Write a 250 word essay, win a movie theater (No, SERIOUSLY)

Got a way with words? A passion for the silver screen? Well, those two qualities and $100 may be all you need to change your life this year.

Mike Hurley, owner of the two-screen Temple Theatre in Houlton, Maine, has decided it’s time to move on with his career, and his loss might be your incredible gain. Instead of putting the historic theater on the market, Hurley has decided to hold an essay contest with the winner getting the deed to the movie palace.

According to Hurley, the 250-word essays will be judged on several criteria, including “…writing structure, content, quality of expression (and) creativity.” All essays should explain why the entrant would be the best new owner for the theater.

There are a few catches. First of all, that entry fee may seem pretty steep, but it’s understandable as this is what Hurley will receive in lieu of a sale. But even putting down the dough doesn’t guarantee you a shot; Hurley can’t afford to pay up with the theater without a minimum of 3500 entries. No sweat on missing out because of the minimum, however. Hurley says all entry fees will be returned if the minimum isn’t met.

What can you expect from your new business if you win? According to the owner, the Temple Theatre is a bargain that profitably serves its local community. Speaking to CNN, Hurley claims he did better than breaking even on the theater, and that the owner could afford a “”very comfortable lifestyle” in the nearby area. Moreover, the contest winnings include not only the theater, but the entire building, a large parking lot, and $25,000 in cash to cover your start-up expenses.

The town of Houlton itself boasts over 6400 residents, and a chilly climate (and 83 inches of snow per year) that makes the warm glow of a movie theater sound awfully appealing. It served as a German internment camp during World War II, and was the site of one of the first transatlantic telephone antennas. Sounds like there’s quite a bit of local history to inform your movie selections, Potential New Owner!

Check out the video below for more information:

(Image via YouTube)