Below is a reply to me from Carl Weese, photographer of the New York Times article:
It’s interesting that a lot of DI theaters tried the adult entertainment route in desperation but it essentially never worked. Some recent online research I did has turned up two DIs in Texas that advertise adult entertainment, but they certainly are the exception. From the beginning, my research has shown, successful DIs followed a “family entertainment” model. Not just movies suitable for kids, but playgrounds and other kid-oriented activities, and pricing structures that made a night at the DI about the most economical evening out available to a young family with kids. It’s still true I’ve found at theaters that continue to succeed. A nice touch I’ve encountered at quite a few theaters: in high summer when even the first show starts really late, they show a kid’s feature first and then something R-rated as the second feature, since the little kids have long ago gone to sleep in the cars…I’m not familiar with Cinema Treasures but will look into it. Thanks for getting in touch.—-Carl
I was reading another story in the New York Times and there was a sidebar reference to this story; after I read it, I thought it might be of interest to other regular CT readers such as yourself.
This is a wonderful article with site to view many b/w drive-in photos by Carl Weese. I then went and viewed the many photos of white churches. Amazing collection of churches and drive-in theatres! The one with the screen seen among the trees was most striking though sad. Thank you Mr. Weese for your talented photograhic eye.
Maybe they should call it Ghost Town Drive-ins.
Below is a reply to me from Carl Weese, photographer of the New York Times article:
It’s interesting that a lot of DI theaters tried the adult entertainment route in desperation but it essentially never worked. Some recent online research I did has turned up two DIs in Texas that advertise adult entertainment, but they certainly are the exception. From the beginning, my research has shown, successful DIs followed a “family entertainment” model. Not just movies suitable for kids, but playgrounds and other kid-oriented activities, and pricing structures that made a night at the DI about the most economical evening out available to a young family with kids. It’s still true I’ve found at theaters that continue to succeed. A nice touch I’ve encountered at quite a few theaters: in high summer when even the first show starts really late, they show a kid’s feature first and then something R-rated as the second feature, since the little kids have long ago gone to sleep in the cars…I’m not familiar with Cinema Treasures but will look into it. Thanks for getting in touch.—-Carl
CWalczak: You are most correct and thank you.
I was reading another story in the New York Times and there was a sidebar reference to this story; after I read it, I thought it might be of interest to other regular CT readers such as yourself.
CWalczak: How did you find the story about Drive-In photographer, Carl Weese? I viewed his many b/w photos and then sent him an email.
This is a wonderful article with site to view many b/w drive-in photos by Carl Weese. I then went and viewed the many photos of white churches. Amazing collection of churches and drive-in theatres! The one with the screen seen among the trees was most striking though sad. Thank you Mr. Weese for your talented photograhic eye.