Exhibitors Herald (Dec 1921 - Mar 1922)

March 4. 1922 EXHIBITORS HERALD 37 NationWide Move for Cut In Rental Seen in N. Y. Act Eastern Theatre Men Demand Decrease of 33 1-3 Per Cent in Price of Film— O'Reilly Is Re-elected President of League (Special to Exhibitors Herald) NEW YORK, Feb. 21. — Now that the annual convention of the Motion Picture Theatre Owners of New York State is history, exhibitors all over the country are focussing their attention on the working out of the movement started in Albany for a reduction of not less than 33 1/3 per cent in film rentals. Forecasts Similar Action at Washington That this movement is but a forerunner of similar action to be taken at the national convention in Washington next May is considered to be a certainty. The resolution, which was the first one presented at the convention and which was the subject of much earnest discussion, is published at the beginning of this storv. National President Sydney S. Cohen, who presided at the Albany sessions, aided in preparing the resolution and spoke at length on it from the chair. He spoke feelingly of the troubles confronting the small exhibitor and declared it was necessary for CONVENTION MOST CONSTRUCTIVE Sydney S. Cohen, president of the M. P. T. O. A., said after the close of the Albany convention: "This was the largest, most enthusiastic, and most constructive state convention ever held in the film industry. Film history was made. Movements were started there which will not only be farreaching, but as they are worked out will prove of vital importance to every exhibitor in the country. The work of the New York State body is being watched closely by the exhibitors of other states, and there is no question but what many of the constructive things started in Albany will meet with the cooperation of the M. P. T. O. of other states. The things started at Albany will be carried on vigorously." tional convention. In his welcoming address he called attention to an ultimatum issued to producers and distributors at the Minneapolis convention and reiterated that the organization already has in its possession offers from two leading and many independent producers to distribute their product direct to the exhibitor through the M. P. T. O. A. This statement, coupled with Mr. Cohen's strong speech for the resolution, was considered to be significant of the earnest effort which will be put behind the fight for lower rentals. State President Charles L. O'Reilly also spoke at length on the resolution. Adopted Unanimously The only argument provoked by the discussion of the measure was over the question of a minimum reduction of 33% per cent from 1920 prices. Every one of the many delegates who talked were in favor of the resolution, but many of them urged that the minimum be placed much higher. It was finally adopted as presented without dissent. Another resolution which stirred up a buzz of excitement was presented by William Brandt, president of the Theatre Owners Chamber of Commerce of New York which read : Demand One-Third Cut in Rentals Resolution adopted at the annual convention of the Motion Picture Theatre Ozi'uers of New York State: WHEREAS, The government reports show an increase in film rentals during 1921 of $10,000,000 and a decrease of $43,000,000 in paid admissions as compared with 1920; therefore, BE IT RESOLVED, That we demand from the film sellers a reduction of not less than 33 1 3 per cent from the 1920 prices on existing contracts; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a committee to be appointed by the president be given authority to use the full power of this organization to secure this much-needed relief. A. M. P. A. Selects Second Dinner Date "Naked Truth Dinner" Will Be Held at Biltmore March 25 (S fecial to Exhibitors Herald) NEW YORK, Feb. 21.— The second edition of the "Naked Truth Follies" of the Associated Motion Picture Advertisers will be held at the Biltmore hotel on March 2j. The coming affair, it is said, will surpass in brilliance the previous event. Prepare Feast A. M. Botsford and "Doc" Tom Wiley are in charge of the entertainment committee. Members of the Green Room Club have again volunteered their aid in preparation of sections of the edition, but with this exception all the material will be furnished by A. M. P. A. members. Final plans for the program will be worked out at a joint meeting of the entertainment committee and board of directors of the A. M. P. A. to be held this week. Guests Limited More than 400 executives, producers, stars and advertising members of the industry attended the dinner last year. To provide for the large number of requests that have been made for reservations, accommodations are being made for guests in a limited number in the coming affair. Gradwell Associates With Wid Gunning in Distributing Concern (Special to Exhibitors Herald) NEW YORK, Feb. 21.— Ricord Gradwell has become associated with Wid Gunning in the distribution corporation as managing director. Mr. Gradwell will also continue as president of Producers Security Corporation, which service he created. He was, at one time, vice-president and general manager of the Oliver Typewriter Company and also took charge of the World Film on behalf of banking interests. • In his association with Wid Gunning. Mr. Gradwell will assume executive direction of the distributing concern making it possible for Mr. Gunning to devote his time to production work in connection with his partnership plan with exhibitors, recently announced. H. & M. Film Exchange Increases Operations (Special to Exhibitors Herald) SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, Feb. 21. —The H. & M. Film Exchange operating >n Utah. Idaho and Wyoming are now distributing in the Denver territory and have taken over the distribution of all product of the Film Distributors league and_ other state right product. New offices in Denver will be opened by J. H. Hurschman. general manager. Heads Advisory Board (Special to Exhibitors Herald) LOS ANGELES, Feb. 21.— Eugene B. Lewis, well-known scenario writer, has been made head of the advisory bureau if Palmer Photoplay Corporation. the very life of the industry to obtain for him such relief as would enable him to keep his house open and make a profit. Refers to Ultimatum Mr. Cohen's remarks, coupled with a statement he made in his address of welcome, is indicative that the film rental question will be made an issue at the na Table Brandt Resolution "Be it resolved that the Motion Picture Theatre Owners of New York extend a welcoming hand of co-operation to Mr. Will H. Hays. And be it further resolved that this organization stand ready to co-operate with him to the end that many abuses of the industry be abolished." This brought many exhibitors to their feet, several clamoring for recognition at once. Finally Mr. Cohen stated that inasmuch as Mr. Hays' plans and even the organization of which he is to be the head,