Photos: Justin Films
Justin Atkinson’s documentary film Let’s All Go to the Lobby honors a piece of cinematic history.
As a child, Justin Atkinson spent many cherished evenings at local theaters like Vali-Hi Drive-In, but his attention wasn’t solely on the featured presentation. “Vali-Hi was like a time machine for me,” Atkinson says. “As a kid, sitting in the car with popcorn and soda, watching those charming intermission clips, I felt completely transported. That’s where my love of storytelling and cinema really took root.”
The intermission clips were produced by the company Filmack Studios and encapsulate a level of showmanship Atkinson found compelling, even at an early age. “They taught me how powerful visuals and music could be, even in just 30 seconds,” he says.
Filmack Studios intermission clips were featured prominently in Atkinson’s first film, Bobby’s Intermission, which he describes as a love letter to growing up going to Vali-Hi Drive-In. Now, Atkinson is working on his second project, Lets All Go to the Lobby, which details the history of Filmack Studios and its iconic intermission clips.
We sat down with Atkinson to learn more about the movie and his crowdfunding campaign to finance it.
What kinds of visuals, interviews or old footage can audiences expect to see?
JA: We’re blending interviews with third-generation Filmack [Studios] owner Robbie Mack, filmmakers and drive-in owners with a treasure trove of vintage intermission trailers, drive-in footage and behind-the-scenes photos. We’re also recreating some of the original production techniques to give viewers a visual sense of how those iconic animations were made. It’s going to be both a historical deep dive and a fun trip down memory lane.
What are some particular moments in Filmack’s history that the movie will cover?
JA: We’ll explore the studio’s founding in 1919, its pivotal role in cinema advertising and the cultural phenomenon of the 1950s intermission trailers. One standout story is how Filmack’s Refreshment Countdown Clock was featured prominently in the classic Hollywood musical Grease. We’ll also touch on how Filmack [Studios] adapted to changes in the industry and where things stand today.
Can you walk us through what audiences should expect from the film?
JA: Audiences can expect a heartfelt, visually rich documentary that combines historical research with pop culture nostalgia. The film will celebrate the artistry and legacy of Filmack [Studios] while also reflecting on how movie theaters and intermissions brought people together. It’s informative, but it’s also warm and fun—just like the trailers themselves.
You’re running an Indiegogo campaign to help fund Let’s All Go to the Lobby. What kind of support are you hoping to generate from fans of drive-ins and old cinema culture?
JA: We’re hoping to tap into that deep sense of nostalgia and love for classic moviegoing. Support can come in many forms—backing the film financially, sharing the project on social media or even just spreading the word to fellow fans. We want this to be a community effort, fueled by people who remember the magic of intermissions and want to keep that spirit alive.
What do you think audiences will take away from this film?
JA: I hope they walk away with a renewed appreciation for the artistry and heart behind something as seemingly simple as an intermission trailer. These films were handcrafted, full of character and deeply tied to the way we experienced movies. Whether you’re a lifelong movie buff or just love a good nostalgic story, I think this film will remind you of the joy of going to the movies—and why that matters.
Learn more about the crowdfunding effort and how you can support Let’s All Go to the Lobby here. The campaign is live until May 22.
Bobby’s Intermission is now streaming on Prime Video.
Justin Films
Facebook: Justin Films
Instagram: @justinfilmsllc; @letsallgottothelobbymovie
