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^NEWSPAPER o/*FILMDOM

AHDWEEKLY FILM DIGEST

VOL. XXXIX No. 1

Sunday, Jan. 2, 1927

Established 1918

JOHN W. ALICOATE, Publisher

INDEX

PAGE

D. Kann 3

TIME TO BE MERRY, Editorial by Maurice

FINANCIAL, by Charles F. Hynes 4

FOREIGN MARKETS, by James P. Cunningham 5

HOLLYWOOD HAPPENINGS, by Harvey E. Gausman 6

EASTERN STUDIOS; NEW BLOOD OF AN OLD YEAR, by Ralph Wilk 7

REVIEWS OF THE NEWEST RELEASES, by Lilian W. Brennan 8-9

EXPLOIT-O-GRAMS, Compiled by Jack Harrower 10

DEVELOPMENTS IN PRESENTATIONS, by Arthur W. Eddy 10

THEATER EQUIPMENT AND MANAGEMENT, by Michael L. Simmons. 11

THE WEEK'S HEADLINES 12

AND THAT'S THAT, Phil M. Daly's Observations 12

REVIEWS

THE FIRE BRIGADE 8

THE GORILLA HUNT 8

THE POPULAR SIN 8

PAGE

THE TRUTHFUL SEX 9

TWINKLETOES 8

VALENCIA 9

SHORT SUBJECTS 9

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The Film Daily

Weekly Film Digest

Year Book

Directors Annual

Short Subject Quarterly

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1927 FILM YEAR BOOK

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1001 Exploit-O-Grams

1926 Box-Office Records of All Important First Runs in the United States

Theater Chains Throughout the Country

Ten Best Pictures of 1926 and the Ten Best Directors and Players

Complete Personnel of Important Organi- zations

Feature and Short Subject Releases of 1926 Theater Supply Dealers

M. P. T. O. Associations, Their Addresses

and Officers

Motion Picture Reviewers of Important

Newspapers

Numerous Interesting Articles Divulging a Mine of Information About the Industry

Complete List of More Than 20,000 The- aters Showing Motion Pictures

Exhibitors' Buying Guide

Record of 8,000 Titles of Features

Stars, Directors, Cameramen, Scenarists and Their Productions

Studios and Studio Officials

The Foreign Market

Lists of Laboratories, Raw Stock Dealers, Projection Rooms, Film Libraries, etc.

List of Cameramen and Their Addresses

Selected List of 400 Films for Children

Fan and Trade Publications Throughout

the World

A GREAT BOOK

COVERING

A GREAT INDUSTRY

ITHE

ZfeNEWSPAPER o/'FSLMDOM

ANDWEEKLY FILM DIGEST

VOL. XXXIX No. 1

Sunday, January 2, 1927

Price 25 Cents

Famous Control of Ufa Chain Seen in German Film Circles

Houses Would Be Nucleus

Of European Circuit

Company Plans

Berlin — New reports regarding the Ufa situation are coming to the fore daily. It is believed here that the Paramount domination of the com- pany's affairs will become more marked as weeks go by. By virtue of this situation, it is anticipated that Famous will secure control of the important Ufa theaters in Berlin and, perhaps, throughout Germany as well.

The unconfirmed report that Fa- mous would eventually operate about 500 theaters throughout Europe is held to be traceable to the associa- tion with the Ufa chain which, many believe, will form the nucleus around which the Paramount exhibition in- terests in Europe will be built.

Ufa is still looking for money. An appeal to the Government was made

{Continued on Page 12)

— Happy New Year —

William Branch Wins Contract

Los Angeles— Harry Cohn, general manager of production for Colum- bia has given a year's contract to William Branch to write exclusively for that company.

— Happy New Year —

Ehrenreich Visiting N. Y.

Max Ehrenreich, chief South American representative for United Artists, is in New York on a vaca- tion. He reports business as good in his territory.

— Happy New Year —

$85 For Relief Fund

Contributions aggregating $85 have been received for the relief of the well known former executive of the industry in his fight to regain health. They are: George Kleine, $50; H. J. Yates, $25 and E. M. Saunders, $10. Contributions should be sent to THE FILM DAILY, 1650 Broadway.

— Happy New Year —

F. N. Buys "Belated Evidence"

Contracts have been closed by First National for rights to a short story by Elliott White Springs entitled "Belated Evidence" which appeared in a recent issue of "Liberty."

— Happy New Year —

Sprague Signs Contract

Los Angeles— Chadler Sprague has signed a long-term contract to write for Famous.

Keith House For Flushing

The Keith interests are expected to start construction of a 3,600-seat house at Flushing, L. I., next Spring. — Happy New Year—

New Sales Promotion Head

Steve Fitzgibbon has been made director of sales promotion for F.B.O.

— Happy New Year —

$11,500,000 Program

Atlanta — Four theaters, repre- senting an aggregate investment of $11,500,000, are planned, under con- struction here, or have just opened.

Loew's Grand will replace the pres- ent theater on Pryor St. at Peachtree. The house will seat 4,000 and will be part of a project costing $8,000,000.

The Erlanger at Peachtree St., be-

(Continued on Page 12)

— Happy New Year —

Schine Opens Another

Rochester, N. Y. — Schine Theatrical Corp. has opened its fourth house here, the State, built by Thomas De- Meco, at a cost of $260,000. It seats 1,500. Leon Shafer is resident man- ager. A three-manual Wurlitzer- Hope-Jones unit orchestra organ has been installed, and Edward C. May is organist.

$197,000,000 to Be Spent on 1927 West Coast Production

New French Producer

Paris — Les Artistes Reunis is the name of a new French producing unit of which Madame Pierre Renoir is director and the financier, Yves Viera. The first picture is "Mar- quitta," now being made by Jean Re- noir who directed "Nana." Renoir is using the Gaumont studio.

— Happy New Year —

Alabama Confident

Birmingham — Conditions in North- ern Alabama are subnormal at pres- ent, due partly to the falling price of cotton and partly to bad weather. However, a boom is anticipated early in 1927 and at present Florence, Shef- field, Tuscumbia and nearby towns are filled with engineers, promoters, builders and sight-seers.

This section has so many sub- divisions laid out that it resembles Florida at the height of the boom in (Continued on Page 12)

— Happy New Year —

P.D.C. in Germany

Berlin — Prod. Dist. Corp. has formed a production unit here, known as Deutsche P.D.C. Filmfabrikations. Franz Vogel of National Film will be in charge.

IT'S time to be merry, folks. Nineteen twenty-seven, a healthy youngster, is here. Everything looks bright for the new year.

Not only that. It's also Laugh Month.

The campaign for merrier and more satisfied patrons has been progressing at a rapid pace. The committee has been active. Ac- cessories are ready. Newspaper tie-ups are in work. Ten radio stations have been enlisted to spread the happy gospel throughout the land. Some of them will broadcast the tidings about Laugh Month day by day throughout January. That's invaluable ex- ploitation.

The advance requests for information has been heavy. The committee anticipates that twice as many theaters will participate this year as against 1926. Many circuits are in line. Many of them will hold Laugh Weeks sometime during the month.

The idea deserves encouragement. Exhibitors might well get

(.Continued on Page 4)

Gain Of $25,000,000 Over

Past Year Disclosed

By Survey

Los Angeles — The year 1927 will witness the greatest production pro- gram in the industry's history, with $197,000,000 to be spent in California studios during the year. The fig- ures are the result of a survey made by the Guarantee Building and Loan Ass'n. This represents a gain of $25,- 000,000 over the year just closed.

While no exact figures can be ob- tained, it is estimated that the weekly payroll of the studios during 1927 will average $1,750,000. Schedules of the larger producers call for expenditure of $30,000,000 more in 1927, than this year, but $5,000,000 of the amount was deducted to cover decrease over 1926 figures because of consolida- tions, closing of studios and other changes.

According to the survey, $156,000,- 000 was expended on production in 1923, $168,000,000 during 1924 and $170,000,000 in 1925.

— Happy New Year —

Stereoscopic Comedy

Los Angeles — Binocular Stereo- scopic Film Co. is planning produc- tion of a comedy using its natural vision process. The firm owns the Ives-Leventhal process, which em- ploys colored viewing screens. A se- ries of subjects employing the pro- (Continued on Page 12) — Happy New Year —

A Viennese Lord Byron

Vienna — Heinrich Flemminger has formed a producing unit, the first picture of which will be the life of Lord Byron. Work starts this month .

— Happy New Year —

New Australian Exchanges

Sydney — Famous-Lasky is building three new exchange buildings in Aus- tralia.

— Happy New Year —

R-C Export Ceases

London — The R-C Export Corp., selling agent for F.B.O. in England, has ceased operations in this coun- try. Sol Newman will handle F.B. O. affairs in the future. Distribution will be of course through Ideal.

— Happy New Year —

Hayden to Direct for Marsh Harry Marsh has signed Charles Hayden to direct for Silver Eagle Productions which soon start work at Elmira.

1HE

•3&*l

DAILY

Sunday, January 2, 1927

Vol XXXIX No.1 Sunday. Jan 2, 1927 Pnce25 Cents

10HN W. M.IC0AIE

Publishei

Published daily except Saturday and holidays at 1650 Hroadway, New York, N. Y., and copyright (1927) l>y Wid's Films and !■ ilm Folks, Inc. J. W. Alicoate. President and Treasurer; Maurice D. Kann, Editor; Don aid M Mersereau, Business and Advertising Manager; Ralph Wilk, Traveling Represen tative. Entered as second-class matter May 21, 1918, at the post office at New York, N. Y., under the act of MaTch 3, 1879. Terms (Postage free) United States, outsid; of Greater New York, $10.00 one year; ( months, $5.00; 3 months, $3.00. Foreign, $15.00. Subscribers should remit with order. Address all communications to THE FILM DAILY, 1650 Broadway, New York, N. Y Phone Circle 4736-4737-4738-4739. Cable ad dress: Filmday, New York. Hollywood California — HaTvey E. Gausnran, Ambassa dor Hotel: 'Phone, Drexel 7000 and Wash- ington 9794, London — Ernest W. Fredman, The Film Renter, 58, Great Marlborough St., London, .V. I., Paris— La Cinematographic Francaise, 5, Rue Saulnier.

Financial

As of Thursday, December 30.

Quotations

High

Low

4454

63 V,

73'A

133

113

121 Vt, 5

100 70

22M 12/2 46J4 24& 12J4 40*4

Sales 700

400 3,900

400 1,300

6,300

200

1,200

1,700

Am. Sea. Vtc. . .

•Am. Seat. Pfd..

•Balaban & Katz

*Bal. & Katz Vtc

Eastman Kodak ...134 133

Famous Players ..114J4 113

*Fam. Play. Pfd

Film Inspect S'A 5

•First Nat'l. Pfd

Fox Film "A" 71^ 70

•Fox Theaters "A"

•Intern'l Project

Loew's, Inc 47^ 46*4

Metro-Gold. Pfd. .. 24% 24 J*

M. P. Cap. Corp.. 12J4 11%

Pathe Exch. "A".. 41J4 40#

Paramount B'way. 98J4 98 Roxy Class "A".. 29 27

Roxy Units 32 30

Roxy Common 9:/2 7lA

Skouras Bros. ... 50 50

Stan. Co. of Am

Trans-Lux Screen . 7V% 754

•Univ. Pict. Pfd

•Universal Pictures

Warner Pictures... 31Ji 30% Warner Pict. "A". 42}4 40%

* Last Prices Quoted t Bond ** Philadelphia Market tt Bid

— Happy New Year —

Hagedorn Managing at Detroit Detroit — Charles Hagedorn now is managing the New Plaza, East Jef- ferson Ave., for Alex Schreiber.

50 83

7'A 98*4 39

30%

40%

Market

and Ask

/Time To Be Merry

(Continued From Page 3)

behind the move to instill in the breasts of their public a greater desire to laugh. Because when this is accomplished, it will mean a greater patronage at their houses. And that's what they're in business for.

Theaters and Foreign Markets

Here and there a word slips through. Important American distributors are prone to deny that their plans embrace theaters abroad. The facts seem to indicate otherwise. Take France. Leon Gaumont pays a visit to America. He returns to his native heath. Now Paris reports he will build a chain throughout France, each theater to be likened to the Capitol in New York, but per- haps not so large. But M-G-M holds a not inconsiderable in- terest in the Gaumont enterprises, and there you are. Famous, reports still persist, will enter mightily into the theater situa- tion in Europe. Whisperings from Berlin intimate some — and maybe all — of the Ufa houses will eventually pass to the control of Paramount. That's indication number two. In South America, where M-G-M and First National are functioning as a two-cor- nered Fanamet combination, the former has wedged into exhibi- tion by securing control of forty-four Brazilian theaters. There are inklings of further transactions under way. Control of two first-runs in Birmingham, England pass to Famous and provincial exhibitors are almost up in arms.

The industry, beset as it is with hostile demonstrations in many foreign lands because of its majority hold on playing time, will face an entirely new situation. The solution is difficult.

Foreign film factors will naturally resent efforts of rank out- siders to gobble up their theaters. And yet if the march of progress decrees that American distributors must have their first run outlets abroad just as they have them here what can be* done about it? Perhaps a graceful way out will be that which M-G-M has taken in France. There, at least, both the native and foreign organizations work together on a partnership arrangement.

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Germans Fearful

Berlin — The drive against the bug- aboo of the American financial inva- sion has extended to the film industry with the association of German film manufacturers petitioning Minister of Economy Curtius to save their busi- ness from being "swallowed up" by American capital.

"The German film industry fears it will be ruined by the overpowering American capital, the same as the film industries in France, Italy, Eng- land and Scandinavia," the petition states.

— Happy New Year —

Ben Shearer in Charge Seattle — Ben F. Shearer is to re- main in charge of stores of National Theater Supply Co. here and at Port- land. The company plans a building here to house its activities now di- rected from four different locations. — Happy New Year —

Niagara Falls House Bought

Niagara Falls — Falls Theater Corp. has taken over the Falls, East Falls St., and Portage Rd. Albert Elia is president.

Chadwick Starts "Ladybird" Hollywood — Chadwick has started production on "The Ladybird," with Betty Compson, Malcolm MacGregor, Sheldon Lewis, Ruth Stonehouse, John Miljan, Joseph Girard, Hank Mann and Leo White. Walter Lang is directing.

— Happy New Year —

Dinner for Proctor

Schenectady — A dinner will be given Frederick F. Proctor and four of his close business associates by the Schenectady Chamber of Com- merce.

— Happy New Year —

Joice Managing Fox's Audubon

J. Maxwell Joice, formerly pub- licity director at the Rivoli, now is managing Fox's Audubon, 165th St. and Broadway.

■ — Happy New Year —

Goldburg Back At Coast

Los Angeles — Jesse J. Goldburg has returned after a conference at the Chadwick home office in New York.

"Race" Recalled

How Pathe and Vitagraph "raced" to place the first American news reel on the market, is told by G. L. Charnier, superintendent of Pathe laboratories, who has been with Pathe News since its inception in 1910. The first issue, he says, was composed entirely of foreign material, and when finished proved to be a procession of kings and queens. How- ever, it served the purpose, and the contemplated news reel project of Vitagraph was abandoned.

In 1911, the Pathe News put out two issues a week. Thirty prints covered the country. The era of "specials" started in 1912. Production of the so-called features was carried on in a little open-air stage at Jersey City. In the winter the studio party moved indoors to the old Edison Studio in New York. In 1916, Chan- ier took charge of the Bound Brook and Jersey City laboratories, and in addition was in charge of studio work. He has been general superintendent of laboratories since 1916.

— Happy New Year —

150 Escape in Fire

Plattesville, Wis. — One hundred and fifty persons clambered to safety down a fire escape from the third floor when fire damaged the City Hall, while the show was in progress.

Carbon Causes Fire

Roadhouse, 111. — A falling carbon ignited a film which caused $4,000 fire damage at the Dreamland. Eight reels were destroyed and the building damaged.

Acquires W. Va. Theater

Huntington, W. Va. — Le Motte Smith of Alliance, Ohio, has acquired the Liberty on Fourth Ave., between 10th and 11th Sts.

— Happy New Year —

Valentine Adds to Chain

Kansas City — A house under con- struction in the Willet building at Valentine Road and Broadway, will be operated by the Valentine Amuse- ment Co.

— Happy New Year—

Goolsby Managing At Memphis Memphis, Tenn. — L. S. Goolsby now is managing the De Soto. — Happy New Year —

Veteran Plans House Opening

Atlanta — James A. Rebb, who in point of service is the oldest exhibitor in Atlanta and the first to operate a suburban house here, is planning to open his new theater at 510 Decature St. the first week in January.

— Happy New Year —

Cast For "Too Many Crooks"

Los Angeles — John St. Polis and George Bancroft have been added to the cast of "Too Many Crooks," Fa- mous picture.

I F I T'S

GOWNS or UNIFORMS

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Sunday, January 2, 1927

THE

3?^

DAILY

AIDING THOSE INTERESTED

IN THE FOREIGN MARKETS

TO KEEP ABREAST OF FILM

HAPPENINGS ABROAD

Foreign Markets

A SUMMARY OF TRADE

HAPPENINGS IN ENGLAND

AUSTRALIA, FRANCE AND

FLASHES FROM OTHER

LANDS

Investigation On

Special Committee of English Exhib- itors to Report on Effect Pre- Releases Have on First Runs

By ERNEST IV. FREDMAN Editor, "The Film Renter"

London— At the last meeting of the London branch of the Cinema- tograph Exhibitors' Association, pre- release showings and their effect on regular first runs were discussed at length. There has been considerable objection raised to pre-release show- ings. It was pointed out by many theater owners that if the pre-release run could be brought nearer to the regular run. it would not react so seriously. A special committee was appointed to investigate ways and

means for improving the situation.

* * *

The Bill Posting Ass'n banned one of the 12 sheets being used for First National's "The Splendid Road" and J. Frank Brockliss, the company's British representative, has appealed to the Kinematograph Renters' Soc- iety.

* * *

Sir Alfred Butt, just returned from America, declares the great success of films in the States is attributed to the fact that exploitation is a large and important activity, organized by men of great imagination and busi- ness ability, on sound commercial lines. He deplores the fact that in England the three sides of the busi- ness— production, distribution and ex- hibition— work separately.

* * * "

Colvin Brown, of F.B.O., on a tour of the Continent from New York visited in London on company mat- ters.

* * *

First National's sales officials and representatives from all over the Kingdom will attend a sales confer- ence in London in January. J. Skir- boll, general European manager of First National, who was in London for several days, returned to his head- quarters in Paris for the holidays, but will be back for the convention.

"The Black Pirate" has opened for a run at the New Gallery Kinema.

By JAMES P. CUNNINGHAM

Split Programs

1927 Schedules of German Distrib- utors Indicate An Equal Share of Foreign and Domestic Films

Berlin — From early reports on schedules of several of the more im- portant German distributors, for 1927, it is discovered that product during the new year will be divided about evenly between foreign and domestic- markets. Ufa, the largest distributor in the country, announces 27 fea- tures, 13 of which will be produced in Germany and 14 from America, Sweden and France.

— Happy New Year —

New Polish Information Bureau Lwow (Lemberg) Poland — The In- ternational Eastern Fairs has estab- lished a permanent information bur- eau in this city (address: Jagiellouska 1) for furnishing, gratis, information pertaining to the demand and supply of domestic and foreign goods, cus- toms, tariffs, transport charges, etc. The bureau also offers its services for the distribution of catalogues and other advertising matter of American firms interested in the Polish market.

— Happy Neiv Year —

300 Pictures a Second by New Device Paris — M. Rogues, a French inven- tor, has. devised a camera which is said to take 300 pictures a second. An instance of the power of the ma- chine, according to local newspapers, is that the course of a bullet from a gun can be followed.

— Happy New Year —

Karl Geyer Expanding Berlin — The firm of Karl Geyer, manufacturing optical apparatus and production equipment, has incorpor- ated with a capital of 600,000 marks.

— Happy New Year —

Attend "Big Parade" Premiere

Brussels — King Albert and Prince Charles headed a delegation of Amer- ican, British, French, Italian and Bel- gian notables who attended the Bel- gian premiere of "The Big Parade" at the Cameo.

— Happy New Year —

"Beau Geste" Not Banned Reports from Germany that "Beau Geste" had been banned in that coun- try are incorrect.

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German Exports

Raw Stock Shipments for First Nine

Months of 1926 Already Exceed

All of 1925

Washington Bureau, of THE FILM DAILY

Washington— Exports from Ger- many of sensitized but unexposed film during the first nine^months of 1926 totaled 39,699,000 meters valued at 8,981,000 renten-marks, as com- pared with 56,747,300 meters valued at 1,125,300 rentenmarks exported in the entire year 1935, according to the Dept. of Commerce.

German exports of negative films in the same period amounted to 316,- 000 meters valued at 799,000 renten- marks as compared with exports of 93,000 meters valued at 123,000 marks in the entire year 1925. Exports of positives totaled 10,443,900 meters valued at 2,848,000 rentenmarks in the period under survey as compared with 4,215,200 meters valued at 1,- 071,000 marks in 1925.

Imports into Germany of sensitized but un- exposed film in the January-September period totaled 2,012,400 meters valued at 303.000 marks as against 821,500 meters valued at 157,000 marks as compared with 134,200 meters worth 41,000 marks in 1924. Imports of positives amounted to 3,043,400 meters valued at 1.049,000 marks as compared with 1.132,700 meters valued at 466,000 marks in 1925.

During the first nine months of 1926, 66,- 350 meters were imported for re-export and 61,300 meters were imported as returned general merchandise. In 1925, 307,600 meters were imported from the United States and 137,800 meters from Great Britain. For the first nine months of 1925, 970,900 meters were imported from the United States, 887,- 200 meters from France and 257,900 meters from Great Britain.

An analysis of the raw film figures reveals that the total for this year will more than double the 1925 import total, which in turn was almost two and one-half times the total for the previous year, when it amounted to 337,700 meters. Great Britain was tl/t; chief supplier of this commodity during the 1926 months.

The situation as regards imports and ex- ports of positives shows encouraging gains for Germany. Imports during 1926 should be more than two and one-half times the 1925 total and probably will approximate a figure of about 3,000,000 meters. A large gain is reflected in German exports of posi- tives during 1926 over the previous year, on the monthly average of the 1926 figures al- ready in. It is thought likely that Germany should total more than 13,000,000 meters in positive exports during this year, and should thus increase its shipments abroad by 9,000,- 000 meters over the 1925 figure. Available figures show a considerable gain in ship-

ments from Germany to its nearby markets. Austria, its best customer, should take four and one-half times as many positives during 1926 as it took during 1925, and should show a total of well over 3,000,000 meters. Lat- via, undoubtedly for the Baltic markets and the adjacent Russian border, was the next best customer, and, too, showed a very large increase over 1925. Other countries to regis- ter large advances are Czechoslovakia, Rus- sia. East Poland, Switzerland and France. Spain appears in the list of substantial buy- ers for the year whereas no record of any shipments to that country is recorded in 1925. — Happy New Year —

Graf Heads "U" German Unit

Berlin — William Graf, president of the Film Distributors' Ass'n since its inception ten years ago, has been ap- pointed head of the German distrib- uting organization of Universal.

— Happy New Year — Wardour to Release German Picture

London — Scheduled for early re- lease on Wardour's program is "The Two Brothers," made in Germany by Ufa and featuring Liane Haid, Lil Dagover and Conrad Veidt, the latter playing the dual role of the two brothers. The film recently had a trade showing at the Palace.

Foreign Rights

COMPLETE PROGRAM Every Type of Production Specials- Features- Shorts Selected with Expert Knowledge of Foreign Requirements

FERDINAND H. ADAM,

International Film Distributor,

152 West 42d St. - New York City

Cable Ferdinadam. Phone Wis 1143

HI-MARK FILM SALES CO.

Foreign Distribution Nat Nathanson, Pres. Exclusive purchasing agents and represent- atives for leading film distributors through- out foreign territories.

Cable address : Phone Wisconsin

Himark New York 5196-5197

Foreign Territory Now Available

PAWNEE BILL, Jr.

In a series of 8 five reel

Western Thrill Dramas

DONALD CAMPBELL

130 W. 46th St., New York City

'Doncameo New York

! Richmount Pictures Inc.

f 723 Seventh Avenue New York City, N. Y.

| D. J. MOUNTAN, President

{ Exclusive foreign representatives for Rayart Pictures Cor-

poration and other leading independent producers and dis- tributors.

Paris Address: London Address:

| Societe des Films, Richmount, Mr. Arthur Levey,

2 Rue de Lancry, 31 Portland Place,

(Paris, France. London W. I., England.

Cable Address: RICHPICSOC, PARIS Cable Address: DEEJAY, LONDON | Cable Address: RICHPIC, N. Y.

Exporting only the Best in Motion Pictures

HOLLYWOOD HAPPENINGS

J5fe NEWSPAPER o/*FILMDOM

AHDWEEKLY FILM DIGEST

Harvey E. Qausman

"U" Stories Listed

Stories scheduled for production by Universal include:

"Arm of the Law," by Emilie Johnson for production by Emery Johnson; "Ace High," starring Hoot Gibson, directed by Lynn Rey- nolds; "Lea Lyon," by Max Brody, to be directed by Edward Sloman starring Mary Philbin; "The Claw," by Cynthia Stockley, to be directed by Sidney Olcott, starring Norman Kerry; "The Yukon Trail," by Wil- liam McLeod Raine, to be directed by Ernst Laemmle; "Fast And Furious," by Peter Milne, and Philip Hum, "Let's Go Home," by Stuart Lake, "Completely At Sea," by Gladys Lehman, "The Camels Are Coming" by Bob Wagner, all for Reginald Denny; "The Chinese Parrot," by Earl Derr Big- gers, adapted by J. Grubb Alexander; "The Big Gun" by Richard Barry, to be directed by Lynn Reynolds; adapted by Frank Beres- ford; "Bew'are of Widows," by Owen Davis; to be directed by Wesley Ruggles, with Laura LaPlante starring; "War Horse," to be di- rected by Henry MacRae; "Bread Upon Waters," by Peter B. Kyne; "Nine Points of the Law," by William Wallace Cook, starring Hoot Gibson; "The Tidy Toreador," by Peter B. Kyne, also for Gibson; "The Lion and the Lamb," by Peter B. Kyne; "Polish Blood," by Leo Stein; "Flight," by John Clymer; "Come Across," an original by Leigh Jacobson, of the scenario staff; "Thanks For The Buggy Ride," adaptation by Harvey Thew.

— Happy New Year —

Blackton's Son Is Aide James Stuart Blackton Jr., will be production manager for his father, Commodore Blackton in filming of "The American," stereoscopic picture to be made by the Spoor process.

— Happy New Year —

Eulalie Jensen Added to Cast Eulalie Janson has been added to the cast of "A Kiss In a Taxi," Bebe Daniels' next. Rose Burdick and Elwyn RafFeto also have been as- signed parts.

— Happy New Year —

Laemmle to Start "Yukon Trail"

"The Yukon Trail," by William McLeod Raine, will be started in an- other month under direction of Ernst Laemmle for Universal. The pic- ture will be made largely in Canada. — Happy New Year —

Herbert in "Mr. Wu"

Holmes Herbert has been cast in "Mr. Wu," Lon Chaney's new vehi- cle.

. whew,,

Svenione^m

Twenty-five

minutes to

Broadway . . .

Twenty-five minutes to the

Beaches . . .

in the Center

of Hollywood

The New HOUYWOC D j

P1AIA

Hollywood, California

The Record

STARS, players, directors and technicians have just closed a most important and produc- tive year. Their activities form a vital contribution to the in- dustry's progress. Read of the work they have been doing during this and preceding years in the 1927 FILM YEAR BOOK, out in January, con- taining among 1,000 other fea- tures, the most comprehensive compilation of production data ever published.

O'Donahue Doing Continuity

J. T. O'Donahue is busily engaged on the continuity of Max Marcin stage play, "Cheating Cheaters," LIniversal Jewel production for 1927. Edward Laemmle will direct.

— Happy New Year —

Tollaire In Beery Cast August Tollaire, who scored in "What Price Glory," has been cast in "Looie the Fourteenth," in which Wallace Beery will be starred. James Cruze will direct the picture.

— Happy New Year —

Bess Meredyth Assigned Bess Meredyth has been assigned the script for "Noah's Ark," which Warners will produce. Michael Cur- tiz will direct. Production is sched uled to begin about the middle of January.

— Happy New Year —

Pollard Unit Back

The Universal company making "Uncle Tom's Cabin" has returnee to the studio after a location trip o eight weeks in the old South. Harry Pollard expects to finish it in two months.

— Happy New Year —

O'Brien and Perry to Team George O'Brien and Kathryn Perrv have been cast for the leads of "Is Zat So," which Alfred E. Green will direct for Fox. Arthur Housman also has been assigned a role. — Happy New Year -

De Limur Going Abroad

Count Jean de Limur of Cecil B De Mille's staff of assistant directors, sails for London in January. He will return to Hollywood in Spring. — Happy New Year —

Rock Starting Schedule Joe Rock starts this week on his new year's production program which embraces 40 pictures, more than half of which will be comedies.

— Happy New Year —

New Rock Comedy Started

"Old Tinsides," a satirical comedy.

is in production at the Joe Rock

studio under direction of Gil Pratt.

— Happy New Year —

"Whispering Sage" Jones' Next

Buck Jones will begin work Mon- day on "Whispering Sage," by Harry St. Clair Drago and Joseph Noel. Harold Shumate wrote the scenario.

— Happy New Year —

Siegmann in Davis Film

George Siegmann is to play in "Too Many Crooks" with Mildred Davis her first Paramount production.

Mix Starts "Broncho Twister"

Tom Mix has started work on "The Broncho Twister," second story writ- ten by Adela Rogers St. Johns especially for him. Helene Costello has the feminine lead. Others are Dorothy Kitchen, George Irving, Doris Lloyd, Paul Nicholson, Mal- colm Waite and Jack Pennick. O. O. Dull is directing.

— Happy New Year —

D'Arrast Starts Film Feb. 1 H. D'Abbadie O'Arrast, who went abroad to make Parisian scenes for "Stranded in Paris" and "Wings," shortly after he was elevated to the position of director, starts Feb. 1 on direction of "Glorifying the American Girl," for Famous. Fay Wray already has been cast.

— Happy New Year —

Lubitsch Starts "Old Heidelberg"

Ernst Lubitsch has started "Old Heidelberg," Ramon Novarro's new vehicle for M-G-M. Jean Hersholt has been cast as the tutor, "Dr. Jutt- ner." Chester Conklin will play "Kellerman." The story is an adap- tation by Hans Kraely.

— Happy New Year —

Triplets in "Heroes of the Night"

Lillian, Elizabeth and Devonia De-

laney, triplets, who appear in "Heroes

of the Night," may be signed to a

long-term contract by Sam Sax.

— Happy Netv Year —

Eleventh of Series Finished

"Crimson Colors," eleventh of "The Collegians," has been com- pleted under direction of Nat Ross. George Lewis is the star.

— Happy New Year —

Marguerite de la Motte Signs

Marguerite de la Motte has signed to be featured in Gotham pictures.

— Happy New Year —

Neal "Gagging" Beaudine Film Rex Neal has been signed to "gag" "Frisco Sally Levy," which William Beaudine is directing for M-G-M.

— Happy New Year —

Beal Convalescing Harry Hammond Beal, vice presi- dent of the Wampas, is recovering from an operation for appendicitis.

— Happy New Year —

Dantchenko's Son in Film

Michael Dantchenko, son of Vladi- mar Dantchenko, co-founder of the Moscow Art Theater, is to appear in Norma Talmadge's "Camille."

— Happy New Year —

Barrymore on Cruise

John Barrymore has sailed on a cruise of the South American coast. — Happy New Year —

"The Brute," Blue's Next

"The Brute" is to be Monte Blue's next vehicle. Anthony Coldeway will write the adaptation.

— Happy New Year —

Hazel Deane Gets Lead

Hazel Deane has been selected by Duke Worne Prod, to play the lead in "Fighting for Fame."

— Happy New Year —

La Plante Story Ready

Beatrice Van has completed the

adaptation of "Beware of Widows,"

in which Laura La Plante is to be

starred. Wesley Ruggles will direct.

Montagne Writing Script

E. J. Montagne is writing the script of "Freedom of the Press" for Universal.

— Happy New Year —

Jobyna Ralston Opposite Cantor Jobyna Ralston has been cast op- posite Eddie Cantor in "Special De- livery" for Famous.

— Happy New Year —

"Red, White and Blue" for Wood

Sam Wood will produce "Red, White and Blue," story by Byron Morgan for M-G-M. They will start production Jan. 3.

— Happy New Year —

"Three" Continuity Finished Eleanor Freed has finished the film version of her original story "Three," for M-G-M. "Three" will be Lon Chaney's next vehicle.

— Happy New Year —

Leonard Completes "Demi-Bride"

Robert Z. Leonard has completed direction of Norma Shearer, Lew Cod}' and Carmel Myers in "The Demi-Bride" for M-G-M.

— Happy New Year —

Gibson's Next Chosen

"Hey! Hey! Cowboy!" is the title for Hoot Gibson's next vehicle for Universal. Lynn Reynolds will di- rect.

— Happy New Year —

"U" to Make Aviation Film

"Flight," an adaptation of Lieu- tenant Howard Blanchard's story of American aviation, "The Winged Vic- tor," will be filmed by Universal. — Happy New Year —

"Prince and Papa" Puffy's First "The Prince and the Papa" is the title of the first comedy of Universale new series starring Charles Puffy. Octavus Roy Cohen wrote the story, and Harry Sweet will direct.

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■»♦*«»»» •■■•'■•■

ROY DEL RUTH

Director

Now in Production

"WOLFS'CLOTHING"

Featuring Monte Blue

and

Patsy Ruth Miller

Warner Bros. Pictures, Inc.

■ ■«.i«i.«..«i.«..«..»..«..»..«..«ii»i.«..

WHAT'S GOING ON

AND WHO'S WHO

FROM STUDIO STAGES

AROUND NEW YORK

Eastern Studios

A WEEKLY DIGEST

OF SNAPPY ITEMS

COVERING EASTERN

PICTURE PRODUCTION

New Blood

The year just closed was prolific in furnishing new directors and camera- men in the East. Famous led in of- fering new opportunities to mega- phone wielders and tripod artists, while Robert T. Kane was also gen- erous and farsighted in unearthing talent.

James Ashmore Creelman and Jos- eph C. Boyle won directorships un- der Kane. Creelman is a scenarist and writer of original stories. He entered pictures as an assistant to John Emerson, who found Eric Von Stroheim and others of note.

Director Boyle spent several years as a production manager and assis- tant. He worked with Hugh Ford, Henry King and Rex Ingram. He directed "The Song of the Dragon" for Kane, and is expected to start a new picture this month. Creelman is finishing the direction of "He Got the Job," an original story, which he wrote in collaboration with Melville Baker.

Richard Rosson heard fickle Dame Opportunity knock at his door at Fa- mous. He had been an assistant for several years, prior to which he was an excellent character actor with Triangle. His first directorial effort was on "Fine Manners," starring Gloria Swanson. This he followed with "Blonde or Brunette," starring Adolphe Menjou.

Luther Reed, long a scenarist, came to the front with his directorial work on "Ace of Cads" and "New York." He is now on the Coast, where he will direct Menjou.

Archie Heath has finished his first serial "On Guard," which was pro- duced by Schuyler Grey.

New cameramen include Edward Cronjager, Leo Tover and Paul Vogel, who are on the payroll at Fa- mous. Cronjager is doing the work on pictures starring Richard Dix, while Tover has been attached to the Herbert Brenon and Edward Suther- land units. Vogel's initial effort was on "The Potters," directed by Fred Newmeyer..

William Schurr, who has had screen credit on the Coast, is finish- ing "He Got the Job," while Robert Martin made the most of his oppor- tunities on "Sunya," starring Gloria Swanson.

It would not be surprising if the new year would find several new directors in the East. Among those who are considered prospective ma- terial are Edgar Adams and Otho Lovering, veteran film editors; Alvin Wyckoff, pioneer comeraman; Lynn Shores, a former assistant director who is now doing scenario Ernest Haller, cameraman.

A Little from "Lots"

By RALPH W1LK

/ork;

Producers who are interested m observing the records of accomplish- ments of directors and cameramen ivill find « handy guide in the 1927 FILM YEAR BOOK which will publish accredited features for four previous years and 1926, or a total of five years in toto. It will be an invaluable reference compilation for use throughout all of 1927.

MAX REE, globe-trotting art di- rector, who designs sets and cos- tumes for operas, plays and pictures, with equal facility, recently returned from his native Copenhagen, where het had several sessions with his tailor. At present, he is awaiting the release of "The Wedding . March," upon

which he did much work.

* * *

"Extend Christmas greet- ings to Flash, Dash, Light- ning, Trouble, Speed, Useless, Pep, Slow and Fast. As ever, the Slave Driver." This tele- gram was received by Ray Lissner from genial Fred New- meyer, the director. The va- rious nicknames apply to members of the producing staff on "The Potters," which was directed by Newmeyer.

* * *

Ivan Lebedeff has a baker's dozen of war medals. He serv- ed in the Russian army.

* * *

"Mach zu die tier" (close the door) said Eddie Suth- erland to his assistant, Joe Pasternak. Joe is not a lin- guist and thought Eddie was naming a new "prop." "I'll get it for you in a couple of days," said the bewildered as- sistant.

* * *

A Congress of All Nations would not baffle Edward H. Griffith, the director, and his secretary, Percy Pickwell. Pickwell is a Hungarian and speaks six languages, while Griffith speaks three. Griffith is brushing up on his German, as Lya de Putti will be in "Afraid to Love,"

which he will direct.

* * *

A recent newspaper article, dealing with Carol Dempster, credited her with having had only one director. This was a little in error, as Miss Demp- ster appeared opposite John Barrymore in a picture directed

by Albert Parker.

* * *

Leslie Austen, Joseph Kil- gour and Niles Welch, familiar figures in the studios, are now devoting most of their time to

the stage.

* * *

Sam Hardy played host to Bob Kane, the producer, at a luncheon at the Cosmopolitan studio. Yeast cakes and but- termilk comprised the meal.

* * *

Richard Rosson, Joseph C. Boyle, Luther Reed and James Ashmore Creelman were among those who won their spurs — or, should we say, leg- gings— as directors, during 1926.

* * *

It is a case of "business before pleasure" with Mary Brian. Rela-

tives invited her to accompany them on a tour of the world, but produc- tion plans made her acceptance im- possible.

* * *

Research workers, interested in Revolutionary War data, should visit the Wallace House, Somerville, N. J. The Wallace House served as the headquarters of George Washington and his staff during the winter of 1778, and many relics have been pre- served.

* * *

Photoplay, Agnes Smith and Robert E. Sherwood are represented by similes in the new edition of "The Book of Similes," compiled by Frank J. Wilstach, the press agent.

* * *

With the new year here, many actors are hoping 1927 will be kind to them and keep most of their good work off the cutting room floor. Dale Fuller remembers when all her work in "Greed" went for naught, as nary a foot of her

acting appeared on the screen.

* * *

We are wondering what resolutions have been made for 1927 and whether "my public," "the industry is in its infancy," and other like phrases will fall into the dis- card.

* * *

Tom Moore, the actor, is an en- thusiastic fight fan and was one of the first to reach Jimmy Maloney's dressing room following the Malo- ney-Persson bout. John McCormick also joined in congratulating the

Boston fighter.

* * *

Studio sentiment regarding the Cobb-Speaker-Landis base- ball controversy seems to be on the side of the managers. It would be interesting to get the viewpoint of Louis Mann, who "crashes" press boxes, and Tammany Young, who

"crashes" theaters.

* * *

Harry Rapf and Hobart Henley seem to enjoy friendly rivalry. Last summer, they indulged in a golf match, each wagering heavily. On New Year's eve, they held a brass

bowl contest — whatever that is.

* * *

Paper has played a promi- nent part in Carl Laemmle's career. As a boy in Bavaria, Germany, he worked for Aaron Heller, a paper manu- facturer; in Oshkosh, Wis., he used wrapping paper as a clothing clerk; in Chicago, he used "paper" in his exchange; now it's his greenbacks, coin of the realm, that meets the Universal payroll weekly.

Crizer to Coast

After completing his work of in- jecting comedy slants into Ed Wynn's first picture now in preparation at Paramount, Tom Crizer, returns to Hollywood to resume work with Harold Lloyd. He was brought East at the instigation of "The Quarter- back," the football scenes of which Crizer directed. He later worked "The Potters," and Dix's latest, "Paradise for Two." He has been collaborating on Wynn's story with Sam Mintz, and Victor Heerman, who will direct.

— Happy New Year —

Fox Signs New Players Winfield R. Sheehan has added two more "new faces" to long term contracts. His latest discoveries are John Hilliard, who will play "heav- ies," and Edna Conway, an ingenue, who will go to Hollywood next month.

— Happy New Year —

Prepares Adaptation Elizabeth Meehan is writing the adaptation of "The Woman," which will be directed by Herbert Brenon. "The Woman" was written by Wil- liam C. DeMille and served as a stage vehicle for Mary Nash. Neil Hamilton is expected to play a part in the new picture.

— Happy New Year —

King Finishes Picture Burton King has completed 'the di- rection of "His Rise to Fame," star- ring George Walsh. The cast in- cluded Peggy Shaw, Mildred Rear- don and Ivon Linow. Marcel Le Pic- ard handled the camera work. Pro- duction was at Tec-Art's Jackson Ave. studio.

— Happy New Year —

Johnson Editing "Metropolis" Julian Johnson is editing "Metrop- olis," which was produced by UFA. It is now in 17 reels. It is to have its premiere at the George M. Cohan when "Michael Strogoff" closes its engagement.

— Happy New Yeai —

Joins St. Clair Unit

Ann Price will act as continuity

clerk on "Knockout Riley," which

will star Richard Dix. Malcolm St.

Clair will direct.

— Happy New Year —

Sherwin Titling

Louis Sherwin is titling "The

Song of the Dragon," the Robert

T. Kane special, which was directed

by Joseph C. Boyle.

1 Alvin Wyckoff |

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DAILY

Sunday, January 2, 1927

"The Fire Brigade"

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer A SWEET BOX-OFFICE. MELO- DRAMA ALL THE WAY. PUNCTUATED BY THRILLS, SUSPENSE, THROBS. HOKUM, TO BE SURE, BUT HAVE YOU EVER KNOWN IT TO FAIL? Cast. .. .Satisfactory, just that. Char- lie Ray as the lead not always as effective as he might be. May Mc- Avoy, the sweet young girl. Other featured players, Tom O'Brien, Eugenie Besserer, Holmes Herbert, Warner Richmond, Bert Woodruff, De Witt Jennings and Dan Mason. Type of Story.... A glorification of the American fireman. Fashioned in tried and true style, "The Fire Brigade" is dubbed by M-G-M as the "epic photoplay of the heroes of peace." They're wrong. It is not epic, no matter how you look at it. However, the picture is a money-maker because it is so palpa- bly obvious. There is nothing new in it. As a matter of fact, it is another instance of the old formula, the one that invokes the aid of all the proven box-office draws. You have the politician who builds pub- lic buildings with watered cement; the mother who gives all of her children to the fire-fighters' cause; the millionaire's daughter, who must, of course, fall in love with the fireman and the like. Ray steps into the breach, unearths the work of the dastardly politician and finally leaps into the jaws of hell • to save the baby from a terrible death by fire. There are many interesting scenes showing the development of the fireman, the routine through which he must go before he graduates from the rookies' school. The fire stuff is well handled and carries an air of authenticity. In the last half of the picture when the old-fashioned horse-drawn fire apparatus races and beats the motor-driven ma- chine, you get a decided kick. No doubt about it. It is very well done. The engine belches forth fire and smoke, done in color, as it races down the streets at night. This sequence builds up until it finally gets you. Box Office Angle. .. .Especially suit- ed for small towns. There it will reap a harvest. Exploitation .... All sorts of ready- made angles. Produced in con- junction with the International As- sociation of Fire Chiefs, the pic- ture will have boosters everywhere since one-quarter of the proceeds go to the firemen's fund. This guarantees plenty of tie-ups and much word-of-mouth advertising. By all means hook up with your lo- cal fire companies, although they will probably approach you as soon as they learn you have closed the booking.

Direction William Nigh;

satisfactory.

Author Kate Cobaley

Scenario Robert N. Lee

Adaptation Robert Lee

Cameraman John Arnold

Photography Very good in

the main

Locale Big city

Length 8,716 feet

Florence Vidor In

"The Popular Sin"

Paramount DONE IN MALCOLM ST. CLAIR'S BEST STYLE AND CERTAIN TO INTEREST HIS FOLLOWERS. AN EXCEP- TIONALLY FINE CAST. STORY PERHAPS A TRIFLE SOPHISTICATED FOR THE AVERAGE AUDIENCE. Star. . . .Charming at all times. There is one profile close-up of her (one where she wears long, brilliantly studded earrings) that is the best ever. Cast. . . . Clive Brook seems a bit dig- nified for his role but his work is always effective. Philip Strange, who looks and acts like Adolph Menjou, does very well in a role that offers him unlimited oppor- tunities. Greta Nissen splendid in a smaller part. Type of Story. ... Comedy-drama. Monta Bell, not content with hav- ing his name attached to several worthy directorial efforts, comes forth as the author of Malcolm St. Clair's latest production. Perhaps with two such eminent factors joint- ly associated the keen observer might expect too much. "The Popular Sin" isn't just what you would hope for but it is fine film fare at that, somewhat sophistica- ted, possibly, for the general run of audiences, but it has definite adult appeal that should include enough of the majority. It is far and away from juvenile range. Children wouldn't be endangered by a view of it. They wouldn't comprehend it — or at least they shouldn't. St. Clair plants his original bits throughout as usual. The comedy touches are notably new and effective. He has the knack of doing things differently, though simply. The story sails along on a smooth sea with St. Clair the captain of a craft of di- vorce going excursionists. What an in-again, out-again time of it Florence Vidor has as the devotee of the apparently popular sin — divorce. In fact the four principals are so much married and unmarried that it is impossible to predict what the score will be at the finish. Suf- fice to say that Florence remarries her second husband and seems due to stay that way at the close. Box Office Angle.... An interesting picture. Exhibitors should be able to gauge it according to the type of patronage they cater to.

Exploitation No stunts suggest

themselves right off hand but the story material might be linked with variety of readers regarding the jealousy motive and its part in many divorce cases. Talk about Yvonne Monfort whose husband told her to count a hundred when she experienced jealousy and then in- vite them in to see how it worked. Direction. .Malcolm St. Clair, Highly effective.

Author Monta Bell

Scenario and adaptation. .James Ash- more Creelman.

Cameraman Lee Garmes

Photography Very good

Locale Paris

Length 6,139 feet

"The Gorilla Hunt"

F. B. O. JUNGLE EXPEDITION THAT OFFERS NEW AND IN- TERESTING INSIGHT INTO "HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES." SOME UNIQUE SHOTS OF UNFAMILIAR AFRICAN NATIVE HAUNTS.

Cast. .. .Members of Ben Burbridge's

expedition, natives, animals. Type of Story. . . .African Expedition. Burbridge is the latest explorer to return with a photographic record of his trip through the African jungles. It is a gra- phic, thrilling story of adven- ture and exploration that is cer- tain to absorb the complete interest and attention of all who see it. To add to the value of the picture the route of the expedition is given and the progress indicated at intervals on an animated map. The picture boasts mainly of the hunt for the giant gorilla, known as the Kivu gorilla, but in justice to the many other thrillingly recorded scenes along the route it must be admitted that the gorilla hunt is not the big thing in the picture. The alleged actual capture of the giant is not the big kick. In fact nearly all of the scenes in connection with the gorilla hunt are unconvincing and quite apparently staged. The most interesting incidents are those deal- ing with contact with the natives. The arrival of the expedition in Pygmy land is indeed something out of the ordinary and anyone who sees the picture will never forgel the satisfaction of the outlandish natives as they decorate their lips and noses with the safety pins, gifts of Burbridge. The natives' reaction to music, their native dances, their timidity before the mysterious camera, all furnish remarkably effective detail that is well worth viewing. The hunt for elephants is fairly thrilling and the capture of a huge old fellow followed by the native picnic wherein the black men feast on the elephant's carcass is another good sequence. Box Office Angle. ... Exhibitors have probably come to know the box office value of these African ex- pedition pictures. "The Gorilla Hunt" is as graphic and thrilling as any of them. Exploitation. . . .You might go at this one from the educational viewpoint and try to convince people of the instructive value of a picture of this type. Get your local travel en- thusiasts interested and lectures might be arranged to boost the picture.

Direction Ben Burbridge; trip

splendidly recorded.

Author None

Scenario None

Cameraman Mostly recorded by

Burbridge. Photography. . . . Necessarily varying between good and fair according to climatic conditions.

Locale African jungle

Length 4,800 feet

Colleen Moore in

"Twinkletoes"

First National VERY LONG BUT COLLEEN MOORE'S GANG ARE GOING TO LIKE IT AS WELL, IF NOT BETTER, THAN ANY- THING SHE HAS HAD IN A LONG TIME. BURKE'S LIME- HOUSE STORY MAKES AP- PROPRIATE VEHICLE. Star.... Her big black eyes sparkle out from under a blonde wig this time. Softens her face considerably and is more appropriate for her particular role in this. Cast. ... Kenneth Harlan very good as Chuck, the pug who fights for Colleen's love. Tully Marshall splendid as old "pot and pan," Col- leen's pet name for her Dad. Lu- cian Littlefield offers another of his highly effective and unique char- acter sketches as Hank. Gladys Brockwell a trifle too strenuous as Cissie, Chuck's tipsy wife. War- ner Oland the villainous ballet di- rector.

Type of Story Comedy-drama.

"Twinkletoes" seems to be about the best story Colleen Moore has had in many days and yet it isn't the best picture she has made. In the first place it is very long. Char- les Brabin has shown real flashes of genius in the handling of cer- tain bits of developments and de- tail but as often marred them by staying too long on a particular in- cident. For example, his introduc- tion of Twinkletoes is delightful. She intercepts a street scrap and diverts the participants with a dance. All very good business but with too much footage devoted to it before the plot carries on. The same criticism may be applied to occasional other bits throughout the picture. All splendid examples of direction but overstressed. Bra- bin has caught the atmosphere of Limehouse realistically and the titles, though far too numerous, are similarly effective. The joys, the loves, the sorrows of Twinks, the little heroine of Limehouse, of- fer interesting situations that dove- tail nicely and follow through to the inevitable happiness of Twinks. The happy ending seems an essen- tial afterthought, — a box office ne- cessity. Box Office Angle.... A happy pros- pect. You know what you can do with a Colleen Moore picture. And this one is even better than her last one or two pictures. Exploitation. .. .Throughout the run of the picture there are flashes of Colleen's shoes followed by the title, "Twinkletoes." Have a shop that sells children's shoes announce a prize for the local youngster with the most perfect feet and perhaps some manufacturer might get out "Twinkletoes" shoes for the occa- sion. Play up the star's name and the title of her latest.

Direction Charles Brabin;

very good but uses excess footage.

Author Thomas Burke

Scenario Winifred Dunn

Cameraman . . James C. Van Trees

Photography Very good

Locale London

Length 7,833 feet

Sunday, January 2, 1927

THE

iSBtH

DAILY

Mae Murray In

"Valencia"

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer DISAPPOINTING. PRODUC- TION IS ATTRACTIVE BUT THAT ISN'T ENOUGH. THE TITLE IS READY MADE. HOWEVER, THE STORY DIDN'T MATERIALIZE.

Star ..Mae Murray never did as well as she did in "The Merry Widow" under Von Stroheim's direction. Buchowetzki has been

content to let her "be herself" and that is not Mae Murray at her

best. Poorly photographed in many

instances.

Cast Roy D'Arcy, who usually

commands no little attention in any picture in which he appears, is a very stilted, egotistical governor in this. Lloyd Hughes acts the part of Mae's ardent sailor lover in mechan- ical fashion. The whole cast seems as artificial as the story. Type of Story Romance. The popularity of the song hit seems to have been a sufficient excuse for M-G-M's picture which adopts the name but is not so fortunate in the

story that purports to be "Valencia." This is generally the case where a title is picked and a story built to go with it. "Valencia" immediately suggests a fiery Spanish heroine, an ardent youthful lover and a scheming, ruthless admirer, _ all working their separate destinies against a colorful Spanish back- ground. Coming from Buchowetzki the picture is doubly disappointing. He is credited as collaborating with Alice D. G. Miller on the story, so he can hardly be excused on the grounds of having been provided with a poor story. It is a slow moving yarn but fortunately doesn't take long in the telling. Valencia is a dancer in love with a sailor, Felipe, but she believes he has a girl in every port and won't marry him. The local governor, self- styled lady killer, favors Valencia with his attentions and later has Felipe jailed for interrupting his visit and being a deserter. Valencia makes the usual sacrifice to secure Felipe's freedom, but eventually the pair are reunited.

Box Office Angle Has only a

medium amount of appeal. Good names to bring them in and atmos- phere lends itself readily to effective exploitation.

Exploitation .... The current rage on Spanish shawls for evening wear offers a first rate tie-up with your local smart shops who can stimu- late business for themselves, and for your showing of the picture, by displaying the latest "Valencia" shawls. The popularity of the song can be used for radio broadcasting by way of announcing the picture.

Direction Dimitri Buchowetzki;

capable of better results.

Authors .... Dimitri Buchowetzki and Alice D. G. Miller.

Scenario Alice D. G. Miller

Cameraman Percy Hilburn

Photography Fair

Locale Spain

Length 5,580 feet

"The Truthful Sex"

Columbia Pictures

GOOD CAST AND PRODUC- TION STRENGTHEN SLOW MOVING MARITAL TANGLE. STORY DOESN'T DEF- INITELY DECIDE WHICH IS "THE TRUTHFUL SEX."

Cast. . . .Mae Busch good as the wife who wasn't sure ot anything very much, rluntley Gordon her very patient husband. Ian Keith a burg- lar who wilts under a lady's ire. Others John Roche, Rosemary Theby, Joan Meredith, Leo White, Richard Travers.

Type of Story .... Comedy-drama. "The Truthtul Sex" is a midly en- tertaining picture. The story is a slow moving affair that doesn t begin to get going until about half way through, it starts off with a session ot glorified bedroom com- edy with an engaged pair picking out their turmture and a blushing prospective bride trying to hide her embarrassment as she insists upon a single bed instead of twin beds. Then comes the honeymoon se- quences with the customary inti- mate bits. The couple are headed for a stormy session and after three hundred and sixty-five quarrels, to quote the title, the baby arrives to provide another reason for scraps. Neither one wants to get up when the baby cries at night. Eventually they get into the plot which intro- duces a crook and his accomplice, a maid in the household. Sally, the wife, steps out with an old friend, and her husband departs to his club. Sally's jewels entice burglars and while she is out Barnes, the crook, goes though the house. She returns with her escort and lie pleads with her to elope with him. She consents and gives him her jewels to keep. In her absence, Barnes, the stick-up man, demands the jewels. The maid appears and begs Barnes to give up the gems and go straight. He weakens and when Sally returns she decides that she will stick to her husband and baby. The inevitable clinch follows.

Box Office Angle Suitable for

adult audiences but not appropriate for family trade clientele.

Exploitation Controversy as to

which of the sexes is the most truth- ful might start interesting dis- cussion and you have the names of Mae Busch and Huntley Gor- don to use in your announcement. Play up the titles prominently and use catchlines asking a solution to which sex is "The Truthful Sex."

Direction ....Richard Thomas; fair

Author Albert Shelby Le Vino

Cameramen . . H. Leyman Broening- Herman Schoop.

Photography Satisfactory

Locale Any city

Length 5,831 feet

"By George," Stern Bros. — Universal

Lots of Fun Type of production. . .2 reel comedy To be near the girl he loves and to frustrate the crafty Jack Dalton, George hires out in her household as butler, chauffuer, maid and cook. Sid Saylor, as the many-sided man in the case, does his versatile job with the kind of eclat that probably won't fail to bring smiles to the aver- age audience. We find him strenu- ously changing from one character to another, and as may naturally be expected under the circumstances, much to the discomfiture of his boss and the guests. Incidents of sheer hokum are worked out with spright- ly good humor and will satisfy. — Happy New Year —

"Rolling Along" Sportlight-Pathe Retrospective Interest Type of production. ... 1 reel sport novelty magazine Grantland Rice takes for his sub- ject a sort of unfolding of the past on vehicular devices, the bicycle be- ing the concrete example. Thus we see, at a time when beaver top hats and bell-strapped trouser bottom were the vogue, a variety of "two- wheelers" which may well bring a guffaw to present day "pedallers". The exhibition of riding is not unlike one of the clown bicycle acts often seen in vaudeville. It is well done, and should be a worthy adjunct to any program.

— Happy New Year —

"Sunbeams" — Bruce Scenic Educational Gorgeous Scenics Type of production. ... 1 reel scenic The photographer must have en- gaged in some perilous mountain climbing to secure some of these shots. The first series is entitled "Sunbeams," and portrays some en- hancing effects from the shafts of sunlight shooting through clouds and playing on the valleys far below. Then follows "The Rainbow," giv- ing a perfect view of that phenomena. It is followed by a snow storm. The reel concludes with "Moonlight," presenting views as the moonlight dances over a placid ocean and lights up a pine clad beach.

— Happy New Year—

"Sink or Swim," Fable-Pathe

Diverting Type of production. .. 1 reel cartoon Summertime at the sea side seethes with sleek shining swimmers. Hippo and bird, elephant and dog, cat and stork have a grand time sporting in the briny surf. Milt blows up water wings for Rita Mouse, who swims out beyond her depth, and when a swordfish punctures her wings she is in dire straits. To the rescue comes Milt. The caricature, the action and theme are excellent concoctions of the humorist's mind.

— Happy New Year —

"Sure Fire!"— Bobby Vernon Educational A Comedy Journey Type of production. . .2 reel comedy The Christie outfit has given this Bobby Vernon Vehicle an interna- tional setting, including sequences in

Scotland, France and Italy. It is well balanced with scenic effects, story in- terest and pleasing gags. It is the old theme of the girl's father trying A to take her away from her sweet- heart, but handled in a way that makes it seem new. It is a peppy offering that will please.

— Happy New Year —

"Hop Along," Blue Bird-Universal Fair Stuff Type of production. . .1 reel comedy Arthur Lake is as lively as usual, probably does all the story calls for, but there seems to be a dearth of genuine hilarity, or the incidents that make for it. The story concerns Arthur's evasion of a professor's command to refrain from attending any dances, and how he rigs up a dummy to represent himself hard at study, while he sneaks away to the dance. There is a certain portrayal of the contagious spirit of youth which will prove diverting, and prob- ably more or less appeal. Other- wise, not so hot.

— Happy New Year —

"Even Up," Fistical Culture-Bray

Action Aplenty

Type of production. . .2 reel comedy Fistical Culture comedies are gen- erally interesting for the quality of their action. Lew Wagner makes them so. Nor does he fail to con- tribute his peculiar array of dyna- mics to this one. And Wanda Wiley is ever as vivacious and attractive a pictorial morsel as one could pos- sibly desire. This episode finds Lew in the role of freshman furnishing the "piece de resistance" to a group of playful seniors. In the course of events Lew becomes the ace of the football field, and the plot thickens when, as the big game is on hand, he is spirited away by arch conspira- tors, and locked in a room. It's the old story over again about the game going to the opposition, with only so many minutes to go, when lo and behold, our friend Lew has solved the problem by knocking out his captors, eating up distance with a motorcycle and arriving on the see in time to kick the stuffings out of the ball, and the morale out of the other team. It's jolly good sport just the same.

— Happy New Year —

"Dog Gonnit," Lantz-Bray

Entertaining Throughout.

Type of production. .1 reel animated photography If there were an absolute dearth of gags or comedy situations, "Dog Gonnit" would still have distinction because of the diverting character of the drawings. An artist who is so sure of his draughtsmanship, his. imaginative quality in caricature, has half the battle over, before he even thinks of his story. But this offer- ing does not have to depend on tech- nique alone, sufficient as that is to> get it by. There are any number of graphic quips and gags, and the con- tinuity of camera photography with the animated sequences is perfect.. The story concerns Pete the Pup's aim to cross the English Channel, and his adventures with the finny denizens along the route comprise- the essential features of interest. This- should go big.

Sunday, January 2, 1927

DAILY TIPS WHICH MEAN DOLLARS FOR SHOWMEN

"The Black Pirate" (United Artists) A treasure hunt right inside the theater was announced in advance. This brought a very large and curious audience. During an intermission the manager announced from the stage that hidden under various seats were hidden eleven keys, one which would open a treasure chest containing gold. Every seat went up immediately. The finders of the eleven keys were then marshalled on the stage and made their tries at unlocking the chest The ten who did not have the right key were given consolation prizes of admission tickets. — York, Toronto, Ont.

"The Four Horsemen" (M-G-M)

The biggest feature was the use of a semi-teaser ad with the following copy: — Triumphant Return "Four Horsemen" with Valentino." One inch slugs bearing this copy were used on every page of all dailies. This attracted attention. Six window displays were secured, featuring the return of "The Four Horsemen." — Melba, Dallas.

"Michael Strogoff* (Universal)

Played up the fact that this picture was given a special tryout perfor- mance before general release. Sent out a special letter to big mailing list before the showing, emphasizing the "premiere," as follows:

"It's once in a lifetime for most people. We refer to the premiere of a great picture. The ordinary mortal rarely gets the chance to say afterwards, 'I saw it the first time it was ever publicly screened.' Paris, New Yok, London and Los Angeles are the only cities hitherto privileged to witness these glittering and colorful events with the celebrities of society, literature, drama, sports and the movie world in attendance. Now rare cir- cumstances give the theatergoers of Fort Madison the first public showing, the premiere of a great picture, 'Michael Strogoff,' etc." — Waldo Ebinger, Strand, Fort Madi- son, la.

"The Prince of Tempters" (First Nat'l.)

A compo-board representation of a heavy steel safe was placed in the

Marine Tie-Up

AMADE-TO-ORDER ex- ploitation accessory was made possible for use on "Tell It to the Marines," the M-G-M feature, through an arrangement with the U. S. Marines. The publicity bureau of this organi- zation assisted in designing four special one-sheet posters. These will be placed on the "A" boards of the service throughout the United States. These posters are printed in four colors which give the picture a strong boost as well as making ideal poster an- nouncements for the Marine re- cruiting stations.

Private Screening

T*HE Exploitation Section X of the 1927 Film Year Book soon to be issued is crowded with practical showmanship stunts for every form of publicity. It will become the exhibitor's permanent exploitation manual throughout the year. Every stunt a proved puller at the box-office. Here is one:

Where a feature holds un- usual educational angles, hold a private screening a week before showing. Invite the members of the Woman's Club, civic clubs, school officials, etc. Be- fore screening give a short talk on the educational features, and request the guests to write a brief criticism. Pads and pen- cils are supplied for this pur- pose. Suitable criticisms can be advantageously used in adver- tising during the run.

lobby. The "safe" was made with a combination lock and a swinging door. A pretty girl, dressed like Satan, with horns, etc., was stationed nearby to attract passers-by. On the "safe" were the following words: "Lock up your hearts, girls. The Prince of Tempters, Ben Lyon, will steal it." — Capitol, Reading, Pa.

"The Son of the Sheik" (United Artists)

During the run a man carrying a trumpet and dressed in the robes of a sheik rode through the streets on horseback. Banners on both sides of the horse advertised the title, theater, and play dates. Not being able to get any accessories, used cut-outs from the one-sheets of "All Night" and from the six-sheets of "The Son of a Sheik." These cut-outs with the aid of star photographs were used in the making of special 3-sheet boards. Two of the three-sheet boards were used in the outside lobby and one three-sheet board was placed on a most prominent corner of the city in front of the United Cigar Store. — F. J. Miller, Modjeska, Augusta, Ga.

"Three Bad Men" (Fox)

Lobby display of old firearms used during the last century. These were hung on boards, giving date of manu- facture and where used. One was devoted to guns used by the Texas Rangers in 1880, another to weapons used by Spanish War veterans, etc. Displays were also made in merchants' windows. The relics were secured from old timers who were glad to loan them for mention of their names. — Bob Harvey, Grand-Lake, Oakland.

Presentations

By ARTHUR W. EDDY

How B'way Does It

Capitol

Major Edward Bowes captured genuine Christmas spirit to a gratifying degree for his program. Attention was paid the lighter side of the season and the results obviously pleased audiences.

Caroline Andrews, coloratura soprano, ap- peared in the opening number dressed as a doll, her selection being the "Doll Song" from "Tales of Hoffman," by Offenbach. The scene showed a fire place with a Christmas tree at one side. Santa Claus impersonated by John Triesault, wound the doll up in or- der to make her sing.

Christmas carol singers were presented in the second incident. A medallion in the form of a wreath was used and the effect from out front was that of looking at a beautiful painting. The background repre- sented a village, including a church. Light- ing effects backstage gave the illusion ot snow falling on the scene. Numbers offered were "Holy Night," "Let Our Gladness Know No Ends," "Adeste Fidelis" and "Cantique Noel."

"The Toy Maker" was the title of the final incident, which opened with Margaret Schilling, lyric soprano, attired in white, singing "Toyland," by Victor Herbert. She worked in front of a silver drop. The pre- sentation then went into full stage, the scene representing a toy shop with girls dressed as toy dolls. John Triesault, doubling for the toy maker, opened a box and brought out an attractive doll in white. Consulting a book he learned how to make her dance and Joyce Coles, who impersonated the toy, daintily executed a toe number. Later the old toy maker fell asleep and the boy dolls came to life, finally inducing the girl dolls, wearing ballet costumes, to join in theli dancing. A box of toy soldiers was broughi on and when opened, revealed 16 Chester Hale girls in red jackets and black hats, trimmed with white. They went through a brief program of numbers, including military drills. This work was the outstanding feature of the show. The awakening of the toy maker closed the incident.

William Morris "William Morris, Jr.

William Morris Agency

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a fine piece of work. The Rajah sang "When I Am Dying."

The second scene represented the slave market where "The Pearl of Damascus," a dancer, has been brought by her father to be sold. Beginning as a tableaux the scene was extremely beautiful. Three nautch dancers, Delaine Chalmers, Pauline Reichert and Ruth Van Dyck, did their number and a slave girl, Anita La Gitana, danced to the weird music provided by three native musi- cians, K. Boyajian's Oriental Trio. The slave dealer was about to sell the "Pearl" to a rich man when her brother (Roy Ellie) seized her and they went into an adagio number which was splendidly done through- out. The dance finished the brother took the girl to the Rajah, who, loving her, bought her freedom.

Paramount

Frank Cambria took a turn at producing the Publix unit and suceeded in devising a presentation which registered high from both artistic and entertainment standpoints.

A Christmas fantasy started the program, the number being presented in the manner of the 13th Century and showing an ancient street in France at night. A group of carol singers, wearing appropriate costumes, sang "Sanctissima," "Holy Night" and "Noel." They were John L. King, Clarence Da Silva, Al Fontaine and Lewis Lorimer. The drop which represented houses fringing the street opened to reveal Heaven. Mariam Lax, clothed in white, sang "Agnus Dei." She was attended by three angels and stood be fore a group of tall candles.

Principal on the program was "The Pearl of Damascus," which was produced with striking effect. Opening the presentation was a scene in the Rajah's palace, the Rajah (Paul Kleman) reclining on a pile of pil- lows. In came a dancer, Bebe Moffio, who did an Egyptian acrobatic number which was

Strand

Joe Plunkett evidently believes in the old adage that "variety is the spice of life." His presentation lineup suggested this belief and incidentally provided one of the most fast- moving, entertaining programs Broadway aud- iences have seen and heard in many months. In addition to Plunkett credit is due Henry Dreyfuss, who designed the costumes and scenes; Anatol Bourman, the ballet master and Jacques Grunberg in charge of the music.

The presentation was entitled the Annual Mark Strand Yuletide Frolic. The first in- cident showed a "horse" and cab, around which were grouped the Mark Strand Quar- tet, three members representing street clean- ers and one the cabby. They sang "Horses," the "animal," inside of which was George Ali, offering a humorous dance.

Pauline Miller, dressed in patriotic colors, next sang "Sailor Boy," working in front of a regular drop which was opened to re- veal the Mark Strand Quartet dressed as sail- ors, wearing red jerseys and blue trousers.

Joe Thomas and his Saxotette followed with a program which included comic numbers. They were warmly received. The fourth in- cident presented "The Enchanted Forest,'" at the opening of which Henry Kelly, dressed as Pierrot, sang "Down in the Forest," by Ronald. Parting the curtains revealed chains of silver leaves which were hoisted, pulling silver tree trunks after them. Mile. Klemova, Nicholas Daks and the ballet, which had been crouching back-center stage, did a number.

ARTHUR SPIZZI

AGENCY INC.

Booking

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Sunday, January 2, 1927

DAILY

Theater Equipment and Management

By MICHAEL L. SIMMONS

Ventilation De Luxe

It may be that midsummer heat changes to freezing cold outside. It may be that gentle zephyrs are suc- ceeded by a howling blizzard. But inside the Capitol Theater of Rich- mond, Va., it does not matter. In none of this new theater's many elaborate details of construction is the pre-eminence of facilities for au- dience comfort more concretely mani- fest than in the superb heating and ventilating systems which keep this house supplied with pure fresh air at all times.

The American Heating and Ventila- ting Co., Richmond, who was respon- sible for the installation of the system declares that the auditorium, crowded with patrons, might be closed so as to exclude the outside air for a week and remain so without any in- convenience to those within, so wide- reaching are the possibilities of the methods employed. It is claimed, also, that the building can be heated in winter time, within an hour after the heater is started.

Thus is the illusion worthy of an Arabian Nights incorporated in a material structure, transforming four seasons within the encompassment of four walls of iron, granite and wood. Its accomplishment is more re- markable in the fact that it is done by machinery unseen and unheard by those who enjoy its effect.

A word concerning the decorative motif of the theater is in place. The scheme is aimed to convey the idea of a Spanish garden, with a plain sky effect above. The ventilating air is brought in from the rear of the building through attic space to the ventilating blower in the basement. The air in its passage through this space absorbs the heat from electric lights and other sources that tend to pack at the ceiling of the auditorium, and even in winter is tempered to a point where it can be delivered through floor mushrooms without further heating. This feature results in a nominal fuel consumption amounting to about a ton in two months.

The summer cooling fans are of the blower type, and in order to eliminate the noise of the variable speed motor the delivery of air is controlled by "louvres" and can be adjusted from nothing to full delivery by hand con- trol at the front of the building. — Happy New Year —

Hy-Ten Products

A very handy component part of the accessory kit is the Hy-Ten Arc Lamp lubricant, which makes for easier operation of the arc lamps. Also, the Hy-Ten Lens paste, for cleaning the optical system, tending in the end to secure better projec- tion. The Hy-Ten Specialties Co. of New York, which manufactures these articles, is willing to send samples to operators who would like to give them a try.

An Important Record

VTOT the least interesting of ^the many important features in the technical section which will appear in the 1927 FILM YEAR BOOK, out in January, will be an expository chronicle of the various talking film de- velopments of 1926. This in- cludes not only a chronological resume of those inventions which found their way into practical use in the theater, but also those announced as future prospects. An account of the principles by which these de- vices function is also incorpor- ated in this record.

Equipment Tips

What purports to effect a saving on current bils is the Liberty Syn- coverter, issued by the Liberty Elec- tric Corp. of Stamford, Conn., which makes possible the full application of the principles of rectification by commutation. It represents a radical step in current conversion methods. More specifically, some of the vir- tues claimed for the syncroverter are:

It operates at unity power factor. Watt input is twenty-five per cent less for equal amperage at the lamp than on any motor generator. This means a saving of at least twenty- five per cent in the power costs. Trie efficiency is practically the same on any load.

It operates on single-phase alter- nating current, giving much greater adaptability, since it can be used either on a single-phase circuit or on any one phase of a two or three- phase circuit.

The arc lamps are run in multiple; no special switches required at the lamps. Second arc is struck before switch-over, without in any way af- fecting the light of the first, thus giving a perfect fade-in or change- over.

The transformer of the Syncrover- tor, with the motor idle, acts as a Compensarc, thus providing a built- in emergency unit.

It is made in five sizes from 25 to 150 amperes.

Suggestions in sanitary fountains are offered by the Puro Sanitary Drinking Fountain Co. of Hayden- ville, Mass. A very practical and serviceable model is the Puro com- bination and faucet, which allows_ of a clean and easy way of drinking from a perfect bubble. It has two pincer handles, one for the bubble, and one for the faucet. The mate- rial is of solid bronze casting, highly nickel plated, and furnished with a vertical or cross bowl bubbler. To install, the old faucet is simply un- screwed, and the Puro is screwed in its place.

The Theater Improves

The Halfway, Halfway, Mich., now boasts of a regenerated interior, part of the features of which are an enlarged stage, a new screen, new lighting fixtures and interesting ef- fects in decoration. The manage- ment will inaugurate a regular pol- icy of Saturday midnight showings

Comfort, beauty and safety is the slogan reflected in the remodeled New Waupun, formerly the Davison of Waiysun, Wis. All steps have been eliminated, and after entering through the street level lobby one finds the theater floor inclined grad- ually to the stage. The auditorium has a cream and ivory ceiling, with ten sides, and the lower portion in stone. New upholstered chairs are set in aisles far enough apart to suit the comfort of the most fastidious lounger. More exits than the law requires have been installed.

A new system of ventilation is be- ing installed in the State, Boulder, Colo., which will include enlarge- ment of the air ducts and installing of huge fans to force fresh air in and take the warm air out. Remodeling, too, on a wide scale will soon take place, which will put the house in the best of its class in the state.

The Mount Eden, at 183rd St. and Mt. Eden Ave., Morris Ave. The- ater, 165th St., and Morris Ave.; both in the Bronx, and controlled by the Consolidated Amusement Co., will open some time in January, with complete equipment furnished by the National Theater Supply Co.

The front of the Yalemore, Okla., is being remodeled with a stucco ef- fect which will greatly improve the appearance of the house. Mrs. M. R. Harrison, the manager, is per- sonally supervising the work in hand.

— Happy New Year —

New Instruction Book

The Power's Division of the Inter- national Projector Corp. has issued a new instruction book for projec- tionists. A quotation from a preface to the brochure adequately explains the subject matter. It reads: "These instructions have been prepared for the benefit of the projectionist who desires to keep his equipment in first class condition and in doing so to add to the life of the projector and maintain a high standard of projec- tion." Unquestionably, the operator will find in this handy volume a valu- able aid to a more illuminating con- sideration of his duties. The house manager, too, by possessing a copy, will be better attuned to the respon- sibilities which are those of the man in the booth.

A.P.S. Contest Popular

The prize projectatory contest launched by the American Projec- tion Society to popularize the slogan Better Projection Equipment Pays," has taken hold in a manner to bear out the fondest predictions of its suc- cess, according to Rudolph Wetter, Jr., secretary of the society. Requests' for questionnaires, without which ap- plicants cannot be eligible, are pour- ing in with consistent frequency; in fact the very first one arrived by air mail, so keen does this seem a fore- runner of the enthusiasm evinced among projectionists.

As announced in a previous issue, the area of United States and Canada will be divided into five zones, and three prizes will be awarded to a zone, making one prize for each of three different classes which are des- cribed in the particulars. Projec- tionists are advised to send to the offices of A.P.S. for a questionnaire and get into the fray for the prizes, the nature of which will be announced in a later issue.

— Happy New Year—

Adds Life to Old Film Henry Strube, head of the com- pany operating the Empire and Sun, Louisville, reports a great success with the liquid formula which his company recently took over. The preparation is designed to treat first run film and also add new life to older film. Strube reports he is get- ting testimonials on this liquid from all over the country.

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THE

-zeal

DAILY

Sunday, January 2, 1927

The Week's Headlines

Monday

Municipal "blue" laws in Utah, banning Sunday shows, held illegal by Fifth Judi- cial District Court, Nephi City.

Use of presentations fast developing in South America, says Monroe Isen, Universal manager.

Universal continues building program in At- lanta suburban field.

D. W. Griffith plans own unit and will re- lease through United Artists.

Famous to build 3,600-seat house in Montreal as outlet for product.

Tuesday

Winfield R. Sheehan leaves for Coast to launch big Fox production program.

Four British Empire production units planned by Cranneld & Clarke.

Greater Features, Progress and Peerlees ex- changes to merge in California.

Butterfield reorganizing under deal with Pub- lix and Keith-Albee interests.

Charles C. Pettijohn going to Minneapolis Jan. 6 to adjust arbitration row when Film Board of Trade meets.

M. P. T. O. A. meeting scheduled for Co- lumbus, Jan. 6, postponed owing to holidays.

Wednesday

Strengthening its control in St. Louis, Skouras Bros, have acquired the King's.

Twelve companies comprise 40 best pictures reviewed by National Board of Review. Famous heads list with 12.

Income of M. P. Capitol Corp. for 11 months ending Nov. 30 shows increase over some period of 1925.

Japan theaters to remain dark two more months during mourning for Mikado.

Harry Davis seriously ill at Pittsburgh.

Four Paterson houses owned by Stanley-Fa- bian to open Sunday for first Sabbath shows in 20 years.

Thursday

M. J. Comerford plans coast to coast chain.

Famous understood to have signed Richard Talmadge for series.

Ambrose J. Kennedy to sponsor bill in Mary- land legislature to repeal "blue" laws.

Resumption of work in coal mines in south- ern Illinois forecasts better theater busi- ness.

A. C. Berman advocates production abroad as part of good-will policy.

Acquisition of theaters in Birmingham by Famous causes alarm among English ex hibitors.

A 25 per cent quota urged for Australia by a deputation of the trade.

Vitaphone equipment installed in 20 theaters; has made its debut in eight cities.

Kelly Color Films and Handschiegl Process merge.

Restrictions of Canadian traffic may hurt Detroit theater business. Other border cities may be involved.

Wall Street report associates Fox and Vita- phone in deal.

Friday

Gaumont, M-G-M in extensive theater build- ing campaign in France.

Four British Units Plan 40 films for first year.

Universal to entrench in Pacific Northwest.

A. C. Berman leaves United Artists.

Saturday

Famous control of Ufa chain seen in German film circles.

$197,000,000 to be spent on West Coast pro- duction.

$11,500,000 Program in Atlanta.

Alabama confident of future boom.

Plan comedy in natural vision process.

— Happy New Year —

Hartland House Has New Owner

Hartland, Wis. — A. L. Geyer has purchased the Victor.

F-P-L Control Of Ufa Chain Seen Abroad

{Continued From Page 3)

a few days ago when members of the Cabinet visited Neubabelsberg and inspected the mammoth studio. It is understood the visit was de- signed purely to interest the neces- sary authorities in an effort to se- cure the needed finances.

A general meeting of company stockholders will be held early this month. Much of interest is sched- uled to happen then. The Ufa has been compelled to reorganize its financial structure. Owing to re- cent business reverses, its capital has been reduced from 45,000,000 marks to 15,000,000 marks. Dr. von Strauss, chairman of the board of directors, attributes the losses pri- marily to production. The direc- tors are inclined to attribute the pres- ent position to American competi- tion and the extremely burdensome tax tariff which all German compa- nies, especially those engaged in ex- hibition, must meet.

Dr. Ferdinand Bausback, represen- tative of the Deutsche Bank which is heavily interested in Ufa, and who replaced Erich Pommer as managing director, has stated that future pro- duction costs will be limited to 2,- 000,000 marks top per picture. The Ufa idea is to make pictures which will find a ready market in America.

— Happy New Year —

Alabama Confident

{Continued From Page 3) that state. But local residents are confident that a big future is in store for them and their enthusiasm is con- tagious, so that even casual observers are coming to believe the power generated by Wilson's Dam will bring large industries to this section, giving employment eventually to 500,000 people.

Amusement enterprises, under such conditions, are subject to rapid growth, and if the statements of Muscle Shoals people are to be be- lieved they will have not one, but several new picture theaters when in- dustrial developments have progressed a little further.

— Happy New Year —

Starts Cruise Picture

Otto F. Mauer. Ufa director, has commenced shooting the New York sequences of his world cruise picture, "What Price the World." — Happy New Year —

Titling "Slums of Berlin"

Symon Gould is titling "Slums of Berlin," brought to America by Wal- ter W. Kofeldt and the Imported Pic- tures Corp, of San Francisco. The picture opens at the Cameo Jan. 15.

— Happy New Year—

Johnson to Start Police Film

Universal City — Emory Johnson will start production on "The Arm of the Law." his next Universal fea- ture, Jan. 10. "The Arm of the Law" is a story of the police department of a metropolitan city, written by Mrs. Emilie Johnson, mother of the director. The cast is being selected.

Stereoscopic Comedy

{Continued From Page 3)

cess was distributed by Pathe in 1925.

By means of the screens, accord- ing to W. J. Worthington, each eye sees its own picture, with the ob- jects brought away from the screen to within 20 inches of the audiences' eyes. The eyes of the spectator, he says, change focus for every different depth of objects in the picture from 20 inches to infinity.

The firm also has a two-color process, which is claimed to be a blend of pure colors. The color film is made with the binocular camera, which makes the stereoscopic pic- tures combined with a patent color- ing process developed by the com- pany. This process, it is stated, soon is to be placed on the market.

— Happy New Year —

$11,500,000 Program

{Continued From Page 3)

tween Linden and North Aves., has just opened, the structure costing $1,000,000. Atlanta's newest combina- tion house is Keith's Georgia in the Henry Grade Hotel Building. It cost about $1,500,000. In the same block is Universal's Capitol which is near- ing completion. This house, which will cost about $1,000,000, will be the first in the South to play Pantages vaudeville.

Epidemic Closes Theater Lakefield, Ont. — An epidemic of diseases here has caused health au- thorities to close the local picture house.

Aviation Comedy for Beery Los Angeles — -Upon completion o' "Louie the Fourteenth," Wallace Beery will be starred in "Taking the Air," an aviation comedy.

— Happy New Year —

Milner Gets Wyoming O. H. Wyoming, la. — B. G. Milner has assumed management of the Opera House.

— Happy New Year —

Anderson Gets Second Burlington, Wash. — R. L. Ander- son, who operates the Olympic at Forks, has purchased the Grand.

— Happy New Year —

Bussey Buys Seattle House

Seattle — W. L. Bussey is new own- er of the Green Lake.

And That's That

^^ By PHIL M. DALY __

GL. Chanier, Pathe laboratory • head, has a souvenir of his early studio days in the form of a letter written from a penitentiary, in which the applicant for a job referred to his second-story jobs and ability to dodge the police.

// the German Minister of Eco- nomy heeds the plea of the German film manufacturers' association to save them from the American "fi- nancial invasion," what are they go- ing to use for money?

Colleen Moore insists on being ro- mantic. That explains her indigna- tion over a typist's error which an- nounced she would be a cook instead of crook in "Venus of Venice."

With May MacAvoy appearing as Charles Ray's sweetheart in "The Fire Brigade," we may expect a revival of "Oh, for the Life of a Fireman."

Judging by the De Forest suits, talking pictures can talk back.

— Happy New Year —

Leases Montreal- Houses

Montreal — David Kraus has taken over the Orpheum and will reopen it Jan. 2 with Paul Vincent as man- ager.

— Happy New Year —

Tobin & Quinlan Get Lease

Chateaugay, N. Y. — Tobin & Quin- lan, former lessee, will continue oper- ation of the Opera House, having been victorious over Schine Enter- prises in bidding for the lease.

CAMERAMEN

List your name in new leaflet of reputable cameramen and indus- trial film makers to whom prospects may be referred. No cost of any kind, simply send in the data.

Bureau of Commercial Economics

1108-1 6th St- N.W. Washington. D.C

Schools, Churches and Clubs

using Motion Pictures

Should Subscribe for

THE EDUCATIONAL SCREEN

and keep up-to-date with the new films and new equipment

"1001 FILMS" (Fourth Edition)

Complete reference booklet, listing nearly 3,000 educational films given at reduced rate with each subscription

$1.50 per year - 5 South Wabash Ave., Chicago, III.

Favorable Reaction

The constantly increasing use of Eastman Panchromatic Negative Film by producers means more and more pictures with blues, reds, yellows and greens in their true black and white relationship.

Effects unobtainable with ordinary neg- ative are usual with "Pan". And the differ- ence— the superiority — of prints on Eastman Positive from "Pan" negatives is readily ap- parent on the screen.

Such an obvious — and important — im- provement in the art cannot fail to have favorable box office reaction.

EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY

ROCHESTER, N. Y.

Box office value?

It comes from name and fame plus high average quality.

Sennetts have it.

Fathers and mothers of today shrieked and roared as kids at Sennett comedies nearly fifteen years ago. They keep young by seeing Sennetts now, every week.

Scene from ^Peaches and Tlumbers

They know that any show is good, if it has a Sennett.

Every month is Laugh Month for the exhibitor who plays Sennett comedies.

Pathecomedy

TRADE

MARK

^NEWSPAPER oSFILMDOM

ALL THE MEWS ALL THE TIME

VOL. XXXIX No. 2

Monday, January 3, 1927

Price 5 Cents

Forecasts

A GROUP of thoughtful men, representative of much of the business genius which has figured in the growth of this towering industry talk of 1927 today.

Producers, distributors, exhib- itors, exporters give in graphic and concise language their beliefs of what the next twelve months hold in store for their business and yours. It is a presentation of significant material.

Confidence in the Future

Prepared for the 1927 FILM YEAR BOOK which shortly makes its ap- pearance, excerpts from the mass of forecasts thus gathered point out the business course which the future of this business will pursue. It is im- portant to note that an air of supreme onfidence is displayed; it is important :o observe that no misgivings are evidenced over that which is to come. The opinions are well worth the closest scrutiny because they are so ane, and withal, conservative.

The motion picture field, like all >thers, is inseparably interlocked with he conduct of general business. But here seems to be no doubts about he heights which American com- nercial activities will reach in the ew year. For example, dividends re always a sure sign of prosperity, fear-end declarations alone totaled 500,000,000. The leader, of course, /as steel which contributed $203,- 00,000 to the vast sum. This half illion mark repf ' its extras and pecial dividend., ~>plementary to ne regular disbur *s throughout

926. Financial anu e barometers

re at new high peaks. Leaders in lis industry and outside of it presage ealthy prosperity for 1927.

Factors of Importance

For the past eighteen months, lanufactures have increased from venty-five to thirty per cent over >tals for the summer of 1924. Since tat date, three basic industries — on and steel, automobiles and build- g construction have made new cords in production. These factors and many more con- ibute to the advances in our own irticular field. So long as the untry at large continues to reach it and attain new business records, ere need be no concern over mo- rn pictures.

KANN

Greatest Year in Film History Is

Predicted by Leaders of Industry

"Maintain Ideals"— Coolidge

THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON

Let us maintain all the high ideals which have been char- acteristic of our different races at home. Let us keep our desire to help other lands as a great and broad principle, not to help in one place and do harm in another, but to render assistance everywhere. Let us remember also that the best method of pro- moting this action is by giving undivided allegiance to America, maintaining its institutions, supporting its Government, and, by leaving it internally harmonious, making it eternally powerful in promoting a reign of justice and mercy throughout the earth.

CALVIN COOLIDGE

[The President's message to the American people appears in Number 1, Volume 9, of International News Reel.]

Ticket Firms Enjoined

Washington — The American Amusement Ticket Manufacturers' Ass'n. and its 13 members are per- petually enjoined from operating in violation of the Sherman Anti-Trust law, in a consent degree signed in the District Supreme Court. The action followed an effort made by the as- (Continued on Page 3)

Urges Shilling Tax

By ERNEST W. FREDMAN Editor, "The Film Renter"

London — Imposition of a tax of one shilling a day upon foreign pic- tures, is advocated by Sir Oswald Stoll. In suggesting the assessment to aid the home industry he said that (Continued on Page 3)

Publix House Starts

Minneapolis — Work starts immed- iately on the Minneapolis, which Publix will build here. Sumner T. McKnight, realtor, is president of the Minneapolis Theater Corp., which will build. Publix has a 25 year lease on the $2,000,000 theater which is to seat 4,200, with option of renewal for 25 years additional.

Poli In Springfield

Springfield, Conn. — S. Z. Poli has acquired a site for a theater which will be the 22nd house of his New England chain. It will be a memo- rial to his son's memory.

Imported Film Held Over

Chicago — "On the Boulevard," fea- ture-length comedy imported from Europe, has been held over for a second week at the Randolph. Im- ported Pictures Corp. of San Fran- cisco is handling the production.

East Side Merger

It is reported that an important theater almalgamation is under way involving the entire East Side of New York. Mayer and Schneider, who operate the M. & S. circuit and the Harry Blinderman interests are men- tioned. Should the deal go through, it would result in an almost complete monopoly of the exhibiting field in that crowded section of the city.

A Review Of Reviews

By LILIAN W. BRENNAN Colleen Moore twinkled her way through her latest picture to the de- light of appreciative holiday audiences. "Twinkletoes" gives Colleen a more sympathetic role than is usually her lot but her cute mischief is still prom- inent enough to give her admirers

(Continued on Page 3)

Exploit-O-Grams

After many weeks' work, 15 solid pages of live-wire, exploitation stunts have been lined up for the special "Exploit-O-Grams" section in the forthcoming 1927 FILM YEAR BOOK, edition, which will appear this month.

More than 600 ideas, every one of (Continued on Page 3)

Mix Starts New Picture

Los Angeles— Tom Mix has started work on "The Broncho Twister" by Adela Rogers St. Johns. Helene Cos- tello is playing opposite.

May MacAvoy Gets Role

May MacAvoy has been signed for "The Joy Girl," which Fox will make in New York.

Prosperity Ahead In 1927

Declare Statements Of

Executives

Confidence in 1927, which they predict will be the most prosperous year in the history of motion pic- tures, is expressed by leaders of the industry in statements prepared for the 1927 FILM YEAR BOOK. The optimistic statements are based upon nation-wide surveys conducted by the various companies and accurately re- flect the business situation through- out the nation.

Following are excerpts from state- ments issued:

WILL H. HAYS

The motion picture industry enters its thirty-first year bearing the good wishes and the friendship of all the peoples of the Earth. This friendship has been built and held by service and understanding.

The future success of the motion picture is limited only by the discharge of its duty; it is bounded only by the public appreciation which will come as the reward for our ser- vice well performed.

* * * ADOLPH ZUKOR

President, Famous Players-Lasky Corp. I am distinctly optimistic over the busi- ness prospects for the picture industry during the coming year. This past twelvemonth has shown more real progress all along the line than we have ever had in a similar period. In production, which is the bedrock of the industry, we have been blessed with a series of the finest pictures in the history of the business; and many more are on their way from the studios. Progress in exhibition has been even more encouraging, for all over the country splendid new theaters are coming into being.

* * *

MARCUS LOEW President, Loeufs, Inc. Our own production schedule for the com- ing year has been designed with the hope of maintaining the confidence of the public and exhibitors in this branch of its product. The fact that there are now ten feature pictures playing vo two-a-day houses on Broadway is very conclusive evidence of the place the motion picture has won for itself in the heart of the theatergoing public.

* * * WILLIAM FOX

President, Fox Film Corp. The outlook for 1927 for the motion picture industry could not be better for the indi- viduals and the companies that can measure up to the responsibilities and opportunities that our business now requires and affords.

* # * CARL LAEMMLE

President, Universal Pictures Corp. It is a significant fact that on the threshold of 1927 we must take the world market into consideration in any attempted prognostica- tion more than we ever did before. I don t anticipate any upheaval or unusual develop- ment. I feel confident that all well entrenched companies are planning to entrench them- (Continued on Page 6)

THE

riTTirMH

■ZWl

DAILY

Monday, January 3, 1927

Itc NEWSPAPER /FILMDOM

fWiraaBSBSSHiEffiB

ALLTHE MEWS

ULTHE TIME

BIIW

Vol.XXXIX No. 2 Monday, Jan. 3, 1927 Price 5 Cents

JOHN W. ALICOATE

Publisher

Published daily except Saturday and holidays »t 1650 Broadway, New York, N. Y., and copyright (1927) by Wid's Films and Film FolKs, Inc J. W. Alicoate, President and Treasurer;' Maurice D. Kann, Editor; Don aid M. Mersereau, Business and Advertising Manager; Kalph Wilk, Traveling Represen- tative. Entered as second-class matter May 21, 1918, at the post-office at New York, N ' Y. under the act of March 3, 1879. Terms (Postage free) United States, outside of Greater New York, $10.00 one year; 6 months, $5.00; 3 months, $3.00. Foreign, $15.00. Subscribers should remit with order Address all communications to THE HLM DAILY, 1650 Broadway, New York, N. Y- Phone 6rcle 4736-4737-4738-4739. Cable ad dress: Filmday, New York. Hollywood, California— Harvey E. Gausman, Ambassa dor Hotel: 'Phone, Drexel 7000 and Wash ington 9794, London— Ernest W Fredman. The Film Renter, 58, Great Marlborough St., London, W. I., Paris— La Cinematographic Francaise, 5, Rue Saulnier.

Financial

Most active among film issues Friday was Loew's, Inc., with 8,000 sales, although the stock remained practically stationary. Slight gains were registered by Warner Brothers issues, common gaining VA points, closing at 32, and "A" rising 1^ to 42. A total of 6,600 shares of the last issue changed

A chart recording the highs and lows of the past year on those stocks listed on the Stock Exchange, which were dealt in Friday, will be found in the next column.

Quotations

Am. Seat. Vtc

*Am. Seat. Pfd... ♦Balaban & Katz . . *Bal. & Katz Vtc. Eastman Kodak . . . Famous Players . . *Fam. Play. Pfd.. •Film Inspect. . . . ♦First Nat'l. Pfd.. Fox Film "A"... Fox Theaters "A". *Intern'l Project. .

Loew's, Inc

Metro Gold. Pfd... M. P. Cap. Corp.. Pathe Exch. "A". tParamount B'way. Roxy Class "A'

High

44^

133

114

23J4

48"

24?i

Low

132J4 113

70 y2

46J4 24 H

uy2

39% 97% 30 33 9

Roxy Units 31

Roxy Common .... 7

*Skouras Brosfl

**Stan. Co. of Am. .... •••• Trans-Lux Screen . 7% 'V*

*Univ. Pict. Pfd

Universal Pictures 37 Warner Pictures . 32'% Warner Pict. "A". 42 • Last Prices Quoted •* Philadelphia Market

30#

40%

T Bond

44}4 44^4 63^ 73J4

133

114

121*6 5

100

7154

23/2 12"4 47% 24% 13

40 y2

46 84% 7% 98*4 37 32 42

Sales 1,100

700 3,200

1,100 200

8,666

100

1,100

1,200

500

'ioo

3,000 6,600

Market

tt Bid and Ask

Barrymore's Next? Los Angeles— John Barrymore has sailed out of Los Angeles on his yacht, the Mariner, to cruise along the South American coast. He has gone off with a large library in which he hopes to find the story for his next picture. Having just finished "The Beloved Rogue," with Francois Villon for character and the France of the fifteenth century for setting, he is now planning an American setting. There is a prevalent assumption that the theme will be historical.

Financial Resume

The chart given here below records the high and low figures for the year of 1926, on those issues listed on the Stock Exchange which were dealt in Friday.

High Date Low Date

Am. Seat. Vtc... 45*4 32%

Eastman Kodak .136J4 Dec. 27 106% Mar.3C

Pamous Players .127*4 June 11 103*6 Jan.19

Fam. Play. Pfd.l2'4*4 Dec. 6 115 Mar.31

Fox Film "A" .. 85 Jan. 2 55*6 Mar.31

Fox Theaters "A". 34% 19

Loew's, Inc. ... 48% Dec. 6 34*4 Mar. 2

Metro-Gold. Pfd. 25*4 Nov. 24 22*4 Jan. 8

M. P. Cap. Corp. 23*4 Jan. 3 10% Dec. 28

Pathe Exch. "A" 83 Jan. 7 32*4 Nov. 30

Paramount B'way.l01*4 Sept.' 7 94 Mar. 29

Warner Pictures .65 8

Warner Pict. "A" 69 Sept. 4 12 June 11

Schofield Goes to Coast Paul Schofield is en route to the Coast to write the scenario for "The Gorilla" for Asher, Small & Rogers.

Speth Abroad Rudolf Speth, secretary of the Eastman Kodak Co., is en route to Europe on the Berlin.

$20,000 Suit Filed Lariat Prod, and J. Joseph Sameth have filed suit in the Supreme Court against the Albion Prod, and Harry S. Manus for $20,000 damages. The complaint alleges that on Aug. 2 an agreement was made between the parties under which the plaintiffs were to produce 13 two-reel films featuring Wally Van and Ann Howe and the defendants were to pay $7,500 upon the delivery of each picture. The plaintiffs say they completed "Joints and Jewels" on Sept. 24 last and delivered it, but the defendants then notified them that they would re- ceive no other pictures and have refused to pay $7,500 for the one com- pleted. The plaintiffs claim damages of $12,500 in addition to this sum.

First U. A. House Jan. 17

Seattle— Opening of the Liberty as a United Artists' theater has been changed to Jan. 14.

Duncan Sisters Close Run Los Angeles — The Duncan Sisters closed a two weeks' engagement at Loew's State Saturday night.

Leo Terry at Evanston Evanston, 111. — Leo Terry, organ- ist, is appearing at the new Varsity which is using a presentation polic_\ For the past six months he has been with Great States Theaters.

"Nell Gwyn" Passed by Censors Montreal — The Quebec board of censors relented in their stand against "Nell Gwyn," following a wide protest against the banning of the feature. The picture was finally approved with modifications and Montreal had its first run at the Capitol.

Sutherland's New Vehicle

Edward Sutherland, who directed "Love's Greatest Mistake," will start work on "The Undoubted Woman" about Jan. 24. Joseph Pasternak, who assisted him on "Love's Greatest Mistake," will act in a like capacity.

"And when it comes to really doing things don't forget the A. M. P. A., that little body of pub- licists, exploiteers and ad- vertising impresarios who break bread every Thurs- day at the Hofbrau. Our private detective tells us that plans for the Naked Truth dinner are well under way and that this year's event will be dyna- mite."

Pola Banks Joins Fox

Pola Banks left yesterday for the Coast to join the Fox scenario depart- ment.

Chadwick Production At Peak

Los Angeles — With five units now active at the Chadwick studios, the company sets a new record for simultaneous production. Nine pro- ductions for 1926-1927 have been com- pleted or are now in work.

Denny's Next Selected Universal City — "Fast and Furi- ous," an adaptation of Gladys Leh- man's story "Completely at Sea," will be Reginald Denny's next pic- ture. William Seiter will direct.

Stone to Adapt Beaumont Story Hollywood — John Stone has been selected by Fox to write the version on Gerald Beaumont's original "The Outlaw of Red River." This will be a feature starring Tom Mix.

Hughes to Officiate

Universal City — Rupert Hughes will be master of ceremonies at the Carl Laemmle birthday banquet, Jan. 17.

"Cradle Snatcher" Ready

Hollywood — Sarah Y. Mason has just finished the adaptation on "The Cradle Snatcher" for Fox.

Birmingham House to Start

Birmingham, Ala. — Construction work on the Alabama, new Publix house, is expected to start in Febru- ary. It will be located on 3rd Ave., N., between 18th and 19 Sts., direct- ly across from the Lyric. The house will seat about 2,500 and will cost between $1,125,000 and $1,500,000.

t"« » ■ ■ mi

'•"• :•■'•">■ >'

QUALITY PRINTS Titles and Negative Developing

Release Printing U. S. Film Laboratories, Inc.

Hudson Heights, N. J.

Palisades 3678

Indictments Quashed

Washington Bureau of THE FILM DAILY Washington — Indictments against Alexander Pantages, F. C. Quimby, Ralph Proctor, J. J. Klaxton and four others, charged with conspiracy to violate the Federal law prohibiting interstate transportation of prize fight films, has been quashed. Attorney General Sargent requested dismissal of the cases.

Smith On Sales Jaunt

Cresson E. Smith, sales manager for United Artists in the Middle West, left yesterday for an extended trip throughout his territory.

Schwerin Goes to Pittsburgh Charles F. Schwerin, new United Artists special sales representative is on a two weeks' trip to Pittsburgh.

Price with U.A. At Indianapolis Indianapolis— W. J. Price has taken over management of the United Ar- tists branch.

New U. A. Manager at Minneapolis

Minneapolis — Lew Foster is new manager of the United Artists ex- change.

HAL ROACH

t>RES£HTS

MABEL NORMAN D,

^Anything Once/"

JAMES FINLAYSON -mth- MAX DAVIDSOM

This is a Cornerblock" cut furnished FREE for all Pathecomedies at yout Exchange.

Original Negatives of Everything in Motion Picture Stock Shots

WAFILMS, INC.

W. A. Futter, Pres. 130 West 46th St. Bryant 8181

John D.Tippett, Inc.

Raw Stock

Negative and Positive

All Colors

1540 Broadway 6040 Sunset Blvd. New York City Hollywood, Calif.

i •"■■■■

■••■•>

THE

Monday, January 3, 1927

<^"S

DAILY

Newspaper Opinions

"While London Sleeps" Warners Broadway

(Week Ending Dec. 18) AMERICAN — * * * elaborate melodrama ' * * should appeal to far more people than nost of Rinty's pictures * * * need not wor- •y about its popularity * * *

DAILY MIRROR— * * * howling melo- Irama * * * will delight the youngsters * * * Un-Tin-Tin is an amazing actor * *

DAILY NEWS—* * * Lillian Gish play- d in the Limehouse district, so did Sister Dorothy, so why shouldn't Rin-Tin-Tin, one f the biggest money-makers in the screen usiness, do his stuff in the same locality

EVENING JOURNAL — * * * "While .ondon Sleeps" is an argument against in- Dmnia * * *

EVENING WORLD—* * * It is a Lime ouse story and does not offer the best at losphere for the star * * * story replete with ither mechanical suspense * * *

WORLD — * * * A large audience yester- ay afternoon went there and sat in splendid ■spense throughout the melodrama * * *

"The Fire Brigade" M-G-M Central

DAILY NEWS— "The Fire Brigade" not lly rhymes with "The Big Parade" but is i worthy a portrayal of the heroic deeds of 2ace as the other is of the deeds of war. EVENING JOURNAL—* * * The pic ire is packed with thrills, and William Nigh, ie director, builds up the situation to an cciting climax * * * There are some very iteresting camera shots in the picture. * * * EVENING WORLD—* * * This fire bri ide picture is a grand pot of melodramatic ikum, spiced with thrills and garnished ith romance. * * * Here's thrilling melo- ■amatic material well developed in good cin- na. The actors are capable, competent and mvincincr.

HERALD-TRIBUNE—* * * It is one of e most exciting, inspiring, breath-taking pic- ires it ever has been our good fortune to t through. * * * Will Nigh, the director, is kindled a fire that will not soon be ex- nguished. Don't fail to see "The Fire Bri- ide."

POST — ■ * * * the firemen's doings are irringly presented — unflaggingly interesting id full of thrills * * * it is all quite as :citing as the historic chariot race in "Ben- nr."

SUN — * * * it is the last word in blazing *hts and billowy smoke, and regardless of e ancient, obvious story on which its cinema- ; values are stretched, it is bound to be a ccess. * * *

TELEGRAM — A record of quite unusual rills has been written into the Metro-Gold- yn-Mayer archives in the compilation of it1 "est special * * * All the deeds of dizzy ring, the thrilling risks that spell the fire- an's daily grind are retailed in graphic de il.

TIMES — * * * no little pains has been Ven to make it the most stirring production aling with its particular subject. * * * The ;ht romance itself is by no means to be =pised, for the roles of the principal par- inants are acted in a most earnest fashion. WORLD — * * * There is going to be a rrible kick in this picture for firemen's ves all over the country. * * * There are be found in it any number of episodes de- ted to the reproduction of fires at night. e agile, desperate, finely trained firemen aling to perilous heights * * *

fones Making "Whispering Sage" Los Angeles — Buck Jones starts ork todav on "Whispering Sage'" r Fox. The story is by Harry St air Drago and Joseph Noel.

Doris Anderson Gets Assignment Los Angeles — Doris Anderson has en assigned the adaptation of .fraid to Love," Florence Vidor's xt vehicle for Famous.

Cambria's Next Production 'Opera vs. Jazz" is the title of the ■sentation which Frank Cambria 1 do for Publix, opening at the -amount Jan. 15.

The Broadway Parade

THIS is the day of long run pictures on the big show street.

The record is an interesting one. The Broadway Parade is,

of course, led by "The Big Parade" now playing in its second year. Here is the line-up.

Picture Distributor Theater Opening Date

"The Big Parade" M-G-M Astor Nov. 19 (1925)

"Don Juan" and

Vitaphone Warners Warners Aug. 6, 1926

"Beau Geste" Famous Criterion Aug. 26

"The Better 'Ole" and Colony Oct. 7

Vitaphone Warners

"What Price Glory" Fox Harris Nov. 24

"Potemkin" Amkino Biltmore Dec. 5

"Michael Strogoff" Universal Cohan Dec. 5

"Old Ironsides" Famous Rivoli Dec. 6

"The Gorilla Hunt" F. B. O. Cameo Dec. 12

"The Fire Brigade" M-G-M Central Dec. 20 •

"Tell It to the Marines". . .M-G-M Embassy Dec. 23

Ticket Firms Enjoined

(Continued from Page 1)

sociation to ascertain its powers under the Sherman statute.

Charge was made by the Govern- ment that the association and its members, with plants in New York, New Jersey, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Illinois, California and Massachusetts, had restrained trade by fixing prices and alloting buyers. Statement was made that the firms manufacture 85 per cent of all amusement tickets used in this country.

Under the decree the companies are prohibited from exchanging informa- tion concerning prices.

Arrest Manager For Sunday Shows

Moberly, Mo. — Charged with op- erating the theaters on Sunday, George F. Bromley, manager of the Grand and Fourth St., was arrested. The hearing was postponed.

Psychic Gets Year Contract Seattle — Pacific Northwest Thea- ters has signed Gene Dennis, young psychic, to a year's contract. She has played four weeks at the Coli- seum.

Exhibitors' Daily Reminder

Check insurance expiration. Most important for all sorts of protection-

Urges Shilling Tax

(Continued from Page 1)

it would not infringe upon the "most- favored-nation" clauses in the trade treaties.

Under the plan, Stoll claimed, home films will be enabled to recover their negative cost in this country and more would consequently be made.

Exploit-O-Grams

(Continued from Page 1)

them already tried and proven, have been gathered. Some of the keenest exploitation minds in the industry have cooperated to make this the greatest array of real valuable ex- ploitation matter ever assembled.

Monday, January 3, 1927

A Review Of Reviews

(Continued from Page 1)

full share of laughs. This picture could do with a reel or two less.

Dimitri Buchowetzki, who has had <=o much said in his favor, contributed the chief disappointment of the week in "Valencia." Colorful atmosphere, fine production and all the trimmings for pictorial appeal but the story is decidedly weak. Mae Murray photo- graphed poorly and proves beyond a doubt that it was Von Stroheim's direction that made her in "The Merrv Widow."

F.R.O. offered one of the week's best pictures in "Home Struck," a •-harming story of stage life written liv Peter Milne, with Viola Dana as the little show girl who wants a "permanent address," gets one but nearly loses it. Alan Brooks and Tom Gallery give splendid per- formances.

"Jim the Conqueror" and "Cyclone Cowbov" were the westerns of the week, the former notable for excellent 'ihotography and good locations. "The Boaster" was good comedy en- tertainment and "Tongues of Scandal" 'a:r society drama.

Ben Lyon in "The Perfect Sap" is ;>n amateur crook whose escapades make for good amusement and "The Third Degree" was the week's only melodrama, directed by Michael Curtiz who has apparently absorbed some of the ideas of "Variety." He used dis- solves continually to register the rush of passing events.

Astor — "The Big Parade"

Biltmore — "Potemkin"

Broadway — "Just Another Blonde"

Cameo — "The Gorilla Hunt"

Capitol — "A Little Journey"

Central— "The Fire Brigade"

Colony — '"The Better 'Ole"

Cohan — "Michael Strogoff"

Criterion — "Beau Geste"

Embassy — "Tell It to the Marines"

Harris — "What Price Glory"

Hippodrome — "Bertha the Sewing Machine Girl"

Loew's New York — Today — "Kid Boots" Tuesday — "Sunshine of Paradise Alley"

and "The Fighting Failure" Wednesday — •"Wings of the Storm" Thursday— "The White Black Sheep" Friday — "Red Heads Preferred" and "Striv- ing For Fortune" Saturday — "The Eagle of the Sea" Sunday — Summer Bachelors"

Mark Strand — "The Lady in Ermine"

Paramount— "Hotel Imperial"

Rialto — '"Sorrows of Satan"

Rivoli — "Old Ironsides"

Warners — "Don Juan"

Brooklyn Mark Strand — "The Cheerful Fraud"

Next Week

Astor — "The Big Parade"

Biltmore — "Potemkin"

Broadway — Undetermined

Cameo — "The Slums of Berlin"

Capitol— "The Flesh and the Devil"

Central— "The Fire Brigade"

Colony— "The Better 'Ole"

Cohan — "Michael Strogoff"

Criterion — "Beau Geste"

Embassy — "Tell It to the Marines"

Harris — "What Price Glory"

H ippodrome — Undetermined

Mark Strand — "The Perfect Sap"

Paramount — "Blonde or Brunette"

Rialto — "Sorrows of Satan"

Rivoli — "Old Ironsides"

Warners — "Don Juan"

Brooklyn Mark Strand — "Twinkletoes"

Booked for Loew Houses

Frances White and Vesta Victoria are booked for a tour of Loew pic- ture and vaudeville houses. The for- mer opens in New York Feb. 14, while Miss Victoria starts at Loew's State, White Plains, next week.

Other headliners booked are Gene Tunney, Mclntyre & Heath, Nora Bayes, Ruth Roye, Irene Franklin, Cissy Loftus, Al Herman, Sissle & Blake, Jane and Katherine Lee, Franklyn Barnum, Jean Southern, Morris and Campbell and Herbert Williams.

Acts For Louisville House Louisville — A presentation policy has been adopted by B. F. Keith's National, which has booked the Royal Peacock Orchestra, headed by Neal Abel, as its chief attraction.

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RIGHT M0Wi

that are aettinn

the big money/9

(HEIGHT NOW- exhibitors who booked **■ V the Warner Winners are congratu- lating themselves. They're getting the cream of the year's pictures— box-office knockouts, every one of them.

) In theatre after theatre, for every exhibitor who the story is the same— is playing them. r record crowds, record Great stories -great runs, record receipts. stars-great directors! All The keenest showmen proving up one hundred in the country- big cir- Per cent strong in pic- cuits and little-find their tures produced by show- judgment justified. The men for showmen. Warner Winners are Read what some ex- clicking merrily— to the hibitors are saying about tune of greater profits the current releases.

^efiftCEFU

Starring

Monte Blue

Prom Ike play by CHARLES E. BLANEY 'Dittoed by ROY DEL RUTH

MARVELOUS PICTURE. Real box office bet." -Capitol Theatre, Lincoln, Neb.

iY Off fIGIAL

starring

IRENE RICH CONWAY TEARLE

•Directed by PAUL I_ STEIN

'"-T'REMENDOUS busi- X ness! Make more like this!" - State Theatre, New Bedford, Mass.

PRIVATE

Ixxy Murphy

starrinq

GEORGE JESSEL

PATSY RUTH MILLER VERA GORDON

'Directed.by LLOYD BACON

"TJEST in three years. Broke all *-* records." -Orpheum Theatre, Chicago, III.

JiflUION*

featuring

GEORGE SIDNEY

VERA GOIRIDON ILOIUIISIE FAZENDA

SugtBUd by the book, "The Inevitable MflUoMiret" by E. Pkilkpi Oppenheim I

'Directed by HERMAN RAYMAKER

"DROKE box-office records!" MJ — Dyker Theatre,

Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

WHILE LONDON!

SLEEPS

starring

RIN 'TIN ' TIN

'Directed by WALTER MOROSCO

CALLED police to handle crowds. Capacity all week. Rin-Tin-Tin holds house record. — Metropolitan Theatre, Baltimore, Md.

COMliVc/

that mean no ett

of bigger l>rofi$

TWENTY-ONE more box-office pictures on the way! Twenty-one more show- man-built attractions — to bring more people into the motion picture theatres and make more profits for wide-awake ! exhibitors.

Five sell-outs to come with Dolores Costello, the screen sensation of a generation. . . . Four more with Monte Blue. . . .Two more with Irene

Rich Three with

Louise Fazenda. . . Two

more with Patsy Ruth

, Miller. . . . Two more

with Rin-Tin-Tin

And three with great casts.

Great stars — all of them— with known box- office pull — in pictures specially chosen for their strong appeal to the masses.

Set your play dates

now:

DOLOUi

Stalling in

THE

THIRD DEGREE

THE big Dolores Costello box office smash that you've waited for since "The Sea Beast"!

<Bowl on ihr Stop Play by CHARLES KLEIN

directed by MICHAEL CURTIZ

BSE F&ZENK&A

gtBf Jtarrinq in

m FINGER. PRINTS

ARTHUR SOMERS ROCHE L wrote this story especially for the screen! The greatest comedy-mystery drama, you've ever seen!

tUncud by LLOYD BACON

ON THE WAY—NINETEEN MORE OF THE

26 WARNER WINNERS

EACH A CAREFULLY PLANNED PRODUCT DESIGNED FOR AUDIENCE APPEAL

DON'T TELL THE WIFE, star- ring Irene Rich

Wolf's Clothing, starring

Monte Blue with Patsy Ruth Miller

WHITE FLANNELS, with Louise Dresser and Jason Robards

BITTER APPLES, starring Monte Blue with Myrna Loy

The Gay old Bird with

Louise Fazenda

Dolores Costello in A

Million Bid

The Climbers, starring Irene'

Rich

Matinee Ladies

Dolores costello in Irish

Hearts

Dolores Costello in The

College Widow

What Every girl Should

KNOW with Patsy Ruth Miller

Tracked By The Police, star- ring Rin-Tin-Tin The Black Diamond Express,

starring Monte Blue SIMPLE SIS, with Louise Fazenda and John T. Murray

Hills of Kentucky, starring

Rin-Tin-Tin DEARIE, with Louise Fazenda and John T. Murray

What Happened to Father,

with Patsy Ruth Miller THE BRUTE, starring Monte Blue

Dolores Costello in The

Heart of Maryland

THE

v Monday, January 3, 1927

1927 Greatest Year in Industry's Annals

Executives Predict Rosy Film Prospects

(Continued from Page 1) selves still further, and this applies to foreign producers and distributing concerns as well as to domestic ones.

* * *

ROBERT LIEBER

President, First Nat'I Pictures, Inc. That the new year will mark a progression in all branches of the motion picture industry almost goes without saying. There has been and continues to be a steady advancement ir the type of pictures produced, in the calibre of the theaters and in the art of presentation.

* * *

RICHARD A. ROWLAND

General Manager, First Nat'I Pictures, Inc. The producer is going to be up against ? tougher proposition next year and the year after than he has ever been in the history of motion pictures because this is developing rapidly into a theater business. In other words, the theater is the end that controls the whip hand and the increasing negative costs and amalgamations and consolidations of theater circuits which means the nationali- zation of theater circuits are apt to result in the reduction of film rentals so that with the increased production costs, plus the de- crease of revenue, the producer is going to have his hands full.

* * *

HARRY M. WARNER

President, Warner Bros. Pictures

Business this coming year is going to be

exceptionally good. We are going to see

so many changes made that the map of the

picture business will he somewhat changed.

* * *

ELMER R. PEARSON

Vice-Pres., Cen'l M'g'r, Pathe Exchange Anything other than orderly and progres- sive prosperity for business and amusements for 1927 would seem a ridiculous forecast. The progressive increase of the business has been at a rate that would seem impossible of maintaining, but thus we have thought each year for the last fifteen years, yet the progres- sion keeps on keeping on and the end is »0't now in sight.

* * *

F. C. MUNROE

President, Prod. Dist. Corp. In view of the enormous strides that have been made in picture production in the past few years, in view of the almost unbelievable improvements that have been made in every branch of the industry, I do not see how any one can fail to be an enthusiastic opti- mist.

* * *

EARLE W. HAMMONS

President, Educat'l Pictures Corp. If the year 1926 has been the greatest year in motion picture history — and in many ways it certainly has been — I believe the coming year is going to be even greater. Progress in all branches of the industry should be marked.

* * * WTNFIELD R. SHEEHAN

Vice-President. Fox Film Corp. The public is waiting expectantly for vital, unusual and true-to-life motion p ctures in the New Year. The demand in entertainment at the motion picture theaters is turning away from the "soft pedal" romance and the patrons want virile, red-blooded treatment of life.

* * *

JOHN J. McGUIRK

President, Stanley Co. of _ America I have never been more optimistic than 1 am in regard to 1927. Every indication is for a hanner year, surpassing anything ever experienced The country is in splendid financial condition and the people have never been more prosperous.

* * *

A. H. GIANNINI

President, Botverv, East River Nat'I Bank T desire to seriously call the attention of the industry to stock issues. It should be insisted that all stock issues be based upon intrinsic merit. Where the industry has crown so large and where the profits have been so immense, there is a danger that some watered stock may be authorized and sold to the public. The industry owes it to it- self to protect its own reputation as well as the investing public.

JESSE L. LASKY \st Vice-Pres., Famous Players-Lasky Corp. Although great progress has been made in both distribution and exhibition during 1926. and more will be made in 1927, I am natur- ally more interested in production. Never before have the studios been geared up to make the type of productions that are now planned or actually in work.

* ' * *

CECIL B. DE MILLE

Noted Producer Releasing Through P.D.C. During 1927 the picture made by prescrip- tion or formula will pass never to come again. The ptiblic has come to place novelty and originality above all other factors. People shop for their pictures as never before and word that a picture is dull, obvious or un- inspired spreads rapidly. The demand upon directors, stars and writers for striking and novel twists of situation and action is an exacting one but it must be met.

* * *

SIDNEY R. KENT

Gen'l Mgr., Famous Players-Lasky Corp.

By this time it certainly should be apparent to all the world that this industry is on a solid foundation of sound business dealing, natural growth and intelligent investment. Anybody who has studied the developments in this business during the last few years cannot fail to look forward with optimism.

* * *

JAMES R. GRAINGER Cen'l Sales Mgr., Fox Film Corp. I believe that during the year 1927 we will find a closer working arrangement between producers and exhibitors, as both are realiz- ing more and more each day that perfect harmony and cooperation is the soundest basic principle for profit and success.

* * *

JOHN C. FLINN Vice-President, Prod. Dist. Corp.

The most impressive development and the most encouraging sign in the motion picture industry today is, in my mind, the mar- velous growth in the number of modern and beautiful picture theaters in all parts of the United States, and in fact, in all parts of the world. The replacement of the smaller houses hv these veritable palaces of amuse- ment and the enormous increase in seating capacity are caused of course by the increase in the number of patrons, and there could be no better augury for the future success of the business.

* * *

LOUIS B. MAYER 3rd Vice-Pres. Metro-Coldwyn-Mayer Corp. Motion pictures are no longer part of a "game." This has become an industry in every sense of the word. Competition has reached a point where a producer can no longer be content to make pictures of aver- age quality. The organization that is out front and that can beat the competitor to the punch with new ideas, new methods of operation and improved quality will be on top.

* * * SAMUEL GOLDWYN

Producer for United Artists Corp. Industrially we can congratulate ourselves upon the gratifying program being carried out in theater building, and upon the spirit of happy understanding that exists between the exhibitor, distributor and producer.

* * *

GEORGE A. BLAIR

Sales Mgr., M. P. Film Department, Eastman Kodak Co. Taking the conditions of 1926 as a hasis from which to forecast, tbe outlook is most encouraging and evidences every indication of a continuation of prosperity throughout the coming year.

* * *

HAROLD B. FRANKLIN

Vice-President. Publix Theaters Corp.

The year of 1927 will tend toward further stabilization in the theater industry. A healthy exnansinn was recorded during the past year in manv localities in keeping with tbe activitv of the industry, but there is evidence of an overseating problem at some points.

* * *

CHARLES H. CHRISTIE

Christie Film Corp. The coming year should be the greatest demonstration ever of the widespread play-

5 Years Ago Today

WILL HAYS said he would soon decide whether or not he would accept the presidency of the proposed producer-dis- tributor organization. Luckily for the industry— he did.

ing of the best pictures. The last year showed us that more than ever before the good pictures were playing not only in the high- class city houses but in the smallest ham- lets and towns.

* * *

JOSEPH BRANDT President, Columbia Pictures Corp. I look for a great number of new theaters and particularly activity in the building of big houses in the suburban sections of all big cities. I also look forward to the build- ing of big houses in some of the smaller towns to take the place of the old style mo- tion picture theaters.

* * *

FRANK R. WILSON

President, M. P. Capital Corp.

My hope is that 1927 will contribute to a mental readjustment along the following lines:

To bring producers and directors to a ful- ler realization that in any creative art, the expenditure of money is not the measure of the greatness of the product.

* * *

M. C. LEVEE

West Coast Gen'l Executive Manager, First National Pictures, Inc. I can see a development of the lighter forms of mot on picture entertainment, the comedy element raised to a higher degree of perfection, the comedy drama verging upon the lighter side. There will be heavy dramas, to be sure, even costume or semi-costume plays, but they will not preponderate.

* * * HUNT STROMBERG

Supervising Director, M-G-M The great competition that will face every producing factor during the coming year will demand every resource at his command to come out in the first ranks. It will require a thoroughly trained and able organization working in harmony and with sympathetic un- derstanding and tolerance of co-workers to attain the best results, and nothing but the best results will do.

* * *

SAM SAX President, Lumas Film Corp. Phenomenal strides in technique have and will continue to be made in all branches of the industry, and the resources of other and allied branches of science will be applied in a measure hitherto undreamed of. The motion picture C'game') will be a thing of the past and the motion picture business will be just that in 1927.

* * *

JAMES R. QUIRK

Publisher, Photoplay Magazine For tbe past few years the industry has been building on such a sound hasis, as is evidenced by the willingness of hard headed businessmen to put real money into great motion picture houses, not only in America but all over tbe world, that by the end of 1927 the phrase 'The business is in its infancy will go to the limbo of forgotten phrases.

* * * HARRY RAPF

Supervising Director, M-G-M Tbe forthcoming year will see the director playing a more important part in the produc- tion of a picture than ever before. Aside from tbe actual direction of the picture, the director will have more to do with the actual creation of the plot and the development of the production in its every phase.

* * *

ALFRED WF.ISS

President. Red Seal Pictures Corp.

With tbe nation in the most prosperous

condition that has ever prevailed, we start

1927 with every condition warranting the

new year to eclipse all of those motion pic- ture years that have gone before. * * *

JOHN C. EISELE Treasurer, Fox Film Corp. Further expansion can be looked for in 1927, with a decided trend towards better pictures, larger theatres, and more attention given to the educational value of films. Look- ing ahead into 1927, the outstanding develop- ments to be expected include greater use of the color pictures; a simplification of the talking motion picture so that it will be available to even the smaller theaters through- out the country ; and perhaps the introduc- tion of a stereoscopic process to give pictures depth as well as breadth and height.

Foreign Outlook

Here is what some foreign experts think about the markets abroad for 1927. Warning note is struck by Ar- thur M. Loew, of Metro-Goldwyn- Mayer who presents a serious thought, well worthy of mature con- sideration by the industry.

EMIL E. SHAUER

General Manager, Foreign Division, Famous Players-Lasky Corp. Prospects for a splendid foreign film busi- ness during the year 1927 are such as to give great encouragement to those in the industry who have been giving serious thought to the problems and the needs of this phase of the motion picture trade. An encouraging fea- ture of the outlook for 1927 is the apparent determination of the industry's leaders here to work for closer cooperation with those from abroad.

* * *

ARTHUR M. LOEW

General Export Manager. M-G-M Unless America maintains its superiority in motion picture productions, it's lost. Un- less its present lead in quality over foreign production is held, foreign production will catch up and surpass the American. For the future, product alone will determine success. Whose product? Anybody's, any country's product so long as it is the best.

• * *

ARTHUR W. KELLY Vice-President-Treasurer, United Artists

Corp. American distributors eventually will re- lease a number of foreign productions in this country as a reciprocal measure, says Arthur W. Kelly, vice-president and treasurer of United Artists, n a survey of the foreign situation. He prophecies an improvement in the American box-office value of European pictures by the exploiting of new person- alities. He declares that American distribu- tors should strqive to give foreign countries quicker release dates, synchronizing them as nearly as possible with the release dates in the United States.

* * *

CLAYTON P. SHEEHAN

Mgr. Foreign Department. Fox Film Corp. Although the strengthening of the motion picture entente cordiale between other nations and the United States has been progressing for some time the speed of this progression during 1926 and the sudden broadening of the movement have given it an impetus and magnitude which bids fair to make the new year an outstanding period of achievement.

* * * DAVID J. MOUNTAN

President. Richmount Pictures, Inc. The outlook for 1927 is a cheerful one and I look forward to a highly successful season for the film business in general, both inde- pendent and national.

* 4 *

EDWARD L. KLEIN

President, Edward L. Klein, Corp. The new year abroad can be summed up in a very few words — it will mark improved business conditions everywhere: those coun- tries^ which are embroiled in internal wars, political upheavals, fluctuating currencies and other disturbing elements, deterrent to Amer- ican exporters, will undoubtedly become more and more settled.

Monday, January 3, 1927

DAILY

DAILY TIPS WHICH MEAN DOLLABS FOR SHOWMEN

"Aloma of the South Seas" (Paramount)

The life story of Gilda Gray was run in the Constitution, starting twc weeks in advance and ending on tht Sunday prior to the opening of pic- ture, and a series of illustrated exer- cises by Gilda Gray was run in tlv Atlanta Georgian, one week in ad vance. In addition to their ad in the double truck, the J. M. High Co. also carried a box in their regular advertis- ing announcing Gilda Gray's appear- ance at their store at a specified time About 5,000 paper tape measures were distributed in the theater and by High's Dept. store. These tape measures gave the different measure- ments of Gilda in comparison with Venus De Milo's, as well as an- nouncing the title picture. — E. R. Rogers, Howard, Atlanta.

"The Amateur Gentleman" (First Nat'l.) An extensive newspaper advertising campaign was used in three leading papers. Two days prior to opening a 2x10 was used in the Times and Star. One day prior to the opening a 3x8 was used in the Times and Star, a 2x5 in the morning Post In- telligencer. Saturday morning's carried a 3x8, Star, same sized ad; the Tmies, a 1x2. Sunday's Times and P.I. both carried a 3x8. Monday's Times and Star each carried a 2x2. Tuesday, the same sized space in all three papers. Wednesday's Post In- telligencer carried a 2x2; the Times and Star a 2x4. Thursday's Post In- telligencer, Times and Star a 2x2; Friday morning's Post Intelligencer a 2x2. It will be noticed that the advance campaign was carried on two days prceeeding the opening. The material used in this campaign was made from mats as used in press books. — Leroy V. Johnson, Liberty, Seattle.

"One Minute to Play" (F. B. O.)

Conducted contest by means of cou- pons printed in leading newspaper, for the most popular football player. Contest ran entire week of the show- ing, the newspaper giving the theater and the picture columns of sport- page publicity each day. Prizes were awarded from the stage on the last day consisting of A Silver Red Grange trophy for first prize, foot- ball shoes and a three months' pass to the theater for second, a six- months' pass for third, and for fourth and fifth places, a three-month's pass. Interest was stirred up through the contest and a total of 6,008 votes were cast through a newspaper with a circulation of a little over 15,000, an excellent average. Business benefited accordingly. — Walter Finney, Gillioz, Springfield, Mo.

"Take It From Me" (Universal)

Concentrated on catch-line adver ising. Small ads, set in regular read ng matter type and with the usual]

Economical Electric Flash Sign

A SAVING of thousands of dollars on electrical equipment can be effected with a new flash sign idea, according to Bob Har- vey, publicity director of West Coast Theaters. He has the house employees cut out four-foot letters of beaver board, spelling out the name of the attraction or star. These are enamelled shiny white, with 25-candle power globes attached, wired and mounted on the roofs of theater. They can be seen and read for four or five blocks. Thus at very small cost he obtains the same results as could be secured by spending hundreds of dollars for electrical equipment. House electricians can rig up motors to operate on-and-off flashers tor the sign. However, before any manager attempts to carry out this idea he must be sure that the city officials will permit it. Many cities require that the work be done by an electrical company, using metal for the letters made by union employees. The beaver board stunt saves this expense and gives the same results at one-tenth the cost — if the theater can get away with it.

"advt." omitted, were scattered throughout the local paper. These would start: "Mrs. Brown says," or Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Lewis or any other common surname. This immediately created attention, for the readers, being humanly curious, won- dered whether that was "Mattie Brown" or "Sarah Brown" and what she had said and why she had her name in the paper anyway. The copy would go on in this vein: "I was at the New Grand this afternoon and I think "Take It From Me" is the greatest picture I have ever seen." Fifteen of these small ads, each with different copy but all similar in style, were used the day the picture opened. — New Grand Mexico, Mo.

"Upstage" (M-G-M) Cooperated with the News-Tribune in a color contest that had all the boys and girls burning midnight oil in an endeavor to win one of the pretty prizes. Pictures of a Holly- wood dollie and a Hollywood Dollie Theater were inserted in the news- paper. Each contestant was required to cut out the pictures and paste them on a clean sheet of white paper or cardboard, and then color it with either crayons or paints. The Holly- wood Dollie picture in this instance was supposed to be that of Norma Shearer who plays the lead in "Up- stage." This fact was prominently mentioned in the newspaper. — J. P. Harrison, Hippodrome, Waco, Tex.

"We're In the Navy Now" (Paramount)

Three days in advance, two men were dressed in ill-fitting sailor uni- forms with signs on their backs read- ing, "See Raymond Hatton and Wal- lace Beery in We're In the Navy Now." The men, when not walking the streets were in stores, banks, and other public places where they came in contact with the public. Saturday morning prior to opening the Uni- versity of Florida staged a football parade through down-town. Bringing up the rear of the parade, was the "ballyhoo" working again. This time, the two men in sailor uniforms were carrying a 20-foot banner advertising the picture. — Guy O. Kenimer, Ar- cade, Jacksonville, Fla.

"The Winning of Barbara Worth" (United Artists)

This comprehensive campaign got the desired results. Posted twenty- five 24-sheets, 500 1-sheets and 1,000 window cards; a series of large space hand lettered pictorial newspaper ads; 25,000 special heralds given house-to- house distribution; restaurant menu card tie-up; public library book mark tie-up; special newspaper screening tied up with Piggly-Wiggly for special distribution of 1,000 heralds in each of fifty stories, with window cards also displayed; special Liberty News four-page newspaper distributed to 25,000 people on the streets. Used street car banners for second week in addition to newspaper space. — Sam- uel Carver, Liberty, Kansas City.

"Ben Hur" Continues in Berlin

Berlin — "Ben Hur" continues its indefinite run here. Nearly 100,000 persons have seen the picture and to celebrate the event, the management will award a prize to the 100,000th person entering the theater.

Italian Film Man Dead

Rome — Ernesto Ovazza, one of the founders of the Stefano Pittaluga Co., has passed away. He was the oldest member of the local film fra- ternity.

Los Angeles — James Young has completed direction on "Driven From Home" for Chadwick. The cast in- cludes Virginia Lee Corbin, Anna May Wong, J. Sojin, Sheldon Lewis, Virginia Pearson, Melbourne Mc- Dowell, Eric Mayne and Fred War- ren.

Cameo Gets German Film

"The Way to Strength and Beauty," a German picture described as dealing with a sort of aesthetic hygiene in an instructive way, and in a human interest way, showing ideal types of men, women and children dancing and exercising, will be shown soon by the Film Arts Guild at the Cameo. The whole appeal of the piece is to return to the standard of physical aesthetics moulded on the Greek and Roman ideas.

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ALL THE NEWS ALL THE TIME

rOL. XXXIX No. 3

Tuesday, January 4, 1927

Price S Cents

The Leader

the

un-

B ROADWAY sits in high places as the crowned king of the amuse- lent world. If ever doubts pre- ailed, last week's business neat- f knocked them into a cocked at.

In detail, the grosses are to e found elsewhere in this edi- on. They are significant. Like- rise are they most interesting, "hey constitute a pertinent rec- rd of the money-making pow- rs of the picture theaters on the ig street.

An Imposing Total

True it was a holiday week and al- ays a big one in theater annals, ut what fond ravings of the imagi- ition could conjure up this dream: hat IS theaters exhibiting motion ctures could or would gross $437,- 58 in a seven day period? Yet that exactly what occurred. Add to lat $20,018 secured through mid- ght shows on New Year's Eve and )u arrive at a total of $457,706.

Records were smashed. Credit the <tra show New Year's eve. The aramount went to a new high. The riterion with "Beau Geste" marked new peak for both house and pic- ire. It is interesting that "What rice Glory" did its best week's busi- es without the aid of the extra jrformance. "Michael Strogoff" id "Potemkin" touched new levels, sisted by the additional show. The eek was a healthy one from any and 1 angles.

Over at United

Chap by the name of Joe Schenck intinues to saw wood in his own Fective manner. The lovely Cor- ne Griffith has signed to make one cture for United Artists. Never scount this star's drawing power. averal years ago she began the first

a series of 12 for Asher, Small and ogers and First National. Now ith "Trie Lady in Ermine" at the rand and one more to go under the d contract, she stands right up ont with the rest of the leading chts among women stars. Fred iblo, consistent box-office director. glance at his record proves it)

another addition to the growing mily.

Schenck is rapidly perfecting his ins. Remember when he promised i pictures a year for United? That H<al is being realized faster than it Bis generally supposed would be the ise.

KANN

15 Houses Gross $457,706 During

Holiday Week for Broadway Record

A new Broadway motion picture box office record was established the past week when holiday crowds brought in $457,706 to 15 houses. This new high mark was partly attributable to special midnight shows New Year's Eve, at nine houses, receipts aggregating more than $20,000. Exclusive of special performances the total gross was about $437,688.

Several records were shattered by the extraordinary business. The Paramount roadshow department yesterday stated that "Old Ironsides" broke the world two-a-day week record when it pulled $29,797 into the Rivoli till. At the Criterion "Beau Geste" was reported to have made a new house single week record with $16,382. The Paramount, with a take of $81,000, created a new high mark, the previous record being $80,600. New week records for their respective runs were made by "What Price Glory," and "Michael Strogoff."

Grosses for the week, not including the Special midnight performances, are as follows:

Theater Seats Price Range

♦Astor 1,120 $1.10— $2.20

Cameo 549 .50 — .75

Capitol 5,450 .50—1.65

•Central 922

'Colony 1,980

Cohan 1,111

'Criterion 608

•Embassy 596

'Harris 1,051

Hippodrome 6,100

Mark Strand 2,900

Paramount

Rialto

4,000

1,960

•Rivoli 2,200

•Warners 1,380

1.10— 2.20

.25— .75

.35— .75

.40— .99

.35— .99

1.10— 2.20 1.10— 2.20

Feature Gross

"The Big Parade" $21,176

"The Gorilla Hunt" 6,408t

"Valencia" ("A Little

Journey" one day) 65,998

"The Fire Brigade" 14,055

"The Better 'Ole" 31,214

"Michael Strogoff" 14,500

"Heau Geste" 14,982

"Tell It to the Marines" 14,376

"What Price Glory" 19,168

"Jim the Conqueror" 41,600

"Twinkletoes"

("The Lady In Ermine"

one day) 34,500t

"The Cheerful Fraud" ("Hotel Imperial"

one day) 77,200

"We're in the Navy Now" ("Sorrows of Satan"

one day) 25,800

"Old Ironsides" 29,797

"Don Juan" 26,914

Total $437,688

t Includes midnight show gross, bettered its previous week's gross of $10,200

•Indicates house on two-a-day policy. The Biltmore reports that "Potemkin considerably.

The Colony, Cohan, Criterion, Hippodrome, Paramount, Rialto. Mark Strand, Cameo and Warner's grossed $20,018 at midnight shows on New Year's Eve.

OPPENSIVE CONTINUES INN. J. "BLUE" WAR

New Jersey's Sunday closing cam paign now raging in a number of points throughout the state, witnessed three new offensives Sunday, aban- donment of one plan to start a fight on the issue, and action taken by one community to prevent Sunday show? this year.

Shows were attempted at Red Bank, Dunnellen and Woodbridge. {Continued on Page 7)

Producing In Germany

Production of P.D.C. pictures _ in Germany has been started, according to William M. Vogel, general man- ager of Producers International, for- eign division of P.D.C. The unit is the Deutsches P.D.C. Filmfabrika- (Continued on Page 6)

Vitaphone Work Resumed

Synchronization of a number of short entertainments with artists of the Metropolitan Opera Co., has been resumed by the Vitaphone Corp.

CORINNE GRIFFITH TO MAKE FILM FOR U. A.

Los Angeles — Corinne Griffith has been signed to make one picture for United Artists release. She is to re- ceive a salary of $12,500 weekly and a share of the profits, it is stated. The negative cost will be a maximum of $500,000. Under the terms of the arrangement, 25 per cent of the gross is to be charged to distribution, with United Artists paying the cost of ad- (Continued on Page 7)

Block Booking, Issue

Washington Bureau of THE FILM DAILY Washington — Charging the Fed- eral Trade Commission with attemp- ting to "Slow the entire motion pic- ture industry to a competitive pace which the poorest competitor can (Continued on Page 2)

Famous Re-signs De Putti

Hollywood — Differences between Famous and Lya De Putti have been adjusted and a new contract signed, it is understood.

$38,000,000 PAID U. S. BY BRITISH IN 1926

Rental Increase This Year

Seen Despite Campaign

For Quota

London— During 1926, $38,000,000 was paid American distributors by the British Isles and Dominions as ren- tals for pictures exhibited, according to figures issued.

These returns are expected to be greatly increased during the new year, it is stated, despite the move- ment afoot to limit American imports to encourage British production.

Starts Feb. 1

Emanuel Cohen, at present editor of Pathe News, has resigned to be- come editor of Paramount News, which as first noted in THE FILM DAILY, will make its debut on Sept. 1. While Cohen will devote the major portion of his activities toward (Continued on Page 7)

9 Films Started

Los Angeles — Nine pictures were started yesterday at the Lasky Studio, the greatest production day in the studio's history. Three more pictures are to start this month. Those placed in work are: "Looie the Fourteenth," with Wallace Beery as star and

(Continued on Page 6)

Award Upheld

Little Rock, Ark. — Findings of the Dallas arbitration board which denied damages to J. M. Esnor, Crescent owner against Warners (Vitagraph) for breach of contract were upheld in District Court her .

Six pictures were involved and (Continued on Page 7)

Schenck Signs Niblo

Los Angeles — Fred Niblo has sign- ed a long-term contract with United Artists, Joseph M. Schenck announ- ced. Under its terms, he returns to (Continued on Page 2)

Silverman Promoted

Edwin Silverman has been ap- pointed sales manager for Warners by Sam E. Morris. He will spend the greater part of his time in the field. Silverman has been division (Continued on Page 6)

Plunkett 111

Joseph Plunkett, Strand manager, is confined to his home with illness.

THE

■e&H

DAILY

1" "WUP lilWP— PW|C

Tuesday, January 4, 1927

wmmmmmnmrtMymMmummmmm^mm*

ifeHEWSPAPER <FILMDOM

Vol.XXXIXNo. 3 Tuesday, Jan. 4. 1927 Price 5 Cents

JOHN W. ALICOATE

Publisher

Published daily except Saturday and holidays •t 1650 Broadway, New York, N. Y., and copyright (1927) by Wid's Films and Film Folks, Inc. J. W. Alicoate, President and Treasurer; Maurice D. Kami, Editor; Don- ald M. Mersereau, Business and Advertising Manager; Ralph Wilk, Traveling Represen- tative. Entered as second-class matter May 21, 1918, at the post-office at New York, N. Y. under the act of March 3, 1879. Terms (Postage free) United States, outside of Greater New York, $10.00 one year; 6 months, $5.00; 3 months, $3.00. Foreign, $15.00. Subscribers should remit with order. Address all communications to THE FILM DAILY, 1650 Broadway, New York, N. Y. Phone Circle 4736-4737-4738-4739. Cable ad- dress: Filmday, New York. Hollywood, California — Harvey E. Gausman, Ambassa- dor Hotel: 'Phone, Drexel 7000 and Wash- ington 9794, London — Ernest W. Fredman, The Film Renter, 58, Great Marlborough St., London, W. I., Paris — La Cinematographic Francaise, 5, Rue Saulnier.

This Year's Price Changes in Film Stocks

The following record of the year's fluctuations in the prices of film issues, both stock exchange and curb, gives a graphic analysis of how motion picture stocks fared in various periods. For those issues listed on the Stock Exchange, total sales for the year is also given.

High

Am. Seat, vtc 45 At

Am. Seat, pfd 4SM

Balaban & Katz 76l/2

Eastman Kodak 136^4

Famous Players . . . .\27A

Fam. Play. Pfd 124^

Film Inspect 10J4

First Nat'l. pfd 107

Fox Film "A" 85

Fox Theaters "A"... 34 y%

Intern'l Project 15J4

Loew's, Inc 48 Yi

Metro-Gold, pfd 25 Ji

M. P. Cap. Corp 23 /2

Pathe Exch. "A" 83

Paramount B'way. ... 98 J4 Trans-Lux Screen ... 14

Univ. Pict. Pfd 98J4

Universal Pictures . . 43 Warner Pictures "A" 69!4 Warner Pict 65

Date	Low	Date	Total Sales
June	32'/s	July
Nov.	367A	Oct.
June	61	Sept.
Dec. 27	106%	May 30	210,500
June 1 1	103J-6	Jan. 19	2,437,250
Dec. 6	150	Mar. 31	35.90C
Sept.	3A	May
Feb. 13	96	May 18	12.30C
Jan. 2	55H	Mar. 31	963,700
Jan.	19	March
Jan.	9	April
Dec. 6	34%	Mar. 2	1,003,700
Nov. 24	22 'A	Jan. 8	46,300
June 3	10%	Dec. 28	203,400
Jan. 7	32 A	Nov. 30	730,400
Sept. 7	94	Mar. 29
Jan.	6A	May
Dec. 17	90	Mar. 8	6,400
Dec	29A	July
Sept. 14	12	June 11	3,303,500
Sept.	8	July

Financial

For the simple reason that the market broke suddenly on all sides yesterday. Tran Lux Screen was outstanding, merely because it was the only film stock that enjoyed a perceptible rise, turning over 1000 shares to a H gain. Warner's curb issue and Fox Film "A" were the only stocks that dropped more than a point. The rest, when they weren't resting closed at fractional declines. In the next column of this page is given a record of the year's highs and lows.

Quotations
	High	Low	Close	Sales
stocks.
Am. Seat. Vtc. . . .	44 A,	44	44	400
Am. Seat. Pfd	44	44	44	100
* Balaban & Katz. .			63A
*Bal. & Katz Vtc.			73A
Eastman Kodak . .	133	128	128	800
Famous Players .	114%	113H	113/8	4,100
♦Fam. Play. Pfd..			121/8
*Film Inspect. . .			5
♦First Nat'l. Pfd			100
Fox Film "A"...	70Vt	70	70A.	1,100
Fox Theaters "A"	225/r	22%	225/g	200
♦Intern'l Project.			12J4
	48A	47'/»	47 A	10,300
Metro-Gold. Pfd. .	24 7/s	247/,	24%	300
M. P. Cap. Corp..	12A	12	12	800
Pathe Exch. "A".	41^4	38 A	3&A	2,30C
Paramount B'way.	98 '4	98	9&y4	28
ttRoxy Class "A"	30	27A
ttRoxy Units ...	32	29A
ttRoxy Common .	9	8
Skouras Bros.	46	46	46
♦♦Stan. Co. of Am			83/
Trans-Lux Screen	7%	7%	7%	1.00C
♦Univ. Pict. Pfd.			98/
♦Universal Pictures ....		37
Warner Pictures..	32A	30%	30/	1,600
Warner Pict. "A"	42	40%	41	10,200
* Last Prices Quoted	t Bond Market
** Philadelphia Market tt Bid	and Ask

Schenck Signs Niblo

(Continued from Page 1) M-G-M to make one picture yearh for three years. The pictures foi United Artists are to be known a "Fred Niblo Prod." Niblo now is directing Norma Talmadge in "Ca- mille."

BUCHHETSTER

Motion 1'i.cliu -p Film

I ARORAI ORY

\R J II II ;ES

245 W. 55th St. - Columbus 9240 Special Rush -Service

Block Booking, Issue

(Continued from Page 1)

maintain." Famous yesterday filed with the Commission a new brief denying the various charges of the Government and again reiterating the belief that block booking now re- mains the only serious issue in the case.

The Commission, it is added in the brief, has been held by the Supreme Court to have no authority to compel competitors to a common level as, is contended, is being attempted in this case.

Denying again that Famous is a monopoly, the brief asserts that ownership of theaters is lawful, and that in both production, distribution and exhibition, it has as many com- petitors today as it ever had.

Centering their attention upon the question of block booking, counsel for the company declares that, as practiced by Famous Players it does not require exhibitors to buy "all or none" of the pictures offered. There are no "indispensable" pictures, as claimed by the Commission, to which others less popular are tied in order to force the whole upon exhibitors; and first-class first-run theaters are not used to make certain pictures in- dispensable to other exhibitors.

Of 322 contracts produced by the respondent during the case, it is pointed out, only 31 were for all the pictures in a single block, while 98 were for but one picture each.

"The fact that block booking is and always has been the universal custom of the business argues strongly in favor of its fairness," it is asserted. "Block booking, since it involves no 'tying' or 'exclusive' contracts and comprises not pictures that are 'in- dispensable,' is only wholesale or combination order selling, and is lawful per se, even if (which is not the fact in this case) the exhibitor were to take no competitors 'pictures' so long as he is satisfied with the quality and price of respondent's pic- tures, and even if it were beyond the financial ability of another com- petitor' " as charged by the Com- mission.

"Crimson Flash" Bought for Serial

^ "The Crimson Flash" by George Gray has been purchased by Pathe for its next serial to be produced in the East.

Off for Coast Today

Conferences on production will be held and arrangements for the forth- coming sales convention completed by a party of First National execu- tives who leave for the Burbank stu dios today. Heading the party is Richard A. Rowland; Natli Barr, Russian star recently signed by the company; Ned E. Marin, sales man- ager; Mrs. Florence Strauss, scenario editor; Charles Rogers, producer of Ken Maynard features, and Mrs. Rogers, and D. S. Squires, manage for Richard Barthelmess, are in the party. Rowland returns in about four weeks.

Roach to Continue Policy Culver City — Hal Roach will con- tinue his policy of "big names" for comedies during 1927. Negotiations are under way with several stars, it is stated.

Kastner Back from Europe L. C. Kastner of Inter-Ocean Film Corp. has returned from a trip to Europe.

Wilcox On His Own

London — On completion of "Madame Pompadour," Herbert Wil- cox will make "Mumsie" with Paul- ine Frederick starred. This is to be an independent venture and will not in any way be connected with British National.

Zanuck Named Warner Aide Los Angeles — Darry Francis Za- nuck has been appointed assistant to Jack Warner. He will continue to write scenarios supervising produc- tion of his own and other stories.

If You Are in the

Market for Any Kind of

MOTION PICTURE APPARATUS

CONSULT US-AND SAVE MONEY SEND I OR OUR PRICE LIST

tpiuwrcHBys

▼▼110 West 32*'Sr..Newyork.N.y.**

Phon» Penna. 6564

Motion Picture Department

9 YEARS AQO TODAY |

-IN f

The Film Daily {

A. H. Woods, theatrical pro- ducer, was planning to have films of his plays circulate in one-night stands while the stage production played the big cities, to help boost the film version.

Today t/ie film version boosts the stage play — and makes more money for all concerned.

New Philadelphia Record

Philadelphia — "Old Ironsides," with $24,613 taken in during the holi- day week at the Aldine, is reported to have established a new two-a-day figure for Philadelphia.

36 in T. U. S. Chain

Medina, N. Y. — Theatrical Utilities Service Co., operating 35 houses in western New York, has purchased the Allen and will rearrange the seat- ing arrangement and install a new organ. Rae Rowan is manager.

Reichenbach to Coast Harry Reichenbach leaves today for a ten days' trip to Coast studios

HAL ROACH

PR£S£NTS

MABEL NORMAN D, *jAnythinp Once/"

JAMES FINLAYSON -*,th- MAX DAVIDSON

This is a Cornerblock" cut furnished FREE for all Pathecomedies at youi Exchange.

LOBBY FRAMES

." OF THE BETTER KIND

LIBMAN-SPANJER CORP.

1600 Broadway New York City

Tel-Chickerinc 5550 Show Room

AMALGAMATED VAUDEVILLE AGENCY

Attractions for Picture Theatres

Standard Vaudeville Acts

1600 Broadway, New York City Phone Penn. 3580

■ --"■-"----■- ■*

Exhibitors Herald

takes the occasion of the opening of the New Year to make heartfelt acknowledgement to the motion picture industry for the support and co-operation which has enabled it during the past year to assume definitely the position of leadership among the weekly motion picture trade publications.

In the year just ended the progress of "Exhibitors Herald," in all its departments and in all of its activities, has been rapid and conclusive — bringing the publica- tion to the vantage position of having been privileged during 1926 to publish the largest volume of paid adver- tising of any publication in the industry; and this dis- tributed to what is generally recognized as the largest list of bona fide exhibitor subscribers which has yet been gained by any publication in the field.

The responsibility that is a part of this position of leadership is recognized — fully and completely; and dur- ing the coming year, as well as in succeeding years, it shall continue to be the aim of "Exhibitors Herald" to serve the motion picture industry, in all of its branches, well and faithfully.

MARTIN J. QUIGLEY,

Publisher

Denny has established himself celluloid king of farceurs* A wow"

— Dorothy Herzog, Daily Mirror

With Gertrude Olmstead, Otis Harlan, Emily Fitzroy, Charles Gerrard, Gertrude Astor — adapted by Rex Taylor from the story by K. R. G. Browne

"Highly amusing comedy. A con- stantly merry piece. Delightful suspense. Excellent situations well timed. One is kept laugh- ing."

— Mordaunt Hall,

New York Times

"Reginald Denny continues to turn out one amusing comedy after the other. The film is great entertainment."

— Rose Pelswick, Evening Journal

"Full measure of fun drawn out of this theme. Capital material for Denny. Audience enjoyed it. Excellent light entertainment.

Smartly paced farce. Uniformly amusing."

— Palmer Smith Evening World

"Exceptionally amusing. Proper- ly unaffected and humorous."

— John S. Cohen, Jr., The Sun

" 'The Cheerful Fraud' is funny."

— Betty Colfax Evening Graphic

5 ik V /

V *

"Cheerful farce. Well worth seeing. Denny is fine."

— Harriette Underhill, Herald-Tribune

"Good humor. Movie farce star deserving kindly attitude public lavish upon him."

— Quinn Martin, The World

The first feature made by a producer other than Para- mount to play the magnificent, new PARAMOUNT THEATRE is the Reginald DENNY Universal Super Comedy— "THE CHEERFUL FRAUD"— booked in for the week of December 26th. AND NOW comes more BIG news— The MARK STRAND— Brooklyn's finest theatre and one of the finest in the world books "THE CHEERFUL FRAUD" in for the week following the Para- mount run. That tells the BIGGEST booking news the industry has heard in many a season!

"Decidedly most entertaining fea- ture picture shown in this new Paramount cinema palace. Best entertainment of holiday week."

— Katherine Zimmerman, Evening Telegram

V , J UNIVERSAL *p SUPER COMEDY

Presented by CARL LAEMMLE

FOR SHOWMEN

100 1

EXPLOIT- 0- GRAMS

A READY EXPLOITATION

G VIDE THA T MEANS

DOLLARS A T THE BOX OFFICE

IN ADDITION TO

10 0 0

OTHER PAGES OF INTEREST

IN THE

1927 Film

Year Book

A GREAT BOOK

COVERING

A GREAT INDUSTRY

9 Films Started

(Continued from Page 1) James Cruze as director; "Fashions for Women," Esther Ralston's first starring vehicle and the first direc- torial effort of Dorothy Arzner; "Ritzy," Betty Bronson's first star- ring picture, to be directed by Rich- ard Rosson; "Afraid to Love," with Florence Vidor as the star and E. H. Griffith the director; "Evening Clothes," Adolph Menjou's next with Luther Reed directing; "Special De- livery," Eddie Cantor's second com- edy, William Goodrich directing; "Confession," Pola Negri's next which Lothar Mendez is directing; a picture starring Raymond Griffith, with Erie C. Kenton directing, and "Too Many Crooks," which will bring Mildred Davis back to the screen. Fred Newmeyer is directing.

Producing In Germany

(Continued from Page 1) tion G. m.b. H., and will be under direction of H. E. J. Spearman, Ber- lin manager.

Mario Bennard, who worked for several years with UCI in Italy, and recently made a picture for Ufa, is directing the first German P.D.C. production. National Film is co-op- erating in production of the first group.

National Film Aktiengesellschaft, Berlin, will release the first group in Germany, while P.I.C. will release the product elsewhere.

Bennett Bankrupt

Listing liabilities at $160,474.96 and estimated assets at $21,982.70, Harold W. Bennett, known in the trade as Whitman Bennett, has filed a peti- tion in bankruptcy in Federal Court.

Bennett formerly was production manager of the Famous Long Island studio and has been identified with a number of independent production ventures. He formerly owned a studio at Yonkers and also had a studio at Glendale, where he pro- duced a series of Lionel Barrymore productions, some of which he di- rected.

Silverman Promoted

(Continued from Page 1) manager of the Chicago and Mil- waukee territories.

Joseph S. Hummel has been made manager of the home office contract department, while Earle Silverman will, effective immediately, assume the management of the Chicago branch.

De Mille Renews Crisp Contract Los Angeles — Donald Crisp has been signed under a new long term contract by Cecil B. De Mille. Crisp has just completed "Nobody's Widow" a Leatrice Joy starring fea- ture.

Mantell Arrives Otto B. Mantell, United Artists manager located at Cristobal, Panama Canal Zone, arrived in New York yesterday for a week's conference at the home office.

PUIL

DALY SEE/

' "Well, there hasn't been a war picture open on Broadway for a week and that's something to be thankful for. — And speaking of the big things coming in 1927 the big- gest we know of is the Roxy. Six thousand seats should be big enough for anybody."

And That's That

^^ By PHIL M. DALY S^^

NW. REMOND, former manager • of the Forsyth, Atlanta, will not need any handicap if he enters the Spring Film Golf Tournament, for in a match at Lake Wales, Fla., he was high, winning 14 out of 15 games in team match play.

Franklin Pangborn has one of the most unique contracts with Metro- politan on record. He has been signed for a picture not yet chosen nor was the duration of the agree- ment stipulated.

"Laddie Be Good" is the title of Bill Cody's new picture. Sounds like a New Year's Resolution.

Mildred Davis is proud of the Lloyd name. As her male lead in "Too Many Crooks," she will have Lloyd Hughes.

Color Series Acquired Cranfield & Clarke have secured dis- tribution of a series of colored pic- Lures produced by Pinellas Pictures Corp.

Schine Plans 2 More

Rochester, N. Y— The Schine The- atrical Enterprises, Universal subsid- iary, will erect two more neighbor- hood theaters here, to cost a total of $450,000. and seat 1,500 each. Work will start soon on the new Lyell Ave. house, while the second house on Culver Road, will be built later, and will be equipped for stage presenta- tions. The Schine interests now operate four houses here, are build- ing another, and one in Fairport.

Famous Authors Film Starts Los Angeles — Frank P. Donovan has started production of "A Cigar- ette Maker's Romance," by F. Marion Crawford, for Famous Au- thors Prod. This is the first of a series. William R. Swigart who is associated with Donovan in editor- ship of "The M. P. Review," is editorial advisor.

Tuesday, January 4, 1927

DAILY TO* WHICH MEAN DOUJWS FOB SHOWMEN

"Aloma of the South Seas" (Paramount) Because a tie-up was made with the Santa Claus Goodfellows Club broke a few city ordinances in advertising Oilda Gray and "Aloma of the South Seas when both star and picture Played at the Palace. Two hundred cards were tacked on the city light posts one week in advance of" show !,"?.' a"d a 'arge banner readme OiIdaGray a Booster for the Good tellows was hung across Main St ar X-fj P*lace- Beaverboard cut-out- ot Gilda Gray and suitable copy about the picture, theater, and play date were placed on top of a hotel mar- quee at the busiest corner in the city — G. B. Stiff, Palace, Memphis, Tenn

"Don Juan's Three Nights'* (First Nat'l) Played up this picture to the limit and gave it extensive publicity and exploitation. Besides getting the fact known through slides and trail- ers, secured readers in the news- papers, posted the city with lithos ot various sizes, scattered handbills and heralds throughout Laredo and hort Mcintosh and used the tele- phone to remind folks that Lewis -Stone was at the theater. Supple- mented this with a theater front dec- oration and exploitation stunt. A large hand-painted sign in attractive colors hung over the lobby entrance underneath which were stands of pic- tures, and these were banked on both sides by lithographs in panels.— Jack Rowley, Rialto, Laredo, Tex

Long Distance Patrons

THE Exploitation Section ± of the 1927 Film Year Book soon to be issued is crowded with practical showmanship stunts for every form of publicity. It v% i i become the exhibitor's permanent exploitation manual throughout the year. Every stunt a proved p Usr at the box-office. Here is one:

Srnd out postcards to pa- tions living in the suburbs, oitering suitable reward to the person coming the longest dis- tance to see the picture adver- tised. They must bring the postcard with them. This will serve as identification. Also have sign in lobby so that per- sons not receiving cards can pass in their address. *,

"The Magician" (M-G-M)

The World-Herald put over a double spread advertisement with ap- propriate tie-up copy, which read as follows: "It does not take any ef- forts of 'The Magician' to produce these extraordinary values or win free tickets to see 'The Magician' at the Sun Theater." On each ad- vertisement of this contest, there ap peared superfluous words or mis- placed words. The contestants were to pick out these words, which, when placed in proper order, would make a complete sentence regarding the pho- toplay. Free admission tickets were given to see "The Magician," to the first fifty persons sending in the cor- rect answers.— Ralph Goldberg, Sun, Omaha.

Corinne Griffith to Make Film For U.A.

(Continued from Page 1)

vertising and exploitation.

Signing of Miss Griffith followed refusal of Asher, Small & Rogers tc exercise the option held on her ser- vices. Under its terms, the firm hae rights to her services, providing am offers of other companies were met. Her contract with the company ex- pires with completion of "Purple and Fine Linen," twelfth of the se- ries of pictures she has made for the company. The title of this pic- ture is expected to be changed, prob- ably to "Three Days" or "Three Hours."

James Murray Gets Contract Los Angeles — James Murray has been signed to a long-term contract by M-G-M. He has been an extra for three years although he is but little more than 20 years old.

"White Flannels" Additions Made

Los Angeles— Virginia Browne Faire, Warner Richmond, George Nichols and Brooks Benedict have been added to the cast of Warners "White Flannels," which Lloyd Bacon is directing. Louise Dresser and Jason Robards were signed pre- viously.

Additions to Columbia Casts Hollywood — Harry Cohn, general manager of production for Columbia announces that Rosa Rosanova has been added to the cast of "Pleasure Before Business;" also that Winifred Landis will have a part in support of Priscilla Dean in "Birds of Prey."

Manning Now at Rivoli

J. A. Manning has been made manager of the Rivoli, succeedim Fred Cruise, who has been transfer red to Palm Beach to open the Para- mount Jan. 9. "Beau Geste" will be the first picture there.

Award Upheld

(Continued from Page 1) when the exchange violated Esnor's first run clause by serving the pic- tures to a colored house, Esnor declined to play the pictures. The exchange then filed a damage claim with the exhibitor countering with action for damages to be ascertained by theboard. Both claims were denied and Esnor filed suit for $600 damages. The court dismissed the suit pointing out that the contract made the award binding. __

Starts Feb. 1

(Continued from Page 1) the building up of the Famous Play- ers reel, he will also advise on gen- eral matters of short subject produc- tion.

It is understood that in addition to a salary which runs into four fig- ures a week, he will receive a small percentage of the profits.

Rogers Active

In addition to the series of three specials which Asher, Small and Rog- ers will produce for First National this year, Charles R. Rogers individ- ually will make two additional series for that campany. The first stars Ken Maynard in westerns. The sec- ond will comprise three pictures, in- cluding "The Sunset Derby," by Wil- liam Dudley Pelley which Al Rogell will direct, the cast to include Buster Collier, Mary Astor and Claude Gil- hngwater. The second "The Road to Romance" will deal with the trav- eling man. Eddie Cline will direct while Jack Mulhall will play the lead. Rex Taylor and Al Boasberg are writing the story.

The third will be "School Mates," which Rogers intends dedicating to the school teachers of America just as the "The Road to Romance" will be dedicated to the traveling sales- man. In "School Mates" will appear a number of children while the ro- mance will be supplied by grown-up players.

Asher, Small and Rogers have completed "McFadden's Flats" first of three for First National. The print has been shipped East. It is understood First National will re- lease it as a special. The second will be "The Gorilla" and the third, "Wine, Woman and Song." Rogers leaves for Hollywood today in the Rowland party.

Offensive Continues In N. J. "Blue" War

(Continued from Page 1)

with Paterson houses dropping plan tor Sunday operation. Orange ha» inserted a clause in theater licenses threatening revocation of the license

«)ln y shows are Presented.

When the Carlton at Red Bank was opened Sunday, after about 200 tick- ets were sold, 12 policemen were dis- covered in the lobby. Sale then was stopped and announcement made that admission was free. A capacity house witnessed the show. At Dun- ellen, George W. Hosford, manager his wife, ticket seller and his operator were arrested for attempting to ope- rate. One hundred patrons had their money refunded when the show was stopped. Nathan Marcus, Wood- bridge theater owner, was summoned to appear in court yesterday for ope- rating his house.

Paterson theaters will not be open- ed on Sunday pending expected re- vision of the state "blue" law. After a conference with the mayor and po- lice commissioner, George R. Christie and Jacob Fabian, of the local Stan- ley-Fabian interests, announced the proposed shows had been canceled.

Three licenses for the new year have been issued at Orange, each containing a clause that it will be revoked if Sunday theater operation is attempted.

Orman Arrives from Paris

Felix Orman is in New York from Paris.

Freedman Gets Yonkers House

Gil Freedman, former Bridgeport, Conn., chain operator, has taken over the Terrace at Yonkers on a 21-year lease. The deal was consummated through Alper & Thanhauser.

3 Chosen for "Matinee Ladies" Los Angeles — Malcolm McGregor, Hedda Hopper and Charles Lane have been signed for "Matinee Ladies" which is to be Byron Has- kin's first picture for Warners. Harry Dittmar will prepare the script.

Pearl Keating Appointed Pearl Keating has been placed in charge of the eastern editorial offices of Samuel Goldwyn succeeding Paul- ine Forney, who has been transferred to the Coast studio in a similar ca- pacity.

Jack Krause Gets Post Albany — Jack Krause, formerly of Associated Exhibitors, is new man- I and Westchester, with interiors shot

ager of the Tiffany branch.

Centennial Starts First Centennial Pictures Corp., has star- ted production of "The Boys In Blue," by Arthur Hoerl, first of a series of two reel historical pictures, John Raymond head of the company, will co-direct with Stewart B. Moss. Grace Alyce Durkin and Jack Malone the leaders in a cast including "Sil- ver Moon," an Indian chief; "Chief" Rex Archer, dog player, F. C. Kup- per, John Carlyle, George Williams and W. W. Jones. C. W. Downs is cameraman, Carol Jean Brown in charge of historical research, Joe Bannon and Larry Kane as assistants to the directors and M. H. Karper in charge of publicity. Exteriors will be made at Philadelphia, Staten Island

at Tec-Art, New York.

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CLUB MIRADOR

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Europe's &4ost Spectacular oAcrobatic Dancers

SIMMES & BABETTE

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MAURICE & ELEANORA

AMBROSE

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Third Successive Season

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