The best theatres in Mumbai

What is it? Opened in 1933, Regal Cinema’s a historic single-screen picture palace, and an inevitable, pivotal landmark in the history of Mumbai cinema. It’s also the first Art Deco cinema, marking a significant shift from the predominant Gothic and Indo-Saracenic styles of the era.

Why go? It’s a privilege and pleasure to experience cinema in a setting that transports you back to the golden age of film. Nostalgia kicks in too, especially when you learn that Regal was the first cinema in India fitted with air-conditioning, an elevator, and underground parking.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the bas-relief heads representing Comedy and Tragedy on the facade, or the iconic landmarks nearby, including the Gateway of India and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. 

Address: Colaba Causeway, opposite Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

What is it? A UNESCO World Heritage site and Art Deco cinema located in the heart of Churchgate. Originally opened in 1938, the structure itself – known as the Cambata Building – has reopened after extensive preservation efforts as a state-of-the-art cinematic venue. 

Why go? To witness the spectacular blend of history and modernity. The building’s stepped facade and grand lobby, with striking black and white marble and chromium railings, have been meticulously preserved. Watching a film here means experiencing cinema in a luxurious, historical setting, now enhanced with modern technology, including a large IMAX screen.

Time Out tip: The Eros building’s design is famously likened to a majestic ocean liner, referencing Mumbai’s port identity. Stand across the street to appreciate the full impact.

Address: Cambata Building, 42, Maharshi Karve Rd, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020

What is it? An Art Deco heritage movie theatre that originally opened in 1938, built and run by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). While it once housed a massive single screen, it’s been since renovated into a six-screen multiplex.

Why go? While the renovation’s added all modern amenities you could possibly want and need, it’s been careful to preserve the original Art Deco interiors, including the marble foyer, staircases, and the general old-world charm, making it a spectacular setting for viewing mainstream films. 

Time Out tip: Look for the subtle MGM lion motif in the preserved elements of the lobby, which is a quiet nod to its Hollywood origins. 

Address: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Dhobi Talao, New Marine Lines, Junction, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020

What is it: A single-screen cinema which opened in 1958. More importantly – a cultural icon, famously home to the longest-running theatrical release in Indian History: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), which has been screened here daily for the last thirty years. 

Why go: Going to see DDLJ’s akin to a cultish ritual. It offers a rare glimpse into the ‘theatre of the masses’ – the audience will cheer, clap, and recite dialogues in unison. And besides DDLJ, the theatre remains a primary venue for major Bhojpuri and Hindi mass-entertainment releases. 

Time Out tip: Catch the iconic 11:30 AM matinee show of DDLJ for a fraction of the cost of a standard movie ticket, ₹30 for a dress circle ticket and ₹50 for a seat in the balcony.

What is it: Sterling Cineplex (formerly Sterling Cinema) is a trailblazing South Mumbai institution opened in 1969 that redefined the city’s movie-going culture. It was the first cinema in India to introduce Dolby Surround Sound, Xenon projectors, and most importantly for snack lovers, caramel popcorn. In 2007, it evolved from a massive single-screen theatre into a sleek, three-screen cineplex, becoming the first in the country to be THX Certified, ensuring audiences hear the film exactly as the director intended.

Why go: It carries a legacy of being the heart of English entertainment in Mumbai. For decades, it was the only place to catch late-night Hollywood blockbusters. The vibe here is a unique blend of modern comfort and college nostalgia, largely because it has served generations of students from nearby St. Xavier's and Elphinstone. Even after its multiplex makeover, it has kept its soul, offering a premium audio-visual experience without the sky-high prices of typical luxury malls.

Time Out tip: Try and catch a show in Auditorium 1, it’s the grandest and offers the best experience among the three screens.

Address: 65, Murzban Rd, Azad Maidan, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001