Thanks to the Johnson Family, the owners of the Lake Theatre, for listening and reacting to those in our villages who have been asking that more attention be given to featuring “art” or independent films. For many years, some of us longtime patrons have been troubled that the Lake had gotten away from featuring these types of films.
The price of admission is probably not as big a contribution to the bottom line as concessions. There is a larger dollar margin in selling beverages, popcorn and candy, and it quickly surmounts the ticket price as more concessions are sold. Younger people are apparently the Lake’s target market; hence, films that continue to bring them back are the ones featured. It appears that every so often a good film is shown, e.g. Midnight in Paris, but only for a limited engagement and then back to “blockbusters.” In the interim, many of us find refuge at the AMC, Landmark, Music Box, Tivoli, and others for the narrower range of “serious” films.
What occurred on Tuesday, April 3 was quite interesting, the result of persistent requests to show quality films. The movie Albert Nobbs was featured at 1 and 7 p.m. in one theater. Both showings were sold out with people turned away. This was a terrific response, even on short notice, and especially on a beautiful “summer-like” day/night. I even saw some people buying popcorn and beverages! However, most were maneuvering to find a seat.
The following weekend we were talking with friends about the movie, which featured Glenn Close who was nominated for this year’s Best Actress Oscar, and how nice it was to be able to return to the Lake Theatre. We encourage them to have more regularly scheduled showings of this type of film.
We felt this was a “tipping point,” and more featured movies like this one should keep us close to home. We’ll support the Lake and spend our dollars at the Lake Theatre, and we believe there is enough interest to support the ardent interest in quality films.
Bill & Lynne Higgins
River Forest
