Kinematograph year book (1944)

Film Exhibition and Kinema Technique. 181 There has been a considerable amount of essential renovation work carried out by various decorative specialists. Walturdaws have done many commercial and service jobs and the organisation of the new G. B.-Kalee set-up has also been busily employed. Both as an integral part of its K.G.F. "all-in" policy and in individual contracts. Modernisation, Ltd., have carried out some highly satisfactory work. Another well-known provincial firm, Fosters (Curtains), Ltd., have set a high standard as regards both artistry and the quality of materials used. Notwithstanding shortage of staff and the difficulties of supply the facilities of such firms as Clark & Fenn, Ltd., Campbell Bros., Decorative Crafts, Ltd., and Roffe Decorations have been freely employed by exhibitors and architects, who have benefited by the specialised knowledge of the various Orders and restrictions which govern such work. VALUATION. The importance of the expert valuer has been emphasised during these war years. For instance, necessary insurance protection is more in practice than ever, having regard to the increased building 1 costs and replacement costs of plant, equipment and furnishings. Messrs. Harris and GillOW, recognised expert valuers of kinemas etc., have, during 1943, carried out valuations of 'no fewer than 276 kinema and theatre properties throughout the country, many of which have been specially prepared for insurance and war damage purposes. Altogether this firm's activities exceed in value some 21 million sterling., They have also found purchasers for a large number of kinemas representing a capital of some £6,000,000. Moreover, contracts are on the point of being exchanged for the acquisition of some 35 of the leading kinemas throughout the country, which are being sold separately to independent exhibitors. The activities of J. Rowland Sales, Ltd., have been very widespread during the past year. They have undertaken a large number of valuations and inventories of furnishings and equipment of kinemas and also of the buildings for insurance purposes, war damage etc. This question of valuations looms largely in all departments of kinema operation, and many satisfied clients avail themselves of the expert facilities offered by this company. In addition they have effected quite a considerable number of important sales and an even larger volume of business is anticipated in the future. The necessity of having an up-to-date inventory and valuation carried out is recognised by exhibitors, this being a charge against E.P.T. A large number of owners, realising the great loss that would be incurred by yearly depreciation and the enormous increase in prices of equipment, are now having their valuations revised annually by Russell & Co. The increase in business has necessitated the firm's removal to Premier House, 48 Dover Street, Piccadilly, where the Sales Department will be extended under the supervision of Harry Richman, a newcomer and partner in the firm. The valuation side will continue in the capable hands of Mrs. Terry Humphris and George Edmonds. KINEMA ILLUMINATION. WHEN peace comes many interesting illumination processes will be available, chief among which will be the wide adaptation of gaseous discharge for exterior and interior lighting. The principle has been perfected during the war for industrial purposes, and experts see illimitable possibilities in its application to entertainment; they have visualised " plates of light," " walls of light," " ceilings of light " and " prosceniums of light " instead of its restriction to the tubular form. It may mean that a totally different technique will be evolved for all forms of kinema illumination and that the startling assertiveness of the conventional exterior