Leading digital-cinema projection company Christie announced initiatives to help independent theatres gain the full benefits of digital and 3D cinema. In conjunction with its authorized digital-cinema resellers, Christie has developed customizable programs that provide marketing and sales support, technical advice and expertise, maintain spare parts inventory, and deliver a streamlined RMA process to resolve issues quickly and speed up the advanced warranty replacement process.

“By working closely with certified Christie dealers who sell, install and service the independent theatres, Christie can offer a broader range of support,” said Craig Sholder, Christie’s VP, Entertainment Solutions.

Classic Cinemas, a family-owned business based in Downer’s Grove, Illinois, operates 13 theatres in 12 communities. They were early adopters of digital sound, digital projection technology and 3D, and their theatres have become engines for driving downtown redevelopment. Earlier this year, Classic Cinemas installed Christie CP2000-ZX projectors in seven locations to show My Bloody Valentine and Monsters vs. Aliens in 3D.

Chris Johnson, VP of Classic Cinemas, praised the “efficient light engines” of Christie equipment. “We use ‘less bulb’ and get more light, which helps us reduce ongoing costs. The audience reaction to our 3D showings is excellent and we’re confident that the viewing experience is due to the quality images that Christie projectors show onscreen.”

EuroWest Companies, headquartered in Essex, Vermont, recently converted one of its two theatre complexes in Essex. Peter Edelmann, president of EuroWest, remarked, “The kids are going wild for 3D movies like Monsters vs. Aliens and we look forward to more content throughout 2009.” He added, “The new digital projection equipment from Christie will be used for more than movie showings. The projectors will support live concerts, video gaming activities, and sporting events such as the Super Bowl.”

Dale Chapman, regional manager at EuroWest, noted that the record number of 3D features and alternative content coming from Hollywood has become the driving force for digital conversions. “3D justifies our decision to convert and makes the new digital technology affordable for us. We will be in a position to finance our systems on the local level.”

Southern Theatres recently installed Christie CP2000-ZX digital projectors in five of their theatres, in time for Disney’s Jonas Brothers 3D concert movie. COO Ron Krueger stated, “I believe that 3D is the linchpin to the rollout of 2D digital cinema.”

Integrity Entertainment Systems, LLC, an authorized digital-cinema reseller for Christie, handled the sales and installations at both Southern Theatres and EuroWest Companies. Gary Engvold, president of Integrity Entertainment Systems, recalled, “We supplied all the components necessary for the complete installation. We coordinated the infrastructure and the financing, provided surveys and measurements and were responsible for the documentation required by the studios, as well as the 2D and 3D content providers. I call it a one-stop approach where we include project management at no additional cost to the independent exhibitor.”

Engvold added: “We also offer our independent cinema customers the ability to fund all or part of their cost for the digital-cinema projectors. By referring them to various leasing companies where we have established a successful relationship, we open the doors for our clients’ digital conversions. About a third of the systems purchased are through leasing options we arrange.”

“Digital cinema can significantly expand a theatre’s potential revenue streams,” stated Sholder. “Christie is dedicated to helping independent theatres enjoy the best of both worlds: affordable financing packages and the highest-quality digital-cinema installation and support platform.”