James
Murray is vice president of operations for Massachussets-based
National Amusements, which as one of the nation’s
10 largest cinema chains operates more than 1,000 screens
in the United States. He also serves among NATO’s
leadership as the association’s secretary.
What about you would most surprise the majority of your
fellow exhibitors?
That I was a judo instructor in the
Marines training recruits on Parris
Island.
What’s
the best thing about living in Massachusetts?
The Cape, Martha’s Vineyard and Boston.
Leaving aside family members, who was your first role
model?
Early in my career I was fortunate to have the friendship
and guidance of a senior VP in the company I was with.
He gave me the self-confidence I needed to move forward.
He said that confidence and commitment were most important,
and to always trust your own judgment.
What would you
wish for if a djinn offered to grant one wish (assuming
you couldn’t
wish for more wishes)?
I would wish for continued enthusiasm and a zest for life.
What would you
be if you weren’t
a cinema operator?
I’ve always thought that it would be great fun
to be a game show host.
Who is your favorite filmmaker and why?
I have a few favorites, but I particularly admire Steven
Spielberg for his special genius for developing and presenting
films that have a broad appeal and make a lot of money!
What was your favorite movie last year?
“Spider-Man.” It was great entertainment!
Which movie or movies are you most looking forward to?
The big three – “Spider-Man 2,” “Harry
Potter” and “The Lord of the Rings.”
Who is the most talented actor most people have never
heard of?
Elizabeth Wilson. Her exceptional career spans 50 years
and started with her Broadway debut in 1953 in “Picnic.” She
has awards and a long list of credits for her work in the
theatre, movies and TV. She has done it all!
Which book would you most like to see adapted into a motion
picture?
“Voodoo For Revenge,” which comes complete with a
kit, by Mark Shulman. I think that with Spielberg at the
helm, and a John Williams score it could be a hit!
Which TV show do you hate to miss?
“JAG.”
What’s
your favorite movie theatre in which you and/or your
partners have absolutely no
investment?
Loews Boston Common.
Which sacred cow would you most like to barbecue?
No comment!
What’s
the best thing about being with a cinema company?
The best for me is the opportunity for leadership and
to work with everyone in the company to give our customers
a “great theatre experience.”
What’s
the worst?
Low grosses and lots of e-mail.
What do you wish someone had told you earlier?
That there would be “low grosses” and “lots
of e-mail.”
What was the single best piece of advice you ever got?
Be kind, and treat others as you would like to be treated! 
