It’s Useless to Resist These Relics. And Why Would You?
It’s impossible for me to resist the marquee of an old movie palace. They’re relics of an era when going to the cinema was a big deal, when (long before my theatre experience began) a live orchestra performed from its unseen pit in the floor, right along with the movie.
Resistance to these art deco gems is futile. And why try? The rewards of taking a look inside are beyond what photos can show. Sometimes, you’ll find former movie palaces that are repurposed, or degraded by a modernization attempt; but mostly, a visit inside is a trip back in time. Sure, the seats are hard and narrow, and the rows aren’t staggered, but the atmospheric soaking makes you quickly forget your discomfort. Especially when you look up at the ceilings—oh, the ceilings are so grandly decorative! And there are colorful carpets and entries to take in, with gloriously vivid original neon, that the deco theaters employ proudly to strut their oceanic curves and sways. They don’t have much in common with today’s modern cineplexes.
But what these old theatres have—that today’s spacious, cushy cineplexes will never have—is a history, and with a bit of exploring and imagination you can uncover something of it—like being part of a Hollywood dream sequence that takes you back to cinema’s noble beginnings. ♣
When I’m shooting, I’m frequently time traveling HERE.
Where would you prefer to take in a film?
Really like your concept! Its refreshing and quirky. Really great shots
High praise! Quirky is my favorite thing. Thanks. What’s your passion?
Perfect for this week’s challenge!
Thank you. With Silver in the Barn of your 1915 farmhouse restoration, I’d imagine you’re living in a relic!
I almost considered posting a picture of the house!! I agree!!!
If you do a second Relic post with the house, let me know here with the link!
Beautiful sequence, Jann!
Thanks Stefano, enjoyed your Fiat too!
Did they not say, old is gold. And so are these theatres. Incredible photos. Loved them.
Do visit my ‘relic’ as well. 🙂
Thanks for visiting, and commenting. Fascinated by your thoughtful post–if only bullfighting were actually a bygone relic.
Alas! It were 🙂
Great post! Your photos are amazing.
Thank you. Are you a fan of old deco movie palaces, too? Love the image with your Golden Shore post. Where did you manage to shoot that? What a place that must be.
Yes. The Golden shore image was taken on the Sunshine Coast in Australia. It is an amazing place. 🙂
incrdible photo so love to see !! sujeet
Thanks for visiting.