Grindhouse

The theater has seen better days
A tony breed of clientele
Elegance as the lights went down
Respectful silence for the silver screen

All the classics to be seen
"Gone With the Wind," and beyond
The audience all too polite
Restrained applause when credits roll

Years later it became a dump
The crowd wild and vociferous
Loud when a favorite star appeared
Not Olivier, but Sly Stallone

The seats were tattered to the springs
Floor sticky with bubble gum
Ornate lighting looking dim
The film jittered. projection whacked

The flicks were an acquired taste
"Beyond the Valley of the Dolls"
Kung fu with "chop socky" flair
"Ms. 45" quick on the draw

But grindhouses are mostly condemned
Replaced by the shopping malls
The fevered crowds now turned away
DVDs now set to play