Is there a happy ever after for cinema operators?

As they emerge from the pandemic, Singapore’s cinemas hope to draw back the crowds with a greater focus on alternative programming and premium experiences.

Add BT as a preferred source

Paige Lim

Published Fri, Mar 10, 2023 · 03:00 PM

Cinemas here are tapping growing demand for premium experiences, screening formats such as Imax and 3D as well as luxurious viewing environments. PHOTO: JULIAN THENG
A screengrab from k-pop concert film BTS: Yet to Come in Cinemas, which was screened in theatres here in February 2023. PHOTO: GOLDEN VILLAGE

DeeperDive is a beta AI feature. Refer to full articles for the facts.

WHEN Covid-19 struck in 2020, some wondered if it would sound the death knell for cinemas. Theatres across the world had to shut or run at reduced capacity for months. Streaming services reached their peak, entertaining millions stuck at home during lockdowns.

Today, with Covid curbs lifted, the buzz has returned to theatres. Star-studded gala premieres are back. Yet the pandemic’s impact on cinemas, including in Singapore, has been undeniable.

Cinemas have lost favour with mall operators as anchor tenants. In early 2022, Filmgarde Cineplexes shut its cinemas at Bugis+ and Century Square, retaining only its Kallang location. In June, mainboard-listed mm2 Asia announced the closure of its historic Cathay Cineplex at Handy Road, as part of “cost rationalisation for its cinema operations”.

Decoding Asia newsletter: your guide to navigating Asia in a new global order. Sign up here to get Decoding Asia newsletter. Delivered to your inbox. Free.

Brunch Movies mm2 asia Covid-19

Reuse this content Feedback

TRENDING NOW

Air India has been one of the foreign carriers most affected by the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East.

Air India asks Tata, Singapore Airlines for funds after US$2.4 billion loss

In this economy, the smartest bets might no longer be sitting an ocean away, but are waiting right here at home.

‘Boring’ is the new black: The stars are aligning for a Singapore stock market revival

Malaysia Madani, or Civil Malaysia, is Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's slogan encapsulating positive values (such as humanity and strong governance) that would shape policy direction. But the "corporate mafia" claims have now cast the spotlight on governance credibility.

From 1MDB to ‘corporate mafia’: Is Malaysia facing a new governance test?

Malaysia ranks 23rd globally on the Milken Institute’s global opportunity index.

South-east Asian markets account for 8.8% of global capital inflows from 2021 to 2024: report