The best cinemas in Singapore

For immersive IMAX

Shaw Lido boasts the biggest IMAX theatre in Singapore, all the better for you to get lost in the latest blockbuster. Though not a true IMAX theatre, it was upgraded in 2022 to a next generation laser projection system, so you can bet on superb colour and resolution for the Dunes, Avatars and Oppenheimers of the world. Shaw's IMAX theatre also has stadium seating, specially arranged so you get that great immersive feel wherever you're seated. 

For a jumbo screen

If you're not down to pay the price for IMAX, you can still enjoy your movie on a super big screen at Vivocity's GV Max. Simp over your favourite actor or actress blown up to high-resolution on the 22.4 metre-wide screen. Bonus: the GV Max theatre is outfitted with Dolby Atmos so you can hear every dulcet word. All. Around. You. 

For spectacular sound

Other than the familiar Dolby Atmos sound system, there's also the Auro 11.1 by Barco deployed at Golden Village Suntec City. Catch every whisper, rustle, and melody in immersive surround sound. The cinema halls are clean and the seats are comfortable, plus, you're not likely to see huge crowds unlike cinemas that are more centrally located. 

For a family-friendly fun

Before tucking the little cherubs in bed for some sweet dreams, treat them to the latest family blockbusters at Shaw Theatres Dreamers. Specially designed for families, the cinema makes you feel right at home with spacious seats, colourful wall murals, and bean bags at the front of the hall for an extra comfy experience. It also comes complete with soft lighting and audio setting so you don’t have to worry about being in complete darkness or those loud action scenes that might startle those little ears. Each adult ticket (from $9) also allows you to bring one child under 90cm for free. Otherwise, tickets start from $5 for under 13-year-olds. Read our full list of kid-friendly cinemas in Singapore. 

For delicious popcorn

Cathay Cineplexes have a good reputation around town. These modern cinemas have plush seating, clean cinema halls, sharp screens, and generally good audio. And for those who love munching during the show, Cathay is also known for having the best popcorn out of all the operators – perfectly crisp, warm, and well-seasoned throughout. It often runs promotions for its snacks, be it free popcorn or bundle deals that are tied to the seasonal blockbusters. 

For a quiet time

This independent cinema is often overlooked – a boon for those of us in the know. While the excellent Filmgarde Bugis+ has closed down alongside the Century Square one, its outpost at Kallang is still going strong. Small, cosy, and uncrowded, it's a great pick for anyone who wants a peaceful movie session. Standard tickets start at $11 on weekdays. 

For the Easties

This beast in the east boasts 12 screens, including an IMAX theatre to rival Lido's, two Lumiere screens, and nine screens with laser projectors. That's the most screens and the greatest variety of any theatre in the east, which makes Shaw PLQ a bit of a no brainer. Tickets start at $11 for standard weekday seats, going up to $20 and $23 for IMAX and Lumiere seats respectively. But we dare say the latter two are worth it for out-of-this-world resolution, and in Lumiere's case, its reclinable Figueras seats. 

For the Westies

Just a short walk from Shaw Theatres at JCube is Cathay Cineplexes JEM, our pick for the best theatre in the West. Besides its top-notch screens and high audio quality, it is also the only Cathay Cineplex in Singapore to have Platinum Movie Suites. This premier experience gives you the full works: plush, reclining chairs, blankets, and finger food in an intimate 24-seater hall. Tickets start at $27, but you get what you pay for. 

For alternative flicks

Occupying the former site of the historic Golden Theatre is The Projector, a refurbished cinema that’s home to an eclectic selection of films (it also selectively screens mainstream ones), as well as Intermission Bar which hosts unique events and dishes out tasty bites. Get cosy in a seat – or a bean bag – and be spoilt for choice with an array of films that run the gamut. Besides indie titles and arthouse flicks, The Projector also shows local and cult classics backed with themed nights, so prepare to dress the part. Read our full list of the best alternative and independent cinemas in Singapore. 

For Asian cinema

Tap into the world of Asian cinema with screenings by the Asian Film Archive at the new Oldham Theatre. Housed in the restored National Archives of Singapore building, the wheelchair accessible, 134-seater theatre has 4K digital and 35-millimetre film format projections for all your viewing pleasure. But don’t expect the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Instead, settle in for a curated mix of acclaimed classic and contemporary Asian films.