This is topic Conspiracy? in forum Ground Level at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.
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Posted by Matt Gardner (Member # 572) on 09-21-2000, 05:16 PM:
Has anyone considered the possibility that the major chains filed for bankruptcy within only weeks of each other for a premeditated purpose. Could the theatres' lack of funds help drive down royalty rates and allow the theaters to restructure the exhibition industry the way they want it? Just a developing theory but it all looks too suspicious to me.
Posted by Dave Williams (Member # 299) on 09-21-2000, 06:27 PM:
The bankruptcy's are not related to that theory, they are caused by defaulting bank loans. HOWEVER, the restructuring of fees that exhibitors will have to pay will happen and is a beneficial side effect as a result of what is happening.It benefits all ends of the business. The studios will take home less money, so they have to have better product to market, and theaters will keep more, translating into better buildings and better technical presentations.
This cannibalization of the industry was inevitable, necessary, and welcomed by all.
Dave
Posted by Steve Scott (Member # 630) on 10-05-2000, 08:33 PM:
I feel that the bankruptcy contigencey was inevitable. Throughout the past twenty years, big corporations, like UA or GC have ruled the roost. Even in my theater, which is run by a small, local corporation, we still get asked if we're affiliated with UA or GC. Nothing annoys me more.
It's not that I have a specific affection for my small business, it's just that I feel that the big wigs we're trying to push the envelope.
We're talking godzillaplex theaters that can't take in enough recipts to meet studio costs. Public impression led to name recognition, which led to infamy when they inevitably fell.
It just may mark the beginning of a new era of openess in the market. In other words, the Microsoft situation of the theater business. 
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"Trying is the first step towards failure!"
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