The Astor Theatre is a cinema in the grand manner. The last single screen cinema of its kind in continuous operation in Melbourne, still standing since its grand opening in 1936, and one of only a few single screen movie theatres from the 1930s in the world screening repertory movie programming.
The Astor Theatre is a classic, single-screen cinema with stalls and a dress circle – the overall seating capacity of 1,150 is reduced from the original 1,700 – and the magnificent auditorium has the same, soft ambience that you will have enjoyed in the foyers. Beautiful golden curtains cover the screen, which part majestically to begin the evening’s (or matinee’s) entertainment.
Long famous for its presentation of classics, cult favourites and select new releases, The Astor projects a range of mediums including 35mm prints and the now rare 70mm format (over three times the size of 35mm, with glorious detail and clarity). The Astor is also home to the Barco 4K Digital Projector, the highest quality projector of its kind in Australia. When you see a film in 4K (up to four times the industry standard resolution!) or 2K format at The Astor, you are seeing a presentation that is unmatched.
The Astor Theatre is home to an extraordinary roster of re-released classics in their original 35mm print format, lush Technicolor restorations (including The Wizard of Oz, Singin’ in the Rain, and Rear Window), exquisite 70mm epics (Ben Hur and Vertigo), through to new digital remasters in 2K and 4K format (titles as varied as Dr Strangelove, Taxi Driver, and Ghostbusters). Many of these films sit in Chapel Distribution’s archive, a treasure trove of rare prints that we are committed to preserving for future generations.
Chapel St & Dandenong Rd
Melbourne VIC 3182
Australia
+61 3 9510 1414