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Cinemas in Bangkok
Undeniably one of the greatest and most-enjoyed forms of entertainment, cinema-going offers an experience ideal for the whole family. Let's face it, nothing comes close to sharing popcorn while watching the latest offering from Hollywood. Home to the best and biggest cinemas in this region, Bangkok is becoming a hub for modern 'cineplexes', where sleek bowling alleys as well as modish karaoke facilities are often included.
Most cinemas in Bangkok are located in shopping malls, and are dominated by the Major Cineplex company, which owns the Major Cineplex, EGV, Paragon Cineplex at Siam Paragon and Thailand's only IMAX theatre. The second biggest operator is SF Cinema City, with branches at leading shopping malls like MBK Centre and the Emporium. Smaller chains include Apex in Siam Square, Thana Cineplex, Major Hollywood and UMG.
Ticket prices range from around 70 baht to up to 160 baht (depending on the time of day, the day of the week, the seat, the location of the theatre and the movie being screened). Generally, the price for a new-release film costs 120 baht. For those who want to experience the ultimate comfort, go for 'VIP' cinemas/seats (prices range from 300 to 500 baht) for extra leg room, fully-inclined sofa as well as a pillow and a pair of socks!
Seating is assigned by ticket number, which audience members make their choice of seating on a computer screen at the box office. Showtimes of each film can be found in English newspapers like the Bangkok Post or the Nation. The most important thing to be aware of when you attend the cinema in Thailand is that you will be required to rise for the Royal Anthem in honour of His Majesty King and the Royal family before the movie starts.
Language and Subtitles
In central Bangkok and touristy cities like Chiang Mai, Pattaya and Phuket, foreign films (such as Hollywood releases) have the original soundtrack (or 'soundtrack') with Thai sub-titles. Major cinemas playing Thai and other Asian films usually provide English subtitles. Check with the cinema first to avoid disappointment.
Where to go:
Apex:
The Apex Group includes Lido, Scala and Siam theatres (all located in Siam Square area). These theatres were built in the late 1960s and have changed little since. The venues are generally less crowded than other cinemas in Bangkok, so it's usually possible to obtain the desired seating just minutes before the showtime. The Apex cinemas not only show Hollywood films, but also many art films. Among the events exclusive to the Apex is the annual Little Big Film Project, in which a series of foreign independent films are shown over the course of several weeks.
Century Movie Plaza
The best cinema in the Victory Monument area, Century Movie Plaza features not only eight cinema screens, but also food courts, a shopping arcade and karaoke zone.
Location: Soi Rang Nam, Victory Monument (BTS Victory Monument station)
EGV & Major Cineplex
Both feature normal cinemas as well as 'VIP' ones. The most accessible branch for EGV is the Grand EGV at Siam Discovery Centre. For Major Cineplex, go to CentralWord.
House RCA
A refuge for lovers of art/indie films, House RCA may be humble in its size but the tasteful design and a home-like atmosphere definitely make up for it. (RCA is also home to Bangkok's one and only PTT Speedway Go-Karts.)
Location: 31/8 Royal City Avenue (MRT Petchaburi station, take Exit 1 and then grab a taxi to TOPS supermarket in RCA)
Paragon Cineplex
Covering a total area of 25,000 square metres, Paragon Cineplex comprises a 14-screen multiplex movie theater, IMAX theater (perfect for the kids), luxurious Nokia Ultra Screen and the spacious 1,200-seat Siam Pavalai.
Location: 5th Floor Siam Paragon
Nokia Ultra Screens at Paragon Cineplex
The timeless tradition of cinema-going takes on a whole new dimension at the Nokia Ultra Screen Cineplex at Siam Paragon. Welcome to the ultimate cinematic experience that is guaranteed to dazzle you and your date with unmatched luxury, exceptional comfort and world-class technology. Seemingly designed to intensify the passion of lovers, the Nokia Ultra Galleria is tinged with sexy crimson and ceiling-to-floor chiffon creating an illusion of an exotic hideaway. You will be welcomed with complimentary soft drinks and a snack, then invited to have a free preview massage at the Pranali Wellness Spa booth located inside the Galleria. You can also further indulge in the nifty massage chairs - known as the iSqueez - equipped with various set modes to suit every aching need.
The cinema is spacious with 'block seats' ensuring maximum privacy intended solely for uninterrupted 'movie discussion'. The seats go completely horizontal at a simple flick of a button, and they are highly counteractive to your ability to stay awake during the movie. Upon settling in to your 'bed', you're offered a pillow and blanket for extra comfort. Popcorn and drinks can conveniently be ordered directly from inside the cinema, and will be delivered straight to your lap before the previews begin.
With the latest digital technology at work - both in terms of surround sound and screen quality - you're bound to be transported into another world in no time.
Where: 5th Floor, Siam Paragon (BTS Siam)
Admission: 600 baht per person
Krungsri IMAX
'See More, Hear More, Feel More' sums up everything Krungsri IMAX has to offer. It's the ultimate movie experience with an eight storeys-high crystal clear image, digital surround sound, and the special IMAX 3D goggles that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Experience the adventure, drama and emotion of some of your favourite movies with the extraordinary visual clarity and sound quality.
IMAX takes you on unforgettable journeys of Hollywood offerings such as The Polar Express, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and The Matrix Revolutions, to name but a few. Not only entertaining, IMAX is also educational as excellent documentaries like the Everest, Into the Deep, Space Station, and the Panda Adventure are featured. Technically advanced and visually stunning, the IMAX Experience is the world's most powerful and immersive movie experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Location: 5th Floor, Siam Paragon
Contact: +66 (0)2 129 4631
SF Cinema City
SF Cinema has branches conveniently located on the top floor of MBK Center and the Emporium.
More Nightlife in Asia:
Malaysia Nightlife: Kuala Lumpur Nightlife, Langkawi Nightlife, Malacca NightlifeHong Kong Nightlife
Indonesia Nightlife: Jakarta Nightlife, Bali Nightlife, Bintan Island Nightlife
India Nightlife: Mumbai Nightlife, New Delhi Nightlife
More Asia Nightlife: Beijing Nightlife, Shanghai Nightlife, Hong Kong Nightlife, Singapore Nightlife, Hanoi Nightlife, Saigon Nightlife, Siem Reap Nightlife




