Meet Mike Perkins, principal product developer
We’re all about bringing innovative, reliable cinema solutions to movie theaters around the world. Whether it’s our advanced cinema projectors or mind-blowing immersive sound, we’re here to help make those unforgettable movie moments happen.
But the real magic? It’s the team behind the scenes—people who are truly passionate about movies and all the tech that makes them great. These folks live and breathe cinema.
In this occasional series, we’ll find out what makes cinema so special to them.
Who am I?
Mike Perkins, principal product developer
What is cinema to me?
Cinema is the sharing of stories. So are books and TV. For me, what differentiates cinema is the audience. When you’re in a theatre you get to share the experience. A scary movie is ten times scarier when a room full of people all scream at the same time. When those same people laugh as one, it’s that much funnier.
What do I like to watch?
I’m a lifelong fan of science fiction, fantasy, and comic books. Give me “Star Wars,” the “Marvel Cinematic Universe,” and the “Lord of the Rings,” and I’m in heaven.
Having said that, my favorite film is “Casablanca”. Anyone who knows the history of this film knows it shouldn’t have been a classic. The cast and crew treated it like it was just another movie of the week. Filming started before the script was complete. And yet they were professionals and they put their all into it. Not because they were creating “the greatest movie of all time” but because it was their job, and that is what you do.
Out of that came a perfect gem. Brilliant dialog, iconic scenes, beautiful cinematography, and every actor created a distinct and memorable character. I have watched it 100 times, and plan to watch it 100 more.
“Here’s looking at you, kid”.
Mike recently accepted a Scientific and Engineering Award from the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for the design and development of the Christie® E3LH Dolby Vision Cinema Projection System, which delivers a massive increase in contrast and black levels when compared to a typical cinema projector.
Read more about the award winning projection system below!