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Bangkok’s 107-year-old wooden cinema returns with free classic film nights this May

Screen ‘The Scar’ and ‘Roman Holiday’ in a classic romance film programme on May 23-24 at Sala Chaloem Thani

Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Written by
Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Senior Staff Writer, Time Out Thailand
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Photograph: thaifilmarchive
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Tucked away in Nang Loeng, Sala Chaloem Thani keeps its quiet winning streak going. Since reopening last year, the 107-year-old wooden cinema has earned a loyal following with sharp programming, free entry and a charm that never tries too hard. This May, it's rewinding the clock again with a double bill.

Curated by the Thai Film Archive, the ‘Classic Love’ programme pairs a Thai classic with a Hollywood favourite, both projected in a setting that suits them perfectly: creaky floors, filtered light and a sense of history that sticks around in every corner.

thaifilmarchive
Photograph: thaifilmarchive

Saturday, May 23 – The Scar (1977)

Cherd Songsri's adaptation of Ya Khop's novel still cuts deep. The story follows Phluen and Phraeng, caught in a rural love triangle that turns tender moments sour. Lush, tragic and unmistakably Thai, it remains a benchmark for romantic drama decades on.

Paramount
Photograph: Paramount

Sunday, May 24 – Roman Holiday (1953) 

Directed by William Wyler and starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, this one never loses its sparkle. A runaway princess swaps royal duties for a day on the streets of Rome, crossing paths with a journalist who senses a story. What follows? Light, charming and quietly poignant.

Screenings start at 4pm, with free tickets handed out from 3pm on a first-come basis. Doors open from 1pm for anyone keen to wander, take photos or simply sit with the building for a while.

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