The Fabled Mecca for all of the movie faithful, The Chinese Theater still captures the imagination of everyone who visits this grand landmark.

The first time I visited this landmark was in the 60's as a kid. Unfortunately, it was as a quick drive through of the Hollywood area on a car vacation. It was years before I had the opportunity to return and actually have a proper visit at this landmark.

Since I am sort of a Buff for Grand Movie Palaces, I try to visit as many as I can these days. Since these ornate places are slowly fading away to the sterile movie multiplex in the burbs, only a few examples exist of the truly grand ones.

Upon arriving at the Chinese Theater I see that it has not completely escaped the Movie Multiplex syndrome. Attached to the main theater are several smaller movie multiplex screen where various movies are playing in addition to the main Chinese Theater.

The Chinese theater carries with it a Hollywood price of around $8 bucks each but you really don't mind since you don't go to movie houses of this caliber everyday.

The Grand Facade is still there and you can gawk in amazement at the footprints and signatures of yesteryear's stars which are enshrined in concrete at the front door of the theater. Since my time in Hollywood was limited, I saw whatever was playing at the Chinese theater just to catch a glimpse inside.

The interior's main color is red with black accents. The place has been impeccably restored on the downstairs level. Access to the balcony was not possible and all seating was on the main floor only. The main ornamentation was in the lobby can concession areas with asian accents on the ceiling and stage levels.

The screen was H U G E by today's standards and the sound system was the finest that I have heard since the days of the faded Columbia Theater in Atlanta. ( This theater had a screen and sound system which was identical to the Chinese theater although much smaller in seating capacity)

The journey to the restroom was very interesting as you traversed downward in a maze of steps. The gentlemen's facilities were freshly remodeled and absolutely spotless! I almost expected to see an attendant with such fine facilities as these. My wife gives positive reviews of the ladies facilities also.

The crowd was a refined bunch who were in a jovial mood. Although, I am not a Lord of the Rings fan (the movie that was playing) the screen and the sound system made it actually come to life!

The people in the audience whispered excitedly about the actress Stacey Dash being in the audience. Unfortunately, I did not her but several people that I talked with said that she was there enjoying the evening too.

All in all, the theater was a very enjoyable experience. I rate it in the class of Radio City Music Hall and the Fabulous Fox Theater in Atlanta. Both grand movie houses in their own right.

When I return to Hollywood again, I will definitely make the Chinese theater one of my stops as it has become a favorite of mine.


Recommended: Yes