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There was a great article in the New York Times on May 15 entitled “Movie Theaters Are on the Brink. Can Wine and Cheese Save Them?” The writer, James B. Stewart, pointed out several things that should scare all movie fans.
He starts with the observation that Universal Pictures made the animated sequel “Trolls World Tour” available as a digital rental for $19.95 on April 10. Since then it has made over $100 million, and that has serious implications for movie chains such as AMC, Regal and Landmark.
On top of that, while theaters have made a bundle off Disney’s science fiction blockbusters, Walt’s descendants are releasing its highly anticipated “Hamilton” film on the Disney Plus streaming service July 3. Even the Motion Picture Academy has dropped the requirement that films must first be released to theaters to be eligible for an Oscar.
While Stewart points out that theaters are fighting to stay relevant, he ends with this quote from an entertainment analyst: “They’ve been fighting an uphill and losing battle for 30 to 40 years.”
Despite my love of films on the big screen, I’m worried. The excitement I experienced seeing my first films as a kid at the Gibson Theatre in Batesville has left a lovable scar that will never fade. I also became fascinated with drive-in theaters even though nearly all of them have faded away.
While I recognize that the coronavirus is likely to infect dark movie theaters, I want to root for the Kan-Kan Cinema and Brasserie set to open soon on Indy’s near east side. It will be an indie film lover’s chance to experience downtown Indianapolis’ first art house cinema. I root for the talented curators, Daniel Arthur Jacobson and Louise Henderson, who have been waiting to crank open their marvelous creation. Keep all eyes on it, as it will be my first destination when theaters are permitted to open.
Good grief, I’ll wear a mask, so this virus can go to hell and stay there.
Here’s hoping all of you are safe and well.•
• Robert Hammerle practices criminal law in Indianapolis. When he is not in the courtroom or the office, Bob can likely be found at one of his favorite movie theaters preparing to review the latest films. To read more of his reviews, visit www.bigmouthbobs.com. Opinions expressed are those of the author.
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