6 Unique, Historic Shanghai Theaters to Catch a Film

Shanghai has always loved the glamour of film, and the 1930s was considered the first golden period of Chinese cinema, with people from all walks of life flocking to theaters to watch them in gorgeous buildings around the city. In fact, a 1934 survey found Shanghai had 53 cinemas, more than any other city in Asia, and eighth in the world. Today, the city still loves its movies, and there are a huge number of modern complexes replete with 4D technology and Dolby surround sound playing some great flicks. However, these six cinemas harken back to a more glamorous time, when going to a movie was a special event to be savored.
Xinguang Cinema (新光影艺苑)
Cinema, Theater
Zhejiang Theater (浙江电影院)
Building, Cinema, Theater
Cathay Theatre (上海国泰电影院)
Cinema, Theater
Stellar International Complex (星美国际影城)
Cinema, Theater
Grand Cinema (大光明电影院)
Building, Cinema
The Grand Cinema opened its doors on June 14, 1933, with the Hollywood movie Hell Below, and immediately become one of the most popular entertainment venues in town, screening movies produced by 20th Century Fox and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. It was also one of the first theaters to offer simultaneous translation services for the films that were in English.
In 2007, the Grand Cinema underwent a massive renovation to help restore the interior to its former beauty, which suffered during the Cultural Revolution era and the building frenzy during the ’90s. Today, curious passersby can wander up the terrace staircase and check out the mysterious “Hudec symbols” scattered around the floor, which are rumored to be pieces of the word Hudec. Movie buffs will find the original Screen One (which seats more than 1,500 people), along with five newer rooms that offer surround sound.
Hengshan Cinema (SFC上影 新衡山店)
Building, Cinema, Movie Theater, Theater
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