Churches book theater for film

The management at Cinema III had to book "The Passion of The Christ" for four straight weeks to be able to bring it to McCook on its official release date Wednesday, Feb. 25, but anticipates a sellout crowd at the 7 p.m. showing.

"We've had two churches in the area already purchase the theater for special matinee showings," said Dan Smith, theater manager.

The theater seats 167.

The movie, produced and directed by Mel Gibson has generated controversy in the months preceding its release, with the accusation that its message is anti-Semitic leading the criticisms.

Smith, who will preview the movie Tuesday upon arrival, is anxious to see what all the controversy is about.

"The first showing is nearly half sold out with advance tickets," said Smith, who has quit taking advance orders so as to allow the general public to attend.

"We'll be offering a second showing at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday," he added.