Back in 2008 the World Theater, to the best of my recollection, was in the midst of an important restoration. I was intrigued by the ancient cinema, as a fan of film, and the nostalgic history that is forever entwined in all things related.
Fast forward to 2018 and I decided, nearly 10 years later, to visit the World, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
I was extremely impressed, as I had only come to see the 1974 film "Chinatown" and had been to many theaters of similar ages, only expected the red ubiquitous carpeting and vintage popcorn machines of days gone by, but what I saw, surpassed any of this.
The entire theatre is completely restored with what I'm assuming are reproductions of art deco fixtures, yet modern in its feel. For most old cinemas are uncomfortable and lack the technology of sound both sound dampers and surround sound, or even comfortable chairs. The World feels new, despite the look of the style of the past. The chairs are comfortable, and you can even (as I did) sit at tables and chairs in the back and enjoy the concessions.
The concessions of course include popcorn and Coke, but also local beer, and some types of wine, though I'm in no ways cool enough to understand wine.
The management and staff are helpful and fast. The picture itself seems like it may have been digital projection, rather than an old fashioned film projector, but I may be wrong and the copy of Chinatown may have simply been flawless.
Chinatown. . I'm not reviewing the film here, obviously, but I'll note that I'd never seen it before. I've only seen three Polananski films and thought they were all well shot, acted, and lighted.. but part of me always questions whether I'm morally entitled to enjoy anything by the fugitive director, but who am I to say anything. If anyone reading this knows me, you'll know that as of November of 2017, I no longer feel like I'm a good judge of anyone's character.