Customer Reviews

Theatres of Oakland (Images of America)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Mr. Tillmany, drumming up business for his books, put me onto this terrific book (and its companion volume regarding San Francisco theatres).

The book is well-balanced with knowledgeable text and many great photos of theatres, mostly from bygone days, and some from when those moviehouses hit the skids.

Although I've never been to Oakland or San Francisco, the bittersweet pang of nostalgia was undeniable. Ever since I watched my first theatrical movie ("Destination Moon") at the Ritz in Big Spring, TX, I've been a gluttonous movie fan.

So, thanks, Mr. Tillmany, for the loving preparation that you (and your cohort) gave to this book and the San Francisco book. I treasure both books.

--Preston Allison

I just finished reading The Theatres of Oakland cover to cover. I had no idea that the authors had uncovered so many wonderful historical details about so many theatres that are now only dimly remembered. Most theatre books just dismiss these theatres with just a sentence or two, whereas they give a real glimpse of the period and history of the neighborhoods and theatres. Really makes me want to read more beyond the boundaries of Oakland. Berkeley, Alameda, Richmond and many other East Bay cities would be a great addition.

Enjoyed the pictures of the old movie houses of my younger years. I never thought I would ever see a picture of our 1940s West Oakland Star Theatre. There it was. . . A brief history of its origins and end fate. Similar treatment for tons of other neighborhood houses. Lots of historic details on the more lavish downtown movie houses like the Paramount and the Fox Oakland. (Both now fully restores to their past glories) Fun.

I really liked this book. The Images of America series is chock full of history, and for me, memories. It's well put together and every page shows the beauty and glitz that no longer exists. The thrill of going "to the theatre" as a child, is brought back to life within this book.

This is good book about the Oakland theatres and a fine companion piece to "Theatres of San Francisco" by the same author.