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The Real Big Screen

I’m writing to comment on Ken C. Pohlmann’s column “Fractured Fairy Tales” in the February/March 2021 issue. Another reason that conventional movie theaters will likely continue to struggle is that their “big screens” are often outmatched in picture and sound quality by current home theater systems. Also, when you’re seated close to a 65-inch TV screen, the apparent width of the image can match that of the middle-row seats in most theaters. I used to be willing to pay to see certain spectacular shows in the amazing Cinerama theater in Seattle, Washington. That venue is now closed—permanently.

Paul Brians / Bainbridge Island, WA

Al Griffin replies: From the Seattle Cinerama theater’s website: “Our gorgeously restored [in 2014] mid-century theatre is outfitted with the latest in motion picture technology…digital laser projection, surround sound, 3D, high-frame-rate compatibility, and the ability to show 35mm, 70mm, and Cinerama films.” Also—with Dolby Atmos audio. It’s truly sad that this theater has closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, although the site says the closure is “for the foreseeable future,” as opposed to being permanent. Fingers crossed that the Cinerama opens again. I want