There is so much to do in Phuket that you may wonder why anyone would ever find the time to go to the movies. But occasionally a movie can be a perfect way to spend a few hours.

Some people may be shocked to hear that you would send time indoors at the movies if you live on a tropical island and especially when you are on holiday.

But going to the movies is a great way to spend an afternoon, especially if you go specifically to catch a great new flick, or if it is low season and wet outside. And of course, it certainly keeps the kids entertained for a few hours!!!

But we think there is more to it than that. It can be an experience for those who have never been to the cinema in Thailand before. Especially if you go first class in Central Festivals’ FX Cinema.

Things have changed so much over the last 20 years and the choices were limited back then to the Coliseum, an old cinema in Phuket Town. Today, that remains open, but we now have two more, so the choice is expanding all the time.

Most foreigners would choose a cinema either in Junceylon in Patong, or in Central Festival, mainly because they are newer, more jazzy and show mainly foreign movies rather than the Coliseum (now called C.E. paradise multiplex) which shows mainly Thai movies.

All three are in the centre of the island so unless you are staying in Patong, near the SF Cinemacity, you’ll likely have to drive or jump in a taxi to get to either one.

Below we’ve provided addresses and contact details and websites where we can so you can check schedules online.

Here are your choices:

Central Festival SFX Coliseum Cinema:

The SFX Cinema in Central is the largest and most modern of all three choices. You’ll find it on the third floor and it is often busy so make sure you get there a little early in case you have to line up for tickets.

It wouldn’t be overstating it, if we said this is a world class cinema. It’s super modern, pretty jazzy, and has a great sound systems in each of the theatres. Although standard seats are available there is also a first class lounge and theatre which has large and comfy seats and make the visit a truly special experience. These seats are actually cheaper than you think, so worth every penny. You also get complimentary drinks and snacks, as well as coke and popcorn while you watch the movie.

Central Festival, Phuket

75, 74, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand.
T: +66 76 209 000
Website: https://www.sfcinemacity.com/

Jungceylon SF Cinemacity

SF Cinemacity is great if you are local or staying in Patong. You can find it on the third floor of Jungceylon at the eastern end above Robinsons Department Store. The cinema has 5 separate movie theatres and they all have a choice of double sofas on the back rows, or standard seats.

Jungceylon
3rd Fl., 181 Rat-U-Thit 200 Pee Rd.
Tambol Patong, Amphur Kathu,
Phuket 83150 Thailand
Tel: +66 76 600 555
www.sfcinemacity.com

C.E. Paradise Multiplex Cinema in Phuket Town

This cinema is much older than the others and has had a few reburbs in the past. It’s still a great experience and prices are much lower here as aimed at the Thai market, but make sure you check before going whether they have any English movies showing. There is always the possibility that they are only showing Thai movies or western movies dubbed in Thai.

Unfortunately, this cinema has no website, so you’ll have to call first.

18 Tilok Utis 1 Rd,
Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
Tel: +66 76 220 174

Conclusion

Going to the movies is a great way to get out of the sun or the rain. Catching a blockbuster new release can be a great way to unwind with the family.

But we also think that a movie is a great way for holiday makers to catch a bit of life outside the tourist areas. Being amongst the locals and standing for the national anthem is an experience in itself. And if you can afford it, make sure you try the first class in Central Festivals’ FX Cinema.

And although we’ve mentioned it already, please don’t forget to stand for the national anthem. Rightly so, the Thais very often take offense if you don’t adhere to local custom.