Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Help! Where do I start?

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Posted by Lucy R Valena (Member # 6891) on 04-14-2012, 01:12 PM:

Hello there.

I currently own a coffeehouse and gallery in Cambridge, MA. I am beginning to write a business plan for a very small cinema, which will also be in the Boston area. I'm looking for some good advice on how to start understanding how this business works.

Does anyone have any good ideas for books to read or other sources of good information? I'm looking for information about cinema construction, film vs digital projection, etc. I know this is kind of vague, but any help would be greatly appreciated!

Posted by Frank Cox (Member # 6258) on 04-14-2012, 03:15 PM:

Talk to some folks who own small theatres and ask questions. Lots of us love to talk shop.

Posted by Justin Hamaker (Member # 2165) on 04-14-2012, 03:29 PM:

Perhaps it's too early for you to do so, but it might be worthwhile to go to the theatre owners convention (Cinema Con) in Las Vegas in a couple weeks. There are various seminars about issues affecting the industry, as well as a trade show where you can start making contacts with vendors. Not to mention it's a great way to start networking with theatre owners, large and small.

If you read the Film-Tech forums, you will find a mixed bag in terms of feelings about digital vs. 35mm. But if you are just getting into the industry, you really should plan on digital. Film is going to all but go away in the near future (possibly by the end of 2013) and many of the companies that made 35mm equipment are no longer making new equipment.

Posted by Robert E. Allen (Member # 1351) on 04-14-2012, 03:44 PM:

Lucy:

I sent a contact message to you at your coffee house.

Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 04-14-2012, 04:34 PM:

At this point, opting for film only is foolish -- even if you're showing repertory titles.

If you want to show first run or even sub-run of mainstream Hollywood product, then you won't need film.

Outfitting yourself to accommodate both film and digital is obviously going to give you the most flexibility, with regard to what you can show. But it will also be the more expensive option, and it requires additional booth space.

You'll have to weigh out how much flexibility you will need. And figure out how much you can afford to invest.

PDF's available on Film-Tech:

Film Tech > Warehouse > Manuals > Instructional Documents > Dolby Technical Guidelines for Theatres

Film Tech > Warehouse > Manuals > Sound Equipment > THX Architectural Suggestions

...and browse around - there's other relevant stuff to be found in there!