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April 17, 2009 continued CLERMONT 16-SCREEN MOVIE THEATER GETS READY TO OPEN (continued) Miller and John Morrow, a Clermont native who turns 20 on Saturday, were busy setting up the popcorn machine and other equipment in the concession stand this week. Morrow said the new theaters can't come soon enough. "I've been waiting 10 years for a theater in Clermont," Morrow said. The movie buff is training to be a projectionist at the theater. He said he won't miss the 45-minute drive he had been making to see movies at Universal CityWalk. Latest technology The city hasn't had a theater since the Clervue Drive-In closed in the mid-1970s. The new movie house features the latest technology for improved picture and sound, EPIC Vice President Clint DeMarsh said. Eight theaters have digital projection systems, which exchange the two-mile-long reel of 35-millimeter film used in each 90-minute feature for an 8-by-4-inch computer hard drive that can be held in one hand. DeMarsh said many film enthusiasts, including himself, are sorry to see real film used less, but digital is more cost effective for the movie companies. "Film is a great image," DeMarsh said. "But now digital is as good as film." Four of the screens at the Clermont theater are silver rather than the usual white, to reflect light more evenly for the 3-D movies they are equipped to show. Monsters vs. Aliens will be the first movie shown in 3-D at the theater, but nearly a dozen more are on the way between now and Christmas, DeMarsh said. More than usual movies All the theaters feature Dolby sound and full stadium seating. They vary in size, seating between 80 and 300 patrons, for 2,200 total seats. Movie tickets will cost $8 to $10, slightly more for 3-D showings. In addition to new releases, EPIC will show opera performances and other theater experiences through Sony's Hot Ticket program. The program recently featured performances of the Broadway musical Rent and a Cirque du Soleil show. "And we're looking into 3-D sports," DeMarsh said. "They are testing it now in major markets." Recent 3-D sporting event tests included this year's Super Bowl and college football national championship game. In addition to the traditional popcorn and candy, Clermont moviegoers will be able to visit a gourmet concession stand that features pastries and cotton candy, as well as an Edy's ice cream parlor. A party room is available for rental for moviegoing birthday or corporate parties. |
