Loew’s Jersey. Sure, nostalgia may draw you in: the glow of marquee lights, the rumbling thrill of the ‘Wonder Morton’ organ, an entire showcase full of ephemera found under the original seats. There are enough marble columns, mosaic tile, and grand staircases to impress any picture palace fan. However, it’s the massive screen, the smooth projection, and (perhaps the major factor) the carbon arc projectors that assure your return.
Loew’s Jersey and its Journal Square neighborhood have seen hard times, but this icon of a once-prosperous metropolis has been sustained by a solid, supportive community. Volunteers take your tickets, run the concession stand, and renovate the theater. Executive Director Colin Egan positions himself in the lobby to welcome regulars and answer questions. Meanwhile, it’s clear that the projection staff love their work: you may have seen M*A*S*H on 35mm, but it’s rarely looked – or felt – this good.
Loew’s Jersey, carbon arc projection
Loew’s Jersey projectionist with his “baby”
Loew’s Jersey
Loew’s Jersey, original Vitaphone disc storage cabinet
Loew’s Jersey carbons
Loew’s Jersey, carbons taking a break after a workout screening a gorgeous print of M*A*S*H
