Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: "Batman Returns" in SRD, How Many?

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Posted by Michael Coate (Member # 757) on 02-06-2004, 12:15 AM:

I performed a search of the archived threads and found a bit of discussion on this topic but couldn't find the specifics of what I'm seeking, so here's a new thread for anyone interested or who may have some info to contribute.

I am preparing a magazine article which includes some coverage of the origins of digital sound. Among the information I am hoping to include is a reference to the number and location of the original Dolby SRD (aka Dolby Digital or Dolby Stereo Digital or whatever one wishes to call it) engagements of Batman Returns. Dolby's company chronology claims ten theatres had installed the appropriate equipment (DA10 and Cat. No. 699 reader) for the June 1992 release.

I have eight digital sound engagements identified, and am seeking help in identifying the others. I'm in the process of researching but am running out of time as my deadline is fast approaching. (By the way, "10" is a round number and may be an approximation. I wouldn't be surprised if there were in fact 9 or 11 or 12 original digital sound engagments.) At any rate, my question is: Do any of you projectionists or managers (or moviegoers) remember if your theatre was among the initial batch that installed Dolby Digital for the release of Batman Returns? (Since I'm interested in the initial June 19 [plus June 18 sneak at some locations] launch, please make a distinction if your theatre installed the system after the opening or if you are uncertain of the timeframe of the install.)

Thanks!

Posted by Brad Miller (Member # 2) on 02-06-2004, 02:36 AM:

Yes, we played it in 1992 at GCC Northpark Cinema I, Dallas.

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 02-06-2004, 03:33 PM:

As a point of interest, I'd like to know the eight that you have identified already.

Or is that "top secret" ?

Posted by Michael Coate (Member # 757) on 02-06-2004, 04:53 PM:

quote:
I'd like to know the eight that you have identified already.

If I tell you then you won't read the article. [Smile]

OK, OK....

CALIFORNIA
Hollywood: Mann Chinese
Lakewood: Pacific Lakewood Center
Newport Beach: Edwards Newport
Orange: Syufy Century Cinedome
San Francisco: UA Coronet
Westwood: Mann Village

NEW YORK
Manhattan: UA Criterion
Manhattan: UA Gemini Twin
Manhattan: Loews Village

TEXAS
Dallas: GCC Northpark I&II

WASHINGTON
Bellevue: Act III Crossroads

I thought I had eight accounted for, but in checking my notes it turns out I had nine. Adding the Northpark in Dallas that Brad contributed makes ten, which may make the list complete. I suspect there may be a couple others.

EDIT: Theatre list edited to reflect new information.

[ 02-09-2004, 09:36 PM: Message edited by: Michael Coate ]

Posted by Michael Coate (Member # 757) on 02-09-2004, 09:35 PM:

quote:
I suspect there may be a couple others.

My suspicion was correct! Today I tracked down some info on the Seattle area. Local press included article mentioning: "The first film to be released in a new digital sound system called Dolby SR•D, Batman Returns will be presented here in that format at Bellevue's Crossroads Cinema, which is one of 11 theaters in North America to be equipped with it."

Previous post has been edited to reflect new information.

Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 02-09-2004, 09:44 PM:

I know the first canadian instalation of SRD was at the Famous Players Victoria Terrace for Aladin

Posted by Peter Hall (Member # 695) on 02-13-2004, 09:11 AM:

The Empire Leicester Square in London ran this pre release - it was from memory our first SRD install