the F B O, has sold a play which he wrote, and all seem to agree that it is a good one. . . . Fitzpatrick Pictures, Inc., is offering the "Hallelujah Chorus" and other subjects, such as "Largo," for the Easter week attractions, and Rutgers Neilson says he hopes you can "Handle" them. . . . "Ivan the Terrible" is packing them into the Cameo theatre and the audience is not entirely com- posed of long haired men, and short haired women. It's a fine picture for an adult, and aside from the banquet scene, it holds the audience spellbound, from murder to murder. . . . Columbia Pictures has signed up the old reliable Idort Blumentock, late of First National, to write titles for several of the company's forthcoming productions. Mort is clever at this line of endeavor, as well as others. The first picture to which he will apply his art is "The Matinee Idol." . . . "Skalyons," is the working title of a forth- coming independent production. Well, if it belongs to the onion family, it is the right season of the year for it, and should prove to be aggressive enough for any theatre audi- ence. . . . Bruce Gallup has been signed up as handicapper for the spring golf tourna- ment, at the regular salary. . . . Scalpers did their best to get blocks of choice seats from George Harvey for the T. N. T. but it just couldn't be done. . . . Harry Carey did not show up at the Thursday luncheon of the A. M. P. A. but sent a telegrani stating "that he would be hungry the following week, and would be glad to answer any subpoena that they cared to issue." It would serve him right, if the boys made him cook his own "mulligan."
PETER STUYVESANT.
SHORTS, we'll agree, lend spice to the program. And it's just as true that new faces lend "punch" to theatre-going. Welcome, therefore, is Educational's recently developed comedian, Jerry Drew, whom critics now put in the ranks of true comic artists.
Above is a portrait of Drew as he appears on the screen. The formal attire is as seen on the boulevard, for Drew's technique does not include ridiculous clothes. At left he is shown in a scene from "Indiscreet Pete."
Above and belotv — scenes from "Gentlemen Prefer Brunettes.''
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
17
Reports of B. & K. Dicker for Marx Theatres Denied
Reports that Balaban & Katz, Chicago sub- sidiary of PubHx, is negotiating to take over the Marks Brothers theatre properties in that city, were emphatically denied Saturday.
"Absolutely no negotiations are on," de- clared Barney Balaban, while Louis Marks voiced himself similarly.
"Nothing to It," Says Louis Marks
"Nothing to it," he stated. "We're not sell- ing to anybody. We have built up our name until it stands for excellent entertainment, and right now we are perfecting plans for the completion of our circuit."
Marks Brothers now operate two of the city's largest deluxe houses, the Granada and Marbro, both neighborhood theatres.
Construction work begun about two months ago by B. & K. on the Paradise, only one block from the Marbro, is proceeding toward completion at the time originally set for the opening, early in September. The theatre was partly erected at the time B. & K. took it over from receivership about a year ago.
Marks Plans Two New Houses
Two large screen-stage houses are included in the expansion plans of Marks Brothers. In the booking of stage acts B. & K. has dominated the Chicago territory, getting first and more often exclusive call on talent. Through an agreement recently reached by Marks Brothers and B. & K., Max Turner booking office is putting the same talent into the theatres of both circuits, subject to certain priority rights in favor of B. & K. in sections in which both are operating. At present there is one such territory.
Fox, the new entry upon the Chicago scene and regarded as a likely bidder for desirable theatre properties, is also precluded as a pos- sible purchaser of the Marks houses, by the statement of Louis Marks. The Granada and Marbro now serve as highly important out- lets for Fox product in Chicago, B. & K. be- ing committed to the pictures of Paramount, Metro-Goldw}Ti-Mayer, and First National.
Warner Bros. Name May Honor Month for Sam E. Morris
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Warner Brothers will again pay tribute this year to Sam E. Morris, general manager of distribution, by designating May as Sam E. Morris Month. All Warner branches will give special efforts to srales.
This is the third successive year that a tribute of this na- ture has been paid Morris. When the idea was first con- ceived in 1926, more business was pro- cured during May of that year than had ever appeared on the Warner books. In 1927 the campaign showed a 50 per cent in- crease, while present indications arc that the 192S Sam E. Morris Month will far outstrip those of the preceding years. Four weeks in advance of May, business is already 10 per cent beyond the 1927 mark.
Paramount and B 6? K Set New Highs in Net Profit for Year
Paramount's Net Income Reaches $8,057,997 or $12.85 a Common
Share — Gain Is 44 Per Cent Over 1926 — B & K Increase
Is $163,390, Making Share Earnings $6.89
New high marks in net profits were reached last year by both Paramount and Balaban & Katz. Paramount and subsidiaries showed a gain of 44 per cent over 1926, while B & K and fully owned subsidiaries reported a net in- crease of 8.8 per cent over the earnings of the previous year.
Paramount Nets $8,057,997 for Year
Paramouiit recorded combined net profits of $2,407,570 for the final quarter of 1927 and $8,057,997 for the year ended December 31, after all deductions for federal income and other taxes. The figure includes $786,000 as Para- mount's undistributed share of earnings of B & K, 65 per cent owned sub- sidiary. Incidentally, B & K stock reached a week's high of 82 by last Satur- day, which, according to the daily press, was in the face of an oft'er which Paramount is said to be making for the remaining third of common stock. B & K showed a net increase of $163,390 in 1927's earnings.
The Paramount profits amount to $3.84 for the last quarter and $12.85 for the year on common shares. The ratio of current assets to current Habilities is 2.71 as against 1.91 at the end of 1926, while the working capital increased in 1927 from $17,246,000 to $26,052,- 000.
No Bank Loans Outstanding
The following is a comparison of Para- mount profits a share for 1927 and 1926 :
Earnings Average per Share Number After
of Shares Preferred Profits Outstanding Dividends
Year 1927 $8,057,997 579,327 $12.85
Year 1926 5,600,815 459,020 10.82
4th Quarter 1927.._ 2,407,570 588,690 3.84
4th Quarter 1926.... 1,960,477 574,590 3.14
The $3,100,000 shown as bills payable on the balance sheet has been paid since January 1, and the company at present has no bank loans outstanding.
B & K Nets $2,021,092
Balaban & Katz registered a total net in- come of $2,021,092 for the year, after de- ducting $593,057 for depreciation of buildings and $274,630 as a reserve for federal income tax. This was a net increase of $163,390. Net earnings available on each common share were $6.89, as against $6.28 in 1926 on a total of $1,857,701.
There was $1,028,883 added to the surplus account. The item of $1,000,000 on the bal- , ance sheet as a contingent liability' was elim- inated early in 1928.
Theatre properties reached the figure of $15,021,171 in 1927 by additions totaling $137,- 677, a reserve for depreciation and amortiza- tion leaving the amount at $13,003,574.
Current Assets Increase
Sam E. Morris
preferred were 28,513 ; common, 264,206, the total stock liability being given as $9,456,450.
"Everj' indication points to a continuance of the present satisfactory condition of your company," said Herbert L. Stern, president of B & K, in his report to the stockholders, "and your board of directors feel that the corporation will continue to grow and pros- per."
J ay dee Williams Is Made Director of New British Firm
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
LONDON, April 3.— Taydee Williams has been made managing director of a new film company just organized here. The new organization is known as the United Motion Picture Producers, Ltd., and is formed for the specific purpose of distributing British and continental films in the United States and Canada. Six pictures have already been pur- chased and negotiations are being made for more.
Williams, accompanied by Cecil Harrison, will shortly go to America to handle the product in the United States and Canada.
Current assets totaled $543,897, compared with $462,342 in 1926; current liabilities dropped from $3,089,044 to $2,261,590. Total assets were given as $17,790,999.
Surplus earnings for 1927, after dividends, were $1,028,883, contrasted with $865,492 the previous year, raising the total profit and loss surplus to $4,124,526. Outstanding shares of
Confesses to Burning Theatre; Gets Three Years in Penitentiary
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
PORTL.\ND. ORE., April 3.— Lee Morris- son, a moving picture show operator, was sen- tenced to three years in the penitentiary when he confessed to having set fire to a theatre at Garibaldi. Oregon. The theatre had bee:i built for Morrison by business men of the lumber community. The state fire marshal's office induced him to make the confession.
WHY THE HERALD-WORLD' IS READ AND
SUBSCRIBED FOR BY EVERY EXHIBITOR
Carl L. Brozvti. Pastime tlicatrr, Kurllizcood. Lo.. :ir:t,\<:
"The 'Herald-World' is the finest trade journal on the market and I cannot afford to miss an issue. I have been a constant reader for years and shall con- tinue for years to come."
18
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Qive Patron Silver and Paper Change at Same Time, Exhibitors Advise
If He Leaves Without Any of It, Place the Change in a Separate Envelope and Set It Aside for Him, Managers Say
[Special from Correspondent of Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World]
LOUISVILLE, April 3. — The best system to avoid any possible complaint of short changing is for the ticket seller to shove both silver and paper ■^ money through the window at the same time, exhibitors here have learned. Stationing doormen beside the window to check each operation also has been instituted in some of the larger houses.
IN practically every instance where cus- appearing into the theatre: "Here is your trimprs walW awav without all their change." And quite often the doorman
stops them. Sometimes he even tells an usher to spot where the man sits, and sends for him.
'N practically every instance where cus- tomers walk away without all their change they have received the silver but failed to wait for the paper money. If the silver is not placed within their reach until it is accompanied by the paper the chances of the patron failing to receive full change are reduced practically to nothing, the thea- tre staffs say.
Place Change in Envelope
Even with all this precaution taken by the management to serve the best interests of the patrons, one occasionally will dis- appear by the time the ticket seller has made change. In such cases, the manage- ments advise" that an excellent plan is to place the change in a separate envelope, mark it with the time and date, and set it aside. If the patron does return later for the change, he respects the management for its systematic waj' of guarding him against his own error. If the ticket seller merely gets him the change out of the regular cash, he may carry away the thought that she did not intend to return it.
There are individuals who believe that everyone is dishonest. They are the ones responsible for malicious falsehoods regard- ing large organizations, and yet a thinking person realizes that any theatre manage- ment would shun any such practices as the poorest possible handling of its business investment, to say nothing of the ethics involved.
Chance to Build Good Will
At the same time the wideawake ex- hibitor wnll take special care to avoid the possibility of any such charges because there is more opportunity for an error to be made at the window of a motion picture theatre than at probably any other place where change must be made.
A youth comes up to the window to buy tickets for himself and girl, or a party of four or six. The others start on in anc^ he is in a hurry to join them. Perhaps it is a family, and the young hopeful is not behaving ver}' well. Again there is the element of hurry at the window.
Many a ticket seller pulls open the back door of her booth and calls to a man dis-
9f
Audience Applauds **U*s
**We Americans'* Upon
Its New York Opening
By PETER VISCHER NEW YORK, April 3.— The Colony Thea- tre, was made over somewhat this week for a gala event. On Wednesday the house went into "two-a-day" and gave as its first special presentation Universal's "We Americans."
This picture was given a rousing reception at its first New York showing, largely by men wise in the ways of the box office. It is senti- mental, designed to tug at the heart-strings, and as' things are going nowadays also to do a little tugging at the pocketbook.
Margaret Livingston on Columbia's Roster for Pictures Next Season
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Margaret Liv- ingston has been signed by Columbia to appear in several pictures on the '28-'29 pro- gram as a result of her work in "A Wom- an's Way." Others recently signed are Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., and Barbara Kent for juvenile leads in "Modern Mothers."
Columbia also has bought the rights to "Acquitted," by Mary Roberts Rinehart, and "Restless Souls," by Cosmo Hamilton.
Rumors Say Exchanges
Will Be Discontinued
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
PORTLAND, ORE., April 3.— It is being rumored here that exchanges in this city and at Butte, Montana, will be made into shipping points, only, and that the managers will be dispensed with.
All Selling in Blocks Are Called Before
Board of Review of Trade Commission
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World) WASHINGTON, April 3. — AU distributors practicing block booking have been called before the board of review of the Federal Trade Commission to state definitely whether they follow the practice, in order that it may become a matter of record.
Present plans of the commission contemplate the bringing of a suit in the Fed- eral court in New York against Paramount should that company, in its report which is to be filed by April 15, refuse to comply absolutely with the cease-and-desist order issued last July. Should suit be brought, it is probable that a general prosec- cution will be instituted, naming as defendants all distributors practicing block booking.
A motion that the resolutions adopted by the trade practice conference in New York last October be put into effect temporarily, to see how they work out, was re- cently filed with the commission, signed by a number of the large distributors. The commission's action in calling the companies before the board of review, however, indicates that the motion was adversely decided.
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Tom Mix (right) and Buzz Barton
F BO Branches to Hold Informal Parties for Mix During Vaudeville Tour
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3. — An unusual oppor- tunity to meet a motion picture star infor- mally will be afforded exhibitors by F B O during Tom Mix's vaudeville tour of the Keith-Albee-Orpheum houses. F B O ex- changes in all key cities will hold open house for one day each week during Mix's stay. Over 15,000 exhibitors have already sent in their acceptances for the receptions, which will be held in Denver, April 4; Omaha, April 11; Kansas City, April 18; St. Louis, April 25 ; Chicago, May 2 ; and Cleveland, May 16.
Shoff Is Named to Design Brett Arlington Memorial
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Movitig Picture World)
UNIONTOWN, PA., April 3.— B. M. Shoff, head of the art staff of Theatre Ad Mat Service, has been named to make the design for the Brigadier-General Lloyd Milton Brett Arlington Memorial which will be unveiled on Memorial Day in trib- ute to the late commander of the 80th Division. Shoff's work is known to hun- dreds of managers and publicity men who use Theatre Ad Mat Service.
Loses Suit to Prevent
"Jazz Singer" Booking
SAN ANTONIO, April 6. — Warner Brothers was yesterday awarded the deci- sion over the Aztec theatre here, in the latter's injunction sent to keep the pro- ducers from placing their "super" pictures, with Vitaphone, in a Publix house in San Antonio.
It is assumed that Vitaphone will open in the Empire here with Al Jolson in "The Jazz Singer" in approximately two weeks, if, as is expected, the plaintiff does not enter an appeal to the case. "The Jazz Singer" has broken all records at the Kirby in Houston and at the Metropolitan in At- lanta.
Build Mont Clare Theatre
Construction is well under way on the 1,400 seat theatre at Mont Clare, Illinois. The building and land have been appraised at $504,000. The structure will embrace seven stores and 29 apartments, besides the theatre. It is planned to open the theatre in the fall.
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
19
Rumor Hath It — What? The Bag? And Then Again —
Rumor hath it —
But let's commence at the very beginning.
On the other hand, why do that? It was an old story before it ceased to be a rumor. Or there may have been no story at all. Per- haps the rumor died — ^as even rumors will. 'Tis no matter. Rumor hath it!
Doubtless everybody heard it — the rumor, not the news, which may or may not have existed. As stated, the fact-story was of no importance, if indeed there was one. It was the rumor —
But what is a rumor? Cogitating upon the anatomy of a rumor, the penetrating mind gradually discovers that this sprightly phenomenon, when reduced to its ultimate unities, is usually either fancy or fact. It all depends on whether it is or not.
It is not recorded who gave out the first rumor, and those who heard it are too num- erous to mention. But historians agree that mankind was addicted to rumors long before it was said that Ceaser had decided to settle down with Cleopatra and let Rome go to — well, to Anthony if he wanted it.
Though since then the phenomenon has en- joyed a steady growth, a review of the last 1,900 years reveals that rumors took no vital part in the affairs of men (let's leave the women out of this) until the establishment of the motion picture industry in the 20th Century. And then — ah, then! Why, then it was that people began cupping their ears, assured that a little rumor would come to lead them.
As to the rumor mentioned — Well, let it pass. The cosmos will proceed upon its mys- terious mission without it, while newer and greater rumors are rife upon its starry planets. Of such is destiny! It is written! "Rumor hath it — " Though some may ask:
"What price news?"
Stanley Company Moves
Into Larger Offices
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
PHILADELPHIA, April 3.— The Stan- ley Company of America has m,oved the executive offices from their present loca- tion, 1916 Race Street, to the Earle Build- ing, 11th and Market Streets, where the second, third, and fourth floors will be oc- cupied.
New House in South
Seen in K-A-O Move
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Pictttre World)
CHATTANOOGA, April 3.— Negotiations looking toward the immediate launching of a new theatre here have been opened by Dan Michalove, representing Keith-Albee-Orpheum in the South. It is understood that an attrac- tive proposition, including a desirable location, has been submitted to Michalove.
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Companionate Marriages to Be Filmed as Special
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— Sam Sax and Asher, Small and Rogers today liought screen rights to "Companionate Marriages" written by Judge Ben Lindsey, who will have a hand in its making. The film will be started this month and will be road shown at two dollars.
Urges Tax Payment
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
KANSAS CITY, April 3.— Exhibitors in Western Missouri and Kansas have been ail- \ised by R. R. Biechcle, president of the M. P. T. O. Kansas-Missouri, to pay their music tax promptly and ihu^^ avoid extra as- sessments.
Suit Reported Lone Obstacle To Closing of Fox-F & R Deal
Appeal of Northwest Chain Now Before St. Louis Court — Price of
$9,500,000 Understood to Have Been Set
for 140 Theatres
(By Special Correspondent Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
MINNEAPOLIS, April 3. — Negotiations are continuing for the purchase of the Finkelstein & Ruben holdings in the Northwest by the Fox interests, it has been learned from an authoritative source.
Suit Reported Cause of Delay
It is understood that F & R has set a price of $9,500,000 on its properties, which include more than 140 theatres in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota. The only thing holding up the deal, it is understood, is a suit brought by former stockholders of the old Miles theatre of Minneapolis. The plaintiffs have been awarded a judgment of approximately $500,000 and have obtained a lien against the F & R properties to safeguard payment of the judgment. F & R has appealed to the District Court of Appeals at St. Louis.
A Fox official is said to have been in Minneapolis a few days ago conferring with F & R and Publix officials. Completion of present negotiations would make Fox a partner with Publix in operation of the new Minnesota and the 10 other theatres now controlled by Northwest Paramount, a cor- poration recently organized.
F & R is understood to own a considerable block of stock in First National and it has been said that if Fox could complete the F & R purchase it would give a controlling interest over First National.
Erected Garrick Theatre
The old Miles theatre company, stock- holders of which brought the suit, had erected what is now the New Garrick thea- tre, operated by F & R.
The plaintiffs charged that Finkelstein and Ruben paid themselves large salaries at the expense of the Garrick theatre, charged exorbitant prices against the theatre for films used, and also charged for films used in other theatres against the expenses of the Garrick. They also charged that F & R rep- resented the stock as being worth but very little and purchased it, consequently, for very small amounts. The court appointed the Midland National Bank and Trust Com- pany of Minneapolis to act as trustee.
Plaintiffs are planning to file a petition for dismissal of the appeal.
that countries sending films to France shall buy one French film for every seven they show here. It is this plan which Hays hopes to stop.
Motion pictures in all their phases will be reviewed in an International film exhibition to be held in The Hague from April 14 to Alay 15 of this year, it has been announced.
Detroit Oriental Robbed; $12,000 Loss Estimated
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
DETROIT, MICH., April 3.— The Oriental theatre, new downtown house, w-as robbed at davlight todav. The loss was estimated at $12,000. The Oriental plays a straight picture policy.
Stanley-Fabian Opens
Jersey City Theatre
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
JERSEY CITY. April 3.— A new theatre was added to the Stanley-Fabian chain March 23, when the new Stanley theatre was opened
in this citv.
Will Hays in France to Fight Proposed 7 to 1 French Commission Plan
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
PARIS, April 3.— Will Hays arrived here Friday to begin his campaign to influence a governmental commission against drastic cen- sorship and quota on American films.
It is reported that the commission, em- powered by the govcnnncnt, plans to demand
Fire Destroys Theatre
and Damages Hostelry
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Movina Picture Wot Id) BALTIMORE, .\pril 3.— Fire destroyed the Folly theatre last week and badly damaged the Folly hotel adjoining.
Wins Express Co. Suit
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Movino Picture fCorld)
PORTLAND. ORE.. April 3.— The Coos Ray .\nuiscment (.'ompany has been awarded damages of $237.9.^ a.gainst the .American Railway Express Company for failure on the part of the carrier to deliver a film.
Police Add Triple Index on Bombings
When Embassy at Seattle Is Attacked
(S[>ccial to Exhihilors Herald and Moz-itiq PiV/urv IVorld)
SEATTLE, April 3. — A black powder bomb was exploded in the entrance of the Embassy theatre, a moving picture house in the market district, shortly before 4 a. m. March 29. The janitor was injured and windows were broken.
The theatre, owned by Joseph Danz. has been involved in labor disputes for some time, and various threats have been received. Danz is a brother of John Danz, owner of theatres which have been bombe<^ several times in recent months as the outgrowth of labor troubles.
The police have now found it necessary to file reports on the various bombings, alphabetically, numerically and geographically, in order to keep track of them, and yet have no inkling as to the perpetrators.
20
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
N* £♦ Pennsylvania Exhibitors Qet New Start Under William Quigley
Comerford, First President, Emphasizes Value of Cooperation — Woodhull Describes National Policies — Next Session at Scranton, May 27
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
WILKES-BARRE, PA., April 3.— Exhibitors of this territory now are welded in an organization which promises much for the welfare of its members, following a reorganization meeting last week at which Wil- liam Quigley, of Nanticoke, was elected president of the M. P. T. O. of Northeastern Pennsylvania. ■pXHIBITORS are permitted to join the
regional body best able to handle their particular problems under the newly-shaped constitution, but exhibitors throughout the state will work together in handling legisla- tive and other general issues, in cooperation with the M. P. T. O. A., which was repre- sented by R. F. Woodhull, president.
Other Officers Elected
The following officers, in addition to William Quigley, were named at the ses- sion, held at the Hotel Sterling on Sunday:
Charles Kear, Minersville, vice-president; L. A. Farrell, Carbondale, vice-president; Julius Freedman, Forest City, vice-presi- dent; Harry Spiegel, Scranton, secretary; H. D. Rundell, Sayre, treasurer.
Chairman of the board of directors — John J. Galvin, Wilkes-Barre; director — three- year term, John J. Calvin, M. B. Comerford, Scranton, L. J. Chamberlain, Tamaqua; two years, Fred Lupert, Williamsport, Arthur Luce, Scranton, Samuel Freedman, Pottsville; one year, Bruce Lynn, Blooms- burg; Claude Westley, Pittston and William Woodin, Towanda. Administrative Com- mittee: John Galvin, M. B. Comerford and L. J. Chamberlain. Legislative Committee: G. Elmer Dietrich, Tunkhannock; William Woodin, Towanda, and Jesse Blanchard, Sunbury.
The meeting was attended by 100 ex- hibitors, representing territory from Sayre to Pottsville, 140 miles. Fred Herman of Wilkes-Barre, chairman of the meeting committee, presided until the installation of officers. M. E. Comerford, the first presi- dent of the organization, outlined the his- tory of the organization and expressed the belief it would have a very brilliant future. He said there were more problems to be solved now in the industry than ever before but declared all could and would be han- dled through cooperation.
Woodhull Stresses Cooperation
Woodhull described national policies and elements of cooperation and understanding. He praised the work of Comerford in local and national exhibitor affairs.
Mr. Herman presided at a dinner in the ballroom of the Sterling.
before long the big groups would try to cap- ture the C. E. A.
Break Threatened With Board Over Outside Decisions
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
O'KLAHOiMA CITY, April 3.— Notification has been sent to the local Board of Arbitration that efforts will be made to sever all relations of the Oklahoma M. P. T. O. with the board if that body enforces recent rulings of the Kansas City board against theatres in Semi- nole and Wewoka, Okla. There is an agree- ment between the owners' organization and the local board that no awards or penalties will be recognized unless passed or reviewed by the latter.
The M. P. T. O. of Oklahoma will hold a convention here at the Huckins hotel next Monday. Among the important matters to be discussed is that of percentage contracts.
Wales Exhibitor Heads British C. E. A.; Parley Has Independent Trend
[By the London Correspondent of Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World}
LONDON, March 26. — At the annual meet- ing of the Cinematograph Exhibitors' Asso- ciation of Great Britain and Ireland, held here last week H. Y. Davis, a Welsh theatre owner, was elected to the chair, in succession to E. Hewitson, Birmingham exhibitor. F. H. Cooper, who built up an Eastern Counties cir- cuit, was elected to the vice-chair, so will be chairman next year. Councillor E. E. Lyons, the London exhibitor, sought to be appointed vice-president, but was roundly beaten, his defeat being attributed to his association with some of the "big men" of the industry.
Major Gale warned the theatre owners that
$1 Seat Tax Exemption Depends on Outlay for Flood Aid, Says Mellon
(Washington Bureau of Exhibitors Herald and and Moving Picture World)
WASHINGTON, April 3.— Increase in the admission tax exemption from 75 cents to $1 depends entirely upon whether appropriations are made for flood relief, the senate finance committee was told today by Andrew Mellon, s:ecretary of the treasury.
If no flood relief appropriations are made, a surplus of $212,000,000 is estimated for the current year and the admission tax exemption can be increased. If the money is spent for flood relief the surplus probably will drop to about $180,000,000 and the treasury then could not approve the increase made by the house when it passed the bill last December.
The department approved a reduction in the general corporation tax rate from 135^ to 12 per cent and revision of the rate on individual incomes between $14,000 and $75,000. If the surplus is at the high figure, the department also would approve an increase from $2,000 to $3,000 in the exemption allowed corporations with incomes less than $25,000.
Goldhurg-Furst-W ells Combination to Make 18 Films for '28-'29
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Eighteen pictures are to be made by First Division Distribu- tors as a result of the new partnership made of Jesse T. Goldburg, Robert S. Furst and Raymond Wells, whereunder First Division and the Furst-Wells producing unit have become consolidated. Furst and Wells will take charge of production at the Met- ropolitan Studio and Goldburg will spend most of his time in New York. He is now on his way East from the Coast.
It Seems That 2 Trade Dailies in London Ran Review Same Day, and —
One Challenged the Other s Source, and the Other Sued, and —
Suit has been started by the Cinema Press, Ltd., London, and Samuel Harris, managing editor of Today's Cinema, against the owners and editor of the Daily Film Renter, of which Ernest W. Fredman is managing editor, but "that ain't the half of it."
It all started over a comedy — Charles Chap- lin's "The Circus," and the fact that a trade showing was barred by the distributor's con- tract with the New Galley Kinema. It seems that Fredman, writing a column under the title of "Tatler," had gone to France for a rest and while there had an opportunity to see "The Circus" ahead of the London opening. On Tuesday, March 6, Film Renter intimated it would carry a review on Thursday. And Both Have it Same Day!
Came Thursday — to use a new phrase — and lo and behold, reviews of "The Circus" appeared in both issues, the Today's Cinema critique being preceded by the statement that "we give below the opinion of a prominent London exhibitor who has seen the film in America."
Came Friday — logically enough — ^with the challenge from the Film Renter that if Sam Harris of the Cinema could show by Saturday noon an affidavit "from the exhibitor in ques- tion who saw the picture in America, stating that he was the writer of the review," "Tatler" would pay 50 pounds to the Cinema- tograph Benevolent Fund.
And Then —
Next chapter: Today's Cinema the next day answered with comment regarding "Sweetening sour grapes" and explained that "we have promised to keep the name of the party absolutely secret."
Monday: Film Renter broadcasting, with this: "We suggest that 'The Cinema's' review of 'The Circus' was written by somebody who never saw the film, but who HAD read the American reports."
Thursday: Today's Cinema announced that writs had been issued against the owners and editor of the Film Renter.
Do we hear the bell for the next round?
Warner Brothers Shows Profit of $500,000 for Second Quarter of Year
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Warner Brothers Pictures' net profit in the quarter ended March 1, the second quarter of the company's fiscal year, was about $500,000, equal to $2.50 a share on 199,980 class "A" shares:, against $102,687 net earned in the first quarter of the fiscal year.
Thieves Get $1,080 from Pantages House at K, C,
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
KANSAS CITY, April 3.— Thieves who hid themselves in the Pantages theatre here Tues- day night and waited until after the house was deserted, broke in the theatre's vault and escaped with $1,080. The only trace left was an empty cash box hidden in a dressing room on the s'econd floor, Louie Charninsky, man- ager, said.
Speedy "Speedy" Opening
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
MIAMI, FLA., April 3.— The Miami Beach theatre here opened a run of Harold Lloyd's
comedy, "Speedy," last Thursday.
AprU 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
21
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Film News in Pictures
PICTORIAL SECTION
Stories Told by the Camera
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M-G-M player, star of King Vidor's "The Crowd," and (not at all incidentally) the wife of Director Vidor — in short, Elea- nor Boardman, who is presented in a brand new portrait.
So she took the ^15,000 and — but that would be telling. Besides, we don't know. Suffice it to say that Rena Vale won the ^15,000 offered by Paramount and Photoplay Magazine for the winning suggestion in a story-idea contest. Shown with her are those who made her good fortune possible — Jesse L. Lasky, vice-president of Paramoimt (left) and James R. Quirk, editor of Photoplay.
On a Springtime inspection of conditions in Dixie — Claude C. Ezell, Warner Brothers sales manager in the South and West, who has begun a swing around the exchanges in the former territory.
From freaks to roller coasters, this set on the Universal lot is com- plete. The picture shows a sequence for "Lonesome" in the process of creation under the direction of Paul Fejos (he on the platform with a megaphone). This production is a new starring vehicle for Univcrsal's playboy of the films, Glenn Tryon. Barbara Kent h.is the feminine lead.
Serious business, this ni.ikinc of tomodics. For i-\ cr% >:iitTjw there's .in hour of nnguishl Obsor\i' .il->o\ i' Ro.ich-M-G-M biitfooncrs- in ihi- niakin);. There's Director l:d>;.ir Kenni-dv (.it leil) with two of his stell.ir coiiiedi.ins. St.in L.uiri'i (C\■nt^•r^ .ind Oli\ cr H.irdv. stru^- y;ling for .i fiinrn idi-.i uitli vthiih to Kinisli sorrow. Siuh i> tin- price of l.iuKhtcr.
22
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
KJTreeting you at (faster
Saying it with bunnies — and big bright eyes. This extremely
acceptable Easter salutation is from Doris Dawson, First National
player. She was given a prominent part in Richard Barthelmess'
new picture, "The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come."
Rabbits, too, may harbor suspicions of eggs, and surely Peter ought to be cautious about this one. She so curious and yet so fearful, is Estelle Bradley, leading woman in Educational comedies, who thus sends greet- ings for Easter morning. Miss Bradley, we might add (and will) is the wife of Charles Lamont, Educational director.
An art, we take it, that requires a great amount of coolness. But
Ethlyne Clair seems equal to the task, even to the fine detail of
a smock. It makes a pretty Easter card from a pretty Universal
player.
"Hello, World! Easter greetings!" This from June Collyer, 1928 Wampas "star" and Fox player, who has the feminine lead in "Hang- man's House." Someone suggested that in this seasonal portrait Miss Collyer looks very chic. And she does, doesn't she?
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
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.X haping our r oreign lolicy
China. Anna May Wong (left) and Myma Loy are initiating Director Archie Mayo into the mystery of chop- sticks, suggesting how in "The Crimson City," Warner Brothers is endeavoring to reduce the W'^st's ignorance of the East.
As to the economics of foreign affairs, here's Billie Dove shopping in Huneary — on a set, of course, for First National's "The Yellow Lily." But whazza differ- ence? Has Hungary prettier shop girls than Yola d'Avril (left) and Frances Hamilton?
The shaping of foreign policies has many forms. Here's Betty Comp- son's contribution, as in Columbia's "The Desert Bride" she brings Arabia to America — figuratively speaking.
Persia — and how! We know not whether the State de- partment approves of such methods, but we're inclined to think these Persians like Charley Bowers as an am- bassador. This scene from the Educational comedy, "Whoozit," illustrates perfectly the new technique in internation.-il diplomacy.
In Tahiti — an example of films devel- oping more friendly international rela- tions. Director Robert J. Flaherty is shown (at center) in the jungle of Papeete, while making M-G-M's "Southern Skies," all in the cause of bigger and better treaties.
Now, who could get sore at a nation that produces m.iids like her? Vl'ith this study of Ruby BLiinc, Educa- tional does much for Hisp.mo- Amcrican pcicc. Let us all shout: "\'iva 1.1 EsjMna!"
24
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Amazing Number of Disputes Settled by Arbitration in 1927
Only 62 of 15.451 Cases Go to Courts — 14,356 Claims Are Dis- posed Of — Five Are Litigated Before Submission to Arbi- tration— ^Thousand Institutions Given Free Films
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK. April 3. — An amazing number of disputes in the trade were reported amicably settled by arbitration, without recourse to the courts, as sho^^-Tl by the annual report of the Film Boards of Trade for 1927, made pub- lic yesterday. This testimony to the sound sense of the industry is rivaled perhaps by the vast list of its charities, made in all parts of the count^^^
Thousand Institutions Benefited The report, made public by the M. P. P. D. A., discloses that nearly 1,000 institutions for orphans, soldiers recovering from injuries in the late war, places housing the old folks, penitentiaries both state and federal, were pro- vided with free entertainment b}" these Film Boards of Trade.
been conducted in the industry there have been 50,006 controversies disposed of, total- ing $11,230,298.
The total number of pictures shown with- out cost in these institutions was 22,165, of which more than 12,000 were long features being shown currently in the local theatres. The film rental for pictures donated would mount into hundreds of thousands of dol- lars. As a consequence of this charity, it is calculated that more than 170,000 inmates of the various institutions mentioned see motion pictures gratis weekly.
14,356 Claims Disposed of
There were 15,451 controveries between exhibitors and distributors, — controversies involving $4,269,752. Of these, 14,655 claims totaling $3,963,004 were made by distributors ; and 769 claims totaling $306,749 by exhibi- tors. A total of 14,356 controveries involving $3,825,636 were disposed of as follows: 4,671 claims totaling $1,254,273 were settled before submission to arbitra- tion; 2,368 claims involving $671,920 were withdrawn after submission to arbitration; 6,593 claims involving $2,047,723 were con- sidered by the Boards of Arbitration, of which number 426, involving $150,331 were dismissed. Of these claims only 36, involv- ing $20,753, required a seventh arbitrator. Court Proceeding on 62 Claims
There were 425 claims, involving $129,384 awarded against distributors; while the awards against exhibitors were 6,017, in- volving $1,591,037. Five claims involving $878 were litigated before submission to arbitration. There were 62, involving $48.- 344, requiring a court proceeding after sub- mission, of which number but nine, involv- ing $1,345, were court proceedings to en- force compliance with the awards made, and for the entry of judgments. At the end of the year, 1927, there were pending 1,095 claims, involving $444,115, undisposed of.
In the four vears that arbitration has
Bandits Get $2,500 at Chicago Lawndale; Tie Employe; Draw Guns
Two masked men early Tuesday morning held up Sol Aleyers and his son, Jesse, in the offices of the Lawndale theatre, and escaped with between $2,500 and $3,000 in cash.
The bandits tied Mike Sorensen, an em- ploye, to a pillar and drew guns on the Meyers', forcing them to turn over the money.
Interstate Circuit Buys Regional Chain Theatres
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
BOSTON, April 3.— Interstate Theatres Corporation has acquired the circuit of the Regional Chain Theatres of New England, Inc., it was announced today, and vnl\ con- tinue to operate. No immediate change in policy of any of the nine theatres is contem- plated.
New Theatre Under Way
especial to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
BOSTON, April 3.— A theatre has been put under construction by the New England Thea- tres Operating Corporation and is expected to be opened by early fall. It will have a seat- ing capacity of 2,000.
William Watson, "Prop" Man, Dies INDIANAPOLIS.— William Watson, S3 years old, property man at the Murat theatre, died at his home here.
KNOW YOUR SALES LEADERS
P
HIL REISMAN, general salesmanager of Pathe Exchange, Inc., is a native of Minnesota. He was born in St. Paul and attended the Central High School there and the St. Paul College of Law.
"LJE started in the motion picture business ■*■-*■ in 1917 as a salesman for Triangle, join- ing the Goldwyn sales staff a year later. After a year with Goldwyn he returned to Triangle as manager of the Mihvaukee branch. Later he was the Minneapolis manager for Hodkin- son for one year and in 1920 became a sales- man for Paramount.
Six months later he was manager of the Paramount Minneapolis branch and in 1922 became district manager for that company, with supervision over Minneapolis, Omaha,
Des Moines and Sioux Falls.
He held that position for about two years and then was transferred to Canada to be- come general manager of the Canadian Para- mount-Famous-Lasky corporation. In June, 1925, he was brought to New York to act as salesmanager of the Eastern division for Paramount and remained there until he ac- cepted the position of general salesmanager of Pathe Exchange, Inc., in May, 1927.
Mr. Reisman is married and has two sons. His home is in New Rochelle.
PHIL REISMAN
Oldtime Snap Puts Over Naked Truth Dinner as Pepfest
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— The few in the trade who were unable to get to the Naked Truth Dinner given by the A. M. P. A. at the Astor Hotel last Saturday, regretted it even more keenly after hearing the glowing reports of those in attendance.
The oldtime snap was given the occasion from the time the guests entered. The lobby was cluttered with penny arcade mirrors and slot machines and scores of signs kidding everv-body and everything in the industry.
With the Clef Club orchestra filling in the gaps and staging a real old-fashioned cabaret program during the sendng of dinner, the program was snapped through in record time. Bruce Gallup, president of the organization, acted as trajffic manager in speeding up the numbers.
The news reel, which was edited by Victor Shapiro and Warren Nolan, took all of the wellknown executives for a laugh with im- partiality. Aside from the semi-formal num- bers on the program, a number of surprises were perpetrated.
The ballroom was cleared for dancing af- ter the serving of dinner and the merrymak- ing continued into the small hours of the morning. A number of pleasing novelties were introduced.
Ohio Owners Demand
Change in Protection
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 3.— P. J. Wood, business manager of the M. P. T. O. of Ohio,' gave out a statement March 31 in which hei said that the Ohio association was squarely behind the action taken by the Cleveland Mo- tion Picture Exhibitors' association, March 22, when it was unanimously decided not to buy any films until the protection feature for first-run houses in Cleveland was adjusted. At present the first-run houses have 56 days protection. This is opposed by the association which comprises 120 houses.
Aprn 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
25
Wesco Plans Huge Ad Drive on Lane Comedy Bookings
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
LOS ANGELES, April 3.— An elaborate 16 weeks' exploitation and advertising cam- paign on two-reel comedies is to be staged shortly by West Coast Theatres on Educa- tional's Lupino Lane Comedies. It will get under way early this month with the first showings of "Fandango," Lane's most recent comedy, in the key cities of the West Coast Circuit. The campaign will be on Lupino Lane and his entire comedy series.
There will be a full showing billboard cam- paign on "Fandango" from Seattle to Los An- geles. The billboards will be posted at least one week before the opening playdates of this comedy and will remain so posted^ for two weeks or longer. Another feature will be a theatre manager's contest for all West Coast house managers, and three cash prizes for the best pubHcity and exploitation campaigns will be offered.
It is estimated that nearly 1,500,000 people will see Lupino Lane in his comedies in West Coast theatres each week of the contest.
(Lupino Lane will be represented pictorially next week.)
Rossheim Calls Stanley Reorganization Helpful
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
PHILADELPHIA, June 3.— At a meeting of the board of directors of the Stanley Com- pany of America, Irving D. Rossheim, presi- dent, reported that the economies put into effect following the reorganization of the ex- ecutive staff and the board of directors, had resulted in the most beneficial effects on the various circuits in the Stanley chain. As a further step towards stabilizing the affairs of the company, a finance committee consisting of John A. AlcCarthy, Louis J. Kolb and Albert L. Smith, was appointed.
New Natural Color Film Process Demonstrated
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Demonstration of a new photo-color process for the produc- tion of natural color photography was given in New York by the inventor, Hans Fraunhofer, general manager of the Wolff-Heide Film Co., Lt., of Berhn. Pictures may be made in- volving the color process without any changes in standard cameras or projectors, it is said.
Fraunhofer expects to bring to this coun- try a feature length production done entirely in the new color process.
Sentry Officials Return from Demonstration Trip
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK, April 3.— Joseph E. Cohen, president of the Sentry Safety Control Corporation, and Max Aron, secretary and treasurer of the company, returned today from Europe. They went to England some weeks ago on business connected with English and continental distribution of the Sentry safety control.
Heads Film Indorsers
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
TERRE HAUTE, April 3.— Miss Bertha Smith, president of the Indiana Indorsers of Photoplays, was re-elected unanimously at the annual convention in Indianapolis.
Union Loses Suit As Theatre Cuts Orchestra for Vitaphone
Musicians' Claim for Damages and Breach of Contract Is Denied
by Board of Arbitrators in Metropolitan
Case at Atlanta
(By Special Correspondent of Exhibitors Herald Jind Moving Picture World)
ATLANTA, April 3. — A decision won by the Metropolitan theatre here last week against the Atlanta Federation of Musicians is expected to have a far- reaching effect in establishing a precedent for the country on union demands in connection with installations of the Vitaphone.
Claim for $7,200 Denied Union A claim for $7,200 by the union on a charge of breach of contract and conse- quent loss of salaries to musicians was denied the union by an arbitration group consisting of Hooper Alexander and Stiles Hopkins, Atlanta attorneys, and Sidney Hayles, public accountant.
the question of what constitutes a change of policy.
One of the most important witnesses was Willard C. Patterson, who was manager of the Metropolitan when the theatre originally inserted into its agreements with the union the "change of policy" clause.
The decision is final and binding, both sides having agreed to abide by the ruling of the chosen arbitrators. Paul Donohue was coun- sel for the union and Sam Hewlett repre- sented the musicians.
Controversy Started Year Ago
The musicians' claim grew out of a con- troversy precipitated last May when the Met- ropolitan, following the installation of Vita- phone, sought to reduce its orchestra from 15 to 11 members. The management cited the inauguration of Vitaphone as a change of pol- icy and called attention to the particular clause in the Metropolitan's contract with the union which provided that "any change of policy will render the contract null and void."
Executives of the union refused to recog- nize the use of Vitaphone as a change of pol- icy and protested against reduction of the size of the orchestra. When several conferences failed, Sig Samuels, managing director, de- cided to drop the Metropolitan orchestra en- tirely and retain two organists. The union blocked that plan by calling out the organists. Ran Without Union Musicians
There followed several weeks of non-union shows at the Metropolitan until the orchestra was restored July 25. But so far as the main issue was concerned — that is, the dispute as to what constitute a change of policy — nothing had been settled.
Subsequently the union filed claims against the Metropolitan asking damages of $7,200. Practically the entire argument centered on
Questions So Crazy They Win F-N Contest
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
NEW YORK. April 3.—M. S. Mock, manager of the American the- atre, Schaefferstown. Pa., won the $10 Srst prize in the First National News' "Craziest Question Contest." with the question. "Must I sit in the orches- tra.^ I don't play" — the comment of a woman to whom Mock sold a ticket marked "Orchestra." "Do you see the same show from the balcony.'" was the question that won the second prize of $5, sent in by A. C. Earps, manager of the Auditorium. Winston- Salem, N. C. "Is 'Matinee' a good picture.'" was the question asked Jack Barnett, manager of the Palace. Clarksville, Va.. by a patron who saw the sign "Matinee To-Day." It won Barnet the third prize of $5. Fourth prize. $5, was awarded. "Have you any empty balcony seats downstairs.'" — the question submitted by L. L. Levy, manager of the Ideal. Corsi- cana, Tex.
Harry Weiss New F BO Manager at St, Louis
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
ST. LOUIS, April 3.— Harry Weiss, for six years branch manager for First National, has been appointed manager of the local F B O exchange. This is only Weiss' third n e w position in 20 years.
Weiss is widely known throughout the St. Louis territor>', and messages of con- gratulation are com- ing into his office from every place boasting a theatre. He has met personal- ly most of the exhib- itors he dealt with, his reputation being that of a branch manager who "takes to the road." He ser^•ed as manager and dis- trict manager for World Pictures Corpora- tion and Metro in Chicago, and in the same city managed the First National branch for six vears.
Harry TTcUa
Natan Making French
Film of Joan of Arc
(By Hail to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
PARIS. March 23. — Production of an all- French film telling the story of the life of Joan of Arc is now being undertaken by Xatan. Much of the picture will be filmed in the actual historic locale of the original events, and among the features will be the meeting of the Martyr with the Dauphin, the entry of Joan into Orleans, and the battle scenes. The scenario is by Jean Jose Frappa. while Marco de Gastyne will stage the pro- duction. The French title is "The Mar\elous Life of Joan of Arc: Maid of Lorraine."
Malcolm Stuart Boylan Becomes Fox Film Editor
(Spf:.-iat to Erhibilcrs Herald onj Miffing Picture l^'crlJ)
HOLLYWOOD. April 3.— Malcolm Stuart Boylan has been made super\ising editor of Fox Films, according to an announcement by Winfield Sheehan.
26
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Herald-World Golf Tourney May 6
tflT The second Annual Hollywood Motion Picture Golf j| Tournament under the auspices of Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World will take place May 6 at the Riviera Golf Course. Plans were com- pleted today.
Harry Rapf, associate producer of Metro-Goldwyn- Mayer, will serve as chairman of the committee, which will include among others, Al Cohn, scenarist, George Marshall, director, Howard Strickland, publicist, and Jack Boland, assistant director. Others will be added to the committee this week.
^ The big trophy of the play will be the huge silver Jj cup which was awarded to Marshall in 1927. It is a perpetual trophy and must be won by Marshall two successive years more in order that he may keep it.
More than 150 players entered the tournament last year which was held at El Caballero fields. A. H. Painter who was in charge of affairs at that tourna- ment has also been retained for the Riviera meet.
Golf experts, and others, have just one month in which to polish up their playing — and their brassies, niblicks, putters, irons, drivers and spoons.
\w
THE STUDIO
Incorporated in this department of Exhibitors Herald is the Moving Picture World department,
"Hollywood."
De MiUe's "Godless Girl" Done; Theme of Big Film Is Atheism
Marie Prevost, in Role of Intense Emotion, Expected to Reach New
Fame; William DeMille Cutting "Tenth Avenue;"
M-G-M's "Diamond Handcuffs" Completed
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
LOS ANGELES, April 3. — Hollywood's turnout of product last week Avas conspicuous by its grade, rather than by its quantity.
Cecil B. DeMille completed, "The Godless Girl" and, in so doing, probably wound up his activities as a Pathe-DeMille producer. Reports, that he will join another big company are too persistent to be disregarded.
Three Months With No Stop for Weather
His work on "The Godless Girl" began the first of the year and was steadily pursued throughout three full months without a stop for weather, time or trouble. He and his cast have spent many Sundays on the job, as well as manv long days that ran into night. It is his big work of the year and has atheism as its theme.
Aside from other optimistic expectations held for the picture itself, there are reports that it will establish its principal players in a light never before realized by the trade and fan public. Marie Prevost, who has been known throughout the world, for her parts in six-reel comedy dramas and farces, has a role that shows her an actress of in- tense emotions. This role of De Mille's gives her an opportunity greater than any in her past six years of film experience. In the same proportion, it will no doubt ele- vate her to heights before unknown for her.
Lina Basquette's role is also destined to be her triumph. But Miss Basquette's profit can be gauged only in the fact that she was fortunate enough to be in the big De Mille picture. Her work can be ever 90 good but she has practically no estab- lished clientele to surprise with her clever- ness. She has been in only one or two pictures of any consequence, and to many patrons and exhibitors this will be her "debut" in pictures.
Eddie Quillan was known to the trade only as a good actor of Mack .Sennett
comedies, but his work in thi9< picture will introduce him as a leading comedian of a noteworthy picture. He has a "pan" that is good for a billion laughs before his work is done.
George Duryea has been known not at all, but his part in the picture opposite Bas- quette cannot help but lend him prestige. And of course he has a following in Eastern "legitimate" circles.
With the completion of this last week another of the same family, William De Mille, completed "Tenth Avenue." Phyllis Haver is the feminine star of the picture. Joseph Schildkraut is in the leading male lole. It is a story of New York at night and has a definite place in Pathe's schedule where exhibitors have found a drawing in such films as "Underworld."
The third picture completed last week and the only other ofie completed then, is "Diamond Handcuffs." The director is John McCarthy. Its quality is well sug- gested by the strong cast: Eleanor Board- man, Conrad Nagel and Niles Asther.
Rex Bell New Staff; Story by Stone
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3. — Fox Films has "found" a new star whom the company will develop for big Western roles. His name is George Belden. His screen name will be Rex Bell.
The first story in which he will star is being written by John Stone, well known writer of Fox and Paramount scenarios.
Meighan Starts ^'Racket'' For Howard Hughes-P F L
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— T h o m a s Meighan has started work on "The Racket" underworld drama, and his first starring vehicle under his new contract with Howard Hughes. Lewis Milestone will direct.
Thomson's Next Will Be Big Paramount Special
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— Fred Thomson's next for Paramount will be one of the big specials of the year. In this picture Thomson will portray the character of Kit Carson, one of America's most colorful frontiersman.
F B O Finishes 18 Scripts On Schedule of 1928-29
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— F B O last week completed production plans for its entire 1928- 29 schedule. Of the 30 feature films, adapta- tions have been finished for 27. Eighteen of the scripts have already been finished.
April 7, 19:8
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
27
I
Maria Corda Finishing "Tesha" for B.N.; Will Sail for America Soon
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— Maria Corda will finish work on "Tesha" for British Na- tional Pictures early next week, the Hun- garian film star has informed the Herald- World. Madame Corda will return to Holly- wood April 21 to resume her work in Ameri- can pictures.
Her latest appearance in America was in "The Private Life of Helen of Troy," which has been receiving highly favorable reports from exhibitors and the press.
Before sailing for America April 13 she will stop in Paris for three or four days to visit friends and to transact business.
Rot hacker Back After
Two Weeks in Honolulu
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— Watterson Roth- acker, managing director and vice-president of First National Studios, returned today after a two weeks' vacation, which he spent in Honolulu. He was accompanied on the trip by friends from Chicago and New York.
Mack Sennett's New
Studio Now Complete
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— The Mack Sen- nett production plant at Studio City was com- pleted today after a construction period of only 89 days. It will be turned over ready for occupancy tomorrow. Four months ago the site was a large lettuce patch.
HOLLY- WOOD
PLAZA HOTEL
To Travelers This Emblem
Means Hotel Headquarters
In the Film Capital
of the World
The Hollywood Plaza is hotel head- quarters in Hollywood, California.
When on your next trip to Southern California, make this famous hostelry your objective.
Situated in the heart of Hollywood, the hotel is most centrally located for either pleasure, business or shopping in Los Angeles.
Every room is a parlor during the day time — a luxurious sleeping quarter at night. In-a-Door Beds make this possible.
Strange people, exotic sights, theatres, and entertainment are but a step away from the door of this famous hostelry.
Write or wire us for reservations in advance. Appoint this hotel now as your headquarters while in Southern California.
HOLLYWOOD PLAZA HOTEL Hollywood, Calif.
IN CONFERENCE
,.
.By BOB EARLY.
"D UMORS, rumors; and then more ru- -•-^ mors! It is doubtful if the rarified air of Hollywood has ever before been as full of rumors. Not the ordinary rumors of scandals and divorces and contract jump- ing; but rumors which ai?ect the future of nearly every one in the business. And there is a modicum or more of truth in- volved; or at least a basis for these fast flying and persistent reports. Back of them all is the menacing golden fist of Wall Street. It is "Wall Street demands this" or "Wall Street demands that." So far as this observer has been able to observe, Wall Street has been concerned chiefly with effi- ciency in production — cheaper production so that profits will be increased. Wall Street is interested more in cheaper pictures than better ones, not realizing that better pic- tures will bring greater profits and that the public is not interested in cheaper pictures if cheap pictures continue to mean punk entertainment.
Wall Street has been concerned with the high salaries paid directors, actors and writ- ers and drastic cuts have been made in order to placate the powers that pay. Sal- aries of cameramen, cutters, stenographers and gate-tenders have been cut to prove to Wall Street that the producers mean busi- ness. But what has been done to better the product? Nothing that the naked eye can discern.
The same geniuses are in charge of the picture making. Men drawing salaries many times greater than paid the president of the United States are sitting in judgment on the work of the industry's best writers and directors. No writer or director, no matter what his experience or standing can override the veto of the supervisor or pro- duction chief. And with very few excep- tions, no supervisor or head of produc- tion could qualify as a writer or direc- tor. The same supermen who were in charge of production when Wall Street crashed down on the industry nearly a year ago are still in the saddle, more contemptu- ous than ever of the brains they must rely upon.
Some day Wall Street will demand pic- ture making brains instead of more rigor- ous taskmasters and shrewder bargainers. And then we'll have better pictures and cheaper ones as well.
Mr. Kennedy is Busy, Thanks
Among the most persistent rumors are
those invoh-in'^' <tiulio mcrcrrs and the
future of Air. C. 13. Dc Mille. No one doubts that young Mr. Kennedy of Boston and New York, representing many millions of what we picture folk term "mazuma," would like to think about a merger of F B O. Pathe and Universal, or even First Na- tional. Likewise no one doubts that Mr. Kennedy's chief concern at present is elimi- nating the elder De Mille from the Pathe salary roll; nor that United Artists will take "C. B." when he severs his present affilia- tion. No one believes that Mr. Kennedy will get his hands on Universal.
It's Different Now Not so many j'ears ago picture workers were wont to apologize when it was dis- covered that they were working at the Fox .studio. Now they brag about it. It is quite likely that the Fox picture successes of the last two years had a great deal to do with the change and every one locally gives Winnie Sheehan most of the credit for these successes. It is the one studio where writ- ing and directorial brains are respected and a premium placed on expert craftsmanship. Sheehan had a great deal to do with the change in policy there, for there was a day when a director or a writer would be almost bodily ejected from the lot for questioning the judgment of the manager.
Western Heroes Scarce The Fox chieftains have been trying fev- erishly to discover a successor to Tom Mix. The best they have done so far is to create a name — "Rex King." It has the same euphony as the name of the erstwhile Fox star, but they're having a helluva time get- ting somebody to fit it. They tried out one youngster and shot two-thirds of a pic- ture with him. Then they gave him back his own name — and his last $50 a week salarv check.
Story Stealing Charged A rather sensational charge is made in the Bulletin of the Screen Writers' Guild, the local branch of the Authors' League of America. No names are mentioned, but there has been no great amount of guess- ing as to the meaning of the charges or the identity of the studio involved. The allega- tion made is that in order to reduce story costs, writers of bad repute have been en- gaged to plagiarize current material, such
First National specials:
"Private Life of Helen of Trov" "The Patent Leatlier Kid" "^ aiuping Venus''
All give screen credit to —
HOWARD J. GREEN
28
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Sheehan Is Author of Idea for Ford^s New Big Fox Picture
Story to Star MacDonald; Based on New York in Early Nineties — Ti/t
fany-Stahl Company Narrowly Escapes Shipwreck Near Catalina
By DOUGLAS HODGES
HOLLYWOOD, April 3. — Winfield Sheehan's own idea for a picture has all the earmarks of a big box office production, and his plans for it, as officially and unofficially announced, have intrigued directors, scen- arists and newspapermen who have heard them. To date the only persons selected for the production include Jack Ford, J. Farrell MacDonald, James J. K. McGinnis, Fred Stanley and James Gruen. T ACK FORD will direct, of course. Mac- the story has another ending.
Donald will be starred as a. kind of "sta- tion house philosopher" of New York in the early nineties. The tentative title consists of the words in quotation.
Although now vice-president of the gi- gantic Fox company, Winnie Sheehan can look back only a short time to the days when he was a New York news reporter — and, knowing ones say, a darn good one. It is probably those days that gave him much of the material which will appear in the story that Ford will direct for the screen.
Ford will leave soon for Paris, Munich and Spain on a hurried trip before calling his cast together for the picture. It is be- lieved that his trip has a close connection with his affairs for Fox and probably for this picture.
* * *
Boasberg Off to Sell 22 Plays
A lot of "ordinary" newspapers and cer- tain trade papers may print an item this or next week saying Al Boasberg, "big time" writer and comedian, has left the Coast for New York to sell 21 vaudeville acts and plays. Al has left. But, the remainder of
Before leaving he finished "That Certain Thing" for Harry Cohn at Columbia, and he finished comedy construction on "He Learned About Women" for Bill Haines at M-G-M. He invented comedy gags for "Butter and Egg Man" and other things too numerous to mention.
When he arrives in New York it will be another story. Al is spending four days and nights on a train East-bound. By the time he reaches New York he will have turned that journey into another "vaude" act or two. There won't be 21 acts, there will be 22.
* * *
Daphne Marquette asked for a line saying Winifred Dunn is adding to her duties as a scenarist, the duties of chairman of the women's executive committee of the Southern California Olympic Games committee. (But you can't get the name itself on one line can you, Mr. Marshall.^)
* * *
May Want "Lost World" Elephants
Michael Curtiz has found 48 different
A Great Response!
" 'Four Sons' is the greatest film Ford
has ever made . . ."
— Exhibitors Herald and M. P. World.
"'Four Sons' is a noble picture: it is a glorious and impressive tribute to mother-love, a great human masterpiece that will provoke the world's tears and smiles . . ."
— Beaton in The Spectator.
"John Ford has accomplished some- thing almost the equal of 'Four Sons' in the direction of 'Mother Machree' . . . filmed with rare delicacy . . ." — Peter Vischer in Exhibitors Herald and M. P. World.
JOHN FORD
Wm. Fox
Director
descriptions of Noah's Ark in his prepara- tion for the Warner Brothers picture of that title. Perhaps by a process of elimina- tion Mike has decided to use the descrip- tion of Josephus Flavius. Joe, it seems, has it that the barge was 300 cubits long and contained 200 animals. That's only one and a half cubits for each animal.
Anyhow, how long is a cubit? Mike says it's the length of a forearm, and my forearm is a foot and a half in length.
If he tries to get the animals into that small space he'll have to use animal crack- ers for horses.
T-S Company Sends SOS
The five masted schooner, George W. Billings came into port late last week with its cargo in a bad way. It had put out tvvo days before with a company from Tiffany-Stahl studios to film location scenes for "Stormy Waters." When the windjam- mer reached a point West of Catalina Island, a 40 mile an hour gale came up and the old bark began to toss.
Eve Southern, Malcolm MacGregor, Roy Stewart and Director Edgar Lewis were the most prominent in the company which numbered 50.
A tug sent word for aid to bring the schooner in. The actors were suffering from mal de mer, a vicious affliction.
There were no casualties.
In Conference
^Continued from preceding page') as stage plays and novels for which heavy prices are asked.
The Revenge Motive
The story editor at one of the big studios was recently discharged for asking and ac- cepting a "gratuity" from a play broker. A few weeks later he bobbed up in New York as maker of a deposition against the same company which is involved in an im- portant law suit.
Plenty of "It"
Persons who have seen Universal's "The Man Who Laughs" in preview have been raving about the work of Olga Baclanova, a Russian actress, who plays the vamping Duchess Josiana in the Hugo classic. Olga came here with "The Miracle" and she is said to have heaps of "It." There are scenes in the production, however, which will un- doubtedly come out before George J. Pub- lic is permitted to see it — and Olga will be the chief sufferer.
■ "U" Man Addresses Club
NEW YORK.— Leonard Fields, Eastern scenario editor for Universal Pictures Corporation, addressed the members of the Twelfth Night Club in that or- ganization's New York club house last Stiaday. This famous club is composed of the leading women of the stage. Field's subject was "Writing for Mo- tion Pictures."
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
29
THE LOBBYALBUM
Exhibitors requesting autographed photographs of stars are listed with names of players below.
RENEE ADOREE — Alburn Drace, Keytesville, Mo.
RENEE ADOREE — F. W. Putnam, Liberty theatre, Beaumont, Texas.
VILMA BANKY — Alburn Drace, KeytesviUe, Mo.
RICHARD BARTHELMESS— Alburn Drace, Key- tesville, Mo.
RICHARD BARTHELMESS— J. E. Cunningham, Waskanut Community House, Farnumsville, Mass.
GEORGE BANCROFT— A Louis Ginsburg, Grand Theatre, Paterson, N. J.
BILLIE DOVE— J. E. Cunningham, Waskanut Com- munity House, Farnumsville, Mass.
CLARA BOW — O. A. Fosse, Community theatre, Ridgeway, Iowa.
CLARA BOW — Mrs. Marion Jourdan, Majestic the- atre, luka. Miss.
BELLE BENNETT — A. Louis Ginsburg, Grand the- atre, Paterson, N. J.
MADGE BELLAMY — Lloyd M. Townsend, New Piedmont theatre, Oakland, Cal.
WALLACE BEERY — Lloyd M. Townsend, New Piedmont theatre, Oakland, Cal.
LOUISE BROOKS— H. J. Green, Gem theatre, Greenriver, Utah.
DOLORES COSTELLO— A. C. Betts, Heights the- atre, Lumberton, N. C.
CHARLES CHAPLIN — A. Louise Ginsburg, Grand theatre, Paterson, N. J.
LON CHANEY— Geo. J. Kress, Hudson theatre, Rochester, N. Y.
LEW CODY— James L. Sears, Silver Star theatre. Freewater, N. Y.
JOAN CRAWFORD— F. W. Putnam, Liberty the- atre, Beaumont, Texas.
JOAN CRAWFORD— J. R. Wills, Pine theatre, Mor- rison, Colo.
MARION DAVIES— F. W. Putnam, Liberty thea- tre, Beaumont, Texas.
BEBE DANIELS— F. W. Putnam, Liberty theatre, Beaumont, Texas.
BEBE DANIELS— J. E. Cunningham, Waskanut Community House, Farnumsville, Mass.
VIOLA DANA — Stella theatre. Council Grove, Kan.
RICHARD DIX— F. W. Putnam, Liberty theatre, Beaumont, Texas.
RICHARD DIX— Alburn Drace, Keytesville, Mo.
RICHARD DIX — Emile Baumer, 567 George St., Peterboro, Ont., Canada.
DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS— F. W. Putnam, Liberty theatre, Beaumont, Texas.
JANET GAYNOR — A. Louis Ginsburg, Grand the- atre, Paterson, N. J.
GRETA GARBO — Alburn Drace, Keytesville, Mo.
JOHNNY HINES— A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
LLOYD HAMILTON— Lloyd M. Townsend, New Piedmont theatre, Oakland, Cal.
JACK HOLT — Lloyd M. Townsend, New Piedmont theatre, Oakland, Cal.
RAYMOND HATTON— Lloyd M. Townsend, New Piedmont theatre, Oakland, Cal.
LLOYD HUGHES— A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
EMIL JANNINGS— A. Louis Ginsburg, Grand the- atre, Paterson, N. J.
LEATRICE JOY— A. Louis Ginsburg, Grand theatre, Paterson, N. J.
LAURA LA PLANTE— J. E. Cunningham, Waska- nut Community House, Farnumsville, Mass.
BERT LYTELL — A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City,
HARRY LANGDON— A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
DOROTHY MACKAILL— A. C. Betts, Heights the- atres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
KEN MAYNARD— A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
PATSY RUTH MILLER— A. C. Betts, Heights the- atres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
CARMEL MiEYERS — James L. Sears, Liberty the- atre, Hiunansville, Mo.
RAMON NOVARRO— F. W. Putnam, Liberty the- atre, Beaumont, Texas.
MARION NIXON— P. L. Harvey, Silver Star the- atree Freewater, Ore.
AILEEN PRINGLE — James L. Sears, Liberty the- atre, Humansville, Mo.
ESTHER RALSTON— H. J. Green, Gem theatre, Greenville, Utah.
GEORGE SIDNEY— A. C. Betts, Heights theatre, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
LEWIS STONE — A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
BLANCHE SWEET— A. C. Betts, Heights theatre, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
CONSTANCE TALMADGE— A. C. Betts, Heights theatre, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
NORMA TALMADGE — B. T. Sutton, Pastime the- atre, Lumberton, N. C.
GLEN TRYON— H. Uhlman, Opera House, Salis- bury Md.
FRED THOMPSON— James L. Sears, Liberty the- atre, Humansville, Mo.
FRED THOMPSON— P. L. Harvey, Silver Star theatre, Freewater, Ore.
FRED THOMPSON— J. H. Klasen, Scenic theatre, Holdingford, Minn.
FRED THOMPSON— H. F. Jones, Lone Star the- atre, Vermillion, Kan.
VIRGINIA VALLI— A. C. Betts, Heights theatres, 1650 Broadway, New York City.
*'Studlo SectiOD,"
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTLRE
WORLD, 5617 Hollywood Blvd., Lob Aa^elea, Cal.
centle:men :
I should like to receive an auiograph»d
photo of
for placement in my ''Lobby Album** of stars whose pictures are especially popular with my patrons.
(Exhibitor) - -
(Theatre)
(City) - --
(Stat.)
Green Begins Work on
Next Picture for Fox
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, April 3.— Alfred E. Green returned home today after spending a good part of a week at Palm Springs, Cal., read- ing the treatment of the story he will film next. The name of the story has been closely guarded, but an announcement is promised next week. Director Green recently completed cutting "Honor Bound," starring George O'Brien and Estelle Taylor.
Landy Back on Job
(Special to Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World)
HOLLYWOOD, AprU 3.— George Landy, publicity director, is back at the First National studios after a minor operation.
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ALFRED A. COHN
FREE-LANCE WRITER
"The Gorilla"
"Cohens and Kellys in Paris"
"The Jazz Singer"
"The Cat and the Canary"
"We Americans"
"The Last Warning"
5617 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood
^^this boy is an actor.
99
-W. E. Field
B
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THE CHERO- KEE KID:
Tom Tyler — February 25. Good Western for Satur- days.— J. L. Seiter, Selma Theatre, Scl- ma, Cal.
THE ARIZONA STREAK: Tom Tyler- Tom has another good one here. A good clean Western. Five reels. — George Khattar, Khattar's Theatre, Sydney, Nova Scotia, Can.
THE TEXAS TOR- NADO: Tom Tyler— l'\biuary 25. Tliis boy is an actor and a scrapper and most generally in a strong story. Western folk like him fine. — W. E. Field, Liberty Theatre, Greenwood, S. C.
DESERT PIRATE:
Tom Tvler — Febru- ary 10-11. Good. Better second night than first. Five reels. E. A. Emmert, Em- mert Theatre, Al- cester, S. D.
LET'S GO GAL- LAGHER: Tom Tyler — Strike an- other good one for Tom and his un- beatable pals. Five reels. — George Khat- tar, Khattar's Thea- tre, Sydney, Nova Scotia, Can.
THE COWBOY COP: Tom Tyler — Anotlicr good Western from Tom. Five reels. — George K h a t - tar, Khar- tars The- atre, Svd- noy. N.'S., Canada.
TomTyler's
next is Eafle's Ttlons
ki^^tf^^i^ii^M
30
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Y^
THE SHORT FEATURE
Incorporated in this department of Exhibitors H erald is the Moving Picture World department, "Little Pictures with the Big Punch," which has presented news, reviews and exploitation on
short features and serials.
Cash in on the Short Feature As Golden Key to Summer Trade
Now is the time for the alert theatre owner to begin to cash in on the par- ticularly high value of the Short Feature as an attraction for summer patron- age. In the Far West and the South that opportunity already has been knocking at the ticket window; in the middle and northern tier of states the warm days and warm nights are at hand.
Want Light Programs in Summer
The exhibitor who studies his patronage and its habits knows that during the summer months Mr. and Mrs. Public and the young Publics want their entertainment in light doses — not light amounts (the opposite is true) but light in theme. And that is the cue for the entry of the Short Feature.
for summer patronage. Summer is a time of gaiety, of laughter. Happiness and cheerful- ness is as much a true index of summer as the calendar designation of June 21st. And two reels of laughter is just right to leave the patron happy and without physical exhaustion. There is the scenic, the picture of beauty with restfulness. What better can an ex-
Is summer patronage still a problem? Yes, and no. It still is the problem of the ex- hibitor who makes no effort to outbid the open road and its lure for motorists. It still is the problem of the exhibitor who makes no effort to provide a theatre as comfortable as the out-of-doors.
Chases Slump Bugaboo
Summer patronage is not a problem for the exhibitor who installs modern ventilating and cooling equipment. Circuit managers long have realized that fact and more and more smaller exhibitors also have profited by that knowledge and the summer slump bugaboo is no longer feared by the theatre owner who fashions his program according to the de- mands of the season.
The socalled legitimate stage changes its programs decidedly when summer arrives. The light, happy type of play then comes into its own.
Why should not the same be true in the motion picture theatre to the extent of mak- ing more attractive the program in which the Short Feature holds an increasingly important role?
There is the short comedy, made-to-order
hibitor do than to bring the country mto the theatre?
Comedy for Summer
The answer is : Many will be glad to for- sake the roaring, sweating highway, for the ease and good cheer of the theatre — if the exhibitor books product for the purpose, and acquaints them of the fact. Give them comedies for laughs, scenics for visual com- fort and delight, the newsreel for action.
There is no summer slump unless the ex- hibitor himself slumps, neglects to keep abreast of the season, to give the patron what he wants.
This department will welcome comment from exhibitors on how they have used the Short Feature as encouragement for summer patronage. — E. A. R.
No "May" About It in This Sales Drive
"Trio" and "Tri- umph" start out much alike. And this trio is making the comparison stick in Education- al's playdate drive in the Buffalo terri- tory. Their aim is to break all records for May and they seem to be accom- plishing just that.
Howard F. Brink Branch Manager
E. L. Jauch Booker and Salesman
Jack Lyons Salesman
Short Feature Releases
WEEK OF APRIL 15
EDUCATIONAL — "Kitchen Talent," Mermaid,
George Davis, two; "Felix the Cat in Sure-Lock
Homes," one. FB O — "My Kingdom for a Hearse," Standard, two;
"Newslaff No. 17," one. FOX — -"America's Little Lamb," Varieties, one. M-G-M — "Limousine Love," Chase. PARAMOUNT — "Bugs My Dear," Christie, Bobby
Vernon. UNIVERSAL — "Ride 'Em Plowboy," Snappy, one;
"The Haunted Island," No. 4, Adventure, two;
"Taking the Count." Mike and Ike, Stern Bros.,
two; "The Gauge of Battle," Western, two.
WEEK OF APRIL 22
EDUCATIONAI^^"BIazing Away," Hamilton, two; "Hints on Hunting — A Day by the Sea," Outdoor Sketches, one; "OS Balance," Cameo, Monty Col- lins, one.
FOX— "T Bone for Two," Van Bibber, two.
M-G-M — "Primitive Housekeeping," Oddities; "You're Darn Tootin'," Stars.
PARAMOUNT— "Goofy Ghosts," Christie, Jimmie Adams.
UNIVERSAL — "One Every Minute," Snappy, one; "The Haunted Island," No. S, Adventure, two; "When George Hops," Let George Do It, Stern Bros., two; "Hidden Money," Western, two. WEEK OF APRIL 29
EDUCATIONAI^— "Feli.x the Cat in Eskimotive," one; "All Bear," Curiosities, one; "Slippery Head," Tu.xedo, Johnny Arthur, two.
FBO — "After the Squall Is Over," two; "Newslaff No. 18," one.
FOX — -"Spanish Influence," Varieties, one.
M-G-M — "Should Women Drive?," Davidson.
UNIVERSAI^-"Ozzie of the Mounted," Snappy, one; "The Haunted Island," No. 6, Adventure, two; "A Big Bluff," Keeping Up with the Joneses, Stern Bros., two; "The Code of the Mounted," Western, two.
Newspictures
KINOGRAMS NO. 5381— Coolidge presents Con- gressional medal to Lindbergh at Washingtori — - German airman lands plane amid lofty mountains —"Cast-Off" horse wins $92,700 Coffroth Race at Mexico.
P.\THE NEWS NO. 29 — H. L. Stimson inaugurated eighth American Governor General of Manila Islands — Afghan ruler watches^ British tanks drill at Bulford — Many riders tumble in England's great amateur "Grand National."
FOX NEWS NO. 51 — Tragic S-4 is raised from Cape Cod mud — Lady Mary Bailey takes off on trip from England to South Africa — Fast motor- boats flash in Florida sun, set new records.
PARAMOUNT NEWS NO. 71—50,000 see final game in National soccer championships at Germany Envoys of 24 countries open session of league of nations at Switzerland — Britain's navy honors Af- ghanistan's King.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS NO. 25— Fritz Kreisler, renowned violinist, goes abroad with Mrs. Kreis- ler— Britain's Indian army in impressive defense test at India — Rough-Riding cadets in thrilling snow maneuvers at Nervy Norwich University.
FOX NEWS NO. 52— Highest United States award given to Lindbergh — Women aquatic star in endur- ance swim at Catalina Islands — -"Crystal Pennant" captures Coffroth handicap at Tijuana.
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
31
W^
PRESENTATION ACTS
Incorporated in this department of Exhibitors Herald is the Moving Picture World Department,
"Stage and Pitr
Organist Stages Novel Film Prologue
STAGE SHOWS
Chicago Senate
Week Ending April 1
This week the theatre celebrated its seventh anni- versary with a buge stageshow. One was in the form of a birthday party and the other Mark Fisher and his band in "Spring Fever." Julia Gerity was featured with a east of capable players. The Spring Fever show ran as follows:
Opening: with the Gould Girls sitting in a straight line in front of band with Mark Fisher as they all sing to the tune of "Beautiful." Later going into a harmonica selection of "Good Old Summertime."
After this the girls go into a dance routine that was very novel and cleverly executed with the aid of lighting effects. They closed the routine playing "My Wild Irish Rose" on the harmonica, with the green lights fading on them as they made their exits. This is also unique and the hormony obtained from the harmonicas was worthy of mention.
Will Cowan, a clever clog dancer, came on next with his series of "Pat Rooney" steps that stopped the show. This chap was reported before, but must again eay that his fine rhythm will take him far with this sort of work.
Julia Gerity came next with a bag full of blues that stopped the show cold for several minutes. This clever girl was also reported before and again proved h-er worth on this bill.
The next number was a novelty in which the Gould girls imitated Mark Fisher in everything he said and did, causing quite a bit of comedy which later led them into a clever Tiller routine which enabled each one to display specialty ability. We must say that this is one of the best ballets ever seen at this house and due credit must go to Dave Gould for the unique routines.
The next was a band number called "Sweethearts." in which the orchestra presented in a very clever way a medley of popular tunes with each member of the band conveying his idea of his sweetheart on his instrument. Considerable comedy was secured in this number until Caesar Petrillo played "I Ain't Got Nobody" on his trumpet, which led Mark Fisher into saying that regardless of how sad or troubled you may be, there is one sweetheart that you can depend on and that is your mother, which lead him into a vocal solo of "My Stormy Weather Pal."
The number, which was written by the writer of "Pal of My Cradle Days," is a fine tune and has all the earmarks of becoming as successful as this au- thor's other songs. The manner in which it was used and the way Mark Fisher sang it, puts the routine over very nicely with this crowd.
Jean Houston, a good-looking girl in a Sis Hopkins outfit, came on next with a series of contortionistic feats and acrobatic steps that were breath-taking. In addition to this .she proved her versatility by some very clever high-kicking steps which won her a very fine reception.
Barton and Young, two men in a comedy talking and singing act, appvirently from vaudeville. olTere<i practically the same routine. Tlicy occupied the stage for several minutes and kept everybody in good humor. Although the little follow who plays the comic stretches his comedy a little too much, thoy were nevertheless entertaining and provetl they aNo had good %oices for harmony.
Mark Fisher ngain stoppe<l up to sing ".\\v:iy Down South in Heaven" and "Sunshine," done in his typical way that has made him so well likod in this town.
(Cfliitintd'il on t''f>'-' ^^^
A Treat for Texas
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CORNELIUS MAFFIE heard the "go west" phrase so many times that he decided to seek his share of fortune in Texas, where he is now the chief organist for the Publix Metropolitan theatre in Houston. — Maffie is from Chicago and is also a recording artist. Before joining Publix Maffie was one of the leading Radio organists in the Windy City — now he is giving Texas a treat with his playing.
ORGANISTS!
The new special .set of sliiles on "Clilo-o" (Song of the Swamp) — that has been in preparation for several weeks, is now ready for deluxe theatres. Organists who have already used it re- port that it is a revelation Ixith in beauty and artistry — and packs a (lynaniie punch that stops shows. The new version is by Walter Hirsch. The song is by Gus Kabn and Neil Aforet.
Write" to
VILLA MORET. INC.,
(The Voice «f the Wijit)
Ai tliolr New York. Chlinso or Son Franrlsco CMno<n — oriler jixir slides— now Now York fhlcajfo
1595 Broadway 504 Woods Bldrj.
.-^an Fr.m.is. ,v 9^:. M.nrl.'n Stroet
Full Stageshow Played with Organ Music
Albert F. Brown, Chicago Or- ganist, Offers Stage Presenta- tion to "The Jazz Singer"
By A. RAYMOND GALLO
The thought of producing stage- prologues to motion pictures is becom- ing popular in the mincJs of exhibitors and deluxe picture house stage pro- ducers. At one time this was practiced only at premiere showings of super- films mostly on the West coast and occasionally in New York. However. Chicago has now seen the great possi- bility in this venture and this week we see its first work.
Albert F. Brown, featured organist for Marks Brothers theatres in Chicago, has staged an entire prologue to the film, "The Jazz Singer," which is taking place this week at the Granada theatre, a north side deluxe house. This prologue is an atmospheric stag- ing which offers a dialogue and actual songs of .'\1 Jolson used in the \'itaphone arrange- ment accompanying "The Jazz Singer."
The prologue is presented with a cast of four principals who give an exact perform- ance such as Jolson gives in the picture. The only musical accompaniment during this stage prologue is an organ selection by Brown. using Jolson's popular song hits, such as Back in Your Own Back Yard" and others tisoil in the film.
The stageband. which is a permanent fixture in this house and alternates with another band between this theatre and the Xfarhro, also a Marks Brothers house, will be stationed in tlie pit during the entire stage prologue offer- ing, as well as the film showing. The music from this band is composed solely of numl>crs appropriate lor the occasion in the form of an overture.
We might state that this is another form of a scrim-organ-solo-presentation, with a com- bination film prologue, that is the first of its kind used in this territory, to the Inrst of our knowledge. Brown, who always has led the licld in new ideas, is practically responsible for this presentation and fortifies our state- ment that plots and prologues will soon come into their own in deluxe picture liouscs.
,\ similar arrangement can almost he st.iged with any other film which lias a tendency suitable for a stage production that meets
32
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
You Can't Go Wrong With Any FEIST'Sonci
■*(V)y OHIO HO(V\E."
THERE MUST BE
"A SILVER LINING" 'R. A MO A) A" '^ SHADY TREE" 'BABY YOUR MOTHER ^CHANGES" 'iFICftNTHAVE YOU"
I VN
1
'iia HEAD OVER HEELSui'Si."
KISS AND MAKE UP MY BLUE HEAVEN" THAT MELODY of LOVE THE SUNRISE"
// '
A
W"«;.^'^£o"°F"oa-(V)ARY? 'WHAT'LL YOU DO?
^"IHEN YOU'RE WITH
SOMEBOOV ELSE
'coquette" 'indian cradle song" Vale blues"
IHEN VOU PLAVEO
THE ORGAN'
'dolor.es"
'THERE OUGHT TO BE /„ I A LAW AGAINST THAT/'
'THAT'S MY MAMMY" 'WAITIN'FOR RATY'
LEO. FEIST, INC.
231 w.40^"St., ATBW YORK, N.Y.
with the satisfaction of the public and yet is within reason to stage.
Betty Homles, the permanent prima-donna at this theatre, takes the part in the prologue that is played by May McAvoy in the film. A boy and Joe Manne and Bernie Grossman fill the other important roles. The finale ends with a Jewish song appropriate for the film and prologue.
Presentation
LETTERS
In this open fomm those interested in presentation may discuss important matters bearing upon this phase of theatre entertain- ment. Only signed letters will be published.
PRESENTATION ACTS — To the Editor: As a
solo last week, I played a community set called "Troublee."
This is a very fine set of slides and if applause is any criterion its merits were appreciated.
Although popular songs are used, classical music is interwoven too, thereby pleasing all.
I introduced the new Milton Weil numbers "My Baby Came Home," "In the Moonlight" and "Sweet- heart I'm Sorry," all good tunes especially the "Sweetheart" which clicked immediately.
The singing of the audience is a feature at the Patio, for their encore I played "Everywhere You Go." — Johnny Devinc, Organist, Patio theatre, Chi- cago, III.
PRESENTATION ACTS— To the Editor: Replying to your letter of the nineteenth of August, ye gods, beg to advise that I am spending a vacation here with Tink Humphrey for a week after which will leave for Youngstown and Akron to play the week of April first, Keith's.
Starting the new season I shall be happy to be represented in your splendid magazine. I will get in personal touch with you at that time.
With best wishes, please believe me to be, Yours sincerely — Wade Booth, Keith-Albee Circuit, Water- vliet, Mich.
N. Y. Costume Company to Have New Home
Earl L. Schneider, president of the New York Costume Company announces that their new offices will hereafter be on Lake near Clark Street, Chi- cago. An entire building will hereafter house the costume firm which for the last forty years has been one of the most principal supply houses of its kind in the middle West. In addition' to the renting of costumes for stage band presentation, they will also carry on their own cleaning and dyeing plant.
Sam Fox Opens Office in Chicago
Word is received from New York that the Sam Fox Publishing Company, publishers of motion picture themes and organ music for picture houses have en- larged their business and just recently opened a Chicago office in the Lyon & Healy Building. One of the recent publications of this firm is "Starlight and Tulip," which was recently featured by Jesse Craw- ford at the Paramount, New York.
Murtagh Made Chief Organist for LoeMr
Henry B. Murtagh, formerly solo organist of the Chicago theatre, Chicago, has been' appointed chief organist for the Loew's Presentation theatres with headquarters in New York. On March 17 Murtagh opened the new Loew house in Columbus. In the meantime the Capitol theatre, in New York is install- ing a new organ at which Murtagh will hereafter preside as soloist.
Thanks! Mr. Strandt
George F. Strandt, featured organist at the Rialto theatre, Marinette, Wis., states in a recent letter that the Presentation department is of great interest to him. He further states that the "Herald-World" ranks first in the field as a business film-trade paper. This is one of the many compliments and wonderful tributes paid to this new publication and its new department.
LOS41IS
about Everyone
EASTER GREETINGS! ... As Town Cryer for the "Royal Order of Our Friendly Chat Club," I wish to extend happy thoughts to all our loyal mem- bers and may their bunnies run wild. . . . Oh, yes, first of all let me beg the Royal forgiveness for being absent last week, but as you all know. Spring is here and I am subject to its spell. . . . Before stating our new business let us wish our officers and board of governors a happy Easter, also. . . . Here goes the Royal cheer — Three Yum-Yums and a merry Razz- Berry for — Paul Ash, president ; Milton Charles, secretary ; Hank Lustgarten, treasurer ; Dave Flam, publicity director, and Sam Herman, our eer- geant-at-arms, for the officers. . . . Now fon the Board of Governors. . . . Mark PHsher, Al Belasco, Bennie Krueger, Henri A. Keates, Sid Berman, Al Beilin, Larry Spier, Cliff Hess, Milton Weil, Rocco Vocco, Louis McDermott, Eddie Hill and Heller & Riley. . . . Now let's go on with the news. . . . Louis Lipstone reports that Joe Kayser has changed his name to "Kay" and ■will be at the Midland, Kansas City, Mo., after this week. . . . He also states that Sammy Kahn has changed his name to Allan Kane for the new Publix house in Minneapolis. . . . Al Kvale -will be guest conductor of the Senate next week and Mark Fisher will do the same at the Nor- shore, both B. & K. Chicago theatres. . . . Joie Lichter is now at the Varsity theatre in Evanston, which was recently taken over by B. & K. . . . ■Vale & Stewart now featured in "Dancing Feet," a Publix unit, will be featured in the Music Box Revue this fall. . . . Speaking of productions, another presentation act is creating a huge hit on Broadway at this minute . . . they are King & King, now ■with "Rain or Shine." . . . Besides George Jessel, the four Marx Brothers have also forsaken the produc- tion field for picture houses. . . . We wonder why all flock to presentation work. . . . Well, money is one reason, we are sure of that. . . . By the way, I almost forgot to tell you that Gilda Gray ■will make a tour of deluxe picture theatres, starting next week, in conjunction ■with her last film. . . . We understand that Publix have signed up R. H. Bumside of musical comedy fame to stage several units for them. . . . Our little friend Sunshine Sammy is one of the headliners at the Palace in Chicago this week. . . . Bernie Pollack, New York manager for the Sherman Clay Music firm, passed through the other day and said "Hello." . . . Harry Fink, their road man, said that Bernie would not miss a copy of "Herald-World" for anything. . . . Dr. Mauro-Cottone, formerly at Capitol, is now the featured organist of the Plaza theatre in New York. . . . Benold Ross, author and ■writer of special material for artists, has found another clever per- former whom he considers as good as Eddie HilL ... Oh, yes, Ben made Eddie with his material. . . . Tink Humphrey is now in complete charge of the Keith-Albee-Orpheum oflfices in the West. . . . While he is on the road for the circuit Ben Piazza will look after the bookings from Chicago. . . . Herb Koch is still at the Capitol organ in Des Moines. . . . Elaine Gilmore is now playing the organ at the Orpheum theatre in Frisco. . . . Dorothy Johnson, formerly of the State theatre in Oakland, is now feature organist of the U. C. theatre of Berkeley, Cal. . . . Harry Linden is the new concert conductor at Publix's new Portland theatre in Portland, Ore. . . . Al Dodson, road man for Irving Berlin just returned from a two months' business trip. . . . Allan Pike is the new organist at the American theatre in Salt Lake City. . . . Do you know that the Tower theatre in Chicago is now running a policy of pictures and musical stock ? . . . Also that the Ambassador will follow suit and that the Lawndale is giving Burlesque with films. . . . These are all neighborhood picture houses in Chicago. . ... Had lunch with Bernard Cowham this week and I had to pay the check. ... I hear that several music publishers will close their Chicago offices after May first. . . . Will Horwitz "flopped" as an M. C. at the Joe Lewis Benefit. . . . Poor Will, his career is all shot now. ... I understand that Sam Herman has a new novelty called "Hokey- Pokey." . . . That's all there is for this week. There is no more. "Passover."
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
33
STAGE SHOWS
{Continued from page 31)
The finale took place immediately after this with the Gould Girls attired in spring clothes, while two swings decorated with flowers descended from above, which later went up with two girls seated, as the balance decorate stage around band while curtain was being lowered, with Fisher singing the last line of "Sunshine."
New York Strand
Week Ending April 7
The Mark Strand Frolic is opened by the Sym- phony Orchestra rendering "Dance of the Hours," by Cecil Copping. The stageshow was another presenta- tion by Joseph Plankett.
Three Singing Maids, a sister act, open with a singing specialty of popular songs. Their closing with three ragtime numbers drew polite applauee.
Panline Alpert, the famous Victor recording artist, at the piano, was perhaps the hit of the bill. She, without doubt, is one of today's best girl pianists, playing popular numbers entirely and putting lots of pep and personality in her work. She drew big ap- plause and was required to give an encore, which was a splendid one.
"The Dancing Gobs," consisting of eight good- looking young men who have both good voices and limber ankles, put over a serious song and a hilari- ous dance, both with equally as much appreciation.
Sallie Bonner, belonging to the above-mentioned dancing act, led the boys through another dance number, giving a good impression of sailor-girls. The Gobs are rather tired by this time, but put over a third dancing bit, immediately after Sallie exile laughingly, and while their dance is full of fire and excellent determination, they feel relieved with
Anatole Bourman, who offers "The Sailor's Horn- pipe" in a manner which we have never before wit- nessed, but hope to in the future often.
The finale, by the entire ensemble, is put over in a smashing, crashing manner which leaves the audi- ence well pleased and determined to come next week.
Chicago Uptown
Week Ending April 1
"Dancing Feet," featuring George Jessel, was the same unit show that played at the Chicago last week. Jessel went over no better than many an unknown has done. He sang two songs and did a monologue and that was all, although the house gave him an opportunity to do more.
Frankie Masters and his band offer as their first band number a very pleasing arrangement of "Dolores." Frankie sings with the band entering in on the chorus. Then' the drummer sings a comic verse. College atmosphere is added with college music interpolated and cheers by the band. It was quite clever and received a good hand.
The other band number was "Diane," which, also is given a fine treatment. Masters sings it with a young lady, and in parts the organ joins in with the band for good effect. The audience showed well their appreciation of the rendition.
The rest of the show was the regular Publix unit as reported from the Chicago last week. Masters and his band are popular at the Uptown.
Kansas City Pantages
Week Ending March 31
"Kcvelations," a musical revue, headed the stdRe program at the Pantages this week, featuring Mil-
LEW WHITE
EXCLUSIVE
BRUNSWICK
ARTIST
CHIEF ORGANIST
AT THE
ROXY THEATRE
ANNOUNCES A
SUMMER MASTER COURSE
of ten lessons. Screen projection machine and three Kimball Organs will be used extensively. Special attention will be devoted to theatre work.
1680 Broadway New York City
ton Bronson, who might pass for the late Rudolph Valentino. A number of waltz selections are fea- tured in the revue.
Edge and Meda have a comedy act which is funny, while Lubin, Lowrie and Andre have a dance and comedy turn that is funny. Bobrin Bcrta is one of those refined ventriloquists with a "hard boiled" dummy.
The Pantages orchestra, directed by Louie Charnin- sky, renders popular selections as an overture.
Indianapolis Indiana
Week Ending March 31
Charlie Davis and his band are featuring an ex- cellent jazz arrangement, and then, setting the stage Chinese fashion, present a play with Davis as the leading man. The stageshow features the Ada Kauf- man Girls in several dances; Bernice and Emily, an extraordinarily agile pair of acrobatic dancers ; Dor- othy Neville, soprano; Luis Ojeda and Josefina Im- bert, Spanish dancers ; Rae Eleanor Ball, violinist ; Benny and Western, a pair of dancing comedians, whom the audience feels disinclined to permit to leave the stage ; and Boyce Coombs, the well-groomed comedian, who appeared at the Circle theatre here some time ago.
Chicago Chicago
Week Ending April 1
Each day motion pictures and presentation seem to become more necessary to each other. "The Fast Mail" used pictures for its prologue and showed cam- els, horses, boats, aeroplanes and trains in their re- lation to transportation, and the post office, espe- cially. The motion picture ended with the big loco- motive headed at the audience and the curtain went up on a dark stage with the continuation of the loco- motive light rushing toward the people.
Lou Kosloff arrives with mail from various coun- tries, saying they are sending on entertainers from their homelands via many means of travel. The lifting of a huge English stamp, which is used as a sort of curtain behind the orchestra, displays the Foster girls from England who are ready to do some routine steps. More mail distributed by Kosloff to the boys in the orchestra, with inquiry on Kosloff's part as to whom mail came from, brought on indi- vidual numbers such as "Margie" by the banjoist, and "Sweet Marie" by another musician, and "O Kathleena" on the big bass horn.
When the Belgian stamp went on display, Roy Sheldon, a most capable dancer, entertained the audi- ence.
The orchestra then played "Keep Sweeping the Cobwebs Off the Moon" and had vocal accompani- ment by a singer unknown to this reporter. Myrtle Gordon, who evidently has seen Cuba and everything, as that stamp was used in conjunction with her act, gave as her first number, "I Ain't Taking Orders From No One" and displayed quite a bit of dramatic ability along with a good voice in her second num- ber, "I Ought to Hate You, But I Love You." An armored mail dance was then accomplished by the Foster Girls.
HENRI A. KEATES
'The Organist Who Put Community Singing on jff^Ss-i^^ the Map"
Oriental Theatre, Chicago
Eddie Hill, a comedian who fits in with any show be it the aristocratic Chicago or the clubby Oriental, looked even funnier than ever in his mail carrier's outfit and was the only laugh on the whole bill. He gave them "All Men Are Devils" in his own niatch- less facetiousness. His radio recitation is indescrib- ably funny, and he finisha; up his act with "There Ought to Be a Law Against That." France's stamp had for its companion a trio of contortionists and acrobats, certainly in a class by themselves (don't know their names; . The finale showed off the beau- tiful golden stage effect and used huge stamps of George Washington, Lincoln and another great man, with an electrically lighted American eagle hanging overhead.
St. Louis State
Week Ending March 30
An "Oriental Revue" featuring Florence Bernard and Lillian Henry, harmony and blues singers; Buck and Bubbles, darkie entertainers, and the Sixteen Chester Hale Girls was the stage show of the week. Kirk Frederick's orchestral production was "The Swan" and it was interpreted by the Chester Hale Girls. Jane Overton was the prima ballerina.
Portland Portland
Week Ending April 4
'The Mikado of Jazz." with Japanese finery and syncopated style. Bob La Salle principal laugh get- ter playing "Executioner and Bootlegger." Willard Andelin enjoyable radio inspector and traffic cop. Arch Gannon, tenor, portrays .Mikado's son ; Evelyn Vee, attractive "Yum-Yum," in song-dance with play- mates; Darling Twins graceful entertainers; Kimiwa Troupe difficult stunts ; Geisha Girls colorfuL Alex Hyde led stagehand; excellent.
Atlanta Howard
Week Ending March 31
Van Arnam's Minstrels failed to click at the How- ard this week, partially due to the small favor for minstrels in general and, too, the mediocre material offered.
Billy Henderson perhaps stands out with his dia- logue and short act as the best number on the bill.
Syncr Bros, and Roberts gave some songs and steps which went over fairly well, but nothing to brag about. The University Five, harmony singers, were audibly received with their southern melodies.
Ardcll gives a novelty act which the audience okayed. Others taking part were Pinard and Rod Roberts, billed fast steppers, and were, and Jimmy Leamy, the world's champion "Black Bottom" dancer, the headlines read, but the act was cut short before his time came.
Ray Teal and the Howard Orchestra tried to pep up matters with "Let Us Smile With Y'our Um- brella." which already has been played to death in Atlanta.
But it takes an occasional bill as this to make Atlanta audiences appreciate good ones when they appear, which is the usual thing.
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JOE KAY |
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"That Personality Director cind Master of |
K'^^L 't"^! |
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Ceremonies" Now at the |
^^■I^^y ^9 |
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Midland Theatre |
Bvfl |
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KANSAS CITY |
Hfl |
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MISSOURI |
Hli^8 |
ARMIN HAND
And His Orchestra Is Still at the
PICCADILLY THEATRE, CHICAGO
Yes! Business Is Better
34
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Ne^v York Paramount
Week Ending April 7
The widely heralded return of Paul Whiteman to the Paramount received bigger box-oflSce results than Publix expected — the house was packed, and we couldn't even get seats for ourselves. "Rainbow Rhapsody" is this week's presentation opening, with Tiffany-Stahl color novelty, by the Paramount Or- chestra, "Mission Bells," accompanied by the Para- mount Vocal Ensemble.
Paul Whiteman receives a greater reception than is accorded most Publix units, opening his attraction with a band selection, with his vocal team singing special numbers. The band is uniformed in white Palm Beach outfits, and is very neatly dressed with stage effects to harmonize.
O'Hanlon and Zambuni present a cornet and ac- cordion offering of popular numbers which starts the show off with a bang.
Joe Penner, famous artist, who started the comedy in his "Want to buy a Duck" idea, puts a bit of laughter in between lines but is promptly "shooed" off the stage to make way for Whiteman's next num- ber which is set in Spanish California, his selection being a new and novel bit composed around all known Spanish-American popular songs.
The Tamaulipas Troubadours put over a banjo- guitar number, in Spanish costumes with words and music to fit, and drew big applause on their close of the first chorus. They play a second chorus, in- troducing the Lenora Dancers, ten beautiful girls, offering a Spanish dance in true chorine style with special costumes which are made to attract and please.
Then follows a solo Spanish troubadour dance by Amata Grassi, who throughout the entire play adds to the entertainment value and interest by his inimi- table talented singing, playing and dancing. His artistic work is exceptionally good.
A conglomeration of "Blue" songs is then pre- sented by Paul Whiteman, a medley composed and arranged by the famous conductor himself. The opening song is "Blue Danube" followed by "Birth of Blues," "Rhapsody in Blue," "Waltz Bluette," "Wa- bash Blues," "Alice Blue Gown" and "St. Louis Blues."
Joe Penner, during the entire performance offers irresistible bits of comedy at each short intei-mission, with his "bologna" bet, and others, and he is sched- uled to give the final touch to the show with his rendition of "The Three Trees" accompanied in burlesque fashion by Paul and his orchestra.
Following the descriptive selection, his applause compelled an encore, his own song "When the Pussy Willow Whispers to Its Catnip," which sends his audience in an uproar of laughter. On the last chorus, the Whiteman orchestra accompanies him in true closing style, and this winds up the show for this week.
San Francisco Warfield
Week Ending March 30
Rube Wolf and his super-soloists transported War- field theatre audiences to Holland this week in their musical journey around the world. The act opened with Rube and Rose Glesby appearing before the cur- tain and singing a neat introductory song.
The curtain rose on a Holland scene, with a great windmill and an enormous plate in delft blue, with the orchestra in the costume of the country. Eight Sunkist beauties dressed in blue and gold, with wooden shoes, danced noisily and were followed by "The Prince of Pilsen," rendered by the band, with Rube playing a trumpet solo.
Hal Sidaire, a dancing marvel, gave a lively ex- hibition, his act being followed by a band number, "Ups and Downs." This was sung by a male voice, then by Rose Glesby, played as a trumpet solo by Rube Wolf, and finally offered as a novelty number by members of the orchestra, who played the air on cowbells, each member arising as he played his notes.
Eight Blue Devils, in reality charming girls, in white and blue, presented a tap dance that proved a marvel of precision and won a good hand.
Jcarn Boydell, double-jointed and disjointed eccen- tric dancer, sang and danced in a manner which places her in a class by herself. She ended her act with the "Wooden Soldier" dance, which brought down the house. Rube tried the dance and one of his wooden shoes flew into the orchestra pit.
Emily and Romaine offered an interesting adagio and the act came to an end as the great blue plate in the background went up, disclosing a large clock with pretty girls posed about it.
Pittsburgh Penn
Week Ending March 31
"Hula Blues," the Publix unit at the Penn this week, shapes up as the best of the entire bunch seen at the theatre. Every act is a showstopper and brought the house down with solid applause.
The opening is atmospheric with Samoans doing native dances with a volcano drop and effect in the back.
Felicia Sorel Girls do a short dance, followed by Moore and Powell who play all sorts of instruments, including saws, balloon, etc.
Next comes Drena Beach, who does her sensational "Leopard Dance," which is preceded with the "Bor- neo Dance," done by the girls. Drena does some unusual contortions and sends the patrons out talking.
Fritz and Jean Hubert, in a di-unk dance, had no trouble stopping them at all, as both take some falls that look like punishment. Two encores were needed before the audience were satisfied.
Ann Chang, seen here last in "Tokio Blues," and a favorite, did two numbers, then taking her encore as the finale of the show with a scenic flash.
Overture was a Music Master reel, "Stephen Fos- ter," and Dick Leibert did the "human voice organ stop" for his solo.
Salt Lake City Capitol
Week Ending March 24
The Capitol theatre, under the management of George E. Carpenter, offered a very attractive Fan- chon and Marco stage presentation billed as "Crino- line Days" this past week.
Jan Rubini, who has long been recognized every- where as a master of the violin, was featured on this bill, which gave him unlimited opportunity to play those favorite southern melodies he knows so well and which blended beautifully into the spirit of the presentation.
Jimmy Ray offered a dash of his original soft shoe dancing very entertainingly, and Duffer and Draper, an adagio team, were also featured.
The Crinoline Beauties' and Fanchon and Marco's colorful and artistic costumes added greatly to the beauty of the act.
The Varsity Beauties, another team of girls, vied with the Crinoline Beauties in offering the new dance craze, the "Varsity Drag," which is gradually taking first honors from the "Black Bottom" as the most popular novelty dance.
Albert! and his band arranged a medley of famous old southern numbers which were in perfect keeping
FRED KINSLEY
Featured Orgemist
KEITH'S HIPPODROME, NEW YORK
Featuring Original Solos
Leo Terry
Featured Organist
with
GREAT STATES THEATRES, INC.
with the "Idea," as well as a special arrangement of the "Varsity Drag."
Alexander Schreiner, organist, also presented an especially arranged novelty entitled, "WTiat Are Your Favorite Flowers?"
This stage presentation was offered in' connection with the feature picture production "Something Al- ways Happens" and was very well attended.
Philadelphia Carman
Week Ending March 31
The Carman theatre staged a lively and diversified revue this week under the title, "Broadway Frolic." The Carman Grand Orchestra played the overture, "Memories of Victor Herbert." A vocalist behind the scenes gave added interest to the overture by singing a soprano solo, "Gypsy Sweetheart," accompanying the orchestra.
The six English Dancing Dainties first appeared in picturesque rose colored costumes of ostrich plumes and rhinestones. The stage setting was an effective curtain of purple and gold.
Maureen Englin sang in a contralto voice some "blues" songs of ordinary merit. She interrupted her song to insert a rather clever monologue, classify- ing the different types of men she had met in her search for the right man.
Miller and Lewis, in "15 Minutes of Shore Leave." kept the audience laughing at their nonsensical chat- ter interspersed with music on a guitar and har- monica.
The English Dancers again appeared in some clever tap dancing. Bar, Willy and Schell, light comedy singers, proved to be one of the most popular groups of entertainers. The cleverest part of their per- formance was their imitation of three opera singers singing a popular song, "Yes, We Have No Ban- anas Today," expressing the whole gamut of human emotions by their expressions and gestures, all to the tune of the ridiculous song.
Kelo Brothers came on as two old, seedy-looking farmers, but looks were deceiving in this case, for the decrepit old men proved to have more pep than many younger ones. Their seemingly impossible twists and turns were received with such applause that they stopped the show.
The six Banjo Buddies entertained with vooal and instrumental music and dancing and they certainly could shake a leg.
There was an effective finale in which the English Dancers appeared in striking black costumes with rhinestones galore and high black headdresses with the Banjo Buddies playing furiously as intermittent flashes of light.
New York Roxy
Week Ending March 31
The Roxy Symphony Orchestra opens the show this week with a medley of Al Jolson hits, in honor of Al Jolson, whose picture, "The Jazz Singer," is being shown on the same program.
Three beautiful Wurlitzer organs are ably handled by three very good men, namely Lew White, C. A. J. Parmcntier and George Epstyne. They introduce the orchestral presentation of Jolson hits, assisted by the Roxy Jazz Chorus.
Raump Au Jazz, by the Roxy Ballet Corps and the Roxyettes is a beautiful set of 24 girls, clad in brief but beautiful silver and red gowns — dancing on a slanting platfoi-m. Eighteen more sweet little things then appear, similarly derssed, and the whole 42 of them make a sparking and brilliant array of dancers.
Koehler and Edith
Booked Solid Publix Theatres
This Week— Next Week-
Seattle Theatre, Portland Theatre,
Seattle, Wash. Portland, Ore.
Direction Henry H. Dagand William Morris Agency
1440 Broadway 1360 Broadway
New York
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Every theatre manager knows better projection pays. Richardson's 5th edition Handbook of Projection is the acknowledged authority on all projection equipment and matters pertaining to better projection. Over 1100 pages of important information, profusely illustrated, and so care- fully indexed that you can find help on any projection question in- stantly. This wonderful edition is the straight road to better projection.
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April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
35
Chicago Oriental
Week Ending March 31
It not only was blue Monday, but blue everyday at the Oriental this week where Paul Ash's show, "The Blue Revue" held forth. Although the theme was blue, there was plenty of pep, and as entertainment it rated high.
It opened in front of a drop made of strips of metallic cloth. Following a eolo by the eornetist, a personable young man, new on the Ash bill, sang snatches from "Birth of the Blues," "Blue Heaven," "Limehouse Blues," "So Blue" and "St. Louie Blues," with the Abbott Dancers performing individually for each tune.
This made a good introductory for the band, which started off with "Limehouse Blues." On next were Cully and Glaire, a clever couple with banjo, uke and voices, the manipulation of the three bringing them back for two encores. The songs they pecked out and sang included "I've Got the Crazy Blues" and "Hen House Blues."
Ash and th# band next took a turn with "I Should Love You but I Hate You," during which the two trombonists stood up for a duet and a hand.
The Harmony Four, something a little different for the Oriental, held the spotlight next in front of a scrim. These four, violinist, cellist, pianist and soprano, showed good entertainment sense in their selection of pieces, mixing both classical and popular airs. A fine hand they got.
With the conclusion of their contribution, the or- chestra played "Rhapsody in Blue," with the Abbotts doing some fine toe work in' perfect unison.
The laugh of the bill was Freddie Martin's drunken gob dance and his pai-ody on a Spanish dance. The audience was generous with its applause, and rightly
BO.
Johnny Dunn showed that he knew something about a uke, and played it as it might be played in Japan, Hawaii, Philippine Islands, etc. While playing he also did a short tap dance, all of which brought a big hand.
The band's finale was "Shaking the Blues Aw-ay," with the young man back on' agaim for a solo.
Indianapolis Egyptian
Week Ending March 24
Something new in motion picture theatre enter- tainment is being offered at Zaring's Egyptian thea- tre by the Zaring staff entertainers, a trio of musi- cians and singers, including Berkie Burkette, organist; Walt Lalley, pianist, and Charles Barnes, tenor. Barnes, the latest addition to the staff, comes to this city direct from an engagement with Ben Bemie's Roosevelt Hotel band in New York. The trio presents a novelty number of organ, piano and song in which "So Tired," and "Changes" were fea- tured the first week. Their program also was broad- cast from the theatre.
Chicago Norshore
Week Ending March 31
Al Kvale had a neat little show last week, with him and Ginger Rogers carrying the brunt of the attack, as it were. Then there was Billy Carpenter to assist them, besides a bit of serio-comic juggling. The ballet added a share of splendor to the proceedings, giving its version of "The Wobbly Walk" and later, at the finish, parading upon the stage down steps that dropped from the rear scenery, as the back drop rose to show suspended a girl representing the suiu Through it all KvaJc was active in his boyish, witty, yet dignified manner, foiling for the baby-talking Miss Rogers and by the same means, doing the other performers, the w'hole show, and himself a lot of good. (This show was previously reported when it played the Oriental, Chicago.)
DAVID GOULD
LUBLINER & TRINZ BALABAN & KATZ
Production Dept. Chicago
^Wuii,py%a ecfbif of ^^
Monthly SLIDE news 1^ (or and. about thcODGANIST'
54 WQANDOlPU bl CMICACO
Omaha Riviera
Week Ending March 22
"Leap Year Fancies" was the title of the stage- show at the Riviera under the baton of Paul Spor, and just as much fun is poked at leap year, so the entertainment during the week was of a lighter vei.i than usual. The light entertainment was particu- larly welcome after a tear or two were shed by many a spectator during the feature film, "The LcgioH of the Condemned."
Eight Gould Girls of the chorus did plenty of leap year prof»osing, with Paul Spor as the foil. Another feature of the evening was the dLstribution of sam- ples during the song "Ice Cream."
The acts on the program consisted of Louise Ploner, singer of popular songs ; Patti Moore and Sammy Lewis, singers and dancers ; Earl De Vcre, who played the accordion a little but joked a lot ; and two tumbling clowns.
Paul Spor also took the pit orchestra through an Irish Phantasy, featuring some of the old time num- bers appropriate to the seventeenth of March.
Chicago Sheridan
Chicago Granada
Week Ending April 1
It was Charley Kaley's show last week, in both meanings of the term. This band-leading vocalist can share a bill with outstanding performers and yet break even with the honors. "Wibbly Wobbly" was the title of the presentation, and the show opened with the band playing "Wobbly Walk" behind the ballet doing such jazzy steps as may properly inter- pret the composition. The stage was enclosed in a floral border, with a fantastic back drop, while the musicians' stands were hung with square pennants bearing odd geometric "wibbly wobbly" designs.
Kaley came in as the ballet left, taking the band into "Waiting for Ships That Never Come In," sing- ing the chorus to ardent applause.
Doris Roche, personable maid with syncopating ways, sang "Stay Out of the South" and "I Got Everything I Want But You," taking a bow or two. Kaley then led the band in a straight rendition of "Slavish Rhapsody" — and no so-called jazz band could have done it better.
Followed the Berry Brothers, two colored boys, who gave this bill another headlining act besides Fred Ardath, if applause means anything. One could put over comic songs with a real showmanlike touch, while both tap-danced right into the heart.s of those out front. They took bows, gave an encore, and took more bows.
Fred Ardath, "drunk again," was next, and with the assistance of two foils, showed how entertaining a fictitious bottle or two can make Pred .\i-dath. He was the headliner and the customers had no fault to find with booker's judgment.
The band concluded, Kaley singing "When You're With Somebody Else" and "I Still Love You, Dear." with the ballet coming down steps at left and right at the finish, as the back drop lifted, levealing a remaining member of the ballet poised high on a mounting.
Week Ending April 1
The show this week carries the name, "A Pot- pourri of Jazz," which serveu about as well as any name would.
The .show opens with the Abbott dancers doinK a loutine btfore the band. Verne Buck announces the ball room danctri-, Dempsey and LaVeaux, who do a vo<xi waltz to the music of "Beautiful Lady." The number goes over well.
This is followed with the good number, "Back in Your Own Back Yard," with Buck singing it and finishing with a few steps. There is something about the way Buck does his steps that brings laughter. It's rather hard to understand just why the spectacle of Buck kicking up his heels in bo funny, but it is and there you are. He has to repeat with his sonir and steps three timef.
Then come.s Jack Waldron singing "It's Rain Rain- ing Tonight," with a lot of chatter, and some danc- ing thrown in. Some of his stuff is clever. He goes over better than fair. The Abbott dancers, led by one of the six who also sings the song, do "The Wobbly Walk." It is well done and gets good recognition.
Dempsey and La'VeaQx are on again with a fast dance which they call "The Whirlwind," and the name fits. Good applau,se. Then comes the band number, "There Must Be a Silver Lining," which is proving so popular these days. The arrangement is excellent. Buck plays his \iolin and Frank Wilson sings it. and then several of the band boys get spoU for solo bits. Wilson sings it again for the encore.
Next is a blackface team, Nixon and Sando. They dance, sing and wise crack. Incdentally the boy in the team wears one of the funniest costumes seen in these parts lately, and the part wherein he wears this dress and the two indulge in many female diatribes against the male sex is rippingly funny, and was attested by their applause.
For the finale Waldron comes out singing "Hell* Montreal," with the band joining in the chorus. Waldron does a few steps and the Abbott dancers appear on upper level above band and go through routine, as others come out to do short bits.
Ted Mack Gets New Promotion
Ted Mack, stage band leader and master of cere- monies for the past year at the West Coast Cabrillo theatre, under Fanchon Marco direction, will assume the post of master of ceremonies at the West Coast Alexander theatre, Glendale, California, starting Monday, April 2.
Ted, prior to his connection with Fanchon and Marco, was a member of .'^rt Landry and his band-
Ash Discovers "Find"
Cirilo Vergara. valet to Paul .Ash. just completed an oil study painting of Ash which hangs in the reception room of the Oriental Theatre. Chicago. On the strength of this Paul Ash is pcnsonally paying for the expenses of sending this chap to an art school.
BERNARD COWHAM
Still at the Oriental, Milwaukee
Thanks to
The Chief of Police — The Musicians' Union
The Humane Society and the Music Publishers
W. REMINGTON WELCH
SOLO ORGANIST
TIFFIN THEATRE CHICAGO
(Solos and Coninuinity Sinps)
HENRY B. MURTAGH
CHIEF ORGANIST
MARCUS LOEW CIRCUIT
To Open New Orcjan at Capitol, New York, Soon
36
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
My partner, Sam Coslow, just got back from a trip that took him as far West afi Lincoln, Nebraska, and made the following observations:
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"There seems to be an entirely different set of song hits in the West than there are in the East, although most of the Eastern hits are also fairly popular in the West. The only difEerence being that they become hits in the West much faster.
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I was considerably surprised to hear some great orchestras in some of the smaller cities. Among the best I heard were: the Tracy-Brown orchestra at the Brandeia Restaurant, Omaha, who made their first batch of Columbia records in Chicago a few weeks ago. . . . Paul Christiansen's orchestra at the Hotel Fort Des Moines, in Des Moines, who was selected by popular vote as the favorite radio orchestra of the U. S. A. This outfit have also broken into the re- cording field with a batch of Brunswick records. . . . Jimmy Joy and his orchestra at the Brown Hotel, Louisville, dispense just the same kind of syncopation that goes big in New York and Chicago. . . . Maury Sharr is the Paul Whiteman of Columbus, Ohio. . . . Al Kaymcns at the Swanee Ballroom, Washington, is one of the hottest bands I heard on my entire trip. They can also play nice and sweet when they want to."
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Charlie Stokes, who leads the Jean Goldkette
orchestra at the Playmore Ballroom, Kansas City, certainly knows how to handle a stick and should be a real find as Master of Ceremonies for some large movie house. . . . Irving Rothchild is one orchestra leader who opened his own night club and made a big success of it. His Club Avalon in St. Louis is the smartest gathering place in town. . . . Ray Miller has made himself even a more outstanding figure in Cincinnati than he was in New York. His orchestra at the Gibson Hotel sounds better than ever. . . . Eddie Sherwood, formerly a fellow song plugger, has quit the music business and opened a joy palace in Baltimore, known as "Sherry's." It is situated atop the New Stanley theatre in that city. The night I was in the place I hobnobbed with almost as many celebrities as I do in a New York night club. (I hope this will make Eddie take off the cover charge next time.) I forgot to mention that Moe Baer has left the Wardraan Hotel in Washington to direct the orchestra in the above mentioned place. He has an excellent band too, even though he does not plug our numbers as much as he should.
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Harold Ramsay, the popular organist at the Cen- tui-y theatre in Baltimore, is very fortunate in secur- ing the services of Sam Coslow to write his special organ versions. ... I ran into Mort Harris at the new Loew house in Indianapolis where he just took charge of producing the units. Mort can certainly be depended upon to put on some "wows," judging from some of his productions I saw at the Capitol theatre in New York.
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The big fad among the orchestras throughout the middle West is to tune in late at night on Guy l/ombardo at the Granada Cafe, Chicago, and get his style down pat. Lombardo is setting the pace for all the other middle Western orchestras, and they all play whatever he plays, and try to play the tunfes the same way as much as possible. ... I met Stuart Barrie, feature organist at the Ambassador theatre, St. Louis, and he showed roe a bookful of his own original organ stunts. After he let me look through the book I was sorry I had such a bad memory.
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Jerry Marks, enterprising and handsome young orchefitra leader of the Tuller Hotel in Detroit, is spending a few days in New York City for the pur- pose of collecting orchestrations from the various publishers. So far only six have turned him down. Jerry, outside of being a batonslinger, is an exclusive Columbia recording artist, and also a music pub- lisher, with branch offices in Detroit and Kalamazoo. I might add that he plays the piano.
2am
Jajl>A;
ORGAN SOLOS
Milton' Charles (Chicago Chicago) while the organ ascends, strains from "When I Lost You," Irving Berlin's oldest and greatest song, drifted over the auditorium. If this organist had not played another thing, he would have earned his emolument for the week, for he surely showed the audience he knows his organ. However, it served to put the people in the right frame of mind for another Berlin song "I Can't Do Without you" and a follow-up of a pre- scription' for happiness prescribed by Al Jolson, "Baek in Your Own Back Yard," with "Sunshine," "Silver Lining" songs, that blended right in with the entrance of our spring days.
Rubin "Rube" Schultz (Milwaukee Modjeska), pop- ular organist for Midwesco's Modjeska theatre here, offered for his organ revue "Rosie O'RVan," a med- ley of popular Irish melodies with words flashed upon the screen. The number included all the songs dear to an Irishman's heart, as well as to all music lovers, and went over big.
Earl Able (Chicago Congress) — Usually when you go to the Congress you expect to sing, but this week's solo, called "Troubles," consisted of songs that are little known, and for that reason there was not much singing. If Able gets the right songs he sure will make the people sing, but no one can make the people sing if they don't know the songs. His first number was "La Boheme." He followed with "My Baby Came Home" and "In the Moon Light." For his concluding number Able played "Sweetheart I'm Sorry," a very pretty number.
Edward K. House (Chicago Marbro) — A novelty stunt called "Spring Fever" was the name of this week's solo. Pictures of the country were flashed upon' the screen and House entered from the side of the stage, making lazy motions really creating a lot of interest. He played for his first number "A Shady Tree" and followed with "A Babbling Brook." A few gag slides were brought in between each song. He concluded his solo with "Highways Are Happyways." House's style of playing and singing at the same time is interesting, and the people seem to appreciate it by their applause.
Henri Keates (Chicago Oriental) chose "Spring" as the theme of his good organ solo, and through- out played such pieces as "Flowers That Bloom in the Spring, Tra, La," "Silver Lining," "Let's Kiss and Make Up," "Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here," "I Love You Only" and "My Ohio Home." While the singing wasn't as enthusiastic as usual, it was a good program of tunes.
McNeil Smith (Chicago Marquette) called his solo for this week "Dancing Jamboree." . He played for his first number "Cloh-e." Several gag slides were brought in between each song that were unusually good. For his next number he played "She Don't Wanna," "Moonlit Waters," "Tomorrow," and "I Scream You Scream" the latter getting big applause. For his concluding number Smith played "A Bunga- low of Dreams." He received continuous applause for an encore, but did not take it. He looks like a big bet here.
Ken Weidner (Chicago Piccadilly) offered this week as his organ solo a clever version on "The Beggar." The lyric slides explain the etoi-y and the organist carried on a regular convereation with his audience. The stunt seemed to please many.
Jean Anthony (Chicago Marbro) offered an original solo stunt called "A Descriptive Travelogue of Italy." It opened with "The War March of Caesar" inter- polated with a Venetian tune. The travelogue idea was carried out through a placard system which gave the title of the various scenes and famous streets. ''Cheri-Beri-Bee," "Gondola" and several other ap- propriate tunes were played including a chime effect for the St. Peter's Cathedral. Each week the Marbro audience take a trip with Anthony to Europe with his organ solos.
Ramon Berry (Chicago Alamo) featured "Ramona" the new Spanish waltz which is the theme song for a picture of the same name. The slide set was clev- erly illustrated but it seems that this theatre does not appreciate music of a too-high-clase nature. However, Berry was well received for his efforts.
Walter Wild and Frederick Smith (New York Strand) organists for the Mark Strand theatre, here, excel themselves this week with some new and novel audience numbers. They are receiving good response fi-om the singing public each week, and this week it was a battle for supremacy in sound between two organs, and about many hundreds of voices.
atou-fe
SONGS
BEST SELLERS
"My Ohio Home" (Leo Feist). "Sunshine" (Irving Berlin). "Among My Souvenirs" (DeSylva- Brown & Henderson).
"Back in Your Own Backyard" (Irv- ing Berlin).
"I Can't Do Without You" (Irving Berlin). "Beautiful" (Milton Weil). "Diane" (Sherman Clay) "Ramona" (Leo Feist). "Chloe" (Villa Moret). "Let a Smile Be Your Umbrella" (Henry Waterson).
"Together" (DeSylva-Brown & Hen- derson).
"Mary Ann" (Irving Berlin). "My Melancholy Baby" (Joe Morris). "Dream Kisses" (Ager-Yellen & Bornstein). "Beloved" (Irving Berlin). ANGEL— (Milton Weil Music Co.)— An excellent fox trot tune. The lyric is by a well known act which has played the best known houses in Chicago. Melody by Walter Donovan, words by Joe Burns and Murray Kissen.
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WONDERFUL YOU— (Villa Moret, Inc.)— Milton Charles, one of America's leading organists, now at the Chicago Theatre, is responsible for the melody and the lyric is by Al Lewis, who will be remembered for his big hit "A Lane in Spain." This combination has turned out a very good song.
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DOWN BY THE OLD FRONT GATE— (Austin Bloom & Koehler) — A song that reminds one of "The Old Back Porch." A very good number for singing orchestras. By Fred Rose, Art Kassell and Marty Bloom.
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RAMONA — (Leo Feist, Inc.)— The melody of this number was composed by the writer of "In a Little Spanish Town." On the United Artist Program, March 29, which had one of the biggest audiences Radio ever had, this number was sung by Dolores Del Rio, the star of the photoplay of the same name and also played as an orchestra number by the one and only Paul Whiteman.
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HIDING IN THE CORNER OF YOUR SMILE—
(Sherman Clay & Co.) — The lyric writer wrote "Blue Heaven," and the melody writer composed "Char- maine." Together they have twined out a corking song. Should be a big seller. By Lew Pollack and George Whiting.
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THO YOU THREW ME DOWN— (Shapiro, Bern- stein & Co.) — Love is love, and though not wanted he still hangs around. This is the story and it is completed with a waltz melody. By Larry Norrett, Morey Davidson and Carl Rupp.
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READY FOR THE RIVER— (Villa Moret, Inc.)— A creepy ballad describes it best because thinking of the river always makes me creepy. Gus Kahn is responsible for the lyric and Neil Moret for the sad melody.
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LITTLE GREEN WINDING LANE — (Boston
Music Co.) — A high class number adapted for con- cert work by a writer who is world famous, espe- cially for his "Carissima" song. Words and music by Arthur A. Penn.
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A COZY NEST— (Harold Rossiter Music Co.)—
This is not a bird song. It's about two lovers who do not dream of mansions but are satisfied anywhere as long as with each other. Written as a fox trot. Words and music by Geo. A. Little and Fred Rose.
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I'M CRYIN' 'CAUSE I KNOW I'M LOSING YOU — (Irving Berlin, Inc.) — This is a stoi-y of two sweet- hearts and the parting seems to hurt. A typical commercial song which will also make a good fox trot. By Cliff Friend.
Easter Greetiners!
j/i^ /3.
AprU 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
S7
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THE THEATRE
Incorporated in this department of practical showmanship of Exhibitors Herald are the Moving Picture World departments, "Selling the picture to the Public" and "Better Business Builders."
Good Taste — The Test for Exploitation
"A man was hired to throw a couple o repeated on Saturday night, the opening break for the picture."
The above is from a publicity story sent out by one of the distributing com- panies in describing a stunt put over by a theatre in a large city. Could any exploitation be more unethical or in bad taste ? When any theatre has to resort to such means to draw patrons to a theatre, it must be in a bad way.
The sight of a man throwing a fit is some- thing repulsive — a thing to be abhorred, but its use to bring people into a theatre for en- tertainment is far more repulsive. The fact that the man was arrested is enough to show the stunt was bad, yet that fact is offered as proof of the value of the stunt.
Such stunts may have been in vogue 10 or 15 years ago, but today they stand, or should stand, in disrepute. The first test for any exploitation should be, "does it violate good taste?" If it does, it should never be used. The above stunt violates every tenet of good taste.
Every day one sees exploitation which has no excuse for being, on the grounds of de- cency and good taste. There is no reason why a theatre cannot surround itself with as much dignity as a bank, nor why it cannot command as much respect. But no theatre can do this and continue to use exploitation which violates good taste and which appeals to morbid curi- osity or indecency.
Good exploitation should, and often does, appeal to the curiosity, but they should never awaken a morbid curiosity. Make your ex- ploitation appeal to the curiosity, which every normal person possesses, and to your patrons' sense of humor. Combine the two appeals and you have a perfect exploitation.
But if your exploitation detracts from the respect of your theatre, no matter if it packs your house, it is costly and damaging. Any exploitation that violates good taste hurts, not only your own business, but the industry as a whole. Ask yourself this question before you use any exploitation : "Does it violate good taste?"
High School Campaign
To stimulate high school student patronage during the last weeks of school, the Texas theatre, San Antonio, is conducting a com- petition among all the high schools in the city to choose the best drilled R. O. T. C. cadet. Each school is to select its candidate, and each one will appear on the stage when the final choice is made. Each winner will receive a silver loving cup donated by a local jeweler, and the final winner will he awnrded a scholarship to a summer training camp.
By Will Whitmore
f fake fits, and when he was brought out of them, he handed out cards. This was date, and an officer ran him into jail. He was got out all right and it was a great
A different type of monthly program. The Icaies arc tied togcihcr tcith a small, colored ribbon, the front cover being of heavy blue paper, the back cover of red. A'o ads are car- ried. "I believe this type of program is a new idea," says A. R. Bender of the Melba theatre, Cleveland, Oklahoma, its creator. "I find it more flexible tJmn the usual type of house organ, and as it covers an entire month's bookings, I find it not too expensiie."
Somebody Had to Be M. B. I. No. 13; Eddie Kidtvell Is the Lucky Person
M. B. I. Number 13. Well, we always did believe that mystic number was lucky, so we don't hesitate to name Eddie Kidwoll of the Biirford Tbeatre Com- pany, Arkansas City, Kansas, as M. B. I. Number 13. And beside.-*. Edtlie should "kidwell." His "My Best Idea" enables bim to put over n«'wsreels as a real draw- ing power to the theatre.
"Mv Best Idea'' No. 1 3
ml
Eddie Kidicell
By
I have mv doubts as to being able to (lu.iliiy for membership in the M. B. I. Club, but I'm going to try. The idea below has never been used here before and is original with me.
This idea was used in advertising a part of (Hir ncwsreel serxice. 1 happened to l>e in the newspaper otlice when photos of Lind- bergh's arrival in Mexico City arrived by air- mail. .\s our ncwsreel is never over four davs old I saw that we might he able to use
one of the photos in some manner. I there- fore had one of them filed away. On the day we showed tlie scenes of his arri\al in the ncwsreel, I ran the photo in our newspaper ad with considerable space devoted to selling the ncwsreel alone. I think it repaid us in the added interest in the ncwsreel and I plan to use any other photos in a similar manner. .\m now looking for photos on the recent dis- aster near Los .Vngelcs and will send you a copy showing how I use them. Sorry i can- not send you a copy of the above, hut it is pasted in my scrap-book and cannot be re- moved.
38
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
Blonde Popularity Contest Puts Over "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes^ ^
A stunt which proved remarkably successful was used by the management of the Baby Grand theatre in Winter Park, Florida, in putting over "Gentlemen Pre- fer Blondes," the Paramount picture. H. M. Johnson, who put it over, describes it thus:
"Seventeen da3's prior to play date of the picture, we arranged with a number of local merchants and with the local Chamber of Commerce to assist us in putting over a blonde popularity contest, which would culminate with the showing of the picture.
"Let us s:ay right here that this picture played only one day in the town and this stunt is feasible for any exhibitor in smaller towns. Each of the merchants gave a prize to the win- ner of the blonde popularity contest and in addition the Chamber of Commerce gave the young lady a trip with expenses paid to Jack- sonville, where she will be guest of the Cham- ber of Commerce. The popularity of the young lady was judged by votes. Each one dollar purchase at any of the stores: or money deposited in savings account would credit 100 votes to the purchaser's particular candidate.
Six entrants were procured, all well known and extremely attractive blondes in the city. Votes were also obtained with every two adult admission tickets purchased at the theatre. Ample publicity was given this stunt by the local paper and the theatre, of course, ar- ranged for publicity there. The last four days of the contest, or the four days just prior to the play date of the picture, all of the con- testants were given tickets for the showing of "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" to sell ; each ticket sold counting 100 votes for the seller.
Much interest was' aroused, both locally and in nearby towns, over this stunt, and the radio station WDBO, at Orlando, broadcast the names of the contestants and explained the contest over the air, and also announced the winner over the air.
On the night of the showing of the pic- ture, the blonde contestant having the most ■ votes was crowned "Winter Park's Preferred Blonde" on the stage of the theatre, the cere- monies being conducted by the mayor of the
town. In addition to being Winter Park's pre- ferred, the winner received a complete outfit of clothes, money, a complimentary pass to the theatre, and a free trip to Jacksonville, as stated above. The girl having the second largest number of votes was awarded a second prize donated by one of the merchants, as was the girl receiving the third largest num- ber of votes.
The stunt went over with a bang. Oper- ating continuous'ly from 1:00 to 11:00 p. m., the theatre did a nice matinee and at 7 :30 the S. R. O. sign had to be hung out.
"Cohens and Kelly s^^ Children's Contest
When "The Cohens and Kellys in Paris" played the Temple theatre, Lorain, Ohio, the theatre cooperated with a local newspaper on a contest for school children. Cash prizes and theatre tickets were offered for the best essays on what points of interest the Cohens and Kellys should visit in Paris. All post office requirements were complied with. The letters turned out to be of great interest and won the enthusiastic support of teachers of geog- raphy, history and literature.
Airplane Contest
For the run of "40,000 Miles with Lind- bergh," Loew's Grand theatre, Atlanta, and a local department store staged an airplane contest for boys. Prizes of $25, $15 and $10 were awarded to the boys constructing the best model airplanes. Well known fliers in the city were chosen as judges.
Production Hints from Edward L. Hyman
Managing Director, Mark Strand Theatre, Brooklyn
Beginning a new era in stage production for the Stanley Company, "In Granada" un- covered an elaborate type of unit show which had beautiful settings, costumes and plenty of excellent talent. This Spanish episode in melody and dance ran for 37 minutes as the big spot of a show which had Billie Dove in "The Heart of a Follies Girl" as the motion picture, augmented by the Topical Review and an overture.
The Feature picture was 1 hour and 2 minutes long, the Topical Review was 12 minutes and the overture was 10 min- utes, making up a complete performance of 2 hours and 1 minute.
Tschaikowsky's "1812" was the overture played by the Famed Mark .Strand Orchestra, conducted by Willy .Stahl and -Sascha Kindler, and lighted as follows: bridge 1 deep blue flood, full ; dome, 2 amber floods on orchestra ; white on cue; ceiling spots, 2 light blues and 2 light ambers, and blue borders.
After the Topical Review came the "In
Edward L. Hyn
Granada" which opened with front draw cur- tains parting to show another front curtain of Spanish lace tinted yellow, through which the stage band, costumed a la toreador, could he seen highlighted by baby spots, seated in two tiers and backed up by black satin cyclorama upon which was silhouetted in bold colors a huge Spanish fan. Ground rows in front of each tier of musicians were painted in colors on black to represent draped shawls. At opening the spots highlighting the band were dimmed down as front flood came up on lace curtains, band playing "An Old Guitar and an Old Refrain."
Gene Wallin, a young soprano, in rich costume, stepped in front of curtain and sang vocal chorus as the lace was drawn to show full stage. In order then came The Cansinos, Antonio and Catherine, in a Castilian Dance ; Carlo Ferretti, baritone, who sang the waltz song from Valverde's "La Gran Via," a Spanish operetta; "Gypsy Dance" by six mem- bers of the ballet corps ; Irving Berlin's new- est song, "Sunshine" as a band number; Jack Pepper, who had been introducing the acts, in vocal "Laugh Clown Laugh" ; Seven Capitol Accordionists, Chaz Chase, eccentric panto- mime; the Cansinos again in "Cape Waltz" and the finale by the entire company with Ferretti singing "Toreador Song" from "Carmen."
Dignity Creating Advertising
The 10 ads on the following page are all effective ads, yet not one of them is an ex- ponent of jazzy makeup. Another feature of these ads is prominent ; each of them has a very simple border, which, rather than de- tracting from the ad, improves it. Borders are tricky things to handle. They are neces- sary yet dangerous.
Too often a border serves only to attract the attention away from the ad itself rather than to it. Watch the kind of borders you use. The type depends mainly upon two things — the type of ads next to yours and the type of copy inside your own ad. The ads shown here need the simplest borders pos- sible, just as they possess.
Another feature of the ads is the amount of white space, and it is this use of white space which gives the ads the dignity they possess. Strange as it may seem, it is the theatres of the towns and smaller cities that are bringing about a new style in theatre advertising which champions the use of more white space and dignity in copy and layout. The deluxe theatres in our largest centers still stick to circus makeup in many instances but even these theatres are now leaning toward a more sane style. The advertising of Balaban and Katz in Chicago is a good example of this. Within the last few months a radical change has been made in this advertising with a trend toward more white space and simple layouts.
The five ads from the Strand theatre come from Lexington, Kentucky, and were prepared by Miss Annabell Ward of the Phoenix Amusement company. The small one column ads are blacker than the others which is necessary for such small ads. The large three column ad of the Strand is pleasing to the eye, yet it is attractive and effective. The two Burford ads are from the Burford theatre, Arkansas City, Kansas, and were prepared by Eddie l-Cidwell. Eddie has been handling the advertising only a short time, but these two ads show he is on the right track. He might have played up the names of the stars in the ads just a bit more, perhaps. For instance, the emphasis should have been put on "Reginald Denny" rather than "The Cheerful Fraud," and the same applies to the other ad of the Burford.
The two ads at the bottom come from Mor- ris Simms of the Brockton theatre, Brockton, Massachusetts, whose ads are always good. The usual style of Simms' ads is similar to the one at the right, but in the ad on the left, he plays up the two allied attractions as much or more than the picture, for in this case these attractions mean more than the picture to his patrons. Simms believes that, in general, the picture should be played up rather than the vaudeville acts.
The "No BulV Stunt Still Carries a Kick
It looks like some old stunts will never die, even though they are hoary with age. Take the "No Bull" stunt, for instance. "The The- atre" traced its use as far back as 1909, and yet it's still being used, and with good effect.
\Vhen the Alerrill theatre, Milwaukee, ran the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer picture, ""rhe Crowd," a truck was run through the streets carrying a cow with banners on each side reading: "'The Crowd' at the Merrill theatre is some show — and this is no bull !" The old gag had all the people in the city laughing and talking, and proved a great attention getter.
AprU 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
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EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
April 7, 1928
WC
SERVICE TALKS
Incorporated in this department of Exhibitors Herald^ which is a department containing news, in- formation and gossip on current productions, is the Moving Picture World department, "Through
the Box Office Window.**
MY BEST GIRL"
I
T is a rather pleasant human experience to attend a Paderewiski concert and behold an audience of five or six thousand people in the act of pretending, clamorously and well into dinner time, that the great pianist is as good at playing the piano as he ever was. It is equally warming to the heart to witness the similar re- actions of an audience attending an Ethel Barrymore performance, as it was, also, a Bern- hardt performance in the latter years of that star's reign. The respect for tradition, the re- fusal to recognize the fact that age has begun to leave its mark, is a tremendously satisfying thing. But there is a more tremendously satis- fying experience to be had in the entertain- ment world, and it is to be had wherever Miss Mary Pickford's "My Best Girl" is upon dis- play.
I have looked at each and every one of the Mary Pickford pictures since they were Bio- graphs. In the last half-dozen years I have had my seat-mate (feminine) assure me that "she's really a grown woman, you know," and I've heard endless reiterations of that sentiment in- side and outside of the theatre. Never has there been visible evidence to support the state- ment, but the fan magazines and the fan scrap- books have been busy and the record was there. The tremendously satisfying experience to be had by anyone viewing "My Best Girl" is that of having one's seat-mate, like oneself, look upon the adult principal of that picture in the adult performance she gives and feel, all along, that "she's really just a little girl, you know." For Mary Pickford is, fan magazines and scrap- books to the contrary, just a little girl acting an adult part, and not all of the evidence in the world can change that fact.
I am not among those who think of "My Best Girl" as Miss Pickford's first adult per- formance, for I remember "Daddy Long Legs" and the final, long sequence wherein the mati- nee-esque Marshall Neilan walked through in- numerable buckets of rainfall to clasp her to his manly bosom for the fadeout. Nor am I among those who will attempt to analyze the miracle by which Miss Pickford imparts to her beholders the impression that she is a girl of thirteen enacting a girl of twenty in "My Best Girl." But I am among those who cheer for
By T. O. Service
her, throw my hat in the air for her, and glory in whatever magic it is that she — and so clearly she alone^possesses.
I believe that the young ladies more lately come into screen prominence, such mere girls as Mae Murray, Pola Negri, Corinne Griffith and Gloria Swanson, now have for their guid- ance the sterling example of Miss Pickford's adult performance in "My Best Girl." It is nice of Miss Pickford to give them this excellent little lesson in how to act an emotional role for the camera. And it is nicer of her to give the big, round public the best reason for going to the theatre that it's had in I forget how many years.
'THE BIG CITY"
I
T is pleasant, for me at least, to see some city other than Chicago pictured as a place wherein crime is conducted. It is particularly pleasant, also, to see an actor like Lon Chaney doing the conducting. Only such an actor would have the good taste to reflect that crime is pretty dull unless it is comic, and Mr. Chaney's criminal exploits in "The Big City" (New York, in this case) are unfailingly funny.
It is even more pleasant, perhaps, to see the gifted Mr. Chaney as the gifted Mr. Chaney and not as a dinosaur, a pygmy or the survivor of several major operations. At the time of "Tell It to the Marines" — value of which, see your ledger^I spent several hundred words in an effort to convince Mr. Chaney that he was plenty good enough, even better, as Mr. Chaney than as any of the anatomical parts thereof. I do not imagine that he took my counsel to heart, but I do imagine that he has paid some attention to the box office returns on "Tell It to the Marines," and the result is the same. In "The Big City" he is a whole, competent, earn- est actor — ^as which he has no superior to my knowledge unless it be (and there media are worlds apart) Mr. John Barrymore.
"The Big City" is, I think, the first picture, unless "Chicago" got out of the studio first, to treat the crime theme humanly, lightly but not too lightly, and humorously. There is
enough seriousness in the picture, there is the proper reformation and all of that, but the whole thing is a good-natured picture and I'm grateful for it. And of course I seize this op- portunity to repeat my former plea to Mr. Chaney to leave the trick makeup, henceforth, to those lesser actors who need something of the sort to get them by. Mr. Chaney quite emphatically does not.
"BURNING DAYLIGHT"
j[\NOTHER pleasant experience in an espe- cially pleasant week of theatre-going was en- countered in "Burning Daylight." I'd become hardened to seeing Milton Sills in wrong roles doing wrong things, and to be quite frank I figured on napping through at least the major portion of "Burning Daylight." You can take my word for it, however, that there is no occasion for shutting an eye while Mr. Sills moves through the sequences of this vehicle. In fact, the thing is an eye-opener in every sense of the word, especially for people who had begun, as I had, to think that Mr. Sills ought to return to the professorial dais and tell the boys and girls what a great guy he used to be in "Sea Hawk" days.
This yarn begins in the Klondyke, where Sills is a husky prospector who crashes in big, and it terminates in San Francisco, where Sills is a big boy from the far places who has be- come soft and is about to be taken for his dough. The Klondyke stuff is excellent and the Frisco stuff is, if a little less colorful by reason of location, at least as good. The story looks like it might have happened, and the associates of Mr. Sills go along in step all the way. There's enough conflict, not too little or too much, and there's a good deal of lightly humorous by-play which is not without its effect.
I'm glad to see Mr. Sills back on the right side of the picture thing. This one gives me the impression that he may have started in to think seriously about the business of filming stories, a business of which he should know considerable and one in which, if this is an example of what he can do when he tries, he should have many more years of profitable ac- tivity.
April 7, 1928
EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD
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NEW PICTURES
In "New Pictures" the EXHIBITORS HERALD and MOVING PICTURE WORLD presents in concise form infor- mation on current and forthcoming attrac- tions.
The facts as presented will serve exhib- itors in booking and in the preparation of their advertising campaign.
ACROSS TO SINGAPORE: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer melodrama, with Ramon Navarro, Joan Crawford, Ernest Torrence, Frank Currier, Dan Wolheim, Duke Martin, Edward Connelly, and James Mason.
Directed by William Nigh. Released
Length _
TYPE AND THEME: This one takes you off to British Malay. Joel in charge of his father's ship, is in love with Priscilla, who is engaged to his older brother, Ma/rk. Mark is inclined to dis- sipate, and when Joel tries to stop him, they quarrel. Mark is bitter over the condition of his own life and the good fortune of his brother. To vent his feelings, he stirs up the Chinese. Joel arrives with aid, but Mark is gone. Believing him safe, Joel returns to his ship. There he is put in chains, and the ship is started homeward. But he returns, taking PrisciUa along, to find Mark. She falls in love with Joel, and when they find Mark and take him to the ship, Mark starts a mutiny. In the fight, Mark is killed.
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CHINATOWN CHARLIE: First National comedy, with John'ny Hines, Louise Lorraine, Harry Gril>- bon, Scooter Lowry, Sojin, Anna May Wong, George Kuwa, Fred Kohler, and Jack Burdette. Directed
by Charles Hines. Released. Length 6,365.
TYPE AND THEME: This one was adapted from the stage fa/rce. As barker on a New York Chinatown sightseeing bus, Hines is interested in one of his feminine passengers who is taken prisoner by a ga/ng leader in the section because she possesses a ring said to have remarkable pow- ers. The comic action proceeds around Hines' efforts to wrest the girl from the dastard's talons, and while there are scenes that might do well in a melodra/ma, they are enacted with the levity de- mamded in a Hines vehicle.
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CIRCUS ROOKIES: Mero-Goldyn-Mayer, with Karl Dane, George K. Arthur, Louise Lorraine, Sydney