Big-screen movies return to Linden

By Nicosia Smith

The days of going to the cinema, for many in the town of Linden, are distant, but one computer and video service is attempting to bring that back through a big screen show.

Managers of Arthur Computer and Video Service (ACVS) Jason and Ginelle Arthur of 67 Crabwood Street held their first big screen Friday and entertainment at the Linden Constabulary Hall, Mackenzie last night.

For $300, patrons were treated to the new releases Fast and Furious and the James Bond new flick Quantum of Solace, on an approximately 12 by 12 feet screen, along with a fashion exhibition by Linden designer Alana Binning during the intermission.

Lindeners old enough to remember and visit the cinema can recall the Mackenzie and Wismar cinemas and the relaxation they provided for many families on weekends. Over a decade ago, the closure of the Palm Tree cinema at Sunflower Street, Wismar, in the early 1990s and prior to this the closure of the Mackenzie cinema signalled the end of cinema shows.

The Constabulary Hall officials were also very encouraged by the venture, because they felt it was something very good for the community, ACVS said.

Jason related that the purpose behind hosting the big screen event was to get people in Linden back to the cinema experience, because young people especially, have not been exposed to big screen cinema since they are accustomed to television. The icing on the cake will be the entertainment provided during intermission, that is, the mini-entertainment segment. It is expected that future shows will continue to feature Linden talent mainly and occasionally acts from outside Linden. ACVS has not yet finalized dates for future screenings.

Before attempting this business venture, ACVS spoke with a number of persons in the community to ascertain whether support would be forthcoming from the community, and the response was reportedly favourable.

Jason said that he knows that “things are not so bright in Linden” but, “we charging a reasonable price”. He is hoping that the ticket price will encourage support for the event.

He contends that hosting this event is not just about making money, but it is also providing a form of weekend entertainment. There will be a little music during the break and a few music videos, during announcements, but ACVS said that there will not be a dance session.  In addition, children of a certain age, depending on the movie, will have to be accompanied by their  parents.

The main sponsor for the event is Banks DIH as well as some Linden businesses including Snooks Variety, Singh’s Cash and Carry and Rite Care Pharmacy.

ACVS opened its doors in 2004 as an internet café and in 2007 began video productions and apart from NCN Linden, is the leading advertising agency in the community.