A MIDWINTER ENTERTAINMENT
It takes a lot to get us out on a winter's evening, but before Christmas, Aunty A had booked tickets for us to see Murder on the Orient Express at the Electric Palace in Bridport. Now, I meant to visit this beautiful old cinema many times, but never managed to and I have to say it was an utter treat! I didn't take any pics, but thankfully, found these online.
I can still remember going to the 'pictures' when a lady led you to your seat by torchlight (Yep, I'm that old!). In the interval, they had those back then, an usherette would appear with a tray of various iced confections and plastic cartons of equally plastic tasting juice. There was a sense of occasion that you just don't get with modern multiplex cinemas. Oh, and the huge swishy curtains, that would glide apart when the film began, let's not forget those.
This lovely old picture house has character in spades and watching an Agatha Christie based film was perfect. I can just imagine watching black and white golden oldies, Casablanca or Dial M for Murder in this lovely venue.
Lovely areas to sit and chat, alongside an old jukebox
I didn't spot the vintage cola machine in the entrance way, but Mr. found a pic on the internet that matches it exactly.
Viewings are so well attended, that extra rows of seats are provided at the front and we managed to find three seats just behind these. I did wonder if we were too close to the screen, but no, it was fine. The atmosphere was wonderful, with a very mixed range of ages and it actually felt more like being at the theatre than the cinema.
The sound quality was excellent and I did almost jump out of my skin at one point (won't give anything away).
The film cast were well chosen, although I've never been a fan of Kenneth Branagh, don't know why, I've just never taken to him as an actor. Having said that, his portrayal of Hercule Poirot was impressive, and more likeable than other representations I've seen.
We all thoroughly enjoyed the film, even though we knew the plot and the subsequent ending. Great cinematography and very atmospheric, but to me, the venue made it.
It takes a lot to get us out on a winter's evening, but before Christmas, Aunty A had booked tickets for us to see Murder on the Orient Express at the Electric Palace in Bridport. Now, I meant to visit this beautiful old cinema many times, but never managed to and I have to say it was an utter treat! I didn't take any pics, but thankfully, found these online.
I can still remember going to the 'pictures' when a lady led you to your seat by torchlight (Yep, I'm that old!). In the interval, they had those back then, an usherette would appear with a tray of various iced confections and plastic cartons of equally plastic tasting juice. There was a sense of occasion that you just don't get with modern multiplex cinemas. Oh, and the huge swishy curtains, that would glide apart when the film began, let's not forget those.
This lovely old picture house has character in spades and watching an Agatha Christie based film was perfect. I can just imagine watching black and white golden oldies, Casablanca or Dial M for Murder in this lovely venue.
Gorgeous lighting and ornate balcony.
There is a bar in the actual viewing area, behind the centre row of seats..how novel!
The foyer has beautiful painted murals.
Lovely areas to sit and chat, alongside an old jukebox
I didn't spot the vintage cola machine in the entrance way, but Mr. found a pic on the internet that matches it exactly.
Viewings are so well attended, that extra rows of seats are provided at the front and we managed to find three seats just behind these. I did wonder if we were too close to the screen, but no, it was fine. The atmosphere was wonderful, with a very mixed range of ages and it actually felt more like being at the theatre than the cinema.
The sound quality was excellent and I did almost jump out of my skin at one point (won't give anything away).
The film cast were well chosen, although I've never been a fan of Kenneth Branagh, don't know why, I've just never taken to him as an actor. Having said that, his portrayal of Hercule Poirot was impressive, and more likeable than other representations I've seen.
We all thoroughly enjoyed the film, even though we knew the plot and the subsequent ending. Great cinematography and very atmospheric, but to me, the venue made it.
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