Campaign to Preserve Film Projection at the Hollywood Theatre a Success

According to Hollywood Theatre, more than 1,500 donors contributed $89,661 to its Film Forever campaign. With these funds, the theatre acquired legacy projection equipment that will safeguard its ability to screen 35mm and 70mm films for years to come. Today, the Hollywood is one of less than 350 theaters across the country that still has the ability to project analog film formats. It is also the only theater in Oregon with the ability to project in 70mm, the most premium movie-viewing experience available.

Funds from the campaign also allowed for the purchase of two rare Norelco AAII projectors from the collection of Frank Sinatra’s former personal projectionist. The AAIIs - which won an Academy Award in 1962 for outstanding technical achievement - are nearly identical to the workhorse projectors that have been in continuous operation at the Hollywood since 1959. Its projectors are no longer made and replacement parts are nearly impossible to find, but now its ability to show 35mm and 70mm will never be compromised.

Because the theatre exceeded its $85,000 fundraising goal, they were able to purchase a selection of 35mm prints from film preservationist and author Gary Lacher; acquired additional projection equipment for its upstairs right auditorium from the estate of local collector and film enthusiast Gary Hoselton; and are planning to make improvements to the P.A. system.

Memorial Day weekend will feature multiple 70mm film screenings, including - for the first time ever - a brand new 70mm print of Paul Thomas Anderson’s breakthrough hit BOOGIE NIGHTS, recently struck from the original 1997 camera negative.

Tickets go on sale April 11 for members, and the following day for the general public.