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CINEMA DOOR
This fire exit door from the local cinema is perhaps rather drab, but it has a magnificent surround. As part of an Art Deco building it exhibits the full exuberance of the 1930’s style.
The tarnished but expensive brass letterbox might suggest that the door once had a more important role but now it is a mundane side exit. It is painted a low key colour probably to ensure that it is rarely noticed. But thought has gone into centering the letterbox and placing it vertically on the door. However the crude handle, the obligatory safety notice along with the ill placed lock imply that these more prestigious times may have passed.
The surrounding framework and the tiered steps have recently been restored. The doorsteps decrease as each layer rises above the last, a typical feature of the Deco style. They serve to lead the eye from all directions up and in the direction of the door. The frame is generous giving the opening both breadth and depth. The size and dynamic design of canopy would suggest an expensive building. However, both features are made from brick and covered with a cheap cement render to simulate a stone surround. These elements are part of the overall scheme which is designed to project the image of a grand building, perhaps a temple, dedicated to the entertainment of the people.
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