Finding the Right Use for Academy’s Funds

It was gratifying to read that the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences is planning to build a museum to the art form (Feb. 3). I would like to suggest the following: The Bob Hope International Museum of Entertainment, to be built on top of Mt. Lee, above the Hollywood sign, where there are now various transmission towers. This just might be the finest location in all of Southern California, with unmatched views.

What if Frank Gehry were to design a museum that would offer space to all forms of entertainment -- from music, dance, theater, movies and television to circuses, magic and comedy? From the beginnings of theater, early musical instruments and sleight of hand to modern dance and future technologies? It would be the Smithsonian of entertainment. There is no place in the world better suited to a museum like this than L.A., and we all know there should be a comprehensive museum for the film industry.

William Bergmann

Hollywood

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It’s nice to hear that the Academy is “flush with funds” and plans to build a $200-million film museum. But I wonder if its millions might be put to better use.

For a modest sum, the academy could buy and operate the Silent Movie Theatre on Fairfax Avenue, the only such theater in the world. It’s a historic site, recently restored and currently for sale. Saving the theater would clearly be a more worthwhile project than building a glitzy palace. And the remaining millions could be spent on film restoration. Ted Turner and Hugh Hefner have generously contributed to this worthy cause. It’s time the academy stepped up to the plate and did its share, before we lose a priceless heritage.

John Apostolou

Los Angeles