Exhibitors Herald (Jul-Sep 1922)

40 EXHIBITORS HERALD July 22, 1922 DIGESTo/HCTURES of cAeWEEK VARIOUS means for regulating the manufacture and exhibition of motion pictures have been suggested by various societies and associations throughout the country, the latest being a report from the Special Service Commission of the Federal Council of Churches. This commission's report was prepared by Dean Charles L. Lathrop and his associates and "presents some of the means other than censorship that are being considered and that might be put into operation to good advantage." We quote a few of the Council's suggestions : Licensing producers and distributors for cairying on business through interstate commerce, and licensing local exhibitors under the usual regulations governing public amusements. Organization of local clubs, church organizations, etc., to make sure of enforcement of existing laws. Familiarizing the local exhibitor with the kind of picture desired in his neighborhood. Organization through women's clubs particularly to give publicity to type of film desired in order to encourage exhibitors in the display of good pictures. Organized effort to investigate and force theatres in cheaper districts and foreign settlements to keep up a high standard of film. Organization to have children attend shows on certain nights and matinees, and in this way make it worth the exhibitors' while to show films adapted for children at those times — then at other periods show any films that would be considered more essentially adult in their interest. Formation of citizen committees to serve as advisory boards to study and work out local plans for amusement regulations, this particularly in small towns. Interesting press to give space to reviews of films where they have several days' run. Exhibitors to make public the advance summaries of films. Newspaper and billboard advertising to be carefully watched by either citizen committees or police authorities. Regular inspectors to look out for the physical cleanliness and proper sanitation and lighting of theatres and citizen groups to organize to check on the type of films shown. Greater publicity given to the lists of commendable pictures issued by the company for better films. Local groups request their exhibitors to use these films. Dean Lathrop gives as his reasons why censorship is ineffectual, because it is undemocratic; un-American; impossible for State or Federal censorship to meet local conditions ; delay release of pictures ; cost of public would be increased; political graft; political perversion of censor privilege ; unjust eliminations and restrictions ; increased cost maintaining local and state boards ; impossible to make all films suitable for children as adult entertainment cannot be placed on level of child's mind. — J. R. M. "TIER MAJESTY" (Pathe) brings two well known screen players — Molly King and Creighton Hale — to us in a picture that deserves special consideration. It is one of the best pictures Associated Exhibitors has offered in some time and makes a good warm weather attraction. "THE FIVE DOLLAR BABY" (Metro) is a pleasing comedy-drama, with plenty of heart interest and a smooth running story. It concerns life in New York tenement district and makes an acceptable hot weather attraction. Directed by Harry Beaumont and starring Viola Dana, and made from a story by Irvin Cobb. "THE DUST FLOWER" (Goldwyn) is a Basil King production with Helene Chadwick and James Rennie featured. While it is well directed and well photographed the picture is badly handicapped by several angles to the story. It will prove somewhat of a disappointment to those who remember "Earthbound." "DOMESTIC RELATIONS" (First National) is two parallel stories — one of a poor family and one a jurist in society — with both wives ill-treated. An average story with a jumpy continuity. Katherine MacDonald has the leading role but it is not one of her best pictures. Chet Withey directed. "THE LADDER JINX" (Vitagraph). It is a light comedy-drama, made by Jess Robbins, the man responsible for "Too Much Business." If you have a fondness for comedy, well acted and containing crisp cheerful titles, you'll like "The Ladder Jinx," but don't bank too much on it. Edward Horton is in it. He's always good. "THE MAN UNCONQUERABLE" (Paramount) is Jack Holt's third starring vehicle. It is a forceful, interest-compelling drama concerning pearlfisheries and a smooth gang of crooks. It was directed by Joseph Henabery and a fine cast includes Edwin Stevins, Sylvia Breamer, Clarence Burton and Jean DeBriac. Six reels of good drama. "GOD'S COUNTRY AND THE LAW" (Arrow) is one of James Oliver Curwood's virile Northwest stories, very skilfully directed by Sidney Olcott. It is well cast, has much beautiful woodland for backgrounds and the story is tense with dramatic interest. It should prove a good box office attraction where stories of the North woods are in demand. "MY DAD" (R-C Pictures) presents Johnny Walker in the role of a young man whose" love for his father is foremost in his thoughts. It is a tensely dramatic tale, adapted from Walter Richard Hall's story and is pictured against beautiful North woods backgrounds. It is well photographed and carefully directed.