Lido Art Cinema

The Lido Cinema celebrated its first anniversary on March 20 and the manager was asked for his comments on the year's success.

The advent of television had forced changes in the motion picture industry, not the least of which was the growth of the "art" theatre. The success of these overseas had prompted Amalgamated Theatres to establish similar theatres in New Zealand specialising in "continental art films." Judging from the last year's operation a definite potential does exist in Wellington for this type of theatre, but there was insufficient demand for two such theatres. In this respect the Lido and the Paramount International cinema were direct business rivals.

Most successful films of the year were: "Henry V," "Electra," "Black Fox," "Sundays And Cybele" and "Divorce—Italian Style."

The manager did not consider any film had been an "absolute flop." The recent festival of old academy award winners had been very successful and another festival had been tentatively arranged for the near future.

Footnote: An invitation from the manager. All constructive criticism and suggestions pertaining to any aspect of the Lido's functioning will be welcome and, where practicable, acted upon.