Friday, January 12, 2007

Welcome to the Terror Dome


Due to the increasing popularity and affordability of high-def home theater systems and emerging technologies such as Blu-Ray DVDs, video content via iTunes, and Apple TV, motion picture studios are faced with the challenge of how to approach the traditional release model which places the initial emphasis on the theatrical window. Especially when the price of a single movie ticket is often equal to or greater than the price of a "loss leader" DVD at Wal-Mart or Best Buy. Because of this changing landscape, many consumers prefer to watch the movie in the comfort of their own home rather than at the local megaplex. I am not one of those consumers.

One of the greatest joys I experience in life is being "sucked into" a story on the silver screen. Especially when the film is being projected in all its glory on the 32' x 86' screen in the Dome at the ArcLight Cinema.

The ArcLight puts all other theaters to shame from the moment you walk through the doors. When purchasing tickets, you choose which seat you would like to sit in which eliminates the hassle associated with finding a seat upon entering the theater only to find out that it is "being saved" by the Douche Bag on the other end of the row. Also, the seating arrangement is unique at the ArcLight in the sense that every seat INCLUDING the front row is the perfect seat with the perfect view. The center seat in the front row is arguably the best seat in the house. But wait, it gets even better. When walking to the screen you are greeted by a host of ushers whose only goal in life appears to be making one feel like a visiting dignitary. But wait, it gets even better. When visiting the concession stand you will be pleasantly surprised that the selection does not include the standard 4 week old hot dog and nasty nachos. Instead, the ArcLight offers a variety of quality options. My concession of choice is the amazing caramel corn. And for those who are inclined, each week, one of the theaters is designated as a 21 and older theater and alcoholic beverages are served. But wait, it gets even better. Upon entering the theater and finding your extra wide seat with extra leg room, you will notice that there are no annoying commercials blaring over the sound system. Instead, the curtain is drawn and there is a peaceful silence. Prior to starting the film, an actual person will come out and ask everybody to be sure to turn off their cell phones as well as give a brief intro to the film including a few pieces of trivia. And then the curtain is raised and the excitement begins.

The first time I saw Miami Vice was at the 3rd Street Promenade AMC two blocks from my apartment. I left in a bad mood because I was so upset that Michael Mann would spend that much money on making the movie look so good but then cut corners on the sound editing. Honestly, it sounded like crap. Come to find out, Michael Mann did not cut corners on the sound, the sound system in the AMC was just terrible. Thanks to my friend Peter who told me that one of his favorite parts of the movie was the incredible sound, especially during the climatic shoot-out, I decided to make a trip to the ArcLight and give it another chance. And I was not disappointed. My entire perception changed. The movie went from a solid effort to one of my favorite films of the year simply because it sounded so good. Thank you ArcLight for having the greatest sound system on earth.

So just to give a quick recap, The ArcLight equals the greatest place on Earth. You will be treated like royalty and enjoy a visual and audio spectacle that is unparalleled. Plus the caramel corn is amazing. So next time you are excited to see the latest blockbuster, I recommend taking the time to enjoy it in classy style at the ArcLight.

1 comment:

English said...

LA's such a crappy place to visit, there's not much you can take people to "see".
I take my out-of-towners to the greatest music store and movie theater I know.
What could be more LA than that?
Hollywood and Ivar Bitch!