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July 29, 2010; Source: Associated Press | In his recent film, “Capitalism: A Love Story,” Michael Moore didn’t hide his disgust for modern day robber barons who put profits ahead of people. So, it’s probably not surprising that a plan the filmmaker unveiled this week to revive old-style, single-screen movie theaters has a decidedly nonprofit twist.
Moore is setting up a fund to provide grants and training to theater operators willing to refurbish downtown movie houses, whose glory has long faded, and run them as nonprofits. The theaters would be staffed by a mix of paid employees and volunteers. According to the Associated Press, Moore’s plan “is modeled on the successful resurrection of the State Theatre in Traverse City his adopted hometown in northern Michigan.”
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The State is able to hold its own against the larger multiplexes by charging lower ticket and concession prices. The AP says an adult ticket for the typical movie costs $8; a large popcorn and soft drink combo is $7. Money for Moore’s fund will come from a $1 million rebate he is expecting from a state film tax credit that he earned from producing “Capitalism” in Michigan.
Moore sees his venture as twofold. The refurbished movie houses will offer community residents an alternative to higher priced multiplexes that often favor style over films with more substance. He also believes his plan can provide a much needed economic boost to communities still hurting from the recession. “Our state is deep in the toilet and the rescue party is not coming and the only way we’re going to work our way out of this is to essentially save ourselves.”—Bruce Trachtenberg
