Tell theaters to show movies at proper brightness

There is a problem in this town (and around the country) with theaters showing movies at a very low brightness.

I attended a showing of 'Solo” in 2D in theater 15 at the Marcus theater on Council Street, north of Collins Road. The movie was too dim, to the point that detail was horrid. In some cases it was impossible to determine the characters or discern the detail.

'Star Wars” movies are rich with detail. Without proper brightness much of the plot and fullness is lost.

I talked to the manager but she was no help. When I've complained in the past they just say 'that is the way the movie is made.”

From what I have learned there may be four reasons movies are dim.

1. The lamp is old and needs to be replaced.

2. The screen is dirty. Or the masking is improper.

3. Failure to change from the 3D to the 2D lens.

4. Intentionally lowered voltage intended to extend bulb life.

Movies should be displayed at 14 foot-Lamberts, a standard established by Digital Cinema Initiatives. Do a Google search to better understand the problem.

It's apparent this will not change until movie customers require they get what they pay for.

The reason theaters get away with this is because owners think consumers are not sophisticated enough to know the difference. And they are willing to put up with the occasional complaint because that is cheaper than showing the movie at the proper brightness.

Craig J. Jensen

Cedar Rapids