Top 10 Theatres in Kolkata
Given the city of joy is also a city of film buffs, finding a good theatre in Kolkata is super easy. After all, it’s the place that produced the likes of Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen. So a lack of cinema halls here would be a shame, innit? Yes.
Also, here’s the thing, theatres in Kolkata can range from posh multiplexes to single screen relics. With a range of different budgets, different facilities and different genres of films screened, there’s one for everyone. To make your job even easier, we’ve made a list of the top 10 contenders for the title of ‘the best cinema hall in Kolkata’. Now, all that’s left for you is to check them out below.
New Empire Cinema
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 7 minute walk from Esplanade
Special features: Comfortable seating, heritage spot
Situated in the busy New Market area, New Empire Cinema is one of the old favourites of Kolkata. It’s one of the best single screen cinema halls in the city which screens both Hollywood and Bollywood movies. It’s also located in a popular shopping area which means you can combine your movie watching experience with some retail therapy too.
Nandan West Bengal Film Centre
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 3 minute walk from Rabindra Sadan
Special features: International film festivals, budget-friendly
The most iconic and arguably the best theatre in Kolkata, Nandan is more than just an average cinema hall. It’s a cultural space. Every year it hosts a famous film festival with screening of the best of national and international cinema. A must-visit place for movie buffs, it’s conveniently located close to some of Kolkata’s popular hangout spots like Victoria Memorial, making it a weekend favourite.
Inox, South City Mall
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 9 minute walk from Rabindra Sarobar
Special features: IMAX, couple friendly
Post renovations in 2018, the Inox theatre in South City Mall is now a fully equipped IMAX theatre. The best place to hang out with friends and watch the latest Marvel flick, or enjoy a date with a shared bucket of popcorn. The ergonomically designed theatres ensure that you get a great view no matter where you are seated. Basically, according to many, INOX, South City mall is the best movie theatre in Kolkata.
Cinepolis, Lake Mall
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 4 minute walk from Rabindra Sarobar
Special features: Late night screening, loyalty points
Although Lake Mall is one of the newest additions to the city, its Cinepolis theatre is fast becoming one of the best cinema halls in Kolkata. Clean and spacious, with comfortable seating, this is a multiplex that you’ll visit again and again. They usually have great deals on ticket prices, especially for early morning or late night screenings. On top of it, they have a loyalty scheme to make sure you visit their silver screen regularly.
Priya Cinema
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
How to get there: A two minute walk from Rashbehari Avenue
Special features: Budget friendly, Bengali movies
One of the most iconic venues in Kolkata, Priya Cinema is back with a bang in its renovated avatar. One of the best single screen movie halls in South Kolkata, it is known for screening the best of the Bengali film industry. The tickets here are extremely affordable, and you won’t miss out on the multiplex experience, thanks to the Dolby sound system.
Ashoka Cinema
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 3 minute walk from Behala
Special features: Cosy, budget friendly
If you want the experience of a private screening without having to splurge the big bucks, Ashoka Cinema is the place for you. With comfortable seating, a great sound system and tasty popcorn and locally made snacks available, you’re bound to have an excellent experience here. Definitely a favourite with local residents.
Prachi Cinema
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 5 minute walk from Bowbazar
Special features: Heritage place, budget friendly.
Another iconic standalone movie theatre, this is a great favourite with college goers and locals, especially on weekday afternoons. Be ready for a unique movie going experience here as the crowd can get pretty loud. Plus, you can check out the food stalls for some great snacks too.
Menoka Cinema
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
How to get there: A 9 minute walk from Kalighat
Special feature: Comfortable seating, family friendly
A popular place with movie buffs, Menoka Cinema is a good option for those who want to catch up on the latest Bengali and Hindi films. The seats are comfortable and well maintained and the Dolby sound gives it a multiplex feel. You can also find parking around the cinema quite easily, which is an added bonus.
London Paris Multiplex
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
How to get there: A 3 minute walk from Ballygunge Phari
Special features: Couple friendly, valet parking
This two screen multiplex will transport you to either London or Paris on your next movie going venture. With comfortable seats and a uniform ticket price across the whole week, you can have a great outing here. The prices are extremely reasonable but you still get to experience plush reclining seats, surround sound and butler services. Also, it’s a great place to organise private screenings as well.
Carnival Cinema
Rating: 4/5 stars
How to get there: A 4 minute walk from Sector 3, Salt Lake.
Special features: Budget friendly, online booking
One of the best movie halls for Salt Lake residents, the Carnival Cinemas chain exists in many places across the city. It’s one of the most affordable multiplexes with 4 screens showing both 2D and 3D movies. The seating is comfortable and each screen has a large capacity. The entire place is clean, well-maintained and there are several vegetarian snack options available as well.
