Motography (Jan-Jun 1918)

1204 MOTOGRAPHY Vol. XIX, No. 26 Theatres in Nashville Flout Mayor Three Houses Keep Open on Sunday Despite His Ban, But Divert Admission Money to Thrift Stamps WHILE Mayor William A. Gupton of Nashville still obstinately persists in opposing the various petitions and requests to permit the moving picture houses to open on Sundays, local managers showed pictures on Sunday June 9. Nevertheless, three of the largest uptown houses, the Knickerbocker, Fifth Avenue and Strand, opened their doors from 2 to 10 for the benefit of the public, and although not permitted to charge admission for their own benefit a plan to furnish amusement and at the same time assist the government was perfected by charging one thrift stamp admission. Each patron bought a thrift stamp at the box office, and of course was admitted free, being allowed to keep the thrift stamp. While the managers realized no profits whatsoever, the moral effect of running the houses on Sunday is expected to create a still further call for Sunday amusement on the part of the Nashville public. In fact, employes gave their services free and the managers were under an expense in running the films, but just as constant dripping will wear away a stone, constant hammering is expected to bring about the desired object. The people are actually demanding pictures. As an evidence of the popularity of the Sunday opening, more than $1,000 in thrift stamps were sold at the Sunday shows, with only three houses running — meaning that 4,000 persons attended-the performances. Expressions of commendation were heard on all sides over the plan, both as a method of supplying entertainment and as a means of aiding the Thrift Stamp campaign. In view of the extreme popularity of the Thrift Stamp shows, it is probable that the policy will be followed each Sunday until pictures are officially permitted, even though the managers are the losers. Toney Sudekum, William Wassman and Carson Bradford were the managers who patriotically tendered the use of their houses to the Government. The hand of these men was strengthened through the dismissal of Mr. Wassman in the city court following his arrest several weeks ago for keeping open seven days. He had been admitting the public free, but compelled them to contribute to some charity. Later he joined in the Thrift Stamp plan. Theatre Changes Hands J. O. Hostetler of Waterloo, Iowa, has bought the Casino Theatre of Marshalltown from Wilbur D. Lingledue. The theatre will be managed by the new owner's brother, J. E. Hostetler, an experienced showman and at present manager of the Crystal Theatre in Waterloo. Pray in Theatres for Victory EVERY DAY at noon the big bell in the tower of the First Presbyterian church at Nashville sounds a call to the people to stop for a moment and pray for the success of American arms. At the first tap of the bell the projection machines in all houses of the Crescent Amusement Company are instantly stopped and a card is displayed upon the screen asking that all patrons bow their heads. The policy has met with the approval of the audiences and many, including foes of the theatre, are praising the Crescent managers. Finish "As the Sun Went Filming of "As the Sun Went Down," Edith Storey's newest starring vehicle in the Metro program, following "The Demon," "Treasure of the Sea," and "The Claim," has been completed at Metro's West Coast studios in Hollywood. E. Mason Hopper directed the picture, which was photographed by William Thompson. The director is now editing the film and assembling it for shipment to New York. "As the Sun Went Down," adapted for the screen by George D. Baker from the drama of that name, of which he is also the author, presents the versatile Miss Storey in the role of a "two-gun woman" of the California mining camps during the period directly following the gold rush of '49. Known as "Colonel Billy,"' she rises above a sordid career of sin to find happiness and love in the straight and narrow path. The picture is Miss Storey's last to be made in the West for a few months at. least, as she will do her next in New York. A scene from "Good Night Paul," the Select picture starring Constance Talmadge. Norman Kerry is impersonating Othello and a laugh is due. Arbuckle Starts "The Cook" Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle has played many widely varied roles in his long comedy career. In his latest comedy for Paramount release the rotund comedian will be seen as the jovial and artistic food specialist of a beach cafe. In other words, Fatty Arbuckle has started production of "The Cook." Not only will the new travesty have to do with the eccentricities of Fatty as a cook, but the riotous fun to be found on a beach pike with its side-show attractions reveals rare comedy promise. In "The Cook" Fatty will be supported by his usual well balanced cast.