Dear film lovers,
My earliest memory of going to the movies dates back to the 50’s when my Dad would take my brother and I to the grand Loew’s Poli Theater in Hartford. Armed with a half pound of penuche and a half pound of cashew pieces from the candy shop next door, I could barely wait for the cartoons to begin before the double feature. Movie stars were glamorous with no hint of scandal or misbehavior, sex and swearing were nonexistent and an afternoon or evening at the movies didn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Although the films I saw as a child are now classics and gone are the “extras,” I still love going to the movies. If I can first get my hands on the book a movie is based on, all the better. My favorite movies are three hours long because a really good movie can that much time to develop complex characters and an intriguing plot.
It is my hope that we capture some of that magic for you at the Donald Oat Theater. Whether it’s a “date “ night, girls night out or merely a chance to unwind after a long week, I hope your evening at this theater is memorable. Although the films we show may not be the extravaganzas of those early years, they will be thought provoking, informative and entertaining. We will offer snacks, beverages, baked goodies, hot coffee and of course, popcorn, at affordable prices (I still can’t watch a movie without Junior Mints or Twizzlers). You can come early and chat with friends or stay after the movie for a talk back session. You can even bring a bottle of wine.
If you’ve seen an outstanding movie at another independent theater, let us know. This is your alternative community cinema and we welcome comments about your experience. Send us an email or talk to us at the Theater. Please tell your family, friends and coworkers to join us. The movies you see at the Donald Oat Theater probably won’t be playing “at a cinema near you.”
See you at the cinema!
Sandy Quarto
President, Norwich Community Cinema