Motion Picture Theater Management

By Harold B. Franklin

Book Overview

"Motion Picture Theater Management" is an essential historical guide to the administrative and operational complexities of running a cinema during the golden age of the silver screen. Written by Harold B. Franklin, a prominent figure in the industry, this work provides a comprehensive overview of the theatrical business, covering everything from site selection and construction to personnel management and advertising strategies.

The book delves into the technical and aesthetic aspects of film exhibition, offering unique insights into the era just before the full transition to synchronized sound. It explores the organizational structure of major theater circuits and the daily responsibilities of a manager, highlighting the importance of music, lighting, and customer service in creating a premier viewing experience. Franklin's expertise illuminates the evolution of the "movie palace" and the systematic approach required to maintain profitability in a rapidly growing entertainment sector.

As a foundational text for film historians and students of cinema studies, "Motion Picture Theater Management" captures a pivotal moment in the industry's development. It remains a valuable resource for understanding the professionalization of motion picture exhibition and the cultural impact of the cinema as a vital public institution.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025362896
• ISBN13: 9781025362892
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 394 Pages
• Weight: 1.21 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.1" x 9.2"