The forecourt of Grauman's Chinese Theatre hosts handprints of Hollywood royalty from Marilyn Monroe to Robert Pattinson. But after years of wear, some of the most iconic imprints—such as Groucho Marx's—may be moved to more protected spots, says the theater's co-owner. Meanwhile, the tourist destination is facing criticism over some of its recent acquisitions, the Los Angeles Times notes. This year saw more additions than any year since 1927. But do Alvin and the Chipmunks really deserve a spot near Clark Gable?
These days, the process is "driven entirely by what is hot at this moment, publicity and money," says a film critic. But there's a distinction, says co-owner Donald Kushner: The Chipmunks and the Smurfs aren't "going in the forecourt. They weren't real ceremonies—they were mock ceremonies." (Studios pay about $45,000 for the publicity, according to one insider.) Those prints will likely head to nearby Chinese 6 theaters, says Kushner. As for the more prestigious forecourt, it may soon move beyond just cinema, adding athletes' and musicians' prints. (More film stories.)
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