Considering how much film is changing in terms of distribution, going to a more digital means, some old-movie houses are struggling to find a way to keep up with the times. These include drive-ins, which were a popular institution back in the 50’s, but have lately seen a lot of closures, due to the inability to convert to the new format.
However, some drive-ins have found ways to adapt to the times, using some clever means to work their way around the problem and, as a result, remain open and show the newest movies available on the market.
200 of the remaining 348 drive-ins in the country have found a way to convert over to digital, a process that can cost more than $70,000 on average. Most of them have turned to crowd-funding platforms, including KickStarter and Indiegogo, to fund the process, while others have chosen to invest in financing programs or renting their theaters for secondary business during off-hours, including flea markets.
Ry Russell, a general manager of Saco Drive-In, drove the point home with a social media campaign, and managed to win an $80,000 digital projection system in a contest sponsored by Honda. As a result, his theater is holding a 75th anniversary celebration with the latest films, which will be displayed through said system.
“We’re just seeing Darwinism kind of take over,” he said. “The ones that survive will prosper.”
John Vincent Jr., president of the United Drive-In Theaters Owners Association, believes that conversion is the key to survival with the business, especially since this summer is likely to be “the last summer of film” as far as formatting goes.
Not all drive-ins have been successful, though. The 62-year old Pride’s Corner Drive In is struggling to keep up, only showing $1,350 of its $100,000 campaign to go digital. “When they stop making film, that’s it,” said Andrew Tevanian, operator of the theater. “Then you’re out in the cold.”
What do you think Should film go completely away in favor of a digital means Should drive-ins be saved
Source: Inc.
