Showmen's Trade Review (Apr-Jun 1939)

.l/(7 v 6. 1939 S 1 1 ( ) W M iN • S T K A I ) V. K V. V I E W The Editorial Page CURRENT OBSERVATIONS No p2rson who listened to the reports from the various Tents of the National Variety Clubs, at their Detroit Convention, could help but realize the magnificent charity job the units are doing in their respective territories. Needless to say, they are a credit to the industry which is an integral part of the Variety Clubs. As to the spot they occupy in the hearts of the industry, well, had you attended the banquet and looked around the room at the representative executives of the industry you would better understand the point we raise. STR was happy to be represented and to better know the organization and the fine work it is doing. May it continue to prosper and expand until it is national in coverage and with Tents in every important territory throughout the country. AAA Tolerance is a great word. Unfortunately, too many people play upon it and, often, in the wrong way. It has become too much of a habit for important executives to take an attitude of ''Believe as I believe or you are wrong." This viewpoint is the very basis for most of the trouble and unrest that has caused so much grief within the industry and the sooner it is eliminated the sooner will ail of the industry enjoy greater respect and cooperation. Another grave error which must be eliminated is that of exaggerated importance practiced by many not worthy of the attention they demand. In some instances, it comes from premature authority which is immediately abused. In others, it is simply a case of ego taking the upper hand. Neither one is worthy of the attention and homage paid them. But it is a tough habit to change or alter. AAA How can business be bad when you visit a home office and listen to how each new picture tops the gross of the preceding one? If business were that good the industry would be enjoying an unprecedented wave of prosperity unheard of in the past. But, of course, we are supposed to express delight and definite belief in these fairy tales, all the while trying to figure out how some of the theatres are big enough to handle this continuous increase in business while so many other spots show so decided a falling off in receipts. But then, we are not working in a home office. AAA Al Steffes bit off a mouthful when he issued a blanket invitation to any and all exhibitors to come to the Allied National Convention this June and speak their minds. Although it would be a most novel and interesting experience we still do not beheve it will happen. The challenge has been tossed right back in Al's lap to do with what he may. Just what that will be remains to be seen. AAA And speaking of AUied's Convention; if all who were invited or state they will attend, show up; Oh boy, will that be a convention! Just for the novelty of it we would like to see Kuy kendall, Pettijohn and a slew of major company heads and sales chiefs all assembled at an Allied meeting and then see what happens. Well be all ears. AAA At the rate the unions are organizing the home office staffs, it won't be so long before you'll have to call the local business agent for permission to dictate your morn' ing mail. AAA To revive an old chestnut: if the government starts any more suits it'll have to offer two pairs of pants. . . . And the current expression to define a film company home office; any place conducting business that is suf rounded on all sides by lawyers. . . . And still another about the exhibitor whose business was so bad that he could only spend one month in Florida instead of two. . . . AAA Columbia announces (see page 33) a $4,000 exploi' tation contest for outstanding campaigns on its new release: ''Only Angels Have Wings." Nice money ... if you can get some of it . . . and you should if you take advantage of the many selling angles possible on this attraction. STR will try and make it easier for you by presenting a far-reaching SHOWMANALYSIS in an early issue. Watch for it and then use as many suggestions as will apply in your situation to round out a corking campaign. AAA STR extends sincere greetings to Ray Johnston and his Monogram army now assembled in Chicago for their annual sales convention. They have a great organization and their progress speaks for itself far more eloquently than the mere word of an admirer. — 'CUICK" LEWIS