t
•
^ ^
" \;
/■ 5
V
aV ">,
\VV b* \. :
A
' - V*" *-,
V v « o ^*- " ' '' ^- A
I
v0cL. V ■/
1 ', O V ^ .'V
V ■*». a"& '
\(
^
-5- *S
-' .'\ ->, -o v < *
o5 '^>
-
JvV ^
A N
a0' CU vN
% , " ., a^°
a^ • ^ v
^ ,
C
•- ^
If
1 & '* '
^
-.y. <f
,** -
%<fi
s 0
-
$ \
-
\v
\
°/
%
% tf
■-S* v*'
.<£ ^
1 ^
^
.
v * v 2
\V -p c, >- \V tP
C 0X
-
■<• ■:
%
^ ?
\
V
/'
\V
'-.
r*
%
Scanned from the collections of The Library of Congress
AUDIOVISUAL CONSERVATION at The LIBRARY of CONGRESS
Packard Campus
for Audio Visual Conservation
www.loc.gov/avconservation
Motion Picture and Television Reading Room www.loc.gov/rr/mopic
Recorded Sound Reference Center www.loc.gov/rr/record
INDEX TO VOLUME VII
MOTOGRAPHY
January 1, to June 31, 1912
A
Acetyl Cellulose for Moving Picture Films.
Advertising Western Theaters. .
Advocate Court to Judge Films
American Plavers as Firemen
206
136
.253
40
Aeroplane and Motion Picture Camera. By Israel Lud- low 63-64
Alabama Wants Advertising Pictures 81
Alabama Sunday Shows for Charity 264
Alhambra Theater at Shelbyville, The. By Charles F.
Morris , 157-158
American Hires Actors for Big. Subjects 278-280
American Banquets Employees 33-34
American's Giant Advertising Campaign 181-182
American Produces Mystic Subject 182
American Secures Remarkable Lens 180-181
Among the Picture Theaters
41-46. 89-94, 137-142. 185-190, 234-238, 283-286
An Aid to Mathematical Instruction 258
Another Windmill Fighter (Editorial) 244
Another Attack on Picture Shows (Editorial) 148
Another General Film Service Dispute 114
Another Manufacturer 85
Another Newspaper Contest 136
Anti-Sunday Bill in New York 106
A Record of the Turko-Italian War 259-260
Ask Film Pictures of Party Conventions 122
Audience Calm During- Fire 114
B
Baltimore Censors Want Salaries 250
Benefits of League Membership 82
Bernhardt and Rejane in Pictures 85-86
Between the Years (Editorial) 3
Big Convention at Dayton. By Allen L. Haase 151-155
Blind Boy-s Interest in Pictures, A 27-28
Big Houses for Seattle 205
Birmingham to Have School Pictures 84
Birmingham School Pictures Successful 117
Board of Censors for Roanoke Theaters 184
Booming Home Cities with Motography ,...276
Booth Laws in Xew Jersey 263
Breaks World's Record for Changing Reels 224
Business in a Town of 54.000 118
California Hustlers 184
California, the Producers' Eden 227-228
Canadian Censorship 264
Censorship in Montreal 184
Champion Moves Office 36
Changes in the Champion 87
Chicago Charities Grateful for League Help. ......' 105
Chicago Defeats Age Limit Law 156
Chicago is Mutual Film Headquarters 206
Chicago's Latest Exchange 87
Chicago Press Club in Picture Story Contest 166
Child's Leisure Hour, The. By Rev. Herbert A. Jump. . 115-117
China to Have Theaters 198
China's Picture Shows 126
Cines and Eclipse Releases 280-281
Cincinnati Exhibitors Gain a Point 212
Cincinnati Organizes 105
Club Women Interested in Pictures 158
College President's Tribute to Films 177
Columbus Films at the Yatican. By Rev. J. Guiseppe
Tonelli 213-214
Coming Essanay Westerns 25-26
47-48, 95-96. 143-144, 191-192. 239-24(1
Coming of Columbus, The 199-205
Complete Record of Current Films
47-48. 95-96, 143-144, 191-192, 239-240, 287-288
Conditions in Canada 62
Constantinople Theaters ( Editorial) 102
Continuous Motographic Records Schemes 198
Cross Country Tour Pictures 232
Correspondence 83
Current Educational Releases
23-24. 121-122, 165-166, 222-223, 272-273
D
Dakota Church Uses Pictures 117
Dayton Meeting, The (Editorial) 147
Death of J. P. Chalmers 155-156
Denver Gets Rig House $'
Diamond-S Activities 34
Dickens' 'Martin Chuzzlewit" Filmed 2?:
Duke Skates for Camera 166
INDEX TO VOLUME VII
Early Diamond-S History 179
Economies in Theater Operation (Editorial) 3-4
Edison Home Projector, The 180
England's Picture Theaters (Editorial) 101-102
Erlanger Says, "Charge $1.50" 120
Evolution of a Picture Show, The. By Mabel Bury 57-60
Exhibition of Manufacturing Methods 84
Exhibitors' Ball in New York 64
Exhibitors' Charity, The (Editorial) 51
Explore Amazon for Motion Pictures 264
Illinois Landmarks to Act1 as Back Drops 133-134
Illinois Exhibitors' Banquet 54-56
Illustrated Sermons 130
"Implet" is Born, The 84-85
Improvements in Theater Equipment. By Charles F.
Morris 7-9
Indiana Meeting, The (Editorial) 4
Indiana Meeting a Busy One 104-105
Indian-Head Dramas and Comedies 119-120
Industrial Company's Remarkable Booklet 275
J
Face Polar Bears to Get Films 126
Facts About Edison Reissue No. 13329. By David S.
Hulfish 123-126
Far North in Motion Pictures 183
Film on the Loan Shark 131
Film Exchange Suggestion, A (Editorial) 147-148
Film Treatise on Instructing the Blind, A 163-164
Film Records Wedding Scenes 170
Filmatis Personae (Editorial) 243-244
Films to Popularize Electric Service 245-246
Films for Chicago Schools 67
Films Will Tell of Teeth 117
Films at Southern Sociological Congress 226
Filmer's Lament, The 62
First Meeting of Montgomery Company 177
Flashlight for Theater Usher 184
Fox Files Bond for Appeal 114
Fox's Case Decided 85
Fox vs. the Patents Company (Editorial) 6
France's Picture Theaters 68
Frontispiece 2, 50, 98, 146, 194, 242
George Fitch on Motion Pictures 113
General League Notes 247-248
General Film Has Fire 87
Germany's Picture Shows (Editorial) 149-150
Good Word for Pictures 221
Governor Lectures a Film 73
Government Investigating Picture Business 129
H
Habit 38
Health Campaign in Pictures 150
High Class Frogram, A 135
Hip Pocket Essays Ill, 159
Homesickness to be Relieved (Editorial) 6
Hoosiers in Moving Pictures 184
Howe Gets Beachy Pictures 24
How Property Fire is Made 131
House Organ Again, The (Editorial) 51-52
How Sunlight Screens Are Made , 36
Humidor Film Tin Patent Allowed 87
Japan's Picture Theaters 226
Joint Exhibitors Bar School Children 184
K
Kalein in Italy and Spain 36
Kansas Church Adopts Moving Pictures 212
Kansas Schools and Theaters Co-operate 129
Kansas City Exhibitors Organize 105-106
Kearton's Get More Nature Films 113
Kentucky League Convention, The 207-208
Kindergarten Pictures 117
Kleine to Release Cines 34
L
Layman Criticizes, A 228
Lecturer Prophesies School Pictures 245
Lock Up 39
London Schools to Use Pictures 129
Long Runs (Editorial) 52
Los Angeles Correspondence 132
Lubin May Build in Arizona 231
Lubin South and Southwest 83
M
Making Motion Pictures by Pencil 162
Meeting of Indiana Exhibitors 18-20
Meetings at Columbus and Cincinnati 248
Metol Developer Prices Adjusted 181
Mexican Frightened by Camera Man 135
Michigan Association Active 82
Moving Picture Sales Campaign, A 32
Moral Status of the Picture Show (Editorial) 53
Milwaukee Week's Attendance 156
Minneapolis Houses Officially Approved 60
More About Germany's Shows (Editorial) 196-197
Morocco's Picture Shows 74
Mirror Screen Maker Given a Dinner 87
Most Popular Picture Player 132
Motography's Gallery of Motion Picture Players 11-14
Motor Operation of Picture Machines 174
Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America, The....
103-106, 151-156, 207-208, 229, 247-249, 274
Motion Pictures in Schools 122
Motograph Demonstrator Disappears 135
INDEX TO VOLUME VII
in
Motion Pictures Destroying German Drama 245
Motography as a Medium of Education. By E. B. Lock- wood 225-226
Moving Pictures in Municipal Campaign 122
Moved to Repentence by Moving Pictures 134
Moving Picture Craze, The. By James W. McGce 150
Moving Pictures for House Arguments 254
Music for Cines Subject 179-180
Music Versus Pictures (Editorial) 197-198
Mutual Group Buying Film Companies 233
X
Xeed Fermit to Show Each Film 263
New Feature Film Company 274-275
New Problems in Censorship (Editorial) 243
New Home for the League (Editorial) 6
New St. Louis Theater 133
New Year's Picture Party. A 16-17
New Zealand's Picture Shows 136
New Pennsylvania Convention Date 223
News from the American Studio 230-231
Norway's Ficture Theaters 72
Notable Film Advertising Campaign, A 106
Novelties in Moving Pictures 114
No Sunday Vaudeville in Niagara Falls 184
O
\ Of Interest to the Trade
33-40, 83-88, 131-136. 179-184, 229-233, 274-283
Ohio Convention at Dayton, March 25 103
Oh io Convention in March . . 87
On the Outside, Looking In. By the Goat Man
940, 61-62. 111-113. 159-161, 219-220, 251-253
Only Filipino Amusement (The) 88
Organization Abroad ( Editorial) 52
Our Lying Senses 273
Patent Case Decision. The (Editorial) 148-149
Patents Situation, The (Editorial) 195
Pathe in Texas and Mexico 87
Pennsylvania Convention, June 24 249
Personal Notes 41. 89 137, 185-186, 234, 283-284
Philadelphia Age Limit Law 164
Photoplay Detective Stories 69-70
Fhotoplays from Essanay's 167-168, 209-211, 269-271
Picture Men Give Charity Over $3.000 64
Pictures in Topeka Churches 77
Picture Politics 221
Pictures Greatest Aid to Insane 224
Fictures in Central Station Advertising 214
Pictures in the Straits Settlement 226
Pictures in the Air 221
Picture Copyright Bill in House 161
Pictures in School (Editorial) 100-101
Fictures as an Advertising Force. By Watterson R.
Rothacker 71-72
Picture Publicity for Australia 276
Pictures at Convention of Manufacturers 254
Pictures of Vesuvius Interior 254
Pictures O. K. for Roman Churches 256
Fictures a Splendid Institution 246
Playhouse of the Future. The. By Ford W. Eaton
65-67. 107-110. 171-173,215-218, 265-268
Fortland Photoplays of High Standard 170
Possibilities of Fire, The (Editorial) 52-53
Problems of the Operating Room. By William T.
Braun 75-77, 127-129, 175-177
Professional Theater Loafers 28
Promising Film Advertising Campaign, A. By E. B.
Lock wood 161
Publicity Matter on Sclig's "Columbus" 231-232
Publishers Feel Competition (Editorial) 102
Railroad Teaching with Films 246
Recent Patents in Motography. By David S. Hulfish.
29-32, 79-81
Roll of the States
41-46, 89-94, 137-142, 186-190, 234-238, 284-286
Russia's Picture Shows 72
S
Saloon Business Injured by Pictures 130
Satisfied with "Sunlight" Screen 131-132
Schools Call for "Santa Catalina" Film 39-40
Scientific Use for the Motion Picture 271
Scotland's Picture Houses 74
Selig Picture Suggested by Selig's Picture 183
Selig's Greatest Animal Picture 281-282
Selig-Press Club Prizes Awarded 262
Selig to Release a Former Success 184
Shadow from the Future, A (Editorial) 195-196
She Removed Her Hat 276
Shows in Vera Cruz 22
Shutting Out the Children (Editorial) 99-100
Some Legal Decisions of 1911 (Editorial) 4-6
South Africa's Picture Shows 78
Spain's Picture Shows 72
Spanish Market, The (Editorial) 6
Speaker Clark in Films 178
Special Shows Urged for Children 17
St. Paul Church Uses Films 10
Sunlight Metallic Cloth Curtains 229-230
Syria's Picture Shows 73
T
Takes Your Moving Picture 221
Talking for Moving Pictures 211
Technicalities of Scenario Writing. By Robert Saunders
Dowst 15-16
Texas Educators Favor Films 218
Thanhouser Activities 283
Thanhouser's "Called Back" 277-27S
The Independent Situation (Editorial) 244-245
The School Board Journal's View 257-258
The Exchange Meet at Cincinnati 250
The Modern flistoric Records Association 271
The "Martin Chuzzlewit" Cast 282
IV
INDEX TO VOLUME VII
T
This Film Moved Some 136
Town Runs a Picture Show 110
Town Owns Picture Show 260
Travelogues and Topicals. By E. B. Lockwood 257
Trade at Dayton, The 182
Tobacco in Motion Pictures 133
Topeka Shows Commended 198
Trouble for Lubin People in El Paso 132-133
Turkey's Picture Theaters 88
W
Warning to Exhibitors 249
Washington Schools Want Pictures 221
Weather Man Predicts Cloud Films 263
West Virginia Meet 248-249
West Virginia Exhibitors Organize 103-104
West Virginia Exhibitors Meet Soon 64
Who's Who in the Film Game 21-22, 261-262
Wisconsin Seating Company Enlarges 38
W. N. Selig Acquires a Mansion 283
Woman's Club Uses Pictures .20
U
Y
Urges City of Dayton to Buy Camera.
178 Yellowstone Park on the Screen. By Watterson R.
Rathacker 169-170
Young Marvin a Titanic Victim 233
V
Views of a Police Superintendent 113-114
Visits Mother by Film 178 Zigomar
133
VOL. VII.
JANUARY, 1912
No. 1
Published Monthly by ELECTRICITY MAGAZINE CORPORATION. Monadnock Building. Chicago
EXPLOITING
MOTION PICTURES
MISS KATHLYX WILLIAMS WITH SELIG
1
ft J
The year 1912 will be chronicled in film history as the NEW ERA in picture entertainment. Upon January 20th we will introduce to the American people CIN-ES films with the magnificent spectacle
-BRUTUS
n
being an adaptation from Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," showing the death of Caesar, the flight of Brutus from Rome, the appearance of Caesar's ghost to Brutus, his death upon the battle field* and the Battle of Philippi.
On our next regular release date, Tuesday, January 23 rd, our offering will be a CIN-ES split reel,
j The Brave Deserve the Fair \ { Artistic Venice J
Then conies our URBAN-ECLIPSE release on Wednesday, January 24th.
A Woman s Wrath
a production of unusual interest, giving a most remarkable example of dramatic acting by Madame Dermoz.
Following soon thereafter, we will release
Joseph in Egypt
another CIN-ES marvel, and a faithful interpretation of the Biblical story.
For several months past, Exhibitors everywhere as well as the theatre-going public have been looking forward to the next advance step in the upward tendency of the photo-play, and now eagerly welcome CIN-ES and the new Urban-Eclipse films.
Beginning with the new era, KOSMIK film releases will be as follows :
Every Tuesday, a CIN-ES Every Wednesday, an URBAN -ECLIPSE Every Saturday, a CIN-ES
This weekly program will be indispensable to Exhibitors whose patrons exact the very best.
Kosmik releases 'will include : Dramas staged in marvelous magnificence; that grip the spectator. Comedies of that clean, wholesome brand that prove the undoing of the pessimist. Subjects of every character designed to spellbind patrons of the moving picture show.
Watch the Trade Papers and our Advance Bulletins for Coming Kosmik Classics.
George Kleine
166 North State Street CHICAGO
Licensed by Motion Picture Patents Company
MOTOGRAPHY
Published the 15th of each month by
ELECTRICITY MAGAZINE CORPORATION
MONADNOCK BUILDING, CHICAGO
Long Distance Telephone: Harrison 3014
Ed J. Mock and Paul H. Woodruff, Editors James B. C rippen, AssociateEditor
Allen L. Haase, Advertising Manager
New York Office: 1433 Hartford Bldg., 41 Union Square Telephone: Stuyvesant 1672
London Office: 36 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden S. RENTELL & CO., Representatives
B
Entered <is Second Class Matter at tJie Postofflce <il Chir/i(m. Illinois, Under Act of March 3, 1879.
Table of Contents
Madame Methevier, Eclipse Player Frontispiece
Editorial .......... ...... 3-6
Between the Years ..-•..•• 3
Economies in Theater Operation ....................... .j.. .''.'..• ■ 3
The Indiana Meeting .\ 4
Some Legal Decisions of 1911 ■■..-• 4
Fox vs. the Patents Company 6
On the Outside Looking In. By the Goat Man .................. . .9-10
Improvements in Theater Equipment. By Charles F. Morris-... 7-9
St. Paul Church Uses Films • • 10
Motography's Gallery of Motion Picture Players ..................... 11-14
Technicalities of Scenario Writing. By Robert Saunders Dowst. ...... .15-16
A New Year's Picture Party 16-17
Special Shows Urged for Children 17
Meeting of Indiana Exhibitors . . • • ............................. i 18-20
Women's Club Uses Pictures 20
Who's Who in the Film Game .21-22
Shows in Vera Cruz . .... i ............... . 22
Current Educational Releases 23-24
Howe Gets Beachey Pictures ........................_-.......••..;-.... 24
Coming Fssanay Westerns 25-26
A Blind Boy's Interest in Pictures 27-28
Professional Theater Loafers ......... .^-. ... -. 28
Recent Patents in Motography. By David S. Hulfish. 29-32
Of Interest to the Trade . . • • 33-40
A Moving Picture Sales Campaign 32
Among the Picture Theaters ....--......••..•• • ■ 41-46
Complete Record of Currrent Films • • 47-48
^3
s-*.'minii. i i, •* — '
TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION
United States, Cuba and Mexico, S2.00 per year; Canada, 52.50 per year; Foreign countries within the Postal Union, $3.00 per year;
Single Copy, 20 cents.
Distributing Agent: The Western News Company and its International Branches.
NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS
Changes of advertising copy should reach the office of publication not less than five days in advance of date of issue. Regular date of issue, the 15th of each month. New advertisements will be accepted up to within three days of date of issue* but proof of such advertisement can not be shown.
NOTICE TO SUBSCRIBERS
Remittances should be made by check. New York draft or money order in favor of MOTOGRAPHY. Foreign subscriptions may u remittec' directly by International Postal Money Order, or sent to our London office. The old address should be given as well as the new, and notice should be received two weeks in advance of the desired chan.
MADAME METHEVIER, ONE OF GEORGE KLEINE'S ECLIPSE PLAYERS.
WITH WHICH IS INCORPORATED THE NICKELODEON
Vol. VII.
Chicago, January, 1912.
No. 1.
BETWEEN THE YEARS.
THE divisions of time are man-made, and the clock never pauses as one year melts, or perhaps we should say freezes, into another. But there is a period, however short, when the holiday festivities have faded away and we are back in the prosaic, that most of us spend in contemplating- either the year be- hind or the year ahead. And editors, who in all mod- esty imagine they bear the responsibility of the world on their shoulders, are particularly prone to utter words of alleged wisdom regarding the future, or to draw learned and subtle conclusions from analysis of the past.
It has been our endeavor, in the editing of Motography, to chronicle every event and develop- ment in the field of motion pictures as we went along. Our readers have been able to keep in touch with the progress of the art as well as we, for we have passed the facts on to them as soon as we could. So we shall say little about the lessons of 1911, beyond a passing- commentary on the chief events of that year.
Xo really extraordinary events mark the year in motographic history, although the successful forma- tion of the Motion Picture* Exhibitors' League of America comes almost in that category and, no doubt really marks an epoch in the history of the industry. The convention of the Association in August was the first national gathering of picture theater representa- tives ever held in this country.
There has been a considerable advance in the use cf pictures in penal institutions and insane hospitals, while films in church have become almost common. School officials, while not yet active in the application ci motography to education, are evincing a rapidly growing interest in the subject, and the questions asked us indicate the practical nature of that interest. Ey the signs, it will not be long before films are a standard school equipment.
In the industrial field, by which we mean mo- tography applied to the uses of publicity or exploita- tion, great strides have been made in the last year, for which we must extend credit to a few energetic workers who have specialized and concentrated on .that branch.
The year has been marked by a general increase in the output of film-, most of the licensed and many of the independent makers adding one or two reels to the weekly product. This new product demanding a market, an excellent export business has been devel- oped, and American films now form a considerable portion of foreign programs. It is to be regretted, however, that a larger portion of the new product has not been devoted to scientific, educational and travel subjects.
Xo great advance in either talking or colored pic-
tures has been made, in spite of The exploitation of the new Gaumont Chronophone, and of Kinemacolor. It is known, however, that a number of manufactur- ers are experimenting in these fields, and with so many minds bent in the same direction we may ex- pect some results.
One interesting development of the year has been the two and three reel subject; and while this exten- sion of the photo-drama had, and still has, some critics, it must be conceded that the. examples so far pro- duced are exceptionally fine.
An encouraging sign, particularly noticeable to- ward the close of the year, is the increasing respect of the daily press for the motion picture. Lauditory comment is now almost as common as the reverse was formerly.
For 1912 we are at least safe in predicting further progress along the ascending lines of the past. Es- pecially may we look for a substantial gain in school use. and a more general application of motography to the practical problems of the day. In the entertain- ment field the coming year will show a further elim- ination of the inadequate store theater and an in- creased investment in the better houses. The im- provements in the screen, lighting and projection that have been made in 1911 will tend to become standard in 1912. The second annual convention of the Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America, which will take place in Chicago next summer, will strengthen the organization and disarm the criticism of the skep- tics. And with closer organization, a broader use of the art, and a manufacturing body straining every nerve toward improvement, the course of another year should bring the motion picture recognition as the greatest of art-sciences.
ECONOMIES IN THEATER OPERATION.
THE old adage that the best way to make money is to save it applies just as well to the motion picture theater business as to other lines of endeavor. A saving in operation is always equivalent to an increase in earn- ing power, a fact which many large manufacturing in- dustries are making use of. A theater is simply a manu- facturing plant, manufacturing and selling amusement, and any economy in operation that can be installed with- out impairing the quality of the product will pay divi- dends to the owner. One of the most constant expenses that the manager of a motion picture house has to face is the item for electricity. This item may seem a- unas- sailable as the Rock of Gibraltar, and yet in main- in- stances the cost of current may be appreciably lowered. Lenses are not generally looked upon as wasteful of current. — they are for the most part accused merely of producing a poorer quality of picture. And yet the fact remains that poor lenses are very wasteful of electricity, owing to the diffraction of light which they brin» about.
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
It is economy in the long run to buy good lenses, for they will soon save the difference in price. In a number of cases which have come to notice, the substitution of ground lenses of the first quality for cheap cast ones re- duced the energy bill at once by as much as 30 per cent.
Another point where saving can be gained is the shutter. By using a shutter which opens in several places at a time, on the lines, perhaps, of an iris dia- phragm, there will be a considerable decrease in the time required to change each picture, and this will allow more time for each individual picture to be left on the screen, resulting thereby in less dependence on the "persistence of vision," and giving a corresponding saving in energy.
It should always be borne in mind that the area of the picture has a great deal to do with the current used, and that the smaller the picture, the smaller will be the bill for electricity. This should furnish a suggestion for some house managers, for in a number of theaters that have been visited the picture is far too large for either comfort or economy. A smaller picture does not magnify little irregularities in the film, or slight movements of the machine, to such a great extent as a large picture. Be- cause of this increased steadiness, a smaller picture is frequently to be desired not only by the patrons of the theater, but also by the manager, because it costs less. Even a slight decrease in size will sometimes improve the quality of the picture as well as effect a saving in cur- rent consumption.
The most satisfactory way of reducing the electricity bill is, of course, to reduce the price of energy. This seems like a difficult nut to crack, but there is no doubt that in many cases it can actually be done. Most plants supplying electric current have two rates, one applying to current used for lighting purposes, the other to current when it is used for power purposes. The power rate is much lower. There is no reason why the electricity used in operating a projecting machine should not be charged at the power classification, yet it frequently pays the higher rate. Sometimes a little argument with the man- ager of the lighting company will have the desired effect, while in other cases more strenuous remedies must be applied. In some instances a solution was found in the installation of a motor-generator set. The motor is run from the regular current furnished by the lighting com- pany. It operates the small dynamo which generates the current for the arc. In this way, the motor is subjected to the lower power rate, and the saving effected is soon sufficient to pay the cost of the entire installation. Others have solved the problem of cutting down the current ex- pense by installing a dynamo operated by a gas engine, a plan which makes them entirely independent of the light- ing company.
It seems rather surprising that more use has not been made of accumulators, for it would seem that a storage battery might furnish a very satisfactory way of cutting down the cost of current. The battery could be charged during the daytime, when there was compara- tively little demand for current and no doubt power rates could be secured. Lighting for the hall could be put direct on the lighting company's mains, since this forms only such a small proportion of the total current con- sumption. Current from a storage battery would be ideal for motion pictures, where steadiness is so necessary to good results.
Current can often be saved in considerable amount by changing the scheme of outside lighting. The popular idea at present is to have as much light outside the thea- ter as possible, the idea evidently being that people are like moths, — that they will plunge, unresisting, into the
place with the brightest light. Surely it would be possi- ble to make the place equally attractive with a far smaller current consumption. For instance, the usual arc lamps could be displaced by one mercury vacuum lamp which would cut down the current expense and be even more attractive, owing to its mysterious color. It might also be suggested that the incandescent lamps in the front of the theater be changed to some distinctive color, say red or green. Even though only half as many lights were used, the building would at once have such distinc- tiveness that it would immediately be called into promi- nence. The attraction depends more on the quality than on the quantity of light.
There is no doubt that considerable saving can be made in the electricity bills of motion picture theaters without in the least affecting the quality of the picture or the attracting power of the outside illumination. Man- agers are every day realizing more and more the import- ance of taking advantage of every opportunity for econo- mizing and the electricity bill is coming in for its full share of the discussion.
THE INDIANA MEETING.
IT is not known whether the Indianapolis conven- tion was the result of some advanced form of New Year's resolution or not, but at any rate it engendered the feeling of good fellowship and co-operation which is generally associated with the holiday season. The getting together of people in the same line of en- deavor is always inspiring. It makes them realize that even their competitors are human, that they have the same -aims, and must overcome the same obsta- cles, and it is helpful, considered simply as an experi- ence meeting.
It is worthy of note that petty personal griev- ances found no outlet in the Indianapolis convention. The questions discussed»were broad and pertained to the trade at large, which is as it should be. Getting better service, having a voice in the censorship, and improving the quality of films are questions of inter- est to every exhibitor, while their solution represents real work to be done.
With a staff of energetic officers, two organizers in the field, and the spirit of organization in the air, we may indeed look for great progress in Indiana. What state will be next in line?
SOME LEGAL DECISIONS OF ipu.
DURING 1911 the higher courts passed upon a num- ber of questions directly pertaining to the manu- facture or exhibition of motion pictures. We have space to call attention to only a few of these decisions, and have selected those which seem most interesting.
In September, 1909, The Nickelodeon reported the decree of the circuit court in New York finding for Harper and Brother in their suit against the Kalem Company for infringement of copyright in making the film entitled "Ben Hur," after the book of that name by Gen. Lew Wallace. The case was appealed by Kalem and reached the United States Supreme court, whose decision was announced November 13, 1911. The de- cree of the lower court was affirmed. The following extracts from the opinion of the court as delivered by Justice Holmes are interesting:
The subdivision of the question that has the most gen- eral importance is whether the public exhibition of these moving pictures infringed any rights under the copyright law. By Rev. Stat., sec. 4952, as amended bv the act of March 3, 1891, chap. 565, 26 Stat, at L. 1106, U. S. Comp. Stat. 1901,
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
p. 3406, authors have the exclusive right to dramatize any of their works. So, if the exhibition was or was founded on a dramatizing of Ben llur, this copyright was infringed. We are of opinion that Ben Hur was dramatized by what was done. Whether we consider the purpose of this clause of the statute, or the etymological history and present usages of language, drama may be achieved by action as well as by speech. Action can tell a story, display all the most vivid relations between men; and depict every kind of human emo- tion, without the aid of a word. It would be impossible to deny the title of drama to pantomime, as played by masters of the art. Daly v. Palmer, 6 Blatchf. 256, 264, Fed. Cas. No. 3,552. But if a pantomime of Ben Hur would be a dramatiz- ing of Ben Hur, it would be none the less so that it was exhibited to the audience by reflection from a glass, and not by direct vision of the figures — as sometimes has been done in order to produce ghostly or inexplicable effects. The es- sence of the matter in the case last supposed is not the mechanism employed, but that we see the event or story lived. The moving pictures are only less vivid than reflec- tions from a mirror. With the former as with the latter our visual impression — what we see — is caused by the real pan- tomime of real men through the medium of natural forces, although the machinery is different and more complex. How it would be if the illusion of motion were produced from paintings instead of from photographs of the real thing may be left open until the question shall arise.
It is said that pictures of scenes in a novel may be made and exhibited without infringing the copyright, and that they may be copyrighted themselves. Indeed, it was conceded by the circuit court of appeals that these films could be copy- righted, and, we may assume, could be exhibited as photo- graphs. Whether this concession is correct or not, in view of the fact that the}- are photographs of an unlawful drama- tization of the novel, we need not decide. We will assume that it is. But it does not follow^that the use of them in motion does not infringe the author's rights. The most in- nocent objects, such as the mirror in the other case that we have supposed, may be used for unlawful purposes. And if, as we have tried to show, moving pictures may be used for dramatizing a novel, when the photographs are used in that way, they are used to infringe a right which the statute re- serves.
But, again, it is said that the defendant did not produce the representations, but merely sold the films to jobbers, and on that ground ought not to be 4ield. In some cases where an ordinary article of commerce is sold nice questions may arise as to the point at which the seller becomes an accom- plice in a subsequent illegal use by the buyer. It has been held that mere indifferent supposition or knowledge on the part of the seller that the buyer of spirituous liquor in con- templating such unlawful use is not enough to connect him with the possible unlawful consequences. (Graves v. John- son, 179 Mass. 53, 88 Am. St. Rep. 355, 60 N. E. 383), but that if the sale was made with a view to the illegal resale, the price could not be recovered (Graves v. Johnson, 156 Mass. 211, 15 L. R. A. 834, 32 Am. St. Rep. 446, 30 X. E. 818). But no such niceties are involved here. The defendant not only expected but invoked by advertisement the use of its films for dramatic reproduction of the story. That was the most conspicuous purpose for which they could be used, and the one for which especially the}' were made. If the defend- ant did not contribute to the infringement, it is impossible to do so except by taking part in the final act. It is liable on principles recognized in every part of the law. Rupp & W. Co. v. Elliott, 65 C. C. A. 544, 131 Fed. 730, 732; Harper v. Shoppell. 28 Fed. 613. Morgan Envelope Co. v. Albany Per- forated Wrapping Paper Co. 152 U. S. 425, 433, 38 L. ed. 500, 503, 14 Sup. Ct. Rep. 627.
It is argued that the law, construed as we have construed it. goes beyond the power conferred upon congress by the Constitution, to secure to authors for a limited time the ex- clusive right to their writings. Art. 1, sec. 8, cl. 8. It is suggested that to extend the copyright to a case like this is to extend it to the ideas, as distinguished from the words in which those ideas are clothed. But there is no attempt to make a monopoly of the ideas expressed. The law confines itself to a particular, cognate, and well-known form of repro- duction. If to that extent a grant of monopoly is thought a proper way to secure the rights to the writings, this court cannot say that Congress was wrong.
Some months ago Motography commented on the peculiar ordinance in force in the City of Atlanta, Ga., making it the duty of the proprietor, lessee, or other per-
son in charge of every opera house, or theater, or moving picture show, or vaudeville performance, or similar ex- hibition, to require ladies who attend such performances to remove their hats before the performance begins and to keep them off during the performance. William Old- know, operating a picture tbeater in Atlanta, was con- victed in the recorder's court of violating this ordinance and appealed. The Court of Appeals of Georgia affirms the decision of the lower court and says :
The plaintiff in error in this case was proprietor of whac is known as a "moving picture show" in the city of Atlanta. This character of amusement has become one of the most popular methods of recreation and pleasure, and is resorted to almost universally by all classes of citizens. The business is clearly lawful, as well as entertaining, and sometimes in- structive, and the public has the right to resort to these places, and, while there, to be protected in the full enjoy- ment furnished by this class of entertainment. It is a matter of common knowledge that the style of modern hats worn by ladies, if permitted to be worn by them while the per- formance is in progress, will prevent those who may be so unfortunate as to sit in the rear of ladies from seeing the stage or from enjoying the spectacular entertainment there presented, which is a most important part of the perform- ance. Nothing more greatly mars the pleasure of an enter- tainment, or disturbs the comfort of those who may be so unfortunate as to be located behind these obstructions, or more irritably disturbs or interferes with the comfort of the audience attending the theaters or moving picture shows, than these large hats worn by ladies, which in many cases completely obstruct the view of the performance. The spec- tacular is the principal part of moving picture shows. The evil aimed at by this ordinance, the mischief it was intended to prevent, and the nuisance it was passed to abate, all clear- ly show that the ordinance in question is within the police power of the city and is authorized by the "general welfare clause" of its charter.
If the ordinance is lawful, he can enforce it by simply calling to his aid the police of the city to arrest any lady who refuses to obey the regulation and remove her hat. Besides, it is a matter of common knowledge that the ladies of our country are always amenable to reasonable requests conducing to the comfort of others.
The ordinance is not discriminatory because it does not include men within its operation. Men do not need any regulation on this subject. Public opinion, which demands that the man shall take off his hat in the presence of ladies, is sufficient, and does not need the aid of any police regu- lation. If it were the fashion for men to wear hats of such description as those worn by ladies in this day and to keep them on in nublic places, could it be doubted that there would be a loud and vociferous demand on the part of the ladies for the abatement of such a nuisance? But we will not extend the discussion. We hold that the ordinance in question, reasonably construed, is clearly within the police power of the city of Atlanta, that it does not discriminate. that it does not impose on the proprietor of such places any unnecessary or unusual hardship, and that it is in the interest of public order and comfort.
In the case of Miller et al vs. Miloslowsky, appealed from the district court of Polk county. Iowa, the action is to recover damages to motion picture films. The Supreme Court of Iowa finds for the plaintiff in support of the lower court. It was declared that as bailee the defendant was responsible for the welfare of the films, and it only remained to prove that the damage was caused while in his possession. The admission of expert testimony in this case is interesting. The court says:
The testimony of one of the plaintiffs' witnesses that the "scratches were extended the whole length of the film, show- ing there was some defect in the machine, the sprocket holes were torn out, showing that the machine had not been properly handled," we think, was properly received. The witness had had long experience with such films, and with their use and handling. In other words, he was an experr in the business, and we think he was shown fully competent to give an opinion as to what caused the injury to the films. Ordinary jurymen know nothing about such matters, or how such films are used or operated. Moreover, the defend- ant's evidence tended to show that films may he damaged
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
by the use of defective machines and by improper handling. The evidence sustains the verdict, and the judgment should be, and it is, affirmed.
FOX VS. THE PATENTS COMPANY.
ONE of the most interesting actions recorded in cur- rent trade history is the suit of the Greater New York Film Renting Company, William Fox, president, against the Motion Picture Patents Company. At the time we go to press Justice Bijur's decision is not an- nounced, and it is not our function to pre-judge the case. It is interesting to observe, though, that the case involves most of those actions of the Patents Company and the General Film Company which some of the trade have deemed questionable from a legal standpoint. It may be remarked that these more subtle questions of legality are seldom clear to the layman, who is prone to jump to con- clusions which harmonize with his personal sentiments. An action may appear dictatorial and high-handed in the extreme, and still be perfectly lawful ; while on the other hand one may fracture a statute by a procedure which seems entirely reasonable and within his rights.
So before we pass judgment on the Fox case let us await the decision of a regularly qualified court. We can at least rest assured that the result will clearly define the status and powers of the corporations involved, and settle once for all questions that have been puzzling the trade for the last few years.
THE SPANISH MARKET.
The Spanish market is less known than any in Europe, because, perhaps on account of its slight im- portance, it has not aroused the interest of those con- cerned.
The Iberian peninsula includes a very important center, from the point of view of cinematography; in fact, one of the most important in the whole world, without any doubt — Barcelona. It is in this magnifi- cent town that all the agents of film manufacturers have their headquarters ; it is from there that export business is done, not only with America, but with the Philippines and all those countries which once were ranged under the gleaming banner of the Kings of Castille.
Barcelona is the only city in Spain where the film business is flourishing; everywhere else, even in Ma- drid, one only sees films which have been released three or four weeks, which proves undeniably that the public in the rest of Spain is only interested in a sec- ondary way with the great successes of the master- pieces of cinematographic art.
It is certain that a good agent, well in touch with the exporters, and having a wide experience of cinema- tograph commerce, is a factor of great importance when it is desired to do business in our country. Nev- ertheless, it is impossible to alter the taste of the pub- lic, which naturally has its likes and dislikes ; thus I do not think an agent engaged to sell "cowboy films" would have much success. When offered such sub- jects as these, the Spanish public invariably expresses its discontent in one way or another.
As I have spoken of films which do not please the Spanish public, it is natural that I should say a few words on the films which are successful amongst this same class. Pathe's have for a long time been the best known, although latterly they have had to meet the competition of brands such as Eclair, Vitagraph, Itala, and perhaps also Ambrosio. Gaumont, on the
other hand, are much appreciated in Portugal. Ger- man brands of films have not succeeded at all up to the present, although for some time they have been considerably improving their position. In short, these are brands with which big firms will have to reckon in the future.
Danish films, with the exception of Nordisk, are only just making their debut, and it would be out of place to judge them on what they are capable of do- ing. We come next to English films, and I am sorry to say that they have never been to our taste.
This market, which has felt the effects of over- production before, is agitated by the import of new films, American, for the most part, and by the favor- able reception which the public has accorded to long films. One must hope, however, that this trouble will be only temporary, and that the market will soon find itself again in its habitual calm, characteristic of our business.
NEW HOME FOR THE LEAGUE.
On Wednesday, December 20, the Cleveland local of the Moving Picture Exhibitors' League of America, held their first meeting in their beautiful new quarters, located at 1459 West Sixth street. Great surprise was expressed by the members when they came to the meeting and viewed for the first time these new and elegantly furnished quarters which they could really call their own. The committee in charge consisted of S. Lustig, C. M. Christenson and S. Bullock. They were given full power to act, and it is needless to say that they made the most of their duties.
The meeting room was artistically decorated with Christmas greens, heavy green streamers being hung across the large room from the corners of the ceiling, encircling an immense welcome sign which hung di- rectly above the president's chair, which was a large upholstered leather arm chair, in front of which was a quartered-oak stand and gavel. President S. E. Morris accepted his chair with much satisfaction. A large roll-top desk of the latest design awaited L. H. Wilk, secretary, and a desk of the flat variety for F. M. Kenney, financial secretary.
An enormous rug covered the center of a parquet floor. Thirty-six oak chairs were provided, with plenty of room for more, as the occasion demands.
It is the intention of the organization to install a supply department, in the near future, and carry a full line of machine parts, carbons, tickets, etc., and furnish them to the members at actual cost.
Cleveland Local No. 1 was the first organization of motion picture exhibitors in the country, and called the first national convention, which was held in Cleve- land, August 1, 2 and 3, 1911.
HOMESICKNESS TO BE RELIEVED.
Families throughout Italy with soldiers- at the front have been notified by the government to assem- ble in their various cities and villages to be moto- graphed. The films will be sent to Tripoli and other war centers and be shown the homesick soldiers in the form of moving pictures.
Christmas and New Year's day are essentially family feasts through Italy and therefore the soldiers are desperately homesick. General Caneva cabled to the government, making the suggestion. The author- ities promptly approved it and arranged to have the pictures taken without delay.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
Improvements in Theater Equipment
By Charles F. Morris
A
FEW" years ago, in walking about the streets of a city, one was likely to find, at infrequent intervals, store buildings with curiously recessed entrances. A squeaky phonograph was sure to grind out grand opera and ragtime with equal impartiality and with the same rapidity, while the chances were that a hoarse-voiced barker would loudly tell of the wonders within.
If one were especially adventurous he paid his nickel or dime at the door and was allowed to enter a room as dark as a Stygian night. Instinct, more than the exercise of the senses, led him to a vacant chair or a place on a bench which he was allowed to share along with other adventurous souls who had likewise floundered into their places and would soon flounder out again. The only light in the room seemed to be reflected from a sheet hung on the wall at the front of the house. All eyes were focused devour- ingly on this sheet, for on it moved a waver- ing, flickering, shad- owy, indefinable some- thing which men mar- veled at. The only sound was of the squeaky phonograph, while the incessant whirr and clatter of some cumber- some mechanism at the back of the room added to the air of mysticism. This was the motion picture theater of the past.
In order to see a motion picture theater of the present, one should visit the Orphe- um, of Chicago, for the Orpheum is typical of the class of theaters which began springing up three or four years ago when mankind got tired of the motion pic- ture as a curiosity and desired it as a steady amusement diet. The Orpheum is located in the busiest section of Chicago's busiest street, where it is convenient for the man of affairs to drop in for some diversion during his noon hour or while waiting for an appointment. And many of them have been educated into this habit too, for a large part of the Orpheum's patronage consists of busi- ness men.
The front of the house looks very much like the front of very many other houses, except that it is larger and finer, being finished in white with numerous lights.
Front of the Orpheum Theater, Chicago.
an effect which is almost the hall-mark, we might say, or the trade-mark, of motion picture theaters in general. The main floor of the theater is double aisled, the seats being standard opera chairs. The brass railed balcony, with its rows of chairs, extends back and upward to the machine booth. Along the sides of the balcony are boxes o( regulation theater type. There is even a gallery up above the back part of the balcony. The house seats 700. Perhaps the first thing that will impress a visitor to the Orpheum is the fact that even while the pictures are being shown the lights are on so brightly that one does
not have to feel his way into a vacant chair. In- stead, he follows one of the young lady ush- ers down the aisle and takes his seat. The in- direct system of light- ing is used, and a most satisfactory way it is to light a theater. A num- ber of indirect fixtures are used, and while the pictures are being shown, a third of the lights are on. Thus, without lessening the brilliance of the pic- ture, the theater is al- ways light enough for a visitor to recognize his friends or to read a paper, should he be so inclined.
But he is more likely to pay close at- tention to the program, and it will be well worth his attention, too, for great care is taken to have only interesting things shown. That is the beauty of charging ten cents admission. Your patrons demand more, of course, but on the other hand you have more money to give them what they want. And that has always been the policy of the Orpheum management — to give the people what they want. The performance is practically continuous from !• a. m. to 11 p. m.. each show lasting fifty minutes with an interval of about five minutes between shows.
It is interesting to note that the Orpheum manage- ment has made a special study of the ventilation problem. The ventilation plant was installed at a cost of $6,000, and supplies a constant and ample flow of pure air to the body of the theater at all times. Before it is admitted to the room the air is washed, so that the audience breathes air actually purer than that outside the building.
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
Recent Photograph of the Interior of the Orpheum.
The music is first class. An orchestra is constantly on duty, and a most successful attempt is made to have the music fit the picture. In carrying out this idea, many sound effects are used which, in skillful hands, add much to the enjoyment of a film. A staff of competent singers is employed and two illustrated songs are given each per- formance. A set of electric bells, judiciously used, forms an occasional pleasing variance in the musical program. In this connection it should be mentioned that the Orphe- um management has installed a set of annunciators, or loud speaking telephones. On the extreme left of the cut showing the interior of the theater will be noticed what appears to be a graphophone horn. This is one of the several annunciators. During a song these can be used, when from each horn will come a volume of melody. It is as if the entire balcony were singing the refrain, and the effect is more weird than can be described.
But, when all is said and done, it is the operating booth that is of the most importance, for it is there that the picture is made, and that is really why the people come to a picture theater, — to see the pictures. However, fine the appointments of the theater, — and they all count in gaining patronage. — it should not be lost sight of that in the last analysis the picture is the thing, and that one
of the best places to invest money a theater manager has is in his operating booth. The Orpheum operating booth is more than a booth, — it is very nearly a room. It is absolutely fireproof, being built of corrugated iron and lined with asbestos. Everything conforms with the strict Chicago laws. Two projecting machines are in- stalled, the burden of work being divided by using them alternately. This arrangement obviates any necessity for delaying the show should one machine get out of order. Alongside the projectors is the stereopticon, with its own operator. Only first run film is shown.
Expressions of admiration are frequently heard for the owners of the Orpheum, who did not fear to put $160,000 into a motion picture theater. It would take nerve of the highest order but, while its owners are ready to receive all such expressions of admiration, the fact remains that they do not deserve quite all of these enco- miums. For they did not have the nerve to put their in- vestment into motion pictures, but opened the Orpheum in September, 1907, as a vaudeville house. It presented vaudeville for just seven weeks. Then the call for pic- tures conquered, and the Orpheum became the largest motion picture theater in Chicago. The Orpheum is one link in the chain of amusement enterprises operated by
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
Jones, Linick & Schaefer, George Moore being house manager.
As a study of the highest type of motion picture thea- ters and as an example of the success which painstaking
attention to little details will secure, the Orpheum is ex- tremely interesting. What it is doing should be an inspi- ration to those theaters which have not yet attained its measure of success.
On the Outside Looking In
By the Goat Man
ABOUT the first question put to me last month was this: "If you are on the outside, how can you talk inside stuff?" Which proves conclus- ively that my questioner didn't read carefully. You won't find anything in this department that is truly inside information. There isn't anything of that kind to be had in the film business. The licensed and in- dependent groups of manufacturers have no press agents. It is another proof that film-making is an in- dustry— not a show^ business. You never saw a -how without a press agent, so there you are. The proceedings of the manufacturers are not for publica- tion— the book is closed on each meeting and access to their archives are by no means available. Forget it, my friends, there is to be no inside dope from this quarter. I merely intend to give you a near-layman's idea of the film business as it is. I want you to know more about the pictures you see on the screen. How they are made ; who makes them ; how they are mar- keted ; who markets them ; how your exhibitor gets them and what becomes of them after they disappear from your view. I have had a number of letters ask- ing very simple and very difficult questions. This tells me that the public is eager for more light on the subject. I have been careful in writing direct to these people. They are the earnest fans ; the real critics ; the clergy; the superintendents of penal institutes; members of the boards of education. They are hun- gry for knowledge that the country exhibitor and many of the city exhibitors cannot supply.
I do not mean to imply that exhibitors are neg- lecting some opportunities. They are largely at the mercy of the renter. Their programs are not always what they had hoped for. The service they must ac- cept from the renter is usually the renter's choice — not theirs. And it is not remarkable that many of the exhibitor? regard themselves as showmen. They are proprietors of an amusement place. Their patrons come to see the pictures : they see them. If the pro- gram is half-satisfying, the "show" was worth a nickle or a dime and they go on their way. A slide may have announced something "extra special" for day after tomorrow, but that has only an indifferent meaning to a large per cent of those who saw it, for day after tomorrow they might or might not attend a picture show and to them what wots it where they go — they will see motion pictures, won't they'
* * *
You may wonder why your exhibitor cannot have full choice in the making of his program. I have ex- plained that a certain group of film makers operates under a license from the Motion Picture Patents Com- pany who control fundamental patents for cameras and projectors. The product of this group of makers is sold through a licensed group of renters, who sup- ply the licensed exhibitors with his daily change of
films. Now the renter cannot afford to buy a great supply of duplicate reels. He will naturally buy as few as possible. If a maker produces an exceptionally good film, everybody will want it, when they learn that it is actually extraordinary, and the more pro- gressive exhibitor will want it right away. But his exchange (the renter) has only one or two prints and only one or two theaters can have the picture today, one or two tomorrow and one or two day after to- morrow. The process is slow and unwieldy. By the time your favorite theater gets it, you have seen it somewhere else. The poor picture travels the same route. It costs the renter the same price. It costs the
exhibitor the same price.
* * *
Then there is the exhibitors' schedule of prices. The really best place in town, is usually best because it pays a higher rental for film service than its com- petitors. This exhibitor uses "first run" film, by which is meant, the newest film on the market. For the privilege he must pay all the traffic will bear. There are all sorts of combinations in this film rental game — first run, second run, third run ; films a week old, a month old, three months old; mixtures — a first run, a week old and the like. The prices range from low to high, depending on the service employed. In the city, the exhibitor goes to his exchange for today's reels, returning those he used yesterday. In the coun- try, the service comes and goes by express. A reel of film contains 16,000 pictures. The pictures are three-fourths of an inch high and one inch wide — sixteen to a foot. The film is a continuous strip mounted in a metallic spool, the spool and contents weighing approximately seven pounds. Express com- panies classify it as extra hazardous material, and handle it upon its full valuation of $110. You can depend upon transportation companies getting theirs.
One of the evils of the business that is subject to certain reforms is film inspection. The renter, up- on the return of reels from the exhibitor, must give them examination before turning them over to the next customer. Now a film exchange is one of the busiest places you will find in a week's journey and the element of time is the prime factor. There is usually a customer waiting for a reel that hasn't come in. The inspection is usually hurried. It is usually the task of girls employed for that purpose. The reel to be inspected is set in a rack, the film end fastened to the axis of another reel and by winding the film from one reel to the other, inspection proceeds. Dam- aged sprocket holes and torn pictures must be cut out and patches are made. Removing as much as twelve inches of film — sixteen continuous pictures, destroys one second's action in the picture. You have seen thousands of cases of such a cutting, for you get the jump on the screen, but no matter — a second's enter- tainment isn't much when a full reel provides enjoy-
10
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
ment for 1,200 seconds. But inspection of films is ordinarily haphazard. There should be longer time at the disposal of the inspection department. I am a believer in clean films and there is available a practi- cal solution of the dirty film business. It should be adopted by all film renters. The clean picture need not be a first-run picture. Film inspection should pass into the hands of more responsible agencies. A film should never go out that will not do its full share in holding the interest of audiences in the picture that will follow. I see all too many rainstorms in fash- ionable interiors. Houses nowadays have roofs upon them, whether the manufacturers of films needs a roof on his house or not. I dread to think that the artificiality of the film parlor is sufficient excuse for the scratched picture.
To the gentleman who asks one to be more spe- cific regarding the hopelessness of the outsider get- ting inside, I simply reply — try it. This correspond- ent says : "If the business is as simple as you say it is, money and a comparatively small amount of it should turn the trick. If one can buy the cameras and the film stock and the materials and machinery necessary to manufacture, money will also secure tal- ent for production." I tried to show last month that conditions as they exist in America closed the Amer- ican market. I have repeated something of the con- dition as it respects the licensed group of makers. The independent maker profits by the policy of the licensed group. While the independent maker has no holding company for his patents, needing nothing to hold something which doesn't exist, he has formed a sales company. His films clear through this alleged selling company. Each manufacturer member is a director in the Motion Picture Distributing and Sales Company. I advise buying a membership before starting a film factory. I do not know that member- ships are for sale, but I would try by that method be- fore plunging into the other. I'm sure it would prove cheaper in the end.
* * *
Of course there is always that foreign market. It is wide open. Everybody has a chance there, but the price shrinks. A reel in America sells for $110. On the continent the price does not exceed $80. In London, the renter makes his selection from about one hundred and twenty-five sample prints offered. Eight cents per foot is high. The price ranges down- ward to cost. And even in the face of this American audiences have watched hundreds of miles of fleeting pictures that were made for the continental market. I am told that American films rank very high abroad — that more than half the programs in foreign coun- tries are made up of American reels.
I am threatened. I have declared that unless you were on the inside of this film game looking out, you would have to be satisfied by staying outside and looking in. It appears that this theory isn't always good. William Fox, president of the Greater New York Film Renting Company has been on the inside looking out for a long time. He declares under oath that his company's profits amount to $75,000 a year. He has been handling the films of the licensed group of makers, but in his laudable ambition to go ahead on the $75,000 a year basis, he has met with an obstacle. I will watch the fight with keen interest. I am told
that Mr. Fox has enough money to wage a hot, legal battle, and that he has the courage of his convictions.
* * *
It is nearly time to whoop it up for the second annual convention of The Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America to be held in Chicago this sum- mer. Chicago will show the exhibitors a lot of things about film-making that they have never known. There will be three big plants for them to inspect and the convention program will surely be planned in an- ticipation of these practical side-shows. Chicago will also want representation in the offices of the associa- tion— not all of the offices, but at least some of the offices. The Goat Man is a candidate for Christen- son's job, but not being an exhibitor himself, he is disqualified.
* * *
But the convention itself will differ a lot from the first one at Cleveland. It will be a business institu- tion from beginning to end. It will have a very large attendance, for no live exhibitor can afford to stay away. The exhibitor has his problems, but he should remember that there are others to be considered. He will learn for the first time, many of him, what con- stitutes part of the manufacturers' problem. The country exhibitor will learn for the first time what are the problems of the big metropolitan renter, for Chi- cago has film exchanges of high order. Take my ad- vice and attend the Chicago meeting. Your business will be there when you get back to it and I'm sure you'll have a better notion of what a business it is. The convention habit has been a long time reaching the film industry, but now that the thing has been started, it will be the last habit to be shaken off.
^ H* *
I am told that one or two very serious efforts are being made to adapt motion pictures to parlor enter- tainment. I know of nothing offering bigger oppor- tunity for quick returns on investment, providing that the outfit will scale somewhere near to player pianos. The method of supplying the films for home projec- tion will have much to do with the success of the scheme. The price for film service will have great bearing on the whole proposition. If we can afford to buy films outright, much the same as we buy music rolls, or talking machine records there will be no end to the possibilities of motion pictures in the home.
St. Paul Church Uses Films
An innovation in church service is planned by the Rev. P. P. Womer, pastor of the Park Congrega- tional Church on Mackubin street, Kansas City. Motion pictures will be shown with the intention of attracting those who on Sunday evenings spend their time at the theaters.
The pictures will depict sacred subjects. Mr. Womer plans opening the service with an anthem, followed by a scripture lesson and a description of the pictures.
"The idea is an innovation in the West," said the Rev. Mr. Womer. "Of course it may not prove popular at first, but should after a fair trial is given. When the organ was introduced in the churches 100 years ago there was decided antagonism. I will give motion pictures a fair test to see if by their use the church cannot be made as popular as the theater on Sunday evenings."
Jaxuary, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
II
12
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
13
14
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1,
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
15
Technicalities of Scenario Writing
By Robert Saunders Dowst
From The Editor.
THE fact that every scenario, on account of limi- tations inherent in its nature, is and must be a plot capable of being developed through action alone has a twofold effect upon the writer. To his disadvantage, it narrows the field which he may ex- plore for plot ideas. The only plot available to him is the plot which may be readily understood by an au- dience when it is played by dumb characters. This test must be rigidly applied. To his advantage, the very limitations of the scenario greatly simplify the technical difficulties in the way of producing a per- fect bit of work. It is a simple matter to develop the plot of action, for sequence in point of time is the only convention to be observed.
Simple as plot development through action is. it will not do to be careless. Sequence in point of time is the chief necessity, of course, but some sense of proportion must be shown in accepting or rejecting, condensing or expanding, the various possible scenes. Scenes not imperatively necessary to a proper eluci- dation of the plot are to be rejected, unless by some underlying element of appeal they will serve to grip and hold the sympathetic attention of an average audience ; all scenes neces- sary to lay bare the story in the eyes of people whose intelligence will cer- tainly not be superhuman must be given, in full and without slighting an essential detail ; and scenes which, like the sub-plots of Dickens' novels. add to the interest of the tale while they are not essential to it. must be so cut that they do not overshadow the main thread of the incident.
A valuable aid to the writer con- fined, as he is, by the narrow limits of the story of action is the letter, tele- gram, newspaper item or what not from one character to another and shown on the screen. By its use one may bring home to the audience some fact which it is essential that they should know and which it is impos- sible that they should learn through the movements of the characters in the playlet, and it is used in fully seventy-five per cent of the photo- plays produced today, for anything which widens the field open to him is doubly welcomed by the scenario writer in his search for plots. But there are two ways of using the let- ter, one obtrusive and bald, the other not open to such objection.
Many instances of the first meth- od may be given. To take a plot based on a mistaken identity, that old bromide, suppose A lias a daughter C. and an old friend D. who has a son E. A and D wish their children to marry one another, so D. who lives at MibS FI2H£
a distance from A, sends his son to A with a letter of introduction. The plot of the thing is to lie in the fact that A has never seen his friend's son and does not know him from the man in the moon, and in the fact that some bold bad hobo will waylay the son E, rob him of his clothes and his letter, 'go to A's house, live high, make love to A's daughter while A looks approvingly on. Now, if such a film is to be intelli- gent to an audience, the fact must be brought out that A has never seen his friend's son, otherwise \ would detect the hobo's imposition. Excepting the use of a sub-title the only way to make plain the fact is in the letter of introduction. Hence it will read somewhat as follows: "Dear Friend: This will intro- duce you to my son Charles, whom you have never seen. Any kindness which you may show him will be ap- preciated." The italicized clause will offend every man in the audience, when the film comes to be shown, it is too obviously an explanation. It ruptures all illusion; makes the thing seem unreal and illogical; and makes the characters seem puppets, jumping this way or that as the author or stage manager wills.
And yet the plot may depend upon a letter in such a wray that there is no lack of naturalness. Say A is a jeal- ous husband; B is his wife; C is his brother. C writes an affectionate let- ter in such general terms that the writer might be any man and sends it to his sister, who reads it, tears it up, and throws it in a waste-basket. A, the jealous man, sees her do so. fishes forth the letter, and pieces it together. Only one bit is missing, but that bit contains the words ''your loving brother," and the signature. The letter thus appears to be from a lover of the woman, and the husband so regards it. Later the missing piece may be found in some manner by the couple's baby daughter, and a sepa- ration averted., Such use of the let- ter does not offend, for it is not ob- viously an author's footnote to make clear a misty place in the plot.
The leader, or sub-title, which i- shown before any desired scene, is another method whereby the author may enlarge the number of basic plot-ideas capable of motion picture production. It is well to be chary in the use of these leaders, or rather tn select a plot requiring but few of them to be shown. If a scenario re- quires many and somewhat lengthy leaders, the circumstance is a sure in- dication of the fact that the plot is too involved to be set forth with suffi- cient clearness by means of acti al( 'lie. Company.erly °' However, the leader has its !e
16
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
gitimate use. It may be employed to indicate the lapse of time, as "Two Years Later." It may be used to define the relationship between two characters, as "The Jealous Husband," which gives, at the same time, a hint as to the individuality of one of the char- acters, a bit of information that may be necessary if an audience is to understand the story. In the puta- tive photoplay above, the one in which the hobo takes a peep into paradise, the fact that the father of the girl had never seen his friend's son should have been told in a sub-title rather than in a letter, for the sub- title is detached in the spectator's mind from the actual playing of the story in a way that is not true of the letter. The audience looks to the title and sub- titles for information, and when information is given it in that way there is no incongruity. But it is not the legitimate function of the sub-title to tell the whole
story in anticipation of the character's movements. Write no such leaders as "Helen, detecting and un- derstanding her lover's falseness, resolves to teach him a lesson by breaking their engagement." Remember that writing a scenario does not mean writing a book, and that the size of the projection screen is somewhat limited.
Art is perfect in proportion as it draws near to nature. In making use of the various technical aids to plot development the most delicate pains must be taken to hide the machinery of the thing from those who are to see the completed film. If this is not done all illusion will be destroyed, and in the audience there will be a vague feeling of uneasiness, as if they were watching not from the front, but from the wings, and experiencing all the disenchantment of such a viewpoint.
A New Years Picture Party
Selig's Celebration
ALONG about December 27, a neat little invita- Prettily told, superbly enacted, with scenery and
tion was received by the favored friends of the properties whose breadth of scope and completeness
" Selig Polyscope company. It gave no hint or spell Selig, the applause of hundreds was the surest
indication of what was to come, and some, maybe one indication of the approval which this perfect film gains
or two, decided they wouldn't attend. And now from everyone who sees it.
they're sorry ; for they missed the finest little New The next number on the program was a song by
Year celebration ever attempted in the moving pic- Miss Myrtle Steadman, a young lady whose face and
ture business. And once again it was a Chicago man. acting are familiar to film fans the world over. "My
Seven thirty on New Year's night found the broad Hero", one of the most difficult of the "Chocolate Sol-
Selig office door unlocked, a uniformed giant to swing dier" pieces, trilled from her throat, lightly, easily,
the door open and a pleasant faced attendant to indi- filling that vast hall until even the steel roof beams
cate just what particular door to enter among the hummed m approval. Miss Adrienne Kroell followed
many which open off from the big business office, and with a pretty song about a "Beautful Lady" which
you mounted two flights of stairs to be greeted in the met with vociferous approval. And the climax of the
spacious lounging room by Harry Gordon, who, with theatricals, which tickled William N. Selig just as much
both hands full of programs, insisted that you have as the unknowing laymen, was an extemporaneous
one and a good time later. skit entitled "A Busy Day in the Selig General Office."
Hats and wraps disposed of, the laymen and ^ dramatis personae.
women for the first time sat on real movine picture ^.ani;ger w";ir'~ \r -iwr!^
„ „ r-r, „ ., , , , , & A , . Hi Tower William V. Mong
props. I hey were all there— tables from Captain Big Blonde (Animal Trainer) .. .Miss Kathlyn Williams
Kate's cabin, chairs from the Two Orphans and the Mr. Emmett Stan Twist
thousand and one other Selig productions, tapestries Squabina Chicken Lillian Leighton
from notable film stories, covering tables, settees and ^1SS De"}ure AdnT^-K£e!!
, , , , , .' /-ill -11.1 Camera Man Eddie Kull
benches ;_ and the crowd soon filled every available The sketchj entirely improptu, illustrated the
inch of sitting room on the floor. these la folk have on the detail of the work<
Stanley Twist, stage manager extraordinary tor The scene opened with the general manager at his the night, gave the signal and the scene shifted to the desk< Enter Hi Tower looking for the general. Learn- big studio on the floor above. ,.,..,,, ing that the general was in England he deplored" the
Imagine, if you can, the big Selig studio divided by chance of getting a job and prepared to leave, where- Lost in the Jungle palms into two parts, auditorium upon the manager hired him as office boy with in- and banquet hall, and then your imagination can pos- structions to see that the players and all employees sibly find room on one of the three or four hundred get down to work and ring the ben at 6:30 a. m. seats that were rapidly filled. There wasn't a vacant Hi Tower— Does all them actors and actorines know that seat in the house. they're s'posed to be yere at six thirty?
Mr. Twist announced that the film "Cinderella" Manager— Well, they ought to ; I've told them often enough,
would be followed by some special features not on the ,_. A* thls juncture there is a ring at the door and
program. The lights were dimmed, the purple cur- Mlss Williams tip-toes across the floor, rings the hand
tains run aside and you read the first announcement, bel1 *nd disappears behind the scenes.
"Selig presents Miss Mabel Taliaferro in Cinderella." m^owER-The big blonde.
Breathlessly you followed the adventures of the pretty Manager— What big blonde?
maid, sniffles marking the death of the mother with Hi Tower — The big blonde, the animal trainer,
snorts for the arrival of the widow and her two daugh- Manager— Why didn't she get down before this? It's 11:30
. r ,i • . . r ,, , • , • ,. now. Go see her and find out. Exit and re-enter.
ters, groans for their treatment of the dainty girlie m ToWER_She says she can't get down no sooner with all
and a warm feeling for the prince who makes such a them animals to feed.
joke of imprisonment. Another ring at the door. Enter Mr. Emmett, just
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
17
back from South America, lugging a big ledger and a huge roll of papers under his arm and carrying a grip.
Manager — What are you doing here?
Emmett — I just came in for some more expense money.
Manager — Where's your expense account for what you had? Here Emmett gravely handed over the ponderous ledger and the roll of papers, explaining that they cov- ered the trip down and back.
Manager — How have you been?
Emmett — Well, I just got over the grip, (business of step- ping over handbag) but I'm all right now.
Emmett — While coming up on the train I was met at St. Louis by Weed and as we were getting into Chicago one of Parmelee men approached Weed for trunk checks. Weed said he had no trunks. "Whai do you do?" says the Parmelee man. "I sell brains." was Weed's answer. "Shake," says the Parmelee man. "you're the first traveling man I ever saw that didn't carry samples." Say, Mr. Manager, I wrote some daffy- c'ils coming up on the train. I'll read them to you :
If Miss Williams wouldn't feed the animals, do you think Miss Greenwood?
If it took all the ashes to fix the sidewalks the night of the ball, how did they Cinderella.
If motographv was getting along swimmingly would Mc- Quade?
If Mong wouldn't act would Thayer put on Avers if Clary took the part?
If four hundred came to see Cinderella how many came to Se-lig?
If Captain Kate, Lost in the Jungle wanted to get out would she take a Colum-bus?
If Santschi gets 500 a week how much is Hobart Bos-worth?
If Miss Steadman can reach high C can Miss Greenwood reach A flat?
If Anderson quit his job would that make Essanay .Spoor?
If Emmett didn't have his part down, what did Stan twist?
If Selig wanted a gardener would Frank Weed?
If Cinderella's stepma had a false nose on, what had Lillian Leighton?
Miss Demure arrives hunting a position as a film
actress.
Miss D. — Everyone says I'd do just dandy in pictures.
Manager — What can you do?
Miss D. — I can sing.
Manager — We can't take pictures of singing. WThat else can you do?
Miss D. — Well, I can swim and dive and stay under water twenty minutes.
Manager — Picture's all over before that. (Aside, to Tower) What do you think?
Hi Tower — She's all right, boss go on an' hire her.
Manager — She has a pretty face, hasn't she?
Hi Tower — I wasn't looking at her face, boss. Exit Miss D. Hi Tower was interrogated why Miss Greenwood wasn't down and volunteered that she was fixing up her flat, having hired a plumber from Denver.
The final scream was a burlesque on taking a pic- ture, in which the manager and Hi Tower rehearsed "The Four O'Clock Train" under the eye of the cam- era man. After forgetting his cue, making false en- tries and under frequent admonitions from the cam- era man regarding the value of time and light, they decided to "make" the picture, only to find after the scene that the film was light struck ; and he dragged forth the awfullest mess of spoiled film imaginable. Reloading the camera, they tried it again, and this time the camera man forgot to close the door. The scene ended with an angry camera man in a riotous tumult.
Everyone was convulsed over this playlet, the big makers and importers as well as the uninitiated folks present.
The floor was then cleared for dancing and every- one proceeded to have a good time at it. They say even George Kleine had one waltz. There were no wall flowers. Every girl was popular and they made the most of it.
After six or seven dances "reveille" was played for a supper call and the dancers filled the interstices left after a New Year's dinner with a dainty repast at prettily decorated tables occupying the half of the studio. Here is the menu :
MENU.
CHICKEN SALAD ROLLS
SALTED NUTS ■ OLIVES PICKLES CELERY RADISHES
ASSORTED SANDWICHES ICE CREAM CAKES
ASSORTED CANDIES FRUIT PUNCH
COFFEE CIGARS CIGARETTES
Dances filled the remainder of the evening after the supper and "Home Sweet Home'" at twelve fifteen found everyone tired, and happy.
One or two touches show the completeness of the attention to detail. The icy walks for two blocks to the nearest car line were carefully spread with ashes, while by special request, street cars were held to ac- commodate the tired, laughing guests, homeward bound. Mr. Selig's car was at the disposal of those bound for railway or elevated stations and did yeo- man service.
A list of those present would be a reprint of Se- lig's payroll from W. N. himself down to the office boys with their respective fathers and mothers, sisters and best girls.
* * *
Mr. and Mrs. George Kleine appeared to be hav- ing a good time.
Mrs. W. N. Selig and her sister, Mrs. Allen, never missed a dance.
Miss Williams, Miss Greenwood, Miss Steadman, Miss Kroell and Miss Leighton all seemed to have a cluster around them and kept busy every minute the music played.
McQuade didn't dance. Maybe he had to have the Highland fling.
Motography's representatives, Ed J. Mock and A. L. Haase and their respective wives tried everything from soup to nuts both in the dances and banquet.
If they do it again- next year, don't miss it. It was great.
Special Shows Urged for Children
A California mother has struck upon an original and somewhat unique idea in connection with moving picture theaters, and the Sacramento Bee has taken up "the sug- gestion with the idea of starting a state wide movement, assisted by the various women's organizations.
The character of the numerous moving picture films displayed at the various theaters, while undergoing a severe censorship before being exhibited, are said, in the many instancees, not to be the proper form of entertain- ment for moulding the mind of the child.
The remedy suggested is to have the different theater managers set aside a specific time at which a specially arranged performance will be given for children.
Just what kind of films should be exhibited at these performances seems to be unanimously agreed among the mothers of the city. They should be educational, yet entertaining ; they should be scenic or descriptive of some particular subject. Views of current universal events and many other ideas have been suggested.
It is expected that the motion picture houses will endorse the movement and that action will be taken to secure special films to be used particularly for children s performances.
18
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
I
y
\sr-*»
\ . *.
m*. -%^f
■*m
Meeting of the Indiana Section of the Motion Picture Exhibitors'
Meeting of Indiana Exhibitors
THE Indiana Motion Picture Exhibitors' League held its first convention at the Claypool Hotel in Indianapolis on December 12. The object of the meeting was to effect a permanent state organ- ization for the purpose of mutual protection against unfriendly legislation, and to arrange for more satis- factory relations with exchanges. It was also urged that exhibitors should seek representation in film cen- sorship.
Fifty-five exhibitors were present at the opening session. After an address of welcome by Andrew Smith, vice-president of the Capital National bank, of Indianapolis, and a response by H. S. Dickson, of Winchester, chairman of the convention, M. A. Neff, president of the Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America, addressed the meeting.
Mr. Neff, in opening his address, called attention to the fact that only a few years ago the moving pic- ture was unknown, while today there are nearly 16,000 motion picture theaters entertaining and educating millions of our citizens. The motion picture has eclipsed in popularity any other line of business ever known.
The motion picture in commerce, education, re- ligion, politics and history has rapidly developed our modern civilization. The historian may write, the lecturer may describe, but the motion picture shows things as they really are, and not as someone else has seen them. Schools throughout the country will soon be teaching history, geography, and other branches of study by means of the motion picture. It will not
be long until the churches will be filled to overflow- ing to see pictures, and hear the lectures accompany- ing them — and these lectures will be delivered by men, many of whom are now condemning the picture show.
Moving pictures will be an educational factor in army and navy maneuvers, and they will exert a pow- erful influence in stimulating patriotism. The scenes of the War for Independence and the Civil War, as reproduced in moving pictures, will remain in mem- ory long after the description on the printed page is forgotten. Likewise the films which are now being taken of great historical events will live and be en- joyed by future generations.
Surgery has been advanced many years by the picture. Germs of disease are being shown daily on the curtains, and men of science are enthusiastic sup- porters of the motion picture. The barefooted boy in the country is fast becoming acquainted with Broad- way and State street, and the city boy, who has never seen the country, is learning the manner of living in rural surroundings.
China, bowed down by the tyranny of a despotic government for centuries, has learned to feel the gall- ing sores of her burden through the medium of the motion picture. It has forced the truth home where millions of books and thousands of devoted men and women have failed.
Mr. Neff recently met a gentleman, just returned from China after a stay of two years, who informed him that the moving picture more than all the other forces of civilization was responsible for the present
fANUARY, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
19
at Indianapolis, Ind., December 12, 1911.
movement to overthrow the old despotic order of things.
In Mr. XefF's opinion, the organization of motion picture exhibitors will become the strongest in the world ; but, no matter how strong or whatever the grievance of the members, due consideration and jus- tice should always prevail in their councils. No man, organization or corporation should ever presume to intimidate or force others to submit to them in un- just matters, and the whole people should ever re- member that an organization must not be held re- sponsible or condemned for the acts of two or three of its members. There was one Judas, but the eleven remaining apostles were not condemned for his act.
It is the object of the organization to discourage the use of suggestive or low class pictures and to in- sist on being furnished the best films obtainable — clean, high class and instructive. The exhibitors should have a voice as to the films they receive, and should have representation in national film censorship. The moving picture shows of America do an annual business of $500,000,000. Surely a business of this magnitude should be able to wield a far-reaching in- fluence.
C. M. Christenson, secretary of the Motion Pic- ture Exhibitors' League of America, was the next speaker. He dwelt particularly on the good work which organization has accomplished in Cleveland, his home city.
H. S. Dickson then spoke. He discussed the benefits of hearty co-operation, and sketched briefly the history of the organization movement as applied to exhibitors, especially those of Indiana.
F. J. Rembusch of Shelbyville, followed. As sec-
retary and treasurer of the temporary organization he had considerable to say regarding finances.
With very few changes, the constitution adopted was the same as that formulated earlier in the season by the Ohio League. The name decided upon was the Indiana Motion Picture Exhibitors' League. The initiation fee was fixed at $5.
The officers elected for the Indiana League are : President, H. S. Dickson, Winchester; Vice-Presi- dents, H. F. Prentice, Terre Haute; Earl Rife, Log- ansport; Joseph Bommerscheim, Ft. Wayne; R. H. Canon, Muncie, and W. R. Deaton, Warsaw ; Secre- tary, F. J. Rembusch, Shelbyville ; Treasurer, John Gavin, Indianapolis.
It was decided to hold the next meeting in In- dianapolis on February 6, 1912. Two organizers were appointed to call upon every exhibitor in the state, enrolling members and collecting initiation fees. Charles H. Daugherty, Winchester, will cover the northern, and D. L. Bryan, Rockport, the southern half of the state.
The use of vaudeville acts in a motion picture theater was strongly discountenanced, as was also the use of three reels at a five cent show. Two reels for that admission were recommended.
About five o'clock the meeting adjourned and the members proceeded to the banquet hall where covers were laid for sixty. Mr. Rembusch was toastmaster, and a very good one he was too, for he succeeded in getting speeches out of nearly all the banqueters.
Those present at the convention were : H. S. Dickson, the Dreamland theater, Winchester, Ind.; H. F. Prentice, the Fountain, Terre Haute ; Otis Kilby, the Arcade. Winchester; H. L. St. Clair, the Orpheum,
20
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
Hammond; Ray Palmer, the New Grand, Washing- ton; F. M. Palmer, the New Grand, Washington; Chas. Powell, the Powell's Redkey ; Geo. G. Ball, La Purdette, Lafayette; Chas. H. Daugherty, New Irvin, Winchester ; Louis A. Klene, the Arc, Lafayette ; C. E. McNairy. the Habit, Tipton; J. E. Anderson, the Court, Tipton ; E. L. Rife, the Grand and the Tolego, Logansport ; C. E. Adams, the Fairyland, Lebanon ; J. W. Downey, the Arc, Monticello ; C. H. Williams, the Dreamland, Seymour; A. Chrismer, the Lyric, Con- nersville ; Celby Miller, the Palace, Greensburg; O. B. Simmonds, the Majestic, Muncie; F. W. Simmonds, the Majestic, Muncie; D. L. Bryan, of Bryan Bros., the Picture, Rockport ; Joe Bommerscheim, the Gaiety, Ft. Wayne ; R. H. Canon, the Royal, Muncie ; F. D. Tallman, the Electric, Bunker Hill; M. R. Tourner, the Vaudette, Michigan City ; F. J. Rembusch, the Manhattan, Indianapolis, and the Crystal, Shelby- ville, Ind. ; W. R. Deaton, the Royal, Warsaw; J. F. Trulock, Indianapolis ; Edward C. Pachler, Indianap- olis; F. L. Walker, the Lyric, Peru; Bert Hicks, the Star, Kokomo ; John Larmore, Knightstown ; Q. T. Lyons, the New Loreka, Knightstown ; Sprague Green, the Lyric, Ft. Wayne ; W. C. Yutzy, the Olym- pic, Lebanon ; L. J. Brown, the Pastime, Brazil ; W. O. Tarkington, the Lyric, Kokomo ; W. L. Overhol- zer, the Royal, Indianapolis ; R. S. Reed, Kokomo ; A. M. Dickson, the Princess and the Orpheum, Wabash ; C. H. Dickson, the Princess and the Orpheum, Wa-
bash; H. S. Logan, the Eagle, Wabash; G. Lillard Jones, the Ideal, Kokomo ; E. Tarkington, the Lyric, Kokomo; Ed. E. Hiatt, the Palace, Frankfort; H. C. Heisler, the Colonial, Ft. Wayne; S. M. Grimes, the Arc and Joy, Brazil ; John B. Hubert, the Two Johns, Indianapolis ; John A. Victor, the Two Johns, Indian- apolis ; H. W. Summers, the Orpheum, Anderson ; M. A. Neff, Cincinnati, Ohio; C. M. Christenson, the Broadway, Cleveland, Ohio; Jos. H. Gavin, the Illi- nois, Indianapolis. Four ladies from Kokomo also attended: Miss M. E. Wood, Mrs. Etta M. Albaugh, Miss Emma Tarkington, and Mrs. G. Lillard Jones.
Women's Club Uses Pictures
The Women's Civic Club of Independence, Mo., is making use of moving pictures in its campaign for sanitation and beautifying the city. On one afternoon and evening of each week films selected by the club are exhibited in a local picture show on a partnership arrangement with the proprietor of the theater. The pictures exhibited show unhealthful conditions and the dangers thereof, as well as the unsightliness, and then others displaying changes effected in other cities whereby eyesores and plague spots are converted into attractive and healthful localities. Much interest is shown in the exhibition by all classes, and good re- sults are already discernible.
Scene from Sehg s The Peacemaker," written and produced by the late Francis Boggs. Winnie is divorced from her drunken and abusive husband, Pete Bolan, and is attracted by Paul Gregory, who has rescued her from on e of Pete's attacks. Pete tries to shoot Paul, but is himself wounded. As he falls, Winnie realizes she still loves him and they become reconciled.
January. 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
21
Who's Wlio in the Film Game
THE flight from bank- ing to wholesale drugs and then to the mak- ing of motion pictures, will be dubbed extraor- dinary. Just to eliminate possible argument, let it be conceded — it is extraordinary. Everybody knows that banking is profitable. A banker takes your money. He makes a memorandum in your book. Ik- gives no receipt. He then loans your money to the man who offers the best security and the highest in- terest rate. Bankers are the first people in the town to buy automobiles. They are the leading citizens — the first to sign philanthropic subsciption lists. Wholesaling of drugs is something else. Xobody knows anything about the wholesale drug business except the wholesale drug dealer. The public has a vague notion that it is more lucrative than banking. Buying by the ton or by the barrel and dispensing by the pennyweight or dram would help in em- phasizing this idea. Whole- sale druggists usually live on irrigated farms and turn their businesses over to long-haired chemists. The w. d. usually meet twice a year, declare dividends, re- duce salaries and hurry back to their country es- tates. It is a business of little action, except as it concerns the piling up of money. Men who like to hustle usually get out of it. These sidelights are in- jected here to show why a man like Sam Hutchinson would thrown down bank- ing and drugging for mo- tion pictures, for be it known that Hutchinson was considerable of both before he appeared on the horizon of the film game, more about him. His full Hutchinson. He was born in Cheyenne, Wyoming. September 2. 1869. His parents went to Wyoming in a prairie schooner with the chickens tied on be- hind. You have heard about those early hardships, so they will be passed over. You must recall, how- ever, that those hardy pioneers who blazed the west- ern trail ahead of the railroads had courage that some of us lack and that their offspring are very apt to have some of that same spirit coursing through their veins. Indian fighters are the progrenitors of com- mercial fighters. Sam Hutchinson's father was a banker and he gave his children the benefits of educa- tion that go with money. Sam finished his schooling
Facts and Fancies About a Man You Know or Ought to Know
at the Illinois Wesleyan College at Bloomington, Illinois, carrying away with him the degree of Bachelor of Science. His activities at College gave him the presidency of the Interstate Oratorical Association, an organization comprising the best oratorical talent of forty schools and colleges, lie is also a member of the Sigma Phi Fraternity.
With an equipment like this, most young men would be satisfied to return home and settle down be- hind the counter of papa's bank. Young Hutchinson tried it, hut he wasn't happy. He came to Chicago,
served his banking appren- ticeship all over again and landed as note teller of the American Trust & Savings Bank. And then he made his get-away — into the wholesaling of drugs. In 1895 he formed the Hutch- inson Drug Company and turned it over to the long- haired chemists, while he busied himself in the in- vestment of profits. It was through the drug company that he found the film bus- iness — easiest problem of all. Film makers buy chemicals from wholesale
It is well that you know name is Samuel Sheffield
druggists. The Hutchin- son Drug Company sold the goods — the accounts showed constantly more and more purchases. Mr. Hutchinson found the rea- son— a growing, booming business and he whispered to himself — me for that ! He found an opening through the Theater Film Service Company and he has found or has created other openings ever since. The trade in America and on the continent knows S. S. Hutchinson as the very vigorous head of the American Film Manufactur- ing Company, one of the youngest and at the same time one of the staunchest of the independent makers. Flying-A films are known around the world. They are typical of their trade-mark — literally flying Amer- icans. The company is about to occupy a new factory and studio, modern in every detail, located at Evans- ton avenue and Devon street, Chicago. The result will be felt at once.
But the success of American's films must be large- ly due to the man who devotes his untiring energies to their betterment. Mr. Hutchinson has fine capacity m selecting men to help him in his labors. He is par- ticularly capable as an executive, combining that rare faculty of shifting details to trusted subordinates.
22
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
m Hutchinson, for he prefers short first names. has onl} one serious lad — that of his family. He is trying to be a boy with his two rollicking sons. He is making them a real home up on the Lake drive — one that will be a land-mark for the tourists. Every man hopes for the kind of home Hutchinson is build- ing. The wonder is that he had time to think of it! Film manufacturers, like bankers and wholesale drug- gists ride in automobiles, first because they like to and second because it saves time. Hutchinson gets a lot of pleasure from his. He travels a lot. One must who makes negatives on the Pacific Coast, de- velops them in Chicago and markets them in New York.
Shows in Vera Cruz
Consul William W. Canada, of Vera Cruz, Mexico, writes that moving-picture shows in his district, while still patronized, have long since ceased to be a novelty. In Vera Cruz, population about 50,000, the largest city in the consular jurisdiction, these shows have taken sec- ond rank in the estimation of the majority of the people, and wherever such a performance takes place it is in combination with a more or less theatrical enterprise. Spanish dancers, farces, and general variety business are the principal attractions at present. The Salon de Variedades is the only permanent place of entertainment of this kind in Vera Cruz.
As far as he is informed, other towns of compara-
tive importance, as, for instance, Jalapa, Orizaba, Cor- doba, Coatepec, Cosamaloapan, Tlacotalpan, Alvarado, Tuxpam, Papantla, Huatusco, Rio Blanco, and others of 35,000 down to 2,000 inhabitants, have no permanent moving-picture shows. All these places are visited at slated intervals by traveling exhibitors, who do not even own apparatus or films, but are fitted out by the Com- pahia Cinematrografica Explotardore, Mexico City.
The Vera Cruz show operates a Pathe apparatus, and nearly all films shown are from the same concern. At long intervals only are American films shown. The fact is that, with few exceptions, pictures of American scenes are never well understood. This is due to the lack of familiarity with conditions as they exist in the United States, and also because the humor or pathos, as the case may be, represented on French films is of a nature that appeals to the people. In Mexico City, where the American element is better represented, mat- ters are different.
It is worthy of mention that the films shown in Vera Cruz are all first class. There is no exception to this. The town has been worked by traveling shows for so long a time that the people will not now accept anything ancient or of inferior grade. This determination of the citizens to insist upon the best was exemplified some time ago when, upon the opening night of a show, well adver- tised, over 1,000 persons attended; the succeeding even- ing, when the show was repeated, there were but six per- sons in the theater.
Scene from Selig's "The Secret Wedding," written and produced by Frank E. Montgomery. Artist Adrian and Bessie Whalen are secretly married. His picture of her, as "The Spirit of the Cliff," gains him fame. Leon, an old sweetheart of Bessie, shows her father the picture and misrepresents the situation. Captain Whalen destroys the picture and orders Bessie and her child out of the house. The matter is finally cleared up and Leon blamed for his duplicity.
■M
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
23
Current Educational Releases
A Trip from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek. — Edison. At first we start up Pike's Peak Avenue to the gateway of the Garden of the Gods. Then we enter the train, which begins to climb over the short line to the summit. At last we reach the Valley of Gold, Vindicator Junction, then Goldfield. A number of far-famed gold mines are seen. By means of the highest electric railroad in the world we reach the town of Altman, the highest incoporated village in the world.
Modern Weapons for Fighting Fire, New York City. — Edison. The rapid progress made in the develop- ment of Xew York's fire department to meet the danger of serious conflagration in its sky scraper district, will prove an interesting subject.
The shipping and water-front buildings are safe- guarded by a fleet of nine fire boats which for speed and power are unequaled. When called upon, these boats can each throw from sixteen to twenty-five powerful streams.
The high pressure system installed has been wonder- fully successful. Pumping stations have been built in the down town district where the turning in of an alarm puts their powerful pumps into action, which immedi- ately throws a pressure upwards of one hundred and fifty pounds into the mains.
The film illustrates the short time required to get this stream into action.
Another feature is the gradual replacing of horse drawn by motor driven apparatus, it being only a matter of time when the horse will be discarded entirely.
The superiority of motor apparatus is proven in long runs. While the horses probably out-distance the motor in a short dash, it is the motor that will lead in a run of any great length.
Steam pumping engines are being replaced by gaso- line pumping engines, which not only throw a more powerful stream, but reach the fire and get into action in a much shorter space of time.
This development of fire fighting apparatus makes Xew York the best protected city in the country. (375 feet.)
Gorges of the Verdon River. — Gaumont. The Yerdon River has carved for itself a wonderful gorge. In this film we can imagine ourselves in a motor car, taking a short trip through this veritable realm of rocks. (200 feet.)
A Cotton Goods Factory in France. — Eclipse. Showing clearly how the raw cotton is woven into cloth, revealing the carding, reeling, winding in bobbins, pre- paring for weaving, weaving on looms, and measuring for the final inspection. (325 feet.)
Scenes Off the Coast of North Africa. — Gau- mont. Showing the curious customs and dwellings of the inhabitants of some of the Canary Islands. (124 feet.)
Codfish Industry. Newfoundland. — Edison. A fair conception of the magnitude of this industry is given in a view of many ships engaged in the trade, as they lay at anchor in the snug little harbor. Other interesting views are shown, especially the drying process, in which
thousands of fish are spread on huge frames and allowed to dry in the sun, after which they are ready Eor ship- ment to all parts of the world. (340 feet.)
The Ice Formations at Odessa, Russia. — C. G. P. C. A beautiful picture of the mountains of ice and snow formed when the thermometer is 31 degrees below zero.
The Oyster Industry. — Lubin. A film which shows the interesting processes of oyster culture — plant- ing of the beds, dredging, loading of the boats, unloading at the wharf, shucking, canning and shipping. The last scene shows the oyster's finish.
Sea and Landscapes, Denmark. — Great Northern. The waves pictures are remarkable. Views of yachts under full sail, of rugged cliffs, inland hills and valleys are included. Finally is shown a scene of an aeroplane and sunset.
The War in Tripoli. — Ambrosio. This film shows actual scenes of Turkish spies and Arab traitors escorted to be shot ; Italian warships in Tripoli Harbor ; troops crossing the market place ; sailors in the trenches ; tne day before the battle of Sidi-Messri ; two regiments in action; the Hamidje fort after bombardment; the mess at the outposts ; Red Cross hospital ; officers on guard ; an oasis camp.
Making Pianos. — Lux. The film follows the course of construction from the very beginning, and we do not leave the piano until it is ready for a tune.
Greece. — Great Northern. The scenes are of un- usual interest. The Corinthian Canal is a striking sight, and the views of Greece from Corfu Harbor are pretty. The villa of the German Emperor is shown. These pic- tures are colored and the delicate tints are well shown.
Touring Brussels. — Powers. A very good little travelogue, showing the interesting sights of Belgium's capital.
The Logging Industry. — Rex. The crowning scene of this film is a great forest fire. A panoramic view shows the destruction caused by the fire. Then there is a scene showing men felling trees. The men must measure the exact distance and direction the tree will fall. Then is shown the operation of trimming the tree after it has fallen, the donkey engine hauling the logs across the canon by means of cables and loading them on the trucks. A team then hauls the logs from the camp. The logs are then dumped into the water and are finally cut up and marked for the buyers.
\ Mtd-Winter Trip to Los Angeles. — American. Southern California is indeed the playground of the nation, and this film shows why. Those who have never been to California will enjoy these scenes. Those who have been there will enjoy them all over again. Beautiful Pasadena and Los Angeles are shown, all the points of interest having been secured by the camera man. (1,000 feet.)
24
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
Genoa, Italy. — Powers. A European travelogue. The film shows the best views of this quaint old Italian town.
San ia Catalina, Magic Island of the Pacific. — American. Giving glimpses of the wonderful marine gardens of the Pacific as seen through a glass-bottomed boat. Beautiful views of the island are also shown, to- gether with a close-up look at one of the seal rocks cov- ered with seal, contentedlv sunning themselves.
Artistic Earthenware in the Making. — Lux. From his very earliest days on this planet man has devoted much time and study to the manufacture of pot- tery. After centuries of hard work he has made himself some very fine articles, which are both useful and orna- mental. On these grounds alone a complete and com- prehensive description of the manufacture of artistic earthenware in the celebrated factory at Nevres, France, should prove of the highest value. (347 feet.)
Chinese War Cruiser "Hai-Chi." — Imp. In this film is given a series of views of the Chinese cruiser, '"Hai-Chi," as she lay in Charleston harbor a short time ago. Besides the views of the ship herself, there are pictures showing the movements of the great guns, deck scenes. Chinese sailors, Chinese band, and other interest- ing: views.
Howe Gets Beachey Pictures
The sensations of traveling in an aeroplane are almost duplicated by witnessing Lyman Howe's mo- tion pictures taken by Aviator Lincoln Beachey while 1,000 feet above the ground in his machine flying over the city of Wilkesbarre, Pa., the river and farms near it. Beachey operated a moving picture camera and steered his aeroplane at the same time. This difficult feat resulted in some views which have never been sur- passed in their bizarre glimpses of the earth from one in the sky.
Another set of interesting pictures were taken by Mr. Howe in Japan and reveal corners of that ancient land which the tourist never sees. Temples 1,000 years old, grotesquely carved sacred fountains, the rapids of the Magdapis river, the school of the famous Samurai, the idols of the old people and other fascinating scenes are shown clearly and entertainingly. Nara, one of the sixty vanished capitals of former Japan, proved a surprise to more than 100 Japanese who attended Mr. Howe's interesting exhibition on one occasion to see what the American exhibitor could show them about their own country.
Flowers are shown in course of development from swelling bud to blooming plant and the transformation is almost magical. There are some oddly posed pictures which arouse laughter. Howe's entire show is unusual and worth seeing-.
Scene from Selig's "The Cowboy's Best Girl," written by Everett McNeill and produced by O. B. Thayer. Alice Marson breaks her engagement with Glen Arnold, and he goes West. Three years later he attends a western dance dressed as a girl. Alice is visiting in the vicinity and also attends, dressed as a cowboy. In this disguise she gets into a fight with a real cowboy and Glen interferes. In the melee their hats are knocked off and recog- nition and explanations follow.
January. 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
Coming Essanay "Westerns
Progress of the Indian Head
AFTER an absence of manv months in the West,G. M. Ander- son, the producer and lead- ing man of the Essanay western department, re- turned to Chicago a few days before Christmas and spent the holidays with old friends at Chicago and New York.
When he returns to California he is to be ac- companied by a new leading lady and one or two others for the western company. Miss Yedah Bertram, the young lady who will appear in future Essanay western productions, is a charming young woman, whom Mr. Anderson considers a real "'find." She is a type of the healthy, out-of-door loving, athletic girl of the west, with a charm and vivacious- ness in her personality which is so potent a factor in the success of picture players. She is a graduate of Wellesley College, and though this is her first ap- pearance in motion pictures, she is a scholar in dramatic art and will undoubtedly be able to turn her knowledge to good advantage.
Mr. Anderson believes that western pictures will always be popular with the people. They are generally of excellent quality, with
The New Essanay Leading Lady.
plent) of heart ink the dramas and the laughable of situations the comedies, added k which is the fact that the scenery and atmosphere is generally most delightful. He himself is author, lead- ing man, and producer of nearly all the productions in which he takes part. The company that he lias gath- ered about him is as capable an organization as can be found in the motion picture field.
In the Essanay western comedies and dramas there are a number of characters which have become im- mensely popular with photo- play audiences, and exhib- itors are always on the alert for the "Snakeville" pro- ductions. Who has not held his sides over the drollery and fun of Alkali Ike and of Mustang Pete, a duo which always furnishes fun for picture audiences? Then, there is the adven- turesome Broncho Billy, who furnishes excitement and thrills in the stories of romance and adventure. Mr, Anderson's fame as Broncho Billy is not con- fined to our own country, for he is equally popular among the audiences of English theaters, where he is a prime favorite.
|
v. ^^jH |
|||
|
Ell |
3L j |
||
|
v A |
|||
|
mf w$?9r |
|||
|
a |
The Widow Tenkin? Has Many Adn
Alkali Ike Win- the B ind .1 Wife.
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
Would the Schoolma'am Dare to Shoot?
Bob Graham is Sworn in as a Sheriff.
There will be many "Snakeville" comedies in 1912 and Broncho Billy will continue to delight picture audi- ences with his adventures. There are even now three Snakeville comedies ready for early release.
The first of these, "Widow Jenkins' Admirers," fea- tures Alkali Ike. In this photoplay he has matrimonial ambitions, which, though resulting as he had carefully designed, results in anything but complete happiness and leaves him free with just cause for divorce. The widow Jenkins is left considerable property by her de- ceased husband and naturally enough all of the eligible swains of Snakeville, both young and old, seek her hand. Alkali is so persistent that he monopolizes all of the widow's time, but with very little promise of success. However, Alkali conceives a scheme to win the widow. He writes a letter to himself in which it is announced that his grandfather has died and left him $100,000. The widow easily falls for this and they are married. How- ever, the glad wedding bells have hardly ceased ringing when a young lady steps off the train and hands a letter to Alkali. The young lady proves to be Alkali's cousin, with whom he is to share their uncle's large fortune, pro- viding Alkali is free to wed. However, the widow makes him come to time and the young lady is forced to seek out another husband with which to share her future and fortune.
"Alkali's Ike's Love Affair" comes later, when Alkali has been divorced, we must presume, from the widow. Alkali loves buxom Betty Brown but dad objects to Alkali's diminutive stature and his cowardice, for little Alkali, in spite of his bravado, is an arrant coward.
To prove that he is not a coward, Alkali schemes with two friends to pull off a fake hold-up on Father and Alkali. Arrangements are made and Alkali goes to the scene of the ambush to await the exciting event. Alkali has not figured on two real hold-up men and when the thing is pulled off Alkali finds he has captured not his friends but two real desperadoes. While Alkali makes his getaway with his sweetheart, her father takes the bad men to the sheriff's office and turns them over. Here the father learns that a big reward had been offered for the bad men and a bag of gold is thrust into his hands by the delighted sheriff. Not only does Alkali win the reward but his sweetheart as well.
"Broncho Billy and the Schoolmistress" is another adventure of this prince of good fellows. Broncho has a rival in his love for the pretty new schoolmistress in
Snakeville. The rival suggests that they play a joke on the schoolma'am by a fake hold-up, just to test her nerve and to see if she would fire the small toy pistol she carries when she visits her pupils after dark. Broncho is chosen to play bandit but is shot down by the rival. The school teacher is accused but proves her innocence by displaying her gun which contains nothing but blank cartridges. The rival is then arrested and told to make himself scarce on the penalty of death if he ever visits Snakeville again. Needless to say Broncho wins the pretty school teacher and Snakeville rejoices.
Under the name of Bob Graham, Mr. Anderson is the leading man in the tragic story, "The Oath of His Office." Bob and Jed Brown are both madly in love with pretty Grace Allen. She accepts Bob, giving him a locket for remembrance. Jed plots to break up the romance and as there seems no way to win Grace honorably, re- solves to do so dishonorably. So he steals the locket and returns it to Grace together with a forged note, sup- posedly coming from Bob. When Bob returns from the round-up to which duty had called him, he finds that Grace had married Jed, having been led to believe from the note that Bob no longer cared for her. Later Bob is sworn in as sheriff of the county. Jed has ceased to love Grace and treats her cruelly. One day he escapes from a crowd of cattlemen after he had beaten his wife nearly to death and begs protection from Bob. In his heart Bob fights a battle with himself. His whole soul cries out for him to join the mob and give Jed the punishment his cruelty so richly deserves. But there is his oath of office. He cannot violate that. Finally duty triumphs, and he gives Jed protection, holding the cattlemen at bay. When Bob later visits the home of his former sweet- heart, he finds that he is too late, and that the conscious- ness of duty well done is hereafter the only reward he can ever have.
Traveling shows in Holland frequently go by water instead of by train or caravan, and this mode of travel allows the means of transportation to be a theater as Well. The latest type of traveling show or floating theater in Holland is devoted to the display of motion pictures. The theater proper is 160 feet long and has a seating capacity to accommodate 430 spectators. The entrance is a gangway swung out over the canal bank when the barge is tied up for a performance.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
27
A Blind Boy's Interest in Pictures
Impressions of Cinderella
CI X D E RELLA. Selig's magnifi- cent three - reel spectacle, has been re- leased, and hundreds of exhibitors have al- ready experienced the pleasure of watching their breathless au- diences drink in the delights of the master- piece. Knowing, from intimate association with the business, something of the stu- pendous labor involved and the difficulties overcome in the pro- duction of such a film, these exhibitors can appreciate, perhaps more thoroughly than the public, the unusual harmony of the result. Miss Mabel Taliaferro herself, who makes such a charming and wholly ideal Cinderella, was amazed at the volumes of work involved in a process seemingly as simple as mak- ing pictures. • And she is surely in a position to know ; for she was one of the few outside the regular Selig forces who, perforce, witnessed the whole preparation, in which she was the most prominent figure.
But there was another witness, if we may be per- mitted to use that term, who. though in no way involved in the action, followed with eager interest every operation in the production of the big spectacle. This observer was Wolcott Coombs, the deaf-blind boy from Oklahoma in whom Mr. Selig has found such interesting material for a series of scientific pictures. Coombs, although deprived of those two faculties which we deem absolutely essential to enjoyment of life, has been supplied by a beneficent Providence with an efficient substitute in the form of Professor Harry Virden, who is with him con- stantly and from whom he has absorbed a more profound knowledge of a variety of subjects than is acquired by most persons of full sense equipment. Strange as it may seem. Coombs is especially interested in drama, and through the books for the blind and the extraordinary application of Prof. Virden. has become familiar with all the classics.
Coombs was intensely interested in the production of Cinderella ; and during its preparation he studied every detail, even climbing ladders to feel of the scenery and stage settings, and running his sensitive hands over all the properties and costumes used.
Coombs has mastered the typewriter, and does beau- tiful work on it. He is therefore able to record his impressions, and without, of course, ever seeing the film itself, he has written a most interesting description of "Cinderella," which we reproduce in hi^ own words :
"Cinderella" Taliaferro and Wolcott Coombs.
MY IMPRESSIONS OF I i SDERELLA.
< >ne of the firsl sto I read in the embossed type for the blind was that of "Cinderella." I did not have much of an idea then of kings and palaces — but I did know that when Cinderella attended the grand ball at the pal- ace she was entering a wonderful new world. But thai was no more a fairy- land to her than the one I stepped into the day Mr. Twist took me up into the big glass studio at the Selig plant and introduced me to Miss Mabel Talia- ferro, a little fairy prin- cess in spite of the rough burlap dress she wore. They were waiting for sun, so I was told — and Miss Taliaferro sat down in the stage kitchen and talked with me for some time. I did not blame Prince Charming for brav- ing the king's wrath — not if the original of the old Egyptian folk-story were half as winning as Mr. Selig's Cinderella. \\ hen I first came to Chicago I knew nothing about how moving pictures were made, and so everything was new to me. I was at the studio nearly every day while this film was being taken. It was like being in some great fairy- land "here one learned many wonderful lessons each day without realizing that he was doing anything but having a good time. The costumes and properties which I saw. representing different periods, added to my knowledge and interest in history. Watching the production of "Cin- derella" has also added to my interest in the study of the drama. Now when I attend the theater or read a play it is easy to picture the stage settings and watch the actions of the actors. The scenic artist, and my tutor Mr. Virden, first showed me various small card-board models of the stage settings used in "Cinderella," then we visited the bridge where the scenery is painted, and the carpenter shop where they were making different sets. Up in the studio 1 studied bit by bit the sets as they were ready for the actors. Then, through my tutor's fingers, I witnessed practically every scene as it was acted in front of the camera. Day after day I understood a little better how much brains and hard work it takes to produce a film like "Cinderella." Be- sides the actors, there must be skilled stage carpenters to build the scenery, scenic artists to paint it, property men who are always busy. "Doc" and John, the property men, kept me busy looking at furniture, arms, and other prop- erties used in the play. Then there is the director, the camera men. and still others. They are all fine fellows.
I am more anxious for New Year's day to arrive than ever before. I know that I shall understand this picture when it is released better than most people, for Cinderella is a dear friend of mine. The only thing that I could want to make the day perfect would be to have Miss Cinderella Taliaferro watch the picture with me.
Careful readers of this little story will observe that Wolcott Coombs shows promise of a really pleasing liter- ary style, as well as a power of observation enhanced, rather than reduced, by the enforced concentration of his powers on a few faculties. His narrative indicates that he values highly the friendship of Miss Taliaferro, who, indeed, spent considerable time conversing with the boy.
28
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
Anyone, by the way, can communicate with him by the simple process of drawing the letters of the alphabet on the palm of his hand with a finger tip. Of course after so conversing for a while with him one becomes adept at the process and adopts abbreviations and signs, which greatly facilitate matters, so that the "talk" may become fluent and even animated. Prof. Virden, naturally, has developed this system until their communications are almost as rapid as the ordinary kind. The photograph shows Miss Taliaferro and Wolcott Coombs talking to- gether in the Selig studio, presumably about the all-ab- sorbing topic, Cinderella.
Professional Theater Loafers
There was a commotion in front of a motion picture theater, says the Chicago News. Someone was being ejected, and it was certainly not the deaf and dumb man who objects to the conversation that goes on in the films, for he was putting up a lively verbal remonstrance. Per- haps it was the individual who insists on informing his
wall seat so he can sleep more comfortably. There he sits through the whole performance. But then he has only begun. When the crowd begins to come out and others come in all he does is change his seat. He does this so he won't get spotted.
"They say he never looks at the pictures. The girl who plays the piano has seen a few reels herself, but every now and then she sits up and takes notice. I once heard of an operator who laughed right out loud at one of the films he was unwinding, but there is no case on record where old 'Stick-around' has come across with any appreciation. Of course, when they play 'Dix- ie' as the cowboys" start out to rescue the girl from the Mexicans he joins in the applause, so as not to attract notice, but that's as near as he ever comes to getting excited.
"When the afternoon crowds start coming in then we have to be more strict. We need every seat we've got and more, too, and we need his seat. So down go two ushers to invite him out, and then he objects and
|
'""" «k_j*V* |
•- nut 1 |
|
|
Wm |
||
|
«! |
Kk£&£ |
■ i |
|
■ r . i |
^ |
Scene from the American Film "The Mormons," which is laid in the early days of Mormonism in the West and depicts clearly the peculiar
ceremonies and practices of those early days.
miserable fellow spectators of the probable outcome of the plot.
"It's our usual class in calisthenics," said the girl who takes in the nickels. "It's just as regular as the gas man. Come around here at this time any afternoon and you'll see the whole performance repeated.
"It's our professional habitue. He doesn't come here to see the pictures, for he has seen them all before a thousand times. The reels of films he has seen would reach from here to Mars and back and he calls all the actors by their first names. He's the man who used to sit on the benches in the park. He used to hang around railroad stations a lot, too. He discovered the free lunch.
"Every morning as soon as we open and the opera- tor gets his machine running in he comes. He usually gets about three-quarters of the way down and takes a
starts kicking and biting, but they always throw him out as a matter of course. I haven't the slightest idea where he gets his five cents to come in on in the morning, but he always has it."
Rev. Father Dawling, of Kansas City, Mo., has es- tablished a picture theater in the hall of the parochial school and purposes to give shows on Monday and Thurs- day nights of each week.
The Board of Education of Brooklyn has decided to give a series of moving picture entertainments in sev- eral of the evening recreation centers of the borough devoting one evening a week at each of the centers to this purpose. The pictures shown will be usually four in number and will be drmatic, geographical, literary and historical.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
29
Recent Patents in Motography
By David S. Hulfish
UNITED STATES Patent No. 1,002,464. Attach- ment for Moving Picture Cameras or Projecting Machines. Charles C. Spinks, Memphis. Mo.
The invention relates specifically to an indicator an- nouncing at the same time the open or closed condition of the shutter and the fixed or moving condition of the film.
The two illustrations accompanying show the devices when operating. The upper figure shows the indicators when the picture film is not moving; the lower figure shows the indicators when the picture film is moving, at which time, of course, the shutter of the camera or pro- jecting machine (as the case may be) should be closed.
The dial 4 is circular and has colored or shaded seg- ments.'of which the light segments 5 and j indicate the shutter is open and the shaded segments 6 and 6 indicate that the shutter is closed. The hand or pointer 7 is con- nected with the shutter and i- over a light segment 5 when the shutter is open, and over a dark segment 6 when the shutter is closed. This hand therefore shows at all times the condition of the shutter.
At 8 is shown the face of a meter or counter, which is attached operatively to the intermittent mechanism
|
3^. „ |
1 |
|
fS I1I1I0I3ISI |
|
|
/ Its aS-J^ |
|
|
If. 1 |
|
|
*\\^f_ |
|
" ^ |
||
|
fmioeia |
||
|
//Z~*\ y/^i£. |
||
|
\\^ |
7 1 / |
|
|
t_\ \\3 |
~ 6 CT |
jr |
1,002,464.
driving the picture film. When the film moves, the fig- ures of the counter move, as is shown in the lower of the two illustrations.
It will be noted in the illustrations that (upper fig- ure) when the shutter is open the hand 7 is over the light space 3 and the figures of the counter 8 are not moving, but when (lower figure) the counter figure- move, indicating that the film is moving, the shutter is closed and the hand 7 is over a dark -pace. Were tin-
counter figures to move while the hand 7 is over a light space, the shutter would require readjustment.
In a camera, a memorandum of the figures of the counter will give information as to the length of film used and the length remaining in the feed magazine. In a picture projecting machine, the figures will measure the lengths of film projected.
No. 1,002,483. Toy Kinematograph. Alfred Z. Baker, Nutley. N. J. The illusion of moving pictures is
|
|
--8%, |
||
|
z*\ii: |
.' i ■ \ *yV** |
||
|
ll |
iOWii |
|^K |
|
|
"iin |
'""JCS %„ |
(R)w |
|
|
1111""" |
/"' |
||
|
"" |
" ,,_ X. |
||
|
\f\ |
'"'Ill'1' |
'"■•.. |
|
|
in1' |
.ll'"1', ,.,.■• |
1,002,483.
produced by this device, without moving the pictures at all.
The illustration shows a face view of the exhibiting device. Two viewing windows are shown at 22 and 25, behind which is a revolving shutter and two pictures in which motion is to be simulated. The shutter is trans- parent, alternately of red and green or any complemen- tary colors. The pictures are printed in two poses, one over the other, in the same colors as the shutter. By a phenomenon well known in toyland the red picture can not be seen through the red shutter, and the green pic- ture can not be seen through the green shutter. The operation is as follows :
If a woodchopper with his axe raised were printed in red and over this picture were printed in green the same figure with his axe lowered, then when the shutter is green the axe will be seen raised and when the shutter is red the axe will be seen lowered. By revolving the red-and-green shutter the woodchopper will chop wood indefinitely.
The effect of motion obtained by the illusion is very limited, but perhaps is sufficient for 'the requirements of toyland.
Xo. 1,002,634. Manufacture of Cellulose Films. Edwin Brandenbcrger, Thaon-les-Vosges. France.
The preliminary description in this patent gives some interesting information concerning the difficulties met in the manufacture of cellulose films such as are used in motion picture work.
The mure general portions of the description and the claims of the patent air reproduced below:
30
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. I.
This invention relates to a machine intended for drying cellulosic films obtained from a water solution of cellulose, such as for instance cellulosic films obtained from a water solution of cellulose xanthate.
It is known that it is possible to manufacture continu- ously cellulosic film which, as it is made, can be rolled up, the length of the film in each roll being as great as desired.
After their manufacture, cellulosic films must be dried before they can be utilized industrially. The said drying presents great difficulties in practice. If the cellulosic film is simply exposed to the action of the air, it shrinks and loses all its transparency, becomes warped and absolutely useless for industrial purposes. If it is stretched at its edges while
1,002,634.
being dried it cracks and breaks, either during drying, or at the moment when it is detached.
This invention relates to a machine in which any lengths of film can be treated, the drying taking place in such condi- tions that the film does not shrink and on emerging from the machine has a remarkable transparency, remaining absolutely smooth at the same time.
In the machine according to this invention the cellulosic film is held during the drying operation at every point by means of parts which, without exercising a great and conse- quently injurious pressure on it are arranged so as simply to hold the film in contact with rigid surfaces, on both faces.
1. In a machine for drying cellulosic films, the combina- tion of a series of lower driving rollers, mechanical means for rotating the same, and a series of free upper rollers located above and between and resting upon said driving rollers, said rollers of said upper and lower series forming be- tween each other alternately a continuous drying surface for the film.
2. In a machine for drying cellulosic films, a series of lower drying rollers, mechanical means for rotating the same, a series of free upper rollers located above and between and resting upon said lower rollers, and means for preventing lateral movement of said upper rollers, said rollers of said upper and lower series forming between each other alter- nately a continuous drying surface for the film.
No. 1,003,116. Apparatus for Sale of Tickets. Viggo Mariits Madsen, Odense, Denmark.
This exceedingly simple convenience for the cashier is shown in a perspective view in the accompanying illus- tration. The inventor's description and his first claim are given below :
My invention relates to an apparatus for use in the sale of tickets and other articles.
The apparatus consists of two chutes, each having an inclined portion, which inclined portions extend in opposite directions, so that the article to be sold and the money to be passed between the buyer and the seller can be easily exchanged between them. Across said chutes there is pro- vided a partition, preferably made of glass or some other transparent material and extending midway across the chutes in such a way that between the bottom edge of the partition and the inclined faces of the chutes a passage is left free of sufficient depth to permit the passing of articles and money. The partition, being of glass or transparent material, per- mits the buyer and seller not only to see each other, but also to overlook the chutes in their entire length.
In the accompanying drawing, an embodiment of my new invention is shown, the apparatus being illustrated in perspective, a is a table, located in such a way that one end of the table extends into the room where the seller is and the
other in the room where the buyer is. On the table there are mounted two adjacent chutes, each having an elevated por- tion b and c respectively and a depressed portion g, which portions are connected by an inclined smooth plane f, the said inclined planes extending in opposite directions. The chutes may be surrounded by upright edges h and are pro- vided at the lower terminations of the depressed portions with curves k.
In a frame m arranged in the wall there is mounted a plate n of glass, which plate extends across the two adjacent chutes midway thereof and separates the buyer from the seller. The plate being of transparent material, they can see each other and can also overlook both chutes in their entire extent. The plate n is so located with respect to the chutes that between its lower edge and the inclined faces f of the chutes there remains a passage of sufficient depth to permit the articles and money to be passed between the buyer and the seller.
The buyer, who may be supposed to stand on the right- hand side of the apparatus shown in the drawing, places his money on the elevated portion d of the one chute, and the seller, who may be supposed to stand on the left-hand side of the apparatus, shown in the drawing, places the articles and possible change on the elevated portion c of the other chute. The articles and money will glide down the inclined faces f of each chute to the lower portion g thereof, so that they will come within reach of the buyer and seller respect- ively.
As shown in the drawing, a wire screen p may be ar- ranged in the plate n in order to permit conversation between the buyer and seller. The plate n may be made in two pieces, in
1,003,116.
which case the upper piece ^ is in fixed position, whereas the lower part is slidably arranged in guiding grooves q cut into the frame m, so that by means of the handle r the lower part of the glass plate can be raised.
By means of the apparatus, as described, the exchange of articles and money can take place very quickly and under the full supervision of both parties. Moreover, if the appa- ratus is to be used for selling tickets the ticket agent is pro- tected from draft, etc.
I claim:
1. Apparatus for use in selling tickets and other articles comprising two chutes, extending in opposite directions and a partition arranged transverse of said chutes about midway thereof and having its lower edge separated from the chutes to permit the passing of money and articles from one side of the partition to the other.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
31
No. 1 .003.7 74. Stereopticon with Automatic Slide Changer. Ferdinand F. Metzger, Philadelphia, Pa., assignor to Williams. Browne & Earle, Incorporated, Philadelphia. Pa.
The firm to which this patent is assigned is a maker oi sundry forms of advertising stereopticons for window display, etc. The device of the present patent is adapted for this work, and is shown driven by a continuously moving electric motor which changes the slides at regular intervals. The apparatus, however, is fully applicable tc the projection of a series of slides in a theater, for song or lecturer, if so desired.
The novelty of the device is found in an endless chain of slide carriers into which the slides may be dropped, one slide in each carrier. The machine does the rest auto- matically.
The illustration is self-explanatory as to mechanism, and the claims of the patent are as follows :
1. A stereopticon provided with an endless conveyor having a series of swinging slide, film or plate holders, each of said holders having one end and two sides of correspond- ing height and both sides in one portion inturned and bent downward into spring clamps below the top or plane of the sides of said holder, in combination with a slide, film or plate adapted to be held in position by the spring clamps of said holder.
2. A stereopticon provided with an endless conveyor having a series of swinging rectangular-shaped holders, each of said holders having one end and two sides of correspond- ing height throughout and both sides in the front portion inturned and downwardly bent into flat spring clamps below the top or plane of the sides of said holder, in combination with a slide, film or plate adapted to be held against move- ment by the spring clamps and end of said holder in the travel of said conveyor.
Xo. 1,004.060. Apparatus for Producing Various Sound Effects for Theatrical and Motion Picture Pur- poses. Albert H. Moorhouse, Staleybridge, England.
The inventor states that his object is to produce a device which shall be "most effective in use and most compact in construction, being particularly advantageous
1,003,774.
for u>e in connection with kinematographs for imitating the sounds which would be produced in the scenes that are being depicted."
The machine will produce, at the will of the operator, the sound of a running horse, a galloping horse, a fire engine bell, the rattle of harness, the breaking rlown of doors, the firing of musketry, cycle bells, door bells, tele-
phone bells, automobile horn, locomotive whistle, police- man's whistle, ordinary whistle, steamboat whistle, siren whistle, rushing and howling wind, fog signal at sea, breaking of dishes, noise of a locomotive, noise of a train, sea waves, surf, storm at sea, firing of cannon, exhaust
18-
1,004,330.
of an automobile, sleigh bells, discharge of blank cart- ridges, etc., etc.
The following claims are descriptive:
1. In combination, a rotating cylinder having a corru- gated surface, bands for partly surrounding said cylinder, means for moving said bands into and out of contact with said cylinder, a plurality of chains, and means for moving the same into and out of contact with said cylinder, substan- tially as set forth.
4. In combination, a rotating cylinder having a corru- gated surface, flexible bands, means for moving said bands into and out of contact with said cylinder, a plurality of chains, means for moving said chains into and out of contact with said cylinder, brush like strips with means for moving the same into and out of contact with said cylinder, corru- gated surfaces projecting from said cylinder, brush like strips for engaging said corrugated surfaces, means for mov- ing said strips into and out of their service position, project- ing arms upon said cylinder, a rocking lever, a striking sur- face for engagement by said lever, and means for causing the lever to be engaged by said arms, and to strike said surface, substantially as set forth.
No. 1.004,330. Motion Picture Projecting Machine. Earl M. Wooden, Yonkers, N. Y.
In Mr. Wooden's improved projecting machine there are many novel points of improvement.
The' film driving device is provided with a release, by which the film is released from the driving strain whenever the tension exceeds the setting of a spring. The drive will release the film automatically under condi- tions where otherwise the film must be torn by the undue strain placed upon it.
The shutter nr-part shutter. Tt is illustrated
in the figures reproduced herewith. The upper illustra- tion -hows the shutter closed, the four wings labeled 18, jR. t8, iH. meeting in the middle of the film window 20.
32
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
When opening the window, they begin to separate at the middle of the window, and as each wing has but one- quarter of the window to uncover, the window is opened very quickly, and again closed with equal speed. The shutter is shown open in the lower figure.
The framing device comprises a carriage which swings or rocks upon the driving shaft. By this means framing is accomplished without changing the position of any of the three sprocket wheels, the intermittent sprocket being turned as the framing carriage is swung. A lever conveniently placed to the operator's hand con- trols the framing carriage.
A Moving Pictures Sales Campaign
Whenever you can show a manufacturing process by an actual demonstration you have accomplished more than a half dozen good pages of advertising would do — although the demonstration is considerably more effective if aided by the half dozen pages, says C. W. Dearden in Advertising and Selling. This fact of demonstration can hardly be questioned. In the case of a manufacturing plant it is considered one of the best forms of advertising to get possible buyers to go over the plant, seeing things just as they are.
It isn't always feasible to bring the public to the plant, but it is practical to bring the plant to your public. This is one of the forms of our advertising this year, and consists of a motion picture lecture. The pictures show every manufacturing operation in a most realistic manner and the explanation or lecture that accompanies the pic-
tures is exactly the same as though a man was being taken through the mills.
Like every other manufacturing plant we are always glad to have visitors. This is not entirely on account of the advertising value, but because such a visit has educa- tional value for the visitor, which makes it easier for him to understand some of the whys and wherefores of the paper business. Consequently, this motion picture lecture to our minds has the same effect. In fact, even though the lecture has only been given a few times, we have seen the results of the educational factor.
The actual advertising, however, both in the lecture and in the pictures, is reduced to the minimum. In fact, it is subordinated to such an extent that it really develops to the point of one drawing his own conclusions. We feel that those who attend a meeting of their organization, whether of printers or advertising men, come for the pur- pose of learning something; or hearing, at least, some- thing interesting. With this thought in mind, the motion picture lecture naturally is of rather high standard and each person present goes away with the feeling he has seen and heard something of practical value. And this is just where I think the advertising comes in. That is, a man has seen something he will remember and he will remember the Strathmore Paper Company and its pro- ducts in connection with it.
Our films are a trifle over 1,000 feet in length, mak- ing the pictures and lecture last about 45 minutes. The lecture has already been given a few times, as stated above, and proved beyond a feature of the evening's en- tertainment beyond the ordinary.
Scene from George Kleine's Eclipse Film "The Gambler's Wife.'
January, 191?.
MOTOGRAPHY
33
Of Interest to the Trade
American Banquets Employees
On Wednesday, December 27, the employees from all but the producing department of the American Film Manufacturing Company, met at a banquet tend- ered them by the company. There were about sixty, all told, and many were the regrets expressed that
have established ourselves on a high plane in the busi ness world. We are educators, if you please, Press and pulpit have arisen in favor of the motion picture. Its pedagogic powers are becoming recognized among educated men and women. It is only a short step from our present position to that of the public school; and
Employees of the American Film Manufacturing Company at Their Annual Meeting and Banquet, Chicago, December 27.
the producing company in El Cajon Valley, Southern California, could not be present.
President S. S. Hutchinson, who presided, called in turn upon various department heads for short talks. The policy of the American was thoroughly discussed and plans* made for 1912. All employes were asked to give their opinion on the work and to work in harmony. President Hutchinson, after the courses had been cleared away, rapped for order.
"We have come together tonight,'' said Mr. Hutchinson, "for the purpose of getting better ac- quainted and for the purpose of promoting a better spirit, founded on mutual regard and an understand- ing of the principles on which the American stand-. This is the first annual banquet. We are really cele- brating our first year in business. The management of the American Film Manufacturing Company is planning another banquet and house-warming at the opening of our new factory, which, it is predicted, will eclipse all previous efforts in this line.
"It was only a few years ago that the motion picture business was looked upon with something akin to contempt by other so-called legitimate businesses. The progress made has been phenomenal. We can now take a pride in our vocation and the fact that we
surely you will admit there cannot be a nobler kind i >\ work.
"We are anxious for each and every member of this organization, whether a part of the office, factory or producing departments, to appreciate the fact that we are all working toward a common end for a com- mon purpose. We want to make American films not only the best in the independent ranks, but without peer among all motion picture manufacturers."
Manager R. R. Xehls was then introduced by President Hutchinson. He said in part:
"In my opinion, the purpose of this dinner is not only to get better acquainted among ourselves, but to promote a better understanding among the var- ious departments. It is up to the laboratory force to put forth its very best efforts on all American pro- ductions. The office is dependent on the work of the laboratory and must assume all responsibility for carelessness on the part of the laboratory force. After all, a substantial business can only be built on merit, and merit in the motion picture business is largely a matter of much care and attention to detail."
J. R. Freuler, secretary and treasurer of the American and head of the Western Film Exchange of Milwaukee, was then called upon. Mr. Freuler
34
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
told a number of excellent stories in his inimitable way and one of them, centering about his own advent into the motion picture business, was relished by his audience. The genial and smiling Mr. Freuler was one of the most popular figures in the evening's en- tertainment, and those of the American force who know him were glad that he could be present, and those who were not acquainted with Mr. Freuler, were equally glad of the opportunity to make his ac- quaintance.
O. F. Doud, who has charge of the publicity de- partment, was next introduced. Mr. Doud touched on the new advertising policy of the American for 1912 and the success thus far. Then followed a general program of amusement and a general good time, the members of the staff and employees furnishing a qual- ity of entertainment not to be excelled by any pro- fessionals. Everybody enjoyed themselves thoroughly and the success of the occasion has made sure frequent repetitions of its kind.
Kleine to Release Cines
The Cines Company, which for some time has been making feature films and releasing them on the open market, has signed an agreement with George Kleine, Chicago, to supply him with films and sell through him exclusively. Mr. Kleine recently re- turned from a trip to Europe and New York where he made the necessary arrangements.
The Cines company will make two releases per week to take the place of the two Gaumont releases formerly released by Kleine. The releases will be made through the channels of other licensed films and shown by licensed exhibitors only.
The offices of the Cines Co. at 445 Broome street, New York, will be closed and all business transacted through Mr. Kleine's office at 166 North State street, Chicago. Mr. Kleine will still release, according to the present arrangement, the Urban Eclipse films which he has heretofore handled.
Further particulars regarding the plans of George Kleine for releasing Cines (Italian) films are con- tained in the following communication :
Chicago, Dec. 37, 1911.
Editor Motography: — I find on my return from Europe an unusual degree of interest among moving picture exhibi- tors and others concerned as to the changes that will be made in our releases, due largely to the various rumors that have been current recently, and I beg to submit the following facts for publication:
Our contract with the Gaumont Company having ex- pired, we shall issue our last Gaumont release on Tuesday, January 16, 1912. All films of this make which have been or will be issued under our license from the Motion Picture Patents Company will remain licensed, and can be shown in any licensed house. The Gaumont Company's films released after January 16, 1912, will not be covered by the Patents Company license.
Beginning January 20, 1912, we shall release two Cines reels weekly, made by the Cines Company, upon our regular release days, Tuesday and Saturday of each week.
We shall continue to release one Urban-Eclipse reel upon Wednesday of each week, as heretofore.
The Cines Company has never been affiliated with organ- ized independent manufacturers. Before making a final con- tract with the Cines Company, I looked carefully into the merits of its product with special reference to suitability for the American market, and concluded that no other maker not then licensed by the Patents Company showed such high efficiency, both as to the physical plant and also in the or- ganization of its staff. The Cines organization, as a whole, is most advanced, progressive and complete.
The output of the Cines Company averages five reels
weekly, from which we will select our two weekly releases. Of the many advance productions that I saw in Rome, fully 90 per cent were subjects certain to please American au- diences.
Our first Cines release will be made January 20, 1912, subject Brutus, the film being an adaptation from Shake- speare's Julius Caesar. It includes the death of Caesar, Mark Antony's speech, the flight of Brutus and his fellow conspirators from Rome, the appearance of Caesar's ghost to Brutus, the battle of Philippi, and the death of Brutus.
I am particularly pleased with many of the Cines come- dies, 500 to 600 feet in length. They are of a refined charac- ter, without vulgarity, and show genuine humor, such as is appreciated by American audiences.
There are a number of films which were especially made for the American market, and arrangements have been per- fected by which there will be a continual output of subjects, which will not only embody ideas that are attractive to our people, but which will be staged with all the magnificence, the striking light effects, and the perfect photography of the best European studios.
We have the exclusive rights to Cines films for Canada, the United States, the Philippines, Alaska and all other ter- ritorial possessions of the United States. — Geo. Kleine.
Motography acknowledges with thanks, receipt of a de luxe copy of "The Whole Story of Cinderella," by Henry K. Webster. The edition of this splendid little story was limited to 115 numbered copies, of which ours was No. 92. The booklet was sent us by Stanley H. Twist, publicity manager of the Selig Polyscope Company.
Diamohd-S Activities
Colin Campbell and Gabe Pollack, chief producer and head of the scenic department of Selig's eastern studios, left last week for Eastern California, where they have gone to reinforce the Selig producers in the Western studio. While there Mr. Campbell will produce some Selig masterpieces, among which will be several intensely interesting animal pieces which will be even better, if possible, than those which were made last year. Mr. Pollack will supervise the scenic departments.
W. N. Selig just returned from Minneapolis, where he went with a large party of motion picture men to see the production of his New Year's release, "Cinderella," as it was put on by Mr. Rothapfel of the Lyric theater in that town, who is known as the "Be- lasco" of motion pictures. Mr. Rothapfel gave the Cinderella production with the most elaborate set- tings and a fifty-piece stringed orchestra with special music and lectures. Mr. Selig was very well pleased with the way the film was handled.
The Western governors who were filmed by the Selig Polyscope Company during their recent visit to the East, have extended an invitation to Mr. W. N. Selig to visit each one of them in their respective states.
Among some of the big productions Selig prom- ises for the coming year are "The Danites" in two reels, one of McKee Rankin's greatest dramatic suc- cesses, "The Servant in the House," the wonderful play which set all the country talking last year ; "Miz- pah," Ella Wheeler Wilcox's immortal masterpiece, over fourteen of the well known Hoyt comedies which were so popular on the legitimate stage some years ago, and "The Coming of Columbus," in three reels ; a production that cost over $5O,0CO to produce, and one which, it is promised, will go on record as the most elaborate film ever shown to the American public.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
35
"'The Real E:tate Fraud/' American Fiiro,
Scene from American Film. "Love and Lemons."
36
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
How Sunlight Screens Are Made
The plant of the Sunlight Metallic Cloth Curtain Company is located in Chicago, and is claimed to be the only screen factory in the United States. It cov- ers a floor space of two floors, 60 by 100. On the lower floor of the building, which is 12 feet in height, are located the frame factory and supply and storage rooms. There is also a perfectly equipped demon- strating room 24 by 50 feet. This room contains standard up-to-date equipment, consisting of a suit- able fire-proofed operative room equipped with a No. 5 Power's machine and stereopticon apparatus. There is a 45-foot projection to a "Sunlight" screen 10 by 12 feet in area.
In front of the "Sunlight" screen on the ceiling is a double track on which are carried several screens of similar area, including a pure white screen, an aluminum painted screen, a curtalene or blue tinted alabastine screen, all of which are used for compara- tive demonstration and can be carried back and forth before the "Sunlight" screen for demonstrating pur- poses.
The room is also arranged to demonstrate the economic feature that is claimed with the use of a "Sunlight" screen. There are two rheostats in series with which the amperage can be controlled at will and there is also installed an ammeter to register the amperage used. Many exhibitors were sceptical about the low amperage it was claimed could be used. On this 45-foot throw it is shown that 10 amperes d. c. is all that is necessary to get the best result.
On the second floor the ceiling varies in height from 24 to 36 feet and is equipped with one thousand feet of overland rail for the convenient handling of screens, and on this floor is also installed the special machinery and equipment which produces the fabric. It is explained that the reason for the perfection of the result obtained on this fabric is due to its special manufacture. The time required for the process is about twenty days and the completed fabric when ready for shipment has gone through five distinct processes. Time has proven that the confidence of the promoters of this company has been justified. The plant is being operated to its capacity. Within a short period of a few months this screen has become estab- lished with the best exhibitors over the country.
Any progressive exhibitor who is at present dis- satisfied with his picture result should investigate the "Sunlight" screen proposition thoroughly. Such an investigation will undoubtedly prove to him that a "Sunlight" screen in his theater would not only be a permanent and radical improvement, but practically a necessity.
The particular merits of the "Sunlight" screen are:
That with its use a thoroughly well lighted pic- ture field is secured.
All of the minute detail of the film is brought out to a surprising degree.
The proper perspective is secured and the stereo- scopic quality of the picture is brought out in a unique manner.
Instead of being high lighted the general effect of the picture on a "Sunlight" screen is a soft, well- lighted effect free from eye strain and pleasing to a degree.
In other words, the "Sunlight" screen evidently secures for the exhibitors the full value of his film
in every detail and effect. It became evident to the promoters of this screen proposition in its early stages that in order to secure an entirely satisfactory result, a perfect installation of this pliable metallic cloth must be secured. After many experiments, Mr. Wylie, the manager of the company, invented a special frame which carries a tightening device and secures a per- fect installation. This device, while simple in con- struction and operation, effects a remarkable result. Patent claims have been secured which offer a pro- tection, and with its fabric of high picture making- quality and this patent tightening device the company is able to offer to the exhibitor a practically perfect moving picture screen.
Not being willing to have the fabric installed at destination in a manner which would prejudice the best results, the company has adopted the policy of never selling the fabric without the frame, but in order to bring the price of the complete screen down, at least until they were thoroughly introduced, the frame has always been sold at manufacturing cost. This frame is always used for fixed screen or drop curtain. As a drop curtain it is only necessary to purchase that area of fabric that is actually necessary for the picture field. The frame is installed the same as any other theater drop and operated in the same manner and the balance of the stage area not covered by picture is filled in with any theater drop in use. v. The "Sunlight" metallic cloth is claimed to be the only fabric that will secure these high picture results that will not crack or scale when used as a roll cur- tain. The company manufactures a specially con- structed roll suitable for use with the fabric with which the best possible installation can be secured. These three methods of installation make it practical to use a "Sunlight" screen in any type of theater and makes the "Sunlight" screen a thoroughly practical commercial proposition.
Champion Moves Office
The offices of the Champion Film Company were removed from their location on 15th street last Thurs- day, to a suite in the 45th Street Exchange building at 145 West 45th street. Mr. Dintenfass purchased entire new office furnishings for his new headquarters.
The Champion Company has finished the first prints of their aeroplane stories which were produced at the Nassau Boulevard Aviation Field and have de- cided on a date early in January for their release. The picture features Miss Blanche Scott and Aviator Ham- mond in the flying machine work. The first two pic- tures will be called The Aviator's Success, and Avia- tor and Autoist Race for a Bride.
Kalem in Italy and Spain
The O'Kalem Company, which did such good work in Irish stories while in Ireland the past summer and autumn, has started out for a long tour through Italy and Spain with increased forces. Twenty people are in the company of actors, camera men, etc., all under the direction of Sidney Olcott, who will direct the productions after the arrival on the other side.
The Kalem Company now has four companies in remote quarters of the globe, two being in California, one in Florida and one in Europe. The New York Stock Company has been entirely abandoned for the present and all talent shifted to the four out-of-town companies.
January, 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
37
Scene from "The Innocent Grafter," American Film.
Scene from American Film, "The Grub-Stake M
38
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
Habit
Editors Motography : — All human nature is a slave to habit. If you want to know how easily you fall under the bondage of habit, start doing some particular thing, the same way every day, for a few weeks, and then realize how difficult it is to do it in any other way. This is very true of business habits, especially if the way of doing busi- ness has brought some measure of success. In such cases the mind becomes so narrowed as to be incapable of seeing that there is no other way. All the time, however, there may have been many better ways, bringing twice the suc- cess, had we not been enslaved by habit to poorer methods.
There is no more glaring example of doing things wrong through habit, than can be found in the moving pic- ture industry.
The manufacturers to start with, continue under habit, the making of films which all too soon will gather dirt to their utter ruination and yet, are incapable of being washed with soap and water (the only detersives which will remove dirt without injuring films).
Manufacturers are apparently slaves to the habit of caring little for the condition of their handicraft after it leaves their studios, although as a matter of fact, a film is a good advertisement for its maker only as long as it is clean. But for the bondage of habit manufacturers might see that their greatest interest, individually and collectively, now and forever, rested in films of the best possible condi- tion as long as they were exhibited.
The 'public knows not that a clean film is new, or that a soiled one is old; it simply knows that one pleases and the other does not, and the public is swayed by habit to pay most for what pleases most.
A still more deplorable effect of habit can be found in the exchanges. Not one of them does more towards clean- liness than occasionally to wipe the dirt on a film into the scratches yawning to receive it. This is a habit so fixed that it will require great effort, if it is ever supplanted by
a weekly system of washing the dirt out of the scratches and off the film altogether.
A slap-dash habit has the exchanges by the throat. Most of whom seem to thing they have no time propertly to in- spect, and much less thoroughly to clean a film. They for- get there are twenty-four hours in the day for film ex- changes, just as for express companies, postal deliveries and other lines giving quick service.
The exhibitor has been forced into a habit of showing, at best, one clean film, one not so clean, and one which can usually be described as something awful. He knows his patrons enjoy most, clean pictures, but he is a slave of habit, under which he has come to believe that three clean reels at one time are an impossibility.
There is a glorious awakening in store for the poor ex- hibitor, when manufacturers shall all make waterproof films, and when exchanges shall all see the necessity of systemat- ically washing them every week or two. Then will the habit of viewing these clean, beautiful photoplays so en- slave the public, that the money now donated by them will be generously multiplied many times over. Then shall the film business come into its own in proportions little dreamed of by those of the present day, buried deep in the ruts of habit. — W. A. Daniels.
"Wisconsin Seating Co. Enlarges
The Wisconsin Seating Company, which is the new name of the Wisconsin Lumber and Veneer Company, has just erected a large and modern plant at New London, Wis., made necessary by the great demand for their popular line of opera chairs. The firm advertises that they are in a position to furnish anything in theater seating and will be glad to get in touch with theater owners desiring to know more about up-to-date seating facilities.
Scene from George Kleine's Eclipse Film "The King"s Command," or "Early Days of Frederick the Great.'1
Taniwry. 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
39
Scene from George Kleine's Eclipse Film, "A Woman's Wrath.''
Lock Up
Every theater exhibitor in this country can use the useful premium that MOTOGRAPHY is giving to new subscribers this month. A keyless lock is something that every one can find a great many uses for.
This keyless lock we are giving away for less than cost is made entirely of brass and will never rust. It is opened by pressing the correct series of buttons. There are eight buttons on the face of the lock and combinations are furnished, using 2. 3 or 4 buttons. Over 50.0CO combinations are possible, so there is less chance of any stranger opening the lock than there is a possibility one of his pocket keys would fit the ordinary keyed lock.
One man in Denver. Colo., has a keyless lock -napped in a large ring and offers a dollar to anyone who can open the lock. For over a year people have tried to win the prize, but no one has succeeded as yet.
Many theaters have iron gates in front of their houses which must be locked at nisjht. Why not use this keyless lock? It is as good as a safe lock. Some theaters use it to lock stage exits, operating room, tool chests, film cabinets: in fact there are a dozen places in every theater where this lock will come in very handy.
It was suggested to us. why not put the lock in the theater lobby and offer a serie- of passes to anyone who could open it? That is only one way the lock would bring you in dollars in advertising benefit.
Every one is sure of his mechanical ability. Peo- ple in small towns will try hard to win free tickets and the crowd waiting will patronize the house. Lock it through a big ring in the lobby and get the big advertising benefit. The combination can be changed as often as you wish. Read carefully the instructions before making any change in the combination.
By sending in $2.25 for a year's subscription to MOTOGRAPHY, adding six cents extra for postage on the lock, you get this valuable lock and MOTOGRAPHY. Motography alone is worth the money. It tells you oi" all the new films that come out. It tells you what the manufacturers are doing.
Motography tells you how to get the best results out of your projection machine; how to make adjust- ments : how to remove the "ghost." Motography gives you the best pictures of the prominent actors.
Remember, the price of the lock i- $1.50. A year's subscription to Motography i- $2.00. You get both for si.25. Add <> cent- extra for postage on the lock.
Schools Call For "Santa Catalina" Film
The American Film Manufacturing Company i- still hearing the echo of its remarkable release of De- cember 14, entitled "Santa Catalina." This film crea ted a considerable furore, not only in motion picture circles, but among scientific men and student erally, and was described in December Motography.
The fact that these pictures are the only oik their kind has made them valuable ;>■ quisitions t.> the
40
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
cause of science and education generally, and the American is receiving requests from public school principals and other educational bodies asking where the film can be obtained for lecture purposes in as- semblies and' school rooms. The American is to be congratulated on producing this film. The principal dailies in America, through the associated press and kindred news bodies, gave much valuable publicity to the picture.
Warren Kerrigan, the leading man of the Ameri- can Film Manufacturing Company came in for a full page writeup in the Chicago Tribune on Sunday, Decem- ber 31. Mr. Kerrigan was shown in the center of a large heart, surrounded by reproductions of love let- ters that he has received during his years as a motion picture actor. The article was headed, "How It Feels to Be a Motion Picture Matinee Idol." It did not publish the writers' names, of course, but that fact may not alter the situation materially.
Despite beliefs to the contrary, the new $50,000 Chicago factory of the American , Film Manufactur- ing Company is now ready for occupancy. The struc- ture was promised by architect and builder for Jan- uary 15, and the former managed to precede the cold weather by a few days. It is a thoroughly' modern property, no expense being spared in providing all those facilities which make for more efficiency and better work. The first actual work will be started in a few days, when the present factory quarters will be vacated. The property is located at Evanston and Devon avenues, Chicago, close to Lake Michigan, where clear air and a maximum of sunshine are as- sured. The realty secured was purchased from Ed- ward Hines, the lumber magnate, at an extraordinary high price for factory property. This is due to the fact that the neighborhood adjacent to the plant is one of the best in Chicago for residence purposes, and has advanced in value more rapidly than any other. It is believed by President Hutchinson that the realty itself is an excellent investment.
American Players as Firemen
The studio of the American Film Manufacturing Company, in California, ordinarily a scene of activity, was greatly augmented by the appearance of the state fire warden recently. In southern California martial law supercedes the civil law in case of brush fires, and it is only necessary for the warden to tag a man and say "you're it" in order to obtain recruits to fight the fires that rage along the mountain sides and val- leys when the sage brush, dry as tinder, affords food for the flames.
Mr. Dwan, the director in charge, was busy re- hearsing some scenes completing a picture, so that he could allow Thanksgiving day to all the employes of the company, when the appearance of the fire warden greatly accelerated the action in the scene. Performers and cowboys who every day face the muz- zle of a forty-five without flinching, faded away into secret hiding places before the advance of the man with a star.
In their hurry to seek other haunts where fire wardens are conspicuous by their absence, one of the cowboys fell down and the others behind him, stumb- ling over his prostrate form, soon made a human pyra- mid five men deep. The man with the star promptly approached the struggling heap and pressed them into
service, regardless of the storm of protest that it would interfere with the making of motion pictures. They were hurried to the scene of the fire and for forty-eight hours without sleep or rest, struggled against the advance of the fire fiend.
Their Thanksgiving dinner consisted of dried corned beef served them on the job. At last, dirty and smoke begrimed, they were allowed to return to town and rest. The performers were more fortunate than the cowboys and hurried into town, for they rea- lized that if caught and forced to fight the fire it would sadly hamper the work in the studio, and the compensation paid by the state would never cover the amount lost to the company in time or money. Curious when the fire warden attempts to select the high- salaried company of talented people, and the harm he could do a corporation like the American Film Manu- facturing Company, is almost incalcuable. Without looking into the pool rooms or places where men in need of employment congregate and actually seek the fire warden for a chance to earn the compensation given, he immediately decends on the studio of the company, not a single man of whom is a tax payer or a citizen of the state. : For the future protection of the company whose interests he represents, Mr. Dwan has taken legal steps to prevent a recurrence of the incident.
The Eclair Company has adopted a unique idea to be embodied in a series of coming releases. The plan is to write scenarios and produce the stories around one of the crafts or professions of the present day. A long list of films of this character will be produced which will be semi-educational in character as well as being made interesting for the story end of the productions.
The Eclair plant in France has added a scientific department. This department is to be under the sup- erintendency of a noted French scientist and will produce films showing microscopic views of various germs and forms of life which have to do with the health of the individual citizen in everyday life. Many of these films will be of the colored variety. They will be shipped at an early date and will probably be re- leased before another month.
A moving picture theater of an unusual character has just been opened in Brussels under a title which being translated means "Touring the AVorld." A different series of films will be shown every week, each series dealing at length with one of the world's great cities, which will be shown in every aspect. In order to stimulate interest in travel, souvenir post- cards, showing views taken from the films, and bear- ing the advertising and announcements of the theater, are being mailed in great abundance.
A letter received by the American Film Manufac- turing Company from I. Feinstein, manager of the Jefferson theater, 465 First street, Hoboken, N. J., indicates with what cordial approved American films are regarded by exhibitors. Mr. Feinstein says :
What films do I get first run? American. What films do I want the most? American. What films bring me the business? American. I could write like this all day, and without exaggeration safely say there is no better film made than the "American film." "Enough said." If you have a mailing list, place me on the top immediately and oblige your friend and well wisher.
January. 1912.
MOTOGRAPHY
41
Among the Picture Theaters
PERSONAL XOTES.
An interesting event of the month in Motography's office was a call from Harrv A. Spoor, European representative of the Essanay Film Manufacturing Co. and a brother of George K. Spoor of that company. Mr. Spoor told some unusually interest- ing anecdotes about "the film business in Europe, and particu- • larly in England, Mr. Spoor's office being in London. He paid Motography a number of compliments and called our attention to the fact that the cut in the Essanay advertisement in the London Bioscope of December 21 was taken from the front cover of November Motography. Mr. Day of the Essanay com- pany brought Mr. Spoor to our offices and made interesting com- ments on his narratives of English life.
We are in receipt of a card from W. T. Home, who operates the "House With the Gold Pillars," in Los Angeles, Cal. The card shows a picture (a printed picture, mind you) of Old Pop" Quiglev and "Kid" Home arriving at Hotel Davenport, Spokane, in 1913! That is just like Home, keeping a full year ahead of the game. Its hard to keep up with him, but— Happy New Year for 1914, Home!
It is stated that Florence Lawrence and her husband, Direc- tor Salter of the Lubin company, have left for Europe, the occa- sion being Miss Lawrence's health.
Jack Standling is reported to have left the Lubin stock com- pany. .
May Buckley, favorably known to regular theater-goers, has joined the Lubin stock.
ROLL OF THE STATES.
ARKANSAS.
The National Theater Company of Memphis, has purchased the Lyric and Airdome theaters at Paragould, formerly owned bv H.'J. Whitsitt. ,.,„,,_ u
' The Lyric theater, 512 Main street, Little Rock, has been thoroughly "remodeled and artistically decorated, a new mirror screen, sa'id to be the largest in the state, has been installed and the house has been reopened with vaudeville and moving pic- tures. It will be known as the Moon theater and will be under the management of Frank Senyard who proposes to give the pub- lic the best in vaudeville and moving pictures. The price of admission is 10 cents for adults and 5 cents for children.
CALIFORNIA.
The Oakland Photo theater is a handsome and up-to-date picture house recently opened in Oklahoma. The house is a model of comfort and convenience. The furnishings, draperies and decorations are all of the French Rennaissance period of architecture. The seating arrangements, opera chairs of uphol- stered leather and Circassian walnut, will accommodate 1,700. The ventilating system is a marvel of skill and ingenuity and in fact the entire equipment is the best to be secured. Some of the special innovations arc a ladies' rest room with a matron in attendance, a section reserved in the balcony for gen- tlemen who desire to smoke, also a section especially reserved for ladies who desire to wear their hats during the program
The Nestor Film Company, temporarily located at the corner of Gower and Sunset boulevard, Hollywood, recently closed a deal for a five and a half-acre lot on Hollywood boule- vard, Benefit and Hoover streets. Hollywood, on which a plant will be established at a cost of between $15,000 and $20,000 for the manufacture of moving picture films. The work of con- struction will be rushed as the company hopes to occupy its new location during the present month.
The new Mission Moving Picture Theater, seating capacity 400, was recently opened at Santa Barbara. ,
The Mikle theater, a new moving picture theater, is being erected at Oak Park, at a cost of $14,000.
COLORADO.
The Kauffman Kelly Company, Seattle, Wash., will erect a new $20,000 theater at Palisade.
The new Odeon theater, a handsome new picture house, recently opened at Colorado Springs, is said to be one of the largest and finest motion picture houses in the west. The interior is finished in the arts and crafts style, aiding much in the lighting system, which is on the eye-comfort plan. Men's and ladies' retiring rooms are fitted up in the basement, and the comfort of the patrons has been taken into consideration in all parts of the house. The seating capacity is 720. The ventilation is perfect, there being two large air shafts in the ceiling, each 4 by 10 feet.
CONNECTICUT.
The Orpheum motion picture theater was recently opened at Thompsonville
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
The $125,000 theater erected by the government tor the benefit of the inmates of St. Elizabeth's Insane Asylum is now in operation. The theater is to be devoted to the dis- play of moving pictures which are declared to be a great aid in curing insanity. The theater is called Hitchcock Hall, in honor of Ethan Allen Hitchcock, who was Secre- tary of the Interior at the time the appropriation for the erection of the building was passed by Congress.
A moving picture plant, the. first to be established in the Orient, will be erected in Manila in the near future if the plans of the Oriental Moving Picture Company, re- cently incorporated, are carried out. The new company in- tends to establish branches where moving pictures may be shown in nearly every town in the Philippines, besides in the larger cities of China and Japan. Branches in Hong- kong and Shanghai have already been planned for.
DELAWARE.
The Wilmington Theater Company, Wilmington, has been incorporated with a capital stock of $20,000 by Wm. G. Shaw and C. P. Toppin.
The Majestic theater. Market and Seventh streets, Wil- mington, has just installed what the management considers the most wonderful motion picture screen ever made, being scientifically and mathematically correct from every point of view.
FLORIDA.
The Hippodrome motion picture theater has been opened at Pensacola under the management of Max L. Simons.
The new Lucerne theater of Orlando will give a mov- ing picture program on evenings when not otherwise oc- cupied. The theater has a seating capacity of 1,000 and is modern in equipment and furnishings.
"The Lincoln" is the name of a new moving picture theater being erected at Jacksonville, which will be opened under the management of Fred D. Robb.
IDAHO.
The Orpheum, Moscow's new picture theater, was re- cently opened by F. M. Mitchell. C. R. Dutro and son have opened a moving picture theater in the building formerly oeupied by the Orpheum.
ILLINOIS.
Sidney Cohen has installed a new moving picture ma- chine in the Majestic theater, formerly the Family, at Ur-
The Billikin theater at Paris has been purchased by Mrs Stella C. Lamb and Edith Elstum.
The Star is the name of a handsome new motion picture theater opened at St. Charles by Gus Cook. The seating capacity is 350. „
Messrs Lee and Sam Robinson, theater men of Peoria, have taken over the lease of the Grand Opera house ot Canton, paying to Lukey & Lukely, who leased the house last August from Henkle & Andrews, the owners $4,000 for the lease, which runs to 1915. The house will be de- voted to moving pictures and vaudeville, under the manage- ment of Sam Robinson. _
A moving picture theater will be erected at 1145 Ur-
I boulevard, Chicago, by Wm. Baker, at a cost of $9,000.
The Central Theater Company, Chicago, has been in- corporated with a capital stock of $1,000 to conduct theat- rical and amusement enterprises. The incorporators are Fred D Silber, A. Paul Hollebe and M. H. Isaacs.
The Clark Amusement Company, Chicago, has been in- corporated with a capital stock of $5,000, to operate theaters and places of amusement. The incorporators are Julius N Heldman, William M. Tannenbaum and Edward Uratt. G K. Robinson, owner of the Empress and Crescent moving picture theaters of Peoria, and S. L. Gerding ot Ottawa, have opened the Crescent theater in that city, which is one of the prettiest little theaters in central Illinois, and has a seating capacity of 500. It is equipped with a big pipe organ. It is located on the main street in the very center of the business district.
A second moving picture theater has been opened at Westville by Mike Gerrab. The Gcrrab Brothers own both of the theaters in this place.
42
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
"The Rose Bud" is the name of a new moving picture theater opened at Abingdon by L. E. Culver.
A number of prominent local musicians will conduct a moving picture theater in the Bannon building at Joliet. The officers of the company are as follows: President, Louis Ochs; vice-president, George Paplawski; secretary and manager, Vernon Gaister; assistant manager, John Moore. The seating capacity will be about 300 and an orchestra of six men will always be on hand to add to the entertainment of the patrons, who will have the privilege of seeing any lilm they may request to have run.
The Geneva theater at Geneva has been purchased by Robertson and company and it will be conducted under the management of Bert Johnson.
A new $6,000 theater will be erected at 4225 Elston ave- nue, Chicago, by Felton and Soderman.
S. Berkenstadt will erect a new moving picture theater at 2708 W. Division street, Chicago, at a cost of $5,000.
A new company formed by R. M. Powers, of the Ash- land theater, and Mr. Mitchell, formerly manager of Swan- son's Film Exchange, have taken over the theater at 39th and Cottage Grove, formerly known as Swanson's theater, and are making extensive improvements in their new prop- erty, which will be known as the Oakland theater. After extensive investigation, they have put in one of the "Sun- light" Metallic Cloth Curtains and expect to use this make of screen in other properties as they are acquired.
The Dreamland theater at Galena has been purchased by Irve Claure, who will improve the same by the addition of a glass awning, new dim ceiling lights and an orchestra pit. The floor will also be lowered and when completed it will be one of the finest moving picture theaters in this section.
Messrs. Curtis Lucas, A. F. Batelle and Mike Murray will conduct a moving picture theater in the Lucas Building at Henry.
A moving picture theater will be erected at 5016 S. Ash- land avenue, Chicago, by Wm. Trancas, at a cost of $5,500.
Hallman and Kock will erect a moving picture theater at 4515 North Robey street, Chicago, at a cost of $12,000.
Thomas Leonard, Jr., of Virden, will erect a moving picture theater at Johnson City.
Messrs. Iten and Wendell will erect a moving picture theater at 2053 Belmont avenue, Chicago, at a cost of $7,000.
The Princess Picture Theater of Pittsfield has been un- dergoing extensive improvements.
The Bijou theater was recently opened at Kewaunee un- der the management of H. A. Underwood.
The Motion Picture Exhibitors' Association of Chicago has changed its name to Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America, Illinois State Branch No. 2.
The Stockholm Amusement Company, 10106 Ewing ave- nue, Chicago, will erect a moving picture theater at a cost of $8,000.
The Big Four Amusement Company will erect a new moving picture theater at 3121 Lincoln avenue, Chicago, at a cost of $12,000.
A moving picture theater will be erected at 1606 West Division street, Chicago, at a cost of $4,000.
INDIANA.
The Palace Moving Picture Theater of Richmond has been purchased by Frank E. Krump and John B. Maag.
The Star Motion Picture Theater of Hartford City has installed a new picture machine.
To improve the standard of motion picture productions and to protect themselves from unfriendly criticism, pro- prietors of moving picture theaters from all parts of the state recently met at Indianapolis and formed a permanent organization to be known as the Indiana Exhibitors' League, with the following officers: President, H. S. Dickson, Win- chester; vice-presidents, Earl Rife, Logansport; Joseph Bemmerschein, Fort Wayne; H. F. Prentice, Terre Haute; W. R. Deaton, Warsaw; H. R. Canon, Muncie; secretary, Frank J. Rembusch, Shelbyville; treasurer, Joseph Gavin, Indian- apolis.
J. M. Johns, F. H. Nichols and H. Maxwell and others are planning for the erection of a $10,000 theater at Rock- ville.
Geo. W. Aller & Son are preparing for the erection of a new theater at Laporte to be known as the Princess.
An addition will be built to the Court Moving Picture Theater of Tipton.
The Fotoplay Amusement Company of Indianapolis has been incorporated with a capital stock of $25,000 by W. P. Pfaff, F. A. Todd and O. D. Walker.
After being re-decorated, the Orpheum theater of Sum- mitville, has been re-opened to the public.
Frank G. Heller of Fort Wayne will open a moving pic- ture theater at Monroeville.
The moving picture theater conducted at Convoy by Mrs. Rebecca Youse has been purchased by John Dickerson of Richmond.
The Star theater at Anderson has been purchased by Messrs. Sampson and Kirkoff, who also own the Princess theater.
The Lyric Moving Picture Theater was recently opened at Ninth and Main streets, Richmond, under the manage- ment of Charles Roser.
The Royal theater of Marion has been re-decorated, which had added greatly to its attractiveness.
IOWA.
Charles Hennig of Creston will open a moving picture theater in the George A. Beach building at Lenox.
M. Ford of Cedar Rapids has been granted a contract for the erection of a moving picture theater with a seating capacity of 1,500.
Messrs. Will Thelan and Dick Tjaden will open a mov- ing picture theater at Norah Springs.
The Crown theater of Fort Madison has been pur- chased by O. O. Oderkirk and Mrs. M. K. Gates, who will conduct the house along the same high-class lines hereto- fore maintained, and patrons are assured the best of ser- vice by the new management.
Van Duzen Brothers have opened a moving picture theater at Sheldon.
The Gem theater of Davenport, formerly owned by W. F. Blakemore, has been purchased by B. B. Alford, who will remodel it.
Fell Brothers will erect a moving picture theater at Garner.
The Magic Moving Picture Theater at Rockwell City will be greatly improved.
A new moving picture theater has been opened at Bed- ford by John J. Clark.
Charles McGill will erect a moving picture theater at Vail.
A moving picture theater will be opened at Perry by A. S. Monroe, of the Lyric, and A. W. Walton, of the Grand Opera house.
A moving picture theater will be opened at Marengo by Jos. Reynolds.
Schwencker Brothers of Des Moines, will erect a mov- ing picture theater at Adair.
The Bands-Beardsley Moving Picture Theater at Clar- inda has been purchased by the Comet Amusement Com- pany, who will improve the same.
After having been closed for several months, Rolfe's moving picture theater at Storm Lake has been re-opened.
A moving picture theater will be erected at Poneroy by Ed Behrendt.
Messrs. Will and George Schwenneker are making ar- rangements to open a moving picture theater at Adair.
The Isis is a late addition to Jewell's list of moving picture houses. The management advertised a free opening and the house was filled to capacity four times and all enjoyed an exceptionally fine program.
KANSAS.
The Photo Play, the leading moving picture house of Concordia, has been purchased by Arthur L. Beard, of Topeka. It is equipped equal to similar houses in Topeka and Kansas City, shows the latest pictures and is very popular. The same high standard will be maintained by the new management.
The Snark theater at Independence has been purchased by Ed R. Wilson, who will make improvements in the same at once.
A moving picture theater will be opened in the Exline store building, Caldwell, under the management of H. R. Rogers.
H. L. Stubley will open a moving picture theater at Coffeyville.
LOUISIANA.
The Southern Vitoscope and Film Company, Ltd., New Orleans, has been incorporated for the purpose of buying, leasing and operating moving picture shows, and for the purchase and manufacture of films and machinery.
MAINE.
Manager Smiley of the Pastime Moving Picture Theater, Norridgewock, has leased the hall in the Hussey block and will open another moving picture theater in that place.
January, 19T2.
MOTOGRAPHY
43
MARYLAND.
A moving picture theater will be erected at 2426 Penn- sylvania avenue, Baltimore, by Frederick \\ . Schanze, which will be conducted by the Modern Amusement Company.
Jos. Brodie will erect a moving picture theater at 1118 Light street, Baltimore, at a cost of $20,000. which will seat $00.
The Palace theater, a popular moving picture house ot Cumberland, conducted under the management of Adolph Frey and William Spates, has just been equipped with three hundred mahogany chairs of pivotal construction. They are known as anti-panic chairs, deriving their name from the fact that they revolve at an angle of 90 degrees both right and left, thus allowing a crowd to leave the theater hur- riedlv. avoiding a panic.
The Moving Picture Garden, 31 West Lexington street, Baltimore, has been purchased by Howard Bennett, who conducts a number of other establishments of this kind.
MASSACHUSETTS.
Messrs. Toomey and Demaray, proprietors of the new Nickelodeon and Premier theaters at Lawrence, have ac- quired control of the Broadway theater in that city and will conduct the same as a moving picture house.
The New England Exclusive Film Exchange. Boston, has been incorporated with a capital stock of $6,000 by Charles H. Eaton and George T. Eaton.
MICHIGAN.
The Lyric theater of Ishpeming, operated by D. E. Rice, has been purchased bv Fred Zema and Arthur Iler- ron of Cleveland. O. Mr. Rice has sold his Lyric theater at Larium to H. R. Poore. He has established a number of moving picture theaters in the upper peninsula during the past five years and has sold all of them except those in Calumet and Hancock. The latter is one of the finest mov- ing picture theaters in this region. It seat> 700 people and has a good sized stage for vaudeville. Mr. Rice expects to retain ownership of both the Hancock and Calumet houses.
The Scenic, a handsome new moving picture theater, has been opened at 314 River street. Manistee, by Mrs. Jennie E. Smith. .
On or about February 1, F. P. D'Arcy, a West Mam street jeweler of Kalamazoo, will open a moving picture theater at 126 West Main street, that city. The house will be under the management of C. H. Cole, of the Royal theater, of Fort Wayne, Ind.
The Gem theater has been opened at Holly.
The Bijou theater at Marquette has been purchased by John C. Eby.
J. Schelle has let a contract for the erection of a moving picture theater at 631 Mount Elliott avenue, Detroit.
The Cozy is the latest addition to the moving picture houses in Marquette.
MINNESOTA.
The Scenic, a moving picture theater, has been opened at Long Prairie. ,
The moving picture business in Le Sueur has passed into the hands of Howard Snow and A. H. Budke.
J. E. Rogers, one of the owners of the Unique theater, Minneapolis, is planning the erection of a new theater at 5th and Hennepin. ,
B. E. and Elmer Dawson, of Wa~eca. have purchased a site in that city on which they will erect a building, a part of which will be used as a moving picture theater.
A moving picture theater has been opened at Canton bv Donold and Norton.
The Cozy Moving Picture Theater has been opened at Pipestone bv A. Barclay.
S. T. Durning will erect a new moving picture theater at Le Roy.
The Empress theater at Eveleth has been purchased by E. A. Williams, of Jamestown. X. D.
S. C. Hicks and Ray T. Butler will erect a moving picture theater at Willmar.
Clarence Fuller of Spooner will open a moving picture theater at Roseau.
A moving picture theater will be opened at Ada by is. b. Christia:
MISSISSIPPI.
The Alamo Beautiful, Fichtenber«\ $20,000 moving pic- ture theater, was recently opened in VicksburK.
The Star theater of Natchez will reopen under the management of B. S. Morgan, formerly of the Alahambra theater of New Orleans.
MISSOURI.
The Kansas City Amusement Company has been in- corporated with a capital stock of $2,000 by I Mayer and Willie Blotz, of Kansas City, lor the purpose ot promoting a moving picture theater in South St. Joseph.
The moving picture theater recently erected on Eastern avenue between Hamilton and llodiamont avenues, m. Louis, has been taken over by the Mikado Theater Company, which is now operating it. The house cost about *4_,000. The company was recently incorporated with a capital stocK oi $45,000, by O. T. Crawford, James Hagerman and W.
The Orpheum Theater Beautiful, an exclusive moving picture house, has been opened at St. Joseph under the man- agement of Morman E. Field, formerly ot Chicago One ot the features of the theater is a $5,000 pipe organ. The seat- ing capacity is 980 and there are thirteen boxes. A novel innovation will be indirect lighting, globe- shielded by cups and shedding an upward light. The ventilation will be one of the advantages afforded by three immense exhausts
through the roof. .
1. W. Eddy and John Lee have opened a moving pietuie
theater at Purcell.
The Gem Moving 1'icture Theater has been opened at Salisburv by A. G. Quails.
The F N Price Moving Picture 1 heater at riarnson- ville has been purchased by James E. Ham. ot Leavenworth,
■V factory with a company capitalized at $100,000 for the manufacture "of moving picture films, will locate in Joplin. The Commercial Club has agreed to furnish the company the use of eight lots in Spring Park Addition for a period ot one year, at the expiration of which time, provided the company shows evidence of remaining in Joplm, the land will be deeded to the factory owners.
MONTANA.
Ira P McDonald of Butte and H. O. Clark of Great Falls have purchased from the Montana Amusement Com- pany, a Butte corporation, the Alcazer moving picture theater at Great Falls.
NEBRASKA.
\ moving picture theater will be erected at Twenty- sixth and Farnam streets, Omaha, by Edward F. Kiley, which will be under the management of A. G. Clune
The Royal theater of Beatrice has been purchased by M. Till, who will improve it.
Sam Westfall of North Platte will open a moving pic- ture theater in Kearney, making the third in that place.
A moving picture theater will be erected at Franklin DJ Roy Trowbridge.
" Messrs. Zlotky and Sokoloff will erect a moving picture theater at 2514 Cuming street. Omaha, at a cost of $4,500.
Messrs. Raum and Grave, of Omaha will erect a mov- ing picture theater at Beatrice in the near future and win also remodel the old Maple Leaf cafe into a moving picture
C The Crystal theater at Alliance has been purchased by
Youkins and West. ... u i k,.
The Crystal theater at Madison has been purchased b>
G. Lowman. _., , . ,
The Joy Moving Picture Theater at Gibbon has been
purchased by Curtis Voss.
Thomas Gilmore will open a moving picture theater
at David City.
NEW JERSEV.
The Criterion Motion Picture Theater, owned by Messrs. Pick, Collins and Lawrence, has been opened at Kotherford under the management of Thomas Lawrence and Kerry Wilson. The seating capacity is 700.
The 'Grand Moving Picture Theater, recently opened at Main and Smith streets, Patcrson, is regarded as one the linen and most commodious in the state.
Plans have been prepared for a moving picture theater to be erected in Parker street, Newark, by E. Sedville, at a com of $8,000.
The Photo-Historic Film Company. Hoboken, has been incorporated with a capital stock of $50,000 tor the manu- facture of moving picture films, etc. The incorporators are Norman S. Schloss, 100 St. Nicholas avenue. New York. N Y.; Raymond S. Wood, 303 Straight street, Pat< •• Wm. Huneke, 250 Seventh street. Hoboken.
NEW YORK.
The Clinton theater will be erected at Clinton avenue and Pearl street, Albany.
44
MOTOGRAPHY
Vol. VII, No. 1.
A moving picture theater is to be installed on the first floor of the Settlement House at the northwest corner of Fif- tieth street and Tenth avenue, New York City, owned by John D. Rockefeller, which will have a seating capacity of 300. Mil- ton Gorsdorfer is the lessee.
The Imps Film Company has been incorporated with a capital stock of $250,000 by J. F. McGovern, Bronx; R. B. Francis, New York City; J. A. Cole, Hackensack, N. J.
The Aurora Grand Opera House Company, Aurora, has been incorporated with a capital stock of $10,000 by John T. Henderson, E. K. Henderson and Chas. Lamb for the purpose of erecting a theater.
The Victoria moving picture theater, Seneca Falls, has been purchased by Sam Drury, who has greatly improved the same.
"Dreamland" is the name of a moving picture theater to be opened at 324 Varick street, Utica, which will have a