Draft:Showcase Cinemas: Difference between revisions

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===Background===
===Background===
'''Showcase Cinemas''' is the primary brand used by cinema chain National Amusements for its operations in the US, Argentina and the UK.
'''Showcase Cinemas''' is the primary brand used by cinema chain [[National Amusements]] for its operations in the US, Argentina and the UK.


'''Note:'''
===1st Opening (1980-1980s)===
*Before 2008, Showcase Cinemas as well as Multiplex Cinemas, Cinema De Lux and KinoStar used the standard NA openings.
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">

Showcase Cinemas (1980s) (Credit - TheNewGateStudios).png
===1st Opening (1980-1983)===
</gallery>
{{YouTube|id=PJv9xUahVcQ|id2=KIZfnVyaVYU}}
{{YouTube|id=PJv9xUahVcQ|id2=KIZfnVyaVYU}}


'''Opening:''' On a dark blue space background, a red "S" flies toward the centre of the screen and position itself right-side up. A yellow "S" follows the red letter and positions itself sideways atop the red one. The completed shape the flies to the top of the screen as the word "Showcase" flies down to fill the centre. The word "Cinemas" then flies down and positions itself below "Showcase". The text then rotates from front to back-accompanied by a blue flash of light-to reveal the text "Feature Presentation". The completed sequence holds for a few seconds before cutting out.
'''Visuals:''' On a dark blue space background, a red "S" flies toward the centre of the screen and position itself right-side up. A yellow "S" follows the red letter and positions itself sideways atop the red one. The completed shape the flies to the top of the screen as the word "{{font|Broadway|SHOWCASE}}" in Broadway, flies down to fill the centre. The word "{{font|Broadway|CINEMAS}}", in the same font then flies down and positions itself below "{{font|Broadway|SHOWCASE}}". The text then rotates from front to back-accompanied by a blue flash of light-to reveal the text "{{Font|Broadway|FEATURE PRESENTATION}}". The completed sequence holds for a few seconds before cutting out.


'''Variants:'''
'''Variants:''' Three shorter versions start when the double-S symbol has been formed. The rotating Showcase Cinemas text reveals either "Coming Attractions", "Coming Soon", or "Now Showing".
*Three shorter versions start when the double-S symbol has been formed. The rotating Showcase Cinemas text reveals either "{{Font|bROADWAY|COMING ATTRACTIONS}}", "{{Font|Broadway|COMING SOON}}", or "{{font|Broadway|NOW SHOWING}}".
* Another version exists where the double-S is larger and centered and the text only says {{font|Broadway|SHOWCASE}}. Then, a line flies in close to the screen which then flips up to reveal {{font|Broadway|SNEAK PREVIEW}} and the double-S and {{font|Broadway|SHOWCASE}} text fade out.


'''Technique:''' CGI animation, commissioned by Pike Productions and animated by Mathematical Applications Group, Inc.
'''Technique:''' CGI, commissioned by Pike Productions and animated by Mathematical Applications Group, Inc.


'''Audio:''' A majestic french horn fanfare.
'''Music/Sounds:''' None.


'''Availability:''' Extinct in theatres.
'''Availability:''' Used in Showcase Cinema locations during the early 80's.


===2nd Opening (1980s)===
===2nd Opening (1983-1986)===
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
Showcase Cinemas (1980s) (Credit - TheNewGateStudios).png
Showcase Cinemas (1980s) (Credit - TheNewGateStudios).png
Line 24: Line 27:
{{YouTube|id=cCNdqj9CGCM}}
{{YouTube|id=cCNdqj9CGCM}}


'''Opening:''' Against a black background, a series of blue lights draw a red "R" which promptly explodes as a yellow "R" slides out to take its place. Following the "R" are a pair of trailing outlines reading "Redstone". When the words meet up with the "R", they flash against the letter before turning red and filling in. We then see a series of fireworks fly underneath the "R" to spell out "Showcase Cinemas" (in white). A blue flash appears behind the logo, and then multicoloured fireworks appear and explode against the background. While this happens, a light wipes in from the left and changes the bottom text to "Feature Presentation". The word "Redstone" flashes once, followed by the gold "R", then "Redstone" again followed by the "Feature Presentation" text. The fireworks disappear as the logo briefly holds before fading out.
'''Visuals:''' Against a black background, a series of blue lights draw a red "{{color|red|{{font|Broadway|R}}}}" which promptly explodes as a yellow "{{color|yellow|{{font|Broadway|R}}}}" slides out to take its place. Following the "{{font|broadway|R}}" are a pair of trailing outlines reading "{{font|Broadway|REDSTONE}}". When the words meet up with the "{{font|broadway|R}}", they flash against the letter before turning {{color|red}} and filling in. We then see a series of fireworks fly underneath the "{{font|broadway|R}}" to spell out "{{font|broadway|SHOWCASE CINEMAS}}" (in white and in the same font as before) letter by letter. A blue flash appears behind the logo, and then multicoloured fireworks appear and explode against the background. While this happens, a light wipes in from the left and changes the bottom text to "{{font|BROADWAY|FEATURE PRESENTATION}}". The text then flashes one by one as the fireworks disappear as the logo briefly holds before fading out.


'''Technique:''' Cel animation.
'''Technique:''' Cel animation by Pike Productions in Boston.


'''Music/Sounds:''' A loud bombastic fanfare.
'''Audio:''' A loud bombastic rock and roll fanfare composed by Derek Austin titled "Heavy Vinyl" from the JW music library.


'''Availability:''' Used in Showcase Cinemas during the mid 80's. This was the final Showcase-branded opening for the next 22 years as Showcase locations would go on to use [[National Amusements]] openings.
'''Availability:''' Extinct in theatres.


===3rd Opening (1986-1989)===
===3rd (known) Opening (2008-2010s)===
{{YouTube|id=8PzAlOarK7A|id2=cX7np3XoV6I}}
'''Opening''': The screen zooms away from an orange block with the letter N engraved, as it moves into clear focus. '''{{color|gold|NATIONAL AMUSEMENTS}}''' fades in under the block as they both glimmer, and {{color|lightblue|SNEAK PREVIEW}} or {{color|lightblue|FEATURE PRESENTATION}} in an Art Deco font moves downward to the centre of the block.

'''Variant''': "{{color|lightblue|NOW SHOWING}}" fades in as the N zooms away and glimmers. Black bars at the top and bottom cover up '''{{color|gold|NATIONAL AMUSEMENTS}}''' and the opening ends early.

'''Technique''': Cel animation produced by Pike Productions.

'''Music/Sounds''': TBA

'''Availability''': Extinct. Seen in Showcase/Multiplex Cinemas at the time.

===4th Opening (1986-1992)===
'''Opening''': TBA

'''Technique''': Cel animation produced by Pike Productions.

'''Music/Sounds''': TBA

'''Availability''': See the 3rd opening.

===5th Opening (1989-1995)===
{{Youtube|id=qipKi7XIGHU}}
'''Opening:''' On a black background, many triangular shapes of different sizes rotate and slide in. The camera pans over them as they settle into a backwards, segmented "N", with the negative space being occupied by corresponding shapes. The camera then pans up to reveal the logo again, but in gold and facing forwards. Below it is "NATIONAL AMUSEMENTS" stacked while "FEATURE PRESENTATION" fades in below.

'''Variant:''' One that has "Coming Attractions" exists.

'''Technique:''' CGI animation.

'''Music/Sounds:''' A proud synth fanfare.

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===6th Opening (1989)===
'''Opening''':
* '''Previews:''' On a stage with curtains being shone by a spotlight, a bucket of popcorn shakes and rattles, and suddenly, a man in a tuxedo with an MTV pin springs out of the bucket as it disappears. A National Amusements copyright notice fades out at this point. The man is proud to welcome the viewers to the movies, but is bothered when the audience interrupts him by talking. The man's head turns into a megaphone as he tells the audience to stop talking. Both sides of the megaphone start to catch steam. The man pulls a chain next to him to cool of the steam with a big flow of water. Back to normal, the man talks about additional perks for NA patrons, as he has does some tricks like turning his head into a Picasso-like painting, opening his head setting party goods free, and his body becoming a present as he holds some gift certificates. He turns back to normal and segues into the following previews, but as he finishes, four clones of him appear as the real man tries to find some space to be seen.
* '''Showtime:''' Against the same curtain background, the same man is pleased to introduce the feature presentation. As we zoom out, objects appear around him including a man's monocle, a woman's lips, a monster, and a hammer that hits the monster. More objects appear as the curtain man says more things about the movies in a fast speed. After such, a bright flash of light makes the objects disappear all at once, leaving the man still there. He tells the viewers to enjoy the show, and collapses.

'''Technique:''' Clay animation.

'''Music/Sounds:'''
* '''Previews:''' A drumroll is heard in the start as the popcorn bucket shakes and rattles. A "boing" sound is heard when the man pops out. As he begins his speech, "Star Parade" by Tony Kinsey plays. He begins speaking with "Welcome to the wonderful world of motion picture magic! Before the picture begins, I'm proud to announce that I.." The music slows to a halt as the audience interrupts him. He tries to resume with "I'm proud to..." He growls as he turns into a megaphone and shouts, "PLEASE, NO TALKING!" A tea kettle sound is heard when smoke emits, and he tries to cool it down. A foghorn sounds as the smoke finally erupts. He says, "And there's no smoking." A sound similar to a toilet flushing plays as the water comes down to turn the man back to normal with a sigh. "Theatreland" by Dick Walter plays as the man finally resumes his speech. He says, "I'm proud to invite you to enjoy... (shing, splash sound) the exhibit in our lobby art gallery! (shwip) The theatre is available for rental on special occasions! (noisemaker) And... (thwipping sounds and a pop sound as the man's body becomes a present) our gift certificates make fine presents! (paper rustles) Ladies and gentlemen, before we get to our feature presentation, join us in previewing some of our..." but four more clones of him interrupt by saying "Coming attractions!" together.
* '''Showtime:''' "Star Parade" by Tony Kinsey plays, but stops as the man begins speaking rapid fire. The man says, "And now, ladies and gents! It's showtime! Come with me into the world of celluloid magic! Come enjoy the mystery, the romance (kiss), the horror (monster roar), and the humour! (hammer hits monster, cuckoo clock sound)" He begins speeding up as he says more things, followed by a bright flash of light accompanied by an electric sound. After the dust settles, the curtain man finishes with "(sigh) Enjoy... the show!" A thud is heard when he collapses. If one slows the opening down, he says during the fast talk, "The stars, the music, the effects, the stunts, the credits, the dancing girls, the magic!"

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===7th Opening (early 1990s)===
{{YouTube|id=5rmyXFbzc0s}}{{YouTube|id={{YouTube|id=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJXum5dKbpA}}}}

'''Opening:''' Against a black background, the word "Attention" (in white) begins flashing. Stock footage with transparent coloured shapes applied plays throughout the rest of the opening, starting with people boarding an airplane. A woman named Sarah, wearing a flight attendant outfit with the MTV logo on her hat, welcomes the audience to the movies. She explains the rules to us, tells us what to do if there's anything wrong with the film or the auditorium, and additional information about NA's theatres. Captions appear throughout the opening: "Sarah", "Safety First" (over boy stopping another), "Be Courteous", "Whoops", "No Smoking", "Enjoy Art", "Fine Gifts", "Special Occasions", and "Coming Attractions". The last caption is accompanied by footage of a train approaching the screen, after which the scene cuts to black.

'''Technique:''' Live-action, stock footage, and graphics.

'''Music/Sounds:''' Two dings are heard when "ATTENTION" flashes, and sounds of a plane. Stock orchestra music plays as everyone gets settled. As Sarah comes on, she says to us, "Hello, ladies and gentlemen! My name is Sarah, and on behalf of the captain and crew, welcome aboard our non-stop feature presentation. To make your trip more pleasurable, let me familiarize you with our safety regulations (tires screech). Please note the emergency exits clearly marked with the illuminated signs. The captain has turned on the "no smoking" sign, also the 'no talking' sign. (several people shushing; alarms) If you experience any discomfort due to picture, sound, turbulence, (building crumbles) please notify a member of the crew, and remember, ''no smoking!'' At your leisure, visit the art gallery located at the entrance of our wide-bodied theatre. Gift certificates are available in our ticket counter. They make wonderful presents and come in a tasteful, flat package. And for those special occasions, our theatre is available for rental. While we wait for clearance from the projection booth, here are some scenes from our coming attractions! (train horn)"

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===8th Opening (1992-1995)===
{{YouTube|id=opSk96gcnW8}}
'''Opening:''' The screen fades to a grey background consisting of three "N" logos side by side. A series of rectangular shapes float down to form a video screen which displays "Welcome to the Movies". The screen dissolves and the shapes begin spinning until forming a second screen which reads "Visit Our Refreshment Center". This pattern continues across several screens ("Perfect Together" with popcorn and a Pepsi displayed, "Theater Rentals Available", "Meetings, Birthdays, and Private Screenings", "Please, No Talking", "No Smoking", "Gift Certificates Available") Finally, the shapes fly out to reveal the grey wall, which now reads "Enjoy The Show!" This text flies out and the final text "Coming Attractions" flies in, accompanied by a copyright notice and producer credit (that being Videocraft Inc. of Boston), before the trailer fades out.

'''Technique:''' CGI animation by the aforementioned company.

'''Music/Sounds:''' A dreamy synth theme which transitions into a more bombastic fanfare and returns to the former at the end.

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===9th Opening (Celebration Curtain Raiser/Coming Attractions) (1994)===
{{YouTube|id=2QAqJnkDuYo}}
'''Opening:''' An iris-in reveals a coin with a National Amusements logo on it. It flips into the first in an array of coin projectors, and then a film begins on each of them. In the second projector's viewing lens, a man wears an old theatre uniform in front of some curtains. The curtains reveal an auditorium interior with old black and white films like ''Betty Boop'' playing all around. The man's outfit turns into a tuxedo as he stands on a walkway. A plane appears in the top right corner. On one of the screens, a film changes to "No Talking Please" in a period style. The carpet goes through the 'O' in 'NO' as it turns 3D. Refreshments like hot dogs, and popcorn bags and Pepsi cups from the previous opening, dance on a musical stage with "Visit Our Refreshment Center" above. The man wears another theatre uniform as he eats some popcorn and watches from the walkway. A Navy bomber appears and a propeller wipe transitions to a city alleyway at night, with a "No Smoking" sign to the right. Posters of fictional detective films smoke their cigarettes. The man, now in a detective outfit, wanders through and wafts the smoke away, and eventually finds a woman in a poster smoking her cigarette. She is startled by the man and accidentally drops her cigar in a trash can, glaring at her. The previous image is reflected into a side mirror of a 50s car at a drive-in theatre. An octopus comes out of the screen and scares the audience, holding NA gift certificates as UFOs from space abduct them. A screen in space shows the man on a motorcycle in a motorcycle outfit. The scene gains colours and the man disappears. Now in vibrant colours, the man, in a hippie outfit, observes the colourful atmosphere from the walkway. The words "LOBBY ART GALLERY" appear on an arch. The walkway turns into a disco dance floor. The man dances as disco balls spin and balloons fly in a reference to ''Saturday Night Fever''. From an aerial view, the lights read "RENT OUR THEATER", and a shark swims to the left. The disco ball morphs into Saturn in space with the walkway as its rings; the man is in an astronaut suit. Trash is collected by a spacecraft with the back of it reading "PLEASE DEPOSIT TRASH". The stars in space above the man (whose astronaut suit turns into a red tuxedo) turn into the bottom of a National Amusements marquee. A ticker reading "CELEBRATING OVER 100 YEARS" moves to the left. The man thanks us for celebrating 100 years of movies, and tells us to enjoy the show.

The screen zooms away from the NA logo until the marquee is largely visible. The ticker above displays "COMING ATTRACTIONS".

'''Technique:''' An elaborate CG sequence, with a live-action man chroma-keyed in.

'''Music/Sounds:''' The man says "Welcome to a National Amusements cinema, celebrating over 100 years of movies. Let's take the red carpet tour through movie history. (plane zip, audience laughing) Now remember, folks, during the show, no talking, please. (sniffs) Mmm, smells like popcorn." Tap dancing sounds are heard later. "Now that's one swell refreshment centre!" After a plane sound and police sirens, the man tells the woman, "Sorry, sweetheart. Not in this place." The octopus roars at the audience leaving them screaming, and UFOs zap the certificates. The man says "Man, like everyone digs our gift certificates!" and zips off in his motorcycle. After, he continues with, "(in a hippie impression) Great vibes at the art gallery in our lobby! (cheering crowd) Wanna party? Rent our theatre! (echo-y voice) We hate to make this a big deal, but please deposit your trash in the container. (normal, yet enthusiastic voice) Thank you for helping us celebrate over 100 years of movies! Enjoy the show!" The music changes throughout. A majestic fanfare plays during the "coming attractions" sequence.

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===10th Opening (Neon Curtain Raiser/Coming Attractions) (1995-2000)===
{{YouTube|id=xWcIr4H73vM|id2=FHRZ9tXJWjg}}
'''Opening:''' We fade into a Neon-Mosaic series of lights resembling the lobby of a movie theatre. The shapes zoom back until a sign reading "WELCOME TO THE SHOW" flies upward and centres itself. A series of red lights glow from the edges of the sign before we shift to a series of comic bubbles resembling noisy moviegoers. A second sign reading "No Talking Please" flies in from the left and silences the bubbles which then fade away. We then fade-via a ripple effect-to a group of cigarettes. A series of "No" signs appears and begins surrounding the cigarettes, these then pass through a neon-yellow "Smoking" text after which a red "N" is attached to each of them-the last of which floats upward to complete the sign. We pan down to a third sign reading "Visit Our Refreshment Center", underneath which lie two straight lines of of Pepsi cups and popcorn bags (from the 8th and 9th openings). The Popcorn bags then float down until reaching a line of trash cans and insert themselves. Across the cans we see the text "Please Deposit Trash". We again pan down to see a group of gift certificates floating across the screen. The word "Available" slides across the scene just underneath the certificates. The screen moves to the top right with seven paintings behind "Visit the ART GALLERY Lobby". This scene appears on a yellow balloon which moves away, revealing several balloons, party hats and party goods behind "Rent our Theatre". The screen pans to the top rights and starts to zoom out until a series of segmented lines form a turquoise "N" logo and the neon area fades away, with the words "National Amusements" forming a ring around the "N". The letters spin around before changing to "Enjoy The Show". The completed logo holds for several seconds before fading out.

The screen fades to an "N" logo centred on a dome-like object, before panning up to a circular marquee at the top of the city. Several orange dots fly off the marquee and form the words "Coming Attractions" in the sky. Once formed, lines scroll inside the words. The trailer again holds for a few seconds before fading out.

'''Variants:'''
* '''Version #3 (1998):''' The white section of the "WELCOME TO THE SHOW" marquee is black, and the Pepsi cups and popcorn bags were changed. The gift certificates are redesigned, the art gallery and rental portions are cut off, and at the end of the main bumper, when the text says "ENJOY THE SHOW", the logo and dots turn purple. Light glows have been added throughout both segments, and spotlights surround "COMING ATTRACTIONS" when it is formed.
* A Spanish version was produced for NA's Cine Showcase theatres in South America.

'''Technique:''' Top-notch CGI effects for the time.

'''Music/Sounds:''' Depends on the variant:
* 1995-1998: A ''Seinfeld''-esque synth theme with comedic effects. The whole thing ends in a rather epic way at the end of it.
* 1998-2000: A Madonna-like generic synth theme.

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===11th Opening (''AAAHH!!! Real Monsters'' Curtain Raiser) (November 1995-May 1996)===
{{YouTube|id=BCd3dSn_JKE}}
'''Opening:''' A screen reads "Nickelodeon PRESENTS: ''AAAHH!!! Real Monsters'': A PRODUCTION OF Klasky Csupo Inc." The screen fades to black and to a grey screen displaying "Today's Lesson: Theater Etiquette". Afterwards, it fades to the city at night, where inside a large pile at the city dump, resides the Monster Academy.

'''Gromble:''' "Welcome, my putrid pupils! It's time for tonight's performance! Who's monster enough to show us a scare? (to Krumm) YOU'RE NEXT!"

Krumm runs to an electrical chair, which places his eyes in his mouth, and projects from his eyes onto a screen, a fictional National Amusements theatre. Ickis releases a smoke-like vapour, making some of the monsters cough, and one of them shouts at Ickis. A yellow screen displaying "No Smoking Please!" appears, then it's revealed Ickis was only drinking tea. Another monster grabs a tray of refreshments as the two between him eat some little monsters that jump out of the popcorn. The middle monster eats the popcorn and drink while the right monster eats the tray. A grey screen displays "Visit our Refreshment Center". On the Academy's screen, Krumm hides behind a ticket booth as human patrons order their tickets, and a man drops a gift certificate. Krump picks up the certificate, reading "NATIONAL AMUSEMENTS GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE", laughs and eats it. In the theatre, a boy and his family go to their art gallery. The boy sees Oblina in a row of screaming man sculptures and says "I want that one!" A light purple screen displays "Visit our Lobby ART GALLERY!" The family takes Oblina into the auditorium, to Ickis' shock. Inside the auditorium, the father, boy, and Oblina share popcorn, but when the boy notices Oblina, she hisses at him, and Krumm pops out of another popcorn bucket, causing panic. Ickis hides under the auditorium's screen, turns angry, and grows to the size of the screen, resulting in more fright. Back at the Monster Academy, Gromble smiles as his students cheer loudly. He yells at them "'''''QUIET!!!'''''" so loudly, it shakes both the Academy, and a yellow screen displaying "NO TALKING, PLEASE." Outside the Academy, the dump pile falls apart. A cinder block on Gromble's head breaks in half and he faints. A red screen displays "Our Theater is Available for Rental." A weary Gromble tells the viewers, "And now, the coming attractions", and faints again.

'''Trivia:''' A National Amusements policy trailer featuring ''The Ren & Stimpy Show'' was storyboarded but not completed, possibly due to Nickelodeon wanting to promote the newer ''AAAHH!!! Real Monsters'' instead.

'''Technique:''' Cel animation produced by [[Klasky-Csupo]], outsourced to Anivision in South Korea.

'''Music/Sounds:''' Music by the series' composer Drew Neumann, along with sound effects throughout.

'''Availability:''' See the 3rd opening.

===12th Opening (1999-2010)===
[[File:National Amusements 2000s.png|center|350px]]
{{YouTube|id=AxpT1m9eZ7E}}
'''Opening:''' On a black background, we see a very bright light shine. The light dims down, revealing a cloudy red/blue swirl background. A dot is seen at the centre of the screen. More dots begin to appear as the camera begins to rotate to the right. The dots illuminate like spotlights and begin to take on the form of a cinema screen-like shape. The screen moves completely offscreen as the lights form the "N" logo from before, this time in a gold colour. "NATIONAL AMUSEMENTS" and "FEATURE PRESENTATION" appear below in the same colour.

'''Technique:''' Rather basic CGI effects.

'''Music/Sounds:''' Synth effects at the beginning, following a loud, ascending piano score accompanied by the sound of a filmreel, leading to a majestic orchestral finish.

'''Availability:''' Extinct in theatres. This logo was also only seen for the longest time from a bootleg camrip of ''Step Up 2: The Streets''. Some NA theatres would play a random [[Dolby Digital]] trailer after or instead of this bumper.

===13th Opening (2008-2010s)===
[[File:Showcase Cinemas (2008) (Credit - Maxie's Random Junk).png|center|300px]]
[[File:Showcase Cinemas (2008) (Credit - Maxie's Random Junk).png|center|300px]]
{{YouTube|id=fsFpieI3Y4w}}
{{YouTube|id=fsFpieI3Y4w}}


'''Opening:''' Against a black background, the words "and now our feature presentation" (in green) fade in, alongside a series of line shapes. A series of grey sparks fly onto the screen, and hold themselves in a streaking motion until the word "Showcase" floats toward the left of the screen above a green bar (which had been forming behind the lines). The lines disappear and are replaced by a smaller set of green lines which similarly streak across the bar. This continues until the logo fades out.
'''Visuals:''' Against a black background, the {{color|green}} words "{{color|green|and now our feature presentation}}" fade in, alongside a series of line shapes. A series of grey sparks fly onto the screen, and hold themselves in a streaking motion until the spaced-out text "{{font|Serif|'''S H O W C A S E'''}}" in Clarendon, floats toward the left of the screen above a green bar (which had been forming behind the lines). The lines disappear and are replaced by a smaller set of green lines which similarly streak across the bar. This continues until the logo fades out.


'''Variant:''' A variant with the words "Coming Attractions" exists.
'''Variant:''' A variant with the words "Coming Attractions" exists.
Line 166: Line 45:
'''Technique:''' 2D animation.
'''Technique:''' 2D animation.


'''Music/Sounds:''' A light rock fanfare, ending with a soft percussion fanfare.
'''Audio:''' A light rock fanfare, ending with a soft percussion fanfare.

'''Availability:''' Seen at Showcase-branded theaters beginning in 2008 and was used until sometime in the 2010's in selected theaters as other theaters would begin to use the next opening in 2011. Non-Showcase branded National Amusements theaters would continue to use the final NA opening until 2010.

===4th Opening (2011-)===
{{YouTube|id=YSnCQvALGlY}}


'''Visuals:''' On a blue background the text: <center>and now our<br>'''feature presentation'''</center> zooms and fades in. After a while a blast happens, causing the text to break apart. The Showcase logo then zooms and fades in the same manner. A few seconds later, another burst happens causing the logo to break in the same manner.
'''Availability:''' Extinct in theatres.


'''Variant:''' At Showcase Cinema de Lux locations, said logo replaces the regular logo and takes place on a purple background instead.
===14th Opening (2011-present)===
'''Opening:''' TBA


'''Technique:''' TBA
'''Technique:''' 2D graphics.


'''Music/Sounds:''' TBA
'''Audio:''' A synth theme.


'''Availability:''' Common in the northeast United States; currently in use at Showcase Cinemas.
'''Availability:''' Began usage in 2011 and still used at certain locations. Others use either the 5th or 7th open.


===15th Opening (Coca-Cola 3D) (2017-present)===
===5th Opening (Coca-Cola 3D) (2017-)===
'''Opening:''' On a white background is "Welcome to Showcase Cinemas". Several pieces of popcorn cover the screen. The popcorn falls down and ice cubes cover the screen. The screen is then drenched in Coca-Cola. A Coca-Cola branded straw drinks it all away, revealing a Showcase Cinema popcorn bag and two Coca-Cola cups. "Enjoy The Show" and Showcase Cinemas and Coca-Cola logos below it appear.
'''Visuals:''' On a white background is "Welcome to Showcase Cinemas". Several pieces of popcorn cover the screen. The popcorn falls down and ice cubes cover the screen. The screen is then drenched in Coca-Cola. A Coca-Cola branded straw drinks it all away, revealing a Showcase Cinema popcorn bag and two Coca-Cola cups. "Enjoy The Show" and Showcase Cinemas and Coca-Cola logos below it appear.


'''Variant:''' An alternate Showcase Cinema de Lux-branded version was produced.
'''Variant:''' An alternate Showcase Cinema de Lux-branded version was produced.


'''Technique:''' CGI animation by Mirada. This is slightly modified from a pre-show video originally produced for [[Carmike Cinemas]] in 2012.
'''Technique:''' CGI by Mirada. This is slightly modified from a pre-show video originally produced for [[Carmike Cinemas]] in 2012.


'''Audio:''' Same as the Carmike variant but with two synth themes at the beginning and end.
'''Music/Sounds:''' TBA


'''Avalability:''' Used at select locations beginning in 2017 following Showcase's transition from Pepsi products to Coke products.
'''Availability:''' See the 14th opening.


===16th Opening (Late 2010s-present)===
===6th Opening (Late 2010s-)===
{{YouTube|id=AejmOc5dqUA}}
{{YouTube|id=AejmOc5dqUA}}
'''Visuals:''' The Showcase Cinemas logo in 3D floats on a purple background. After a few seconds, the screen flashes to a "Visual Impairment" sign (a sign with an eye crossed out), it pixelates out and the sign changes to the "Audio Description" symbol (text stylized as '''''A''D)))'''). That then pixelates out to the "Assistive Listening" symbol, and "Closed Captioning" symbol (the text '''CC'''). The screen the flashes back to the Showcase Cinemas logo and with text reading: <center>'''ALL OUR GUESTS<br>{{small|TO ENJOY THE}}<br>MOVIE GOING EXPERIENCE'''</center> that appear one by one. The screen the flashes to text saying: <center>'''PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOUR<br>{{huge|{{huge|CC}}}}<br>'''CLOSED CAPTIONING DEVICE IS ACTIVE'''</center> with the '''CC''' text slightly moving. A lens flare then flashes changing the text to the visual impairment and hearing impairment logos together with the text: <center>'''VISUAL OR HEARING<br>IMPAIRMENT'''</center> below. The text then transitions to more text that says: <center>'''VISIT THE BOX OFFICE OR<br>CUSTOMER SERVICE AREA<br>FOR DETAILS'''</center> that appears one by one. The screen then flashes one last time to the Showcase logo again and text reading <center>'''EVERYONE CAN<br>{{huge|ENJOY THE SHOW'''}}</center> below. The URL is below.
'''Opening:''' TBA


'''Technique:''' CGI animation.
'''Technique:''' CGI.


'''Audio:''' An elevator-esque theme with faint woosh sounds during flashes. This is accompanied with a male announcer saying "At Showcase Cinemas, we proudly offer visual impairment enhancement, audio description, assistive listening and closed captioning technology, that enables all of our guests to enjoy the movie going experience. Please take a moment now to make sure your closed captioning device is active. If you or someone you know has a visual or hearing impairment, please visit the box office or customer service areas for all the details on how everyone can enjoy the show."
'''Music/Sounds:''' TBA


'''Avalability:''' Began being used in most locations beginning in the late 2010's before the trailers and after the anti-piracy ad.
'''Availability:''' See the 14th opening.


===17th Opening (Summer 2021)===
===7th Opening (Summer 2021-present)===
{{YouTube|id=ZH970U_soNo}}
{{YouTube|id=ZH970U_soNo}}
'''Visuals:''' On a blurred Las Vegas pattern background, the text "WELCOME TO {{font|serif|'''S H O W C A S E'''}} CINEMAS" zoom in. Footage of popcorn popping slides in from the right and a purple bar with text saying "'''WELCOME'''" slides in from the left, covering the Welcome text. Another bar with footage of a close-up of a Coca-Cola glass fizzing which then gets opened up to reveal a person using the Showcase app, tapping on the dark mode feature causing the phone to turn off. Another wipe happens, going to footage of a projector running with text saying "'''RELAX''' wiping in via a line which then gets wiped by another line, transitioning to more text reading "'''& TREAT YOURSELF'''. The sequence then transitions to footage of popcorn popping on one side and a Coca-Cola glass getting Coke poured in it. Both sides then wipe to the Starpass logo (the text {{color|blue|star}}{{color|cyan|pass}} with the a replaced with a star with the fifth side incomplete) on a purple background and the Starpass symbol on a blue background on the left and right respectively. The left side slides down to text reading "'''10% REWARD''' ON VIRTUALLY EVERY PURCHASE WITH (Starpass logo)" on a purple background. It then slides to a Starpass card on the same pattern from the opening, next to the text, "'''SIGN UP TODAY'''". An odd arrow transition appears which zooms in to purple tinted footage of a couple eating popcorn. Text reading "'''SEE MORE MOVIES FOR A LOW MONTHLY RATE''' swipes in from the left via an arrow. It then swipes away to show the Showcase Subscribe logo as text saying "MONTHLY PLANS AVAILIBLE FOR INDIVIDUALS & GROUPS" drops down below. It then wipes to a shot from behind a chair with a females hand putting a Coca-Cola cup in the cupholder next to her. It then transitions to a red screen saying "MOVIES ARE ALWAYS BETTER WITH ICE COLD (Coca-Cola logo)" with the silhouette of a Coke bottle that opens up to reveal a glass with Coke being poured in. It then transitions to the Projector footage from before with the Showcase Cinemas logo in front of it. Bars drop down with footage of audience members enjoying a movie, with text saying "THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING" on the top bar and the URL on the bottom one.
'''Opening:''' TBA


'''Technique:''' Computer graphics.
'''Technique:''' A mix of live action and computer graphics.


'''Audio:''' A DJ Eurobeat theme.
'''Music/Sounds:''' TBA


'''Avalability:''' Began usage in Summer 2021, but some theaters reverted to the 4th or 5th opening. However some theaters like the Showcase Cinema de Lux Springdale location still use this.
'''Availability:''' Extinct.


===Exit Policy (2010's-present)===
==Miscellaneous logos==
{{youtube|id=OZZyfLcZDzE|id2=0PK08MZPtFA}}
===Exit Policy (1980-1990s)===
{{YouTube|id=7fipwsbu0a0|id2=TK3rSOrE6L0|id3=GpAhQcduUQQ|id4=8mrEC4uWvWs|id5=e5kHzNRF_NY}}
'''Logo:''' An image of a theatre auditorium appears, with two images of a woman on the theatre's screen. "EXIT" signs light up to the left and right of the screen.


'''Variants:'''
'''Visuals:'''
*2010's-present: The trailer begins with a view of a Showcase Cinema auditorium as the camera zooms in towards the exit. A green "EXIT" symbol zooms out to highlight the exit sign at the top. Then the camera pans across the theater towards the rear exit and text saying "Exits located at the front and rear of this auditorium" wipes in from the right. When it reaches that point, the text wipes away and the camera stops panning and zooms in towards the exit door and another green "EXIT" symbol zooms out to emphasize the exit sign at the top of the exit door.
*1986: The image is changed. A National Amusements "N" symbol is on the screen, and the EXIT signs light up one at a time.
*December 2022-present: A picture of a modern Showcase Cinema de Lux appears with the Showcase Cinema de Lux logo on the screen. It then cuts to a side view of the auditorium, emphasizing the green exit signs at the side. It the cuts to a different smaller auditorium and then to that auditoriums side view to show the exit signs. It then cuts to a view of the emergency exit door, highlighting a sign reading: <center>'''EMERGENCY<BR>EXIT ONLY<br>{{color|red|THIS DOOR IS <br>ALARMED}}'''</center> before cutting back to the previous shot.
*1989: The image's lighting is changed.
*1992: The image is changed again; an EXIT sign on the right is lit up.


'''Technique:''' Possibly live action. The 1992 version has no movement.
'''Technique:''' A series of still images.


'''Audio:''' Just an announcer saying one of these spiels:
'''Music/Sounds:'''
*2010's-present: "Ladies and gentlemen, in the unlikely event of an emergency, there are exits located at the front and rear of this auditorium. Please note that the exit areas located at the front of this auditorium to left or right of the screen are alarmed and should only be used in the event of an emergency. Thank you." There are 2 variants with a male announcer and female announcer.
*1980-86: "For your convenience when leaving the theatre we suggest you use the exits at the front of the auditorium on either side of the screen. This will allow you easier access to your cars."
*2022-present: Same as before, except at the beginning, the announcer (a deep male in this case) says "Attention all cinemagoers", and some sentences are slightly reworded.
*1986-1990s: "Ladies and gentlemen, please notice that exits are conveniently located at the front and rear of this auditorium. When leaving the theatre we suggest that the exit at the front of the auditorium will allow you easier access to the parking areas. Thank you."
*1992: "Ladies and gentlemen, in the event of an emergency please walk to the nearest exit. Exits are located to the right of the screen and through the auditorium entranceway. Thank you."


'''Availability:''' Shown at locations in between the trailers and either the 4th, 5th, or 7th opening. The second version began usage in December 2022 beginning with screenings of Avatar: The Way of Water, but some theaters still use the original variant.
'''Availability:''' Extinct.


[[Category:Cinema trailers]]
[[Category:Cinema trailers]]
[[Category:United States]]
[[Category:United States]]
[[Category:American cinema logos]]
[[Category:American cinema trailers]]
[[Category:National Amusements, Inc.]]
[[Category:National Amusements, Inc.]]

Latest revision as of 21:42, 2 May 2024



Background

Showcase Cinemas is the primary brand used by cinema chain National Amusements for its operations in the US, Argentina and the UK.

Note:

  • Before 2008, Showcase Cinemas as well as Multiplex Cinemas, Cinema De Lux and KinoStar used the standard NA openings.

1st Opening (1980-1983)


Visuals: On a dark blue space background, a red "S" flies toward the centre of the screen and position itself right-side up. A yellow "S" follows the red letter and positions itself sideways atop the red one. The completed shape the flies to the top of the screen as the word "SHOWCASE" in Broadway, flies down to fill the centre. The word "CINEMAS", in the same font then flies down and positions itself below "SHOWCASE". The text then rotates from front to back-accompanied by a blue flash of light-to reveal the text "FEATURE PRESENTATION". The completed sequence holds for a few seconds before cutting out.

Variants:

  • Three shorter versions start when the double-S symbol has been formed. The rotating Showcase Cinemas text reveals either "COMING ATTRACTIONS", "COMING SOON", or "NOW SHOWING".
  • Another version exists where the double-S is larger and centered and the text only says SHOWCASE. Then, a line flies in close to the screen which then flips up to reveal SNEAK PREVIEW and the double-S and SHOWCASE text fade out.

Technique: CGI, commissioned by Pike Productions and animated by Mathematical Applications Group, Inc.

Audio: A majestic french horn fanfare.

Availability: Used in Showcase Cinema locations during the early 80's.

2nd Opening (1983-1986)


Visuals: Against a black background, a series of blue lights draw a red "R" which promptly explodes as a yellow "R" slides out to take its place. Following the "R" are a pair of trailing outlines reading "REDSTONE". When the words meet up with the "R", they flash against the letter before turning red and filling in. We then see a series of fireworks fly underneath the "R" to spell out "SHOWCASE CINEMAS" (in white and in the same font as before) letter by letter. A blue flash appears behind the logo, and then multicoloured fireworks appear and explode against the background. While this happens, a light wipes in from the left and changes the bottom text to "FEATURE PRESENTATION". The text then flashes one by one as the fireworks disappear as the logo briefly holds before fading out.

Technique: Cel animation by Pike Productions in Boston.

Audio: A loud bombastic rock and roll fanfare composed by Derek Austin titled "Heavy Vinyl" from the JW music library.

Availability: Used in Showcase Cinemas during the mid 80's. This was the final Showcase-branded opening for the next 22 years as Showcase locations would go on to use National Amusements openings.

3rd (known) Opening (2008-2010s)


Visuals: Against a black background, the green words "and now our feature presentation" fade in, alongside a series of line shapes. A series of grey sparks fly onto the screen, and hold themselves in a streaking motion until the spaced-out text "S H O W C A S E" in Clarendon, floats toward the left of the screen above a green bar (which had been forming behind the lines). The lines disappear and are replaced by a smaller set of green lines which similarly streak across the bar. This continues until the logo fades out.

Variant: A variant with the words "Coming Attractions" exists.

Technique: 2D animation.

Audio: A light rock fanfare, ending with a soft percussion fanfare.

Availability: Seen at Showcase-branded theaters beginning in 2008 and was used until sometime in the 2010's in selected theaters as other theaters would begin to use the next opening in 2011. Non-Showcase branded National Amusements theaters would continue to use the final NA opening until 2010.

4th Opening (2011-)


Visuals: On a blue background the text:
and now our
feature presentation
zooms and fades in. After a while a blast happens, causing the text to break apart. The Showcase logo then zooms and fades in the same manner. A few seconds later, another burst happens causing the logo to break in the same manner.

Variant: At Showcase Cinema de Lux locations, said logo replaces the regular logo and takes place on a purple background instead.

Technique: 2D graphics.

Audio: A synth theme.

Availability: Began usage in 2011 and still used at certain locations. Others use either the 5th or 7th open.

5th Opening (Coca-Cola 3D) (2017-)

Visuals: On a white background is "Welcome to Showcase Cinemas". Several pieces of popcorn cover the screen. The popcorn falls down and ice cubes cover the screen. The screen is then drenched in Coca-Cola. A Coca-Cola branded straw drinks it all away, revealing a Showcase Cinema popcorn bag and two Coca-Cola cups. "Enjoy The Show" and Showcase Cinemas and Coca-Cola logos below it appear.

Variant: An alternate Showcase Cinema de Lux-branded version was produced.

Technique: CGI by Mirada. This is slightly modified from a pre-show video originally produced for Carmike Cinemas in 2012.

Audio: Same as the Carmike variant but with two synth themes at the beginning and end.

Avalability: Used at select locations beginning in 2017 following Showcase's transition from Pepsi products to Coke products.

6th Opening (Late 2010s-)

Visuals: The Showcase Cinemas logo in 3D floats on a purple background. After a few seconds, the screen flashes to a "Visual Impairment" sign (a sign with an eye crossed out), it pixelates out and the sign changes to the "Audio Description" symbol (text stylized as AD)))). That then pixelates out to the "Assistive Listening" symbol, and "Closed Captioning" symbol (the text CC). The screen the flashes back to the Showcase Cinemas logo and with text reading:
ALL OUR GUESTS
TO ENJOY THE
MOVIE GOING EXPERIENCE
that appear one by one. The screen the flashes to text saying:
PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOUR
CC


CLOSED CAPTIONING DEVICE IS ACTIVE
with the CC text slightly moving. A lens flare then flashes changing the text to the visual impairment and hearing impairment logos together with the text:
VISUAL OR HEARING
IMPAIRMENT
below. The text then transitions to more text that says:
VISIT THE BOX OFFICE OR
CUSTOMER SERVICE AREA
FOR DETAILS
that appears one by one. The screen then flashes one last time to the Showcase logo again and text reading
EVERYONE CAN
ENJOY THE SHOW
below. The URL is below.

Technique: CGI.

Audio: An elevator-esque theme with faint woosh sounds during flashes. This is accompanied with a male announcer saying "At Showcase Cinemas, we proudly offer visual impairment enhancement, audio description, assistive listening and closed captioning technology, that enables all of our guests to enjoy the movie going experience. Please take a moment now to make sure your closed captioning device is active. If you or someone you know has a visual or hearing impairment, please visit the box office or customer service areas for all the details on how everyone can enjoy the show."

Avalability: Began being used in most locations beginning in the late 2010's before the trailers and after the anti-piracy ad.

7th Opening (Summer 2021-present)

Visuals: On a blurred Las Vegas pattern background, the text "WELCOME TO S H O W C A S E CINEMAS" zoom in. Footage of popcorn popping slides in from the right and a purple bar with text saying "WELCOME" slides in from the left, covering the Welcome text. Another bar with footage of a close-up of a Coca-Cola glass fizzing which then gets opened up to reveal a person using the Showcase app, tapping on the dark mode feature causing the phone to turn off. Another wipe happens, going to footage of a projector running with text saying "RELAX wiping in via a line which then gets wiped by another line, transitioning to more text reading "& TREAT YOURSELF. The sequence then transitions to footage of popcorn popping on one side and a Coca-Cola glass getting Coke poured in it. Both sides then wipe to the Starpass logo (the text starpass with the a replaced with a star with the fifth side incomplete) on a purple background and the Starpass symbol on a blue background on the left and right respectively. The left side slides down to text reading "10% REWARD ON VIRTUALLY EVERY PURCHASE WITH (Starpass logo)" on a purple background. It then slides to a Starpass card on the same pattern from the opening, next to the text, "SIGN UP TODAY". An odd arrow transition appears which zooms in to purple tinted footage of a couple eating popcorn. Text reading "SEE MORE MOVIES FOR A LOW MONTHLY RATE swipes in from the left via an arrow. It then swipes away to show the Showcase Subscribe logo as text saying "MONTHLY PLANS AVAILIBLE FOR INDIVIDUALS & GROUPS" drops down below. It then wipes to a shot from behind a chair with a females hand putting a Coca-Cola cup in the cupholder next to her. It then transitions to a red screen saying "MOVIES ARE ALWAYS BETTER WITH ICE COLD (Coca-Cola logo)" with the silhouette of a Coke bottle that opens up to reveal a glass with Coke being poured in. It then transitions to the Projector footage from before with the Showcase Cinemas logo in front of it. Bars drop down with footage of audience members enjoying a movie, with text saying "THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING" on the top bar and the URL on the bottom one.

Technique: A mix of live action and computer graphics.

Audio: A DJ Eurobeat theme.

Avalability: Began usage in Summer 2021, but some theaters reverted to the 4th or 5th opening. However some theaters like the Showcase Cinema de Lux Springdale location still use this.

Exit Policy (2010's-present)


Visuals:

  • 2010's-present: The trailer begins with a view of a Showcase Cinema auditorium as the camera zooms in towards the exit. A green "EXIT" symbol zooms out to highlight the exit sign at the top. Then the camera pans across the theater towards the rear exit and text saying "Exits located at the front and rear of this auditorium" wipes in from the right. When it reaches that point, the text wipes away and the camera stops panning and zooms in towards the exit door and another green "EXIT" symbol zooms out to emphasize the exit sign at the top of the exit door.
  • December 2022-present: A picture of a modern Showcase Cinema de Lux appears with the Showcase Cinema de Lux logo on the screen. It then cuts to a side view of the auditorium, emphasizing the green exit signs at the side. It the cuts to a different smaller auditorium and then to that auditoriums side view to show the exit signs. It then cuts to a view of the emergency exit door, highlighting a sign reading:
    EMERGENCY
    EXIT ONLY
    THIS DOOR IS
    ALARMED
    before cutting back to the previous shot.

Technique: A series of still images.

Audio: Just an announcer saying one of these spiels:

  • 2010's-present: "Ladies and gentlemen, in the unlikely event of an emergency, there are exits located at the front and rear of this auditorium. Please note that the exit areas located at the front of this auditorium to left or right of the screen are alarmed and should only be used in the event of an emergency. Thank you." There are 2 variants with a male announcer and female announcer.
  • 2022-present: Same as before, except at the beginning, the announcer (a deep male in this case) says "Attention all cinemagoers", and some sentences are slightly reworded.

Availability: Shown at locations in between the trailers and either the 4th, 5th, or 7th opening. The second version began usage in December 2022 beginning with screenings of Avatar: The Way of Water, but some theaters still use the original variant.

Retrieved from "https://www.avid.wiki/Draft:Showcase_Cinemas?oldid=859300"
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