There have been many changes since the first edition of this publication appeared in 1984. In addition to the closure of many more local cinemas, there has been the growth of the multiplexes so the picture is not entirely black.

Almost all of the old movie houses in Hertfordshire have disappeared or been altered beyond of all recognition, but this book recalls and describes each of them, town by town. Covered is a representative sample of British movie theatres from the earliest to the multiplex, with compelling anecdotes about going to the pictures in them. Also recorded is the triumphant arrival of the country's newer multiplex cinemas, providing a complete and lavishly illustrated guide to all Hertfordshire's places of film entertainment, past and present.