In Focus | Previous Issues

A publication of the National Association of Theatre Owners

January/February 2007 Final Issue! (click here to see full-size cover) Get it Yourself! Exhibitors are making more money by letting customers fetch their own snacks. Issue Index Six years of the magazine’s contents. Editor's Page Editor-In-Chief Jim Kozak sums up 18 years with NATO and six years of In Focus. From the President's Desk NATO’s John Fithian bids In Focus adieu and introduces the association’s new magazine. February/March Preview Our final wrap-up looks at “Blades of Glory,” “Hannibal Rising,” “300,” “Zodiac” and more. Also, Late Additions to January. Dateline: Exhibition Bow Tie acquires 95 Crown screens; Great Escape opens 28 Midwest screens. Next! We look ahead to what’s in store for the stars who sat out 2006. Washington Report Steven John Fellman says the new Democratic Congress may mean more ADA legislation. Anote from Advertising Director Mary Dela Cruz.	December 2006 From the President's Desk John Fithian points out that many advocates of collapsing windows continue to embrace traditional release patterns – when there’s enough money at stake. Dateline: Exhibition Regal, Rogers and Cinemark launch new multis; Phoenix undertakes its first build. January Preview The new year brings, among many other things, “Freedom Writers,” the latest from Hilary Swank. Also, Late Additions to December. Next! In Focus investigates what’s in the works for the male stars of autumn 2006. Counsel’s Column The Cinema Buying Group is folded into non-profit NATO. Secrets of Size Cinema seat counts are generally dinkier today than they were during the pre-TV era, but big may be making a comeback.	November 2006 Penguin Pop George Miller, the writer-director behind the “Mad Max” and “Babe” franchises, returns with the animated musical comedy “Happy Feet.” From the President's Desk John Fithian discusses the tactics NATO and the MPAA are employing to combat movie theft. Dateline: Exhibition NATO elects a slate of new officers; megachains REG and AMC swap sites. December Preview The holiday season brings the latest from directors De Niro, Gibson, Stallone and more. Also, Late Additions to November. Next! In Focus investigates what’s in the works for the female stars of autumn 2006. Washington Report NATO D.C. counsel Steven John Fellman looks at ADA class action litigation.

October 2006 From the President's Desk Movie theft isn’t just a problem for studios and DVD retailers, advises John Fithian. Dateline: Exhibition Cinemark and Century make a megacircuit; Regal makes changes at four of its sites. November Preview Borat Sagdiyev (Sasha Baron Cohen, right) leads the charge toward Thanksgiving. Also, Late Additions to October. Next! In Focus looks at the actioners rocketing into cinemas next year. Counsel’s Column NATO is working with the Merchants Payment Coalition to reduce credit card fees. Built By Association Local legislatures’ special sessions mean exhibitors must monitor lawmakers year-round. That Old Bat Magic The director of “Batman Begins” turns his attention to “The Prestige,” a tale of illusionists in an age of new technology.	August/September 2006 Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Goodrich, Regal, Clearview; ShowSouth honors the Stembler brothers. September/October Preview The onset of autumn brings the latest from Eastwood, Heckerling, Zaillian and more. Also, Late Additions to August. Next! Box office records continue to fall; we look at the stars heating up the summer. Washington Report The disabled can bring service animals into cinemas; but what about the non-disabled? Making Moviegoing Magic No longer content to operate mere cinemas, modern exhibitors are building audience magnets.	July 2006 From the President’s Desk NATO’s John Fithian reports on his first visit to the Festival de Cannes. Dateline: Exhibition AMC, Regal, Amstar, R/C & Cinemark open new multis; GET readies a 12-plex. August Preview Late summer brings “Snakes On A Plane,” “Talladega Nights,” “Zoom” and more. Also, Late Additions to July. Next! In Focus looks, post-"Da Vinci Code," at more books headed for the big screen. Washington Report NATO’s D.C. counsel discusses when websites must be accessible to the blind. The Quest For Quiet Cinema owners set their sights on disruptive moviegoers.

June 2006 Lost Son Of Krypton The writers of “Superman Returns” discuss what may be 2006’s most antcipated release.Read the uncut web-only version here. From the President’s Desk A column from 15 years ago demonstrates how little things change. Dateline: Exhibition Regal bets on 16 in Las Vegas; Muvico and Marcus announce promotions. July Preview Midsummer nights bring “Lady in the Water,” “Miami Vice” and more. Also, Late Additions to June. Next! In Focus looks at the comedies headed toward cinemas after July. Washington Report NATO counsel Steve Fellman discusses the perils of lax ADA training.	May 2006 Return of the Glut? There are more U.S. cinema auditoria today than ever. Need exhibition worry? ShoWest 2006 Jackman, Portman, Vaughn and others attend NATO’s official convention. The Eight Marketeers A look at the winners of the NATO/ShoWest marketing awards. From the President’s Desk Exhibitors are encouraged to play up an anticipated upswing at the box office. Dateline: Exhibition Cinemark opens a 7-Plex, Carmike plans an 8-plex, and Sundance buys an 8-plex. June Preview A big month brings “Break Up,” “Cars,” “Click,” “Nacho,” “Superman” and more. Also, Late Additions to May. Built By Association Exhibitors are vexed by the many taxes being proposed by counties and towns. Next! As 2005's top grossers were sequels, we look at more fast-approaching follow-ups. Washington Report Steve Fellman lists the numerous issues of which cinema employees must stay abreast.	April 2006 Impossible Movie Force The creator of TV’s “Alias” and “Lost” takes on Paramount’s biggest franchise. Read the uncut web-only version. From the President’s Desk In Focus presents NATO CEO John Fithian’s March 14 ShoWest address. Dateline: Exhibition Openings come for Regal and Malco; Maya makes plans for California. May Preview The summer season brings “Da Vinci,” “M:I III,” new “X-Men” & more. Also, Late Additions to April. Digital Cinema NATO releases system requirements designed to augment DCI’s specs. Next! Robust returns for remakes remain. We look at what Hollywood resurrects. Washington Report Steve Fellman discusses how NATO is working to simplify ADA compliance.

March 2006 Multitasking Multiplexes Cinemas are demonstrating their versatility as churches, classrooms and more. From the President’s Desk As ShoWest approaches, NATO president John Fithian greets the dawn of the digital-cinema era. Dateline: Exhibition Harkins announces 148 new screens; Regal, AMC and Great Escape celebrate openings. April Preview The latest from Curtis Hanson, Barry Sonnenfeld, David Zucker, Terry Zwigoff and others. Also, Late Additions to March. Next! The “Kudos Edition” looks at what’s ahead for this year’s Oscar nominees. Counsel’s Column Industry professionals speak out about the theatrical window. Built By Association Belinda Judson discloses her recipe for an effective government relations program. Washington Report Steve Fellman says exhibitors should take care when making claims for digital cinema.	February 2006 Have Cinema, Will Travel Moviehouses on wheels bring cinema to unexpected places. From the President’s Desk A newspaperman reminds readers of the key role exhibs play in combatting the disruptive. Dateline: Exhibition Muvico plans its first new sites in two states; AMC’s Century City plex grows to 15 screens. Digital Cinema National CineMedia, Technicolor, Century and Cinema Buying Group announce “big d” plans. March Preview Spring brings the latest from Richard Donner, Richard Linklater, Barry Sonnenfeld and others. Also, Late Additions to February. Next! In Focus looks at what’s ahead in sci-fi and fantasy, still the hottest genres in cinemas. Built By Association Belinda Judson discusses how to keep abreast of municipal and county lawmaking. Washington Report Steven John Fellman notes that facilities for the disabled continue to be highly underutilized.	January 2006 The Cult of Corn In Focus looks at the concession counter’s “most reliable staple.” From the President’s Desk NATO chief John Fithian suggests 23 New Year’s resolutions for the exhibition industry. Dateline: Exhibition At ShowEast, filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan rails against collapsing release windows. Digital Cinema Two companies plan to convert more than half of America’s screens to “big-d” by 2015. February Preview Will Ferrell, Harrison Ford, Samuel L. Jackson, and Steve Martin greet midwinter moviegoers and more. Also, Late Additions to January. Next! In Focus looks at 18 projects intended to frighten moviegoers over the next year or so. Built By Association Belinda Judson discusses what to do and what not to do when dealing with lawmakers. Washington Report The U.S. Senate approves Wan Kim to head the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

	December 2005 Fun With Dick And Jane And Judd The writer-director-producer behind “Freaks & Geeks,” “Anchorman” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” turns his attention to Jim Carrey’s latest. The uncut web-only version is here. From the President’s Desk John Fithian visits the Congress of the Fédération Nationale des Cinémas Francais. Dateline: Exhibition MJR plans 14 for the Detroit area; Carmike makes some personnel shifts. Tech Fox, Sony, New Line and Universal adopt environmentally friendly cyan soundtracks. January Preview The year kicks off with the latest from Steven Spielberg, Albert Brooks and more. Also, Late Additions to December. Counsel’s Column G. Kendrick Macdowell addresses the “violent video game” controversy. Next! What were Harrison, Leonardo and Denzel up to this year? MIA ‘05 has answers. Built By Association Belinda Judson returns with more tales of the local legislative battlegrounds. Washington Report Steven John Fellman explains why so many assistive listening devices gather dust.	November 2005 Ramis On ‘Ice’ The writer-director behind “Caddyshack,” “Groundhog Day” and “Analyze This” tackles laugh noir with “The Ice Harvest.” The uncut web-only version is here. From the President’s Desk Release windows, digital cinema, movie theft and movie ratings were among the hot-button issues discussed at NATO’s latest board meeting. Dateline: Exhibition Great Escape launches a 14-plex in Greater St. Louis, and Georgia Theatre Co. CEO William Stembler is honored at ShowEast. December Preview Oscar season brings new films from directors Woody Allen, Peter Jackson, Ang Lee, Terrence Malick, Rob Marshall, Steve Zaillian and more. Also, Late Additions to November. Next! We look at what’s ahead for the stars of summer’s top 10 grossers (which actually garnered more than 2004’s top 10 summer grossers). Built By Association Belinda Judson, fresh from NATO’s Regional Units Task Force meeting in Chicago, discusses which issues are “hot” in the state legislatures. Washington Report Steven John Fellman advises exhibitors on their options when a disabled person proves disruptive to other moviegoers.

October 2005 Three-Dimensional Thinking Will “big-d” digital cinema usher in a new era of 3D? From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian takes issue with Disney exec Robert Iger’s recent comments regarding release windows. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Cinema Centers, Malco, CineLux and Georgia Theatre Co.; plus a new documentary on exhibition gears up. November Preview The season brings new movies from filmmakers George Clooney, Kiyoshi Kurosawa, Sam Mendes, Harold Ramis and more. Also, Late Additions to October. Next! When it comes to animated features, the ink-and-paint era is all but behind us. We look at the many upcoming toons created via mouse. Built By Association Mid-States NATO’s Belinda Judson points out that, because legislators seldom really take breaks, exhibition must remain forever vigilant. Washington Report Steven John Fellman reminds cinema owners that any business imposing a surcharge must maintain evidence of where that money goes.	August/September 2005 Serenity Now! An interview with “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” creator Joss Whedon, whose feature directorial debut hits cinemas in September. Read the uncut web-only version here. From the President’s Desk John Fithian says the studios may bring a digital cinema financing plan to exhibitors in the next few months, and suggests how to prepare. Dateline: Exhibition AMC Entertainment and Loews Cineplex are combined into the world’s 2nd-largest cinema chain. September/October Preview A double issue means a double-size look at 62 films headed for cinemas on Labor Day weekend and later. Also, Late Additions to August. Counsel’s Column NATO government affairs director G. Kendrick Macdowell discusses why he believes showtime legislation unnecessary. Next! With “Wedding Crashers” and “40-Year-Old Virgin” in cinemas, we look at the eight guys who seem to be in every movie comedy.	July 2005 Booting the Bootleggers An interview with new MPA piracy czar John Malcolm, who combats movie theft on the Internet and in the streets. From the President’s Desk NATO’s John Fithian points out that, in recent box office history, short-term slumps are always followed by lofty admission peaks. Dateline: Exhibition Carmike buys the 263-screen GKC chain; Regal buys 238-screen Eastern Federal; Malco celebrates 90 years. Digital Cinema A story in The Hollywood Reporter suggests that as many as 3,000 U.S. big-d installations could begin rolling out by year’s end. August Preview As summer winds down, cinemas offer moviegoers “Broken Flowers,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” and more. Also, Late Additions to July. Counsel’s Column NATO government affairs director G. Kendrick Macdowell discusses how best to curb the threat of admissions taxes. Next! On the heels of the record-shattering success of “Sith,” we examine the mutants, robots and aliens now lurching toward cinemas. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson discusses what she’s observed while touring the regional meetings of her peers. Washington Report NATO Washington Counsel Steven John Fellman details how exhibitors must prepare to help the disabled in emergencies.

June 2005 Celebrating Ratings June is Ratings Awareness Month, and we mark the occasion by interviewing the head of the Classification and Rating Administration. From the President’s Desk It’s Ratings Awareness Month, and John Fithian ponders how America perceives the entertainment industry. Dateline: Exhibition An all-Wisconsin edition describes personnel changes within Marcus Theatres and a new Fitchburg 14-plex for AGT Enterprises. Digital Cinema Plans are afoot to equip within months every cinema in the Irish Republic with Hollywood-friendly digital projectors. July Preview A 5-Friday July brings “Bad News Bears,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Fantastic Four,” “The Island” and much more. Also, Late Additions to June. Next! Box office success for “Spider-Man 2” and its ilk has unleashed the biggest slate of comic-book movies in history. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson reminds readers that enforcement is key to keeping the rating system voluntary. Legislative Update President Bush signed into law the Family Entertainment and Copyright Act, which protects exhibs who might detain movie thieves. Counsel’s Column NATO government affairs director G. Kendrick Macdowell mulls the future of theatrical-to-DVD release windows. Washington Report OSHA officials periodically pay visits to cinemas, and Steven John Fellman discusses how to prepare.	May 2005 Ads Up! In two short years, big-screen sound-and-motion advertising has transformed the economics of the U.S. exhibition industry. ShoWest 2005 Aniston, Barrymore, Biel, Damon, Fallon, Gibson, Jolie, Lucas, Mac, Pitt and more turn up for NATO’s official convention. From the President’s Desk John Fithian discusses what he observed at the latest edition of NATO’s official convention, ShoWest 2005. Dateline: Exhibition Regal opens 64 screens and buys another 76 from R/C; Loews bows a Greater Seattle 16-plex; GTC gets a new president; and more. Digital Cinema The U.K. Film Council has announced its timetable: 250 projectors equipped with 2K DLP CInema tech will be in place next year. June Preview With warm weather comes “Batman Begins,” “Bewitched,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “Land of the Dead,” “War of the Worlds” and more. Also, Late Additions to May. Next! Twenty-seven filmmakers directed the 2004 films that grossed more than $100 million; we look at what they have in the works. Counsel’s Column G. Kendrick Macdowell explains, among other things, why anti-camcording legislation is pursued at both the federal and state levels. Washington Report Steven John Fellman describes the many misconceptions surrounding cinema owners’ captioning obligations.	April 2005 Developers Multiplexes Evidence suggests that cinema owners, spurred by incentives, are situating more of their multiplexes in retail centers. From the President’s Desk NATO’s John Fithian explains how those decrying admission levels and ticket prices are missing the big picture. Dateline: Exhibition EPIC Theatres announces plans to nearly quadruple its screen count; new plexes are in the works for CCG and Community Theatres. Built By Association Mid-States NATO exec Belinda Judson finds the sheer volume of local exhibition-related legislation “somewhat overwhelming.” May Preview Summer’s start brings the “Star Wars” finale, plus comedies starring SNL vets Ferrell, Rock, Sandler, Short and Stiller. Also, Late Additions to April. Next! As films starring black actors dominate the box office, we look at what’s ahead for the cinema’s most popular African-Americans. Washington Report A dozen years into the ADA era, Washington Counsel Steven John Fellman suggests exhibitors review their compliance programs. Legislative Update A New York City councilwoman has introduced a bill that would fine exhibitors $500 to $1,000 for advertising false start times.

March 2005 Get Real More feature documentaries were released to cinemas last year than ever before. Is reality television to blame? Michael Moore? Both? From the President’s Desk John Fithian bids welcome to G. Kendrick Macdowell, NATO’s new general counsel and director of goverment affairs. Dateline: Exhibition Celebration! brings 16 to Michigan; Consolidated brings 16 to North Carolina; and GTC brings 10 to Southwest Georgia. Digital Cinema Access Integrated Technologies buys New York City’s landmark Pavilion 8-plex as a demonstration site for its digital-cinema efforts. April Preview April showers cinemas with the latest from Sydney Pollack, Robert Rodriguez, Steven Soderbergh, Todd Solondz and more. Also, Late Additions to March. Next! “Saw” and “White Noise” continue to demonstrate that budget horror equals big business. So what’s next to go bump in the cinemas? Washington Report Justice remains slow to define adequate wheelchair placement; and we look at what to expect from the 109th Congress.	February 2005 Spanglish Lessons Acclaimed writer-director James L. Brooks talks about “The Office,” “The Simpsons,” tidy endings, why all his movies are comedies, and more. Read the uncut web-only version here. From the President’s Desk Morality, Deception, and the Rating System Dateline: Exhibition MJR plans a Greater Detroit 20-plex; Loews teams with The History Channel; Steve Marcus is named ShoWester. Built By Association Mid-States NATO exec Belinda Judson discusses the bewildering array of non-federal statutes with which exhibs must contend. March Preview The stars return in force for new movies starring Sandra Bullock, Will Ferrell, Keira Knightly, John Travolta and Bruce Willis and more. Also, Late Additions to February. Next! February is Oscar month, so we look at what lies ahead for some of the actors most likely to take home a golden statuette. Washington Report NATO Washington Counsel Steven John Fellman discusses the consent decree recently entered into by Cinemark USA.	January 2005 Cinemartini! In 1997 there were perhaps 14 alcohol-friendly first-run auditoria in the United States; today there are more than 270. Is alcohol now the American exhibition industy’s hottest new concession item? From the President’s Desk The new digital-cinema resolution approved by NATO’s board of directors in November is printed in its entirety. Dateline: Exhibition Muvico plans 122 at six sites; Wallace earmarks 24 for the South; and Cleveland acquires 16 in Ohio. Digital Cinema The Hollywood Reporter says three of Hollywood’s biggest studios are teaming to find a way to finance digital cinema. Built By Association Belinda Judson reflects on how volunteering for a trade association can be as beneficial to the volunteer as it is to the association. Tech Starting in February, Buena Vista will begin releasing all its movies with environmentally friendly pure-dye cyan soundtracks. February Preview The shortest month is home to the latest from John Boorman, Wes Craven, Andy Tennant, Wayne Wang and more. Also, Late Additions to January. Next! Having seen how well “The Grudge” held, we note that remakes continue to descend on cinemas with a vengeance. Washington Report NATO’s counsel reports on how the 2004 election will affect exhibitors; and Justice calls for input on wheelchair placement.

	December 2004 Meet Dan Glickman Jack Valenti’s successor at the Motion Picture Association of America talks about piracy, lawmaking, popcorn and more. From the President’s Desk One association president discusses another as NATO’s John Fithian shares his thoughts on the MPAA’s Dan Glickman. Dateline: Exhibition Kerasotes will get 30 percent bigger by 2006; GTC will add 35 screens; and Muvico is building a 26-plex four miles from Manhattan. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson looks at what happened in the statehouses this year, and what to expect in 2005. January Preview The new year arrives with a superhero spinoff of “Daredevil,” a remake of John Carpenter’s “Assault on Precinct 13” and more. Also, Late Additions to December. Next! 2004 brought cinemas both “Passion of the Christ” and “Hero.” We look at foreign-language films headed our way in 2005. Washington Report NATO’s D.C. counsel reports the EEOC has launched a harassment education campaign and reviews this year’s congressional activity.	November 2004 Through A Scanner, Smartly With “The Polar Express,” director Robert Zemeckis pioneers a new technique he dubs “performance capture.” Just don’t call it animation. M.I.A. ‘04 Russell Crowe didn’t star in a movie this year! Neither did Harrison Ford, Keanu Reeves nor Sandra Bullock. We look at what they’ve been up to. From the President’s Desk Should movies depicting tobacco consumption get automatic “R” ratings? NATO’s John Fithian weighs in on the issue. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Regal, Douglas, CCG, Morrison, Consolidated and Sunstar; a new NATO buying program for uniforms. Digital Cinema Government-financed China Film Group has implemented 10 more DLP Cinema systems, bringing the nation’s total to 68. December Preview The holiday season brings new films from Wes Anderson, James L. Brooks, Mike Nichols, Jay Roach, Steven Soderbergh and more. Also, Late Additions to November. Washington Report The attorney general of New Jersey has informed exhibitors that anything bigger than a 10-plex must have closed captioning.

October 2004 Puppetry of the Meanest The creators of “South Park” switch from cartoons to marionettes, and live to regret the decision. Read the bigger, longer and uncut web-only version here. Will Rogers The product of two recently combined charities launches its first major membership campaign. From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian points out that one person’s “ratings creep” may be someone else’s “ratings evolution.” Dateline: Exhibition Cinema employees get $2,500 for catching camcorder pirates; new plexes from Century, Cinemark, Santikos, Flagship and others. Digital Cinema DCI gets another year; the U.K. Film Council plans 200 DLPC 2Ks; Access IT reboots satellite delivery; and more. November Preview The season brings the latest from, among others, directors Pedro Almodóvar, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Oliver Stone and Robert Zemeckis and more. Also, Late Additions to October. Next! Our special “directors edition” looks at what the helmers of “Lord of the Rings,” “X2,” “Elf,” “Hulk,” “Seabiscuit” and “Spy Kids” are up to. Built By Association The minimum wage isn’t $5.15 everywhere, reminds Mid-States NATO’s Belinda Judson, and some states are ready to take it higher. Washington Report The FTC releases its latest media violence report; new antitrust penalties precipitate compliance program revisions.	August/September 2004 The Digital Divide Have overseas exhibitors taken American exhibition’s spot in the digital-cinema vanguard? In Focus looks into the reports. From the President’s Desk John Fithian is encouraged by legislation that protects concession sellers against certain litigious and overweight consumers. Dateline: Exhibition Harkins will add 166 screens by 2006; Amstar will add 40 more; Muvico plans a Newark 20-plex; Regal brings 14 to Colorado. September/ October Preview In Focus’ first 2-month preview features the latest from the directors of “Shrek,” “Porky’s,” “The Fantastic Four” and more. Also, Late Additions to August. Next! As the summer records fall, we look at the plans being hatched by the stars of the season’s spectaculars. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson finds the states pondering bills on topics both new and old as the capitals’ hills. Washington Report Steve Fellman reminds that policy manuals must be read as well as written. Jonathan Yarowsky offers mostly good news from D.C.	July 2004 Anchor Management Will Ferrell, who powered “Elf” to $170 million last autumn, talks about “Anchorman,” which may emerge as the summer’s biggest live-action comedy. From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian reminds readers that NATO owes its political successes to the efforts of its members. Dateline: Exhibition Regal buys 309 Signature screens while AGT and GKC plan plexes and Harkins hires an in-house booker. August Preview Aliens, anacondas and Tom Cruise return to the big screen as the summer season slams shut. Also, Late Additions to July. Next! As “Spider-Man 2” swings into cinemas, we offer an update on upcoming movies based on comic books. Washington Report NATO’s membership converges on Capitol Hill; and costs are assessed against a plaintiff who has filed almost 200 ADA lawsuits.

June 2004 Centennial Circuit As Loews Cineplex celebrates its status as the first century-old cinema chain, we take a look back at the man who started it all. From the President’s Desk NATO’s John Fithian looks at a litany of legislation likely to impact the nation’s cinema operators. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Marquee, Regal, Cinemark and Cleveland; Consolidated’s Stone is sworn in; NATO helps build a retail coalition. July Preview Summer heats up with “Anchorman,” “Bourne Supremacy,” “Catwoman,” “I, Robot,” “King Arthur,” “The Village” & more. Also, Late Additions to June. Next! As “Shrek 2” gathers its green, we look ahead at the many post-”Nemo” animated features rocketing toward the big screen. Digital Cinema DCI expects to hatch a d-cinema business plan by September, a plan that may involve a fund exhibitors could use to buy equipment. Tech Buena Vista becomes the second major distributor to announce environment-friendly cyan-dye soundtracks for all its releases. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson reminds exhibitors that clout comes with constituency. Washington Report Steven John Fellman discusses how the Shubert Organization complied with an ADA-related consent decree.	May 2004 ShoWest 2004 NATO’s annual confab attracts Jim Carrey, Will Smith, Ben Stiller, Nicole Kidman, Jack Black, Samuel L. Jackson and more. Helmer of Troy The director of “The Perfect Storm” and “Air Force One” stages an all-star epic set more than 3,000 years ago. Read the uncut web-only version here. From the President’s Desk NATO’s John Fithian talks about, among other things, how “The Passion of the Christ” has created a new breed of moviegoer. Dateline: Exhibition Cinemark expects a new owner; Wallace adds a new COO; and new multis make news for Century, Epic, Rave & Consolidated. June Preview With warm weather comes the return of Jackie Chan, Vin Diesel, Tom Hanks, Ben Stiller and Harry Potter. Also, Late Additions to May. Next! “The Passion of the Christ” is the latest period piece to burn up the box office. We look ahead at movies depicting how it used to be. Tech MGM becomes the first major distributor to utilize environment-friendly cyan-dye soundtracks for all its releases. Washington Report Jonathan Yarowsky says anti-indecency legislation is moving forward; Steven Fellman discusses when and how to involve the police.	April 2004 Driven! In 1979, there were more than 3,650 drive-in screens in the United States; a quarter-century later there are fewer than 650, but enthusiasts believe the "ozoner" is finding its place in the 21st century. From the President’s Desk Concern is raised over the average theatrical-to-video window, now shrunk to a precedent-shattering four months and 23 days. Dateline: Exhibition Regal serves up 62 for the “thEATeries” while new plexes make news for Malco, Rave, Cinemaworld, Cinemagic and Consolidated. Built By Association Local legislators around the nation are considering soft drink taxation as a means of alleviating their deficits. May Preview The summer gears up with “The Day After Tomorrow,” “Shrek 2,” “Troy” and “Van Helsing.” Also, Late Additions to April. Next! Has any TV show produced as many movie stars as “Saturday Night Live”? We look at its alumni’s coming big-screen efforts. Digital Cinema China plans to install 2,500 celluloid-free projectors, but sources say they won’t offer the same image quality as true d-cinema. Washington Report Jonathan Yarowsky examines the legacy of Janet’s Super Bowl appearance; Steve Fellman discusses the peril of policy-benders.

March 2004 Raiders of the Lost Box Office As Internet connections grow speedier, the motion picture industry has grown more nervous about blockbusters getting downloaded before they’re in cinemas. From the President’s Desk NATO’s John Fithian suggests that digital cinema standards cannot be finalized until certain business questions are answered. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Consolidated, Malco, GTC, Cinemark and Landmark; personnel changes for Crown and Pacific. Built By Association The state legislatures are heating up again, with taxes, obscenity, violence and even gift certificates on their agendas. April Preview By the numbers, April rains “Gypsy 83,” “Kill Bill: Vol. 2,” “13 Going On 30” and “The Whole Ten Yards.” Also, Late Additions to March. Next! Because 2003’s nine highest-grossing movies traffic in sci-fi or fantasy, we look at what the future holds for the genre. Digital Cinema A 2K digital projector comes to Grauman’s Chinese in Hollywood, marking the first commercial use of the device in the U.S. Washington Report The revised ADAAG continues to wend its way through government; the 108th Congress anticipates a short second session.	February 2004 Stroller Circle Cinema Remember the old “crying rooms” cinemas used to set up for newborns? The trend today is to set up entire auditoriums where infants can wail away. From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian tells a tale of two offices: the association’s former and current headquarters in Washington, D.C. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Regal, Century, Kerasotes and Great Escape; Consolidated grants the Navy permission to come aboard. March Preview It’s springtime for directors Joel Coen, Martha Coolidge, David Mamet, Kevin Smith, Lars von Trier and more. Also, Late Additions to February. Next! With the Oscars around the corner, we look at what’s coming for the stars of some of the year’s most-honored movies. Digital Cinema The studios behind Digital Cinema Initiative agree that 2K and 4K is the way to go. Washington Report Congress looks at overtime, wages and more; Increased whistleblowing could attend increased antitrust penalties.	January 2004 Drafthouse Ascendant At least a dozen first-run cinema-eateries have appeared over the last 30 months, and a lot more are on the way. From the President’s Desk It’s another new year, and NATO president John Fithian greets it with a litany of resolutions for the exhibition industry. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Regal, Kerasotes, Crown and Great Escape; Quentin Tarantino ponders an exhibition career. February Preview Midwinter brings new movies from Philip Kaufman, Donald Petrie, Paul Schrader, Peter Segal and Quentin Tarantino. Also, Late Additions to January. Next! What do hobbits and elves do for an encore? The cast of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy looks ahead. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson talks about keeping movie pirates out of the cinemas. Washington Report An appeals court examines wheelchair patrons’ viewing angles; and the Bioterrorism Act could impede food deliveries.

December 2003 Mood Setters A new company, Phonomusic, has ramped up efforts to provide motion picture exhibitors with public-domain music. M.I.A. ‘03 Tom Hanks, Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and others did not appear in movies this year. What have they been up to? From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian brings news that cinema owners have substantially improved in their ratings enforcement. Dateline: Exhibition Internet moguls acquire Landmark Theatres, Metropolitan partners to launch a new chain, and Harkins Celebrates 70. January Preview The new year brings new movies from George Armitage, John Hamburg, Gavin O’Connor, Forest Whitaker and more. Also, Late Additions to December. Built By Association Mid-States NATO executive director Belinda Judson discusses why being a sucker fish is not a good idea. Digital Cinema The American Society of Cinematographers and DCI create a 1950s Italian wedding to test d-projectors Washington Report The importance of reemphasizing sexual harassment policy, and a look at lawmaker efforts to ban camcorders from cinemas.	November 2003 A Year of InSight There are more open-captioned titles available to moviehouses than ever before, thanks to a year-old enterprise. From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian runs down the areas for which the association needs volunteers. Dateline: Exhibition New multis for Rave, Pacific, Southern and Warren; plus, the drive-in returns to the state that spawned it. December Preview The season greets new movies from Tim Burton, Peter Jackson, Anthony Minghella, Errol Morris, John Woo and more. Also, Late Additions to November. Next! Are sequels dead? Not if you ask the execs behind “Harry Potter,” “Shrek,” “Batman” and more than 30 other franchises. Washington Report Steven John Fellman discusses the value of walk-throughs; Jonathan Yarowsky offers an update on overtime-pay legislation. Final Cut Alaska exhibitor and NATO board member Rand Thornsley touches on John Ford, Augusten Burroughs and the midnight sun.	October 2003 The Phantom Ushers Some cinemas, they say, are still overseen by owners, managers and projectionists who no longer inhabit the mortal plane. From the President’s Desk No such thing as a stupid question? NATO president John Fithian says they not only exist, but he encounters them incessantly. Dateline: Exhibition New cinemas for Century, Colorado, CInema Centers and Pacific. Plus: promotions inside the Wallace and Loews chains. Digital Cinema Hong Kong gets its first digital cinema, an Intercontinental Group facility launched with “Finding Nemo.” November Preview Thanksgiving offerings from Tim Burton, Joe Dante, Richard Donner, Ron Howard, the Wachowskis, Peter Weir and Terry Zwigoff, and more. Also, Late Additions to October. Next! Inspired by the success of “Freddy Vs. Jason” and “Jeepers Creepers 2,” a peek at the supernatural cinema in our future. Washington Report A 9th Circuit Court ADA decision throws exhibition yet another curve, and Congress tries to help manage digital rights. Built By Association Is there suddenly a lot more regional legislation that would affect cinema owners, or are we just hearing about it more? Final Cut Disney distribution chief Chuck Viane bespeaks a fondness for “American Idol,” Coronado, Calif., and world peace.

September 2003 Zucker Punch The director of “Airplane!” and “The Naked Gun” declared big-screen parody dead five years ago. Now he’s back with “Scary Movie 3.” Zucker unbound! Read the uncut web-only version here. From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian reminds cinema owners that ratings enforcement must remain a top priority. Dateline: Exhibition DreamWorks ditches the silver soundtrack; plus new plexes for Harkins, GTC, Century and Marcus. Digital Cinema The U.K. Film Council funds 250 digital projectors; the National Institute of Standards and Technology teams with DCI. October Preview New movies from directors Jane Campion, Joel Coen, Richard Linklater, Quentin Tarantino, Gus Van Sant and more. Also, Late Additions to September. International Dateline Cinemark engineers 20 screens in Latin America; Warner Bros. launches nine in Shanghai; Cineplex gets a new president. Next! What’s ahead for the producers of “S.W.A.T.,” “Seabiscuit,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Matrix” and more. Washington Report U.S. District Court clarifies the ADA’s “companion seating” requirements; Congress focuses on its domestic agenda. Final Cut Loews Cineplex vice president of film Phil Groves references, among other things, Leonardo da Vinci, freeways and Pixar.	August 2003 Independents Daze A sharp increase in U.S. screens, among other things, may have precipitated a renaissance for specialty cinema. The Sum of All Frears The director of “Dirty Pretty Things” talks about Audrey Tautou, Julia Roberts, Jack Black, Burt Lancaster and more. From the President’s Desk NATO president John Fithian discusses movie piracy, and what can be done to stem its pervasiveness. Dateline: Exhibition New plexes for Regal, Kerasotes, Pacific and Great Escape; Stone rolls to GTC; and the Cherry Bowl turns 50. Digital Cinema CineMedia theatrecasts pro soccer; Digital