10/07/2023
Years ago, I did my school 'work experience' at HOYTS as it was as close to the film industry as I could get in Perth. At the time they were actually screening two John Badham' - 'Wargames' and 'Blue Thunder' in Australia. After all I learned - despite being underage, I managed to secure part-time work as an usher and continued throughout school and my early years at Murdoch University. Pursuing a Film & TV degree at Curtin University, under the guidance of cinematography master Bill Constable ACS, I not only enjoyed free movies during my work experience but also received complimentary tickets to premieres and exchanged tickets for other film events at competition cinema chains. My time at HOYTS exposed me to the inner workings of the cinema industry - from projection booths to the distribution center, (where I acquired original cinema posters for films like 'Easy Rider,' 'The Blues Brothers,' and cult films I was too young to see like the misunderstood 'Driller Killer.') One vivid memory I recall is after being 'voluntold' I embarked on a daring on man mission to run individual film reels - after they played at one cinema - down the street and across the mall - so we could simultaneously screen the same print of a James Bond film at two cinemas merely 20 or so minutes apart! - The plan was going swimmingly until I got harassed and chased by some Bon Scott enthusiasts (who seemed to be expressing their ongoing grief over his demise with random acts of violence). This lead to a real-life Bond-like foot chase! Me in my bow tie and white shirt.. them in ripple sole desert boots, jeans and black muscle shirt - chasing after me as I ran with a roll of film print still warm from running through the projector. I held it above my head and jumped over plants in an early expression of parkour -- Which may explain why when I see reel change spots on the top right of old movies I still get goosebumps.
During my high school years, I even got tickets for a group of classmates to the opening night of 'Ghostbusters' in Perth, a rare school night out for 52 out of the 164 students in my grade who were able to attend. What struck me the most about the film exhibition experience was how everyone involved felt like they were truly part of the film business. From popcorn makers and choc top creators to film reel drivers and reclusive projectionists, they all spoke as if they were integral to the industry. They possessed extensive knowledge of upcoming films and obscure facts, read all the trade magazines and had unmatched commitment to their part of the craft and maintaining high standards. As for the films - I saw the re-release of Apocalypse Now, Mickey Rourke's career rise and fall - comedies, actioners, and amazing poignet stuff. But along with all if it.. I witnessed Apollo Creed's demise over 135 times and saw Roger Moore, (at the ripe age of 56) over 100 times in his final appearance as James Bond in 'A View to a Kill' - even on a new years eve night.
BELOW - The accompanying picture is from Sydney's George Street Cinemas, a snapshot of the time when I served as a "senior" usher or cinema manager at Cinema One in Perth. On the opening night of 'Rocky IV,' the line extended from the doors, through the foyer, down the stairs, out of the arcade, and beyond sight in the mall. The cinema was already packed for the 6:30 screening, and the queue eagerly awaited the 8:30 pm show. Fans arrived in charter buses from far and wide, engaging in lively banter as they patiently waited. As I tore tickets, I had to be cautious not to spoil the film by revealing Apollo Creed's fate, knowing they would be shocked as I was as they watched. And would see and hear Rocky scream - "It was supposed to be an Exhibition fight!"