I’ll confess, I don’t go to movie theatres often. Blame nepotism or consumerism, but Hollywood seems to be scrapping the barrel in terms of creativity. Focusing on spectacle over plot doesn’t work very well when even the spectacle isn’t very spectacular. Unrelatable “everyman” characters who succeed through plot armor aren’t very amusing either.

Still, there are movies I’ve enjoyed seeing in the theatre. There are even movies I was excited to see, like the Lord of the Rings. I imagine watching the Harry Potter films in theatres gave many readers similar pleasure, leading them to make plans with friends in eager anticipation of the next release.

A good movie can bring great works of imagination to life. It allows you to experience high adventure vicariously. It can even leave the audience encouraged and inspired.

While Americus doesn’t lack for inspiring stories, it could use this sort of outlet for its youth. Civic organizations, church, coffee shops, and other venues can provide a few needed outlets, but a movie theatre would be deeply appreciated by the younger set.

Even if Hollywood isn’t churning out a lot of great works, there are other films that could be shown. Its hard to imagine every corner of the world is experiencing the same dearth of talent. I haven’t watched a lot of foreign films, but there’s plenty to explore.

And even if subtitles aren’t your thing, having a theatre to show case the few compelling recent releases would be grand. Can you really blame me for not wanting to drive to Albany to see the next installment of Dune? It would be a great New Years goal for our town to build a theatre.