Mason City's Arlee Theater to offer open caption films on Friday nights

 

[August 12, 2022] 

After very careful consideration following online feedback as well as in-person conversations with guests recently, Arlee Theater management in Mason City has decided to test the waters by offering open captioned shows on Fridays until further notice. This means that movie dialog will appear in text at the bottom of the screen, in addition to the normal audio. This is to accommodate the needs of some movie-goers. Most digital movies now offer this option, which can be provided with advance preparations. There is still the occasional movie which is not formatted with the open caption feature so those movies will be the exception.

“Many guests have expressed appreciation for this feature that allows them to understand the movie better,” said Gaye Maxson of the Arlee. “Sometimes it is difficult to understand what is said by characters with accents and sometimes the movie has loud background music that overpowers what is being said.
 

"With open caption, guests can read the dialog as they watch and listen to the movie. We are not aware of any other theater in the area which offers open captions during prime hours.”

Saturday, Sunday and Monday shows will continue as they have been, with the traditional movie presentation.

Closed captioned devices are available by request from the Arlee concession stand, as well as assistive listening devices, for all shows.

[Gaye Maxson]