EARTHQUAKE FILMS AND RELIEF FUNDS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21266, 21 February 1931, Page 22

EARTHQUAKE FILMS AND RELIEF FUNDS.

TO THE EDITOB. Sir, —One has only gratitude for those who desire to assist in any way to alleviate distress. Mr Wardell, in your issue of to-day, misses a few points that may explain matters. (1) The telegram from the town clerk of Napier (Mr Dick) was to the Mayoress, and the prompt reply was that, as earthquake pictures had already been shown, it was thought the proposed films would not prove successful in drawing houses. On this Information Mr Wardell was foolish to refuse 'an offer for his film. Mr Wardell called upon me about a fortnight after the official film of the earthquake_ had been shown in this city. I appreciated his offer, but did not see, or ask the advice of, any manager of any theatre. But I did point out to Mr Wardell, on his second visit—and this is another omission of his —that I would not care to risk paying the £6O which Mr Wardell wanted to reimburse him for taking the pictures.—l am, etc., R. S. Black, Mayor. Dunedin, Februai’y 20.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —The film referred to in the letter in your issue of this morning was offered to us for showing on Saturday. When the question of price was discussed £5 was asked for the one night’s showing of a 1500 foot film. As -we had already booked the official film for showing the same night for £l, the offer was declined with thanks. A charge of £5 for a onenight showing in a suburban house is somewhat at variance with Mr WardelTs statements, and one is reluctantly forced to wonder if this national disaster is not being commercialised.—l am, etc., H. Butcher, Mosgiel Pictures. Mosgiel, February 20.