CALVERT CITY - For those who enjoy the chance to experience their favorite movie from the comfort of their vehicle or comfy law chair, this past weekend brought disappointing news as owners of the Calvert City Drive In announced they would be closing early for the season.
According to Drive-In owner John Harrington, updates in technology have made it increasingly more difficult in recent years to obtain movies in 35mm format.
So difficult that theatre owners opted to end their fall season early and begin transitioning to a new digital format.
“We will begin our conversion to digital projection this winter,” Harrington said, a process he notes will be essential to stay in business. “Hollywood is converting to a completely digital system that has, is, and will force many small theaters out of business.” He describes being able to obtain movies in the old format as now being a “struggle.”
However, along with the bad news did come the promise of brighter days, as Harrington says they will be making every effort to open early next year, weather permitting, with a new projection system that will provide a better viewing experience for patrons.
The last two movies to be shown in the old 35 mm format were Hotel Trannsylvania and Trouble with the Curve.
Next season will begin the Calvert City Drive-In’s 60th season in business. Pictured above is Evelyn Harrington (AKA Great-Granny), who is 101 years young. She came out to watch the projector run for the last time Sunday evening. Evelyn and Paul Harrington built the Calvert Drive-In nearly 60 years ago.
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