The lost magic of cinema halls

An old film projector. , Photo Credit: Getty Images

Watching films in cinemas in the bustling parts of my small town was one of my most cherished childhood amusements during the 1970s. Today, many of those old cinema houses have vanished, replaced by shopping centers or left abandoned at street corners.

Recently, I watched a movie in a multiplex after a long hiatus, and it transported me back to the pre-digital era of cinema-going, where joy awaited us at every turn. From waiting for the main gate to open while browsing movie lyrics booklets sold by street vendors, to the thrill of seeing the hero appear on screen amid whistles from all corners of the theatre, the experience of those days was truly delightful.

Standing in long queues, eagerly waiting for the ticket bell to ring, navigating narrow, pan-stained corridors to reach the counter while hoping the tickets wouldn't sell out, and finally getting into the theater after the doorkeeper tore a portion of the ticket. — these moments made watching a movie a thrilling adventure.

There were perks to standing in line, too. People discussed a variety of topics, not just the movie, and the information shared was no less comprehensive than today's WhatsApp forwards.

Once inside, with the doors half-open and the house fully lit until the movie began, there was always a chance encounter with someone you hadn't seen in ages. The sound system would play the film's songs in full volume, adding to the anticipation. Some movie-goers, armed with lyrics booklets bought from the pavement, would sing along. It was easy to exchange seats, and vendors selling snacks made the atmosphere lively and homely.

In contrast, the multiplex experience felt entirely different. The online booking system removes the adrenaline rush of wondering whether tickets will be sold out by the time it's your turn. The atmosphere is serene, and the theater doors only open minutes before the screening. A staff member politely ushers you to your designated screen, much like the calm, orderly boarding of a flight at a silent airport terminal. You have to watch your step, following the glowing seat indicators on the floor to avoid tripping.

As I left the multiplex, merging with the silent crowd, I felt as though the fun of watching a movie had been stolen from me. It was almost as if I had been held hostage in the dark for a few hours. Oh, how I miss the chaotic, fun-filled experiences of watching movies back in those days!

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