Boxoffice (Apr-Jun 1947)

and to formulate plans for the common good and for the betterment of our industry. At the moment, we remain at the crossroads. One path leads to litigation and to more litigation; the other, to at least an opportunity for amicable adjustment of differences and for harmony. We shall have to have either a sacrifice of sovereignty by all, or an industry good for none. Whether this movement for unity is patterned after the idea of a Motion Picture Forum, proposed by MPTOA last September, and deferred temporarily until the supreme court acts on the antitrust case, or some other form, is not too material. But such a plan must be carried forward, it seems to me. The hearty and cooperative response received from almost all segments of the industry when the Forum idea was first projected disclosed the almost universal appeal of this program. The total collapse of plans for creating a system of industry arbitration to take the place of the one discarded by the final decree, and the absence of a united front to fight aggressively against unjust invasions such as the proposed Ascap assessment increases, both highlighted the manifestly sad lack of a united industry front. These expressions may sound a cynical and defeatist note. This has not been my intention. There is in me now, as always, a fundamental feeling of optimism regarding the future of the motion picture industry. The industry is growing and blossoming from deep pioneer roots. It has withstood many major blows, and it has conquered seemingly insurmountable obstacles. All of this it did with great effort and energy along lines dictated by circumstances and necessity. In the future, confronted by new obstacles and problems arising out of the supreme court decision, we will again be required to meet and conquer many obstacles. Passivity and indifference will lead only to chaos and ruin. I ask only, and hope, that the pathway to be followed will be that which leads to the peace table, where all interests will be represented for action along the lines already discussed. This industry must be spared its countless, wasted trips to the courthouse, trips which threaten to sap its lifeblood. But I must frankly admit that this in the only available alternative, if distribution and exhibition do not get together. Delay Probe oS Pressure By Government on Films Un-American Committee cancels immediate investigation to determine extent and responsibility of alleged influence on “Communist propaganda” in motion pictures. * Detailed Theatre Figures From MPA to Start Soon Buffalo scheduled to be first exchange area completed as result of Robert W. Chambers’ study; others will follow at rate of one each week. * American Theatres Ass'n Member Drive Delayed Directors vote to suspend campaign for present time because of unsettled trade conditions while antitrust case is pending, Ted R. Gamble, board chairman, disclosed. -K Sales Meetings Scheduled By Warners, Columbia Warners session of district managers and home office executives set June 5, 6, in New York; Columbia confab to be at the Drake hotel in Chicago June 3-6. * Harold J. Mirisch Becomes Official o! Allied Artists Former head buyer for RKO Theatres named vice-president and will act as producer-contact with the sales department; will make his headquarters in Hollywood. * Edward Small Will Start Valentino Film July 9 Scenes for “The Life of Rudolph Valentino” will be made in Rome, Paris and London; Archie Mayo will direct most of the picture in Hollywood for UA release. * Delay German Film Talks Until Petersen Returns Undersecretary of war now in Germany for conferences with the American military government and his return is scheduled for the middle of June. * Eric Pommer Says 'Bel Ami' German-Made, Asks Ban Declares it is Nazi film in report to Department of Justice; also insists some prints here are unauthorized and that the film is barred in Germany. * 'Henry V' Is Going Back To B'way After 47 Weeks Already has played 12 weeks at City Center and 35 weeks at Golden Theatre; resumes June 17 at Broadway Theatre after absence of 45 days.