The changing facade of cinema halls

There was a time when cinema halls were grand cultural landmarks, their neon signs gleaming like beacons of communal entertainment. These were not merely places to watch films but venues that symbolised a shared experience, a place where stories came alive. 

However, as technology and architecture evolved, so too did these halls. The transformation from old single-screen theatres to sprawling multiplexes tells a tale not just of technological advancement but of architectural ingenuity and operational strategies.

"The main purpose of a cinema auditorium is to give the audience the best film experience," writes Rolv Gjestland in his book How to Design a Cinema Auditorium. This singular focus has driven architectural decisions in cinema halls for decades. 

From the shape and size of the screen to the seating arrangements and acoustics, every detail is meticulously designed to immerse audiences in the film's world.

In older cinema halls, architecture often revolved around vanity. High ceilings, fussy balconies, and gigantic lobbies were common features. These designs were as much about the films as they were about the occasion of going to the cinema. 

However, the advent of multiplexes in the late 20th century shifted the architectural focus. Efficiency, space utilisation, and versatility became priorities. Today, multiplexes show smooth, standardised designs that allow multiple screenings under one roof, hosting a diverse audience.

"A good, modern cinema auditorium for big films should have a large screen. The larger, the better (usually), but compromises with seating arrangements and viewing angles must be made." - Rolv Gjestland

The difference between older cinema halls and their modern ones is obvious. Traditional theatres were often single-screen venues with huge auditoriums, and their architecture aimed at creating a communal viewing experience. These halls had their charm, but were very limited in functionality.

Modern cinema halls, by contrast, use advanced technology and innovative design to enhance the experience. Digital projection systems have replaced film reels, and stadium-style seating ensures every viewer has a clear sightline. 

Rolv Gjestland also notes in his book, "A good, modern cinema auditorium for big films should have a large screen. The larger, the better (usually), but compromises with seating arrangements and viewing angles must be made."

Multiplexes also focus on creating multi-purpose spaces. Lobbies now double as social hubs, complete with cafes and gaming zones. The architecture facilitates seamless crowd management, from ticketing areas to concession stands, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors.

Lakshmi Srinivas, from the University of Massachusetts, in her ethnographic study Cinema Halls, Locality, and Urban Life, explores how cinema halls interact with their urban settings. 

She writes, "Far from the standardised and interchangeable spaces of the multiplex which promote a placeless movie experience, cinema halls are cultural niches, sites of cultural and linguistic expression rich in meaning."

Older halls often reflected the culture and history of their locations, becoming landmarks in their own right. Modern halls, while efficient, sometimes lack this cultural specificity. However, some architects and operators are now striving to strike a balance, integrating local aesthetics into modern designs.

Sony Square in Dhaka is a true example of how an old cinema hall can be transformed into an ultra-modern facility while retaining its heritage. Once a garment factory, the building became the "Sony Cinema Hall and Market," and is now renovated as "Sony Square" featuring the best example of transformation. 

Its iconic spiral ramp, a masterpiece of functional and elegant design, was preserved during modernisation by Architect Al Mamun Ur Rashid and his team at Amur Architecture. 

"We wanted to keep the heritage alive while giving the hall a new identity with ultra-modern facilities," he added.

Today, the ramp remains a central feature, complemented by state-of-the-art projection systems, luxurious seating, and enhanced acoustics, blending heritage with innovation.

The operational challenges of running a cinema hall

Running a cinema hall is a complex, hard work, requiring a perfect mix of technical expertise, architectural planning, and business knowledge. One of the first considerations is the choice of screen and seating. 

Gjestland emphasises, "The screen is the centrepiece of the auditorium, and its size, shape, and position significantly influence the overall design." Modern halls must ensure that viewing angles and distances are optimised for every seat.

Acoustics are another critical factor. Proper sound isolation ensures that each auditorium provides an immersive experience without interference from neighbouring screens. The placement of speakers and the use of sound-absorbing materials are meticulously planned.

Lighting plays a subtle but significant role. Emergency lighting, guiding lights, and ambient lighting must be integrated seamlessly. Gjestland advises, "Lights should enhance the experience without distracting from the film."

Accessibility is also a growing priority. Modern cinema halls are designed to accommodate wheelchair users, provide hearing assistance devices, and ensure comfortable seating for all patrons. Innovations like recliners and luxury seating add to the allure but require careful planning to maintain operational efficiency.

The digital revolution has profoundly impacted cinema hall architecture. Digital projectors, for instance, have eliminated the need for large projection rooms. Some halls now employ boothless projectors, freeing up valuable space for other purposes. 

Gjestland notes, "With direct view displays, most issues discussed so far can be ignored. However, the impact on auditorium size and design remains significant."

Additionally, advancements in LED screens and immersive audio systems are reshaping how films are presented. The ability to deliver high luminance and better sound distribution allows architects greater flexibility in design.

As cinema halls continue to evolve, the focus remains on enhancing the audience experience. Whether it's through the grandeur of old-style theatres or the sleek functionality of modern multiplexes, architecture plays an integral role. 

Lakshmi Srinivas captures this sentiment perfectly: "The cinema experience is about navigating the city and its cultures."

As architects and operators navigate the future, they will need to balance tradition and innovation, ensuring that cinema halls remain not just places to watch films but spaces that inspire and connect communities. 

In the words of Rolv Gjestland, "A film production is not finished until the film is presented to the audience," and the architecture of the cinema hall is an essential part of that presentation.

Key considerations for new cinema halls

For those planning to establish or renovate a cinema hall, several factors must be considered:

Audience Experience: The architecture must prioritise comfort, visibility, and sound quality.

Space Utilisation: Efficient use of space can maximise profitability without compromising on experience.

Sustainability: Energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems are increasingly important in modern designs.

Future-Proofing: Technology evolves rapidly. Designs should accommodate upgrades in projection, sound, and seating systems.