Comments from VentArc

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VentArc
VentArc commented about Martin Cinerama on Jan 26, 2009 at 10:11 pm

I agree with rodinal — it literally took your breath away when the curtains opened during a 70mm presentation. They would dim the lights to half during the overture (instead of showing commercials). The ushers (female) wore white gloves. I never saw 3-strip Cinerama here, but the 70mm presentation was truly amazing. I took a final walk around the place just before they tore it down and found a rear door open (thanks to homeless occupants). Taking a quick peek inside, I discovered a partially used box of huge Ultrex 11.5mm x 25" arc carbons that were used for 70mm presentations — now one of my most valued possessions.

VentArc
VentArc commented about Bel-Air Drive-In on Jan 26, 2009 at 9:18 pm

As a kid back in the late 50’s, the projectionists (Van and Ronnie, I still remember their names) let me stand in the projection room doorway to watch the action. Strong Super 135 arc lamps, Simplex XL projectors, a changeover every 20 minutes — it was a much better show than the movie. A door on the rear wall led to the motor-generator room (to rectify current for the arc lamps), with a door on the other side leading back to the concession area. The projection ports didn’t have glass but had blowers to keep out the bugs (and cold air in the winter). Seems like just yesterday.